Here are our top picks for the best electric scooters for adults, kids and commuters, based on hundreds of hours of testing

(Image credit: Tomsguide)

Because electric scooters are so convenient, we’ve grown to rely heavily on them for getting to and from work, school, and other destinations. Which electric scooter, though, is the greatest fit for you?

We tested hundreds of scooters, with prices ranging from under $200 to over $1,500, and we believe the NIU KQi Air to be the greatest electric scooter. It is incredibly light, powerful, and includes anti-theft features. If you’re on a tight budget, the HiBoy S2 is a really capable bike with lights that costs less than $500.

We’ve evaluated them by riding them hundreds of kilometers, putting them on trains and subways, putting them through cities and suburbs, and taking them up and down hills. We have a selection of scooters for any use, including transporting groceries from the store, going the distance, and getting to and from work or school. These are our top picks for the best electric scooters, taking into account various rider demands, preferences, and price ranges.

THE QUICK LIST

• BEST OVERALL: Niu KQi Air
• BEST BUDGET SCOOTER: Hiboy S2
• BEST FOR LONG DISTANCES: Segway Ninebot Kickscooter Max G2
• BEST FOR COMMUTERS: Unagi Model One Voyager
• BEST FOR KIDS: Razor E100
• FASTEST SCOOTER: Apollo City 2023

(Image credit: Niuflorida)

1. NIU KQi Air

The best electric scooter overall

SPECIFICATIONS

Size (folded): 21.3 x 46.7 x 18.9 inches

Size (unfolded): 21.3 x 46.7 x 44.9 inches

Weight: 26.5 pounds

Motor: 350W, 700W peak

Wheel size: 9.5 x 2.5-inch, pneumatic

Max speed: 20 mph

Range: 31 miles

Max rider weight: 265 pounds

Battery: 451.2Wh/48V

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

Despite being a light scooter, the Niu Kqi Air manages to provide a lot of power and range. As a result, you can move it quite a distance while still easily carrying it up a flight of steps. This is because the Air has several carbon fiber components, putting its weight on par with the Unagi Model One Voyager.

Other than its weight, the Air stands out from other electric scooters thanks to a few additional characteristics. For a scooter without suspension, its 9.5-inch air-filled tires provide a pleasant ride, and its 350W motor easily propelled us up and down slopes. Furthermore, a large battery may run you up to 31 kilometers on a single charge; however, in our testing, we saw more like 20 miles.

We particularly enjoyed the Air’s handlebar-mounted turn signals, electronic locking mechanism, and alarm, which increased our peace of mind when using and storing the scooter in a public area. It is on the pricey side, coming in at about $1,000, but it gives the finest performance, range, and weight combination we’ve seen in an electric scooter.

(Image credit: Tomsguide)

2. Hiboy S2

Dual brakes and some fancy lights

SPECIFICATIONS

Size (unfolded): 45.7 x 6.9 x 47.2 inches

Weight: 29.5 pounds

Motor: 350-watt, front-wheel drive

Wheel size: 8.5-inch, rubber

Max speed: 19 MPH

Range: 17 miles

Max rider weight: 220 pounds

Battery: 270 wH

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

We particularly enjoyed the Air’s handlebar-mounted turn signals, electronic locking mechanism, and alarm, which increased our peace of mind when using and storing the scooter in a public area. It is on the pricey side, coming in at about $1,000, but it gives the finest performance, range, and weight combination we’ve seen in an electric scooter.

The Hiboy S2’s extremely simple design, with few hanging cables and other components, was another feature I enjoyed. Its rear latching mechanism is the one drawback; it was a little tricky. The 350-watt motor of the S2 proved sufficient in most circumstances, but like most low-cost scooters, I discovered that it struggled on hills. Its battery life is decent for a scooter in this price category, but if you intend to ride it frequently, you’ll need to charge it every few days.

