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Best Electric Scooters Under $500 (I Tested 10 & Selected 3)

Top Picks: Best Electric Scooters Under $500

After testing 10 of the most popular sub-$500 electric scooters, I hand-selected the 3 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.

VMAX VX5 Pro Sleek Frame
Best Build Quality, Features & Most Reliable
Editor's Overall Pick
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
Holiday Sale: $449.00 $499.00 – Get Extra $15 Off With Code: ESI
VMAX VX5 Reliable Frame
Best Value For Money
VMAX VX5 ST
Holiday Sale: $299.00 $449.00 – Get Extra $15 Off With Code: ESI
Turboant M10 Lite
Best Low Budget
Turboant M10 Lite
Holiday Sale: $279.98 $399.98

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Best Low Budget

Turboant M10 Lite

Holiday Sale: $279.98 $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 Value For Money

VMAX VX5 ST

Holiday Sale: $299.00 $449.00 – Get Extra $15 Off With Code: ESI
VMAX VX5 Reliable Frame

Performance Report:

Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)

*Based on my tests and assessments

VMAX VX5 ST Overview:

This titan of the budget scooter world is a testament to the VX5’s Swiss-founded roots.

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5

For most riders, the ideal electric scooter combines practicality and reliability with a topping of fun factor. The VX5 is exemplary in all three areas. It’s perfect for everyday use, whether you need it for your commute, daily errands, or a trip to the park at the weekend.

There are no superfluous features, it has a competitive performance profile, and the best design, build, and warranty among all the scooters that I’ve tested in the sub-$450 class. Together with VMAX’s well-received customer support, the VX5 ST goes above and beyond the competition to put a firm tick in every box.

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5 on a Road

The Good:

The Bad:

Why I Recommend the VMAX VX5 ST:

You’d be forgiven for thinking that a scooter costing less than $450 wouldn't exactly flirt with perfection. Well, it’s my pleasure to inform you that you’d be wrong. The VX5 is a prime example of how budget scooters can still promise excellent build quality.

VMAX VX5 Chassis and Tire

You see, while many budget brands – like Turboant – buy prebuilt scooters from various manufacturers and slap their logos on the frames, VMAX owns their manufacturing facility – meaning you get a unique scooter with a proprietary build, design, and feature set.

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5 Handling

From its splashback-eliminating fenders and highly protective IPX6 water-resistance rating to its immaculate cable management and expertly crafted geometry, it’s the epitome of what you’d expect from a Swiss manufacturer.

VMAX VX5 Deck

But that’s not all that the VX5 has going for it. Armed with wider-than-normal handlebars, a grippy deck, a 9-degree rake angle, and a 40.2-inch deck-to-handlebar height, this is a scooter that guarantees control, balance, and maneuverability. In fact, no other model in its price class can match the VX5 when it comes to ride quality.

VMAX VX5 Handlebars

Factor in a pair of 8.5-inch tubed tires that absorb the majority of shocks and vibrations from the road, whilst also supplying best-in-class traction, and the VX5’s comfort and handling are superior to the rest of the similarly-priced scooters that I tested alongside it.

VMAX VX5 Pneumatic Tire

The story remains the same when we switch the focus to power, with the VX5 clocking 17.4 mph in my speed tests, and achieving an acceleration rate that’s, on average, 11% quicker than its competitors (6.7 seconds to 15 mph vs 7.5 seconds).

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5 Top Speed

Then there’s its battery power. Unlike the rest of the sub-$450 scooters that I tested, the VX5 allows you to select from three variants – the LT, ST, and GT – each with a bigger battery than the last. Since this guide is focused on budget models, I chose the ST which has a 36V 7.8Ah battery, a maximum range of 17 miles, and a real-world range of 14.3 miles. Compared to its main rivals, this is competitive, while the UL2272-certified battery is yet another mark of the quality on offer (it’s passed several tests for fire safety and electrical hazards).

