Many people are confused between Segway and hoverboard, and they consider them the same things. But this is not the case, they may generally be the same kind of self-balancing devices, but there is a lot of difference. So, I’m here to discuss Segway vs. Hoverboard; which one to choose, and why? 

Segway and hoverboards are similar in terms of overall technology but very different in design and usability. Hoverboards have two small wheels and a footboard for controlling but on the other side, Segway has slightly bigger wheels and a handlebar for steering and handling.

Now you know that the hoverboards and Segway are different in handling and sizes. Similarly, these and many more differences made them two unique devices that fall in the same category. So, let’s discuss some significant differences between them.

Difference Between Hoverboards And Segways

There are many differences between hoverboards and Segways. Following are some significant differences that should be considered while you are deciding between a hoverboard and Segway.

Let’s discuss some major differences in detail.

Segway Has Big Wheels And Size Than Hoverboard

Segway self-balancing machines have two bigger wheels up to 19 inches, but hoverboards have a maximum of 10 inches. Similarly, the body and overall size of a Segway are much bigger than hoverboards. So, size is the primary difference between these two, and you can spot a Segway in a matter of seconds via just looking at its size.

Segway wheels are made bigger because they are meant for off-road riding, and hoverboards are considered to be used on flat surfaces inside or outside. And due to their wheel size, Segway can handle more weight than the hoverboard because its wheels are small and can bear a little weight.

That is why kids are the best candidates for hoverboards, and being an adult, you must try a Segway.

Segway Is Faster Than Hoverboard

Speed is another big difference between Segway and Hoverboards. The hoverboards can travel at the top speed of 12-15 Km per hour, but a Segway can go up to 20 km per hour. This performance difference makes Segway on the dominant side because everyone loves speed.

Moreover, a high speed makes Segway a more reliable and hardcore product because it is designed for off-road activity, and in off-road activities, it produces a handsome speed.

If you consider Speed a significant factor, you should surely buy a Segway because only this self-balancing machine can provide you with this speed.

Segway is Faster than Hoverboard

Segway Has Good Travel Range Than A Hoverboard.

Commonly the hoverboards that provide some extra speed don’t have a good travel range. Because fast-moving wheels/motor consumes the battery quickly, that is why fast hoverboards have less travel range. They commonly range between 12-15 miles.

But on the other hand, Segways are considered best in the travel range. They can travel faster than the fastest hoverboards and provide a 40kms travel range. This is one of the best features of Segway.

So, hoverboards can’t be compared with Segways in terms of speed and travel range.

Also Read: Can Segways Go On Grass?

Segway Is Safer Than A Hoverboard

Hoverboards and almost all other self-balancing devices are considered unsafe for riders because the rider exposes all of its body to the other traffic and has less control over its vehicle. Moreover, many incidents reported severe injuries and fatalities while riding the self-balancing devices registered in the past. That is why they are not considered safe for the road.

But Segway has a specific handlebar for steering and handling the device. This is why they are considered safer as compared to hoverboards.

Also Read: How Safe are Hoverboards? Detailed Guide

Segway is Safer Than a Hoverboard

Segway Handles More Weight Than Hoverboards

Segways are capable of handling more weight than hoverboards because of their bigger wheels and robust board size. They can easily take more than a 100kg rider, but hoverboards can’t handle this much weight. If they somehow manage this much weight, it will affect their travel efficiency.

But Segways can easily handle this much weight without affecting their speed, travel range, or safety. So, they are considered the best in terms of weight capacity.

If you are a heavy adult and want something that can handle your weight and provide you with a thrilling experience, you should choose any Segway.

Also, Read: How Much Weight Can a Hoverboard Hold?

Hoverboards Are More Portable Than Segway

This is something that the hoverboards are good at because they are weighted between 10-20kg, and it is easier to handle a 10-20kg machine in a routine. Even kids can also manage this weight. But, Segways are heavily weighted; they are generally weighted between 40-50kg and are very difficult to handle for adults too.

So, hoverboards are portable, but Segways are not because you can easily handle a 10-20kg hoverboard with your hands, but you can’t handle or even lift a 40-50kg Segway with your hands; you have to use another vehicle to move them.

That is why they are not suitable for kids because of their heavy-duty performance and, of course, their heavyweight. Kids can get hurt themselves while riding or handling this beast machine.

Hoverboards are More Portable Than Segway

Segway Has Better Navigation Than A Hoverboard.

Segway’s navigation is much easier as compared to the hoverboard. Because a handlebar is given on the Segway that makes it easier to turn easier, you can quickly turn left while moving the handlebar to the left and move right by moving the handlebar in the right direction.

But, hoverboards don’t have this facility; a rider has to control everything from his feet. So, that is why it isn’t easy to control a hoverboard compared to the Segway control.

