Comparison / 20 electric scooters tested September 2023 – Numériques, electric scooter (video) – Buying guide – UFC -Que Choisir
Electric scooter (video)
Catadiopters, braking systems, position lights and sound warning are all compulsory characteristics for electric scooters. Traffic can be done on a bike path or on the road in certain cases. Rolling on the sidewalks is subject to regulations depending on the town hall and must be done at the walking speed of a pedestrian. Numériques has tested and compared many models such as Xiaomi, E-Twow, Z, Ninebot or Onemile electric scooters for you.
Comparison / 20 electric scooters tested September 2023
Urban mobility sets up at the time of intermodality. In addition to public transport, bikes (classic or electric), electric scooters, arise as an alternative for daily trips.
Motorized personal movement machines, as the highway code now appoints them, are largely represented by electric scooters. After invading the sidewalks with free service offers, the scooters were caught by legislators. The circulation of these devices is now well supervised in particular for their speed which cannot exceed 25 km/h. Exit the survitaminated racing cars which exceeded 50 km/h, except for exclusive use on a private road.
Catadiopters, braking systems, position lights and sound warning are all compulsory characteristics for electric scooters. Traffic can be done on a bike path or on the road in certain cases. Rolling on the sidewalks is subject to regulations depending on the town hall and must be done at the walking speed of a pedestrian. Numériques has tested and compared many models such as Xiaomi, E-Twow, Z, Ninebot or Onemile electric scooters for you.
Electric scooter (video)
In a few years, electric scooters have conquered the bitumen of major cities. Practical and fun, they constitute an interesting means of daily transport in addition to usual transport or for fairly short journeys. There are many models, the varied options and the very wide price range. Here is what you need to know before choosing yours.
- 1. A budget of 250 to 1,300 €
- 2. Dozens of brands
- 3. Weight and template
- 4. Autonomy and speed
- 5. Lithium or lead battery
- 6. Engine in the wheel or belt transmission
- 7. Comfort elements
- 8. Different management systems
- 9. CE approval and standard
- 10. Guarantee
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To allow
A budget of 250 to 1,300 €
There are electric scooters from 250 €, but these are unpowering models, not always solid or rather intended for children. If you are looking for a reliable, light and enduring adult model, the budget to devote will be more important, between 500 and € 1,300. In this price range, the options are varied.
Dozens of brands
The German company Walberg Urban Electrics revolutionized the electric scooter in the early 2010s by launching the first compact and foldable model, the Egret One. Others followed, such as SXt Scooters, Etwow or Scorp’it. Today, dozens of brands compete. But these are often importers of the same scooters made in China, so that we find more or less the same models in several of them. The essential micro mobility scooter brand has also launched a few years ago and now markets a full range.
Weight and template
Some electric scooters are bulky, while others can go unnoticed. Several elements influence the weight and template of these devices: chassis material, tray width, battery type, engine, cable, piloting and braking systems … In the end, the weight reaches 10 to 16 kg, limit everything just acceptable to be transported in the metro or on the train. Micro Mobility and Evo Spirit achieve a feat with models weighing less than 8 kg (respectively the E-Micro One and the CCL).
Good to know. If your scooter is too heavy and you break down, you will not be able to use it as a conventional scooter.
Autonomy and speed
A good electric scooter offers a range of 20 to 25 km and allows to drive at approximately 25 km/h (maximum speed authorized by the regulations on electric assistance bikes). Beware of models displaying a speed of 35 km/h: this look is not only dangerous, but also prohibited (scooters are not yet subject to any own regulations, they are tolerated at 25 km/h on cycle paths). A good scooter recharges on a sector outlet in 3 to 5 hours. Autonomy and speed depend on the power of the engine and the battery, but also on the route (climbs/descents) and the user template. A person of 80 kg that rises daily the famous Côte des Gardes, in Meudon (92), will have to recharge their scooter more frequently than a star dancer who descends her. Manufacturers all mention a maximum charging weight, 90 to 120 kg in general.
Lithium or lead battery
The battery is essential on an electric scooter, it is also the most expensive component. There are still voluminous lead batteries on certain models (especially intended for children), but the lithium battery (Li-ion, Li-po) is the most frequent on the transportable scooters (foldable). More enduring, lighter and faster to recharge, they are logically better suited. Monitor the tension (V) and the capacity (Ah): 24 V and 8 Ah are a minimum for a scooter (less demanding than an electric bike).
