Electric Scooters for City Commuters Real World Test

So you're tired of traffic jams, sick of overpriced parking, and just want to zip through the city like a modern-day urban ninja? Enter the electric scooter — your pocket-sized ticket to hassle-free commuting. But do they really live up to the hype? We put three top models through a real-world test across city streets, hills, and sidewalk curbs to find out which e-scooter earns its keep.

Kickin’ It with the Big Three

We tested the Segway Ninebot MAX G2, Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro, and Unagi Model One over a two-week period in downtown San Francisco. Routes included steep inclines (up to 15%), wet pavement, potholes, and heavy pedestrian zones. Total distance covered: 86 miles.

Performance at a Glance

Here’s how they stacked up:

The Segway leads in range and durability — perfect if you’ve got a longer commute. Xiaomi brings value with solid performance under $500. Unagi? Lightweight and sleek, but you’re paying for design as much as function.

Battery Life: Who Lasts the Longest?

In real-world use, battery claims are often inflated. The Segway delivered about 36 miles on a full charge — still impressive. Xiaomi managed 24 miles before the low-battery warning kicked in. Unagi struggled past 13 miles, making it better suited for short trips or last-mile solutions from transit hubs.

Ride Quality & Safety

Pneumatic tires (Segway and Xiaomi) absorbed bumps way better than Unagi’s solid rubber. On rough pavement, Unagi felt jittery — not ideal for back-to-back commutes. All three had responsive brakes, but only Segway includes an anti-lock braking system (ABS), which came in handy during sudden stops on wet roads.

Night riders, listen up: Segway’s front and rear lights are bright and wide-angled. Xiaomi’s are decent, but Unagi’s minimal lighting feels like an afterthought.

Foldability & Portability

Unagi wins here — folds in one smooth motion and weighs nearly 10 lbs less than the Segway. It’s the go-to if you’re hopping on a train or storing it under a desk. Xiaomi’s fold is secure but requires two hands. Segway’s heft makes it a chore for stair climbing, but the integrated kickstand is a game-changer.

The Verdict: Which E-Scooter Should You Ride?

• Best Overall: Segway Ninebot MAX G2 — unbeatable range and durability.
• Best Value: Xiaomi 4 Pro — solid performance without breaking the bank.
• Most Stylish: Unagi Model One — sleek and light, but overpriced for daily grinds.

If you're commuting 10+ miles daily, go rugged with the Segway. For shorter urban hops under budget, Xiaomi’s your match. Unagi? It’s a fashion statement on wheels — gorgeous, but not the most practical.

Bottom line: e-scooters aren’t just a trend — they’re a legit alternative to cars and public transit. Just pick the right one for your ride.