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Choosing an electric scooter is harder than ever. Inflated specs and endless look-alike models make finding the right ride confusing. That's where our independent testing comes in.
For the past five years, we've put over 120 scooters through the industry's most rigorous real-world testing protocol, covering more than 8,500 miles. We don't just quote manufacturer claims; we meticulously measure actual top speed, range, acceleration, hill-climbing ability, braking distances, and evaluate daily ride quality and durability. This data-driven, hands-on approach lets us cut through the hype and identify the scooters that truly deliver.
This guide represents the culmination of that testing – our definitive picks for the best electric scooters you can buy in 2025. To help you find the perfect fit for your needs and budget, we've organized our recommendations into key categories:
Entry-level: Great starting points for beginners or those on a tighter budget.
Commuting: Reliable workhorses balancing performance and practicality for daily use.
Lightweight: Prioritizing portability for easy carrying and mixed-mode commutes.
Mid-range: A significant step up in power, comfort, and features.
Arguably the most complete entry-level scooter I've tested; strong performance, great features, and excellent water resistance make it fantastic value.
Tested Speed17.5 MPH
Tested Range20 miles
Weight36.8 lbs
Max Load265 lbs
Battery Capacity374.4 Wh
Nominal Power400W
What I like
Strong performance (speed, acceleration, hills) for the price
Excellent ~20-mile real-world range
Class-leading IPX6 water resistance
Includes turn signals & app support
Impressive braking power
High 265 lbs max load
What I don't like
Performance dips below ~50% battery (36V system)
Ride can be firm vs. scooters with larger tires
For a budget package, the VX5 Pro GT is arguably the most complete scooter out there right now. It genuinely impresses by ticking so many boxes at a great price. Performance is strong across the board – hitting 17.5 MPH, accelerating quickly (0-15 mph in 6.9s), and even conquering a steep 17% test hill, which few budget scooters manage. Add a solid 20 miles of real-world range and superb braking (12.2 ft stop from 15 MPH), and the core riding experience is excellent.
What really pushes it ahead are the extras: built-in turn signals are a welcome safety addition, and the phenomenal IPX6 rating offers real peace of mind for riding in the wet – something almost unheard of at this price point.
The main drawback is the 36V system; you might notice some performance dip as the battery drains, unlike 48V systems. Still, considering its features, strong performance, and higher weight capacity, the VX5 Pro GT is often the better overall pick if priced similarly to competitors. It's well-built, low-maintenance, and proves you don't need to overspend for a feature-rich ride.
A benchmark for reliability in the budget category. Consistent performance and comfort, though less powerful than the VX5 Pro GT.
Tested Speed17.3 MPH
Tested Range19.8 miles
Weight40.6 lbs
Max Load220 lbs
Battery Capacity365 Wh
Nominal Power300W
What I like
Proven reliability & solid build quality
Consistent power delivery (48V system)
Good ~20-mile real-world range
Smooth ride via 10" tubeless tires
Great value for dependability
What I don't like
Slower acceleration/hill climb vs. VX5 Pro GT
Lacks turn signals & high IP rating
Lower 220 lbs max load
For budget buyers focused squarely on reliability and consistent performance, the NIU KQi2 Pro is tough to beat. Its peak power might be slightly behind the VMAX VX5 Pro GT, but the crucial advantage here is the 48V battery system. That means consistent power delivery as the battery drains – no noticeable sag in speed or hill-climbing, a common issue with 36V competitors. Real-world range remains excellent at nearly 20 miles, positioning it as a top performer in its class.
The KQi2 Pro also has a clear edge in ride comfort, thanks to its well-dampening 10-inch tubeless tires. Build quality is classic NIU – solid, refined, and trusted by the community, which inspires real confidence.
It lacks the extras like turn signals or the VX5 Pro's IPX6 rating, but it absolutely nails the fundamentals of a reliable commuter. If consistent power and proven durability are your top priorities, or you value that smoother ride, the KQi2 Pro is an outstanding, trustworthy choice offering excellent value. Just remember the tire sealant for those tubeless tires!
