Hiboy offers several affordable yet powerful electric scooter models for convenient urban commuting. Two of their most popular are the Hiboy S2 and the upgraded Hiboy S2 Pro.
Although similar in many aspects, the S2 Pro brings improved performance and features over the standard S2. But is it worth the higher price?
This detailed comparison covers all the key differences and similarities between the Hiboy S2 and S2 Pro. Read on to see which budget electric scooter is the better choice for you.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Hiboy S2 | Hiboy S2 Pro |
| Motor Power | 180W | 250W |
| Max Speed | 15.5 mph | 19 mph |
| Max Range | 12.5 miles | 17 miles |
| Suspension | None | Front and rear suspension |
| Brakes | Front disc, rear drum | Dual front & rear disc brakes |
| Tires | 8″ solid honeycomb | 8.5″ pneumatic |
| Lighting | Detachable headlight accessory | Integrated headlight |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Dimensions (folded) | 41 x 16.5 x 14.6 in | 41 x 16.5 x 15.5 in |
| Weight | 27.3 lb | 28 lb |
| Price | Around $400 | Around $500 |
An Overview of the Standard Hiboy S2
As the entry-level model in Hiboy’s lineup, the S2 delivers solid functionality and value. Here are the basics you need to know about the Hiboy S2:
- 8.5 inch pneumatic tires
- 180W brushless hub motor
- 12.5 mile maximum range
- Top speed of 15.5 mph
- Weighs 27.3 pounds
- Front disc and rear drum brake
- LED headlight and brake light
- Foldable design with secure latch
- Simple one-button operation
- Alarm system and riding modes
- Mobile app for speed monitoring
At around $400, the S2 hits a great price point for a feature-packed budget electric scooter suitable for campus or urban use.
An Overview of the Upgraded Hiboy S2 Pro
For around $100 more, the S2 Pro boosts several performance metrics and feature offerings over the base S2 model:
- More powerful 250W brushless motor
- Longer 17 mile maximum range
- Higher top speed of 19 mph
- Front and rear shock absorption
- 8.5 inch pneumatic tires
- Improved front and rear disc braking
- Bright integrated LED headlight
- Enhanced IPX4 water resistance
- 3 speed modes Vs. 2 on the S2
- Better overall component quality
- Available in 4 color options
The S2 Pro aims to be a compelling blend of affordability, power, and features in a commuter electric scooter.
Also Read: Is Hiboy S2 Max Better Than Ninebot Max?
Key Differences Between Hiboy S2 and S2 Pro
- Comparing the Hardware Performance
Let’s look at how the motors, speed, range, and other hardware specs compare between the S2 and S2 Pro models:
Motor Power
The S2 Pro’s more powerful 250W motor gives it better torque and a quicker throttle response than the standard S2’s 180W motor. You can accelerate faster and climb steeper hills with less slowing. This gives a more dynamic riding experience.
Top Speed
Tied to the improved motor is the higher 19 mph top speed of the S2 Pro, versus 15.5 mph on the S2. While not immensely faster, this does give you a bit more headroom for keeping up with traffic without pushing the scooter to its limits.
Range
Thanks to a slightly higher capacity battery pack, the S2 Pro can cover up to 17 miles per charge compared to 12.5 miles on the S2. Those few extra miles help if you have a longer commute or want to run errands around town.
Suspension and Tires
The S2 lacks any shock absorption, while the S2 Pro equips front and rear suspension for a smoother ride over bumpy urban terrain. The wider 8.5 inch tires on the S2 Pro also improve stability and traction versus the S2’s 8 inch tires.
Braking System
With a front disc and rear drum brake, the S2’s braking power feels adequate but not exceptional. The S2 Pro uses front and rear disc brakes for more positive braking control in all conditions.
Other Hardware Differences
Lesser known upgrades on the S2 Pro include an always-on LED headlight for visibility and the higher IPX4 water resistance rating that makes it more resilient in wet conditions.
- Comparing Ride Comfort and Handling
The hardware differences between the S2 and S2 Pro directly impact the overall riding experience and capabilities:
Power and Speed
The zippier acceleration and higher top speed of the S2 Pro make it the more exciting and dynamic scooter to ride. It delivers more of a “thrill” factor than the S2. But the S2 still packs decent power for casual riding.
Suspension and Tires
With no suspension, the S2 transmits more road bumps and vibrations to the rider compared to the S2 Pro. The pneumatic tires help cushion the ride, but the lack of shock absorption is noticeable. The S2 Pro feels much smoother over uneven surfaces.
Braking Confidence
Having front and rear disc brakes vastly improves braking control on the S2 Pro. Riders report more consistent, reliable stopping power versus the single disc setup on the S2.
