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The ideal scooter perfectly blends speed, range, and ride comfort while giving the right amount of portability. And is super fun.
Hands down, the best scooter we have ever tested is the Segway Ninebot MAX G3. We still have big smiles every time we hit the throttle after 500 miles and 12 months of riding. Our durability tests report no big flaws.
While the best scooters aren't always very affordable, the Segway Ninebot G2 Max hits the sweet spot between performance and pricing. It lets you cruise 30+ miles and has plush suspension at hundreds of dollars less than the G3 Max.
In a sea of sub $200 scooters, the Maxshot V1 stands out as the best. It is light, fast enough for most people, and an incredible value, provided you don't hit many hills.
Over eight years, we've purchased and field-tested more than 57 electric scooters. We benchmark real-world speed, battery range, hill-climbing power, and ride quality across cracked pavement, bike paths, and steep grades. We also evaluate portability—measuring folding ease, packed dimensions, and how seamlessly each model fits into a daily commute.
Editor's Note: On September 11, 2026, we added five new scooters from Segway, NIU, Gotrax, and Navee.
Quick Picks
Here's a quick list of our favorite Electric Scooter recommendations.
No other scooter could touch the Segway Ninebot MAX G3 for hill climbing, top speed, and overall fun. Few scooters go 28mph in this price range. Even fewer can go up steep hills. Most models we have tested that go 20+ mph on flat terrain only go 5- 10 mph up steep hills, if at all. The MAX G3 went up our 10% hill at 20 mph, a new record. Many scooters are too bumpy and twitchy above 20mph, but the MAX G3 has exceptional suspension that absorbs rough roads, speed bumps, and unexpected cracks. The app and display are the best I have experienced. All the key details are easy to view on the scooter's large screen, and the app lets you dial in every customization I could think of. It has the smallest charging cable I have seen, and it fits easily in your pocket so you can take it anywhere. Charging is relatively fast at 3.5 hours for such a large battery, and you can speed it up with a second charger cable (sold separately). It comes with Apple's Find My, which lets you quickly see the scooter's location anytime it is turned on and near another Apple device.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Effective Range
25.0 miles
Measured Maximum Speed
28.2 mph
Measured Weight
53 lb
Motor Size
850W
Peak Power
2000W
While I love boost mode, it drains the battery fast. I weigh 170 lbs, and in boost mode at 28mph, I could only go 12-15 miles, much shorter than Segway's claimed range. I could go 25 miles if I limited the speed to 20 MPH, which is good but still short of the claimed range. Most other premium scooters go further. It has no cruise control, which I didn't mind, but most other scooters offer it. Finally, this scooter is quite heavy and bulky. It is not easy to get into the backseat of an Uber. While I love the performance, you pay a high price. You must love hill climbing and top speed to justify it over a more affordable option. That said, of all the scooters, this is the one I kept and ride most often.
The Segway Ninebot Max G2 offers the best value in a premium scooter and the best range. It's for those who want to save a few hundred dollars and don't need the sheer power of the Max G3. It offers an incredible 34.4-mile range. It takes on hills that most other scooters can't touch. When speeding downhill, the dual braking system automatically limits your descent speed. It has 10-inch self-healing pneumatic tires and a dual suspension system that rides over uneven terrain better than any scooter in our test suite, except the Max G3. One tester noted, “What bumps? What cracks?” while taking this scooter out over our pothole-riddled road course - an applause and testament to the overall ride comfort. He also noted, “I was surprisingly happy to ride the Max for nearly three hours straight for our range test - a normally fatiguing and jostling test that often requires me to take breaks.” But not with the Max. Cruise control enhances ride comfort by letting your thumbs rest on long journeys.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Effective Range
34.4 miles
Measured Maximum Speed
21.4 mph
Measured Weight
54.0 lb
Motor Size
450W
Peak Power
1000W
The G2 clocks in at a hefty 54 pounds, making it challenging to lift and carry around. We struggled to hoist it up a flight of stairs. While we mainly reach for the G3 now, the G2 remains an incredible value as long as you are ok with the top speed.
