Rechargeable riding lawn mower. Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower to Buy in 2023

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower to Buy in 2023

Effortless lawn maintenance with the electric lawn tractor and rider. These rugged machines are engineered to make yard work a breeze, ideal for all types of farms, big or small. Say goodbye to the noisy gas mowers and embrace the quiet operation, allowing you to tackle the lawn anytime without disturbing the peace.

Going green has never been easier with these electric marvels, free yourself from the hassle of oil and gasoline. The top electric riding lawn mowers, designed with the environment in mind. Ultimate convenience and learn about the advantages of these machines, including the right type of battery to ensure a smooth and efficient operation.

Top 6 Electric Riding Lawn Mowers Reviews

Here I provide comprehensive reviews of the best electric riding lawn mowers. You can choose the one which suits your purposes.

Ryobi Lawn Mower RY48111

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Transform your lawn care experience with the market-leading Ryobi brand. Say goodbye to tangled cords and hello to effortless mowing with their 100 Ah lead-acid batteries. Enjoy up to 2.5 hours of continuous mowing on a single charge. With a 38-inch deck, you’ll effortlessly maintain a neatly trimmed lawn, even in areas with low grass. The powerful Ryobi 100 Ah rear motor guarantees a smooth and efficient mowing experience, while the 12-way manual deck adjustment allows for precise cuts every time. Keep your lawn looking impeccable with the ultimate in rechargeable mowing technology.

A perfectly manicured lawn with the all-electric riding mower. With a whisper-quiet operation emitting just 70 dB, you can mow to your heart’s content without disturbing the peace. This eco-friendly mower is not only gentle on your ears, but also packed with incredible features like LED headlights, a convenient USB phone charger, and a cruise control system for effortless mowing. Effortlessly glide over uneven terrain and tackle those tough-to-cut areas around flower beds and trees, making lawn maintenance a breeze.

Cub Cadet CC30E Battery Riding Mower

The eco-friendly and efficient Cub Cadet CC30E electric mower. This mower reduces your time and effort by a whopping 80%.

Built with durability and ease of use in mind, the CC30E features a comfortable seat with spring suspension and adjustable armrests for a smooth ride. Plus, its lightning-fast speed and precise cutting capabilities make it a top-notch choice for your yard.

The CC30E operates quietly, with a sound similar to a golf cart. Convenient features like the turn ratio display and remaining battery indicator only add to its appeal.

Low maintenance and packed with handy accessories, this electric mower may come with a higher price tag, but it’s well worth the investment. Enjoy a stress-free mowing experience, even on hot and humid days. The Cub Cadet CC30E – highly recommended for your green and effortless lawn care solution.

• Exceptionally quiet and easy to operate;
• Performs very well, especially on a flat lawn;
• Holds the charge like a champ;
• Relatively easy to clean;
• Cuts your mowing time in half compared to when you use a push mower.

Cub Cadet XT1 LT42E Battery Riding Mower – Runner-Up

Cub Cadet – effortless to operate, this machine delivers an impressive cut, smooth drive, and requires minimal maintenance.

You’ll love the ease of use, superb cutting quality, lightning-fast speed, and effortless maneuverability. The adjustable speed may take a bit of getting used to, but once you master it, you’ll be in for a smooth ride. Plus, the battery life is unbeatable, always fully charged and ready to tackle your lawn. No gas, no loud engines, no exhaust fumes, no oil changes – just pure, green, and silent mowing.

The scent of your freshly cut lawn will be the highlight of your day. Mowing will soon become your favorite chore, thanks to the convenience and power this device provides. If you’re looking for an electric mowing solution, look no further. Enjoy absolute convenience and power with this top-notch mower.

• Quiet and maneuverable;
• Fantastic ease of operation;
• Saving on gas every cut;
• Phenomenal battery life;
• No more disgusting gas smell.

RYOBI 42” Zero Turn Mower — Best Electric Zero Turn Mower

Another Ryobi model that is worthy of praise. This tool allows you to mow up to 3 acres on a single charge. But for this, the grass should not be too high. The mower will make its way through the overgrown lawn more slowly and, accordingly, will discharge faster than you have time to process the entire area. If there is too much grass, it will get stuck on the mower legs. You will find the low-speed settings for the knife drive and motor here. But you still have to tinker with the naughty areas. On the other hand, this zero turn lawn mower is quiet and easy to use.

In this model, it is also possible to adjust the deck and the seat’s height so that it is most customizable. In the seat’s case, you have a standard lever under the seat to control the 4-point seat adjustment.

I also like the different conveniences this lawnmower has on board. I can charge my phone here or take a cold lemonade with me because I can put it in a cup holder. Besides, your stuff will not fly out in all directions while mowing, as there are special closed compartments for storing all kinds of things.

TURF One E-Rider — Budget Rechargeable Riding Lawn Mower

This mower is from the Weibang brand powered by a lead-acid battery. Its charge allows you to work on the site continuously for up to 2 hours. The tool will enable you to work almost silently with two cutting blades. Of course, this is not an electric commercial mower, but it is quite enough to provide yourself with a neat house area with a flat lawn. There are ten different cutting positions here. The seat is also adjustable for maximum comfort. A user-friendly panel provides you with more ease.

The VOLT model should present up to 2 hours of battery life, which is enough for over an acre. The E-Rider VOLT features a more affordable price than the E-Rider, which has a Li-Ion battery. It is an excellent option if you need a budget mower.

Craftsman E225 Riding Mower

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It is the easiest build tool I’ve ever used. The Craftsman Electric Riding Lawn Mower has a 42-inch deck and 56 volts. It does not run on gasoline, but it can provide you with up to an hour of quiet work on it.

The lawnmower is quite powerful though not massive. The front compartment contains the battery. Charge the battery and get to work. The start button must be pressed and held, and then you will hear a beep. There is also an accelerator pedal. Due to well-designed bearings and joints, this Craftsman rider is quiet, even when compared to a golf cart. Furthermore, you will ride smoothly. I love that this battery powered riding lawn mower can even cut tall grass. Here you can also choose to cut in the opposite direction using the safety switch.

After completing the procedure, remove the battery and connect it to the charger. Charging is pretty quick, so if you don’t manage it in one go, you can repeat the mowing after a couple of hours. When it comes to storage, this mower won’t take up much space in your garage or shed, and you won’t bump into it all the time. I like this model as it is compact and easy to use.

Riding Electric Lawn Mowers Buyer’s Guide

Here you will learn about the benefits and disadvantages of electric rider mowers. I will also tell you about the difference between lead acid and lithium ion batteries.

Advantages and disadvantages of electric riding lawn mower

• they do not have spark plugs that require periodic replacement
• no fuel filters that should be changed periodically
• no need to change the oil
• no gasoline is required
• can save money if used for a long time
• their use does not affect the environment
• they are quieter than traditional mowers
• cordless models cannot offer long-run times — most of the last hour
• they cannot do well with thick stems of grass
• they tend to be more expensive than gas-powered lawn mowers

Lead acid vs. Lithium ion battery

Here you will find a riding lawn mower comparison of different types of batteries used for this type of machine. Lead-acid batteries are a cheaper option. However, they have a shorter lifespan and will need regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Lithium batteries cost more but do not require maintenance. They also last longer.

Electric riding mower safety tips

• do not mow wet grass
• do not cut the lawn in low light
• before starting work, make sure that there are no animals and children nearby
• remove large branches or stones from the lawn

Electric Riding Lawn Mower FAQ

Here you find the answers to the most popular questions about electric riding lawn mowers.

Can I use an electric riding mower on wet grass?

You cannot use the electric lawn mower on wet grass. It can cause damage to the machine, injury, and a short circuit.

How long will an electric riding lawn mower last?

You can expect your electric ride-on mower to serve 8-12 years on average. Be sure to follow proper care and support to get the most out of your ride-on mower.

How reliable is an electric riding lawn mower?

An electric lawn mower is a reliable tool for keeping your home lawns. It does an excellent job with small areas. Much of its reliability depends not only on the manufacturer and the material itself but also on the batteries.

How to attach a mulching plug on an electric riding lawn mower?

Insert the mulching plug into the opening of the deck discharge chute. Connect the mulching plug to the deck using bolts and pins.

Electric Riding Lawn Mower: Quiet Lawn-Helper

Electric lawn mowers are excellent for medium to small lawns. They are safe for the environment as you do not need to use gasoline. They also make much less noise, and you can mow the lawn any time you like. If you are looking for an electric lawn mower for a small or medium yard, the Craftsman is a great option. This device will light up quickly and keep you quiet for up to 2 hours.

What do you think of electric lawn mowers? Which model did you like the most? You are welcome to tell other readers and me about your experience in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев.

