Electric golf trolleys have proven to be an invaluable part of countless golfers’ games since their explosion in the 1980s.
Today, Powakaddy golf trolleys, Motocaddy golf trolleys, and other brands are regular sights on courses everywhere, with players being able to enjoy a more relaxing, less physically taxing round.
But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which electric golf trolley is the right choice for you on the golf course. Especially if you’ve never dipped your toes into electric trolleys before.
So, what exactly is an electric golf trolley? Why are they so effective and popular? And which makes and models should you be looking at? Clarkes Golf is here to explain, so keep reading to learn more.
What is an Electric Golf Trolley?
If you’re not in the know, an electric golf trolley is a motorised version of the push trolley you’ve likely been using for years.
The key difference is that you push (or pull) a traditional golf trolley. But with an electric one, it does all the hard work for you, turning the wheels automatically without intervention, so you can simply stroll alongside it.
Modern iterations use impressively quiet and smooth motors, combined with Lithium-Ion batteries that are both long-lasting and quick to charge. They’ve also improved over the years design-wise, too, and are now built with sturdy yet lightweight materials.
Many electric trolleys also feature remote controls, so you can direct your trolley from afar and even dictate its speed, ensuring it doesn’t run away from you!
Can you push an electric golf trolley? You could, if you wanted to, but they’re built to help you save energy and funnel all your focus into perfecting your swing and lowering your score, while also increasing your pace of play.
Why Use an Electric Golf Trolley?
They reduce strain and injury - Even for younger players, hauling your clubs around on your back or pushing them in a cart can be very physically taxing. Electric trolleys alleviate this added effort. The result is reduced fatigue, encouraging you to always play to your best.
Speed - Because they’re moving at a pace set by you, electric trolleys can leave you to walk at a speedy pace that’s more natural than the one you’d have if a push trolley were slowing you down all day. So you can let your clubs follow you, or vice versa.
Technology integration - Handy extras like GPS, distance trackers, USB charging and even a full-hole view via an innovative digital display all enhance your golfing experience.
Convenience - Gone are the days of bulky, oversized electric carts. In today’s game, you can grab a cart that’s lightweight, easy to move and even easier to sort and pack away, for ultimate convenience.
The Best Electric Golf Trolley Brands: Powakaddy vs Motocaddy
Powakaddy and Motocaddy have long been the two juggernauts of the electric golf trolley market in the UK, with estimates suggesting that, between the two brands, they make up over 80% of all electric trolleys sold.
And there’s a reason for that; over many years, both companies have become markers of ingenuity, quality, and reliability in electric golf trolleys.
Powakaddy began life way back in 1983, when watchmaker Joe Catford decided to try his hand at building his own electric golf trolley, and his success skyrocketed from there. Since then, Powakaddy has been the go-to name in electric trolleys for countless players.
That isn’t to diminish the impact of Motocaddy, though, which first appeared in 2004. Their unique approach to functionality and practicality made them stand out from the pack, and they’ve since become renowned for making big strides in the golf trolley industry. Particularly with their introduction of Lithium batteries, which have become commonplace over the more outdated lead-acid battery.
But which one is right for you? Let’s look at some of the key factors golf trolley owners should be concerned about, so we can see where each brand’s strengths lie…
Powakaddy Electric Trolleys: Things to Know
- Compact folding mechanisms
Powakaddy is known for having some of the most compact trolleys on the market, with its CT line being very popular, along with its "Simple-2-Fold" and "1-Click" systems. Some of these trolleys can fold to become 35% smaller than other trolleys of a similar size.
- Battery integration and charging
The "Plug 'n' Play" battery system offers excellent power retention while taking only around 5 hours to charge in full. The battery also has a specific slot that makes it easy to remove and re-insert whenever needed.
- GPS and display technology
Powakaddy have become known for their impressive screens, some of which offer a Full Hole View with portrait screen orientation, for a truly immersive view, making shot selection easier.
- Control and features
You’ll find an electronic braking system (EBS) on several Powakaddy electric trolleys, along with Slope Traverse Assist (SLA), which improves stability on alternating terrains and conditions.
- Aesthetics and build
Despite folding to an impressively small size, many Powakaddy trolleys feature chunkier, more robust-looking materials than other trolleys, reinforcing their longevity and reliability.
Motocaddy Electric Trolleys: Things to Know
- Folding mechanisms and compactness
Motocaddy’s M-Series is well known for its impressive foldability, while the respected QUIKFOLD system allows the user to unfold and pack away the trolley in a matter of seconds.
