Power vs. Manual Exam Tables: A Facility Buyer's Guide

The exam table is the centerpiece of the room and one of the biggest equipment decisions you'll make. The core question is usually the same: power or manual? Here's how to decide.

Power (high-low) exam tables

Power tables adjust height at the touch of a button, lowering to help patients on and off and raising to a comfortable working height for the provider. They're the better choice for accessibility, bariatric patients, and reducing staff strainand many meet ADA-accessible low-height requirements. The trade-offs are higher cost and the need for a power source.

Manual exam tables

Manual tables are durable, economical, and reliable, with pelvic tilt, stirrups, and storage typical for general exams. They're ideal for ambulatory patient populations and budget-conscious build-outs where powered height isn't essential.

Features to weigh

• Weight capacitymatch to your patient population; bariatric-rated tables offer wider surfaces and higher limits.
• Positioningback and leg articulation, Trendelenburg, and stirrups for specialty exams.
• Storagedrawers and cabinets keep supplies at hand and off the floor.
• Upholsteryseamless, easy-clean surfaces that resist clinical disinfectants and last.

Specialty tables

For procedures, consider treatment tables or procedure chairs that combine an exam surface, transport stretcher, and treatment chair in one. For phlebotomy, a dedicated blood draw chair is safer and faster than a table.

Equip the whole room

Plan the table alongside seating, storage, and lighting so the room works as a system. Browse exam & treatment tables and exam room furniture to complete the build.

Equipping a facility? Request a bulk quote and a Mediplies specialist will send an itemized quote with volume pricing, freight, and lead times, typically within one business day.