Electric skateboards provide a fun, eco-friendly and convenient way to get around. With innovations in battery technology and electric motors, today‘s electric skateboards are faster, longer-ranging and more feature-rich than ever.
In this expert guide, we‘ll review the top 8 electric skateboard models on the market and provide advice to help you pick the best board for your needs and budget.
A Brief History of Electric Skateboards
Before jumping into the top models, let‘s first take a quick look at the evolution of electric skateboards.
While they seem like a brand new invention, electric skateboards actually date back to 1975 with the release of the MotoBoard. Powered by a small gas engine, the MotoBoard gave riders a powered alternative to pushing. It sold well for close to a decade before going out of production.
After a lull where gas-powered boards were banned in many places due to pollution and noise concerns, the first electric-powered skateboard emerged in 1997. Dubbed the eXkate, it utilized an electric motor instead of gas power. However, battery and motor technology at the time couldn‘t deliver the performance needed for mainstream success.
It wasn‘t until the mid 2000s that electric skateboard tech caught up to the vision. Led by brands like Boosted and Evolve, well-designed electric skateboards with lithium battery packs and high-torque hub motors finally delivered the speed, range and power needed to attract riders.
And the market keeps growing. Analysts estimate the global electric skateboard market will reach $2.6 billion by 2027.
Now let‘s take a look at the top models of 2023!
How We Chose the Best Electric Skateboards
With so many electric skateboards on the market, narrowing it down to the top 8 wasn‘t easy. We evaluated over 20 top models, considering specs like:
- Speed and Acceleration: How fast can the board go? Speed is important for thrill-seeking riders.
- Range: How far can you ride before recharging? Long range is great for commuters.
- Terrain Handling: Can the board handle bumpy off-road conditions? Look for all-terrain boards if you want to ride places like grass or trails.
- Weight: Lighter boards around 15 lbs are best for portability and carrying. Heavier boards can feel too bulky for some riders.
- Price: Budget boards under $500 suit riders new to the hobby. Premium boards range from $1,000 to $2,000+.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: We gave weight to top brands with strong reputations. Customer reviews were checked for evidence of reliability and durability complaints.
Balancing all these criteria, we selected the top 8 electric skateboards highlighted below.
1. Boosted Stealth – Best Overall
[Insert image of Boosted Stealth board]Top Speed: 24 mph
Range: 14 miles
Weight: 17 lbs
Price: $1,599
If budget is no concern and you simply want the best electric skateboard money can buy, the Boosted Stealth is the clear choice.
Boosted is one of the top names in electric skateboards, and the performance, build quality and ease of use of the Stealth lives up to the hype. It strikes the ideal balance of speed, range and power for an exceptional riding experience.
Highlights include bamboo deck construction, smooth speed control via the handheld remote, and flexible deck and large wheels that handle bumps with ease. We also like the convenient kick tail that makes maneuvering easy.
While the $1,600 price tag is steep, true electric skateboarding enthusiasts agree that it earns every penny through best-in-class performance and construction. For the rider who wants it all with no compromises, the Boosted Stealth can‘t be beat!
2. Lacroix Lonestar Supersport – Fastest Board
Top Speed: 55 mph (!)
Range: 25+ miles
Weight: 19 lbs
Price: $2,299
If sheer speed and adrenaline is what you‘re after in an electric skateboard, the Lacroix Lonestar Supersport is the ride for you. With a scarcely believable top speed of 55 mph, it holds the title as the world‘s fastest production electric skateboard.
Underneath the unique asymmetrical deck lies a beastly 6374 outrunner motor powered by a massive 1089 watt-hour battery. Combine that muscle with specially designed anti-wobble trucks and dampening wheels, and the Lonestar allows stable control over its mind-bending speed.
Just note that a board built for this kind of high-speed thrill ride doesn‘t come cheap at over $2,000. But for riders who feel the need for speed, no other production board can compete with the Lonestar Supersport. Just be sure to keep it to closed courses and always wear protection!
3. Apsuboard F3 – Best Budget Board Under $500
Top Speed: 20 mph
Range: 9 miles
Weight: 15 lbs
Price: $489
Proving you don‘t need to spend a fortune for an entertaining electric ride, the Apsuboard F3 is our pick as the best budget board under $500.