Bryan Mckenzie

Hi there — my name is Bryan McKenzie. Before I’d got into gardening, I worked as a landscape designer at landscape design and consultation company in Jacksonville. I enjoy sharing the vast gardening experience I’ve accumulated throughout the years with like-minded green thumbs. Read more about me and my wife.

4 thoughts on “Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower to Buy in 2023”

What is the best electric riding mower for bagging leaves?

Hi Carol!Thank you for the question! Personally, I find the Cub Cadet CC30E the best at everything, including bagging leaves and clippings. Its power is enough for removing all the debris from your lawn in less than an hour. Although it does not come with a bagger, you can purchase it separately in the accessories catalog. The available bag volume is 3.25 bushels. It is more than enough to collect all the fallen leaves from the lawn in one ride. I hope my answer helps you to make a choice!

hi, i am very close to buying the Cub Cadet CC30Ehave been reading reviews, videos etc for past month or so.my only concern is it seems hard to find CC waranty repair shops although other than the battery don’t know how much can go bad on them.would be buying from Home depot.

Hey, from my experience, Cub Cadets, are incredibly difficult to work on…so, Tony, I,d check for repair shops before buying. As for me never will buy another! GLuck!

Going green – The Best Electric Riding Mowers, Lawn Tractors and ZTRs

This article discusses the best electric riding lawnmowers and electric zero-turn mowers for 2021. It will be updated as new electric mowers are introduced.

Electric vehicles are starting to replace gas/diesel cars, trucks, and ATV’s. If you are one of the ever-growing numbers of EV owners who commute to work in your efficient electric car all week, only to hop on your gas-guzzling lawnmower to mow your lawn it may make sense to consider going electric for mowing your lawn.

A number of new all-electric ride on mowers entered the market in the last year and I’ll help you find the best one for you.

Looking for a comparison of the Ryobi, EGO, and Cub Cadet ZTR’s? Check out this article: 42-inch Electric ZTRs – Ryobi, EGO, or Cub Cadet? Which One Is Best For You?

In addition to being better for the environment, electric riding mowers, electric lawn tractors, and electric zero-turn mowers have a number of other benefits.

• Less yearly maintenance costs. You can forget about changing the oil, oil filter, spark plugs, belts, and air filters. Just change/sharpen the mower blades and check the tire pressure as needed. Savings – about 250 a year.
• Less expensive to operate. My 42 inch, 24 HP Zero-turn uses about 2 gallons of fuel or 5.50 to mow my lawn. An electric riding mower will use about 75 cents in electricity. (My local fuel and electric rates) Plus, I don’t have to buy a gas can, go to the gas station in my vehicle, and have gas sitting around my garage.
• Less expensive to own. An electric riding mower powered by Lithium-Ion batteries and brushless motors will pay for itself and actually save you money over the life of the mower compared to a gas-powered one. A lead-acid powered electric rider will pretty much break even because you have to replace the batteries every few years. But you still get all the benefits of a quieter mower and reduced yearly maintenance.
• Quieter to operate: You can mow without the deafening roar of a lawn tractor engine.

Noise: All-electric riding mowers are much quieter than your gas-powered lawn tractor but they still make noise when the blades are engaged. The noise is still loud enough that you may want to wear hearing protection.

One big advantage that’s not advertised: Performing yard work with an electric rider. My wife loves to work outside on her landscaping. It’s her therapy. She is constantly moving from one landscape bed to another trimming that branch, pinching off that flower or changing a plant that has flowered for another yet to bloom. A Cub Cadet yard cart stays attached all the time. An electric rider is perfect for her. No noise, no choking the engine and waiting for it to warm up. She just turns the key and goes from bed to bed. She doesn’t mow the yard so the electric rider’s battery easily lasts a week or more before it needs to be plugged in and charged.

One more thing you need to know before we discuss the actual electric riding mowers.

Lithium-Ion or Lead Acid Deep Cycle AGM/SLA?

Lawn Mower Manufacturers are currently using two types of batteries in electric riding mowers. Lithium-Ion and Lead-Acid AGM/FLA. Lithium-Ion is the way to go because they last longer, are lighter, and are better for the environment but they do cost more upfront. Because of that some manufacturers still offer lead-acid batteries in a few of the residential models for cost-conscious buyers.

Lithium-Ion Batteries are Best

Lithium-ion batteries are the same battery as in your phone – just bigger. Lithium-Ion Batteries last longer, maintain the same power throughout their discharge cycle, and can be discharged repeatedly without damage. Because of this, a 48 Volt, 60 Ah Lithium-Ion battery will mow about the same area as a set of 48V, 100 Ah Lead Acid batteries. Lithium-Ion batteries can be stored in freezing temps. They do not need to be charged periodically during storage although a few brands are recommending charging them every six months in storage.

Using the supplied factory charger a 56 Volt, 60 AH battery will charge in 4 hours. In addition, you can partially charge the battery and not damage it.

When used in a residential riding mower a Lithium-Ion battery should last 1000-1200 cycles or 10 years.

Lead Acid Batteries Are Cheapest Up Front.

Lead Acid AGM batteries are similar to the starting battery in your new car. AGM batteries cost less upfront, have a much shorter life span than Lithium-Ion, loose power/voltage during discharge, and can only be discharged down to 60-80% repeatedly without damage. Because of that, you need a 100 Ah AGM battery to mow the same amount of lawn as a 60 AH Lithium-Ion battery. AGM batteries need to be stored in temperatures between freezing and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and periodically charged when stored for more than a month. They are much larger and heavier than Lithium-Ion batteries.

Using the supplied factory charger a 48 Volt, 100 AH lead-acid battery set will charge in 12-14 hours. You should always leave the battery on the charger the full time to equalize the charge in all the batteries (usually four).

When used in a residential riding mower an AGM battery set should last 150-400 cycles or 3-5 years. (If you never run your battery below 60%, charge it correctly, and store it correctly you may get 400-500 cycles)

Finally! the Mowers!

Please note! This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. But, please feel free to visit your local authorized dealer and purchase locally. I don’t make a commission when you do that but I don’t mind.

I am going to cover Lithium-Ion and Lead-Acid powered mowers separately.

Lithium-Ion Battery Mowers

2021 Cub Cadet CC30e

This is a proven rear engine riding mower and the gas version (CC30H) has been around for many years. “No more gas, no spark plugs, no belts, no nothing. I only wish it was heavier on the drive wheels because I have some slight inclines to climb. Owner Review.”

• Class: Riding Mower, Great for small lawns.
• Model: CC30e
• Deck: 30 inch. Comes with a mulching plug. 2 bin bagger available.
• Type: Rear engine rider
• Battery: 56 volt, 30 Ah, 1500 Watt-hour Lithium-Ion Will mow up to 1 acre and charge fully in 4 hours.
• Cub Cadet open high-back seat with elevated back support and armrests attached
• 3-year unlimited hours/4-year battery warranty

Read all the details, buy online or order through a select Cub Cadet Dealer here: Buy Cub Cadet CC30e

Read more and buy through the Home Depot here: Buy Cub Cadet CC30e

2021 Cub Cadet LT42e Electric Lawn Tractor

This is a proven lawn tractor with a great cutting deck converted to electric. Same workmanship and cut quality as the highly-rated Cub Cadet LT42 lawn tractor. “This mower matches its gas-powered stablemates in the quality of cut. Owner Review.”

• Class: Lawn Tractor, Great for typical suburban lawns up to 2 acres.
• Model: LT42e
• Deck: 42-inch QuickAttach™ (no tools required)
• Type: Rear engine rider
• Battery: 56 volt, 60 AH, 3000 Watt-hour Lithium-Ion Will mow up to 2 acres and charge fully in 4 hours.
• Cub Cadet open high-back seat with elevated back support and armrests attached
• 3-year unlimited hours/4-year battery warranty

Read all the details, buy online or order through a select Cub Cadet Dealer here: Buy Cub Cadet LT42e

Read more and buy through the Home Depot here: Buy Cub Cadet LT42e

For the homeowner who wants the best cut first, the best ZTR second, and is excited it comes in a battery version. Cub Cadet ZT1 42E zero-turn mower will mow up to two and a half acres on one charge and the lithium-ion battery can be quickly charged to any amount if you have “just a little more” lawn than that. It is straightforward and simple to use. This mower also comes with the best dealer service network and support of the three mowers in this article.

I have an extensive article comparing this mower to the EGO and Ryobi zero-turn mowers. Check it out here: 42-inch Electric ZTRs – Ryobi, EGO, or Cub Cadet? Which One Is Best For You?

