Onewheel vs Electric Skateboard: Which One Is More better?

Rideable technologies such as Onewheels and electric skateboards are revolutionary advancements in personal transportation. Elevated designs, compact dimensions, and electrified prowess empower them to deliver exhilarating experiences in any location. But between onewheel vs electric skateboard, which is the better option For You?

All the significant distinctions between one-wheeled and e-skateboards are examined in this detailed guide. It examines speed, range, terrain capabilities, portability, features, and other factors to consider. When relocating, travelling, adventuring, or in search of excitement, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each rideable model assists in the selection of the most suitable one for your way of life.

Let’s examine onewheel vs electric skateboard rides compare and which one Gives the best experience for your needs!

What is an Electric Skateboard?

Electric skateboards enhance the riding experience by integrating motors, batteries, and electronic controls into a conventional skateboard deck, thereby enabling powered acceleration and deceleration. Speed is managed through a handheld throttle remote or by shifting weight on sensor-enabled boards.

Parts of an e-skateboard include:

• Deck – The board that riders stand on, made of wood, plastic, or carbon fiber
• Trucks – Attach wheels to the deck and allows steering
• Wheels – For stability, wheels are typically larger in diameter than those of standard skateboards
• Motor – Usually a hub motor built into the wheels or belt-driven motor mounted on the deck
• Battery – Provides power, with lithium ion being the most common chemistry
• Electronic speed controller (ESC) – Regulates power delivery from the battery to the motor
• Remote control – A handheld device with a throttle/braking input and a remote control

Elevated-torque electric motors provide e-skateboards with thrilling velocity and acceleration that are unattainable through manual propulsion alone. Many reach 20+ mph!

What is a Onewheel?

This is an innovative single-wheel self-balancing electric hoverboard. Accelerometers and a gyroscope automatically distribute the rider’s weight across the central wheel.Lean your body to control speed and turning.

An engine ranging from 750 to 1500 watts powers the wheel to a maximum speed of 20 mph. Pint and larger GT models are included in the variants. Leaning your body, as opposed to using handheld controls, initiates steering and acceleration on the Onewheel, unlike e-skates. A distinct riding experience is provided by the self-stabilizing platform.

Key Differences : Onewheel vs Electric Skateboard

Riding Style

• Electric skateboards use a wide deck with standard skateboard stance. Riders control speed via handheld remote.
• Each foot is placed side-by-side on the narrow deck of the Onewheel. Riders distribute weight to self-balance and steer.

Terrain Handling

• E-skateboards operate most efficiently on paved, flat surfaces because of their diminutive wheels.
• One-wheel has higher ground clearance and a rounded tire to absorb bumps on rougher terrain.

Speed

• E-skateboards reach higher top speeds, commonly 20-26 mph. Some premium models exceed 30 mph.
• One-wheel’s top speed is around 20 mph. But slower speeds may be more comfortable for beginners.

Range

• E-skateboards deliver outstanding range up to 30+ miles due to large battery capacities.
• One-wheel ranges 6-18 miles depending on model. Carving drains battery faster than cruising.

Weight

• E-skateboards weigh 9-15 lbs on average. Budget boards are lighter.
• One-wheel weighs around 23-30 lbs. The tire and self-balancing mechanics increase heft.

Water Resistance

• E-skateboards should avoid water exposure which can damage electronics.
• One-wheel models boast IP55 water resistance ratings for riding in wet conditions.

Price

• E-skateboards range from $300 for budget models up to $2,000+ for high-performance versions.
• The Onewheel Pint retails for $950 and Onewheel GT costs $2,200.

Benefits of Electric Skateboards

Higher top speeds

Premium e-skateboards can exceed 30+ mph, delivering huge thrills through speed. Onewheel tops out around 20 mph.

Remote-controlled operation

Using a handheld remote to control speed and braking gives an intuitive, familiar control method. No need to learn weight distribution.

Comfortable wide deck

Standard skateboard shapes allow riding in your usual stance. Side-by-side feet may feel awkward at first.

Coasting ability

Letting momentum carry you without battery power is easy on an e-skate. Onewheel lacks natural coasting.

Greater customization

E-skateboards have huge aftermarket parts options for swapping components. One-wheel mods are limited.

Cheaper budget models exist

Decent starter e-skateboards are available under $300. Onewheel’s premium pricing has a high barrier to entry.

Drawbacks of Electric Skateboards

Small wheels limit terrain capabilities

Small, hard wheels optimized for paved roads make e-skates less capable on cracked sidewalks or dirt trails where One-wheel’s pneumatic tire excels.

Higher skill barrier for beginners

New riders may find e-skate’s narrow deck less stable and the remote control has a learning curve. One-wheel self-balances.

Electronics vulnerable to water

Avoiding puddles and wet conditions is necessary on most e-skateboards since water damage can occur. Onewheel boasts all-weather durability.

Shorter range

Limited battery capacities on affordable models result in weaker real-world range of 6-10 miles. Long distances may require recharging.

Bulkier for transport

Standard decks don’t compact smaller. Onewheel’s compact footprint and rounded tire make it easier to toss in a car or bring into buildings.

Weaker torque and hill climbing

Budget e-skateboard motors struggle on steep hills. One-wheel’s centered motor layout optimizes power delivery and traction.

Benefits of Onewheel

All-terrain capabilities

The rounded tire and higher ground clearance enable handling cracked sidewalks, dirt trails, grass, and sand where e-skateboards falter.

Fun carving abilities

Onewheel’s maneuverability excels at carving tight arcs and zig-zagging. E-skate’s fixed axle offers less agile turning.

