For many years, 6-volt batteries were standard. Now, more people are choosing 12-volt golf cart batteries. Do you know why?

There are many reasons for this, which I will explain in detail in this article.

But the point is, are golf cart batteries 12 volt the best choice for you? 

I am asking you this because you might know that Golf carts rely on motorized drive trains to move. If you make any mistake, this will really affect your cart a lot.

So, we have two points to discuss today. One is why people are choosing 12-volt over 6-volt batteries and which one you should choose.

Let’s get to know the answer one by one after a short definition of 12 volt golf cart batteries.

What Is a 12-Volt Golf Cart Battery?

As you can see, we are talking about a 12-volt golf cart battery today. Let me explain everything in an extremely simple way.

I am not going to give you a robotic definition here because you should definitely know what a battery is and what it does.

Now, talking about golf batteries, these are a special type of deep-cycle battery designed to handle the constant energy draw and frequent recharging needed for golf carts.

These batteries are built to last longer than regular car batteries and can normally withstand deep discharges.

Golf cart batteries typically come in 6, 8, or 12-volt sizes. Higher voltage means that your cart can travel farther on a single charge and provide more power to the motor.

However, these can be connected in a series to meet the required voltage for your cart. This means they’re strong enough to keep your cart moving for long periods.

Can You Use Regular 12-volt Batteries In a Golf Cart?

Those who were asking me why I am doing 12-volt, 12-volt, and 12-volt here, it’s time to answer them and make you understand WHY.

You will be surprised to know that the batteries we use in golf carts are different than normal batteries. When you shop for it, you have to say “Golf Cart Battery” specifically.

Most golf carts use a setup of either six 6-volt batteries, four 12-volt batteries, or a single lithium-ion battery pack in newer models.

Some of you who are thinking of using a regular battery should really need to think twice. Even if you can use regular 12-volt batteries, it is not recommended at all.

If you do, you will face:

Shorter Battery Lifespan: Regular 12-volt batteries aren’t built for deep cycling, which golf carts require. I told you about this in the definition section. This means they won’t last as long as your cart-specific batteries would.

Inconsistent Power Problem: Standard 12-volt batteries aren’t designed to handle the continuous draw of power needed for a golf cart. I am again saying “Continuous.” That is the main reason you shouldn’t use a regular battery or a 12-volt car battery instead of a golf cart battery.

Less Or Much Damage: Regular batteries (whatever the voltage you choose) could damage your motor and other electrical components over time. I don’t think you would like to face such things.

Safety Risks: If you use the wrong type of battery, it can increase the risk of malfunction or even fire due to poor quality and mismatched voltage output. Sooner or later, you may have to pay for it a bigger damage.

These are just a few points, but trust me, there are many more reasons why no one will recommend that you use a regular battery or car battery in your golf cart.

So, to help you understand the differences more clearly, I have included another section below.

Golf Cart Batteries 12-Volt Vs. Other Battery Options

Above, I was being too much complied. I know, and sorry about that. Finally, I have figured out a way to make you understand the differences in a simple way. So, what I did was prepare a comparison table.

The table below will show how this different voltage power makes the most difference:

That’s it, guys. You now know all the differences between a 6-volt, 8-volt, and a 12-volt golf battery. But still, we are missing one thing. Remember, I told you I would discuss which golf cart battery you should use. Here it’s the time. Let me discuss it now.

Are Golf Cart Batteries 12 Volt the Right Choice for You

Those who are still in doubt and asking, can I use 12 volt batteries in my golf cart? Please go through the table once again. 

Now, tell me what your golf cart system configuration is. I have clearly mentioned using 12-volt if the golf cart has 48V.

If you ask me what about others. Well, let’s then look at the stats. The Golf Cart Battery market is projected to grow from USD 0.19 billion in 2024 to USD 0.27 billion by 2032. People will prefer 12-volt batteries, and it’s just a matter of time.

Forget about the stats. Consider these points below and then decide whether it is right for you or not:

Compatibility: Consider compatibility first. If 12-volt batteries are compatible with your golf cart system, go for them.

Performance: Look, I know 12-volt batteries perform better than a few others in the market. So, performance-wise, 12-volt gets another vote, right?

Weight and Space: The average weight of a 12-volt battery is 13.6kg to 22.7kg. On the other hand, a 6-volt battery can weigh between 60-70 pounds. Can you realize the difference?

Maintenance: Understand the upkeep requirements and lifespan of 12-volt batteries. However, I agree that maintaining such golf batteries is not easy, no matter what voltage they are.

Cost: The last point you need to consider here is the price. Think of which one is going to be costly for you. I am not saying go for the cheap, but try also to consider the benefits that come with your price.

Final Thoughts

Now, I really think I deserve some praise and positive comments. Well, that’s because you can see the effort I put into writing the whole content.

Whatever you say, I am now more confident about covering a few more topics like 12 volt battery cable golf cart or how to charge golf cart batteries with a 12-volt charger. 

So, make sure you let me know what I should write about next.

Also, don’t forget to read more battery-related guides from here: LFPBattery.