Ather 450 Apex vs 450X
The electric scooter revolution in India has been led by Ather Energy, and within their impressive lineup, two models stand out for performance-oriented riders – the Ather 450 Apex and the Ather 450X. The 450 Apex was introduced as a limited edition model celebrating the company’s 10th anniversary, while the 450X remains the popular mainstream performance offering. Both scooters share technological DNA yet offer distinctly different riding experiences and price points. Let’s dive deep into this comprehensive comparison to help you choose your perfect electric companion.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Ather Performance Family
Ather 450 Apex Price starts at Rs. 1.84 Lakh which is Rs. 33,899 costlier than base model of Ather 450X priced at Rs. 1.50 Lakh. The base Ather 450S is priced at Rs 129,999 while the 450S with the Pro Pack is priced at Rs 143,999. The 2.9kWh 450X is priced at Rs 146,999 with the Pro pack variant priced at Rs 163,999.
The Ather 450X with the 3.7Kwh battery pack is priced at Rs 156,999 with the Pro pack equipped version costing 176,999. Finally, the Ather 450 Apex is priced at Rs 199,999 (all prices mentioned are ex-showroom). This substantial price difference of approximately Rs 50,000 between the top 450X and the Apex represents investment in exclusive performance, design, and features.
Design Philosophy: Transparent Innovation vs Proven Style
Ather 450 Apex – Bold and Exclusive
Visually, the 450 Apex is unlike anything Ather has done before. The highlight is transparent side panels that reveal the bright orange aluminium frame underneath. It’s a bold choice, and it definitely grabs attention. The Apex looks bold and futuristic with orange wheels, an exposed chassis, and bright blue bodywork.
Ather 450 Apex is available in 1 colour: Indium Blue whereas Ather 450X is available in 5 colours & 4 variants. The exclusive Indium Blue paint with a satin finish looks stunning under sunlight, making the Apex instantly recognizable. The 450S and 450X share a new colour option, Stealth Blue while the 450X lineup also gets an exclusive colour scheme, Hyper Sand.
The Ather 450 Apex gets similar bodywork as the previous version. The transparent body panels along with an Indium Blue paint job does make the scooter stand out. The overall design looks sharp and has the same dimensions as the 450X. Ather has also added a fully enclosed belt drive that looks neat, should last longer, and makes less noise while riding.
Ather 450X – Versatile and Practical
Ather 450X is available in 8 colours and 4 variants, providing buyers with extensive customization options. The design is proven, attractive, and appeals to a broader audience seeking performance without extreme styling statements. The 450X maintains Ather’s signature design language with clean lines, integrated lighting, and a modern aesthetic that ages well.
The wider color palette ensures buyers can find options matching their personal style, from subtle to vibrant. The 450X’s design prioritizes mainstream appeal while maintaining the sporty character that defines Ather’s performance lineup.
Performance Battle: Warp+ vs Warp
Ather 450 Apex Superior Power
The Apex now makes 7kW of peak power. For the first time, an Ather scooter can touch 100 kmph. The new Warp+ mode is seriously quick. The Ather 450 Apex features a PMS (Permanent Magnet Synchronous) motor that produces a peak output of 7kW and 26Nm, compared to the 6.4kW power of the 450X.
The motor on the 450S continues to put out 7.24bhp and 22Nm of peak torque. On the 450X, these numbers rise to 8.58bhp and 26Nm of peak torque. Finally, the Apex’s motor ups the output to 9.38bhp and 26Nm. The e-scooter has a claimed top speed of 100kmph (10kmph faster than the 450X).
The Apex does 0-40kmph acceleration in a claimed 2.9 seconds, which is 0.5 seconds quicker than the 450X. At its core, the 450 Apex is powered by a 7 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, delivering a peak torque of 26 Nm. This makes it the most powerful scooter Ather has produced so far.
Ather 450X Balanced Performance
The 450X delivers strong performance with its 6.4kW motor producing 8.58bhp and 26Nm. While slightly less powerful than the Apex, it provides thrilling acceleration and a top speed of 90 kmph that’s more than adequate for Indian riding conditions. The performance is accessible, predictable, and suitable for daily commuting while retaining sporting capability.
