WHILL Model Ci Comparison

That's why I'm writing this article about the WHILL Model Ci. I wanted to give you some insights into the Model Ci, as well as conduct a product comparison in respect to some of its rivals. Many wheelchair users will be weighing the advantages of the WHILL Model Ci compared to these units.

Here, I'll compare the Model Ci to similar chairs of other brands (namely the Pride Go-Go Sport and the Pride Jazzy Select), as well as another WHILL model (the WHILL Model A).

WHILL Model Ci vs. Pride Go-Go Sport

I'll start with this comparison because of the obvious difference: price. The Pride Go-Go Sport chair has an undoubtedly lower price point than the WHILL Model Ci, but that's because it's a lower-tech chair. In that sense, it's a worthwhile trade-off for the value. The Go-Go Sport is popular with users who are looking for a capable, entry-level device --- people who may feel more comfortable with a traditional electric scooter or who are hesitant to adopt new technology.

When it comes to marrying the latest wheelchair innovations with useful, high-tech features, WHILL's tech specs are really off the charts. The Model Ci features Bluetooth capabilities and a USB charging port for your electronic devices --- a level of technology integration that its competitors simply can’t match. Plus, the WHILL Model Ci's accompanying app allows users to modify speed settings on their phone, and even use it to drive their chairs remotely!

WHILL clearly wins this battle when it comes to tech, but it's also more appealing with regard to customization. While the Pride Go-Go Sport comes in either red or blue, WHILL comes in six different shades: white, black, grey, blue, gold and pink, making it easier to find a match that truly fits your personality.

WHILL Model Ci vs. Pride Jazzy Select

Unlike the Go-Go Sport model, the Pride Jazzy Select is more comparable in price to the WHILL Model Ci. While the Jazzy Select rings in at $3,529.00, the WHILL Model Ci totals $3,999.00. However, as outlined above, WHILL's sweet tech features make it a more appealing option for many users.

The WHILL Model Ci has a faster top speed than the Jazzy Select, but the Jazzy has a slightly higher maximum range. The Jazzy Select is better for heavier buyers, as it can hold up to 300 pounds (the Model Ci can support 250 pounds). That being said, the WHILL Model Ci has far greater options for customization --- including four more colors than the Jazzy Select, as well as additional storage spaces.

Once again, where WHILL really innovates is with its accompanying app that allows the user to control the Model Ci remotely, and the handy USB charging port for electronic devices. The Jazzy Select is a solid chair that will feel familiar to many users, while the Model Ci brings interesting new features to the marketplace.

WHILL Model Ci vs. WHILL Model A

Though many of Pride's rival products are less expensive than the WHILL Model Ci, the Model Ci does come in at a lower price point than the WHILL Model A.

While the Model A has four-wheel drive and the Model Ci features two-wheel drive, the Model A's other features aren't significantly different. The Ci has a top speed of 5 miles per hour and a maximum range of 10 miles when fully charged. The Model A improves upon that slightly --- clocking in at a top speed of 5.5 miles per hour and reaching a maximum range of 12 miles when fully charged.

However, the WHILL Model Ci has other features that the Model A does not. The biggest difference between the two units is transportability. The Model Ci easily disassembles into three lightweight pieces for easy transport, while the Model A needs to be transported as a full unit. While both WHILL chairs share the cool app, only the Model Ci features a nifty USB charging port. The Model Ci also has a detailed range indicator on the control pad that displays a number between 1% and 100%, while the Model A uses the standard 1 to 5 bars to indicate battery life.

The Ci also separates itself from the Model A with its armrests, integrated horn, swappable batteries, five-gallon under-seat storage space and optional custom sidebag. Additionally, the Ci has one more speed setting than the Model A, four more color options, and a 250 pound user weight limit --- 30 pounds higher than the Model A.

Summary

While the WHILL Model Ci is fairly comparable to its rivals in regards to range, speed and performance, what really makes it shine is its exceptional technology and ability to navigate rough terrain. With more color choices and useful additional features than similar units, it's easier to feel like this chair truly is your own.

Plus, the Model Ci's app makes it feel even more like your chair is just another extension of you --- one that you can control remotely! And with the USB charging port feature (something none of the Model Ci's rivals contain), you can feel good about bringing all your favorite devices along for the ride.

In summary, this chair's ideal combination of cutting-edge technology and custom features makes it the most useful and easiest ride I've come across in a while. In my book, the WHILL Model Ci is an affordable way to obtain one of the only real next-generation mobility devices on the market right now. If you would like to learn more about the WHILL Model Ci, download the full brochure using the link below:

Download WHILL Ci Brochure

Cory Lee is a wheelchair user, travel addict, and accessible travel writer.

On his blog, Curb Free with Cory Lee, he hopes to inspire others to roll out of their comfort zones and see all the beauty our world has to offer.