6 Affordable Electric Scooter Models With Great Performance in 2021

If you’re here then you are probably on a tight budget or you’re a beginner looking for your very first electric scooter and don’t want to break the bank before knowing for sure it’s for you.

None the less, you are looking for a cheap electric scooter model that can provide you with enough power, distance, and comfort to get the job done. While still providing you with lots of fun for half the price.

Well, I would be lying to you if I said that finding an affordable electric scooter that still can provide you with tons of fun is hard.

Because it isn’t, at least not for you.

Now you are probably wondering: How can he say that?

-Because I did all the legwork and put together a few really good options for you to have a look at. And I did it with all the different ages of kids, teenagers, and adults in mind.

Remember the words “you get what you pay for.” Below are some really good cheap electric scooter options for the price tag but you cannot compare these to a top of the line model because that wouldn’t be fair. So remember to set your expectations according to what you are willing to pay.

Top 6 budget-friendly electric scooter models

Whatever your experience level, we have a scooter that will fit both your wallet and your needs. Below we’ve created a list of 5 really good and of course affordable electric scooter models that work perfectly as your first scooter or just a cheap alternative way to get back and forth to work every day and offer a comfortable smooth ride These scooters have no problems handling the weight of an adult and they provide you with good speed and distance per charge.

*All test data in the following reviews are done with a rider weight of 178 lbs, for kids scooters it is done with a rider weight of 52 lbs.

Xiaomi M365 – Best budget ride under $350

 

Xiaomi M365 is definitely the best model in the affordable electric scooters class. But it’s not just a good budget scooter, it’s the most sold electric scooter ever. There are cheaper alternatives but the m365 comes with everything a budget rider can ask for, and more.

Built by a company famous for creating affordable tech products that hold high quality you can hardly go wrong. You’ve probably seen it or one of its copy cats on the streets before. Yes, that’s how good of a design it has. So good other companies, even large ones like Segway, have gone with a similar appearance. Just check out our comparison between the Segway Max and the 365 pro, this scooter’s big brother.

The scooter has a rigid frame with a front-mounted 250W hub motor that enables you to reach a maximum speed of 15.5 mph. It has two different speed modes, beginner and advanced so that it can adapt to the user’s experience. The scooter has a large and strong 270Wh lithium ion battery that can propel you for up to 18.6 miles on a single charge.

It has a smart and easy-to-use folding mechanism that lets you fold it and be on your way within seconds. In my opinion it’s one of best foldable electric scooter models on the market. 

Safety features such as a bright headlight and a rear tail/brake light enable night time riding. An electric and disc brake combo provides you with enough braking power to stop the scooter within a couple of meters while riding at top speed.

A solid choice for both adults and kids alike and I promise you will fall in love with it just as I and everyone else has. Need I say more? If so, check out our latest comparison with both m365 scooters .

If you want some more power under your feet to take on inclines and accelerate better check out the Macwheel MX1 . If you don’t mind the more unfamiliar brand and a lot more power. It’s my number one choice for city riding these days. It has a more powerful motor of 350w, otherwise, everything is the same, including the price.

Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter, 18.6 Miles Long-range Battery, Up to 15.5 MPH, Easy Fold-n-Carry Design, Ultra-Lightweight Adult Electric Scooter (US…

• [SCOOTER REPAIR PROGRAM]- Launching of Repair Programme for M365 Mi Electric Scooter with the Hook Made of Aluminium Alloy. Contact Xiaomi Support for more information
• [EXTREMELY FAST AND LONG-RANGE BATTERY LIFE] – A 250W motor propels the e-scooter to a max speed of 15. 5 MPH. High capacity battery with a maximum travel range of up to 18. 6 miles under specific conditions

For an even deeper analysis of the m365 read our full review here .

Gotrax GXL V2 – Most bang for your buck under $300

If you’re looking to pay as little as possible for as much value as possible, then the Gotrax GXL v2 is definitely what you’re looking for. A reliable electric scooter that performs just as well in our tests as its pricier competing models. This is what makes it a great electric scooter for grown-ups , but also a very viable option for kids.

It comes packed with all you may need for a safe and enjoyable ride. It doesn’t deliver the most mind-blowing riding experience, but it gets the job done, and it does so very well.

Equipped with a 250w motor it delivers a top speed of 15.5 mph just as our #1 pick and a has a maximum distance per charge of 12.4 miles. 8.5″ pneumatic tires for sweet comfortable riding and it lets you stop on a dime with an electric and disc brake combo. This budget scooter has a lithium ion battery, can accommodate a rider weight of up to 220lbs and is a foldable scooter too. 

Simple scooter with all the features you need for daily riding needs for a fraction of the price.

Also read: Gotrax GXL Review – A price-worthy commuter from Gotrax or GoTrax GKS Electric Scooter review .

