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The United Kingdom may have one of the restrictive regulations on mobility devices, but nothing can stop the continuing craze for hoverboards nationwide. The best hoverboard above is a prime example of how advanced technologies transform the world, whether it’s about recreation or personal transport.
But there are legitimate concerns we can’t simply discard, especially if you remember all those serious incidents happening in the UK a few years ago. Many keep wondering whether they can legally and safely use hoverboards the way they like, not to mention the wide variety of models on the market.
Read on to find out every important aspect of these devices and our top 10 hoverboard reviews UK.
Nowadays, people commonly use this term to refer to two-wheeled, self-balancing boards used as personal transporters (hence another name, self-balancing scooters).
A typical hoverboard
This mini board has an electric motor operated by batteries. The rider stands on this platform between the wheels, controlling the board by tilting their feet at different angles.
The built-in sensors detect the rider’s movements and move the board the way they want while maintaining balance. Everything is done automatically as the board calibrates its own position thanks to its powerful self-balancing features.
How To Choose The Best Hoverboard?
Wheels
The wheels are a critical component of any self-balancing scooter, affecting several aspects like how well the board can auto-balance, how stable it can be, or what types of terrain you can have a ride on.
Most models come with a pair of 15 to 18cm wheels. They’re a good starting size for novice riders to learn the basics, striking a great balance between compactness and ability.
Most models use under 7-inch wheels.
But hoverboards with larger wheels (up to 25 centimetres in diameter) exist as well. They tend to be costlier and geared towards off-road riding. If you want to explore other grounds beyond the tarmac, those big wheel’s superior rough road handling will come in handy.
Age And Weight Recommendations
Motorised mobility systems like hoverboards pose risks that most children aren’t yet ready to handle without adult supervision. A fast-moving board at 16 km/h hitting a steep pavement edge can be a disaster for little kids and send them to the hospital with serious injuries.
Heavy adults (weighing around 91kg and more) should pay attention to the maximum load the board can support. Anything over that weight limit can put you at risk by throwing the entire platform off balance or at least reducing its speed, range and battery quality.
Battery Life
Long battery life means you can enjoy a whale of a time with uninterrupted fun. Depending on the battery setup under the hood, manufacturers usually claim a runtime between 45 and 120 minutes.
These are marketing numbers that can only happen in ideal conditions. For starters, constant starts and stops draw more power, and as a result, reduce ride time. Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time, too, leading to a lower capacity.
All models come with a charger.
Still, those advertised battery life is a good clue about the time you can spend on a hoverboard before it runs out of power. Suppose they’re all in good working order; you can obviously squeeze more running time out of a 2-hour model than a 45-minute one.
Charging Time
A battery’s capacity doesn’t always translate proportionately to the time you need to charge it fully.
Newer and more efficient technologies can shorten charging time greatly and reduce the waiting time before you can take your hoverboard out for a ride again. But the cost that comes with a super-fast charging system is a faster degradation as well.
Most self-balancing scooters need around two or four hours for a full charge.
Speed & Range
How fast a self-balancing scooter can go depends on its motor(s). Some models use only a single to drive the wheels, but premium or heavy-duty hoverboards usually employ two of them to do the job.
The speed is usually adjustable, and a board is considered fast when it can reach 12 km/h. A few of them can even go faster, hitting 16 km/h in favourable conditions.
These figures may not sound fast compared to other vehicles, but remember that it’s also the maximum speed of many sprinters.
Some hoverboards have a long range of up to 20km.
The range is tougher to measure, and most manufacturers don’t provide this specification directly. Many factors come into play: the battery capacity, the motor’s speed, the rider’s weight, as well as the surfaces’ incline and roughness.
On a flat surface, most hoverboards can deliver a few hours of use and a range of between 10 and 20 km.
Durability
Countless retailers sell hoverboards, but there is a night-and-day difference in build quality between well-known brands and cheap knock-offs.
It may be hard to notice when ordering online, but from the housing material and the frame construction to battery cells and the sophistication of electronics, they can make or break your hoverboard.
The vast majority of complaints about mediocre hoverboards come from batteries that die prematurely, covers that come into contact with the wheels and scratch-prone housings.
