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Best Electric Scooters Under $500 (I Tested 10 & Selected 4)

Top Picks: Best Electric Scooters Under $500

After testing 10 of the most popular sub-$500 electric scooters, I hand-selected the 4 top performers.

Each scooter was subject to top speed, acceleration, range, hill climbing, braking, shock absorption, and ride quality tests. 

I also thoroughly assessed their design, build quality, reliability, and features.

Turboant M10 Lite
Best Under $350
Best Low Budget
Turboant M10 Lite
Summer Sale: $299.98 $399.98
NIU KQi2 Pro Durable Frame
Best Under $400
Best Design
NIU KQi2 Pro
Summer Sale: $399.00 $599.00
Turboant X7 Max Frame
Best Under $450
Longest Range
Turboant X7 Max
Summer Sale: $409.98 $599.98
VMAX VX5 Pro Sleek Frame
Best Under $500
Editor's Overall Pick - Best Build Quality, Features & Most Reliable
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
Summer Sale: $499.00 $599.00 – Get Extra $15 Off With Code: ESI

Best By Type: Electric Scooters By Use Case

See the best scooters by type (e.g. for heavy adults, commuting, etc).

Scooter Finder

I built a tool that makes it easy to find the perfect scooter.

Filter, compare, and sort through all electric scooters.

Scooter Finder

I built a tool that makes it easy to find the perfect scooter.

Filter, compare, and sort through all electric scooters.

Best Under $300 - Best Low Budget

Turboant M10 Lite

Summer Sale: $299.98 $399.98

Performance Report:

Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)

*Based on my tests and assessments

Turboant M10 Lite Overview:

If you’re new to the world of electric scooters then the first thing that you should know is this: when it comes to the budget market, Turboant rules the land. Nowhere is this more evident than with the indomitable M10 Lite.

Turboant M10 Lite

It may be the cheapest scooter that Turboant offers, but don’t be fooled. It’s a serious piece of engineering that channels everything great about its predecessor – the M10 – and brings a selection of fine-tunings into the equation to deliver what’s arguably an all-around better ride.

Turboant M10 Lite In Motion

From its chart-topping performance and excellent ride quality to its reliable build and ergonomic controls, it offers the best return on investment compared to all of its similarly-priced competitors.

The Good:

The Bad:

Why I Recommend the Turboant M10 Lite:

You’d be forgiven for thinking that a scooter costing less than $300 may have a patchy spec sheet. But, the M10 Lite is here to prove us wrong.

Turboant M10 Lite Chassis

Purpose-made for beginners and casual riders, it comes equipped with a 350W motor that, under my tests, produced a top speed of 15.8 mph. No other scooter under $300 goes faster, while it also lays claim to the quickest acceleration. Here, I reached 15 mph in 7.8 seconds.

Turboant M10 Lite Motor

Its real-world range is also top of the charts. While testing it, the 36V 6.6Ah kept the wheels rolling for 10 miles, beating pricier models like the GoTrax Apex.

What makes the M10 Lite enjoyable to ride, though, is a series of upgrades that have elevated its ergonomics and handling beyond its predecessor, the M10.

Josh Riding the Turboant M10 Lite

One of these is the replacement of the M10’s finger throttle with a new thumb throttle. Not only does this facilitate a smoother acceleration rate, but it’s more comfortable to use.

Turboant M10 Lite Cockpit

And when it comes to stopping power, the M10 Lite has a clear edge. Its brakes are far better calibrated, resulting in a 2.9-meter stopping distance from 15 mph. That’s 41% shorter than the 4.9 meters tallied by the original M10 (4.9 meters).

Turboant M10 Lite Disc Brake

This winning streak continues when we consider the M10 Lite’s tires. Measuring 8.5 inches they’re extremely nimble, and get this: they’re pneumatic. This is rare to find on a scooter that’s so cheap. The result is far better ride quality than its counterparts.

