Golden Cricket Wheelchair Reviews From My Personal Experience

When I first came across the Golden Cricket Power Wheelchair, I was intrigued by its promise of portability, lightweight design, and ease of use. It sounded like a dream for anyone who needs a compact and stylish mobility solution. At just 33 pounds and with a carbon fiber frame, the Golden Cricket markets itself as a convenient companion for everyday tasks and travel. But as someone who values durability and performance, I decided to look deeper into the details, the reviews, and my experience to uncover whether this wheelchair is truly worth it.

Spoiler alert: while the Golden Cricket has its merits, it’s not the perfect solution for everyone. Let me take you through the pros, cons, and my personal thoughts to help you make an informed decision.

First Impressions of the Golden Cricket Power Wheelchair

Right out of the box, the Golden Cricket wheelchair looks sleek and modern. Its carbon fiber frame feels lightweight but sturdy to the touch. I was impressed by how easily it folds, and its compact size is ideal for tight spaces, making it a practical option for urban dwellers or frequent travelers. However, when you start using it, a few challenges emerge, especially if you’re expecting top-notch performance for the price.

For someone new to power wheelchairs or looking for something portable, the Cricket may seem appealing at first glance. But let’s get into the real-world experience, including feedback from other users, to paint a clearer picture.

Pros & Cons About the Golden Cricket

Pros:

• Portability at Its Best
  Weighing just 33 pounds, the Cricket is undoubtedly one of the lightest power wheelchairs on the market. The carbon fiber material makes it easy to lift into the trunk of a car or carry onto public transport. This is a major advantage for users who don’t want the hassle of heavy, cumbersome equipment.
• Sleek Design for Indoor and Outdoor Use
  Its sporty and compact design is great for maneuvering through doorways, tight hallways, and small spaces. With a turning radius of 22 inches, you can navigate with relative ease, especially in indoor environments.
• Travel-Friendly Features
  The wheelchair is airline-approved and folds effortlessly, making it a solid choice for frequent travelers. Some users have successfully taken it on board as cabin luggage, and the folding mechanism ensures it fits in most vehicle trunks.
• Quiet and Efficient Operation
  The wheelchair operates quietly, which is a bonus if you plan to use it in settings like offices, restaurants, or libraries.
• Light Maintenance
  Its carbon fiber build and simple design mean you won’t spend hours on upkeep. However, there are specific points of concern I’ll touch on later.

Cons:

Despite its portability and sleek appearance, the Golden Cricket wheelchair has some significant drawbacks. Here’s where the product doesn’t quite hit the mark:

• Durability Issues: One of the most frequent complaints about this wheelchair is its fragility. Carbon fiber is lightweight but not the most robust material for a product that’s subject to daily wear and tear. Multiple users have reported frame cracks and wheel issues after just a year of use—or even less. For a premium-priced wheelchair, this is disappointing.
• Controller Challenges: The joystick controller, while simple in concept, doesn’t allow for smooth and precise movements. If you’re trying to creep forward slowly in a tight space, the Cricket often lurches, making it hard to maneuver in confined areas. This isn’t just frustrating—it could be dangerous in certain situations.
• Limited Comfort for Long-Term Use: The standard seat cushion is thin and not ideal for prolonged use. You may find yourself needing to purchase an additional cushion for extra support, especially if you use the chair for several hours at a time.
• Poor Weight Distribution: Although the chair is lightweight, some users have noted a tendency for it to tip backward, especially on inclines. The anti-tip wheels must be positioned correctly, but this isn’t always well-communicated in the product instructions.
• Expensive Repairs: Replacement parts, like the controller module, can be costly. Several users reported their controllers failing just outside of the warranty period, resulting in repair bills upwards of $400.
• Not Built for All-Day Comfort: While great for short trips or quick errands, the Cricket isn’t designed to be an all-day chair. This limits its practicality for users who need consistent, long-term support.

