Buying Guide: How To Choose an Electric Scooter

• Jump to:
• Identify Your Needs
• Factors to Consider
• E-Scooter Categories
• Where to Buy

Identify Your Needs

Purchasing the perfect electric scooter starts with understanding your specific needs. This section helps you evaluate key aspects to make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle.

Before diving into specs and features, ask yourself these key questions:

• Purpose: Daily commuting or weekend recreation?
• Budget: What's your price ceiling? ($250-$5,000+)
• Range: How far do you need to travel on a single charge?
• Terrain: Flat city streets or hilly landscapes?
• Portability: Do you need to carry it regularly?

Be honest about your actual needs—buying too much scooter is as problematic as buying too little.

Personal Testing Note: I've seen countless riders struggle with buyer's remorse after purchasing powerful 70+ lb scooters they can barely lift, only to realize a lighter 40 lb model would have met their actual commuting needs perfectly.

Actionable Tips:

• If you're after a quality electric scooter but don't want to research, check out our list of the best electric scooters. We've done our homework, testing more than 80 models through 6,000+ miles.
• We also have specific guides for heavy riders, fastest models, kids' scooters, cheap picks, lightweight options, scooters with seats, and commuter-focused picks.
• Check our data-driven reviews based on the most advanced test process in the industry. You'll get unique insights into the most popular models on the market.
• We have plenty of reviews on our YouTube channel if you prefer a video format.

Factors to Consider When Buying an Electric Scooter

• Jump to:
• Price
• Range
• Speed & Hills
• Portability
• Max Load
• Tires & Suspension
• Brakes
• Weather Resistance
• Warranty
• Laws
• Maintenance

Price & Value

Electric scooters range from $250 to $5,000+. Establish a realistic budget based on your needs:

Budget	What to Expect
<$500	Basic commuters with 200-400W motors, 12-18 MPH speeds, 5-12 miles range
$500-$1,000	Better commuters with 350-600W motors, up to 25 MPH, 15-30 miles range
$1,000-$1,500	Advanced commuters, often dual-motor (1,000-2,000W), 25-35 MPH, 20-40 miles range
$1,500-$2,500	High-performance models, dual motors (1,500-3,000W), up to 45 MPH, 25-50 miles range
$2,500+	Premium luxury models, 2,000-10,000W motors, 40-70 MPH, 40-90 miles range

Remember: Better components and materials cost more but typically deliver better performance, durability, and riding experience.

Real-World Range

Manufacturer range claims are almost always optimistic. In real-world conditions, expect:

• Actual range: 50-70% of advertised range
• Factors affecting range: Rider weight, speed, terrain, temperature, tire pressure

For daily commuting, choose a scooter with at least 30-50% more range than your typical round trip to provide a comfortable buffer.

Motor Power & Hill Climbing

Motor power (measured in watts) directly impacts speed, acceleration, and hill-climbing ability:

• 300-400W: Handles gentle slopes (0-5°), top speed typically around 18 MPH.
• 500-1000W: Manages moderate hills (6-10°), top speed typically around 25 MPH.
• 1000-2000W: Conquers steep hills (10-15°), top speed typically 30-40 MPH.
• 2000W+: Climbs ultra-steep hills (15°+), top speed typically 40+ MPH.

Dual-motor setups provide superior hill climbing even at the same total wattage.

Portability & Weight

Consider how often you'll need to carry your scooter:

Weight	Portability	Typical Performance
20-30 lbs	Very portable	8-14 miles range, ~15-18 MPH
30-40 lbs	Moderately portable	~18 miles range, ~22 MPH
40-50 lbs	Somewhat heavy	~25 miles range, ~28 MPH
50-60 lbs	Heavy	~32 miles range, ~32 MPH
60-70 lbs	Very heavy	~35 miles range, ~35 MPH
70+ lbs	Ultra heavy (two-person lift)	40+ miles range, 38+ MPH

Folding mechanisms, handle designs, and weight distribution also impact portability.

Personal Testing Note: After carrying dozens of scooters up flights of stairs, I've found the 35 lb mark to be a key threshold. Anything heavier typically becomes uncomfortable for regular carrying, regardless of your personal strength.

Rider Weight & Max Load

Electric scooters typically support between 220-330 lbs. Exceeding the weight limit affects:

• Performance: Reduced speed and range
• Safety: Potential structural issues
• Durability: Faster component wear

Heavier riders should consider models with higher weight capacities and more powerful motors to maintain performance.