The fancy look of a hoverboard may be deceptive and have nothing to do with how it’s made. If you can’t examine it in a brick-and-mortar store, at least do some research on its construction and customer feedback.
Instead of a cheap hoverboard, opt for reputable brands and retailers with a warranty and responsive customer support as a fail-safe in case your board stops working.
Safety
Safety concerns are always the biggest issue with self-balancing scooters since when they grew in popularity. These personal devices had made the news many times when authorities worldwide confiscated faulty hoverboards and issued safety warnings on several separate occasions.
Look for safety-certified models.
This public scrutiny doesn’t come about for no reason, though. A lot of cheap, defective hoverboards imported from abroad have failed basic safety checks. These low-quality units pose a serious risk of exploding or catching fire.
Look for a self-balancing scooter’s UL 2272 certification (another name of the “Standard for Electrical Systems for Personal E-Mobility Devices”). Tested and issued by the American firm Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL), it’s the most sought-after safety certification covering electrical and fire safety of electric transport devices like hoverboards.
Another way is to check if the product is fully compliant with UK and EU safety standards, such as CE certified boards.
Prioritise models using batteries from top manufacturers like Panasonic or Samsung. But most importantly, say no to any products not carrying a solid warranty and customer care from an UK’s official provider.
Best Hoverboard Reviews UK 2024
1. GeekMe 6.5″ Hoverboard With Hoverkart –Top Choice With A Hoverkart
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 6.5 inches (17 centimetres)
Max load: 100 kg
Max speed: 15 km/h (9.3 mph)
Max range: 12-15 km
Charging time: 2-3 hours
It’s easy to notice at first glance this GeekMe board is made with young riders in mind. Technically, the cost falls just out of the range. But the inclusion of a hoverkart and a wide range of fun features make a few more pounds totally worth it.
While this isn’t an all-terrain hoverboard, the 17cm solid rubber tyres and non-slip pedals provide the GeekMe self-balancing scooter with a strong grip on most flat surfaces.
The dual-motor 2x350W setup gives it enough power to carry a rider at a top speed of 15 km/h – in line with its competitors at this price point. At speed, the response is still snappy with a comfortable standing position.
The self-balancing scooter build quality has come a long way industry-wise, and the GeekMe 6.5″ Hoverboard With Hoverkart is a good example. It can accommodate a max load of 100 kg, something we could only dream about a decade ago.
There is no companion app for this kid’s hoverboard. But you can still enjoy music from its Bluetooth speakers, illuminate the road ahead with its bright LED lights, receive an alarm when it nearly runs out of power and get a warning whenever you go near the speeding limit.
Each full charge of about 2-3 hours will give you approximately the same period of ride time, or about 12-15 km, depending on road conditions and your weight.
On the flip side, this board doesn’t come without a few limitations.
The price is indeed competitive, but it’s not the best budget hoverboard UK. Some other brands have offered as attractive as the GeekMe board while being significantly cheaper. If you can live without some extras like the hoverkart, you can even save more money with them.
The hoverkart seems to be a common source of complaints as well. The instructions don’t say clearly how to assemble it, and some customers have missing bolts.
Pros
Colourful look
Affordable
Suitable for kids and adults alike
Decent weight limit and range
A hoverkart included
Snappy response to direction change
Cons
Not as competitively priced as similar products
Small issues with the hoverkart
2. RCB 6.5″ Hoverboard –Best Lightweight Option
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 6.5 inches (17 centimetres)
Max load: 100 kg
Max speed: 15 km/h
Max range: 12-15 km
Charging time: 2-3 hours
The RCB 6.5″ Hoverboard looks pretty much the same as the GeekMe model while asking for much less money. This device sparks joy from its exterior with its multi-angle display lighting, including blue LEDs in the front so people can easily notice you at night and tricolour lights on the wheels.
To sweeten the deal, RCB uses aircraft-grade aluminium alloy and ABS plastic to produce the sturdy frame of this board without making it a pain to carry around. Even a full shipping package weighs under 8 kg compared to a 10-kg weight of the GeekMe model alone (not including the hoverkart).
Not only does the RCB look like the part, but it can also rival other top models in this price range in terms of other primary aspects.
