Best Electric Scooters for Commuting (As of September 2023)
Last year, we started to return to the office en masse.
For many of us, this meant a return to daily commuting. This meant more cars on the road, which then led to longer daily commuting. This led to more personal time lost each day - time that we largely had to spend looking at either:
- Other equally unhappy commuters on public transport,
- The stationary rear end of the car in front.
With even more companies now electing to suspend working from home, the commuting situation is only going to get worse.
So what’s the alternative? Clearly, the answer is…
Public transport.
Psych. It’s e-Scooters. We’re an e-scooter company. Of course the answer was going to be e-scooters. E-Bikes were a close second.
Far from being a passing trend, e-scooters have transformed how we navigate our lives. With their eco-friendly operation, practicality, and efficiency, the electric scooter is changing the way we move, rewriting the future in the process.
The market for e-scooters, which features a competitive mix of well-established brands and emerging players, keeps growing. So, if you do want to purchase a shiny new e-scooter to cut down your commute, which one should you choose?
If you’re new to the scootering scene, or if you’re simply in the market for a new commuter e-scooter, allow us to guide you towards an informed choice that aligns with your needs.
Contents
Why Do You Need a Commuter Electric Scooter?
An electric commuter scooter is designed to take you to your destination in the most efficient way possible. Tailored to meet the demands of urban commuting, a commuter e-scooter covers medium distances, achieves moderate top speeds, and is fitted with all the essential safety features.
Good commuter scooters are portable, enabling you to comfortably carry them upstairs (if you live or work in a building without a lift), bring them aboard buses or trains, or stow them in your car or storage space. And since they are lightweight and agile, commuter e-scooters are ideal for navigating through crowded city streets.
You need a commuter electric scooter if:
- You need an efficient way to go to your school or workplace.
- You are in search of a practical and affordable way to commute.
- You are considering an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to driving.
- You no longer want to deal with the costs and hassles of finding a good parking spot.
- You use public transport but require a solution to cover the first- or last-mile of your commute.
- You aspire to be free to explore alternative routes to your destinations.
- You are not fond of using noisy and intrusive vehicles.
- You want to take advantage of your daily commutes as a means to become more physically active.
Owning a commuter electric scooter gives you more control over your workday—allowing you to follow your own schedule and commute on your own terms. It frees you from the costs of driving and the restrictions of public transport.
Because of this, our customers have experienced a significant improvement in their work-life balance just by using a commuter e-scooter.
Now that you have a clearer understanding of what to expect from a commuter e-scooter, allow us to show you a few trusty recommendations.
The Best Electric Scooters for Commuting in 2023
1. Apollo Air 2023
The new Apollo Air is created to cater to the demands of urban commuting, featuring upgraded components that are designed to deliver stable and reliable rides. Powered by a 500W motor, it reaches a top speed of 34 kph and can cover a good range of 55 km on a single charge.
The Air 2023 comes equipped with Power RBS (Regenerative Braking System), which recharges your battery by up to 10% while you’re riding. At the same time, this system decreases the need for mechanical braking, reducing wear and tear and ultimately lowering maintenance costs.
In addition, the electric scooter’s front-dual fork suspension allows it to glide over uneven surfaces. This feature transforms the Apollo Air 2023 from a standard commuter scooter to an all-rounder that you can use in various environments.
And speaking of diverse environments, because it features an exceptional IP66 water-resistance rating, you are ensured of safe rides regardless of the weather conditions.
|
Model |
APOLLO AIR 2023 |
|
Top Speed |
34 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
55 km |
|
Unit Weight |
17.5 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
100 kg |
|
Price |
$1,499 |
2. Apollo City Pro 2023
Closing the remaining gaps from its previous version, the Apollo City Pro 2023 does not just improve individual specs but focuses more on creating a stable yet future-ready ride. Propelled by two 500W motors, the City Pro 2023 emerges as a powerful all-rounder, achieving a top speed of 51 kph.
The new City Pro is fitted with an upgraded 20 aH battery, extending its range to an impressive 69 km. This gives you the flexibility to use your electric scooter for daily commutes as well as long-distance leisurely rides.
