Your research is over…
We’ve spent over 32 solid hours researching the best electric scooter for kids. This included compiling and comparing the top picks of all the best sites reviewing them, studying Amazon reviews and ratings, and finally reading through the manufacturers websites for extra info and customer feedback.
So, without further ado, here is our roundup of the best motorized scooters for children.
In this article:
How to pick the best electric scooter for kids
E-scooters have now gained so much popularity that they have entered the mainstream of children’s ride-on toys. This happened sometime between 2010 and 2015, and it owes a lot to advancing motor engineering and battery technology. Essentially, motor-tech companies are now able to get some serious power out of a small motor, and, even more importantly, our modern batteries are small enough and can hold enough battery charge to really make these toys a viable and affordable option.
Before we dive into our reviews, here is a little more geeky knowledge about motorized scooters…
Choosing the best electric scooter for kids: Key components
The main components of motorized scooters are:
- Motor – Unsurprisingly, this is the most important part. Generally speaking, the more power the motor produces the faster the scooter can go and the heavier load it can bear. The thing is, to create a more powerful motor, you generally need more coils of metal. This means heavier motors. You’ll find that this positive relationship between speed/power and weight generally holds true across all the brands and models. If your teenage kid needs speed (which they invariably do), then the compromise is that their scooter will be heavier. Not a problem when it’s fully charged, but if it runs out of battery and needs pushing or you simply want to pack it and take it on holiday, then it’s more of a burden.
- Battery – The best electric scooters are powered by a good battery. They are typically rechargeable lead or lithium batteries but the quality can vary enormously. A high-quality battery can hold more charge and for longer. Lithium batteries, while more expensive are lighter and hold their power much better. This means that as you are riding them they maintain a more constant power output. Most children’s picks, like the Razor range, use a lithium battery.
- Brakes – It’s important to go for a scooter with decent brakes. The best to look out for are disc or V brakes both on the front and the back. These make stopping easy and effective without the worry of throwing your child over the handlebars (which can happen if a child applies a front-only brake too forcefully).
- Forks and Frame – E-scooters tend to be more heavy-duty than ordinary scooters. They have thicker frames which tend to be heavier. While this may sound like a bad thing, actually when riding them, having a heavier frame leads to more stability. It’s important to look for a good frame and fork build quality as this will directly correlate with the longevity of the scooter. Or, put simply, cheap frames break quickly.
Related: The 10 Best Scooters for Kids (2021 Guide & Reviews)
Factors to compare when buying the best electric scooter for kids
If you want the best electric scooter for kids, then here’s what you need to know:
- Maximum speed – It’s important to choose an appropriate scooter speed for your child’s age. Generally, kids’ picks range from about 5mph up to 15mph (some can even go 20mph!). Children up to 8-years-old should generally stick to below 10mph (ie, don’t get them a scooter that goes faster because they will definitely max it out!). Older tweens and teens, however, should be comfortable at 15mps which feels fast but isn’t so speedy as to become unsafe.
- Range – This depends on the weight of your child and the capacity and quality of the battery. The best you will get at present is about 40-45 minutes of continuous riding. This is pretty good and on faster models may get you a 10 miles round trip. Of course, scooters with longer ranges tend to be more expensive, so it’s worth knowing whether your child will be using her scooter just for weekend fun or whether it will be her primary means of travel to school or college.
- Charging times – A typical kids scooter battery will go from fully flat to fully charged within about 12 hours. But look carefully at the manufacturer’s technical specifications. Some will charge in as little as 8 hours, but these may have a reduced range.
- Load bearing – Most picks will comfortably handle the weight of an adult, not to speak of a smaller child. That said, the cheaper, lighter scooters tend to have a lower weight capacity. They will work with a heavier child, but they might slow down a bit going up hills. For this reason, again, match your child’s age with the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid disappointment; no teenager wants to go uphill at a walking pace!
- Price – There is a huge variation in price. Just think of it in the same way as buying a car. You can go for budget, but you will get what you pay for. If you are on a budget, then you can find some decent scooters under $200, but really $300 – $400 will get you a more powerful quality motor that will last and fulfill your kiddo’s need for speed. If you are after the very best, then expect to pay $500-700+.
With that short introduction out the way, let’s dive in and take a look out the top electric scooters you can buy your kids.
