Electric Golf Trolleys: The Ultimate Buyer's Guide
Electric Golf Trolleys - they used to be somewhat of a status symbol for the rich players within the club, but in today's era of roaring technology, they're a fundamental part of a golfer's equipment. If you're looking at buying an electric golf trolley for the first time, the difference you'll notice compared to pushing your trolley, or even carrying your bag, cannot be overstated. The extra energy you'll save throughout a round is a true game-changer, helping you preserve that energy for your golf game.
If you've had one before and are considering upgrading to a new one, you'll probably be surprised at the wealth of features and innovation that modern designs now pack into their sleek packages. Whichever camp you're in; you probably have lots of questions on how to navigate the sea of choice - allow us to answer them for you.
Why Buy An Electric Golf Trolley?
As outlined above, an electric golf trolley is a game-changer for saving energy throughout your round. You'll notice a pleasant lack of fatigue towards the end of your round, as the battery-driven trolleys cut any extra effort required to push or carry your bag up and down hills for the best part of 5 miles in a round. If you suffer from back problems, you’ll be utterly amazed at how the pain can be greatly limited versus carrying a heavy bag, as well as your posture being improved.
Following on from this, there's a definite argument that feeling fresher in body and mind will help lower your score, helping you conserve your energy for playing the game rather than using it up on the walking part of it. By feeling less fatigued throughout a round, you’re almost certain to enjoy the experience much more too.
Electric Trolley Features Explained:
Electric Golf Trolleys can range from entry-level, budget-friendly models through to technology-packed dream machines! Some of the most popular features you can add are as follows:
GPS:
Some Electric Trolleys boast GPS technology. Housed within the display screen, GPS Electric Trolleys provide all the key info a player needs at their fingertips, without the need for an additional watch or handheld device. These include distances to the front, centre and back of the green, hazards, layups, doglegs and more. What’s more, these GPS models normally come with over 30,000+ worldwide golf courses pre-loaded and require no annual fees.
Hill Control / Braking Systems:
Many models of Electric Trolley now offer a hill control, automatic braking system which regulates the speed of your trolley based on the incline/decline of the terrain you’re on. This is called ‘EBS’ – Electric Braking System in Powakaddy models, or ‘DHC’ – Downhill Control in Motocaddy versions. If you play on courses with mixed terrains and steeper hills/slopes, a trolley with this feature comes in very handy.
Remote Controls:
If you want to go all out with an Electric Trolley, a remote-control version is the ultimate in luxury. Remote Control Electric Trolleys give you the closest feeling to what it was like opening your best ever toy on Christmas morning, you just want to play with it all day! They come with a rechargeable remote handset and often pack GPS and/or hill control systems into their innovative designs too, giving you the ultimate combination of tech and features.
Buying Considerations
Battery size:
Most models offer a standard and extended battery. The difference between the two is their capacity, and how many holes of usage you can get from a single charge. Standard batteries typically are designed to offer 18 holes of play, although this can vary based on a variety of factors including ground conditions, the weight of your golf bag etc. Extended batteries typically should offer 27-36 holes of play, but again the conditions can play a part in this.
Folding size:
If you don’t have much boot space in your car, a large, cumbersome trolley may not be ideal. Try to look out for CT models in the Powakaddy range, or M-Series models in the Motocaddy range – these designs fold up to a surprisingly small size to save space in your car, garage or club locker.
Battery Type:
Lead Acid vs Lithium – what’s best? Lithium batteries last up to 5 times longer, they’re significantly lighter, and can reach a full charge within just 3 hours as opposed to 8 hours with a lead acid battery. That said, the initial cost of a lithium trolley or indeed purchasing a replacement lithium battery is higher than that of a lead acid. On balance though, we’d strongly recommend going lithium.
Budget:
Golf can be a very expensive sport, so the thought of spending 4 figures on a trolley can be a huge sticking point for many players. Luckily, you don’t have to break the bank to get your hands on an electric trolley with us here at Snainton Golf. Budget models typically start between £400-£500, and provide outstanding value for money.
Snainton Golf Picks:
Entry Level:
For entry-level golf trolleys, our top pick is the Motocaddy SE Ultra Lithium Electric Golf Trolley. At under £500, it offers excellent value with a durable frame, sleek design, and ultra lithium battery that provides up to 36 holes. It's simple but effective, making it perfect for those seeking quality without the high price tag.
