Getting started with buying an affordable electric scooter does not necessarily mean starting with a basic model. It’s a good option to “dip your toes” into using these urban mobility vehicles without having to spend too much money.
Buying your first electric scooter can be a challenge
Sometimes you might spend a lot of money on an electric scooter only to realize that you don’t use it as much as you expected, and you end up needing to sell it for much less than you originally paid.
On the other hand, if you buy a scooter that is too cheap, you may not fully enjoy the advantages of these vehicles. That is precisely why we created this article, where we show you what to consider when buying a budget electric scooter so you can get hooked on this mode of transport and make the most of it according to your mobility needs.
What is the difference between cheap electric scooters and higher-end models, besides the price?
Depending on the budget you have for your electric scooter, you will get certain features that are important to understand when buying your first scooter.
Motor power
Although speed limits are regulated in Spanish cities, motor power makes a difference when climbing hills. It’s not the same to have a 600W motor, which is an example of what a budget electric scooter may offer, as it is to have a 1100W motor that you can find in a higher-end model.
Range
The range is the number of kilometers your electric scooter can travel on a single battery charge. This may be around 25 km on a budget scooter and can reach 50–60 km on a more expensive model.
However, this depends on several factors. It’s similar to a smartphone: battery life changes depending on whether you are playing games, watching videos, or simply reading articles or sending messages. Scooters work in a similar way: range is determined by the type of surface, rider weight, the mode you use (pedestrian, eco, or sport), riding style, and many other factors.
It’s up to you to estimate how many kilometers you will travel each day in order to organize a charging routine that allows you to move around the city without running out of battery halfway through your journey. A budget electric scooter requires more frequent charging, which can be slightly more inconvenient and somewhat more costly on your electricity bill compared to a scooter with greater range.
Additional features (lights, dashboard, etc)
Another difference between cheaper scooters and more expensive ones is the features they offer, such as dashboard functions, suspension systems, and signal lights. A more expensive scooter may have more lighting features, allowing you to ride more safely than with a budget electric scooter.
Riding stability
This is a subtle difference that becomes much clearer once you actually ride the scooter. Budget electric scooters are generally less robust than higher-end ones, which can result in slightly lower stability. Stability depends on factors such as whether the scooter has suspension, the scooter’s weight, and the size and type of its wheels.
Have electric scooter prices decreased in recent years?
Some tech gadgets tend to become cheaper over time. This has not really been the case with electric scooters so far. The only noticeable change in the industry is the increasing number of high-end models. When we talk about high-end, we refer to electric scooters that cost from €600 and can reach up to €2,500. This may be because users are becoming more experienced and are demanding scooters with greater performance and power. Budget electric scooters remain an excellent option for getting started in the world of electric scooters before upgrading to a more “pro” option.
What is the lifespan of a budget electric scooter?
Lithium batteries have a limited lifespan, and eventually they stop holding a charge. The lifespan depends greatly on the battery used by the scooter. For example, a Xiaomi scooter may have a 7,650 mAh battery with a lifespan of around 500 charging cycles.
What type of use is a budget scooter best suited for?
If you are thinking about buying a budget electric scooter, we recommend considering how you will use it. A budget model generally works well if you plan to use it in cities, on flat surfaces, and if you do not require a large range. Keep in mind that a budget scooter typically offers around 25–30 km of range, so we suggest calculating how many kilometers you expect to travel in a given month.
What are the best budget electric scooters?
At Rhyde we recommend two affordable electric scooter models that are a safe choice when buying your first scooter.
Xiaomi 1s
Industry standard 30 km range; 5.5 hour charging time; 25 km/h maximum speed with a 250W motor in the front wheel equipped with three power modes.
High-quality multifunction dashboard
Robust frame with 8.5-inch air-filled tires for improved ride quality and comfort. Lightweight and portable with a weight of only 12.5 kg.
100 kg load limit
Simple 3-step folding mechanism for easy transport and storage
Integration with the Xiaomi Mi companion app
Bongo Serie A Connected
350 W nominal power and 700 W maximum power
8.5" tubeless tires with anti-puncture design; maximum range of 25 km
3 riding modes: eco, comfort, and sport
Triple braking system for maximum safety
Onboard dashboard and Bluetooth app
Maximum speed of 25 km/h (electronically limited by Spanish law)
Interchangeable 6400 mAh Panasonic battery
How do you know whether you should buy a budget electric scooter or a more expensive one?
In general, these are the questions you should ask yourself before buying a budget electric scooter or a higher-end model.
- Do you need a long range?
- What type of lane will you use it on? Some more expensive scooters have features that make them safer, such as indicators.
- Will you use it daily or occasionally?
- How much do you weigh (budget models usually have a maximum load of 100 kg)
- Do your usual routes include many hills?
In the Rhyde store you can find affordable refurbished electric scooters.
By buying refurbished scooters you save money and also reduce the environmental impact caused by manufacturing a new electric scooter. In addition, you receive a 12-month warranty — something you will not get when buying a second-hand scooter.