GOTRAX GXL V2 Commuting Electric Scooter – 8.5″ Air Filled Tires – 15.5MPH & 9-12 Mile Range – Version 2…

• Version 2 – Handbrake, Cruise Control, Disc brake, Reinforced Frame and Lock Mechanism
• 8. 5″ PNEUMATIC TIRES – Making the GXL the ultimate commuting scooter for overcoming treacherous city streets
• 250 WATT MOTOR – Our most powerful scooter yet, the GXL has a top speed of 15.5 MPH and has a 220 lbs weight capacity.

Swagtron 8 – The best teen and kid choice around

With an adjustable handlebar and a very slick, simple design, the Swagtron 8 has some serious output at only 14.4 lbs. A great teen and kid scooter with up to 15 mph of top speed and a maximum range of 10 miles per charge. That is some serious performance from such a lightweight and cheap scooter.

Equipped with solid 5.5-inch tires and a front suspension system it can handle even some of the rougher terrains without being too uncomfortable or you having to worry about getting a flat.

A plus for kids is that it has a rear friction brake that you can use with your foot, while also having an electric push-button brake. The foot brake is often preferable for younger riders. Also beneficial with its brakes it the positioning of the motor. With a rear-wheel drive, the rubber tears less and the braking is far smoother and safer.

The downside is that it doesn’t come equipped with lights, so you will want to buy your own lights to use if you’re going to ride after dark.

Swagtron Swagger 8 Folding Electric Scooter for Kids & Teens | Lightweight E-Scooter w/Kick-to-Start, Cruise Control | Adjustable Stem, Suspension,…

Powerful, quiet, solid – a whisper-quiet motor powers this motorized scooter up to 15 mph for 10 miles on a single 3-hour charge. And its ultra-durable frame, made from aerospace-grade aluminum, supports young riders up to 150 lb.

Razor Power Core E90 – A great bargainfor the very young riders

Razor is known to be one of the founders of the electric scooter launching their very first model way back in 2003. They have since then made a couple of small upgrades over the year, but it isn’t until later that they went ahead and introduced us to their first hub motor model, the E90 . These models give your kids superior torque and riding distance over the old-fashioned chain-driven models.

The E90 is a well-balanced model when it comes to performance and it will give your kids a really good riding experience. With its 10 mph top speed and an increased riding distance of 100% from the old models you can expect a maximum distance of 9-15 miles depending on the age/weight of the child.

In my opinion, this is one of the best rides you can buy for kids 5-10 years old and it comes with a respectable price tag too. Find it here on Amazon .

Razor Power Core E90 Electric Scooter – Pink

• Innovative Power Core technology features a 85-watt, maintenance-free, high-torque, hub motor that delivers smooth acceleration to up to 10 mph (16 km/h) with the push of the throttle
• Rechargeable 12V sealed lead-acid battery provides an extended ride time of up to 80 minutes of continuous use

Megawheels S5 – Low priced performer

Megawheels is a company I’ve had the pleasure to work with on a bunch of occasions and the company itself is great and has always had good customer support.

Now they have even lowered the price of their Megawheels s5 model which we tested fairly recently. It performed perfectly during our test and for a scooter in the mid $200 range you can hardly ask for more.

It comes with a 250w motor that provides it with a good maximum speed of 15.5 mph. It is in turn powered by a 36v 5.8Ah lithium battery that gives you a maximum distance per charge of 12 miles at best. I rode it in mixed conditions with quite a few hills and with my 176 lbs it provided a good 9 miles.

Right now my 6-year-old uses it daily and it has proven to be a very reliable ride now after months of use on its neck. It might not provide the same distance as the m365, but it makes up for its shortage at a much lower price.

And it has all the typical features you can expect, such as lightning, comfortable pneumatic tires and good reliable brakes. The only downside is the folding system, its a bit hard to get the latch opened when you want to fold it.

MEGAWHEELS S5X Electric Scooter, Up to 15.5 Miles Range, 8.5” Big Wheels，3 Gear Speed Mode 15.5 MPH TOP Speed ，for…

【Long Range Battery Life】A powerful 250W motor can propels the electric scooter to a max speed of 15.5 MPH, tackles steep 15% hills with ease. High capacity 7500 mAh with a maximum travel range of up to 15 miles under optimum conditions. Smart display shows current speed, battery life, speed modes. (Smart Battery Management System assures the battery safety and extends the battery life)

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Razor E300 – Always gets on the list

No guide would be acceptable if it doesn’t list the best that Razor has to offer, the E300 . It has been the flagship model of Razor scooters for many years and it still delivers a sweet and high performing ride to its buyers.

With a good top speed of 15 mph and 40 minutes of ride time(with my 178 lbs that’s between 7-9 miles) per charge, it sets itself up to be a very appealing choice for many budget users. Being the only one on the list with pneumatic tires, these 10-inch wheels provide you with a much less bumpy ride.

On the downside, it has a long recharge cycle of 12 hours and swapping out the large 2 x 12V 7Ah lead-acid batteries for a new set when you run out of juice isn’t really a viable option in my opinion. Other than the long charge time it does run louder since it is powered by a chain-driven motor. If you prefer to be seated while riding you can always get the E300S for increased comfort.

