In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about electric skateboards, and we’ll also pick out the very best electric skateboards in 2020.
Let’s start with our run down of the best electric boards this year.
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Our Picks: The Best Electric Skateboards In 2020
1. Boosted 2nd Gen Dual+ Extended Range Electric Skateboard
Our pick for: the best electric skateboard in 2020
If you have the budget (around $1,400) then the Boosted 2nd Gen Dual+ is the board to buy.
With 2 x 1,000 watt motors, this thing is, frankly, a beast. And with 2K of power, comes speed. The Boosted Dual+ maxes out at 22mph, which might not sound fast, but believe us, when you’re riding, it feels more than enough. It will also easily handle climbing hills up to a 25% gradient, and won’t have a problem breaking on them either.
Boosted have also made significant improvements in battery life. In older models you would get around 7-8 miles on a full charge, but with the Dual+ you’ll get between 12 and 14. The battery pack is removable which is a big plus.
The deck itself is made from bamboo (and supplied by Loaded), but is stiffer than previous models. You’ll trade a bit of comfort for extra stability on hills and corners, which is worth it in our opinion.
But even though it’s super stable, if you’re planning on bombing down hills at 22mph, then we highly recommend you invest in some protective gear. It’s got extra traction grip tape, but we all fall off from time to time.
All in, this is the best electric skateboard available this year. If you have the cash and want the best, then buy it. You’ll be very happy with your purchase.
2. SKATEBOLT Electric Skateboard
Our pick for: the best cheap electric skateboard in 2020
It was tough to make a decision on which was the best cheap electric skateboard this year. There were quite a few contenders, but in the end we plumped for the SKATEBOLT.
It’s not the absolute cheapest deck around (coming in at around $600), but the impressive specs for the price take it a level above decks in the $300-$400 range. We really think it’s worth spending the extra cash considering what you get.
And on paper, the specs actually sound better than the Boosted.
You’ll get a top speed of 25mph (up from 22) and a range of 15 miles (up from 12-14). And you’ll also get 2 x 1K motors, the same as you will in the Boosted deck.
But while SKATEBOLT is an excellent choice (and does do what it says spec wise), we must stress that the Boosted Dual+ is the better deck.
What else do you get?
There are 2 speed modes (high and low), which you can switch between using the remote. The 9 layers of maple in the deck also mean that the SKATEBOLT has an impressive max load of 280lbs. And the LED lights are a nice touch for when you’re riding at night.
SKATEBOLT claim you’ll get good performance on gradients of up to 30%, but we’d take that with a pinch of salt. It’s definitely going to match the 25% gradient capabilities of the Boosted deck though, and breaking is solid on both inclines and declines.
All in all, we like it. And if you can’t quite stretch to the Boosted, then you’ll be more than happy with your SKATEBOLT electric skateboard.
3. Inboard M1
Our pick for: best Boosted alternative
Looking for a cheaper alternative to a Boosted deck? Inboard make some great electric skateboards, and the M1 has a lot going for it.
Big pluses are a top speed of 22mph (the same as the Boosted Plus) and a removable battery. Although unfortunately you’ll only get around 7 miles out of a charge, so you’ll definitely want to consider carrying a spare.
The remote control is pretty solid, and there are 3 riding options – from beginner to expert. It’s also got built in LED lights like the SKATEBOLT.
Acceleration and deceleration are smooth, and the board performs well on hills.
On the downside, we found the board to be a little stiff, which meant turns could be a little tricky.
But at around $1,000, you’re saving around 25% on the Boosted Plus. So if you want to go for a step-up from the SKATEBOLT, but can’t quite afford a Boosted deck, then the Inboard M1 is a good choice.
What Is An Electric Skateboard?
Electric skateboards are powered by lithium-ion batteries (like your smartphone), with a motor (or sometimes two motors) driving the wheels. Depending on the model, the skateboard will have one, two, or four driven wheels, with top speeds ranging between 15 and 30mph.
Electric skateboards are classed as personal transporters, and can normally be ridden on the same surfaces as cars and bikes.
Speed is controlled either by a hand-held throttle, or weight sensor controls, while steering is managed by tilting left or right in the same way as a traditional skateboard deck.
Should You Buy An Electric Skateboard?
Believe it or not, electric skateboards are actually easier to ride than traditional decks, even though they are much faster.
And as we already mentioned they are classed as personal transportation devices, so you can use your electric skateboard to get around town (and look uber cool while doing it).
The main limitation is battery life.
Range will vary, but you’ll normally get between 10 and 20 miles out of a charge. Some models also allow you to swap out the battery, so if you keep a spare one in your pack you’ll be able to double that.
All in, they’re a great way of getting around, and super fun to ride. There’s been a big surge in rideable tech over the past few years (like hoverboards), and electric skateboards are trending up in popularity.
But they can be a little pricey. So below we’ve picked out 3 of the best electric decks this year, and we’ve tried to hit on a few different price points.
So whatever your budget, there should be a deck for you.
We’ll start with the very best electric skateboard on the market, the Boosted 2nd Gen Dual+.
What’s The Best Electric Skateboard In 2020?
If you can afford the price, then the Boosted 2nd Gen Dual+ is without doubt the best electric skateboard this year.
They’ve been raising the bar with each new model, and at the moment all other electric skateboard brands are playing catch up.
What’s Next?
Need some tips on riding your electric skateboard? Then check out our beginner’s guide to skateboarding.
And if you have any questions or comments, then leave them below and we’ll normally get back to you within 24 hours.
