When it comes to quiet, efficient, and zero-emission mowing, battery power is the name of the game. The best cordless lawn mower has the power and capability to mow an average-size lawn just as well as gas-powered models without bogging down in patches of taller or thicker grass.
But power isn’t the entire story. These electric models are low maintenance and reliable, but they’re also so quiet that you can mow at the first sign of daylight without upsetting the neighbors. In this guide, we list some of the best battery-powered lawn mowers on the market and note some of the top features shoppers may want to look for to take care of yard-maintenance needs.
- BEST OVERALL: Ego Power+ 20-Inch Steel Deck Push Mower
- RUNNER-UP: Greenworks Pro 80V Brushless 21-Inch Steel Deck Mower
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Worx WG779 Power Share 14- Inch Deck Cordless Mower
- UPGRADE PICK: Ego Power+ 21-Inch Select Cut XP Self-Propelled Mower
- BEST SELF-PROPELLED: Greenworks Pro 80V Self-Propelled 21-Inch Deck Lawn Mower
- BEST 3-IN-1: DeWalt 2X20V MAX 21.5-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- BEST ROBOTIC: Worx WR147 Landroid M Robotic Lawn Mower
- BEST FOR SMALL YARDS: Makita 36V XML03 Electric Lawn Mower
How We Chose the Best Cordless Lawn Mowers
Runtime and motor power are two key factors in choosing the best cordless lawn mowers. The recommendations we selected have great runtimes overall for average lawns, and most of them come with two batteries for extra power or extra runtime.
While most electric lawn mowers have a standard 21-inch cutting deck, we also included a model with a smaller 14-inch deck that works well for smaller yards or yards with lots of trees and landscaping to navigate. All the battery-powered mowers in our list also include height-adjusting levers.
Since none of them are oil or gas lawn mowers, there are no fumes to worry about—only battery-charging time. Some battery-powered mowers take longer than others to recharge, which may not be a problem for average-size yards. Our recommendations also include self-propelled and traditional push mowers from some of the most popular brands on the market.
Our Top Picks
Choosing the right cordless lawn mower can be challenging. Our top picks aim to streamline the shopping process as they’re some of the best cordless lawn mowers on the market.
Photo: amazon.com
Anyone worried about extending a push mower’s runtime without sacrificing power may want to give this model from Ego Power+ a look. Featuring a high-efficiency brushless motor, this model has a 56-volt 5.0-amp-hour (Ah) ARC lithium battery (which can also power gas lawn mowers) that offers 60 minutes of runtime, and the mower’s push-button start is easy to use.
This lawn mower has a 20-inch steel mower deck and a three-in-one mulching, bagging, and side discharge. Depending on user needs, this model also has a single-lever six-position deck-height adjustment and LED headlights. Plus, this model has an easy-access grass bag and comes with a completely foldable design for easy storage. Finally, this electric mower has weather-resistant construction, making it tough enough to take on mowing in rough weather if needed.
Product Specs
- Cutting width: 20 inches
- Weight: Unspecified
- Battery runtime: 60 minutes
Pros
- 56-volt 5.0Ah ARC lithium battery offers 60-minute runtime on a single charge
- Can mulch, bag, or discharge from the side and has an easy-access grab bag
- 20-inch steel deck makes this mower a great choice for clearing small and large yards
- Push mower can fold up for quick and easy storage
Cons
- This model may not work well on dips or holes in the lawn
Get the Ego Power+ 20-inch cordless lawn mower at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
DIY landscapers looking for a quality cordless lawn mower with a healthy balance of runtime, power, and charging time should look into this Greenworks lawn mower. Running on Greenworks’ 80-volt system, this Pro model matches gas-powered models with up to 5 horsepower (hp). The two 2.0Ah batteries combine for 60 minutes of runtime, while the rapid charger takes 30 minutes to recharge one, offering nearly endless power if managed correctly.
This cordless lawn mower has a 21-inch steel deck and plenty of other features, like a clipping chute, a mulching cover, and a bagger for clippings management. It also has seven incremental settings for height that allow the user to adjust all four wheels at once with a single lever. This model also features a push-button start, an ergonomic padded handle, and a throttle lever that shuts down the electric mower when released. While it does weigh 63 pounds, the handle folds and provides support for stable vertical storage.
