How to Find the Best Electric Scooter (Avoid These Mistakes!)

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Apr 24, 20250 comments

Choosing the wrong electric scooter can leave you stuck with a slow, unreliable ride that struggles on hills or runs out of battery mid-commute. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading, this guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and find a scooter you’ll love for years.

Paul Somerville, former Electric Scooter Guide (ESG) reviewer and now part of the VMAX team, has spent four years rigorously testing scooters. Paul spills the tea on what to look for when choosing the best electric scooter. From entry-level models to high-performance dual-motor beasts, we’ll break down what matters most so you can ride confidently, no matter your budget or needs.

1. Entry-Level Electric Scooters: Affordable & Lightweight (Under $550)

Perfect for beginners or casual riders, entry-level scooters like the VMAX VX5 Pro GT prioritize portability and ease of use. Entry level scooters typically offer:

15–19 mph top speeds
11–22 miles of range (up to 19.7 miles in hilly terrain for the VX5 Pro GT)
Lightweight design (30–40 lbs), ideal for carrying upstairs or storing in a car trunk.

There was a time when entry-level scooters had terrible build quality, but modern entry-level scooters no longer feel like toys. With robust builds (e.g.,ride weight limits as high as 265 lb) and brands like VMAX, Segway, and Apollo leading the charge, these scooters deliver reliability for short commutes or last-mile solutions.

2. Intermediate Scooters: Balanced Power & Range ($550–1,000)

If you need extra speed, hill-climbing power, or have a longer commute, intermediate models like the VMAX VX2 Extreme GT shine. Key features include:

Up to 25 mph speeds and 28–43 miles of range (depending on riding mode).
Enhanced hill-climbing ability, tested on San Francisco’s steepest slopes.
Tubeless tires for a smoother ride and fewer flats.

Intermediate scooters balance performance and affordability, making them ideal for daily commuters or heavier riders (up to 330 lbs). Check battery watt-hours (Wh) for accurate range comparisons between different brands of scooters - the VX2 Extreme GT boasts up to 768Wh, outperforming even recently launched competitors like the Ninebot MAX G3.

3. Touring Scooters: Long-Distance Comfort ($1,100–1,500)

For riders who want a scooter capable of replacing their car, touring scooters like the VMAX VX4 GT offer unmatched comfort and endurance:

30–62+ miles of range (Electric Scooter Guide tested the VX4 GT at 32.1 miles riding aggressively in “Beast Mode”).
25+ mph speeds and plush suspension for all-day rides.
Single-motor efficiency that’s beginner-friendly yet powerful enough for seasoned riders.

While slightly bulkier than entry-level models, touring scooters are built to last. They’re perfect for eliminating range anxiety and enjoying traffic-free commutes.

4. Dual-Motor Scooters: High-Speed Thrills ($1,500–2,000)

Dual-motor models cater to enthusiasts craving adrenaline. Though VMAX’s upcoming VX6 (launching in 2025) isn’t here yet, this category features:

40+ mph speeds and extreme hill-climbing power.
Hydraulic brakes/suspension for safety at high speeds.
Heavier builds (60–70 lbs), better suited for SUV storage than daily carry.

These scooters are overkill for most commutes but ideal for thrill-seekers or group rides.

5 Reliability Factors You Can’t Ignore

Warranty: Aim for at least two years (VMAX offers this).
UL Certification: Ensures safety compliance, especially important in cities like NYC.
Tubeless Tires: Avoid rough rides and flats—VMAX uses these exclusively.
Parts Availability: Check if the brand sells spare parts (VMAX does!).
Ride Quality: Test-ride in-store or watch trusted reviews.

Why VMAX Stands Out

VMAX scooters are engineered in Switzerland for real-world riding:

Hill-ready designs: Tested on steep gradients.
Larger batteries: More range per dollar.
Durable components: Built to last with easy-to-replace parts.

As Paul notes, “When you ride a VMAX, you’ll feel the difference of Swiss precision.”

Ready to Ride?

Whether you’re a commuter, adventurer, or speed enthusiast, there’s a perfect electric scooter for you. Explore VMAX models at vmax-escooter.us or visit a retail location for a test ride.

Watch Paul’s Full Video Guide Below:

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