In spite of the upgrades, the City Pro retains the distinctive Apollo Power RBS, which has been rigorously tested to three times the industry standard to ensure reliability and consistency. The result is ultra-smooth stopping that you can count on anytime.
The City Pro also sports multiple safety features to keep your rides as secure as possible. Its impressive IP66 water resistance rating signifies substantial protection against rain and water jets from all directions. Plus, the City Pro’s integrated lights and indicators help you stay visible, especially in low-light conditions.
|
Model |
APOLLO CITY 2023 |
|
Top Speed |
51 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
69 km |
|
Unit Weight |
29 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$2,599 |
3. Apollo City Pro 2022
As its name suggests, the Apollo City is designed to address the common problems of the modern city commuter. However, the City goes beyond expectations. With a top speed of 50 kph and a max range of 60 km, this electric scooter surpasses the specifications of your typical commuter model.
Equipped with a triple spring suspension system, the City simply absorbs bumps from your regular route, tackling challenging urban surfaces like gravel, sand, grass, and even cobblestones with ease.
Pair the suspension system with the City’s 10-inch self-healing tubeless tyres, and concerns about shocks andpunctures from rough roads become a thing of the past.
The Apollo City 2022 is also the first model in the Apollo City line that features a perfected regenerative braking system—a system designed to minimise the need for regular brakes, requiring their use only during an emergency.
|
Model |
APOLLO CITY 2022 |
|
Top Speed |
50 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
60 km |
|
Unit Weight |
29 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$2,699 |
4. Pure Advance
If you live in a city where speed limits are strictly imposed on electric scooters, one of your best bets is the Pure Advance. Take for instance Victoria, where you are not legally allowed to operate an e-scooter that exceeds the 25 kph speed limit. Fortunately, the Pure Advance’s top speed perfectly aligns with this mandate.
However, it’s the ingenious design of the Pure Advance line that truly sets it apart. Featuring a forward-facing riding configuration, the electric scooter’s setup allows you to place both feet on either side of the chassis. This symmetrical position results in better balance and an even distribution of weight. It also has a real impact on safety, allowing you to look over each shoulder evenly when riding through traffic.
Asides from this, the Advance features a slimline folding mechanism that makes the e-scooter up to 70% thinner than most others when being stored.
The Pure electric scooters are also equipped with the brand’s patent-pending Active Steering Stabilisation technology, which eliminates jerky movements and creates smoother, more controlled rides.
And in keeping up with modern times, the Pure Advance offers a digital locking functionality via a digital PIN that can be set through the Pure Electric app. Don’t forget to sync your electric scooter with this app to access your ride stats and more.
The Advance comes in two models: the base Advance & the Advance+. They are very similar models, but the Advance+ can manage 50km per charge compared to the Advance’s 40 km.
|
Model |
PURE ADVANCE |
PURE ADVANCE+ |
|
Top Speed |
25 kph |
25 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
40 km |
50 km |
|
Unit Weight |
16.2 kg |
16.2 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$1,899 |
$2,099 |
5. Pure Advance Flex
The next member of the Pure Advance line, the Pure Advance Flex, is another ideal option if you need to comply with stringent speed restrictions. Like its sibling, the Flex achieves a top speed of 25 kph and can cover up to 40 km on a single charge. But what sets the Flex apart from other e-scooters is its innovative & groundbreaking folding mechanism.
At merely 16.2 kg, the Pure Advance Flex is already lightweight as it is. Yet, it is made to be even more portable by sporting an ultra-compact folded design. The Flex incorporates a mechanism that packs down the deck, stem, handlebars, and body in just five steps, creating a truly compact form that you can store anywhere.
Similar to the Pure Advance scooter, the Flex also features a forward-facing riding position that results in increased balance, steadiness, and manoeuvrability. Thus, either model is ideal for beginner commuters who are still learning the ropes of scootering.
And since we’re on the topic of novice riders, it’s also worth noting that the Flex sports a complete range of safety features, including the brand’s patent-pending Active Steering Stabilisation technology, a highly-reliable braking system, and integrated lights.
