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We all know how tiring it can be to lug around your golf bag for 18 or even 9 holes. It’s a huge drain on your energy and doesn’t allow you to play your best golf.
This is why a quality, reliable electric golf caddy can be a huge asset out on the golf course, because it not only carries the burden of your heavy golf bag, but it also takes a lot of the work out of pushing thanks to electric motors.
Electric trolleys that have remote-control capabilities are super convenient, but they’re also expensive. If you want to enjoy the benefits of an electric motor while saving a good amount of money, non-remote electric golf caddies are the way to go.
So, if you’re interested in a manually controlled electric golf cart, you’ve come to the right place.
As electric golf caddy technology has advanced and improved, high-performance solutions that are affordable have appeared on the market. In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best electric manual-control golf caddies.
Note: Golfstead has tested and/or conducted in-depth research into all of the products featured in this guide. Our editorial process for these rankings takes into account a mix of many factors which may include performance, reliability, usability, value for money, cost, and the general consensus from other users of the product. The list that follows may be reassessed or updated over time.
Our Top Picks For Manual-Control Electric Golf Caddies
Based on our own testing, research, and experience, here are our top selections:
- Cart Tek GRi-975Li Electric Golf Caddy
- Bat-Caddy X4 Sport Electric Golf Caddy
- MGI Zip X1 Electric Golf Caddy
- Motocaddy M1 DHC Electric Golf Caddy
- Bat-Caddy X3 Sport Electric Golf Caddy
- Motocaddy M5 GPS DHC Electric Golf Caddy
- Bat-Caddy X8 Pro Electric Golf Caddy
1. Cart Tek GRi-975Li Electric Golf Caddy
The GRi-975Li has been Cart Tek’s best-selling non-remote electric golf cart for more than seven years. Backing that up is a high average customer rating practically everywhere that it’s sold.
The sleek GRi-975Li features a durable, cutting-edge design and proven technology. Many add-ons and accessories are available with it, which means that you can fit it to your specific preferences.
If you’re interested in any manual-control electric golf caddy, this is one of the first ones you want to look at.
Features
The GRi-975Li features an aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum frame that weighs just 18 pounds, along with a heavy-duty aluminum tube axle. The waterproof design allows all cables to be hidden away in the chassis.
Also featured are dual 24-volt high-torque integrated drive motors and step gears. Downhill breaking capabilities mean that you can reduce the speed and go down slopes safely.
The variable speed control remembers your last speed setting, so you can conveniently stop and start the caddy as needed. The handle is adjustable from 36″-45″, enabling the unit to fit to practically any golfer.
Other handy features of the GRi-975Li include:
- a distance control function (10-second timer)
- a battery cable extension
- easy transition to “free wheel” mode
- oversized drive wheels for improved control
The 8.8Ah lithium-ion battery weighs just 2.5 pounds, charges fully in 3-4 hours, and lasts for up to 36 holes. With the battery cable extension, it can be stowed in your bag.
The GRi-975Li is available in black, silver and white colours. A scorecard/ball holder, umbrella holder, and large drink holder are included at no extra cost.
Customers are impressed with the quality of the build, the sturdiness, and the light weight of the unit. The cart is easy to disassemble and assemble. It’s also worth noting that we had practically no issues with performance during our tests.
2. Bat-Caddy X4 Sport Electric Golf Caddy
The X4 Sport by Bat-Caddy is one of the most popular and highly rated manually-controlled electric golf caddies on the market.
Indeed, Bat-Caddy golf caddies are highly reputable and strike an excellent balance between features, affordability and performance. Parts are manufactured in ISO 9000 certified facilities.
Features
First, the X4 Sport has a high-tech, lightweight, European-style aluminum alloy frame. This is complemented with stainless steel components that include the gear boxes, axles, and motor housings.
Next, it has aluminum bag supports, with the upper and lower supports providing stylish extensions and bungee cords to secure your golf bag. The bungees are a noticeable improvement over older models.
The X4 Sport’s 200W electric motor is quiet yet powerful; it allows for the climbing of hills up to 30° and top speeds of 5-6 mph.
You can turn the caddy of and on with a quick push of a button, so you don’t have to adjust the speed every time you stop and go. The handle is adjustable over a height range of 33″-45″, allowing you to dial in your preferred setting based on your body type.
Other handy features of the X4 Sport include:
- a multi-function handle with manual rheostat control
- a 10/20/30 yard distance timer
- cruise control
- a USB port and battery charge indicator
- an off-power freewheeling mode
- scorecard, beverage and umbrella holders
The X4 Sport can collapse into one piece (33″x20″x10″) that will easily fit into most car trunks. Unfolding is an easy two-step, two-click process.
The X4 Sport is available with several different batteries: 36Ah SLA (good for 36 holes), or lithium batteries that are lighter and last longer. The color options for the caddy are Matte Black, Space Silver and Gloss White.
