It was first introduced in “Back to the Future” as a purely fictional item at the time. What was once thought to only register in the fictional mind of Hollywood writers eventually became a reality — the hoverboard.
A hoverboard is more accurately called an electric self balancing scooter. It is a self-controlled two-wheeler, capable of personal portable transport.
When initially released to market, it was just an ostentatious commodity, that only celebrities and the “one per cent” could show off with them.
Well, thankfully, today, there are are well-functioning hoverboards which don’t cost a fortune. A hoverboard can now easily be bought by anyone who really wants to get one.
The best cheap hoverboards can be bought from trusted sources and have gone through safety testing and certification. So, the fact that they don’t cost an arm and a leg does not mean they are substandard.
Anyway, before we give you a list of hoverboards that can fit in your tight budget, there are a few things we think are worth considering first.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Hoverboard
Often time, cheap hoverboards might mean cheap materials and components. This is why you have to be well aware of the specifications and quality of what you are buying.
Well, here are some stuff to look out for to ensure you are getting a good product.
1. Safety
Safety was the biggest concern when hoverboards first made their way to the markets.
There were a number of reports of hoverboards exploding and catching fire.
Surely, no parent was going to buy a gadget that was a fire hazard for their kids.
But that was years ago. Things are different now. In the US, Underwriters Laboratory (UL) is largely responsible for issuing standards and certifying the safety of hoverboards.
You must check that the hoverboard you intend to buy has been UL certified. Look out for the logo that indicates that the product has passed safety testing.
Most of the hoverboards sold between 2014 and 2016 were not certified, hence the common self-exploding reports during that period.
2. Battery Quality
The self-exploding hoverboard complaints were mostly due to uncertified batteries. This is why you must also ensure that the batteries in your hoverboard have been tested and certified safe.
More so, check that the batteries are of good quality and have good insulation.
3. Wheel Size
Pick hoverboards with wheels of proper size depending on your requirements and intended use.
For example, if you intend to ride the hoverboard over rough terrains, you should consider larger wheel sizes of about 8.5 inches. Anyway, many hoverboards come with a wheel size of 6.5 inches.
Also, bear in mind that larger wheels require more torque and battery power. They are also better at handling higher weights.
Smaller wheels will struggle with large weights which will, in turn, cause a drop in performance levels.
4. Speed
The typical speed range for hoverboards is from 6-17 miles per hour. Hoverboards classified as high speed zone hoverboards can reach a top speed of 10 miles per hour and above.
High speed hoverboards are suitable for experts and adventurous users. Consider using low to normal speed hoverboards for beginners and kids.
Also, bear in mind that body weight of the user and terrain will have impact on the speed of the hoverboard.
5. Weight
Pay attention to the maximum weight load capacity of the hoverboard, especially if you are plus size.
Also, some hoverboards are made specifically for kids, and they have a maximum load capacity which is lower than average. You don’t want to end up with a hoverboard for kids just because you want a cheap hoverboard.
Standard hoverboards usually have a maximum weight capacity of about 220 pounds. So, plus size users might consider going for hoverboards with a 300 pound maximum weight capacity.
6. Additional Features
Bluetooth wireless speakers are common among new hoverboards, but there are some that don’t have this feature.
If you want to be able to play music from your hoverboard, look out for wireless connectivity features and quality of the Bluetooth speaker, too.
LED headlights are a mandatory safety feature for hoverboards, so, most hoverboards have it.
However, not all hoverboards have these high intensity lights that can help make riding easier in the nighttime. Anyway, try and look out for such if you will be using your hoverboard a lot at night.
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Best Cheap Hoverboards You Can Buy
We look at some of the best cheap hoverboards the market has to offer. In doing so, we have also considered desirable specifications, such as LED lights, top speed, Bluetooth speakers and wireless connectivity, battery power and battery life.
These hoverboards are presented in no particular order, however, we reveal our most recommended picks afterwards.
Hoverboards in this list are priced just around the 100 dollar mark. So, yeah, pretty affordable, right?
1. SISIGAD Hoverboard
Specifications:
- Unique LED headlights and Bluetooth speakers to listen to your favorite music and audio books while in transit.
- 36 V/ 2.0 Ah Li-ion Batteries.
- Dual 300-Watt hub motors.
- 6.5-inch wheel with rubber tires.
- 9 miles per hour max speed.
- 260 pound maximum weight capacity.
- 6-9 miles riding range.
- UL 2272 safety certified.
- Self-balancing system equipped.
Pros
- Easy to learn and use.
- Attractive LED lights on wheels.
Cons
- Battery drains quickly.
