Best riser recliner chairs: comfortable, secure and easy to use

The best riser recliner chairs from our tests

A riser recliner chair is a hefty investment, and as you'll see in the table below, not every chair is worth your money. The Fenetic Cullingworth and Pride Mobility Dorchester are our top scorers; expensive but excellent options that are incredibly easy to use and super comfortable. 

We were also impressed by the Fenetic Westminster, which picked up our Great Value recommendation for offering comfort and useful safety features at a lower than average price.

Compare our results and prices at a glance in our table below or read on for our full reviews. 

Where possible we've included direct links to buy the chairs online, though for chairs that are only available in-store or through a catalogue or home visit we've linked the manufacturer's page. 

Best Buy: Fenetic Cullingworth

Our score and verdict 80%, Superb comfort and support

Available from Fenetic Wellbeing (£1,399.99 with VAT relief, £1679.99 with VAT)

Pros

• Easy-to-use handset
• Lumbar cushion for extra support
• Very comfortable
• Quick to make adjustments

Cons

• No crush-prevention feature

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 27.8cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, upholstered armrest, 89 x 188cm (W x L) when reclined, 158kg weight capacity

This is one of the best chairs we’ve tested. It’s a dual-motor model, so you can operate the footrest and back independently of each other, and the lumbar cushion for extra back support earned rave reviews from our panel of testers. 

It’s incredibly comfortable to sit in, as well as being easy to get up from and make adjustments, while enabling you to feel secure the whole time. You can also add or remove padding to make it as comfortable as possible. 

The handset is easy to use, and there’s a neat loop on the right-hand side of the chair to hook it into when you're not using it.

Best Buy: Pride Mobility Dorchester 

Our score and verdict 80%, Speedy sit-to-stand 

Available from MobiQuip (£1,189 with VAT relief, £1,426 with VAT), Great British Mobility (£1,295 with VAT relief, £1,554 with VAT), Kardinal Independent Living (£1,175 with VAT relief)

Pros

• Intuitive handset buttons
• Smooth rising mechanism
• Support for feet and legs when reclined
• Good comfort
• Quick sit-to-stand motion 

Cons

• Lateral cushion padding not adjustable
• Handset pocket hard to reach

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 28.7cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 89 x 176cm (W x L) when reclined, 158kg weight capacity

This riser recliner combines comfort and speed with easy-to-use features, which saw it snag our Best Buy recommendation. The dual-motor design allows independent adjustment of the backrest and footrest, and testers loved its supportive lateral cushion and smooth recline.

The handset is simple to operate, with LED-lit buttons and a USB port for convenience. Moving from fully reclined to standing takes just 24 seconds, which is much quicker than most. However, the low placement of the handset pocket could be frustrating for some.

A backup battery ensures the chair can return to an upright position in power cuts, though it’s slower than others and won’t lift you to standing.

This same model of chair is also available from CareCo, as the CareCo Oakdale (£2,299.99 with VAT relief). 

Best Buy: Fenetic Atlas

Our score and verdict 75%, Comfortable and feature-packed

Available from Fenetic Wellbeing (£1,199.99 with VAT relief, £1439.99 with VAT)

Pros

• Very comfortable, especially when reclined
• Intuitive and easy-to-use handset
• Adjustable lumbar and neck support
• Unique extra features

Cons

• Poor backup battery performance
• Storage pocket is awkward to use

Most recently tested August 2021

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 26.4cm

Need to know Rechargeable backup battery, no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 84 x 171cm (W x L) when reclined, 160kg weight capacity

The Fenetic Atlas is a fantastic all-rounder, earning it a Which? Best Buy. Its adjustable lumbar and neck support make it especially comfortable if you're sitting for long periods, and the smooth reclining action makes for a relaxing experience. Testers found it secure and stable when standing, though lighter users may find the leather slightly slippery.

What sets this chair apart are its added features: a hidden drinks holder and a wireless charging pad built into the armrests. The intuitive 10-button handset offers precise control, though the storage pocket’s low and flush design can be frustrating.

One drawback is the backup battery, which performed poorly in our tests. It’s rechargeable, so you wouldn't need to replace it every time there's a power cut, but the battery doesn't have enough juice to take you from fully reclined to standing if you do lose power. 