It’s also equipped with two 350W motors, enough to yield a great speed of 15 km/h and a maximum distance of around 15 km on each full charge. This, of course, hinges on the weather, road conditions and the rider’s weight, but it’s more than people looking for an under £200 can reasonably expect.
Another highlight of this RCB hoverboard is that it can climb a slope of up to 18 degrees – a noticeable improvement over previous models with a top 15-degree incline.
That said, the paint is easy to flake off. And unfortunately, the manuals are confusing without much detail on how to use the hoverboard.
Pros
Better value if a hoverkart isn’t a must
Lightweight, powerful motors
Bluetooth supported
Attractive design for kids, bright LED lights
Various colour options
Cons
The paint flakes off easily.
Poorly written manuals
3. SOUTHERN WOLF 6.5 Inch Hoverboards – Safest Choice For Kids
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 6.5 inches (17 centimetres)
Max load: 100 kg
Max speed: 15 km/h
Max range: 15 km
Charging time: 2-3 hours
SOUTHERN WOLF is another brand joining the competition of making hoverboards under £200. The manufacturer understands what the market demands at this lower end and creates a competitive pack for adults and kids alike.
The SOUTHERN WOLF 6.5 Inch Hoverboards has everything you can expect: solid tyres that will never go flat, anti-slip pedals for better control, dual 2x350W motors, LED headlights and Bluetooth speakers.
Even its capabilities are pretty standard for the class. This device can go as fast as 15 km/h for about 15 km in ideal conditions, supporting a weight of up to 100 kg.
All in all, it’s a solid deal that those seeking an affordable board for their kids should never overlook. But perhaps its built-in safety mechanisms are what sets this product apart from its competitors.
The SOUTHERN board comes with an advanced motherboard that can ensure the platform is stable throughout the deal and swiftly respond to any speed and angle. There is circuit protection for the battery, too, to prevent overcharging and overheating from happening.
Be aware that the manufacturer doesn’t deliver to Island addresses. So if you live in the Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey, or some certain parts of Northern Ireland, you’re out of luck.
Pros
Multi-layer safety system
Easy to learn
Powerful motor, excellent speakers
An ideal gift for kids
Responsive platform
Con
Not available in some parts of the country
4. HITWAY 6.5″ Hoverboard With Hoverkart – Lightweight Option With A Hoverkart
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 6.5 inches (17 centimetres)
Max load: 100 kg
Max speed: 15 km/h
Max range: 15 km
Charging time: 2-3 h
The HITWAY 6.5″ Hoverboard With Hoverkart works in the same fashion as the GeekMe model. They’re both hoverboards that come with a hoverkart, allowing kids to transform this device into an electric go-kart they can race against their friends.
This kart has everything needed to control the direction of the hoverboard. Your kids can press down the levers or lift them to head the platform forward or backwards, as well as turn it left and right. The triangle design of this configuration also means you can stop worrying about your kids falling over and getting themselves injured.
Compared to the GeekMe model, its direct competitor, there isn’t much more to say other than the much lighter weight (5.5 kg compared to 10.5 kg) and a more colourful hoverkart. Beyond that, there aren’t many differences.
The HITWAY hoverboard can carry yours for about 15 km at 15 km/h (ideally) before it needs a recharge. In fact, you can have a whale of a time with it, too, thanks to the 100 kg weight limit.
However, it does have some distinct downsides compared to the GeekMe product. Your board may not come fully functional, and you may need to read some instructions and calibrate or reset it yourself. The customer service of HITWAY also seems not to be very responsive and may not get back to you shortly.
Pros
Lightweight
Sleek look
Built-in Bluetooth speaker
Easy-to-control hoverkart
Cons
Some calibration may be needed.
Not responsive customer service
5. SISGAD 6.5″ Hoverboard – Top Pick Without A Hoverkart
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 6.5 inches (17 centimetres)
Max load: 120 kg
Max speed: 10 km/h
Max range: 10 km
Charging time: 4-5 hours
If you’re already happy with 17cm hoverboards under £200 on this list so far, you’ll be thrilled to know what SISGAD offers. It may look like a copycat, but make no mistake, this hoverboard means business.
