Electric Boards 2023 Buying Guide for Beginners
Ready to Buy an Electric Board but Don’t Know Anything About Them? We Gotcha!
Electric boards are seriously impressive and simply so much fun!
Zoom down the streets on an e-board that will ensure speed and fluidity, with the electric skateboards and longboards reaching good speeds (around 30mph).
Read More: Best Professional Electric Skateboards in 2023.
| Positive Aspects | Things to think about! |
|---|---|
| This is not limited! ✅ Getting to any destination with no sweat. ✅ You can go uphill with no dramas. ✅ As you get better, your balance and agility will improve. ✅ If you run out of battery, you can jump in easily in any public transport. ✅ Lastly, you will have fun, get the adrenaline pumping and feel good after each ride!. | ⊖ Be ready to trip over if you encounter a small to medium size rock on the road. ⊖ The range is not as good as any other electric powered vehicle (like an e-bike). ⊖ You will have to carry your electric skateboard or longboard everywhere. ⊖ Be ready to trip if you encounter a small to medium size rock on the road. ⊖ Last but not least, you CAN NOT do any tricks like normal skateboards. |
An electric board will go uphill and downhill without issues as they feature effective braking systems and are suitable for riders of all levels and abilities.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater, there are many points to consider when choosing an electric board.
This buying guide is intended to provide beginners with the following:
– With all the information on how this industry works.
– Access to what are the best electric skateboards and longboards in the market and, most importantly,
– the fundamental consideration before buying one.
Table of Contents
Best Electric Skateboard for Beginners in 2023
Now that we have reviewed a few electric skateboards, we feel confident this list of four (4) best electric skateboards for beginners is what you need for now:
Atom B10
This rear belt-driven single-motor electric skateboard is all you need to start slow.
The Atom B10 offers a top speed of 25 km/h (16 mph), two (2) assistant modes, and a generous battery for short rides.
As a beginner, you also need a good grip. Its wheels are softly graded, so you will feel in control when turning.
Acton Blink S2
The Acton Blink S2 is one of those e-skateboards with a minimalist design and a solid deck.
Giving a bit less speed (22.5 km/h) than the above e-board is still not a bad alternative for a beginner.
Don’t be fooled by the slow speed.
Since more weight is involved, it can gain more momentum that, in the end, can translate into the extra distance for a complete stop.
Boosted Board Mini X
Landing onto the fancy side, the Boosted Mini X has a more powerful motor (32km/h – 20 mph) and, of course, a small deck.
Its sleek design also impresses.
If you are looking for quality and a bit more technology, this model could be what you are looking for.
What makes it more appealing is the excellent torque and high braking performance. This is thanks to the dual belt-driven motor and its small deck size.
Despite the “high” speed offered, we think that small electric boards are suitable for people just starting in the game.
Good grip, excellent control at turns, and is easy to skate.
WowGo 3X Electric Longboard
Maybe not what you expect as a beginner, but the WowGo 3X is not a bad choice.
Why? Yes, we know the speed (39 km/h – 24 mph) could be a bit scary for first-timers, but we also see the quality of the other elements will keep you safe.
In fact, there are four (4) speed modes available.
In this case, the lowest one will give you 20 km/h, which is even less than what the Acton Blink S2 offers.
This is great since as you get more confidence skating this beauty, you will have the opportunity to test higher speeds in more sophisticated boards, like the Metroboard X All Terrain Electric Longboard.
How Do Electric Skateboards Work?
Well, an electric skateboard works in a very similar way to any old-school configuration but with electricity that is provided by a battery.
They are battery-powered, with energy being supplied to the motors.
You will be able to go further and faster.
The most exciting part is the ability to brake electronically, which means that these boards are well suited to riding up and down steep hills at a comfortable speed.
It is important to note that due to the increased speed, it is always crucial to ensure that you prioritize safety.
Electric Boards Classification
The electric board market and the technology offered along with it are growing rapidly.