Related: The 9 Best ATVs for Kids and Teens (2021 Reviews + FAQs)
Our picks of the best electric scooters
From top speed to long distance cruises, electric scooters offer your kid travel on two wheels that’s a battery-powered upgrade from their bike. Whether they’re in preschool or high school, this list of quality scooters has a little something for everyone, and it’s packed with the make-or-break details that can help you make the best choice for your child.
Best Overall
Our opinion
The Razor E300 (click here to check price) has definitely risen to the top in terms of expert opinion and customer reviews. It is a solid middle of the range electric scooter which provides power serious enough for a teenager while also maintaining a reasonable price tag.
It features a durable steel frame with large pneumatic wheels which expertly handle rough terrain, and can travel at up to 15 MPH. It’s great for kids over 13, and can accommodate riders up to 220 lbs, so they’ll be able to continue benefiting from its speed and durability when when they’re older.
At a glance:
- Comes multiple colors.
- Rated for kids age 13 and older, up to 220 pounds.
- Max speed 15mph
- Hand-grip break
- Large wheels easily handle bumps and cracks.
What we love
- It doesn’t shy away from rough terrain, with wheels that handle uneven surfaces better than competitors
- The max speed of 15 MPH means it can add some pep to their short commutes
- A high max weight limit that’s adult friendly means they can enjoy it for years to come
Watch for
- The frame is somewhat heavy, so younger children might have issues lifting it
Best for Long Rides
Our opinion
The speed, power, longevity, and trustworthiness of Segway’s self-balancing offering combine in a classic kick scooter design that packs serious oomph with the Segway Ninebot Max (click here to check price). Long range travels are no issue at all thanks to an impressive 40 miles of travel per charge, which is backed by the device’s proprietary Smart Battery Management System; the tech regulates battery drain to allow for a long-lasting charge.
Speeds of 18.6 mph will get them where they need to go in a snap, and unlike many competitors, it’s IPX5 water resistant, so it’s safe for them to ride in a light drizzle. Built-in front, rear, and brake LED lights offer illumination, making their ride a bit safer, especially at dusk when visibility declines.
Despite the impressive longevity of this scooter’s battery charge, juicing up only takes about six hours, compared to some competitors which can take 8-12 hours or even an entire day to charge. It also features tubeless pneumatic “self-healing” tires, meaning that they’re able to withstand multiple small punctures without deflating in order to preserve tire life even with frequent use.
At a glance:
- Offers 40 miles of travel per charge
- Top speed of 18.6 MPH
- Features IPX5 water resistance, so it’s safe to ride in a light drizzle
- Can charge in only six hours
- Weight limit of 220 lbs
- Pneumatic “self-healing” tires resist small punctures
What we love
- The potential 40 miles of travel time allowed per charge make this the best long range scooter on our list
- The charge time is quite short at just six hours
- Rain is less of an issue than with other e-scooters thanks to IPX5 water resistance
Watch for
- The durability and features offered mean it’s more expensive than competitors
- It’s a bit heavier than some competitors at 41 lbs
Best Budget Buy
Our opinion
Created by the experts at Razor, the EcoSmart Metro Electric Scooter (click here to check price) is a seated scooter with a detachable rear “luggage rack” in the form of a high-sided basket that’s great for toting their essentials. The scooter features a thick, comfortable padded seat that won’t be uncomfortable on their tailbone, even on long rides, and a wide, attractive bamboo deck with classic Razor detailing gives them somewhere to safely place their feet during the ride.
The EcoSmart Metro is powered by a 500 watt extra high-torque motor, which offers speeds up to 18 – 20 MPH as well as up to one hour of continuous use. Rear wheel drive gives this scooter better traction, a smooth ride, and more control, making it safe and fun for getting around in the neighborhood, or traveling back and forth to school if their commute is short. It’s designed to be friendly to both teens and adults, so the 220 lb weight limit means they can continue enjoying it even when they’re grown.
At a glance:
- Top speed of 18 – 20 MPH
- Offers 60 minutes of use per charge
- Seated scooter
- Weight limit of 220 lbs
- Weight limit of 220 lbs
- Features rear wheel drive for improved control and traction
What we love
- The deeply-padded seat stays comfortable even on a long ride
- Rear-wheel drive makes the scooter easier to control at top speeds
- The removable luggage rack/basket offers handy storage space
Watch for
- This electric scooter with seat is on the heavier side, at 67 lbs
- The wheels aren’t great on rough surfaces and inclines
Best for Tweens
Our opinion
The Razor E100 Glow (click here to check price) scooter can’t be bested in terms of coolness. The board is lined with blue LED lights that flash every time the handlebar throttle is twisted, adding a bit of extra pizzazz to their fun. It has a retractable kickstand for easy on-off access, and the scooter can support up to 200 pounds. The battery takes about 12 hours to charge, and there is minimal assembly required.