The manufacturer doesn’t reveal much about the motors powering the machine under the hood. But from the capabilities of the SISGAD 6.5″ Hoverboard, they can be only better.
While the device needs a longer charging time (between 4 and 5 hours), it can go as far as 20 km – significantly further than similar products.
SISGAD makes it possible by incorporating a 36V 2AH lithium battery, allowing the board to top the 15 km/h mark. On top of that, heavy adults should not be shy about riding a hoverboard anymore with its 120-kg maximum weight support.
So, what’s the catch? Unluckily, the manufacturing’s quality control of SISGAD is quite questionable. Most people have no issues with this SISGAD hoverboard, but a number of customers have to ask for a replacement due to malfunctioning lights.
Pros
Highest weight limit at this price point
Longer mileage
Fancy design
Stable control
Con
Some rare faulty units
6. GeekMe 8.5″ All Terrain Hoverboard – Best Big Hoverboard For Kids
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 8.5 inches (22 centimetres)
Max load: 100 kg
Max speed: 15 km/h
Max range: 20 km
Charging time: 2-3 hours
Much like the under £200 range, GeekMe also sets the standard in making all-terrain hoverboards that don’t cost an arm and a leg.
The GeekMe 8.5″ All Terrain Hoverboard checks all the boxes as the best hoverboard for kids: a powerful motor setup (2x350W), decent weight support (100 kg), great speed (15 km/h) and acceptable charging time (2-3 hours).
As you’re going to see below, these specifications have become the minimum expectations. But GeekMe breaks the mould by deploying a whole host of safety mechanisms.
In fact, there are nine safety features in play in addition to the UL 2272 certification: the anti-fire shell, explosion-proof tyres, low-electricity reminder, speeding reminders, circuit protection, temperature detection, smart weight sensing, smart faulty detection and one-key operation.
Accordingly, even parents with rough and boisterous children can have peace of mind when gifting their kids this hoverboard. Just spend some time teaching them the basics, and your kids can have a fun time with the GeekMe hoverboard, regardless of the terrain they’re riding over.
Unfortunately, the Bluetooth sound system is a challenge to deal with. It gets recognised by most smartphones but doesn’t pair with them as seamlessly as other models.
Pros
Several safety mechanisms
Convenient to use
Full UL certification
Sturdy build, suitable for rough terrain
Cons
Hard-to-connect Bluetooth speakers
A lower weight limit than other hoverboards
7. COLORWAY 8.5″ All Terrain Hoverboard – Best For Newcomers To Off-roading
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 8.5 inches (22 centimetres)
Max load: 120 kg
Max speed: 15 km/h
Max range: 15 km
Charging time: 2-3 hours
When put side by side with the GeekMe model, the COLORWAY 8.5″ All Terrain Hoverboard offers the same package in terms of both look and features.
It’s no secret that these 22cm boards appear as they come from the same factory (15 km/h maximum speed, 15-km range and 2-3 hours charging time). But there is a big difference you have to keep in mind.
The COLORWAY hoverboard actually can accommodate more weight – 120 kg, 20 kg more than what the GeekMe model can support. It’s not a big deal when it’s just a gift to your kids, but for heavy adults who want to try out riding these electric devices, it can be a deal-breaker.
Besides the fact that this machine can easily handle uneven surfaces, it’s easy to learn, making it the best hoverboard for beginners. After just half an hour, the gyro sensors and self-balancing ability should allow them to be familiar with the COLORWAY board. The riding is smooth and gentle, even on a bumpy road.
However, parents of kids under 30 kg should find a smaller platform for them. This COLORWAY machine may be too powerful and create too many vibrations for them to handle.
Pros
Easy to learn
Support up to 120 kg
Off-roading capability
Cons
Not for little kids
Vibration issues
8. RCB 8.5″ All Terrain Hoverboard – Best Long-range All-Terrain Hoverboard
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 8.5 inches (22 centimetres)
Max load: 120 kg
Max speed: 15 km/h
Max range: 20 km
Charging time: 2-3 hours
Thanks to the built-in 4.3Ah lithium-ion battery, the RCB 8.5″ All Terrain Hoverboard can deliver a longer mileage (20 km, ideally) than similar models while keeping the amazing weight support. And the best part is you don’t have to wait a long time before you can jump into action – the RCB model also needs 2-3 hours to fully charge its battery.
