One of the top brands that come to mind when discussing electric scooters is Segway. It has been quite innovative over the past few years as it introduced several electric scooters fitting different needs into the market.
Some of these scooters are the Segway Ninebot Max and Ninebot ES4. They were released recently and are considered some of the best electric scooters produced by the company. This is because their design and features make them stand out from the competition.
Moreover, both scooters boast exciting features such as LED displays, mobile app connectivity, cruise control, and more. So, how do you pick the most suitable electric scooter for you?
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find the features of the Segway Ninebot Max and ES4 in comparison to help you decide. So let’s get started!
Why Is the Ninebot Max Better Than the ES4?
The Segway Ninebot Max comes with a more robust design and powerful motor engine than the ES4. It’s suitable for commuters who want to make a solid investment in an electric scooter with both functionality and comfort.
Also, it covers a range higher than the ES4. With a single charge, the Max can go up to 40.4 miles and climb inclines of up to 20%. Plus, it has a fast-charging feature which is absent in the ES4.
Why Is the Ninebot ES4 Better Than the Max?
The ES4 is lightweight, portable, and less expensive than the Max. It’s suitable for riders looking for a budget scooter that doesn’t compromise performance and comfort.
In addition, the ES4 comes with both an internal and external lithium-ion battery. The external battery is detachable and supports easy charging. And this flexibility is absent in the Max model.
Also, you’ll find the lightweight of this scooter useful if you need to pick it off the floor often.
Top Speed
The Ninebot Max has a top speed of 18.6 mph, which may be influenced by battery level, the temperature of the environment, and available traction. Similarly, the ES4 has the same top speed as the Max and may be influenced by the same conditions.
However, in reality, the Max model slightly outperforms the ES4.
Winner: Ninebot Max
Motor Power and Acceleration
The Ninebot Max comes with a 350 W motor that can unleash a peak power of 750 W. Compared with the ES4 and other budget scooters, the Max delivers more power of about 40%.
Our acceleration test found that the Ninebot Max hits 15 mph within 5.4 seconds.
In contrast, the ES4 has a motor power of 300 W, which can go as high as 700 W. We found that it took 6.6 seconds for the ES4 to reach 15 mph. This is less than what we got with the Max model.
Winner: Ninebot Max
Range
The range is an essential factor to consider for riders who intend to use their electric scooters for long-distance commutes.
The Ninebot Max boasts a 40.4-mile (65 km) range. However, this may reduce depending on the weight of the rider and riding style.
On the other hand, the ES4 model covers a lesser range of 28.0 miles (45 km), even with the dual battery. However, this isn’t bad for short-distance commutes.
So, suppose you’re in the market for an electric scooter that’d go some long distances. In that case, the Ninebot Max is a better option between the two.
Winner: Ninebot Max
Hill Climbing
Generally, the Max has a better hill-climbing capability. It can carry a rider weighing not more than 220.5 lbs up an average incline of 20%.
However, the ES4 will experience difficulty carrying a person weighing 220 lbs through an incline that’s more than 15%. So, if you reside in an area with steep slopes, the ES4 may not be a good option for you.
Winner: Ninebot Max
Suspension/Shock Absorption
A suspension system is necessary for a scooter to achieve a smooth ride on rough terrains or bumpy roads. Some electric scooters come with a rear or front suspension, and others with both or none.
The Ninebot Max has no suspension at all. However, its self-healing air-filled pneumatic tires make up for this inadequacy and ensure smoothness for riders.
On the other hand, the ES4 comes endowed with a front and a rear suspension system. The scooter’s dual-suspension system helps to maintain good balance on bumpy roads and rough sidetracks.
Winner: Ninebot ES4
Ride Quality
Even though the Ninebot Max doesn’t come with a suspension system, it’s quite more comfortable to ride than the ES4 and other budget electric scooters. The Max’s large pneumatic tires and sturdy build make for an exciting ride even on bumpy roads. In addition, the Ninebot Max has a thumb-throttle that’s easy to handle when riding.