- Battery integration and charging
Once again, users can usually enjoy a full battery from 0% in around five hours. But Motocaddy’s "CLICK 'N' CONNECT" cable-free battery system, which allows for charging without needing to remove the battery, may edge the discussion in terms of versatility.
- GPS and display technology
Motocaddy also values high-quality screens in its offerings, with several members of the M-Series featuring a crystal-clear, colourful screen, accurate distances and course mapping.
- Control and features
A key feature that’s attractive to many is Automatic Distance Control (ADC), which limits how far the trolley will travel ahead of you, for excellent peace of mind and pacing.
- Aesthetics and build
With a clean, minimalist look and materials that are kept as slender as possible, where possible, Motocaddy trolleys are often the trolley of choice for the appearance-conscious golfer.
Top Electric Golf Trolleys to Consider
Powakaddy CT12
The most advanced Powakaddy electric golf trolley on the market (at the time of writing), the Powakaddy CT12 is a high-end trolley solution for players who most value a seamless combination of hi-tech features and portability.
Thanks to revolutionary technology, this trolley can even give you information on green shaping directional attack advice and even full hole mapping – ideal for when the pin is out of sight and you need to be sure you're aiming in the right place, or for fairways you're unfamiliar with.
Powakaddy FX1
If you’re looking for something a little less pricey but you don’t want to skimp on quality, the Powakaddy FX1 is an easy choice. An entry-level electric trolley, the FX1 doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but remains highly trustworthy in getting your clubs from A to B on the course.
With a 1-click fold system for easy packing and a patent-pending BAG-LOK attachment system for securing select Powakaddy golf bags, you’re getting excellent value for money and a bag that’s designed to complement all your club-carrying needs.
Motocaddy 2025 M-TECH GPS
With a full suite of smart features and a premium price point to boot, it’s no wonder the Motocaddy 2025 M-TECH GPS golf trolley quickly became known as the brand's standard-bearer.
The fully integrated GPS system houses data for over 40,000 courses worldwide, letting you review the hole ahead of time, no matter where you are. Combined with the luxury finish that will turn heads on any hole, the M-TECH GPS would make a fine addition to your golf gear collection if you’re a lover of the latest and greatest kit.
Motocaddy 2025 M1
The entry point to the ever-popular M-Series, the Motocaddy 2025 M1 will be perfect for you if you’re looking for a compact, durable electric trolley but also don’t want to shell out for some of the higher-end models in the range.
Featuring the useful QUIKFOLD system as well as an easy-to-view LCD monitor with all the speed settings and battery life indicators you need, along with plenty of other handy additions, this set of wheels will serve you well.
Recommended Products
Powakaddy 2025 CT12 GPS EBS Electric Golf Trolley | 36 Hole Lithium
£1,399.00
Powakaddy 2025 FX1 Electric Golf Trolley | 18 Hole Lithium Battery
£549.00
Motocaddy 2025 M-TECH GPS Electric Trolley | Ultra Extended Lithium Battery
£1,399.00
How to Choose the Right Electric Golf Trolley for You
- Don’t be afraid to explore other brands
If you’re already the proud owner of an electric trolley for golf and you’re looking to upgrade, you may have grown accustomed to using a trolley from a specific brand. But don’t let this cloud your judgement! Whether you’re a Motocaddy die-hard or a Powakaddy-for-life, there’s no reason you can’t look into the opposing brand. Who knows? You may find something that fits your requirements like a glove!
- Consider specific features
When you get past the “base level” of electric golf trolleys, you’ll find there’s often a lot of overlap with features and benefits, as each brand battles it out with its own special additions. So be sure to read into the finer details of the trolley you’re considering before purchasing to make sure your trolley comes with the exact specifications you’re looking for.
- Don’t go over budget
When it comes to buying new items for golf, electric trolleys aren’t the cheapest things you can pick up. So it’s important to have a budget and stick to it, especially if you don’t have all the money in the world to spend and you’re looking to grab a bargain.
Explore New Electric Golf Trolleys for Sale at Clarkes Golf
If all of the above has offered you the knowledge you need to choose a new electric golf trolley, Clarkes Golf has everything you need and more.
As an approved UK stockist of the biggest brands in the sport today - including Motocaddy and Powakaddy - we’re your ideal retailer if you’re looking for a top-notch trolley at an affordable price to suit your game. And with new deals on golf trolleys and accessories being added to our site all the time, you're bound to choose the best option from our available stock.
Browse our selection of electric golf trolleys at this link, or get in touch with a member of the Clarkes Golf team if you need a helping hand with your order or any more product-specific information. We’re always happy to help.