Turboant M10 Lite Front Wheel

Being a Turboant scooter, you can also rely on its IP54-protected aluminum alloy frame. With it, the M10 Lite is impervious to the damaging effects of puddles splashes and light rain. It’s sturdy and lightweight, too, while the handlebars are wide and connected to a wobble-free stem. The deck, though a little short, is grippy and large enough to host your feet in an L-shape position.

Turboant M10 Lite in the Rain

Another feature that gets a resounding thumbs up is the USB charging port. Located below the display, it can be used to charge your phone on the go. This is the first time that I’ve seen this feature successfully implemented on a budget scooter.

Turboant M10 Lite USB Charging Port

Last but by no means least, it sports the best lighting rig in its price class. With a high-mounted 3W headlight and a set of two responsive taillights, it’s just about bright enough for riding in well-lit areas during low-light conditions. I still recommend attaching an additional clip-on headlight for enhanced visibility, though.

Turboant M10 Lite Lights

Stylish, durable, and heaps of fun to ride, the M10 Lite once again sees Turboant redefining what’s possible for a budget scooter.

Turboant M10 Lite Rubber Deck

Further Information:

Turboant M10 Lite Review

Best Under $400 - Best Design

NIU KQi2 Pro

Summer Sale: $399.00 $599.00

Performance Report:

Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)

*Based on my tests and assessments

NIU KQi2 Pro Overview:

Even amongst the esteemed scooters that are featured in this guide, the NIU KQi2 Pro stands out.

That’s because this award-winning model fuses outstanding build quality with a well-rounded performance profile to redefine what value means in the sub-$400 category.

Josh Testing the NIU KQi2 Pro

From the expertly-crafted frame and the smooth flowing lines of its chassis to the wider-than-normal handlebars and wobble-free stem, everything about it screams quality.

NIU KQi2 Pro Handlebars

Add to this a plethora of features and an industry-leading warranty, and you have a scooter with a premium flair that over-delivers for its price.

NIU KQi2 Pro Rear Tire

The Good:

The Bad:

Why I Recommend the NIU KQi2 Pro:

I’ve reviewed countless scooters made by the heavyweights of the budget market – including Turboant, Hiboy, AnyHill, and GoTrax – and while each of these brands can feel proud of their work, no model has managed to encapsulate the air of pedigree that the KQi2 Pro wears so well.

NIU KQi2 Pro Premium Frame

It’s imbued in everything that this scooter has to offer, and this is clear to see from its iF Design Award.

The cockpit, for one, is a case study in ergonomic design. The display is among the brightest I’ve tested, while the thumb throttle sports an angular profile and ribbed coating to elevate it above the usual integrations that you’ll find in this price class.

NIU KQi2 Pro Display

The handlebars are also wider than competing models for enhanced handling and control. By comparison, they’re 24% wider than those sported by the popular Turboant X7 Max. Standing 40 inches high, they’re suitable for taller riders, too.

NIU KQi2 Pro Cockpit

Possibly the only area where the KQi2 Pro falls short is in the length of its deck. Measuring 18.5 inches long it’s on the short side, but there’s enough room for your feet to adopt a comfortable L-shaped stance. Besides, the generous slathering of an ultra-grippy griptape makes you feel planted on the scooter at all times.

NIU KQi2 Pro Deck

As for the rest of the sleek and minimalist frame, it’s both lightweight and durable with an IP54 water-resistance protecting it from light showers and splashes. The cable management, meanwhile, is excellent; the only visible wiring is the brake cable.

NIU KQi2 Pro Beautiful Chassis

Moving on to the KQi2 Pro’s performance, the obvious place to start is with its 48V 300W motor. This packs 33% more torque than the 36V variants that you’ll usually find on scooters in its price category. This equates to a higher peak power output of 600W and a faster acceleration.

NIU KQi2 Pro Chassis in Motion

Consequently, the Pro can hit a plucky top speed of 17 mph, while it takes 6.0 seconds to hurtle from 0-15 mph. This makes it 13% quicker out of the blocks than the Turboant X7 Max.

NIU KQi2 Pro Rear Tire in Motion

Not to be outdone, the Pro’s 365Wh battery has the capacity for 25 miles on a single charge when being ridden at a slow and steady pace, or 17 miles if you’re putting the pedal to the metal. Once emptied, it takes just 7 hours to recharge.

