Q400 M or Q500 M?
We have to address this first - the Q400 M features the same drive base as Quickie's best-selling Q500 M. The difference between the two is that the Q400 M features the more basic Sedeo Lite system rather than the fully configurable Sedeo Pro on the Q500 M. The Q400 M also has less performance options, for example with a top available speed of 6.5 mph rather than 8 mph.
The Q400 M was developed originally with NHS wheelchair services in mind, where cost pressures favours the more basic seating system. However, both Q400 and Q500 have the same base price, and the seating options (e.g. backrest cushions) are only marginally cheaper. We would therefore recommend the Q500 M in almost every circumstance, as it features superior seating, more customisation options, and starts at the same price.
Power Base
The base of the Q400 M is designed for a balanced mix of indoor and outdoor performance. Its compact footprint and mid-wheel drive make it incredibly agile around restricted spaces. Outdoors, the all-wheel independent suspension provides it with much better performance than basic mid-wheel drive models. The standard 2-pole motors can be upgraded to speeds of up to 6.5 mph, and 4-pole motors if desired, allowing the Q400 M to get around at speed. The standard 60 Ah batteries can be upgraded to 80 Ah ones for an impressive 25 mile range.
Seating
The Sedeo Lite seating system can be built around your requirements, being available in a range of sizes to provide you the fit and support you need. The popular Deep Contour Active backrest is a popular upgrade - it's extremely comfortable and provides good levels of support; however it doesn't feature the same flexible sides as the Sedeo Pro version does. More specialist seating is available, including Jay backrests and pressure relieving cushions, plus a range of postural supports.
Powered seating functions, including lift, tilt, recline and elevating swing-away or central-mounted legrests are available as upgrades.
Other Options
VR2 controls are standard on the Q400, which allow for simple, intuitive control of your powerchair. R-Net controls are available as an upgrade - this more advanced control system can accommodate multiple powered seating functions, allows for control of your environment, and can be adapted with special controls if required.
The Q400 M is a good looking wheelchair, as with all the models in the Quickie Q-series range. It features matt black bodywork, and a choice of accent colours to personalise it.
Our Verdict
Judged in isolation, the Quickie Q400 M Powerchair is an impressive, modern powerchair that we would normally not hesitate to recommend. But with Quickie's Q500 M also available at the same cost, and with a superior seating system and more configuration options, we would recommend that instead. The one circumstance the Q400 may be more suitable is if using third-party specialist seating, as this is easier to mount to the Sedeo Lite's seat poles than the Q500's Sedeo Pro seating frame.
Alternatively, the Q300 M Mini is a more narrow chair with the same levels of performance, and the choice of either Sedeo Lite or Sedeo Pro seating systems.