Along the lines of the COLORWAY and GeekMe hoverboards, this all-terrain model from RCB is powered by two 350W motors, which can help the two wheels roll at a top speed of 15 km/h.
The construction is tough enough for gravel roads or beach grass, as long as you don’t run over a water puddle and risk damaging the electronics inside.
The devices come with a companion app you can install on your iPhone or Android smartphone. But its functionality seems limited, and the app can barely work on many smartphone models. To make the matter worse, RCB hasn’t updated the app for ages, which also speaks volumes about its customer service.
Pros
Long-range
Good rough-road handling
Rugged build
Con
The mobile app may not work.
9. GYROOR 8.5″ Off-road Hoverboard – The Best Overall
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 8.5 inches (22 centimetres)
Max load: 120 kg
Max speed: 16 km/h
Max range 15 km
Charging time: 2 hours
The GYROOR 8.5″ Off-road Hoverboard blows every competitor out of the water with its packed features and amazing capabilities.
It’s the best hoverboard for adults, able to carry a person as heavy as 120 kg on flat surfaces. And if you’re much lighter, you can enjoy the ultimate climbing ability of up a 30-degree incline with this all-terrain hoverboard. The explosion-proof, anti-slip tyres enable the GYROOR board to easily roll over slightly wet surfaces, gravel roads and dirt.
The device is compliant with all common regulations, including FCC, RoHS, CE and UL 2272 certifications. The 36V 4.0Ah lithium-ion 20-cell battery takes around 2 hours to charge fully, after which you can enjoy a smooth ride at 16 km/h over a distance of 15 km under normal conditions.
The mobile app of the GYROOR board is completely functional, too, allowing you to limit the speed, inspect the hoverboard, adjust the light colour and receive theft alarms.
Even though this is the best all terrain hoverboard UK, be mindful of some defective units, which can shake and stop suddenly. This issue is rare, but it’s unacceptable for such a price tag nonetheless.
Pros
Amazing off-roading capabilities
Can climb steeper slopes
UL 2272-certified
High top speed
Cons
Expensive
Some rare faulty products
10. BLUEWHEEL HX380 – The Sleekest Look
Product Specifications
Wheel size: 6.5 inches (17 centimetres)
Max load: 120 kg
Max speed: 12 km/h
Max range: 9 km
Charging time: 2-3 hours
Most manufacturers have chosen a rugged design for their off-road hoverboards. But the BLUEWHEEL HX380 has its own approach: an eye-catching almost-while look with a futuristic vibe.
The HX380 is also one of those rare all-terrain hoverboards that use 17cm wheels. This choice keeps the HX380 from uneven surfaces but brings more balance and control to young riders.
This premium German-made model comes with a mobile app that allows users to limit speed and adjust steering sensitivity with just one touch.
Its range and maximum speed may not be the most impressive given its price (9 km and 12 km/h, respectively), but you can enjoy the sturdy construction, thanks to the modern rim design and strong SUV profile.
Pros
Modern look
Intuitive app controls
Stable and durable construction
Cons
Underpowered for heavy riders
Slightly more expensive than similar products
Most top 10 hoverboards in the UK on this list use a dual-motor setup that allows them to cover a distance of 15 km at a top speed of 15 km/h. They all come with Bluetooth speakers – a nice feature for kids to have more fun while riding around the house and neighbourhood.
What Are The Upsides And Drawbacks Of Hoverboards?
Advantages:
Suitable for urban transport
Portable for personal use
Don’t need fuel to work
Disadvantages:
Can’t take share-riders
Shorter range than conventional vehicles
Most aren’t recommended on rough roads or rainy days
The market is filled with unsafe, defective models.
What Do Experts Say About Safety?
Like with any vehicle on which the rider is exposed, you should take safety seriously. Make sure you’re aware of these recommendations.
Wear safety equipment: Invest in proper safety gear to avoid serious injuries. A good approved helmet with a chin strap is simply non-negotiable. Elbow and knee pads are a good addition too. And while many don’t mention this, wearing uncomfortable footwear without shoelaces can turn out badly.
