What Underwater Scooter Should I Buy?

Choosing the right underwater scooter requires evaluating how it will be used and considering essential features like battery life, depth ratings, safety features, and other important factors.

Are you in the market for an underwater scooter and don't know where to start? Dive in below with a quick quiz or let us guide you as we explore everything to consider when shopping for an underwater scooter!

What Underwater Should You Get? - Take Our Quick Quiz

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Don't feel like reading or taking a quiz? You can start shopping our Best-Selling Underwater Scooters now, where you can filter out products by features and other items we go over in this guide.

On a budget and want recommendations? Check out our list of what we see as the Top 10 Best Underwater Scooters Under $500 in 2024.

Table of Contents - What Underwater Scooter Should I Buy?

Want to read ahead? Tap one of the questions below to read up on different items to consider when buying an underwater scooter.

What's an Underwater Scooter?

Underwater scooters, often referred to as diver propulsion vehicles (DPVs), sea scooters, or water scooters, are devices designed to transport users through and sometimes over the water with minimal to no physical exertion.

Curious about the fundamentals of underwater scooters? Explore our guide, What is an Underwater Scooter?, to start learning today!

Concerned about safety? We got you covered there, too! Check out our guide, Are Underwater Scooters Safe?

Who Will Be Using the Underwater Scooter?

Before we jump into activities, features, and more, it's important to define the user.

How old are they? Are they comfortable in the water? Have they used an underwater scooter before, or will this be their first time?

We first categorize users independently of activities, recognizing that age, skill level, and experience differ for everyone.

Below, we provide a brief overview of what to consider for different age groups, from kids to adults, as well as for beginners and advanced users.

1. Underwater Scooters for Kids

So, you're on the hunt for an underwater scooter suitable for a young child, kid, or even teen? 

Taking age, size, and swimming ability into account, you should be looking for models specifically designed for younger users such as lightweight builds with lower speeds to ensure safe handling.

Below are some additional features you should be looking for when shopping for and underwater scooter for kids:

• Speed
• Buoyancy Control or Positive Buoyancy (Floats)
• Child Safety Locks
• App-Enabled Monitoring Capabilities
• Automatic Shut-Off
• Propeller Guard(s)
• Easy-to-Reach and Use Controls

Lastly, what kid doesn't love extended play times? It's always a good idea to also look for an underwater scooter with purchasable spare batteries or a rapid charger for shorter breaks in between the fun.

No matter what, adults should always closely monitor and follow any additional manufacturer guidelines when kids are operating underwater scooters.

Ready to start shopping for your child? Check out our top-rated underwater scooters for kids now!

2. Underwater Scooters for Adults

Shopping for adults generally comes down to the activity. While there are some features you may prefer or not care for, there are very few underwater scooters for kids that couldn't also be used by an adult.

On the flip side, there are many more options available and designed for adults.

Some features of underwater scooters for adult are:

• Low to High Top Speeds
• Higher Depth Ratings
• Neutral, Positive, and Negative Buoyancy
• Modular
• Longer Battery Runtimes

Ready to jump in and start browsing? You can filter out specific features when looking for an underwater scooter for adults.

3. Underwater Scooters for Beginners

Is it your first time behind an underwater scooter? You're in for a one-of-a-kind experience!

Overall, these models are not complex to use or maintain.

Some features of underwater scooters for beginners include:

• Simple Design
• User-Friendly Controls
• Propeller Guard(s)
• Automatic Shut-Off
• Positive or Neutral Buoyancy
• Low to Mid Top Speeds
• Simple Maintenance Procedures

Want some recommendations? You really can't go wrong with any of these beginner underwater scooters.

4. Underwater Scooters for Advanced Users

Pictured above are two scuba divers from Scuba Paradive with a Dive Xtras underwater scooter.

Not your first time using an underwater scooter? Completed a DPV course like the SDI DPV Course?

If you're one of these people, you may be looking to skip over a majority of the underwater scooters on the market.