The flashy scooter can travel at maximum speeds of up to 10 MPH, and can be used for up to 40 minutes of continuous play. Pneumatic tires give it an edge at tackling rough terrain, though riders should still be cautious on rocky surfaces and slopes.
At a glance:
- Max speed of 10 mph
- Good for up to 40 minutes of nonstop use
- Hand-operated rear brake
- 8” pneumatic front tire
- Ages 8+
What we love
- Bright blue LED lights that trigger with a twist of the handlebar throttle
- The high weight limit of 200 lbs means they can keep enjoying it as they grow
- A retractable kickstand helps keep their scooter in place when they’re not riding
Watch for
- Charge time takes about half a day, so be prepared
- Though the wheels are durable, they’re still iffy on slopes and rocks
Best With Seat
Our opinion
A scooter that’s built to last them into adulthood and can easily be shared by the family adds serious value to your purchase. The Razor E300S (click here to check price) is a little different than some electric scooters – there’s a seat, which offers soft, padded comfort to riders.
Razor knows their riders look for versatility, however, and the seat can be removed to allow stand-up riding. The super-sized deck makes it suitable for riders of all sizes, and a retractable kickstand makes life more convenient during playtime. Wide pneumatic wheels also make balance a bit easier, and allow this pick to handle rough terrain with ease.
This scooter can cruise at an exciting but safe top speed of 15 MPH, and can run for about 40 minutes on one battery charge.
At a glance:
- This scooter can travel at speeds up to 15 MPH
- It runs for about 40 minutes on one battery charge
- The extra wide 10″ pneumatic tires make balance easy
- The super-wide deck is designed to accommodate all sizes of rider, even adults
- This pick has a comfortable padded seat that can be both adjusted and removed outright for stand-up riding
What we love
- 15 MPH speeds are satisfying, and make this a good commuter scooter for short distances
- Balancing is made easier thanks to 10″ pneumatic tires and a wide deck
- There’s a comfortable padded seat, but it can also be removed if they prefer to stand while riding
Watch for
- Charge time takes about 12 hours, so make sure to do it ahead of time
Coolest Ride
Our opinion
The XPrit Folding Electric Scooter (click here to check price) is designed beautifully and is perfect for the older child who has begun to appreciate aesthetics and feels the desire to look cool on their scooter. The Xprit looks like a very cool kick scooter and you’d be forgiven for not realizing that it is actually motorized. Given it’s light frame, as you’d expect, it doesn’t pack quite the punch of the heavier and chunkier models, but saying that it isn’t bad at all. It can maintain 13.6mph (which feels pretty fast) for over 10-13.6 miles. Just be aware that if your child is a stocky footballer, then this may not get him uphill very fast. It states 200lbs max weight, but you are safer to assume 170lbs.
At a glance:
- Top speed 13.6mphh and range 10-13.6 miles.
- Easy to fold and store.
- 350w motor doesn’t handle hills very well
- LCD battery life display
What we love
- The slim frame folds to store or travel, allowing it to easily fit into a small space
- A 10 – 13.6 mile max speed and 13.6 mile travel range make it ideal for short commutes
- An LCD battery display means there’s no surprises in terms of remaining battery charge
Watch for
- This scooter’s motor is only 350w, which means it’s not ideal for tackling slopes
Best European-Style
Our opinion
The Razor Pocket Mod (click here to check price) is a bit different. It’s not an electric kick scooter, but rather an electric motor scooter. Think of it as a cute electric Vespa for kids. It has a maximum speed of 15mph, which is pretty fast, and will keep your teenage girl happy as she cruises to high school. It can do a 10-mile round trip, offering a max run time of 40 minutes, and has a design inspired by vintage mod.
It’s an ideal scooter for short commutes with a European-style design that makes it extra fun, adding a chic, mature touch. Under the seat, the rider will find a convenient storage cubby that’s great for toting their essentials safely on the go. A handy retractable kickstand also keeps their “motorcycle” upright when they’re not riding.
At a glance:
- Top speed 15mph and range 10 miles.
- Variable-speed acceleration is smooth.