Best Buy: Celebrity Hollingwell Cloud Zero

Our score and verdict 74%, Exceptionally comfortable and secure

Available from The Recliner Store (£1,359 with VAT relief, £1631 with VAT)

Pros

• Excellent comfort level
• Very secure-feeling chair
• Reliable backup battery

Cons

• Poorly designed handset

Most recently tested June 2024

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 21cm

Need to know Rechargeable backup battery, crush prevention (sprung loaded), upholstered armrest, 83 x 171cm (W x L) when reclined, 190.5kg weight capacity

The Celebrity Hollingwell is first-class for comfort and security, making it a standout choice despite a few minor flaws. The tilt-in-space design keeps your body angles consistent as the chair reclines, offering terrific support and stability. Testers found it incredibly comfortable, easy to adjust, and secure when sitting, reclining, or standing.

The chair features a reliable backup battery, which performed impressively in tests, allowing more than 10 adjustments during a power cut. The soft armrests, neck cushion, and sturdy castors with anti-roll mechanisms are useful features, too. 

However, the handset isn't the best. The buttons are poorly labeled, and the small storage pocket can make it fiddly to stow the handset neatly. 

Best Buy: Electric Mobility Fenlake

Our score and verdict 74%, Secure and super versatile 

Available from Mobility Co. (£1,099 with VAT relief, £1,319 with VAT), First Choice Mobility (£1,295 with VAT relief)

Pros

• Very comfortable
• Highly adjustable
• Easy to use

Cons

• Mediocre backup battery

Most recently tested November 2024

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 23cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery (spare not supplied), no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 83.5 x 159cm (W x L) when reclined, 158.8kg weight capacity

The Electric Mobility Fenlake delivers most of what you want from a riser recliner: comfort, security, and it's simple to use. Its dual-motor design allows independent adjustment of the backrest, footrest, headrest, and lumbar support, making it easy to find your perfect position. 

Most of our user panel found it exceptionally comfortable, though taller users may feel the seat depth is a bit short. While the chair feels stable and secure, its rising angle is less inclined than others, which may require more effort to stand. 

The remote is user-friendly, backlit, and includes a home button for quick repositioning. With a 42-second transition from reclined to standing, it performs well compared to similar models but it's not the quickest we've tested. 

The backup battery is a letdown, though – it’s non-rechargeable and requires replacement when depleted.

Best Buy: Sherborne Albany 

Our score and verdict 73%, Smooth, safe and secure

Available from Archers Sleepcentre (£1,184 with VAT relief), Clearwell Mobility (£1,359 with VAT relief, £1631 with VAT)

Pros

• Comfortable and stable
• Smooth movement
• Illuminated handset with hook
• Anti-crush mechanism

Cons

• Buttons are slow to respond
• Chair can compress lower back when moving from reclined to seated
• Backup battery is very slow

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Waterfall

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 24.9cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, crush prevention (sensor triggered), upholstered armrest, 86 x 166cm (W x L) when reclined, 160kg weight capacity

The Sherborne Albany is a reasonably priced riser recliner that excels in comfort and safety, making it a Best Buy. The plush padding and smooth movement between positions make it a pleasure to use, and its built-in anti-crush mechanism adds an extra layer of security. Testers found the chair supportive, with many saying it was comfortable enough to nap in.

The illuminated handset is simple to operate, though the buttons are slightly slow to respond. Getting in and out of the chair is effortless, with testers feeling stable and secure during use. However, some users noted the chair compresses the lower back when moving from reclined to seated, requiring a little adjustment for comfort.

The backup battery is functional but slow, taking four minutes to return to a seated position, and does not lift the chair to standing. For more convenience, a faster multi-use battery is available for an additional cost.

Best Buy: HSL Burrows 

Our score and verdict 73%, Comfortable with great features

Available from HSL (£1,880 with VAT relief)

Pros

• Excellent rechargeable backup battery
• Wide range of adjustment for comfort
• Intuitive handset with memory and heat functions

Cons

• Higher scoring chairs available for cheaper

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Waterfall

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 24.9cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, crush prevention (sensor triggered), upholstered armrest, 86 x 166cm (W x L) when reclined, 160kg weight capacity

The HSL Burrows is a top-quality riser recliner that is comfortable and has thoughtful extra features. The waterfall backrest provides excellent support, and the dual-motor design allows you to adjust the backrest and footrest independently so you can ensure it's positioned perfectly.

