Power chairs and mobility scooters are frequently grouped together to distinguish them from manual or traditional self-propelled wheelchairs. However, there are a few basic differences between a power chair and a mobility scooter.

The mobility scooter usually has three or four wheels; they are steered by using a tiller (bicycle style handlebar) that requires two hands. Mobility scooters are specifically designed to travel at speeds of up to 35 miles an hour. They are mostly used by people who face problems with mobility. Depending on the type and model, mobility scooters can easily be stored at home or can be transported in a car.

Power chairs look similar to traditional wheelchairs. The main advantage of a power chair is that it can be driven by one hand using a joystick controller. Powerchairs can be used indoors as well as outdoors whereas mobility scooters are basically meant for outdoor use. However, a few smaller models can be used indoors.

Mobility scooters have a single motor for driving the rear wheel, whereas a powerchair has two motors that drive the rear wheels individually. This provides a power chair with smaller turning circle making it perfect for indoor use. At the same time it also provides plenty of control and traction. Mobility scooters are less configurable than power chairs and usually have few optional extras. Mobility scooters are relatively less expensive than power chairs.