Folding bikes can be pretty neat and Tern makes some decent stuff in your price range. Maybe check out the Node or Link series but also see if you can’t find someone who might let you borrow their folding bike so you can test it out and see it it’ll work for you.

Edit: Oh, there’s also Dahon which is a little cheaper but not terrible from what I’ve heard.

Personally, I love having a regular bicycle because I don’t have to worry about range or managing a battery. It comes at the cost of time and effort though.

I just didn’t think they would be the most practical/beneficial option for my specific needs/wants

In your original post, you wrote that “… my main uses would probably just be getting around town or going out on paved greenways…”

If that’s the case, I can wholeheartedly recommend a folding bike. I’ve got a Tern Link D8, and I’ve been on local rides and extended (150km+) rides without issues. It’s small enough to fit in the trunk of a sedan. If you want smaller, go with something that has 16" wheels, but I’m quite happy with the ride of the 20" wheels on my Tern.

I also own e-scooters, and they are a different thing altogether. I’m always worried about range anxiety, which is one reason why I stared biking. I also hated that if the battery dies, you’re pushing the thing… and you really can’t do many repairs on an e-scooter without taking it to a shop or being very handy with opening up and working with electronics. They are nice when they work, but bikes offer more flexibility and long-term use.