So far, these are the most common boards you will see around the streets.
Electric skateboard models
Traditionally, skateboards are perfect for doing tricks, but for this technology, it could not be the case.
Read More: Most Interesting Electric Skateboards 2022.
An electric skateboard will have slightly bigger wheels. Also, the deck (skateboards are approximately 28-32 inches) will have a different design, keeping an ideal length for good maneuverability and turning.
Sometimes, they are not always able to cope with small obstacles on the road.
Electric longboard models
Usually, between 35-60 inches long, a motorized longboard’s increased length and width makes it much better suited to beginners looking for high speed.
Read More: Most Interesting Electric Longboards 2022.
Longboards are designed with cruising in mind, offering increased control and stability, and able to travel at higher speeds and cover longer distances (bigger batteries too).
Onewheel models
Onewheels are electric boards pretty impressive when it comes to their ability to ride on all manner of terrains.
With excellent durability and improved control, Onewheels are some of the best boards on the market (we will have more intel about them over time).
You will need to learn how to balance your body on this one, though. Regardless, it is not complex to get the balance right.
Off-Road electric board models
Suppose you are looking to explore off the beaten path. In that case, you may prefer an off-road electric board suitable for riding on a whole host of different terrains, like the Evolve Carbon GTR Off Road (All Terrain) Electric Skateboard.
These electric boards are all about bigger wheels.
You could transform your e-skateboard without a hassle.
Keep in mind that the deck should be suitable for bigger wheels.
Considerations When Buying Electric Boards
Getting a new electric board can be exciting, and we recommend thoroughly researching the alternatives before making the purchase.
Think about how you will use the board and the terrain you are likely to be riding on most.
Also, reflect on how far you will be traveling and your personal preference for style and user experience.
If you are looking to pick the best electric skateboard, there are several different factors to consider, as explained below:
The electric skateboard deck
As you may know, skateboard and longboard decks differ in size and flexibility.
Read More: Choosing an Electric Skateboard Deck: Materials, Shape, and Flexibility.
Some of the main factors about decks are:
Materials
The material used to create electric board decks can significantly impact the skating experience.
Things to include:
– Flexibility.
– Durability.
– Weight.
Carbon fiber and bamboo decks offer greater flex and a smoother ride, whereas composite boards are significantly more durable and much better suited to making tight turns.
With a composite deck, you are more likely to feel the bumps of the road and more vibration.
For some electric skaters, this could be a deal breaker if traveling long distances.
Design
The deck’s shape, length, and overall design can also impact your riding style.
An electric longboard will offer improved stability, whereas short decks are better for tight turns.
Short decks are easier to maneuver too. They are also lighter, allowing them to reach top speeds quicker.
On the other hand, more extended decks are better suited for traveling long distances, cruising performance, and stability.
In this case, size does matter!
It is also essential to consider whether you like a kick-tail, which will apply to most e-skateboards.
This is good to give more control at changing directions, but it doesn’t mean it will be suitable for tricks (you can do it, but you will likely damage the electric components).
An electric skateboard or electric longboard width would typically be from 8.5″ to 10″; the difference is that the trucks for a longboard are wider (roughly 7″ – skateboard (approximately 5.25″)).
Electric skateboard wheels overview
Whether it is the speed you want to have or having reasonable control on off-road terrains, wheels can significantly impact the skating experience.
Read More: Electric Skateboard Wheels Guide: What Do You Need to Know About Them.
Wheels can affect comfort and stability, so you must pick the right ones for what you want.
The size (small or big)
Big-diameter wheels (like all-terrain ones) can cover a broader range of ground, improve the smoothness and control of your ride (as well as increase top speed).
As a downside, larger wheels can also reduce acceleration (torque) and increase the overall weight of the e-board.
In contrast, small wells will be good for improving the torque (therefore better when climbing hills).
The top speed could also be affected negatively.
