2020 ELECTRIC PUSH CART BUYER’S GUIDE
What a difference a year makes.
Thanks to a remarkable and unprecedented 2020, the U.S. was introduced to and now knows all about electric and push carts. If you wanted to play golf in the pandemic, individual carts were the only option.
Although it seems every avid golfer owns a cart of some sort, the U.S. still falls behind Europe. Apparently, Motocaddy is No. 1 in unit sales globally which is an impressive achievement considering the U.S. is still a relatively untapped source.
All the carts we tested are electric and some models are undeniably more feature-rich than others (though none is equipped with any gopher detectors). Some carts follow you. Others have a built-in GPS, and can tell you how far you’ve walked, and plenty more.
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.
How We Test
We're here to help you find the perfect electric push 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.
The Best Electric Cart 2020 - 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 | |
| Foresight Forecaddy Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 36 Holes | Yes | 1 Year | |
| MGI Zip Navigator Remote Check Price | Lithium | 4 | 36 Holes | Yes | 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 |
Best Smart Cart - Motocaddy M5 GPS
Just like it's older brother, the Motocaddy M5 GPS has a slim and functional design that includes a GPS device. The GPS offers distances, hazard views, pin location and score tracking. The cart is far enough off the ground that it easily handles any terrain.
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 TO YOU
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.
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.
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.
Battery Life
One of two types of batteries are 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. Foresight ForeCaddy is a great example of a long-lasting battery.
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.
The Best Electric Cart 2020 - Results
| Product | Features | Maneuverability | Folded Size | Ease of Use | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motocaddy M7 Remote Check Price | 3rd | 1st | 1st | 1st | 95 | |
| MGI Zip Navigator Remote Check Price | 2nd | 1st | 4th | 4th | 94.5 | |
| Motocaddy M5 GPS Check Price | 3rd | 4th | 1st | 1st | 88.5 | |
| Alphard eWheels Club Booster V2 Check Price | 5th | 3rd | 6th | 5th | 87 | |
| Motocaddy M1 DHC Check Price | 6th | 4th | 1st | 1st | 85.5 | |
| Foresight Forecaddy Check Price | 1st | 4th | 5th | 6th | 85 |
More Tips
Even in this relatively new category, 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. Powered push carts with 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 can make getting your cart repaired or obtaining replacement parts significantly easier. .truegolffit-banner-inner-right { padding-top: calc(574/1020 * (100% - 430px)); } @media screen and (max-width: 991px) { .truegolffit-banner-inner-right { padding-top: calc(574/1020 * 100%); width: 100%; } }GET FIT FOR YOUR GAME WITH TRUEGOLFFIT
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The Best Electric Cart of 2020 – 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 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 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 push carts. Before playing a new course, check with the pro shop to confirm that push carts are allowed.
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