COMPARING THE DECENT X7, XIAOMI ESSENTIAL, AND XIAOMI MI 1S
Written by Ed Wiles, Scootered Founder
Introduction
How do you decide between the Xiaomi Essential, Xiaomi 1S and the Decent X7? This brief guide will give you the details to help you choose between these three similar electric scooters, focusing on the differences between the scooters.
Scroll down for full spec comparison
Differences In Build
There are two main physical differences between the Xiaomi scooters and the Decent X7: battery position and tyre size. As you can perhaps see in the image below, the battery (which is removable) in the Decent X7 is contained within the handlebar stem, whereas the Xiaomi scooters house the battery in the base. There are competing theories as to which is the best position. An advantage of having the battery in the stem is that it allows for a greater clearance (between the scooter base and ground), making it less likely you will scrape the scooter on the kerb. It also suits the ability to replace the battery in the Decent X7. The competing theory suggests that housing the battery in the base allows for a larger battery and lower centre of gravity. Which are true. Also just about distinguishable in the image below is the fact that the X7 tyres are slightly bigger, being 10 inches rather than 8.5 inches. Larger tyres should provide for a slightly more comfortable ride and make the scooter less susceptible to potholes and thus its rider less susceptible to injury.
Differences In Performance
The main difference in performance between the Xiaomi Essential, Xiaomi 1S and Decent X7 is in battery management and power output. Basically, the Essential has the lowest range and power of all three models, but the difference between the 1S and X7 is more nuanced because they prioritise different aspects. The Decent X7 has a greater power output but its battery capacity is lower than the 1S. This translates as a similar top speed, a slightly better climbing ability in the Decent, but a better range (distance it can cover) in the Xiaomi 1S. Of course, the increased range is gained by an increased battery capacity, meaning it takes longer to charge.
But the Decent X7 has a trick up its sleeve, inasmuch as its battery is replaceable - either with the original 36V battery, or a 42V version. Although an upgrade will cost about £150, this ability could prove very useful in the long run, as any Li-ion battery will have a finite life. Whichever battery is used in the Decent X7, the top speed will remain the same. The Essential has a top speed of 20 km/h (12 mph) and range of 20 km. The Decent X7 has a top speed of 25 km/h and range of 25 km (with original battery). The 1S has a top speed of 25 km/h (16 mph) and range of 30 km. Their weights are all much the same, varying only 1 kg between the three.
Differences In Controls
The last difference worth considering is found in the controls and connectivity (or lack thereof). The Xiaomi scooters come with a bespoke app, while there is no app for the Decent X7. This might sound like a significant drawback for the Decent X7, but the truth is that the Xiaomi app is mostly superfluous. It was useful on the original Xiaomi M365 because the dashboard lacked a speedometer but, otherwise, the only benefits are a "locking" capability (the scooter will not start while locked but someone could still run off with it and do a factory reset) and firmware updating capability (though firmware updating is notoriously buggy on teh Xiaomi scooters).
The table below shows the specs from the three respective electric scooters side-by-side. In choosing which to buy, if you do not have a preference over the looks, the main question is whether you need the extra range on Xiaomi 1S or want to have the option of swapping out the battery with the Decent.
FULL SPEC COMPARISON TABLE BETWEEN XIAOMI ESENTIAL, DECENT X7 & XIAOMI 1S
| Xiaomi Essential | Decent X7 | Xiaomi 1S | |
| Size - Unfolded | 108 x 43 x 114 cm | 108 x 42 x 118 cm | 108 x 43 x 114 cm |
| Size - Folded | 108 x 43 x 49 cm | 108 x 42 x 46 cm | 108 x 43 x 49 cm |
| Weight | 12 kg | 13 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Output | 250 watts | 350 watts | 250 watts |
| Battery Capacity | 183 Wh | 187 Wh | 275 Wh |
| Range | 20 km (12 miles) | 25 km (16 miles) | 30 km (18 miles) |
| Top Speed | 20 km/h (12 mph) | 25km/h (16 mph) | 25km/h (16 mph) |
| Tyres | 8.5 inch (Inflated) | 10 inch (Inflated) | 8.5 inch (Inflated) |
| Shock Absorbers | No | No | No |
| Max Climbing Angle | 10% | 15% | 14% |
| Waterproof | IP 54: splash resistant | IP 54: splash resistant | IP 54: splash resistant |
| Display | Battery/Mode/ Speed/Other |
Battery/Mode/ Speed/Other |
Battery/Mode/ Speed/Other |
| Riding Modes | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Charge Time | 4 hours | 3 hours | 5 hours |
