As a popular water sport, surfing has a huge community that transcends recreational activity and sport. It has become a cultural movement with its own fashion and music. Traditional surfing depends on ocean waves, and surfers often pursue big waves at popular hotspots. With the emerging popularity of electric motors, we witness the exciting new category of electric surfboards for water sport enthusiasts. I made a list of the best electric surfboards based on expert reviews and research by the Cybernews team.
The goal of this article is to provide an in-depth comparison of electric surfboards. This relatively new category is ideal for a wide range of water activities, as you can experience surfing without relying on traditional wave conditions or drive on water similar to jet ski rides.
Best electric surfboard - shortlist
- GOYJO High-Speed Electric Surfboard - Top speed and range
- YCZS 60min Water Electric Surfboard for Adult - Lightweight for smooth cruising
- Waydoo Flyer EVO PRO eFoil Electric Hydrofoil - eFoil upgradable stylish surfer
- ZIRRFA Professional Electric Jet Surfboard - Chep entry-level surfboard
The best electric surfboards compared
Several key specs should be considered if you’re looking for a motorized surfboard. Before I dive into individual reviews, you may find comparing products side by side helpful. Our comparison table shows differences in features, price, and essential specifications.
| Brand | Rating | Price | Top Speed | Maximum capacity | Weight with battery | Range (min) | Best for |
| GOYJO High-Speed Electric Surfboard | 4.7 | entry-level | 40mph | 260lbs | 143lbs | 80 | Top speed and range |
| YCZS 60min Water Electric Surfboard | 4.4 | entry-level | 30mph | 265lbs | 98.1lbs | 60 | Light cruising for different types of users |
| Waydoo Flyer EVO PRO eFoil Electric Hydrofoil | 4.3 | mid-range | 22mph | 198lbs | 96.6lbs | 100 | Skilled eFoil users |
| ZIRRFA Professional Electric Jet Surfboard | 4.2 | entry-level | 7.5 mph | 220 lbs | 33.1lbs | 60 | Begginers and beach holidays |
4 Best electric surfboards – our detailed list
The emerging category of motorized surfboard products encompasses various types. Power, speed, and carrying capacity are several essential traits to look for in a powered surfboard. Another differentiating factor is their form factor. In our detailed list, we included both classic surfboards and eFoil types, so if you’re into water sports, even when the waves are elusive, you can find something for yourself.
1. GOYJO High-Speed Electric Surfboard – top all-around performer
| Model name: | GOYJO High-Speed Electric Surfboard |
| Range: | 50-80 min |
| Top speed: | 0-40mph |
| Best for: | Most users, range, and top speed |
The GOYJO electric surfboard is an all-around device for water sports enthusiasts and advanced users. Its 22KW motor and high-capacity 75AH battery give up to 80 minutes of runtime, and it can reach a top speed of 40mph.
I liked the polymer glass fiber material used for the board, which comes in six colors. GOYJO is suitable for cruising on calm waters, and you can enjoy the waves.
It’s not the lightest available surfboard, and the board and battery pack combine for a hefty 143 pounds. On the flip side, the carrying capacity is 260 pounds, so it can accommodate heavier users. The product package has all the essentials, including a shoe cover silk. However, you will have to purchase a carbon fiber rear wing.
2. YCZS 60min Water Electric Surfboard – entry-level equipped cruiser
| Model name: | YCZS 60min Water Electric Surfboard |
| Range: | 60 min |
| Top speed: | 30mph |
| Best for: | recreational rides |
YCZS emphasizes the range by putting the electric surfboard autonomy in its name. Aside from the 60 minutes of runtime, this self-propelled surfboard is lightweight, with the battery pack and board body combining for just 98 pounds.
You can monitor the battery capacity on the power display. This jet board has a load capacity of 265 pounds. With its 12 kW motor, you should be cautious about the carrying weight.
The YCZS water electric surfboard can reach a top speed of 30 mph and operate in 2.6 feet of operational depth. With its well-rounded features and performance, the YCZS justifies its mid-range price.
3. Waydoo Flyer EVO PRO eFoil Electric Hydrofoil – upgradable eFoil surfing
| Model name: | Waydoo Flyer EVO PRO eFoil Electric Hydrofoil |
| Range: | 100 min |
| Top speed: | 22 mph |
| Best for: | eFoil surfing with LED style |
eFoiling is a unique surfing experience where an electric motor lifts the board above the water so that you can experience smooth rides. Unlike other electric surfboards that can tackle waves, eFoil or electric hydrofoil rides above them.
This mid-range modular eFoil board includes an aluminum mast, underwater power unit, gliding front wing and tail, and an EPP board with two battery pack options.
You can reach a respectable 22mph speed and enjoy smooth rides for up to 100 minutes. However, the maximum load capacity is lower than that of competitors. You can upgrade to the Performance and Elite versions with a higher output power of 6000W and more takeoff weight.
One of Waydoo Flyer EVO PRO's unique perks is the customizable multicolor LED lights below the board. Your remote allows you to choose from several modes.
4. ZIRRFA Professional Electric Jet Surfboard – an affordable surfboard for beginners
| Model name: | ZIRRFA Professional Electric Jet Surfboard |
| Range: | 30-60 min |
| Top speed: | 7.5 mph |
| Best for: | Surfing rookies |
If you’re unsure whether a surfboard with a motor is something you will like, consider this entry-level, very affordable device. It is incredibly lightweight, and despite its price disparity compared to other surfboards, it covers all the basics.
You can reach a decent speed of 7-8 mph and ride for up to one hour. The neat design includes an LED screen with battery information, and you have a magnetic switch to control higher and lower speeds. These correlate with standard and sports mode.