Product Specs
- Cutting width: 21 inches
- Weight: 63 pounds
- Battery runtime: 60 minutes
Pros
- Runs for up to 60 minutes using 2 full-charged batteries
- Comes with everything required for operation; includes 2 batteries plus a charger
- Has a built-in brushless motor that provides more torque and excellent longevity
- A single lever adjusts the total mower height depending on individual user needs
Cons
- Runtime lessens with thick or tall grass; not ideal for very large yards or crabgrass
Get the Greenworks Pro 80V cordless lawn mower at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Greenworks.
Photo: Amazon.com
For those who’d prefer to cut the lawn without breaking the bank, the Worx WG779 Power Share cordless lawn mower might be the answer. This model has many of the features of more expensive models, such as a one-lever, three-position height adjustment; a choice between bagging and mulching; and enough runtime for smaller yards.
This model, which has a 14-inch deck and cutting diameter of 13 inches, can handle thick grass. Using two 20-volt 4Ah batteries, it brings a total of 40 volts of power to the lawn. Its ergonomically designed handles are foam padded and allow the user to keep their hands in a comfortable position. Weighing 29.1 pounds, this mower is easy to handle. The mower’s light weight combined with its folding handle make this a great fit for smaller storage situations.
Product Specs
- Cutting width: 14 inches
- Weight: 29.1 pounds
- Battery runtime: 45 to 55 minutes
Pros
- Heavy-duty model; adjustable torque for mowing thick or unruly grass
- This mower’s 14-inch cutting deck is great for small yards
- Requires two 20-volt batteries and includes dual charger for added convenience
Cons
- Long charging time for batteries; may take up to 240 minutes to charge fully
- Turbo setting quickly drains power; may not be ideal for some heavy-duty tasks
Get the Worx cordless lawn mower at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Worx.
Photo: amazon.com
Anyone can elevate their lawn-care routine with this cordless Ego Power+ mower, which features a multiblade system, a self-propelled design, and 7 cutting-height-adjustment positions.
When it comes to upgrading a lawn-care kit, the Ego Power+ Select Cut XP self-propelled mower might be the ticket. This cordless lawn mower features a multiblade cutting system that performs like a gas lawn mower with the efficiency and eco-friendliness of a battery model.
Powered by a 56-volt 10Ah ARC lithium battery, this 21-inch-deck brushless model has got plenty of features. A seven-position height-adjustment lever raises or lowers all four wheels between 1.5 inches and 4 inches at once, while three interchangeable lower blades allow users to customize the lawn’s cut. The Select Cut XP has a three-in-one function that allows for mulching, bagging, and side discharge, and its self-propel design has a variable-speed adjustment that’s between 0.9 and 3.1 mph.
When powered by its recommended 56-volt 10Ah lithium-ion battery, this model can provide up to 75 minutes of runtime.
Product Specs
- Cutting width: 21 inches
- Weight: 87.96 pounds
- Battery runtime: Up to 75 minutes
Pros
- Multiblade cutting system for versatility; mulching, bagging, and extended runtime blades
- 7-position height-adjustment lever varies between 1.5 and 4 inches in height
- Self-propel design has variable-speed adjustment between 0.9 and 3.1 mph
Cons
- Batteries and charger are not included with purchase; may be pricey
Get the Ego Power+ Select Cut XP cordless lawn mower at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or Acme Tools.
Photo: amazon.com
Those looking for a leisurely stroll through the yard while they manicure the grass might appreciate the Greenworks 80-volt self-propelled cordless lawn mower. This model features rear-wheel drive that propels the mower across a yard, as long as the user is holding down the lever, while speed control allows the user to maintain a comfortable pace.
Featuring a 21-inch steel deck, 70 minutes of runtime on its included 80-volt 5Ah battery, and a choice between bagging, mulching, or leaving grass clippings behind, this easy-to-maneuver 68-pound self-propelled mower is a great option for moderate-size yards. The kit also includes a rapid charger. Additional batteries may be purchased to mow larger properties that require more runtime.
Product Specs
- Cutting width: 21 inches
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Battery runtime: 70 minutes
Pros
- Runs for up to 45 minutes on 1 battery; suitable for small and large yards
- Durable height-adjusting lever; suitable for multiple desired grass heights
- Brushless motor provides more torque; very powerful motor can handle tougher jobs
- Handle can be folded for easy storage and added convenience
Cons
- Lowest speed setting may feel fast to some; caution advised while in use
- Hard to push without a self-propeller; may not be suitable for some users
Get the Greenworks 80V cordless lawn mower at Amazon or Greenworks.