Also Read: My Experience With Rubicon Electric Wheelchair

Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Golden Cricket

If you decide to invest in a Golden Cricket wheelchair, regular maintenance is essential to avoid some of the common issues. Here are my recommendations:

• Check the Frame Regularly: Inspect the carbon fiber frame for any cracks or signs of wear. Addressing minor damage early can prevent larger, more costly repairs.
• Keep the Controller Clean: Dust and dirt can accumulate around the joystick controller, so clean it periodically with a dry cloth to ensure smooth operation.
• Store Safely: Avoid exposing the chair to extreme temperatures or prolonged moisture, which can weaken the materials over time.
• Battery Care: Remove the battery when storing the chair for long periods and recharge it regularly to maintain optimal performance.
• Tighten Loose Screws: The lightweight build can result in screws loosening over time. Check and tighten them as needed to keep the wheelchair stable.

Golden Cricket Vs. Other Wheelchairs

• Golden Cricket Vs. Jazzy Carbon

The Jazzy Carbon is a strong competitor to the Golden Cricket, especially when portability is a priority. Like the Cricket, the Jazzy Carbon is made with carbon fiber, keeping it lightweight and easy to handle. However, it stands out for its superior joystick control, offering smoother and more precise movements, which is especially helpful in tight spaces. It also boasts slightly better durability, making it a better option for those who expect to use their wheelchair frequently. On the downside, the Jazzy Carbon tends to be more expensive, which may deter budget-conscious buyers. While both are travel-friendly, the Jazzy Carbon edges ahead in reliability and performance, albeit at a higher cost.

• Golden Cricket Vs. Golden Literider Envy

Also manufactured by Golden Technologies, the Literider Envy is a more robust and versatile alternative to the Cricket. This model offers increased stability and comfort, making it suitable for long-term use. Unlike the Cricket, the Literider Envy is not as lightweight or portable, which can be a drawback for users looking for a travel-friendly solution. However, its higher weight contributes to a more solid build, providing better balance and durability. It’s also equipped with a larger battery, offering extended range for daily use. If you prioritize comfort and reliability over portability, the Literider Envy is a more practical choice within the same brand lineup.

• Golden Cricket Vs. Whill Model Ci2

The Whill Model Ci2 is in a league of its own, combining cutting-edge technology with premium performance. It’s significantly heavier than the Golden Cricket, but that weight translates into exceptional stability and comfort. This wheelchair includes app-controlled driving, which allows for remote operation—a feature the Cricket lacks entirely. The Ci2 also offers advanced maneuverability and sleek, futuristic aesthetics. While the Whill Model Ci2 is far more expensive than the Cricket, it delivers unmatched features and a more luxurious experience. If you’re seeking an investment-worthy wheelchair that doesn’t compromise on innovation, this model outshines the Cricket by a wide margin.

• Golden Cricket Vs. Pride Mobility Go Chair

The Pride Mobility Go Chair is another solid alternative to the Golden Cricket, offering a balance of portability and functionality. Although it’s heavier than the Cricket, it disassembles into smaller, manageable parts for easier transportation. Its design is tailored for stability and user comfort, making it more suitable for prolonged use. The Go Chair has a slightly larger weight capacity and is known for its durability, even under frequent use. While it lacks the sleek design of the Cricket, it compensates with practical features and a reputation for dependability. It’s an excellent option if you value sturdiness over ultra-lightweight construction.

• Golden Cricket Vs. Drive Medical Cirrus Plus

The Drive Medical Cirrus Plus is built with durability and all-day comfort in mind, making it a great alternative to the Cricket for those who need a long-term mobility solution. Unlike the Cricket, it’s not particularly lightweight or portable, but it excels in stability and range, with a robust frame designed to handle daily wear and tear. The Cirrus Plus also features a more comfortable seat and better cushioning, addressing one of the Cricket’s most notable shortcomings. While this wheelchair doesn’t fold as compactly, its focus on user comfort and reliability makes it a strong contender for those who prioritize function over portability.

Also Read: My Thoughts On Journey Air Elite Wheelchair

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

The Golden Cricket Power Wheelchair has its advantages, particularly in terms of portability and ease of use for short-term activities. Its lightweight design and sleek appearance make it a convenient option for travel and quick errands. However, its durability issues, limited comfort, and costly repairs are significant drawbacks, especially if you’re looking for a long-term mobility solution.

If you’re someone who prioritizes portability and doesn’t plan to use the wheelchair extensively, the Cricket could be a good fit. However, for users who need reliability, comfort, and durability, there are better alternatives on the market. My advice? Weigh your needs carefully and consider other options like the Jazzy Carbon or Literider Envy before making your purchase.