Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Electric Scooters

Gotrax G4 500W Electric Scooter vs Segway Ninebot ES3

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Gotrax G4 500W Electric Scooter comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.5 vs 2.8). The gap is mostly about fit for purpose — read the strengths below before deciding.

Gotrax G4 500W Electric Scooter
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Electric Scooters
Gotrax G4 500W Electric Scooter
7 sources$439as of Oct 2

The Gotrax G4 delivers a best-in-class top speed of 20 mph and utilizes the largest battery in its price category, offering strong range potential for cautious riders. TechGearLab found that the large 10-inch pneumatic tires provide a smooth ride over bumps, while integrated cable locks and PIN codes add convenient security layers. However, RiderGuide noted frustrating throttle behavior requiring a double-tap after kick-starting, and Electric Revolution Reviews found the scooter severely lacks hill-climbing torque, failing to ascend steep grades. This model fits budget commuters on flat terrain who prioritize speed and comfort, but those needing reliable power for hills or instant throttle response should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — RiderGuide found it has a tested top speed of 20 mph, which is best-in-class for the budget commuter class.
  • — The scooter features a 374 Wh battery, described as the largest capacity in its price category.
  • — It includes built-in anti-theft security with an integrated cable lock and a digital PIN code requirement to start.
Watch-outs
  • — RiderGuide noted a frustrating throttle behavior where riders must double-tap the throttle after kick-starting to engage the motor.
  • — Electric Revolution Reviews found the scooter severely lacks hill-climbing torque, failing to ascend a 13-percent grade during testing.
Segway Ninebot ES3
Ranked #5 in Best Electric Scooters
Segway Ninebot ES3
4 sourcesall derived

The Segway Ninebot ES3 offers an extended 28-mile range through its dual-battery system and weighs approximately 30 pounds with a convenient one-click folding mechanism, as Business Insider noted. Freshlycharged found that real-world performance typically yields between 18 and 22 miles per charge depending on rider weight and terrain. However, the scooter struggles significantly on steep inclines due to its 300-watt front motor losing substantial speed and power. The braking system is also considered eager and lacks confidence in emergency stops, requiring careful modulation to avoid sudden jerks. Solid airless tires eliminate flats but transmit vibrations over rough surfaces, while the lack of a rear taillight reduces visibility at night. This model fits riders seeking low maintenance on flat urban paths, but those commuting through hilly areas or needing robust nighttime safety should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Dual battery system provides up to 28 miles of range in ideal conditions
  • — Weighs approximately 30 pounds and features a one-click folding mechanism for portability
  • — Equipped with solid airless tires that eliminate the risk of flats
Watch-outs
  • — Struggles significantly on steep inclines, losing substantial speed and power
  • — Braking system is considered eager and lacks confidence in emergency stops
  • — Lacks a rear taillight, relying only on reflectors for visibility from behind

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Gotrax G4 500W Electric Scooter

The Gotrax G4 offers a larger 374 Wh battery and higher top speed than the Gotrax GXL V2, making it better for range-conscious commuters who still need decent power. However, unlike the Hiboy S2 Max which handles steep inclines effectively with its 500W motor, the G4 severely lacks hill-climbing torque on grades above 13 percent.

Segway Ninebot ES3

The Segway Ninebot ES3 features solid airless tires that eliminate the risk of flats, a maintenance advantage over the pneumatic tires found on both the Gotrax G4 and Hiboy S2 Max. However, it struggles significantly on steep inclines due to its 300W motor, whereas the Hiboy S2 Max handles steep grades effectively with its more powerful 500W unit.

Specs side-by-side

SpecGotrax G4 500W Electric ScooterSegway Ninebot ES3
Motor Power500W Peak / 350W Nominal300 W
Max Speed20 mph15.5 mph
RangeUp to 25mi28 miles
Battery Capacity374 Wh374 Wh
Tire Type10-inch PneumaticSolid (airless)
Weight Limit264 lb220 lb
Scooter Weight37.8 lb30 lb
Water ResistanceIP54IP54
Dimensions75"L x 46.5"W x 38"H—
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