Foldable electric lawn mower. The 7 Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers of 2023, According To Testing

The 7 Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers of 2023, According To Testing

We put these battery-powered lawn mowers to the test to see which left our lawns looking fresh.

Andrea Wurzburger has been a writer for nearly a decade, with experience writing for publications like HerCampus.com, REDBOOK Magazine, VH1.com, and People.com. As a features writer at People.com, she wrote across verticals about everything from gift guides to buzzy pop culture galleries.

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics that range from film and beauty to science and the automobile industry. Her plant biology degree has a FOCUS on sustainable agriculture, and she’s an expert on growing your own food, environmental sciences, and all topics relating to houseplants.

In This Article

Whether you’re looking to save money on fuel or do your small part to save the environment, battery-powered lawn mowers are an easy way to do so without sacrificing function. Battery-powered mowers are cordless, don’t use gasoline, and are typically best for small to medium-sized yards.

There are a few important factors to consider when looking for the best battery-powered lawn mower, according to Nicole Durden, senior merchant of outdoor power at The Home Depot.

“Be mindful of the size of your yard,” she advises, since over half an acre will require more battery power. “Consider the terrain and the drive system on the mower. Customers with steep or hilly yards should consider a self-propelled mower.”

Best Self-Propelled Push Mower

EGO Power Select Cut 56-Volt 21-Inch Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower

We’ve chosen the Ego Power LM2101SP Cordless Lawn Mower as the best self-propelled push lawn mower because it is easy to use, thanks to a powerful self-propel feature that makes it perfect for small- to medium-sized yards.

Self-propelled mowers use the motor to propel the mower forward, which means it takes less of an effort on the user’s part to cut the grass. During our testing, we noted that it may be ideal for those with limited strength or mobility since it doesn’t require as much muscle use as other push mowers.

It has six different height settings for lawn mower blades, which range from 1.5 inches to 4 inches. While testing, we found that it was simple to adjust the cutting height, the propelling speed, and the height of the handle with just one hand. It comes with LED lights, so if you are looking to beat the heat and mow your lawn before the sun rises or as it is setting, you will still be able to see what you’re cutting.

This lawn mower offers 60 minutes of run time on a single charge with a 56 volt 7.5Ah ARC lithium battery. This means that it is best suited for a small to medium-sized yard of 0.5 acres.

This unit made our list not only for its cutting capabilities, but also its disposal option. It offers three options for use: mulching, side discharge, or bagging. Although we loved having options for disposal, we found that attaching the bag for disposal was not an easy task on our own as it would sometimes pop off on one side as we pulled it tight to attach to the other—we think having an extra set of hands could be beneficial.

One feature we loved was this mower’s storage capability. Whereas some mowers can take up quite a bit of space in your garage or outdoor shed, the Ego Power Mower can fold in order to be stored away.

Price at time of publish: 700

Product Details: Run Time: 60 minutes | Height Adjustments: Six | Recommended Yard Size: 0.5 acres | Deck Width: 21 inches

Best Budget

Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Electric Push Lawn Mower

The Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower is our pick for the best battery-powered lawn mower for those on a budget. It has five height settings, mulching, and rear bagging capabilities.

For a push mower, it’s lightweight at 37.5 pounds—as light as our pick for best lightweight mower. Some lawn mowers on this list weigh as much as 66 pounds.

With this mower, even though you have to do the work of pushing it around the yard, it makes the task much less difficult. It also has five height adjustments to choose from, this lawn mower can cut from 1.25 inches to 3.375 inches.

When it comes to mowing, it’s important to have a plan when it comes to handling your clippings, and this lawn mower offers options for both mulching and rear bagging. It even comes with a collection bag, should you choose to use it.

Keep in mind that this battery-powered lawn mower only has 45 minutes of run time on a full charge. Its 16-inch deck width also means that you clip less grass per pass, so it could take longer to mow your yard.

If you don’t have a small yard, this could present a problem, as you’ll have to pause to recharge. The good news is, the battery reaches full power after two hours.

Price at time of publish: 255

Product Details: Run Time: 45 minutes | Height Adjustments: Five | Recommended Yard Size: Up to 0.33 acres | Deck Width: 16 inches

Best Lightweight

BlackDecker 40V Max 16 inch Cordless Lawn Mower

We chose the BlackDecker Cordless Lawn Mower because it is affordable, and it is only 38 pounds, which makes it easy to maneuver around your yard. The mower’s technology also makes it simple to use as it determines the height of your grass and adjusts accordingly to increase power and preserve battery life.

Because it’s lightweight, it is also a pretty compact model, with handles that fold down to make storage simpler. Additionally, this model has carrying handles that make moving it easy. It’s the best battery-powered lawn mower for people who need a mower that is lightweight and convenient to carry.

This battery-powered lawn mower has plenty of practical features as well, and includes six cutting heights that range from 1 inch to 3 inches, and the single lever height adjustment is easy to use.

It also has a 9.5 gallon grass bag, which is attached to the back of the mower. The bag is made of soft fabric with a hard top, and it’s simple to check its capacity with a simple tap on the soft fabric.

With a 16-inch deck, plus a 30-minute run time, it can mow yards up to 0.125 acres big. If you have a yard larger than this, you’ll find yourself either switching out batteries (it does come with two) or stopping to recharge them.

Price at time of publish: 330

Product Details: Run Time: 30 minutes | Height Adjustments: Six | Recommended Yard Size: 0.125 acres | Deck Width: 16 inches

Best Push Mower

Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21-Inch Dual-Blade Self-Propelled Mower

The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21-Inch Mower is our choice for best battery-powered push mower because it is intuitive to use with self-propelled technology that makes it possible to intuitively adjust the speed, plus it has options for clipping disposal.

We found that it took a bit to get used to maneuvering this lawn mower over uneven ground, as we needed to change the blade height in order to keep it from getting stuck. Otherwise, it was extremely easy to use, even on grass that was 6 inches high. The yard tested typically takes 45 minutes to mow, and this battery-powered lawn mower managed to get it done in 20 minutes.

We were able to use the mower three times, each round ranging from 10 to 15 minutes, without having to charge the battery, which holds a charge for up to 70 minutes. The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21-Inch Mower uses two 6.0Ah batteries, which are powerful and carry a longer charge than your average lawn mower battery, which can range from 45 to 60 minutes of run time.

This lawn mower has the option of disposing of clippings via mulching, bagging, or side-discharging, which we loved while testing because it’s possible to decide which type of disposal based on each user’s unique needs. When we mowed the test lawn for the first time, we found that we had to empty the bag quite a bit, due to the height of the grass, even though it was only 0.05 acres.

We appreciated that this mower was quiet compared to other lawn mowers we tested. During testing, we noticed that it didn’t sound much louder than a noise machine. We also loved that this mower folds up so that it can be stored vertically, leaving floor space free in a garage or shed.

Price at time of publish: 749

Product Details: Run Time: 70 minutes | Height Adjustments: Seven | Recommended Yard Size: 0.5 to 1 acre | Deck Width: 22 inches

Best Riding

Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-Inch Battery Electric Cordless Zero Turn Riding Mower

If you’re looking to do less manual labor while tending to your lawn, a ride-on mower may be the best battery-powered mower for you, like the Ryobi Electric Ride-On Mower. This model can mow a large yard without needing to be recharged, and it has cruise control.