NIU KQi2 Pro Frame

As a leading budget scooter with the perfect blend of pace and range, the Pro will inevitably prove a popular choice among commuters. Good job, then, that it hits all the right notes in the portability songbook.

NIU KQi2 Pro Folded

Weighing 41 lbs, it’s light enough to be carried up a couple flights of stairs, while its exceptionally simple, yet effective folding mechanism allows you to collapse it in just 3 seconds. Once folded, it’ll easily fit in your car trunk.

NIU KQi2 Pro Open Folding Mechanism

You’ll also want a comfortable ride when slaloming down city streets – once again, the KQi2 Pro delivers. Though it doesn’t have a suspension system (which is standard for its price), its chunky 10-inch tubeless tires do a great job of absorbing shocks and vibrations.

NIU KQi2 Pro Motor

Add in the fact that they maintain excellent traction while cornering, and you have a scooter that’s not only addictive to ride but promises the most plush riding sensation among all scooters in the sub-$400 class.

NIU KQi2 Pro Accelerating

And then we come to the Pro’s joker in the pack: its mobile app. With this, you can adjust the strength of the regen brakes to weak, medium, or strong, activate the digital lock, set a custom top speed, and record rides.

NIU KQi2 Pro Mobile App

I also can’t end this review without a nod to the halo headlight. It’s perhaps the defining feature, a design flourish that’s set to become an iconic staple of the NIU scooter series. It does an admirable job of lighting the way forward on dark nights.

NIU KQi2 Pro Lights

It’s quite mind-blowing that a scooter costing less than $400 can deliver such a well-versed package – but then again, this is a scooter that forces you to reassess what you thought was possible. Simple, elegant, and affordable, the NIU KQi2 Pro is one of the most-loved budget scooters.

NIU KQi2 Pro Stem and Tire

Further Information:

NIU KQi2 Pro Review

Best Under $450 - Longest Range

Turboant X7 Max

Summer Sale: $409.98 $599.98

Performance Report:

Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)

*Based on my tests and assessments

Turboant X7 Max Overview:

This titan of the budget scooter world is a welcome remake of the X7 Pro – and a testament to acting on customer feedback. While the Pro was celebrated for its removable battery and general all-around functionality, the Max has stolen the show by combining its successes with lots of exciting new features.

Turboant X7 Max Frame From Rear

For the vast majority of riders, the ideal electric scooter is a combination of practicality and reliability with a topping of fun factor. The Turboant X7 Max is exemplary in all three areas. It’s the perfect scooter for everyday use, whether you need it for your commute, daily errands, or a trip to the park at the weekend.

Turboant X7 Max Rear Sweeping Design

The Good:

The Bad:

Why I Recommend the Turboant X7 Max:

Some people may think that choosing a budget scooter means compromising on quality. The X7 Max is proof that they’re wrong.

Turboant X7 Max Sleek Frame

Take, for instance, its removable 36V 10Ah battery which delivers a maximum range of 32 miles (or 18 miles when ridden fast). With this unique feature, you can extend your range indefinitely with spare units in tow. Why cap yourself at A to B when you can bring C, D, and E into the equation?

Turboant X7 Max Battery Being Removed

Plus, it now comes with a key lock to prevent theft. Charging it is far more convenient, too.

Now, while the battery is a key component of the X7 Max’s appeal, it’s not the only thing it has to offer. This firecracker not only tops the charts for speed and acceleration in the sub-$450 category, but it’s also one of the top performers among a wider field of similarly-priced models (including those that are pricer).

Turboant X7 Max Motor

During my tests, I accelerated to 15 mph in 6.9 seconds before reaching its 20 mph top speed. New riders will be more than satisfied with its performance.

Wherever you look, the X7 Max is tailor-made to the rigors of fast-paced life. It’s the summation of a continual process that saw Turboant asking customers for feedback on their best-selling model, the X7 Pro. You see, Turboant hasn’t just released the X7 Max to try and peddle the sales of more units without delivering tangible improvements. Instead, they assessed all the areas that could be improved, and set on a mission to make it the best possible successor.

