Recliners are a popular furniture choice for relaxing in comfort at home. But if you’re shopping for a new recliner, you’ll find there are traditional manual options as well as more high-tech power recliners. Understanding the key differences will help you decide which type best suits your needs and budget.
This in-depth guide from the experts at Essops Home covers everything you need to know before choosing between standard and power recliner designs.
HOW DO RECLINERS WORK?
To understand the difference between manual and power chairs, it helps to first look at how recliners operate in general.
A recliner's mechanism allows the backrest to recline and the leg rest to rise up simultaneously. This creates a comfortable lounging position for reading, watching TV, or even sleeping.
Inside a recliner are connecting metal frames, braces, springs, levers, and other components that work together to control the movement and locking positions of the chair.
Traditional recliners use mechanical parts like looping steel springs and cross bars. These are operated manually using a side lever or pull handle.
Power recliners replace many of the manual parts with powerful electric motors and gears that are activated by wired or wireless remotes.
Now let's explore the main differences between these two recliner types in more detail.
KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MANUAL AND POWER RECLINERS
HOW THEY RECLINE
The most obvious difference between standard and power recliner chairs is in the reclining method:
● Manual recliners require the use of a handle or lever, typically located on the right interior side of the armrest. By pulling up on the lever, you release the locking mechanism and can lean back to lower the chair's backrest and raise the footrest.
● Power recliners recline electronically using internal motors rather than manual springs. Buttons or remote controls operate the chair's smooth motorized movement. Just press a button to activate the footrest and gradually recline the backrest until you find the perfect lounging position.
This key difference in reclining methods makes power chairs ideal for those wanting effortless adjustability. But manual options still appeal for their simplicity and lower cost.
NUMBER OF POSITIONS
Another major difference is the range of reclining positions offered:
● Manual recliners essentially have two positions - fully upright or fully reclined. Some models let you lock partially reclined angles, but the range is limited.
● Power recliners allow you to customize your position using the remote to control backrest angle and footrest height independently. This lets you fine-tune your chair for maximum comfort in multiple lounge positions.
Having virtually unlimited angles and customizable comfort settings is a big perk of power recliners. But the basic back and foot support of manual chairs still offers relaxing adjustability.
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FEATURES AND OPTIONS
When it comes to special features and options, power chairs lead the way:
● Manual recliners keep things simple without many options beyond fabric and color selection. Any extra features are minimal.
● Power recliners come packed with options for convenience and personalization. From integrated USB ports, lighted cup holders and storage trays to power adjustable headrests and lumbar support, the features run the gamut. Higher-end models even have massage, heat and vibration functions.
If gadgets and customizability excite you, power is the way to go. But manual recliners still get the job done if you want a straightforward, classic chair.
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SIZE, WEIGHT AND POWER
Given their internal motors and metal frames, power recliners are understandably bulkier and heavier than standard models:
● Manual recliners have lighter frames resulting in lower weights between 90-100 kgs typically. Their compact size also means they take up less room when reclined.
● Power recliners include electrical components and beefier metal frames leading to weights over 130 kgs. The motorized models also require extra space when fully reclined.
This size and weight difference is worth considering if you need to move your chair often or have limited space. Power recliners may not fit as easily through doorways and tight spaces in your home.
And of course, power mechanisms mean power recliners must be located near an electrical outlet while manual chairs can go anywhere. Some power models do operate on battery power for flexibility, however.
EASE OF USE
For those with mobility challenges or who simply want easy adjustability, power chairs deliver:
● Manual recliners require physical strength and dexterity to manually lift the release handle and push back against the chair's weight. This can prove difficult for some users.
● Power recliners move at the touch of a button, no strength or effort required. The powered controls are smooth, quiet and easy for anyone to operate.
If you have back problems, arthritis or general difficulty standing up from a seated position, a power recliner can make relaxing and finding the perfect position a breeze.
DURABILITY AND MAINTENANCE
Anecdotally, power recliners may last longer than manual models thanks to their sturdier construction and mechanized motion. But both styles ultimately come down to usage and care.
Follow these tips for maximum lifespan:
● Manual recliners benefit from regular tightening of hardware, lubrication of springs, and inspecting levers and handles. Take care not to overstrain the manual mechanism.
● Power recliners require diligent dusting and cleaning to prevent damage to motors and gears. Electrical components should be inspected and problems addressed quickly by a certified repair expert.
With proper care, either type can provide years of reliable performance. But the powered motion of electric chairs may cause less wear over time in some cases.
| Manual Recliners | Power Recliners |
| Pros ● Lower purchase cost ● Straightforward manual operation ● Compact size takes up less space ● Often have a classic, traditional style Cons ● Limited to only a few set positions ● Requires physical effort to recline ● Reclining action can wear down over time ● Few if any convenience features |
Pros ● Customizable recline positions ● Operate buttons/remote require minimal physical effort ● Many offer personalized comfort settings ● Advanced features: USB charging ports, massage, etc. Cons ● More expensive purchase price ● Bulkier size and heavier weight ● Require nearby electrical outlet ● Potential maintenance of motors and electrical |
Now let's go over the key considerations shoppers should keep in mind when choosing between power and manual recliner styles.
IMPORTANT FEATURES TO COMPARE
Beyond the differences we've covered so far, what else should factor into choosing between a standard manual or advanced power recliner? Here are the top considerations:
- COMFORT
For many shoppers, achieving optimal comfort is a top priority. In general, power recliners offer greater overall comfort thanks to the range of customizable adjustments and high-end features like lumbar support and massage. That said, manual chairs can still provide excellent comfort and healthy spine/neck alignment as you recline.
Do you want targeted comfort zones and high-tech settings? Go power. Or is basic reclining support enough? A manual chair likely satisfies.
- SIZE
As highlighted earlier, power recliners tend to be larger and heavier than manual models. Be sure to measure your room’s space to ensure enough clearance for a power chair fully reclined.
And consider any size limitations getting a recliner through doorways in your home. Power chairs are often bulkier.
- DESIGN AND DECOR
Manual chairs come in a huge range of fabrics and colors to match any room’s décor. But power chairs offer this same flexibility - don’t assume you have to sacrifice style for functionality! Both types feature models customizable to your taste.
That said, if you prefer a classic, nostalgic recliner look, manual chairs better capture that aesthetic. But high-end power chairs have an appeal all their own for those wanting contemporary luxury.
- MATERIALS
Leather, microfiber, tweed, cotton, polyester... both manual and power recliners come in a range of upholstery options. Consider maintenance, kids/pets, and your own preferences when choosing materials. Leather has sophisticated appeal, while microfiber offers easy wipe-cleaning.
- ADDED FEATURES
This is where power chairs claim a clear advantage. From USB ports, lighted storage and cupholders to lumbar adjustments and full-body massage rollers, the option for high-tech add-ons is a big perk of power recliners.
That said, extra features come at an increased price. So weigh how useful they are against potential added costs for your needs.
08 September