The Ninebot Max G2 is an all-time favorite with a front hydraulic and rear spring suspension system. The result? A supremely comfortable ride in any environment! Credit: The GearLab Team
The Maxshot V1 is all that many people need in a scooter at an incredible price. No other scooter we tested in this price range reached 17.5 MPH or came close to the 18.2-mile range. As one reviewer on our team noted, “While I prefer cruising at 19 to 22 MPH, 17.5 MPH is acceptable on my daily commute if I am going less than 2 miles.” Most other, less expensive scooters go 12-15 MPH, which feels too slow if you go more than a mile. The dual disc and motor braking system stopped in just 17 feet on the test track, providing a smooth and reliable slowdown on both steep slopes and flat surfaces. At 27.5 pounds, it is only 3.5 pounds heavier than the Razor E Prime III, the lightest in the review. But the Razor had a much shorter range and cost hundreds of dollars more. It looks and feels very similar to the Volpam Q1, but the Maxshot has better range and is faster.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Effective Range
18.2 miles
Measured Maximum Speed
17.5 mph
Measured Weight
27.5 lb
Motor Size
350W
Peak Power
500W
The main downside is the solid tires: you feel every little bump, whether it's a sidewalk transition or just going across paver stones. I could feel every jolt riding over uneven pavement—it was rough with those solid tires. I felt fatigued after a while on poor pavement. Most scooters at the Maxshot's price point have solid tires that, while more durable, absorb impacts less well than pneumatic tires. While the Maxshot has many attractive features, during our hill-climbing tests, the scooter slowed dramatically on a 10% grade, which generally separates lower-end scooters from higher-end models. One tester noted, “I slowed to 5mph on that hill, which is not faster than my walking pace.” It is more powerful than many cheap scooters, but its 350-watt motor can't compete for power and speed with the 500-900-watt competition. If you have hills around you, you will slow down to 5- 10 mph. Anything steeper than 10%, and you have to kick. We also tested the Maxshot V1SPRO, but we don't recommend it. The Pro is more expensive, has a shorter range, and does handle that much better despite having a shock.
The Maxshot V1MAX is a more expensive version with a 500W motor and a bigger battery. However, if you pay more than $430, we recommend the Gotrax G4.
No other scooter could touch the Isinwheel GT2 for a combination of value, top speed, or performance on bumpy terrain. The 26.3 MPH top speed beats similar-priced competition by 4 to 8 MPH, translating to 30% faster on most trips. One tester noted, “I wouldn't want to ride most other scooters that fast. They are just too unpredictable when you hit a bump.” The GT2 is different: it has huge 11.5" tires and front and rear suspension. It takes on big bumps and rough roads dramatically better than most other scooters. The aggressive off-road tires performed best in our test fleet on gravel roads, dirt, and water. We even rode it through a few inches of snow, something we would never consider on other scooters. The adjustable handlebar means people ranging from 5'2" to 6'5" can find a comfortable height (whoever, only one height will lock into the rear fender for carrying). In addition, this scooter is rated for a rider weight of 330 lbs; no other tested scooter had a suggested rider weight above 265 lbs. The 25-inch-wide handlebars are 6-8 inches wider than most other scooters in our test. This extra width gives extra stability when you hit an unexpected bump or need to make an unexpected turn. This scooter has the largest battery and longest range in our tests. Finally, it includes a scooter bag that can store your charger, a smaller lock, and snacks. No other scooter we tested included a bag, which usually needed to be purchased separately for $18-$30.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Effective Range
28.5 miles
Measured Maximum Speed
26.3 mph
Measured Weight
54.6 lb
Motor Size
900W
Peak Power
1400W
The tradeoff for that performance is significant bulk; this is one of the heaviest and least refined scooters tested. Wide handlebars, heavy suspension shocks, and high clearance make it hard to squeeze into a car trunk. The handlebars do break down, but the process is time-consuming, meaning it lacks true grab-and-go portability. Unlike models with sleek internal routing, the GT2 features seven exposed cables and a protruding headlight out front, so you need to handle it carefully during transit to avoid snagging lines. Braking performance is reliable but demands noticeably more hand strength to actuate than standard setups. While this firmer pull helps prevent accidental skids, it requires an adjustment period and is something smaller riders should consider. On the tech side, despite a Bluetooth icon on the display, the scooter failed to connect to the companion app during testing, limiting battery monitoring to a basic five-bar visual gauge rather than a precise percentage. Despite these design quirks, it remains a heavily utilized favorite. It offers a faster, more enjoyable commute across notoriously rough Tahoe roads, turning quick trail detours into a fun feature rather than a nuisance, all while delivering excellent overall value.
