2019 ELECTRIC PUSH CART BUYERS GUIDE
If we’re being real, very few of us are Ty Webb or Judge Smalls. Danny Noonan isn’t carrying our clubs while we casually stroll 18 on Sunday. If you’re part of the majority who doesn’t have the luxury of a caddie to tote your bag, you might be intrigued to learn that electric pushcart technology has advanced to a level that might make you feel like a member in good standing at Bushwood Country Club. So you’ve got that going for you, which is nice…
Although all of the carts we tested are electric, some models are undeniably more feature-rich than others (though none are equipped with any gopher detectors). Some carts follow you. Others have built-in GPS, tell you how far you have walked, and plenty more.
This Buyers Guide is a bit different than our others. It’s the second time MyGolfSpy has expanded into the electric category, and again, we tested a limited number of products. Rather than creating a rating rubric, we focused on the pros and cons of each product.
Whether you’re looking to buy a new electric cart today, looking for some buying advice, or just want a closer look at what’s on the market right now, this guide will help you find the right cart to fit your needs.
FEATURES THAT MATTER TO YOU
Maneuverability
For the ultimate in maneuverability, you want a cart with a 360° front wheel. Carts with fixed front wheels sometimes struggle to make tight turns. Also be aware that some models are designed to follow you wherever you go, staying within 6-feet at all times. If that’s problematic, consider a remote-controlled model that only goes where you tell it to.
Stability
For powered push carts, there are two primary stability considerations. The first type is a cart’s ability to handle uneven and challenging terrain. Some carts tip over easily on a side hill, while those with wider bases and excellent weight distribution are significantly more stable.
The second consideration is the cart’s ability to keep your bag upright when it is in motion. We found that some models don’t secure bags as tightly as they should.
Battery Life
One of two types of batteries are used in powered push carts; led acid or lithium. In the carts we tested, we found that lithium batteries provide longer running life, and can keep your cart rolling for 27+ holes.
EXPERT TIP - Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries last longer than lead-acid batteries.
Carts powered by a Lithium battery will cost you more, but the life expectancy is longer. Depending on the brand, a replacement lithium battery can set you back $300-$400, compared to a lead-acid at $100-$150. Having said that, you get 650+ charges on average with lithium compared to 200 with a lead-acid battery.
2019 Electric Cart Features
Name | Battery Type | Number of Wheels | Battery Life Warranty | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BagBoy Navigator Quad Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 36 Holes | 1 Year | |
Stewart Golf X9 Follow Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 18 Holes | 2 Year | |
MGI Zip Navigator Remote Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 36 Holes | 2 Year | |
Alphard Golf eWheels Check Price | Lithium | 2 | 27 Holes | 2 Year |
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT - Push cart = Electric cart
Do you wish your push cart could turn into an electric cart? You can do just that with Alphard's eWheels Club Booster.
For those who are willing to forgo some of the features of top-end electric carts in favor of lower price and expediency, eWheels easily converts the cart you have to a powered cart. eWheels fits a variety of popular push cart models, including Bag Boy, Clicgear, Big Max, and Sun Mountain. It comes with remote control and will only set you back $600, a fraction of the price of a typical electric push cart.
More Tips
- Even in this relatively new category, there are a variety of features available. As with anything else, look for a cart that gives you what you need without overcharging for features you don’t.
- Powered push carts with 360-degree rotation wheels make turning on a dime easy and effortless.
- If you are a golfer who uses a stand bag, you’ll want to verify that the cart can hold your bag remains upright throughout your round.
- Look for a cart with adjustable handles to help ensure you can maneuver it comfortably when it’s not driving itself.
- When purchasing an electric push cart, verify the manufacturer has a local distributor. It can make getting your cart repaired or obtaining replacement parts significantly easier.
Why should I use an electric push cart instead of carrying?
Q: Should I get a manual electric cart or a remote-controlled electric cart?
A: Manual carts do the job if you’re just looking to take weight off your back. If you want something completely hands free and effortless – almost like you’re playing with a caddie – remote-controlled carts are the way to go.
Q: How does an electric cart work?
A: Electric push carts are powered by small batteries. The batteries need to be charged after every round through a power outlet. Depending on the battery type, you should get 2-5 seasons out of the battery depending on how many rounds you play a year.
Q: Are electric push carts allowed on every golf course?
A: Not all golf courses allow electric push carts. Unfortunately, some courses have rules prohibiting them. Before playing at a new course, it’s advisable to check with the pro shop to confirm that push cart use is allowed.
Brent Anderson
4 years ago
I wonder if just going backwards all the time would solve the problem with the fixed front wheel carts? Is this possible? Set it up backwards?