2021 ELECTRIC CART BUYER’S GUIDE
Do you want a caddie but can’t afford the luxury? Me, too. However, you can get the next best thing by using what our testing has determined is the best electric cart of 2021 for your next round.
During COVID, more golfers are walking instead of riding. Often, this was the only way you could play golf but the trend is still obvious. Many different companies make electric carts but, according to Motocaddy, they’re No. 1 in unit sales globally. This is an impressive achievement considering the U.S. is still a relatively untapped market.
Our 2021 test included electric carts that are manual, ones with a remote and others that follow your every step. No matter which one you prefer, you should read on to see which one is best for you.
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, this guide will help you find the right cart to fit your needs.
Winner: Motocaddy M7 Remote
If you want the best electric cart, go for the Motocaddy M7 Remote. It comes with a remote providing you the caddie effect. Its slim sleek design doesn’t take up much room for storage and fits neatly in your trunk. It comes with a kickback wheel ensuring the cart never topples over on steep uphill lies. Throw in USB charging port along with a two-year warranty and you have the winner of the 2021 Most Wanted Electric Cart Test.
- 4th in features
- 1st in maneuverability
- 2nd in folded size
- 1st in ease of use
BEST FOLLOWING ELECTRIC CART - Stewart Golf Q-Follow
Based out of the UK, Stewart Golf are no strangers to electric carts and tough terrain. The Q-Follow is as close as you can get to your own personal caddy. Just press the follow mode on the remote and place it on your back pocket and the cart does the rest. The Q can be operated with its remote to navigate hazards if needed.
BEST ELECTRIC CART 2021 - FEATURES
| Product | Battery Type | Number of Wheels | Battery Life | Remote | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Alphard eWheels Club Booster V2 Check Price | Lithium | 2 | 27 Holes | Yes | 1 Year |
 | Hit The Green S-Walk Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 54 Holes | No | 2 Year |
 | MGI Zip Navigator Remote Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 36 Holes | Yes | 2 Year |
 | MGI Zip X3 Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 18 or 36 Holes | No | 2 Year |
 | MGI Zip X5 Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 18 or 36 Holes | No | 2 Year |
 | Motocaddy M1 DHC Check Price | Lithium | 3 | 36 Holes | No | 2 Year |
 | Motocaddy M5 GPS Check Price | Lithium | 3 | 36 Holes | No | 2 Year |
 | Motocaddy M7 Remote Check Price | Lithium | 3 | 36 Holes | Yes | 2 Year |
 | Stewart Golf Q Follow Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 36 Holes | Yes | 2 Year |
 | Stewart Golf X10 Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 36 Holes | Yes | 2 Year |
BEST REMOTE ELECTRIC CART - Motocaddy M7 Remote
The Motocaddy M7 Remote performed extremely well in the test. It has a responsive remote to ensure turning on a dime as easy as swiping your credit card. The M7 also folds down to a manageable, compact size so it doesn't take up too much storage.
EXPERT TIP - Remote or Manual
If you like to be hands-on with your electric cart you should consider a manual version. For those who want some freedom, carts with remote control allow you to walk the course and enjoy your round.
Features That Matter
Maneuverability
For the ultimate in maneuverability, you want a cart with a 360-degree 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 seven feet at all times. If that’s problematic, consider a remote-controlled model that only goes where you tell it to.
For those who want a cart that turns with ease, consider Motocaddy M7 Remote and MGI Zip Navigator Remote. The Stewart Golf Q-Follow and X10 are great options to consider also.
Stability
For powered push carts, there are two primary stability considerations. The first is the ability to handle uneven and challenging terrain.
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. Avoid using a stand bag on electric carts if you can.
Golfers who want the best of both should look into the Motocaddy family, especially the M7 Remote and M5 GPS. Alphard eWheels Club Booster V2 will depend on what push cart you have for the V2 to attach to. The Stewart Golf Q-Follow also performed well if you have a cart bag.
