Xiaomi Mi Essential
$349

12.1

Mph

28.9
Pounds

250
Watts

Watt-hours
Xiaomi Mi Essential Electric Scooter: The Ideal Beginner's E-Scooter
Getting around town has never been as easy and stylish as it is with the Xiaomi Mi Essential Electric Scooter. One of the latest offerings from the well-established Xiaomi brand, this scooter is crafted to cater to those taking their first steps—or rather, rides—into the world of e-scooters.
Design and Build Quality
Crafted from aerospace grade aluminum alloy, the Xiaomi Mi Essential Electric Scooter presents a durable yet sleek frame that mirrors its predecessors. It maintains the familiar Xiaomi design language with its minimalist and matte finish look, punctuated with subtle red accents that give it an edge of sophistication.
The folding mechanism of the scooter is a highlight, boasting a quick and secure folding capability that makes it effortless to transform from riding to carrying mode. This design choice focuses on the commuter experience, allowing for easy stowage on public transportation or tucking it away in the tight corners of an office or apartment.
The attention to detail extends to the tires. The 8.5-inch pneumatic tires are designed to offer a compromise between comfort and maintenance, being well-regarded for their improved resilience against flats compared to earlier models. They glide across city streets with ease, creating a ride that is both smooth and reliable.
Performance and Features
Under the hood, so to speak, the Xiaomi Mi Essential packs a 250W motor that peaks at 500W, propelling riders to a modest top speed of 12.5mph. While it may not win any speed races, its pace is deliberate, placing safety and control in the hands of the rider—a perfect symphony for those just getting used to riding electric scooters.
A standout feature for the Mi Essential is its ability to connect to the Mi Home App, which allows riders to unlock additional functionality. Users can monitor their journey, adjust scooter settings, and track metrics like speed, distance, and battery life, all from their smartphone. It's these smart features coupled with a visual dashboard providing real-time data that make the Essential stand out in its segment.
The scooter's battery life is in line with its intended use; a range of 12 miles per charge supports the daily commute of most urban riders without issue. And speaking of battery, Xiaomi's smart Battery Management System ensures efficiency and longevity in the power department.
Safety and Comfort
For any mode of transportation, safety is paramount, and Xiaomi has this well covered. The Essential features a dual-braking system combining an electronic brake for the front wheel with a mechanical disc brake for the rear. The result is dependable, responsive stopping power that gives riders peace of mind.
To complement the braking system, the inclusion of bright headlights and taillights increase visibility, ensuring that riders are noticeable on the road, day or night.
Pros and Cons
What Makes the Mi Essential a Strong Choice:
- Ideal for beginners due to its safe top speed and intuitive controls.
- The connectivity with the Mi Home App for added control and convenience.
- Ergonomic and portable, it's easy to fold and carry, making it perfect for mixed commutes.
- Strong build quality and at a competitive price point.
Points for Consideration:
- The 12-mile range, while adequate for many, might not cut it for longer commutes.
- Some riders might find the acceleration slightly lacking, especially when compared to more powerful (and more expensive) scooters.
Final Thoughts
With all factors considered, the Xiaomi Mi Essential Electric Scooter stands as a beacon for those looking for a reliable, stylish, and user-friendly means of personal transport. It hits the sweet spot for value, marrying affordability with features often reserved for its pricier counterparts.
So, if you're seeking to glide through city streets with the breeze at your back, safe in the knowledge that your journey is eco-friendly and efficient, the Xiaomi Mi Essential could very well be your ride of choice. Whether you’re embarking on your very first scooter purchase or looking for a dependable and nimble city traveler, it's a choice that promises not to disappoint.
Owner's Update After Six Months
After more than half a year of frequent usage, it's clear that the Xiaomi Mi Essential Electric Scooter has been a largely positive addition to my commuting arsenal. However, like any vehicle, extended use has brought some nuances to light.
Positive Aspects:
- The durability of the scooter remains top-notch. Despite regular travel on various terrains, there are no signs of structural wear.
- The portable design continues to be a standout feature. Its foldable nature has been a lifesaver in crowded city scenes and public transport.
- The simple maintenance requirements have made it easy to keep the scooter in good operational condition.
Challenges Noticed:
- Over time, the battery life has slightly decreased, which is expected with lithium batteries but requires more frequent charges than when brand new.
- On a few occasions, connectivity issues with the Mi Home App have arisen, although these were resolved with updates and restarts.
In summary, owning the Xiaomi Mi Essential has reinforced its value as a solid, reliable choice for casual and daily commuters alike. While its performance metrics have somewhat adapted to prolonged use, it remains a dependable partner on the city streets, as pleasurable to ride today as it was on day one.
For many, the sleek design, robust features, and the fact that it comes from a lineage of well-loved scooters make it a versatile and smart buy. It’s not about the distance you’re traveling; it’s about how you get there, and the Xiaomi Mi Essential ensures that your journey is as pleasurable as the destination.
Rear Disc Brake

IP54

8.4
Miles Range

8 in Pneumatic

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