For many people, a large battery and the associated high range are one of the most important criteria when buying an e-scooter. We show you which electric scooters can go the longest distance on a single charge. As a comprehensive list, we recommend our top 10: The best e-scooters from Segway to Xiaomi in our test.
Factors for a High Range
In general, e-scooters with large batteries and correspondingly high range are more commonly found in the high-priced segment. This is not surprising, as the battery is one of the most expensive components of an electric scooter. However, you don’t have to spend 1000 euros to go exceptionally far. Even for 500 euros, there are electric scooters that outperform many other electric scooters in terms of range.
Capacity is important, but not everything. Other factors significantly influence how many kilometers you can travel before the lithium-ion battery needs to be recharged. This includes, for example, the smoothness of the electric scooter’s ride. It is advantageous to have as large wheels as possible to reduce rolling resistance. The Metz Moover (test report) impressively proves this. Despite having a below-average capacity of 219 watt-hours, this electric scooter from 2019 offers a remarkable range. This is due to its sophisticated lightweight construction, which the manufacturer, however, still charges a handsome price of over 1000 euros for.
The weight of the rider is also important. The more weight the electric scooter has to carry, the shorter the range. The surface you ride on is also relevant. Asphalt is probably the most energy-efficient surface, while off-road paths create significantly more rolling resistance, which reduces the range. If the e-scooter also has to overcome elevation, you can almost watch the lithium-ion battery lose its capacity. This is not compensated by subsequent downhill sections.
The riding style also affects the range. This includes how often you have to stop and start again due to many traffic lights. The average speed is also relevant. An electric scooter uses significantly more energy per kilometer when it is traveling at 20 kilometers per hour instead of 15 kilometers per hour.
An often underestimated factor is outside temperature. Higher temperatures around 25 degrees and above are optimal for a longer range. If the temperature drops below 5 degrees, the maximum achievable kilometers decrease significantly. It should also be noted that a battery only reaches its full capacity after several charging cycles, which can have an effect on the range. Energy recovery through regeneration can also have a positive effect on the range.
Due to these many factors, we do not provide an exact statement of how far the models of the respective manufacturers actually travel.
Ultimately, you cannot fully trust the claimed range from the manufacturers. They often measure under unrealistic ideal conditions. In these measurements, the rider weighs 65 kilograms or less, rides on smooth asphalt at 12 km/h without any braking. It is worth taking a very close look at the manufacturers’ websites.
A few electric scooters offer a swappable battery. This allows the rider to purchase additional energy storage and swap them during a tour. However, a second battery can come with significant additional costs. Models with swappable batteries include the Elmoto-Kick (test report), the Trekstor EG40610 (test report), and the Streetbooster Two, which is an enhanced version of the Streetbooster One (test report).
In addition to range, there are many other factors that make a good electric scooter. This includes pneumatic tires in particular. We strongly recommend paying attention to this when making a purchase. Pneumatic tires have several advantages. Firstly, they naturally dampen uneven surfaces without the need for additional suspension, preventing shocks from being transferred to the rider or the sensitive components of the e-scooter. Secondly, they provide better traction on wet roads and generally result in shorter braking distances. The drawback is that they are usually not puncture-proof like solid rubber tires.
The brakes are also important, and there have been significant improvements in the newer models. Older models like the Doc Green Explorer ESA 1919 (test report) had an electric motor brake that could not be dosed and only knew the states of on and off. Fortunately, this is becoming less common. The motor brake, which is mostly activated via a lever on the handlebar, can be adjusted to provide minimal or maximum braking power according to the rider’s preference. This brake is recommended as it works without wear and often recovers energy.
Riding an e-scooter is not without its risks. Therefore, e-scooter riders should indicate their intention to turn by using hand signals. However, taking your hand off the handlebar can be risky. Fortunately, there are more and more e-scooters with integrated turn signals. The e-scooters we tested with turn signals include the premium e-scooter IO Hawk Legend (test report), the affordable Soflow S04 Gen 2 (test report), and the fast Chinese Kugoo Kirin G3 (test report). However, turn signals can also be easily and inexpensively retrofitted. You can find more information in our guide Must-Have Accessories for E-Scooters starting at 10 Euros: Lock, GPS Tracker, Turn Signals & Co.
It is also evident that electric scooters are increasingly well-built. There is less rattling, and the overall riding experience has improved. Now, an externally powered rear light is almost considered standard, although this wasn’t always the case.
Most e-scooter manufacturers seem to understand that the maximum allowed speed of 20 kilometers per hour offers a tolerance of 10 percent. Since 2021, there are models that can legally reach 22 kilometers per hour, which we highly appreciate. However, there are still some manufacturers, like Xiaomi and their popular Xiaomi Mi Scooter Pro 2 (test report), who deliberately limit their electric scooters to 19 kilometers per hour, just to be safe. That’s a shame.
Which E-Scooter Has the Longest Range?