Turboant X7 Max Sleek Chassis

All of this goes some way in explaining why it’s the proud owner of several Electric Scooter Insider Awards.

The most noticeable improvements can be seen throughout its design. Here, the display has been refreshed with a brighter screen and larger icons/numbers, making it easier to read.

Turboant X7 Max Display

Elsewhere, the stem is now 2.5 inches taller, creating a 41-inch deck-to-handlebar height that’s been purposely designed to accommodate riders of all heights – both short and tall. Based on my tests, its proportions are suited to riders up to 6’4”.

Josh Testing the Turboant X7 Max

The frame, meanwhile, is 2.7 inches longer, giving you a little extra room to get comfortable – a quality further strengthened by the tapered deck. Plus, with a 275 lb load-bearing capacity, it can accommodate heavier riders.

Turboant X7 Max Deck

To put it simply: if there’s a more inclusive budget scooter out there, I’m yet to see it.

But there’s more. With plush 10-inch pneumatic tires, strong brakes (I stopped from 15 mph in 3.0 meters), and an ergonomically finessed cockpit, the X7 Max imbues a road-worthy level of shock absorption, control, and maneuverability.

Turboant X7 Max Handlebars

It comes with a high-mounted headlight and fender-embedded taillight, too, while the folding mechanism takes just seconds to operate.

Turboant X7 Max Folded Frame

With everything it has to offer, it's no surprise that the Turboant X7 Max is so popular. This sleek and sturdy workhorse is maximum gain for minimal financial pain. It offers outstanding value for money and has something for everyone, making it an ideal electric scooter for first-time riders.

Turboant X7 Max With Lights On at Night

Further Information:

Turboant X7 Max Review

Best Under $500 - Best Build Quality, Features & Most Reliable

VMAX VX5 Pro ST - Editor's Overall Pick

Summer Sale: $499.00 $599.00 – Get Extra $15 Off With Code: ESI

Performance Report:

Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)

*Based on my tests and assessments

VMAX VX5 Pro ST Overview:

When you come across a scooter that’s ranked as not just the best in one or two categories, but three, you know it has a lot going for it. Introducing the all-conquering VMAX VX5 Pro ST.

VMAX VX5 Pro Sleek Frame

In many ways, the Pro ST is a mirror image of its predecessor, the VX5 ST. This means an exquisite, blemish-free build, an impressive performance profile, and a design that has comfort and reliability seeping from every pore. The key differences are that the Pro ST comes with a 55% longer tested range, a superior lighting package complete with front and rear turn signals, and bigger 9-inch tires.

With VMAX’s two-year warranty and excellent customer support factored into the equation, no other sub-$500 scooter comes close. Put simply, its price:quality ratio is best-in-class.

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5 Pro's Acceleration

The Good:

The Bad:

Why I Recommend the VMAX VX5 Pro ST:

So, let’s unpack each of the VX5 Pro’s category wins, one by one.

First, there are its features. No other scooter priced under $500 combines 360-degree turn signals with an IPX6 water resistance rating, a regenerative braking system, a mobile app, a UL2272-certified battery, and a slick folding mechanism.

VMAX VX5 Pro Folded

The turn signals are nothing short of sensational. Built into the end of each handgrip – as well as the rear of the deck – they can be relied upon night or day. Unlike those found on far pricier Apollo models, they’re not vulnerable to damage if the scooter is dropped, either. Combined with the high-mounted headlight and fender-embedded taillight, the Pro ST is the only scooter in its price class to have such a collection, making it the most well-equipped for night rides.

VMAX VX5 Pro Turn Signals

Yet it’s not just when the sun goes down that the Pro ST performs. Thanks to its highly-protective IPX6 water-resistance rating, it’s immune to downpours, while the grippy tread on the tires promises traction come rain or shine.

