Greenworks battery powered mower. Greenworks Pro 25” Dual Blade Self-propelled Lawn Mower MO60L423

Greenworks Pro 25” Dual Blade Self-propelled Lawn Mower MO60L423

The Greenworks Pro 60-volt Brushless Lithium Ion Self-propelled 25-in Cordless Electric Lawn Mower (MO60L423) is a great way to kick your gas can to the curb, without completely breaking the bank. As far as Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers go, this is one of the nicest one’s I’ve used thus far. This mower uses dual 12.5” counter-spinning blades (don’t worry they’re geared appropriately to not hit each other) which drive the grass clippings towards the center and into the bag. Because the blades are smaller and therefore lighter, they allow the motor to spin at higher RPMs than most other electric lawn mowers, which aids in cutting through all things put in front of it even easier.

Without intending, I was able to put this mower through a great test right out of the box, after having missed a couple weeks of cutting prior to that. Luckily for me, this mower is equipped with Greenworks’ “SmartCut” which kicks up the RPMs when the motor senses a heavy load, such as overgrown grass or perhaps you forgot to turn off your sprinklers that morning and the lawn is wet (not that any of us would ever forget and do something like that!). After the load drops so do the motor RPMs, and they return to the normal operating speed to conserve battery life.

Speaking of battery life, this mower comes with a charger, (1) 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery and (1) 4.0Ah lithium-ion battery. Greenworks Pro claims a 60-minute run time using these two batteries. Let’s be honest, those run times are probably in the perfect controlled environment and would be hard to recreate in our own yards however, even when cutting (and bagging) through 3-week growth on my 1/2 acre lot, I made it through the whole yard having depleted the 2.0Ah battery and only using 2 bars of the 4.0Ah battery. So while I don’t know if you could make a full hour of operation, the provided batteries should undoubtedly provide enough run time to tackle a lot in the 3/4-1 acre range.

Call me old-fashioned, but I prefer to have a steel deck on my lawn mower. I trust a steel deck more than a plastic deck when I know that I’ll be running it underneath my bushes and will surely ram it into the stumps a few times. While the steel deck is reassuring, it also does add back some of the weight which is usually shaved off by going with an electric mower. This Greenworks Pro 25” Lawn Mower weighs in at 76 lbs. which is still significantly lighter than the usual 90-110 lbs. of the typical gas mower.

Lastly, the self-propelled (self-propulsion?) feature of this mower warrants its own discussion. I am impressed by how fast this mower can propel itself, under no load and driving down my sidewalk I am almost at a jogging pace when the speed is cranked all the way up! With that said though, the biggest downfall, perhaps not a downfall perhaps just an adjustment I need to get used to, with this mower is how long it takes for the self-propelling motor to disengage. When mowing in a straight line, I need to release the self-propelling lever 2-3 feet prior to stopping to allow the motor time to fully disengage, otherwise when I need to turn 90-degrees to continue, the rear wheels will be locked up and difficult to turn. I am confident with time, any user will grow accustomed to it, it is just much longer of a distance than I am used to out of other models.

Additional Features

• Push-button startup
• Zero engine emissions
• Low maintenance
• Battery level gauges are visible through the battery doors

Pricing

As of writing this, you can buy the kit which includes the mower, bag attachment and mulching plug, (1) 2.0 Ah battery (1) 4.0 Ah battery and a charger for 699.00, sometimes this item will be marked down to as low as 499.00

What’s Missing

There’s no side discharge option, just mulching and bagging. Here in Texas I almost exclusively mulch or bag, and run into very few people who side discharge. In my opinion, the missing side discharge isn’t a deal breaker.

Final Takeaways

The Greenworks Pro 60-volt Brushless Lithium Ion Self-propelled 25-in Cordless Electric Lawn Mower is an excellent option for a cordless residential lawn mower. With it’s dual counter spinning blade design it performs extremely well at mulching and lifting to the bag attachment, and it’s self-propelled rear wheels it will practically pull you across your lawn. I would recommend you buy this mower if you are looking to invest in a product that should last a long time and operates on a solid battery platform with plenty more to offer.

