Best Budget Electric Scooters – Top Affordable E-Scooter Picks for 2025

Electric scooters have quickly become one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to travel around UK cities. But finding the right scooter doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune, some of the best budget electric scooters deliver excellent performance, reliability, and convenience without stretching your wallet.

In this guide, we’ll share our top picks for the best budget electric scooters in the UK, each carefully selected for their balance of price, performance, and safety. Whether you’re looking for your very first scooter, a reliable daily commuter, or a compact model for quick trips, these affordable scooters prove you don’t need to spend over £1000 to get real value.

Let’s explore the best options to help you find your perfect budget e-scooter!

Best Budget Electric Scooters in the UK – Our Top Picks

Best Budget Electric Scooter Under £300

If you’re looking for the best budget electric scooter under £300, iScooter offers two excellent entry-level models that combine affordability with quality performance, perfect for beginners and city commuters.

iScooter i8 – Best Electric Scooter for Beginners

The iScooter i8 is a top choice for first-time riders who want a lightweight, affordable, and easy-to-use electric scooter. With a 350W motor and a top speed of 15.5 mph (25 km/h), it’s ideal for short city rides and daily commutes. The scooter provides up to 12 miles (20 km) of range, covering most urban journeys with ease.

Equipped with 8.5-inch pneumatic tyres, the i8 ensures a comfortable ride on smooth, paved roads, while its compact 26.4 lbs (12 kg) design makes it easy to fold, carry, and store. The IP54 water resistance adds extra safety, allowing riders to travel in light rain without worry.

Key Features:

• 350W motor with 15.5 mph (25 km/h) top speed
  
  

• Up to 12 miles (20 km) riding range
  
  

• Lightweight & foldable at 26.4 lbs (12 kg)
  
  

• 8.5-inch pneumatic tyres for smoother rides
  
  

• Rear hub brake + electronic brake system
  
  

• IP54 water-resistant design

iScooter i9 – Best Budget Electric Scooter with Honeycomb Tyres

For riders who prioritise durability and low maintenance, the iScooter i9 is one of the best budget e-scooters under £300. Unlike many entry-level models, it features honeycomb solid tyres that eliminate the risk of punctures while still offering a smooth city ride.

The i9 is powered by a 350W motor, reaching speeds of up to 18.6 mph (30 km/h) and delivering a maximum range of 18.6 miles (30 km) on a single charge. Its lightweight 26.4 lbs (12 kg) frame makes it easy to carry, while the dual braking system (front electronic + rear disc brake) ensures safe stopping. The scooter is also app-compatible (KCQ or Tuya), giving riders more control over settings and ride data.

Key Features:

• Honeycomb solid tyres – puncture-proof & low-maintenance
  
  

• 350W motor with 18.6 mph (30 km/h) top speed
  
  

• Up to 18.6 miles (30 km) riding range
  
  

• Lightweight 26.4 lbs (12 kg) foldable design
  
  

• Front electronic brake + rear disc brake for extra safety
  
  

• App connectivity for smart controls
  
  

Best Budget Electric Scooter Under £500

Finding the best budget electric scooter under £500 in the UK doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, performance, or safety. iScooter offers a range of high-quality, affordable models designed for commuting, long rides, and even off-road adventures. Below are some of the top picks that deliver exceptional value for money.

iScooter i9Max – Best Budget Electric Scooter with Suspension

For riders who prioritise comfort and stability, the iScooter i9Max stands out as one of the best choices under £500. It features front and rear double suspension combined with 10-inch honeycomb tyres, making it perfect for tackling bumps and uneven terrain. Powered by a 500W motor, it reaches speeds of up to 21.7 mph (35 km/h) and covers 24.8 miles (40 km) on a single charge. Supporting up to 120 kg, it’s a great option for longer commutes or weekend rides.

Key Features:

• 500W motor with 21.7 mph top speed
  
  

• 24.8-mile (40 km) range per charge
  
  

• Front and rear suspension for a smooth ride
  
  

• 10-inch honeycomb solid tyres (puncture-proof & durable)
  
  

• Dual braking system: electronic front + rear disc brake

iScooter i10Plus – Best Budget Electric Scooter for Long Rides

If range is your top priority, the iScooter i10Plus is built for long-distance riders. Its powerful 800W motor delivers speeds up to 25 mph (40 km/h), while the large-capacity battery offers up to 31 miles (50 km) per charge. Equipped with 10-inch pneumatic tyres and dual suspension, it ensures a smooth and stable ride even on extended commutes. Safety features include IP54 water resistance, bright headlights, turn signals, and a full braking system.

