November 7, 2024 | Terry Smith

Manual recliner chairs vs electric riser recliner chairs: pros & cons

If you’re in the early stages of looking at riser recliner chairs, you’ve most likely come across a cheaper ‘alternative’ called a manual recliner chair.

You may be wondering; What are the differences? and why spend extra money on an electric riser recliner? In this article, we explore the differences between manual recliners and electric riser recliners, to help you understand your options and choose the best chair for you.

Overview of manual recliner chairs

A manual riser recliner chair is operated manually by the user, reclining with the help of a lever or other physical mechanism. These chairs rely on a person’s strength to operate the lever and move from one position to another. Manual recliners don’t offer the full range of positions and the powered assistance that electric chairs do, but they still provide some comfort and support at a lower cost.

Pros of manual recliner chairs:

Cost-effective – Manual riser recliners are generally more affordable than electric models. For those looking for a comfortable chair without breaking the bank, manual recliners are a good choice.
Simple to use – With fewer mechanical components and no need for electricity, manual chairs are simple to use and may require less maintenance.
Lots of options to choose from – There are thousands of manual recliners available on the market, so you’re sure to be able to find a chair that suits your needs and style!

Cons of manual recliner chairs:

Requires physical effort – One of the key downsides of a manual recliner is the fact that the chair has to be recliner manually, which can be difficult for older users with limited mobility and strength
No rise function – Most manual recliners don’t have a riser function, which is a very useful feature for older users to help mobilise from the chair.
Typically just 2 positions to choose from; upright and reclined – With an electric riser recliner, the user can stop the chair at any point in the recline or rise action, whereas with manual recliners, you can typically only choose from an upright position or fully recliner position.

Who are manual recliner chairs best for?

Manual recliners are perfect for users looking for a low-cost alternative to an electric riser recliner chair. If you have good strength and mobility and don’t require the riser function, a manual recliner chair may be the best option for you.

Overview of electric riser recliner chairs

Electric riser recliner chairs are motorised and operated by a handset, allowing users to easily adjust the chair’s position or rise without physical effort. These chairs often have more advanced features and provide better support for people who need extra assistance.

Pros of electric riser recliner chairs

More adjustability – Electric riser recliners offer the user the ability to stop the rise or recline action at any point, helping them achieve the most comfortable position for them. Some models also offer the option to operate the footrest and backrest independently from each other.
Riser function – As the name suggests, riser recliner chairs have an electric rise function, which lifts the chair slightly to make mobilising from the chair much easier – ideal for older users and those who struggle to get out of standard sofa chairs!
Lots of options to choose from – As with manual chairs, there are hundreds of options to choose from when buying a riser recliner chair, from sizes, fabrics, and accessories.

Cons of electric riser recliner chairs

Higher cost – As expected, with more functionality and electric components comes higher costs.
More maintenance required – Electric components may mean that these chairs require more maintenance than manual chairs, however, both types of chairs should be maintained to ensure a long life

Who are electric riser recliners best for?

Electric riser recliner chairs are best for users with more complex needs. If you’re an older person with limited strength and mobility, you most likely will greatly benefit from the riser function and the ease of electric control over manual adjustment.