The Hiboy S2 is a fantastic value if you can acquire it for $399 or less because it offers more features than the majority of other scooters at that price.

(Image credit: Reddit)

3. Segway Ninebot Kickscooter Max G2

The best electric scooter for those who want to go far

SPECIFICATIONS

Size (unfolded): 49.8 x 47.6 x 22.4 inches

Size (folded): 45.9 x 18.6 x 21.0 inches

Weight: 53.5 pounds

Motor: 1,000-watt, rear-wheel drive

Wheel size: 9.5 x 2.5-inch, pneumatic

Max speed: 23 mph

Range (estimated): 43 miles

Max rider weight: 265 pounds

Battery: 36V/15.3 A

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

With a more powerful motor, a longer range, and some great new safety and security features, the Segway Ninebot Kickscooter Max G2 is a great improvement over the original.

First off, the turn signals on the Max G2 are integrated into the handlebars, and we found them to be quite bright, at least to approaching traffic (my body had a tendency to obstruct those behind me). In the event that the scooter disappears, Apple Find My is integrated and you can establish an unlock code to assist discourage criminals. To be safe, you should still get one of the best bike locks.

The 1000-Watt engine of the G2 was more than capable of pushing me up steep hills, and its large battery allowed for a range of roughly 22 miles. Although less than the 43 miles that Segway claims, that is still a longer distance than most other scooters. Not only could I ride around comfortably, but my thick 9 x 2.5-inch inflatable tires with dual suspension also made it possible.

The only drawback is that you won’t want to carry this scooter around because it weighs a whopping 53.5 pounds.

(Image credit: Techradar)

4. Unagi Model One Voyager

The best electric scooter when weight is a premium

SPECIFICATIONS

Size (folded): 37.8 x 16.5 x 15 inches

Size (unfolded): 43.3 x 37.8 x 16.5 inches

Weight: 26.5 pounds

Motor: Dual 250-watt

Wheel size: 7.5-inch, rubber

Max speed: 20 mph

Range: 20 miles

Max rider weight: 275 pounds

Battery: 360Wh

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

The Unagi Model One Voyager accelerates up hills with ease and travels twice as quickly as other scooters with a single motor, all thanks to its dual 250-watt engines. When using both motors (you can choose to utilize only one), the battery life of the scooter decreases drastically compared to its stated 20-mile range.

In addition, the Unagi boasts an excellent display that is visible even in broad daylight. We were especially impressed by its simple controls and powerful, loud horn. It contains headlights as well as taillights, the latter of which blinks quickly when the brakes are used.

The Unagi’s elegant form also captured our attention; its carbon-fiber front post has an interesting geometric shift from a circle to a triangle.

The price of all of this is $1,490 for the Model One Voyager, which is backordered until May 2024. On the other hand, you may rent the Unagi Model One Classic for $39/month with a yearly subscription or the Voyager for $69/month through Unagi’s scooter rental program.

(Image credit: Freshlycharged)

5. Apollo City 2023

This fun and fast electric scooter has turn signals

SPECIFICATIONS

Weight: 57 pounds

Wheel size: 10-inch, inflatable

Max Speed: 32 mph

Range: 43 miles

Max Rider Weight: 265 pounds

Motor: 500W, rear-wheel drive

Battery: 48V 20Ah

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

Turn signals are a feature that the majority of other electric scooters lack on the Apollo City. When you can turn on a light instead of sticking your arm out to signal to other drivers that you want to go left or right, it’s much simpler to be seen by passing automobiles. To make matters better, the lights are visible from both the scooter’s deck and the ends of each handlebar.

With its 500-watt motor, the Apollo City can easily climb even the steepest slopes, and its top speed of 32 miles per hour allows us to keep up with most local traffic. Nevertheless, it’s also a fantastic scooter on its own. Its complete suspension and puncture-proof tires were particularly appealing to us.

The Apollo app offers additional features including performance customization and remote locking, which locks the scooter’s brakes to prevent other people from riding it.