The 6 Best Battery-Powered Mowers You Can Buy Today

Lawn mowers are useful in maintaining your lawn’s aesthetics and health. They come in different sizes. Some are gas-powered, others electric, and others battery-powered. Each type has its pros and cons. Electric mowers are considered strong and efficient in cutting long and thick grass. They are also relatively cheaper than gas-powered mowers. However, this type generates less torque, so they may not be ideal for all terrains.

Battery-powered mowers have been gaining traction. This type gives you the freedom of mowing without being tethered to cords. Their battery also quickly recharges as you mow, bringing high power efficiency. We have some great suggestions if you are in the market for the best battery-powered mower. We will also look at things to consider when shopping for the best battery-powered mowers in 2023.

• Cordless mower with up to 45 minutes runtime
• Easy to operate and lightweight
• 5-position height adjustment
• Silent, and hassle-free maintenance

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• Best for small to medium-sized lawns
• Removable grass catcher for easy disposal
• Adjustable cutting height
• Rechargeable 28V lithium-ion battery
• 10.6-gallon collection bag

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• Dual power options (battery or cord)
• Up to 70 minutes runtime on a single charge
• Available in gray and green colors
• Push assist and adjustment options

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• Powerful PWR Core lithium-battery with 2x battery life
• Efficient and powerful brushless motor
• Single lever height adjustment with 6 settings
• Foldable handle for easy storage

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• Longer runtime and quiet operation
• Exceptional performance, like gas-powered
• Single lever with 5-position height adjustment
• Mulch, rear bag and side discharge
• Maintenance free mower

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• Six Ego 56B battery pack for peak power
• 10 position height adjustments
• 42 deck with zero turn radius
• Three-in-one function (mulch, bag and side discharge)
• 5-year warranty on mower, battery and charger

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Best Overall: Greenworks 40V Mower Series

Greenworks makes high-quality lawn mowers, and the Greenworks 40V Mower Series is no exception. It packs a 40V lithium-ion battery with 45 minutes of battery life on a full charge. This allows you to get more of your mowing done without power disruptions. This 40v push lawn mower has a fast-charging battery, so you can get back to cutting grass in no time. At just 37.5 pounds, this mower is the lightest on the market. It is easy to use and maneuvers through small and medium lawns with high efficiency.

Greenworks 40V Mower Series has a single lever 5-position height adjustment that you can adjust depending on the environment. This makes it more versatile. It also has a feature that allows you to use it with mulching and rear bagging options. It is quiet in its operation and has no emissions, making it environment-friendly.

This mower is maintenance-free and delivers more power even for rugged terrain. It comes with a three-year warranty, and the package includes a grass collection bag, charger, 40V 4.0Ah battery, and a user manual.

Best Budget: Sun Joe MJ401C

(Please note that as of July 19th, 2023, the Sun Joe MJ401C 14-Inch 28-Volt Cordless Push Lawn Mower is currently unavailable on Amazon. Please check back later.)

Sun Joe is a good choice for simple and effective mowers. The MJ401C is an affordable option suitable for small to medium yards. It is best for urban and suburban residents with less than a quarter-acre lawn. Although it sacrifices some features, it is still ideal for users who want to carry out simple mowing tasks. It packs a 28V 4 Ah rechargeable lithium-ion battery that delivers up to 25 minutes of battery life on a full charge. The blades are durable and sharp, giving a crisp cut with high precision. You can adjust the height with the 3-position control to get the cut you need. The wheels are designed to withstand all terrains. It also features a collapsible handle for easy storage. It is easy to start and use. You only need to press the built-in start button and get moving. It also features a safety switch to prevent it from accidentally starting. The collection bag has a capacity of 10.6 gals and is easily detachable for quick disposal.

Sun Joe MJ401C is lightweight and maneuverable in all spaces. Although it lacks a mulching function, this cordless mower still delivers efficient performance for small to medium size yards.

