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Embarking on an electric kick scooter may not seem like the epitome of cool transportation – a momentary picture of someone standing upright, cruising around like a poised meerkat on wheels might come to mind. However, the undeniable appeal of reducing our reliance on gas-guzzling vehicles makes electric scooters both a cool and essential choice. For those who aren’t inclined towards bikes or electric bicycles, electric scooters offer an eco-friendly alternative for short-distance travel without burning fossil fuels. They are compact, lightweight, and eliminate the need to wait for public transportation.
Over nearly three years, we’ve tirelessly tested over 35 electric scooters to bring you our top picks. In a market flooded with numerous brands and models, new releases occurring almost every month, we’ve diligently assessed each one. If you don’t find a scooter that immediately captures your interest, keep coming back as we continue to update our recommendations. And if you’re in need of accessories like helmets, bells, or phone mounts, our Best Biking Accessories guide has got you covered.
Considerations for Speed and Range Electric scooters offer varying performances based on individual factors. Rider weight, weather conditions, and road surfaces play significant roles in determining a scooter’s range and speed. To provide context, as a 6’4″ individual weighing around 240 pounds, my experiences may differ from those who are shorter and lighter. Lighter riders can expect longer ranges and potentially higher speeds with some of these electric scooters.
The Supreme Choice Niu KQi3 Pro
NIU KQi3 Pro Electric Scooter - 350W Power, 31 Miles Range, 20MPH Max Speed, Wide Deck, Triple Braking, 9.5'' Tubeless Fat Tires, Portable & Foldable Design, UL Certified
My initial impressions of the KQi3 Pro were underwhelming. The first unit I received had a broken clasp due to shipping. When I unboxed the second one, I had to cover 500 meters at a deliberately slow pace in a “training mode” of sorts. Fortunately, Niu reduced this distance to 200 meters via a firmware update, allowing users to unlock the scooter’s full capabilities without the need for the app. While the app isn’t mandatory, it’s advisable to use it at least once to customize regenerative braking levels, enable cruise control, and set a personalized speed mode.
Electric Scooter,TODO Foldable Electric Scooter for Adults, Max 15MPH,8.5" Solid Tires,Range12-19Mile 400W(Peak) Powerful E-Scooter with Dual Brakes, Smart APP&Dual Brake System (Black)
After several rides, I developed a fondness for the KQi3 Pro. It offers exceptional range for its price point, consistently delivering around 15 miles on my journeys through hilly New York City. Riders can likely expect 18 to 20 miles of range, unless they share my tall stature. The scooter reaches a top speed of 20 miles per hour, boasts 9.5-inch tubeless tires for a comfortable ride, and features reliable disc brakes for rapid stops. Additional perks include a bell, lights, and space on the handlebar for attaching a phone mount. My only wish is for foldable handlebars to prevent snagging on stair railings. While the scooter is remarkably easy to fold, lugging around its 45-pound weight can be challenging, especially when navigating multiple flights of stairs.
Gotrax ASTRO Electric Scooter with Seat for Adult Commuter,15.5 Miles Range&15.5Mph Power by 350W Motor, Folding Scooter with 14" Pneumatic Tire& Comfortable Wider Seat, E-Bike with Carry Basket Black
★ Also worth considering: If you reside in a particularly hilly area, the newer Niu KQi3 Max ($849) (7/10, WIRED Recommends) is a viable option. It offers similar features to the KQi3 Pro but boasts a more robust 450-watt motor and a slightly larger battery for increased range.
The Featherweight Champion Unagi Model One Voyager
isinwheel S9 Pro Electric Scooter, 18 Miles Long Range and 15.6 MPH Portable Folding Commuting Electric Scooter for Adults and Teens, Dual Braking System & App
The Unagi Model One Voyager (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is a sleek scooter that weighs a mere 30 pounds yet achieves a top speed of 15 miles per hour, with an option to unlock a 20-mph speed. During my testing, I managed to cover 10 miles on a single charge, and most users can expect even more. Its lightweight design makes it an excellent last-mile solution when combined with public transportation. Carrying it up or down stairs is a breeze, and it occupies minimal space on trains. The scooter’s folding mechanism is quick and straightforward, and it recharges to 50 percent in just one hour, allowing for convenient top-ups during breakfast at a cafe.
However, the Voyager’s 7.5-inch solid rubber tires do not excel at cushioning bumps and road imperfections, so it’s best suited for smooth, flat surfaces. Furthermore, it comes with a relatively high price tag.
★ Also worth considering: The Fluidfreeride Fluid Mosquito ($949) (7/10, WIRED Recommends) is a 29-pound scooter equipped with a built-in grab handle for easy transport. It offers rapid folding and features a powerful 24-mph top speed. Nevertheless, the emphasis on lightweight construction does come with some compromises. The suspension is merely adequate, failing to absorb most bumps, and the narrow wheels affect ride comfort. While the braking system functions effectively, abrupt stops may result in skidding, and the range is modest, averaging around 9 miles during my testing, including a trip over the Brooklyn Bridge. Additionally, adjusting speed modes is not easily achievable while riding, necessitating preset configurations before each journey.
The Affordable Champion Segway E2 Plus
Segway Ninebot E2 Plus Electric KickScooter & Ninebot MAX G30LP Electric Kick Scooter, Up to 25 Miles Long-Range Battery, Max Speed 18.6 MPH, Lightweight and Foldable, Gray
The Segway E2 Plus may not be a long-distance champion, offering less than 10 miles of range on a single charge. However, it excels in other aspects, weighing approximately 32 pounds and boasting an effortless folding mechanism for easy transport up and down stairs. It can reach a top speed of 15 mph, albeit slightly less on inclines, as the 300-watt motor isn’t exceptionally powerful. Its 8.1-inch tires, while small, provide stability on smooth and well-maintained roads.
In its price range, the Segway E2 Plus stands out as a sturdy option, capable of handling wet conditions without splattering mud. The scooter’s brakes ensure swift and reliable stops. I’ve personally used it for various errands, such as trips to the drugstore, grocery shopping, and visits to the barber, and it has consistently delivered reliable performance. The charger is conveniently portable, though it does require 7.5 hours to fully charge. Additionally, pairing the scooter with an app is mandatory to unlock its full speed as a safety measure.
★ Also worth considering: The Gotrax Apex ($299) is a 32-pound scooter with straightforward folding capabilities. It features an integrated bell and a digital display showing speed and battery life, with a maximum speed of 15 mph. The Apex is a dependable choice for local errands, such as coffee shop visits and transporting camera equipment to remote video shoots. However, it does face limitations, particularly on slight inclines, as the 250-watt motor struggles. Uphill sections substantially drain the battery, yielding an average range of around 9 miles. Additionally, taller riders may find the handlebars inconveniently low and may need to extend their arms frequently. Adjusting the rear disc brake for improved stopping power is recommended.
Speedway Mini 4 Pro
Hiboy S2 Electric Scooter - 8.5" Solid Tires - Up to 17 Miles Long-Range & 19 MPH Portable Folding Commuting Scooter for Adults with Double Braking System and App (S2)
If I were to choose a single scooter from this selection without any budget constraints, the Speedway Mini 4 Pro (9/10, WIRED Recommends) would be my top pick. It strikes an exceptional balance between range, speed, and weight. With a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour, the scooter is better suited for speeds of 18 to 20 mph for optimal range. At this pace, I comfortably achieved a range of approximately 15 miles during my ride from Brooklyn to Manhattan across the bridge. However, riders of average stature