The intuitive handset features backlit buttons and useful extras like a memory button to return to your favourite position and a heat function for lumbar warmth. While the chair takes 48 seconds to rise to standing, which is longer than some of the other chairs, testers appreciated the secure and stable motion.

The rechargeable backup battery stands out, too, offering up to three adjustments during a power cut – far better than most. Additionally, built-in sensors prevent movement if the chair’s base is touched, adding peace of mind for pet owners or families with young children.

Great Value: Fenetic Westminster 

Our score and verdict 71%, Fast and decent for the price

Available from Fenetic Wellbeing (£879.99 with VAT relief, £1055.99 with VAT)

Pros

• Comfortable and supportive
• Fast and smooth operation
• Intuitive handset with backlit buttons
• Rises to a good height
• Lower price than some of the others we've tested

Cons

• Large gap opens when reclining
• Poor backup battery performance

Most recently tested June 2018

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 25.2cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 81 x 181cm (W x L) when reclined, 158kg weight capacity

The Fenetic Westminster is a fast, comfortable, and highly adjustable riser recliner that offers excellent support. With its dual-motor design, you can independently control the back and footrests, while the powered headrest and lumbar adjustments make it easy to find the perfect position. 

Testers appreciated the quick operation – moving from reclined to standing in just 28 seconds – and the safety feature that prevents the chair from rising to standing position while the back is reclined.

The backlit handset is intuitive, though its 10 buttons may be overwhelming for some. While the chair is very comfortable, a large gap opens between the seat and backrest when reclining, requiring a little repositioning for optimal comfort. 

The material is slightly slippery, though and the backup battery offers minimal functionality during a power cut. Despite minor flaws, the Westminster is a Great Value choice for those seeking a supportive and quick riser recliner. 

We've tested rollators and mobility walkers at a range of prices – head to the best rollators and mobility walkers to see which ones aced our tests for adjustability, maneuverability, walking and comfort.

Sherborne Roma

Our score and verdict 71%, Excellent lumbar support

Available from Recliners4U (£1,268 with VAT relief), Relax Sofas & Beds (£1,399 with VAT relief, £1,679 with VAT)

Pros

• Adjustable and superb lumbar support
• Easy-to-use handset with backlit buttons
• Effective crush prevention
• Slow sit-to-stand 

Cons

• Poor backup battery performance

Most recently tested January 2021

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 22.9cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, crush prevention (sensor), upholstered armrest, 89 x 171cm (W x L) when reclined, 160kg weight capacity

The Sherborne Roma has standout lumbar support and adjustability, making it ideal for users who value proper back support. Testers found it cosy and secure in all positions, though the seat width (52cm) might feel a bit spacious for smaller users.

The dual-motor design allows independent adjustment of the backrest and footrest, and the backlit handset is intuitive and sensitive, perfect for users with weaker grip strength. The chair also features effective crush prevention, though it only activates when bare skin contacts the safety bar.

A downside is the unreliable backup battery, which failed to move the chair from reclined to upright during tests. If power cuts are a concern, you may want to explore other options.

Celebrity Canterbury Cloud Zero

Our score and verdict 69%, Comfortable but with usability flaws

Available from Hafren Furnishers (£1,349 with VAT relief), The Recliner Store (£1,499 with VAT relief, £1,798.90 with VAT)

Pros

• Very comfortable
• Secure and stable during use
• Excellent backup battery

Cons

• Hard-to-decipher handset
• Small, awkward storage pocket

Most recently tested June 2024

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 24.5cm

Need to know Rechargeable backup battery, crush prevention (sprung loaded), wooden armrest, 73.3 x 171cm (W x L) when reclined, 190.5kg weight capacity

The Celebrity Canterbury offers exceptional comfort, scoring top marks in our tests. Its tilt-in-space function enables you to maintain a stable position when reclining, and the chair’s wide seat and height makes it suitable for users for all sizes. However, when set to its rising position, the backrest’s angle can feel slightly awkward, as if you’re being tipped forward, though the perched height helps with getting out of the chair.