At half the cost of higher-end boards, the Apsuboard unsurprisingly makes some performance trade-offs. It has a single 400W hub motor (most boards have dual motors) and tops out at a modest 18 mph with a 9 mile maximum range.
However, those stats are still plenty for newer riders not yet ready to handle ultra-high speeds. And the flexible maple and carbon fiber deck provides a smooth, lively ride quality. Consider adding the detachable battery pack for nearly double the range if needed.
For riders on a budget looking for solid electric skateboard performance without breaking the bank, it‘s tough to beat the Apsuboard F3.
4. Skatebolt Tornado II – Best for Adults
Top Speed: 22 mph
Range: 15 miles
Weight: 19.8 lbs
Price: $369
Skatebolt describes its boards as delivering "smooth power that aims to inspire." We agree the Tornado II is a great choice for adult riders seeking a well-rounded board for casual riding at modest speeds.
This dual-motor skateboard can hit 22 mph while still feeling stable and controlled thanks to the grippy wide deck design. The 15 mile range gives you plenty of ride time between charges. And at under 20 lbs, it strikes a nice balance of being light enough for portability yet heavy enough for stability.
While it can‘t match premium boards for maximum performance, the Skatebolt Tornado II gives you plenty of usable speed and range for adult riding at a reasonable price under $400. It‘s a great choice for getting started with electric longboards.
5. Meepo V4 – Best Electric Longboard
Top Speed: 28 mph
Range: 11 miles
Weight: 17.2 lbs
Price: $369
Longboards excel at covering distance with their larger size and grippy stability. For electric longboards, the Meepo V4 stands above the rest as the best option for sale today.
Utilizing flexible bamboo construction with a low riding deck, the Meepo V4 offers exceptional shock absorption even over bumpy pavement. The 500 watt dual hub motors can propel riders to 28 MPH, which is incredibly fast for a board this size.
Another high point of Meepo boards is their simplicity. Rather than overwhelming riders with settings and configurations, they focus on pick-up-and-go usability with smooth throttle control.
Overall for an electric longboard with great comfort, range and usable speed, the Meepo V4 checks all the boxes. Riders wanting the stability and shock absorption of a long electric ride should give it a close look.
6. Propel Endeavor S – Best All-Terrain Electric Skateboard
Top Speed: 28 mph
Range: 10 miles
Weight: 19.8 lbs
Price: $1,649
Traditional electric skateboards struggle in grass, gravel or other uneven terrain. Boards designed specifically for all-terrain riding allow you to blaze a trail off the beaten path.
When it comes to rugged electric boards, we‘re fans of the Propel Endeavor S. Its sturdy build and giant airless tires laugh at bumps and divots that would stop other boards cold.
An advanced suspension system along with a flexible deck work together to produce a smooth ride across the roughest surfaces. And its water resistant design means you need not fear getting caught in the rain either.
Propel designed the Endeavor S for thrill seekers wanting to ride freely across grass, packed dirt and gravel. If the idea of carving through the wilderness instead of concrete appeals to you, this rugged electric board is purpose-built for the job.
7. Maxfind Max One – Best Electric Skateboard for Kids
Top Speed: 10 mph
Range: 6 miles
Weight: 7 lbs
Price: $198
Considering most boards easily top 20+ mph, responsible parents rightfully worry those speeds could mean dire trouble for kids. Enter the Maxfind Max One, our pick for the best kid-friendly electric skateboard.
As you can tell from the 10 mph top speed and diminutive 17" length, this pint-sized ride trades raw power for a focus on safety. An integrated handle makes carrying easy for younger riders. And the Bluetooth remote even allows parents to set speed limits and get low battery alerts.
While seasoned skaters will quickly outgrow it, the Max One hits a sweet spot for kids wanting to safely develop electric riding skills without the dangers of a fast adult board. It makes for smiles all around.
8. Exway Flex – Best for Commuters
Top Speed: 25 mph
Range:15.5 miles
Weight: 17 lbs
Price: $699
Electric skateboards actually make for a surprisingly great commuter vehicle. They effortlessly zip past traffic, are emissions-free, and fold up neatly in the corner of an office or classroom.
Optimized for riders needing reliable daily transportation, the Exway Flex stands out as the best electric skateboard for commuters.