Photo: acehardware.com
With mulching, bagging, and side-discharge capabilities, the DeWalt 2X20V MAX self-propelled cordless lawn mower has a better-than-average build quality and thoughtful design. Its heavy-duty 21.5-inch, 15-gauge stamped-steel deck adjusts to six different cutting heights from 1.5 to 4 inches. Running on two batteries and offering up to 60 minutes of runtime per charge, this mower is ideal for small to medium yards up to a half acre.
The DeWalt 3-in-1 lawn mower features a security-key-enabled push-button start. Its adjustable font-wheel-drive self-propulsion eliminates half the work of mowing, lets you choose your own pace, and works on all kinds of terrain. The motor is equipped with auto-sensing technology that seamlessly increases torque when encountering tougher mowing conditions. A removable discharge chute, grass catcher, and integrated mulch plug allow for quick conversion to your preferred method of grass-clipping disposal.
Read our full review: DeWalt 2X20V MAX 21.5-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Product Specs
- Cutting width: 21.5 inches
- Weight: 65 pounds
- Battery runtime: 60 minutes
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel mower deck with 3-way grass-clipping management
- Front-wheel drive self-propel system supports safe operation and smooth turns
- Powered by 2 rechargeable DeWalt XR 20-volt (V) lithium-ion batteries
- 2-stage brushless motor preserves battery life and automatically increases power for tougher mowing conditions
- Ergonomic cushioned hand grip reduces operator fatigue
Cons
- Heavy and cumbersome to maneuver manually without the self-propel feature engaged
- Takes a long time to recharge the batteries with the included DCB107 battery chargers
- The mower’s battery compartment has an awkward design
Get the DeWalt cordless lawn mower at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot (with 3 batteries), Tractor Supply Co., or Acme Tools.
Photo: Amazon.com
Anyone who’d prefer to kick back and relax rather than push a mower through the grass should give the Worx WR147 Landroid M robotic lawn mower a look. This mower maintains properties up to 1/4-acre in size on a set schedule, allowing users to forget about lawn maintenance altogether. It even has Wi-Fi capability and an app interface, allowing users to set the mowing schedule via their smartphones.
In addition to the mower, a purchase includes the installation kit and the charging station, which the Landroid can locate and use on its own. Concealed blades are mounted close to the edge, allowing this unit to work up against garden beds and walkways. The Landroid also features anti-collision technology that prevents it from bouncing into any obstruction in the yard, including people, children, pets, or stray sports gear.
Product Specs
- Cutting width: 8 inches
- Weight: 25.6 pounds
- Battery runtime: 90 minutes
Pros
- Mows the lawn by itself; suitable for hands-free use for those with busy schedules
- Customizable schedules and paths; app-controlled automation can be adjusted anytime
- Compact unit stores easily and can maneuver under patio furniture, swing sets, and more
Cons
- Some users report difficulty programming the device as well as manufacturing defects
Get the Worx cordless lawn mower at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or Target.
Photo: amazon.com
The Makita battery-powered lawn mower is a high-output brushless model that comes with four 18V LXT 4.0Ah batteries, making it capable of cutting ⅓-acre spaces in under 43 minutes. The commercial-grade, 19-inch steel deck on this push mower has a single lever that quickly adjusts the cutting height from 13/16 inch to 3 inches. The cutting width is 18 inches.
This 63.3-pound battery-powered lawn mower delivers 3,300 rpm (revolutions per minute) for maximum torque, and the quiet mode reduces noise by keeping the mower at a consistent 2,500 rpm. This battery-powered lawn mower also has folding handles for compact storage in garages and sheds, and the rubberized soft-grip handlebars add support and comfort for the user while the machine is operational. Finally, this model includes a mulching plug and IPX4 weather-resistant construction for durability and longevity.
Read our full review: Makita XML03 Electric Lawn Mower
Product Specs
- Cutting width: 18 inches
- Weight: 63.3 pounds
- Battery runtime: 43 minutes
Pros
- Comes with four 18V LXT 4.0Ah batteries for maximum torque and 43 minutes of runtime
- The 19-inch deck cuts 18-inch-wide swaths and has a single lever for height adjustment
- Quiet mode reduces noise and keeps the engine running at 2,500 rpm
- Collapsible rubberized handles provide comfortable use and easy storage
Cons
- May be difficult for some users to maneuver; cannot be pulled backward, only pushed forward
Get the Makita battery-powered lawn mower at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.
What to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Lawn Mower
Many people love the scent of fresh-cut grass, but the smell and noise of gas-powered lawn mowers aren’t always a hit. The best cordless and electric lawn mowers take care of that problem. Here are a few things shoppers may want to know and consider before buying one.
