Scoot in Style: Discover the Trendiest eScooters of the Year (2023 edition)
Contents
Electric kick scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their convenience and efficiency in navigating urban areas. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or just cruising around town, electric kick scooters offer an eco-friendly and fun alternative to cars and public transportation. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best electric kick scooters on the market today.
There is a mind-boggling number of companies and e-scooters appearing every month and it’s almost impossible to compare the gazillions of different models that are available out there.
We have compared and analyzed a dozen websites – from Amazon to Wirecutter – for their recommendations and ratings for electric scooters and compiled the results into this guide for you. We'll address what the best budget e-scooters are; how much e-scooters cost; look at the best electric scooters for kids and adults; and look at the features you need to pay attention to.
Considerations when buying an escooter
When shopping for an electric kick scooter, there are several key criteria that a shopper should take into consideration, regardless of the specific category they are interested in. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Speed: The top speed of an electric kick scooter is an important consideration, especially for those who need to travel longer distances or want to get to their destination quickly. Keep in mind that higher speeds may require more skill to control the scooter safely.
Range: The range of an electric kick scooter refers to how far it can travel on a single charge. This is an important factor to consider if you need to travel long distances or if you want to use your scooter for extended periods of time.
Weight and Portability: Electric kick scooters can vary in weight, and shoppers should consider how easy it is to carry and store the scooter when not in use. A lighter, more portable scooter may be a better option for those who need to carry their scooter frequently.
Terrain: Different electric kick scooters are designed to handle different types of terrain. Shoppers should consider the types of surfaces they will be riding on, such as smooth pavement or rougher terrain, and choose a scooter with appropriate tires, suspension, and power to handle these conditions.
Price: The price of an electric kick scooter can vary widely depending on the features and performance offered. Shoppers should consider their budget and choose a scooter that provides the features and performance they need at a price they can afford.
Safety: Safety is always a top concern when it comes to any mode of transportation. Shoppers should consider the safety features of the scooter, such as responsive brakes, bright lights, and reflectors, to ensure that they are safe while riding.
Build Quality: The build quality of an electric kick scooter can vary widely, and shoppers should consider the materials used, the quality of the components, and the durability of the scooter overall. A well-built scooter will provide a more comfortable, safe, and long-lasting ride.
Weight Capacity: The weight capacity of an electric kick scooter is an important consideration for larger riders or those who plan to carry heavy loads. Be sure to check the weight capacity of the scooter before making a purchase.
Warranty and Customer Support: Finally, shoppers should consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty and responsive customer support can provide peace of mind and help ensure that any issues with the scooter can be resolved quickly and easily.
Competition
The market for electric kick scooters has become increasingly competitive in recent years as more companies enter the space and existing players expand their offerings. This is due to the growing demand for alternative transportation options that are more sustainable, convenient, and cost-effective than traditional modes of transportation. This competition is driving innovation and improvement in the industry, which is resulting in more advanced and affordable products for consumers.
Some of the key players in the electric kick scooter market include established companies such as Razor and Segway, as well as newer startups such as Bird, Lime, and Spin. In addition, many established electric vehicle companies, such as Xiaomi, Ninebot, and Inokim, have also entered the market.
Competition in the electric kick scooter market is primarily focused on product differentiation, with companies looking to offer unique features, better performance, and more attractive designs to differentiate their products from those of their competitors. This has led to a wide range of scooters on the market, with different price points, performance levels, and features to appeal to different segments of the market.
What kind of scooter tires are best – solid, tubed or tubeless?
The choice of scooter tires depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some pros and cons of each type of scooter tire:
Solid Tires: Solid tires are made of rubber and are completely solid, so they do not require air. They are puncture-proof and therefore ideal for those who frequently ride on rough terrain. However, they are harder and offer less cushioning, which can lead to a bumpy ride and more wear and tear on the scooter.
Tubed Tires: Tubed tires are the most common type of tire for scooters. They have a rubber outer layer and a tube inside that is filled with air. These tires provide a comfortable ride and good traction on various surfaces. However, they are more prone to punctures and require regular maintenance to keep the air pressure at the correct level.
Tubeless Tires: Tubeless tires have no inner tube, and the air is held in the tire by a tight seal between the tire and the rim. They provide a smooth ride and are less prone to punctures. They also have the added benefit of being lighter than tubed tires. However, they are more difficult to repair if they do get punctured.
In summary, solid tires are best for those who frequently ride on rough terrain and want a puncture-proof option. Tubed tires are the most common and offer a comfortable ride with good traction, but require regular maintenance. Tubeless tires are a good choice for those who want a smooth ride and are less likely to get punctured, but they are harder to repair if they do get a puncture.
Don't forget to check your battery gauge!
The battery is a critical component of an electric kick scooter, as it is responsible for powering the motor and propelling the scooter forward. When shopping for an electric kick scooter, it is essential to consider the battery's capacity, voltage, and charging time to ensure that you choose a model that meets your needs.
Battery Capacity: The battery's capacity refers to the amount of energy it can store, measured in watt-hours (Wh). A higher capacity battery will generally provide a longer range, allowing you to travel further on a single charge. However, higher capacity batteries may also be heavier and more expensive. It is important to consider your intended use for the scooter and choose a battery capacity that will provide enough range for your needs without adding unnecessary weight or cost.
Battery Voltage: The battery's voltage refers to the amount of electrical potential energy it can deliver to the motor. A higher voltage battery will generally provide more power, allowing the scooter to accelerate more quickly and climb steeper hills. However, higher voltage batteries may also be more expensive and require a more robust motor and controller to handle the increased power.
Charging Time: The charging time refers to the amount of time it takes to fully recharge the battery. Some scooters may take several hours to fully charge, while others may be able to charge more quickly. It is important to consider how long you will need to charge the battery and whether the charging time is compatible with your daily routine.
In summary, when choosing an electric kick scooter, it is important to consider the battery's capacity, voltage, and charging time to ensure that you choose a model that meets your needs. A higher capacity battery will generally provide a longer range, but may also be heavier and more expensive. A higher voltage battery will generally provide more power, but may also be more expensive and require a more robust motor and controller. The charging time is also an important consideration, as it can impact how often you can use the scooter and whether it is compatible with your daily routine.
The role of the board computer
The board computer is an essential component of an electric kick scooter as it serves as the control center of the scooter. It allows riders to control and adjust various features of the scooter, such as the speed, acceleration, and braking. It is important to consider the features that the board computer offers when choosing an electric kick scooter, as it can greatly impact your riding experience.
One of the most important features that a board computer can offer is detailed information about the scooter's speed, battery life, and other important data. This information can help riders keep track of the scooter's performance and adjust their riding style to conserve battery life or improve efficiency. A board computer that provides detailed information about the scooter's performance can also help riders to diagnose issues or identify potential problems with the scooter.
Another feature that some board computers offer is GPS functionality, which can be a useful tool for riders who want to track their route or find their way around unfamiliar areas. Bluetooth connectivity is another feature that some board computers offer, which allows riders to connect their smartphone or other devices to the scooter and access additional features or apps.
Customizable settings are also a valuable feature that some board computers offer. These settings allow riders to adjust the scooter's acceleration, braking, and other parameters to better suit their riding style or preferences. For example, a rider may prefer a more aggressive acceleration profile, while another rider may prefer a more gradual acceleration curve.
In summary, the board computer is an essential component of an electric kick scooter, and it is important to consider the features that it offers when choosing a model. Detailed information about the scooter's performance, GPS functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, and customizable settings are all features that can greatly enhance the riding experience and provide additional functionality for riders.
Here is an overview (detailed descriptions are below the table; sorted alphabetically):