Tires & Suspension

Two critical components determine ride comfort:

Tires:

• Pneumatic (air-filled): Superior comfort, traction, and shock absorption. Requires maintenance and can puncture.
  • Tubeless: Better air retention, puncture resistance
  • Tubed: Easier to replace, more affordable
• Solid: Maintenance-free but delivers a harsh ride with poor grip in wet conditions.
  • Honeycomb: Better than solid core but still inferior to air-filled

Suspension:

• Spring: Common, affordable, moderate performance
• Hydraulic: Premium, adjustable, superior performance
• Rubber: Simple, maintenance-free, limited effectiveness

Brakes

Reliable braking is crucial for safety. There are four types of brakes:

• Disc brakes (mechanical and hydraulic)
• Drum brakes
• Electronic regenerative brakes
• Rear foot brake

Disc brakes offer the best stopping power but require the most maintenance. Hydraulic disc brakes are superior for high-end performance but are generally more expensive.

Drum brakes are the second most performant and require less maintenance than disc brakes. They're typically found on commuter models with limited power, but we're seeing the industry moving towards dual drum brakes on more performance-oriented models as the stopping power is still good.

Four main brake types, in order of effectiveness:

1. Disc brakes: Best stopping power (hydraulic > mechanical)
2. Drum brakes: Good performance, low maintenance
3. Electronic regenerative: Works with the motor, extends range slightly
4. Rear foot brake: Emergency backup only, causes tire wear

Safety recommendations:

• For 30+ MPH: Dual disc brakes with regenerative braking
• For speeds under 20 MPH: At least one mechanical brake
• For 20-30 MPH: Dual brakes (disc or drum)

Weather Resistance (IP Rating)

IP ratings indicate dust (first digit) and water resistance (second digit):

IP Code	Recommended Limit
IPX4	Wet surfaces, light rain, avoid puddles
IPX5	Light-medium rain, avoid puddles
IPX6	Heavy rain, can handle puddles
IPX7	Heavy rain and big puddles
IP34	On-roading, light rain, avoid puddles
IP44	Minimal off-roading, light rain, avoid puddles
IP54	Dry trails, light rain, avoid puddles
IP55	Smooth wet trails, light-medium rain, can handle puddles
IP65	Off-roading, light-medium rain, avoid puddles
IP66	Off-roading, heavy rain, can handle puddles
IP67	Heavy off-roading
None	Be wary of all wet conditions

For regular rain commuting, look for at least IP55/IP65 and pneumatic tires.

Warranty & After-Sales Support

• Standard warranty: 1 year
• Red flags: Warranties under 6 months
• Premium support: 2+ years (e.g., NIU)
• Consider: Parts coverage, shipping costs for repairs

Research the manufacturer's reputation for support before purchasing.

Legal Considerations

Before buying, understand your local regulations regarding:

• Speed limits: Typically 15-25 MPH depending on location
• Riding areas: Bike lanes, roads, sidewalks (often prohibited)
• Helmet requirements: Mandatory in many regions
• Age restrictions: Often 16+ or 18+

Ignoring regulations risks fines and confiscation.

Maintenance

Component	Maintenance Level
Pneumatic tires	Medium (pressure checks, occasional flats)
Solid tires	Low (eventual replacement)
Disc brakes	Medium-High (pad replacement, adjustment)
Drum brakes	Low (occasional adjustment)
Suspension	Medium (cleaning, lubrication)

Electric Scooter Categories by Price

The age-old saying, "You get what you pay for," holds true with electric scooters. So, how far does your budget reach, and what performance level can you expect?

To help set expectations, we've sectioned the scooter market into price categories. Let's find out what your budget brings in terms of power, mileage, portability, and features.

• Jump to:
• <$500
• $500-$1,000
• $1,000-$1,500
• $1,500-$2,500
• $2,500+
• $7,500+

Entry-Level Scooters (<$500)

Entry-level scooters, priced between $200 and $500, are basic in features, typically with minimal customization and few settings.

These affordable options typically have a single motor with a power output of 200W to 400W. Most models have top speeds of 12-18 MPH, but a few get close to 20 MPH.

E-scooters in this price class typically offer 5-12 miles of range and have up to 365 Wh of battery capacity. However, if you're lucky enough to catch a good sale, you can get scooters with up to 18 miles of real-world range under $500.

