Ditching the gas can and extension cord is a game-changer for lawn care. Battery-operated lawn mowers offer the freedom to move around your yard without being tethered, combined with quiet operation and zero emissions. They have evolved from niche alternatives to powerful, reliable tools capable of handling a variety of lawn sizes and terrains.
Whether you have a small, flat plot or a larger, more challenging landscape, there is a cordless mower designed for your needs. From lightweight push mowers to feature-rich self-propelled models, the key is finding the right combination of battery power, cutting width, and runtime. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting the best options available to achieve a pristine lawn with minimal hassle.
The Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers for a Perfect Cut
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
- EGO Power+ 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Mower
- EGO POWER+ Self-Propelled with Select Cut
- EGO POWER+ Cordless Push Mower
- EGO POWER+ Self-Propelled with 7.5Ah Battery
- Snapper XD 82V MAX 21″ Push Mower
- DEWALT 20V MAX Self-Propelled Mower
- Makita 36V Commercial Self-Propelled Mower
- RYOBI 20-Inch 40V Brushless Mower
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
Ideal for small to medium lawns up to half an acre, the Greenworks 40V mower delivers gas-like performance without the noise and maintenance. Its ultra-lightweight design is 35% lighter than many competitors, making it exceptionally easy to maneuver and store. The push-button start ensures a hassle-free beginning to every mow.
This mower is equipped with a smart cut adjustment system, allowing you to change the cutting height across five positions with a single lever. The 2-in-1 mulching and rear-bagging system provides flexible clippings management to keep your lawn looking tidy. With up to 45 minutes of runtime from the included 4.0Ah battery, it offers ample power for a complete job.
EGO Power+ LM2102SP-A 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
For those who need a powerful and convenient solution for larger lawns, the EGO Power+ self-propelled model is a top contender. The variable speed self-propel feature lets you effortlessly adjust your pace from a slow walk to a brisk stride, reducing fatigue on hills and large yards. It comes with two 4.0Ah batteries, providing an impressive combined runtime of up to 65 minutes.
This mower features six cutting height settings that can be adjusted with one hand, offering precision for different grass types and conditions. You can choose to mulch, side-discharge, or bag your clippings with the included two-bushel grass bag. The robust 21-inch steel deck ensures a wide cutting path for efficient mowing.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
This Greenworks mower stands out with its efficient brushless motor, which provides more torque, quieter operation, and a longer lifespan compared to brushed motors. It is a fantastic choice for small to medium yards, offering up to 30 minutes of runtime on the included 4.0Ah battery. The lightweight 16-inch cutting deck makes it easy to push and maneuver around obstacles.
Like its counterpart, it features a simple push-button start, eliminating the struggle of pull cords. Its compact and lightweight design is particularly beneficial for users who need to carry the mower up steps or have limited storage space. This model is part of the Greenworks 40V ecosystem, with compatibility across over 75 tools.
EGO POWER+ LM2135SP with Select Cut and Touch Drive
This EGO model represents the premium end of cordless mowing with its advanced Select Cut Multi-Blade System. This technology is engineered to deliver a superior cut that rivals and even exceeds the performance of gas mowers. The Touch Drive self-propelled technology offers intuitive control, allowing you to adjust your speed with a simple touch on the handle.
Included with the mower is a high-capacity 56V 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery, which provides up to 60 minutes of runtime on a single charge. This combination of cutting-edge drive technology and extended battery life makes it suitable for larger, more demanding properties where performance and comfort are priorities.
EGO POWER+ LM2101 Cordless Push Mower
A perfect balance of power and simplicity, the EGO LM2101 is a push mower that gets the job done efficiently. It offers up to 45 minutes of runtime with the included 56V 5.0Ah battery, making it well-suited for medium-sized lawns. The quick and easy push-button start means you are ready to mow in seconds.
This mower includes six cutting height settings that are easily adjustable with one hand. It also features bright LED headlights for increased visibility in low-light conditions and is built with IPX4 weather resistance for added durability. The ability to mulch, side-discharge, or bag gives you full control over your lawn’s appearance.
EGO POWER+ LM2102SP Self-Propelled Mower
This self-propelled EGO mower is designed for users who need extended runtime and effortless operation. It comes with a high-capacity 56V 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery that features a fuel gauge, providing up to 60 minutes of power for tackling larger lawns. The self-propel function has an adjustable speed range to match your walking pace.
With six-position cutting height adjustments, you can fine-tune your cut from 1.5 to 4 inches. The robust construction and reliable performance make it a workhorse for regular lawn maintenance. Its folding handle also aids in compact storage when not in use.
Snapper XD 82V MAX 21″ Push Lawn Mower
The Snapper XD 82V MAX mower is built for power, leveraging a high-voltage system to handle tough mowing conditions. It is important to note that this unit is sold as a tool-only, meaning the battery and charger are not included. This is an excellent option if you already own compatible Briggs & Stratton 82V MAX batteries.
With a fully charged 2.0Ah battery, it can deliver up to 45 minutes of runtime. The 21-inch steel mowing deck offers a standard cutting width, and the 3-in-1 design allows you to mulch, bag, or side-discharge grass clippings based on your preference. It is a straightforward, powerful machine from a trusted brand.
DEWALT 20V MAX Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Built with a high-performance brushless motor, the DEWALT 20V MAX mower is engineered for long runtime and durability. The rear-wheel drive self-propel system provides excellent traction and control on various terrains. Its design focuses on user convenience, featuring a fold-over handle and a dedicated lift handle for trouble-free transport and storage.