Key Features:

• 800W motor with 25 mph top speed
  
  

• 31-mile (50 km) long-range battery
  
  

• Double suspension + 10-inch pneumatic tyres
  
  

• Full lighting system: headlight, brake light, turn signals, ambient lights
  
  

• Front & rear disc brakes with electronic brake

iScooter iX3 – Best Budget Electric Off-Road Scooter

For adventurous riders, the iScooter iX3 is a rugged budget-friendly e-scooter designed for both city roads and off-road trails. Its 800W motor and pneumatic off-road tyres provide excellent grip and stability on rough surfaces. With a top speed of 25 mph (40 km/h) and a 25-mile (40 km) range, it’s built for both performance and versatility. The scooter also comes with front and rear disc brakes for reliable stopping power.

Key Features:

• 800W motor with 25 mph top speed
  
  

• 25-mile (40 km) riding range
  
  

• Pneumatic off-road tyres with dual suspension
  
  

• IP54 water resistance rating
  
  

• Strong braking system: front & rear disc + electronic brake

iScooter iX4 – Best Budget Electric Scooter for Off-Road Adventures

The iScooter iX4 is designed for riders who want extra power and off-road capability without spending over £500. With a robust 800W motor, it reaches up to 28 mph (45 km/h) and travels as far as 31 miles (50 km) per charge. Its honeycomb off-road tyres eliminate puncture worries, while the full suspension system ensures maximum comfort. Supporting a load capacity of 150 kg, it’s one of the most durable budget off-road scooters available.

Key Features:

• 800W motor with 28 mph top speed
  
  

• 31-mile (50 km) long-range capability
  
  

• Honeycomb off-road tyres + full suspension
  
  

• Dual disc brakes with electronic braking
  
  

• IP54 water resistance

Best Budget Electric Scooter Under £800

When looking for the best budget electric scooter under £800, performance and value should go hand in hand. iScooter offers some of the most reliable and high-powered models in this price range, making them excellent choices for riders who want speed, endurance, and comfort without overspending.

iScooter iX5s – Best Budget Electric Scooter with High Power

The iScooter iX5s is built for riders who want a strong balance of power, durability, and long-range performance—without crossing the £800 mark. Equipped with a 1000W motor, it reaches speeds of up to 28 mph (45 km/h), making it one of the fastest scooters in its class. Its 34.2-mile (55 km) range ensures you can ride further with fewer charging stops, while the 10-inch pneumatic off-road tyres and double suspension deliver a smooth and stable ride even on uneven terrain. With a 330 lbs (150 kg) load capacity, the iX5s is a top choice for heavier riders or those who want extra durability.

Key Features of iScooter iX5s:

• 1000W motor for fast acceleration and hill climbing
  
  

• 34.2-mile (55 km) range for longer commutes
  
  

• 10-inch pneumatic off-road tyres with full suspension for smooth rides
  
  

• Front + rear disc brakes with electronic braking for safety
  
  

• IP54 water resistance for light rain and splashes

iScooter iX7Pro – Best High-Speed Budget Electric Scooter

For riders who crave maximum speed and premium performance while staying under £800, the iScooter iX7Pro is the standout option. Featuring a 2000W motor, it delivers an impressive 38 mph (61 km/h) top speed and a massive 50-mile (80 km) range per charge. Built with 10-inch pneumatic off-road tyres, double suspension, and reinforced braking (front + rear disc brakes with a hidden power-off brake system), the iX7Pro ensures stability and control even at high speeds. Supporting up to 330 lbs (150 kg), this scooter is perfect for thrill-seekers who want both commuting efficiency and adventurous rides.

Key Features of iScooter iX7Pro:

• 2000W motor with a 38 mph (61 km/h) top speed
  
  

• 50-mile (80 km) range for extended travel
  
  

• 10-inch pneumatic off-road tyres + full suspension
  
  

• Double handle front + rear disc brakes with hidden power-off brake
  
  

• IPX4 water resistance for added durability
  
  

How Do We Test the Best Budget Electric Scooters

When we set out to find the best electric scooters in the UK, our process goes far beyond a quick ride around the block. Every scooter we review is subjected to a rigorous two-month testing period (sometimes longer) to evaluate how well it performs in real-life commuting conditions. This ensures we recommend only the models that truly deliver on their promises of speed, comfort, and durability.