During testing, we found that this battery-powered ride-on lawn mower was intuitive to use and easy to operate with the use of a single joystick. This mower has three travel speeds and three blade speeds, which are able to be changed with push button controls. It also has an LCD screen that displays battery life and run time (so that you’re never surprised that it’s time to recharge).

This mower comes with two 80V and two 40V batteries that make it possible to mow 3 acres per charge, and the batteries can recharge fully in two and a half hours. If this mower is getting low on battery while in use, there’s no need to worry: When the battery drops below 35%, the mower automatically begins to preserve battery so that it can be driven back to wherever the extra batteries are being stored or charged.

We love that this ride-on mower is powerful, with the equivalent power of 31 horsepower, and 12 different cutting settings, ranging from 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches. Even with all those settings, there is also comfort in mind: the seat has premium seat suspension, which minimizes the feel of rough terrain. It also has cup holders, USB ports, and storage compartments. The option to mulch or side discharge clippings was also a plus.

As is the case with most ride-on mowers, comfort and convenience comes at a premium. However, if you have a large yard and are looking to keep it looking good while keeping environmentally friendly, it’s a worthy investment.

Price at time of publish: 5,999

Product Details: Run Time: 2.5 hours | Height Adjustments: 12 | Recommended Yard Size: 2 to 4 acres | Deck Width: 42 inches

Best for Small Yards

Makita 36-Volt Lithium-Ion Push Lawn Mower

Our pick for best battery-powered lawn mower for small yards is the Makita Brushless Lawn Mower.

The Makita comes with four batteries, which power the mower for long enough to cut up to 0.33 acres of land in 43 minutes or less. It runs on two of those batteries at a time. Its brushless motor also allows you to cut grass faster at 2,500 to 3,300 rotations per minute.

The batteries are equipped with battery overload, overheat, and over-discharge protection, which help to extend the battery life by shutting it down before damage can occur.

Not looking to disturb your neighbors when you get up early to mow the lawn? The Makita Brushless Lawn Mower has a quiet mode that reduces noise by providing constant speed control.

With a single-lever, you can adjust the height of the mower to 10 different heights. The deck width of this mower is 19 inches, so it can cut up to 19 inches across of grass per pass of the lawn mower.

When it comes to your grass clippings, this lawn mower has a disposal bag that has a 16-gallon capacity—this means there isn’t the option for mulching or side-disposal.

Price at time of publish: 399

Product Details: Run Time: 43 minutes | Height Adjustments: 10 | Recommended Yard Size: 0.33 acres | Deck Width: 19 inches

Best with Storage

Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-Inch Electric Cordless Riding Lawn Tractor

• We found that, because it does not have power steering, it takes some muscle to turn while going slowly.

After testing, we determined that the best battery-powered lawn mower with storage is the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Riding Lawn Tractor because it has two separate compartments. It’s great for someone who loves to landscape, as you can get more done than just mowing. We loved the large back storage area in particular, noting that it would make it easy to load up some bags of mulch to tote around your property.

When it came to actually mowing the lawn, we found that the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Riding Lawn Tractor was easy to maneuver, and we liked that it is able to change speeds easily to maneuver around obstacles, but can instantly speed up once past them.

It handled the lawn with ease, mowing over sticks, leaves, and more. We even took the lawn mower out in wet conditions, and it managed to mow grass without a problem. When the blades are on, it is still less noisy than a gas mower.

This mower has 13 height adjustments ranging from 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches, and we found that adjusting the height was simple with the use of a large lever on the side of the mower. We liked that we could get a close cut, even in wet conditions.

This ride-on lawn mower is able to side-discharge and mulch clippings, and is also capable of bagging. We only tested the side discharge and mulching capabilities, as the bagger is sold separately.

This mower also comes with a few safety features. It beeps while in reverse, as well as if the user hops off the seat while the mower is turned on. It also turns off the mowing deck while in reverse. While it does have headlights, we found that they are very small, and that we wouldn’t use them to mow in the dark.

Keep in mind that there is no power steering, and we found that we needed to use quite a bit of force when turning at a slow speed.

Price at time of publish: 5,000

Product Details: Run Time: 2.5 hours | Height Adjustments: 13 | Recommended Yard Size: 3 acres | Deck Width: 42 inches

The Bottom Line

Overall, when looking for the best battery-powered lawn mower, you should consider the size of your yard, whether or not you’ll need more than one battery, and whether you want a push, self-propelled, or ride-on mower.

After testing, we chose the Ryobi Electric Ride-On Mower as the best ride-on mower because it is easy to use and can mow up to 3 acres in a single charge, making it a great choice for a large yard. Our pick for best push mower was from the same brand: the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21 in. Self-Propelled Mower because it has an impressive 70 minutes of runtime on a single charge plus multiple options for clipping disposal.

Our Testing Process

In order to find the best battery-powered lawn mowers, we tested 15 mowers, narrowing down our results to determine which of these battery-powered favorites made our list. First, we recorded how long it took to assemble each mower straight out of the box.

Then, we mowed our lawns with each mower three times, noting the date, weather conditions, how much we cut off the grass in inches, how much surface area we were mowing in acres, and how long it took for us to mow that area.

As we used each mower, we considered many factors. We began with the ease of starting and powering the mower, plus the ease of adjusting the seat (if a ride-on mower) or heights for comfort, and whether or not the controls were user friendly.

With the riding mowers, we also took note of how easy it was to adjust our speed, as well as how easy it was to switch between cutting heights and how many options there were. We also evaluated how each mower compared to those that we previously owned or tried.

One of the most important aspects of a battery-powered lawn mower is its power source. We determined how many batteries came with the mower, how long they took to charge, and how long that battery lasted before we had to swap it or recharge it.

We also tested each mower’s ease of movement, observing how they performed when maneuvering around obstacles like trees, flowerbeds, and tough terrain like hills or inclines.

When it came to how well the mowers discharged the clippings, we noted if they discharged, collected debris in a bag, or mulched them. Some models performed more than one function, and if that was the case, we tested each type of discharge method, and how easy it was to insert or remove collection bags (if applicable). We also observed how much storage each model had and how they would eventually be stored away.

Finally, we tried each mower’s features. On the riding mowers, we tested their ignition cut-off switches, wheel weights, and headlights, or reflective surfaces. For push mowers, we tested the handle lever, back flap, and blade brake control. We also evaluated the cutting height options, plus various speeds of each mower. If possible, we even tested these lawn mowers on other lawns, to see how the experience differed depending on type of grass and terrain.

What to Know About Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers Before Shopping

Lawn Size

When shopping for the best battery-powered lawn mower for your home, it’s important to take into consideration the size of your lawn. Typically, the batteries in your mower will last 50 to 60 minutes on one charge, so you’ll want to make sure you can cover the distance of your lawn in that time.

Otherwise you’ll have to either change out the battery for a fully charged back-up, or charge your battery. If you have a yard that is more than an acre, it’s not ideal to have a battery-powered mower unless you have one that is made with large yards in mind.

Type

There are a few different types of battery-powered lawn mower to choose from: self-propelled mowers, push mowers, and ride-on mowers.

Self-propelled mowers are less work to operate than push mowers, with a design that uses the motor to propel the wheels, which makes it easy for you to simply guide the mower across your lawn.

