The best golf carts to make walking the fairways stress-free and less tiring
Last updated:
Are you sick of carrying your golf clubs or hiring golf carts every time you play? Today’s Golfer has the perfect solution! Invest in one of the best golf carts on the market to save money, energy, and shots on the golf course
Jump to:
- Best GPS Electric Golf Push Carts
- Best Remote Electric Golf Push Carts
- Best Electric Golf Push Carts
- Best Golf Push Carts
- Buying Guide
- FAQs
Investing in a golf cart can be one of the greatest and most satisfying purchases you make in your golfing career. Whether you opt for one of the best golf push carts or one of the best electric golf carts, it’s bound to have a positive impact on your golf game.
There’s a common misconception about golf carts and the supposed reduced health benefits. Allow me to assume the position of myth buster for this segment. Unless you choose one of the best golf carts to cruise up and down the fairways in style, there is little difference in the number of calories burnt during a round whether you carry, use a golf push cart, or opt for an electric golf cart.
Playing golf can be incredibly taxing both mentally and physically, and it’s much quicker and easier to reduce the physical strain than it is the mental one! No matter what stand bag you own, it’s likely it weighs between 20 and 25 pounds – that’s a heavy burden on your back and shoulders. Carrying that much weight can only hurt your golf game as the round goes on.
By taking the weight off your body and placing it onto one of the best golf carts, not only will you see the benefits in your game, but you’ll also see the benefits in your health and posture. Granted, the best golf push carts do require more energy to be exerted than one of the best remote golf carts because you need to steer the cart yourself, but it’s still much less strenuous than carrying the equivalent weight of a two-year-old toddler!
The best golf carts: one to note from each category
Best overall: Motocaddy M7 GPS | View Offer
Best for easy transportation: Stewart Vertx Remote | View Offer
Best follow: Stewart Q Follow | View Offer
Best golf push cart: Big Max Blade IP | View Offer
If you currently own a golf cart and you’re looking for a change or upgrade then you most likely know what you want from a new machine and what you want to ditch. However, there could be some considerations that haven’t crossed your mind. If you’re looking to invest in your first golf cart you might know what to look for. No matter whether this is the first golf cart you’re purchasing or the twenty-first, we’ve compiled a detailed buying guide full of all the necessary factors to consider before investing in one of the best golf carts.
Once you decide on your dream golf cart, you might want to partner it with one of the best cart bags or – depending on what climate you play in – one of the best waterproof golf bags. It’s also worth taking a look at what accessories are included as standard with each golf cart and what accessories can be fitted to the golf cart.
Best Golf Carts 2024
Best GPS Electric Golf Push Carts
Tech-packed and super straightforward
Best overall golf cart
Motocaddy says the new model offers golfers the ‘ultimate caddie experience’ and it’s hard to disagree.
M7 GPS features loads of the same tech found in the award-winning M7 Remote, including a rechargeable remote, removable anti-tip rear wheel, and Downhill Control technology.
It includes a super responsive, crystal-clear 3.5” LCD touchscreen display that is usable in all weather conditions - it even works without needing to remove your glove. Other features include a clock and round timer, an indication of the par and handicap of each hole, shot distance measurement, automatic hole advancement, score tracking, and a battery indicator.
Potential life-saving defibrillator (AED) locations at the course can be found on the screen, as well as crucial CPR instructions, which is why we partnered with Motocaddy for our Drive for Defibs campaign.
The M7 GPS has a wider wheelbase than standard M-Series models but still folds down to an impressively compact size and the battery can be charged without being removed. It also uses all-terrain tires and we love the Easilock connection system, which keeps your Motocaddy bag secure.
Read our full Motocaddy M7 GPS Remote Electric Caddy review.