Types
Lawn mowers aren’t as simple as they used to be. Modern battery-powered lawn mowers come in a few varieties, and choosing the right type depends on the lawn and how involved the user wants to be in the mowing process.
- Push mowers operate like a traditional lawn mower, except that they feature electric motors, unlike mowers with gasoline-powered engines. Once push mowers are started, the motor runs the blade and the user must push the cordless mower across a lawn. Push mowers are usually lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Self-propelled mowers look just like push mowers and require the user to operate them, but they do most of the pushing themselves. There are usually two motors in this case: one for the blade and one for the drive wheels (whether they are the front or the back set). Self-propelled mowers can be a bit of a handful when mowing under bushes or making tight turns, but they’re much less effort to operate over the rest of the lawn.
- Robotic mowers have only become popular in recent years, as the technology they use is still relatively fresh. They operate like robotic vacuums, mowing the user’s lawn without any input or guidance from the user. Other than checking the property for obstructions or debris, the user can let a robotic mower go about its job on its own.
Power
The best cordless lawn mowers come in a range of battery power levels, and this is usually determined by the voltage. The higher the voltage, the more powerful the mower. This determines whether a cordless mower will bog down in thicker grass, cut tall grass effectively, and make it through a yard that isn’t completely dry.
The lower end of the power range is around 20 volts, and these models usually use one battery. They’re suitable for small yards with rather thin grass. Models with power ratings between 40 volts and 80 volts tend to use multiple smaller batteries or one large one, and they are excellent for matching the capability of a basic push mower. There are even models with as much as 120 volts of power that outperform most gas push mowers, though they’re still a bit rare.
Battery Runtime
Each cordless lawn mower has its own battery ecosystem with different voltages and amperages. Because this is relative, there isn’t an exact guideline to look for when choosing a model with the best runtime.
In general, most of the top models feature runtimes between 45 and 60 minutes. Some accomplish that with higher voltage models with low amp-hour (Ah) ratings, while others achieve it with lower voltage models with high amp-hour ratings.
There are models that achieve 90 minutes of runtime, but they’re not all that common. If runtime is a concern, it’s best to purchase additional batteries and ensure they’re charged for when you need to swap them out.
Interchangeable Batteries
Most cordless lawn mowers use interchangeable batteries that you can remove and recharge rather than plugging in the entire mower. There are several benefits to this:
- Interchangeable batteries allow you to replace batteries if they stop charging without replacing or servicing the entire mower.
- You can purchase extra batteries and swap them out when the first dies, keeping a set on a charger at all times.
- Some power tool lineups use the same set of batteries, and they’ll work with each tool. For example, the batteries that operate the lawn mower might also fit a weed whacker, a power drill, or a reciprocating saw. For that reason, batteries allow for the most flexibility across the brands.
Adjustable Cutting Height
When a lawn’s cut too short, it can burn in the sun. But cut it too long and it will need another trim within a day or two. It’s all about hitting the sweet spot of long-lasting cuts and lawn health. For that reason, the best cordless lawn mowers feature adjustable cutting heights, usually with at least four or five options, in roughly ¼- to ½-inch increments.
In some cases, users can adjust the blade using a lever on the front and a lever on the back wheels. This is a quick and effective way to adjust the height of the cut. Some models, however, have one-lever adjustments that lift or lower the entire deck at once, ensuring the mower cuts evenly and consistently.
Blade Cutting Width
Other than the power source, there isn’t a world of difference between cordless and gas-powered mowers. Both types come in varying widths, and the ideal width is a matter of preference and lawn size.
Smaller cordless lawn mowers might feature cutting widths in the 14- to 16-inch range. While the wheels add another couple of inches in width, these are the models to go for if you have small garden gates to pass through or a small garage in which to store the mower.
Larger cordless lawn mowers can be as wide as 25 inches, putting them right on par with some of the largest gas-powered models. They’ll take fewer passes to mow an entire lawn, but they can be challenging to store or maneuver through tight yards and garden beds.
Grass Clippings
Whether you believe in mulching your grass clippings and letting them restore nutrients to the soil, leaving them on top for raking, or collecting them so the yard looks neat and tidy, the best cordless lawn mower can oblige.
Usually, cordless electric lawn mowers feature standard clipping chutes, mulching covers, and grass baggers. The chutes deposit full-length clips on the surface of the grass for raking. Mulching covers contain the grass clippings so the blade has a few more passes at them, cutting them to shorter lengths and allowing them to break down into the soil. Baggers collect the grass clippings, allowing users to add them to compost piles or throw them away.