Testing the GT2 behind the GearLab Test facility. We have numerous riders of different weights and heights report on the performance of each model. Credit: Chris McNamara
Product Comparison Table
Our most recent update includes new scooters, new tests, and a few strong performers! Credit: Matt Lighthart
How We Tested
Testing for all our reviews starts at the computer, with our test team doing hours upon hours of research on the highest-performing models and best value. We then narrow our selection and purchase those models for testing. We don't accept free models from manufacturers, so our reviews are unbiased and based purely on our product testing.
We run each e-scooter through thoughtfully designed tests that push every model to its performance limits, and evaluate utility for all practical use cases. These tests fall into four testing categories: speed, hill-climbing power, ride comfort, and portability. Our tests simulate demanding, real-world use, so you'll know whether a model will meet your needs. Read more about our testing process.
Why Trust GearLab
As GearLab's Founder, Chris McNamara has over 16 years of experience in consumer product analysis and reviews and has tested electric scooters for more than eight years. While he usually rides an e-bike, he frequently uses a scooter for one-way trips, where an Uber or a ride back in a car is a great combo. He uses a scooter nearly every week on trips to and from the GearLab offices as well as on longer rides in the Lake Tahoe area.
Joining Chris in testing electric scooters are Senior Review Analyst Austin Palmer and Senior Review Editor Kenji Mowrey. Austin is an electronics specialist and has extensive experience testing personal transportation devices such as electric skateboards, hoverboards, and self-balancing scooters, as well as myriad other electronic devices. Kenji is an expert in outdoor product design, with years of experience using and working on recreational equipment, from skis to bikes.
Gear Reviewer and Writer Ben Hickok also worked closely with our team to bring our review to life. He turns raw testing data into a clear, digestible article that gives readers the best advice and product recommendations.
Analysis and Test Results
Our team designs tests to measure real-world strengths and weaknesses, so we can evaluate, compare, and rank each product against each other. Our methodology ensures that our top product selections will meet or exceed your recreational or commuter scooter budget and expectations.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
While it doesn't conquer hills like some of the most impressive models, the Maxshot V1 is the lowest-priced model on our list that also offers reasonable, actually usable performance. Many people will love that one of the cheapest scooters is also the lightest. The ride is a bit rough, but as long as you are not going far and don't need to get there fast, the performance is delightful for the price. Note: We were disappointed in the “upgraded” Maxshot V1SPRO, which was supposed to be a more comfortable version of the V1. It was not. It is heavier, performs worse, and costs more. Thumbs down.
The value premium scooter is the Segway Max G2. While not cheap, it is one of the highest-performing scooters in our tests and costs hundreds less than the Max G3. Get it if you want most of the G3 perks, but don't need the top speed and power.
For the best value in top speed, range, and a smooth ride, the Isinwheel GT2 wins. It costs twice as much as the Maxshot, but it offers a much better ride with all-terrain pneumatic tires, goes nearly 10 miles per hour faster, and goes almost 10 miles farther.
The Segway Ninebot E3 Pro offers comfort on a wide range of surfaces, including pavers. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Riding performance and comfort across the terrain you most expect to operate your scooter on should be a primary focus. Credit: Matt Lighthart
If you need a compact scooter, you might value a more lightweight and portable model more than a bulkier, higher-performance model. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Range
We measured scooter range in a way that matches real-world use and found that most scooters fall far short of manufacturer claims. The advent of lithium-ion technology largely replaced bulky lead-acid batteries with increasingly affordable, higher-energy-density batteries, which is great for commuters who need enough range to get to work and back. Yet manufacturers still hype claims by basing range ratings on ideal conditions like flat ground, slower speeds, and a lighter rider, which consume less power.
