Best 500W Electric Scooters (12 Tested, 4 Selected)
Top Picks: Best 500W Electric Scooters
After testing 12 electric scooters that all had motors rated at 500W, I hand-picked the 4 best models.
Key to my selection was top speed, acceleration, and, by extension, motor power (nominal and peak).Â
I also assessed build and ride quality, as well as value for money.
Best By Type: Electric Scooters By Use Case
Cheapest
Further Information:
Cheap Electric Scooters
Heavy Riders
- EMOVE Touring – Supports riders up to 308 lbs
Further Information:
Heavy Duty Electric Scooters for Heavy Adults
Fastest
- Apollo City – 28 mph
Further Information:
Fastest Electric Scooters
Longest Range
- Apollo City – 25 miles
Further Information:
Long Range Electric Scooters
Off-Roading
- None
Further Information:
Best Off-Road Electric Scooters for All Types of Terrain
Biggest Wheels
- Apollo City – 10 inch tubeless, self-healing tires
Further Information:
Big Wheel Electric Scooters
Most Portable
- Mosquito – 29 lbs, telescopic stem, and foldable handlebars
Further Information:
Lightweight Electric Scooters
Portable, Compact & Small Electric Scooters
Commuting
- Mosquito – combines a compact frame with a top speed and range primed for city environments
Further Information:
Best Electric Scooters For Commuting
Suspension
- Apollo City – Front spring, dual rear springs, and swingarms
Further Information:
Electric Scooters With Suspension: 5 Buttery-Smooth Rides
Waterproof
- Apollo City – IP56 water resistance ratings
Further Information:
Waterproof Electric Scooters: Best Scooters For Riding in the Rain
Seated
- EMOVE Touring – Seat costs extra $65
Further Information:
Best Electric Scooters With Seats (Detachable & Built-in)
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Best Under $800
Horizon V2 (10.4Ah)
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 23 mph
- Real Speed: 21.8 mph*
- 0-15 mph: 4.7 s*
- Max Range: 23 miles
- Real Range: 17 miles*
- Braking: 5.0 meters*
- Suspension: 6/10*
- Max Incline: 15 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 9 degrees*
- Weight: 42 lbs
- Load: 265 lbs
Motor Power:
- Motors: 48V 500W
- Nominal Power: 500W
- Peak Power: 800W
Horizon Overview:
Riders invariably seek that sweet spot between performance and practicality. So, where better to start than with the Horizon 10.4? This superstar of the sub-$800 category is manna from heaven for riders looking to jazz up their journey in a way that feels safe, comfortable, and exciting.
Capable of reaching a top speed of 25 mph, and 15 mph from a standstill in 5.2 seconds, the single 48V 500W motor truly punches above its weight – with its peak power output of 800W being top of the class. Sure, there’s a slight delay on the throttle, but even with that factored in, there’s no faster scooter in this price range.
The Good:
- Extremely compact
- Very popular
- Great ride quality
- Smooth suspension
- Nippy acceleration
- Top performer in its price class
- Telescopic stem allows riders to adjust the handlebar height
- Ergonomic controls
- Low maintenance
The Bad:
- No water-resistance rating
- Brakes could be better calibrated
Why I Recommend the Horizon:
Thanks to the superb suspension system and responsive brakes, you always feel in control – regardless of your speed. This softened riding experience is perfect for any surface the city can throw at you. And, to add to the comfort, the spacious deck and adjustable stem allow users of all sizes to ride in a position that feels most natural to them. A sturdy frame and foldable, grip-adorned handlebars round things off to provide all-important stability.
Another area where the Horizon 10.4 excels is in its hill-climbing abilities. There is no better scooter for tackling inclines that will cost you less than $800. And while its maximum range of 20 miles (or 16 miles, when considering realistic conditions) isn’t particularly eye-opening, the Horizon 10.4 has enough in the proverbial tank to handle commutes and weekend jaunts.
