Best Electric Scooters: For the Kid or the Commuter
You’ll ride with ease and speed if you own one of the best electric scooters, whether you’re having fun or riding for your commute.
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Sure, riding your bike or a basic push scooter is fun, but what if you want to make riding anywhere even easier? There’s a reason electric scooters are popping up everywhere, and it’s because they make running errands, enjoying the streets of your neighborhood, and even commuting to work a total breeze. Powered by electric motors of various power levels, you can reach higher speeds and take all of the physical work out of riding when you opt for one of these sleek scooters. Plus, there’s an electric scooter for every kind of rider. Whether you want to hit rugged trails and explore nature or stick to sidewalks and streets for everyday use, you can find a scooter that offers the right mix of durability, efficiency, and power no matter your interests or needs. Where should you start? With our picks for the best electric scooters, right here.
Gotrax GXL V2 Commuting Electric Scooter
- Top speed of 15.5 miles per hour
- 8.5-inch air-filled tires cushion while you ride, even on bumpy roads
- Digital display offers great control
- Throttle is sensitive
- Cruise control is tricky to engage
- Battery gauge isn’t the most accurate
Razor E100 Electric Scooter
- Sized for kids, yet still offers good power and speed
- Polyurethane wheels are smooth and durable
- Steel frame is made to handle all kinds of wear
- Battery takes 12 hours to recharge
- Can’t climb hills
Hover-1 Dynamo Electric Folding Scooter
- Top speed of 16 miles per hour
- Handles hills, hairpin turns, and bumpy roads with ease
- Able to carry riders weighing up to 264 pounds for a wider use range
- Speed decreases along with battery’s charge
- May not perform well in cold weather
Summary List
- Best Overall: Gotrax GXL V2 Commuting Electric Scooter
- Best Value: Razor E100 Electric Scooter
- Honorable Mention: Hover-1 Dynamo Electric Folding Scooter
- Best Premium Electric Scooter: Segway Ninebot E22 Electric Kick Scooter
- Best Electric Scooter for Kids: Swagtron SK1 Kick Start Electric Scooter
- Best Electric Scooter for Heavy Adults: Megawheels Electric Scooter
- Best Electric Scooter for Rough Roads: Hiboy S2 Pro Electric Scooter
Our Methodology
In order to determine which electric scooters were really the best available, we searched online for the highest-rated and best-reviewed products. Our product picks cover different types of electric scooters, all of which were compared based on specs and features like motor size and horsepower, charging time and runtime on a single charge, ability to go up and down hills, and suitable uses or roads. We also considered details like the weight capacity, durability, and ease of charging for each of the scooters on our list. The Drive’s Gear About page explains our methodology further.
Best Electric Scooters: Reviews & Recommendations
Specs
- Battery Life: 12.5 miles
- Top Speed: 15.5 miles per hour
- Motor Power: 250 watts
Pros
- Built-in digital display lets you stay in control of speed, battery, and other features
- Cruise control is great for commutes and long rides
- Folding frame and lightweight
- Dual braking system is responsive
Cons
- Battery gauge offers limited, not-so-accurate estimates
- Throttle is sensitive
- Using cruise control can be tricky
If you’re looking for an electric scooter that can offer everything from decent battery life to good speed to rides long and short, you’ll like the Gotrax CXL V2 Commuting Electric Scooter. Designed for adults, and made with commuters in mind, this powerful and comfortable scooter really delivers. It’s powered by a 36-volt 5.2 amp-hour battery and a 250-watt motor with high torque and low power consumption and you’ll be able to travel as far as 12.5 miles on a single charge and hit a top speed of 15.5 miles per hour. Plus, you’ll enjoy comfort on even the bumpiest city streets, thanks to the scooter’s 8.5-inch air-filled tires. Your ride will also be equipped with rubberized handle grips, an easy-to-control hand brake, and the ability to fold its frame for easy storage.
There are just a few areas in which this electric scooter could be improved. The throttle is pretty sensitive, so even though the scooter offers cruise control, it can be tricky to engage. Additionally, the battery gauge isn’t the most accurate; it changes frequently while you ride, and it only shows a couple of bars to provide you with a very rough estimate.
Specs
- Battery Life: 40 minutes
- Top Speed: 10 miles per hour
- Motor Power: 100 watts
Pros
- Kid-sized scooter deck and frame
- Light-up deck illuminates with every throttle twist
- Easy for kids to master and control
- Polyurethane wheels are ideal for driveways and sidewalks
Cons
- Can’t go up hills
- Battery takes 12 hours to recharge
Don’t want to spend a ton on a kids’ scooter, but still want that electric scooter to perform? The Razor E100 Electric Scooter is a great option, and it offers a good combination of durability and affordability. This scooter is designed with fun in mind, featuring blue LEDs on the deck that light up with a twist of the throttle. The 100-watt, high-torque, single-speed electric motor can reach up to 10 miles per hour at top speed, and the twin rechargeable 12-volt lead-acid batteries give riders up to 40 minutes of continuous riding. The all-steel frame and fork are built for rugged use and can survive all the challenges of playtime. And it’s intuitive to control, with a twist-grip accelerator and hand-operated brake that’s easy for young riders.