The 450X offers multiple riding modes allowing riders to balance performance with range based on their needs. The power delivery is smooth, linear, and confidence-inspiring for riders of all experience levels.
Range Comparison: Distance on a Single Charge
Ather 450 Apex Extended Range
In terms of range, 450X provides a range of 126km/charge (base model), and 450 Apex has a range of 157km/charge (base model). Ather 450 Apex (157 km) has a better range than Ather 450X (126 km). The certified range has gone up from 150km to 157km for the Apex.
With this, the range of the Ather 450X 3.7kWh (IDC range 161 km) and 450 Apex (IDC range 157 km) is now up to 130 km. The Ather 450 Apex offers a certified range of 157 km per charge (IDC), with real-world figures varying by mode: around 130 km in SmartEco, 110 km in Eco, 95 km in Ride, and 80 km in Warp+ mode.
During test rides in Eco mode, the scooter claimed a range of approximately 110 km. In Warp+ mode, we got around 75km. The scooter’s efficiency is further improved by new low rolling resistance MRF Zapper N e-Tred tyres, which help extend usable range.
Ather 450X Versatile Range Options
The 450X is available in two battery configurations providing flexibility. The 2.9kWh variant offers 126 km IDC range with real-world range improving by up to 105 km based on riding mode. The larger 3.7kWh battery provides 161 km IDC range with up to 130 km real-world range.
This dual battery strategy allows budget-conscious buyers to enter the Ather ecosystem with the smaller battery while offering range-focused buyers the larger pack. Both configurations deliver adequate range for typical urban commuting patterns.
Technology and Features: Premium vs Comprehensive
Ather 450 Apex Exclusive Tech
The feature that really blew us away is Magic Twist. Ather has redesigned the regenerative braking. You simply twist the throttle backwards, and the scooter slows down without needing to use the brakes. You’re basically riding with only your right hand. Ather says Magic Twist can handle about 75% of your braking.
The Apex comes with everything included in the 450X Pro Pack, a 7-inch TFT screen, Google Maps, Bluetooth, call and music controls, park assist, hill hold, auto turn indicators, and coasting regen. Additionally, the Apex comes with a colour-matched helmet and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
The 450X now comes standard with the Magic Twist regenerative braking setup first seen on the Apex. Both the 450X and Apex feature Multi-mode traction control that enables three different traction control modes – Rain, Road, and Rally – which can be changed on the fly.
Ather has equipped the 450 Apex with a host of advanced features including self-cancelling indicators, emergency stop signal (which flashes the indicators in case of sudden braking), crash alert, coasting regen, Magic Twist, and switchable traction control with three modes: Rain, Road and Rally.
Ather 450X Pro Pack Features
450X comes loaded with No ABS – Anti-lock braking system, Side Stand Alarm, Pass Light, Pillion Grabrail, AHO (Automatic Headlight On), Hazard Warning Indicator. Ather 450X has features like Geo Fencing, Call/SMS Alerts, Average Speed Indicator, Low Battery Indicator, Pillion Footrest, GPS & Navigation, Side Stand Indicator.
The 7-inch touchscreen dashboard is interactive and supports navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, call and message alerts, music control, and ride analytics. The new 2025 Ather has equipped its 450 series with the latest Atherstack 6 software, which brings new features like ‘Ping My Scooter’ function and WhatsApp notifications directly on the dashboard.
Weight and Handling Dynamics
Ather 450 Apex is heavier (111.6 kg) than Ather 450X (108 kg). The kerb weight of Ather 450 Apex is 111.6 Kg. The 3.6 kg weight difference is minimal and barely noticeable during riding, though the lighter 450X provides marginally easier low-speed maneuverability.
Both scooters feature an aluminium frame that provides excellent rigidity while keeping weight reasonable. The handling characteristics are sharp, responsive, and confidence-inspiring through corners and during spirited riding.
Charging Infrastructure and Time
You can charge the scooty in about 5.45 hours at home, or a quick top-up at an Ather Grid station. Ather 450 Apex will take approx 5.45 Hrs to charge from 0-100%. Both scooters support identical charging times and infrastructure, meaning charging convenience remains equal.