Short learning curve

Onewheel’s self-stabilizing design provides natural balancing assist for beginners. Riders can focus on steering.

Built-in lighting

Headlights and tail lights come standard for safe night riding. Most e-skateboards lack built-in lighting.

More water protection

Onewheel models boast IP55 ratings and sealed internals to withstand splashes and rain. Avoid submerging in water.

Compact form factor

The single wheel tucks away easily into a corner or under a desk. E-skates often don’t fit into tight spaces.

Included accessory port

The accessory port on the rails accepts 3rd-party accessories like bumpers and fenders to customize your ride.

Drawbacks of Onewheel

Higher cost

With a starting price around $950, Onewheel costs considerably more than basic e-skateboards that go for as low as $300-$500. The unique self-balancing mechanics come at a premium.

Restricted to authorized repairs

Unlike DIY-friendly e-skateboards, users cannot easily service or modify Onewheels themselves. Repairs require going through the official channel.

Single model options

At present, the only available variants are the Pint and GT, which differ marginally in terms of range and power. E-skates offer greater choices across performance tiers and deck shapes.

Inherent instability at stationary

Balancing stationary takes practice. At present, the only available variants are the Pint and GT, which differ marginally in terms of range and power. Onewheel requires maneuvering to stay upright.

Slower top speeds

One-wheel tops out around 20 mph, while premium performance e-skateboards can reach 30+ mph for riders seeking speed. However, Onewheel’s speed is adequate for both commuting and gameplay.

No downhill coasting

The motor applies drag when cruising down hills and doesn’t offer a natural coasting feel. E-skateboards can utilize momentum.

Safety Tips for Onewheels and E-skateboards

Ride defensively onewheel vs electric skateboard:

• Scan ahead for obstacles
• Watch for pedestrians
• Avoid high-traffic areas when learning

Master speed control:

• Start slowly and progress gradually
• Rapid acceleration or braking can cause falls
• Lean back to slow down on Onewheel

Wear protection:

• Helmets safeguard the skull in the case of a fall.
• Knee and elbow pads
• Gloves for fall stabilization

Mind water:

• Avoid puddles deeper than Onewheel’s clearance
• Do not submerge boards; water damage can occur
• Check bearings and hardware for rust after wet rides

Learn maintenance:

• Check tire tread and inflation on Onewheel
• Watch skate belt tension and wheel wear
• Charge batteries fully between rides
• Store boards properly between uses

E-Skateboards: How to Choose the Right Board

So you’ve decided on getting an electric skateboard! Here are key considerations when selecting a model:

Skill level

If new to riding, choose a board with:

• Lower top speed
• Flexible deck for comfort
• Large, grippy wheels for stability

As skills progress, upgrade to:

• Faster top speed
• Stiffer deck for responsiveness
• Smaller wheels for maneuverability

Range needs

Boards offer 5-30+ mile ranges. Consider your typical trip distances.

Longer range allows:

• Commuting without recharging
• Joyriding for hours

Shorter range works if you:

• Stay within smaller radius
• Have frequent access to charge

Terrain

For rough streets and trails:

• Larger pneumatic tires
• Higher ground clearance
• All-wheel drive (AWD) traction

For smooth pavement:

• Smaller urethane wheels
• Low ride height for stability
• Rear motor drive sufficient

Budget

Lower budget around $300-$800 gets:

• 20 mph top speed
• 10-15 mile battery range
• Hub motors for simplicity

High performance $800-$2,000 offers:

• 25+ mph top speed
• 20+ mile range
• Belt motors for better torque

Onewheel Models Compared

Onewheel currently offers two models. How do Pint and GT differ?

Onewheel Pint

• Top speed: 16 mph
• Range: 6-8 miles
• Weight: 23 lbs
• Max load: 250 lbs
• New price: $950

Best for:

• Younger, lighter riders
• Shorter commutes
• Maneuverability over stability

Onewheel GT

• Top speed: 20 mph
• Range: 15-18 miles
• Weight: 30 lbs
• Max load: 300 lbs
• New price: $2,200

Best for:

• Heavier riders
• Longer expeditions
• Stability and torque

Both models have:

• IP55 water resistance
• Smooth quiet motor
• Smart lighting system
• Carving maneuverability
• All-terrain tire

Accessories to Enhance Your Ride

Safety Gear

• Helmet – Protect your head in a fall
• Gloves – Save your palms from abrasions
• Knee pads – Guard against scrapes

Bags & Racks

• Backpack – Carry gear hands-free
• Shoulder bag – Stylish way to bring items
• Rear rack – Secure bag/box for transport

Enhancements

• Shredlights – Improve visibility at night
• Shock pads – Soften impacts on falls
• Bumpers – Shield the deck from dings
• Fenders – Keep water and debris off rider

Customization

• Different wheels – Softer or larger options
• Deck art grip tape – Express yourself
• Colored hardware – Match your style

Final Thoughts

Although they are both innovative developments in rideable technology, electric skateboards and Onewheels shine in distinct domains.

E-skates enable increased velocity, range, and personalisation by virtue of their support for aftermarket components. Handheld remotes provide familiar and intuitive control. But small wheels limit rough terrain capabilities.

Onewheel’s self-balancing design offers a unique riding sensation and makes learning easy. The all-terrain tire provides multi-surface versatility, but at a higher cost.

Determine your desired velocities, budget, and skill level, as well as your typical ride distances. These factors will steer you toward the e-rideable best suited for your needs. Both offer incredible potential for urban mobility, exercise, and outdoor adventure.

Whichever rideable you choose, respect the learning curve, follow safety precautions, and enjoy the wind in your hair as these innovative boards take your riding experience into the future!