These scooters are best for short, light commutes in flat, urban environments. They are good for beginners, those seeking a basic scooter for occasional use or for kids and teenagers. A benefit of their small motors and batteries is that they're practical and lightweight (typically 20-35 lbs).

Due to their limited motor performance, they're not ideal for hilly commutes or riders over 220 lbs, as the motor simply can't keep up. As they typically have relatively small tires (often solid), they are not ideal in poor road conditions or on wet roads.

I recommend the following entry-level electric scooters:

• NIU KQi2 Pro (great range)
• Hiboy S2 (Good motor performance)
• Atomi E20 (Comfortable to ride)
• Fluid CityRider (good overall performance)
• TurboAnt X7 Max (quick-swap battery)

Mid-Range Urban Commuter Scooters ($500 - $1,000)

If your budget lands between $500 and $1,000, you're looking at much more commuter-focused scooters with improved range and more features.

If you're looking for a reliable commuter scooter rather than a leisurely joyride, set your budget starting at around $500, or even $400 during sales, as your entry threshold.

This price range comes with notable upgrades in performance across the line. Most options are still single-motor but with 350W to 600W of nominal power. The increased power translates to top speeds of up to 25 MPH, stronger acceleration, and better hill climbing ability.

Mid-range commuter scooters often have larger batteries with between 365Wh and 600Wh of capacity, translating to 15-30 miles of real-world range.

They also come with enhanced features like suspension, larger tires, more comfortable decks, improved braking systems, and customization settings to dial in performance to your preference. Due to their stronger hardware, they're typically heavier than entry-level options (30-50 lbs), but there are ultra-portable exceptions.

This category balances performance with value, making it ideal for regular commuters seeking more performance than entry-level models offer. They're better geared for hills, heavier riders, and offer a more comfortable ride with increased range.

Still, if you live in areas with extreme hills or if you're over 250 lbs, you may want to look for dual-motor options in the $1,000 - $1,500 category.

I recommend the following mid-range electric scooters:

• NIU KQi3 Pro (Highly comfortable, 2-year warranty, great value)
• NIU KQI3 Max (Best in motor and hill performance, good warranty)
• Segway Ninebot Max G30P (Excellent build and lots of range)
• Segway Ninebot Max G2 (Most comfortable commuter I've tested)
• Fluid Mosquito (Incredibly powerful and strong motor performance)
• TurboAnt V8 (Nice dual-battery setup)

Advanced Commuter Scooters ($1,000 - $1,500)

In the $1,000 to $1,500 group, you'll find the most advanced commuting-first electric scooters. These models come with another notable increase in motor and battery performance, often with two motors instead of one. With an additional motor, they can conquer very steep hills and accelerate fast - even for heavy riders.

Advanced commuting scooters offer an extra level for the challenging terrain on long commutes that exceed city borders. With 1,000W to 2,000W of motor power, they can reach top speeds between 25-35 MPH.

Advanced commuter options have larger batteries that can travel further on a single charge. The capacity is usually between 800Wh and 1,200Wh. In my tests, they yield anywhere from 20-40 miles of range.

Almost all advanced commuter scooters have beefy suspension (in some cases hydraulic) which combined with sizable pneumatic tires, greatly improves shock absorption and overall ride quality.

With larger batteries, stronger motors, and a sturdier overall build, they're also notably heavier than sub-$1,000 models. Electric scooters in this category typically weigh 50-70 lbs.

This is the turning point in weight, where you want to carry the scooter as little as possible. If you have lots of stairs to climb daily or need to store it in a tight space, consider some of the portability-focused models within this category.

I recommend the following advanced commuter scooters:

• Splach Twin (Super compact and good value)
• Varla Pegasus (Low on maintenance and good brakes)
• Fluid Vista (Excellent hill climbing and acceleration)
• Arvala M10 - $50 off with code "ERIDEHERO" (Unbeatable performance value)

High-Performance Scooters ($1,500 - $2,500)

High-performance electric scooters transcend the commuting space with extreme speeds and/or incredibly long range. Scooters in this class are for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies who want more than just a convenient means of transportation.

Performance models are—almost without exception—geared with dual motors with 1,500W - 3,000W of power. They reach zipping top speeds up to 45 MPH, and their blazing acceleration and torque allow them to conquer the most demanding hills you can find.

