Here’s a few things you should answer for yourself before you start looking:

• What kind of tires do you want? Skinny street, wide street, off-road, fat ones, etc.
• Do you want it to fold in half for better storage in an apartment, at work, or in your small car?
• Do you want good full coverage fenders that are close to the wheels for riding in the rain without it ending up all over your back and legs?
• How far do you want to be able to travel round trip?
• Are there any other important features you want?
• What’s your price range? (I know you already said not too expensive.)

I personally bought a folding bike from https://www.greenbikeusa.com/ because they are cheap, they can fold, they have full coverage fenders, they come with a rack, and I was able to attach a basket. it’s a cheap Chinese bike that arrives folded up in a box partially disassembled and the shifter needed calibrating so as long as you are OK with that it’s been a great value.

I can't speak to the newer models (and have heard bad things about the company's customer service lately), but a Rad Power Bike from a few years ago would probably be decent for most uses.

Probably good to specify some additional things so people can help: What country do you live in? How far is your commute? Do you need options for cargo (baskets, a rack for panniers, etc.)? Any preference for stepover frames vs standard? Does bike weight matter (lighter ones tend to be more expensive)? Storage options (apartment or house/garage)?

I’m partial to the Brompton e-bike myself, but the author of this article rides a Rad: https://slate.com/business/2023/06/e-bike-buying-changed-my-life.html

I wanted a small ebike with ultra value, I ended up getting the Fiido D4S (20" wheels, folding, 45 pounds, has gears, 36v 10.4Ah, 250w). Price is $800 but I got it on sale for $720. I love the gears, but it came poorly adjusted (chain fell off first ride) so I had to adjust it myself (probably not 100% right, but the Park Tool video got me through it).

I have rode almost 100 miles, though my longest trip thus far was ~20 miles (round trip).

Other caveats:

• the charger doesn't have a US plug, but can be replaced with a standard 2-prong cord.
• the battery meter is inaccurate, I suspect it errs way too early (maybe even by 10+ miles)
• there is no ignition system, bell (does have digital horn), mirrors, rear light
• also no front mounting (aside from headlight bolt) or bottle mount etc, rear rack is not included by default
• at 250w it is barely an ebike (also EU speed limit), still nice though (helps build muscle but get a bit of help/speed)
• even still, it has a half-twist throttle (that cannot be easily disabled/removed) so is technically class II
• tires (especially spokes) don't seem to be great, though I suppose it's acceptable
• battery is not quick-swap (but is an 18650 battery pack, thus likely even more replaceable than other types)
• no suspension
• says on the site (unless in error?) it's discontinued

I purchased a bike bell for $12 from the local bike shop. I was hoping for a cheaper (or even free) mirror since I mostly use the trail, but no luck so far (though I'm a shut-in so I don't know anybody really). Same with a storage option.