Some features of underwater scooters for advanced users include:

• Faster Speeds
• Higher Depth Ratings
• Higher Temperature Resistance
• More In-Depth Maintenance
• Buoyancy Control
• Weight
• Software Configurable
• Longer Battery Runtimes
• Modular

Think you're experienced and ready? Check out some advanced underwater scooters today!

What Will be the Underwater Scooter's Main Use?

Picture above, taken using an Insta360 X3 Camera, is of @beautyxbeast90 wreck diving with a Dive Xtras underwater scooter fitted with a DiverCraft3D Custom BlackTip T-Handle.

Now that we know who the main user will be, it's essential we determine the primary use of the underwater scooter.

Are you gearing up for intense technical dives, engaging in spearfishing, or simply seeking a straightforward option for some pool excitement?

No matter your activity, there's an underwater scooter that will meet your needs.

Below we take a closer look at some activities and what you should consider when shopping for an underwater scooter.

1. Underwater Scooters for Scuba Diving

Pictured above is @ctnvrrskn diving next to a Whale Shark with a Sublue Navbow Underwater Scooter.

As the origin of use for underwater scooters, it comes as no surprise that diver propulsion vehicles are commonly found with those engaged in scuba diving.

When choosing an underwater scooter for scuba diving it is of most importance to determine where you stand as a diver with your training and abilities along with the environment you are diving.

Some features of underwater scooters for scuba diving you will want to consider include:

• Ease of Use
• Depth Rating
• Buoyancy
• Low to Mid Top Speeds
• Durability
• Longer Battery Runtimes or Scooter Range
• Sensors Included
• Safety Leash or Tow Line Compatible
• Dive Accessory Compatible Mounting Options

Underwater scooters for scuba diving greatly enhance mobility, making it easier to navigate and explore underwater environments. They improve buoyancy control, reduce fatigue, and allow for longer, more efficient dives. They also make it easier to reach challenging or remote locations, overcome personal limitations, and, of course, add an extra element of fun to every dive.

Are you a diver looking to add in the power of propulsion? Check out our list of collections highlighting underwater scooters capable of handling various scuba diving environments below.

• Underwater Scooters for Shore Diving
• Underwater Scooters for Cave Diving
• Underwater Scooters for Deep Diving (40m/130ft+)
• Underwater Scooters for Ice Diving
• Underwater Scooters for Wreck Diving

2. Underwater Scooters for Freediving

Photo above, taken by @alberto_diaz_sub, is of XCERP APNEA in front of the one of the safari submarines offered by Submarine Safaris.

Increasingly, freedivers are turning to underwater scooters for a variety of reasons. These include extending their range, conserving energy, increasing speed, traveling efficiently, making quick ascents, navigating strong currents, and reducing physical fatigue.

Freediving experiences differ depending on whether someone is diving recreationally or practicing disciplined techniques like static or dynamic apnea. As such, freedivers may look for their underwater scooter to have vastly different features.

When picking an underwater scooter for freediving, we recommend going straight to the source via our collection of the best underwater scooters for freediving and using the filters to get the features you desire.

3. Underwater Scooters for Snorkeling

Snorkelers typically engage in recreational activities, which can include spearfishing or freediving. Similar to freedivers, they rely on minimal gear.

As snorkeling has traditionally been done without the use of propulsion, almost any underwater scooter will perform effectively, and desired features will be subjective.

Underwater scooters are used when snorkeling to extend range, conserve energy, increase speed, access distant locations, reduce environmental impact, overcome physical limitations, navigate more effectively, explore deeper waters, and, most importantly, for the sheer enjoyment they bring!

Ready to enjoy these benefits on your next snorkeling excursion? View our top-rated underwater scooters for snorkeling now before you leave!

4. Underwater Scooters for Spearfishing

Spearfishing often involves breath-holding with or without a snorkel, and sometimes even includes scuba gear.

You might consider an underwater scooter for extended range and mobility, conserving energy, increasing speed and stealth, accessing remote sites, navigating strong currents, making quick ascents and returns, spending more time underwater, reducing fatigue, covering more ground, and recovering your catch faster.