2. CHO Power Sports 2020 Electric Hoverboard
Specifications:
- High intensity LED headlights.
- Built-in wireless Bluetooth speaker.
- 160 pound maximum weight capacity.
- 6.5-inch wheel with rubber tires.
- UL 2262 safety certified.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Easy to learn and use.
Cons
- Could develop charging issues.
3. Hoverstar Hoverboard H5 2.0v Chrome
Specifications:
- Cyber thick design.
- LED light-flashing wheels and front LED lights.
- 6-10 miles per hour top speed (depending on rider weight)
- 2-3 hours charging time.
- 165 pound maximum weight capacity.
- UL 2272 safety certified.
Pros
- High speed
- Attractive LED wheels
- Fast charging
- Affordable
Cons
- No Bluetooth speakers
- Low maximum weight capacity
4. Jolege Hoverboard
Specifications:
- LED lights on wheels
- 6.5-inch rubber tires
- 6 miles per hour top speed
- Dual 300W hub motors.
- 2-3 hours to full charge.
- Bluetooth Speakers (not with all model colors)
- UL 2272 safety certified.
Pros
- Attractive LED lights on wheels
- Fast charging.
Cons
- Some items have been reported to have battery issues.
5. Longtime Hoverboard
Specifications:
- Advanced self balancing system.
- 36 V/ 2.0 Ah Li-ion rechargeable batteries.
- 6 miles per hour top speed.
- 200 pound maximum weight capacity.
- 7 miles average riding range.
- High intensity LED Head lights
- Includes Bluetooth Speakers (not for all models)
- 3-4 hours full charge time.
- UL 2272 safety certified.
Pros
- High intensity LED Head lights
Cons
- Long battery charging time.
6. TST 6.5″ Electric Scooter
Specifications:
- 8 miles per hour top speed (depending on rider’s weight and road conditions).
- 260 pound maximum weight capacity.
- 6.5-inch rubber tires.
- 3-4 hours till full charge.
- Uses 10 AA batteries.
- UL 2272 safety certified.
- Self balancing system.
Pros
- High maximum weight capacity.
Cons
- Battery drains quickly.
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7. Beston Sports Electric Hoverboard
Specifications:
- 36 V/ 2.0 Ah Li-ion battery.
- 180 pound maximum weight capacity.
- LED high intensity headlights.
- Built-in Wireless speakers.
- Self-balancing system.
- 12 kilometer riding range.
- 10 km/h maximum speed.
- 3-5 hours charging time.
- Weight: 9.2 kg
- UL 2272 safety certified.
Pros
- High intensity LED Head lights.
- Self-balancing system.
Cons
- Battery drains quickly.
- Imperfect product design finishing.
- Wobbly rides.
8. UNI – SUN Hoverboards
Specifications:
- Easy to use self-balancing system.
- 36 V/ 2.0 Ah Li-ion batteries.
- 9.3 miles per hour maximum speed.
- 264 pound maximum weight capacity.
- 9.3 miles riding range.
- 3-5 hours charging time.
- Bluetooth speakers
- LED lights on wheels.
- UL 2272 safety certified
Pros
- High maximum speed.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- Battery drains fast.
- Color easily scratches off.
9. Felimonda Hoverboard
Specifications:
- 6.5 inch rubber tires.
- 260 pound maximum weight capacity.
- Lifetime tech support available.
- UL 2272 safety certified.
Pros
- High maximum weight capacity.
- Lifetime tech support available.
Cons
- Charging issues
10. DOC Electric Hoverboard
Specifications:
- 180 pound maximum weight capacity.
- 36 V/ 2.0 Ah Li-ion battery.
- LED Lights.
- Built-in wireless Speakers.
- 12 kilometer riding range.
- 10 kilometer per hour maximum speed.
- 3-5 hours charging time.
- UL 2272 safety certified.
- Self-balancing system.
Pros
- Self-balancing system.
Cons
- Low maximum weight capacity.
Our Top Three Picks For Your Consideration
In this section, we count down our top three picks from the list of cheap hoverboards we have previously discussed.
In our consideration, we have taken into account factors such as price, performance, and customer satisfaction. In other words, you can trust our selection.
Top Pick Number 3: UNI – SUN Hoverboard
Uni-Sun have come up with a simple but classy hoverboard design. It’s also attractive, with its LED flashing lights on its 6.5-inch wheels.
Of course, it is UL2272 certified, so, you can be sure that this is a safe hoverboard.
It is very easy to use due to its self-balancing system which will really help beginners have a smooth ride.
It’s got a high maximum weight capacity which means if you are plus size, you’ll be okay with this.