Surprisingly, given its ultra-compact design, you don’t get any shortcomings in performance. It still packs all the motor power, speed, range, and features we see across the rest of the Pure Electric range, including the IP65 water resistance rating.
|
Model |
PURE ADVANCE FLEX |
|
Top Speed |
25 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
40 km |
|
Unit Weight |
15.9kg - 16.9kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$2,299 |
6. Pure Air³ Range
The third Pure Electric entry on our list is the Pure Air³, a commuter electric scooter that is designed for lightweight and efficient commuting. To keep its overall weight low and boost battery efficiency, the scooter is equipped with a 350W (Pure Air³) to 500W (Air³ Pro & Pro+) motor that is sufficient for urban riding needs.
Tipping the scales at only 15.9kg - 16.9 kg depending on the model, this is a portable e-scooter that you can comfortably carry or transport whenever you need to. And because it also achieves a top speed of 25 kph, the Pure Air³ is another excellent choice for complying with local speed requirements.
Despite its weight, the Pure Air³ is equipped with large 10-inch tubeless tyres. These tyres are puncture-resistant and air-filled, so even though the electric scooter does not have a suspension, it can smoothly ride over bumpy roads.
Incorporating the brand’s Active Steering Stabilisation technology, the Pure Air³ ensures handlebar stability, which is complemented by a dual-braking system for reliable stopping power. With this pair in place, you are assured of smooth and safe rides.
Furthermore, to keep you visible during night-time rides, it has integrated lights: a front light, rear running and brake lights, and handlebar indicators.
There are three versions available within the Pure Air³ line, all very similar except for power output and range: the Air³ (described below), the Air³ Pro (500W motor and 40 km range), and the Air³ Pro Plus (500W motor and 50 km range).
|
Model |
PURE AIR³ |
|
Top Speed |
25 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
30 km |
|
Unit Weight |
15.5 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$1,199 |
7. Segway-Ninebot E2 Plus
The new Segway-Ninebot E2 Plus is created to be the ideal entry-level ride that specialises in delivering first- and last-mile solutions to commuters. Following the pattern of the Segway-Ninebot range, the E2 Plus is characterised by a contemporary design, a robust build, and premium components.
Covering a range of 25 km, the E2 Plus provides a practical way for you to get from point A to point B if you don’t need to cover large distances at a time. And with a top speed of 25 kph, you can add this model to your list of speed-limit-compliant electric scooters.
This is a safe electric scooter to use on the road, as it is equipped with a high-powered light and flashing rear lights. In addition to that, the E2 Plus also comes with a bell so you can alert pedestrians and fellow riders about your location.
However, beyond its reputation as a dependable and secure ride, the E2 Plus stands out as an excellent choice if you’re looking for an ultra-lightweight electric scooter. Weighing a mere 14.4 kg, it is one of the lightest e-scooters in our inventory. It also features a quick 2-step folding mechanism for enhanced portability.
It’s every definition of a no-fuss e-scooter, so if you just want something simple and cheap to cover the last few blocks between A & B, you won’t find anything better than the E2 Plus.
|
Model |
SEGWAY-NINEBOT E2 PLUS |
|
Top Speed |
25 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
25 km |
|
Unit Weight |
14.4 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
90 kg |
|
Price |
$649 |
8. Segway-Ninebot F2 Plus
Like the E2 Plus, the Segway-Ninebot F2 Plus is a perfect choice for everyday commuting. Presenting itself as an affordable yet dependable commuter option, the F2 Plus achieves a 25 kph top speed and covers up to 55 km on a single charge. It’s also powerful enough to scale inclines with angles up to 20%.
The F2 Plus comes equipped with stable 10-inch pneumatic tubeless tyres, erasing any concerns about potential punctures from rough surfaces and road debris. Each tyre also contains a jelly layer for self-healing capabilities.
If you are a new rider, you might be glad to know that the F2 Plus features Segway’s Anti-Skid Traction Control System, which enhances traction and grip on difficult terrain like gravel and slippery roads.