If maximum ride comfort is your absolute top priority in a commuter scooter under ~$1000, the Ninebot Max G2 is, hands down, the one to get. Its combination of front hydraulic and adjustable dual rear spring suspension smooths out rough roads beautifully – it genuinely rides better than many more expensive scooters.
The build quality is incredibly solid, it delivers nearly 30 miles of real-world range, and it's packed with premium features like effective turn signals, self-healing tires, and even Apple Find My integration.
However, that exceptional comfort comes with trade-offs. It's undeniably heavy at over 53 lbs, making it a chore to carry frequently.
More crucially for some, the 36V system leads to a noticeable drop in power and speed once the battery dips below roughly 50%, which can be frustrating if you rely on it for climbing hills later in your commute. But if you primarily ride on varied surfaces where comfort is king, and you can manage the weight and price, the G2 offers a supremely plush and feature-rich commuting experience.
Record-breaking speed and range (~40 miles!) in the sub-$1K. Outstanding performance value; the only real trade-off is the lack of suspension.
Tested Speed23.9 MPH
Tested Range39.6 miles
Weight45.6 lbs
Max Load287 lbs
Battery Capacity768 Wh
Nominal Power500W
What I like
Record-breaking ~40-mile real-world range
Class-leading speed & acceleration (48V system)
Excellent hill climbing ability
Superior IPX6 water resistance
High 287 lbs max load (beats G2/300X)
Includes turn signals & long warranty
What I don't like
No suspension means harsh ride on bumps
Deck width slightly narrow for some
The VMAX VX2 Pro GT simply rewrites the rulebook for what a commuter scooter under $1000 can do in terms of raw performance. It delivered the best speed and range numbers I've ever clocked in this category – topping out at 23.9 MPH and achieving an incredible 39.6 miles of real-world range in my tests.
The 48V, 500W motor provides punchy acceleration and maintains strong performance even on demanding hills. Its high max load capacity of 287 lbs also surpasses many competitors like the G2 and 300X, adding to its versatility. Add in excellent build quality, low-maintenance dual drum brakes, top-notch IPX6 water resistance, turn signals, and a 24-month warranty, and the value proposition is immense.
The one compromise you make with the VX2 Pro is the lack of suspension. While the 10-inch tubeless tires handle typical roads well, you will feel bumps and rough patches more than on the G2 or 300X. The deck is also a bit narrower than ideal for larger stances.
If your commute is mostly on decent surfaces and you prioritize maximum speed, unbeatable range, consistent power, and overall capability for your money, the VMAX VX2 Pro GT is the clear performance king in this class.
Excellent balance of strong hill-climbing power (48V) and ride comfort from its front suspension; a capable all-rounder, though range isn't chart-topping.
Tested Speed23.6 MPH
Tested Range26.8 miles
Weight48.7 lbs
Max Load265 lbs
Battery Capacity608 Wh
Nominal Power500W
What I like
Strong acceleration & hill climbing (48V system)
Improved ride comfort via front suspension
Excellent build quality & folding mechanism
Top-tier IP66 water resistance
Powerful dual disc brakes
Spacious deck design
What I don't like
Range (~27 miles) good, but less than G2 & VX2 Pro GT
Heavier than non-suspension VX2 Pro GT
Front-only suspension less plush than G2's dual setup
The NIU KQi 300X strikes a fantastic balance between power and comfort, making it a compelling middle ground. Its 48V, 500W motor delivers seriously punchy acceleration and tackles hills with ease, making it ideal for more demanding commutes or heavier riders where the G2 might struggle (especially when low on battery).
The addition of the front fork suspension is a game-changer compared to rigid scooters, soaking up bumps significantly better, though it doesn't quite reach the cloud-like plushness of the G2's dual system.
Build quality is typical NIU excellence – absolutely solid – and it boasts arguably the best folding mechanism I've ever used, plus an impressive IP66 rating. The trade-offs? Its tested range of ~27 miles is solid but doesn't match the other two leaders here, and the dual disc brakes, while powerful, demand more upkeep than drums.