Pros
- AED locator is a fantastic addition
- Very stable
- Good battery life
- Works with and without the remote
- Incredibly clear and accurate GPS
Cons
- Non-Motocaddy bags may not fit as securely
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 32.85 lbs (inc. battery) |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 25.59" x 18.50" x 16.54" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Two years (extended warranty available for the battery) |
Crystal clear GPS and extremely stable on all terrains
Best GPS golf cart
Perhaps the most striking feature of this electric golf cart is its high-resolution 4" touchscreen GPS fitted with over 40,000 golf courses globally.
By downloading the MGI smartphone app, you can pair your device with the cart to receive notifications on the touchscreen and you can use your smartphone as a handheld GPS device.
The rear all-terrain wheels provide amazing traction on all surfaces and thanks to the Patented Gyroscope Straight Tracker technology the MGI Ai Navigator GPS+ remains on track regardless of the terrain.
The ergonomic T-bar handle is fully adjustable so if you need the handlebar heightening or lowering you can do so with ease.
Folding down the MGI Ai Navigator GPS+ electric golf cart is incredibly straightforward - it's simply done with the push of a button.
This cart is sold as standard with an umbrella holder, drink bottle holder, and phone holder. There are many more accessories you can purchase at an additional cost that can be fitted to the MGI Ai Navigator GPS+.
Pros
- Detailed 4" high-resolution touchscreen
- Amazing compatibility with your smartphone
- Stylish design
- Very stable on multiple terrains
- Super easy to fold down and unfold
Cons
- One of the heavier electric golf carts but it is still easy to transport
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 38.99 lbs (inc. battery) |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 24.40" x 18.11" x 15.35" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Three years (extended warranty available for the battery) |
A GPS electric golf cart you control with a traditional T-bar handle
There isn't much the M5 GPS DHC doesn't have to offer compared to the M7 GPS Remote. DHC is optional with the M5 GPS but it is a great feature, especially if you play a course with undulation.
The GPS is displayed on a super-responsive crystal-clear 3.5" touchscreen display. On which you can view over 40,000 global golf courses.
The Motocaddy M5 GPS DHC has been modified for 2024, featuring Motocaddy's innovative CLICK 'N' CONNECT cable-free lithium battery with auto-disconnect and pop-up charging port.
As well as being one of the best Motocaddy golf carts, this is an award-winning model that is a common sight on the fairways in all corners of the globe.
Pros
- Impressive 3.5" touchscreen display
- Features revolutionary cable-free lithium battery
- Updated sleek style
- Very similar to the M7 GPS Remote and much cheaper without a remote
- Available with and without DHC
Cons
- Performance Plan trial only six months and requires an annual fee
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 25.00 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 25.59" x 18.50" x 16.00" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Two years (extended warranty available for the battery) |
Best Remote Electric Golf Push Carts
Motocaddy's first remote-control electric golf cart
Best remote golf cart
The M7 Remote was the first remote-controlled electric golf cart introduced by Motocaddy and it's been incredibly popular.
With the remote control, you can easily navigate the M7 Remote across all terrains from up to 100 yards away.
The M7 Reote is equipped as standard with Downhill Control (DHC) which helps the cart to maintain a constant speed despite the undulation.
The LCD Display shows you what speed the trolley is running at, along with a battery meter. You can control the M7 Remote with and without the remote control.
Pros
- Very reactive to instructions from the remote control
- Easy to navigate with the remote control
- Very stable on numerous terrains thanks to all-terrain wheels and anti-tip rear wheel
- Works with and without the remote
Cons
- It is slightly heavier than other M-series electric carts
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 31.00 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 25.50" x 18.5" x 16.50" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Two years (extended warranty available for the battery) |
Stewart's "ultimate remote machine" delivers everything you'd want and expect
Best remote golf cart for easy transportation
Stewart spent two years developing the Vertx Remote, with the aim of delivering the "ultimate remote machine" and the Vertx Remote doesn't disappoint.
The main functionality within this electric golf cart is the ATC (Active Terrain Control) which is a first in a golf cart design and it ensures the Vertx Remote maintains its speed regardless of the undulation.
The remote has a 100-yard range and an integrated stabilizer that automatically deploys and retracts when the Vertx Remote is folded or unfolded.
