HOVERBOARD VS ELECTRIC SKATEBOARD: CHOOSE YOUR PACE
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Hoverboards are fantastic and offer a unique mode of transportation. The self-balancing scooter has exploded on the market and has been making news. With celebrities like Justin Bieber, Jamie Foxx, Chris Brown, Kendall Jenner, Jimmy Fallon, Wiz Khalifa, and other artists endorsing hoverboards, it is not surprising that their popularity has hit the roof. However, nothing can beat a classic skateboard. Do you know what is better than a classic skateboard? An electric skateboard! We live in the age of technology, and transportation devices have rapidly evolved.
The real question is- which one is better, a hoverboard or an electric skateboard? Both have their strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we will extensively discuss both these transportation devices. So, hang tight and join us on this wild ride!
Why Do You Need A Hoverboard Battery?
A History of Hoverboards
If you are thinking of hoverboards from fictional movies that actually “hover”, you will be disappointed to know that hoverboards in real life do not float. Hoverboard originates from the science fiction novel The Hole in the Zero by M.K Joseph, transformed into reality by Shane Chan in 2013. Unfortunately, the new hoverboard was nothing like the hoverboard from the Back to the Future franchise.
Self-balancing scooters or hoverboards consist of two motorized wheels connected to a pair of articulated pads on which the rider places their feet. The articulated pads allow the rider to control the hoverboard’s speed by leaning forward or backward. Also, you can change the direction by twisting the pads.
Moreover, hoverboards feature various electrical components encased in a shell to provide a comfortable ride.
What is an Electric Skateboard
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Electric skateboards or esk8s have become extremely popular among riding enthusiasts. E-skates are similar to regular skateboards in terms of appearance. However, an electric skateboard comes with a small motor that allows the rider to accelerate or decelerate using a Bluetooth remote.
An electric skateboard lets you travel faster than regular skateboards, speed up hills, and brake down gently. So even if you are a beginner skateboarder, we assure you esk8s are perfect for beginners.
So, how do electric skateboards function? Typically, e-skates include motors inside the wheels and a removable battery in the deck. Some high-end electric skateboards also feature LED headlights and tail lights. In addition, electric skateboards are faster than regular skateboards, with a speed of up to 35 mph. Most notably, you can rely on your remote controller to change speed settings and braking modes.
Hoverboards vs. Electric Skateboards
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We have discussed hoverboards and electric skateboards in brief.
Now, we can address the elephant in the room- should you get a hoverboard or an
electric skateboard? There is no clear winner here. All-electric transportation
devices have advantages and disadvantages. However, we have compiled a chart to draw
a comparison between a hoverboard and an electric skateboard to clarify the doubts.
Comparison Chart
| Specifications | Hoverboard | Electric Skateboard |
| Frame | Aluminum | Plastic or wood |
| Speed | 6-15 mph | 18-28 mph |
| Average weight | 25 lbs | 15-28 lbs |
| Weight capacity | 120-220 lbs | 220- 330 lbs |
| Lights | LED lights | LED headlights and tail lights |
| Motor | Electric motor | 150-350 W (average), 350-500 W (premium) |
| Mode of operation | Sensor pad | Wireless remote controller |
| Customizable | No | Yes |
| Charge time | 3-4 hours | 2-5 hours |
| Battery life | 45 mins-1 hour | 1-3 years |
| Tilt sensor | Yes | No |
| Self-balancing technology | Yes | No |
| Average Price | $300-$600 | $200-$500 |
Note: The price range may vary depending on models and brands.
Although there are some differences between hoverboards and electric skateboards, both are safe for beginners. Of course, it will take you some time to ride either of the two transportation devices. However, with enough practice, you will be able to show off your skills. If you are a skateboard fanatic, you should give electric skateboards a shot, which offer more speed than regular skateboards. In fact, you can control the board’s speed and slow it down using the in-built brakes. You can control the board’s direction by leaning from side to side, but you no longer need to kick against the ground to move your eSkateboard. The easy mobility of electric skateboards allows you to cruise through crowds easily.
Hoverboards are great for beginners who want to have a fun riding experience. Unlike electric skateboards, you can control hoverboards through built-in sensor pads and a gyroscope.
Moreover, all you need to do is tilt forward or backward to control your speed.
Additionally, hoverboards pack extra features such as LED lights, built-in indicators, and Bluetooth speakers for a more enjoyable ride.
Furthermore, off-road hoverboards let you ride on rough surfaces like gravel, mud, or carpets.