A favorite amongst kids 10-years+ given the increased weight capacity of 220 lbs.

Razor E300 Electric Scooter – White/Blue – FFP

• With its super-sized deck and frame, the Razor E300 electric scooter is ready to roll for teen and adult riders up to 220 pounds (100 kg)
• Powered by a 250-watt, high-torque, single-speed, chain-driven motor that delivers a top speed of up to 15 mph (24 km/h)

Things to consider for best deals

Luckily the electric scooter era has come to a place where price is really starting to reflect performance and quality more. Before you could get a very expensive scooter that promised you the world but delivered you a headache. This isn’t the case anymore, sure there are always going to be bad sellers but you’re here so you are already doing your best to eliminate the traps.

If you have a slim budget and are on the hunt for an affordable electric scooter there are a few things you definitely need to consider.

First, is Black Friday or Cyber Monday close? If so you want to first check out our curated list of Black Friday & Cyber Monday electric scooter deals . Otherwise, head on down and read our other suggestions.

What are you going to use the scooter for

You might be buying a cheap electric scooter for a number of different purposes. Some people like to use this mode of transportation want to ride because it is fun and enjoyable. Others like to use an electric kick scooter to commute to school or their office. You should start to think about your specific use case early in the buying process, this helps you eliminate models that won’t fulfill your desire. 

For example, maybe you’re a commuter and need an adult electric scooter with a bit more weight capacity because you need something to go back and forth to work. Then you have to consider how far your commute is and what type of surface you would be riding on. If you have to go very far, and by very far I mean 10 miles+, a cheap scooter won’t cut it. You will have to look into the more expensive top of the line motorized scooter that is specifically utilized as a commuter scooter. Generally these commuter scooter models utilize a pneumatic tire and disc brake setup which provide a smooth ride and are a foldable electric scooter so you don’t take up much space in your office.

How much do you value quality over price

Another great rule of thumb is that you cannot stare blindly at the price tag . An electric kick scooter should be fun and if you feel unsafe or if your newly purchased scooter doesn’t offer you the kind of ride you were looking for because you picked the a scooter that doesnt have the quality you need, then you won’t ride it.

Hence, it is very important that you understand that between the top model in our list and the last there are just a few dollars setting them apart. But with those dollars, you get a far more versatile electric kick scooter with much higher performance and with a lot fewer complaints. However, you should be aware that since these are affordable scooter models, none of the are going to be the fastest electric scooter out there. If you want to see the fastest adult electric scooters, check out our article here.

You should not compromise on quality just because you want to save a few extra dollars today. I would suggest that you save your money a few weeks more and go for the one that would provide you with the better ride. Sure you can keep on saving all the way up to the top models, but that won’t be necessary, just save until you have enough money to buy an e scooter that will fulfill your goals. Whether it be just for fun or using it daily going back and forth to school.

Who are you buying it for?

There are scooters that can fulfill the needs of both adults, teenagers, and kids. I like to refer to this type of motorized scooter as a family ride. If you buy one of these models the whole family can enjoy riding on it. All you have to do is press a button to make it go faster, or slower depending on who is using it at that given time. If you’re buying for multiple people in the family to ride, make sure that you buy one with a weight capacity that will accommodate everyone in the family. You need to consider how everyone will use it too. Do you need a scooter that has some special features or capabilities like the ability to traverse rough terrain or one that features an electric brake or the ability to add an external battery pack? If so, just be sure to keep your eyes out for a model that fits everyone’s needs.

Kids scooters

But these aren’t always the perfect fit, younger kids will do better with a lower handlebar and perhaps a lighter unit that is easier to control. My oldest son is 7 and uses the Gotrax while my youngest who turns 5 this summer is using a razor electric scooter. His model has 3 different speed-modes where the maximum speed is 8 mph and the slowest makes it go only 3.5 mph and that has been of great help in letting him get used to riding. For the really little ones, its best to check out the cheap electric scooters to see if they’ll like them or use them before sinking a ton of money into a sweet e scooter set up for them. Plus, if you are buying a razor scooter or another kids brand, they’ll have a rear wheel brake that’s much easier for kids to use rather than a hand brake. The kids just mash the rear fender in the back tire and it comes to a stop — pretty simple.

So make sure you keep that in mind when looking at your options.

Last thoughts on buying on a budget

At this point, I hope you have at least one or two models in mind going forward. Perhaps you’ve already narrowed it down to one favorite. If you just keep true to what we’ve talked about in this article when it comes to not being too cheap and having the purpose of your purchase in mind when you look. You are going to end up with a great electric scooter that will aid you for years to come.

Buying a low-priced electric scooter doesn’t mean that you are cheap, it just means you have yet to see the value that these scooters can provide and how much simpler it is. I send letters every single day and I take mine to the mailbox that is about 3 miles away. Having an electric scooter has cut the time it takes to do this daily chore in half in comparison to taking the car.