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When shopping for recliners at La-Z-Boy, one of the most common questions we hear is, "What are the differences between manual and power recliners, and which one is better?" At La-Z-Boy Ottawa and Kingston, we’ve helped thousands of people find the perfect recliner for their specific needs. With so many recliner options available, how do you know which one is right for you?
Should you opt for a manual version or should you invest a little more and go for the added convenience of a power recliner? This article will compare both options, helping you make an informed decision based on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
Key Takeaways:
- Manual recliners are more affordable and rely on body weight for operation.
- Power recliners offer more comfort and ease with electric controls but are more expensive.
- Both types come in various styles such as rockers, wall recliners, and high-leg recliners.
- Manual recliners are ideal for simple setups, while power recliners suit those who prioritize convenience and mobility.
- La-Z-Boy Ottawa and Kingston offer a wide range of both manual and power recliners.
In This Article…
- What’s the Difference Between Manual vs. Power Recliner?
- Which One is Right For You?
- Pros and Cons Breakdown
What's the Difference Between a Manual vs. a Power Recliner?
Manual Recliners
A manual recliner is a chair that adjusts to a reclined position without the use of electricity. Most manual recliners use a lever mechanism, although some models operate by pushing back with your body weight.
Manual recliners are equipped with a three-position locking leg rest. By pulling the handle and rotating it counterclockwise, you can recline to your preferred position, whether you want to read, watch TV, or fully relax.
Available at La-Z-Boy:
- Traditional Rocker Recliners: These chairs use your body’s motion to rock and recline. They provide full body and lumbar support.
- Push-Back Recliners: With no visible lever, these recliners require you to simply push back to recline.
- Swivel Recliners: For added flexibility, these chairs allow you to face any direction and enjoy a smooth, relaxing motion.
Power Recliners
A power recliner, also known as an electric recliner, uses electric motors to adjust into various positions with the touch of a button. Power recliners need to be plugged into an outlet or equipped with a rechargeable battery pack for operation.
Power recliners feature controls located on the side of the chair or via a remote. La-Z-Boy’s power recliners come with memory settings for customized comfort and even include USB ports for charging devices. With the push of a button, you can recline, lift your legs, and adjust the backrest effortlessly.
Available at La-Z-Boy:
- Traditional Power Recliners: These recliners allow you to adjust the back and footrest independently. They also feature USB ports for charging.
- Lift Recliners: Ideal for individuals with mobility issues, these recliners help users move from a seated to a standing position with ease.
- Duo® Recliners: These stylish recliners save space and look like stationary chairs but offer full reclining functionality at the push of a button.
Manual vs. Power Recliners: Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between a manual and a power recliner comes down to several key factors: affordability, ease of use, maintenance, and room placement. By understanding the differences in these categories, you can better decide which type of recliner fits your lifestyle and budget.
Price: Affordability vs. Features
Manual recliners are generally more budget-friendly, thanks to their simpler, non-electric mechanisms. Without the need for motors or added features, they provide essential reclining comfort at a lower cost, making them an ideal choice for cost-conscious buyers.
In contrast, power recliners come with advanced electrical systems, which drive up their price. These additional features, such as motorized reclining, memory settings, and USB ports, typically add several hundred dollars to the cost, offering more convenience and versatility for those willing to invest.
Ease of Use: Physical Effort vs. Effortless Control
Operating a manual recliner requires some physical effort, like pulling a lever or shifting body weight. While La-Z-Boy’s long-handle options make it easier for some users, manual recliners can be challenging for individuals with mobility concerns.
Power recliners, on the other hand, offer seamless operation with the push of a button, allowing for infinite adjustments where the backrest and footrest move independently. Power recliners are also ideal for people with limited strength or mobility, highlighting their appeal for seniors or anyone seeking easy, minimal-effort comfort.
Customization: Basic Comfort vs. Tailored Luxury
Manual recliners provide comfort with a few fixed positions, locking into one of three leg rest settings. This limits their customizability compared to power recliners.
In contrast, power recliners offer extensive flexibility, with almost limitless reclining positions and optional advanced features like adjustable lumbar support, memory settings, and USB ports. These options allow for a highly personalized and luxurious seating experience, elevating the level of comfort to new heights.
Placement: Flexibility vs. Power Source Dependency
One of the key advantages of manual recliners is their placement flexibility. Since they don’t require a power outlet, you can position them anywhere in a room, making them versatile for tighter spaces or areas without convenient access to electricity.
Power recliners, however, need to be near a power source. To address this, La-Z-Boy provides an optional rechargeable battery pack, allowing for more flexible placement. However, the battery will require periodic recharging and might restrict usage time between charges.
Maintenance: Simplicity vs. Technology
Manual recliners are simpler, with fewer components that could fail, making them easier and less expensive to maintain. Their basic design typically means long-lasting durability with minimal servicing needs.
In comparison, power recliners come with motors and electrical systems that may occasionally need repairs or replacements. Fortunately, La-Z-Boy’s limited lifetime warranty on mechanical parts offers reassurance, even if the technological complexity means more potential maintenance down the line.
Pros and Cons Breakdown Summary
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What's Next?
You now have a clearer idea of the differences between Manual and Power reclining furniture. We hope that this article will guide you in making the right choice for you!
You can start shopping by visiting one of our local showrooms located in Ottawa or Kingston. You can also schedule a visit online before coming in.
Our design consultants are always eager to lend a helping hand. Take advantage of our interior design services to see how our furniture could fit in your home design. To learn more about La-Z-Boy recliners in general, take a look at our comprehensive recliner buyer’s guide.
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