One thing that is common between these two is the footboard function. Both work in the same way by leaning forward or backward. You can increase speed by leaning forward and decrease it by slightly leaning backward.

Hoverboards Are Cheaper Than Segway

The most significant difference between hoverboards and Segways is their prices. As you have read above, Segways are better in almost every aspect; that is why they cost more. They have bigger wheels, extra powerful batteries, and easy navigation with a handlebar. These things cost extra money, so that is why they are expensive as compared to hoverboards.

Many manufacturers are making different types of hoverboards with different specifications. That is why you can get a hoverboard from 150 USD to 60 USD, depending on the features and their size.

While on the other hand, Segways are made by a single manufacturer, and they make them like a beast machine with heavy features. That is why they cost more than 4500 USD, depending on the size and its features.

Hoverboards are Cheaper than Segway

Which Is Right For You, Hoverboard Or Segway?

It totally depends on you and your needs. If you are looking for a self-balancing scooter for your kids to roam inside the house, then a Hoverboard would be the right choice. And if you are buying it for yourself to ride regularly, go to work, or ride around the town, then the Segways are recommended.

Moreover, it depends on the rider’s weight also. If you are looking to buy a self-balancing scooter for your kid who is heavier in weight, then Segways will be a smart choice because they can easily carry extra weight. And your kid can use it in the future as well.

As per my recommendation, adults should go for Segways because these are very powerful and hardcore machines with some extra features. And kids should buy hoverboards but according to their age limits.

Can Segway Go Uphill?

Segways can go uphill; they are more good at climbing incline roads than regular hoverboards. They have a powerful battery pack and wheel motors that produce a huge amount of torque that helps them climb routes. They can climb up to 30 Degree angle roads with no difficulty.

If the rider is lightweight, then the Segway will go uphill easily, but if the rider is heavy, then there is a chance that it will face some difficulty. But ultimately, Segways are able to go uphill easily. 

As mentioned above, Segways are powerful self-balancing scooters specially designed to perform difficult tasks and do hardcore jobs. You can take them anywhere you want; they can go Off-Road, Grass, Dirt, Gravel, Rough Surface, etc. 

Also Read: Can Hoverboards Go Uphill? How High Can It Go?

Can Segway go Uphill

Are Segways And Hoverboards The Same Thing?

Segways are technically hoverboards that are made by a specific company. But hoverboards are made by different manufacturers. You can consider them the same in technology and working principles. But Segways are more advanced and powerful machines. 

Hoverboards have a smaller and compact design, but Segways are slightly bigger in terms of size and looks. Segways can ride heavily weighted riders, but hoverboards can’t handle much weight due to their simple and sleek design. 

Moreover, there is a wheel size difference between both, hoverboards come with a maximum of 10 inches wheels, but Segway’s wheels can be more than 19 inches. 

So, technically they work on the same technology but are different in terms of looks and handling. 

Do Segways Have Brakes?

Segways don’t have brakes, but you can easily stop them by slightly leaning backward or shifting your weight on your heels. This triggers pressure sensors, and they help stop the wheels. Their navigation is the same as a hoverboard; even a beginner can easily ride and stop them. 

Segways have a handle that also helps to stop the vehicle; you just need to pull the handle and lean backward to reduce the speed and stop the vehicle immediately. 

Are Segways Difficult To Ride?

They are not difficult to ride, although they are effortless to ride compared to hoverboards. Their bigger wheels, powerful motor, long battery backup, and Handlebar make it easier for everyone to ride.

Moreover, it is very easy to take your first step on the Segways because of the Handlebar. But the first step on the hoverboard can be difficult.

If you are a hoverboard rider and know how to ride, it will be easier for you because it works the same. You have to lean forward to increase speed and lean backward to slow down and stop. But, turning is very easy; you have to move the Handlebar to turn in the direction. This is why Segways are much easier to ride.

Also Read: Are Hoverboards Easy to Ride? How Difficult Are They to Ride?

Can I Ride Segways In The Rain?

Most of the Segway scooters are water-resistant, and you can only drive them in soft dazzling. Because they are not fully waterproof, and the water can cause malfunction. So, riding them in the rain or paddling is something risky.

Since you know that they are all expensive types of self-balancing devices, so my recommendation is to not try them with water. Because the company will never accept a water damage claim, so, you can’t get in touch with water while riding your segways.

Conclusion

Segways are a type of hoverboard that are built explicitly for heavy-duty activities and outperforms all other hoverboards. They have somewhat larger wheels and a handlebar for improved control while riding. Due to additional safety measures and performance, the overall features and benefits prove that they are better than other hoverboards.

I have discussed some significant differences between a regular hoverboard and Segway. Moreover, I have answered some common questions that people were asking about Segway and its capabilities. I hope that you have found the information you were looking for. If there’s something else, you can ask me in the comment section.

I will come up with the most helpful answers.