In order to operate a push mower, you have to push it forward manually. The bad news: You’re the one doing the pushing. The good news: most models are compact and lighter weight (especially when compared to a gas model) so it isn’t too difficult.

Ride-on mowers require the least amount of work, but are also the most expensive models. They are a great choice for people with larger lawns, and you can simply sit up top and steer it where you want it to go.

Charge Time

Battery-powered mowers need to be charged before use, and those times will vary. We found that the time it takes to recharge varies anywhere from 1 to 2.5 hours. For example, our best riding mower pick, the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Zero Turn Riding Mower, takes 2.5 hours to reach full charge. If you don’t have the time to pause your mowing to recharge, consider choosing a mower with an extra battery so you can change them out and continue on.

Power

Battery-powered lawn mowers do not require chords to function. Instead, they work using rechargeable batteries that have an output of anywhere from 36 to 120 volts.

Run time is largely dependent on the voltage of your battery. The higher the battery, the longer your mower will run. The higher the voltage, the larger the battery, so it may affect your mower’s deck size.

The deck is the part of the lawn mower that covers the engine and blades of the mower. It is measured in square inches, and is determined by multiplying the width of the bottom part of your mower (between the wheels) by the length. They are also usually made with durable material so they stand up against debris and the elements.

The size of the deck determines how much grass the machine will cut in one pass, as it is generally large enough to cover the blade. Smaller mowers may only have one blade, while larger models have two or three for more efficient cutting.

Mowers with larger decks offer less mobility, so it’s beneficial to use a mower with a smaller deck and voltage for a yard with less acreage. The larger your yard, the bigger the deck you’ll require because you’ll need to cover more ground in the same amount of time.

Features

The best battery-powered lawn mowers come with plenty of features to make your lawn-cutting experiences as enjoyable as possible. For example, some come with mulchers that take the grass, chop it up, and leave them behind on the lawn. Others have a grass bag catcher that attaches to the mower on either the side or rear where the clippings drop straight into the bag.

Another feature that is important is the ability to adjust the blade height so that you can tailor your mower to your preferences. They usually range from 1 to 4 inches, and keep in mind that you should only remove the top third of the grass blades.

Adjustable handles are also important because they allow you to change the height in order to make them easier to mow.

Other Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers We Tested

Greenworks Pro 80V Max, 21-Inch Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower

We loved that the Greenworks Pro 80V Max, 21-Inch Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower lawn mower had a space-saving storage design that allowed it to be stowed away vertically. We also appreciated how long the battery lasted—about 50 minutes total.

While testing, we found that this lawn mower had difficulty maneuvering in tight spots, and its weight made it difficult to turn. When we switched it to the self-propel mode, we found that even the fastest setting did not measure up to others on this list.

Your Questions, Answered

How long do batteries last in a battery-powered mower?

This answer depends on the mower, but typically the batteries in a battery-powered mower last around 50 minutes to an hour if fully charged. This is why battery-powered mowers are recommended for small to medium-sized yards—if you can’t get your mowing done within an hour, you’ll need to hit pause, plug it in to charge (or replace it with another fully charged battery if you’ve got a spare), and wait to mow.

What is the best voltage for a battery-powered mower?

The batteries in battery-powered lawn mowers provide anywhere from 36 to 120 volts of power. The higher the voltage, the longer the run time. The longer the run time, the more time you have to cover some distance in your yard before that battery runs out.

Getting a battery with a high voltage may sound Smart because it allows for a longer run time. However, it also makes the machine heavier which can slow you down and can decrease the run time.

Which mower is better: battery-powered, electric, or gas?

Battery-powered, electric, and gas lawn mowers each have their own pros and cons. Gas powered mowers have the advantage when it comes to being able to fuel them right away. When an electric or battery-powered mower runs out of juice, it needs to be plugged in and charged.

“Battery-powered lawn mowers provide the power of traditional lawn mowers without the harmful emissions, which make them perfect for customers that value efficiency and sustainability,” Durden says.

Gas mowers also tend to require more maintenance in order to run smoothly, and you need to take care to store the fuel properly and even winterize your mower.

Battery-powered lawn mowers have the advantage of being “lightweight and quieter than gas-powered mowers, too,” says Durden. You just need to remember to keep the battery charged.

Additionally, whereas gas-powered mowers need to be pulled or cranked, and cared for to ensure they’re winterized, you just need to push to start a battery-powered or electric mower and go.

One downside to an electric mower is the range of motion—you may be limited by the cord. Battery powered and electric mowers are more equipped to handle small to medium-sized yards.

Who We Are

Andrea Wurzburger is a freelance writer for Better Homes Gardens. For this story, she spent several hours researching the best battery-powered lawn mowers by comparing product specifications. She also spoke with Nicole Durden, who is the senior merchant of outdoor power at The Home Depot.

The best cordless lawn mowers in 2023

Looking for the best cordless mower? Browse our experts’ pick, from budget to premium models.

A lawn mower may be one of the first purchases we make when getting a garden of our own, but that doesn’t mean finding a good quality one is easy. There are so many models and brands on the market to choose from, including corded electric and petrol, but as their range increases and fall, cordless, battery-powered models are an increasingly popular option.

Light and compact compared with traditional petrol models, cordless mowers are simple to use, easy to manoeuvre around the garden, and have none of the maintenance and servicing needs or costs of petrol lawnmowers. Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which charges up quickly and won’t lose power in storage, they’re also quiet and emission free.

To compare these cordless mowers against other types of mower, we’ve reviewed the best lawn mowers, robotic lawn mowers, electric lawn mowers and push mowers, too. And if your lawn needs a bit of attention, our experts have tested a range of the best manual and powered aerators and scarifiers.Keep edges looking neat with our pick of the best strimmers, the best garden shears and the best lawn edging, and if you’re thinking about somewhere to store your new mower, our comprehensive guide to choosing the best garden shed will be helpful.

For your next DIY project, have a look at the best cordless drills.

The best cordless mowers to buy at a glance

Cordless mowers. Buyer’s Guide video

Many thanks to Rosie Yeomans and Sparsholt College for their help in making this video.

Getting the best cordless lawn mower for you means ensuring it has the correct cutting width, range of cutting heights, and weight plus a battery run time that matches the size of your lawn. We’ve tested a range of cordless push mowers, putting them through their paces across a range of grass and terrains, to help you find the right one for your garden.

Each mower has a detailed list of pros and cons for clarity and has been rated according to set up and storage, handling, mowing and value for money. Every mower in our round up below has scored a minimum of four out of five stars, so you can buy with confidence.

In every review we award outstanding products our coveted Best Buy award. To see these and the others we recommend, browse our pick of the best cordless lawn mowers, below.