The chair features a rechargeable backup battery that performs impressively, handling at least 10 full movements during a power cut. Castors make it easy to move the chair around, and a reset button means it's simply to return to an upright seated position.

Usability is let down by the poorly designed handset, though. The buttons’ diagrams, especially for the tilt-in-space feature, are unclear, and the small storage pocket is difficult to use

HSL Ripley

Our score and verdict 63%, Comfy but flawed

Available from HSL (£1,795 with VAT relief)

Pros

• First-class comfort with great lumbar support
• Easy-to-use handset with sensitive buttons
• Reset button for quick upright positioning

Cons

• Unreliable backup battery
• Jerky movement at the start of adjustments
• Not the easiest chair to get in and out of

Most recently tested January 2021

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 26.7cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, no crush prevention, wooden armrest, 76 x 185cm (W x L) when reclined, weight capacity unavailable

The HSL Ripley excels in comfort, scoring five stars in our tests, with lumbar support and well-padded seating that testers described as 'just right.' However, its jerky motion at the start of adjustments can feel unstable.

The handset is intuitive, with a useful reset button to return to an upright position. Sensitive buttons make it suitable for users with weaker hand strength, but accidental activations can happen. The pocket placement is generally convenient, though some users found it a bit far back when seated.

The backup battery is disappointing – we were unable to move the chair from reclined to upright during tests. This could leave users stranded in the event of a power cut. The chair’s lack of anti-crush features and limited tilt-in-space functionality further detract from its appeal.

Don't Buy: Primacare Denbigh

Our score and verdict 45%, Too many flaws to recommend

Available from Kardinal Independent Living (£1,410 with VAT relief), Lifestyle & Mobility (£1,410 with VAT relief, £1,692 with VAT)

Pros

• Easy-to-use handset controls
• Comfortable headrest

Cons

• Stiff upholstery and hard armrests
• Poor lumbar support
• Low, awkwardly placed handset pocket
• Unstable, rocks during adjustments
• Slow sit-to-stand

Most recently tested June 2023

Backrest type Waterfall

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 23.2cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, no crush prevention, wooden armrest, 82 x 178.5cm (W x L) when reclined, weight capacity unavailable

The Primacare Denbigh misses the mark too many times, earning its status as a Don’t Buy. While the handset is straightforward to use and the headrest provides some comfort, the positives end there.

The stiff upholstery and hard armrests make this chair uncomfortable, and the lack of lumbar support leaves users unsatisfied – especially when sitting upright. Stability is another concern – the chair rocked side-to-side during use, and some testers didn't feel secure. It's slow to rise, too. 

Practicality isn’t much better. The handset pocket is positioned too low, making it awkward to reach, particularly when reclined. On top of that, the chair can tilt into a risky 'slide-like' perching position if the backrest is fully reclined, which feels unsafe.

Don't Buy: CareCo Augusta

Our score and verdict 40%, Not worth it despite the low price

Available from CareCo (£589.99 with VAT relief, £707.99 with VAT)

Pros

• Handset is easy to reach when upright
• Reasonably comfortable in upright position

Cons

• Large gap between backrest and seat when reclined
• Confusing and overly sensitive handset buttons
• No backup battery for power cuts
• Wobbles during movement
• Slow sit-to-stand

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 22.5cm

Need to know No backup battery, no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 86 x 181cm (W x L) when reclined, 125kg weight capacity

The CareCo Augusta may be affordable, but unfortunately, its flaws outweigh any savings. While testers found it fairly comfortable when upright, reclining revealed a 9cm gap between the backrest and seat, which reduced lower back support. This noticeable gap left some users feeling uncomfortable, especially during longer use.

The chair’s movement also left much to be desired. It wobbles as it transitions to a standing position, which could make users feel unsteady. Adding to this is a sluggish rise time of 55 seconds – among the slowest we’ve tested.

The handset was another major disappointment. Its identical buttons make it hard to figure out what controls what, and the instruction manual didn’t match the handset’s actual design. The buttons are also overly sensitive, increasing the likelihood of accidental adjustments.

Riser recliner chairs (also known as reclining chairs) offer a choice of seating positions and by enabling you to get in and out of a chair without assistance, they also help you maintain independent living. But they're pricey and not all chairs are worth the money. 