The following top 10 list shows the e-scooters from our tests with the largest batteries, which consequently provide the highest range. This list is not exhaustive and is regularly updated by us.
1st Place: Eleglide D1 Master (1056 Wh)
The Eleglide D1 Master (test report) could be the ultimate electric scooter. First of all, it offers the highest range thanks to its extremely large 1056 watt-hour battery. Secondly, it has two powerful 500-watt motors that can accelerate up to 55 km/h. This “all-wheel drive” even makes the e-scooter capable of going off-road. If the rider wants to preserve the lithium-ion battery, they can disable the second motor. Furthermore, the Eleglide D1 Master stands out with its excellent suspension, bright turn signal, and remarkably easy folding mechanism.
Additionally, considering the features and the massive maximum range, it is not even expensive. It costs 880 euros at Geekmaxi (purchase link). However, there is one major drawback. The Eleglide D1 Master does not have a German road approval. However, if you want to race along private forest paths, you will hardly find a better model than the Eleglide D1 Master.
2nd Place: Kugoo Kirin G3 (936 Wh)
The Kugoo Kirin G3 (test report) with its high range is not far behind the Eleglide D1 Master. However, one thing needs to be mentioned upfront: The Kugoo Kirin G3 also does not have road approval and can only be ridden on private property in Germany.
The Kirin G3’s battery has a powerful capacity of 936 watt-hours. Unlike the Eleglide D1 Master, the Kirin G3 has a single 1200-watt motor instead of two 500-watt motors. It still accelerates strongly and can reach a top speed of up to 65 km/h. That’s an incredible speed for an e-scooter. Fortunately, the Kirin G3 has one of the best suspensions we have seen on an e-scooter so far. Overall, this electric scooter from China gives the impression of high-quality craftsmanship.
The Kugoo Kirin G3 costs 737 euros at Geekmaxi (purchase link). Geekmaxi offers free shipping from a European warehouse.
3rd Place: IO Hawk Legend (876 Wh)
The IO Hawk Legend (test report) is the highest-rated e-scooter on our battery best list that has road approval. It has a battery with a remarkable capacity of 874 watt-hours. There are probably only a few legal e-scooters that can travel as far as this one. The Legend is impressive in many other aspects as well. We particularly appreciate the excellent suspension, which is almost identical to the one used in the Kugoo Kirin G3.
In addition, the powerful 500-watt motor accelerates quickly to the maximum allowed speed, although it is unfortunately slightly too loud. The Legend could also be a bit faster. IO Hawk limits the motor to 20 km/h and does not take advantage of the allowed +10 percent. We also criticize the fiddly folding mechanism. However, if those are not major concerns, the IO Hawk Legend offers an e-scooter with road approval and a long range.
4th Place: Eleglide D1 (865 Wh)
The Eleglide D1 (test report) is the little brother of the Eleglide D1 Master and, therefore, does not have road approval either. But that does not mean that the D1 has nothing to offer. First of all, it also has an exceptionally large energy capacity of 864 watt-hours. Secondly, the 500-watt motor accelerates the rider to up to 45 km/h. It also has good suspension, although not as good as the D1 Master. However, it offers the same lighting system with a very good and bright turn signal. The folding mechanism works excellently as well. In fact, even the handlebar grips fold in to save extra centimeters.
The E-Scooter Eleglide D1 without road approval is quite affordable – it costs 600 euros at Geekmaxi (purchase link). Geekmaxi ships from a European warehouse, so the electric scooter will arrive quickly and there will be no additional customs fees.
5th Place: Egret Pro (840 Wh)
The Egret Pro (test report) is a fantastic e-scooter. The only thing that may make it unattractive to many is its high price. Apart from that, everything about it is great – it can compete at the top in almost every aspect. Its battery has a very high capacity of 840 watt-hours, so there are few other legal e-scooters that can travel as far.
The powerful motor of the Egret Pro comfortably reaches the maximum allowed speed of 22 km/h before shutting off. The brakes are hydraulic, and the 10-inch pneumatic tires provide excellent grip. However, we would have liked to see additional suspension for more riding comfort. Egret could have also added turn signals to the Pro.
The Egret Pro costs 1799 euros directly from the manufacturer (purchase link). Currently, it is not available for a lower price at other retailers.
6th Place: Epowerfun EPF-2 XT 835 (835 Wh)
Epowerfun offers a whole range of e-scooters, distinguished mainly by battery capacity. The EPF-2 XT 835 has the largest battery with 835 watt-hours. We took a closer look at the Epowerfun EPF-2 XT 600 (test report).
In terms of performance, comfort, and handling, the Epowerfun EPF-2 XT-600 belongs to the best models on the market. The scooter weighs 20 kilograms and is designed for riders up to 120 kilograms. The electric scooter has a powerful motor that provides sufficient acceleration. The maximum speed is 20 kilometers per hour plus 10 percent. The front suspension provides a comfortable ride, even on uneven roads.