Here’s what our testing process looks like:

• Performance & Speed Testing – We measure real-world top speed and acceleration, checking if the scooter lives up to its advertised figures while remaining safe and stable at higher speeds.
  

• Braking & Safety Checks – Our team tests different braking systems (disc, electronic, drum) in both dry and wet conditions to ensure reliable stopping distances.
  

• Terrain Versatility – Each scooter is ridden on smooth city roads, uneven pavements, and light uphill climbs to see how it handles different surfaces across the UK.
  

• Ride Comfort & Handling – We pay attention to suspension quality, tyre type (solid vs. pneumatic), and how stable the scooter feels during longer commutes.
  

• Portability & Practicality – Since many riders need to fold and carry their scooter, we test how quickly it folds, whether it fits in a car boot, and how manageable it is on public transport or stairs.
  

• Battery Life & Range Accuracy – Scooters are tested at different speeds and loads to verify if the real-world range matches the manufacturer’s claims. We also assess charging times and efficiency.
  

• Durability & Build Quality – Our experts evaluate frame strength, materials, and overall construction to determine whether the scooter can withstand daily use in UK weather conditions.
  

• Value for Money – Finally, we compare performance, features, and build quality against the price tag to ensure the scooter represents true value for riders on a budget.  

Where to buy the best budget e-scooter in the market

When it comes to buying the best budget electric scooter, it’s important to purchase from a trusted brand that offers both performance and after-sales support. That’s where iScooter stands out. As one of the UK’s leading e-scooter brands, iScooter combines affordability with premium features, making their models some of the best-value scooters in the market. 

Shopping directly from the official iScooter website guarantees you the latest models, exclusive discounts, and reliable UK-based customer support. Plus, iScooter provides fast shipping, warranty coverage, and easy replacement parts, giving riders peace of mind that cheaper “no-brand” options can’t match. If you’re searching for the best budget e-scooter in the UK, iScooter is the smart place to start.

Why Choose a Budget Electric Scooter?

Choosing a budget electric scooter is a smart move for many riders in the UK. Here’s why:

• Affordable alternative to cars and public transport – Budget e-scooters offer a low-cost way to commute short distances without spending money on fuel, parking, or daily train fares.
  

• Perfect for beginners – If you’re new to electric scooters, starting with an entry-level model lets you learn and enjoy riding without a big financial commitment.
  

• Lightweight and portable – Most budget scooters are designed with compact frames and foldable systems, making them easy to carry, store, and take on public transport.
  

• Low maintenance costs – Fewer complex features mean budget scooters are cheaper and easier to maintain compared to high-end models.
  

• Eco-friendly travel option – Even the most affordable e-scooters produce zero emissions, helping reduce your carbon footprint.
  

• Practical for short commutes – With ranges typically between 10–20 miles, budget scooters are ideal for quick city commutes, campus rides, or last-mile connections.
  

• Good balance of features and value – Many modern budget scooters still include must-have features like LED lights, reliable brakes, and decent battery life, giving you solid performance at a fraction of the price.
  

• Entry point into premium models – Once you know what features matter most to you, upgrading later to a higher-end scooter becomes easier and more cost-effective.

How to Choose the Best Electric Scooter That Suits Your Budget

Buying an electric scooter is an investment, so it’s important to know what factors matter most before making a choice. Whether you’re looking for the best budget electric scooter in the UK for commuting, leisure, or short trips, these key features will help you decide:

1. Electric Motor & Motor Power
   

• The motor is the heart of your scooter, it determines how smoothly and powerfully the scooter moves.
  

• Motor power is usually measured in watts (W). A higher wattage means stronger acceleration, the ability to handle hills, and better overall performance.
  

• Voltage plays a role in efficiency and speed: higher voltage systems generally deliver smoother, faster rides. For budget scooters, motors between 250W–500W are common and suitable for city use.
  
  

2. Range (Miles or Kilometres)
   

• The range tells you how far the scooter can travel on a single charge.
  

• Keep in mind that real-world range is often 20–30% less than advertised, depending on rider weight, terrain, and stop-start traffic.
  

• If you’re using your scooter for short commutes, a 10–15 mile range is usually enough. For longer daily rides, look for at least 20 miles per charge.
  
  

3. Battery Capacity (Ah or Wh)
   

• Battery size directly affects how long you can ride before recharging.
  

• Amp hours (Ah) show how much charge the battery can hold, while Watt hours (Wh) give a clearer measure of total energy and expected range.
  