Of course, practicality is just as important as performance when it comes to commuting – and yet again, the Horizon 10.4 will not let you down. It collapses to an ultra-compact size that allows you to store it inconspicuously in the office or at home. Its folding mechanisms are easy to use – but one cautionary note: at 40 lbs, the Horizon 10.4 is no waif. You won’t want to lug it around for long stretches. Though, with so much fun to be had riding it, we don’t think that matters too much.
And not only is it fun – it’s durable, too. Built with robust materials, the Horizon’s design is geared in every way for wear and tear. From the solid rear tire and impenetrable drum brakes to the protective casing around the cables, this scooter is made for minimal upkeep and full-throttle usage. Our only negative is that you need to be careful in ensuring the telescopic stem lever is tightly fastened to avoid stem wobble.
The Horizon 10.4 also looks very cool. We’re big fans of minimalist design, and this scooter sets both thumbs skyward. The black coating on the frame and deck is stylishly accentuated by flecks of silver on the wheels and drum brakes to create a slick aesthetic that will attract admiring nods.
In terms of added features, it boasts a QS-S4 display console that allows you to stay firmly in control of your preferred ride settings. These include cruise control – which facilitates zippier speeds at longer distances – in addition to acceleration and regenerative brake strength. This is all within easy reach of the handgrips, meaning you can concentrate on looking good on your way to the office without worrying about any fiddly bits.
Few scooters are utterly perfect, of course, and where the Horizon 10.4 falls short is its lights. A Pink Floyd light show, this is not. You can easily remedy the dimness with extra LEDs, however, this is a recommendation we would make for most scooters.
So, there you have it. The mighty Horizon 10.4. Will you find better value for money in a sub $800 scooter? We doubt it. Can you look forward to stress-free, smooth-as-silk rides? We guarantee it. For entry-level riders and seasoned pros who want the option of an easy urban journey, the Horizon 10.4 ticks all the boxes.
Best Under $900
EMOVE Touring
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 25 mph
- 0-15 mph: 4.5 s*
- Max Range: 32 miles
- Real Range: 19 miles*
- Braking: 4.9 meters*
- Suspension: 5/10*
- Max Incline: 15 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 9 degrees*
- Weight: 39 lbs
- Load: 308 lbs
Motor Power:
- Motors: 48V 500W
- Nominal Power: 500W
- Peak Power: 800W
EMOVE Touring Overview:
Hubba hubba. The EMOVE Touring oozes quality from every spring, wire, and lever. When considered one of the best 500W electric scooters within an affordable budget, it’s hard to look past its spellbinding concoction of performance, durability, and portability. Be warned: cupid’s arrow is about to hit hard.
First, the ride quality. The EMOVE Touring is the only 500W scooter that comes with a quintuplet suspension system. What does this mean for you? Ultimate comfort – even when going at its top speed of 24 mph.
The Good:
- Best-in-class speed, acceleration, and range
- Inclusive design (ideal for all riders of all shapes and sizes)
- Extremely high load-bearing capacity
- Adjustable handlebar height
- Low maintenance
- High-quality LG battery
- IP54 water resistance rating
- Available in five vivid colors
- Optional seat attachment
The Bad:
- Drum brake could be stronger
- Clatters while going over bumps
Why I Recommend the EMOVE Touring:
We rank the EMOVE Touring’s suspension as the best in its pricing class, an accolade that’s mainly down to the stem spring and dual-pronged set of coils on either side of its front wheel. Dovetailing serenely with dual rear springs, the end-product is a ride that feels akin to gliding over marble.
This is all the more impressive, given that the EMOVE Touring is no slouch. Capable of accelerating from 0-15 mph in 4.5 seconds, the 500W motor makes mincemeat of urban inclines and eat’s up a range of up to 25 miles, though taking into account realistic conditions, this is more likely to top off at 17 miles.
