Away from traditional skateboards, there are also powered boards vying for our attention. These are the Onewheel and e-skateboards. At first, they might seem like the typically wheeled decks roaming around. However, they have more to show.
So, Onewheel vs electric skateboard, how is one different from the other? Does an e-skate outdo Onewheel in design? Can Onewheel travel faster than an electric skateboard?
Keep reading as we compare these boards and see which of the two excels more.
Table of Contents
Electric Skateboard Vs Onewheel: Defined
By appearance, it’s easy to distinguish both boards. But let’s explore their features more.
1. Onewheel
Perhaps, Onewheels have the most distinctive look among all ridden boards.
This board is a thick platform with a big wheel at the center. Yes! It only has one roller. Hence, skaters place their feet in front and back of the wheel.
Is it challenging to ride a Onewheel? It is because of balancing issues. Nonetheless, everyone can master it.
One good thing about this skateboard with one wheel is its versatility. It’s suitable for sports, recreation, or transportation.
2. Electric skateboard
Perhaps, e-boards are the most convenient way to travel by board. There’s no pushing necessary. Hence, you don’t end up with sore legs. The movements you need to do on a regular skateboard can be completed through one remote controller.
Essentially, e-skates are fast. So, you’re likely to arrive at your destination sooner than expected.
Differences Between Onewheels and Electric Skateboards
Now that we know what they are, it’s time to start this e-skateboard and Onewheel comparison.
1. Speed
The good thing about these boards is human movement has little effect on their speed. Pushing or gliding is not necessary to move them.
On average, an electric skateboard travels at a speed of 25 mph. Contrastingly, Onewheel yields an average of 15 mph and 19 mph in some cases.
2. Weight
Like skateboards and longboards, we also consider the weight of a Onewheel and an e-skateboard. Because of batteries and electronic components, the Onewheel and e-skate boards are reasonably dense.
A Onewheel weighs around 25 lbs or more than 11 kg. It’s a lot heavier than a regular deck. But that is because of the added durability of its parts.
E-skateboards are on the lighter end. Besides their deck looking thinner than a Onewheel, they don’t need as many functionality features as the latter. Hence, most e-boards in the market today only weigh 17 lbs on average.
3. Battery life
As mentioned, batteries are vital for a Onewheel and electric skateboard. So, which of these two operates longer after a full charge?
You may see Onewheel as a high battery-consuming board. But that’s how manufacturers designed it to support all its functions. What’s good about this single wheel electric skateboard is it can travel as far as 18 miles after one full charge.
Electric skateboards might have a fluctuating distance range. Some models can reach 20 miles while others can only travel 12 miles. Nonetheless, you can still use e-boards like standard skateboards should they run out of power.
4. Safety
Whether on regular or electric boards, speed entails danger. And with Onewheel and e-skateboards yielding exceptional velocities, safety is something to think about.
Between these boards, which one is safer?
A Onewheel shuts down when it’s out of power. You can’t ride this one-wheeled electric skateboard by pushing. So, once it goes out of battery, the front end will hit the ground and the rider will lose his momentum, possibly falling in the process.
In the case of an electric skateboard, it doesn’t suddenly stop due to a power outage. But it shows signs of a low battery. When this happens, you might want to ride it without power.
Hence, e-skateboards win in this aspect.
5. Control
Control is still a top consideration when choosing between these boards. Otherwise, we will only expose ourselves to hazards.
Electric skateboards come with a remote control. Such a device allows skaters to drive their boards however they want.
On the other hand, One wheel electric board users need no remote. However, they will need to manage their weight and stand on the board correctly to move forward and brake.
Overall, remote controls impose more burden on the rider, while the Onewheel frees the rider’s hand and lets him focus on the trail.
6. Maneuverability
We’ve just discussed what users should do to control the Onewheel and electric skateboard. But which of these two exhibits better maneuverability?
The one wheeled skateboard has the advantage in this aspect. Why? Perhaps, it’s because there’s only a single roller driving the entire board. Also, it can rotate from 90° to 180° without requiring too much turning clearance.
Nonetheless, electric skateboards can still maneuver around skateboarding trails like regular boards. It’s just that they need enough space to complete a turn.
Pros and Cons of Onewheel and Electric Skateboard
Many have been arguing which between the Onewheel and the electric skateboard are worth spending on. Here’s a rundown of the most appealing traits of each board and their downsides.
- Customizable fenders, footpads, and more
- Portable
- Turn better and sharper
- Better on rough terrains than e-skates
- Slightly heavy
- More painful falls due to its height
- Renewable energy for longer runs
- Easy driving with remote control
- Different riding modes suited to all user levels
- Lighter than Onewheel
- E-skates have potentially reduced running time for heavy skaters.
- Slightly challenging to maintain electrical components
Onewheel vs Electric Longboard: Prices
Unlike regular skateboards, battery-powered ones have significant variations in cost. Let’s get into each of them.
1. Onewheel
As mentioned, a Onewheel has advanced technology and other electronic components supporting the rider’s movements. So, how much does a One wheel skateboard cost? Here are the different types of Onewheel and their prices in the market.
- Onewheel+ XR – $1,799
- Onewheel+ – $1,299
- Onewheel Pint – $950
2. Electric skateboard
E-skateboards have more variety than Onewheels. Here are some popular models and their prices.
- Ecomobl Mini 2 Standard Electric Skateboard – $199
- Blitzart Huracane – $449.99
- Exway Wave Hub Electric Skateboard – $699
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Onewheel easier than a skateboard?
Which has a better learning curve, an e-skateboard or a Onewheel?
One of the advantages of an electric skateboard is its 3-level riding modes fit for skaters of any ability. While others say these boards are challenging to master, their remote controls will make the user’s life easier.
On the other hand, balance is a vital factor in mastering a Onewheel. And beginners should take time learning this aspect because they’ll have to combine it with their body weight.
Plus, no remote control device comes with a One wheel motorized skateboard, making it more challenging than e-boards.
However, if you compare a Onewheel to a regular deck with no electronics, it’s probably easier to ride, considering standard boards don’t have sensors that help you balance.
Is a Onewheel an electric skateboard?
Most people on Reddit are already comfortable with a skateboard being a 4-wheeled deck with a gritty stepping surface. And this idea applies regardless of whether the board is regular or electric.
Does a Onewheel fit this definition? Does a Onewheel VS Summerboard comparison yield significant similarities? No.
Hence, a Onewheel is not an electric skateboard. It is unique in several aspects, particularly in design and wheel placement.
Conclusion
Transportation and recreation can merge into each other, thanks to the creation of ridden boards like e-skateboards and Onewheel.
So, Onewheel vs electric skateboard, which is better in performance? Which is safer? And which one yields the best value for money? It depends on your preferences. Each of these boards is advantageous in many aspects. Thus, it’s up to you to choose based on your priority.
One thing is for sure: you’re going to enjoy them both.
Hi, I am Charles Harris. I opened this site to write as much as I can about my biggest passion – skateboarding!
I started as a clumsy yet passionate rookie 10 years ago to now a still passionate yet much better skateboarder! But I have to tell you, the whole journey has always been fun and rewarding, indeed not without hardship.