VMAX VX5 Pro Tire

The regenerative braking system, meanwhile, is unlike any other setup that you’ll find in the sub-$500 category. The fact it dovetails with a front drum to deliver a 2.0-meter stopping distance from 15 mph is outrageously impressive. Better yet, it can be operated independently, allowing you to recycle kinetic energy back into the battery for longer rides whilst simultaneously reducing wear and tear on the drum. Plus, the mobile app allows you to adjust its strength.

VMAX VX5 Pro Drum Brake

From the app, you can also control your rate of acceleration, remotely lock and unlock the scooter, switch between eco and sport mode, change the metric (imperial or metric), and select kick-to-start or zero-start mode. You can even keep an eye on your performance stats in real time, including the scooter’s voltage, speed, electrical current, motor power, battery power, controller temperature, distance traveled, and total mileage. Again, this is an exceptionally rare feature to find on a budget model.

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5 Pro Mobile App

As, too, is a UL2272-certified battery. With this stamp of quality, you can be reassured that the VX5 Pro ST has passed several tests for both fire safety and electrical hazards. This scores top marks for reliability. Based on my tests and assessment of its real-world range, you can expect it to keep the wheels rolling for 14.3 miles.

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5 Pro Up a Hill

This high degree of build quality can be seen across the rest of its design. Take its geometry and dimensions, for example. These are often overlooked when choosing a scooter, but based on my many years of experience, I can confirm that they are details worth paying attention to – especially as they have a direct impact on ride quality.

VMAX VX5 Pro Handlebars

For starters, the handlebars are the widest among all similarly-priced models. In some cases, they are 33% wider, offering enhanced balance and control. Then there’s the tall stem that’s positioned at a 9-degree angle to the deck and measures 40.2 inches in height. Together, these amplify your stability and provide a foundation that’s suitable for riders of all heights – even for those up to 6’3” (based on my measurements).

VMAX VX5 Pro Handlebars and Stem

Elsewhere, the cockpit – which is made up of tactile grips, easy-to-reach controls, and a smooth thumb throttle – sets the standard for ergonomic design.

VMAX VX5 Pro Throttle and Controls

A word must also go to the immaculate cable management which helps to maintain a clean-cut silhouette, its elongated fenders that hug the tires to prevent splashback, and its near-silent motor. Without sounding like too much of a fanboy, I tried to find something that I didn’t like about the VX5 Pro, yet the only component that I thought could be improved was the display since it gets washed out in direct sunlight. Despite this minor gripe, everything else screams premium.

VMAX VX5 Pro On a Sidewalk

With its premium-grade build and unparalleled feature set, it’s easy to see why I rate the VX5 Pro ST so highly, but the real clincher is just how reliable VMAX is as a brand. I’ve seen budget brands peddle the sales of cheap scooters without having the proper post-purchase support, meaning you get stuck with a faulty scooter and send emails back and forth trying to get help or repairs (trust me, I’ve spoken to people who have had bad experiences with miscellaneous brands). Thankfully, this is not the case with VMAX – their approach is nothing short of excellent.

VMAX VX5 Pro Stem

Take for example VMAX’s two-year warranty. Not only does this provide double the amount of cover compared to rival brands (i.e. just 12 months), but they also take care of all the shipping fees related to warranty claims. Here, it’s important to note that almost all other retailers and brands charge you for shipping fees.

Beyond this, they operate a network of repair shops across the United States and Canada, making it far easier to get help than dealing with international support. And, if all of that wasn’t enough, there’s also no restocking fee. Sometimes, budget brands can be sneaky and charge hefty 25% fees for returning a scooter.

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5 Pro

At the risk of sounding like a broken record player, I highly recommend the VMAX VX5 Pro ST – I wouldn’t be doing my job properly if I didn’t.