The five springs that make up the EMOVE Touring’s otherworldly suspension system are backed up by a supporting cast that consists of a roomy deck, and handlebars that facilitate complete control of the steering column. OK, so the single rear drum brake is perhaps a little meager, but it nevertheless provides enough oomph to handle the single motor. It’s just a shame that a solid tire is installed on the rear – this subtracts from the scooter’s damping and traction capabilities to a degree, though the overall ride quality is still very good.
In terms of build quality, there’s little to fault the EMOVE Touring. The stress-tested aluminum-alloy frame feels sturdy and lightweight, while its IP54 water resistance rating offers peace of mind even amidst the most inclement of city weather. Ample grip on the deck and handlebars bolster this feeling of security.
Despite being able to take a hugely impressive, category-leading rider load of 308 lbs, the EMOVE Touring is a pretty light model. It weighs 39 lbs and can be carried with relative ease, and with a telescopic stem and foldable handlebars, this is an ultra-portable scooter that can easily be stored at home or in the office.
The 48V 13Ah battery is pretty standard for its price – as is its average charging time of 8 hours. What is noteworthy, however, is the battery management system that protects the battery from overcharging, overheating, and short-circuiting to prolong its lifespan. Plus, the battery is of the LG kind, which delivers better performance over longer periods than its competitors that use cheaper Chinese batteries.
Yet, where the EMOVE Touring really stands out from the crowd is in its customization options. It comes in up to five colors, including orange, white, purple, red, and black; for riders who like the idea of owning a scooter that reflects their personality and style, the EMOVE Touring has everything covered. What’s more, there’s the QS-S4 throttle display for customizable performance and the option of an attachable seat (available for $65).
As well as the usual insights into speed distance covered, and battery life, the QS-S4 display comes with P-settings, which enable you to access cruise control while modulating the strength of the regenerative brakes.
In the same vein as regenerative brakes and safety, the scooter is equipped with a mounted headlight and responsive taillight, though we advise you to purchase extra lights for the handlebars when riding at night. There’s also a horn, which can rouse quite the noise.
To summarise, the EMOVE Touring is perfect for riders who want to take a step up from budget entry-level models. Though there may be more powerful options out there, this scooter’s ride comfort and generous helping of extra features mean it’s purpose-built for the unpredictable nature of city life. If you have $900 at your disposal, it couldn’t be better spent.
Best Under $1,000
Mosquito
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 25 mph
- 0-15 mph: 5.0 s*
- Max Range: 22 miles
- Real Range: 18 miles*
- Braking: 4.8 meters*
- Suspension: 5.5/10*
- Max Incline: 15 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 9 degrees*
- Weight: 29 lbs
- Load: 265 lbs
Motor Power:
- Motors: 48V 500W
- Nominal Power: 500W
- Peak Power: 700W
Mosquito Overview:
The wait is finally over. After the launch of the original Mosquito in 2018, Fluid Free Ride has upgraded the old model to deliver a newly improved 2022 version. Its arrival pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with ultra-portable 500W electric scooters. Available for $999, it will appeal to anyone who values ultra-portability but doesn’t want to sacrifice performance.
The Mosquito’s 500W motor is capable delivers a peak power output of 700W and top speeds of 25 mph (in some cases you can even reach up to 27 mph). This is a headline-worthy string to the little nipper’s bow, but what’s even more attention-grabbing is its ability to zoom from 0-25 mph straight off the bat thanks to its zero start ride setting. In brief, this means that you don’t have to get the wheels rolling by kicking off before the motor kicks in – just hit the throttle and you’ll accelerate from a standstill.
The Good:
- King of ultra-portability
- Smallest and lightest dimensions of all portable scooters
- High power-to-weight ratio
- Nippy acceleration
- Regenerative brake recharges the battery when in use
- Low maintenance
- Excellent suspension
- Nimble
The Bad:
- Handlebars are narrow
Why I Recommend the Mosquito:
As already warned, the Mosquito carries a real bite. While the zero start function is turned off by default for safety, the power it generates means this scooter is best suited for riders who want a shot of adrenaline and like the idea of weaving through the city streets at speed.