Lastly, to ensure your utmost safety, the F2 Plus integrates a dual braking system—a front disc brake and a rear regenerative brake—to deliver maximum stopping power.
Both the E2 and F2 are similar low-fuss entry level e-scooters, but why is the F2 more expensive? The main differences between the F2 & E2 are:
- The F2 comes with indicators built into the handlebars.
- The F2 has a longer range
- The F2 has a higher water-resistance rating
- The F2 has a higher rider-weight rating
The F2 also comes in two versions: the standard F2 & the F2 Plus. The biggest difference between those versions is that the F2 Plus has a 55 km range to the standard version’s 40 km.
If you like the price of the E2 but just wish it did a little bit more, the both models of the F2 are a great choice.
|
Model |
SEGWAY-NINEBOT F2 PLUS |
|
Top Speed |
25 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
55 km |
|
Unit Weight |
17.7 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$1,099 |
9. Segway-Ninebot MAX G2
Poised to replace the well-loved Segway-Ninebot MAX G30P, the MAX G2 emerges as a formidable all-rounder electric scooter that is adept at tackling diverse riding scenarios. Powered by a reliable 450W motor, the (unlocked) Global Edition can reach a 35kph top speed and climb inclines of up to 22%.
While the MAX G30P enjoyed widespread popularity, many riders voiced concerns over its lack of suspension. The MAX G2 addresses this issue by incorporating a front hydraulic and a rear adjustable double-spring suspension. Thanks to this built-in suspension system, daily commutes and even off-road rides are smoother and more pleasant.
For extended commutes, the MAX G2 is able to cover an impressive range of 70 km on a single charge. Coupling its high-capacity 551Wh battery with capable tyres and Segway’s latest RideyLONG™ technology, every long-distance ride is smooth, quiet, and efficient.
For added convenience, the MAX G2 also comes with built-in Apple Find My Technology that you can sync with your iOS device. With this feature, you can track your scooter real-time to deter theft and unauthorised use.
Just like the original Ninebot Max, we anticipate that the G2 will have a long time in the limelight and will regularly sell out due to that popularity. It’s a near-perfect replacement for the G30, keeping everything we loved about the original and plugging the gaps that were missed over the last four years.
|
Model |
SEGWAY-NINEBOT MAX G2 |
|
Top Speed |
35 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
70 km |
|
Unit Weight |
24.3 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$1,699 |
10. Apollo Ghost
The sleek yet robust Apollo Ghost offers the perfect solution for the commuter who needs more power to tackle rough or uneven terrain, ascend steep hills, and support heavier loads. With dual 1000W motors powering this ride, the Ghost has no trouble reaching top speeds of 60 kph and covering up to 63 km in range.
Recommended for commuters who have had quite a lot of experience in two-wheeled travel, the Apollo Ghost boasts of almost instant acceleration. This high-speed electric scooter goes from zero to 25 kph in just 3.1 seconds, a rate that is one of the best in its category.
To demonstrate its capability to handle diverse riding scenarios, the Ghost is equipped with adjustable dual spring suspension. This highly efficient suspension system allows the scooter to handle all sorts of terrain while keeping you stable and comfortable. Plus, because it is adjustable, the dual suspension aids in seamless transitions from paved roads to off-road.
Aside from being a versatile ride that can do it all, the Apollo Ghost is one of the best choices for heavier riders. With its high weight capacity—accommodating up to 135 kg of rider weight—spacious deck, and durable build, you can count on the Ghost for being a dependable electric scooter for commuters and explorers of all sizes.
|
Model |
APOLLO GHOST |
|
Top Speed |
60 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
63 km |
|
Unit Weight |
29 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
135 kg |
|
Price |
$2,499 |
10. Inokim Light 2
The Inokim Light 2 is not a performance electric scooter—nor was it meant to be one. Instead, it was created to be the ultimate first- or last-mile solution for commuters and riders who are constantly on the move.
Weighing a mere 14 kg, the Light 2 is a featherweight and poses no burden when it comes to carrying and transportation. You can easily take your scooter up a flight of stairs if you work or live in a building with no lift. Multimodal transport is also a breeze, as it is easy to bring the Light 2 on the bus or train when needed.
