Manual or Power Recliner: Which is Best?

The recliner has become an iconic piece of American furniture. And for good reason, too! 

As furniture design and technology has advanced, we’ve now been introduced to the power recliner in addition to our beloved manual recliner. So which is best?

Well, that depends on what you’re looking for. Let’s take a look at each option and some considerations when selecting.

Manual Recliners

Manual recliners have been around since the late 1800’s and gained popularity quickly in the 1900’s for their multifunctional ability to act as a stationary chair and be able to recline and repose in comfort. 

The manual recliner is the most well-known of reclining furniture, but there are also reclining sofas and loveseats.

Manual Mechanics: The mechanics of the manual recliner are quite simple. They use a combination of springs and levers to manually control the recline of the footrest and back of the chair. A wooden or plastic lever is more commonly used activate the reclining footrest, but there are options that offer more hidden mechanics These include the push back system as well as a pull handle on the interior of the arm rest.

The manual recliner functions on the spring and lever system rather than electricity, which can be useful if you don’t have a power source or if you want more flexibility on placement of your recliner.

Like most other furniture pieces, the manual recliner can come in a variety of fabric and upholstery choices, sizes, and styles. While our iconic manual recliner is usually the wider and bigger style, there are options that are more discreet and traditional.

In addition, some manual recliners can swivel and can have multiple footrest elevations depending on the lever position and preference of the individual using it. 

Because manual recliners don’t have internal electronic parts, there’s less chance of malfunctions or repair needs on that front, but both manual and power recliners can have maintenance needs.

Manual Recliner Considerations:

• Simple and easy to operate
• Less potential mechanical issues
• No power source needed
• Variety of fabrics and upholstery options to select from and customize
• More budget-friendly 
• Faster recline 
• Can place anywhere in room
• Less amenities
• More difficult to get in/out of with mobility issues
• Harder on body, pulling on levers or pushing back to get into recline position

Manual recliners are a great option for those looking for a simple, easy-to-use recliner that can be placed anywhere in your space. If you’re not looking for the bells and whistles with the extras and would prefer a quick and easy recline, a manual recliner may be the best choice for you.

Power Recliners

The power recliner has become a more popular choice for many because of a few reasons. The  ease and convenience of pushing a button to recline. The varied reclining choices ranging from foot rest, head rest, and lumbar support. And the additional conveniences many models include now, such as USB charging port, cup holder, and other amenities that create the maximum level of comfort.

Power Mechanics: Power recliners need electricity to function in the recline position. Rather than a lever, they use power buttons or a power panel to run internal motors to find the perfect state of recline. These power buttons or panels can be found either discreetly placed on the inside of the recliner or on the outside.

Similar to the manual recliner, power recliners also come in a variety of sizes, fabrics and upholstery options, and styles. Where the two differ is in the additional amenities and customization you can find with power recliners. If you want more from your recliner, a power recliner has the options to select from. 

In addition to extra amenities, the power recliner also offers those with limited mobility a more comfortable and convenient seating option with power lift. 

Power Recliner Considerations:

• Simple and easy to operate
• Quiet, smooth, and effortless reclining operation
• Variety of fabrics and upholstery options to select from and customize
• More amenities (USB charging port, cup holders, LED lighting, etc.)
• Best for mobility challenges with power lift
• Power source needed
• More internal mechanics 
• Slower to recline
• Budget-friendly depending on customization

Power recliners would make great additions for those who are looking for the best combination of comfort and convenience. An effortless choice, power recliners only require you to lift one finger to push a button to recline. They also make great choices for those who are aging or those who have difficulty with mobility sitting and standing easily.

Watson’s is ready to help you select the best option for you. As a premier provider of power recliners, we can find you the best for your budget, design, and wants. Contact one of our design experts today to learn more about our selection of recliners and how to best select for your room. Trust us, you’ll never regret a recliner!