Published: 01 August 2023 Last updated: 04 June 2024
Switching out the back straps for a GPS, remote, follow, electric, or a simple push trolley can be a smart choice, both from a performance and injury avoidance perspective. Lifting and setting down your clubs multiple times across the course of 18 holes increases your level of physical exertion considerably, which at best drains energy that could be better utilised in your swing, and at worst may result in injury. Scraper
If you are reading this guide then your mind is probably leaning towards making this switch already. If so, then your first decision involves choosing what type of trolley you want. Follow electric golf trolleys typically cost the most, but having your trolley follow you, is the next best thing to having a personal caddy. Electric trolleys will cost more than push trolleys but require much less energy expenditure. Push trolleys are the cheapest option, tend to be the lightest, and do a good job on flat courses.
Best overall electric golf trolley: Motocaddy M7 GPS Remote | View Offer
Best remote electric golf trolley for storage: Stewart Vertx Remote | View Offer
Best follow electric golf trolley: Stewart Q Follow | View Offer
Best value electric golf trolley: Powakaddy FX1 | View Offer
Best compact push golf trolley: Big Max Autofold FF | View Offer
The next consideration is whether your existing golf bag is compatible with the trolley you have in mind. For the best chance of finding a secure fit, try to pair your new trolley with the brand of your bag, and if this is not possible, then perhaps think about upgrading your bag at the same time so that your new trolley can function optimally. Head over to our best golf cart bags guide if you need some inspiration.
We would also recommend you read our buying guide at the bottom of this page with your budget and the typical type of course you play in mind before you start shopping. Here’s our guide to the best golf trolleys in 2024.
Motocaddy's most tech-packed electric golf trolley
Powakaddy's super compact GPS electric golf trolley
Powakaddy's remote-control GPS electric golf trolley
The first remote electric golf trolley released by Motocaddy
Stewart's "ultimate remote machine" delivers everything you'd want and expect
An impressive golf trolley that can easily tackle any terrain
A very clever electric golf trolley that can follow you around the golf course
A well-built and extremely stable follow electric golf trolley
Motocaddy's budget-friendly electric trolley
The cheapest electric golf trolley offered by Powakaddy
A fantastic affordable electric trolley you can purchase on Amazon
Unbelievably compact when folded down
Push trolleys don't come any better than this
Stays upright in even the trickiest conditions
Super compact, making it great for small car trunks
If you are sold already on the idea of purchasing one of the best golf trolleys, then hold fire momentarily and have a quick read through our buying guide below that highlights the key factors to consider so you can make the choice that’s right for you. Also, if you’ve ever wondered how we test golf equipment, then take a look at our comprehensive guide, so you can rest assured that your choice is well-informed.
As with any product, we always recommend that you set your budget before starting your shopping. That’s more important than ever when it comes to trolleys with such a huge price differential between the cheapest and most expensive trolleys.
The good news is that there is a model for everyone, from those of you looking to spend around £100, right up to those of you willing to spend four figures. Just ensure you shop within your requirements and means.
Having set your budget, the next thing to consider is whether you want (and need) an electric trolley or push trolley. Electric options cost more money but come with a lot more features and are far easier to maneuver, especially if you play undulating courses. Push trolleys are much cheaper, but are usually lighter, include more storage, and are very easy to use. Plus, you don’t have to remember to charge the battery before your round!
Depending on how much you want to spend and what you need, there are a whole host of features available on golf trolleys. Some are multi-functional whereas some just look to perform as a trolley.
All electric models come with adjustable speed control, but some will include the ability to send your trolley off a set distance before it stops. Then there are models with touchscreen GPS functionality, normally pre-loaded with tens of thousands of courses across the globe, which saves you from buying a separate handheld GPS or rangefinder. Many now include shot-tracking technology, so you can track your data and see where you need to improve. You’ll also find things like scorecards, shot measurements, and even the ability to link your phone and receive notifications via the LCD screens while you’re on the course.
Where push trolleys often beat the best electric trolleys is the amount of storage included as standard. Many have space for your phone, balls, tees, valuables, drink, and even an umbrella. Most electric models require you to spend additional money on accessories stations which can be attached.
