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10 Things to Consider When Buying an Electric SkateboardUpdated 2 months ago

Buying an electric skateboard is a big investment, and not all boards are created equal. Whether you're looking for speed, range, or an all-round smooth ride, here’s what you need to know before making your decision.


1. Range – Will It Get You Where You Need to Go?

Think about how you'll use your board—commuting, weekend cruising, or all of the above? Check the listed range and make sure it can comfortably get you to your destination and back without worrying about running out of juice.


2. Weight – Can You Carry It If Needed?

If your board runs out of battery mid-ride, will you be able to carry or kick-push it home? Heavier boards with larger batteries offer more range but can be a hassle to transport when not powered.


3. Performance – Does It Ride Like a Real Skateboard?

The quality of an electric skateboard isn’t just about speed—it’s about the overall ride. Wheels and trucks matter. A well-designed board should ride smoothly even without power. There’s a huge difference between a cheap off-the-shelf e-board and a high-performance longboard with an integrated motor system.


4. Spare Parts & Support – How Easy Is It to Maintain?

  • What’s the warranty coverage?
  • How often will you need to replace belts, wheels, or motors?
  • Are parts easily interchangeable?
  • Does the brand offer responsive customer support?

Skateboards take a beating, so make sure your board is backed by a company that supports its products.


5. Price – Are You Getting What You Pay For?

Compare apples to apples when looking at prices. Key differences include:

  • Battery type – Lithium is superior to cheaper lead-acid alternatives.
  • Build quality – Pro-grade skate parts vs. mass-produced generic boards.
  • Brand reputation – How long has the company been around? Do they stand behind their product?

Cheap e-boards often cut corners. A good rule of thumb: You get what you pay for.


6. Motor Wattage – More Than Just a Number

A high wattage doesn’t always mean better performance. Gear ratios and motor controller settings play a huge role in torque and acceleration. Look for a system that’s been engineered to work together, not just a board with the highest wattage slapped on the specs sheet.


7. One Motor or Two?

Both have their place, but dual-motor setups have improved massively. Today’s sensored brushless motors deliver better grip, acceleration, and overall performance—while still allowing smooth free-roll. If you want max control and power, go dual.


8. Hub Motors vs. Gear/Pulley Systems

  • Hub Motors – Simpler and quieter but lack strong acceleration, hill climbing, and braking power.
  • Geared/Pulley Systems – Offer better torque, braking, and hill performance, making them the go-to for serious riders.

If raw performance matters, a gear/pulley setup is the way to go.


9. Thumb or Trigger Remote?

Control is everything. Trigger-style remotes (index finger-controlled) are more intuitive and give better throttle control than thumb-based remotes. While both work, trigger remotes feel more natural for most riders.


10. DIY – Is Building Your Own Board Worth It?

Making your own e-board sounds fun, but it’s a huge commitment. You’ll need:

  • Technical knowledge
  • Time and patience
  • A reliable supply of parts

DIY boards can be great if you love tinkering, but if you just want to ride without headaches, buying from a trusted brand is the better move.


Final Thoughts

Choosing the right electric skateboard depends on what you need from it—range, performance, reliability, and ride feel all matter. Do your research, read reviews, and invest in a board that delivers a smooth, powerful, and hassle-free ride.

Looking for a board that checks all these boxes? Check out our latest models here.

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