For riders who need strong, consistent power (especially for hills) and value significantly improved ride comfort over a non-suspension model, the KQi 300X is an incredibly well-built, capable, and balanced commuter.
Keep an eye out for the older NIU KQi3 Pro and KQi3 Max. With the new 300-series replacing them, you can often find these excellent scooters at a really good deal. They're still reliable, well-built commuters backed by NIU's warranty, offering fantastic value if the newest models are out of reach.
Note for European Riders:
The G2, VX2 Pro GT, and 300X are speed-limited in Europe (20/25 km/h). If those caps are too restrictive, and where local laws allow, I highly recommend checking out the KingSong N14. It’s a really fun and stable ride with dual suspension, good range, and power comparable to the 300X – a strong alternative. Just be sure to know and follow your local e-scooter regulations.
The holy grail for lightweight commuting. Sacrifices almost nothing in ride comfort or build quality despite its incredibly low weight, thanks to carbon fiber construction.
Tested Speed20.1 MPH
Tested Range24.2 miles
Weight26.4 lbs
Max Load265 lbs
Battery Capacity451.2 Wh
Nominal Power350W
What I like
Incredibly lightweight (26.4 lbs) makes carrying effortless
Superb ride quality for its weight via 9.5" tubeless tires & wide stance
Excellent ~24-mile real-world range; best range-to-weight tested
Premium build, IP55 rating, turn signals & good lights
The NIU KQi Air truly redefines what a lightweight scooter can be. By using a carbon fiber frame, NIU achieved an astonishingly low weight of just 26.4 lbs without making the usual sacrifices.
Unlike most ultralights with harsh solid tires and narrow decks, the KQi Air boasts large 9.5" tubeless pneumatic tires, a spacious deck, and wide handlebars, resulting in a ride that feels comfortable, stable, and confidence-inspiring – almost unheard of in this weight class.
Performance is solid, hitting 20 MPH and delivering an impressive 24 miles of real-world range, backed by a 48V system for consistent power. Add in excellent build quality, IP55 water resistance, built-in turn signals, and fast charging, and it ticks almost every box.
The main trade-offs are the high price tag, driven by the advanced materials, and the fact that its wide handlebars don't fold, making it less dimensionally compact than scooters like the Mosquito, even though it's lighter.
However, if you need to carry your scooter frequently but refuse to compromise on ride quality, range, and a premium feel, the KQi Air is easily the best lightweight all-rounder available.
Unmatched power and speed in an ultra-compact, lightweight frame. Sacrifices ride comfort for thrilling performance and ultimate foldability.
Tested Speed25.6 MPH
Tested Range18.9 miles
Weight29 lbs
Max Load265 lbs
Battery Capacity461 Wh
Nominal Power500W
What I like
Class-leading speed (~25.6 MPH) & acceleration for under 30 lbs
Extremely compact when folded due to foldable handlebars
Very lightweight (29 lbs) and easy to carry/store
Potent 500W motor handles hills well
Decent ~19-mile real-world range
What I don't like
Harsh ride quality due to 8" solid tires (suspension helps but doesn't fully compensate)
Narrow deck and handlebars feel less stable, especially at speed
Solid tires offer poor traction in wet conditions
Folding mechanism is a bit tricky
For riders prioritizing raw power and the smallest possible folded size in a lightweight scooter, the Fluid Mosquito is a unique and compelling option.
Weighing just 29 lbs, its potent 500W motor delivers exhilarating acceleration and a top speed exceeding 25 MPH – performance metrics typically found on much heavier scooters.
Its party trick is the foldable handlebars, allowing it to shrink down to an incredibly small footprint, perfect for stashing under desks, in car trunks, or carrying onto crowded public transport. Despite its power, it still achieves a respectable real-world range of nearly 19 miles.