Ease of use and size
The reason you’re buying a trolley is to make life easier when moving around on the course, so a trolley that isn’t easy to use is pointless. But, as well as being easy to maneuver, they need to be easy to fold and unfold and store. Most modern models feature simple one or two-step folding and unfolding processes and are surprisingly lightweight.
Be sure to consider the size. If you can fit your trolley and clubs in your car then it’s not going to be right for you. And, equally, if storage space is at a premium at home then make sure you choose a more compact model or a model where the wheels can be easily removed.
As mentioned above, push trolleys include far more storage space as standard than most electric golf trolleys so make sure you’re aware of this. Of course, that shouldn’t stop you from buying an electric model if it suits your needs, and trolley bags come with plenty of storage space, but if you want to add an umbrella holder, GPS holder, or something to hold your drink then you could be looking at further expense.
Buying one of the best golf trolleys can be a big investment so you’ll want it to last a long time and deal with the various conditions we golfers face on the course – especially if you’re reading in Britain! Assuming your budget allows, invest in a model that’s made from strong materials like aluminum and, if you’re planning to play all year round, consider buying a set of winter wheels.
Many trolleys may only offer one color option, but some brands do give you frame and wheel color choices. Just make sure the trolley you choose is in a color and design you like and will still look how you want it to when you’ve got a bag on it.
If you’re making the move into golf trolleys then we’d always recommend buying a bag from the same brand that makes your trolley because it will have been designed to perfectly fit. Some brands, like Motocaddy, make hybrid bags that can be used both on their trolleys or as a stand/carry bag. Ideal if you travel overseas for golf or ever forget to charge the battery.
If you have decided to buy an electric trolley then make sure you consider the battery life. Most brands will offer a standard lithium battery or a more expensive extended lithium battery. In our experience the standard batteries comfortably last far more than 18 holes. But if you’re someone who regularly plays 36 holes in a day or who wants to play more than one round across a weekend without charging, then we’d recommend investing slightly more in the longer-lasting model.
Golf trolleys are an expensive investment and, while it’s rare, they can go wrong because there’s a lot of tech involved. Most brands offer decent warranties and, if you’re buying an electric model, you’ll find you get a warranty for your trolley frame and a separate warranty for the battery. Just make sure you ask or research the warranty and its conditions before making your purchase.
What is the best golf cart brand?
PowaKaddy and Motocaddy are the best-known and market-leading brands. But smaller brands like Bag Boy, Sun Mountain, Stewart Golf, and MGI Golf also make some quality golf trolleys.
Do I need to buy a special golf bag for my trolley?
Ideally, yes. You can use your carry bag but it may not be as secure as the specific bags that trolleys are designed to hold. Most trolleys have specific attachments to ensure your cart bag stays perfectly in place, whereas a carry/stand bag can move about and impact your trolley’s performance.
If buying a Motocaddy or PowaKaddy, we’d always recommend purchasing one of the brand’s own trolley bags as they have been designed to fit their trolleys perfectly and are exceptionally easy to attach and remove.
Are electric trolleys worth it?
They will cost you more than a push or a pull trolley, but they’re a sound investment if you’re serious about improving your game, especially if you go for one of the models that include GPS or performance tracking. An electric trolley will be one of the biggest purchases you make in your golf career, but whichever model you choose you will get a lot for your money.
Do golf trolleys include all the accessories I need?
It depends on the brand and model. Many of the best push trolleys have integrated stations with storage pouches and holders for an umbrella, drink, and scorecard included. Electric trolleys can often require you to buy the parts separately. Most brands have loads of accessories to choose from, including GPS and phone cradles, drinks and umbrella holders, rain covers, winter wheels, and trolley covers.
Should I buy a push trolley or an electric trolley?
Ultimately the answer to this question depends on your budget and personal preferences, such as how regularly you play and the severity of the slopes on your home course. Electric trolleys are considerably more expensive and therefore will be better value for those playing regularly throughout the year. Further, if your home course involves navigating a particularly long and undulating walk, then perhaps an electric trolley is worth considering to save you some valuable energy that can be better spent on your swing.
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Rob specializes in the DP World Tour, PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and the Ryder Cup, spending large chunks of his days reading about, writing about, and watching the tours each month.
He’s passionate about the equipment used by professional golfers and is also a font of knowledge regarding golf balls, golf trolleys, and golf bags, testing thousands down the years.
You can email Rob or get in touch with him on X.
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