Also highly recommended are the Powakaddy FX1 and Ben Sayers 18-Hole Lithium Electric Trolley, which are both reliable options without breaking the bank.
| Battery | Ultra Lithium (36 Hole) |
|---|---|
| Display | Minimalist |
| Control | 9-Speed Settings |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Trolley Warranty | 1 Year |
| Battery Warranty | 1 Year |
| Battery | Lithium (18 Hole) |
|---|---|
| Display | Simple LED |
| Control | 9-Speed Settings |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Trolley Warranty | 2 Years |
| Battery Warranty | 5 Years (Pro-rata) |
| Battery | Lithium (18 Hole) |
|---|---|
| Display | Basic LED |
| Control | Simple Speed Buttons |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Trolley Warranty | 1 Year |
| Battery Warranty | 1 Year |
Mid Range:
In the mid-range bracket, our favourite has to be the Powakaddy CT6. Part of Powakaddy’s hugely popular Compact range, CT6 folds down 35% smaller than its nearest competitor on the market, making it one of the most convenient trolleys on the market. The 2.8” full-colour display offers ease of use, with added features such as a USB-C charging port for your phone or devices, ADF automatic distance function, and a stealth matt black finish with high-gloss trim. CT6 is also offered with GPS and EBS systems should you wish to upgrade.
In the same section, we also really like the Motocaddy M1 Lithium. M1 is Motocaddy's easiest to use compact trolley thanks to its simple folding, impressive LCD widescreen display, and nine-speed settings. If you're willing to push the boat out a little bit more, you'll find the M1's bigger brother - the Motocaddy M3 GPS. This trolley packs an incredible punch, making it our favourite 'budget-friendly' GPS trolley. With a 2.8" full-colour display, GPS readings at your fingertips, and sleek, sporty looks, the M3 is definitely a trolley to have a close look at if you want a bit more tech.
| Battery | Lithium (18 Hole) |
|---|---|
| Display | 2.8" Full Colour |
| Control | 9-Speed Settings |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Trolley Warranty | 2 Years |
| Battery Warranty | 5 Years Pro-rata |
| Battery | Lithium (18 Hole) |
|---|---|
| Display | LCD Widescreen |
| Control | 9 Speed Settings |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Trolley Warranty | 2 Years |
| Battery Warranty | 5 Years Pro-rata |
| Battery | Lithium (36 Hole) |
|---|---|
| Display | 2.8" Full Colour GPS |
| Control | GPS & 9 Speeds |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Trolley Warranty | 2 Years |
| Battery Warranty | 5 Years Pro-rata |
Premium:
To pick a winner in the ‘Rolls Royce’ category is a very tough call, but our choice ticks absolutely every box available - the Powakaddy RX12 GPS XL Remote. It really is a case of no stone unturned in this trolley, it has everything you could possibly ask for. Some of the cutting-edge features include a stunning 5” HD full-colour display with state-of-the-art GPS system, Slope Traverse Assist, 1-click folding mechanism, slimline remote-control handset, smartphone charging port, advanced game tracking features and many, many more. It’s an experience unlike any other; the only thing RX12 doesn’t offer is the ability to actually hit shots for you!
In the same category, Motocaddy’s M-TECH GPS is another trolley that simply oozes quality. With over 40,000 courses pre-loaded onto the GPS system, DHC system, automotive-inspired carbon styling and luxury hand-stitched leather handle grips, the flagship model in the Motocaddy range is designed for the ultimate in golf club transportation.
| Battery | Lithium Extended |
| Display | 5” HD Full Colour |
| GPS | 40,000+ Courses |
| Remote Control | Remote Handset |
| Control | Remote-Controlled |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Trolley Warranty | 2 Years |
| Battery Warranty | 5 Years Pro-Rata |
| Battery | Lithium Extended |
| Display | 3.5” Full Colour |
| GPS | 40,000+ Courses |
| Remote Control | No Remote Control |
| Control | Manual Speed Control |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Trolley Warranty | 2 Years |
| Battery Warranty | 5 Years Pro-Rata |
Other Winners:
Best Value GPS: Motocaddy M3 GPS
Best Looking Trolley: Motocaddy M-Tech GPS
Best Screen: Powakaddy RX12 GPS
Most Compact: Powakaddy CT6
Simplest To Use: Powakaddy FX1
Budget Friendly: Ben Sayers 18-Hole Lithium
FAQs
Are Electric Trolleys Worth It?
There’s no question that an electric golf trolley is a major investment for many golfers, but if you can afford to stretch your budget, they really are a complete game-changer. The difference you’ll notice from carrying a heavy bag or pushing your trolley to an electric trolley is just incredible. The amount of energy you save, the fresher your legs and feet feel, the enjoyment they provide, and the potential to improve your scores and overall experience on the golf course make an electric trolley a very worth while purchase.
How Long Do Electric Trolleys Last?
The lifespan of your electric trolley depends on a variety of factors, including the condition of the trolley, the amount you use it, the weight of bag you use on it, and how well you maintain it. Generally speaking though, an electric trolley should last you years. Most manufacturers offer up to a 5-year pro-rata warranty for added peace of mind, but in our experience, a well looked after electric trolley can serve you well for many years after this warranty ends.
What brand of electric trolley is best?
There are many brands in the electric trolley market, but our 2 favourites are Motocaddy and Powakaddy. These brands offer the best quality, style, functionality, and value for money in the game, as well as excellent warranty and customer aftercare.