If we talk about speed, electric skateboards deliver an impressive speed range of 18-28 mph, while hoverboards generally max out at 15 mph. If you are an experienced skateboarder, you can test the limits of your electric skateboard by setting out at the maximum speed. However, it is safer for beginners to start with a lower speed range. Also, electric skateboards can handle basic off-road trails, but it is better to ride them on smoother surfaces like asphalt and concrete roads.
Comparison Chart
| Specifications | Hoverboard | Waveboard |
| Frame | Aluminum | Plastic |
| Speed | 6-15mph | Up to 10mph |
| Average weight | 25 lbs | 8.02 lbs |
| Weight capacity | 120-220 lbs | 220lbs |
| Lights | LED lights | No |
| Motor | Electric motor | No |
| Wheels | Two | Two |
| Charging | Rechargeable batteries | No |
| Tilt sensor | Yes | No |
| Self-balancing technology | Yes | No |
| Price | $$ | $ |
There are some apparent differences between hoverboards and waveboards, especially in their design and the mode of operation. If you wonder which one is better, there is no clear winner. Hoverboards are popular among kids and adults alike, and their demand increases by the second. Meanwhile, waveboards are favorable for skateboarders who have been in this scene for a while.
Although hoverboards offer a fun and unique riding experience, balancing can be challenging for beginners. Also, you must be at least 44 pounds to ride a hoverboard. Otherwise, the footpads will not trigger proper movement. However, there is no minimum age or weight limit for riding waveboards.
There is no doubt that hoverboards win by a mile when it comes to technology. While a waveboard is essentially two narrow platforms (decks) on wheels, the hoverboard is a technological miracle. Hoverboards combine innovative technology to offer a unique experience. All hoverboard components work together to control the speed and tilt of the hoverboards, so the rider is balanced and moving at a controlled pace. Each wheel has its gyroscope, tilt, and speed sensor. Once you climb aboard and tilt your balance, the gyroscope controls your hoverboard through the logic board.
Note: The logic board processes the data from various sensors and sends the information to the motors, which provides the required movements, directions, and a balanced device.
In addition, hoverboards include features such as LED lights and built-in indicators to make your ride more convenient. Also, many hoverboards on the market provide Bluetooth technology and speakers on board, which comes in handy if you want to listen to music while riding. Another fantastic feature the hoverboards pack is self-balancing technology. The motors under your feet sense if you lean too much into one direction, and it counterbalances the board so that the rider stays safe.
On the other hand, waveboards require a little skill to ride as you need to keep your legs from leaning side-to-side to avoid touching the ground.
Additionally, the caster board affords an advanced form of boarding and comes with variations in design. Also, it comes in beginner, intermediate and professional models, which require some skills to maneuver.
A waveboard is a good option for riders of all ages looking for a unique riding experience. However, your level of balance and mobility can affect how you learn to ride a waveboard. If you are an experienced skateboarder, learning to ride a waveboard is probably going to be a piece of cake.
Furthermore, it is essential to ride a waveboard the right size and check the weight limit of individual boards.
When you talk about speed, hoverboards generally offer a speed range up to 7.5 to 10 miles per hour. However, some hoverboards on the market can reach a top speed of 15 mph. How amazing is that! It is also safer not to ride your hoverboard at maximum speed, especially when you go downhill.
Meanwhile, the top speed you can reach on a waveboard depends on how hard you push your limits. Usually, you can ride at around 7-8 mph on even terrains, but you can cruise faster than that!
Merits & Demerits of Hoverboards
| Merits | Demerits |
| Convenient | Risks of falling |
| Easy-to-use | Hazards of fire incidents |
| Environmental-friendly | |
| Portable | |
| Burns down calories | |
| Helps with posture | |
| Enhances your focus skills |
Merits & Demerits of Electric Skateboards
| Merits | Demerits |
| Customizable | Expensive |
| Multiple riding modes | Harder to maintain |
| Beginners-friendly | |
| Hand-held wireless control | |
| Regenerative brake | |
| High speed | |
| Long battery life |
Conclusion
There is no clear way to determine which one is superior. In the end, it all boils down to personal preferences. If you are looking for speed and adventure, go for an electric skateboard. It offers excellent balance and stability for beginners. However, if you wish to enjoy a unique and fun experience, you should consider purchasing a hoverboard.
We hope we have cleared your doubts regarding hoverboards and electric skateboards. Remember to wear your safety gear to avoid chances of injury and enjoy a safe riding experience!
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