We use teams of trained experts with decades of experience and a user panel, all aged over 65 and made up of people of different sizes and weights, to test popular riser recliner chairs for comfort, ease of use, speed and security. Our panel alone, make more than 100 checks on each chair.

As well as the seven Best Buys recommendations we've discovered, our tests have found that the most expensive models aren't necessarily the best – we've pulled out a Great Value recommendation and warned against two products that performed poorly enough to get a Don't Buy, one of which cost well over £1,000. 

The best riser recliner chairs

Only logged-in Which? members can view the riser recliner chair test results below. 

Join Which? to get instant access to our test results and Best Buy recommendations below.

The riser recliner chairs we tested

All the riser recliner chairs we tested are listed in alphabetical order below.

Only logged-in Which? members can view the best riser recliner chairs from our tests.

Join Which? to get instant access to our test results and Best Buy recommendations below.

Where possible we've included direct links to buy the chairs online, though for chairs that are only available in-store or through a catalogue or home visit we've linked the manufacturer's page.

CareCo Augusta

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from CareCo (£589.99 with VAT relief, £707.99 with VAT)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 22.5cm

Need to know No backup battery, no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 86 x 181cm (W x L) when reclined, 125kg weight capacity

Celebrity Canterbury Cloud Zero

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from Hafren Furnishers (£1,349 without VAT), The Recliner Store (£1,499 without VAT, £1,798.90 with VAT)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2024

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 24.5cm

Need to know Rechargeable backup battery, crush prevention (sprung loaded), wooden armrest, 73.3 x 171cm (W x L) when reclined, 190.5kg weight capacity

Celebrity Hollingwell 

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from The Recliner Store (£1,359 with VAT relief, £1631 with VAT)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2024

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 21cm

Need to know Rechargeable backup battery, crush prevention (sprung loaded), upholstered armrest, 83 x 171cm (W x L) when reclined, 190.5kg weight capacity

Electric Mobility Fenlake

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from Mobility Co. (£1,099 with VAT relief, £1,319 with VAT), First Choice Mobility (£1,295 with VAT relief)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested November 2024

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 23.0cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery (spare not supplied), no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 83.5 x 159cm (W x L) when reclined, 158.8kg weight capacity

Fenetic Atlas

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from Fenetic Wellbeing (£1,199.99 with VAT relief, £1439.99 with VAT)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested August 2021

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 26.4cm

Need to know Rechargeable backup battery, no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 84 x 171cm (W x L) when reclined, 160kg weight capacity

Fenetic Cullingworth

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from Fenetic Wellbeing (£1,399.99 with VAT relief, £1679.99 with VAT)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 27.8cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, upholstered armrest, 89 x 188cm (W x L) when reclined, 158kg weight capacity

We've tested rollators and mobility walkers at a range of prices – head to the best rollators and mobility walkers to see which ones aced our tests for adjustability, maneuverability, walking and comfort.

Fenetic Westminster 

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from Fenetic Wellbeing (£879.99 with VAT relief, £1055.99 with VAT)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2018

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 25.2cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 81 x 181cm (W x L) when reclined, 158kg weight capacity

HSL Burrows 

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from HSL (£1,880 with VAT relief)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Waterfall

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 24.9cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, crush prevention (sensor triggered), upholstered armrest, 86 x 166cm (W x L) when reclined, 160kg weight capacity

HSL Ripley

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from HSL (£1,795 with VAT relief)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested January 2021

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 26.7cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, no crush prevention, wooden armrest, 76 x 185cm (W x L) when reclined, weight capacity unavailable

Pride Mobility Dorchester 

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from MobiQuip (£1,189 with VAT relief, £1,426 with VAT), Great British Mobility (£1,295 with VAT relief, £1,554 with VAT), Kardinal Independent Living (£1,175 with VAT relief)

This same model of chair is also available from CareCo, as the CareCo Oakdale (£2,299.99 with VAT relief). 

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 28.7cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, no crush prevention, upholstered armrest, 89 x 176cm (W x L) when reclined, 158kg weight capacity

Primacare Denbigh

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from Kardinal Independent Living (£1,410 with VAT relief, £1,692 with VAT), Lifestyle & Mobility (£1,410 with VAT relief, £1,692 with VAT).

