It’s no secret that golf cart maintenance is essential to have a long-lasting transportation helper on the course.
In fact, it’s a culmination of several different components:
- checking the tires
- engine
- brakes
- power cables
- steering
- suspension
and of course the battery. It is vital to choose the right golf cart battery for you to enjoy the ultimate golfing experience all-year around without any breakdowns or mishaps on the course.
Bottom line?
If you want a reliable golf cart, finding the best golf cart battery is vital to ensure that you have an enjoyable golf experience.
And in this article, I’m going to show you the best golf cart batteries that will last you through your game and everything you need to know to choose the right one for you.
Let’s dive right in.
The Best Golf Cart Batteries are:
At a glance: Out top picks of best cart batteries
- Our Top Pick: Universal Power Group (UPG) UB12350
- No products found.
- Exide 6V Battery
- Lifeline Marine AGM Battery
- Amstron GC2 Battery
Golf Cart Battery Buying Guide
A game of golf can be very demanding. It takes hours to finish. You have to go through uneven terrain and play under the heat of the sun (or rain). For these reasons, you also need a golf cart that will be able to sustain the long hours, bumpy courses, and the different weather conditions.
A good golf cart is only as useful as its battery, so it is also crucial that you carefully scrutinize which battery you will buy to get the most out of your money. And with the tons of brands that lure you to buy their products, sometimes it can get very confusing.
Here is a step-by-step process on how to buy your perfect golf cart battery:
Step 1: Determine the voltage of your golf cart
This may sound a bit complicated but determining the right voltage for your golf cart is very essential. You would not want to buy a battery that is not suitable. This will also help you determine how many golf car batteries you will need to buy.
The operating system for a golf cart may come in 36-volts or 48-volts, while there are 3 Voltages available for Golf car batteries in the market: 6 volts, volts, and 12 volts. Six 6 volt batteries will yield 36-volts while six 8-volt batteries or four 12 volt batteries will give you a 48-volt operating system.
If you are not sure which voltage and how many batteries to purchase, you can never go wrong by replacing the old batteries with the same new ones. Just check the label of the old battery or show it to the store where you are going to buy it from, and you are good to go.
If you are unhappy with the performance of the old batteries and want to try a new brand, the easiest way of determining the voltage of your golf cart is by counting the number of acid holes on each battery head cover. Each battery usually has 3, 4, or 6 holes. Just multiply the number of acid holes by 2, and you will know the total number of voltage. Simple math will tell you that if there are a total of 18 acid holes in all batteries, it must be a 36-volt golf cart.
When all else fails, read the manufacturer’s manual. The manual is your bible and your ultimate guide to avoid committing an expensive mistake. If in the event you have lost it, the internet is your next best option.
Step 2: Determine the battery’s amperage per hour.
Before buying your battery, you have to determine the amperage per hour. This will sound a bit technical as well but compared to the voltage, the amperage per hour will depend more on your preference and what each brand can offer. In simpler terms, this will show how much energy your battery will be able to supply in a given amount of time. Usually, the higher Ah, the better performing is the battery. It is best to ask the experts on how to determine this.
Step 3: Determine the Battery’s life cycle.
The battery’s life cycle determines its lifespan. It is the number of times a battery can be discharged and charged in a full cycle before it fails or starts to lose its capacity. Not all life cycles are accurate. They are just a guide for the buyer in determining which battery will last longer. The life expectancy of your battery will still depend on your usage and your charging practices.
Step 4: Determine Dimensions
Another thing to consider before buying your battery is the dimension. The golf cart battery compartment can hold batteries of a specific measurement and since there is no standard size for any battery, make sure that you will be able to fit all of them in your golf cart. You would not want to use your club storage as your extension to the battery compartment!
Step 5: Read the fine print.
Before finally going to the store to buy your battery, always remember to read the fine print. This is to ensure that you are not wasting well-earned money and that you are will get the most out of your golf cart experience. One of the most critical portions to read is the warranty. Some warranties will provide you with an option for a full replacement or just for repairs. More extended warranties usually mean that the manufactories trust their product. The longer the warranty, the higher the chances are that the product you are buying is durable and will last longer.
Step 6: Buy only from reputable vendors.
In this day of online shopping, buying your golf cart battery is just a click away. However, with the ease that it promises, the dangers of online buying has also been emerging. Some websites will scam you into buying high-quality products but will send you low-quality ones. If you wish to buy online, ensure that the company you have chosen has been verified by their customers with their reviews and has a long market history.
Should you wish to buy your battery the old-fashioned way, choose a store that is reputable in your locality.
