Whill F vs. Whill C2: A Comprehensive Comparison of Two Popular Powerchairs
When it comes to choosing a powerchair, the Whill F and Whill C2 may look similar at first glance, but they have significant differences that could influence your decision. In this blog post, I’ll compare these two models based on ease of transport, key features, and performance on various terrains to help you find the best powerchair for your needs.
Ease of Transport: Folding and Weight
One of the key considerations when choosing a powerchair is how easily it can be transported.
Whill C2:
If you do not have a large car, The Whill C2 needs to be disassembled into five separate pieces for transportation:
- Front wheels and footplate
- Back wheels
- Basket
- Battery
- Seat
While the assembly is straightforward once you’re used to it, it does take time. The heaviest piece (the back wheels) weighs 19.4kg, and the entire chair weighs 52.6kg. Due to the seat’s size and bulk, you may find it difficult to store it in a smaller car, especially without a hoist.
With an up-and-down hoist in an average family car, you may still need to break the chair into its five pieces, but if you have a larger vehicle and a 4-way hoist, it’s possible to load the chair in one piece. The Motability scheme is a great resource for exploring hoist options.
Whill F:
In contrast, the Whill F is a foldable powerchair that collapses in one simple motion. It takes up less boot space and weighs 26.7kg with the battery included. While this single-piece weight may seem heavy, it eliminates the need for multiple lifts during assembly.
That said, lifting it can still be challenging. Even Ian (who is young and strong!) injured his back while lifting the Whill F. To avoid injury, I highly recommend investing in a suitable hoist for both powerchairs.
Bluetooth Features: Hands-Free Convenience
Both the Whill F and Whill C2 include Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control the powerchairs via a smartphone app. While the chairs don’t reach their top speed when controlled remotely, this feature is incredibly helpful for people with fatigue or those who occasionally require a hands-free solution.
Performance on Pavements and Slopes
When navigating slopes or uneven pavements, the performance of these two models diverges:
- Whill C2: Its innovative front-wheel design keeps you on course even on sloped pavements, making it easier to navigate.
- Whill F: While it’s maneuverable, it can veer off course on slopes, requiring you to pay closer attention to your driving.
Stopping Distance
Stopping quickly is crucial in crowded areas, and this is where the Whill C2 excels. When you release the controls, the C2 stops much faster than the Whill F, which is an important consideration for safety.
Terrain Handling: Flat, Gravel, and Grass
We tested both chairs across a variety of terrains:
- Flat Surfaces: Both powerchairs performed smooth 360-degree turns with no issues.
- Gravel: The Whill F outperformed the C2 here, as the C2’s front wheels occasionally got stuck on small stones.
- Grass and Mixed Terrain: Both chairs handled grass and transitions between surfaces well, as long as the grass wasn’t too wet or muddy. However, the Whill C2’s superior suspension made for a much more comfortable ride on rough terrain.
Curbs
When it comes to tackling curbs:
- The Whill C2 glides over curbs smoothly, thanks to its superior suspension.
- The Whill F can struggle due to its caster wheels, which may make curbs more challenging to navigate.
Battery Life and Speed
Both powerchairs have a maximum speed of 4mph and boast impressive battery life. I’ve comfortably used each chair for full-day outings without needing to recharge, which is a huge plus for both models.
Price Comparison
Finally, let’s talk about cost:
- Whill F: £2,995
- Whill C2: £4,995
The price difference is significant, so it’s essential to weigh your needs carefully when choosing between the two.
Final Thoughts: Whill F vs. Whill C2
Both the Whill F and Whill C2 have their strengths, making them suitable for different types of users:
- If you need a lightweight, foldable powerchair that’s easy to transport, the Whill F is an excellent option. It’s also a more affordable choice for those who may use a wheelchair less frequently.
- For everyday use, I personally prefer the Whill C2. Its superior suspension, comfort, and performance on different terrains make it a reliable and versatile powerchair for regular outings.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to see potential upgrades for the Whill C2, particularly with improved back and neck support options.
Remember you can get 10% off all new powerchairs and mobility scooters at TGA mobility using code Jenni10