Stewart have included a carry handle into the design of the cart which makes transporting the Vertx Remote extremely easy.
The Vertx Remote is available with either a 27-hole battery or a 45-hole battery and you can purchase this cart in either a black or carbon finish.
Pros
- ATC ensures the Vertx Remote performs efficiently on all terrains
- Very easy to control with the remote from up to 100 yards away
- Carry handle makes it super easy to transport
Cons
- Battery capacities are slightly unusual and the trolley is heavy to push
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 37.60 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 21.30" x 23.60" x 12.60" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Two years |
A fantastic cart for navigating difficult terrains and undulating golf courses
Best remote golf cart for tackling undulation
With swiveling independent front wheels, the MGI Zip Navigator AT is extremely easy to maneuver and has an impressive turning circle allowing you to navigate the cart through the tightest of surroundings.
The MGI Zip Navigator AT is available as standard with a 36-hole battery. The matte black and gloss black color scheme is super stylish and exudes luxury, making this electric golf cart look as premium as it is.
The full directional remote control enables you to send the cart in any direction you wish at varying speeds - with a wider range of speeds than other models.
Read our full MGI Zip Navigator AT Electric golf cart review.
Pros
- Extremely stable and agile on a wide range of terrains
- Very responsive to remote control commands
- Super stylish and modern design
Cons
- Not the lightest option but still easy to transport and carry
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 37.00 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 28.00" x 19.00" x 17.00" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | 3 years |
Best Electric Golf Push Carts
A very clever electric golf cart that can follow you around the golf course
Best follow golf cart
This golf cart has the functionality to follow you around the golf course without you needing to control it with a remote or manually.
However, if you decide you don't wish to use the follow function, for whatever reason, you can control this cart with the remote or manually.
The Q Follow folds to an impressively compact size making it easy to carry and transport. The battery that comes as standard with the Q Follow is an 18-hole battery or 36-hole battery.
Owning a follow electric golf cart, such as the Stewart Q Follow, makes for the ultimate relaxed experience on a golf course.
Pros
- Very relaxing experience having an electric golf cart that follows you around the golf course
- Three modes of operation - follow, remote, manual
- Premium quality and sturdy design
Cons
- Follow function isn't smart enough to avoid obstacles
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 37.60 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 23.60" x 21.30" x 12.6" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Two years |
A very affordable and easy-to-use electric golf cart
However, it performs incredibly well and delivers on all of the functions you would expect from an electric golf cart.
The M1 DHC features Motocaddy's Downhill Control which ensures the golf cart remains at a constant speed whether you're traveling on a flat surface, uphill or downhill.
Featuring Motocaddy's revolutionary CLICK'N' CONNECT cable-free battery it's never been easier to charge your battery before heading to the course.
The M1 DHC comes as standard with Motocaddy's ULTRA lithium battery providing 36-holes of use.
Pros
- Easy-to-use and compact design
- Cable-free charging
- Features Downhill Control which is amazing around undulating golf courses
Cons
- Isn't as feature-packed as other models but this is reflected in the lower price
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 23.37 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 25.50" x 18.50" x 16.00" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Two years (extended warranty available for the battery) |
Lightweight and good-value MGI electric golf cart
Best affordable electric golf cart
Rrp: $1595.00
Rrp: $1595.00
MGI have fitted the Zip X3 with a whole load of desirable features and technology to ensure you have everything you need from your electric golf cart while out on the course.
You will find features like a Controlled Distance Function, a swiveling and lockable front wheel, and all-terrain tread wheels on the MGI Zip X3 as standard.
The battery is extremely quiet, it attaches and detaches with little effort, and blends seamlessly into the design of the cart.
This electric golf cart is remarkably lightweight for a 36-hole electric golf cart which makes it easy to maneuver and navigate the fairways.