Hard or soft composition
Soft wheels usually offer a smoother ride with improved grip, whereas harder wheels have improved durability.
For most electric longboards, a soft composite wheel is usually used as it is expected to reach higher speeds requiring good turns grip.
Electric skateboard motor overview
The motor on an electric board is probably the most critical component.
Read More: Electric Skateboard Motor Buying Guide 2022.
Whether you are looking to customize or create your board, there are several factors to consider.
Hub or Electric Boards Belt Motor
A hub motor lives inside of the wheels, and they are often quieter and more energy efficient. Plus, they are highly durable and often require less maintenance.
Moreover, you can freewheel easier if you run out of battery power.
On the flip side, hub motors have been known to provide less torque and acceleration and can overheat after significantly extended use.
A belt-driven motor, by contrast, is a visible motor that uses a belt and pulley to propel the wheels – similar to a bicycle chain.
In addition, they are significantly better at braking and acceleration, which is a plus for hill climbing ability.
Despite the good things, belt motors are heavier and require increased maintenance.
Lastly, if you don’t like noisy motors, they indeed can be louder (maybe not a big deal, right?), and you will not be able to freewheel.
Single or Dual Motors
It is also important to consider whether you prefer a single or a dual motor setup, with most big-name brands using the dual configuration.
Some of the benefits of single motors are:
– You pay less for the entire e-board.
– Less overall weight.
– Low maintenance costs.
– It could be faster as 1 motor receives all the battery power (max 50 amps).
The single motor flip side:
– Less torque, which is essential when climbing hilly areas.
– The motor can overheat easier if you are a heavier person.
Dual motors offer improved braking, more torque, traction, and greater control, but such benefits come at a cost, and such boards are often more expensive.
The dual motor flip side:
– heavy to carry.
– more money to invest when carrying out maintenance.
You need to assess your trip conditions and get the one that best suits your needs.
Electric board battery tech, charging times, and longevity
Power and performance also depend on the battery of your new electric skateboard, with the battery determining how far you can go per charge.
Read More: Electric Skateboard Battery Buying Guide 2023.
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NOTE Power is measured using watts; a battery’s maximum power in an hour is referred to as Watt-hours (Wh). When buying a battery, you will find that most boards state the range; if not, you can work it out as approximately 1km per 10-watt-hours. |
Even though this could be a rule of thumb, if you are a heavy person or constantly have to climb hills up, then the battery consumption will be higher with less range.
Most electric boards have Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, which are much better due to increased power.
Generally, they have a longer life span and better quality than other options (such as the lithium polymer batteries (LIPO) that generally won’t have a battery management system (BMS) installed).
The climbing ability of electric boards
Regarding performance, the manufacturers must determine what components will work best.
Hill climbing ability
If you use a motorized skateboard to travel in hilly areas and need to climb steep inclines, the hill-climbing ability is an important factor to consider.
Most motors can do between 20% to 30%.
Many variables affect this percentage, such as the wheel size and remaining battery power.
Torque and speed
Think about torque as acceleration, with a board with excellent torque ensuring the highest force.
Gear ratios can also impact torque and speed, as well as the weight and height of the rider.
As mentioned before, the diameter of the wheels has an essential impact on acceleration.
Lastly, remember that the type of motor also plays a role in the overall performance.
|
NOTE Having more torque doesn’t mean you will have more speed. If you want more speed, you can fit larger diameter wheels, BUT this will increase the load on the motor itself, which could heat it up. Maybe, in this case, go for a dual motor. Be careful! |
Braking performance (regenerative and non-regenerative)
There are several different brake options, but most e-boards use regenerative braking.
This means the energy is placed back into the battery, ultimately recharging.
In this case, we are not referring to an electric skateboard with a braking system, like a bicycle. In turn, the motors are used for this purpose.
The flip side is that if you run out of battery, you could encounter some resistance coming from the motor.
Controlling the electric board (remote and ESC)
Two (2) things are required to control the electric board: remote control and the electronic speed system (ESC).