Inokim electric scooters are well-known for their quick-folding mechanism, and with this feature present in the Light 2, the result is a truly portable e-scooter that fits your daily routine. And aside from being lightweight and portable, the scooter doesn’t take up a lot of space. Thanks to its telescopic stem and collapsible handle bars, its folded form is compact and fits into small spaces, whether it’s your closet or the boot of your car.
If you’re thinking about performance, don’t worry. The Light 2’s 350W-motor pushes it to reach a 34-kph top speed, while its battery gives it enough juice to cover up to 40 km on a single charge. And with the inclusion of lights, dual brakes, a never-flat rear tyre, and an auto motor cutoff feature, the Light 2 is also a very safe and stable ride.
|
Model |
INOKIM LIGHT 2 |
|
Top Speed |
34 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
40 km |
|
Unit Weight |
14 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
100 kg |
|
Price |
$1,599 |
11. Inokim Quick 4
Finally, we have the new Inokim Quick 4 Super, an expertly-crafted all-rounder electric scooter that delivers a combination of performance and practicality. It is designed to fit your life in more ways than one—as a reliable commuter scooter and as an exciting companion for more adventurous rides.
Outfitted with a robust 600W motor and an efficient 832 Wh battery, the Quick 4 has enough power to achieve a swift top speed of 40 kph and, under the right conditions, cover up to 71 kilometres.
The e-scooter performs smoothly in either urban or rural settings (even on hills and inclines), thanks to its pneumatic tyres and adjustable suspension system. And no matter where your rides take you, the Quick 4 Super’s highly responsive dual brakes are always sure to provide reliable stopping power.
Just like its cousin, the Quick 4 features Inokim’s intuitive folding mechanism, which allows you to fold or unfold the scooter in a matter of seconds. Since it has collapsible handlebars, its folded form doesn’t take up a lot of space and is quite easy to carry, too.
Inokim has not forgotten about rider comfort as well, furnishing the Quick 4 with a telescopic stem that can be adjusted to suit your height.
|
Model |
INOKIM QUICK 4 |
|
Top Speed |
40 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
71 km |
|
Unit Weight |
22 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$2,199 |
Honourable Mentions
If you still need more options, here are a couple more notable contenders that are worth checking out:
1. Navee N65
The Navee N65 is a dependable electric scooter that is characterised by its distinctive tubular design. This robust-looking e-scooter is powered by a 500W that pushes it to reach a top speed of 32 kph.
Setting the Navee N65 apart is its front-wheel drive. In contrast to other electric scooters, its motor is located in the front wheel. Thus, when operating the N65, it will feel like you are being pulled forward instead of pushed. Nevertheless, this design choice translates to smoother acceleration and better balance.
The N65 is a versatile long-range ride as well. Thanks to its 600 Wh battery, it can traverse extended distances of up to 65 km. When negotiating uphill routes, the N65 demonstrates its ability to tackle inclines of up to 25°. This performance is up to par with more powerful—typically more costly—dual-motor rides.
|
Model |
NAVEE N65 |
|
Top Speed |
32 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
65 km |
|
Unit Weight |
23.5 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
120 kg |
|
Price |
$1,399 |
2. AnyHill UM2
Sporting a stocky stem and a wide deck, the AnyHill UM2 is an eye-catching electric scooter that embraces a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. With its sturdy construction, it comfortably accommodates a substantial rider weight capacity of up to 136 kg.
But the UM2 distinguishes itself with its standout feature: a detachable LG battery. While the UM2 usually covers an average distance of 30 km, you can easily double this range by swapping your battery with a fully-charged spare. Thus, if your daily commutes involve extended distances, the AnyHill UM2 should rank high on your list of options. The inclusion of an LG battery is significant too, due to the higher-than-average quality of LG power cells. Batteries are expensive to replace, so having a dependable power source in an e-scooter is much more important than you might think.