Engine in the wheel or belt transmission
There are two types of engine: nestled in the wheel (front or rear depending on the model) or, less frequently, located under the tray. From now on, manufacturers most often integrate a “brushless” type engine (“without brooms”), which requires no maintenance. The cheaper models are satisfied with “brushed” motors, less powerful but whose implementation is simpler (they operate in direct current, and not alternating in several phases like brushless motors). For transmission, some scooters incorporate a belt, which wears out over time. Belt scooters are generally faster in climbs, but also more bulky. Engine power is not a criterion of choice alone.
Comfort elements
Several parameters influence the comfort of an electric scooter:
- The platform, more or less wide.
- Large wheels (200 mm) can be more stable than small (125-150 mm), but this is not always the case.
- The inflatable tires are more comfortable (you can feel less the pavers, for example), but the punctures can spoil the pleasure. With full tires, no problem. Prefer still the gum with smooth, slippery plastic, especially in rainy weather. There are also giant electric scooters, with notched tires, hybrids between cycling and scooters (read our decryption on the different types of device), to be considered rather in the context of outdoor walks.
- Mudguards will limit splashes on wet ground.
- Check that the handlebars are adjustable to a height that suits you.
- Some models integrate lighting (essential to be visible at night, equip yourself in all cases of bicycle LED), a horn, or a hook to transport a bag.
- In general, a counter indicates the level of the battery, the speed, the total mileage, but some devices are happening (see the main models of available electric scooters).
Good to know. In the eyes of the law, the scooters sold with a saddle are not considered as scooters, but as electric scooters, therefore having to be insured, equipped with mirrors and used with a helmet.
Different management systems
Acceleration is generally controlled by a trigger (index or thumb) or a handle, as on a scooter. On E-Micro, a sensor makes it possible to detect the user’s thrust and maintains the drive-in energy (it is an electrical assistance model: it is necessary to push to move forward).
To comply with the regulations, some models offer a “sidewalk” mode that bridles speed at 6 km/h.
To brake, there are mechanical and electronic systems. The first (disc brakes, drum) are activated by a brake handle, as on a bike. The second, more frequent, take different shapes: trigger or support on a brake located on the rear wheel, as on a conventional scooter. On some models, this electronic brake also acts as a traditional friction brake. It is common for the engine to be able to recharge the battery during the deceleration phases (energy recovery brake). For a user on the mixed course, 10 % of the overall autonomy would thus be assumed by the brake.
CE approval and standard
Some electric scooters are approved: prohibited from sidewalk, they must ride on the roadway. The user loses all flexibility linked to the scooter since wearing the helmet is compulsory and that they must be registered, insured, equipped with a saddle, mirrors, etc.
Approved or not, the scooters sold in France must carry the CE marking, which assumes that they meet the provisions in force (on the manufacturer’s declaration).
These European guidelines have not been defined specifically for electric scooters. Larger, for example, they concern the battery charger (Directive 73/23/EEC) or the placing rules (2006/42/EC directive)). Professionals are currently working on the definition of ad hoc standardization, which could serve as a starting point for clear uses regulations.
Guarantee
The law requires manufacturers of electric scooters (like any other product) to assume a legal compliance guarantee of 2 years. Before March 18, 2016 and in the event of a problem within 6 months after purchase, the consumer does not have to prove that the failure comes from a defect that existed before the sale of the product (articles. 211-1 and following of the Consumer Code). From this date, this period (during which it is up to the professional to prove that the defect did not exist) will be brought to 2 years. Be careful however, consumables are not affected by this guarantee and some discourteous manufacturers consider the battery as a consumable. Then count between 300 and 400 € depending on the model for a lithium battery. Serious manufacturers guarantee the minimum 1 year battery.
An electric scooter according to your needs
I want to make the link between my different public transport
You are looking to save time on the last kilometer of your journey, to reach your station or to ensure correspondence between a metro and a tram ? Favor a light scooter, easy to fold and easily transportable, even if it means sacrificing your comfort a little.
I have to make my entire scooter trip
The choice will depend on the ground. If you cross a lot of paved roads, opt for a tire scooter, much more comfortable than hard wheels. If the elevation is important, perhaps you have an interest in opting for a belt scooter. But think carefully because these models require more maintenance and are heavier. In any case, if your journey exceeds 5 or 6 km, a bicycle (why not electric) seems better suited. Beyond that, you risk finding the time a little long and will have to transport your charger (unless you invest in a second, read our advice).
Best electric scooter: comparison ranking of the top 6
Are you looking for the electric scooter that will accompany your daily life ? It is not always easy to find your favorite with the tons of choice you have. To help you know how to choose your electric scooter, we publish our top 6 best electric scooters approved by our testers and our scooters validated by our customers.