Customers are impressed with how reliably the X4 Sport performs on the course, and at the end of the day, isn’t that all that matters? Customer service is great too.
3. MGI Zip X1 Electric Golf Caddy
The MGI Zip X1 is lauded for its light weight, power and controllability. An Australian brand you can count on, this model works best with cart bags and features a fourth wheel and an innovative Zip Fold design for easy storage.
The Zip X1 packs everything a golfer needs to get an excellent motorized experience on the golf course at an affordable price. And being 12% lighter and 25% more compact than the previous model, you benefit from easier handling and more space savings.
Features
The MGI Zip X1 uses a powerful, smooth and quiet 230W motor, which is enough to handle hilly 18-hole courses with ease.
Other features of the Zip X1 include:
- digital electronics with a battery indicator and variable speed control
- a fully foldable fourth wheel that adds stability
- quick-release rear wheels
- a fixed front swivel wheel
- an easy three-fold design (just fold the bottom half of the frame and then the top half)
- an ergonomic T-bar handle
The Zip X1 uses a 250Wh 24V lithium battery with a click-and-go system. The battery can perform for at least 36 holes on a single charge.
The weight of the Zip X1 is 22 lbs without the battery and 26.72 lbs with the battery. Folded dimensions are 7.55″ x 18.5″ x 16.5″. Accessories such as a drink and umbrella holder are included for free.
This electric golf caddy is very effective and easy to operate on the course, with a ton of battery life. Just keep in mind that it will roll if parked on an incline.
4. Motocaddy M1 DHC Electric Golf Caddy
The M1 DHC by Motocaddy is not only an excellent performer on the course, but it also benefits from the M-Series’ award-winning folding technology that can fit into very small spaces.
The DHC model has all the benefits and features of the standard M1 while adding automatic downhill control as well as an electronic parking brake.
This is one of the easiest-to-use electric golf caddies on the market. With attractive features like an anti-glare widescreen LCD display, fully adjustable handle, and proprietary EASILOCK connection system, the M1 DHC certainly deserves a spot on our list.
The M1 DHC is ideal for space-conscious golfers that want a manual electric golf caddy with plenty of features.
Features
First off, the cart uses Downhill Control Technology (DHC) which has been refined and perfected for over a decade. This ensures that the caddy maintains a constant speed while moving down a gradient.
This feature is enhanced by Slimline all-terrain wheels and an electric parking brake that allows the trolley to be placed on an inclined surface without it rolling.
A thick frame with oversized tubing contributes to stable performance that can be relied on in practically any terrain or weather conditions.
Next, the M1 DHC uses a high-power 28V drive system with a 230W motor that is powerful but quiet. There are nine speed settings, a speed indicator, and a battery meter.
Other features of the caddy include:
- adjustable distance control (ADC) which programs the caddy to travel a set distance hands-free, such as to the next tee box
- compatibility with the Motocaddy EASILOCK bag-to-trolley connection system, which eliminates the need for a lower bag strap
- inverting wheels for saving space
- the ability to charge and store the battery on the caddy
- an auto-open stand
- a USB charging port
Get a good visual in this video:
The cart uses a very light lithium battery that has an IP66 water & dust rating. It easily lasts over 18 holes on a single charge.
The M1 DHC has one of the most car trunk-friendly designs we’ve seen in a non-remote electric golf caddy: folded dimensions are just 18.5″ x 16.1″ x 25.6″. Its weight is 23.4 lbs.
A tip from us: don’t pay extra for the beverage holder. Store your drink on your bag instead!
5. Bat-Caddy X3 Sport Electric Golf Caddy
Looking for another highly rated Bat-Caddy non-remote model? The X3 Sport, which is cheaper than the X4 Sport, is what you should look at.
The X3 Sport is very similar to the X4 Sport: same motor properties, frame material, battery properties, modes, speed features, etcetera. The main differences lie in the wheel diameters, frame shape and overall aesthetic.
Features
The X3 Sport shares a lot of the same features and specifications as the X4 Sport, which you can view above. We’ll now go over some features that we didn’t discuss before.
First off, the X3 Sport uses a front and wide track rear-wheel drive, which means that the caddy won’t lose traction going uphill and that turning is much more convenient.
The adjustable front wheel has strengthened rubber tread that is resistant to abrasion from rough surfaces.
In addition, the electronic controller box is safely housed in a sealed plastic compartment that is water-resistant. The handle and wiring are also water-resistant, so there’s nothing to fear from wet conditions.
Like with the X4 Sport, the X3 Sport is compatible with a multitude of useful accessories such as holders, a removable caddy seat, rain cover, and sand dispenser bottle.
We would consider the X3 Sport to be nearly as well-made as the X4 Sport. Many customers share the same view.