The flexible maple and fiberglass deck lives up to its name, providing a smooth ride over rough city pavement. It also uses hub motors rather than belt drive for quiet running. And the swappable battery design allows you to carry spares for exceptional range.
Add in a weatherproof design able to withstand mist or light rain, and all signs point to the Exway Flex making the daily commute faster and more enjoyable.
And those are our picks for the top electric skateboards across different performance factors, price ranges and riding styles!
How to Choose the Best Electric Skateboard
With so many exciting models on the market, picking your dream electric skateboard ultimately comes down to matching key factors like speed, range and terrain handling to the riding experience you want.
Speed vs Safety
If feeling extreme speed is a top priority, high-powered boards like the Lacroix Lonestar Supersport can deliver – just be honest about your skill level. Novices should stick to slower boards under 20 mph until gaining experience.
A good rule of thumb is your top speed in mph shouldn‘t exceed your experience in years – a rider with 2 years under their belt can probably safely handle a board topping out around 20 mph. Anything faster requires proper protective gear.
Range Requirements
Consider your typical trip distance and charging opportunities before focusing too heavily on max range claims, which often require slower real world speeds.
Most occasional recreational riders are fine with 10 miles of moderate-speed range. Urban commuters needing 5-10 miles per trip should look for at least 15 miles of total capacity for legroom. Plan to bring a charger or battery pack for 20+ mile commutes.
Terrain Type
Wheels designed for stability and grip on pavement don‘t translate well to trails or grass. Seek out all-terrain or AT boards like the Propel Endeavor S if going off-road is a must. Just know their heavy, rugged designs make them less fun for casual street use.
For primarily paved roads, look for large, soft wheels that absorb bumps better. Longboard style decks also smooth out rougher city commutes.
Taking stock of factors like your skill level, typical trip distance and desired riding terrain will help narrow options to pick your perfect electric ride.
What to Know Before You Buy
While electric skateboards provide tons of fun across a variety of experience levels, they do come with some cautions to consider:
Safety Gear – Be smart and wear a helmet, elbow/knee pads and slide gloves every ride. Unexpected falls happen to all riders.
Learn Properly – Take lessons if needed and practice foot braking before relying solely on the remote brake. Mechanical issues can cause brake failures.
Local Laws – Electric rideables often exist in grey areas concerning traffic laws. Research rules in your area before using on public roads. Some places ban them entirely.
No Air Travel – Airline policies prohibit transporting electric skateboards, hoverboards or other vehicles with lithium batteries in cargo due to fire risk. Leave your board at home for destination vacations.
As long as you educate yourself on proper precautions before stepping on board, electric skateboards deliver miles of smiles across a variety of experience levels and age groups.
Using an Electric Skateboard: What To Expect
Wondering what it‘s like the first time stepping on one of these hi-tech rides? Here‘s a quick primer on what to expect:
The handheld throttle gives fine control over your speed. Gentle throttle application is key – abruptly gunning it can lead to thrown balance. Think fluid, not jerky.
Leaning your weight into directional turns takes a bit of getting used to, but becomes second nature quickly. Practice wide, gentle carving before attempting tight angle leans at speed.
And yes, there‘s a good chance you‘ll take a spill your first couple times out while finding your riding legs and balance points. It‘s all part of the learning process! As long as you gear up, you‘ll likely emerge unscathed and better for it.
After an initial short learning curve, using an electric skateboard soon becomes intuitive. You‘ll swiftly experience the thrill and convenience that makes these iconic rides a transportation favorite across ages.
Key Takeaways
- Modern electric skateboards deliver speed, range and features unimaginable just 10 years ago. It‘s an exciting time to explore electric rides as the tech continues rapidly improving.
- Prices span from affordable models under $500 to premium boards costing well over $1,500+. Identify your budget first when shopping options.
- Consider top speed, range, terrain handling and other factors against your intended riding style when comparing models. Lists like ours help narrow down top contenders.
- Safety gear, lessons and caution are paramount, especially for beginners. But used responsibly, today‘s electric skateboards provide miles of adventures.
Whether you seek a fast toy for casual weekend thrills or a daily commuting vehicle, electric skateboards ably fill both roles while making your travel greener. We hope our guide to the year‘s 8 top models helps match you to your perfect ride. Now grab your helmet and let‘s roll!