As the spearfishing community grows, more enthusiasts are discovering the advantages of using underwater scooters, especially hands-free models. Some features you may want to look out for when shopping for an underwater scooter for spearfishing are:

• Hands-Free or Less-Intrusive Models
• Mid to Higher Speeds
• Longer Range or Battery Runtimes
• Quieter Output
• Ease of Use

Due to the need to operate other critical gear when spearfishing, we recommend and only include propulsion options that are modular and capable of freeing up your hands.

Take advantage of the benefits and shop the best underwater scooters for spearfishing today!

5. Underwater Scooters for Pools

Picture of Sublue WhiteShark Tini Underwater Scooter above was taken by Ioana Stoicescu of Euphotica Underwater Photography.

Swimming pools are already known for being enjoyable, and there is no shortage of pool toys for kids and even adults.

Believe it or not there are some underwater scooters that are better suited for the average pool if zipping around is on the agenda.

Some features you should look for when choosing an underwater scooter for the pool to ensure seamless fun include:

• Compact Size
• Easy Operation
• Simple Maintenance
• Safety Features
• Bluetooth or App Compatible
• Positive Buoyancy

Excited to make a splash? Shop our top-rated underwater scooters for the pool!

6. Underwater Scooters for Traveling

Maybe you don't have access to prime dive spots, pools, or water for that matter, but you DO like to travel to get your fill of these places.

Don't let this stop you from getting that underwater scooter you deserve. Manufacturers understand that being able to travel with propulsion devices is crucial for both professional divers and recreational users alike.

With that said, below are some notable features of underwater scooters that are perfect for travel.

• Compact Size
• Airline Compliant Batteries
• Availability of Brand Support Abroad
• Simple Maintenance Procedures

Have an aquatic trip coming up? Don't leave without first checking out our top-rated underwater scooters for travel.

7. Underwater Scooters for Photography or Videography

Picture above was taken by @nealmoc.

Underwater scooters have gained popularity among photographers and videographers for capturing stunning marine life and underwater scenes. They've even been featured and used in various films.

Underwater scooters for photography and videography give users the ability to cover more ground, conserve energy, achieve steady shots, navigate quickly, manage equipment more effectively, adapt to different environments, and explore creative angles and positions for unique footage.

If you're considering an underwater scooter for these activities, we recommend looking for the following features:

• Available Camera Mounting Points
• Photography Accessory Compatible
• Neutrally Buoyant
• Remote Operated
• Easily Maneuverable

Looking to start capturing your dives from an underwater scooter? Check out our selection of camera compatible underwater scooters.

8. Underwater Scooters for Paddleboards and Kayaks

Easily attachable underwater propulsion for recreational activities like paddleboarding and kayaking is becoming increasingly popular.

A little extra power can make a big difference when navigating rough waters or helping to reduce fatigue from paddling.

The best part is that you don’t need to invest in an expensive, dedicated motor for your paddleboard. There are versatile underwater scooters available that can be quickly adapted for both underwater and overwater use in just minutes.

Want to skip digging through to find the right one for your paddle board? Jump right into paddleboard and kayak-friendly underwater scooters!

What Underwater Scooter Features Should I Consider?

We have broken down common users and activities, but what about features? Maybe you're looking for one scooter to do it all, or maybe you just want a good and reputable scooter with specific features.

Let's talk underwater scooter features! With a list of specifications that vary model-to-model, you can't go wrong reading up on some of the more important features.

Below we cover a number of features and specifications to keep in mind when shopping.

1. Underwater Scooter Size

Picture taken by @explorer_tre above is of Mikko Paasi of Bottom Line Projects and Koh Tao Divers conducting 3D Photogrammetry test runs with a Dive Xtras BlackTip TECH.

How big of an underwater scooter are you comfortable with? There are a few activities that may warrant a compact model, but some models are larger for more robust features, accessory compatibility, and extended battery range.

Are you engaged in activities that require the usage of various accessories? It might be wise to get an underwater scooter that is larger with space and optional accessory mounts.