By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Best Buy cordless mowers

Husqvarna Aspire LC34-P4A

Our rating: 4.9 out of 5

• Quiet
• Cuts even long grass with ease
• Battery level visible while mowing
• Small and compact for easy storage
• Part of the POWER FOR ALL cordless range

Part of the new Husqvarna Aspire cordless range, which includes a hedge trimmer, pruner and leaf blower, this 34cm mower is powered by an 18V POWER FOR ALL ALLIANCE battery and charger. These are interchangeable with tools in other leading brands such as Flymo, Gardena and Bosch so if you also invest in tools in these ranges, you’ll only need to buy the bare tool and won’t have different batteries and chargers taking up space in the shed.Great for small gardens the mower comes ready to go, there’s no assembly or handles to attach, and it folds down to a compact size when you’re finished, with a telescopic handle that folds completely flat over the body of the mower. It can then be stood up against a wall or hung up, and even comes with a handy hook. The 30l grass bag also flattens down to take up very little room and can be hung on the mower. The Aspire is light, with a carry handle so that lifting it up steps or into other areas is easy and it has an adjustable handle to suit different height users. It’s comfortable and easy to manoeuvre around the garden and has just four cutting heights to choose from, ranging from 25-65mm and changed easily with a single lever on the body of the mower. It cuts grass quietly and smoothly and has an automatic boost that increases blade speed when you’re mowing in tougher, longer areas that works well. You can hear it kick in when you push the mower into longer grass and unlike other cordless mowers that can cut out, just carries on cutting the grass. While you mow the battery charge level is always clearly visible so you know how much battery you have left and when it needs charging. It comes with a two year warranty and we awarded it a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy in 2023 for ease of use.

Specs: Battery: charge time. 95 mins; run time. 500sqm. Cutting: width. 34cm; height. 25-65mm. Grass box. 30 litre.

Buy the Husqvarna Aspire C34-P4A cordless mower from Husqvarna and Sam Turner

Greenworks GDG24LM33

Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

• Easy to assemble and use
• Comfortable padded handle
• Choice of mulching or collecting clippings
• Interchangeable battery with Greenworks 24V family

Ideal for smaller gardens this sturdy, great value cordless mower is easy to put together, well thought out and simple to use. Thanks to a padded handle it’s comfortable to push, although it did feel a little short for our taller tester, and it’s light and easy to manoeuvre around trees and beds and borders. There are five cutting heights to choose from, adjusted with the simple lift of a lever and it offers the choice of collecting clippings in the 30 litre fabric grass bag or inserting the mulching plug and leaving them on the lawn to break down and feed the grass. It mows well but doesn’t like very long grass, with the battery cutting out occasionally but its long lasting brushless motor offers a a decent run time of 46 minutes and it charges in two hours. Plus, as part of the Greenworks 24V family, both the battery and charger are interchangeable with all the other tools in the range, saving you money if you invest in more in the future. We awarded it a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for the best budget cordless mower in 2023.

Specs: Battery: charge time. 120 mins; run time. 46mins. Cutting: width. 33cm; height. 25-70mm. Grass box. 30 litre.

Yard Force LMG37A 40v 37cm

Our rating: 4.8 out of 5

• Rear roller
• Double folding handle for easy storage
• Quickest charge time
• Part of the Yardforce GR40 cordless range

This sturdy mower has a 37cm cutting width and useful features including a rear roller for those much desired stripes. Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy in 2022 for small to medium lawns, clippings are collected in the large 40 litre fabric grass bag. It offers a wide choice of seven cutting heights, from 25-75mm, and is easy to fold away at the end of the day. The 40V battery is quick to charge, taking just 50 minutes and when full it has the capacity to cut a 400m2 lawn.

Specs: Battery: charge time. 50 mins; run time. 400sqm. Cutting: width. 37cm; height. 25-75mm. Grass box. 40 litre.

Buy the Yard Force LMG37A 40V 37cm cordless mower from Yard Force, Amazon and Wickes

8 Steps To Choosing The Best Cordless Lawn Mower. UK

Learn about plug-in and battery-operated lawn mowers, how they stack up against their gas-powered counterparts, and which electric models are the top performers.

By Glenda Taylor and Mark Wolfe | Updated Jul 13, 2023 6:41 AM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Electric mowers are quickly becoming an eco-friendly and efficient alternative to their gas-powered counterparts. Not only can you bid goodbye to yanking a pull cord, replacing fouled spark plugs, and storing flammable fuel, but you’d be doing your part to reduce carbon emissions.

We have tested some of the best electric mowers in order to document their performance when it comes to power, price, and safety. Read on to understand the pros and cons, figure out what features to look for when shopping, and learn why the picks below are among the best electric mower models.

• BEST OVERALL:Greenworks Pro 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower
• BEST FOR SMALL YARDS:American Lawn Mower Company Corded Mower
• UPGRADE PICK:Snapper XD 82V MAX Step Sense 21-Inch Mower Kit
• BEST SELF-PROPELLED:EGO Power Self-Propelled Mower
• BEST ROBOT:Worx WR147 Landroid Robotic Mower
• BEST CORDED:Greenworks Corded Lawn Mower
• ALSO CONSIDER:Greenworks Brushless Push Lawn Mower

Before You Buy an Electric Mower

Electric mowers are eco-friendly and a great choice for those who wish to forgo the fuel and oil required for gas-powered mowers. Still, an electric model might not be for everyone. The gas vs. electric mower debate rages on, with adherents on both sides making convincing points.

An electric mower can reduce the carbon footprint and is much quieter. In contrast, a gas-powered mower is loud but can run for hours, as long as a can of gasoline is nearby. It’s also usually more powerful, making it better suited to mowing thick, dense grass where an electric mower can get bogged down.

How We Tested the Best Electric Mowers

Our electric mower trials included assembling each machine according to the manufacturer’s directions. Battery charging times, where applicable, were checked against the times claimed in marketing. Then, we tested the mowers in an actual backyard setting, with all of the difficulties and flaws that might be expected in a yard, including slopes; uneven ground; dense grass with weedy patches; and tall, overgrown areas.

For consideration as a top pick, each mower had to perform at least as well as claimed in the brand’s marketing materials. Additionally, we considered aspects that a typical user may find most useful: durability, ease of operation, user comfort, required storage space, price, and performance under high-strain (but not abnormally so) conditions.

All of our cordless picks were capable of operating similarly to gasoline-powered counterparts in terms of cutting power in thick, weedy, and tall grass. They were able to easily maintain manicured lawns and perform at least a limited amount of rough cutting in overgrown areas. The corded picks proved capable of producing a clean finish on currently maintained areas, with or without weeds, but were only cursorily tried in taller grass. The robot mower was programmed and used only on a maintained area with few weeds, but the ground did include a significantly sloped area.

Our Top Picks

The following picks highlight some of the best electric mower options. Read the individual reviews for details on how each one performed in our backyard tests.

Greenworks Pro 80V 21 Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower

This Greenworks electric mower comes with two 80V G-MAX lithium-ion batteries that are also compatible with other G-MAX-powered lawn tools. It runs on one battery at a time and will power through nearly an acre of the lawn during the 60 minutes of runtime provided by a full charge.

We liked the push-button starting system that is conveniently located near the grip for easy operation. Also, the lack of drive motors for the wheels saves weight and extends battery life compared to the self-propelled models we tested. Even on sloped areas and rough ground, it was easy to push and maneuver. Overall, it gave a more “gas-like” mowing experience than any of the others, albeit without self-propulsion.

This model boasts a generous 21-inch swath cut. It features the brand’s SmartCut technology, which senses when the grass becomes denser and speeds up the blades and earns this mower the best overall spot as one of the top-rated electric lawn mowers. The mower also provides a 3-in-1 system, allowing the user to choose between mulching, bagging, or discharging the grass clippings. Large 7-inch front wheels and 10-inch rear wheels make it easy to mow and maneuver.