Josh Testing the VMAX VX5 Ride Quality

Perhaps the biggest surprise can be found in the braking department. Now, ordinarily, you’d expect the VX5’s performance to align with the 4.7-meter average stopping distance of its similarly-priced rivals, yet here, the front drum and rear regen brakes brought me to a stop from 15 mph in just 2.0 meters. What’s more, the strength of the regenerative brake can be adjusted via the mobile app – another feature that’s incredibly rare to find on a scooter of its price.

VMAX VX5 Drum Brake

Via the app, you can also adjust the intensity of your acceleration, remotely lock and unlock the scooter, turn the lights on or off, switch between eco and sport mode, change the metric (imperial or metric), and select kick-to-start or zero-start mode.

VMAX VX5 Mobile App

Being an everyday model, you’ll also be happy to hear that it’s supremely portable. The stem lever takes just seconds to operate, and once folded, its 35.9 lbs weight makes it easy to carry. Plus, with dimensions that measure 42.9 (L) x 21.3 (W) x 19.3 (H) inches, it's small enough to fit under an office desk or in the trunk of your car.

VMAX VX5 Folded Frame

Finally, a word on VMAX as a brand. I have nothing but praise for its two-year warranty – which is longer and more comprehensive than what you’ll find with other manufacturers. To put this into perspective, it’s twice as long as Turboant’s policy, while VMAX’s customer service is the best among all budget brands.

VMAX VX5 Pro Lights

Best Build Quality, Features & Most Reliable

VMAX VX5 Pro ST - Editor's Overall Pick

Holiday Sale: $449.00 $499.00 – 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 cheaper sibling, 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. As previously mentioned, this is 55% longer than the tested range offered by the VX5 LT.

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 LiteVMAX VX5 STVMAX VX5 Reliable FrameVMAX VX5 Pro STVMAX VX5 Pro Sleek Frame
Where to BuyTurboantVMAXVMAX
Price$279.98$299$449
AwardBest Low BudgetBest Value For MoneyBest Build Quality, Features & Most Reliable
ReviewReviewReviewReview
Performance
Top Speed16 mph18 mph18 mph
0-15 MPH7.8 s6.7 s6.7 s
Max Range15.5 miles17 miles17 miles
Tested Range10 miles14.3 miles14.3 miles
Braking2.9 meters2.0 meters2.0 meters
Max Incline15 degrees14 degrees14 degrees
Optimal Incline7 degrees8 degrees8 degrees
Specs
Motor36V 350W36V 400W36V 400W
ThrottleThumbThumbThumb
Battery36V 6.6Ah FST36V 7.8Ah FST36V 7.8Ah FST
Charge Time5 hours4 hours4 hours
BrakesDisc, ElectronicDrum, RegenDrum, Regen
SuspensionNoneNoneNone
Tire Size8.5 inch8.5 inch9 inch
Tire TypeAir (Inner-Tube)Air (Inner-Tube)Air (Tubeless)
Weight30.9 lbs35.9 lbs35.9 lbs
Load220 lbs265 lbs265 lbs
FoldabilityFolds at StemFolds at StemFolds at Stem
LightsHeadlight, TaillightHeadlight, TaillightHeadlight, Taillight, Turn Signals
IP RatingIP54IPX6IPX6
TerrainStreetStreetStreet
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.

ScooterPriceTop Speed
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
$449
17.4 mph
VMAX VX5 ST
$299
17.4 mph
Turboant M10 Lite
$279.98
15.8 mph

Acceleration (0-15 MPH)

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

ScooterPrice0-15 MPH (Seconds)
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
$449
6.7 s
VMAX VX5 ST
$299
6.7 s
Turboant M10 Lite
$279.98
7.8 s

Realistic Range (Riding Fast)

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

ScooterPriceReal-World Range
VMAX VX5 Pro ST
$449
14.3 miles
VMAX VX5 ST
$299
14.3 miles
Turboant M10 Lite
$279.98
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
$449
2.0 meters
VMAX VX5 ST
$299
2.0 meters
Turboant M10 Lite
$279.98
2.9 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

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