EGO Power 42” Z6

EGO’s new 56 volt ZTR is the talk of the news media. It looks cool and sports all kinds of hi-tech gadgetry like 360-degree lighting, multiple mowing modes, and a control panel right out of the Space X rocket. It’s the first riding mower that uses the same EGO 56V ARC Lithium™ batteries as all their other residential tools.

The EGO will be available at Lowes and servicing dealers.

I have an extensive article comparing the Cub Cadet, EGO, and Ryobi electric zero-turn mowers. Check it out here: 42-inch Electric ZTRs – Ryobi, EGO, or Cub Cadet? Which One Is Best For You?

Wiebang E-Rider

When I was growing up my grandmother had a Cub Cadet 60 Rider. I loved that little mower. It was quick and a lot more maneuverable than the John Deere 110 my father had. It was fun! The Wiebang E-Rider reminds me a lot of the Cub Cadet 60.

Owners love how small it is and it’s perfect for that lawn that’s just a little too big to mow with a walk-behind. It will mow one acre but really shines on 1/4 to 1/2 acre flat lawns.

• Class: Riding Mower, Good for small, smooth lawns
• Model: Weinag E-Rider
• Deck: 30 inch
• Type: Rear engine rider
• Battery: 72 volt, 20 AH, 1500 Watt-Hour.
• Very Compact and does not take up a lot of room in your garage.
• Warranty: 3 Year Residential

Read more and buy through the Home Depot here: Buy Weibang E-Rider

TURF ONE E-Rider Model #30-EB

Weibang makes a great little mower for people who have just a little more lawn than they can walk. But, not many people want a mower with a name that sounds “foreign.” So, it appears they have renamed it Turf ONE. Owners love how small it is and it’s perfect for that lawn that’s just a little too big to mow with a walk-behind. It will mow one acre but really shines on 1/4 to 1/2 acre flat lawns.

• Class: Riding Mower, Good for small, smooth lawns
• Model: Turf One E-Rider Model #30-EB
• Deck: 30 inch
• Type: Rear engine rider
• Battery: 72 volt, 20 AH, 1500 Watt-Hour.
• Very Compact and does not take up a lot of room in your garage.
• Warranty: 3 Year Residential

Read more and buy through the Home Depot here: Buy Turf One E-Rider

TURF ONE VOLT 32C Model #32c1900

If you use a bagger most of the time on your smaller lawn the TURF ONE VOLT 32C Model #32c1900 may be a great choice for you.

• Class: Riding Mower, Good for small, smooth lawns
• Model: Turf One E-Rider Model #32-C
• Deck: 30 inch
• Type: Rear engine rider
• Battery: 72 volt, 30 AH, 1500 Watt-Hour.
• Very Compact and does not take up a lot of room in your garage.
• Warranty: 3 Year Residential

Read more and buy through the Home Depot here: Buy Turf One 32-C E-Rider

Craftsman

(Owned by Stanley, Black Decker – Sold through Lowes and other retailers)

Although the Craftsman branded electric riding mowers are most likely the same mower as the Cub Cadet’s above (made by MTD) I am not going to recommend them at this time. Why? 1. Service and parts availability are very poor. Parts are not available online. Any service requires you to ship your mower off to some unknown location. Owners with problems are very frustrated with both Lowes and Craftsman. 2. All reviews on Lowes are “[This review was collected as part of a promotion.]” meaning Lowes or Craftsman paid the reviewer for the review and the results may be skewed because of that.

Plain and simple – You want a mower that works when you want to use it – if it breaks you want to get parts immediately or get it repaired quickly. When/if this improves I will update this article to reflect the changes.

GreenWorks Commercial Lithium Z RZ48R

The Greenworks Lithium Z is a high-end residential ZTR and will be available through GreenWorks Commercial dealers this spring. This mower features a commercial fabricated deck, heavy-duty frame, and smooth controls. I saw it at GIE-EXPO and I was impressed. The cost will be around 7000.

Greenworks Commercial also offers a full line of commercial electric ZTR, Stand-ons, and walk-behinds.

If you are not familiar with Greenworks it is a global company headquartered in Changzhou, China and has offices in South Carolina, and Sweden. The brands they offer are Greenworks (residential) PowerWorks (residential) and Greenworks Commercial.

• Class: Zero-Turn Mower (ZTR) up to 2 acres.
• Model: Lithium Z RZ48R
• Deck: 48″ Residential Zero Turn Mower
• Type: Zero-Turn
• Battery: 82 volt, Run Time Up to 1 Hours?, Cut Area Up to 2.25 Acres, Charge Time 7 hours
• Very Compact and does not take up a lot of room in your garage.
• Warranty: 2 Year Residential, 3-year battery

Gravely EVZT

The EVZT zero-turn is the first commercially capable battery-powered ZTR developed by a tried and true outdoor power equipment manufacturer. Gravely has had this mower out on lawns now for a year and the owners just rave about how well it cuts and how easy it is to maintain. If you are a commercial mower and need a dependable unit this may be the best choice for you right now.

This mower will mow up to 15 acres (5 hours) on one charge of the 4 kWh batteries. (one battery is equivalent to EIGHT 10 Ah EGO batteries) The FusionCore QuikSwap batteries are swappable out in the field and Gravely has even introduced an offboard portable charger so your crews can work all day long.

Class: Commercial Zero-Turn Mower.

You can read more here: Gravely EVZT

Mean Green

Mean Green – Commercial Electric Mowers

Mean Green Mowers has a complete line of lithium-powered commercial riding, stand-on, walk-behind and trimming mowers. They feature interchangeable high-capacity battery packs that can quickly be exchanged to power their mowers all day long. This is the true “Tesla” of riding mowers – state of the art batteries, chargers, and electronics.

Like the Tesla autos, there is no maintenance on these mowers other than occasional inspections for safety and a few grease fittings. No seasonal maintenance like oil, spark plugs, oil filters, air filters, hydraulic fluid, etc to purchase and store. Best of all, there is NO gas to purchase and haul around in your trunk! No storage cans of stale fuel sitting around your garage! Commercial owners are seeing savings of hundreds of dollars per month on parts and fuel alone, not to mention the high labor costs to accomplish the maintenance. The additional cost of the batteries quickly is offset by maintenance and operating savings over gas-powered equipment.

The mowers themselves are true commercial grade mowers and cost about the same as an equivalent commercial gas-powered zero-turn. The battery packs and chargers are additional.

Did I mention how quiet they are?

DR Power Equipment, a subsidiary of Generac Holdings Inc., a manufacturer of professional-grade, outdoor power equipment recently acquired Mean Green Products, the established leader in the battery-electric commercial electric lawn mower industry.

Find out more about Mean Green Mowers here: Mean Green Mowers

Lead Acid Deep Cycle AGM Battery Powered Mowers

Ryobi Electric Riding Lawn Mower

The Ryobi Electric Rider and Electric Zero-turn are the most popular residential electric mowers available because they can be easily purchased through The Home Depot and they are gaining a great reputation for cut quality, ease of use, and dependability.

Ryobi 42 Inch Zero-Turn Mower RY48ZTR75 and RY48ZTR100

No emissions, no starting issues, no fuel or other maintenance besides changing the mowing blades once in a while. Combine this ZTR with the Ryobi 40 volt Tool Collection or the Toro Flex-Force System and you no longer need a gas-powered product to maintain your 2-3 acre yard! It’s time to get rid of the gas can! The RYOBI 48V Zero Turn Electric Riding Mower is powered by 75 Ah or 100 Ah Lead-Acid Batteries and 4 High-Powered Brushless Motors. This mower can cut up to 2.25/3.0 acres on a single charge. The durable 42 in. steel deck is equipped with two precision-cut steel blades. The 12-Position Manual Deck Adjustment provides a clean-cut to your lawn every time. The advanced control panel activates the blades, slow speed function, LED headlights and displays the battery level and run-time. The rear access charging port makes charging your rider easy when the job is done.

• Class: Zero-Turn Mower (ZTR) up to 2 acres
• Lead-Acid Battery Operated: fully electric and 0 emissions
• Up to 3 acres of mowing per charge (2.25 acres with 75 AH batteries)
• 4 high powered brushless motors
• 42 in. heavy-duty steel deck
• 2 precision cut steel blades
• 12 position manual deck adjustment
• Side discharge, mulching, or bagging capable (bagger accessory available online only)
• 1.5 in. to 4.5 in. adjustable cutting height
• Low maintenance: no belts, spark plugs, or filters
• Battery operated: quiet cutting, no gas, fumes, charge and go
• Control panel: battery level indicator, unit hour meter, USB charging
• Easy access rear charging port
• Charges through a standard 120-Volt outlet. 12-14 hour charge time
• Includes towing hitch and tow assembly hardware
• Warranty: 3-Year Limited
• Battery Warranty:1-Year Limited

I have an extensive article comparing the Cub Cadet, EGO, and Ryobi electric zero-turn mowers. Check it out here: 42-inch Electric ZTRs – Ryobi, EGO, or Cub Cadet? Which One Is Best For You?

