Best Wheelchair Ramps of 2026: Portable vs. Permanent
Wheelchair ramp options range from $50 threshold ramps to $4,000 permanent modular systems. The right choice depends on rise height, whether the need is temporary or permanent, and whether the ramp needs to be portable. We compared the top options.
| Feature | ★ Best Overall National Ramp National Ramp Silver Series Modular Ramp System | Best Value EZ-Access EZ-Access Suitcase Ramp 6-Foot | Runner-Up Prairie View Industries Prairie View Industries Modular Aluminum Ramp | Also Consider EZ-Access EZ-Access Suitcase Ramp 8-Foot | Budget Pick Prairie View Industries Prairie View Industries Threshold Ramp |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SafeScore™ | 92/100 SafeScore™ Excellent | 88/100 SafeScore™ Excellent | 87/100 SafeScore™ Excellent | 85/100 SafeScore™ Excellent | 85/100 SafeScore™ Excellent |
| Price Range | $1,200 – $3,500 | $195 – $280 | $1,500 – $4,500 | $299 – $379 | $68 – $120 |
| DIY Install | |||||
| Warranty | — | — | — | — | — |
| Top Pros | ADA-compliant design Handrails included on both sides Non-slip aluminum decking | Most popular portable ramp in North America ADA-compliant 1:12 rise ratio at 6 feet Only 18 lbs portable for one person | Commercial-grade 850 lb capacity Fully reconfigurable and removable Maintenance-free aluminum | 800 lb weight capacity Bi-fold design fits in car trunk Anti-slip textured surface | No tools or installation required Non-slip rubber surface indoor and outdoor Handles up to 2-inch threshold height |
| Main Cons | Requires professional installation Higher cost than portable options | Surface can be slippery when wet 6 feet only handles up to 9-inch rise | Professional installation recommended Higher cost than portable options | Heavier than shorter ramps (about 22 lbs) May require two people to set up for heavy users | Only handles up to 2 inches of rise May shift on very smooth floors |
| slope | 1:12 ADA-compliant | — | — | — | — |
| decking | non-slip aluminum | — | — | — | — |
| material | aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | aluminum | Aluminum with rubber non-slip surface |
| handrails | both sides included | — | Both sides included | — | — |
| width | — | 30 inches | — | 30 inches | — |
Our Verdict
For small threshold rises (under 3 inches), a rubber threshold ramp is sufficient. For step entries up to 24 inches, a suitcase-style portable ramp works. For permanent step entries of any height, a modular aluminum system is the most durable solution.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What length wheelchair ramp do I need?
ADA recommends a 1:12 slope — 1 inch of rise requires 12 inches of ramp length. A 6-inch door step needs a 6-foot ramp; a 24-inch porch needs a 24-foot ramp (or switchback design). For portable folding ramps, a 1:8 slope is often acceptable for manual wheelchairs and scooters.
Are portable wheelchair ramps as safe as permanent ramps?
Quality portable ramps with raised edges and non-slip surfaces are safe for most users. For heavy power wheelchairs (over 300 lbs combined user + chair weight), a permanently anchored modular or wooden ramp provides more stability and peace of mind.
How much does a wheelchair ramp cost?
Threshold ramps (under 3 inches): $30–$90. Portable folding ramps (1–8 ft): $100–$400. Modular aluminum systems (professional install): $1,500–$4,000. Permanent wooden ramps (contractor-built): $1,200–$3,000 depending on length and complexity.
Can I get a free wheelchair ramp through a grant?
Yes — this is one of the most commonly funded modification types. VA HISA grants (up to $6,800) specifically list access ramps as eligible. Medicaid HCBS waivers fund ramps in many states. Rebuilding Together chapters often install ramps as a signature project. Call 1-800-677-1116 (Eldercare Locator) to find local programs — ramp programs have shorter waitlists than many other modification programs.
Which ramp surface is safest in wet weather?
Aluminum modular ramps with diamond-plate or embossed texture patterns provide the best wet-weather traction. Rubber-covered aluminum ramps are also excellent for wet climates. Smooth aluminum is slippery when wet and should be avoided. For wood ramps, non-slip tape or aluminum tread nosing prevents slipping. Pressure-treated wood ramps should be re-sealed annually to prevent surface degradation.
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