Handle Comfort
When using a push mower, much of the exertion involved is with the hands and arms, with the palms taking the majority of the blows dealt by uneven terrain and vibrations. For that reason, the comfort of the handle may be a significant factor.
Typically, manufacturers offer ergonomic handles with padded grips, allowing operators to use a less pronated hand position while also absorbing some of the vibrations and bumps along the way. These designs can make a world of difference for someone with wrist- or hand-related mobility problems.
Ease of Use
Beyond running quietly and requiring minimal maintenance, cordless lawn mowers are easy to operate. These electric mowers don’t need complicated fuel priming, oil checks, or choke adjustments. It’s literally a click of a battery and the pull of a handle, and you’re off to the races. Some models even feature onboard battery indicators that display how much runtime is left before needing a swap.
Other than simple startup and use procedures, some electric lawn mowers have advanced safety features. Removable lockout switches allow users to keep children from accidentally starting the mower. Throttle bars or triggers a user can release to quickly shut down the mower are also important, especially in the event of a fall.
Weight and Storage
All things considered, lawn mowers—cordless or otherwise—aren’t lightweight tools. The best cordless lawn mowers can weigh between 50 and 90 pounds, depending on the batteries, whether it has a heavy-duty motor, and whether it’s self-propelled. Even robotic models often tip the scales around 30 pounds or so. Finding a blend of the most capability (or power) and a manageable weight could be an important consideration for some.
When it comes to storing cordless mowers, its size and any additional features like folding handles are the most important factors. A 22-inch model will be harder to store than a 14-inch model, so keep that in mind if you’re storing your cordless lawn mower in a shed or a tight garage. If the handle folds, users might be able to get away with storing it in a tighter location.
Tips for Using a Cordless Lawn Mower
One of the best ways to get the most out of a cordless lawn mower is to invest in some extra power. Whether a lawn mower uses one, two, or three batteries, having some extra batteries charging can turn a user into a nonstop lawn-mowing machine. For those with large lawns, shoppers may also want to consider an extra charger or multi-battery electric mowers.
For users who already have a cordless power tool lineup, it makes sense to look for a lawn mower from the same brand. Very often, the batteries will be interchangeable between tools, allowing users to swap in a high amp-hour battery from a lawn mower for use in a tool such as a weed whacker or a reciprocating saw, getting two or three times the amount of runtime.
Another benefit of cordless lawn mowers is they don’t contain oil and gasoline reservoirs, which can make them much handier to store in a shed. In fact, since these mowers don’t contain any liquids, they can be stored vertically if the handles fold.
- Make sure you store battery-powered lawn mowers in a ventilated, dry place after mowing season, as any moisture could result in problems with the battery.
- Frequent cleaning will ensure that battery-powered lawn mowers will run correctly, as dust and debris can get into the inner workings of the mower.
- Ensure there are no rocks or hard objects on your lawn before mowing to ensure you don’t damage the blades and motor.
FAQs
Now that you’re armed with a lot of new information about choosing the best cordless lawn mower, some additional questions might be sprouting up like dandelions. The following section is a collection of the most frequently asked questions and answers about cordless lawn mowers.
Q. Is a higher voltage better for cordless lawn mowers?
Cordless lawn mowers come with two battery types: lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Each model comes with a different voltage for a certain amount of torque and runtime. For example, the Greenworks Pro 80-volt cordless lawn mower has a 21-inch steel deck and comes with dual 40-volt batteries to provide 60 minutes of runtime.
Q. How is a cordless lawn mower started?
Lucky for most cordless lawn mower buyers, clunky starts and bulky storage have become things of the past. Unlike gas-powered lawn mowers, most cordless lawn mowers feature a push-button start or a key switch, allowing for incredibly easy starts.
Q. How long do battery-powered lawn mowers last on a single charge?
Most of the best cordless lawn mowers feature runtimes between 45 minutes and an hour, with a few rare models lasting up to 90 minutes. Luckily, many electric mowers are also quick charging and can be used just 40 to 60 minutes after they are plugged in.
Q. Do cordless lawn mowers need oil?
Cordless lawn mowers are very low maintenance, and they don’t require any oil or gasoline. However, some models may require oiling or lubrication to stay optimal, and for this users can always rely on WD-40.
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.
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.
Additional research provided by Tom Scalisi.