Pros
- Extremely affordable price point
- Available as standard with free accessories
- Fitted with all-terrain wheels
Cons
- Buttons do feel cheap compared to other options
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 29.47 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 27.55' x 18.50" x 16.50" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Three years |
Best Golf Push Carts
Unbelievably compact when folded down
Best push golf cart
It's hardly surprising this is Big Max's best-selling golf push cart.
Thanks to some very clever German engineering, the Blade folds flat so it can slide into a car boot with a bag full of golf clubs on top, making it the ultimate solution if storage is tight.
Last year we awarded the Big Max Blade IP one of our Today’s Golfer Editor’s Choice Awards for the second year in a row. Why? Well, not only does it collapse to under 5 inches high and weigh just 14.33 lbs, its genius one-fold mechanism means it takes seconds to put down or pop up.
Pros
- Unbelievably compact when folded down
- Very light
- Easy to assemble
- Great warranty
Cons
- The front wheel does not swivel
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 14.30 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 34.65" x 24.41" x 4.92" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | Five years |
Super compact, making it great for small car trunks.
Best golf cart for storage
Impressively light, it is also very simple to use thanks to its two-step folding system. This is the king of compacts and is a great idea if trunk space is at a premium or garage storage space is tight with quick-release wheels freeing up even more space.
The oversized wheels and rubber tires help the cart handle varying terrains with ease, while the foot parking brake ensures you won’t be chasing it across undulating courses.
Pros
- Very compact
- Lightweight
- Simple to assemble
Cons
- Heavier than Motocaddy's other push cart
| Weight: | 14.99 lbs |
| Dimensions: | 22.00" x 14.30" x 7.30" |
| Warranty: | Two years |
Great storage, premium design, compact size, and great color options.
Best stable golf cart
The 4.0 has seen tweaks to everything. The storage net is 80 percent larger, a new ‘Easy-Clip’ bag strap makes it easier to fit any golf bag on the cart, and the brake system has been redesigned to eliminate cable wear.
The umbrella holder has also been improved to keep a tighter grip, the cup holder has a more adjustable and lighter mount, while the new silicone scorecard and pencil holder not only does its job perfectly but looks great, too.
A new lid-locking strap ensures all of your accessories don’t fall out as you lift the cart in and out of the car and any front wheel alignment issues are a thing of the past thanks to the new, single screw adjustment system.
The ClicGear 4.0 might not be the lightest push cart but its aircraft-grade aluminum frame is second to none in terms of build quality. Its tiny storage size is also comparable to some of the more compact options on the market.
You're spoiled for choice when it comes to color options in the ClicGear 4.0, with eight colors to choose from.
Pros
- Extremely sturdy and high-quality construction
- Fitted with many desired features
- Good range of color options
Cons
- Not the most straightforward folding mechanism
| <strong>Weight</strong> | 18.63 lbs |
| <strong>Folded dimensions</strong> | 23.62" x 14.96" x 12.99" |
| <strong>Warranty</strong> | One year |
Best Golf Carts: Buying Guide
As you’ve probably gathered from looking through the list of the best golf carts on the market, there is an extensive choice of models, with multiple brands offering a range of functionality and usability. As time goes by, there are more and more golf carts entering the marketplace and they are becoming increasingly technologically advanced, whether they’re a golf push cart or an electric golf cart that can follow you around the course.
There are some serious considerations to be made before purchasing a golf cart because there is such a vast range of options. Unlike most pieces of golf equipment, you have to factor in certain elements such as storage, weight, ease of transport, and ease of use. Some of these you might not know until you try whether it’s right for you or not.
Golf carts are becoming increasingly popular, and hopefully, after reading the pointers in our buying guide you’ll be able to make a much more calculated decision and pick up the best golf cart for your needs and improve your game.
Mode of operation
This is all dependent on what type of golf cart you purchase. If you choose a golf push cart then obviously the only way of controlling it is manually. However, if you’re in the market for an electric golf cart, there are some you can control manually, others you can direct with a remote, and certain models that can follow you around the golf course.
Obviously, depending on how much you’re willing to spend on a golf cart will impact which mode of operation you’ll have access to, but all of them are much easier than carrying a bag for 18 holes.
