What Is 2020’s Best Electric Scooter For Adults?
Electric scooters are no longer kids’ toys or novelties. Adults use these battery-powered transportation devices to commute to work or whiz around town.
Today’s scooters have many advantages. They are environmentally friendly, fun, and easy to operate. Users find them cost-effective and great at dodging traffic, and they hardly require any training. Some even fold down so that you can carry them right into the office.
Page Contents
- What to Look For in an Electric Scooter
- The Battery of the Scooter
- The Speed and Range of the Scooter
- The Maximum Load of the Scooter
- The Riding Style
- Wheels, Brakes, and Suspension
- The Climate and Terrain
- Types of Electric Scooters
- Electric Kick Scooters
- Electric Self-Balancing Scooters
- Electric Mopeds
- How Far and How Fast Can Electric Scooters for Adults Go?
- The Battery and Motor Determine Speed and Range
- 14 Best Electric Scooters for Adults
- Our #1 Pick – Xiaomi Mi Model M365 Electric Scooter
- Our #2 Pick – Segway Ninebot MAX Electric Kick Scooter
- Our #3 Pick – GOTRAX XR Scooter
- Our #4 Pick – Segway Ninebot ES4 Electric Kick Scooter with External Battery
- Our #5 Pick – OUTSTORM MAXX 60MPH Ultra High-Speed Electric Scooter
- Our #6 Pick – OUTSTORM Off-Road Electric Self Balance
- Our #7 Pick – Segway Ninebot S Smart Self-Balancing Electric Scooter
- Our #8 Pick – Hiboy MAX Electric Scooter
- Our #9 Pick – QIEWA Q1Hummer Electric Scooter
- Our #10 Pick – Razor E200S Seated Electric Scooter
- Our #11 Pick – Magicelec Electric Scooter for Adults
- Our #12 Pick – QIEWA Q-Power Foldable Electric Scooter
- Our #13 Pick – Glion Dolly Foldable Lightweight Adult Electric Scooter
- Our #14 Pick – Emaxusa Electric Scooter for Adults
- Battery Advice
- Conclusion
What to Look For in an Electric Scooter
The most important thing to consider when buying an electric scooter is how comfortable it is for you. As an adult, you’ll need a scooter that is large enough for you, and you’ll need to decide whether or not you need a seat.
The kind of terrain you travel on is something else to consider. Some scooters thrive on the streets, while others are better on off-road trails.
Here are some other factors to consider:
The Battery of the Scooter
Most electric scooters use lithium-ion batteries, though some have lead-acid or nickel hydride batteries. Lithium-ion batteries have the best charging times, but nickel hydride options are the safest since they do not explode or leak when punctured.
When buying a scooter, you can consider the range and the expected number of charges in its lifespan.
Lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are the most advanced we currently have on the market, and, as a result, they are also the most expensive. They can store a lot of energy in a small space and are therefore much lighter than other types of batteries.
They also last longer and require less maintenance. On the negative side, these batteries will melt or explode when punctured. They should also never be completely discharged since they will be useless if they do. All devices that run on lithium-ion batteries shut down at 20%, even if the battery meter says 0%.
These batteries are also sensitive to extremely high or low temperatures. High temperatures lead to faster discharges while freezing temperatures freeze the battery and cause it to be unusable.
Lead-acid batteries
Lead-acid batteries are commonly in cars and trucks. They are big and cheap, and they can generate very high starter currents. The first electric scooter models ran on these batteries, though they got less popular over time since they were heavy and larger. Some models, however, still have lead-acid battery options.
They are also highly sensitive to extreme heat and cold. Also, charging an SLA battery could lead to its melting or exploding.
Nickel metal hydride batteries
Nickel metal hydride batteries are relatively old and have been around since the 1970s. They are lighter than SLAs and even come with fail-safes that prevent overcharging. They also don’t explode or leak when punctured, which makes them a lot more reliable in potentially damaging conditions.
That said, if incorrectly connected, with the polarities reversed, they could be damaged. It’s also essential to use a smart charger with a temperature sensor when charging such batteries to prevent accidents.
The Speed and Range of the Scooter
The manufacturer will give you the distance the scooter should be able to cover on a single charge, but the range depends on a bunch of factors, including the outside temperature, the terrain, the incline, and your weight. The same applies to speed estimates.
The manufacturer’s estimates are usually for ideal conditions. You should, therefore, aim for specified speeds and ranges that are slightly higher than you would need.