Step 7: Choose a trusted brand
There are tons of available brands on the market that will promise you they are the “best.” However, in choosing the “best,” put into consideration the reputation of the brand that you are you buying. Newer brands may offer cheaper alternatives, but the established ones are, most of the time, more dependable. A good way also to know which brand to buy is by reading online reviews from experts or the local shop owners. You can also ask your golf buddies who have had experiences first hand.
Step 8: Before buying, compare the prices
We have already established that Golf can be very pricey which means that every dollar saved from investing in the best battery can go towards other essentials such as golf balls, clubs, or even tipping the caddy. So before purchasing your golf cart battery, make sure to compare the prices online, including shipping costs, to make sure that you get the most out of your money.
It is also best that before you buy your battery, you should have a budget in mind and stick with it. A lot of the golfers often commit mistakes by settling for either cheaper ones or the more expensive ones thinking that they can get the most value out of their money from it. It is best to set your budget, so you know your limitations, and it will help you buy within that range.
Extra tips: Ways to prolong the life of your battery
As we have mentioned earlier, the life expectancy of your battery will be highly dependent on your usage and your charging practices. Sometimes the difference lies in how one takes care and maintains the battery. Here are some tips to ensure that you are maximizing your battery’s life cycle.
1. Keep the batteries dry, clean, and tight.
It is always crucial to maintain the cleanliness of the batteries to avoid corrosion. Cleanliness can extend the life of your battery of up to 20%. The best way to clean the batteries is by using a bristle brush and a baking soda with water solution. Protect your eyes and hands with goggles and gloves. You may also use an anti-corrosive spray to prevent corrosion and rusting.
Watch instructional video below for more information:
2. Charge as directed.
Read the manufacturer’s manual and charge as directed. The standard charging time will depend on the battery, but it is usually around 8-10 hours. The best practice will be to charge it overnight after a day of golf to make sure that it will not discharge beyond 50%. If you are using a manual charger, make sure not to overcharge because it does not have the feature of automatic chargers which prevents overcharging.
3. Buy a high-quality charger.
A high-quality automatic charger will ensure that your battery will not overcharge. It usually stops the current if it detects that the battery already has enough of it. While it is essential to invest in a good battery, it is equally important to invest in a good charger as well.
4. Fill the water.
If the batteries you bought are not maintenance-free, make sure that you fill the battery cells with distilled water (not tap water) 1/4 or 1/2 above the plates. It is important not to overfill it to prevent corrosion and acid accumulation on the battery terminals.
Watch instructional video below for more information:
5. Use golf cart regularly.
If you only play golf occasionally, it is essential to do a refresh charge of the batteries every 45-60 days to ensure that it does not get discharged. If you are going to be away for a long time, there are battery chargers with storage mode features that automatically determines whether the battery needs charging. Using this feature will ensure that it will not get discharged and you will be able to use it without any hassle
Watch instructional video below for more information:
6. Do not discharge batteries beyond 50%
In any battery, this is a huge prohibition. Never discharge your battery beyond 50% because it will significantly shorten the life of your battery. While you can still use it by having it fully charged, chances are the life expectancy had already shortened when it was fully discharged.
7. Store the batteries in a proper location
It is essential to store the batteries in a proper location because extreme weather conditions will decrease their life cycle. It is advisable that during winter, the batteries should be stored in a warm place and should be fully charged because batteries often freeze and get discharged in cold weather. During the summer, make sure that they are stored in a cool place because the water may evaporate easily and may deplete. Make sure to check the water levels during extreme weather conditions.
8. Do not charge frozen batteries.
If you suspect that your batteries have been discharged because of too much coldness, do not charge it immediately. Ensure first that the water is not frozen by checking the battery cells before having it charged.
9. Replace the batteries as needed.
Usually, golf cart batteries will have a life expectancy of up to 5 years depending on the usage and charging practices. However, to make sure that you are getting the most out of your golf experience, routinely change your batteries especially if you feel that its functionality is starting to decrease. It is advisable for every golfer to learn about the health of their batteries. There are available resources online, or you can also bring your batteries into local shops and have it assessed on whether it needs replacing or not. Sometimes, all it needs is a proper charge and its good to go!
10. Always buy NEW batteries.
A lot of the golfers opt to buy old and used batteries over new ones because it is cheaper and is still functional. However, you will also have to replace them sooner. It is advisable to always invest in new batteries since it will also be more cost-efficient in the long run.
