What Are the Key Differences Between the Koval Mover and the Sara Stedy?
Comparing two popular standing transfer aids to guide clinical and equipment decisions
Table of Contents
The Koval Mover and the Sara Stedy are both trusted standing transfer aids used widely in hospitals, aged care, and community settings. They assist with safe seated-to-seated transfers for individuals with some standing ability. While both serve a similar function, there are meaningful differences—particularly in seat comfort, versatility, and user fit—that may make the Koval Mover the more flexible choice for some settings.
Seat Shape and Comfort
Koval Mover
- Features rotating padded seat flaps that open outward, offering a larger, stable seating surface once the user is positioned.
- This broader base can feel more secure—especially for clients who need extra support or take longer to transfer.
Sara Stedy
- Uses narrower, inward-folding seat flaps.
- These work well for quick transfers but may feel less substantial for users who need to sit longer before repositioning.
Equipment Weight and Build
- Koval Mover: Approx. 33 kg, with robust construction and adjustable width for varied transfer environments.
- Sara Stedy: Approx. 29.4 kg (Standard) or 32.9 kg (Compact).
While the Sara Stedy is slightly lighter, the Koval’s solid frame and adaptable width offer added durability and fit flexibility—especially useful in more complex care environments.
User Fit and Adjustability
Koval Mover
- Designed with adjustable knee supports, rotating seats, and manual base width control.
- These features make it suitable for a wider range of body types and transfer needs, including bariatric care.
Sara Stedy
- Available in Standard and Compact sizes to suit different user heights.
- Less customisable but very efficient for facilities needing quick, space-efficient solutions.
Footprint and Manoeuvrability
Koval Mover
- Slightly larger, but the rotating seat and stable base help in maintaining comfort and safety during longer transfers.
- Adjustable base offers greater versatility in different spaces.
Sara Stedy
- Slim frame, great for tight bathrooms and narrow rooms.
- Less ideal in environments where space isn’t as limited but user variability is high.
Summary Comparison
| Feature | Koval Mover | Sara Stedy |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Flap Design | Outward-opening, padded, secure | Inward-folding, narrow |
| Weight | ~33 kg | ~29–33 kg (model dependent) |
| User Fit | Adjustable knee + seat + base width | Two fixed sizes (Standard, Compact) |
| Ideal Environment | Versatile or varied user needs | Tight spaces, fast turnover |
Final Thought
Both aids are excellent, but the Koval Mover offers a little more adaptability, especially for users who need comfort, stability, or tailored support. In clinical environments where client needs vary, the Mover’s flexible design may deliver better outcomes and greater confidence for both users and staff.