The Maximum Load of the Scooter
The performance of the electric scooter largely depends on its load capacity. Adult products can handle weights from 150 pounds upwards. Some of the strongest can hold up to 300 pounds. In general, the higher the maximum load of the scooter, the higher the price.
The Riding Style
Electric scooters come in a variety of riding styles. The most common option is the step-through frame that you see on children’s scooters.
Kick-style scooters, self-balancing scooters, and mopeds all have unique features that might appeal to you. The design is a significant factor in choosing the right electric scooter.
Wheels, Brakes, and Suspension
A basic electric adult scooter has a simple rubber wheel that works excellently on the pavement. Other options have pneumatic tires with or without inner tubes.
Taller tires offer more clearance, making them better suited to areas with potholes, curbs, or speed bumps. Wider tires are more stable, and tires with more treads offer better traction.
Some scooters have wheels as wide as those of a small car, and these tend to be the most stable and comfortable.
The suspension is the primary factor in determining comfort. It will decide how comfortable you’ll feel on your scooter as it goes over rough ground. Better scooters have suspension on both the back and front wheels.
Brakes are a vital safety feature. Options include caliper, disc, hub, and drum brakes. Some models will have brakes only on the rear tire or front tire, while others have brakes on both.
The Climate and Terrain
Assuming you weigh less than 200 pounds and are mostly riding your scooter on smooth terrain, then a simple option with at most 250 watts of power should be enough.
If you’re going to be doing a lot of off-roading on your scooter, then you’ll want something with at least 500 watts.
Climate is also an essential factor. Basic scooters do better in warm and dry weather. You generally don’t want to get your motor wet, so you should avoid riding in the rain unless you have a waterproof motor and battery.
Extremely cold or hot weather also tends to reduce the range of the battery.
Types of Electric Scooters
The three main types of electric scooter
- Electric kick scooters
- Electric self-balancing scooters
- Electric mopeds
Electric Kick Scooters
These scooters are the simplest. They have two wheels and a deck, and some may even be foldable. Some electric kick scooters may also come with a detachable seat.
It is quite easy to learn how to drive these scooters.
You may sometimes come across three-wheeled kick scooter models that can stand on their own without support. These are far more stable but may seem unfamiliar or cumbersome to people who already have scooter experience.
There are other ways to categorize electric kick scooters: foldable ones, off-road ones, and ones with fat tires.
As a whole, electric kick scooters have plenty of advantages over other styles.
You don’t have to worry about parking or the possibility of theft since you can carry your scooter with you, especially if you get a foldable model.
They’re also great for navigating through traffic and crowded areas because of their slim build and design.
Off-road scooters
Off-road scooters have bigger tires, longer-lasting batteries, a more powerful motor, a more durable build, and more robust suspension systems. They also have wider tires for handling rough terrain and providing more stability.
Electric Self-Balancing Scooters
Self-balancing scooters need more skill to operate than kick scooters, and you can expect a slightly higher learning curve.
You may struggle to retain balance initially. However, once they get the hang of it, most people say they enjoy the ride.
There are three main types of self-balancing electric scooters: hoverboards, unicycles, and self-balancing personal transporters.
Hoverboards
Hoverboards are a one-person transportation system that consists of two wheels with two standing pads between them (one for each foot).
The rider controls the speed of the hoverboard by leaning forward or backward and turns the board by twisting the footpads.
Unicycles
The unicycle, as you might have guessed from the name, consists of one wheel. This type of self-balancing scooter takes time to learn, just like the hoverboard.
However, once you get the hang of it, it’s an excellent choice for maneuvering around crowded places. It is highly compact and portable since it has only one wheel, and you can, therefore, take it with you wherever you go.
Personal transporters
Personal transporters are like hoverboards with handlebars for improved balance. You control these scooters with your knees, which is more effective and intuitive than foot control.
These options are much easier to learn than hoverboards, though they are larger and have larger tires, making them a little less portable.
Electric Mopeds
Electric mopeds look very similar to motorcycles or electric bicycles. They get power from an electric motor and offer a comfortable and noiseless ride.
They can even accommodate more than one person. They come with many of the perks of regular motorcycles, including bigger tires, shock absorbers, indicators, rearview mirrors, and a large and comfortable seat.
These electric scooters also have more powerful motors and higher top speeds than other scooter models. They are, however, more expensive.
How Far and How Fast Can Electric Scooters for Adults Go?
The range depends on the specific model you buy. However, on average, an electric scooter can go for up to 40 miles on a full charge.