Most high-end scooters deliver impressive range thanks to their sizable high-voltage batteries. With anywhere from 900Wh to 1,500Wh of capacity, they can travel 25-50 miles in the real world.

Above $1,500, electric scooters become luxury. Cutting-edge technology, premium materials, and thrilling performance become standard. These scooters aren't just about getting from A to B; they're an experience - an adventurous kick of adrenaline.

Riders can expect enhancements such as GPS tracking, mobile app connectivity, full customization of the acceleration and braking curve, electronic horns, 10" or 11" air tires, full suspension, and larger disc brakes. With max loads of up to 330 lbs and enough power to pull a trailer, these scooters are ideal for heavy riders in demanding terrain.

Once again, with more hardware comes added weight. High-end scooters typically weigh 60-85 lbs, so carrying them is almost a two-man job. Practicality is traded for power.

I recommend the following high-performance scooters:

• Apollo Phantom V3 (Premium design and ultra-smooth ride quality)
• Kaabo Mantis V2 (Best value in its class)
• Apollo City Pro (Stellar ride comfort, safety features, and app integration)
• Nami Klima (Fastest acceleration and top speed)

Premium Luxury Scooters ($2,500+)

Scooters priced at $2,500 and above fall into the luxury category, offering top-notch technology, advanced customization, and unmatched, adjustable comfort. Performance is exceptional, with no compromises on any aspect of design or functionality. They embrace the philosophy that more is indeed more.

Premium luxury scooters, with their racecar-like performance ranging from 2,000W to 10,000W motor output, reach staggering speeds of 40 to 70 MPH. These are not for the faint-hearted but designed for thrill-seekers craving the utmost in speed, acceleration, and hill-climbing prowess.

Battery-wise, these scooters boast advanced setups ranging from 1200Wh to 3000Wh, often utilizing the newer 21700 cells for higher energy density over traditional 18650 cells. This translates to a real-world range of 40 to 90 miles, ensuring extensive travel distances on a single charge.

Ride comfort in these models is unparalleled. They often feature ultra-sized, air-filled tires (up to 12 inches) and fully adjustable, often hydraulic, suspension setups that can be tuned to rider weight and preferences, including steering dampeners for high-speed stability.

The feature set on these scooters is extensive, including turn signals, customizable acceleration and brake curves, and robust lighting systems for safety and visibility. They're designed to offer a comprehensive, high-tech riding experience.

In terms of build quality, these scooters use the highest-grade aluminum alloy, often employing advanced welding techniques to endure extreme stresses. They're built to support riders up to 360 lbs. However, their robust build means they can weigh 70 lbs to 110 lbs, making them virtually impossible to carry alone or fit in a trunk.

These premium luxury scooters are the embodiment of extreme performance and unmatched quality, catering to those who seek the best in personal electric transportation.

• Nami Burn-E 2 Max (One of the fastest production scooters ever made)
• Segway GT2 (Possibly the smoothest ride I've ever tested)
• Apollo Pro (Award-winning design with state-of-the-art technology)
• Inmotion RS - $50 off with code "ERIDEHERO" (IPX6 makes this a winner for wet conditions)
• Wolf King GTR - $50 off with code "ERIDEHERO664" (Incredible for off-roading and performance value)

Boutique Scooters ($7,500+)

In the exclusive world of boutique electric scooters, priced over $7,500, performance and customization reach new heights. These aren't mass-produced but are individually crafted, with each scooter typically being a custom creation per the customer's specifications.

With motor outputs ranging from 5,000 to 20,000W, they boast top speeds of 60-100 MPH and ranges of 60-120 miles, supported by 2,500-5,000Wh batteries.

Weighing between 90 and 130 pounds and capable of supporting 330 to 380 pounds, these scooters are rarities, mainly seen in racing competitions or specialized events.

Brands like WEPED and Rion dominate this niche market, where exclusivity and performance are the hallmarks.

Where To Buy an Electric Scooter

Where's the best place to buy an electric scooter? It really depends on what you're looking for.

There are seven main ways to buy an electric scooter:

• General online retailers
• Specialized online retailers
• Physical PEV stores
• General physical stores
• Direct from brands
• Direct from China
• Second-hand markets

Let's explore the options and weigh the pros and cons of each to help you decide which buying route is right for you.

General Online Retailers

General online retailers like Amazon are a one-stop shop for everything you can think of, including a diverse range of electric scooters. They offer the convenience of shopping from home and have a wide selection of models from dozens of popular brands.

