The Segway E3 Pro electric scooter represents a compelling option for commuters and casual riders seeking a reliable, moderately powerful, and user-friendly ride without breaking the bank. While electric scooter expert Joe Kaminski typically tests high-end models with powerful motors and extended ranges—often braving the busy streets of New York City and demanding more from the machines he rides—the E3 Pro is tailored more for everyday users looking for a balance of performance, portability, and affordability.
Priced at $700 retail but frequently discounted to around $500 during sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the Segway E3 Pro sits comfortably in the entry-to-mid level category of electric scooters. It is particularly well-suited for riders who want a lightweight, easy-to-fold scooter with respectable speed and range, plus a few premium features that are usually reserved for pricier models costing close to $1,000. For these reasons, the E3 Pro has earned a CNET Editors’ Choice award.
Having spent considerable time riding various Segway Ninebot scooters—including some basic models designed for younger teenagers with top speeds capped between 13 and 15 mph—I found the E3 Pro to be a notable step up. Equipped with 10-inch tubeless tires and powered by an 800-watt motor, the scooter can reach speeds up to 20 mph. Its rated range is up to 34 miles, though this figure depends heavily on factors such as rider weight, speed, acceleration habits, and terrain. Specifically, the 34-mile estimate assumes riding in Eco mode at a steady 9 mph, so most riders can expect somewhat less range in real-world conditions. For my typical rides in New York City, which range from 10 to 15 miles, the scooter’s battery performance was more than adequate.
As someone who stands 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs 166 pounds, I had no trouble tackling steeper hills while riding the E3 Pro. The scooter offers multiple acceleration modes: Eco, Standard, and Sport. I generally preferred the Sport mode, which provides a zippier, more responsive ride, while Eco mode felt a bit underpowered but helps conserve battery life. The acceleration feels smooth and controlled—there’s no sudden jerkiness when you push the throttle, which makes for a comfortable riding experience, especially in lower acceleration settings.
One potential drawback for some riders might be the scooter’s deck size, which measures 19 inches long (to the fender) and 6 inches wide. While this might feel slightly narrow or short for larger riders, I found it sufficient and comfortable. The handlebars stand 40 inches high and span 22 inches wide, which provided a stable and ergonomic grip without any noticeable rattling or wobbling in the stem. Overall, the E3 Pro’s build quality contributes to a smooth and stable ride.
The scooter’s stability is further enhanced by its dual-suspension system, which Segway calls “dual elastomer,” combined with a trailing swing arm design that offsets the wheel slightly behind the stem axis by 67 millimeters. This setup improves control and stability beyond what you might expect from a typical entry-level scooter. Additionally, the E3 Pro incorporates Segway’s SegRide Stability Enhancement System, designed to make riding safer and more controlled. Compared to older models like the five-year-old Ninebot Max, which still runs fine but feels a bit outdated, the E3 Pro provides a noticeably improved ride experience.
Braking on the E3 Pro is handled by a combination of a front drum brake and an electronic rear brake. While the scooter doesn’t have the more advanced disc brakes found on some higher-end models, the mechanical front drum brake provides a reliable backup should the electronic system fail. In testing, I was able to stop from 15 mph in about 22 feet, though braking distance will vary based on rider weight. Personally, I tend to avoid heavy braking by easing off the throttle to slow down gradually, which works well with the E3 Pro’s smooth acceleration and decent hill-handling capabilities.
The scooter also includes several thoughtful features that add convenience and safety. There’s a traditional bell, a 4-watt front light for visibility, a rear brake light, and turn signal indicators—features often missing from lower-end models. Another standout is the customizable RGB lighting underneath the deck, which you can control via the Segway Mobility companion app available for iOS and Android. This app also allows you to update the firmware of