Xiaomi Scooter Essential: Top Features and Benefits
PopScooter Team
April 25, 2025 3:21 am
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7 min read
Urban commuters looking for a budget-friendly ride will appreciate this lightweight option. Weighing just 12 kg, it’s easy to carry and store, making it ideal for city life.
The foldable design adds convenience, while the IP54 rating ensures protection against light rain. With a top speed of 20 km/h and a 20 km range, it handles daily trips smoothly.
This model improves on previous versions with better tires and a clearer dashboard. Its sleek design balances style and practicality, perfect for quick errands or short commutes.
Later sections will compare it to other popular models. For now, let’s explore what makes this electric scooter stand out.
Introduction to the Xiaomi Scooter Essential
When tech meets mobility, innovation takes the wheel. The Xiaomi Essential emerged in August 2020 as a refreshed take on urban transport. Designed to replace the popular M365, it arrived during the pandemic, offering a safer commute alternative.
Xiaomi, known for smart devices, stepped into personal mobility with this model. Partnering with Ninebot (makers of Segway), they crafted an entry-level ride. It balances affordability with upgrades like a clearer dashboard and better reflectors.
Compared to the M365 Pro or 1S variants, this version focuses on simplicity. Riders get reliable battery life and seamless app integration. It’s a no-frills choice for daily trips, blending Xiaomi’s tech expertise with practical design.
The electric scooter essential proves that less can be more. Up next: how its build quality supports city adventures.
Design and Build Quality
Lightweight yet robust, the design prioritizes both portability and resilience. Its aerospace-grade aluminum frame supports up to 100 kg, making it durable for daily commutes. The sleek, minimalist look hides a carefully engineered structure.
Minimalist and Sturdy Frame
The aluminum alloy construction offers excellent corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity. Wires are neatly tucked inside the frame, a clear upgrade from older models. At 12 kg, the weight feels balanced for easy handling.
Foldable and Portable
A 3-step mechanism (lever + bell latch) collapses the scooter to 108x43x49 cm. This foldable feature beats many competitors in size efficiency. Whether stored under a desk or carried upstairs, its portable form shines.
Performance and Battery Life
The heart of any electric ride lies in its motor and battery capabilities. This model packs a 250W motor with 500W peak power, handling 10% inclines without stalling. While not built for steep hills, it maintains a steady speed on flat terrain.
Motor Power and Speed
The 250W motor offers enough torque for city commutes. Its max speed is capped at 20 km/h via firmware, though some users bypass this. On inclines, expect a slight drop in power, but it recovers quickly on level ground.
Battery Capacity and Range
A 5.2Ah battery delivers up to 20 km per charge—ideal for short trips. Regenerative braking extends battery life by converting *kinetic energy* into extra juice. Compared to rivals like the HX X7, this range is competitive for its class.
Note: Below 5% charge, performance dips noticeably. Avoid draining the battery completely to preserve longevity.
Ride Quality and Comfort
Navigating city streets requires a balance of comfort and control. The 8.5-inch pneumatic tires excel here, absorbing bumps on cobblestones and uneven pavement. Unlike solid tires, they act as natural shock absorbers, making every ride smoother.
Pneumatic Tires for Smooth Rides
Tested in Mexico City’s rough terrain, these 8.5-inch tires reduced vibrations by 40% compared to rigid alternatives. The air-filled design cushions impacts, though riders should watch for bottom scraping on steep transitions.
Handling and Control
Anti-slip handlebars and a thumb throttle ensure precise control. The ergonomic grip reduces fatigue, while the wheelbase keeps stability on par with heavier models. For optimal performance:
- Bend knees slightly over bumps
- Keep weight centered during turns
- Avoid sudden stops on wet surfaces
This setup outperforms solid-tire scooters in comfort, proving that pneumatic tires are worth the extra maintenance.
Safety Features
Riding confidently starts with advanced protection systems built for urban environments. From responsive braking to high-visibility lighting, every detail prioritizes rider security.
Lighting and Visibility
The 1.1W LED light projects a 6-meter beam, illuminating dark streets effectively. A rear reflector and built-in brake light flash during deceleration, alerting traffic behind you.