Its solid tires (which are made of rubber) guarantee that you will be able to go through most terrains with ease. What’s most impressive for us is its high maximum speed of 9 miles per hour, considering its price.
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Top Pick Number 2: CHO Power Sports 2020 Electric Hoverboard
CHO Power Sports presents a very good affordable hoverboard with this one. It’s high intensity LED headlights mean you can ride them safely and with ease at night.
Self-balancing technology here means you can easily learn to use the hoverboard.
It has a built-in wireless speaker for fast connectivity for your music or audio books while on the go.
We particularly like its funky design. It is number two on our list because it is very affordable for the quality of what it offers, and that’s why it’s proven to be a hit with customers.
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Top Pick Number 1: SISIGAD Hoverboard Electric Scooter
SISIGAD delivers an absolute customer favorite with this item. Firstly, it is beautiful. It will make a perfect gift item for that special someone.
Furthermore, the Bluetooth speakers are excellent. With its self-balancing system, it’s also quite easy to learn and master in a short time.
It delivers a high-top speed of 9.0 miles per hour for its price range. The LED flashing lights make it even more attractive and fun to ride.
All in all, if you want a cheap hoverboard with quality, you won’t go wrong with this one at all.
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Why Should You Use a Hoverboard?
If you are here and you are not yet completely sold on why you should use a hoverboard, talk less of even going on to buy one, well, we’re going to try and win you over with 3 simple points. That is, apart from the fact that owning one automatically makes you one of the cool kids, lol.
1. They Are Eco-Friendly
Our world is currently battling the far-reaching effects of climate change and the solution appears to lie in cutting down our carbon emissions.
Consequently, there has been a drive for cleaner energy alternatives all over the world. Guess what, getting a hoverboard fits the bill if you want to contribute your own quota to reduce carbon footprints.
It’s certainly healthier for our world to find your way to work in one of these than driving in a Ford SUV.
Hoverboards run on rechargeable batteries. They don’t emit carbon gases detrimental to our atmosphere. That’s a good reason to buy one!
2. They Are Cost Effective
In the long run, using a hoverboard to get around is cheaper than your regular public transport system. You don’t have to pay nor do you have to spend money on gas.
If you move around within a relatively small community, using a hoverboard to commute is sure to save you some bucks.
Furthermore, as we have proven in this article today, you don’t even have to break the bank to get you a decent hoverboard.
Are you considering getting one yet?
3. They Are Portable
You have possibly had wild dreams of being able to resize your car into a small box and shove it into your work suitcase. Well, that’s Hollywood fiction, not likely to ever become a reality.
However, a hoverboard is as close as you can get to that fantasy. The fact that they are relatively light and can be taken everywhere you go is a real advantage.
No more fighting over parking space and all of that.
All right, so, before we disappear, for the benefit of those who haven’t yet been able to grasp the technology of the hoverboard, let’s do a brief explanation.
How Does A Hoverboard Work?
Hoverboards have a reputation of being quite difficult to handle. You know, no steering and no apparent brakes. But in reality, it’s not difficult.
It is a very cool piece of technology you’d admire even more when you see how it works.
As earlier said, hoverboards are battery powered. This means they need to be electrically charged at intervals. They also rely on sensors embedded in them for movement.
There are three major sensors in a hoverboard: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a magnetometer. All three work together to initiate and control movement.
The foot pad is laced with pressure sensors. The hoverboard is driven by the pressure the rider applies to the footpad.
A gyroscope sensor under the footpad detects when the rider tilts his feet backwards or forwards.
When tilted forward or backwards at a certain angle, the gyroscope sends data to the logic board. The processed data is then relayed to the motors at both wheels which initiates motion for the hoverboard.
To increase the speed of the hoverboard, the rider will have to increase the angle of tilt.
Whenever there is no tilt on the hoverboard, an infra-red sensor feeds data to the logic board to inhibit movement of the hoverboard.
To brake or reduce speed while riding, the rider tilts the hoverboard backwards with their heels.
To make turns with the hoverboard, the rider moves one of both feet forward, depending on the intended type of turn.
To make a right turn, the rider moves his left leg. The hoverboard then makes the turn by pivoting on the right leg. To make a left turn, the rider moves their right leg forward instead.
The logic board is what you can call the brain box of the hoverboard. It has a microprocessor inside it.
The logic board receives data from all sensors in the equipment and relays the processed data or logic to the motors at the wheels for corresponding movement. This board also manages battery power and works to prevent a burn out.
Now, if you just placed an order for one of the cheap hoverboards we recommended in this article (you’re welcome), the next thing is to learn to ride one.
Head over here for 6 great tips on how to ride a hoverboard.