On the other hand, the ES4 also boasts good riding ergonomics. Riders can easily maneuver the scooter’s brake and throttle while holding the handlebars. However, it may wobble at high speed due to its lightweight.
Winner: Ninebot Max
Battery
Although the ES4 has an internal and external lithium-ion battery, the Max model’s single battery still has more capacity.
In addition, with fast-charging capability, the Max has a 551Wh battery. In contrast, the ES4 has a 374 Wh dual battery with no fast charging feature.
Moreover, it takes 7 hours to charge the ES4 battery, while the Max battery requires only 6 hours. This time difference may sound negligible, but it makes the difference!
Finally, on a single full charge, the ES4 can travel a distance of 28.0 miles, while the Max can go as much as 40.4 miles.
Winner: Ninebot Max
Handlebars
The Ninebot Max and ES4 are equipped with sturdy handlebars that feel very comfortable and offer the riders full control of the scooters. Moreover, both scooters have an LED display integrated between the two handlebars, adding a premium touch.
In addition, they come with rubber-padded thumb throttles that riders can comfortably hold while riding.
However, the Ninebot Max has a horn, whereas the ES4 doesn’t come with this feature. The Max’s horn comes in handy when you’re on a busy street to let pedestrians know when to leave the way.
Winner: Ninebot Max
Specifications: Segway Ninebot Max vs. ES4
Specifications | Ninebot Max | Ninebot ES4 |
Unfolded Dimensions (L X W X H) | 45.9” x 18.6” x 47.4” (116 x 47 x 120 cm) | 40” x 17” x 45” (102 x 43 x 113 cm) |
Folded Dimensions (L X W X H) | 45.9 x 18.6 x 21.0 in | 45 x 17 x 16 in |
Motor | 350 W | 300 W |
Net Weight | 41.2 lbs (18.7 kg) | 30.9 lbs (14.0 kg) |
Payload | 66.1-220.5 lbs (30-100 kg) | 55-220 lbs (25-100 kg) |
IP Rating | IPX5 Water-Resistant | IPX54 Water-Resistant |
Tire Type | 10” Pneumatic Tires | 8”(Front)/7.5”(Rear) Solid Non-Pneumatic Tires |
Range | 40.4 Miles | 28.0 Miles |
Top Speed | 18.6 mph | 18.6 mph |
Max Slope Climbing | 20% | 15% |
Battery Capacity | 551 Wh | 374 Wh (Dual) |
Charging Duration | 6 hours | 7 hours |
Recommended Age | 14+ years | 14+ years |
Brake Light | LED rear light | LED rear light |
Required Height | 3’11”-6’6” (120-200 cm) | 3’11”-6’6” (120-200 cm) |
Warranty & Post-Purchase Support
Segway provides a one-year warranty for both scooters. If you encounter defects or problems with the scooter within the limited warranty period, the company will fix it.
However, this one-year warranty only applies if you bought the scooter from an authorized Segway distributor.
In addition, if you need any help during purchase or technical support after purchase, you can always contact Segway. It has a support team to handle both situations.
Ninebot Max – Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Has fast-charging featuresLong battery life of 40.4 miles on a single chargeDurable body materialHas a regenerative brake system for power recycle | Quite pricey compared to other scooters in the same categoryNo suspension |
Ninebot ES4 – Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Quite easy to carry aroundBudget-friendlyFront and rear suspension presentDetachable external batteryElectrical and mechanical brakes present | No fast-charging featureRelatively low range in comparison to other scooters |
Segway Ninebot Max vs. ES4: Which Should You Choose?
The Ninebot ES4 is a good option for riders looking for a scooter with good performance and portability without burning a hole in the pocket. In addition, it’ll work well for urban commuters who don’t ride for long distances and often need to pick it up from the ground.
On the other hand, the Ninebot Max is durable, sturdy, and offers consistent performance. It’s a suitable option for riders looking for a solid scooter that can travel long distances at a single charge.
Overall, both scooters are some of the best scooters on the market and meet different riders’ needs. However, when it comes to performance, the Ninebot Max wins!