Need to be able to travel or prefer engaging in brief dives? Getting something a bit more compact with a smaller battery may fit your needs.

2. Underwater Scooter Battery Specifications

Pictured above is a Dive Xtras BlackTip Underwater Scooter. These scooters can use any 20V (USA) or 18V (EU) DCB-format power tool battery. The beauty of these batteries is they can be purchased virtually anywhere.

What is the best style of underwater scooter battery?

Some items to consider regarding batteries include:

• Battery Style
• Removable batteries allow for spares to be had on hand.
• Built-in batteries cannot be removed and generally cannot be replaced, leaving customers with no option but to purchase another underwater scooter when the battery expires or malfunctions.
• Battery Availability
• Brand-specific batteries don't allow for the use of off-brand batteries and users are subject to specific battery prices and availability in the market.
• Some underwater scooter batteries are not available to be purchased separately or are not available in certain countries.
• Battery Charging Times
• Some scooters come with rapid chargers and others do not.
• Charging times vary based on battery, but in most cases, charging can be expected to take 1.5 hours or longer.
• Battery Runtimes
• These can vary significantly based on battery size and scooter.
• Some batteries may only run for about 30 minutes and others giving a combined time of up to 4 hours.

3. Underwater Scooter Buoyancy

Depending on the activity, buoyancy can play a critical role when selecting an underwater scooter.

Below are the three different types of buoyancy you will see referred to.

• Negative Buoyancy
• This is when the object in the water is denser than the water itself, causing the object to sink.
• With a negatively buoyant underwater scooter, it is important to use a safety leash or tow line to prevent loss.
• Positive Buoyancy
• This is when the underwater scooter will naturally float.
• Positively buoyant underwater scooters have the floatation built in or feature a removable accessory that provides floatation.
• When let go of, this underwater scooter will float to the surface.
• Neutral Buoyancy
• This is when an underwater scooter is weighted just so that it will neither sink nor float, maintaining its position in the water, unless external forces act upon it.
• This is commonly preferred by scuba divers where the diver's trim is paramount.

4. Underwater Scooter Speed and Thrust

You may think that speed and thrust are only directly related to the amount of excitement to be had, and while this is definitely a large factor when shopping for a thrill ride, there are some additional things to consider.

When considering speed and thrust for an underwater scooter, here are some key points:

• Speed
• Underwater scooter top speeds vary from around 0.89m/s | 2mph | 2.93ft/s upwards to around 4m/s | 9mph | 13.2ft/s
• A higher speed means covering more ground and seeing more in a shorter amount of time.
• Speed is related to the overall reduction of physical effort needed to reach distant locations.
• No matter the speed, when underwater scooters are used in their highest speed setting, the battery depletes much faster.
• Thrust
• Thrust, or the power behind the scooter’s propulsion, is essential for maneuvering through strong currents.
• A higher thrust allows for better control and stability, especially in challenging conditions, ensuring the underwater scooter can push through without straining the diver.
• Thrust directly impacts efficiency as scooters with higher thrust can maintain a steady speed without quickly exhausting the battery.
• Thrust can be a safety factor, as it allows users to quickly escape from risky situations, such as unexpected underwater conditions or avoiding obstacles.

What is our fastest underwater scooter available? Right now, it is the Sublue Vapor, capable of going up to 6.21 mph | 9.11 ft/s, it is currently the fastest compact underwater scooter on the market. Tap the picture or button below to see it!

5. Underwater Scooter Depth Ratings

Why do we care about depth ratings?

• The depth rating is how deep an underwater scooter is rated for before no guarantee of continued operation.
• Exceeding the depth rating will likely result in failure of equipment, permanent damage to the scooter, and possibly injury to self or others.
• Underwater scooter depth ratings vary and can be seen as low as 5m | 16ft to as high as 182m | 600ft.
• To avoid complications, determine your typical max operating depth or activity depths prior to purchasing an underwater scooter.

What about other ratings like temperature? Unless you plan to go ice diving or diving in near boiling water temperatures, these ratings are generally pretty standard.