• Includes 2 batteries
• Easy push-start button
• Sensor to adjust blade speed for thick grass
• Not self-propelled
• Limited battery life
• Side discharge chute fits loosely and could be knocked off

Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower

This Sun Joe pick is among the best corded electric mower options, with a 14-inch cutting swath and a rear-mount grass bag that catches clippings. It features a powerful 13-amp motor and optional rear-mounted side discharge chute. An adjustable cutting height from just over 1 inch to 2¼ inches makes it well suited to low-growing, warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda, zoysia, or centipede.

No need to store gasoline or change spark plugs with this plastic mower that is as eco-friendly as it gets. Collect grass clippings in a 10.6-gallon bag or discard them via a rear-mounted side discharge chute. The Sun Joe mower boasts a nonslip grip handle that folds down for easy storage. A 12- or 14-gauge exterior extension cord is necessary for operation (not included). Some assembly of both the handle and the wheels is required.

While this mower is heavier and includes a more powerful motor than the other corded mowers we tested, it lacks a few conveniences. The Sun Joe’s handle is fixed-mounted to the body for a more rigid feel. Also, all four wheels are equal size (5.5 inches in diameter), which made it a bit less maneuverable over rough ground and in tight spaces. That said, the stronger motor provided the best performance in dense grass. This model is a good choice for those on a budget who don’t mind putting in just a bit more effort.

Product Specs

• Lowest price point among those we tested
• Felt more durable than the other corded models
• Good performance even on tough warm-season grasses
• Compact size good for storage
• Heavier than the other corded models we tested
• Smaller wheels do not maneuver as easily
• Handle does not adjust easily

Get the Sun Joe electric mower at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or Overstock.

American Lawn Mower Company Corded Mower

The corded electric mower from American Lawn Mower Company offers convenient features at an attractive price point. It features an 11-amp motor and cuts a 14-inch swath width. The cutting height adjusts from 1 inch up to 2.5 inches, making it most suitable for low-growing and warm-season grass types.

This mower is a good choice for those with small yards and limited storage space. We liked the nonslip grip handle for comfortable control. The large 7-inch rear wheels and narrow, lightweight, compact body made it easy to pivot and navigate tight spaces. Plus it had no problem mowing thick, weedy grass. It did struggle with tall grass since the tallest setting is 2.5 inches, compared to 3-plus inches on the other mowers.

The mower also features a safety shutoff if the user releases the handle while mowing, and it folds down to aid in storage. You can set the mower for clippings to discharge into a 16-gallon grass bag or to fall back on the lawn for use as natural mulch. Users will need a 12- or 14-gauge exterior extension cord (not included) to run the mower.

Product Specs

• Compact size that is easy to store; even in small spaces
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver; great for extended use
• Budget-friendly price compared to similar models
• When bagger is nearly full, front wheels may lift off the ground
• Bogs down in tall grass
• Feels less durable than other corded models

Get the ALMC electric lawn mower at Amazon or Lowe’s.

Snapper XD 82V MAX Step Sense 21-Inch Mower Kit

For those looking for a powerful, high-end electric mower, this cordless model from Snapper doesn’t disappoint. One of the best battery-powered lawn mower options, it runs on a super-charged 82-volt lithium-ion battery; two batteries and the charger are included.

This mower cuts a generous 21-inch swath, rivaling some of its gas-powered competitors. Weighing in at a hefty 72 pounds, this mower is heavier than other electric mowers but features self-propulsion to lighten the load.

The mower features a push-button start and seven cutting heights, from 1⅜ inches to 3¾ inches, making it appropriate for most turf types. It offers large 10-inch rear wheels and a grass-catching bag that fits on the back, with clippings discharging to either the side or the back.

In our trials, this mower was a top performer in terms of power and overall user comfort. The step-sense feature, which increases or decreases the self-propelled pace, was most noticeable on slopes. It operates based on the push-pressure applied to the handle. As you push harder, the mower moves forward faster. At times the mower feels like it’s running away from you, until you get acclimated. We noted that the sliding handle mechanism has a slight tendency to “stick” instead of sliding (and changing the pace) smoothly.

Product Specs

• Powerful motor can handle most lawn jobs
• Self-propulsion feature automatically adjusts to user’s pace
• Wide range of cutting heights (7 settings from 1⅜ to 3¾ inches)

Get the Snapper electric mower at Amazon.

EGO Power Self-Propelled Mower

Our best self-propelled choice could have also been tapped as a runner-up for the best overall choice. In addition to the convenience of powerful cordless operation, it offers feature upgrades typical of more expensive models. The 56V, 7AH battery offers up to an hour of runtime per charge and recharges within 60 minutes. The self-propelled feature simply adjusts to the right pace with a lever. Also, cutting power automatically increases when conditions get tougher, such as in dense weedy areas or tall grass.

EGO got it right on the basics, too. The oversize wheels roll smoothly over rough terrain and make for easy manual operation when not using the self-propelled feature. The handle easily adjusts for different user heights and folds up neatly for storage. Choose from rear bagging, side discharge, or mulching with the included equipment.

In our tests, the EGO Power mower was comfortable and easy to use in all conditions. We liked the simple speed adjustment for the self-propelled pace—a lever located on the left side of the handle—but the drive motor seems excessively noisy. importantly, the self-propelled feature cuts battery life in half, compared to using the mower in manual mode. At 83 pounds, this was one of the heavier mowers in the lineup. Since this mower only comes with one battery, buyers may want to consider adding a second battery for longer runtime and less wait time for charging.

Product Specs

• Better overall performance than other cordless mowers at this price point
• Easily adjustable self-propelled feature
• Automatically increases cutting power in difficult conditions
• Noisy drive system
• Poor traction for slopes or wet grass
• Self-propelled feature cuts battery runtime in half

Get the EGO Power cordless mower at Ace Hardware, Lowe’s, or Acme Tools.

Worx WR147 Landroid Robotic Mower

Save a ton of effort with this top-quality lawn robot. The Worx Landroid robot mower handles yards up to ¼ acre, thanks to a 20-volt motor and 2 hours of runtime. Plus, it only takes 90 minutes to reach full charge. Two brushless wheel motors offer extra traction, allowing this 23-pound mower to cut lawns with a 20-degree slope.

The Landroid’s 8-inch, triple-blade cutting disk mows close to the edges of a yard with adjustable height between 1.6 and 3.9 inches. Obstacles aren’t an issue with this robot mower; if it encounters them, the mower backs away, and you can also program it to exclude certain areas.

Although the Landroid requires more setup effort than a traditional mower, once it’s up and running, it is nearly 100 percent autonomous. To get started, we downloaded the app, installed the boundary wire and charging station, charged the mower, and programmed the mowing schedule. Total setup time was about 2 hours, but we allowed the battery to charge overnight prior to the first scheduled mowing.

We observed the mower in operation. Similarly to a robot vacuum, the Landroid mows in a random pattern, using its software to map out the most efficient route. It avoids obstacles by first bumping them, then rerouting (an “Anti-Collision System” is available as an add-on purchase). When the battery runs low, the Landroid returns to its docking station to recharge, then completes the program. An onboard rain sensor disrupts the mowing schedule as needed to avoid cutting wet grass.