Check the board: A quick check before riding is always better than nothing. It makes sure that your board can function properly. A thorough inspection once in a while isn’t a bad idea either. Look for common issues like cracks on the board or unsecured wheels.
Be aware of your surroundings: Look for pedestrians, bikers and other obstacles on the road. Always be alert so you can quickly react when something jets out in front of your hoverboard.
Be careful with your surroundings.
Prefer even surfaces: A slick and rough road may look tempting, but not everyone’s ready for the challenge. A ride through water puddles, ice, or mud can ruin all the tiny components inside your hoverboard, while its wheels can get damaged after a ride on a bumpy road. Go for an open space with smooth and dry surfaces.
What Are The Common Problems With Hoverboards?
Faulty charger: First, check if it’s the charger’s fault. Plug it in a socket and keep an eye on the LED indicator light. The charge is broken if you don’t see the light turn into any colour. Order a replacement from an authorised retailer (ensure that you have the compatible charger for your hoverboard).
It quickly runs out of power: If your board constantly has a much shorter running time than it used to have, it’s a clear sign of battery degradation. Unluckily, there isn’t much you can do besides replace it by contacting the manufacturer’s customer support.
Only one side is working: This is a common issue whose most likely reason is a defective gyroscope. Contact the retailer or manufacturer and ask for a replacement.
The board keeps beeping: Most hoverboards do this when they detect the platform is tilted forward or backwards by a large angle. Moving the board to an even and flat surface will make it stop beeping.
How Should I Take Care Of My Hoverboard?
Maintain a regular cleaning routine, particularly for the wheels and outer shell.
Use a damp cloth to clean the exterior. Make sure that you don’t drench it to avoid damages to the inside electric components. Most hoverboards are water-resistant to some extent, but wetting them for a long time isn’t a good idea.
Remove dust and debris buildup between the rims of the wheels. Spray some wheel cleaners and scrub them with a brush if you think the wheels have accumulated too much dirt and grime.
Don’t let the battery completely run out of power.
Even if you haven’t ridden your hoverboard for a while, don’t let the battery depleted entirely. A complete drain is its biggest enemy and can make it lose a significant capacity forever. When your hoverboard has sat dead for several days, and its state of charge (SoC) is low, just give it a few hours of charging.
On the other extreme side, don’t put it in constant use either. Just like a battery-powered smartphone, it can overheat quickly after a long period of use. Allow it to cool down as much as possible between rides or before you recharge it.
Are Riding Hoverboards Legal In The UK?
You can’t ride a hoverboard on pavements. The law in effect here is the Highways Act 1835, which views hoverboards as motor vehicles, and therefore, is banned from footpaths.
On top of that, the UK regulations don’t allow them to be used on the road either.
The reason is simple: to be insured and licensed, all motor vehicles have to be registered. This task is impossible for hoverboard owners as road-legal vehicles have to meet a host of certifications like European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA).
It’s still illegal to ride a hoverboard in public space.
The good news is as long as some specific regulations are met, they’re legal to buy and use on private lands like a home’s driveway or paved garden.
In 2019, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced a report aiming to support mobility innovation, including reviewing and modernising current regulations surrounding those devices. These efforts will take some time, but there is hope that you can legally ride it on the road someday.
What Are The Best Hoverboard Brands In The UK?
While they’re not the most popular names in the global market, RCB, GeekMe and COLORWAY are all brands you can trust when buying from a local retailer. They’ve made awesome hoverboards, particularly affordable models for kids with colourful designs and great ease of control.
On the other side of the spectrum, premium hoverboards made by Epikgo, Segway and Swagtron aren’t a bad idea either if you have some money to splurge.
Conclusion
There you have it – the best hoverboard UK you can get with each budget. As it may still take some time before the laws can be reviewed and updated to support modern mobility devices, pay attention to how and where you ride them.
As our hoverboard reviews UK have shown, all the top picks have decent safety features in place. But it’s never unnecessary to wear proper safety gear to truly enjoy the excitement hoverboards can bring.
Product Specifications