Best Self-Propelled: Ryobi 40V HP Brushless CrossCut 21-Inch

RYOBI 40-Volt HP is a multiblade self-propelled lawn mower that provides the power of gas-powered mowers and the efficiency of a cordless mower. Its premium brushless motor delivers more power and motor life and runs longer.

Equipped with dual 40-Volt 6Ah batteries, this lawn mower has 70 minutes of runtime on a single charge. This makes it ideal for larger yards of up to 3/4 acre. Rryobi I 40V is designed with a cross-cut multiblade system with two blades for high-level cutting. If your yard has long and thick grass, this mower will effortlessly cut it. If you need more run time, you can utilize the single blade.

Ryobi mower is easy to start. With a button push, your mower will be up and running. The rear wheel is self-propelling and features Smart TREK technology that matches your speed that of the mower. Using the 7-position single-point height adjustment, you can easily select your grass height between 1.5 and 4 inches.

The 3-in-1 mowing functions allow you to choose between bagging, mulching, or side discharge functions. You can fold the handles for easy storage. The grass catcher bag is detachable for easy and quick emptying. It also has a strong and durable build that makes it durable. The five-year warranty provided means your investment is secure.

Best for Small Lawns: Skil PWRCore 20 18-inch

Skil PWRCore 20 is an industry leader in cordless mowers. It features a digital brushless motor and two PWR CORE 20 4.0Ah lithium batteries that deliver high power and unrivaled performance. The batteries are wrapped with cooling materials so they can run longer. With just a push of a button, you can conveniently start and control the mower without hassle. The handle is foldable for compact verticle storage.

This mower has six adjustment settings meaning you can adjust to your preferred grass height. Better still, adjusting the height is relatively easy; you can do it with one hand. It is quieter than gas-powered mowers, so you won’t have to put up with a noisy and loud roar.

At 35.05 Pounds, it’s astonishingly lightweight, so maneuvering it around the hills and rugged terrain is no workout. As for performance, it cuts grass well enough, leaving a smooth cut that looks perfect. It is straightforward to set up right out of the box and has less than 7 deck height alternatives. It can mulch or collect cut grass, but the grass catcher is small.

Best for Large Lawns: Greenworks Pro 80V 21-inch

Greenworks Pro 80V provides the torque and power you need to cover a 1/2-acre. It can handle thick and overgrown grass with the torque of a gas engine. It is strong and built with high-quality materials of optimum performance. The mower features two 2.0Ah batteries that can last up to a full hour of mowing time on a single charge. A Rapid charger can juice up your battery’s mower in just 30 minutes.

It is quieter than most competitors and delivers an extended motor life in its operations. With the 5-position height adjustment, you can control the height of the grass to your liking. With a single push on the start button, you can get the mower moving, making it easy to use. The 3 in 1 design gives you the mulch and rear bag grass clippings and side discharge functions.

If you have intensive mowing to do, Greenworks Pro 80V is your best bet. This mower is maintenance-free. With zero gas or oil emissions, GreenWorks is environmentally friendly. However, it is heavier than the others mowers we have listed here. The bulky motor and the steel construction add to the mower’s overall weight, making it a bit bulky to push around.

Best for Riding: EGO 42-Inch ZT Mower (ZT4204L)

If you want the comfort of riding while still mowing your lawn, EGO 42-Inch ZT Mower is your ideal mower. It includes four 10.0AH Batteries and a fast charger to give you an infinite mowing time. The 6 EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries provide super power to cut up to 2 acres on a single charge. The featured three driving modes allow you to choose and control the speed. You can seamlessly switch between Sport, Control, and Standard.

This mower has a speed of 3-7 MPH but can go up to 8 MPH in travel mode. The ten-position cutting height adjustments and the 3-in-1 function help optimize your mowing, ensuring you get the preferred grass height. The mower has premium features like LED lights, USB charging port, and Bluetooth. It provides much power and stability for long mowing sessions.

