Hoverboards
With the rising popularity of hoverboards in 2021, it’s no surprise that more manufacturers are producing these personal transportation devices. The hoverboard market is growing every year, as more customers see it as an eco-friendly way of getting around town. The portability of a hoverboard is another central selling point – you don’t have to worry about parking or theft.
If you’re thinking about buying a hoverboard in 2021, you probably have a few questions about the product. Whether you want to know how they work or what features to look out for, our guide answers all the most common questions about hoverboards. This handy buying guide covers everything you need to know about hoverboards in 2021. Our top recommendation is the Swagtron Swagboard Outlaw T6 Off-Road Hoverboard, with its patented battery management system.
What to know before you buy a hoverboard
How a hoverboard works
Despite its name, a hoverboard doesn’t hover over the ground. It’s a self-balancing board with an outer frame that pivots from the center. The two wheels contain an electric motor and sensors which detect speed and the tilt of your body. While you tilt your body forward, the sensors in the hoverboard will keep it upright.
Under each footpad is an LED light, which triggers the sensor below. The LED light stays on while your feet are flat on the board, signaling for the motor not to run. As you learn your body weight forward, the LED light goes off, telling the logic board to run the motor. You’re able to do circles with your hoverboard as the two motors are separate, with one in each wheel.
Advantages of a hoverboard
One of the main reasons people are attracted to a hoverboard is that they’re environmentally friendly. They run on a rechargeable battery, meaning you don’t need to use oil or petrol. The hoverboard doesn’t emit any greenhouse gases, and it doesn’t use any non-renewable energy sources. You can enjoy riding a hoverboard without worrying about harming the environment.
While a hoverboard will involve an initially high price tag, they are easy to use and have virtually no maintenance cost attached to them. As there are so few moving parts, you’ll rarely need to have any of them repaired.
The self-balancing technology makes the hoverboard more durable than alternatives like a scooter or bike. With its compact size, you can store a hoverboard anywhere in your home, preventing you from having to leave it outside to the elements.
What to look for in a quality hoverboard
Hoverboard wheel size
Just like a bike, the wheels on your hoverboard are essential. Most hoverboards come with a wheel size of 7 inches, which is an ideal height for any beginner to get used to. If you’re planning to take your hoverboard through the grass or over rough terrain, you may want to look for a hoverboard with larger wheels.
Hoverboard charging time
One feature that differentiates hoverboard brands is their charging times. If you intend to use your hoverboard every day, you want the most efficient charging system. Most hoverboards will take around three hours to charge fully. You’ll want to factor charging time in when choosing your hoverboard.
Distance you can travel with a hoverboard
Hoverboards have a range that allows them to go non-stop for a certain distance. This feature varies between models, with more expensive models have a larger range. You can expect to get anywhere between 7-15 miles of range with a full charge.
Hoverboard speed
While your hoverboard will go nowhere near the top speed of a bike, it’s a feature that differentiates between models. Most hoverboards offer a speed of anywhere between 6-8 mph, giving you a comfortable ride without going too fast or causing motion sickness.
How much does a hoverboard cost?
You can find a basic hoverboard for around $150. More advanced hoverboards with extra features and more efficient battery life can cause you up to $600.
Hoverboard FAQs
Do all hoverboards have a UL 2272 certification?
A. For a hoverboard to be sold in the USA, it has to have a UL certification. The test examines the potential of the hoverboard to catch fire or explode. To gain this certification, hoverboards are put through their paces with drops, water resting and pressure tests. If safety is a concern, you want to find a model that is UL 2272 certified.
How can I prevent my hoverboard from exploding?
A. Hoverboards have been known to explode if they are left on the charge for too long. The risk of your hoverboard exploding will depend on the quality of the battery, particularly with cheaper hoverboards. The best way to avoid this happening is to make sure to unplug your hoverboard once it’s fully charged and to quality-check the hoverboard after you receive it. If you notice anything potentially wrong with the quality of the battery, it’s a good idea to reach out to the manufacturer right away.