The Best Lightweight Electric Scooters in 2025

The 26.4 lbs NIU KQi Air has been my daily commuter since 2023. After testing dozens of alternatives, I keep coming back to it for one reason: no other lightweight matches its combination of portability and full-size performance.

Most lightweight scooters under 30 pounds sacrifice either power or comfort. The KQi Air's carbon frame breaks this pattern. It cuts weight while supporting larger components where they matter. You get 10" pneumatic tires, a 451.2 Wh battery, and a 350W motor in a package lighter than most entry-level scooters.

The 48V system delivers consistent performance across the battery range. It maintains 20.1 MPH top speed, handles 20% grades without struggling, and accelerates smoothly even with my 175 lb test weight. Heavier riders up to 265 lbs report similar performance.

My testing revealed exceptional efficiency: 24.2 miles of real-world range translates to 0.92 miles per pound: that's 40% better than the next-best lightweight. The 5-hour charge time, NIU app with customizable performance curves, and integrated turn signals round out a comprehensive feature set.

The premium price reflects the carbon frame construction and engineering. It retails at around $1,000, so it's double the price of entry-level mentions in this guide. But for commuters who need both genuine portability and zero performance compromises, the math works out, especially if you're replacing car trips or upgrading from a heavier scooter you never want to carry.

The E-TWOW GT Sport's strengths lie in its exceptionally powerful 500W front motor and high foldability. It's the only scooter on this list that features both foldable handlebars and adjustable handlebar height.

Out of all sub-30 lbs scooters I've tested, the GT Sport boasts the highest top speed at 25.6 MPH, with acceleration and hill climbing that also leave most competitors in the dust. It's perfect for tackling steep inclines, supporting heavier riders, or simply getting from A to B faster. It's pretty much the perfect scooter for the busy urbanite.

They've somehow squeezed a 461 Wh battery into this pocket rocket, which is beyond impressive. My tests showed 18.9 miles of real-world range (22.9 miles riding conservatively), so it's got enough juice for longer commutes while being compact enough to integrate with public transport.

The solid tires and drum brake keep maintenance low - more riding, less upkeep. To compensate for the harsher ride of solid tires, it's equipped with front and rear suspension. While relatively plush and forgiving, the narrow build means ride quality isn't as refined as larger models.

Despite its solid IPX5 weather resistance rating, I advise against riding in the rain. Solid tires and wet roads simply don't go well together.

I'd prefer to see the motor and drum brake switch wheels, but overall, the GT Sport is a highly reliable machine that runs circles around the competition when it comes to raw speed.

The NIU KQi 100F is the most comfortable entry-level scooter I've tested. While budget rivals like the Gotrax GXL V2 and Hiboy S2 Pro rely on solid tires with no suspension, the 100F includes a front spring fork rarely seen under $500. Combined with 9.5" pneumatic tires, it delivers the smoothest ride in its price class.

The 48V electrical system maintains consistent performance throughout discharge. I measured 17.4 MPH at 5% battery versus 12-13 MPH on comparable 36V models. This consistency makes a real difference for predictable commute timing and maintaining traffic flow.

Build quality exceeds budget expectations. The folding handlebars lock firmly without the play common in cheaper models. The deck latch engages cleanly, avoiding the multi-step process that frustrates users of most alternatives. At 38.8 lbs, it weighs 6-8 pounds more than basic options but provides noticeably better stability at speed.

The tubeless tires paired with a drum brake create a nearly maintenance-free package. The NIU app adds genuine value with acceleration tuning, speed limiting, and 80% charge capping for battery longevity—features typically reserved for pricier models.

The NIU KQi 100F does have its limitations: 11.4-mile range and 8.5° grade capability limit use to short, flat routes. The 243 Wh battery and 300W motor suit riders up to 265 lbs on level terrain. For sub-5-mile commutes or transit connections, no other budget scooter matches this combination of comfort and features. Longer distances or steep hills require stepping up to more powerful models.

The Splach Ranger is all about ride quality and range. At 39 lbs, it's a tad heavier than previous mentions, but that extra weight translates to unmatched comfort.

It features a super plush dual suspension system with swing arms in front and springs in the rear. The clever mixed tire setup (8.5" pneumatic front, 8" solid rear) offers the best of both worlds: a smooth ride with low maintenance.

Despite its comfort-oriented build, the Ranger doesn't skimp on portability. Foldable handlebars and adjustable height allow for surprisingly compact storage. The folding mechanism takes some getting used to but feels sturdy with no flex.

With a 655.2 Wh battery, the Ranger boasts the longest range in this lineup. My tests yielded an impressive 27.3 miles of real-world range (30.2 miles at slower speeds).

The roomy deck and rear footrest are perfect for longer rides. However, the 350W motor's acceleration and hill climbing is underwhelming compared to some rivals, even lagging behind the budget Hiboy S2.

For riders prioritizing a smooth, comfortable ride in a still-portable package, the Splach Ranger is hard to beat. It's the ideal choice for those with longer commutes or rougher roads who don't want to sacrifice too much in portability.

The Hover-1 Journey Max is a rare gem. It's the most affordable dual-motor option on the market, and that makes a world of difference for extra challenging commutes.

The Journey Max's dual 350W motors pack a serious punch, rocketing to 15 MPH in just 4.29 seconds and leaving all competitors in the dust. Its top speed (19.7 MPH tested) is somewhat limited by the 36V system, but it's still plenty for most urban rides.

This scooter truly flexes its muscles on inclines. It set a new in-class hill climbing record in my tests, beating scooters twice its price. The max incline grade is right around 17°—lengths better than the lightweight competition.

With 22.2 miles of real-world range (26.3 miles at low speeds), the 475.2 Wh battery holds its own. Ride quality is nothing to write home about with no suspension, but the 8.5" air-filled tires take the edge off rougher roads with some cushioning.

At 38.5 lbs, it's not the lightest option on the list, but the added weight is well justified by the dual-motor performance. For urban commuters tackling steep terrain or those who prioritize acceleration, the Hover-1 Journey Max offers unbeatable value in the lightweight category.

The TurboAnt X7 Max stands out with its smart detachable battery. This design allows you to extend range with spare batteries. It also enables convenient charging without moving the entire scooter—perfect for apartment dwellers or those with limited space.

In my tests, it reached 19.6 MPH. That's adequate for most commutes and fair for its price. Acceleration and hill performance are average, but it handles flat terrain and slight inclines well.

Real-world range came in at 15.4 miles (18.2 miles at slower speeds) which is perfect for short to medium trips. With a 275 lbs max load capacity—highest in the lineup—and a relatively tall ride, larger riders are gonna find it more comfortable than alternatives like the Hiboy S2.

The 10" air tires and rear disc brake provide a comfortable ride with decent stopping power. My main critique: the stem-mounted battery makes the scooter top-heavy, affecting handling compared to deck-battery models.

If you need adaptable range and easy charging more than nimble handling, the X7 Max delivers. It's not perfect but it's next-level practical.