Shopping for an electric golf caddy that meets your needs and budget can be bewildering. Here's how to choose one that's right for you.
A lighter caddy is easier to lift
The typical aluminum-framed caddy weighs 35 pounds or more, including the battery. Opting for a lithium-ion battery saves at least six pounds, but if weight is really important consider a titanium-framed caddy like the JuCad Drive SL Travel eX that weighs under 13 pounds.
Battery type and life
Batteries are either lead-acid (SLA) or lithium-ion (Li-ion) and capacity is quoted in Amp-hours (Ah). That on the Bat Caddy X4R for example has a capacity of 35/36Ah, sufficient for 27-36 holes. An SLA battery is standard on most caddies although Li-ion is sometimes available as an option. Be careful comparing the two because while Li-ion batteries have a smaller capacity they also weigh less, so their range is comparable. For example, the Li-ion-equipped MGI Quad Navigator has a 12V 26Ah Li battery but can handle Up to 36 holes. (A heavier golf bag and a hilly course will reduce the range.)
Also in favor of Li-ion, they last longer. Whereas an SLA battery can be recharged some 100 times a LI-ion battery has at least three times the life.
A charge indicator helps ensure you don’t get stuck with a flat battery after just a few holes.
Speed control
Check for the ability to freewheel the caddy if the battery should die. Likewise, make sure the speed is adjustable to match your natural walking pace. Advance functions and cruise control can be useful too.
Remote control and "Follow-me"
Until you’ve used a caddy with a remote it’s hard to appreciate the value of this feature. The Stewart X10 Lithium Remote, Stewart Q Follow & Foresight Sport Forecaddy are examples. Leave it on the fairway, and when you've finished putting bring it to you instead of retracing your steps.
"Follow-me" means the caddy does just that: it follows you around the course, stopping while you take a shot then moving on behind you. The Stewart X10 Lithium Follow is an example of a higher-end caddy with this capability.
Most remote caddies stop automatically when they get a certain distance away. This is important because otherwise it could drive away from you until it reaches the clubhouse, or a pond! If you get the Alligator Golf Caddy from Australia, you won't have to worry about it going into the pond since it's the only 100% Waterproof Remote Control Golf Caddy on the market! Any other carts, you better stay far away from the water.
Alphard eWheels V2 Club Booster
Once in a great while, an invention comes along that transforms the game. Alphard eWheels V2 Club Booster is one of those inventions. It simply attaches to your existing Golf Push Cart and turns it into a remote control golf caddy with a light-weight lithium ion battery.
Accessories
A drink holder, an umbrella holder and a USB port are all very useful. The reasons for the first two should be obvious: the USB port lets you plug in a GPS unit or cellphone. Some caddies include these while on others they're extras.
Warranty
Coverage is usually 1-2 years, although some more expensive caddies provide longer periods such as MGI with 3 years. Batteries and motors sometimes have additional warranty protection.
Examine your needs
For some golfers an inexpensive electric caddy will be perfectly adequate, other will place more emphasis on features like range and weight. Considering how you enjoy the game will help in selecting the caddy that's right for you.