To a non-golfer, all golf carts and golf clubs may look the same. But an experienced sportsman knows the importance of choosing superior equipment. There are drivers, putters, irons, woods, and other golf clubs. Each has a specific strength and serves a different purpose. That's why a discerning golfer won't buy any old set of golf clubs. And the same is true for golf cart owners choosing the best batteries for their golf carts!
When it comes to golf cart batteries there are a few different types, each with their list of strengths and weaknesses. Like golf clubs, there are varying levels of quality when it comes to golf cart batteries. Some may only last a season while others may outlive the golf cart itself. Deep cycle flooded batteries are a common option for golf carts, offering a balance of affordability and performance.
But what type of deep cycle battery will last the longest, charge the quickest, and make your drive to the range as smooth as possible? Discerning customers want to know. Keep reading to learn more and discover which battery type wins the title “Best Battery for Golf Carts”!
Or if you're looking to browse Ionic lithium golf cart batteries:
The Three Most Common Choices
Potential buyers will notice three types of golf cart batteries most often available: lead acid (including gel batteries), AGM, and lithium LiFePO4 batteries. One of these battery types leads the pack in quality, long-term cost, and performance. Here's a little information about each:
Lead acid has been around for over a century and is the most common type of deep-cycle battery. They’re also the most affordable. These batteries get power from a chemical reaction between lead and sulfuric acid. They’re often called “wet” batteries because of their water and acid mixture. One of the downsides of lead acid is the need to refill and monitor the battery. Without careful maintenance, the acid will corrode. Not to mention, their constant need for replacement.
AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries are a variation of lead acid batteries and are generally an improvement over traditional lead acid batteries. They have a self-contained system that eliminates the need to refill the water. They are, however, sensitive to overcharging and need to be carefully monitored to avoid issues or a dead battery.
Lithium LiFePO4 GC2 batteries (not to be confused with lithium ion batteries*) are the “new kid on the block.” They were invented in the mid 90's and are made of lithium iron phosphate. This combination creates the best battery, more efficient than both types in several ways. They typically last 4-6x longer than lead acid batteries and have a built-in battery monitoring system (BMS) that protects batteries from overcharging and any potential voltage issues. These high-quality batteries can easily last 10+ years, offer consistent performance, and are maintenance-free. They also provide more power, better reliability, and less weight than lead-acid batteries.
*Note: Lithium-ion batteries store more energy for their size, making them great for compact applications like phones, but they degrade faster and have a higher risk of overheating. LiFePO4 batteries are safer, last much longer, and handle extreme temperatures better.
Lithium: The Best Golf Cart Battery?
There are several factors to consider when determining the most ideal golf cart batteries. The performance of golf cart batteries can vary significantly depending on the specific characteristics of golf courses, such as elevation changes and terrain. But focusing on controllables, a potential buyer will want to look at performance, longevity, ease of use, long-term value, and more. Let's get started!
Performance
Lithium batteries offer more power than lead acid and AGM from the get-go. Our 48v LiFePO4 battery and 36v battery weigh substantially less than their lead-acid counterpart. Roughly 50% less. (You can use our 36V batteries for 72V systems as well, by the way.) This means higher speeds and more power to handle hills and rough terrain. Another perk is that they don't suffer from voltage sag like their lead-based rivals. They won’t start petering out right when you need more power.
One of the reasons we think lithium batteries are the best batteries on the market for golf carts is because they don't lose strength as they lose charge. Lead acid puts out less power once it hits about 50% of the charge. Not so with lithium! They will keep going at full strength all day long.
Longevity
Here's another category where lithium LiFePO4 batteries outshine the competition! Lead acid batteries gradually lose their maximum capacity with time and use. Several months later, your lead battery’s maximum charge will only be a portion of what it was earlier. Lithium batteries do not have this problem.
Lead also lags behind lithium in discharging when not in use. Lead batteries tend to lose about 30% of their charge per month. With lithium, it's only 2%! Lithium GC2 batteries are also the best batteries in the long run. Lead acid batteries generally last about 400 cycles or recharges. Many rate AGM batteries at 500 cycles. In contrast, lithium lasts around 5,000 partial cycles. The difference is staggering.
Need a lithium battery for your lawn mower instead? Go here.
Ease Of Use
Lithium batteries are also the best because they require no maintenance, and you can just plug ‘em in and play. With standard lead acid batteries, you need to consistently add water or they'll start corroding. Corrosion harms the battery and can also be a hassle to clean up. It's also possible to over-water a lead acid battery.
AGM batteries avoid this problem by using a self-contained system. Like the standard lead batteries, though, they weigh a lot. Lithium batteries, by contrast, weigh around 50% less than lead-based ones. This makes them much easier to handle and gives the golf cart more capacity for passengers and gear.
Standard batteries don't provide a way to check their power levels. The only indicators are the tell-tale signs like lower performance. Our lithium batteries solve that problem. A Bluetooth connection lets you see how much juice you have left via your smartphone. It also helps you see voltage, current, discharge, and other important factors. Shorter recharge times also make lithium batteries the best golf cart batteries available. They recharge 4x-6x faster than lead batteries!
Time is money, they say. And LiFePO4 batteries give you back that valuable time. If you're looking for LiFePO4 golf cart batteries, you can purchase them at our shop online, or at a local outlet near you.
Long-Term Value
Speaking of money, the only way lead acid or AGM can seem to edge out lithium is the price tag. But that's only the initial cost. Lead acid and AGM batteries are cheaper up front, but again, they only last around 400-500 partial cycles compared to lithium's 5,000. With their shorter lifespan and higher regular maintenance, they'll likely cost much more in the long run.
Despite a higher initial price, lithium batteries make up the cost over the months (and even years!) of use you’ll gain. Ready to hit the links with lithium? Let our 48V or 36V LiFePO4 batteries power your golf cart adventures. We only use Grade A cells and our batteries have a sophisticated battery management system. Experience the driving range on another level; with the right battery!
How long does a golf cart battery last? Find out here!