- Quality, long-lasting electric motor
What we love
- The European-style model and pink and purple design options make it a great electric scooter for girls
- The maximum speed of 15 MPH lets them get around quickly but safely
- There’s a storage cubby under the seat, great for storing school stuff or essentials
Watch for
- There’s no way to collapse this scooter, so it takes up a bit of room in storage
Best Self-Balancing Scooter
Our opinion
Segway remains one of the most well-known and respected names in the industry, and their Segway Ninebot S Self-Balancing Electric Scooter (click here to check price) follows their traditional upright self-balancing design, so it’s a little bit different than the average kids scooter. The hoverboard-style device adds a knee control bar, which makes achieving precise turns easier and can also make the scooter easier to carry. The knee bar can also be detached to achieve a traditional Segway ride style, or to allow the electric scooter to be fit into a cramped space.
Though the Ninebot S is itself quite lightweight at only 28 lbs, it can hold riders with a maximum weight of 220 lbs, so they’ll be able to use and enjoy the scooter for years. It can travel at up to 10 MPH and run for up to 13.7 miles, so it’s great for sightseeing and neighborhood travel with a fairly impressive range. It can also climb slopes, though its ability to do so maxes out at 15 degrees, and the scooter’s durable pneumatic tires offer a smooth ride over both urban sidewalks and rougher rural terrain.
At a glance:
- Travels at speeds up to 10 MPH
- Maximum run distance of 13.7 Miles
- Can climb 15 degree slopes
- Self-balancing design
- Features removable knee bar to aid steering control
What we love
- For a child who isn’t used to self-balancing scooters, the knee bar adds tons of control
- It’s not heavy or bulky, so carrying it and traveling with it aren’t tough
- The speed is satisfying, but low enough to feel safe allowing a preteen to ride
Watch for
- Because it’s not a typical electric scooter design, the knee bar may take getting used to
Best for Budget
Our opinion
When shopping for your kids’ first motorized scooter, dropping hundreds of dollars on a fancy model may feel like an extravagant spend. A more budget-friendly pick, like the Gotrax GKS Electric Scooter (click here to check price), cuts out some of the bells and whistles in favor of a reasonable price tag and a durable scooter that’s just right for them to learn on. To start, all they have to do is kick off, and reaching speeds up to 1.8 MPH without a motor. When they’re ready for more speed, all they have to do is place their foot on the back gravity sensor on the scooter’s deck to engage the motor and enable travel up to 7.5 MPH, a safe speed for the recommended age range of 6 – 12.
Acceleration is smooth, and simply removing their foot from the back sensor allows the scooter to gradually slow down, while the rear break brings it to an immediate stop. Aircraft-grade metal and a fire-retardant deck mean the design of this scooter is safe and durable despite its light weight of only 17 lbs, and when it’s not being used, it folds into a slim design that’s great for travel and storage.
At a glance:
- Recommended age range: 6 – 12 years
- Travels at speeds up to 7.5 MPH
- 17 lb weight
- Folds into slim design for storage
- Motor triggered by gravity sensor on scooter deck
What we love
- Simply put: it’s a decent but cheap electric scooter
- The price is budget-friendly, so it’s a great first time pick
- Light weight and slim design makes it easy to carry and store
Watch for
- Charge time only offers about four miles of riding, so long distances are off the table
Best for Toddlers
Our opinion
Riding an electric Razor scooter isn’t just for the big kids anymore with the Razor Jr. (click here to check price), which keeps the quality, safety, and durability of the trusted name brand and sizes it down into a pick that’s perfect for the youngest first-timers. The gentle push button ignition allows the scooter to slowly build to its full speed, stopping once the button has been released. Slow speeds of only 2 MPH are ideal for allowing little riders to adjust to the three-wheeled scooter’s movement while maintaining their balance.
This petite pick features a dual rear wheel drive train, a durable steel frame, and a large deck platform that adds stability andffers a smooth ride. Foam handlebars complete the experience, offering a comfortable grip as they ride. This little scooter, which is powered by a rechargeable 6V with a battery life of 40 minutes, is ideal for a child who is over 3 years old and under 44 lbs.
At a glance:
- Ideal first electric scooter
- Run time: 40 minutes
- Maximum weight: 44 lbs
- Riders must be over age 3
- Travels at speeds up to 2 MPH
What we love
- Simply put: it’s a decent but cheap electric scooter
- The price is budget-friendly, so it’s a great first time pick
- Light weight and slim design makes it easy to carry and store
Watch for
- It’s not safe for kids over 44 lbs, so it’s really just for young children and toddlers
What kind of safety equipment is needed when riding electric scooters?