Some factors may impact this range. They include the average speed at which you ride, the weight of the rider, the weather conditions, and the incline of the path.
The Battery and Motor Determine Speed and Range
When determining the range of your scooter, the battery is the most important thing to consider. In this case, you’ll be looking at the voltage numbers.
A higher voltage means greater power and more speed. A 48V battery will be more potent than a 36V battery. Generally, a 48V battery is sufficient for most riders who appreciate higher speeds, and it can provide excellent range over even rough terrain.
The controllers installed in your scooter also matter. Controllers limit the maximum power output, and it can make a more powerful battery behave like a less powerful one.
As for how long the battery will last, the amp-hours are a good indicator of this. The higher the number of amp-hours, the longer the battery will last.
The power output of the motor also matters. The power output tells you how much the engine is capable of at its maximum output. So, even if you have a super-powerful battery, the motor may not reach a very high speed if it isn’t capable of that kind of power.
Generally, a 500-watt motor should be powerful enough to offer high speeds, even over fairly steep inclines and rough terrains.
Compare The Top 3 Electric Scooters That Are Perfect For Adults
14 Best Electric Scooters for Adults
Read our rankings for the top electric scooters for adults to buy in 2020, starting first with our top pick of the year.
Our #1 Pick – Xiaomi Mi Model M365 Electric Scooter
A great introductory scooter with reliable performance
This electric scooter boasts a simple design. It is reliable and lightweight, with a 250-watt brushless hub motor, a top speed of 15.5 MPH, and the ability to climb at a 14-degree incline.
You should be able to achieve a range of about 18.6 miles on a single charge, which is quite respectable for a scooter this light. With a 36V 7.8 AH battery, you should have more than enough power for the streets. It also has a kinetic energy recovery system that recharges the battery when going downhill.
Giving the Xiaomi a full charge should take about five hours.
Pros
- Simple design
- Powerful LED head and tail lights
- Strong pneumatic tires
Cons
- Ground clearance is a little low
- Maximum weight capacity is on the low side for an adult
- Modest range
Our #2 Pick – Segway Ninebot MAX Electric Kick Scooter
A kick scooter for those seeking long-range rides
Segway has a solid reputation for making great electric scooters, and this particular model helps to retain that reputation. Its top speed under ideal conditions is 18.6 MPH, which is relatively modest.
However, the main selling point for this scooter is its range. At over 40 miles on a single charge, it’s quite impressive for an electric kick scooter.
The Ninebot also comes with a hand-operated dual braking system that allows you to stop almost as fast as you can press the brakes. The tires are also reliable and stable, even on wet ground.
The Ninebot has a built-in charger, so all you need is a charging cable.
Pros
- Powerful battery
- Long range
- Built-in charger
Cons
- Low top speed
- Low maximum rider weight
Our #3 Pick – GOTRAX XR Scooter
A sharp-but-simple entry-level scooter for street riding
This scooter may not be the best in any particular area, but all together, its features are quite impressive.
For starters, The XR uses a one-step folding system. It also has a reliable 36V battery with 5.2 Ah capacity that can achieve a 12-mile range on a single charge. The smart battery management system keeps the battery safe and increases its lifespan.
The top speed of the XR is 15.5 MPH, which should be just fine for city streets. Meanwhile, the 220-pound weight limit will fit most adults. It also comes with a dual braking system with an anti-lock mechanism.
The main drawback of the XR is that it runs best in ideal conditions. It will not perform well on trails or bumpy streets, in cold or hot temperatures, or steep inclines. But for riding on dry pavement, it is a great option.
Pros
- Great design
- Features a console showing current speed and battery life
- ABS braking system
Cons
- Low range
- Modest speed
- Low maximum weight
Our #4 Pick – Segway Ninebot ES4 Electric Kick Scooter with External Battery
An extra battery to make sure you never run out of power
This electric kick scooter is a long-range powerhouse. The ES4 performs almost as well as Segway’s other Ninebot, the MAX.
The ES4 comes with a dual battery system and a motor capable of up to 800 watts of power. These specs translate to a top speed of 19 miles per hour and a range of 28 miles under ideal conditions. Also, the ES4 can handle riders who weigh up to 220 pounds.
While these aren’t standout specs, they are quite respectable for commuters and riders in any urban environment.
The other features are ones we’ve come to expect from Segway. They include both mechanical and electric brakes, Bluetooth and mobile app connectivity, cruise control, and an LED display.