This mower offers 3-in-1 operation, giving you the flexibility to mulch for natural lawn fertilization, bag for a clean finish, or side-discharge clippings. For those already invested in the DEWALT 20V platform, this mower can be a seamless addition to your collection of tools.
Makita XML06PT1 36V Commercial Lawn Mower
Designed for demanding use, the Makita commercial mower is a robust choice for both professionals and serious homeowners. It operates on a 36V system using two 18V LXT batteries in tandem, and this kit includes four 5.0Ah batteries for extended runtime. The brushless motor ensures efficiency and a long operational life.
This self-propelled mower features variable speed control, allowing you to work at a comfortable pace from 1.5 to 3 MPH. The four-bay battery system is a standout feature, effectively doubling the runtime compared to dual-bay systems. It offers all the benefits of cordless operation—no gas, emissions, or pull starts—with commercial-grade performance.
RYOBI 20-Inch 40V Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
The RYOBI 20-Inch 40V mower is a solid and reliable option for maintaining a well-groomed lawn. Its brushless motor technology provides efficient power delivery and increased longevity. The 20-inch cutting deck is a great middle ground, wide enough to cover area efficiently but still manageable for storage.
As part of RYOBI’s expansive 40V ecosystem, this mower allows you to share batteries with a wide range of other yard tools, which can be a significant cost and convenience advantage. It is designed to offer a clean, consistent cut with the quiet and emission-free operation that defines the best of cordless mowing.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Battery Operated Lawn Mower
When I started looking for a new mower, I quickly realized that not all battery operated lawn mowers are created equal. Making the switch from gas or corded electric is a great move for hassle-free lawn care, but you need to pick the right one for your yard. After spending a lot of time researching and using them myself, I’ve narrowed down the key things you should consider before you buy.
First, think about battery voltage and amp-hours (Ah). Voltage is like the power of the engine—higher voltage (like 40V or 80V) generally means more torque for tougher grass and hills. Amp-hours are the size of the fuel tank; a higher Ah rating means longer run time. If you have a larger lawn, you’ll want a mower with a higher Ah battery, or better yet, a model that can accept a second battery so you can swap mid-mow. Many brands offer a “tool-only” option, which is cheaper if you already own other tools from that battery ecosystem.
Next, consider your lawn size. This is the most practical starting point. For a small, flat yard under a quarter-acre, a 40V mower with a single 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery will probably be sufficient. For medium to large lawns (half an acre or more), you should look at 56V or 80V systems with larger capacity batteries, or a dual-battery model. Always check the manufacturer’s estimated run time, but take it with a grain of salt—thick grass and hills will drain the battery much faster.
Another critical feature is the cutting deck. Deck size determines how wide a path you cut. A wider deck (21 or 22 inches) means fewer passes and a quicker job. Most residential mowers fall into this range. Also, look at the deck construction; steel is durable but can rust, while polymer is lighter and rust-proof. Don’t forget the cutting height adjustment. A simple single-lever adjustment that changes the height for all four wheels at once is a huge time-saver compared to adjusting each wheel individually.
Finally, think about the extra features that make the job easier. A folding handle makes for compact storage. A mulch/side-discharge/bagging capability gives you flexibility in how you handle clippings. Personal pace systems that automatically adjust your speed are fantastic for hilly terrain. And if you value a quiet morning mow, check the decibel rating. A good battery operated lawn mower should make your weekend chores feel less like work and more like a quick, simple task.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
This is the most common question I get, and the answer depends heavily on your mower’s battery and your lawn’s condition. Generally, you can expect between 30 to 60 minutes of continuous mowing. A mower with a 5.0Ah battery on a 40V system will handle a smaller lawn, while an 80V system with a 7.5Ah battery can tackle much larger areas. Remember, thick, wet grass and hills will drain the battery faster than dry, flat turf. If you have a big yard, look for a model that comes with two batteries or has a rapid charger.
Are battery mowers as powerful as gas mowers?
For the vast majority of residential lawns, yes, modern battery mowers are plenty powerful. High-voltage models (56V and above) have more than enough torque to handle thick grass and even light weeds. The main difference is you don’t have the noise, fumes, or ongoing maintenance of a gas engine. You won’t be getting the raw, sustained power of a commercial-grade gas mower, but for a typical homeowner, a battery mower provides a clean, quiet, and effective cut.
Can I use the same battery for my other power tools?
Often, yes! This is one of the biggest advantages of choosing a battery powered system. Major brands like EGO, Ryobi, DeWalt, and Milwaukee design their batteries to be compatible across a whole range of tools. This means the battery from your mower can also power a string trimmer, leaf blower, or chainsaw from the same brand. It’s a smart way to build a cordless tool collection without needing a pile of different chargers and batteries.
What is the average lifespan of a battery operated lawn mower?
You can expect a well-made battery mower to last around 8 to 10 years with proper care. The battery itself will be the first component to show its age. Lithium-ion batteries gradually lose their ability to hold a full charge over time, typically lasting for 3 to 5 years before you might notice a significant drop in run time. The good news is that the mower deck and motor often outlive the battery, and you can usually purchase a replacement battery to extend the life of your tool.
How do I store my mower and battery during the winter?
Proper storage is key to making your equipment last. First, give the mower a good cleaning to remove all grass clippings and debris. For the battery, you should never store it completely drained or fully charged for long periods. I find the best practice is to charge it to about 50-60% and then store it in a cool, dry place indoors, away from extreme temperatures. Storing the battery inside your house or garage is much better than leaving it in an unheated shed.