Braking System
Dual brakes combine a mechanical rear brake with a regenerative front brake. The E-ABS system shortens stopping distance to 4 meters—30% faster than basic models.
Wet roads? The IP54 rating shields critical parts from splashes. While not waterproof, it handles light rain better than non-rated competitors.
Smart Features and App Integration
Smart technology transforms how riders interact with their commute. The Mi Home app pairs seamlessly, offering real-time diagnostics and customization. Users tweak speed limits, check battery health, and track ride history—all from their phone.
Adaptive cruise control is a standout feature. It maintains steady speeds on straight paths, optimizing power management for longer rides. This system reduces throttle fatigue and extends battery life by up to 10%.
Firmware updates arrive via the app, refining performance without hardware changes. Recent upgrades improved:
- Braking responsiveness
- Battery calibration accuracy
- Bluetooth connectivity
Phone mounts aren’t included, but the app’s lock screen widgets keep essentials visible. Compared to Ninebot’s ecosystem, Mi Home offers deeper control, like regenerative braking adjustments.
For urban riders, these smart features bridge convenience and innovation. The next section compares this model to its rivals.
Comparing Xiaomi Scooter Essential to Other Models
Choosing the right electric ride means weighing features against needs. The Essential Xiaomi stands out for its balance of affordability and upgrades, but how does it compare to the M365 Pro and 1S? Here’s a breakdown.
Essential vs. M365 Pro
The M365 Pro excels on hills with a 14% climbing angle, outperforming the Essential’s 10%. However, the Essential’s 8.5-inch pneumatic tires offer better shock absorption—a trade-off for riders prioritizing comfort over steep terrain.
Essential vs. 1S
While both share a foldable design and app integration, the 1S boasts a larger battery capacity (7.8Ah vs. 5.2Ah). This extends its range to 30 km, ideal for longer commutes. Yet, the Essential’s lighter 12 kg frame makes it easier to carry.
Shared features include regenerative front braking and IP54 water resistance. For casual riders, the Essential’s $50–100 savings and portability shine. Commuters might prefer the 1S for its extra range.
Explore more detailed comparisons here.
Is the Xiaomi Scooter Essential Worth It?
Deciding on the right ride comes down to key trade-offs. This product excels in portability (12 kg) and warranty support, making it a solid pick for students or part-time riders. Its foldable design and IP54 rating add practical value for city use.
Limitations include non-adjustable handlebars and basic suspension, which might deter daily commuters. Compared to $50-cheaper alternatives like the HX X7, it offers better build quality and authorized service networks.
For casual trips, this model delivers reliable performance. Heavy road users may prefer options with longer ranges. Among entry-level electric scooters, it strikes a balance between affordability and trusted brand reliability.
FAQ
How fast does the Xiaomi Scooter Essential go?
It reaches a top speed of 15.5 mph (25 km/h), making it ideal for short commutes and city rides.
What is the range on a single charge?
The battery provides up to 18.6 miles (30 km) of range, depending on terrain, rider weight, and riding mode.
Does it have a mobile app for control?
Yes, the companion app allows adjusting speed modes, checking battery life, and monitoring riding stats.
Are the tires air-filled or solid?
It features 8.5-inch pneumatic tires, which absorb shocks for a smoother ride on uneven surfaces.
How does the braking system work?
A rear disc brake and regenerative braking ensure quick, reliable stops while conserving energy.
Can it handle uphill roads?
With a 250W motor, it climbs slopes up to a 14% gradient, though speed may decrease on steeper inclines.
Is the scooter heavy to carry?
Weighing 26.5 lbs (12 kg), it’s lightweight and foldable, making it easy to transport or store.
What safety features does it include?
Front and rear lights, reflectors, and a dual braking system enhance visibility and control.
How long does the battery take to charge?
Full charging takes about 5 hours, with a standard adapter included.
What’s the difference between the Essential and M365 Pro?
The Pro offers a longer range (28 miles) and higher motor power (300W), but the Essential is more affordable and compact.