Overall, The ES4 is a reliable scooter with excellent build quality.
Pros
- Attractive design
- High top speed for a street scooter
- Respectable range
- App connectivity
Cons
- Not for extreme conditions
- Low max weight
Our #5 Pick – OUTSTORM MAXX 60MPH Ultra High-Speed Electric Scooter
A powerful option for serious riders who don’t want to compromise
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The Outstorm MAXX is a powerful scooter. You may even need a license to operate in many jurisdictions. It has a powerful dual motor capable of up to 5000 watts and a 60 volt, 38.5 Ah battery. This system delivers up to 60 MPH and an 83-mile range in ideal conditions.
While it does take up to nine hours to recharge the battery fully, the expanded range beats most other scooters.
Other features include bright LED headlights, a one-step foldable design, and a removable gel seat for comfortable long-distance rides.
Pros
- High top speed
- High max load of 385 pounds
- Includes extra features like horn, compass, and cruise control
- Best in class range
Cons
- Does not have rear lights
- May require license or registration in some places
Our #6 Pick – OUTSTORM Off-Road Electric Self Balance
A good-looking personal transportation system for sightseeing and golf course use
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If you’re looking for a powerful self-balancing personal transportation system to use on the golf course or when sightseeing, the OUTSTORM fits the bill. It comes with a 4000-watt motor and an 84-volt battery. Combined, they offer a top speed of 13 MPH and a range of 34 miles.
With a short charging time of just 5 hours, you should be able to get the Outstorm up and running faster than most other scooters.
The Outstorm works for both city and off-road use with its wide tires, non-slip base, and climbing slope of 35 degrees. It can also accommodate most people with a max weight of 330 pounds.
Pros
- Can run off-road
- High range
- High max weight
- Fast charging time
Cons
- Low top speed
- Side-by-side wheel design won’t appeal to everyone.
Our #7 Pick – Segway Ninebot S Smart Self-Balancing Electric Scooter
A smart self-balancing scooter for a tech-savvy city rider
This personal transportation system can only achieve a top speed of 10 MPH, and it has a maximum range of 13.7 miles under ideal conditions. It can also only take a maximum load of 220 pounds.
However, those who want a simple ride and lots of style will appreciate the Ninebot S.
It has a stylish futuristic design, and it weighs much less than the OUTSTORM. The Segway app also has a ton of capabilities, including a speed limit adjuster, an anti-theft function, and even a vehicle remote control.
The Ninebot S is an excellent scooter for city use, where the demands aren’t too heavy, and you don’t need to go too fast.
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Reliable and easy to use
- Great smart features
Cons
- Low range
- Low high speed
- Low max weight
Our #8 Pick – Hiboy MAX Electric Scooter
A small-but-comfy electric scooter for the city dweller
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This little scooter with a 350-watt motor has a 17-mile range and an 18.6 MPH top speed. It can also climb hills of up to 15 degrees, and it has a responsive braking system coupled with a front shock absorber for a comfortable ride.
Despite its size, it delivers respectable performance. Also, on the portability front, a one-step fold design ensures that you can bring this light scooter right into your office after your commute.
Pros
- Beautiful design
- High top speed for a lightweight scooter
- Portable
- Foldable
Cons
- Low range
- Low max weight
Our #9 Pick – QIEWA Q1Hummer Electric Scooter
Rugged ride for long-distance off-road expeditions
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If you’re looking for an electric scooter with a long-range and sturdy look, the Q1 Hummer is an ideal option. This scooter will take you 65 miles on a single charge and can tackle inclines of up to 35 degrees with ease.
Couple that with a max speed of 37 MPH, and you’ve got a ride that will leave city scooters in the dust. In case you live in a jurisdiction with limits on the top speed on scooters, the Q1 comes with an adjustable speed limiter.
This scooter has a max load of 550 pounds. The dual shock absorber and double disc brakes make for a smooth and safe ride. While this scooter can’t fold down, it has an anti-theft remote key fob to ensure security.
Pros
- High top speed
- Long range
- Off-road capability
- Anti-theft remote key fob
Cons
- Not foldable
- Quite heavy
Our #10 Pick – Razor E200S Seated Electric Scooter
A seated electric scooter for commuters and weekend riders
The Razor E200S comes with a sealed lead-acid battery, which is capable of up to 40 minutes of continuous use. When combined with the 22-watt electric motor, it puts out enough power to achieve a top speed of 12 MPH.
