We've tried and tested kids' electric scooters to work out the best model for kids aged 4 to 7, 8 to 12 and 13+. Safety was even higher on our agenda than when we review a scooter for adults - is it reliable, are the brakes good enough? These are motorised vehicles after all, and the three best scooters for children from all the ones we tested are, first and foremost, ones that we feel comfortable recommending from a safety standpoint.
We’ve assessed each scooter for components and build quality, safety and security, performance and handling, comfort and practicality, and value for money.
Jump to the right review for your child:
- Best for 4 to 7 year olds: HOMCOM
- Best for 8 to 12 year olds: Razor Power Core S85
- Best for teenagers: RCB R15
HOMCOM, best for kids aged 4-7:
The HOMCOM is our recommended scooter for primary school kids aged four to seven and under 50kg. It's not as high performance as the other models here, aimed at heavier riders. But its spec is perfect for younger riders, with a top speed of around 5mph. And it's lightweight so it works well as a kick scooter if the battery runs out (range is claimed as 3miles).
We love the grippy foot-plate, the lightweight frame and the comfy handles.
We did find found the plastic wheels can mean a bit of a rough ride.
Razor Power Core S85, best for 8 to 12 year olds:
This is the best and safest for children aged 8 to 12. It's not the fastest but the speed of 10mph is right for this age range. Safety and build quality are on a different level to most rivals. It's got chunky, pneuumatic tyres making for easy riding on bumpy ground. We gave it the highest score of any kids scooter we tested.
Things we liked include the comfy grip, the effective brakes and just the overall quality.
Its main drawbacks in our tests are that it's a bit noisy (although you could argue that means people will notice it coming) and the 35-minute range might just leave your child wanting more.
RCB R15, best for teenagers:
The zippy RCB R15 is the best scooter for teenagers (but too quick for kids any younger). It accelerates fast up to 15mph with a claimed a range of 15km.
It has puncture-proof, 5.5-inch tyres and a charge time of 4-5 hours.
The main drawback we found is the braking system which is only an electronic brake and footbrake (no lever brake) - so it's not as fast a stopper as some other models we've tested. It does however have anon-zero start mode which ensures that the scooter only starts accelerating when the speed reaches 5km/h.
Our testing found this will struggle uphill with riders over 80kg.
How we tested
- We’ve assessed each scooter for components and build quality, safety and security, performance and handling, comfort and practicality, and value for money.
- And as well as our expert assessment from our experienced adult scoter reviewers, we made use of Gabes (who is 10), an existing electroheads fan and electric scooter rider - his verdict is based on a lengthy ride on various surfaces
Important legal and safety information
- It is essential to wear a helmet when using an electric scooter. These are motorised vehicles and you should also consider knee and elbow protectors. Make sure your child understands how to stop and start safely.
- Kids scooters aren't waterproof unless stated - these ones are not. Do not use in the wet as you can damage the battery, which can become dangerous.
- Currently privately-owned electric scooters are legal on private property with the owner's permission. They are not to be used on roads, cycle lanes or footpaths in the UK, although the government has said it will legislate on this before the spring. It is your responsibility to drive your escooter lawfully. You accept all risk and liability for using scooter products.
Can a 10 or 11 year old ride an electric scooter?
Almost certainly. It doesn't take long to get used to the riding stance or the controls. You need to make sure they are confident with the brakes and acceleration method. But kids as young as four can ride electric scooters safely - just make sure the specs (motor power and max speed) are suitable for the age of your child.
Is an electric scooter safe for a 10 or 11 year old?
As long as the specs are appropriate, it's safe for a young person to ride a scooter - but you also need to make sure the child is a safe rider. Helmets should be mandatory and we strongly recommend elbow and knee pads. Make sure they've practiced the brakes, especially if they are a type they haven't used before.
How do I choose a scooter for my child?
Above all else - safety. These are motorised vehicles and can cause injury to the rider and others. So make sure speed and power specification are suitable for the age (and maturity) of your child. After that, it's down to ride comfort, features - and probably which design your kids will like.