Each mode of operation impacts your golf game in different ways, manually pushing a push cart will inevitably exert more energy than having your electric golf cart follow you for 18 holes. Therefore, it’s important to think about how much energy you want to spend on lugging your clubs around the golf course.
Before owning a remote-controlled golf cart I was skeptical as to how much energy they saved, but having operated one for the past few months, I can whole-heartedly admit it has made playing the game so much easier and stress-free.
I understand not every golfer will have an unlimited budget when it comes to purchasing a golf cart – which ultimately is a luxury – but you will be better off with any golf cart over carrying.
Budget
It’s important to think about how much you intend to spend on a golf cart because they aren’t cheap, but it’s better to view the purchase as an investment because it’s incredibly likely that you’ll have the chosen golf cart for a number of years (depending on which you opt for and how long it lasts before it jacks in).
No matter how much you’re looking to spend on a golf cart there’s bound to be several suitable options within your budget. Based on how much you’re willing to spend on a golf cart it will limit or open up your possibilities. For instance, if you’re wanting to spend a maximum of $500 on a golf cart you’ll likely be in the market for one of the best golf push carts. However, if you’re happy spending up to $3,000, you’ll have every golf cart to choose from, including the best electric follow golf carts.
Size
Most golf carts are of similar stature when fully erect, size is more of a consideration when the golf cart is folded. Certain golf carts fold into almost nothing compared to their size when upright, whereas others only fold in half and are still fairly large. Size correlates perfectly with storage because the smaller the cart, the easier it is to store.
Size becomes a more or less important consideration depending on your storage space and trunk capacity. The only downside to compact golf carts is that they tend to be slightly more expensive than their less compact counterparts.
Storage
Storage, like size, is only a factor worth considering if you’re strapped for storage space, whether that’s in the trunk of your car, or in your property. Smaller golf carts are obviously easier to store, but as I’ve already mentioned, more compact golf carts tend to be more expensive.
Certain brands have found ingenious ways of manufacturing extremely compact golf carts that fold down to almost nothing and take up very little storage space. There are electric golf carts and golf push carts that fold down incredibly small. So, no matter what option you choose, there’ll be a compact model to suit.
Weight
It probably isn’t hard to guess that the heavier golf carts are electric, and the heavier electric golf carts are those packed with the most features and functionality. However, despite them being heavier than golf push carts, they’re still easier to maneuver around the golf course because you’re not actually having to push that weight.
Weight becomes an issue if the golf cart is too heavy for you to physically transport the golf cart from your home to the course. Golf carts can come in all shapes and sizes when they’re folded, so it’s important to find one that’s easy to carry. Alternatively, you can help distribute the weight by purchasing a golf cart travel bag, making it easier to lift the weight.
Ease of use
This might not be something you’d naturally consider when looking at golf carts, but it could be an important factor that helps you find the best cart for your game or it could save you money. Depending on how much you demand from your golf cart it could open up a whole load of possibilities. On the flip side, if you’re not interested in all the fancy upgrades then you could save yourself some cash by opting for a straightforward golf cart that’s super easy to use.
Having a GPS built-in to your golf cart might sound cool, but why would you choose a GPS cart if you’re not going to utilize this feature? Also, you might like the sound of an electric golf cart, but if you want something that’s incredibly straightforward to use, you might be better off with a golf push cart.
Golf carts aren’t seriously difficult to understand, but like anything, the more features and functionality makes it more complicated, and if you’re not going to use all of those features you can save money by canceling out certain features. However, if you feel like a GPS built-in to your cart would improve your game, or if having the cart follow you around the course would make your experience more relaxing then it could be worth splashing the cash on a premium electric golf cart.
Folding mechanism
There’s nothing worse than arriving at the golf course and being faced with a golf cart that’s extremely difficult to unfold. However, it could be argued that it’s even worse after finishing your round in cold and wet weather and you have to figure out how to collapse your golf cart.