The main selling point of this scooter is the fact that it comes with a seat. That makes it very comfortable for those who don’t want to stand for the entire commute.
With its performance specs, it is best for short commutes on city streets.
Pros
- Strong frame
- Has a seat
- Quiet electric motor
- A good option for those who do not want a lithium-ion battery
Cons
- Low range
- Low top speed
Our #11 Pick – Magicelec Electric Scooter for Adults
A light-as-a-feather kick scooter for everyday commuters
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This foldable scooter only takes about three seconds to fold down. Also, it is very light at only 26.4 pounds. Even with its light frame, it can achieve a top speed of 14MPH and a range of 16 miles, both of which are more than enough for the average city commuter.
It also features an LCD screen that shows power, speed, and a variety of warning lights.
Pros
- Strong build
- Good performance specs for a lightweight scooter
- Decent max load of 260 pounds
Cons
- Short range
- Modest performance compared to heavier scooters
Our #12 Pick – QIEWA Q-Power Foldable Electric Scooter
A high-speed performance scooter for serious adventurers
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This premium off-road scooter seems to have it all: fast speed, long-range, portability, high max weight, and off-road capabilities.
The 3200-watt dual motor and the 48V 26Ah battery can produce a 56 MPH top speed and a max range of 55 miles.
It also has large 11-inch tires capable of handling the toughest terrain. The 45-degree double shock absorbers and powerful brakes ensure a safe and comfortable ride.
Pros
- High top speed
- Long range
- Works off-road
- Has cruise control
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Not the best value for city commuters and casual riders
Our #13 Pick – Glion Dolly Foldable Lightweight Adult Electric Scooter
One of the best choices is you want your scooter to last for a long time
This scooter isn’t trying too hard to wow you with its performance. It has a 250-watt brushless motor coupled with a 36-volt, 7.8 Ah battery, which offers a top speed of 15 MPH and a range of 15 miles.
However, the focus here is on quality. The battery can last up to five years and takes only about 3.5 hours to fully charge (with a 75% charge taking only 2 hours). It also has 8-inch honeycomb never-flat tires that won’t get punctured, even in severe conditions.
The Dolly is ultra-portable, with a one-step foldable design and a total weight of 28 pounds. Even with its modest weight, it can accommodate adults of up to 255 pounds.
Pros
- Ultra-portable
- Fast charging time
- Affordable
- Long lifespan for battery
Cons
- Low top speed
- Short range
Our #14 Pick – Emaxusa Electric Scooter for Adults
For riders who want extras that they will actually use
The Emaxusa electric scooter for adults offers a top speed of 15MPh and a range of up to 16 miles. While the performance is not breathtaking, the Emaxusa is more than enough for city riders. The 36-volt battery relies on lithium-ion technology. It can get a full charge in about five hours, and it uses a smart battery system for safe and efficient charging.
The scooter features a useful LCD that shows data about current speed and battery life. It also has powerful LED lights for the front and rear, as well as hand-activated brakes.
Pros
- Attractive, minimalistic design
- Useful LCD data
- High max load of 264 pounds
Cons
- Short range
- Not the fastest scooter
Battery Advice
Electric scooters for adults run on batteries, so you should be aware of how to care for your battery.
- Make sure you don’t charge your electric scooter battery immediately after a ride. Give it an hour or so to cool off.
- Recharge your battery after every ride, and don’t leave the battery partially charged for several days in a row. Doing this will reduce lifespan.
- Use the right kind of charging device, such as one from the scooter manufacturer, when charging your battery.
- If you’re not going to use the scooter for several months in a row, make sure it’s fully charged when you put it into storage. Also, make sure to recharge it at least once a month during this period.
- If you’re using a new charger or charging a new battery, monitor the charging process for signs of overheating.
Conclusion
As you can see, the options for electric scooters for adults are diverse, and there are plenty of choices regardless of your riding preferences.
You can choose a model or brand that offers the specifications and features that you will use the most. The Segway Ninebot MAX, for example, is the ideal high-end commuter scooter, but Glion Dolly would be a better choice for someone who wants to fold their rider down and carry it into the office with them.
And neither of those options can stand up to the Outstorm Maxx when it comes to off-road performance. The point is that you can easily find an electric scooter for an adult that fits your riding needs.
That said, depending on your budget and needs, you can find the perfect scooter among the others we’ve listed.
Hopefully, the buyer’s guide will help you understand everything that you need to consider to pick the electric scooter for adults that best fits your needs and riding style.