We maintained speeds across a wide range of terrain to measure every model's real-world range. Credit: Matt Lighthart
After our realistic testing, which is far from the ideal conditions used in manufacturer testing, we were genuinely impressed with the Segway Ninebot MAX G2 and Isinwheel GT2. The Segway Ninebot MAX G2 maxed out at an impressive 34.4 miles of range, while the Isinwheel went 28.5 miles.
The Segway Ninebot Max G3, NAVEE GT3 Pro, and Gotrax G4 were nearly as impressive as the top performers, with ranges of 25.0, 25.2, and 22 real-world miles. A newer product in our test lineup, the NIU KQi 300X, offered a more modest but solid 19-mile range.
The more moderate and bottom performers we tested could only tackle a fraction of these long distances, which can make the difference between an easy ride home and a tiring walk, bitterly kicking your scooter along, or an emergency call to an Uber. However, if you plan to use your scooter just to play around in the neighborhood, the maximum range may not matter. We also tested with riders between 195 and 200 lbs, so riders around 200 pounds can expect similar results, whereas heavier or lighter riders are likely to get different results.
We put every scooter through the same range test to get accurate side-by-side test results. Credit: Chris McNamara
Tip: Although two scooters may have the same factory-listed run time, they may not have the same range. Range depends on how fast the scooter goes and the grade. It is also affected by variables such as rider weight, riding speed, and weather conditions like temperature and wind. Accelerating from 0-15 MPH takes a lot of energy, and if you can kick the scooter during that acceleration, we found we could add another few miles of range.
As shown below, scooters with larger batteries typically offer the best range. However, range doesn't depend only on battery size. Other factors, such as the scooter's weight, rolling resistance, and other variables, also affect how far it can go. For example, the NIU KQi 300X has a higher watt-hour rating than the NAVEE GT3 Pro, but the NAVEE GT3 Pro delivers a more impressive range.
How Much Does Range Decrease in the Cold?
We do our range tests in warm weather. However, we also tested scooters at 40°F. We observed a 10-30% decrease in range at colder temperatures. It is generally a good idea to store your scooter in a warm place, as lithium batteries tend to dislike extremely cold weather, and good battery management systems will turn off the battery to protect it from damage in extreme cold. Another tip for lithium battery health is maintaining the charge between 20 and 80 percent. This helps ensure better performance and a longer battery lifespan.
Speed and Hills
The Segway Ninebot MAX G3 stood out clearly from the rest of the test group with a top speed of 28MPH and the ability to crush steep hills at 20MPH. The Isinwheel GT2 was a close runner-up for speed, redlining at 26.3 miles per hour, but it goes much slower than the MAX G3 up hills.
The NIU KQi 300X also proved to be a beast. It tops out at nearly 24MPH, but it also hardly slowed down on minor inclines and crushed our steep hill climb test, a test that completely shuts down most models, while cranking along at 10MPH.
The NIU KQi 300X doesn't disappoint when it comes to speed and power. Credit: Matt Lighthart
In addition to the aforementioned models, the Segway Max G2, Razor E Prime III, and Gotrax G4 are standouts for their top speeds ranging between 18-26 miles per hour, which is a stark contrast to some of the slowest models we tested, the Razor E300 and Gotrax GXL V2, which only reach 12-13 miles per hour - and may be okay depending on your needs. In other words, getting places will take you twice as long. But speed isn't everything, and this may be plenty for you if you are a leisurely rider or going very short distances on relatively flat ground.
How fast is practical and how fast is too fast to ride a scooter? Scooters that maxed out at 12-15 MPH felt very slow, especially when traveling distances longer than a mile. Most of our test team felt that 17 or 18 MPH was the sweet spot for commuting, while going any faster than 22 MPH started to feel hairy, especially on smaller, lighter scooters with solid tires that do little to absorb bumps, marginal suspension, or narrower decks and handlebars that do not help with stability.