Ryobi RM480E – RM480ex ELECTRIC RIDING MOWER

The Ryobi RM480E has been on the market for two years and features a proven battery and propulsion system that will give you years of use. No gas, no oil changes, no real maintenance besides blades and cleaning for years. This mower uses standard deep discharge batteries for long mowing time and long battery life. If you have a smaller property to mow, and would like to be rid of noise, fumes and maintenance headaches of a gas-fueled riding mower, the cordless electric Ryobi RM480ex deserves serious consideration. It can run up to 2.5 hours on a single charge and is a great performer, too.

• Class: Riding Mower, Great for small lawns
• Battery-Operated: fully electric and 0 emissions
• 3 Brushless motors for superior power and performance
• Up to 2 hours of runtime or 2 acres of mowing
• Environmentally friendly.
• Virtually maintenance-free.
• Super quiet. Intuitive operation.
• Warranty: 3-Year Limited
• Battery Warranty:1-Year Limited

With the RM480E, you get all the benefits of owning a fully electric riding lawn mower without sacrificing power, performance or features.

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The 10 Best Electric Lawn Mowers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Sage McHugh has written for Dotdash Meredith since 2019. With over a decade of experience in consumer-oriented content, Sage has a passion for products and how they enhance our everyday lives.

Barbara Gillette is a Master Gardener, herbalist, beekeeper, and journalist. She has 30 years of experience propagating and growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals.

Shereen Jegtvig is an author, fact-checker, and expert with over two decades of experience in health and wellness in the lifestyle space. In addition, she is a Developmental Editor for Dotdash Meredith where she reviews the work of other fact checkers.

Electric lawn mowers have many advantages over gas-powered models. For example, electric models don’t release exhaust fumes and can be significantly quieter and easier to operate, resulting in a much more pleasant mowing experience all around. “Electric lawn mowers come with many features to help owners stay safe, comfortable, and productive,” says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI).

We researched many different types of electric lawn mowers and tested several in our own backyards across the country. We then evaluated products based on their setup, design, performance, usability, safety, and value and selected our favorites in a range of categories for this list. During our first run with the mower, we timed the assembly process and made careful notes about how clear and simple the included directions were. Following this, we utilized the mowers on three separate occasions, taking note of the grass length cut, the total area of the yard mowed, and the time it took to complete the task.

In our latest round of testing, we put six riding lawn mowers through their paces in our personal yards and selected the best electric ones based on its power, maneuverability, and noise level.

Best Overall

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

• Powerful and easy to use
• Lightweight and foldable for vertical storage
• 60-minute runtime and recharging
• Relatively affordable

After testing other electric mowers across the country, the EGO LM2102SP POWER 21-Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower is our best overall pick because it is very easy to use, lightweight and compact, and offers additional power when you need it, all at a relatively affordable price. Self-propelled mowers make mowing—especially over hills and rugged terrain—much easier because the mower moves for you at your pace, while you simply guide it around your yard. This option is no exception. While we tested this mower, we almost found it too powerful at first, especially because it was our first time using a self-propelled mower. But once we got the hang of it, we turned it off and on easily, and adjusted the speeds when needed by using the levers on the handle. We found the self-propulsion helpful for going up small hills (the lowest speed was all we needed) and turned it off when navigating around obstacles.

We also appreciated the battery life and fast recharging this mower offers. Although it comes with just one EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery, it has a 60-minute runtime and only takes about the same time to recharge using the included Rapid charger. And while it only took 50 minutes to mow our lawn, we are happy to report that the battery did not run out. If you have other EGO products at home with the same battery, you could always swap in that battery if you have a larger lawn and want to continue mowing without much of a break.

Other user-friendly features we love include the easily-adjustable handle: You have two options for the height and three options for the angle, so you can pick the one that is most comfortable for you. We also found adjusting the cutting height to be a simple task, with six settings to choose from ranging in height from 1.5 to 4 inches. And when you are done, the handle is just as easy to fold, so you can store your mower vertically in your garage or shed. We do want to note that while we think this mower did a great job mowing in dry and damp conditions, once when mowing over a particularly wet area, an orange light came on and the mower stopped. However, once we moved the mower to a more drier area, we were able to start it again easily. The only other minor issue we reported is putting on the grass collection bag. We found it would be much easier with two people since it clips on tightly and it’s a bit hard to get around the support bar (it popped off a few times during this process). But other than those small issues, we think this is an excellent electric mower for navigating different types of terrain with ease.

How It Performed Long-Term

We’ve been testing this lawn mower for three months and are impressed with its long-lasting battery life. With the ability to mow the lawn three times before requiring a recharge, which only takes around 20 minutes, it is a reliable and efficient machine. This mower can effortlessly handle thick, tall grass and can even manage up to 10 days of uncut grass without any issues. While we initially experienced some issues with the mower stopping and a light running orange while mowing grass, we have since been able to handle damp grass with ease. Overall, this mower is ideal for individuals who may not have the hand or upper body strength to adjust tires or use a pull cord.

Price at time of publish: 549

Cutting Width: 21 inches | Weight: 62.61 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge

Ryobi 80v HP Lithium Lawn Tractor review [must watch]

Best Budget

Greenworks 12 Amp 20-Inch 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower

• Affordable, powerful, and compact
• Unlimited run time
• Seven cutting positions
• Bag, mulch, and side-discharge settings

We’ve tested the Greenworks Electric Corded Lawn Mower several times over the last few years, and it continues to stand out as the best affordable choice for small yards and tight spaces, even those with somewhat challenging terrain. In fact, while testing this mower in our latest round of testing, we had no issues navigating over divots, clumps, bumps, and other parts of our lawn that were uneven—we found that this mower powered right through them. Plus, the 12-amp motor is powerful enough for tough cutting and mulching, including the tall, spindly weeds in our yard. We didn’t report any issues mowing over slightly wet grass either.

The 20-inch cutting deck is narrower than some other options, but we found that it helped us get through the tight areas of our yard easily. Adjusting the cutting height (seven different heights ranging from 1.5 to 3.75 inches) is simple as well, and really is the only setting you need to worry about. However, we did note that the mower didn’t go quite low enough to cut some patches of clover. Although it’s budget-friendly, we love that you have three options for your grass clippings—bag, mulch, or side discharge—and you don’t have to purchase any of these features separately (which would add to the cost). The grass collection bag was easy to clip on, although we did spill some grass clippings the first time we removed it and noted that the bag was not even full. However, we think this won’t be an issue once we get the hang of it.

Although this electric model is corded, we appreciated the unlimited runtime and didn’t find the cord to be cumbersome. We did find ourselves holding on to the cord even though there was a cord restraint system that kept it in place, but we were able to mow the lawn easily with our other hand. It’s important to note that this mower must be used with a 14-gauge 50-foot extension cord or a 12-gauge 100-foot extension cord (not included). Overall, we found this to be a really easy lawn mower to set up (just a few screws are needed for the handle), use, and store (just fold the handle), and it continues to impress us with its performance and price.

Price at time of publish: 230

Cutting Width: 20 inches | Weight: 56 pounds | Power Source: Corded | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge

Best Self-Propelled

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

• Powerful performance
• 70-minute runtime
• Fast, 60-minute charging
• Lightweight and folds for storage

Although it is a little more of a splurge compared to other options we tested, The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21 Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower stands out for its powerful performance (comparable to some gas models), and long, 70-minute runtime. We tested this mower on the first grass of the season and were quickly impressed by its ease of use and quiet performance (we thought it almost sounded like white noise), especially compared to gas models we’ve used in the past. Thanks to the self-propelled technology, it was a breeze to mow over uneven terrain, even over hills, with little effort on our part. It did take a little bit of time to select the right cutting height for our uneven lawn (the blade did get stuck a few times), but once we adjusted the height, we were impressed by the cutting performance. Luckily this mower offers seven adjustable cutting heights (1.5 to 4 inches), so you can easily pick the one you need. We also want to mention that like our best overall mower, the EGO LM2102SP POWER 21-Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower, the self-propelled feature does take some time to get used to, and you may feel like the mower will run away on you at first until you figure out which setting you need for each part of your yard.