If you are someone who is on the hunt for an underwater scooter that can handle depths up to 500ft and frigid temperatures, the Dive Xtras CudaX is currently our best option!

6. Underwater Scooter Modularity

Do you want an underwater scooter that can operate or be used in different capacities? If so, you should consider modular options.

Modular underwater scooters are those that can be used traditionally in diving or snorkeling one minute, then modified to be operated in an entirely different way such as on a paddleboard the next.

With a few modular options out there, the LEFEET P1 and LEFEET S1 PRO are the two most modular underwater scooters on the market.

7. Underwater Scooter Safety Features

Most underwater scooters come with at least one built-in safety feature, but some more come with more than others.

When looking at the safety features, first consider the user and activity. Below are some safety features that you will come across and should determine if they are wanted or needed.

• Do I need...?
• Physical Child Safety Locks or Trigger Locks
• App-Enabled Safety Locks
• Built-in Monitoring and Notifications such as Depth or Battery Alerts
• Safety Start (Slow progression of speed upon activation)
• Detailed Trigger Sequence for Operation (More than just a click and go)
• Built-in Buoyancy
• Propeller Cages or Guards
• Automatic Shut-Off
• Water intrusion or flooding of the battery compartment
• Propeller intrusion or obstruction by foreign debris
• Comes standard on most models.

8. Underwater Scooter Tech Features

As the world evolves and technology continues to be a staple in our daily lives, it is understandable that underwater scooters would start featuring more tech.

Below we look at two areas where technology may be a factor for you are when shopping for an underwater scooter.

• Display and Monitoring
• Most displays are still relatively small, and some are still using LED lights for battery status.
• Underwater scooters now are beginning to feature large LED and LCD informative displays for tracking battery life, depth, temperature, warnings, and speeds.
• Some underwater scooters feature a vibrating alert to compensate for the lack of display.
• App-Enabled Underwater Scooters
• App-enabled underwater scooters give users the option to monitor their device's status and, in some cases, allow changes to be made.
• Some models allow sharing usage statistics with others.
• App-Enabled models give parents better control with child locks and child-use monitoring.
• Some smart device apps have been said to be unreliable and not worth use indicating that whether or not a scooter is app-enabled or not shouldn't be a deciding factor.

Will My Underwater Scooter Come with Warranties?

Yes, all underwater scooters should come standard with warranties. If it doesn't, we highly recommend purchasing one that does and always taking the time to review the policy.

Here at Underwater Scooter Pros we are an authorized dealer for all of the brands we carry. This means that every underwater scooter purchased from us is warranty eligible per each manufacturer or brand's warranty policy.

What about post-purchase support? Rest-assured we do our best to ensure you're taken care of. By leveraging our experience, resources, and network we are usually able to assist with troubleshooting and can resolve most issues, however there are some cases where we may need to escalate and put you in contact with the brand.

Do Underwater Scooter Reviews Matter?

Yes, reviews and recommendations play a big role in purchasing the right underwater scooter for you. 

However, it’s crucial to pay attention to how an underwater scooter was used, for what, by who, and, if available, for how long.

If you're seeking a scooter for pool use, but someone attempted to take it wreck diving beyond its depth rating, this doesn’t mean the scooter isn’t any good, it just means that it wasn’t suited for that particular task.

Is there a place where I can read real underwater scooter reviews? Yes, we have a whole page of real customers who have reviewed underwater scooters we carry.

What Underwater Scooter Should I Buy? - Final Remarks

Choosing the perfect underwater scooter is all about aligning your needs with the right features!

By considering factors like user experience, main activities, and the essential features outlined in this guide, you will be well-equipped to find the best underwater scooter for you.

Whether you're a beginner looking for simple fun or an advanced diver seeking high-performance capabilities, we have an underwater scooter for you!

Ready to make your decision? Dive into our best-sellers today and get the underwater scooter you deserve.

Do you have any additional tips for purchasing an underwater scooter you would like to share? Comment below! We would love to hear!