The GearLab scooter gang enjoyed testing a few different models on some group rides. Credit: Chris McNamara
Most models in our tests had no issues cruising near top speed on low grades of 3.5% or less, and we observed speeds generally slowed by only 3-7 miles per hour. Most scooters began to show their lack of power when forced to climb a steeper 10.5% grade over 0.2 miles, with many failing to complete the ascent at all.
In our testing experience, this is a major difference between a scooter and an e-bike. While most e-bikes can usually climb hills at 10-15 mph, we found that most scooters slowed significantly on even a moderate hill (10% grade).
Of course, our testing highlighted some great performers, and exceptions to that general lack of power. Like those mentioned before. But to recap, the Segway MAX G2 and Max G3 both conquered some of the steepest inclines between 15 and 25 miles per hour.
The Segway Max G3 feels like a rocket ship next to other, more standard models. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The GT2 and E2 Pro also stood apart from other models, only slowing to a respectable 10 miles per hour on a 10% grade.
The Gotrax G4 and Hiboy S2 aren't far behind the top performers. They both crawl to complete the 10.5% grade, but ultimately get the job done. If you have a lot of 10% grades on your daily commute, you can expect to get through those sections at a slow 5-10 mph, so you may want to consider more powerful options.
Climbing performance, which generally separates the low-end models from the high-end models, is an important metric to consider if you live in a hilly area. While motor wattage is a good indicator of top-end speed and hill-climbing ability, you'll want to rely on our testing, along with peak motor wattage ratings, to ensure a model meets your needs. Credit: Matt Lighthart
We typically highlight the best performances, but the Razor E300, Razor E Prime III, and Ninebot E2 Plus can barely ascend a 3.5% grade, and only at an incredibly sluggish 5-6 miles per hour. While not the most impressive hill-climbing performance, lightweight riders can expect to see an improvement in these scores, but don't have great expectations for these models if you deal with hills at all.
Top speeds and hill climbing performance are directly correlated to each scooter's peak power that a battery can supply to its motors and the motors can deliver to the ground. So it is unsurprising that the top-performing models had the highest peak power ratings, as is apparent in the chart above.
As with range, hill climbing is heavily affected by rider weight. So, if you are a heavy rider or lugging a lot of extra weight in a backpack, check the manufacturer's maximum load rating to avoid disappointing range or hill-climbing performance.
Most scooters require a kick-start. The motor pays the human back in kind, adding some serious interest as it accelerates and cruises without additional input. Credit: Brian Walker
Ride Comfort
Ride comfort depends primarily on tire type and size, suspension, deck size, handlebar width, and geometry. Some models we tested combine some or all of these design and component choices and push comfort to a surprisingly plush level. The Segway MAX G3 is the definition of a plush ride for a scooter, with substantial front dual-fork suspension, rear suspension, and pneumatic, tubeless, self-sealing tires that absorb every bump in the road and help prevent rider fatigue.
We put every model to the test, and the ability to handle a significant bump is part of that testing. See how the Segway Max G3, NIU KQi 300X, and Maxshot V1SPRO handle bumps in slow motion. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Segway Ninebot MAX G2 also proved super comfortable to ride, with full suspension and pneumatic tires, but it uses a single-tube-style front suspension. Regardless of the design differences, it proved to be very effective at smoothing out an otherwise bumpy ride.
The Segway Max G3 offers a plush ride on mixed surfaces. You'll hardly notice small bumps or patches of dirt on the path, even as you cruise along at a good clip. Credit: Matt Lighthart
We were also impressed with the performance of the Isinwheel GT2's full suspension and monstrous 11.5-inch pneumatic tires, which did a great job of minimizing rough stretches of our test rides. We found this model so easy to ride that a 74-year-old rider with knee problems enjoyed it. Even when we hit large cracks in the road at 25 MPH, we still felt in control.