Overall, the EPF-2 XT-600 from Epowerfun is a clear recommendation for anyone looking for a high-quality e-scooter with a long range.
7th Place: Vmax VX2 GT / ST (804 Wh)
The Vmax VX2 comes in three variants with different ranges, and two of them qualify for our e-scooter battery best list. The battery of the Vmax VX2 ST (test report) has a capacity of 624 watt-hours, and the VX2 GT (Gran Tourismo) has an even stronger battery with a capacity of 804 watt-hours. However, the GT version is often sold out.
The Vmax VX2 is also a great model besides its strong battery. Its standout feature is the powerful motor that can accelerate heavy riders to the maximum speed faster than almost any other legal e-scooter.
The Vmax VX2 has few weaknesses: the brakes are good, the build quality is robust, and the folding mechanism is easy to use. However, the display reflects too strongly and the rear mudguard seems a bit wobbly. Additionally, the Vmax VX2 ST is primarily suitable for city rides as it lacks a good suspension, as seen on the IO Hawk Legend (test report) or the Eleglide D1 Master (test report), for example.
8th Place: Egret X (672 Wh)
The battery of the Egret X (test report) has a capacity of 672 watt-hours. This model with a high range appears massive and puristic, partly due to its robust frame. The handlebar is thick and not adjustable in height. The Egret X comes with a metal ring secured by a lock. It is large enough to secure the e-scooter with regular bicycle locks. This is a clever and practical feature that we have already seen on the Egret Pro (test report). Overall, the build quality is high, with no loose parts or anything out of place.
The 500-watt motor with 35 Newton meters and 48 volts is one of the most powerful we have seen on a legal e-scooter so far. However, it does not match the power of the illegal Eleglide D1 Master (test report) and its two motors. The 120-millimeter hydraulic disc brakes work excellently and bring the rider to a quick stop.
With a diameter of 12.5 inches, the pneumatic tires make a real difference. Riding over gravel roads and off-road paths is more comfortable than on the Egret Pro (test report). However, we still miss suspension. The Egret X costs 1400 euros in the manufacturer’s online shop.
9th Place: Niu Kqi3 Max (608 Wh)
The battery of the Niu Kqi3 Max (test report) has an impressive capacity of 608 watt-hours, resulting in an above-average range. It is significantly more than most other e-scooters. Like the Niu Kqi3 Sport (test report), it stands out for its robust construction and well-thought-out design. Unlike the Sport, the Kqi3 Max has two mechanical disc brakes instead of just one. This allows the rider to come to a stop much faster.
The Niu Kqi3 Sport offers a fantastic riding experience. This is mainly due to the high-quality construction and agile handling. The handlebar is sturdy and does not wobble. The 9.5-inch pneumatic tires absorb most of the bumps. However, there is no active suspension.
Thanks to its powerful motor, the Niu Kqi3 Max can keep up with the most powerful e-scooters we have tested, such as the Vmax VX2 (test report). The Kqi3 accelerates to about 21 km/h when reaching the top speed, before the motor automatically reduces the speed.
10th Place: Egret Ten V4 (557 Wh)
The Egret Ten V4 (test report) is a high-end electric scooter with an impressive range. Thanks to its 500-watt drive, it accelerates strongly, rolls quietly, and, due to its 10-inch pneumatic tires, offers a smooth and comfortable ride. With its 557 watt-hour battery, it can travel significantly further than many of its competitors before needing to be recharged. The brake system with a disc brake on each wheel works very well.
The folding mechanism is excellent and looks well-designed and high-quality. Unlike many other e-scooters, the handles can also be folded here. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for small car trunks and for transportation on subways, trams, and trains.
The only potential drawback is that the handlebar may be too low for very tall people. Please note that the Egret Ten V4 is also available in a variant with a smaller battery.
Conclusion
Range is not everything for an e-scooter, but for many people, it may be the most important criterion when making a purchase. The two models with the highest range, Eleglide D1 Master (test report) and Kugoo Kirin G3 (test report), are unmatched. If you really want to go far and ride on private roads or off-road paths, you will hardly find better models than the Eleglide D1 Master and Kugoo Kirin G3. If you’re traveling abroad, you can grab one without hesitation. If you need it for street use and have the necessary funds, the IO Hawk Legend (review) and the Egret Pro (review) can take you a long way. The Segway Ninebot G30D II Max (review) and its predecessor are probably the legal e-scooters with the best value for money, even though they missed making it onto this top list due to a battery capacity of 551 watt-hours. Nevertheless, the Ninebot by Segway excels in most other areas, which is why it is featured in our comprehensive top 10 list: The best e-scooters over 300 euros in the test. However, the Egret X (review) is also a solid choice, despite its price tag of 1400 euros. If not just the range matters to you, take a look at our top 5 list: The best e-scooters under 500 euros. Electric scooters can also be interesting for our youngest ones in some cases, as our article E-scooters for kids starting at 100 euros in the test: big fun with some restrictions shows.