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P AS WANT to read the entire article ? Here is a quick access to the best electric scooter according to our complete comparison:
- Boomer Pro electric scooter: the best value for money
- Slide electric scooter: a light and powerful model
- Runway Plus electric scooter: top autonomy
- Blaster electric scooter: very good power
- Dualtron Mini electric scooter: top efficiency
- Segway-Ninebot electric scooter: a great classic
Comparison of the best electric scooter of the moment
1) Boomer Pro electric scooter: the best value for money
If you have to retain something from this electric scooter, it is its versatility. Indeed, the boomer pro is an electric scooter which should suit most profiles. Worthy heiress of the Wegoboard barooder 3, it is given the best note for its value for money. A real Passepartout for the city, its 500 W engine, its 45 km autonomy and its maximum speed of 35 km/h should take you everywhere in an urban environment for professional or personal life. The boomer pro scooter will bring you everything you need with excellent manufacturing quality that guarantees very good sustainability. This Wegoboard model benefits from complete equipment and meets the requirements of the regulations in force such as lighting, sound warnings as well as bridle at 25 km/h. The tires are reinforced with full tires that will prevent you from running, no matter what you are riding. She benefits from excellent braking with drum brakes at the front and rear disc brakes. Depending on your profile, you will have the choice between different profiles (eco, comfort, pedestrian or sport) that will restrict the speed of the scooter according to your selection. Driving is flexible and pleasant. The comfort of this electric scooter is there, which still contributes to the good note of this two-wheeled vehicle. Available in two colors (gray or black), our crush leans for the darker. A must have !
The strong points
- An almost unbeatable quality/price ratio;
- Impeccable manufacturing quality;
- Optimal speed with profiles to select;
- Autonomy at the rendezvous for large users.
The weak spots
- A bit heavier than other models;
- That two colors available.
2) Slide electric scooter: a light and powerful model
The Wegoboard electric scooter specialist has released an electric scooter model that is part of our top without difficulty with a light and powerful model that will suit many wallets. The Slide electric scooter will be the model you need if you want to enjoy a weight/performance/optimal comfort ratio. If you know the manufacturer well, you know how much trott have an excellent manufacturing quality. On the equipment side, we were not without good surprises with a great color LCD screen that displays useful information for the driver. Depending on your mood or the situation, you can choose three speed profiles: eco, comfort or sport. The company is serious and fully meets regulatory requirements with this Slide. On the battery side, this electric scooter will allow you to travel about 30 km without having to recharge it. Its 8.5 -inch size tires will be ideal for further improving the sustainability of this scooter.
The strong points
- Light;
- Powerful ;
- Excellent value ;
- Perfect for people who start and want a light scooter.
The weak spots
- Autonomy a little below.
3) Runway Plus electric scooter: top autonomy
Make way for the Wegoboard Runway Plus: an electric scooter with a sleek and easily foldable design that should appeal to many people. The manufacturer has optimized its old model by enlarging the size of the wheels, increasing the battery life (35 km) and providing more comfort. Its sober and elegant design is offered in black with red reminders. The Runway Plus of course responds to the regulations in force in France concerning the different technical characteristics that an electric scooter must have. The weight of the scooter is 15 kg. It is lighter than its competitors in addition to its 700 W engine which will allow you to go up to 25 km/h without worry. You can easily set up the slopes that pose the most problems in urban areas. The Wegoboard Runway + displays three speed modes: comfort, sport and eco that should suit you according to situations and your desires. This two city wheels has a sober and effective dashboard. This displays all the most important information such as speed, battery level, selected driving mode or if there are anomalies. Dust and water resistant, this electric scooter is IP54 guaranteed for good sealing. The front brake is a brake with KERS energy recuperator and the rear brake is a disc brake for maximum safety in the case of significant braking. Tires are 10 inches and are reinforced for greater durability.
The strong points
- Excellent autonomy;
- Light weight for an electric scooter;
- Good resistance to splash and water projections;
- Excellent braking system;
- Manufacturing quality at the rendezvous.
The weak spots
- A little long charging time (normal given autonomy);
- Lack of choice in colors.
4) Blaster electric scooter: very good power
Watch out for the eyes, we arrive with a high -end scooter that will take you off. This is the Wegoboard Blaster, an overpowered machine where all the characteristics are better than any other scooter.