However, achieving this level of portability and power requires compromises. The 8-inch solid tires, even paired with dual spring suspension, result in a significantly harsher ride compared to pneumatic tires, especially on imperfect surfaces. The narrow deck and handlebars, while aiding compactness, reduce stability, particularly for larger riders or at top speed.
The Mosquito isn't built for rainy days or rough roads. But if your commute involves smooth pavement, frequent carrying or storing in tight spaces, and you value speed and acceleration above plush comfort, the Fluid Mosquito offers a thrilling, pocket-rocket experience unmatched in its specific niche.
Best ride quality I've ever tested under $2,000. Extremely refined user experience, but relatively heavy and with a premium price.
Tested Speed32.3 MPH
Tested Range29.8 miles
Weight65 lbs
Max Load265 lbs
Battery Capacity960 Wh
Nominal Power1000W
What I like
Superb suspension comfort smooths out rough roads
Very quick dual-motor acceleration
Solid, premium build quality with IP66 rating
Effective drum + regen brakes (low maintenance)
Self-healing 10" tubeless tires
What I don't like
Heavy (65 lbs), reduces portability
Higher price point in this category
Range is good (~30 miles), but beaten by others
If you want the smoothest ride possible in this price range, the Apollo City is hard to beat.
Its suspension system just works incredibly well – testing showed it really soaked up bumps and rough city pavement, making the ride feel controlled even near its 32 MPH top speed. The dual 500W motors give it very quick acceleration (0-15 mph in 2.33s), and the scooter feels solid and well-built all around.
Features like self-healing tires, effective drum brakes paired with smooth regen, and good IP66 water resistance add to its practicality as a reliable commuter with a decent ~30-mile range.
The downsides are clear though: at 65 lbs, it's not the lightest, and it sits at the higher end of the price scale for this group. So, the Apollo City is an excellent choice if top-tier ride comfort is your main priority and you can manage the weight and the cost.
Class-leading range (~42.5 miles) and high weight capacity; built for distance over speed, with a practical but frustrating folding latch.
Tested Speed25 MPH
Tested Range42.5 miles
Weight63.9 lbs
Max Load330 lbs
Battery Capacity1113 Wh
Nominal Power500W
What I like
Excellent ~42.5-mile real-world range
High 330 lbs max load capacity
Solid and dependable build quality
Decent comfort (front suspension, 10" tires)
Large 1113Wh battery
What I don't like
Moderate top speed (25 MPH) & acceleration
Front-only suspension less plush than dual
Impractical / frustrating rear folding latch
The VMAX VX4 GT is all about going the distance and handling heavier loads. Its huge 1113Wh battery was the star in range testing, delivering an excellent 42.5 miles – great for those with long commutes.
It also boasts a top-tier 330 lbs weight capacity, making it a solid pick for larger riders. The build quality feels dependable, and details like the display and turn signals are nicely done.
You have to accept its trade-offs, however: the single 500W motor means a modest 25 MPH top speed and acceleration that’s steady rather than exciting. Comfort is decent thanks to the front suspension and 10" tubeless tires, but it's not as plush as full dual-suspension setups.
Also, I found the rear folding hook mechanism to be awkward and impractical to use reliably. But if getting maximum mileage per charge and high weight support are your key needs, the VX4 GT delivers strongly there
Most powerful electric scooter around $1K. Very comfy and capable, but portability is essentially zero.
Tested Speed42.6 MPH
Tested Range28.5 miles
Weight81.5 lbs
Max Load265 lbs
Battery Capacity1200 Wh
Nominal Power2000W
What I like
Incredible speed & acceleration for the money
Powerful 2000W motor & 60V system
Plush suspension handles speed well
Large 11" tubeless tires
What I don't like
Extremely heavy (81.5 lbs) and bulky
Very difficult to carry (no usable folding latch)
Impractical if lifting is ever required
The Kukirin G4 is a truly unique beast. I clocked it at over 42 MPH in testing, pushing into hyper-performance territory, but at a much lower price. Its powerful 2000W motor and 60V system provide fierce acceleration (0-15 mph in 2.72s).
