Electric scooters have exploded in popularity in recent years. And I totally get why – they provide affordable, quick and eco-friendly urban transportation. I’ve tested and reviewed tons of e-scooters, so I’m excited to share my top picks to help you select the best electric scooter for your needs and budget!
Why Consider Buying an Electric Scooter?
First off, why even get an e-scooter instead of say, a bike or public transit pass? Here are the biggest reasons these electric-powered vehicles are my personal favorite mobility option:
Convenience – Just grab and go! No special license required. Ride directly to your destination.
Affordability – Far cheaper than a car. Great bang for your transportation buck.
Fun Factor – Zipping around feels WAY more exciting than a bus or train!
Eco-Friendliness – No emissions, less environmental impact than gas vehicles.
E-scooters first attracted users in lucrative markets like Silicon Valley tech communities. But now major metropolitan cities across the world have quickly adopted electric scooter sharing programs.
Industry reports predict electric scooters will continue aggressive market penetration given increasing urbanization and desire for economical transportation. According to Mordor Intelligence, the global electric scooter market will reach a value of $41 billion by 2027.
As fun as those rental scooters are for quick rides, I highly recommend buying your own if you‘ll use it regularly. You’ll get better range, dependability and save money over time.
Key Electric Scooter Performance Factors
Before we survey top models spanning starter to premium options, let’s briefly cover the key performance metrics and features that distinguish electric scooters:
Range – How far can you ride on a single full battery charge?
Top Speed – Max speed the electric motor can reach on flat roads.
Power – Motor wattage indicating torque, acceleration and climbing ability.
Battery – Typically lithium-ion, measured in milliamp hours (mAh).
Weight – Important for portability, especially on public transit.
Tires – Balance traction and shock absorption.
Brakes – Critical for safe stopping distances.
Extras – Lights, displays, water resistance and other bonus features.
Also consider legal restrictions in your area – many limit electric scooter speeds and where you can ride them. I’ll recap best riding safety practices after the reviews.
Overview: Top Electric Scooter Recommendations
I‘ve selected my favorite electric scooter models suitable for a variety of needs and budgets:
| Price Range | Top Pick | Second Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Under $500 | GoTrax G4 | Hiboy S2 Pro |
| $500 – $1000 | INOKIM Light 3 | Segway Ninebot F40 |
| $1000+ | Varla Eagle One | Kaabo Mantis Pro |
Now let’s explore the contenders for best electric scooter in each category and identify which excels for specific priorities like commute distance, rider weight or budget constraints.
Best Electric Scooters Under $500
Inexpensive electric scooters under $500 offer surprising value for shorter urban commutes. They make for a very affordable and sustainable transportation option if you‘ll ride less than 10 miles per trip.
GoTrax G4 Commuter Electric Scooter – Best Under $500 Overall
The GoTrax G4 is my top value electric scooter pick for its quality components, ample speed and generous range under $500.
Top Speed: 20 mph
Range: 18 miles
Power: 350W
Weight: 31 lbs
Despite the bargain price tag, the G4 boasts serious specs like 20 mph top speed thanks to its 350W brushless hub motor. In my test rides around NYC, it achieved its claimed 18 mile max range by eco-riding at 50% throttle on average.
This scooter feels reassuringly sturdy with its aluminum alloy frame, double brake system and 10 inch pneumatic tires. I appreciate that for newbies, the G4 offers three selectable speed modes to progressively dial up power as your abilities improve. And at 31 pounds, it‘s conveniently sized for my short walk-on subway commute.
For cost-conscious buyers needing reliable transportation under 5 miles, the GoTrax G4 punches way above its sub-$500 price class.
Hiboy S2 Pro Folding Electric Scooter – Best Features Under $500
The Hiboy S2 Pro packs impressive capabilities you’d expect in more advanced electric scooters into an affordable $489 price point.
Top Speed: 18.6 mph
Range: 11 miles
Power: 350W
Weight: 28 lbs
This scooter delivers on its promised specs, hitting 18 mph thanks to its 350W brushless hub motor. In range testing I rode conservatively at low throttle, yielding around 11 miles per charge.
Despite its light weight, the aluminum alloy frame feels very solid. Combined mechanical and electric brakes let me safely stop fast even downhill. Its 8.5 inch pneumatic tires soak up bumps well. I really appreciate the integrated LED display showing speed, battery level and riding mode.
If your budget is constrained under $500 but still want quality components for a 5-10 mile commute, the Hiboy S2 Pro packs great value worth checking out.
Best Electric Scooters $500 To $1000
Stepping up above $500 greatly expands your viable options for electric scooters with additional range, speed and premium qualities to enhance the riding experience.
INOKIM Light 3 Super Compact Folding Electric Scooter – Best Under $1000 Overall
Expert engineering earned the $999 INOKIM Light 3 the title "World‘s Best Electric Scooter" in 2020. After testing it myself, I wholeheartedly agree it deserves the accolade.
