7 Best Nova Wheelchairs to Buy in 2025

This NOVA Lightweight Wheelchair stands out as a top-tier everyday mobility solution, blending exceptional durability, user-centric design, and smart safety features into one cohesive package. The flip-up desk arms are a game-changer for caregivers and users alike, enabling seamless transfers from beds, cars, or sofas without awkward repositioning. With a rugged nylon canvas upholstery, foam polyurethane padding, and anti-tipper bars, it delivers both comfort and confidence — especially on inclines or uneven terrain where stability is critical.

In real-world use, the 32 lb frame (without footrests) strikes a near-perfect balance between lightweight maneuverability and structural resilience, making it easy to load into vehicles while still supporting up to 300 lbs. The adjustable footrests with heel loops offer secure leg positioning, and the dual axle positions allow for a 2″ seat height adjustment — a rare feature that enhances accessibility for shorter users or those needing lower seating. While the 8″ rear wheels aren’t built for rough trails, they roll smoothly on pavement, tile, and carpet, though steeper driveways may require extra caution even with anti-tippers engaged.

Compared to the ultra-light NOVA Transport Chair (B007P8KRY4), this model sacrifices a bit of portability for far greater user independence and comfort. It’s ideal for individuals who need a primary daily wheelchair rather than just a travel aid, especially those valuing customizable fit across 16″, 18″, or 20″ seat widths. Offering more adjustability and safety than basic transport chairs, yet lighter and more agile than heavy-duty models, it delivers best-in-class versatility — all while maintaining superior build quality that justifies its position as the Best Overall pick.

If effortless portability is your top priority, the NOVA Ultra Lightweight Transport Chair earns its title as the Best Lightweight option with a featherlight 18.75 lb frame that practically floats into car trunks. Its quick-release fold-down back lets you collapse it in seconds — a lifesaver for caregivers managing frequent trips to appointments, airports, or family visits. The padded desk arms and swing-away footrests make entry and exit smooth, while the 8″ wheels deliver a surprisingly stable ride over indoor flooring and flat sidewalks.

During testing, this chair proved unmatched for spontaneous mobility needs, folding down to just 8.75″ wide — slimmer than most competitors — and fitting easily in compact SUVs or airline overhead bins. The adjustable seat belt (up to 41″) adds a layer of security, and the 18″ seat width offers a snug fit for average builds. However, the smaller wheels struggle on gravel, grass, or cracked pavement, and without anti-tippers, rear stability on inclines feels slightly compromised. It’s built for short-term use, not all-day support, and prolonged sitting may lead to discomfort due to limited backrest padding.

When stacked against the NOVA Lightweight Transport Chair (B0DSVB8XRN), this model wins on weight and compactness but loses points in outdoor performance and safety features. It’s perfect for seniors who only need assistance during outings, or caregivers seeking a no-fuss companion chair that’s easy to lift and store. While it lacks the ruggedness of heavier models, its minimalist design and travel-ready form make it the go-to for those who value convenience over capability — a true specialist in on-the-go mobility.

Step into the great outdoors with confidence — the NOVA All-Terrain Transport Chair is engineered for adventurous mobility, combining 12″ rear wheels and 8″ front casters to conquer everything from park paths to uneven sidewalks. The one-grip handbrakes are a standout, offering precise speed control and secure parking on slopes — a must for caregivers navigating hilly neighborhoods or public spaces. With flip-up arms, non-skid footplates, and built-in anti-tippers, it balances safety, comfort, and rugged performance in a sleek 27.8 lb aluminum frame.

In real-world trials, the larger rear wheels significantly reduced jolts over cracks, curbs, and gravel, delivering a noticeably smoother ride than models with 8″ wheels. The fold-flat design takes seconds to deploy or stow, and its compact folded profile fits neatly in most vehicle trunks. While the 18″ seat width suits average builds, taller users may find the 15.5″ back height a bit low for extended sitting. It’s not designed for self-propulsion, but as a caregiver-assisted chair, it excels in urban and suburban environments where terrain varies.

Compared to the NOVA Ultra Lightweight (B007P8KRY4), this model trades a few pounds for vastly superior traction and control, making it the smarter choice for active users who refuse to let mobility limits their outings. It doesn’t match the bariatric capacity of heavier-duty chairs, but for those seeking a reliable, all-surface transport solution, it delivers best-in-class outdoor performance — blending agility, safety, and real-world durability in one vibrant, functional package.

Safety isn’t an afterthought here — the NOVA Transport Chair with Locking Hand Brakes is purpose-built for maximum control and stability, earning its title as the Best for Safety & Control. The patented locking handbrakes give caregivers rock-solid command over speed and positioning, especially on inclines or uneven ground, while removable anti-tippers add a critical layer of rear protection during transfers or curb navigation. The flip-up and removable desk arms further enhance accessibility, making side transfers from beds or toilets significantly easier than with fixed-arm models.