It is also maintenance-free. The only thing you need to do is sharpen the blades for a crisp cut, and that is something easy to do. Its 5-year warranty makes it a worthy investment. You can be sure that you are safe if anything goes wrong in the first years of use.

It is significantly lighter than the other brands and has more traction to go up and down hills while maintaining excellent performance. The suspension seat is also comfortable for extended cutting sessions.

How to Pick the Best Battery-Powered Mowers: Step by Step

With so many innovative battery-powered mowers on the market, picking the right one can be tough. Mower brands often compete for dominance in the market, and each tries to outdo the other with innovations or features. To help you make a better choice, we’ve listed crucial things you need to look out for.

Price

Although gas engines are cheaper, battery-powered mowers are emission and maintenance-free, saving you costs in the long run. Battery-powered lawn mowers come in different price points, with cheaper ones going for less than 300 and premium costing 500 and more. Some premium models have advanced features, which means they’ll cost more. When shopping for a battery-powered mower, look for one that fits your budget and has all the necessary features.

Runtime

Runtime is the time the mower can operate on a single charge. If you have a large yard, it means it will take more time to mow compared to smaller lawns. If you have an acre to mow, you will need a powerful mower with more than 60 minutes of runtime. For small to medium size lawns, 60 mins or less will suffice.

Weight

The weight of your mower is a crucial factor to consider when buying the best battery-powered mowers. Heavy mowers require extra effort to push around your lawn compared to lightweight mowers. High-performance mowers are often packed with heavy motors, steel parts, and batteries, adding to the overall weight of the mower.

With a lightweight mower, you can be fast and cover a large area within a short time compared to the weighty ones. be sure to check the weight of the mower before purchasing, or better still, go for a self-propelled mower that won’t require pushing.

Deck Size

Deck size determines how wide the mower will cut on each pass. Depending on your chosen model, it can be as narrow as 14 inches or as wide as 60 inches. The standard size for most battery-powered mowers is 21 inches. However, if you have an acre to cover, you need larger decks. Also, consider the height adjustment features to ensure you maintain the right grass height.

Cutting Options

Most mowers come with three mowing modes: side discharge, mulch, or bag grass clippings. However, this is not standard for battery-powered mowers. Some have one or two. While you may not need all these capabilities simultaneously, it’s good to consider a mower with all three. This means you will restore nutrients to your lawn and collect grass clippings for a quality and clean cut.

What to Know Before Buying a Battery-Powered Mower

Battery-powered mower technology is becoming popular as people discover the freedom of cordless mowers. Before you purchase this valuable home improvement tool, you need to know how durable it is. Check whether the motor is brushless as it tends to be energy efficient, unlike brushed motors. A metal deck will serve you longer compared to plastic decks.

Also, check out the brand reputation from online reviews of those who have used the mower. It will give you an unbiased view of the brand’s track record to decide whether it’s worth it. If you need additional features like battery-saving modes or more cutting options, check that before making a purchase. Be careful not to pay extra costs for features you might not need.

Using a Battery-Powered Mower: What It’s Like

Battery-powered mowers give the convenience of a cordless tool that doesn’t keep you tethered in one place. Most of these mowers are quieter than their gas-powered counterparts providing a convenient mowing experience. Since they have zero emissions, they are ideal for conserving the environment. Better still, you won’t have to worry about oils and gas as the only maintenance you do is sharpen the blades.

While more costly than their gas-powered counterparts, they provide exceptional performance and longer runtimes. That’s not to mention they are easy to assemble, use and store. When choosing a battery-powered mower, it is important to consider the size of your lawn and terrain, as this will affect the battery’s runtime and power.

The 6 Best Battery-Powered Mowers You Can Buy Today FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How long do battery-powered lawn mowers last?

With proper maintenance, battery-powered lawn mowers should last between eight and 10 years. However, because a battery’s charge capacity decreases over time, you will likely need to replace the battery after about five years.

What maintenance does a battery lawn mower need?

