Kobalt electric push mower. Kobalt 40-Volt Brushless Lithium Ion 20″ Cordless…

Kobalt 40-Volt Brushless Lithium Ion 20″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower Review

The Kobalt 40-Volt 20-inch Brushless Cordless Electric Lawn Mower was designed to be lightweight and easy to maneuver. Yet it still has a 20-inch steel mowing deck to help you maximize the amount of grass cut in a single pass. The electric motor that propels the blades is brushless, which makes for very quiet operation. It runs on a 40-volt system. However, there is no battery or charger included in the purchase. If you purchase the 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery Kobalt recommends, you can get about half an hour of runtime out of a single charge. This is also a versatile 3-in-1 electric cordless lawnmower. You can leave it set up for side discharge if you like. You can set it up as a mulching mower to reduce thatch buildup in the layers of your turf. If you have a compost pile to feed the garden, there’s even a large bagger you can use to collect the leftover grass clippings. You can adjust the height of the rear wheels with a single lever. Kobalt also designed this cordless electric lawnmower for easy storage. The arms collapse down easily to create a compact package with a minimal footprint. Just make sure not to force the handle bolts, which are a little on the loose side to begin with.

Performance

The Kobalt 40-Volt Brushless Lithium-Ion 20-in Cordless Electric Lawn Mower was designed to handle the average small suburban lawn. The 40-volt motor with a 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery does a good job of powering the blades. The motor itself is brushless which makes for a much quieter performance compared to some of the competitors.

Ease of Use

Like a lot of cordless electric lawnmowers, the Kobalt 20-inch is relatively easy to use. Though it does take a little bit of extra time to install the mulching accessory. For what it’s worth the bagger iteration is very well balanced, which isn’t always the case with the closest competitors.

Cut Quality Options

The single handle makes it easy to adjust the mower deck up or down for the conditions of your lawn. If rain and sunny days have made for vigorous growth, you will want to adjust the mower deck down low to keep the grass tamed. If your area has been hit by a stretch of dry weather, you can use the handle to adjust the mowing deck higher. The longer blades of grass will then essentially shade the turn to help it retain more soil moisture.

If you get the 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery that Kobalt recommends for this mower, you should be able to get around half an hour of runtime out of it. Though you might get a little less if you have to slowly walk through thick or tall grass.

The 20-inch mower deck is also very nice. It lets you cut more grass in a single pass than you can with a lot of other electric lawnmowers. In fact, many of the closest competitors in this price range only have a 14-inch or 16-inch deck. With this Kobalt electric lawnmower, those extra few inches with each pass really do add up over the course of cutting a medium size lawn.

Maintenance

Right out of the box, there isn’t a lot to maintain with this Kobalt cordless electric lawnmower. However, there’s no battery or charger included in the initial purchase. So, you will need to buy one. Ideally, you want a 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery, and a Smart charger that won’t overcharge the battery.

When collapsing down the Kobalt 40-Volt Brushless Lithium-Ion 20-in Cordless Electric Lawn Mower for storage you want to take it easy on the handle bolts. They are a little loose, and if you are rough with them they can get looser over time.

Safety Features

This cordless electric lawnmower has the usual handlebar safety controls that you find on most lawnmowers. The side discharge also closes easily, which prevents problems when you want to use this mower as a mulcher or bagging mower.

Special Features

The brushless 40-volt electric motor truly is quieter than many of the competitors. It’s especially nice if you have small children in your home and you want to cut the grass while they are taking a nap.

You also have to like the 3-in-1 versatility that allows you to mulch, bag or choose side discharge. The bagger even feels well balanced, so you aren’t going to be lugging it around or making multiple trips to the compost pile just to empty it.

Cost-Effectiveness

Like a lot of other cordless electric lawnmowers, the long term cost of ownership, the Kobalt 40-Volt Brushless Lithium-Ion 20-in Cordless Electric Lawn Mower is cost-effective. Especially compared to a traditional gasoline push mower.

The problem with the Kobalt 40-Volt Brushless Lithium Ion 20-in Cordless Electric Lawn Mower is that it doesn’t come with a battery or a charger in the initial purchase. This can add an extra 150 or more to the initial purchase price. Once you pull that trigger though, you get a mower that can cut for up to half an hour, and does it without making a lot of noise or spitting out a bunch of fumes.

The Kobalt 80-Volt Cordless Mower is a powerful, efficient electric lawn mower that gives your lawn a clean trim and doesn’t require as much effort to maneuver as a heavy gas-powered mower.

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

The Kobalt 80-Volt Cordless Mower is the best electric lawn mower for flat yards up to 1/3 acre in size.

Pros

  • This cordless lawn mower comes with two 2-amp batteries that only take 30 minutes to fully charge.