Further Information:

VMAX VX5 Pro Review

Comparison

Compare Sub-$500 Electric Scooters

The table below compares the best sub-$500 electric scooters across their performance, specs, price, and more.
Scroll right to see more
Turboant M10 LiteTurboant M10 LiteNIU KQi2 ProNIU KQi2 Pro Durable FrameTurboant X7 MaxTurboant X7 Max FrameVMAX VX5 Pro STVMAX VX5 Pro Sleek Frame
Where to BuyTurboantNIUTurboantVMAX
Price$299.98$399$409.98$499
AwardBest Under $350 / Best Low BudgetBest Under $400 / Best DesignBest Under $450 / Longest RangeBest Under $500 / Best Build Quality, Features & Most Reliable
ReviewReviewReviewReviewReview
Performance
Top Speed16 mph17 mph20 mph18 mph
0-15 MPH7.8 s6.0 s6.9 s6.7 s
Max Range15.5 miles25 miles30 miles17 miles
Tested Range10 miles17 miles18 miles14.3 miles
Braking2.9 meters5.2 meters3.0 meters2.0 meters
Max Incline15 degrees8.5 degrees15 degrees14 degrees
Optimal Incline7 degrees6 degrees9 degrees8 degrees
Specs
Motor36V 350W48V 300W36V 350W36V 400W
ThrottleThumbThumbThumbThumb
Battery36V 6.6Ah FST48V 7.6Ah FST36V 10Ah FST36V 7.8Ah FST
Charge Time5 hours7 hours6 hours4 hours
BrakesDisc, ElectronicDrum, RegenDisc, ElectronicDrum, Regen
SuspensionNoneNoneNoneNone
Tire Size8.5 inch10 inch10 inch9 inch
Tire TypeAir (Inner-Tube)Air (Tubeless)Air (Inner-Tube)Air (Tubeless)
Weight30.9 lbs41 lbs34 lbs35.9 lbs
Load220 lbs220 lbs275 lbs265 lbs
FoldabilityFolds at StemFolds at StemFolds at StemFolds at Stem
LightsHeadlight, TaillightHeadlight, TaillightHeadlight, TaillightHeadlight, Taillight, Turn Signals
IP RatingIP54IP54IPX4IPX6
TerrainStreetStreetStreetStreet
Testing & Analysis

How Did I Test the Scooters?

Not all cheap electric scooters are made equal, and because of this, they can vary in performance. Some outperform their budget price tags while others can be poorly built, rickety, and unreliable.

To ensure that each scooter featured in this list is worthy of its place, I made sure to only include the models that delivered the highest levels of performance. I did this through a series of tests, which you can read more about below.

Electric Scooters That I Tested:

Click through the photo carousel to see all of the scooters that I tested for this guide.

Performance Tests:

Top Speed & Acceleration

Before I explain the testing process, it’s important to understand that sub-$500 electric scooters have small motors and as a result, slow top speeds.

Nevertheless, I still wanted to collect comparable data to identify the top performers and so, where possible, I recorded the time that it took for each to reach 15 mph.

Josh Testing the Hiboy S2 Pro

These tests were conducted on a dry, flat road, whilst I also ensured that I had each scooter set to its fastest mode. Their tires were pumped up, and their batteries were fully charged, too.

Range

Every electric scooter spouts a maximum range, but it's important to not let these figures sway your judgment.

Maximum ranges are manufacturer-quoted and based on best-case riding conditions. These typically include a light 165 lb rider, flat terrain, and riding in the slowest setting. The issue with this is that it's not realistic. Here’s where my tests come in.

Josh Riding the Turboant M10

I reported on how each scooter performed under real-world conditions – including me as a 190-197 lbs rider with periods of acceleration, cruising, and multiple stops.

Further Information:

How I Test Real-World Range

Hill Climbing

I won’t beat around the bush, budget scooters aren’t good at climbing hills. If you live in a hilly environment, you need a model with more power. If this sounds like you, check out my guide to the best hill climbers.

Josh's Feet on the Turboant M10 Lite Deck

I did, however, test each scooter up varying inclines. To be frank, there was no discernable difference between the models since they all had similar-sized motors.

Braking

The braking performance of budget scooters varies wildly.

To report on this, I used a measuring tape to record their stopping distance from 15 mph. For the tests to qualify, they were conducted on a dry, smooth road, and had to bring me to a controlled stop without skidding.