However, at 57 pounds, this electric scooter is very heavy; if you need to take it up a flight of stairs, this isn’t our first pick. Additionally, its latching mechanism is more erratic than it is on a lot of other electric scooters. Other than that, though, this electric scooter is quick, enjoyable, and has a reliable safety feature.

(Image credit: Tomsguide)

6. Razor E100

Best electric scooter for kids

SPECIFICATIONS

Size: 36 x 32.5 x 16 inches

Weight: 22 pounds

Wheel size: 8-inch inflatable (front), 4.9-inch rubber (rear)

Motor: 100-watt, rear-wheel chain drive

Battery: Dual 12-volt

Max Speed: 10 mph

Range: 10 miles/40 minutes

Max Rider Weight: 120 pounds

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

For parents looking to gift their kids an electric scooter that they can ride safely about town, the Razor E100 is the finest option available. It has a hand-operated front brake and twist-grip acceleration controls. It is available in multiple colors. Even though the E100 has a top speed of 10 mph, it has enough torque to go over sharp turns and uphill. With a pit stop in between, 40 minutes is more than enough time to drive to school and back.

There should be an E100 model that best suits your child’s personality because it comes in a range of colors and styles. Just don’t forget to buy them a helmet. The E100 has a drawback in that its chain-drive motor, which can be noisier than hub motors, may eventually need maintenance. In order to help your child be more visible on the road, you need buy reflectors at a bike store as the E100 does not come with any.

How to choose the best electric scooter for you

How are you going to use the scooter?

The ideal electric scooter for your needs will mostly depend on how you intend to utilize it. A compact, light electric scooter should be your top choice if you’re using it for “last-mile” transportation, such as traveling from your house to the bus or train and back to your workplace. Seek for a scooter with a 20–30 pound weight range.

Another feature you’ll want in an electric scooter is a quick and easy fold. Fumbling with a latch in a hurry to catch a train is the worst thing ever; your fellow passengers will also find it amusing.

Are you riding on hilly terrain?

Your choice of scooter should also take into account where you intend to use it. A scooter with a 300W to 350W motor should provide you with all the power you require if you reside in a flatter location. If you reside in a city like San Francisco, for example, you will need a scooter with a more powerful motor to get around. Bigger people should also think about electric scooters with stronger engines.

Cost: For a lot of people, the cost of an electric scooter will be the first consideration when making a purchase. A brief summary of each price tier’s expectations is provided here.

• $100 to $300: These are often low-cost scooters with basic braking systems, smaller motors, and low-capacity batteries. They are excellent for experimenting with electric scooters because they require less maintenance. The majority of children’s electric scooters are also found here.
• $300 to $600: These scooters are categorized as entry-level or midrange commuters; they often have larger wheels, faster battery charging, longer ranges, and the capacity to climb hills.
• These scooters are considered premium if they cost $600 or more. A longer, more comfortable ride, bigger tires, quicker speeds, disc brakes, and improved suspension are all to be expected.

For many, battery life/range will be the next important consideration after price. Because battery life and range vary depending on many factors, such as the rider’s weight, temperature, and terrain, it can be challenging to give an exact estimate. Generally speaking, you’ll be able to go farther on flat terrain than you will if you’re riding up and down hills. Amp Hours (aH) are commonly used to assess battery life; the higher the figure, the longer you can ride.

Speed: On a level road, the majority of electric scooters have a maximum speed of 15 to 18 miles per hour. For most purposes, that’s more than fast enough, but there are scooters that can reach speeds of over 25 mph.

Motors: Most electric scooters will feature a single hub-mounted motor, which is integrated into the wheel and has a power rating of 250 to 350 Watts. You’ll want a motor with a higher wattage if you live in an especially hilly area or wish to travel quickly.