The plush suspension and big 11" tires actually make it feel reasonably stable at these speeds (on the newer, refined versions).
Range is adequate at ~28.5 miles. But – and this is a huge 'but' – the scooter is extremely heavy (81.5 lbs) and portability is essentially zero due to the lack of a good folding/carrying mechanism. Lifting it is a serious challenge. This makes it a non-starter for almost anyone needing to carry their scooter.
Seriously consider this only if you want that raw speed for a low price and have ground-level storage where you can just roll it in and out.
A really good (and affordable) all-arounder with solid acceleration. Main drawbacks are its limited range and average suspension comfort for the class.
Tested Speed31.5 MPH
Tested Range23.2 miles
Weight69 lbs
Max Load260 lbs
Battery Capacity936 Wh
Nominal Power1200W
What I like
Strong dual-motor acceleration and speed
Distinctive design with good lighting
Solid build quality feel
Self-healing 10" tubeless tires
Capable dual suspension
What I don't like
Limited tested range (~23 miles) for category
Suspension noticeably firmer than comfort leaders
Fairly heavy (69 lbs)
The Punk Rider Pro shapes up as a capable all-around scooter in the mid-range. It's overall a good mix of features and performance.
You get strong acceleration from the dual 600W motors (0-15 mph in 2.7s) and a solid 31.5 MPH top speed. It has a distinct look, good lights, and useful self-healing tires. The build feels reliable.
Where it doesn't quite measure up to the best in this specific group is on two fronts: ride comfort and range. The dual suspension is decent but provides a noticeably firmer ride compared to the Apollo City. And the tested range of just over 23 miles was lower than I expected given the battery size, putting it behind the others here.
It’s a competent choice if you like the style, value the dual-motor feel, and its range fits your daily trips, but it doesn't lead the pack in comfort or endurance.
Packs very quick acceleration into a light (52 lbs), compact frame; makes sacrifices in ride comfort and uses tubed tires.
Tested Speed28.6 MPH
Tested Range25.7 miles
Weight52 lbs
Max Load265 lbs
Battery Capacity748 Wh
Nominal Power1200W
What I like
Very quick dual-motor acceleration
Lightest in this group (52 lbs)
Highly portable (folds very compactly)
Strong hill climbing ability
Good value for portable performance
What I don't like
Harsh ride quality, especially on bumps
Smaller 8.5" tubed tires (higher flat risk)
Feels less stable than wider scooters
Moderate range (~26 miles)
Need dual motors but also need to carry your scooter easily? The Splach Twin Plus aims squarely at that combination.
It packs dual 600W motors delivering very quick acceleration (0-15 mph in 2.33s!) and good hill power, yet comes in at only 52 lbs – the lightest here.
The foldable handlebars make it genuinely compact for storage or transport. The catch is ride quality. Based on testing, those smaller 8.5-inch tubed tires and the suspension system result in a harsh ride on anything but smooth surfaces.
Stability also feels compromised compared to wider scooters, and tubed tires carry a higher risk of flats than tubeless.
It serves a very specific purpose: delivering exciting performance in a truly portable package. It only makes sense if you prioritize that portability and zip above ride comfort and mainly stick to good roads.
An incredible street-focused hyperscooter offering immense power, huge range, and refined handling with adjustable suspension; my top pick for ultimate road riding.
Tested Speed61.2 MPH
Tested Range59.8 miles
Weight103 lbs
Max Load265 lbs
Battery Capacity2880 Wh
Nominal Power3000W
What I like
Phenomenal acceleration and 60+ MPH top speed
Massive 2880Wh battery
Highly tunable hydraulic suspension
Excellent stability at speed (steering damper)
Refined build quality and powerful 72V system
What I don't like
Very expensive
Extremely heavy (103 lbs), though lightest of this trio
Primarily designed for street use, not serious off-roading
For riders seeking the ultimate street hyperscooter experience, the Nami Burn-E 2 Max (often called the Viper) is, for me, the most impressive I've tested.