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2023

Backrest type Waterfall

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 23.2cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, no crush prevention, wooden armrest, 82 x 178.5cm (W x L) when reclined, weight capacity unavailable

Sherborne Albany 

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from Archers Sleepcentre (£1,184 with VAT relief), Clearwell Mobility (£1,359 with VAT relief, £1631 with VAT)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested June 2019

Backrest type Waterfall

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 24.9cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, crush prevention (sensor triggered), upholstered armrest, 86 x 166cm (W x L) when reclined, 160kg weight capacity

Sherborne Roma

Our score and verdict Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Available from Recliners4U (£1,268 with VAT relief), Relax Sofas & Beds (£1,399 with VAT relief, £1,679 with VAT)

Pros Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Cons Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested January 2021

Backrest type Standard

Can you operate the footrest and back independently? Yes

Armrest height 22.9cm

Need to know Replaceable backup battery, crush prevention (sensor), upholstered armrest, 89 x 171cm (W x L) when reclined, 160kg weight capacity

Which? Don't Buy riser recliner chairs

Our tests uncover the best and the worst. If a product performs so poorly that we think you should avoid it, we call it a Don't Buy. We've tested two riser recliner chairs that we've named Don't Buys.

These models aren't as comfortable as others and have issues like an overly slow or aggressively speedy reclining and rising mechanism. They also have ease of use headaches that set them far below alternative options. 

How we test riser recliner chairs

We go further than anyone else when it comes to testing riser recliner chairs. We use teams of trained experts with decades of experience, along with our user panel made up of people of different sizes and weights.

We regularly revisit the riser recliner chairs on sale to see if there are any more popular models that need testing and when we find them we do. 

Comfort

Our panel of testers, all aged over 65, try out and rate each chair we test. In total, they make more than 100 checks on each chair.

• Users sit in each chair for one hour, use its controls and experience its full cycle of movements and positions. 
• They then rate the chair on a number of factors, including how comfortable it is in both the sitting and reclining positions.
• To ensure that our test is fair, we check that each user’s leg measurements and weight are suited to the chair they are testing, and we buy the same sized chair so our panel can compare them consistently.

Reliability and feeling secure

We also carry out checks, measures and tests in our expert laboratory. 

• We check if the backup battery can power the chair from fully reclined to standing in the event of a power cut, how long that takes and whether you can do that multiple times
• We record how long it takes the chair to get from the recline position to standing.
• We quiz our user panel on whether they felt the chair moved smoothly and enabled them to step out of the chair without feeling wobbly or uncertain.

Ease of use

Our panel of testers also rate each chair on how easy it is to use.

• This includes how easy each tester found the controls to understand and operate, as well as whether the chair has any handy extra features, such as illuminated buttons.

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3 things to avoid in a riser recliner chair

• Wrong seat height - measure the chair to check it will be a good fit for your body. If a chair is too high, your feet won't be able to touch the floor and this will put too much pressure on your back. If it's too low, your legs won't be fully supported and the backs of your thighs could start to ache. Some chairs have an adjustable height feature. 
• Incorrect chair width and depth - a riser recliner chair that's too wide won't properly support your sides and back, and you might feel less secure in the chair. If the seat's too deep, you won't be able to sit with your back fully supported down its length. Often, people who have made this mistake stuff cushions behind them, but this doesn't provide even support. Look out for bespoke chair-making services if your height or size is a big concern.
• Not enough room - riser recliner chairs are heavy and take up a lot of room, so you need to identify a permanent position for yours. Measure your space carefully before you buy to ensure it will fit and ensure there's plenty of clearance behind it so it can fully recline. As a rule of thumb, you'll need at least a 60cm/24 inch space unless it's a wall-hugging riser recliner chair which will need as little as 10cm/4 inches. 

