Micromobility is here to stay, and it’s changing how we experience urban life for the better. With Unagi’s membership program, you can enjoy all the benefits of a top-tier electric scooter without the sky-high price of ownership or the inconvenience of ride-sharing.
Established in 2014, NIU's range of electric scooters has become internationally recognized for their quality, affordability, innovation, and robust design. They are perfect for zooming about the city and can even tackle tougher terrains.
Two of NIU's most popular models are the KQi2 Pro and the KQi3 Pro. Both offer a comfortable riding experience, regenerative braking, wide decks, and chunky tires - among other desirable features. With their affordable price tags, both scooters are hard to resist.
At first glance, it's difficult to tell these two scooters apart as they look incredibly similar. So how do you know which model offers the better value and is the superior choice for you and your needs? Just keep reading because, in this article, we'll compare some of the most important features of the NIU KQi2 Pro and the NIU KQi3 Pro.
We'll look at everything from the safety features to the aesthetic appeal and everything in between so you can determine which one comes out on top!
NIU KQi2 Pro Vs KQi3 Pro Comparison Table
Let's take a quick look at the basic features that set these two scooters apart:
Scooter Specs | NIU KQi2 Pro | NIU KQi3 Pro |
---|---|---|
Cost | $599-$999 | $499-$799 |
Cost | $419-$649 | $499-$799 |
Motor | 300 W | 350 W |
Battery | 365 Wh | 486 Wh |
Top Speed | 17.4 mph | 20 mph |
Range | 24.9 miles | 31 miles |
Brakes | Regenerative brakes | Regenerative brakes |
Scooter Weight | 40.6 lbs | 44.8 lbs |
Max Rider Weight | 220 lbs | 265 lbs |
Construction Materials | Aluminum | Aluminum |
Tires | Pneumatic | Pneumatic |
Lights | Front and rear lights | Front and rear lights |
Battery Charge Time | 7 hours | 6 hours |
Water Resistance | IP54 | IP54 |
Climbing Angle | 15 degrees | 20 degrees |
Suspension | None | None |
Cost
Let's start by looking at one of the most important aspects of any electric scooter: the price. Quality adult scooters can be quite costly, even if you're buying from a budget-friendly electric scooter brand like NIU.
If you're paying full price, you can expect to pay around $649 for the KQi2 Pro and $799 for the KQi3 Pro. However, on the official NIU website, these scooters are often on sale for $419 and $499, respectively.
Either way, there isn't a huge difference in price, and you'll typically pay at least $50 more for the KQi3 Pro than you would for the KQi2 Pro. But is this extra cost worth it? In most cases, yes, it is. However, it will also depend on what features you are looking for, as well as your specific preferences and how you plan to use the scooter.
Performance
The KQi2 Pro has a motor power of 300 W, while the KQi3 Pro's motor offers 350 W, giving it an advantage of 50 W. If that doesn't sound like much, just keep in mind that this extra edge can make a huge difference when it comes to speed, range, and climbing ability.
Speed and Acceleration
If you have a need for speed, you may be drawn toward the KQi3 Pro, which has a top speed of roughly 20 mph (the speed limit for electric scooters in most states). The KQi2 Pro is slightly slower but still has a respectable top speed of around 17.4 mph.
Both scooters can easily accelerate from 0 mph to 15 mph in just under five seconds and offer four different speed modes, including e-save, custom, pedestrian, and a sport mode. Therefore, either option will be able to get you to your destination with efficiency.
Range and Battery
So how far can you go on a single charge? If you're traveling at an average speed (roughly 14 mph), the KQi2 Pro allows you to travel approximately 24.9 miles, while the KQi3 Pro offers a broader range of around 31 miles. This difference in tested range can be quite significant for those who plan on traveling longer distances and need to commute to work, for example.
Both models have a lithium-ion battery that has a charging time of roughly six hours (perfect for overnight charging). NIU batteries are designed to stand the test of time and offer the following battery protection technologies:
- Low temperature protection
- High temperature protection
- Breakwire protection
- Overcharge protection
- Discharge protection
- and more!
Batteries are easily one of the most important aspects to consider, as electric scooters spend a significant amount of time on charge. You can easily see the amount of charge you have left, so be sure to keep an eye on it so you don't run out.
If you plan on tackling steep slopes with your electric scooter, you should opt for a model with a wide climbing angle. The wider the climbing angle, the steeper the hills your scooter can handle. The KQi2 Pro has a climbing angle of 15%, while the KQi3 Pro's climbing angle is approximately 20%.
This 5% increase in climbing angle can make a huge difference, especially for those who live in hilly areas. If you're surrounded by slopes and plan to explore them by electric scooter, it may be a good idea to consider the KQi3 Pro over the KQi2 Pro. However, if the area you live in is relatively flat, then this feature won't be overly important.
Braking
You never know what unexpected obstacles might pop up while cruising the streets, so you need to be able to rely on your scooter brakes to stop for pedestrians, vehicles, and pets.
The NIU KQi2 Pro offers a drum brake system, while the KQi3 Pro makes use of disc brakes. Both models have a front brake and a rear brake to keep you safe on the roads. Most experts consider disc brakes to be the superior choice, as they offer a shorter stopping distance as well as better heat dissipation.