This mower is ideal for those with up to ¼ acre of grass who like the idea of “set it and forget it.” It mowed fairly close to the edges, but a quick touch-up with a string trimmer will be necessary, maybe once a week during the summer. Other than that, it’s a matter of monitoring the app and observing the lawn. Blade changes will be required a few times during the season; the frequency depends on programming and the type of grass.

Product Specs

• 2 hours of runtime; great for average-size yards
• Mows on schedule, even when you’re out of town
• Custom schedules and routes via the app
• Expensive up-front cost
• Requires a strong Wi-Fi signal and/or Bluetooth connectivity
• Some occasional maintenance is required

Get the WORX robotic mower at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Target.

Greenworks Corded Lawn Mower

With a 14-inch swath width powered by a 9-amp electric motor, this Greenworks corded electric mower makes quick work of cutting small to medium-size yards. The quiet-running mower features a push-button start and graduated wheel size, with 6-inch front wheels and 7-inch rear wheels, to make maneuvering the mower a snap. It features a safety handle that must be engaged when mowing; when the handle is released, the mower stops.

The grass-cutting height is adjustable from 1¼ inches to 3 inches, and the mower features both a 10-gallon rear bag for catching grass clippings and mulching capability. At the end of an afternoon’s work, the handle folds down for easy storage, allowing it to be stowed along a wall in a garage or storage shed. A 12- or 14-gauge exterior extension cord (not included) is required for operation.

With its 9-amp motor, this was not the most powerful corded mower we tested, but it proved capable of cutting down taller grass and did not struggle as we anticipated it would in dense, weedy areas. We liked the ergonomic design of the handle, but the squeeze-lever controller felt like it could be tiring for those with smaller hands or less hand strength. Also the handle attachment hardware, which is a unique lock-lever screw, appears to be intended as a convenience but works awkwardly. The locking lever does not close if the mechanism is threaded too tightly—a point at which the device still feels loose.

Product Specs

• Ergonomic handle for more comfort and less fatigue
• Quieter operation than other corded models
• Large wheels roll easily over rough ground
• Least power of the corded models we tested
• The screw-clamp handle adjustment knobs operate awkwardly
• Squeeze-lever operation may not be comfortable for all users

Get the Greenworks electric mower at Amazon.

Greenworks Brushless Push Lawn Mower

Boasting a 21-inch swath cut, this Greenworks cordless mower can operate for up to 70 minutes powered by its two 40-volt lithium-ion batteries (included), allowing users to mow longer without stopping to recharge. When one battery runs down, the power automatically switches to the second battery.

The mower features self-propulsion, large front and rear wheels for easy maneuvering, a push-button start, height adjustment from 1⅜ to 3¾ inches, and a folding handle for easy storage. Rear bagging, side discharge, and mulching options are all available to collect clippings. As a bonus, the battery charger includes a USB port that can charge a cell phone or tablet if necessary.

In our tests, this 40V mower compared favorably to the other cordless models with bigger batteries. It mowed at lower power until engaging a heavier load of dense or tall grass, then it automatically increased output for the tougher work. In mulching mode, thick grass tended to bog down the blade somewhat. The self-propel feature uses a pressure-sensitive sliding handle to automatically adjust to the user’s pace. Unfortunately, like the Snapper mower, the mechanism feels somewhat sticky at times so that the mower feels like it is jerking away. Still, overall this mower offers excellent runtime and performance in most conditions.

Product Specs

• Impressive battery life can handle up to 1/3 of an acre
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Self-propel feature automatically adjusts to the user’s pace
• Long recharging time—120 minutes per battery
• Sliding handle that controls self-propelled pace is “sticky”
• Mulching in thick areas can become difficult

Get the Greenworks cordless mower at Amazon.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Electric Mower

Electric mowers offer a variety of options that make them more suitable for certain lawns and users. Keep the following factors in mind when selecting the best electric lawn mower for maintaining your yard.

Type

There are several types of electric mowers, including push, self-propelled, riding, and robot mowers. The most suitable type depends on your yard, budget, and the amount of labor you’re comfortable with.

• Push lawn mowersare basic walk-behind models, requiring manual effort to move the mower forward. They’re significantly less expensive compared to other electric varieties, which contain more advanced features. Since push mowers require more labor, they’re ideal for small to medium-size yards with even ground.
• Self-propelled lawn mowers propel the wheels forward while cutting grass. These mowers often cost several hundred dollars more than push mowers. The trade-off is convenience, and the reduced effort involved makes them preferable for medium-size to large lawns and sloped terrain.
• Riding lawn mowers are as heavy duty as they come, with a high price tag to match. Multiple varieties fall under this mower category, including lawn tractors, zero-turn, and rear-engine mowers. Users operate the mower in a seated or standing position. Featuring the largest cutting width and terrain capabilities, they’re built to tackle large yards and navigate hills and even steep slopes with ease.
• Robot lawn mowers function autonomously and require the least amount of effort. These high-tech models come with many modern features, like programmable mowing, collision sensors, and app operation. Lawn robots are less powerful compared to other mowers. They also have a shorter run time and a limited cutting width, so they’re not a top choice for large lawns.

Corded vs. Cordless

Many electric mowers today are cordless and run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Reliable corded options still exist for push and self-propelled mowers. Each power source has its own benefits and downsides.

Battery-powered mowers can be taken anywhere a lawn needs cutting and offer the most flexibility. However, when the battery runs down, usually within 30 minutes to an hour, it requires recharging before mowing can be resumed. Investing in a second battery can double the operating time for cordless mowers since you can switch out the first one when it runs out.

The advantage of a corded electric mower is that an electrical outlet provides unlimited power. Corded mowers are often more affordable and weigh less due to the absence of expensive batteries. A definite drawback is that the user is limited to the extension cord’s length.

For those considering a corded mower, keep in mind it will require a heavy-duty extension cord; a 12-gauge or 14-gauge cord is best, although it’s always important to check the owner’s manual.

Motor Power

Lawn mower voltage, measured in volts (V), coincides with how much energy the motor can handle. The higher the voltage, the more energy is conveyed from the battery or power outlet to the motor. volts are necessary to mow large lawns and produce sufficient torque to cut through tall and thick grass. You can expect these voltage and coverage areas for electric lawn mowers:

• Push mowers: 18V to 80V (¼ acre to 2 acres)
• Self-propelled and riding mowers: 40V to 120V (¼ acre to 3 acres)
• Riding mowers: 50V to 120V (½ acre to 3 acres)
• Robot mowers: 18V to 40V (¼ acre to 1 acre)

It may seem logical to choose a mower based on battery voltage, but this figure alone does not reflect motor power. Amperage (amps) also determines how powerful the motor is. Amperage is the rate at which electrical current is delivered to the lawn mower, usually ranging from 2 to 12 amps.

The motor power of an electric lawn mower is determined by wattage (W), which equals volts multiplied by amps—so a larger battery doesn’t always result in a more powerful mower. For example, a 5-amp mower with a 60V battery (300W) is less powerful than a 7-amp mower with a 50V battery (350W).

Brushed vs. Brushless Motor

Brushless motors are more efficient, with minimal energy lost as heat. They produce less friction (which damages the motor) and are easier to maintain since there are no worn-out brushes to replace. All together, these factors translate into better performance compared to brushed motors.

