A recliner tilts back and raises a footrest so you can relax. A lift chair does that too, but it also has a motor that tilts the whole chair forward and up to help you get from sitting to standing. If getting out of a chair is easy for you, a recliner is usually enough. If standing up takes effort, a lift chair is worth a look.
How a recliner works
Recliners come in a few styles:
- Manual recliners recline with a lever or by pushing back. The Elyse Glider/Recliner (Grey), for example, reclines at the pull of a lever ($561.99).
- Power recliners use a motor and buttons. The Thea Power Recliner (Beige) has a power reclining mechanism and is listed at 38.6" L x 35" W x 41" H ($577.99).
- Rocker and glider recliners add motion when upright. The Sahara Rocker/Recliner (Grey) combines a rocker mechanism with a reclining mechanism ($531.99). The Elyse adds a glider motion.
When we checked, recliner chairs in our store started at $531.99, with the Tennessee Recliner (Beige), the Sahara Rocker/Recliner (Grey) and the Romilly Recliner (Grey). Browse all recliners.
How a lift chair works
A lift chair is a power recliner with an extra lift motor in the base. Press a button and the seat tilts forward and rises, so you can stand with less strain. Press it again and it lowers you back down and can recline.
Example: the Recliner Lift Chair (Dark Grey) from Brassex lists a power lift function, a multi-position power reclining mechanism, padded headrest and armrests, and a side pocket for the remote. It's $668.99. The same price applies to the other Brassex Recliner Lift Chairs in black, dark grey and light grey.
We also carry IFDC lift chairs, including the Lift Chair – Grey Fabric (IF-6360), listed with soft grey fabric and 100% hardwood frames, at 37" L x 36" W x 42" H ($894.99). Others are the Lift Chair – Grey (IF-6368) at $943.99, the Lift Chair – Brown (IF-6365) at $1,023.99 and the IF-6361 (Charcoal) and IF-6362 (Espresso) at $1,051.99.
Side by side
- Main job: a recliner helps you relax; a lift chair helps you relax and stand up.
- Power: manual recliners need no outlet. Power recliners and lift chairs need to be near a power outlet.
- Price in our store: recliners from $531.99; lift chairs from $668.99 to $1,051.99.
- Size and weight: lift chairs carry an extra motor and mechanism, so expect a sturdier, heavier chair. Check each product page for the listed size.
Who each one suits
A recliner is a good fit if you want a comfortable chair for TV, reading or naps and have no trouble getting up.
A lift chair is often chosen by seniors, people recovering from surgery, or anyone with sore knees, hips or back who finds standing up hard. The Brassex description notes the lift helps users move from sitting to standing and gives extra support for seniors or those with mobility challenges. If you're buying for health reasons, it's a good idea to ask a doctor or occupational therapist what features to look for.
Room planning tips
- Leave space to recline. Reclining pushes the back toward the wall and the footrest forward. Allow room on both sides of the chair for it to open fully.
- Leave space in front of a lift chair. The chair tilts forward as it lifts, so keep the area in front clear of coffee tables and rugs that could slide.
- Plan for the cord. Place power models where the cord can reach an outlet without crossing a walkway.
- Measure the way in. See our guide on measuring before delivery.
Quick answers
Is a lift chair also a recliner?
Yes. Lift chairs recline too. The difference is the extra lift motor that helps you stand.
Do lift chairs need to be plugged in?
Yes. Lift chairs use a motor, so they need a power outlet nearby.
How much is a lift chair?
When we checked, our lift chairs ranged from $668.99 to $1,051.99. Delivery is free across our service area.
What warranty do recliners and lift chairs have?
Furniture comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
Compare everything in our recliners and lift chairs collection, or call 437-995-4507 if you have questions.