Let’s dig a bit more about them.
The remote
There are different remotes to choose from in the market, with other brands opting for different models.
Some feature a large rotating wheel, preferred by many riders, whereas others have a Joystick design, which uses your thumb to control acceleration and breaking (most common ones).
A trigger-style remote control will sit in your hand comfortably, and the sliding option offers an easy-to-use experience (ideal for beginners).
Top brands, such as the Exway X1 Pro and Meepo Mini 2 ER, offer LCD screens, which can show more data, such as battery life, skating modes, and top speed.
It is usually a good idea to choose a rechargeable remote (very rare to see), as running out of batteries for your remote mid-ride means you may have to carry it home.
The electronic speed system
The ESC of an electric skateboard is something that some people don’t take into consideration when buying an e-Board.
Read More: Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) for Electric Skateboards Buying Guide 2023.
How fast the motor and battery respond (connectivity) at triggering the remote will depend on the technology used by the manufacturer.
The most known brands include Hobbywing and LingYi ESC systems.
Care and maintenance
Ideally, you will want to select the best electric longboard or skateboard that doesn’t require regular maintenance.
A hub motor is usually considered easier to maintain, and you will not need to make many repairs.
Keeping each component of your electric board clean is also essential for optimum performance.
Last but not least, it is always advisable to read the manufacturer’s care instructions thoroughly before the first use.
Remember: attempting to do internal repairs yourself will compromise the warranty!
Other Things to Consider
Check the local laws
Not all electric boards are legal in every country, meaning you must follow some rules before using them.
It is critical that you check out the local laws to ensure that you will be road-worthy in your country.
Buying expensive or cheap electric skateboards
Although they are becoming increasingly more affordable, their cost can determine their quality.
It is expected that more expensive branded boards being likely to last for longer and offer premium performance and customer service.
Buying the most expensive electric skateboard will not warranty the quality of the components!
There are a lot of great affordable e-boards in the market. A good example is the WowGo 3X Driven Belt Electric Longboard, which is considered, for now, the best budget electric skateboard for 2022.
Air travel friendly
If you are planning to fly with your electric skateboard or longboard, it is vital to check the regulations of your airline and destination country.
However, there is a chance that airline companies will not let you on board due to the risk associated mainly with the battery or not being compliant with any other policies they may be in place.
The weight and portability
The weight is a vital factor to think about constantly, as if your e-board runs out of power, you may need to carry it.
In terms of portability, small decks are the easiest to carry. A deck with a carrying handle will be perfect if this is not the case.
Is it waterproof?
Some electric boards state that they are waterproof. However, they are more water-resistant. Also, the motor on an e-board can hardly be waterproof.
Furthermore, electric boards don’t perform well in the rain, and the wheels offer little grip, increasing the risk of an accident.
If your e-board has been exposed to the rain, get a piece of cloth, remove as much of the water as possible from it and keep the board ventilated.
Lastly, please give it a short ride to remove any small particles left behind after drying it out.
Warranty and customer service
A decent manufacturer’s warranty offers increased peace of mind, and most prominent brands provide at least 12 months.
It is all well and good if you have a warranty, but decent customer service is also essential.
Research the brand (and read other users’ reviews) you buy from to ensure that you can shop confidently.
The terrain you are likely to skate on
While the terrain you ride on is likely to change, consider the usual path you may take. If you know what fun you will have, buy accordingly.
Electric Boards Buying Guide Wrap Up
Whether you are looking to skate without breaking a sweat, want to upgrade your skating game, or want to treat yourself to a fun new gadget, a motorized skateboard is an excellent choice.
I know there are many different factors to consider, but I also advise that:
– Always use this guide (I will update it as the market changes.
– Do your research about the electric longboard or skateboard you want to buy and,
– Ensure you get final advice from a local dealer to fulfill your requirements.
All in all, electric boards are just another toy to play with, but the ones that bring risks if not properly operated.
