Single Motor vs. Dual Motor Recliners: What’s the Difference?

Riser recliner chairs are a practical option for those who need a little extra help when standing or sitting. They come with motorised mechanisms that make it easier for you to stand up, sit down or recline, with just the touch of a button. This range of positions offers both comfort and functionality, meaning you can find the position that offers the right level of comfort and support for you, as well as ensuring you have extra support when rising to your feet. And as well as offering ultimate comfort, they also reduce strain on joints and muscles.

Find out more in our riser recliner buying guide.

One of the options when it comes to riser recliners is a single motor. These chairs use one motor to control both the backrest and footrest at the same time. This means that when the chair reclines, both the backrest and footrest move together – in other words, when you recline the chair, the backrest will tilt backwards while the footrest rises simultaneously. 

This provides a comfortable reclining position, perfect for those who prefer simplicity. Single motor riser recliners are a good option for people who don’t need independent movement of the backrest and footplate, and are happy for them to be controlled together.

If you’re looking for comfort and simplicity, single motor riser recliners could be the perfect choice for you. Some of the key advantages include:

Easy to operate with a single control mechanism, which can be good for anyone who prefers a simple design, but is especially beneficial for those with limited mobility or eyesight problems

Typically more affordable than dual motor models, offering great value without compromising on comfort

Offers a straightforward reclining and rising motion – simply press one button and it all happens at the same time

Dual motor riser recliner chairs, on the other hand, have two motors. This allows the backrest and footrest to move independently, giving users more flexibility when it comes to finding a comfortable position, whether they prefer to recline fully or raise their feet without reclining.

Accommodating a wider range of user preferences, dual motor riser recliners are ideal for those looking for a more tailored seating experience, while still enjoying the maximum comfort and support these chairs are known for.

For those seeking a more personalised experience, a dual motor riser recliner could be a better choice. Some of the key benefits include:

They offer independent control of the backrest and footrest for more personalised comfort.

You can either sit upright, with your feet raised, or fully reclined, meaning you can more easily change your position and find the support you need.

The enhanced comfort and support is ideal for users with specific medical or mobility requirements.

The latest – and most advanced – option is the 4 motor riser recliner. This type of chair offers unparalleled customisation and comfort. Beyond the standard lift and recline functions, a 4 motor chair also has two extra motors, which support the lumbar and head areas independently. That means you can fine-tune the amount of lower back and head support you need, without affecting any other part of the chair’s setup. Each motor operates separately, allowing you to tailor your seating position to suit your unique needs.

4 motor riser recliners offer a wide range of benefits, helping to ensure proper posture through precise, independent adjustments. Our Aysgarth Riser Recliner offers a dedicated lumbar motor which provides targeted lower back support, which reduces strain and helps to maintain the natural curve of your spine when sitting down. Additionally, the headrest control helps to keep your neck in its proper alignment, preventing you from developing any aches and pains from sitting with your head too far forward.

This tailored support is particularly beneficial for those with more complex health needs, as well as those who sit for longer periods of time. For both of these groups of individuals, the ability to make micro adjustments to their sitting position throughout the day can greatly improve circulation, reduce pressure points, and support better health. As with all HSL chairs, our 4 motor riser recliners are backed by science, built for the way people actually move, and offer support in all the right places.

Understanding the differences between motor configurations helps you choose the right chair for your needs.

Single motor chairs are a great option for those who want a riser recliner that’s simple to use, without any fuss. They’re perfect for individuals without high mobility needs, those who’ll only use the chair occasionally, or those who simply prefer simplicity.

Dual motor riser recliners are ideal for those who want a little more flexibility. They allow separate control of the lift and recline functions, so individuals can tailor their position to their individual needs, with just one touch of a button.

4 motor chairs are perfect for those who need full body support and tailored comfort. They’re also a great choice for those with specific health requirements, individuals who spend long periods seated, or those who are looking for targeted support across different areas.

No two people have the same needs – which means that your choice of chair is individual. When choosing a riser recliner chair, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. You can ask yourself these key questions to help you find the right chair for you:

• Do you prefer simple controls? A single motor riser recliner is easiest to use, with one button that adjusts both the back and headrests at the same time.

• Do you need extra head or back support? If you need a little extra support (whether because you sit for longer periods or have specific health needs), a 4 motor chair allows for independent adjustment for the lumbar and head areas as well as the standard reclining functions.

• Want both flexibility and simplicity? A dual motor chair is the perfect middle ground, allowing for independent adjustment of the backrest and footrest, but without the lumbar and head adjustments.

All of our chairs are approved by our Independent Occupational Therapist, Julie Jennings. That means that you can relax in comfort knowing that each piece in our range has been thoroughly tested and evaluated by an independent health expert with your wellbeing in mind.

Single, dual motor and 4 motor riser recliners are all great options – so ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference. Think about your specific needs, asking yourself questions like:

• Is my priority simplicity or personalised support?

• What’s my budget?

• Do I require extra support for specific conditions like arthritis or back pain that might benefit from more precise control?

• Do I need extra head and back support?

• Do I spend long periods of time sitting down?

HSL offers a comprehensive Chair Fitting service, carried out by friendly Comfort Specialists. They’ll guide you through the process of choosing a chair that fits you and offers support in all the right places. Our Comfort Specialist will explain the importance of each point of contact between the chair and the body in detail and ask you questions throughout to ensure the chair supports you as it should.

 You can also request a free Home Demonstration, so you can experience the HSL showroom from the comfort of your living room.