Kick Scooter Vs. Electric Scooter: Which One Should I Get?

If you want to leave your car for some time and get an alternative means of moving around your city, there are different options you can choose from. You could get a bike or a motorcycle, but if you want a mix of fun, convenience, and speed, then you should go for a scooter. While micromobility devices are an excellent eco-friendly means of personal commute, some people find it challenging to decide between a kick type and the electric-powered ones. 

Both the electric and manual categories are emission-free, easy-to-use means of transportation. They’re typically less costly than motorcycles, more thrilling than bicycles, and faster than hoverboards. However, one of the most exciting things about them is their lightweight and portability, which makes them easy and convenient to move around. 

In the following paragraphs, we will explore the differences between kick scooters vs. electric scooters, and guide you on how to make the right choice.

Kick Scooter Vs. Electric Scooter: What Are the Differences?

The difference between these two products lies in their name. Electric or automatic model devices come with a battery-powered motor that facilitates movement. Hence, the rider just has to stand on the deck. They don’t have to do any extra work to make the device move. 

On the other hand, the kick or manual alternative don’t have an electrical motor, so the movement depends on the rider, who has to kick their foot against the floor repeatedly to propel the ride forward.

Generally, riding a non-motorized device requires more work and can be tiring, especially if you’re headed for quite a distance. Automatic commuters come in a variety of shapes and models and typically cost between $300 and $7,000 depending on the category you choose. 

The kick variants, on the other hand, are cheaper and have only two types: one for kids and one for adults. They also don’t have as many color options and extra features as the electric models.

Kick Scooter Vs. Electric Scooter: What to Consider

Before you can decide between an electric scooter vs. manual one, you have to put different parameters side by side. You have to consider the terrain in which you want to ride, the distance you intend to cover, the speed, safety, portability, and other factors. These factors are important to ensure that you pick the product that truly caters to your needs.

Terrain

If you intend to ride your commuter only on the smooth, plain surface around your street, then you can buy a manual one or a budget electric commuter. However, if you want to drive on rough surfaces, or you require a ride that can climb hills, you should go for mid-range or premium electric rides. This is because they’re equipped with strong batteries and powerful motors that can handle inclines and rough surfaces. 

It’s also necessary to note that some kick devices have suspensions, shock absorbers, and large tires, so they may be able to navigate on rough roads. However, this isn’t ideal because it would easily become tiresome for the rider.

Distance

Manual commuters take a lot of work to ride. So, it’s not recommended for anyone who intends to cover a really long distance. At some point, you may get tired and wouldn’t be able to scoot as easily as you used to. On the other hand, electric commuters are equipped to cover the distance that your manual ride can’t cover. 

Some long-range devices can take you over 40 miles (ca. 64 km) on a single charge, before the power runs off. Extreme long-range models can even go as far as 60 miles (ca. 97 km) on one charge. You can’t achieve this with a manual commuter.

Speed

Engine-powered devices generally move faster than manual devices. If you need a personal commuter that moves speedily, then you should go for the electric models. High-end brands like the Äike T can move as fast as 15.5 miles per hour (ca. 25 km/h). 

However, if you aren’t concerned about speed and if you’re looking for a ride for your kids who you obviously don’t want to speed, then manual commuters are your best option. 

Safety

Electric commuters offer more safety and stability because they come with both front and rare brakes. They also allow the rider to have better control of their movement. Considering that you don’t have to kick the floor, you can concentrate on controlling the movement of your device.

Price

Typically, automatic models are pricier than manual types. This is due to their complex and high-tech features, which are not obtainable in the manual variants.

Portability

Both categories of commuters may be portable, depending on their weight. Kiddies’ kick scooters are generally more lightweight than other types. The presence of an engine and motor in the automatic ones makes them the heavier option.

Fitness and Health

If you’re looking to keep fit, riding a manual commuter will be beneficial. The process of kicking the ground repeatedly, and using your energy to propel the device forward, counts as a form of exercise. 

Charging

Only automatic models allow for charging, as they come with rechargeable lead ion batteries, while manual commuters do not have batteries. 

Eco-friendliness

Both manual and electric commuters do not contribute to emissions. Hence, they’re eco-friendly. However, the process of producing batteries and charging them may follow some non-ethical and environmentally unfriendly patterns. Hence, the manual ones, indeed, the more eco-friendly option.

Kick Scooter Vs. Electric Scooter: Pros and Cons

Electric Models:

Pros

• High speed
• Multiple features 
• Easy to control 
• Tireless rides
• Safer rides thanks to better brakes and lights
• Great range, when buying the right model

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires more maintenance
• Heavier
• Not as portable
• Not all models are suitable for kids

Kick Models

Pros

• Usually very cheap
• Kid-friendly
• No charging times
• Low maintenance
• Encourages physical fitness

Cons

• Low speed
• Tiring rides
• Can’t travel long distance 

Are Kick Scooters Even Made for Adults?

Both adults and children can use the manual brands. The ones for kids are smaller, extremely lightweight, and are not designed to be used on busy streets. Adult kick commuters are bigger, stronger, and more rugged than the ones for children. 

Can I Use an E-scooter as a Kick Scooter?

You may choose to use your electric commuter manually when the battery goes low or when it has some fault with its electrical components. However, this is not advisable because it may damage the internal components of your device and invalidate your warranty. 

Kick Scooter Vs. Electric Scooter: Which One Should I Buy?

Choosing between a kick scooter vs. electric scooter depends on your needs. Most people, however, go for electric ones with optimal features. With the Äike T, for example, you get the best high-tech design and other premium features including GPS protection, ride optimization, and IoT-powered connectivity.