Most NIU scooters, including the KQi2 Pro and the KQi3 Pro, offer electronic regenerative braking that helps charge up your battery instead of drawing from it while braking. NIU brakes can be operated by using a lever.
Build Quality
NIU scooters are often praised for the quality of their builds, which are expected to last you at least 10 years or more. Let's have a closer look at the aesthetics and durability of these electric vehicles so you can learn what to expect.
Aesthetics
Looks wise, the KQi2 Pro and the KQi3 Pro are very similar. They offer a sleek yet rugged design that shouldn't go out of style anytime soon. The KQi3 Pro comes in 'ultra black' and rose gold, while the KQi2 Pro comes in grey and white.
Additionally, the KQi2 Pro also offers interchangeable grip tape so you can match your scooter to your personal style. No matter your preferred aesthetics, most people can agree that the NIU KQi3 Pro and the KQi2 Pro are both good-looking scooters.
Materials and Durability
The main material used in the construction of NIU scooters is aerospace-grade aluminum alloy. This lightweight material is known for being highly durable and resistant to corrosion. NIU batteries are made from lithium-ion, and the handlebars are made of high-quality rubber.
All in all, the materials used in both models are of superior quality, and you can expect to enjoy your KQi3 Pro or KQi2 Pro for many years to come. Just remember to follow the care instructions carefully, like storing your scooter out of direct sunlight.
Ride Quality
With large tires, sizable decks, and wide handlebars, NIU scooters are known for offering their riders a comfortable riding experience. Plus, before you zip about the city in style, you can easily adjust the handlebar height to suit your preferences.
Tires
If you're looking for solid tires, the NIU KQi2 Pro and the NIU KQi3 Pro would both be great choices. These models offer pneumatic tires with incredible shock absorption when traveling along rough surfaces.
The NIU KQi2 Pro has 10-inch tires, while the KQi3 Pro has 9-inch tires, both of which are roughly 30% wider than those of your average e-scooter. The thick treads provide added traction, perfect for riding on gravel and over uneven surfaces.
Suspension
Neither the KQi2 Pro nor the KQi3 Pro offers suspension. This may sound like a major drawback, but most e-scooters actually lack this feature. NIU scooters offer comfort and shock absorption through their chunky tires and wider deck spaces.
Deck Space
When it comes to deck space, you won't be disappointed. The KQi3 Pro's deck dimensions are an impressive 6.7"W × 22.4"L, while the KQi2 Pro's deck is slightly smaller (5.2"W × 20.0"L) but still wide when compared to other competitor adult kick scooters.
Wide decks are great for those who prefer a wider stance and for better stability when riding around the city, thanks to the lower center of gravity.
Portability
Thanks to NIU's patented folding mechanism, the KQi2 Pro and the KQi3 Pro can be folded with one simple motion. This allows you to store your scooter under your desk, in your garage, or in the boot of your car with ease.
Carrying your scooter up a flight of stairs is easy since the KQi2 Pro only weighs 40.6 lbs while the KQi3 Pro is just a few pounds heavier at 44 lbs.
Weather Resistance
Both NIU scooters in this comparison have a weather-resistance rating of IP54. What does this mean? Basically, you can ride your NIU scooter in light rain as well as through shallow puddles. The tread on the pneumatic tires does offer a high amount of traction, so you should be fine when riding in a drizzle.
However, you should avoid riding in heavy rain or through deeper puddles if you want to avoid damaging your NIU scooter.
Apps
You can download the NIU app to look at your riding statistics, plan your routes, customize your speed, and check your battery health with just a few clicks. NIU's dedicated app also allows you to lock your scooter so that it's protected from opportunistic thieves.
If you're someone who enjoys technology, you will absolutely love the fact that NIU's scooters offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect your phone, headphones, and other Bluetooth devices.
Lights
NIU's scooters' iconic Halo lights are one of their most prominent features. The 'halo' part of the light stays on at all times, while the light within its center can be turned on at night or on cloudy days.
In addition to front and rear lights, both NIU scooters offer bright brake lights that let other people on the road know when you are slowing down. While these scooters don't have indicators, both are equipped with side reflectors to increase your visibility.
Safety
You can let other vehicles know you're passing with a mechanical bell, present on both the NIU models featured in this comparison. Some of the other features designed to keep you safe on the road include the large tires and wide deck. When it comes to safety, both models score a ten out of ten.
Verdict
So... NIU KQi2 Pro vs KQi3 Pro - which model came out on top? It's definitely a difficult call to make, as both offer premium safety features, impressive stability, wide handlebars, and great reliability. There are certainly more similarities than differences.
However, when it comes down to it, the NIU KQi3 Pro is the better choice for those who plan to travel longer distances, reach higher speeds, and climb steeper slopes. It's also a better choice for riders who want to commute and use their e-scooter on a daily basis.
If you're looking for something with even more impressive capabilities, you may want to look into the NIU KQi3 Max or the Segway Ninebot Max G2, both of which have larger motors and wider ranges.
So where does this leave the KQi2 Pro? This model is still a great option for teens and adults who plan to travel shorter distances and climb gentler slopes. If you're looking for a first-time scooter, the KQi2 Pro could be the perfect choice.
Still confused? Why not rent an e-scooter to help determine your specific preferences before you commit to making a purchase?
In the U.S., most states don't require a license. For those that do, they usually just ask for a regular driver's license or a learner's permit.
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