If you’ve been on the hunt for the best e-scooter under $500, you’re definitely not alone. Just because premium models come with sky-high price tags doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort, speed, or safety—especially for short commutes or weekend rides.
I’ve put together a hand-picked list of tested models that offer surprising performance, smart features, and solid build quality—all at budget-friendly prices, just under $500.
Whether you’re a student zipping across campus, a commuter heading to work, or someone who just enjoys weekend rides, there’s no need to break the bank. Say goodbye to overpriced wheels and hello to affordable electric scooters with practical mobility.
Our Top 6 Picks For E-Scooters Under $500
Cost and affordability should not be a sacrifice at all when it comes to purchasing the best e scooter under $500. In this table, six e-scooters were ranked, ranging from absolute winners to runner-ups, based on aspects such as weight range, speed, charging speed, and overall user experience. Here is the quick comparison table to help you find the most suitable one for your needs and budget.
| Scooter Model | Top Speed | Range | Weight | Charging Time | Price (Est.) | Best For |
| Gotrax XR Elite Max | 15.5 mph | 18 miles | 31 lbs | 4-5 hours | <$500 | Great range & comfort |
| Niu 100F | 15.5 mph | 24 miles | 33 lbs | 5 hours | <$400 | Smart app & regen braking |
| MAXSHOT V1PRO Dual | 20 mph | 20 miles | 38 lbs | 6 hours | <$400 | Dual motors, fastest pick |
| Hiboy S2 Light | 13 mph | 10.6 miles | 21 lbs | 5.5 hours | <$400 | Ultra-light and foldable |
| Gotrax GXL V2 | 15.5 mph | 12 miles | 27 lbs | 4-5 hours | <$300 | Best entry-level option |
| Razor C45 Electric Scooter | 18 mph | 15 miles | 36 lbs | 4 hours | <$500 | Stylish, well-balanced ride |
Ranked 1st: Gotrax XR Elite Max | $459
The Gotrax XR Elite Max sits between the edge of being rugged and light, making it a solid pick for city trips. It hits close to 15 mph, and the smooth deck, durable frame, and air-filled tires keep rider fatigue low, all while staying under $500.
Best Features
- 300W motor for efficient city rides
- 8.5″ pneumatic tires for smooth performance
- Dual braking system (disc + electronic)
- Foldable and portable frame design
- Bright LED headlight and taillight for improved nighttime visibility
Not Best For
- Not ideal for off-road or hilly terrain
- Lacks suspension for rougher surfaces
Why We Recommend It?
Among the best e scooters under $500 in USA, the Gotrax XR Elite Max strikes a steady balance between performance, comfort, and affordability. Its reliable motor and long range make it an excellent choice for adults seeking a dependable ride. The pneumatic tires and strong brakes ensure a smooth and safe ride, making it a standout choice in most affordable electric scooter review guides.
Additionally, it folds easily, fits in most trunks, and recharges quickly—perfect for daily use. Whether you’re heading to work or cruising your neighbourhood, it consistently delivers more than you’d expect for its price. The deck is spacious and stable, even for taller riders. It also comes with a rear reflector for better night visibility.
Moreover, the XR Elite Max now includes an upgraded LED display that shows real-time speed and battery status with improved visibility under sunlight. It also features a reinforced kickstand for better balance when parked, adding convenience for city stops.
Ranked 2nd: Niu 100F | $389
If appearance and gadgetry top your wishlist, the Niu 100F triumphs with a slim body and a built-in app. That phone link tracks trips, locks the motor, and pushes the range to 40 miles, a savvy bonus for tech-first commuters.
Best Features
- IPX5 water resistance
- Regenerative braking system
- Lightweight with a durable frame
- Cruise control function for consistent speed on longer commutes
- Enable Bluetooth connectivity with the Niu smart app for smart lock and battery monitoring
Not Best For
- Slightly lower torque on hills
- Limited customer service support in some areas
Why We Recommend It?
The Niu 100F looks clean and techy, which is why we placed it in the best e scooter under $500 rating. Longer battery life and smooth acceleration make it the perfect companion for commuters who log greater daily miles and crave reliability.
To start with, it pairs with a phone app that tracks speed, trips, and battery health, so you know exactly when to charge. On the road, the frame feels solid and absorbs bumps, while cruise control and regenerative brakes add comfort and save energy.
What’s more, this model recently gained firmware support for scheduled charging via the app, ideal for users who prefer overnight charging at off-peak electricity rates. Additionally, its IPX5 rating means it can handle light rain during unexpected weather.
Ranked 3rd: Maxshot V1 Pro | $399
The Maxshot V1 Pro amps up the fun, particularly for those who love speed. Dual motors push it past traffic, earning the crown as the fastest e-scooter under 500 dollars on our list, although it may suffer with mileage on higher speeds. It also features a reinforced frame and high-capacity battery, perfect for thrill-seekers looking for an e-scooter on a budget.
Best Features
- Dual 450W motors
- LED display and lighting system
- Rear suspension for improved comfort
- Solid tires (no flats)
- Turbo Mode for quick acceleration and climbing steep hills
Not Best For
- Heavier than most scooters
- Less ideal for carrying upstairs
- Battery doesn’t last too long
Why We Recommend It?
If you’re looking for the fastest e scooter under 500, the Maxshot V1 Pro is built to impress. It’s surprisingly powerful at this price point, offering dual motors that handle speed and inclines like a champ. Whether you’re zipping through city streets or enjoying weekend rides, it’s one of the top-rated options in most expert-recommended ‘electric scooter reviews’.