The battery is integrated into the surfboard, and ZIRRFA has a lower carrying capacity. However, it is ideal for beginners and users learning how to swim. You can also upgrade your beach holiday with this affordable surfboard.
How did we select the best electric surfboards?
With a wide variety of electric surfboards available, I considered several essential traits and features to find the optimal one. The Cybernews research team carefully reviewed specifications, customer feedback, and our expert insight on various products.
My analysis criteria considered various factors, but here are the main culprits behind creating the comprehensive list of the best electric surfboard products.
- Ride time (35%)—Whether you like speed or smooth rides, the length of the ride is what most users will look for, and it contributes the most to user experience.
- Top speed (35%) – You don’t have to maximize the speed, but having more power unlocks various other use cases, so the top speed indicates higher quality and performance.
- Carrying capacity (15%) – It won’t matter how good of a performer your surfboard is, if it won’t support your weight. Motor power is the best indicator of how smooth your ride can be, with weight in mind.
- Weight and ergonomics (15%)—The weight of the surfboard and battery pack can be an obstacle for some users. Higher-end boards tend to be heavier, so you should find your sweet spot between shape, weight, and performance.
How does an electric surfboard work?
Unlike classic surfboards, which glide with the help of the waves, electric surfboards use the battery to power the motor, and the user then rides regardless of the water conditions. The popular category is projected to reach $64.4 million by 2030. Most devices have a durable board and components like a lithium-ion battery pack and propulsion system.
eFoil surfboards have a somewhat different design with an aluminum mast. The board is above the water, so it is usually smaller. Battery pack power is essential to the performance, and 15kW is standard for a 30mph top speed. More robust and speedier surfboards can have more power.
Jet propulsion is the essential element that allows you to glide on the water. You will get either handles or a remote controller to steer and adjust the riding speed. Most surfboards come with an LED screen with a battery indicator, and manufacturers continuously innovate new materials to improve the experience for both professional and less skilled users.
How much does an electric surfboard cost?
Electric surfboards are complex systems where a quality board meets a propulsion system and battery. With that said, battery systems are essential and influence the pricing the most. A high-quality battery and BMS (battery management system) make the world of difference in terms of range, top speed, and carrying capacity. Here is a short breakdown of the market.
- Entry-level boards: $3,000–$6,000. This category is best-suited for beginners and those who want occasional water adventures without investing too much. With an already saturated market, you can find quality surfboards like GOYJO High-Speed Electric Surfboard below $6000.
- Mid-range models: $6,000–$10,000. You will find more advanced BMS systems and serious, almost pro-level surfboards in this price range. Higher top speed and carrying capacity are traits of devices in the mid-range category. Most eFoil surfboards exceed $6000, so you can find products like Waydoo Flyer EVO Pro in this price range.
- Premium/high-performance boards: $10,000+. The world for premium users starts here and includes the best components, batteries, and motors. You can expect more durable batteries with longer autonomy for all types of users. Top speeds can exceed 40mph, and propelled surfboards from this price range can be compared to jet skis.
Electric surfboard buying guide
Because motorized surfboards can require substantial investigation, before choosing the top contenders, here are a few things you should consider.
- Battery life. An essential feature for all types of electric surfboards is how long the board can operate before a recharge. Look for at least 30 minutes at top speed.
- Motor power. A quality battery pack and motor power are complementary components that determine speed, optimal carrying capacity, and overall performance. Look for at least 15kW for a smooth ride.
- Speed. Most users look at the top speed first. If your surfboard can reach 40 mph, that doesn’t mean you will go full speed all the time, but it is a good indicator that you can rely on the motor power when needed.
- Weight. How heavy is the board? This directly corresponds to how easy it is to carry and transport. Handling surfboards is not easy for everyone, so its weight is something to consider before purchasing.
- Material and durability. Carbon fibers, EPP, or other materials for surfboards, an aluminum mast for eFoil, and quality IP68 protection for the battery are essential for carefree rides.
- Ease of use. Not all boards are for everyone. A bigger board with more volume is easier to navigate, while you can make sharp turns with foot straps. Most boards come with handles for steering or remote controls.
- Price. Pricing usually corresponds with quality. However, quality solutions are available in all price ranges. Most users can’t escape the need to fit within their budget.
- Brand reputation. Look for manufacturers that are well-known for making high-quality and reliable electric surfboards.
Final word on the best electric surfboards
Finding the best solution takes several things into account. I made the list of the best electric surfboards with the help of in-depth research and analysis by the Cybernews team. If you’re looking for a top performer in the entry-level price category, GOYJO High-Speed Electric Surfboard provides great top speed and carrying capacity. Waydoo Flyer EVO PRO is for users who like to hover over the water and don’t mind a somewhat higher price. If you’re an absolute beginner looking for an introduction to propelled surfing, the affordable ZIRRFA Professional Electric Jet Surfboard might be the right way.
FAQ
How long does the battery last on an electric surfboard?
Between 30 and 60 minutes. The autonomy depends on the battery pack quality and capacity. Your weight, top speed, and water conditions will also heavily influence the length of your ride. The YCZS Water Electric Surfboard, which is a middle-of-the-pack quality solution, will give you around 60 minutes.
Are electric surfboards difficult to ride for beginners?
Yes. You will have to adjust and learn how to ride it. Bigger, more balanced surfboards might be the best choice if you’re learning to ride an electric surfboard.
How fast can an electric surfboard go?
Surfboards' top speeds usually reach 40mph. Most mid-range boards go around 30mph, and eFoil can ride at a smooth 20-25mph.
Can you use an electric surfboard in all water conditions?
No. Riding on an electric surfboard is not advised if you have huge waves or a storm. You can ride on waves similar to classic surfboards or calm waters.
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