Josh Braking on the Horizon V2

Based on my tests, the average stopping distance of all 10 scooters was 4.4 meters, while some stopped quicker at 2.0 meters and others longer at 6.0 meters.

Further Information:

How I Test Braking Performance

Shock Absorption

When assessing shock absorption I typically test each scooter's suspension system, however, because almost all budget models are void of springs and swingarms, I chose to report on the cushioning that their tires provided.

Turboant X7 Max Pneumatic Tire

I tested models with both pneumatic and solid tires, and chose to only include those with air-filled variants in my top picks. These achieved the smoothest ride.

Ride Quality

To thoroughly assess the ride quality of each scooter, I paid particular attention to how their dimensions and geometry impacted handling. For instance, the wider the handlebars, the greater my control; the larger the space on the deck, the more room I had to find a natural riding stance; and the higher the deck-to-handlebar height, the better my posture (this also allowed me to identify the suitability of each scooter for riders of different heights).

Josh Testing an Electric Scooter's Handling in the Rain

Following this, I reported on the scooters that had the best distribution of weight across their frames, since these felt the most balanced.

Aside from my assessments of how each scooter’s design affected its ride quality, I also tested how each responded to different inputs. For example, was the throttle responsive or was there a degree of lag, and if I leaned into a corner, did the tires maintain traction.

Further Information:

How I Test Ride Quality

Design Assessments:

As is standard for every electric scooter that I review, each was subject to thorough assessments spanning 10 design categories. These included the cockpit, frame, deck, tires, portability, suitability, lights, extra features, dimensions, and build quality.

Cityrider Frame

Reliability:

Over my many years of testing scooters, I've seen budget brands peddle the sales of cheaply made models with poor post-purchase support. So, I made it my mission to select the brands and models that I felt were most reliable.

To make these assessments, I not only reported each scooter's ability to withstand wear and tear, but I also compared warranty policies, customer support, and sneaky restocking fees for returns/refunds.

Josh With A Selection of the Tested Scooters

Together, this helped me to identify the scooters that were high in quality and performance, as well as brands that could be trusted.

Value For Money:

To identify the scooters that had the best price:quality:performance ratios, I reviewed each relative to its price. For example, if a scooter cost $300, I compared it to similarly-priced rivals (i.e. $250-$350).

Josh With Turboant M10, as well as X7 Max and V8

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.

ScooterPriceReal-World Range
Turboant X7 Max
$409.98
18.6 mph
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
$499
17.4 mph
NIU KQi2 Pro
$399.00
16.3 mph
Turboant M10 Lite
$299.98
15.8 mph

Acceleration (0-15 MPH)

Ordered from fastest to slowest – Learn about how I test acceleration.


ScooterPrice0-15 MPH (Seconds)
NIU KQi2 Pro
$399.00
6.0 s
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
$499
6.7 s
Turboant X7 Max
$409.98
6.9 s
Turboant M10 Lite
$299.98
7.8 s

Realistic Range (Riding Fast)

Ordered from longest to shortest range – Learn about how I test real-world range.


ScooterPriceReal-World Range
Turboant X7 Max
$409.98
18 miles
NIU KQi2 Pro
$399.00
17 miles
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
$499
14.3 miles
Turboant M10 Lite
$299.98
10 miles

Braking (From 15 MPH)

Ordered from shortest to longest stopping distance – Learn about how I test braking performance.


ScooterPriceBraking From 15 MPH
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
$499
2.0 meters
Turboant M10 Lite
$299.98
2.9 meters
Turboant X7 Max
$409.98
3.0 meters
NIU KQi2 Pro
$399.00
5.2 meters
Change Log

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 sub-$500 electric scooters. Learn more about my editorial policy.

Josh Frisby
Josh Frisby

From basic budget and feature-packed commuters to all-terrain trailblazers and ultra-performance behemoths, I've spent the last 5 years testing every type of electric scooter. All of the scooters that I review are put through a rigorous review process so that I can clearly distinguish where one is better or worse than another. See how I test electric scooters or check out my guide to the best electric scooters. Contact me anytime: josh@electricscooterinsider.com

Electric Scooter Insider
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