This model comes with two 40-volt batteries and a Rapid charger. Since only one battery is needed at a time, you will always have one ready to go should you need it. Our lawn took only 45 minutes to an hour each time to mow, and we never had to stop and recharge it to finish the job. However, we did have to stop the first time we mowed to empty the grass collection bag, which we found to be surprisingly small. It filled up after mowing about 25-30 feet of tall grass. The next two times weren’t as much of an issue because the grass wasn’t as overgrown. It was very simple to remove the full bag, but we found that it spilled easily and a few blades even spilled when the mower was in use (whether or not it was filled.) These few issues aside, we appreciated the bag, mulching, and side-discharge options for the grass clippings overall, although it is worth noting that it did not break up older leaves very well.

Like most of the mowers on this list, the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21 Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower is easy to fold and store vertically to save space. We were equally impressed with all of the safety features. Although it has a simple, push-button start, the mower has a key that you can store separately so no one can accidentally start the mower. When ready to use, the key has to be inserted behind a flap. Plus, the mower only works while you are gripping a lever. The LED headlights provide extra light that might be helpful when mowing around dusk or dawn. Although this mower is a bit more pricey than our best overall (which is also a battery-powered self-propel model), we think it’s worth the extra cost for the power, long runtime, and extra battery.

How It Performed Long-Term

After three months of use, we can report that this lawn mower has continued to impress us with its ease of use and quiet operation. The self-propelled feature makes navigating hills and uneven terrain a breeze, and we were able to get up to 4 uses out of a single charge. The mower excels at cutting grass and collecting clippings, and while it may struggle with heavier weeds, we had no issues with damp grass. It’s worth noting that the grass bag became heavy with clippings, but overall, we are confident in recommending this lawn mower to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient cutting tool.

Price at time of publish: 799

Cutting Width: 21 inches | Weight: 75 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge

Best Push

Sun Joe MJ401E-P2 Electric Lawn Mower

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Budget-friendly
• Relatively quiet
• Folds for compact storage

While testing, we found that the Sun Joe MJ401E-P2 Electric Lawn Mower was as easy to use as a corded vacuum. At under 30 pounds, this mower is very easy to push, even though it’s not a self-propelled model. It is corded, so you will most likely have to use an extension cord. However, you won’t have to worry about the battery running out, stopping to recharge a battery, or fumes from a gas model. We were also impressed by how quiet this mower was, especially compared to gas mowers we’ve used in the past. This mower was simple to set up—we just had to attach the bag and two parts for the handle.

Thanks to the 14-inch cutting deck, we found this to be a great push mower for navigating around tight corners and spaces. However, we do want to point out a few issues we came across while testing. We found that the grass collection bag filled up pretty quickly (after mowing about 20-30 feet). And when we mowed without the bag, we did notice that the grass would get stuck underneath the blades. As a great safety feature, the mower would immediately shut off. The grass was easy to remove though, and we were able to get back to mowing quickly. Also, it’s worth noting that this mower only has three settings for the cutting height, ranging from 1.12 to 2.52 inches. While you won’t get as a precise cut as other models, and you may have to stop to empty a bag or remove grass from underneath the mower when tackling long grass, we think this is a great budget-friendly push mower that is perfect for small lawns.

How It Performed Long-Term

We are still very satisfied with its performance, even after using it for three months. The grass has grown thicker and longer since we first tested the lawn mower, but we were able to adjust the height of the mower to handle it with ease. Even after it rained, we were able to cut through the grass without any problems. However, it should be noted that the grass catcher bag becomes heavier with damp clippings and more difficult to empty. Although we appreciate not having to refill the mower with gasoline constantly, we believe it would be more convenient if it ran on batteries rather than a cord. Having to connect the extension cord to different outlets in the yard can be a bit inconvenient. All in all, we believe it is a dependable mower for its price.

Price at time of publish: 108

Cutting Width: 14 inches | Weight: 29 pounds | Power Source: Corded electric | Cutting Options: Bag, side-discharge

Best Riding

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

• Powerful Performance
• LCD Screen and app for tracking battery life
• 13 cutting heights
• Many extra features

If you have a larger yard to mow, a riding lawn mower can save you time and energy with its speed and efficiency. While testing the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-inch Battery Riding Lawn Tractor we were impressed with its exceptional cutting performance, long battery runtime, and maneuverability. The electric mower has four steel blades that provide 13 different cutting height positions, ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 inches, for a very precise cut. We found that the mower was able to handle a variety of debris with ease, effectively chopping up sticks, leaves, grass clippings, and even short dandelions that normally would be difficult to cut. The cutting height can be adjusted using a manual lever on the mower’s right side. However, we did find that the lever was surprisingly close to your leg, which can result in unintentionally changing the cutting height, although we did not experience this issue ourselves.

While putting this battery-powered mower to the test after a rainy morning, we found that it had no trouble dealing with wet grass and cutting it evenly. Even when the grass was damp, the lawn mower effectively discharged the grass clippings. While we love that this mower gives you three options for grass clippings—bag, side-discharge, or mulch—note that you will have to purchase the bagger and mulching kit separately. We were also impressed with the riding mower’s quietness despite its size. When the cutting blades were not moving, the riding mower sound resembled that of a battery-powered ride-on car for kids. And, when the blades were spinning, the noise level was super low compared to traditional gas mowers.

The mower has an onboard LCD screen that lets you check the runtime and charging status and control the LED headlights, drive, and blade speeds. The battery percentage also appears on the digital display menu. You can even monitor the charging status while you are taking a break, using the Ryobi Riding Mower app. We found charging the mower to be a simple process. The battery arrived with just 23 percent charge, and it only took us about an hour to fully recharge. For each mowing session we did, only about 10 percent of the battery was utilized. While we would have preferred a physical speed control lever, we found it manageable to switch while driving. The mower has an accelerator pedal that allows for slow and precise maneuvering around obstacles while providing instant speed when necessary. The mower is also equipped with a backup beeping noise, which is intended as a safety feature but we found it annoying over time.

All in all, the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-inch Battery Riding Lawn Tractor is a great riding mower that offers a quiet and efficient mowing experience that eliminates the hassle of gas and oil. While this isn’t the best choice for small yards, if you want to keep your large yard looking great without a lot of effort, this is an excellent choice with lots of extras.

Price at time of publish: 4,999

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Weight: 557 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Mulch, bag, or side-discharge

Best Zero-Turn

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

• 12 height settings
• Powerful performance
• LCD screen and app to monitor battery life
• Joystick steering

Zero-turn mowers are built to be fast and easily navigate obstacles, and the Ryobi Battery Electric Cordless Zero Turn Riding Mower does just that. We put the riding mower through its paces and found it to be a highly intuitive and easy-to-operate machine. Instead of a steering wheel, this riding mower has a joystick that can be operated with just one hand, for better maneuverability while turning. The joystick gave us complete control over the mower’s direction and speed, from a complete stop to top speed. With its impressive turning abilities, we were effortlessly able to mow around trees in a single pass, a task that would have previously required about four passes with a different mower.

Setting the cutting height was equally simple, thanks to the conveniently located lever that offered twelve height settings ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 inches. The mower even comes with a height-stopping key, that allowed us to adjust the mowing deck to our desired cutting height quickly. Overall, the mower did a phenomenal job of cutting the grass evenly. We did encounter some thicker grass areas in the yard, but we found that slowing down the mower’s speed allowed it to power through without any issues. We were able to mow our half-acre yard much faster with this mower compared to the Troy-Built Pony 17 HP 42-inch Deck Rider we previously used. In fact, it took us 40 percent less time to complete the task. It also is much quieter than the gas riding mower, and you don’t have to deal with flammable gas or oil changes.

The RYOBI 80V HP Brushless Riding Mower is equipped with two 80-volt, 10-amp hour batteries and two 40-volt, 12-amp hour batteries, providing ample power for extended mowing sessions. During our testing, we appreciated the ability to install up to three 80-volt and four 40-volt batteries, allowing us to extend the mower’s runtime even further. Charging the batteries was a breeze. We simply had to plug the charging cord into the rear of the mower to simultaneously charge all the onboard batteries. We were also delighted to find out that the 40-volt batteries can be used with different cordless Ryobi tools like trimmers and blowers, expanding the range of our outdoor power equipment collection.

And while it has many of the same features as the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Battery Riding Lawn Tractor, this option has the power equivalent of a 31-horsepower gas engine and the ability to cut up to three acres on a single charge, according to the manufacturer. It also offers an app to monitor the battery status and has an LCD screen onboard so you can control the LED headlights, blade and drive speed, as well as monitor the battery, runtime, and charging status. This is an expensive mower, but we think it is an excellent zero-turn option that will make your lawn look great quickly and efficiently.

