If you are new to buying an electric scooter, it might seem that some of the most popular models are too costly. That is, quite frankly, true. However, many scooters out there outperform more expensive models. It is never easy to figure out a large market, especially when you are looking for the right mix of quality and value. If you live in Australia and are looking for a good e-scooter that doesn't dent your pockets, we have produced a detailed list of the best electric scooters in Australia under $1,000. We have highlighted everything you need to know before reading our selected list, including range, speed, build quality, and safety features, so that you get the most value for your buck. Let us have a look at the top choices that provide the right mix of all of these features.
Segway-Ninebot E2 Plus
Ninebot KickScooter E2 Plus is an upgraded version of the popular E2. It sports a strong 300W rear-wheel motor that peaks at 500W, a speed of 25 km/h, and extended battery life for up to 25 km on a single charge. It features an ultra-thin footboard, a large LED dashboard, and hollow puncture-proof tyres.
Safety is not sacrificed as it equips a dual braking system that has electronic front brakes and a rear drum brake. On top of that, it has an IPX4 water resistance rating that gives someone confidence with its performance under different weather conditions. One would appreciate its lightness at 14.4 kg since it folds up easily for transportation.
Segway-Ninebot F2
One of the features is its high torque 350W motor. However, this scooter can reach 700W for an easy ride up to steep slopes. Reaching a top speed of 25 km/h, it satisfies all governmental requirements. Its battery can last up to 40 km on one charge, providing more riding time. High safety is provided by a dual braking system, anti-skid traction control, and the built-in indicators.
It is equipped with 10-inch tubeless pneumatic tyres covered with a jelly layer, which makes the ride pleasant and smooth on roads. It supports up to 120 kg of load as a max payload and also has smart connectivity via the Segway-Ninebot application for customisation of rides and monitoring performances. Other specifications include a 367Wh battery and IPX5-rated water resistance.
VSETT Mini
This e-scooter is equipped with an NFC lock and key, a 36V 7.8Ah battery, and a 350W brushless motor, designed to get you going at a top speed of 25km from one battery or up to 38km with an optional external battery. The e-scooter accelerates up to 38 km/h top speed, capped at 25 km/h under Australian law. And comes with a front spotlight, brake light, foldable stem, and tubeless front tyre lined up by a rear tube tyre as well. It even boasts disc brakes, EABS, and an intelligent LCD display with NFC key lock immobiliser.
NIU KQi3 Max
The NIU KQi3 Max has a test range of 23 miles and a maximum speed of 22 mph. The Max comes with mechanical disc brakes that work similarly to hydraulic brakes, resulting in powerful stopping force and sharp performance. The pneumatic tyres are common under $1000; the Max stands out with its self-healing tubeless tyres measuring 9.5 inches by 2.5 inches.
The KQi3 Max has variable electronic brakes on both wheels as well as front and rear disc brakes. We really suggest it for its comfortable ride, good build quality, speed, and range.
EMOVE Touring
This commuter scooter can reach speeds of up to 20 mph and has a range of up to 32 miles, due to a single 500 W rear motor and a 48V 13AH LG battery. The Touring weighs only 39 pounds and folds compactly, making it suitable for riders up to 220 pounds. Its 8" tubeless front tyre and solid rear tyre reduce the possibility of flats.
It comes with regenerative brakes, and its IP54 water resistance allows you to ride through light rain. Although the optimal performance is set at 220 lbs, it can carry up to 308 lbs at a slower speed.
ANYHILL UM-2
The UM-2 features a lightweight, swappable, and lockable battery, a rider weight limit of 300 pounds, stability, and a centre-balanced kickstand that keeps it upright even on steep slopes. It has a top speed of approximately 18 mph and a tested range of 17 miles.
UM-2 has 10-inch pneumatic tyres and a dual braking system that includes both regenerative and maintenance-free sealed mechanical drum brakes. It weighs 45 pounds and is not the most portable option, but the 5-pound replaceable battery allows for an easy transfer of a spare for double the range.
Dualtron Togo
The Dualtron Togo is a new-age scooter designed specifically for modern commuters. Its powerful BLDC Hub Motor can reach speeds of up to 25 mph, and its 48V15Ah battery provides a consistent range of up to 30 miles. It weighs 54 pounds and features a compact folding mechanism.
The built-in display and smartphone connectivity on the Togo expand its capabilities. Bright 3-watt front and rear headlights assure safety and visibility at night. It has front and rear drum brakes and 9-inch pneumatic tyres. It can support up to 220 pounds, and you can ride it in all kinds of weather conditions due to its IPX5 waterproof rating.
Unagi Model One
The Unagi Model One has been a scooter icon since its launch in 2019, developing with each version. ESG awarded the Model One the "Zero Hassle" for 2022–23 owing to its low maintenance requirements. Leases are available through Unagi's subscription service, which also offers theft protection and the ability to return the scooter for a replacement.
The Model One is a one-of-a-kind urban scooter made of lightweight magnesium and carbon fibre that features dual 250W motors, making it the only dual-motor scooter available for less than $1,000. Single-motor rear drive mode is also an option, although the two motors work best on steep slopes. The twin motor mode also increases range, which has traditionally been roughly 9 miles in most models.
Fluid Freeride Mosquito
Fluid Freeride's lightest 29-pound Mosquito electric scooter revolutionises compact mobility. It accelerates to 15 mph and has a maximum tested speed of 27 mph. The Mosquito runs well even when a rider weighs more than 200 pounds, due to its 500W front wheel-mounted motor.
Mosquito has a front and rear spring suspension system, making it more comfortable to ride than solid-tyre scooters like the Unagi. The Mosquito, with its minimalist style and small 8-inch E-TWOW platform tyres, is speedy, lightweight, and has a range of approximately 17 miles.
In Summary
You must decide what is most important to you as a rider when purchasing the best electric scooters in Australia under $1,000. Do you spend the majority of your commute in cities? If so, you are likely more concerned about portability. In that scenario, you should put the Unagi or Fluid Mosquito on your short list.
Perhaps you want a scooter that provides more range and comfort on longer rides. The tubeless pneumatic tyres on the NIU KQi3 Max, the Unagi Model One's two motors, and the wide range of features at such low pricing make the bottom end of the $1000 category desirable. At this price, it is unfortunate that these scooters can be so affordable while still providing so much versatility.
Ultimately, no scooter can satisfy all riders. When you spend less than $1000 on an electric scooter, it is even more important to examine what you want.