Game-changer in the ultra-portable market? You betcha. Consequently, we think the Mosquito is perfect for those who want a 500W powered scooter but are looking for something nimble, too.
The immediate, cheek-flapping power requires one heck of a braking system, and thankfully the Mosquito obliges with panache. First, there’s the regenerative brake paddle that enables you to recharge the 48V 9.6Ah battery while in use. Then there’s the rear drum brake, which delivers considerable stopping power. And to top things off, you have a stomp brake on the rear fender, which adds another layer of control. They say good things come in threes, and the Mosquito listened.
Despite its lightweight appeal, the Mosquito doesn't mess about when it comes to performance – and this point is exemplified by its realistic 22-mile range (based on a 165 lbs rider). The Mosquito can even clock 11 miles when going at top speed and nudging its maximum load-bearing capacity (based on a 240 lbs rider) – something that should be applauded. For a scooter purpose-built for shorter journeys, we think the Mosquito has a lot to shout about.
This, of course, is all well and good – but the reason the Mosquito is turning heads is that it combines brawn with elegance. This elegance manifests in the form of the scooter’s ultra-portability. The adjustable telescopic stem folds down in seconds, while the handlebars can be collapsed on either side of the stem for maximum compactness.
All of this means the Mosquito can fit in the boot of your car, under the office desk, or in the storage cupboard at home, while a handle grip also makes it easy to carry the Mosquito’s slender 29 lbs frame as you board a bus or train. Take our money right now.
And this perfect marriage between performance and portability isn’t all the Mosquito has in its locker. Despite wielding two solid tires – which though not as good for damping, do at least spare you from the possibility of punctures – the Mosquito boasts an excellent dual suspension system that guarantees a comfortable ride on any surface that the city can throw at you.
The handlebars are also well designed, with a simple color display allowing you to monitor speed, acceleration, and distance – as well as controlling ride modes such as cruise control – with complete ease.
Safety is obviously of real importance when harnessing the Mosquito’s buzz-worthy power, so the bright front and rear lights are very welcomed during evening rides. Additionally, there’s a horn to alert startled passers-by to your sudden presence.
Overall, the Mosquito delicately balances unrivaled power, range, and portability to deliver a scooter that has become an Electric Scooter Insider favorite.
Best Under $1,500
Apollo City
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 28 mph
- 0-15 mph: 4.0 s*
- Max Range: 25 miles
- Real Range: 25 miles*
- Braking: 3.4 meters*
- Suspension: 6.5/10*
- Max Incline: 10 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 6 degrees*
- Weight: 57.8 lbs
- Load: 220 lbs
Motor Power:
- Motors: 48V 500W
- Nominal Power: 500W
- Peak Power: 1000W
Apollo City Overview:
Let’s cut right to the chase: we are huge fans of the Apollo City. It hits higher speeds than all other 500W models. Its range is longer, too. Plus, for sheer design and ride quality, you will not find a better 500W electric scooter. If you’re looking for something to get you from A to B in comfort and style, you’ve found your match. Thank us later.
There’s a reason it’s called the Apollo City. Simply put, this is a well-balanced work of art that’s fine-tuned for navigating urban environments. Its top speed of 28 miles mph is enough to leave a trail of wowed pedestrians in your wake, while its acceleration of 0-15 mph in 4.0 seconds is nothing to be sniffed at. But to focus on these vanity stats is to do this fantastic scooter a disservice. While other models rely on power to turn heads, the Apollo City has so much more in its armory.
The Good:
- Tubeless, self-healing tires
- Larger-than-normal tires for enhanced handling
- Proprietary design delivers great build quality
- Regenerative brake recharges the battery when in use
- Battery management system for a longer lifespan
- Integrated mobile app for customizable performance
- IP56 water resistance rating
- Simple one-click folding mechanism
- Super bright headlight
- Best in class turn signals
- Fast charging port (4.5 hours)
The Bad:
- Folding hook tends to fall out of the latch on the deck when folded (but not when being lifted)
- Most expensive 500W scooter but the overall package is worth it
Why I Recommend the Apollo City:
Let’s start with build quality. Apollo has invested mega bucks into its custom propriety molds, and, man, does it show. You will not find this frame on any other scooter. It is unique in design and quality, with the space-grade aluminum-alloy oil painted to eradicate corrosion and other wear and tear. The Apollo City is durable and robust, and with its curved lines, flush finishes, and grey and orange colorway, looks genuinely beautiful. An IP56 water-resistance rating also means you can laugh in the face of bad weather.