Price at time of publish: 6,999

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Weight: 700 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge

Best Heavy-Duty

Toro 22 60V MAX Electric Battery SMARTSTOW Personal Pace High Wheel Mower

• Automatically adjusts to walking pace
• Nine cutting positions
• Vortex Technology results in finer grass clippings
• Quick-connect bagging and mulching

Toro’s cordless, walk-behind mower is a powerful and precise piece of machinery. It has a three-phase brushless motor that maximizes RPM and torque, and a 22-inch deck. While it may come with a fairly steep price tag, its advanced features make mowing hassle-free. There are nine different cutting positions available, ranging from 1 inch to 4 inches, so you can make a clean cut even in tight spaces. Toro’s patented Vortex Technology also ensures finer grass clippings and a healthier lawn.

The mower comes with one battery that can run for up to 40 minutes, allowing you to cut up to 0.33 of an acre on a single charge. However, some users have reported the battery running out of juice in half that time. The mower’s 10-inch rear wheels provide excellent traction on tough terrain without damaging your lawn. It also features a self-propelled transmission that adjusts to your walking pace, making it easy to maneuver. Thanks to its quick-connect bagging system, you can easily switch from mulching to bagging. Despite its heavy weight, the Toro Recycler Walk Behind Mower folds up compactly for easy storage.

Price at time of publish: 729

Cutting Width: 22 inches | Weight: 95 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Mulch, bag, or side-discharge

Best for Small Yards

Worx WG779 Power Share 40-Volt 14-Inch Cordless Walk Behind Mower

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Dual charging port for batteries
• Battery charge indicator
• Batteries compatible with other Worx tools

The Worx Power Share Battery Walk-Behind Mower has a 14-inch cutting deck that can cut up to 0.12 acres per charge, making it an ideal choice for smaller yards. At 29 pounds, it’s light enough for almost any user to handle. This unit is equipped with two batteries and a dual charging port to maximize the recharging time. For added convenience, there’s an on-board battery charge indicator that lets you know when you’re running out of juice. Another great thing about these batteries is that they’re compatible with a variety of other Worx tools.

This mower has six height adjustments, and you can easily add more torque with the turn of a knob. It also has the ability to mulch or bag grass clippings, and you can easily gauge when the bag is full, thanks to its transparent plastic top. Keep in mind that this compact model is best-suited for smaller jobs, so you will need to limit your expectations when it comes to performance. According to some reports that we read, it has difficulty powering through tough grass, and it sometimes stalls on lips and edges.

Price at time of publish: 300

Cutting Width: 14 inches | Weight: 29.1 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch

Best Cordless

Makita 36-Volt Lithium-Ion Push Lawn Mower

• Powerful motor
• Durable construction
• 10 cutting heights
• Optional quiet mode
• Includes extra set of batteries

If you’re looking for a cordless, battery-powered option, this push mower from Makita won’t disappoint. The brushless motor is incredibly powerful, delivering up to 3,300 RPM. This tool is powered by two 18-volt batteries, but four batteries are included, so you can swap them out for extended run time. All together, the batteries deliver up to 43 minutes of runtime. The handlebar has a rubberized grip for user comfort, and the handles fold for compact storage.

The Makita Push Lawn Mower has an 18-inch commercial-grade steel deck for optimal durability. It features a wide range of cutting heights—10 settings ranging from 0.81 to 3 inches. Though it performs well on most turf types, this mower may struggle a bit in overgrown grass. It has the ability to bag, mulch, or rear-discharge clippings. There’s even a quiet mode so you can mow your lawn without disturbing your neighbors.

Price at time of publish: 599

Cutting Width: 18 inches | Weight: 60.46 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, rear-discharge

Best Robot

Worx Landroid Robotic Mower

• Fully automated
• Customize mowing schedules via app
• Navigates 20-degree slopes
• Detects rain and avoids obstacles

Tired of mowing the lawn? This fully automated, robotic lawn mower does all of the work for you. It can mow medium-sized lawns up to 1/4 acre in size. To set it up, you’ll need to put down a boundary wire around your yard and connect the mower to the app. You can start or stop the machine, set up a mowing schedule, and check the mowing progress via the app. The Landroid is equipped with an 8-inch cutting width, the height of which can be adjusted between 1.9 and 3.5 inches. Two brushless wheel motors give it enough traction to navigate 20-degree slopes.

If the mower encounters an obstacle, it will simply back away. For more precise detection, an additional collision is available at an additional cost. It can also be programmed to avoid certain areas of your yard. When the Landroid detects rain or the battery runs low, it will return to the docking to either recharge or wait until the lawn is dry. With all of these features, the Landroid Robotic Mower is certainly worthy of its steep price tag. One thing worth noting is that even though this robotic option gets fairly close to the edges of a yard, you’ll likely need a string trimmer for touch-ups every so often.

Price at time of publish: 2,000

Cutting Width: 8 inches | Weight: 48.5 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: None

Compare

After testing this mower in our own backyard, the EGO LM2102SP POWER 21-Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower earns our top spot. This powerful mower offers up to an hour of uninterrupted runtime and is easy to use, thanks to self-propelled technology. We also love the adjustable and foldable handle for compact storage. If you’re looking for a more affordable option for your small yard, we found the Greenworks Electric Corded Lawn Mower to be compact and lightweight enough to navigate around obstacles with ease, and offers unlimited runtime, as long as you don’t mind a cord.

How We Tested the Electric Lawn Mowers

We tested eight walk-behind lawn mowers including gas, electric corded, and cordless, battery-powered models in our own yards across the country. After putting them to the test on our own lawns—ranging from small to large—we evaluated them on setup, design, performance, usability, safety, and value. For the first use, we timed setting up the lawn mower and noted what assembly, if any, was required, and if the instructions were detailed and easy to follow. We also recorded the battery charging time if it was a cordless model. We then used the mowers on three separate occasions when the weather and growing conditions allowed and recorded the length of grass cut, the surface area of the yard mowed, and the time it took to accomplish the task. We noted how easy (or not) it was to start the mower, adjust the handle, adjust the speed (if self-propelled), and change the cutting heights. We also evaluated the different features including bagging, mulching, and side-discharge options (if included) for the grass clippings. Aside from evaluating each mower’s set up and features, after use, we noted how easy it was to navigate around obstacles, up slopes, and other challenging areas including uneven or tall grass. We then looked at the appearance of the lawn and noted if it looked evenly cut. We also noted all of the safety features as well as any extra features such as LED headlights, foldable handles for storage, cord management systems, and more. After testing, the top electric mowers were added to this list. In our latest round of testing, we tested six riding lawn mowers in our yards and evaluated them on the same criteria explained above. We conducted thorough testing and compared the results with our previous product recommendations in order to provide the best suggestions possible. We made adjustments to the categories based on standout performance, either by swapping out or adding new options.

What to Look for in an Electric Lawn Mower

Mower Type

Electric mowers fall into four main categories: push, self-propelled, riding, and robot mowers. Choosing the right model depends on the size of your lawn, budget, and how much labor you’re willing to put in. Push mowers require that you walk behind them and manually propel them. Since they lack many of the features that you’ll find on more advanced electric lawn mowers, push mowers tend to cost significantly less. Push mowers also require the most amount of labor, making them an ideal choice for small to medium-sized yards with relatively flat terrain. We like the Greenworks Electric Corded Lawn Mower because it is very easy to navigate around your yard and comes at a very budget-friendly price. Self-propelled mowers are equipped with technology that propels the wheels as you mow. These mowers are often significantly pricier than push mowers, but they require a lot less effort on the user’s part. A self-propelled mower like the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21 Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower is a great choice for medium-sized to large lawns with sloped or uneven terrain. An electric riding mower is the most powerful option—and likewise the most expensive. Users must either sit or stand on the machine in order to operate it. With an ultra-wide cutting swath and the ability to navigate difficult terrain, a riding mower is well-suited for large yards with steeper slopes. We love the Ryobi Battery Electric Cordless Riding Lawn Tractor because it can cut up to two acres on a single charge and offers plenty of great features. Robot lawn mowers are typically programmed through an app, allowing them to operate autonomously with little to no effort. Some initial setup is required, but a robot mower can be programmed to mow your lawn automatically, avoid collisions and inclement weather, and more. Although they’re incredibly convenient, robotic models also have a shorter runtime and a smaller cutting width swath, limiting their use to smaller yards. Our top choice in this category, the Worx WR147 Landroid Robotic Mower, is almost 100 percent autonomous once it’s been set up.

Power Source

Cordless electric lawn mowers run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. A cordless model gives you more flexibility and portability because it doesn’t restrict your movement. However, you will have to be mindful of the battery life, which typically runs down between 30 and 60 minutes. Some cordless electric mowers come with extra batteries that can be swapped out to extend their runtime. You could also purchase a second battery to increase the operating time. That way, you don’t have to worry about running out of juice mid-task. Our top choice for a cordless model, Makita 18-Volt X2 LXT Lithium-Ion Push Lawn Mower, includes an extra set of batteries so users can mow longer without having to recharge. The biggest advantage to a corded electric lawn mower is that it provides unlimited power. Corded models typically cost less than their battery-operated counterparts. However, your movement is restricted to the cord’s length. A corded mower must be used with a heavy-duty extension cord, which is often sold separately. Most manufacturers recommend a 12-gauge or 14-gauge cord, but you should always refer to the owner’s manual to ensure safe operation.