By contrast, brushed motors produce more heat at the expense of power. Consequently, this type of motor may cause a mower to overheat and stall. While they’re more susceptible to friction and heating issues, with increased maintenance requirements, brushed motors are the most affordable option.

Deck Size and Swath Width

A lawn mower’s deck size is the width of its cutting swath. The wider the swath—the width of grass you can cut in a single pass—the fewer passes you’ll have to make. On the other hand, a wider swath requires more power, which can translate into shorter battery life.

The best electric push mower and self-propelled electric mower options have an average swath width from 13 to 22 inches, robot models are at 5 to 10 inches, and riding mowers can go up to 54 inches. If the lawn is small, even a 15-inch swath width will get the job done without taking too much time. Larger yards will benefit from a broader swath width so it doesn’t take forever to mow them.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a mower are also important considerations, especially if storage and user strength are limited. Higher voltage mowers are generally heavier, simply because larger batteries weigh more. Additionally, mowers with a larger deck width tend to weigh more than smaller models.

Riding mowers are the largest, heaviest models out there. A small riding mower is comparable to a go-kart, while heavy-duty models resemble a “subcompact” car. They can weigh as little as 400 pounds to upward of 800 pounds.

Self-propelled mowers usually weigh more than push models since self-propulsion requires more battery power. These mowers generally range from as little as 30 pounds for a small push mower to upward of 100 pounds for a large self-propelled mower. Note that self-propelled mowing still involves some manual labor, such as navigating tight spaces and moving the mower backward (they only self-propel forward).

If you’re looking for a lightweight tool, go with a corded push or robot mower. Corded electric mowers are lighter than their cordless counterparts since there are no batteries to weigh them down. Most corded mowers can be easily hung on the wall of a garage or shed to save space.

Robot mowers are the smallest and lightest options, usually weighing between 15 pounds and 30 pounds. Most are only slightly larger than a robotic vacuum. For these reasons, they are incredibly portable and easy to store.

Wheels/Tires

Push and self-propelled mowers built to take on uneven ground and thick grass have larger rear wheels with a diameter of 8 inches or more. Compact models with small wheels, on the other hand, are better at getting in and around flower beds and navigating around trees and other obstacles in the yard.

Riding lawn mowers have tires, with different types suitable for certain terrains. Lug tires are thick and designed for traction, so they’re the ideal choice for wet, slippery, or sloped yards. Smooth tires prevent ruts and other damage to manicured lawns. Turf tires establish a middle ground, with reasonable traction and less damaging effects on the yard.

Additional Features

The top electric lawn mowers and lawn-maintenance brands include convenient features and functions to look out for, which offer enhanced versatility and safer operation:

• Speed control: Basic electric lawn mowers operate at only one speed, while others include multiple speed settings. Speed may be adjusted using a squeeze handle, dial, drive bar, or a pace-keeping system (usually reserved for high-end models).
• Cutting height adjustability: Like gas models, most electric mowers can be adjusted to suit a variety of cutting heights, ranging from 1 to 4 inches. Before choosing a mower, find out the optimal cutting height for the grass. The general rule of thumb is to cut most grass types between 2 and 3¾ inches high.
• Side or rear discharge: For users who want to collect the grass clippings, either to discard or add to a compost pile, look for a mower with a side or rear discharge and an attachable bag.
• Mulching: Some lawn mowers contain mulching blades. Mulching mowers cut the grass into smaller pieces, which returns some of the nutrients to the lawn.
• Safety: Most electric mowers have a safety bar built into the handle. The bar must be held closed to keep the motor running, minimizing the risk of accidents. Many also contain flaps and guards, which prevent the mower from discharging debris at the user.

Tips for Using Electric Mowers

Corded electric lawn mowers have been around for decades, but they didn’t have nearly the power to rival most gas-powered mowers until recently. Today’s models cut most turf with ease, but the following tips will help users achieve the best results and avoid mistakes while mowing.

• Cut the lawn as often as needed to maintain optimal grass height without cutting away more than a third of each grass blade. This might mean having to mow every 3 or 4 days during the lawn’s fast-growing season, but by cutting no more than a third of the grass blade, the grass will be healthier and more resistant to diseases.
• Mow away from the cord. Rather than starting at the outside of the yard and mowing back and forth toward the house, start near the electrical outlet and then mow in swaths progressively farther away. This helps keep the cord out of the way and reduces the risk of running over it.
• Don’t use a corded electric mower on wet grass. Electricity and water don’t mix, and mowing wet grass can lead to an electrical short or danger of electrical shock.

The Advantages of Owning an Electric Lawn Mower

Electric mowers produce the same power as gas-powered options, so trimming your lawn is always fast and easy. Using an electric mower can help to reduce your ecological footprint while also providing versatile and easy-to-use features. Most electric models save you the hassle of replacing spark plugs and fuel filters, oil changes are no longer required, and there is no gas tank to consistently refill, making them eco-friendly and money-saving.

Exhaust fumes and pollution are also a thing of the past without the use of gas. Another convenient feature included in electric models is that they are far quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. Here are a few more benefits of owning an electric mower:

• Less maintenance and fewer replacement parts required.
• Electric mowers are light and easy to maneuver compared to gas-powered models.
• Electric models are less expensive than gas-powered mowers.

FAQs

electric mowers are on the market today than ever before, and they’re a more eco-friendly way to care for a lawn. For those new to this type of mower, read on to have a few of the most frequently asked questions answered, and check electric lawn mower reviews and manufacturers’ websites to learn more about the model you’re eyeing.

Q. Do electric mowers cut well?

In general, electric mowers are not as powerful as gas-powered mowers, but for average lawns where the grass isn’t ultradense, they usually work quite well.

Q. How long does an electric mower last?

Depending on quality, an electric mower should last between 5 and 10 years. A lithium-ion battery (for a cordless electric mower) should be replaced approximately every 5 years.

Q. How do you maintain an electric mower?

Store an electric mower in a garage or covered shed and clean any stuck-on grass clippings from under the mower deck before use. Sharpen or replace blades as needed. In comparison to gas mowers, electric mowers require very little maintenance.

Q. How often should I mow my lawn?

Weekly mowing is the general rule, but it varies, depending on the lawn and season. Slow-growing grass can be cut every 2 weeks, while manicured lawns may require mowing twice per week. Robot mowers are typically programmed to mow the lawn two or three times per week.

Q. Is it safe to cut wet grass with my electric mower?

It is not recommended to use an electric mower on wet grass. The moisture from wet grass can cause damage to the mower’s motor and can lead to your grass being cut poorly.

Q. Is it safe to leave my electric mower outside?

Electric mowers should be stored indoors when not in use. However, electric models can be stored outdoors if they are elevated and/or covered so they remain dry and air can circulate underneath the motor.

Q. Where should I keep my electric mower during the winter?

During the colder months, eclectic mowers should be stored in a dry, clean, and well-ventilated area to ensure no moisture reaches the motor. These models should also be kept in a place where they will not be exposed to corrosive materials or excessive heat.

Q. How do I clean my electric mower?

If excessive mud, dirt, or grass has caked your electric mower’s construction or undercarriage, it should be cleaned with a moist cloth or plastic brush. Do not use a pressure washer or hose, as these models cannot resist excessive amounts of water. When cleaning the undercarriage, the cutting blades should be removed as a safety precaution.