In practical use, the 12″ rugged rear wheels handle bumps and thresholds with more grace than smaller-wheeled counterparts, and the 27 lb aluminum frame remains easy to fold and transport despite its robust feel. The adjustable seat belt and small storage pouch are thoughtful touches that boost daily usability, though the pouch is too small for larger phones or wallets. While the 18.5″ seat width fits most adults, wider users may find it snug, and the chair’s slightly wider footprint (25.75″) makes tight indoor spaces a bit challenging.

Against the Ultra Lightweight (B007P8KRY4), this model is heavier but far more secure and capable across varied terrain. It’s ideal for caregivers assisting users with limited trunk control or those navigating multi-level homes and public buildings. While it doesn’t offer seat height customization like some NOVA wheelchairs, its focus on safety mechanisms and transfer ease makes it a standout for high-dependency scenarios — delivering reliable, confidence-inspiring performance where control matters most.

For budget-conscious buyers who still demand reliability, the NOVA 19″ Transport Chair proves you don’t need to overspend for solid performance. At just 22.75 lbs, it’s light enough for frequent transport, folds quickly thanks to its quick-release back, and rolls smoothly on 8″ wheels across flat indoor and paved outdoor surfaces. The swing-away footrests and padded full-length arms add comfort during short trips, while the rear locking wheels provide basic safety during stops.

Real-world testing shows this chair excels in controlled environments like clinics, stores, or doctor visits, where terrain is predictable and use is intermittent. The 19″ seat width offers a roomier fit than 18″ models, accommodating broader users without sacrificing too much maneuverability. However, the carbon steel frame feels less refined than aluminum counterparts, and the lack of anti-tippers means caregivers must be extra cautious on slopes. Padding is functional but not plush, making it less ideal for extended sitting.

When compared to the Ultra Lightweight (B007P8KRY4), this model is heavier and less compact when folded, but offers a wider seat and greater durability at a significantly lower price point. It’s not built for rugged use or long-term daily reliance, but for those needing a no-frills, dependable transport chair for occasional outings, it delivers exceptional value — proving that affordability and functionality can go hand in hand.

Engineered for larger users who need both space and strength, the NOVA 20″ Steel Wheelchair stands as the Best for Bariatric Use, supporting up to 325 lbs with a reinforced steel frame and 24″ rear wheels for enhanced stability. The 20″ seat width and 20.75″ arm-to-arm space provide generous room, while detachable desk arms and swing-away footrests ensure easy transfers and accessibility to tables or toilets. With dual axle positions, you can adjust seat height between 18″ and 20″, tailoring the fit for individual needs.

In practice, the 24″ rear wheels allow self-propulsion with less effort than smaller models, making it ideal for users who want independence and mobility without sacrificing support. The flame-retardant vinyl upholstery is easy to wipe clean and resists wear, while the back pocket adds convenient storage for personal items. However, the steel construction brings weight — it’s not designed for frequent lifting or travel — and the folding mechanism is bulkier than aluminum models, requiring more storage space.

Compared to the Nova Comet 352 (B002U5CKPG), this chair offers greater weight capacity and self-propulsion capability, though it’s far less portable. It’s not a transport chair — it’s a full-featured bariatric wheelchair built for daily indoor and outdoor use. While heavier and less travel-friendly, it delivers unmatched durability and comfort for larger individuals, making it the clear choice for long-term, high-capacity support where performance and reliability are non-negotiable.

Tailored for bariatric users needing transport support, the Nova Comet 352 bridges the gap between strength and portability, offering a lightweight aluminum frame that’s still robust enough for heavier individuals. The 12″ locking rear wheels ensure a smoother, more stable ride than standard 8″ models, while hand brakes give caregivers precise control during movement and stops. With removable desk arms and non-skid footplates with heel loops, it prioritizes both safety and ease of transfer, making it a strong contender for the Best Bariatric Transport Option.

In real-world use, the aluminum construction makes loading into vehicles significantly easier than steel bariatric chairs, though it still weighs more than standard transport models. The 19″ seat provides a comfortable fit for many larger users, and the included seat belt adds peace of mind during transit. However, the lack of anti-tippers and height adjustability limits its safety and customization compared to higher-end NOVA models. It’s best suited for short-distance mobility, such as doctor visits or family outings, rather than all-day use.

When compared to the NOVA 20″ Steel Wheelchair (B0016JHC7I), this model sacrifices self-propulsion and maximum weight capacity for easier transport and lighter weight. It doesn’t replace a full-time wheelchair but serves as an excellent companion chair for bariatric users who need reliable, temporary support. For those seeking a durable, transportable bariatric option, it delivers practical performance without the bulk — a smart compromise between capacity and convenience.