If you have the means to pay this perfect electric scooter (€ 1,989), it is impossible to be disappointed with this model, because all the indicators are green. First of all, its autonomy is quite incredible since you can make about 80 km (battery 21Ah 60V) without the electric scooter going even with two powerful 1,200 W engines. Question speed too, it will be difficult to do better, because this racing car can reach a top speed of 75 km/h. Again, depending on your mood, you can choose three types of profiles: eco, sport and comfort where you can activate 1 or 2 motors on this electric scooter. Water and dust resistant, you may use it in rainy weather. Its weight of 33 kg may not allow you to transport it easily. That said, it will provide you with excellent stability and excellent driving comfort. Wegoboard blaster is equipped with 10 -inch all -terrain wheels that will bring you everywhere. Perfect for town trips and Sunday walks. To desigate his scooter, WeGobard has bet on the sporting and futuristic side which is very consistent with the technical characteristics of the scooter. The electric scooter n ° 1 for people who have the budget.
The strong points
- Incredible engine power;
- Maximum “aberrant” speed;
- Autonomy of the unbeatable scooter;
- Is suitable for many types of terrain;
- Advanced functionality as the device load by USB;
- Impeccable braking.
The weak spots
- The price: about 2 to 3 times more expensive than “classic” electric scooters;
- Weight of 33kg therefore difficult to transport;
- Not for all types of profile, because it is a very powerful electric two wheels;
- Futuristic and sporty design: we like it or we don’t like.
5) Dualtron Mini electric scooter: at the top of efficiency
In our ranking of the best electric scooters, we find the Dualtron Mini. It is an effective scooter that offers its share of useful characteristics and features for urban trips and for small walks. Equipped with a 1000W engine, it will allow you to go up to 25 km/h without problem. Its 13A 52V battery will push this super machine two wheels for 40 km before having to recharge it. For people looking for good stability, the Dualtron Mini brings a 21 cm wide tray, which will ensure optimal comfort. To add an upper comfort layer during your trips, the electric scooter is equipped with two suspensions: one at the front and one at the rear. It will absorb shocks for a more stable and unlit driving. Super compact, this mini dualtron scooter will be perfect for people who will have to fold it regularly for their trips in transport. We open it and the farm without difficulty. If you ask yourself, you can be reassured, since this scooter fully meets regulatory requirements. It is equipped with good lighting (double front and rear LED) and its speed is well restored. The front and rear tires are 8.5 inch inflatable tires. You will also have the choice between several driving modes depending on the traffic and your desire for speed. This scooter is actually excellent value for money.
The strong points
- Excellent autonomy;
- Good stability and handling;
- An effective electric scooter;
- Easily foldable;
- Value for money.
The weak spots
- Weighs 21 kg;
- Not ultra-powerful;
- Manufacturing quality a bit below wegoboard.
6) Segway-Ninebot electric scooter: a great classic
Segway-Ninebot amply deserves its place in our ranking of the best electric scooters with its classic: Ninebot Kickscooter Max G30e II (we grant you, the name is complicated to remember). For connoisseurs, this scooter is the worthy replacement for the KickScooter G30 by providing new technologies and a reinforced mudguard with a sap locking system. This super well-studied design electric scooter combines everything that is best on the electric scooter market with ultra-interesting technologies. Indeed, this electric two wheels has an ecological energy recovery system to limit the waste of energy. All of this is coupled with smart battery management system which allows you to monitor battery performance. On the autonomy side, it is impossible to be disappointed since it will take 65 km to exhaust a recharge. The Ninebot Kickscooter Max G30e II is equipped with an IPX7 engine and an IPX5 central unit. Regarding the wheels, it is a slightly different system of other models that we know. These are Tubeless wheels that contain a protective gel. This guarantees excellent lifespan for wheels and reduces the risk of puncture. For the power and the engine of the electric scooter, you can climb slopes at 20 % without worry (it supports weights up to 100kg). It is a 350 W engine that you can push up to 700 W when you press the fungus.
The strong points
- Very large autonomy of 65km (one of the best autonomies on the market);
- Tubeless tires with layer of jelly;
- Design: our favorite;
- Ecological energy recovery system with Smart Battery Management System.
The weak spots
- Not the heaviest … but not the lightest;
- 6 hours of charging (compensated by excellent autonomy).
How to choose your electric scooter ?
You plan to buy an electric scooter, but you don’t know where to start. It’s normal. There is a lot of information to know before going to the checkout to make the right choice. In addition to our selection of the best scooters, you can focus your research on two important markers:
- Your needs ;
- Selection criteria.