Elsewhere, the upswept deck is spacious and literally gripping, ensuring you always feel safe and secure as you turn heads in the bustling city. The handlebars, too, are a celebration of design and ergonomics, supplying the width and height that its sibling, the Apollo Air Pro, lacked. This all amounts to better handling and increased rider confidence, with a conveniently placed thumb throttle on one side and regenerative brake on the other providing not one, but two cherries on top.
That’s the build quality, but what about ride quality? Again, the Apollo City comes up trumps. Its larger-than-average, self-healing tires hug the ground, while a network of springs and swingarms guarantee complete control as you slalom through crowds of envious commuters. These scoots were made for gliding, and that’s just what they’ll do.
Of course, portability is crucial to city life, and Apollo knows it. That’s why the Apollo City comes equipped with an elegant one-click folding mechanism to make portability an exercise of simplicity. We’re hesitant to label any folding mechanism as poetry-in-motion, but this comes mightily close. Sure, its 57.8 lbs weight isn’t exactly light, but you can still carry it upstairs and onto public transport when you need to.
Yet perhaps the real crowning glory is its mobile app integration. We said this scooter is fine-tuned for modern urban life, and we meant it. The app unlocks a feast of personalization options, including regen brake and acceleration strength, top speed caps, gear modifications, and an in-built navigation system. There’s also the option of applying a digital lock for added security, as well as a kick-to-start function.
We simply cannot complete this guide without remarking on the Apollo City’s turn signals. These are a crucial safety feature on electric scooters – and yet, so many other models get it wrong. No such fears here. The Apollo City’s are the best we’ve ever tested – no hint of exaggeration. They are insanely bright, and, being connected to the LED display, inform you when they are on via flashing icons. They even turn off automatically after 10 seconds. A sufficiently beaming LED headlight and responsive taillight join the party to make evening rides a breeze.
So, there you have it. The Apollo City. It may be too pricey for some, but if you have an eye for design, a love of integrated technology, and an appreciation for attention to detail, this city slicker and all-around champ will leave you floored.
Compare 500W Electric Scooters
The table below compares the best 500W electric scooters across top speed, acceleration, motor power, performance, specs, price, and more.
Horizon 10.4 V2 | EMOVE Touring | Mosquito | Apollo City |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Where to Buy | Fluid Free Ride | Voro Motors | Fluid Free Ride | Apollo |
| Price | $699 | $829 | $899 | $1,399 |
| Award | Best Under $800 | Best Under $900 | Best Under $1,000 | Best Under $1,500 |
| Review | Review | Review | Review | Review |
| Performance | ||||
| Top Speed | 23 mph | 25 mph | 25 mph | 28 mph |
| 0-15 MPH | 5.2 s | 4.5 s | 5.0 s | 4.0 s |
| Max Range | 23 miles | 32 miles | 22 miles | 25 miles |
| Tested Range | 18 miles | 17 miles | 18 miles | 25 miles |
| Braking | 5.0 meters | 4.9 meters | 4.8 meters | 3.4 meters |
| Max Incline | 15 degrees | 15 degrees | 15 degrees | 10 degrees |
| Optimal Incline | 9 degrees | 9 degrees | 9 degrees | 6 degrees |
| Specs | ||||
| Motor | 48V 500W | 48V 500W | 48V 500W | 48V 500W |
| Nominal Power | 500W | 500W | 500W | 500W |
| Peak Power | 800W | 800W | 700W | 1000W |
