Onewheel Pint vs XR Comparison: Which One Is Best?

Onewheel makes some of the best self-balancing, single-wheel, electric skateboards that make personal transporting easier. Since the dawn of the original Onewheel as a Kickstarter product in 2015, the company launched five new models, with the Pint and XR the most popular options among board-sport enthusiasts.

Odds are you’ve been looking into Onewheel’s range of electric boards to purchase one for yourself but are conflicted between the Onewheel Pint and Onewheel+ XR. Fortunately, you’re at the right place, as we’ll put them head-to-head in this Onewheel Pint vs XR comparison guide. Continue reading to learn more.

Onewheel Pint vs XR: The Basics

The Pint is the more recent commuter board from Onewheel. Weighing roughly 23 lbs, the Pint has a more compact footprint than the Onewheel+ XR, 27 inches vs. 29.5 inches. Of course, the drawback of a smaller form factor is the smaller battery, which limits the range from 6 to 8 miles (9.5 to 13 kilometers) depending on the riding conditions.

However, its compact and lightweight profile, combined with an integrated carry handle, makes the Pint the perfect electric board for many. While you can technically use it on off-road terrains like the XR, the smaller wheel makes the board slightly more unstable when riding on a bumpy trail.

The XR, on the other hand, is Onewheel’s flagship single-wheel commuter board from 2018, now succeeded by the Onewheel GT. Compared to the Pint, it packs a higher-capacity battery offering an extended range of 12 to 18 miles (20 to 30 kilometers). But the larger battery also makes it slightly heavier at 26 lbs.

The Onewheel+ XR’s bulkier form factor and bigger wheel give the board more stability, allowing users to ride over various terrain types. The XR is ideal for trailblazing, and you can go with it anywhere that involves uneven rocky terrains, unpaved gravel roads, and sandy beaches. It’s the better choice for covering long-distance commutes, though it’s also double the price of the Pint.

The higher price is somewhat justifiable if you look at the boards from a build quality standpoint. The XR is built like a tank despite being the older model, but the Pint gets water-tight seals around the battery box and controls. While Onewheel claims some water resistance for both boards, they’re certainly not waterproof. Thus, neither of them is suitable for riding in wet conditions.

Onewheel Pint vs XR: Range & Speed

The most notable reason to get the Onewheel+ XR is its increased range over the Pint. In fact, the XR promises nearly double the range of the Pint, 12 to 18 mi (20 to 30 km) vs. 6 to 8 mi (9.5 to 13 km).

The Onewheel Pint’s limited 6 to 8-mile range should be sufficient for daily commutes. That said, additional factors such as the age of the battery, terrain, and temperature, as well as your height/build and riding habits, can further affect the board’s range. Hence, if you’re going with the Pint over the XR to save some money, we recommend bringing the charger, just in case.

However, some of you may have range anxiety or don’t want to be left behind on group rides. In such cases, you’re better off spending more for the XR, whether for long-distance commutes or going on a ride with friends.

The XR is also slightly faster, with a top speed of 19 mph (30 km/h) vs. Pint’s 16 mph (25 km/h). One notable difference is that the Pint has a markedly lower threshold for push-back than the XR. For those wondering what “push-back” is, Onewheel provides a solid explanation on their official site that you should check out. But if going at high speeds on a one-wheeler isn’t your jig, the Pint should be okay for you.

The Pint and XR are favorites in the community of single-wheel skateboarders due to their modding aspects. If you’re into DIYing, you can find plenty of battery mods for these boards to extend their range. However, we recommend looking into such third-party mods only after the warranty expires. You can check our detailed article on Onewheel comparison of different models for more information.

Onewheel Pint vs XR: Riding Modes

Using the Onewheel app on Android and iOS, you can cycle between various riding modes on the Onewheel Pint and XR. Each riding mode offers a different handling experience and has slight advantages over others depending on the riding conditions. Here are all four riding modes you get with the Onewheel Pint:

Onewheel+ XR, in comparison, offers more flexible riding modes. Here’s more in detail:

The XR also supports “Digital Shaping” via the app, letting you customize the way your Onewheel rides. You can play with the carveability, aggressiveness, and stance profile to create your own riding mode.

Judging by the selection of riding modes, it’s evident that the Onewheel+ XR offers more versatility, especially if you love a speedy ride. The Pint, in comparison, is for a more relaxed cruise.

Onewheel Pint vs XR: Which One’s For You?

Now that we’ve reached the end of this Onewheel XR vs Onewheel Pint comparison, the question you have in your mind is, “Which one should I get then?” And the answer is— It depends. Both Onewheel models are excellent one-wheel boards with different applications, each catering to unique riding styles and terrain conditions.

Where the Onewheel Pint shines is its smaller and lighter form factor, making the board easier to store and carry around. The handling is also more nimble, and it’s easier to turn to corners than the XR, which smaller riders will appreciate. Its 6 to 8-mile range is ample for day-to-day commutes, and if you’re at work, you can charge it quickly using the optional Pint Ultracharger in less than an hour.

However, when it comes to trailblazing or off-roading, the Onewheel+ XR is a beast in its class. It’s rugged, has a higher top speed, and shreds through uneven terrains just fine. The board is ideal for longer commutes thanks to its extended range. In addition, Onewheel offers a range of accessories such as fenders, bumpers, footpads, and ultrachargers for the XR. Sure, it’s bulkier and heavier than the Pint, but you get plenty more perks. Riders will surely find its wider stance and more legroom comfortable.

The pricing is the most significant difference between the two, with the XR retailing for almost double that of the Pint. If you still can’t decide, we advise you to take a look at this conclusive comparison chart between the Pint and XR:

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Onewheel Pint vs Onewheel XR: Which one should you buy? (Video Guide)