• Simply put: the higher the Wh, the longer you can ride. A scooter with a 250–350Wh battery is standard for budget-friendly models.
  
  

4. Top Speed
   

• Speed affects how quickly you can travel, but it’s also regulated by law in many areas.
  

• In the UK, the legal limit for e-scooter speed is generally 15.5 mph (25 km/h).
  

• Budget scooters usually offer speeds between 12–18 mph, which is enough for safe commuting and urban rides.
  
  

5. Braking System
   

• Safety should never be overlooked, good brakes are essential.
  

• Disc brakes: Deliver strong, reliable stopping power in both dry and wet conditions, making them the preferred choice.
  

• Drum brakes: More affordable and require less maintenance, but not as powerful as disc brakes.
  

• Many scooters combine braking systems (e.g., electronic + disc) for added safety.

Key Features to Look for in Budget E-Scooters

When choosing the best budget electric scooter, it’s important to focus on the features that give you the most value for your money. Here are the essentials to look out for:

• Battery Life & Range – A good budget scooter should offer at least 12–20 miles on a single charge, enough for daily commutes or short city rides. Longer range means fewer charging stops.
  

• Top Speed – Most affordable e-scooters have speeds between 15–20 mph, which is safe and sufficient for urban travel while still being fun to ride.
  

• Motor Power – Look for at least a 250W–350W motor for smooth acceleration and the ability to handle small inclines without slowing down.
  

• Portability & Folding Design – A lightweight frame (usually 12–15 kg) with a quick-fold mechanism makes it easy to carry onto public transport or store in small spaces.
  

• Tyres & Suspension – Pneumatic (air-filled) tyres or scooters with basic suspension provide better shock absorption, ensuring a smoother ride over uneven roads.
  

• Braking System – Safety is key. Budget scooters should have at least dual braking systems (mechanical + electronic or disc brakes) for reliable stopping power.
  

• Build Quality & Frame Material – Strong aluminium alloy frames balance durability with lightweight design, making the scooter sturdy enough for everyday use.
  

• Safety Features – Bright LED headlights, tail lights, and reflectors are essential for visibility, especially if you’ll be riding at night or in low-light conditions.
  

• Load Capacity – Most budget scooters support riders up to 100–120 kg, so check the maximum weight limit to match your needs.
  

• Extra Features – Some affordable models include app connectivity, cruise control, or IP-rated water resistance, adding convenience without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Brands like iScooter make it easy to choose a high-quality model that meets your needs, whether you want a lightweight city scooter, a long-range commuter, or a powerful off-road option. By considering factors such as motor power, battery range, tyre type, and portability, you can confidently select a scooter that delivers excellent value for money.

Ultimately, the best budget electric scooters are those that combine affordability with reliability, ensuring every ride is smooth, safe, and enjoyable. With careful research and trusted options like iScooter, you can enjoy all the benefits of electric mobility while staying within your budget.

FAQs

Are cheap electric scooters safe?

Yes, cheap electric scooters can be safe when you choose models from trusted brands like iScooter. iScooter models are designed with these safety elements in mind, providing both stability and visibility for city commutes or weekend rides. To ensure maximum safety, opt for scooters with positive customer reviews and purchase directly from reputable retailers or the official iScooter website. Always complement your scooter’s safety features by wearing a helmet, following local traffic rules, and riding responsibly. 

What’s the best budget e-scooter for daily commuting?

For daily commuting in the UK, the best budget e-scooter balances reliability, portability, and comfort. The iScooter i8 is perfect for beginners and short commutes while the iScooter i9 takes it a step further with honeycomb solid tires for puncture resistance, all under £300.

How Long Do Budget Electric Scooters Last?

Cheap electric scooters usually have a lifespan of 1–3 years, depending on factors like usage, maintenance, and overall build quality. However, choosing a trusted brand like iScooter can make a significant difference. iScooter models are built with high-quality materials, durable frames, and long-lasting batteries, allowing riders to enjoy reliable performance well beyond the typical lifespan of generic budget scooters. 

What’s the difference between cheap and expensive electric scooters?

While expensive electric scooters often come with longer battery life, extended range, and more powerful motors for higher speeds and improved hill-climbing, they also tend to include premium features such as enhanced suspension, superior water resistance, and smart connectivity options. However, the extra hardware can make high-end scooters heavier and sometimes require more maintenance due to additional moving parts. That’s where iScooter offers the perfect balance: their range of scooters provides premium features like durable frames, reliable motors, and smooth suspension while staying within a budget-friendly price range.