Its dual 1500W motors, powered by a potent 72V system, deliver breathtaking acceleration (0-15 mph in 1.72s) and a staggering top speed exceeding 61 MPH.
The massive 2880Wh battery provided nearly 60 miles of range in my real-world tests – enough for epic road journeys. What truly sets it apart is the refinement; the highly adjustable hydraulic suspension can be dialed in perfectly for a smooth yet responsive ride, and the included steering damper ensures excellent stability even at high speeds.
There really wasn't anything I felt needed changing for its intended purpose. It’s incredibly expensive and, at 103 lbs, undeniably heavy (though lighter than the GTR and GT2), but if you want the pinnacle of on-road performance, power, range, and suspension tuning, the Burn-E 2 Max is arguably the king.
The ultimate choice for serious off-road dominance, featuring immense power, long-travel suspension, high clearance, and rugged build; an absolute beast off the pavement.
Highest top speed (66 MPH) and immense power (2x2000W)
Smooth throttle control, great for technical terrain
Extremely durable build quality (double stem)
Excellent 330 lbs max load capacity
What I don't like
Extremely heavy
Primarily optimized for off-road, may feel overkill for street only
Very expensive
When it comes to tackling rough terrain, the Kaabo Wolf King GTR stands out as the top dog in my experience.
Its design is clearly focused on off-road prowess, featuring long-travel hydraulic suspension, impressive ground clearance, and large 12" tubeless tires that simply devour obstacles.
It boasts the highest power output in this group (dual 2000W nominal motors) and achieved the highest top speed in testing at a blistering 66 MPH, with ferocious acceleration (0-15 mph in 1.5s!).
What impressed me off-road was the smooth throttle response, making it easier to manage power on challenging trails, and the sheer ruggedness of the build, especially the double stem. The high 330 lbs load capacity is also a plus.
The downsides are obvious: it's extraordinarily heavy at almost 140 lbs, making it incredibly difficult to handle when not riding, and its focus is squarely on off-road, although it's still brutally fast on pavement.
If maximum off-road performance, durability, and power are what you need, and portability is irrelevant, the Wolf King GTR is the ultimate choice.
Best Entry Hyperscooter
Segway GT2
Offers a taste of extreme performance with superb stability, excellent design, and great suspension at a more accessible price point than top-tier hypers; great value as GT3 looms.
Tested Speed41.5 MPH
Tested Range39.4 miles
Weight116 lbs
Max Load331 lbs
Battery Capacity1512 Wh
Nominal Power3000W
What I like
Excellent stability and handling at speed (low CoG, TCS)
Superb adjustable dual suspension system
Outstanding design, build quality, and fantastic OLED display
Strong dual-motor performance
Relatively affordable
High 331 lbs max load capacity
What I don't like
Lowest top speed and range within this group
52V system less potent than 72V rivals
Very heavy
Not designed for serious off-road use
For riders wanting to experience hyperscooter levels of performance and build quality without reaching the absolute highest price tiers, the Segway GT2 remains an excellent option, especially with the newer GT3 potentially driving down its price.
While its 41.5 MPH top speed and ~39-mile range are lower than the Nami or Kaabo, it's still incredibly fast (0-15 mph in 1.92s) and delivers genuine thrills. Where the GT2 truly shines is its design, refinement, and stability.
It feels incredibly planted and secure at speed, thanks partly to its low center of gravity and traction control system. The adjustable dual suspension is fantastic, offering a smooth and controlled ride, and the overall build quality, aesthetics, and superb OLED display feel exceptionally premium.
It uses a 52V system, which doesn't quite have the raw punch of the 72V systems, and it's not intended for serious off-roading. However, as a high-performance, high-stability street machine offering a more accessible entry point (relatively speaking) into the world of extreme scooters, the GT2 is a brilliantly engineered and compelling choice.
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Rasmus is the founder of ERideHero. Since 2019, he has tested 120+ electric rides across more than 8,500 miles. He handles the review process, content creation, and all things web and video.
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