Deck Size

Deck size refers to the width of the mower, and determines how wide a path it can cut. A wider deck size results in a wider cutting swath, allowing you to cover a larger area in one pass. The standard deck size on both push and self-propelled mowers typically ranges from 13 to 22 inches. Robotic mowers usually have a much smaller cutting deck between 5 and 10 inches. Riding mowers, on the other hand, can have a deck size as wide as 54 inches. A riding mower is best-suited for large lawns that normally take a good deal of time to mow. Our top pick for zero-turn, the Ryobi Battery Electric Cordless Zero Turn Riding Mower has a 42-inch deck and 12 cutting heights to make short work of a big job, navigating around obstacles with ease.

Motor Power and Type

Cordless electric mowers that run on batteries produce anywhere from 18 to 20 volts of power. The higher the voltage, the longer the motor will run on a single charge. Likewise, a mower with a higher voltage will allow you to cover more ground in one pass. Higher voltage is usually necessary to mow large lawns and generate enough torque to cut through tall, dense grass. The amp rating is also important in determining how powerful an electric lawn mower is. For example, a 12-amp electric mower can power through tough grass, while a 6-amp model would struggle. A corded electric lawn mower typically draws between 6 and 13 amps from a standard outlet. The battery on most cordless models delivers about 18 amps per hour.

Brushless vs. Brushed Motor

Brushless motors are more efficient, because they don’t lose much energy through friction and heat, both of which could potentially damage the motor. Plus, you don’t have to worry about replacing brushes when they wear out. All of these factors contribute to a more reliable performance and less maintenance. Brushed motors, on the other hand, generate more heat, which explains their tendency to stall and overheat. Although brushed motors are more affordable upfront, you may pay more for maintenance in the long run. You’ll also need to replace worn-out brushes as needed, which is an additional expense.

Standout Features

Grass Bag Catcher

A grass bag catcher attaches to the side or rear of a lawn mower and collects grass clippings. Grass cuttings are collected in a bag at the same time as they are cut. This is a convenient feature because it saves you from having to bag or clean up the clippings yourself. With a grass-catching bag, your lawn will look neat and well-maintained after mowing.

Mulcher

An electric lawn mower with mulching capabilities will chop grass up finely and drop the clippings back onto the lawn. As the clippings decompose, they release nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, into the soil. Since mulching naturally improves the health of your lawn, it may need fewer fertilizer treatments.

Adjustable Cutting Height

Most electric lawn mowers have an adjustable cutting height, ranging from 1 to 4 inches, which allows users to cut a variety of grasses and tackle tall, overgrown lawns. As a general rule of thumb, the ideal height for cool-season grass is about 2 1/2 inches. When mowing, you should only remove about the top third of the grass blades.

“The lifespan of an electric lawn mower varies, based on make, model, and consumer care practices,” says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). “Just like other outdoor equipment, with proper maintenance, charging, and battery storage practices, then the electric lawn mower can easily meet the user’s expectations.”

• Regularly inspect the cords for nicks and frays, as well as the batteries for any damage or deformities.
• Confirm that all of the vents are free from debris.
• Be sure to only use batteries and chargers in conjunction with manufacturer recommendations.

In the case of electric lawn mowers, convenience comes with a cost. Push mowers are on the lower end of the price scale, but they also require the most amount of manual labor. Self-propelled mowers typically cost several hundred dollars more than push mowers, but they reduce the amount of manual labor that’s needed. advanced models, such as robotic and riding mowers, can be quite expensive, but they essentially do all the work for you. It’s up to you to decide whether you want to put in the labor or pay more to make your life easier.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Sage McHugh, a home and lifestyle writer who has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019. To select the best electric lawn mowers for this roundup, she considered dozens of products, carefully evaluating their motor type, power source, cutting width, special features, and overall performance. McHugh consulted hundreds of customer reviews, as well as write-ups from third-party websites. For additional insight, she interviewed Kris Kiser, president and CEO of Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI).

Jenica Currie, Commerce Editor for The Spruce updated this list with insights gathered from testing various electric lawn mowers in our own backyards across the country. She also added additional picks and reporting.

What Is The Spruce Approved?

Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure that we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all of these products ourselves, though occasionally, we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut.

Make the switch to a greener yard with a high-performance battery-powered lawn mower.

By Tony Carrick and Mark Wolfe | Updated Jul 12, 2023 8:21 AM

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

Whether you’re switching from gas-powered to green or buying your first cordless electric mower, battery-powered lawn mowers offer many advantages. In addition to being kinder to the environment, they’re also quieter and easier to start than gas-powered mowers.

These innovative machines use powerful batteries that provide enough juice to mow lawns up to a half acre or larger. They also produce enough torque to cut through tall grass and many are self-propelled, making them easier to operate.

We tested the following battery-powered lawn mowers in different grass-growing environments to find out more about their capability, reliability, and overall user comfort. Read on to learn about the important features to consider, how to select the best battery-powered lawn mower for areas ranging from just a few square feet to a couple of acres, and how each mower performed in our hands-on tests.

• BEST OVERALL:Snapper XD 82V MAX Cordless 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Greenworks Pro 80V 21-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
• BEST SELF-PROPELLED:Toro Flex Force 60V 21-Inch Super Recycler Mower
• BEST RIDING:Ego Power Z6 42-Inch Zero Turn Riding Mower
• BEST FAST-CHARGING:Ego Power 21-Inch Select Cut Lawn Mower
• BEST FOR LARGE YARDS:Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Smart Pace Lawn Mower
• BEST FOR SMALL LAWNS:Worx Nitro 80V Power Share 21-Inch Self Propelled Mower

How We Tested the Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers

Battery-powered lawn mowers generally offer a quiet, exhaust-free mowing experience. They remove the hassle of buying and hauling gasoline, changing oil, and other maintenance aspects of gas engines. With the notable exceptions of sharpening/replacing blades and charging/replacing batteries, they are virtually maintenance-free. While shoppers are motivated to buy battery-powered lawn mowers for a multitude of reasons, the expectation remains that they will be able to mow their grass whenever they want, without hassle or frustration. To us, as testers, that meant we needed to closely scrutinize runtime, recharge time, and overall mowing capability.

We tested all mowers the same way and captured the results on a testing rubric for comparison. After fully charging the batteries, we used them to mow two different areas, one that had been consistently maintained at the normal mowing height, and one that had been neglected and allowed to grow about 10 inches high. Both areas included a mix of flat and moderately sloped ground. As we mowed, we assessed general operator comfort, self-propelled capabilities, mowing power, and finished mowing quality. We mowed until the batteries ran out, recorded the runtime, and measured the area mowed. Finally, we recorded the time required to recharge the depleted batteries.

Because riding mowers offer many more features and control options, we tested the Ego Power Z6 over several days with multiple battery configurations. Battery life plays such an outsized role in overall performance and customer satisfaction that we wanted to collect results on maintained and overgrown grass for groupings of two, four, and six batteries. The testing criteria and observation points for each test run were virtually the same as those for the other mowers. The great news is that all of these mowers delivered excellent mowing power, good-to-excellent cut quality, and plenty of runtime for real-world applications as shown in the individual reviews.

Our Top Picks

We tested the following mowers taking into account the above considerations for large and small yards. Read on to learn how each model performed in testing and why we consider them among the best battery-powered lawn mowers.

Snapper XD 82V MAX Cordless 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mo

The Snapper XD features a variable-speed transmission and design features that allow for adjustments to meet different grass-cutting demands. The StepSense feature automatically adjusts the speed to match the user’s walking pace. Load-sensing technology in this model automatically adjusts power output based on the thickness of the grass to provide a clean cut while maximizing energy efficiency.

The mower’s impressive 21-inch steel cutting deck is versatile. It boasts seven height adjustments that are easily changed from behind the mower with a single lever. The deck can mulch, side discharge, or bag with a capacity of up to 2.1 cubic feet of grass clippings.

When the yard work is done, this mower folds up conveniently for vertical storage in the garage. The kit includes two 2.0-Ah (amp hour) batteries, which together provide about 60 minutes of runtime and recharge in about 60 minutes.

In our tests, the Snapper XD traversed all types of terrain and left behind a smooth, even cut on a single pass. It easily powered through overgrown grass and weeds up to 10 inches tall, although extended use in tall weeds increased the needed power output and reduced runtime by about half.