In terms of ride quality, its rear suspension softens the ride at higher speeds, and the solid tires eliminate flat-tire anxiety. As a result, it’s a great pick for performance-driven users who want maximum thrill within a humble budget. Additionally, the larger handlebars enhance control when running at high speeds. On top of that, dual brakes provide a powerful stopping force when required.
To further boost performance, the Maxshot V1 Pro also introduces a “Turbo Mode” that can be activated for short bursts of extra torque—handy for conquering steeper streets or quick overtakes. For safety, its side-mounted lights improve visibility at night from multiple angles.
Ranked 4th: Hiboy S2 Light | $329
Compact, affordable, and beginner-friendly, the Hiboy S2 Light is a lightweight scooter designed for short-distance riders who want a reliable yet simple riding machine. Its intuitive controls and solid braking make it ideal for first-time electric scooter users.
Best Features
- Lightweight at only 21 lbs
- 13 mph top speed
- 10.6-mile range
- Mobile app integration
- Foldable for easy storage
- Rear suspension and solid tires
- Integrated bell for added safety in pedestrian zones
Not Best For
- Lower speed and range
- Not ideal for heavier adults
- Mixed reviews on battery life
Why We Recommend It?
The Hiboy S2 Light is a solid choice for riders who need a lightweight, no-fuss electric scooter. It’s especially well-suited for teens or smaller adults due to its compact design and ease of use. The scooter performs reliably for short-distance trips and quick errands around town.
In addition, its built-in app adds a nice tech layer for tracking your rides, whereas the foldable design makes storage a breeze. Whether you’re heading to class or cruising around the neighbourhood, this e scooter delivers on practicality and simplicity without overcomplicating the ride. Moreover, the LED headlight is bright enough for evening rides, and its minimalist frame makes it easy to lift and carry.
After a recent upgrade in Hiboy, the latest batch of S2 Light e-scooters comes with a handlebar bell built into the grip—a thoughtful touch for riders who cruise through pedestrian areas. Furthermore, its rear fender is now redesigned to reduce water splash during rainy commutes.
Ranked 5th: Gotrax GXL V2 | $261
One of the most popular models in the low-cost range is the Gotrax GXL V2. It delivers solid specs and dependable performance at one of the lowest electric scooter prices on the market. With pneumatic tires and a strong frame, it offers a surprisingly smooth ride for its price.
Best Features
- 12-mile range
- 15.5 mph top speed
- 250W motor
- 8.5″ pneumatic tires
- Dual braking system
- Clean folding mechanism
- Rear disc brake for strong stopping power in traffic
Not Best For
- No suspension
- Shorter range compared to others
Why We Recommend It?
The Gotrax GXL V2 consistently ranks in electric scooter reviews for being the best value pick. At just over $250, it’s hard to beat for casual or beginner riders. If you’re looking for an electric scooter under 500 for quick, reliable transport, this is it. It won’t win races, but it nails the basics and does so without hurting your wallet.
Beyond the price, it’s lightweight, easy to store, and backed by a brand known for budget performance. For first-time buyers, it feels both reassuring and rewarding. Plus, an intuitive dashboard keeps speed readings and controls within easy reach. The regenerative braking system adds a small boost of efficiency on every ride.
Additionally, Gotrax has refined the GXL V2’s folding latch to be more secure during transport, reducing the risk of accidental unfolding. Not to mention, its new dashboard interface allows toggling between speed modes, perfect for adjusting to various traffic conditions.
Ranked 6th: Razor C45 Electric Scooter | $429
The Razor C45 is a stylish, versatile ride that offers a balanced performance profile for everyday use and is built by one of the most trusted names in e scooters. Its wide deck and comfortable handling make it a great choice for urban commuters.
Best Features
- Rear-wheel drive for better traction
- LED headlight and taillight
- Grippy 10” tires
- Sleek modern frame design
- Eco-mode setting to extend battery range on low-power rides
Not Best For:
- No mobile app or advanced features
- Slightly bulkier build
Why We Recommend It?
The Razor C45 secures a reliable place among the best e-scooter under 500 for adults. It delivers brisk speed, decent ride comfort, and the brand legacy that Razor riders expect. Although it lacks high-tech bells, the journey remains smooth and genuinely enjoyable.
In terms of ride feel, recent reviews rate it as one of the most balanced models, appealing to users who value performance and style over extra features. With 10” tyres and rear-wheel drive, it provides stable, reassuring cruising. Also, a wide standing platform helps maintain control during longer commutes. Overall, the solid build feels tough enough for daily city life.
What’s more, the Razor C45’s motor includes an “eco-mode” setting that extends range by throttling power output—great for riders who want to stretch their ride time. And to top it off, it now features reflective side decals to enhance nighttime lateral visibility.
Final Verdict – Which One Should You Buy?
Selecting the best e scooter under $500 hinges mostly on who you are and how you plan to ride. Commuters in search of a dependable long-range partner will likely find the Niu 100F appealing, as its generous battery and smart extras stand out. Speed lovers, on the other hand, may be drawn to the Maxshot V1 Pro due to its power-driven dual motors.
If lightweight and easy folding top your list, the Hiboy S2 Light and Gotrax GXL V2 are handy for quick errands and pavement hops. A step up, the Razor C45 delivers a smooth, stylish ride for day-to-day stops, while the Gotrax XR Elite Max sits neatly in the mid, offering greater value with balanced specs.
Every option discussed here excels in one area at least — either price, look, or performance. So when picking the best e scooter under $500, the decision should reflect your personal preferences, budget, and riding style.