The only potential drawbacks of this kid-friendly electric scooter are the extensive battery recharge time and its somewhat limited power. This scooter can’t handle hills and will struggle if it’s ridden uphill. And when the battery is dead, you’ll need a full 12 hours to recharge it.
Specs
- Battery Life: 9 miles
- Top Speed: 16 miles per hour
- Motor Power: 250 watts
Pros
- Electric throttle is easy to use
- Rear suspension and air-filled tires offer a comfortable ride
- Suitable for up to 264 pounds
- LCD display makes it easy to manage
Cons
- Slows down as the battery charge drops
- May not perform well in cold weather
The Hover-1 Dynamo Electric Folding Scooter is an upgraded scooter in so many ways, and it offers a whole lot of features for adults to love. This model goes above and beyond the basics, delivering a combination of high-tech controls and high-powered speed. With a top speed of 16 miles per hour and a maximum distance of about 9 miles, the 250-watt motor and 20-cell lithium-ion rechargeable battery come together to deliver plenty of road time. Plus, if you’re worried about stability on any kind of road, the two 8.5-inch air-filled tires will help you stay nicely balanced. To keep you informed and in control, there’s an LCD display with a speedometer and battery life gauge, along with other control functions. And it folds down too, giving you convenient portability and easy storage.
However, this speedy electric scooter does tend to slow down in speed as the battery charge decreases, which can kneecap your riding a bit. Additionally, it doesn’t perform at its highest potential in cold weather, which you’ll want to keep in mind if you live in an area where fall and winter are regular occurrences.
Specs
- Battery Life: 28 miles
- Top Speed: 18.6 miles per hour
- Motor Power: Up to 700 watts
Pros
- Three speed settings: Energy saving, normal, and sports
- Built-in shock absorbers enhance comfort
- Works with the Smart Segway-Ninebot app for control and customization
- Body is lightweight yet nicely durable
Cons
- Does require some assembly when it arrives
- Brakes are better at slowing than stopping
The Segway Ninebot E22 Electric Kick Scooter may not be as futuristic as the original Segway was meant to be, but it’s certainly high-tech and sleek. Plus, it’s a whole lot of fun thanks to its innovative design, which is maintenance-free and all about comfort while you ride. Built with two lithium-ion batteries and an upgraded motor, it delivers up to 700 watts of power, hits a top speed of 18.6 miles per hour, and can travel up to 28 miles on a single charge. It features shock absorbers paired with 9-inch pneumatic tires to keep you cushioned on the road, and you’ll have no trouble controlling the electric and mechanical brakes, giving you more stability and safety. On top of it all, this electric scooter’s aerospace-grade aluminum alloy body makes it lightweight and just 36.2 pounds.
Just keep in mind that there is some assembly required when this scooter arrives, which can be a bit frustrating. And when you’re using the high-tech brakes on a ride, note that they’re really better at slowing you down rather than instantly stopping you.
Specs
- Battery Life: 4.4 miles
- Top Speed: 6.2 miles per hour
- Motor Power: None listed
Pros
- Works as both as kick scooter and an electric scooter
- Durable iron frame and handlebars
- Adjustable handlebars are great for growing kids
- Keeps speed under control at any age
Cons
- Can’t handle hills
- Entry-level and can be outgrown quickly
If you’re worried about investing in an electric scooter because kids tend to put products through their paces, you won’t have to worry with the Swagtron SK1 Kick Start Electric Scooter. This is a scooter that’s built for kids to fall, bump, and bang around, all while still delivering reliability and a sturdy frame. Meant for ages 5 and up, this electric scooter is constructed with a rugged iron frame and can carry riders up to 143 pounds. It’s kid-friendly, with no cables, cords, or wires hanging loose and an adjustable stem for multiple heights. The scooter can be ridden as a kick scooter until you hit a speed of 3 miles per hour, and then the kick-to-start motor takes over and boosts speed up to 6.2 miles per hour. Kids stay in control with a rear foot brake, and you’ll never have to stop the fun for long with the speedy three-hour battery charging time.
This electric scooter does require kids to ride it as a kick scooter when going uphill, as the motor isn’t powerful enough for inclines. Additionally, it’s an entry-level model, so keep that in mind; though it’s adjustable, it can be outgrown speed- and weight-wise pretty easily.