Our Top Picks for best golf cart batteries in 2021
PRODUCT
- Comes as a powerful, state-of-the-art 12 volt 35ah sealed AGM battery that is non-corrosive
- Designed with a heavy-duty, ABS Plastic shell that makes it shatter-proof
- It is spill-proof for safe operation in any position
- Comes with the electrolyte fixed in a fiberglass mat
- Comes with slow discharge rate for long battery life even if your golf cart’s power goes out
- A trusted brand in the battery industry and has been existing since the 1920s
- Comes with one of the longest charge-discharge rate of up to 750 cycles
- Built with deep-cycle cells that protects it from degradation
- Comes with two year warranty
- Premium quality construction for extensive durability
- Features cast-on strap, which enhances strength and electrical conductivity
- Built to mitigate vibration making it usable on bumpy terrains
- Comes with vent caps that makes it easy to maintain even for those without golf battery knowledge
- Comes as a deep-cycle battery that offers durability
- Exceptional performance with its impressive 750 cycle at 80% depth discharge
- Ensures more charges and an exceptional running time compared to its counterparts
- Extremely easy to use with a high-charge efficiency design
- High levels of versatility and easily compatible with most chargers
- Comes as a heavy-duty, technologically-advanced battery that ensures sturdiness
- Requires zero maintenance which sets it apart from competitors
- Features an absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Technology which mitigates means there are no free liquids inside
- Minimal heat generation, quick charge, and slow discharge enhances convenience
5 Best Golf Cart Batteries in 2021
1. Universal Power Group (UPG) UB12350
Check latest price
Pros
- It fits into most golf carts
- Handle long cart trips and bumpy terrain
- Safe to handle in any position
- Maintenance-free
Cons
- The battery should not be discharged below 50% as the manufacturer suggests.
Description
Product specifications:
- Cycle life: 600
- Voltage: 12V
- Dimensions: 7.68 inches x 5.16 inches x 7.13 inches
- Weight: 23.15 lbs
- Capacity (Ah): 35
- Terminal: L1
The UPG UB12350, manufactured by the Universal Power Group (UPG) is a powerful, state-of-the-art 12 volt 35ah sealed AGM battery that is non-corrosive and with the electrolyte fixed in a fiberglass mat.
It is designed with an ABS Plastic shell that is heavy-duty making it shatter-proof.
This is an important feature to consider since your golf cart will sometimes traverse uneven terrains. Its slow discharge rate makes it possible for the battery to remain charged even if your golf cart’s power goes out. It is also spill-proof, allowing safe operation in any position.
What we particularly liked about this battery is its resistance to vibration and its small body.
Verdict
The Universal Power Group (UPG) UB12350 Golf Cart Battery is one of the best in the market right now. It comes with top-quality construction for durability and a design that makes it fit into most golf carts.
You get a battery that easily handles long cart trips and bumpy terrain and maintenance free. The battery is safe to handle in any position and is resistant to vibration because of its small body. If you are looking for a golf cart battery that combines all the ideal features and offers decent value for money, this is a product you might want to consider.
No products found.
No products found.No products found.Pros
- It can handle 750 charges
- It is a trusted brand in the golf cart industry
- It has a 2-year warranty for full replacement
- It is the cheapest cost amp-per-hour battery on the market
Cons
- Although it is expensive, you will save in the long-run
- It is high maintenance (needs watering and equalizing charges)
- It is on the heavy side (62 lbs)
Description
Product specifications:
- Cycle life: 750 cycles
- Voltage: 6V
- Dimensions: 10.3 inches x 7.1 inches x 10.8 inches
- Weight: 62 lbs
- Capacity (Ah): 225
A trusted brand in the battery industry and has been existing since the 1920s. The Trojan brand appeals to the golf enthusiasts because of its dependability and its life cycle.
The Trojan T-105 6-volt battery, in particular, has one of the longest charge-discharge rate of up to 750 cycles. Its deep-cycle cells protect it from degradation. That is why so many golf buggies are equipped with the Trojan T-105 battery.
The selling point of this battery for me is the manufacturer’s length of warranty for full replacement. This means that the brand trusts its product that it would be willing to guarantee of up to 2 years of replacement. In turn, you should trust the brand, too.
You can never go wrong with the Trojan T-105.
Verdict
The Trojan T-105 Golf cart battery is one of the best and most popular golf cart batteries on the market. It comes from a renowned manufacturer with two-year warranty on all their batteries.
You get a battery that conveniently handles up to 750 charges and deep-cycle cells that protects it from degradation. If you are on a budget, looking for a top-quality golf battery that offers excellent value for money, this is it.