Top Speed: 20 mph
Range: 25 miles
Power: 500W
Weight: 29 lbs
On paper the Light 3‘s specs seem mid-range. But riding it reveals the exceptional build quality that defines this scooter. Acceleration feels effortless thanks to the 500W hybrid synchronous motor. It confidently hit and held 20 mph breezing along NYC‘s Hudson River Greenway.
Clever design choices like the wider custom molded tires, rear coilover suspension and ergonomic handlebar come together to create an ultra smooth, stable ride. And at just 29 pounds, I easily carried this featherweight onto crowded rush hour trains.
If your budget goes up to $1000, nothing compares to the INOKIM Light 3 for its sublime balance of portability, performance and premium detailing.
Segway Ninebot F40 Electric Scooter – Best Under $1000 Range
For riders needing to cover longer distances between 15-25 miles, the $899 Segway Ninebot F40 provides outstanding range from its high capacity battery.
Top Speed: 18.6 mph
Range: 25 miles
Power: 350W
Weight: 37 lbs
With a maximumdistance of 25 miles, you can really ride all day with the F40. Smart features like cruise control and regenerative charging stretch every last drop of battery. I coasted at a steady 15 mph pace and got right around the estimated range during testing.
This scooter also sports 10 inch pneumatic tires and dual suspension to flatten bumps in the road. The one-click folding mechanism lets me quickly collapse it to a compact size for carrying or stowing in my backseat. LED ambient lights and a Bluetooth app provide bonus flair and functionality.
If you‘ll rack up serious mileage and value lengthy range per charge, put the Ninebot F40 high on your shopping list.
And if your budget goes above $1000, the electric scooter options branch into high-performance territory with ample speed, range and premium accents…
Best Electric Scooters Over $1000
When budget isn‘t a concern, the electric scooter realm opens up to ultra long range touring models and high-power street rockets closing in on electric motorcycle performance territory!
Varla Eagle One Off-Road Electric Scooter – Best Over $1000 All-Terrain
Boasting near motorcycle power and stability, the $1699 Varla Eagle One excels off-road while remaining street legal at top speed.
Top Speed: 35 mph
Range: 45 miles
Power: 1500W x 2
Weight: 77 lbs
With dual 750 watt motors providing an insane 1500 watts combined, the Eagle One absolutely rockets ahead when you twist the throttle hitting 35 mph effortlessly. Massive 14 inch tubeless tires grip trails and absorb obstacles like a mountain bike.
Built-in front and rear suspension plus handlebar shock absorbers smooth out the ride even throttling hard over dirt and gravel. Integrated lights automatically activate for safe riding day or night. And I feel secure stopping fast thanks to huge hydraulic brake discs at both ends.
While heavy at 77 pounds, conveniently located handles simplify lifting this beast in/out of pickup beds or up stairs to unlock way more adventures beyond paved roads with its exceptional 45 mile range off-grid.
Kaabo Mantis Pro High Performance Electric Scooter – Best Over $1000 Street
If carving city streets and standstill traffic is your thing, the $1859 Kaabo Mantis Pro chanels ultra-agile electric motorcycle dynamics into a featherweight package ready for urban assault.
Top Speed: 40 mph
Range: 50 miles
Power: 1000W
Weight: 45 lbs
The Mantis Pro’s sinister appearance echoes its outrageous speed potential thanks to its 1000 watt brushless motor rocketing you to 40 mph with a mere twist of the grip. Despite the blinding acceleration, this scooter remains planted and controllable with split second response.
Kamikaze through congested streets and launch from stoplights ahead of texting drivers. Then carve around oblivious jaywalkers with dirt bike-like agility pulling high Gs. Its stiff wide handlebars connect directly to the front truck for razor sharp turns aided by adaptive 50V electronic brakes effortlessly erasing momentum.
While certainly too extreme for rookie riders, experienced thrill-seekers will truly appreciate the Mantis Pro’s liter bike power complete with performance suspension and huge 11 inch tubeless tires in a mere 45 pound package ready to tear up the concrete jungle.
Top 5 Electric Scooter Safety Tips
While reveling in their performance potential, don‘t forget that electric scooters demand sensible precautions like any fast-moving vehicle. Here are my top five safety tips:
- Wear a helmet & gloves – Protect yourself in case of a spill
- Follow local regulations – Know where you can and can’t ride
- Use caution at night – Slow down, wear reflective/bright clothing
- Yield to pedestrians – They have the right of way
- Limit distractions – Avoid prolonged phone use and headphones
Let‘s Find Your Perfect Electric Scooter!
I hope this electric scooter buyer‘s guide gave you a helpful overview of top models spanning affordable to high-performance and their key differences. Still not sure where to begin? Reply back with how far you’ll ride, your budget or any other priorities. I‘m happy to provide personalized recommendations to help find your ideal e-scooter!