6. Motocaddy M5 GPS DHC Electric Golf Caddy
The M5 GPS DHC is another very successful electric golf caddy from Motocaddy. It’s the first with fully integrated GPS technology, giving you distances to greens and hazards for tens of thousands of courses.
The DHC model has all the benefits and features of the original M5 while adding automatic downhill control with all-terrain wheels plus an electronic parking brake.
The compact, easily folded M5 “Smart Cart” is one of the most feature-packed and technologically advanced electric golf caddies on the market.
Features
The GPS of the M5 GPS DHC comes with over 40,000 preloaded courses and gives distances to the front, middle and back of the green, as well as hazards. You can also move the position of the flag for more precise distance measurements.
The high-resolution colour touchscreen display of the caddy is 3.5 inches in size and very responsive. It presents the par and stroke index of each hole, a battery indicator, clock, round timer, and score tracking. Hole advancement is automatic.
The M5 GPS DHC contains integrated Wi-Fi, allowing you to update course info and firmware right on the golf course. It can also connect to the free Motocaddy GPS app via Bluetooth, which allows it to provide you a range of smartphone notifications.
The motor is similar to that on the M1 DHC: rated at 230W, quiet and powerful with a 28V drive system. There are nine speed settings, a speed indicator, and a battery meter.
Other features of the M5 GPS DHC are similar to the M1 DHC and include:
- an electronic parking brake for keeping the caddy still on inclines
- Automatic Downhill Control for maintaining a constant speed
- all-terrain DHC wheels
- SlimFold folding technology designed to fit in the smallest of trunks
- EASILOCK compatibility
- on-board battery charging
- adjustable distance control up to 60 yards
- a fully adjustable handle
- inverting wheels for space saving
- an auto-open stand that allows the caddy to stand upright, minimizing its folded footprint
- an IP66 lithium battery
The caddy weighs 25.1 lbs and has folded dimensions of 25.6″x18.5″x16.1″.
As you can see, we weren’t kidding when we said that the M5 GPS DHC is packed with features. We do think the smartphone notification feature is pretty gimmicky and not particularly useful, but it’s there if you want it.
If you’d like to be able to use GPS on the course without carrying around a separate unit, the M5 GPS DHC is a caddy you should seriously consider.
7. Bat-Caddy X8 Pro Electric Golf Caddy
Yet another Bat-Caddy model is worthy of being featured in this guide. In this case, the X8 Pro is for those who have a budget of $1000 or less and are willing to take their electric golf caddy game to the next level.
The X8 Pro is part of Bat-Caddy’s latest X8 Series of electric golf caddies. It contains the latest cutting-edge features designed to make your experience on the golf course even better.
As with other Bat-Caddy models, the X8 Pro is highly reliable, striking an excellent balance between features, affordability and performance. Parts are manufactured in ISO 9000 certified facilities.
Features
The Bat-Caddy X8 Pro has stainless steel components and a lightweight, high-tech, European-style aluminum frame that weighs just 22 lbs. A No-Lock Euro-Wave frame is used, which is unique to X8 Series caddies.
The caddie has aluminum bag supports, with premium extra-wide bungees that give your bag a more secure fit. The wheel/axle connection system is newly designed.
You’ll probably like the X8 Pro just fine for manual control, but one of its best features is that it can be converted to a fully remote-controlled cart through an aftermarket conversion performed by Bat-Caddy. So, if you ever want to make the upgrade, that option is available to you.
Unlike many other electric golf caddies, the X8 Pro features two motors instead of one. The 200W motors are quiet and produce double the power, making it all the more easy to climb hills up to 30° and reach top speeds of 5-6 mph.
Another thing that makes the X8 Pro unique is a true freewheeling mode: a mechanical quick-release mechanism completely disengages the wheel from the motor, allowing it to turn freely with no resistance. This contrasts with “off-power” modes where a caddy can be pushed without power but the motor still spins.
The dual motor system of the X8 Pro also allows for downhill speed control. In this mode, the motors will maintain a set speed as the caddie moves down the slope.
Other features of the X8 Pro are:
- manual rheostat control with cruise control and speed recall
- a quick on/off button
- an adjustable handle (range 33″-45″)
- a 10/20/30 yard distance timer
- a direct-drive system instead of external gearboxes
- front-wheel tracking adjustment
- an anti-tip stabilizer wheel
The X8 Pro is available with either a 36Ah SLA battery (good for 36 holes), or a more expensive lithium battery which is stronger and lighter. The color options for the caddie are Oxidized Silver, Glossy White, and Matte Black.
Believe it or not, the X8 Pro is not much more expensive than older manual-control Bat-Caddy models. Just be aware that the caddie does have a bit of a tendency to tip backwards when moving uphill, so keep some upward pressure on your hold while traversing hills.