Suspension and tires: Nothing is worse than a startling ride caused by potholes and fissures in the pavement. The majority of electric scooters today use pneumatic tires that are filled with air to help absorb impacts. Some will include suspension on either the front or back end, or both, which results in an even more pleasant ride. Larger tires contribute to a more stable ride as well.

Lights: It’s worth investing in an electric scooter with lights if you intend to ride it in the early morning, at dark, or through urban traffic. This will allow you to see and be seen. The best electric scooters will have taillights that illuminate when you press the brakes, so keep an eye out for those. Turn signals are unfortunately infrequent, so be cautious when changing lanes.

Electric scooters: Frequently asked questions

What’s a good speed for an electric scooter?

Most electric scooters are made to reach a maximum speed of fifteen miles per hour. More costly models have a top speed of 20 miles per hour. Others can travel even faster; we’ve seen (and driven) models that reach speeds of over 30 mph, but at this point, state motor vehicle rules and regulations become hazy.

What is the best wattage for an electric scooter?

The 250–350 Watt motor used in most electric scooters should be more than sufficient for most city riding on level ground. Scooters with 500 Watt or more motors are more expensive, but they are useful if you have to climb steeper hills. The top end has motors that are 800 to 1,000 watts, which can propel you at much greater speeds and make climbing hills a breeze.

What are the safety features for electric scooters?

The majority of electric scooters, if not all of them, come equipped with a reflective surface to increase your visibility when headlights from passing cars shine on you. Electric scooters with higher prices will include headlights and tail lights; some models even have tail lights that blink when you apply the brakes.

Speaking of brakes, practically every scooter has a handbrake of some kind. Some even feature a secondary brake that is engaged by applying pressure to the back of the scooter’s fender.

In order to alert people to your presence, almost all electric scooters have a bell or horn. However, this does not excuse careless riding. Additionally, it’s crucial to wear a helmet if using an electric scooter.

How we test

Though there are many different types of electric scooters available, only a select number are worthwhile to bring home for use.

We test electric scooters by riding them throughout a suburban area of New Jersey and, if they are lightweight and compact enough, by bringing them into New York City on trains. We like to test how simple it is to carry a scooter up stairs and how well it can fit under a seat because more and more people are taking scooters on public transit.

We take the scooter out again once we’re in New York to test its handling of potholes and other road hazards. In order to test each scooter’s motor’s endurance, we also ride it up a street with a 6-percent incline. While less powerful versions will slow to a crawl, more powerful scooters will be able to maintain a reasonably consistent speed.

We also assess each scooter to determine whether it can achieve its claimed maximum speed and how closely its range matches the company’s projections. Warning: The majority of electric scooters will only reach about 60% of their stated range.

We assess a scooter’s brakes, lighting, and design in addition to its cost during the testing procedure.

We mostly take into account factors like portability—how simple it is to fold up and take on the bus or other forms of public transportation, or how light it is to carry up a long flight of stairs—along with range and top speed when evaluating entry-level and commuter scooters.

While they don’t have to be the quickest vehicles available, commuter scooters that can maintain a speed of at least 15 mph for an extended period of time will be helpful in preventing traffic jams in the bike lane. We also looked at braking systems, such as mechanical disc brakes, which are regarded as the second most reliable, and hydraulic disc brakes, which are the best at stopping fast and safely at high speeds. We also took into consideration available speedometer, reflectors, and headlights when selecting our commuter vehicles.

We examined suspension in addition to range, speed, and braking systems for the performance-oriented, higher-end vehicles. An electric scooter that costs more than $1,000 should be easy to ride and capable of handling slopes, obstacles, and uneven roads.

The electric scooters in this category that make up our kids’ favorites lack the extra features seen in commuter models. For children who have lengthier commutes to school, we took into account total weight and size because many of the child and preteen options don’t fold up for portability. For maximum safety, we also stayed with scooters with a top speed of 15 mph. Similar to our choices for high-performance and commuter options, we also carefully read parent feedback when available.