We were more impressed by the blade motor’s load responsiveness than by the automated pace-adjustment system. The StepSense feature worked well on relatively flat ground, but on inclines it felt somewhat sticky or uneven. In overall performance for the price, this mower offers excellent power and runtime to mow about ⅓ of an acre, or 15,000 square feet, per charge.

Product Specs

• Runtime/recharge time: 60 minutes/60 minutes
• Deck size: 21 inches
• Mobility: Self-propelled, automatic pace adjustment
• Automatically adjusts to any individual user’s pace
• Powerful motor doesn’t bog down in dense grass
• Single lever cutting-height adjustment for user-friendliness
• Folds into a compact unit for ease of storage
• Less runtime per charge than some competitors
• StepSense feature feels somewhat “sticky”

Get the Snapper battery-powered lawn mower at Appliances Connection, Amazon, or Mowers Direct.

Greenworks Pro 80V 21-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower

Greenworks is known for its advancements in battery technology, and this model has two 2.0-Ah batteries that allow for up to 70 minutes of runtime from a full charge, with a combined recharge time of just 60 minutes. This push mower features a 21-inch-wide mowing deck. Technology that adjusts the motor speed based on load helps to maximize battery life and maintain excellent cut quality.

Adding to this impressive mowing coverage is a steel deck with seven positions that are easy to adjust with a large handle near the right rear wheel. Its sturdy steel deck gives it the tough feel of gas-powered models.

A large start button and easy-to-maneuver speed control mean it can be manipulated with gloved hands. This push mower does not have motorized wheels, which keeps the price low and maximizes battery life for cutting grass. The 3-in-1 grass clipping capability allows for bagging, mulching, or side discharging, and a foldable handle design facilitates compact storage.

Although this Greenworks push mower required a bit more effort to move around the yard than the self-propelled mowers, its simplified design made it an extremely capable mower. The powerful motor offered the most “gas-like” performance of the group. It had no trouble cutting dense, weedy grass up to 10 inches tall and left possibly the best finish of all the mowers we tested. In all three modes, bagging, mulching, and side discharging, it left the grass perfectly smooth, with no uneven spots or stringy weeds left behind. It had plenty of power to mulch thick grass into virtually invisible clippings.

The only downside of this mower was that hilly ground reduced the amount of area mowed per charge, not because of demand on the mower, but because the operator’s pace slowed. Everything else considered, we felt that this push mower delivered the strongest mowing capability, even though we had to push it. And the price was significantly less than the others.

Product Specs

• Runtime/recharge time: 70 minutes/60 minutes
• Deck size: 21 inches
• Mobility: Push
• Dual 2-Ah batteries offer up to 70 minutes of runtime; ideal for both small and large yards
• Strong motor delivers powerful cutting performance; ideal for thin and thick grass varieties
• Easy to use controls integrated into the handle
• Included charger only charges one battery at a time
• Not self-propelled; may cause some strain on the user

Get the Greenworks 80V battery-powered lawn mower at Amazon or Lowe’s.

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower For 2023

Toro Flex Force 60V 21-Inch Super Recycler Mower

The Toro Flex Force Super Recycler lawn mower is built for powerful mowing performance with superior operator comfort. The three-phase motor automatically increases power output when it detects tougher mowing conditions, then eases off to conserve battery life when the mowing gets easier again.

The 21-inch military-grade cast aluminum deck features a powerful vortex air-intake system that stands the grass blades up straight for a smoother, cleaner cut. The shock-absorbing Personal Pace self-adjusting, self-propelled system operates smoothly regardless of the terrain. Bright LED headlights make it easier to mow later into the evening. It comes with a powerful 60V 7.5-Ah battery that delivers up to 50 minutes of runtime per charge and recharges in 3 hours.

The Toro Super Recycler was the most comfortable battery-powered mower we tested, primarily because of its robust self-propulsion system. Although it was not the only mower with a pressure-sensitive handle, this one functioned the best. It paired the slightly more resistant, but buttery smooth, handle movement with a higher top-end speed for self movement that felt almost effortless on most terrain. Only slight pressure was required to climb the uphill areas, and it didn’t try to run away on the downhills.

Toro’s excellent cut quality was second only to the Greenworks 80V (mainly because the Greenworks mower performed exceptionally well in overgrown areas and Toro needed a second pass for best results there). However, we were underwhelmed by its battery performance at only 45 to 50 minutes of runtime in average conditions and 3 hours to recharge. Still, anyone with less than a half acre who is shopping for smooth operation and a top-quality cut may want to consider the Super Recycler.

Product Specs

• Runtime/recharge time: 50 minutes/180 minutes
• Deck size: 21 inches
• Mobility: Self-propelled, automatic pace adjustment
• Mows up to 0.4 acre (17,424 square feet) per charge
• Self-propelled rear wheels
• Motor automatically adjusts output to match mowing conditions
• Lightweight, rust- and corrosion-resistant aluminum deck
• LED headlights allow for ample visibility or nighttime mowing
• Longer recharge time than the competition
• Top mowing speed is too fast for imperfect conditions

Get the Toro battery-powered lawn mower at The Home Depot.

Ego Power Z6 42-Inch Zero Turn Riding Mower

Those with larger acreage can now have a battery-powered mower that can actually cut all of their grass on a single charge. The Ego Power riding mower is capable of mowing up to 2 acres per charge, with easy upgrades that can increase runtime to cut more than 3 acres per charge. Plus, it offers many of the same features found on gas-powered zero-turn mowers, such as adjustable lap bars to independently control the rear drive wheels; heavy-duty front swivel casters; a comfortable high back seat with adjustable suspension; a 42-inch deck with 10 height settings from 1.5 to 4.5 inches; and side discharging, mulching, and bagging capabilities.

The electric motor delivers power equivalent to a 22-horsepower (HP) gasoline engine. The Z6 also boasts high-power LED headlights, a battery level indicator, and independently adjustable modes and blade speeds. This mower comes with four 56V 10-Ah lithium batteries, with six available battery slots onboard, and is compatible with any of Ego Power’s other 56V batteries. It also comes with the fastest battery charger in the industry.

With so many features to test, we spent more time with the Z6 than with any of the other battery-powered mowers in this roundup. For our first run, we charged the four 56V 10-Ah batteries that came with the mower and cut as much grass as possible until the batteries ran out. Then we repeated the process with only two batteries, and again with a full “tank” of six batteries.

The mower requires a minimum of 15-Ah to operate, and the charger plugs into the mower to recharge all six batteries at once. Runtime and charge time were as follows: two batteries charged in 1¼ hours and mowed 3/4 acre, four batteries charged in 2 hours and mowed 1¾ acres, and six batteries charged in 3 hours and mowed almost 3 acres (we mowed the entire available area with about 12 percent charge left in the batteries).

We should also mention that the acreage we were mowing included a 1-acre rectangular field and two 1-acre home lots that, in addition to the homes, are approximately 50 percent and 75 percent lawn. The total grass acreage is more like 2¼, with some significant slopes and obstacles to navigate. Since Ego offers an even bigger battery size at 56V and 12-Ah, we estimate that runtime could possibly be stretched to mow up to 4 acres, depending on the condition of the grass and the lay of the land.

The Ego Power Z6’s operation was mostly excellent. Startup was easy, and maneuvering was intuitive. The apparent noise level was extremely quiet and limited to operating the mower deck. The machine travels almost silently when the blades are not running. The lap bars and drive wheels felt somewhat imprecise compared to other zero-turn mowers we’ve used. The machine pulled slightly to the left at full speed on flat ground under an average mowing load. The suspension seat was comfortable, but the relatively small rear tires and light weight of the machine made for a bouncy ride at times. It climbed and maneuvered fairly well on slopes, which is not a strength for most zero-turn mowers.

For most mowing, we kept the machine in “standard” mode and the blades on half power with excellent results. We tested the top blade speed on an area of about 2,000 square feet of overgrown crabgrass that was about 12 inches high, and we had to slow the travel pace significantly to get an acceptable cut in that situation. The Ego Power battery-powered zero-turn mower would make a great choice for any large-acreage owner with lots of grass to maintain.

Product Specs

• Runtime/recharge time: 30 minutes/120 minutes (4 batteries)
• Deck size: 42 inches
• Mobility: Zero-turn riding mower
• Four 56V 10-Ah batteries included, with room for 2 additional batteries
• Onboard Rapid battery-charging system
• 10-position, 42-inch deck allows for ample cutting per pass
• Mows at speeds up to 7 mph/2.6 acres per hour
• Bright LED headlights for low-light mowing

Get the Ego Power Z6 riding lawn mower at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or Lowe’s.