Most golf carts are fairly straightforward to unfold and fold down, but there are some that do have their quirks and aren’t straightforward at all. Those golf carts that have complicated folding mechanisms tend to have to follow a certain step-by-step procedure and it requires a certain amount of effort.
The easiest golf carts to fold down and erect use a one-push folding mechanism, whereby, you can have the cart ready for use, or tucked in your trunk at the push of a button – quite literally. The best golf carts all fold in on themselves too meaning you don’t have to exert any unnecessary pressure forcing certain parts of the cart to fold.
Benefits of not carrying
There are no real benefits of carrying your clubs around the course. Carrying doesn’t burn more calories and it doesn’t make you any fitter. The main problem I’ve had when carrying my golf bag is the physical strain on my back and shoulders. Another problem is the physical fatigue that kicks in much earlier than when using a golf cart – whether that’s push or electric.
When I used to play with a stand golf bag, the best part of the round was when I finished and I knew I wasn’t going to have to lug that bag around with me any longer. Some golfers enjoy carrying, and if you own one of the best stand golf bags it might not be as tough as I remember, but using a golf cart is undeniably easier and less tiring.
Accessories
Certain brands will throw in certain accessories at no extra charge. However, this isn’t something every brand offers. It might not be a deal breaker if the accessories you want have to be bought at an additional cost, but it’s certainly appreciated when they’re thrown in for free.
It could be that the accessories you want aren’t the ones being offered with the cart, in that case, this won’t influence your decision whatsoever. Different golfers look for different accessories to fit onto their golf cart, and each brand offers a wide range of accessories for you to choose from.
Several factors will lead you to choose certain accessories, but with so many to choose from, and such limited space for them to fit onto the golf cart it’s important to choose the best ones for your game and your needs.
Best Golf Carts: FAQs
How do I choose a golf cart?
Choosing a golf cart can be difficult, especially if you’ve never owned one before. You need to think about what you want to get out of a golf cart and how much of the work you want to do. If you want to do as little as possible when transporting your clubs around the golf course then a follow electric golf cart will be most appropriate. If you want a GPS device as well as a golf cart then a GPS electric golf cart will suit you best. Alternatively, you might want a simple push cart and there are plenty of them to choose from on the market.
It’s completely down to you as to which golf cart you opt for. You can spend anything from $100 to $3,000 on a golf push cart, so it’s important to make the right choice and spend the right amount of money to get the most value for you and your game.
Do Pros use golf carts?
Simply put, no. There’s every chance they might when they play recreationally. However, when they play on Tour they have a caddy who carries their bag for them.
Is an electric golf cart worth it?
It’s completely subjective, I would say yes, but others might say no. Electric golf carts are definitely much easier to operate. Even though you aren’t carrying your golf clubs with any golf carts, electric golf carts require the least amount of effort and concentration when making your way down the fairways.
For some golfers, price will come into the equation because electric golf carts are more expensive than push carts. However, if your budget will stretch to an electric golf cart, in my opinion, it’s well worth making the investment.
Can I use a golf cart with a stand bag or cart bag?
Cart bags are specifically designed to fit onto all golf push carts, whether they’re electric or not. Stand bags, on the other hand, might not fit onto some golf carts, but most will strap in thanks to the adjustable straps that fasten around the top of the bag and the base. If you want a bag that sits easily on a golf cart, you’re definitely better off using a cart bag.
SUBSCRIBE TO TODAY’S GOLFER: Print and Digital access, discounts and rewards!
About the author
James Hogg – Golf Equipment Writer
James has a degree in English Language from Newcastle University and an MA in Journalism from Kingston University.
He spent seven years working for American Golf as part of the sales and fitting team alongside his studies and is a specialist in putters, golf balls, and apparel.
James took up golf as a teenager and, thanks largely to his length and consistency off the tee, he plays off a handicap of 4.7 at Cleveland Golf Club.
You can contact James via email for loads more golf equipment insight.
-
Best Golf Carts