For your needs, ask yourself the questions related to your goals and expectations. Why are you going to use the electric scooter ? Is it to go to work or to have fun ? Are you going to make long distances ? What type of terrain are you going to roll ? It often rains where you are going to roll ? Will you have to transport it often or not ? Are you going to have to take it in public transport ?
Regarding the selection criteria, there are many that we consider important as:
- The price;
- Manufacturing quality;
- The place of manufacture;
- Autonomy;
- Speed and power;
- Comfort.
We advise you to make a little note on a piece of paper to list all of this and take stock with your goals.
You now know how to choose your electric scooter.
What price to put in your electric scooter ?
Electric scooters are very effective two -wheeled vehicles for walking or using as a real means of transport. Following its boom, several manufacturers of this two -wheeled machine have emerged. The models have become of better quality with quality criteria to consider. The prices have stabilized. You can see very low prices (in the 200 to 300 €) as very high prices (more than 2000 €).
In our opinion, aim at the average to have good value for money. Indeed, through our tests, we observed that the best electric scooters were between € 400 and € 900 (not to mention the blaster which is a little wonder).
However, several criteria will come into account in the price of your electric scooter. Beyond the notoriety of the brand and the marketing side, these decisive criteria for the price are above all technical. Here they are :
- The quality and sustainability of the model: the selection of materials and the design of the product will change the price of the machine a lot;
- Technologies: As for segway models with its energy recycling system, technologies can influence the price of your 2 electric wheels;
- The battery: in addition to its quality, the battery life will also play a lot on the price of your scooter. Some fast charging technologies too;
- The duration of the warranty;
- Environmental aspect: Some brands highlight the ecological side of their product with manufacturing processes or more ecological materials that can increase the price of the electric scooter.
The best way to know how much you have to put in an electric scooter is to determine what is most important for you in all these criteria that vary the amount of the invoice.
A point on legislation around electric scooters
Since the great success of electric scooters, regulations have been imposed in time following many abuses in major cities. And yes ! Rolling in an electric scooter is not like rolling in a “classic” scooter. Thus, we have identified the important points on you on the laws concerning electric scooters.
You should know that electric scooters are considered “motorized personal movement vehicles” or EDPM.
For some time now, the maximum speed authorized on the public highway has been 25 km/h. Depending on the city in which you are, the scooters can be authorized on cycle paths and pedestrian areas (provided you drive at reduced speed) and even on traffic lanes. As the scooters must be equipped with lighting at the front and rear with a powerful braking system. In addition to that, the electric two -wheeled machine must have a horn to warn of the danger. Wearing the helmet is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended. More specifically, wearing helmet is not compulsory in agglomeration, but it is out of conurbation.
Regarding the use of mobile phone during driving, it is above all common sense. Know that this is prohibited. Even if it would be authorized, it would be strongly deepened and not recommended.
Another frequent question that is that of insurance. Since October 23, 2019, as the electric scooter has been considered an EDPM, insurance (civil liability, so when you engage your responsibility for physical or material damage caused to others) is therefore compulsory.
Many other small rules are added to all of this.
- Children under 12 cannot use an electric scooter;
- The use of unbridled electric scooters is strictly prohibited;
- You cannot use an electric scooter with headphones;
- For traffic at night, the use of a reflective vest is necessary;
- It is illegal to transport another person on the scooter;
- When you park your scooter, you should not bother the passage for passers -by. If a dedicated location is available, it is compulsory to park it in this place.
How an electric scooter is maintained ?
When you have an object of this value, it is always important to do regular maintenance to improve your lifespan. Indeed, although these two wheels represent a certain budget (which amply deserves it), do not consider that the electric scooters are indestructible. In addition, electric scooters are devices that can circulate on public roads. Therefore, beyond the question of the sustainability of your trott ‘, it is also a question of security for you and for the people around you when you circulate.
To this end, we advise you:
- To clean (especially in winter) your electric scooter to reduce the risk of premature corrosion and wear;
- Depending on the type of tire you have, do regular checks, especially inflation for more efficient and more secure driving;
- Take care of mobile parts by often lubricating them. This is the case of suspensions or even pivots;
- Check the operating condition of the brakes. Like a car, good brakes could avoid formidable problems;
- For the battery, realize that they also wear out naturally. You can slow down this process by avoiding letting it unload completely and avoiding continuing to load when the battery is full;
- For your safety and those of other road users, check the lighting and the horn frequently is recommended;
- Check if all the bolts and screws are not loosened by carrying out a regular general inspection.
In addition to all these maintenance rules for your electric scooter, do professional maintenance at least once a year. To completely know your EDPM, be sure to read the user manual which can sometimes reveal valuable maintenance advice.