Electric scooters are no longer just a luxury item. In 2025, the budget scooter market has exploded, offering models that combine quality, safety, and modern features — all for under $500.
Gone are the days when affordable scooters meant poor range, weak motors, and minimal comfort. Today, you can find app integration, regenerative braking, cruise control, suspension, and even turn signals in models that cost less than a decent smartphone.
We’ve carefully selected the Top 5 Electric Scooters Under $500, and each one is available right now on ScooterPick for easy comparison. In this guide, you’ll find detailed reviews, pros and cons, performance insights, and a buying guide to help you choose the perfect ride for your needs.
1. NIU KQi 100P
Main Specs
- Top speed: 25 km/h (~15.5 mph)
- Range: 24 km (~15 mi) real-world
- Motor: 350 W hub
- Tires: 10″ solid
- Extras: App control, regenerative braking
- Design: Foldable frame
Design and Build
The NIU KQi 100P keeps things clean and minimal. Its sturdy frame feels solid, yet it remains lightweight enough to carry upstairs. The folding mechanism clicks into place securely, so there’s no wobble when riding.
The deck is wide enough for a stable stance, and the handlebar height suits most adult riders. Solid tires mean no flats, although they give a slightly firmer ride compared to air-filled ones.
Performance and Ride Quality
With a 350 W motor, the KQi 100P is tuned for urban riding. Acceleration is smooth rather than aggressive, which makes it beginner-friendly. It handles short inclines well, and the regenerative braking helps you recapture energy while slowing down.
In city stop-and-go conditions, expect about 10–13 miles of range before recharging. Charging from empty takes roughly 5 hours.
Pros
- Affordable price with modern features
- App integration for ride tracking and security
- Reliable folding system
Cons
- Solid tires feel stiffer on rough roads
- Not the fastest in this list
Best For
Riders who want a compact, connected scooter for short commutes, without worrying about flat tires.
NIU 100P Electric Scooter for Adults with Suspension- 600W Max Power, 18 Miles Range, Max Speed 17.4MPH, Dual Brakes, Easy Folding Commuting E-Scooter,...
2. NIU KQi 100F
Main Specs
- Top speed: ~28 km/h (~17.4 mph)
- Range: ~29 km (~18 mi)
- Motor: 300 W hub
- Tires: 10″ solid
- Extras: Turn signals, foldable handlebars, app control
Safety-First Design
The NIU KQi 100F stands out with integrated turn signals. These make it much safer in urban environments, especially when riding at night or navigating busy intersections. The signals are handlebar-mounted for maximum visibility.
Foldable handlebars make storage easier, especially if you live in an apartment with limited space. The solid tires mean you’ll never have to deal with flats, and the deck offers a stable grip surface.
Performance
The 300 W motor offers a steady ride with smooth acceleration. The 100F has slightly better top-end speed than the 100P, and its battery allows for around 15–18 miles in optimal conditions.
The NIU app remains a strong selling point. It allows you to lock the scooter digitally, check ride history, and receive firmware updates.
Pros
- Turn signals improve safety in traffic
- Foldable handlebars for tight storage spaces
- Good balance of speed and range
Cons
- Solid tires transmit more road vibration
- Slightly heavier than the 100P
Best For
Riders who value visibility and safety in busy city traffic.
NIU Electric Scooter Adults - 100F E Scooter w/Suspension, Add. Foldable Handlebar and Turn Signals, 600W Peak Power, 18 Miles Max Range, 17.4 MPH,...
3. iScooter i9Max
Main Specs
- Top speed: ~30 km/h (~18.6 mph)
- Range: 25–40 km (15–25 mi)
- Motor: 500 W (peak ~750 W)
- Tires: 10″ honeycomb
- Extras: Dual suspension, cruise control, app, UL-certified battery
Comfort and Build
The i9Max is built with rider comfort in mind. Dual front and rear suspension absorb road bumps, making it ideal for uneven pavement. The honeycomb tires are puncture-proof, giving you the low-maintenance advantage of solid tires while keeping some shock absorption.
The deck is spacious, and the stem feels sturdy. The folding system is simple yet strong, and the scooter is slightly heavier due to the motor and suspension.
Performance
With its 500 W motor, the i9Max accelerates quickly and can handle steeper inclines than most scooters in this list. The cruise control feature is a welcome addition for long straight paths, allowing you to rest your throttle hand.
Range depends heavily on rider weight and terrain. Expect around 20 miles in mixed riding conditions.