When your about to give your kiddo some MPH to play with, you’ll naturally want to keep them safe from harm in the process. Quality safety gear is an important addition to their electric scooter experience, and in the event of an accident, it can be the difference between scrapes and more serious injuries. If you’re getting ready to gear up, here are our top tips.
- Always wear a helmet: If you wouldn’t let your kid ride a bike without a helmet, you already know why they’re also essential safety gear when kids are using electric scooters. Protect those precious noggins with a bike helmet that fits securely and meets CPSC criteria. Some top-of-the-line helmet picks now feature a Multi-directional Impact Protection System, which is abbreviated as MIPS. They’re a little bit more expensive, but they improve a helmet’s ability to absorb impact regardless of the impact’s direction or angle.
- Knee and elbow pads are a plus: Not all parents will deem these necessary, but on scooter picks that move fast, protecting knees and elbows can be the difference between a bump and a break in an accident. They protect vital joints and reduce impact shock in a crash.
- Dress for safety: Even on warm days, it’s best for kids to cover as much skin as possible while riding their electric scooter to avoid painful scrapes in the event of an accident. Sandals, slides and any other open-toed shoe shouldn’t be worn, as they can impede safe operation. If kids will be riding off premises or in dimly lit areas, bright clothing and reflective gear are also key to keeping them safe.
What are some safety features to look for on electric scooters for kids?
The onus of riding safety doesn’t rest entirely on parents and kids. Many scooters have built-in safety features that can make life easier for parents and rides more secure for kids. Here are some helpful features to look for:
- Speed limiters: These are especially good for kids who need a little time to practice, offering parents the opportunity to increase and decrease the scooter’s maximum speed. They’re more typically present on sit-to-ride scooters, but some standing models have them as well.
- Quality hand brakes: Many have hand brakes, but it’s important that they work quickly and work well. Make sure they’re present and that they do their job efficiently.
Related: The 9 Best Hoverboards for Kids in 2021
How old should my child be before they begin using an electric scooter?
In the name of safety, it’s always important to hold off on giving our kids toys they’re too young to handle, even when they’re fun. Like many toys, the age range on electric scooters can vary significantly from model to model. There are picks designed to move slowly and safely that are ideal for kids under three, but there are also quick, zippy rides that are only safe for older kids who have the strength, balance and coordination for the scooter.
As a parent, you know your child and their capabilities and limitations best. Some children may technically fall into the age range for more souped-up scooters, but if they’re just not quite there yet in terms of ability or maturity, let them practice on a less powerful pick until they get the hang of it – they tend to be the more economical picks anyway.
Is riding on an electric scooter safe for my child?
We get it – the idea of giving your wild child a “vehicle” of their very own feels a little intimidating. Putting your kiddo in harm’s way simply isn’t an option, but electric scooters for kids are designed with their safety in mind. As long as safe operation guidelines are met, kids are likely to have fun without incident. Wondering how to keep them safe?
- Follow the scooter’s operator rules – Don’t make exceptions on height and weight minimums or limits on scooters, as it increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
- Wear the right safety gear – Protecting them with good gear means that even if there’s a crash, they’re less likely to be seriously injured. We’ve covered the most important safety gear to use with electric scooters below, so keep reading to learn more.
- Encourage responsible ridership – It’s essential that kids follow the so-called rules of the road when they’re on their electric scooter, as trying to do dangerous tricks or ride in unsuitable areas can cause injuries to your child and damage or destruction to their scooter. Emphasize the importance of maturity, treating it like a mini driving license that can be taken in the event of misuse.
- Look for safety features – Many scooters have built-in features that can make your child’s ride a little safer. We did a rundown of the most helpful picks – more on that soon.
Wrapping up
Electric transportation may be the wave of the future (2) and so why not get your kids involved early. They’ll soon understand about battery charge and torque which will be handy when they drive their electric car in the future. The main thing to remember when purchasing an electric scooter for a child is to check the manufacturer’s recommendation for speed and age. After this, it all depends on your budget. If you’ve got the cash, then you can look for a longer range scooter, but don’t worry, there are plenty of decent affordable models, and let’s face it, your child probably won’t be using if for a 15-mile commute