| Throttle | Thumb | Finger | Thumb | Thumb |
| Battery | 48V 10.4Ah FST | 48V 13Ah LG | 48V 9.6Ah FST | 48V 13.5Ah FST |
| Charge Time | 6 hours | 8 hours | 6 hours | 4.5 hours |
| Brakes | Drum, Electronic | Drum, Electronic | Drum, Electronic | Drums (x2), Electronic |
| Suspension | Springs, Air Shocks | Springs, Swingarms | Springs, Swingarms | Triple Springs, Swingarms |
| Tire Size | 8 inch | 8 inch | 8 inch | 10 inch |
| Tire Type | Air (Inner-Tube), Solid (Rubber) | Air (Inner-Tube), Solid (Rubber) | Solid (Rubber) | Air (Tubeless, Self-Healing) |
| Weight | 40 lbs | 39 lbs | 29 lbs | 57.8 lbs |
| Load | 265 lbs | 308 lbs | 265 lbs | 220 lbs |
| Foldability | Folds at Stem & Handlebars | Folds at Stem & Handlebars | Folds at Stem & Handlebars | Folds at Stem |
| Lights | Headlight, Taillight | Headlight, Taillight | Headlight, Taillight | Headlight, Taillight, Turn Signals |
| IP Rating | None | IP54 | IPX5 | IP56 |
| Terrain | Street | Street | Street | Street |
How Did I Test the Scooters?
After testing 12 electric scooters that all had motors rated at 500W, I hand-picked the 4 best models.
Key to my selection was top speed, acceleration, and, by extension, motor power (nominal and peak).Â
I also assessed build and ride quality, as well as value for money.
You can learn more about how I test below:
Electric Scooters That I Tested:
Click through the photo carousel to see all of the scooters that I tested for this guide.
Results From My Performance Tests:
See how the electric scooters stack up against each other across the metrics of top speed, acceleration, maximum range, tested range, and braking.
Top Speed
Ordered from fastest to slowest – Learn about how I test top speed.
| Scooter | Price | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo City |
$1,649
| 28 mph |
| Mosquito |
$899
| 25 mph |
| EMOVE Touring |
$829
| 25 mph |
| Horizon 10.4 |
$599
| 23 mph |
Acceleration (0-15 MPH)
Ordered from fastest to slowest – Learn about how I test acceleration.
| Scooter | Price | 0-15 MPH (Seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo City |
$1,649
| 4.0 s |
| EMOVE Touring |
$829
| 4.5 s |
| Mosquito |
$899
| 5.0 s |
| Horizon |
$599
| 5.2 s |
Maximum Range (Riding Slow)
Ordered from longest to shortest range.
| Scooter | Price | Max Range |
|---|---|---|
| EMOVE Touring |
$829
| 32 miles |
| Apollo City |
$1,649
| 25 miles |
| Horizon 10.4 |
$599
| 23 miles |
| Mosquito |
$899
| 22 miles |
Realistic Range (Riding Fast)
Ordered from longest to shortest range – Learn about how I test real-world range.
| Scooter | Price | Real Range |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo City |
$1,649
| 25 miles |
| Mosquito |
$899
| 18 miles |
| Horizon 10.4 |
$599
| 18 miles |
| EMOVE Touring |
$829
| 17 miles |
Braking (From 15 MPH)
Ordered from shortest to longest stopping distance – Learn about how I test braking performance.
| Scooter | Price | Braking From 15 MPH |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo City |
$1,649
| 3.4 meters |
| Mosquito |
$899
| 4.8 meters |
| EMOVE Touring |
$829
| 4.9 meters |
| Horizon 10.4 |
$599
| 5.0 meters |
Recent Updates
In the interest of delivering the most timely, relevant, and credible reviews/guides in the industry, I have detailed the recent updates and changes to my list of the best 500W electric scooters. Learn more about my editorial policy.
- August 2, 2024: Improved the design of the page. Refreshed the text.
- January 11, 2024: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- October 2, 2023: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