Pros
- Smooth ride thanks to suspension
- Honeycomb tires avoid flat repairs
- Strong motor for hills
Cons
- Slightly heavier than non-suspension models
- Folding latch requires regular tightening
Best For
Commuters who want a smooth, low-maintenance ride that can handle rougher roads.
iScooter i9Max Electric Scooter Adults 500W Top Speed 21 MPH, 22 Miles Long Range, Cruise Control, 10 Inches Honeycomb Solid Tire, Dual Suspensions Folding E...
4. GoTrax GXL V2
Main Specs
- Top speed: ~25 km/h (~15.5 mph)
- Range: ~19 km (~12 mi)
- Motor: 250 W hub
- Tires: 8.5″ pneumatic
- Extras: Lightweight, dual braking system
Lightweight Champion
At just 12 kg (26.4 lb), the GXL V2 is one of the lightest scooters in its class. It’s perfect for riders who need to carry it up stairs or onto public transport. The folding mechanism is quick, making it easy to store under a desk.
Pneumatic tires give it a smoother ride compared to solid tires, though they require occasional pressure checks to avoid flats.
Performance
The 250 W motor is best suited for flat terrain. Acceleration is gentle, and the range is adequate for short urban trips. The rear disc brake combined with a front regenerative brake offers strong stopping power.
Pros
- Very portable and light
- Smooth ride from air-filled tires
- Easy to fold and carry
Cons
- Limited range compared to others here
- Not for steep hills
Best For
First-time buyers or short-distance commuters who need maximum portability.
Gotrax GXL V2 Electric Scooter, 8.5" Solid Tire, Max 9 Mile and 15.5Mph Speed Power by 250W Motor, Lightweight 25.95lb, Cruise Control Aluminum Alloy Frame...
5. MAXSHOT X1
Main Specs
- Top speed: ~35 km/h (~22 mph)
- Range: ~43 km (~27 mi)
- Motor: 500 W (peak ~800 W)
- Tires: 14″ pneumatic
- Extras: Seat, basket, cruise control, app, dual disc brakes
Utility and Comfort
The MAXSHOT X1 blurs the line between a scooter and a compact e-moped. The optional seat and large 14″ tires make it one of the most comfortable options here. A front basket adds utility for shopping or carrying work gear.
The dual disc brakes offer strong, predictable stopping power, even at higher speeds. Cruise control and app connectivity give it a modern feel.
Performance
With a 500 W motor and large tires, the X1 can handle varied terrain and longer trips with ease. The range is the best in this list, making it ideal for riders who don’t want to recharge daily.
Pros
- Longest range in this roundup
- Very stable ride thanks to large tires
- Extra comfort with seat option
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than smaller scooters
- Less portable for public transport
Best For
Riders who want maximum comfort, range, and cargo capacity.
Electric Scooter for Adults, 8.5"/10" Tires, 19/22Mph, 350W/500W Motor, 21-28 Miles Range, Folding E-Scooter with Dual Suspension,APP(V1/SPRO/MAX/PRO)
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Model | Top Speed | Range | Motor | Tires | Key Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NIU KQi 100P | 25 km/h | 24 km | 350 W | 10″ solid | App, regen braking |
| NIU KQi 100F | 28 km/h | 29 km | 300 W | 10″ solid | App, regen, turn signals |
| iScooter i9Max | 30 km/h | 25–40 km | 500 W | 10″ honeycomb | App, cruise, dual suspension |
| GoTrax GXL V2 | 25 km/h | 19 km | 250 W | 8.5″ pneumatic | Lightweight, dual brakes |
| MAXSHOT X1 | 35 km/h | 43 km | 500 W | 14″ pneumatic | Seat, basket, cruise, app |
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Under-$500 Scooter in 2025
When shopping for a budget scooter, it’s important to balance your needs with the right features:
1. Range vs. Portability
If you ride long distances, the MAXSHOT X1 offers the most range. For carrying onto public transport, the GoTrax GXL V2 is the easiest.
2. Safety Features
Turn signals on the NIU KQi 100F improve traffic safety. Dual disc brakes on the X1 ensure strong stopping.
3. Comfort
Suspension on the iScooter i9Max and large tires on the X1 make bumpy rides smoother.
4. Maintenance
Solid and honeycomb tires are low-maintenance, but pneumatic tires provide a softer ride.
5. Charging Time
Most scooters here take 4–6 hours to fully charge. Plan charging based on your daily mileage.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
- Best All-Around: NIU KQi 100P
- Safest City Commuter: NIU KQi 100F
- Most Comfortable Ride: iScooter i9Max
- Most Portable: GoTrax GXL V2
- Longest Range: MAXSHOT X1
With so many strong contenders under $500, you can easily find one that suits your daily routes, comfort needs, and style preferences.