What's the Best Battery for Golf Carts?

Every golfer knows the difference the right equipment makes on the course. Just as you wouldn't play with just any set of clubs, choosing the right battery for your golf cart matters just as much. Whether you're playing a quick nine holes or a full round, the last thing you want is your cart losing power mid-game.

But with different battery types available today, which one truly deserves the title of "best golf cart battery"? Let's tee off with everything you need to know to make the right choice for your golf buggy.

What Type of Battery is in a Golf Buggy?

Golf carts typically use two types of batteries: lead-acid and lithium (LiFePO4).

Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are the most common and affordable option for golf carts. They come in two variants: flooded and sealed.

Flooded lead-acid batteries require regular maintenance, like checking water levels, while sealed lead-acid batteries like AGM are maintenance-free.

While they are reliable and cost-effective, they are heavier and tend to last only 2-3 years before needing replacement, which makes them less efficient in the long term compared to lithium batteries.

Lithium Batteries (LiFePO4)

Lithium batteries, specifically LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries, are a superior option for golf carts.

Most modern golf buggies use LiFePO4 batteries due to their enhanced safety, durability, and longevity.

These batteries are lighter, maintenance-free, and can last up to 10+ years — five times longer than lead-acid batteries.

Although the initial cost is higher, the long-term savings in maintenance and replacements make LiFePO4 lithium golf cart batteries an excellent investment for many golfers.

Why Lithium is the Best Golf Cart Battery?

When it comes to choosing the best battery for your golf cart, lithium (LiFePO4) batteries outperform lead-acid batteries in nearly every aspect, including performance, lifespan, charging, weight, maintenance, and efficiency. Here are the details:

Steady Performance

LiFePO4 lithium batteries provide consistent voltage throughout an entire round and charge cycle, unlike lead-acid batteries, which tend to lose voltage as they discharge.

This means that even as a lithium battery’s charge level decreases, the LiFePO4 batteries continue to deliver reliable, steady performance even when navigating a hilly course.

Longer Lifespan

One of the biggest advantages of LiFePO4 batteries is their longevity. While lead-acid batteries typically last 2 to 3 years, LiFePO4 lithium batteries's lifespan can last over 10 years at 100% DOD like Redodo's 48V 100Ah lithium golf cart batteries.

Greater Saving

Lithium batteries last much longer than lead-acid batteries, meaning fewer replacements and significant savings over time. For example, if you were to replace a lead-acid golf buggy battery every 2-3 years, each replacement might cost around $400 to $600. Over 10 years, you could spend $2,000 to $2,400. In contrast, a lithium golf cart battery typically costs between $1,000 to $1,500 upfront and can last up to 10 years, saving you hundreds in the long run.

Faster Charging Times

Charging LiFePO4 batteries is much faster than lead-acid batteries', typically taking only 3 to 5 hours to fully charge, compared to 8 to 12 hours for lead-acid. This means you don’t have to worry about long downtimes.

After a game round, you can recharge your lithium battery in just a few hours and be ready for another round in the afternoon, whereas a lead-acid battery might require overnight charging.

Lighter Weight

Lithium batteries are up to 77% lighter than lead-acid batteries. For example, Redodo 48V 100Ah lithium golf cart battery weighs just 82.3 lbs, while a 48V lead-acid battery pack weighs about 360 lbs with the same capacity.

This significant weight reduction makes your golf buggy easier to drive, reduces motor strain, and provides a longer overall range.

Less Maintenance

Lithium batteries require minimal maintenance compared to lead-acid batteries. There’s no need to check water levels or clean corrosion from terminals, have less wirings, and they don’t emit harmful gases during charging. This makes it easier to maintain and reduces the risk of issues.

How Do I Know if My Golf Cart Battery Needs Replacing?

There are a few key signs that indicate your golf cart battery may need replacing:

• Decreased Range: If your golf cart isn’t lasting as long on a full charge or drains rapidly, it may be a sign that the battery’s capacity is declining.
• Slow Charging: If your battery takes longer than usual to charge, it could indicate wear or damage.
• Frequent Voltage Drops: If your cart struggles to maintain power on inclines or under load, the battery may lose its ability to hold a charge effectively.
• Physical Damage: Leaking, bulging, or corrosion around the terminals are clear signs of battery deterioration.

Upgrade your lead-acid golf cart battery to lithium, and enjoy a lighter, smoother ride experience with confidence.

Power Your Golf Cart with Redodo's 48V Lithium Batteries

Considering updating your golf cart? The LiFePO4 batteries would be your no wonder choice.

Redodo is dedicated to providing reliable 48V LiFePO4 golf cart batteries for you.

With a remarkable 5120Wh energy capacity, the Redodo 48V 100Ah golf cart battery delivers a range of 40–47 miles on a full charge, and can be fully recharged in just 2 hours.

They also feature smart Bluetooth monitoring, you can easily track the battery’s charge level, voltage, current, temperature and more in real time.

These top-grade lithium golf cart batteries are compatible with popular golf cart brands like Club Car, EZGO, ICON, Yamaha, and street-legal vehicles like LSVs, ATVs, and UTVs. You can rest assured that they are fully suitable for your golf cart.

Redodo 48V 100Ah Lithium Golf Cart Bluetooth Battery $999.99 Shop Now

FAQs about Lithium Golf Cart Batteries

Can I put 4 12-volt batteries in a 36-volt golf cart?

No, a 36-volt golf cart requires three 12-volt batteries. Installing four 12-volt batteries would result in 48 volts, which is suitable for a 48-volt cart, which may damage the cart's electrical system.

Are golf cart batteries 6V or 12V?

Golf carts can use either 6V or 12V batteries in series to increase the voltage depending on the cart's voltage system. A 36-volt golf cart typically uses six 6V batteries, while a 48-volt system usually uses four 12V batteries or six 8V batteries.

What are the disadvantages of lithium golf cart batteries?

The main disadvantage of lithium golf cart batteries is their higher initial cost compared to lead-acid batteries. However, they offer longer lifespans and lower maintenance requirements, making them a more cost-effective choice in the long term.

Read More:

Guide to LiFePO4 Lithium Battery Voltage Charts

How to Store LiFePO4 Batteries?

Can I Charge LiFePO4 Battery with a Normal Charger?

Difference Between 48V and 51.2V Golf Cart Batteries

LiFePO4 vs. Lithium-Ion: Choose the Right Battery for Your Needs