For efficient performance, battery lawn mowers need regular blade sharpening and cleaning. The moving parts should also be checked to ensure all the bolts and nuts are tight.

How do I choose a battery mower?

To choose the best battery mower, consider things like your lawn size, brand, durability, deck size, whether you need a push, self-propelled, or riding, and any other additional feature that is important for you.

What is a major disadvantage of the battery-operated lawn mower?

They are less powerful compared to gas-powered mowers. Battery-powered lawn mowers generate substantially less torque on average which means a gas mower will be a much better choice to tackle challenging terrains like hills and dips.

What is the best voltage for a battery lawn mower?

The standard voltage for most battery-powered mowers is 12 volts. This keeps users safe from probable short circuits and shocks.

Do battery-powered lawn mowers need maintenance?

Cordless mowers require little to no maintenance. However, they need regular care and checks, like cleaning, sharpening, and changing blades.

About the Author

Jane Wangui

Jane is a versatile writer who loves research and writing content that connects with readers. Since 2016, she has been helping businesses market themselves online by producing high-quality, engaging, and informative content. With a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Sciences, Jane specializes in writing about science and technology topics. She especially enjoys writing about science fiction, EVs, video games, GPUs, the history of technology, space, programming, personal tech, cybersecurity, VR/AR, and cryptocurrencies. When not writing, you will find her motorcycling, belly dancing and roller derbying.

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

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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.

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.

The Greenworks 25022 Lawn Mower, Tested by the Spruce

Sarah Vanbuskirk is a writer specializing in home, writing about home and gardening products for The Spruce. She has over 20 years of freelance writing experience.

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

The GreenWorks 25022 12-Amp, 20-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower is a grass-cutting workhorse. It gets the job done quickly and easily and has enough options to handle all your lawn needs.

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

We purchased the Greenworks 25022 Lawn Mower so our reviewer could put it to the test on her lawn. Keep reading for our full product review.

Growing up, my parents disliked grass-cutting so much that they bricked in our yard. So, you could say I was predisposed to avoid (and even dislike) lawn maintenance, and I know I’m not alone. Even shopping for a lawn mower—whether a corded or uncorded, ride-on or push model—can be a chore and not to mention an investment. Electric lawn mowers are more affordable and eco-friendly than their gas counterparts, and they supposedly don’t sacrifice power. Could the Greenworks 25022, a top choice for small- to mid-sized lawns, change my mind about mowing?

Safety: Read the manual

Before you begin, read the provided safety instructions carefully. Children under the age of 14 should not operate this equipment, and bystanders should be at least 50 feet away. Don’t use this mower in the rain or wet conditions, and don’t operate with wet hands. Exercise caution and avoid slopes exceeding 2.5 feet every 10 feet.

Clear the yard of stones, sticks, wires, toys, etc., and make sure you put on the proper attire (no loose clothing or accessories); protective goggles, gloves, and footwear are also advised. To reduce the risk of electric shock, this mower has a polarized plug, which can only be used with a polarized extension cord. Though the mower is double-insulated, the extension cord and receptacle must still be grounded to avoid electric shock.

Ease of Assembly: Simple

The Greenworks 25022 was surprisingly easy to assemble. The directions were clear and, because the product itself is relatively lightweight at 56 pounds, I was able to do it by myself.

All that’s required is aligning the upper and lower handles on either side of the body and securing with the cam locks and wing nuts. Then, I attached the grass catcher bag onto the back before plugging in the long, heavy-duty outdoor extension cord. I made sure to loop the cord through the cord retainer on the handle to keep it from accidentally unplugging while mowing. Setup probably took 15 minutes at most, start to finish, including reading through the instruction booklet.

To start, I pushed the “on” button and squeezed the bail switch bar across the handlebar, pulling it up to meet the top bar, which activates the mower. To turn off you simply release the bail switch.

Design: Sleek and easy to tweak

This Greenworks mower has a streamlined, bright green and black design. It features a 20-inch deck with 7-inch front wheels and 10-inch rear wheels and a powerful 12-amp motor. The lawn mower’s handle is comfortable to hold and folds down with a light squeeze for easy, compact storage.