The NAVEE GT3 Pro is a comfortable ride. It has plenty of space to stand, and the suspension, alongside knobby all-terrain tires, effectively absorbs bumps in the road. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The NAVEE GT3 Pro also offers a ride nearly as comfortable as top-performing models. Knobby, 10-inch, pneumatic, all-terrain-style tires feel great on rough pavement and sandy sections of roads, and the suspension is very forgiving. The only thing keeping the GT3 Pro from being an even more comfortable ride is the handlebars. They are narrow and tapered back, which makes the scooter feel less stable when turning sharply and requires you to be mindful at higher speeds.
The NIU KQi 300X treated our test team to another very comfortable ride. Front suspension works alongside pneumatic 10.5-inch tires to smooth out rough terrain, and a wide, flat deck provides a larger platform to stand and rest a foot, adding to overall stability.
A lack of rear suspension does translate to a little more vibration on rougher pavement, but the ride never feels unstable. The handlebars could be a bit more padded to reduce rider fatigue, and we wish the throttle was a thumb lever throttle in place of the twist throttle that the NIU KQi 300X chose to use, but overall, it offers a comfortable and stable ride, even at high speeds and when taking corners.
Suspension and tires matter if you want to handle bumps with stability. Take a look at how the Segway Max G3, NIU KQi 300X, and Maxshot V1SPRO handle the same drop off a curb into cracked asphalt. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Segway Ninebot E3 Pro and the Hiboy S2 Pro barely earned a mention regarding comfort, and are at the threshold for what should be considered comfortable. The E3 Pro's pneumatic tubeless 10-inch tires and dual suspension absorb bumps well enough to make longer rides manageable.
The Hiboy S2 Pro strikes a balance between pneumatic and solid-tire options with a maintenance-free hybrid tire. It uses rubber honeycomb structures to support the tire walls. This provides the durability of a solid tire while offering dampening performance that better resembles a pneumatic tire. The Hiboy has a rear suspension system, but itis very stiff and makes the ride feel less stable, especially while braking.
Honeycomb tires, like those found in the Superfun S1-A, offer a “super fun” ride with minimal vibrations. While not as comfortable as air-filled tires, they have the benefit of improved durability without the worry of flats. Credit: Brian Walker
Ride comfort isn't just a luxury. A rough-riding product can pose a safety concern because extreme roughness reduces stability and control. A smooth, predictable ride, also allows the operator to focus on other concerns of a commute, such as cars, pedestrians, and potholes.
A smooth-riding scooter not only offers greater safety for novice commuters but also gives experienced rippers the freedom to maneuver on uneven terrain. Credit: Brian Walker
Portability
Portability is key for urban scooter users because the scooter must fold for storage in apartments, offices, trains, or a car trunk when it needs to be transported. A more portable model should also be light enough to carry up stairs, and compact enough to take through doorways and turnstiles.
The Razor E Prime III stands out in our group not only because it is the lightest model (24 pounds), but also because it uses a single “anti-rattle” knob to fold and carry the scooter, instead of levers, hooks, or loops to fiddle with. It is also thin, with an easy-to-grip stem, which makes the Prime III the only model we could recommend for carrying longer distances.
When portability is a concern, size and weight matter, and some models are just way easier to tote around than others. Credit: Matt Lighthart
We previously highlighted the budget-friendly Maxshot V1 as the bare-minimum option from a performance standpoint that we would recommend for someone who wants to dabble in the world of e-scooters, but it also earned a mention for portability. The V1 folds down to a compact size, which is more easily done with the narrower deck and a lower 27.5 pounds of heft. Overall, it is more compact and easier to carry than most models.
The Segway Ninebot S2 is not a traditional scooter. In fact, it is hard to justify calling it a scooter outside of the fact that it has a standing platform and two wheels. It is the modern evolution of the quintessential “Segway”, which was traditionally mocked for its iconic use by mall cops and the source of some painful-to-watch viral videos of accidents by inexperienced operators in the early 2000s.