Specs
- Battery Life: 17 miles
- Top Speed: 15.5 miles per hour
- Motor Power: 250 watts
Pros
- Higher weight capacity
- Step-by-step assembly instructions, with pictures
- Quick-charging battery
- Can potentially reach even higher top speeds under certain conditions
Cons
- Heavier than other products
Most electric scooters have a weight limit of 220 pounds, but the Megawheels Electric Scooter gives you more versatility with a higher capacity. This model has a weight capacity of 265 pounds, making it a great choice for heavier or larger adults who need a more supportive scooter. And it doesn’t skimp on speed or fun, either. The 250-watt brushless motor can deliver a top speed of 15.5 miles per hour, and you’ll get a riding range of 12 to 17 miles on a single charge thanks to the 7.5 amp hour lithium-ion battery. Additionally, you’ll have no problem tackling all kinds of roads thanks to the climbing ability of this scooter; it can handle hills without problem. You can choose from three gear settings, and you’ll stay safe on the road with both an LED headlight and rear light that illuminate you and your path at night. It even folds up, collapsing for great portability.
The only real downside of this electric scooter is it’s slightly heavier because it’s a bit larger and has a big battery.
Specs
- Battery Life: 25.6 miles
- Top Speed: 19 miles per hour
- Motor Power: 500 watts
Pros
- Higher-than-average top speed
- Extra-powerful motor
- Offers customized cruise and speed control settings
- Smartphone app lets you set individualized parameters for different riders
Cons
- Heavier or larger riders can experience shorter battery life
If you’re searching for a scooter that won’t let bumps or road obstacles get in the way, the Hiboy S2 Pro Electric Scooter is a great option. This model rides on larger-than-normal wheels, with 10-inch tires so you can easily roll over anything. Those wheels, which are paired with rear dual shock absorbers, keep you comfortable even on rough surfaces and bumps. In addition to its rubber-covered solid tires, this electric scooter features impressive power thanks to a 500-watt electric brushless motor and can reach a top speed of 19 miles per hour. It’ll travel up to 25.6 miles on a single charge, and the double braking system includes both disc and anti-lock regenerative brakes. And if you love smart functionality, the fact that this electric scooter pairs with the Hiboy smartphone app is perfect for customizing your scooter’s functionality.
The only drawback is that heavier or larger riders can experience slower speeds and shorter battery life. This scooter’s performance depends on whoever is riding, so its results can vary.
Our Verdict on the Best Electric Scooters
We like the Gotrax GXL V2 Commuting Electric Scooter, a powerful and well-rounded scooter that’ll serve you whether you’re having fun or riding to the office, and it’s our pick for the best electric scooter. However, another good option that’s particularly great in terms of value if you’re buying for a younger rider is the Razor E100 Electric Scooter, which features an affordable price.
Features
Battery
For some people, the battery size will be the most important feature to consider when choosing an electric scooter, as it largely determines the range. A battery capacity of over 350 Wh or more is good, and should equate to a range of around 25 miles. You should also note how long the battery takes to recharge and how many charging cycles it’s expected to go through before it degrades.
Motor
The size of an electric scooter’s motor is the main factor in determining the scooter’s top speed, acceleration, and ability to climb steep hills. Motors start at around 200-watts and go to more than 6,000-watts. A motor with an output of 350 to 500-watts can handle most people’s daily commute. Although, if you have a need for speed, you’ll want at least an 800-watt motor.
Portability
Anyone who's commuting on their scooter needs to consider how portable it is. You should aim for a scooter under 30 lbs if you plan on carrying it onto a bus or into your workplace. You’ll also want a model that folds easily and quickly.
Lights
If you’re going to ride at night or commute, you should get a scooter with front and rear lights. Some scooters also have LED lights fitted along the deck, which are more of a stylistic feature.
Electric Scooter Pricing
For less than $200, you can get an electric scooter that has a relatively small motor and a low battery capacity. Top speeds will usually be below 15 mph, and the range will be less than 15 miles, making these scooters suitable for people with short commutes or children. The majority of electric scooters cost between $200 to $700. These scooters usually have top speeds up to around 25 mph and a range of up to 30 miles. For more than $700, you’ll get a scooter that has a large battery pack, motor, or both. These scooters can have ranges of over 40 miles or top speeds above 30 mph.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers!
Q: How do you charge an electric scooter?
A: Just read the instructions that come with your scooter! Every scooter is a little different, but for most electric scooters, you’ll need to use the provided charging equipment to recharge. An electric scooter can easily be plugged into any basic wall outlet, so you won’t need anything fancy other than whatever charger comes with your scooter.
Q: Am I able to lock an electric scooter on a bike rack?
A: As long as you’ve got the right type of lock, you can absolutely lock up your electric scooter onto a bike rack securely. Cable locks are a great choice, as you can wrap these around the handlebars and stem. For added security, you can also opt for a specialized electric scooter lock that is attached to the stem, preventing it from being adjusted unless the user has a key.
Q: How far can an electric scooter run?
A: It depends on the battery, how full the battery is, and other external factors like your weight, your terrain, and how fast you’re riding. A scooter can ride anywhere from 5 miles to 40 miles on a single charge
Why Trust Us
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
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