The height of the handlebar can be adjusted to three different positions by loosening the upper handle knob. To set, simply retighten the knob at the desired handle height. Several members of my family ranging from 5-foot-3 to 5-foot-9 tried out this mower, and it was suitable for each of us.

I appreciated having so many debris removal options and thought it was simple enough to shift settings, say from mulching to bagging, for different parts of the lawn.

I like to keep my grass a bit on the longer side, so this mower’s adjustable grass length feature was a big bonus. The blade can accommodate seven different positions, from 1.5 to 3.75 inches (conveniently noted on the mower’s body), and I found it was simple to adjust by shifting the lever near the right rear wheel.

This Greenworks model’s three-in-one debris removal settings give me three options for grass clippings: mulch (via the mulch plug), side discharge (via the side discharge chute), or rear baggage (via the grass catcher bag).

Performance: A powerhouse

I found this mower easy to use and efficient. It did everything I could want. The 12-amp motor isn’t too loud, and there was no smell as in gas models. Yet, it had enough power to effectively and evenly cut the grass and deal with whatever leaves were left on the lawn.

Years of tethered vacuuming have made navigating with a cord a non-issue for me, but others may not like this about the Greenworks 25022. I found that it helped to follow a set route to save time as well as to reduce the likelihood of the cord getting in the way.

The easy-to-push powerhouse maneuvered across the yard with no difficulty, and I was able to reach the edges and corners of the yard with the 20-inch deck. I worked up a light sweat, but I wasn’t exhausted after I was done.

Years of tethered vacuuming have made navigating with a cord a non-issue for me, but others may not like this about the Greenworks 25022.

I appreciated having so many debris removal options and thought it was simple enough to shift settings, say from mulching to bagging, for different parts of the lawn. (Note that the mower should always be switched off and unplugged when installing or removing the grass catcher bag, the side discharge chute, or the mulch plug.) I didn’t experience any issues with debris spilling in any of the modes.

Emptying the grass catcher bag was easy: It detaches and reattaches easily and can hold all the yard waste from one full mowing session. I dumped it directly into my compost bin.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance: Breezy

There’s not much maintenance involved with this mower, beyond regularly clearing leaves, grass, and other debris from the motor. Using a compressed air gun or leaf blower makes this really simple (never, ever use water). I was especially careful to do this before storing the mower so that the cut grass and other debris wouldn’t dry on the blade or in the inner workings of the mower.

You’ll also want to periodically sharpen or replace the lawn mower blades (always while wearing padded leather gloves). When not in use, the lawn mower should be stored indoors in a dry, clean area.

Price: Watch the pricetag

This model retails for an average of about 150, which is a great price for a hard-working electric lawn mower. The majority of comparable electric lawn mowers on the market retail from between around 150 to about 220, which puts this product in the low- to mid-range. Keep in mind, though, that the cost varies quite a bit with different retailers, so it’s wise to shop around.

The warranty applies to material defects occurring during personal use for four years. In case of defect, Greenworks will repair or replace defective parts free of charge during this period. Note that this warranty does not apply for machines used commercially.

Greenworks 25022 Lawn Mower vs. Earthwise 50520 Lawn Mower

Both of these corded electric lawn mowers have similar specifications—they boast a 20-inch deck, a 12-amp motor, and push-button start. Both models run on electricity rather than gas and therefore don’t give off unpleasant fumes. They even offer a similar three-in-one rear bag, side discharge, and mulching system.

Where they differ is in price. They can both be found at a range of prices, but the Earthwise model (view on Amazon) usually costs more. The average for the Earthwise model is around 230, while the average for the Greenworks lawn mower is closer to 170. So, for the money, the Greenworks lawn mower is definitely the better deal.

The Greenworks 25022 Lawn Mower is easy to operate and reasonably priced. It’s an excellent corded electric option that’s compact enough for simple storage but powerful enough to tackle the whole yard with ease.

Specs