Maximizing productivity in the warehouse with the Segway Ninebot S2. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Segway Ninebot S2, while not a typical scooter, proved to be a great help around the GearLab offices and warehouses. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Digs at dorkiness aside, the Segway Ninebot S2 is a fun, hyper-mobile platform that works well for moving around large indoor spaces like a warehouse, offers great utility, and is portable. With such a small footprint, it is easy to fit in the back of a car and is relatively light to carry around at only 30 pounds.
Super maneuverability isn't just for next-gen fighters; it's for laps in the office too. Credit: Matt Lighthart
At only 32 pounds, we found that the Hiboy S2 was easy to transport. Once folded and latched, it's easy to carry, easy to balance, and doesn't move around when you walk. It can also be wheeled around, but it is generally easier and more practical to carry when needed.
While the Gotrax GXL V2 is fairly lightweight at only 26 pounds, and you would expect it to be more portable, we found the carrying latch wasn't very secure or reassuring. So the folding design is only useful when the scooter stays latched in the folded position.
The Gotrax Eclipse Ultra is similar in footprint to the Gotrax GXL V2, with the GXL offering even greater compactness with a smaller and lighter deck and frame. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Maxshot V1SPRO and Segway Ninebot E2 Plus aren't the lightest models at 36.2 and 33.3 lbs respectively. However, the Maxshot V1SPRO is exceptionally compact and easily fits into the trunk of even a smaller vehicle. The Segway Ninebot E2 Plus folds down nicely, although the bar diameter is a little larger, which may make it harder for people with smaller hands to carry. However, unless you have smaller hands, it is great to carry overall, and its 33-pound heft is very manageable.
The Maxshot V1SPRO is one of the easier models to fit into the trunk of a car. Credit: Matt Lighthart
An easy-to-use and reliable folding system makes swift transitions from riding to carrying mode possible. You'll also want to consider the ergonomics of the carrying handle. Thin tube designs fit nicely into the palm, whereas thicker tubes are difficult to grip. Credit: Brian Walker
The Gotrax G4 isn't the lightest scooter at 37.8 lbs, but it does stand out for its sophisticated folding system. We especially like the large, auto-latching carry hook and spring-loaded folding latch, which provide a secure lifting point and confidence when lifting and moving it around.
How to Pick the Best Scooter
Below are key buying considerations that summarize the more detailed information in our scooter buying advice guide.
Where Am I Riding?
Whether you're using your scooter for daily commutes or recreational fun, consider the terrain and distance of your rides. Someone living in a city with a short commute will worry less about suspension and battery running out. In contrast, someone who uses their scooter around town all day on varied terrain will want capable tires, suspension, and a larger battery. Categorizing the riding you intend to do will help narrow down your choices and steer you toward the perfect scooter.
If you are on smooth terrain, all scooters are fine. Once you go through bumpy roads, old bike paths, and potholes, scooters like the Isinwheel GT2 start to shine due to large tires and suspension. Credit: Chris McNamara
How Much Range Do I Need?
While the right battery range depends on your riding style, it's also nice to have a large range if you plan to travel with your scooter or prefer not to charge it every time you get home. Consider your typical daily commute or ride, and look for scooters that exceed that range by at least 20% to give yourself a buffer. In general, any model with a range of more than 15 miles is adequate for most riders.
What Type of Tires Should I Look For?
Well, that depends on the environment and your comfort expectations. If you're planning to ride on well-maintained roads, solid tires are sufficient, though you'll feel feedback from surface irregularities. They are also highly durable. Conversely, air-filled (pneumatic) tires are your go-to if you plan to ride on highly variable terrain or prefer a smoother ride. The smooth ride comes at a cost - the tires require maintenance and can deflate from punctures or normal wear and tear. However, if you opt for tubeless pneumatic tires, you won't have to worry as much about flats. Hybrid tires offer a nice balance between the two, providing the durability of a rubber build with the give of air-filled tires (though pneumatic tires will still feel better). Remember that changing tubes and tires on a scooter is difficult for most people.