There is so much to say about the Bat-Caddy X8 Pro and we can’t hope to cover it all here. For full details, go to this page.
Buying Guide
Investing in a good manual-control electric golf caddy is an important step for golfers.
If you make a good choice, it’ll serve you for years and even decades. If you make a bad choice, you may spend more time on the phone with customer service and waiting for replacements than actually using your caddy on the golf course.
Most good electric golf carts, including all of the ones reviewed on this page, give you everything you need for a great energy-saving experience on the golf course.
With that said, there are some factors that you should consider before pulling the trigger on a particular model. The most important ones are:
1. Price
While non-remote electric caddies are generally less expensive than their remote-control counterparts, some models can still be quite pricey and even reach into four figures.
Fortunately, many of the best ones are under $700 and can be even less if there’s a deal or promotion running. With that said, it’s important to realize that the less you spend, the less you’ll usually get in terms of build quality and features.
What are the biggest determinants of price when it comes to manual-control electric golf caddies? We would say frame size, construction material, battery type, and tech features.
More expensive caddies will often be more reliable and last longer, but this isn’t a hard rule.
We recommend choosing a model that you like, is within your budget, and gives you the features you want. Customer reviews are also a great way to evaluate your options.
2. Motor
It’s worth taking note of the wattage rating of the motor used in an electric golf caddy. Make sure you choose a caddy with a rating of at least 175W — this will be enough to get you around an 18-hole golf course without issues.
All of the caddy models listed on this page easily surpass 175W. Obviously, a higher wattage will typically come with a higher price tag, especially because a higher wattage will demand a more powerful battery.
3. Battery Type
With electric golf trolleys, you will generally find one of two batteries used: a Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery or a Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) battery.
Each battery type comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. In most cases, the Li-ion battery is superior, although it can be quite a bit more expensive, and its light weight can possibly make the caddy less stable.
Lithium-ion batteries are also much smaller than SLA batteries and last 2-4 times longer on a single charge.
In the battery category, also consider voltage (V) and amp-hours (Ah). Li-ion batteries tend to have more voltage but less Ah. It’s important for your electric golf caddy to have enough Ah to perform reliably on hilly courses; in fact, most models do.
Certain golf carts may be able to be converted between SLA and Li-ion battery types. This can be more trouble than it’s worth, so we don’t recommend doing it.
4. Size & Weight
Size can be further classified into folded and unfolded dimensions.
The folded dimensions of the caddy should be compact enough to be able to easily fit in a car trunk or whatever other means of transportation you’ll be using.
At the same time, you want the unfolded dimensions to work well with your height and body type. To this end, many electric golf caddy models have adjustable handles that can be fit to your preference.
Weight is another important consideration. While lightweight caddies are great, a trolley that is too light may have a cheap, nondurable construction and may be difficult to keep steady when moving over terrain.
You will definitely want sturdiness, durability, and some heft in your electric golf caddy, but you don’t want it so be so heavy that it takes a lot of energy to move around. More durable materials will naturally increase the price of the caddy.
Fortunately, most quality electric golf caddies strike a really good balance between weight, sturdiness and durability, using materials like aluminum, steel, and even carbon fiber or titanium. With an adjustable handle, chances are very high that you’ll be able to settle in comfortably.
5. Features & Accessories
Practically every electric golf cart on the market comes with various accessories, either at no additional cost or at some extra cost.
These accessory options can really improve your quality of life during a round. They may include:
- drink, umbrella or scorecard holders
- removable seats
- rain covers and carry bags
- seed and sand dispensers
- phone or GPS holders
Then there are features. As we alluded to before, most good electric golf caddies will have all the features you need to get a great experience on the course. This may include last speed memory, distance timers, cruise control, quick and easy folding mechanisms, and a “free wheel” mode that allows the caddy to be used without electricity.
Features can have a big impact on the price tag. High-tech features like GPS navigation, touch control, and robotic AI will increase the price substantially, but most golfers will not need these kinds of things.
Conclusion
In the distant past, electric golf caddies were a luxury of the wealthy. With many reputable companies such as Bat-Caddy and Motocaddy producing quality carts that are affordable to the average golfer, this is no longer the case.
This is especially true for manual-control caddies, which are quite a bit less expensive than remote-control caddies. Although they can’t be operated remotely, their electric motor takes nearly all of the stress away from carrying and/or hauling a heavy golf bag.
A quality, reliable non-remote electric golf caddy can be a huge boon to your golf toolkit. Finding one that can meet your needs is certainly possible with some research.
Each of the caddy options reviewed above offer excellent value for the cost. We’ve given you the information you need to make a decision; now it’s up to you to go the rest of the way.
If possible, we recommend reading consumer and professional reviews of golf carts to acquire useful insights as to how they perform. This will help you a lot in the decision-making process.
Thanks for reading this guide. What manual-control electric golf caddy are you considering? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