The Ather Grid fast-charging network continues expanding across Indian cities, providing convenient top-ups during longer journeys. Home charging remains the primary method for most owners, with overnight charging ensuring a full battery each morning.
Suspension and Ride Quality
The Ather 450 Apex has an aluminium frame. It gets a telescopic fork and a rear monoshock. The e-scooter is equipped with a 200mm front disc and a 190mm rear disc, with CBS (Combined Braking System) and regenerative braking. Both scooters share identical suspension hardware providing comfortable, controlled ride quality.
The 2025 Ather 450 now features multi-compound tyres developed in collaboration with MRF. The 450S, 450X and 450 Apex now share the same tyres – MRF Zapper N e-tred – that were developed specifically for Ather by MRF. The scooter gets a 170mm ground clearance and has a comfortable seat height of 780mm.
User Experience and Ownership
According to our average user rating, Ather 450 Apex has a score of 4.4/5 while Ather 450X is rated 4.0/5. The slightly higher Apex rating reflects owner satisfaction with the exclusive features and performance, though both scooters enjoy strong customer approval.
Owner reviews consistently praise both scooters. One Ather owner states: “Best scooter ever in all of India! Its charging and range are among the best in the world, and that’s more than enough for me. I also recommend it as the best option for daily use.”
Another satisfied user reports: “It was a great buying experience at the Ather showroom in Kalaburagi, with wonderful staff taking care of everything. The riding experience is excellent in my opinion—it’s very smooth, handles well, and offers good mileage and braking power. The initial pickup is impressive too.”
Which Ather Should You Choose?
Choose Ather 450 Apex If
You want the absolute fastest Ather with 100 kmph top speed. The exclusive Indium Blue with transparent panels appeals to you. Magic Twist regenerative braking excites your riding style. Maximum power output of 7kW is essential. The bundled colour-matched Halo helmet adds value. TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) provides peace of mind. You want the most exclusive Ather experience. Warp+ mode’s extreme acceleration thrills you. The 157 km range with 3.7kWh battery suits your needs. You appreciate limited edition exclusivity. Budget allows for the Rs 50,000 premium over top 450X.
Choose Ather 450X If
Budget consciousness makes the Rs 50,000 savings significant. Eight color options provide better personalization. Four variant options match different budgets and needs. The 2.9kWh smaller battery option suits city commuting. You don’t need 100 kmph top speed capability. The proven 450X design appeals more than exclusive styling. You want Ather performance at the most accessible price. The lighter 108 kg weight aids maneuverability. Magic Twist is now standard on 2025 models anyway. Pro Pack provides comprehensive features without Apex premium. Multi-mode traction control is included on 2025 450X.
The Final Verdict
Both the Ather 450 Apex and 450X represent the pinnacle of Indian electric scooter technology in 2025. The Apex delivers exclusive performance with India’s first 100 kmph electric scooter, distinctive transparent styling, and premium features including the innovative Magic Twist regenerative braking and TPMS. It’s the choice for riders wanting the absolute best Ather experience regardless of cost.
The 450X provides exceptional value by delivering 90% of the Apex’s capability at significantly lower cost. With the 2025 updates including Magic Twist as standard and multi-mode traction control, the 450X closes the feature gap considerably. The flexibility of two battery options and eight color choices makes it more accessible and customizable.
For most riders, the 450X with the 3.7kWh battery and Pro Pack represents the sweet spot – delivering thrilling performance, comprehensive features, and adequate range at a more reasonable price point. The Apex justifies its premium for enthusiasts seeking exclusivity, maximum performance, and the bragging rights of owning Ather’s flagship.
Visit Ather Experience Centers, test ride both scooters, and honestly assess your priorities. If ultimate performance and exclusivity matter most, invest in the Apex. If value, versatility, and proven capability are priorities, the 450X delivers brilliantly. Either choice provides access to India’s most advanced electric scooter ecosystem with excellent build quality, extensive charging infrastructure, and cutting-edge technology that makes every ride memorable.