3. Exide 6V Battery
Check latest price
Pros
- Easy to maintenance
- Superior vibration resistance
- Durability
- High quality
Cons
- Low cycle life
- It is on the heavy side (62 lbs)
Description
Product specifications:
- Cycle life: 600 cycles
- Voltage: 6V
- Dimensions: 10.38 inches x 7.19 inches x 11.44 inches
- Weight: 62 lbs
- Capacity (Ah): 200
When it comes to durability, the Exide Battery probably takes home the crown. However, due to its low cycle of 600 compared to its counterparts, the Exide Battery is still hard to market.
But when we talk about quality, this battery does not disappoint. Its cast-on strap feature enhances strength and electrical conductivity making it vibration resistance.
This is an essential feature for a golf cart given that it travels on bumpy terrains.
What separates this battery from the rest is its twist and release vent caps that makes it easy to maintain even for those who are not technically knowledgeable on batteries.
Verdict
The Exide 6V Battery is one of the best golf batteries for durability. You get a battery that is extremely easy to maintain, impressively durable and capable of resisting superior vibration.
It is a long-lasting 6V battery with 600 cycles, measuring 10.38 inches x 7.19 inches x 11.44 inches, and weighing 62 pounds for portability and space economy. If you are looking for a durable battery with the longest battery life, this is it.
4. Lifeline Marine AGM Battery
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Pros
- Easy to use
- High charge efficiency design
- Compatible with most chargers available
- High-cycle life (750 cycles)
Cons
- Heavy (67 lbs)
Description
Product specifications:
- Cycle life: 750 cycles
- Voltage: 6V
- Dimensions: 10.28 inches x 7.06 inches x 9.92 inches
- Weight: 66 lbs
- Capacity (Ah): 220
The Lifeline Marine AGM BAttery is a true deep-cycle battery that offers durability like no other for your golf carts.
Compared to the other 6V Golf cart batteries in the market, the Lifeline Marine AGM Battery also promises an outstanding performance with its impressive 750 cycle at 80% depth discharge.
This battery will ensure more charges and an exceptional running time compared to its counterparts.
The most notable feature of this battery is its ease of use. It has a high-charge efficiency design, and it is easily compatible with most chargers that are currently available in the market.
Verdict
The Lifeline Marine AGM Battery is one of the few golf batteries that is easily compatible with most chargers and fits in most golf carts on the market. You get a battery that is extremely easy to use and comes with a high-charge efficiency design for efficiency.
It offers up to 750 cycles and ensures more charges and an exceptional running time compared to its counterparts. If you are looking for a golf battery that gives you high levels of versatility and convenience, this is a product you might want to consider.
5. Amstron GC2 Battery
Check latest price
Pros
- AGM Technology
- Long cycle life (750 cycles)
- Maintenance-free
- Quick charging
- No freezing concern during cold weather
Cons
- Heavy (68 lbs)
- Pricey
Description
Product specifications:
- Cycle life: 750 cycles
- Voltage: 6V
- Dimensions: 10.2 inches x 7.1 inches x 10.8 inches
- Weight: 68 lbs
- Capacity (Ah): 210
The Amstron GC2 Battery is a heavy-duty, technologically-advanced battery that ensures sturdiness for your golf carts.
Its boast of being maintenance free sets itself apart from competitors. The brand promises a long backup at a very minimal cost!
It is equipped with an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Technology which means that there are no free liquids inside of the battery.
What amazes us with this battery, as mentioned, is its AGM technology.
This means that there is minimal heat generation during cycles, it quickly charges, discharges at a slow and steady phase, and there is no freezing concern during cold weather.
Verdict
The Amstron GC2 Battery is one of the best high-end golf batteries out there. You get a battery with a cycle life of up to 750 cycles for long use on the course.
It is a maintenance-free battery with AGM Technology that boosts usability and quick-charge and slow-discharge capability. If you are looking for a premium golf battery with ideal features, this is a product worth considering.
Conclusion and Editors Choice
There you go!
Choosing a battery can be a very tedious task but considering all these, we have chosen the UPG U1 Battery as our clear winner! With its shatter-proof, spill-proof, and corrosion-proof features, you are more likely to get the most out of your buck.
Considering as well that it is a 12-volt battery, you will only need lesser number regardless if your golf cart is running on a 36-volt or 48-volt operating system.
In buying your golf cart battery, always keep in mind that while it can be costly, investing in your golf cart battery will ensure an interrupted and better golf experience.
So the next time you will be playing golf, the golf cart will be the least of your worries. All you have to worry about now is how to ace that hole!