While online mega stores are convenient, they lack the firsthand expertise specialized retailers offer. In some cases, orders are fulfilled by 3rd party sellers, which can result in varying customer service quality.

Ideal for: Shoppers who value a broad selection and competitive pricing and are comfortable making decisions based on customer reviews and self-research.

Recommended General Online Retailers

• Amazon
• eBay
• Walmart
• Best Buy
• Target

Specialized Online Retailers

Specialized online retailers focus exclusively on electric scooters (or other electric rides) and related gear. The main benefit of going with a specialized retailer is their in-depth knowledge of electric scooters.

They typically carry a smaller selection of scooters, but this isn't necessarily a bad thing; every model they carry is carefully chosen based on reliability and reputation. If they were carrying unreliable products, they'd drown in repair jobs, effectively destroying their base of existence. In other words, they only carry proven brands.

Their expertise ensures that customers receive guidance and recommendations tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

Specialized retailers often establish direct relationships with manufacturers, which translates to better overall customer support, warranty services, and sometimes exclusive models or special editions. The selection might be narrower compared to general online retailers, but it's more refined and focused on quality.

Ideal for: Riders who seek expert advice, quality assurance, and a premium selection of electric scooters, especially those who value specialized knowledge and customer service:

Recommended Specialized Online Retailers

Physical PEV Stores

These shops, including some like VoroMotors and FluidFreeRide with physical locations, specialize exclusively in personal electric vehicles. They often offer a range of high-quality electric scooters, accessories, and parts, along with expert knowledge and service.

More often than not, they also act as a service center, so if you like to have technical wisdom and repair parts around the corner, you may want to go local.

Ideal for: Riders who want to test one or more scooters firsthand before making a purchase and a personalized shopping experience.

General Physical Stores

Several big box and department stores around the world carry electric scooters as part of a broader range of products.

While they're convenient and allow you to pick up your electric scooter already today, their focus is not solely on electric scooters. This means you won't get the same level of firsthand knowledge and service as with specialized stores.

Ideal for: First-time buyers, beginners, and those looking for a convenient purchase they can pick up today without the need for specialized guidance.

Direct from Brands

Purchasing directly from the brands themselves is an increasingly popular option. This way, you cut out the middleman, be it a general retailer like Amazon or a physical store like Walmart. The main benefit is that you're in direct contact with the brand behind the product, so questions and support queries don't have to go through a 3rd party.

Buying directly from brands also means that there isn't a 3rd party that needs to profit, resulting in competitive pricing. Buying directly from brands does have its limitations; the selection is typically small, and you risk getting a one-sided buying experience. Therefore, it is best to do external research on the product before going direct.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for a specific brand and want competitive pricing with a direct point of contact with no middleman.

Recommended Brands for Direct Purchase

Direct from China

Buying an electric scooter directly from Chinese platforms like AliExpress and Alibaba offers a unique set of opportunities and challenges. This route is appealing due to lower costs, but it is not for everyone.

Sourcing directly from Asia may be tempting, but ensure you have the technical know-how to handle maintenance yourself and the patience to wait for your scooter to arrive. You also want to double-check if any import fees/taxes apply.

Ideal for: Buyers who are looking to save money and have the patience to deal with longer shipping times and potential after-sales service issues. Only suitable for those comfortable with self-maintenance and/or who have easy access to spare parts locally.

Recommended Platforms

• AliExpress: Individual sellers with a wide range of models that aren't necessarily mainstream in the west. Access to all kinds of spare parts and addons.
• Alibaba: Mainly a B2B site with a focus on bulk purchases.

Second-Hand Markets

Buying electric scooters from second-hand markets like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace can offer significant savings. However, it's crucial to be cautious, as these markets sometimes have stolen scooters listed.

To avoid inadvertently buying a stolen scooter, you should:

1. Ask for proof of purchase or ownership documentation.
2. Check the scooter's serial number and verify it against theft databases or with local law enforcement if possible.
3. Is the scooter being sold without a charger? Chances are it may be stolen.
4. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as they often are.

Buying a used electric scooter requires a bit of knowledge. It's important to inspec the scooter (ideally in person), ask about its history, and test it before finalizing the deal.

Ideal for: Those seeking bang for their buck who are comfortable in assessing a scooter's condition, and willing to do the extra legwork to ensure the scooter isn't stolen.