Size matters...at least when it comes to ride comfort. Smaller eight-inch tires will get you rolling about town, but larger ten-inch tires will do a better job at absorbing irregularities in the road. Top them off with a full suspension system, and you'll be gliding with confidence. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Is Portability Important?
If you plan to take your scooter along on road trips, stash it on the train, or carry it up a flight of stairs to your apartment, look for a portable model. Most foldable scooters are inherently more portable than other wheeled modes of transportation. For example, electric bikes have a bulky design that isn't better suited for outdoor parking. Electric skateboards are surprisingly monstrous and heavy and usually lack a carrying handle, making stairs a big mission to tackle. When you're looking for a highly portable scooter, weight matters. Still, you'll also want to consider how easily and securely the scooter folds and unfolds, as well as the handle ergonomics and weight distribution when folded.
A scooter designed with portability and ergonomics in mind makes carrying and transport easier. Credit: Brian Walker
Does the Top Speed Matter?
A scooter's top speed is typically one of the first specifications listed on a manufacturer's site. While it is worth considering, other factors such as torque and acceleration also affect a scooter's ability to maintain power up hills and provide enough oomph from a standstill.
A good comparison of the difference in power on an incline between a more typical and a more powerful model. Credit: Matt Lighthart
If you want a scooter with a larger motor and faster speeds, focus on overall motor performance rather than just top speed. We found that most people want a scooter that goes at least 17 mph if traveling more than a mile. Going more than 22 mph is generally unnecessary, and scooters feel a little scary at that speed, especially when making emergency maneuvers or hitting a big bump or crack.
Should I Consider Weight Capacity?
Scooters' Weight capacities vary from under 200 lbs to over 350 lbs. If you're riding close to these limits, you'll likely see a significant decrease in the manufacturer's claims for power and range. Conversely, if you are a lightweight rider, you can expect a boost in these metrics. For example, when riding up a medium-grade hill on one of our test scooters, our 200-pound rider barely squeaked by, whereas our 90-pound rider flew up. So, for maximum performance, choose a scooter well above your weight. You'll also want to consider any additional weight you may carry, such as a backpack, equipment, or groceries. If you weigh more than 150 lbs, remember that most scooters will not go much faster than 10 mph up a moderate hill and may require you to kick up a steep hill aggressively. Scooters aren't the tool of choice in areas with steep hills. An e-bike is a much better option.
What About Safety?
While a scooter might not seem like the most dangerous piece of equipment, numerous studies have shown a recent rise in electric scooter-related injuries, often requiring surgical intervention.
Some models have headlights that are more of a gimmick, while others offer real and usable ones. Lights ranged from a beam cast as low as 16 meters up to 150 meters. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The turn signals on the NAVEE GT3 Pro are bright and visible. Credit: Matt Lighthart
A large tail light on the Segway Ninebot E3 Pro will help keep you visible while on the road in low-light conditions. Credit: Matt Lighthart
While there are no exact numbers, electric scooters are likely twice as likely to result in injury as the same trip on an electric bike. The most at-risk group is younger riders, but all riders should take responsible steps to prevent injuries. At the top of the list: wear a helmet! This seems obvious, but it's not uncommon to see tourists zipping around the city on rental scooters without a helmet or riding with two people on the same scooter. Other good measures include checking local regulations for age requirements and speed limits, avoiding potholes and rain, and ensuring your scooter's battery is UL-certified. Battery fires have become such a concern in New York City that the city recently implemented Charge Safe policies. The biggest takeaway is to ensure someone is present when charging and to unplug as soon as the battery is full.
For city commuters, blinkers are a nice (although not entirely necessary) perk to improve rider visibility. Additional specs you may be interested in are brake lights, headlights, deck lights, and a bell. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Conclusion
There are an increasing number of electric scooters on the market today, with even more nuances between different models from the same manufacturers and wide ranges of manufacturer claims. We know how difficult it can be to pick one out and still feel confident about the decision. We have outlined what we think are the most important factors to consider and which models perform best in each area. We hope our thorough review and practical charts help you choose one of these fun, practical machines for your transportation or recreational needs.