Portability
Both models weigh around 27 pounds and fold down to a compact size. The S2 may be slightly easier to carry due to the slimmer tires, but otherwise portability is on par.
Ride Quality
Looking at the whole package, the S2 Pro simply provides a more premium and comfortable riding experience thanks to the enhanced suspension, tires, brakes, and power.
- Comparing Visual Design and Build Quality
Visually, the S2 and S2 Pro look nearly identical except for color options. The Pro adds a smart grey/teal color variant.
Build quality seems on par between the two models, with no notable quality control issues reported for either one. The Pro uses slightly larger gauge tubing for improved durability to handle the extra power and speed.
One minor difference is the integrated LED headlight on the S2 Pro versus the snap-on headlight offered as an add-on accessory for the S2.
Overall, the aesthetics and construction quality appear excellent on both Hiboy models with minimal differences between them.
- Ease of Use Comparison
Hiboy designed both the S2 and S2 Pro scooters for intuitive operation:
- A single press of the power button turns on the scooter. Press and hold to turn off.
- Simply press the accelerator to engage the motor and start moving.
- Squeeze the left brake lever to engage the electronic brake for slowing and stopping.
- The three speed modes on the S2 Pro allow you to dial in your preferred top speed.
- An initial learning curve is required to get comfortable balancing and steering.
For new riders, the S2 may be slightly less intimidating to learn on due to the more tame power and speed capabilities. But neither model has a steep learning curve, and both provide a fun riding experience.
- The Mobile App Experience
One of Hiboy’s strengths is its highly functional companion app for iOS and Android. The app experience is nearly identical between the S2 and S2 Pro. You get features like:
- Speedometer to monitor your real-time speed
- Customizable cruise control
- Theft deterrence via speed limit restrictions
- Adjustable acceleration curves
- Ride logging and odometer tracking
- Firmware update notifications
- Virtual competitions and community
The app adds lots of value on top of an already stellar hardware package. It works smoothly for either Hiboy scooter choice.
Also watch this review video:
- Cost and Value Comparison
With its upper-tier specs and features, the S2 Pro does sell for a higher price:
- Hiboy S2 standard model: Around $400
- Hiboy S2 Pro model: Around $500
That approximately $100 bump buys you the more powerful motor, longer range, better brakes, integrated headlight, smoother suspension, and extras like the IPX4 rating.
Given the hardware and performance improvements, the S2 Pro represents a good value for the price. But budget-focused buyers can save money going with the standard S2 model without sacrificing too much.
Also read: Comparison Between Hiboy S2 Pro and Max3
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The main differences are: Motor power: S2 has 180W, S2 Pro has 250W, Top speed: S2 max 15.5mph, S2 Pro max 19mph, Range: S2 up to 12.5mi, S2 Pro up to 17mi, Suspension: S2 none, S2 Pro front and rear
Brakes: S2 rear drum, S2 Pro front and rear discs, Tires: S2 8″ solid honeycomb, S2 Pro 8.5″ pneumatic, LED light: Only accessory on S2, integrated on S2 Pro.
The Hiboy S2R is a rear-wheel drive budget model lacking a front brake. Other differences Vs. the S2 are smaller 6.5″ tires, lower 130W motor power, and slower 7.5mph top speed. Overall the S2 provides a much more powerful ride compared to the very basic S2R.
The Hiboy S2 Pro arguably hits the best balance of performance, comfort, features and value in Hiboy’s lineup. But the standard S2 remains a great budget choice. Other great Hiboy models are the Max 3 for longer range or the N3 Pro for even faster speeds. Consider your budget and needs to choose the best Hiboy scooter.
Yes, the Hiboy S2 Pro is one of the best electric scooters for the price. It provides excellent power, speed, comfort, safety features and value in an affordable package. The larger motor, battery, tires and suspension make it a significant upgrade over the standard S2. The S2 Pro punches far above its weight and price class among comparable models.
Also Read: Comparison Between GoTrax Rival and GLX V2
Final Thought
Now that we’ve done a thorough feature comparison, here is some guidance on choosing between the Hiboy S2 and S2 Pro:
For budget-minded riders who don’t need max power or range, the S2 hits all the basics at an attractive price point.
For the best blend of performance, comfort, and value, the S2 Pro reigns supreme in Hiboy’s lineup.
The S2 Pro justifies its modestly higher cost with better hardware for acceleration, braking, suspension, and range. Unless budget is a major constrain, the S2 Pro is the best bang for the buck.
Overall you can’t go wrong with either of these Hiboy electric scooters. Let your budget, riding needs, and preference for accessories like suspension help decide between the capable S2 and upgraded S2 Pro. Enjoy the wind in your hair as you zoom around town!