Battery Life
One of two types of batteries is used in powered push carts: lead 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-plus holes.
All models tested last 27-plus holes with some easily completing 36. Motocaddy and Stewart Golf both have plenty of juice to last 36 holes.
Features
Some electric carts can just get you from A to B while others follow you, tell you the GPS distance to the hole, link up your phone to the cart and have accessories to make your round more enjoyable.
The electric carts that did well in the category were MGI Navigator Remote, Stewart Golf Q Follow and Stewart Golf X10.
MOST INNOVATIVE ELECTRIC CART - Alphard eWheels Club Booster V2
Those who want an electric cart but can't afford those pricier tags, the Alphard eWheels Club Booster V2 has your back. It converts most push carts into a remote electric cart allowing for an easy round. It can also follow you with its toggle device for the ultimate caddie experience.
EXPERT TIP - Weight
For many golfers, the weight of the electric cart can be an issue lifting it from trunk to ground. Be realistic with how much you can lift so that you don't pull a muscle before you make the first tee.
How We Test
We're here to help you find the perfect electric cart to fit your needs.
To do that, we employ a thorough and fully independent testing process that leaves no feature unexplored, no detail unchecked, and no stone unturned.
Our Metrics
Electric carts are tested head to head using rigorous protocols.
The metrics we consider when rating electric carts include Features, Maneuverability, Folded Size, Ease of Use.
BEST ELECTRIC CART 2021 - RESULTS
| Product | Features | Maneuverability | Folded Size | Ease Of Use | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motocaddy M7 Remote Check Price | 4th | 1st | 2nd | 1st | 95 |
| MGI Navigator Remote Check Price | 1st | 1st | 7th | 1st | 94.5 |
| Stewart Golf Q Follow Check Price | 1st | 1st | 8th | 1st | 93 |
| Stewart Golf X10 Check Price | 1st | 1st | 9th | 1st | 91.5 |
| MGI Zip X5 Check Price | 7th | 6th | 2nd | 1st | 89.5 |
| Motocaddy M5 GPS Check Price | 4th | 8th | 2nd | 1st | 88.5 |
| MGI Zip X3 Check Price | 9th | 6th | 2nd | 1st | 88 |
| eWheels Club Booster V2 Check Price | 6th | 5th | 9th | 9th | 87 |
| Motocaddy M1 DHC Check Price | 9th | 8th | 2nd | 1st | 85.5 |
| Hit The Green S-Walk Check Price | 7th | 8th | 1st | 10th | 85 |
More Tips
- There is 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 need.
- The Best Electric Carts have 360-degree rotation wheels, make turning on a dime effortless.
- If you use a stand bag, you’ll want to verify that the cart can hold your bag 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 makes getting your cart repaired or obtaining replacement parts easier.
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The Best Electric Cart of 2021 – FAQ
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 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 two to five seasons out of the battery depending on how many rounds you play.
Q: Are electric push carts allowed on every golf course?
A: Not all courses allow electric carts. Before playing a new course, check with the pro shop to confirm that electric carts are allowed.
Serenity Now
3 years ago
I just got the Zip Navigator and love it. I had Navigator II for 10 years without any problems except the battery was too heavy. but my course let me store it there so no issue. They finally kicked us out of bag room for insurance reasons and I knew I didn’t want to haul that thing in and out of my trunk so I upgraded to the Navigator Quad and hated it. Got rid of it and carried for last 5 years.
They really hit the mark with the new Zip as it is light and easy to take in and out of back of my truck. All I had to do was see my buddy use his once and I was sold. It helps having the MGI warranty/service center only 40 minutes away.
Another friend has the Sun Mtn RC-1 which is a really nice cart. It actually seats the bags much better. Only difference is Navi has the gyros which make quite a difference on a hilly course like ours. I use a stand bag on mine and use the Clic Gear Padded shim that helps seat the cart and make things more stable. I am very happy but my shoulders are in love. I only carry now whne I go to Ireland/Scotland or Bandon.