Having a removable also allows you to conveniently charge the battery on its own rather than the entire scooter. Aside from being easier, this is a safer approach since you don’t have to leave your scooter unattended for hours.
|
Model |
ANYHILL UM2 |
|
Top Speed |
31 kph |
|
Maximum Range |
35 km |
|
Unit Weight |
20 kg |
|
Weight Capacity |
136 kg |
|
Price |
$1,499 |
Previous Entries
Here are some of the models that made it to our previous best commuter e-scooter list. Some of these have been discontinued or replaced with newer models, while some may still be available.
Click here to show the list of previous entries in this guide +
What Makes a Good Commuter Electric Scooter?
While commuters are arguably the most affordable kind of electric scooter out there, their impact is not to be underestimated. These sleek rides have become a symbol of efficiency, empowering people to get to their destinations in a quicker, more enjoyable manner while minimising their carbon footprint.
But what makes a good commuter e-scooter? Here are factors to keep in mind:
- Range: Commuter e-scooter batteries are typically efficient enough to cover a moderate amount of range (30 to 60 km on average).
- Speed: You wouldn’t find insane top speeds on commuter e-scooters. Instead, they reach moderate top speeds of around 20 to 40 kph – just enough for most of your urban commuting requirements. Keep in mind that commuter scooters will generally be used around dense areas of the population where high speeds are not only hard to put down but also illegal. Speed probably shouldn’t be your biggest consideration when choosing an e-scooter for the purposes of commuting.
- Battery Life: To keep your riding downtime to a minimum, look for a commuter electric scooter that offers a balance between range and a quick charging time.
- Portability: A good commuter e-scooter is lightweight enough for you to carry and transport when needed. It also needs to have a simple yet secure folding mechanism for easy storage.
- Safety: Finally, prioritise features that will keep you safe on the road. These include lights and indicators, responsive brakes, and overall sturdy construction.
- Built-in Security Measures: with the rise in popularity of e-scooters, we have also seen a rise in e-scooter theft. Look for e-scooters with security measures such as app integration that locks the scooter, tracking capabilities, and removable batteries that render the scooter useless when removed.
Other Considerations
Beyond the functionalities outlined above, it's essential to take the following additional factors into account:
Suspension
While most commuter scooters don’t feature a suspension, good models have large enough tyres that will absorb the shocks of rough urban terrain. These usually include drain covers, potholes, and cracked pavement.
However, if you need something more versatile and powerful to cover weekday commutes and weekend adventures, you may want to consider an all-terrain electric scooter instead.
Legal Compliance
Depending on where you live, there will be specific regulations concerning electric scooters, and these are likely to include speed limits.
In some states, it’s alright to use e-scooters that can exceed these limits, as long as you continue to abide by them while riding. But in some states, you are not allowed to own e-scooters that are capable of surpassing the speed limit. For example, if the limit is 25 kph, you cannot legally use an e-scooter with a 40 kph top speed on the road.
Do your research before making your e-scooter purchase, and make sure to stay updated because laws are known to change from time to time.
Brand Reputation
Finally, as we always do, we highly recommend opting for a scooter manufactured by a reputable company. These manufacturers have established a solid reputation for creating durable electric scooters that are designed to last. Moreover, you can trust their expertise in crafting e-scooters that are suitable for real-life riding situations.
Furthermore, buying from a known brand guarantees better after-sales support due to the availability of accredited service centres and spare parts.
Wrapping Up
Personal mobility continues to take centre stage, and electric commuter scooters are in the limelight. And it’s no surprise why. The convenience of using electric scooters goes hand-in-hand with its social benefits—reducing pollution and alleviating traffic congestion—to create livable and more sustainable communities.
Remember that your success as a commuter hinges on the reliability of your ride and the support you will receive post-purchase. Thus, while there are many factors that make a good commuter e-scooter, our best advice is still to opt for a model with a proven track record.
Fortunately, whether you’re a seasoned rider or just stepping into the e-scooter world, there are many reputable options that await you. Start your search here at Electric Kicks!
If you need more help in choosing the right electric scooter for your skill level, riding needs, and lifestyle, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for a personalised consultation. Our team of electric scooter experts is here to guide you through the process, from selection to post-sales support.