Published 23 June 2026
A riser recliner chair helps you sit, relax and stand again with ease, using a motor to tilt the seat gently forward and lift you towards standing. When you start shopping, the big decision is single motor or dual motor. This guide explains the difference and helps you choose the right one for your needs and budget.
The quick answer
A single motor chair moves the backrest and footrest together with one button, which is simple and more affordable. A dual motor chair has separate motors for the back and the legs, so you can recline the back and raise the legs independently and find far more positions, including a near-flat lay-back. If you want simple support and rise assistance, single motor is fine. If you need to adjust your position often or for longer periods, dual motor is worth the extra cost.
Single motor riser recliners
A single motor chair uses one motor to move the backrest and footrest in a fixed, linked motion: as the back reclines, the legs rise together. The controls are simple, often just two buttons, which suits anyone who prefers something easy to operate. These chairs are more affordable and slightly more compact. The limitation is that you cannot set the back and legs independently, so it is harder to find a perfectly tailored position, which can matter for some conditions. Single motor chairs typically cost from around £500 to £1,500.
Dual motor riser recliners
A dual motor chair has two separate motors, one for the backrest and one for the leg rest, so each moves independently. This gives a much wider range of positions, including reclining the back while keeping your feet down, or raising your legs while sitting fairly upright. It can also lie back further, close to flat, which suits people who spend long periods in the chair or want to nap in it. The control pad has more buttons, and the chairs cost more, typically £800 to £2,500 or higher for specialist models.
Which is right for you?
Choose a single motor chair if you mainly want help getting up and a comfortable recline, value simple controls, and want to keep the cost down. Choose a dual motor chair if you need to change position frequently, sit for long stretches, want to lie back further, or have a condition such as arthritis, oedema or poor circulation where independent leg elevation helps. For anyone with complex needs, a home assessment with an occupational therapist is well worth it, as the right chair depends on your height, weight and posture.
Other things to check
Whatever motor type you choose, make sure the chair is the right size for you, as a chair that is too big or small will not support good posture. Check the weight capacity, the fabric (wipe-clean options help), and whether it includes useful extras like a removable battery backup so the chair still works in a power cut. Many riser recliners qualify for VAT relief if you are disabled or chronically sick, which saves 20 per cent. For typical prices, see our guide on how much riser recliner chairs cost.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dual motor recliner worth the extra money?
For many people, yes. The ability to move the back and legs independently makes it much easier to find a comfortable position and to lie back further, which matters if you spend long periods in the chair or have circulation or joint problems. For simple rise and recline, a single motor is usually enough.
Can you sleep in a riser recliner?
You can rest comfortably in either type, but a dual motor chair reclines closer to flat, which makes it better for longer naps or sleeping. Some people who struggle to sleep in bed use a dual motor chair for this reason.
Do riser recliners qualify for VAT relief?
Yes, if the chair is bought by or for someone who is disabled or chronically sick, it can usually be supplied at zero VAT, saving 20 per cent. The retailer will ask you to complete a short declaration.
What size chair do I need?
The chair should match your height and weight so your back is supported and your feet reach the footrest comfortably. Specialist retailers measure you, and a home assessment is recommended for anyone with specific postural needs.
Browse all our mobility furniture guides for more on riser recliners and adjustable beds.
Official sources
For tax relief on mobility products, see GOV.UK VAT relief for disabled people.
Published 23 June 2026