Q. Does an electric mower require oil to work?

No oil or petrol is required to ensure your electric lawn mower is running correctly.

Q. How do you properly recycle an old electric mower?

As electric mowers are classified as electrical waste instead of scrap metal, they should be disposed of in the same way household appliances should be recycled. If your electric mower has stopped functioning altogether, you can recycle it at a household electrical recycling facility.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

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BEFORE YOU BUY A BATTERY POWERED LAWN MOWER, WATCH THIS!

If you only have a small yard, but it is too much to maintain with a weed eater, you need to invest in the best small lawn mower. Because let’s be honest: a heavy-duty mower is probably overkill — in price, noise, and size — for your tiny yard, but there are plenty of compact mowers designed to maintain smaller spaces. As we just said, this one we reviewed from Worx did wonders on our small yard.

While some small lawnmowers are gas-powered, this one works on two batteries to be kind to the environment — and so that you never run out of power. Small lawn mowers offer different mulching options so that you can feed your lawn as you mow, and this one that we love gives you the choice to either bag it up or mulch your grass back into the ground.

Yes, the Worx WG779.E Power Share from Amazon is pretty amazing. Our reviewer loved it and found it so easy to use to trim her unruly but small lawn. It’s a great option for people who have an ample lawn, but lack the space to store a larger machine as it folds, and even if your yard isn’t small (we’re jealous!) it can be used to mow up to 1/8 acre (AKA 5000 sq ft). Wow!

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid

The Worx Power Share 40-Volt 14-in Mower is small but mighty. At only 29 lbs, this mower is easy to move around, and even lighter when you remove the batteries for storage and transit.

Equipped with patented torque technology, you have the capability to increase the power of this mower to Turbo if you’re cutting thick grass (but remember, this will use up more battery). For regular use, we found Eco mode was competent, especially for regular trims. The cutting base is 14 inches across and there are six height adjustments that range between 2.5 to 3.5 inches with an easy-to-use lever for height adjustments. You can either mulch your grass or bag up to.85 bushels before a ‘full bag indicator’ alert notifies you it’s time to empty the bag.

To get started, simply insert the safety button, depress then pull the handle lever and you’re ready to mow. The Worx lawnmower runs on two 20V 4.0 Ah batteries. Power Share advertises that this mower can mow 5,000 square feet with just one charge. However, this wholly depends on various factors like the thickness or height of your grass. Just keep an eye on the battery meter to know when you need to juice up and keep spares on charge. We found it capable of doing a good half hour or more of mowing before it was time to recharge which is plenty for the average yard.

So while we think this is the best small lawn mower, as we’ve already mentioned: you could find it a good choice for a larger yard too.

You can read our full Worx WG779E 40V Cordless Lawn Mower review for more.

How to choose a lawn mower for your small yard

If you have opted for a small lawn mower then it is likely your main concerns will be around how much power and ease of use you can get into a compact package. At one time, electric lawn mowers, including cordless battery-powered models were quite big and heavy to accommodate large battery packs for optimal run time. Luckily, technology has advanced and things like more efficient batteries and brushless motors mean you get greater run time in a smaller package.

Next, consider the cutting width. Most range from 12 inches to 21 inches. It might be tempting to go smaller for ease of movement and storage space limitations, but with edge-to-edge cutting, even the largest model on our list is a great choice if you are looking for a particularly compact lawn mower. That said, bigger will tend to mean weightier, so if you are concerned about lifting — perhaps due to a bad back — take the narrower model and be prepared for a couple of extra runs of your yard.

Finally, if storage is your main reason for buying the best small lawn mower, look at foldable options. Many compact lawnmowers have a foldaway handle and don’t forget the grass box. Our favorite one has a soft material grass box that flattens down. Some mulching mowers have no grass box at all.

Tips for getting the most from your small lawn mower

Lawnmowers aren’t as scary as you think. They’re easy to use if you know the right tips and tricks.

Energy reserve You don’t want to be halfway through mowing your lawn only to discover that you’ve run out of juice. If you purchase a gas-powered lawn mower, make sure you top up before each use and have a gas container with gas stored in your garage or shed in case you need more.

For those who buy a battery-powered lawn mower, you might want to consider buying a backup battery. The harder a battery-powered lawn mower has to work (like a lawn where the grass is higher or thicker), the quicker the battery will die out. If your main battery runs out of charge mid-way through mowing the lawn, just pop in the backup battery.

Never mow a wet lawn If your lawn is wet from morning dew or rain, make sure you wait until it’s dry before you mow the lawn. For one, wet grass is heavier so the lawn mower won’t be able to cut the lawn to the best of its ability. Dry grass stands straight up making it easier to cut. Secondly, wet grass clippings can damage the mower which is an easy way to ruin your day.

Clean the lawn mower deck Every once in a while, turn the lawn mower over and clean under the deck. Grass and grime can build up under there and on the blades, making your lawn mower less effective over time. If you have a gas-powered mower, make sure the gas tank is empty and the spark plug wire is disconnected if you decide to clean the deck with the garden hose. It’s not a bad idea to blow off the lawn mower with your blower after each use.

Be careful what you mow over Before mowing your lawn, try to pick up sticks and other debris that could ruin your lawn mower blades. It’s best to avoid stumps and vines as these can also damage or get wrapped around the blades.

Grass clippings are good for the yard Although some people hate the sight of grass clippings left on a yard, they can actually be beneficial to your yard’s health as they’re a natural fertilizer. A mulching feature on a lawn mower is a good option because it breaks down leaves and grass and helps it to decompose quicker. That said, bagging clippings – especially weeds or grass that’s really high – could be helpful at certain times.

How we review small lawn mowers

Yes, this small lawnmower has been tested by a Real Homes reviewer. Our Content Director of Lifestyle Ecommerce tested it for us in her backyard, and as you can already tell: she loved it.

Lindsey has been writing about homes since 2013, when she joined the Homebuilding Renovating team. Now, she spends her time reviewing and managing several homes titles, including Homes Gardens and Livingetc, helping with best practices for our ecommerce content.

Lindsey reviewed the Worx lawnmower back in 2023, and when speaking about it says With an impressive battery life, good range of movement, and edge-to-edge cutting, this cordless lawn mower is great value for money. Easy to use and store, I almost can’t wait to mow the lawn again.

What type of mower is best for small lawn?

Definitely go for a smaller size lawnmower, and one that’s cordless if you can for total convenience, otherwise a corded model will still work. just check its cord is long enough to reach around your lawn. Try and get one that folds if you don’t have much storage space for your lawnmower, and do consider its cutting width — the higher this number, the faster you’ll be able to mow your lawn. But remember, the bigger the width of the mower, the bulkier it will be to store. We’d always say to go electric over gas for the environment and for convenience and ease.

Can I use a trimmer instead of a lawn mower?

If you want to follow the won’t take up any room route to its logical conclusion, it may be tempting to just use your trimmer instead of a lawn mower. After all, if it’s just a small lawn, how hard can it be? Trust us, it’s very hard work, and you won’t get an even trim no matter how hard you try. Even tiny lawns need lawnmowers, although if yours is really very small, a hand-push one will probably suffice.

If you really don’t want to mow though, don’t! We love the look of a wildflower meadow — as do any garden visitors like bees and small creatures.