7 things to look for in a riser recliner chair

Here's the seven key features you might want to consider to help you get the most out of your riser recliner chair: 

• Leg rest - choose a dual-motor riser recliner if you want the leg rest to rise automatically as you recline.
• Battery - if there's a power cut, a backup battery will let you move back to a neutral or standing position. 
• Anti-crush - this will help to prevent accidents if pets or small children get underneath the mechanism.  
• Chair shape - some recliner seats and backs are designed to remain fixed in position as you recline. This can reduce the risk of friction or other damage to your skin as the chair moves.
• Support or pressure-relieving - these might help if you have a serious back problem or medical condition. We also recommend seeking the advice of an independent adviser to assess your needs before buying. Head to the Royal College of Occupational Therapists to find a registered therapist in your area. 
• Full recline - although some chairs allow you to lie completely flat, they're not intended for sleeping in for extended periods. If you have difficulty getting into bed, you should consider buying an adjustable bed or specially designed chair bed in addition to a riser recliner chair.
• Waterfall back rests - unlike a standard back rest, waterfall back rests provide a tiered layer of padding that will give you more support.

We've also tested mobility scooters from CareCo, Livewell, Pride and more. See our round-up of the best mobility scooters for more information

Trying out recliner chairs

It's important to try a riser recliner chair in person to ensure it fits your body comfortably and operates smoothly. Everyone's needs are different, so testing the chair helps you confirm its features and support suit you perfectly.

Try as many chairs as you can. A mobility shop should have staff who can advise you on all kinds of equipment, including riser recliner chairs, as well as models you can try. This can be a good way of exploring what features would suit you.

Disabled Living Centres (DLCs) are also worth a visit. Most are charities and may not sell the chairs, but they're a good place to start to understand the range and styles offered and to test out recliners on loan from manufacturers. 

Most chairs will feel comfortable when you first sit on them, but might not feel the same after a few hours, so check the retailer has a good returns policy. 

Whichever retailer you choose, check it's accredited by the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA). BHTA members must abide by a code of practice, approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute.

How much do riser recliner chairs cost? 

You can get basic riser recliner chairs for as little as £300, but the cheapest models are likely single-motor models that don't let you control the back and footrest independently. 

Typical prices for dual-motor riser recliner chairs range from £500 to upwards of £2,000 but don’t assume you need to spend a fortune to sit comfortably.

Our cheapest Best Buys start from around £900 – and we've found some riser recliners costing nearly twice as much that were average in our tests.

The price you pay might also depend on the features and fabric you choose and which company you buy your chair from, so it's always worth shopping around. 

Can I get help to buy a riser recliner chair?

If you need a riser recliner chair because of a medical condition or to help you live independently at home, you might be eligible to get one through your local authority. 

Different local authorities have different rules around what they will pay for, but your first step should be to contact your local council and book an assessment. You can find out more in our guide to financing care at home.

If you have a mobility problem and need special equipment to live independently you may also qualify for VAT exemption. Visit the HMRC website for more information on VAT relief for disabled people.

Consider your options when buying a riser recliner chair

To make sure you're buying a riser recliner chair that's well built and safe to use, shop with trusted sellers online or in-store. 

For more details on shopping online safely and arranging refunds for faulty equipment, see our online shopping advice.

• CareCo sells a wide range of riser recliner chairs, both with single and dual motors. Prices start at just under £500 and you can upgrade to a chair with an in-built massager if you like.
• Fenetic Wellbeing has a wide variety of chairs in different materials and colours. Prices start at around £500. 
• HSL Chairs offers home visits and a free brochure with fabric samples, as well as a 'seven-point seating assessment' to determine your needs.
• Willowbrook stocks riser recliner chairs that are manufactured in the Midlands. It offers a range of different contemporary fabric designs and extras, including reading lights.
• Grosvenor Mobility provides free home demonstrations and its assortment of models comes with onsite and offsite repairs as part of their warranty.

Although some riser recliner chairs are available to purchase brand new online, there are three other main options: 

• Buying a riser recliner chair through a home visit - some retailers will get a sales representative to bring a chair sample to you. They will show their ID on arrival and should provide written information and a cooling-off period.

• Buying a riser recliner chair through a catalogue - this is best if you want an off-the-peg rather than a bespoke model. Check the company’s returns policy and, in particular, who is responsible for the cost of removing and returning the chair should you decide it’s not for you. You can see what your rights are under the Consumer Contract Regulations. 

• Hiring a riser recliner chair or buying second-hand - it's possible to pick up a second-hand riser recliner chair from private sales websites such as eBay. Remember, there's no guarantee that the chair is the right fit for you, so it's best to follow the same steps as if you were buying new. You can hire a chair from specialist companies such as Mobilityhire.com.