Cons

Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews

Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

The Kobalt 80-Volt Cordless Mower is a powerful, efficient electric lawn mower that gives your lawn a clean trim and doesn’t require as much effort to maneuver as a heavy gas-powered mower. Not only is it a clean-energy replacement for your gas lawn mower, it is backed by a generous five-year warranty. This is one of the best electric lawn mowers available.

The mower comes with two 2-amp batteries you can use simultaneously or separately. Each battery provides approximately 60 to 70 minutes of power.

Kobalt includes a battery charger for each battery, and they take around 30 minutes to charge. There is also an indicator on the top of each battery so you can see how much power is left as you mow.

Because of its lengthy battery life, the Kobalt cordless mower is an optimal choice for homes with large yards, up to 1/3 acre in size. You can raise or lower the cutting deck to one of seven heights, between 1.375 and 3.375 inches, with a single lever. In addition, the Kobalt has a wide 21-inch cutting path, which allows you to mow more of your lawn in fewer passes than with its narrower peers.

The Kobalt electric mower has a side discharge and an excellent mulching option. Mulching chops up the grass into fine pieces, which are then dispersed back into the grass to return valuable nutrients to your lawn. If you prefer to bag your clippings, it also comes with a large-capacity bag that attaches to the rear of the lawn mower. The bag has a large mouth, making it easy to empty.

While mowing your lawn, the Kobalt automatically senses when you are going up a steep hill or mowing long or wet grass. In these conditions, this mower automatically kicks it up a notch, delivering an extra boost of energy to power through without slowing down, and it still creates a clean, even cut.

This is a great lawn mower, but it didn’t claim the best overall spot. That honor went to EGO LM2102SP.

You start this electric mower with the push of a button, which is a welcome relief from yanking on a starter cord. While pressing the button, you need to pull on a handle bar that looks much like the starter bars on gas mowers. This lever is a security measure that instantly stops the mower when released in case a child or debris gets in your way.

One of the mower’s drawbacks is that it is not self-propelled, so you have to use your own strength to push it around. If you have a flat yard, the mower is very maneuverable and easy to push compared to heavier gas lawn mowers, which can weigh more than 80 pounds.

The cutting deck and body are made of steel, which makes the mower resistant to gouging and nicks. The Kobalt 80-Volt lawn mower weighs about 58 pounds – this is pretty standard for cordless lawn mowers and at least half of what gas mowers typically weigh.

The handle is encased with a comfortable padding that makes gripping it easy on your hands, and it can be adjusted to fit users of different heights. Though it’s a little tricky to figure out because it requires a multistep process, the handle does fold down for easier storage.

Buying Guides

Kobalt Electric Mower Won’t Start (7 Ways to Fix)

If your Kobalt electric mower won’t start, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that can be caused by a number of things.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common causes and what you can do to fix them.

With a little troubleshooting, you should be able to get your mower running again in no time.

How to fix Kobalt Electric Mower Won’t Start?

Spark Plug

One of the most common issues is a dirty and wet spark plug. A spark plug can become fouled by oil, dirt, or debris, and this can prevent it from firing correctly.

As a result, the Kobalt mower may not start or may run very poorly.

Cleaning the spark plug is a relatively simple process, and it only takes a few minutes to do.

  • First, remove the spark plug from the mower.
  • Next, use a wire brush to remove any build-up from the tip of the plug.
  • Finally, reattach the plug and try starting the mower again.

In most cases, this will fix the problem however, if this doesn’t fix then you need to replace the spark plug of your Kobalt mower.

Carburetor

A clogged carburetor is a common issue with small engines. When oil or gas remains in the engine for extended periods of time, it can cause the carburetor to become clogged.

This can lead to the Kobalt electric mower won’t start a problem. So, to fix this problem you should clean the carburetor of your mower.

Cleaning the carburetor is a fairly simple process that can be completed in a few minutes.

Tools you will need to clean a carburetor are a wire brush, spray cleaner, and rags.

  • To clean the carburetor, first, remove the air filter and cover.
  • Then use the wire brush to remove any debris from the inside of the carburetor.
  • Next, spray a liberal amount of cleaner into the carburetor and let it soak for a few minutes.
  • Finally, use the rags to wipe away any remaining cleaner or debris.

If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem then it would be best if you replace the carburetor.

Key is Not Fully Engaged

If your mower is not starting it’s a good chance that the problem lies with the key.

Kobalt electric lawn mowers require keys in order to turn them on, and sometimes people don’t fully insert the key into the mower due to which the mower won’t start.

If your key isn’t fully inserted, you may find it difficult to turn the key or it may feel as if it gets stuck at some point in the process.

If this happens, simply push the key in further or remove it and reinsert it before turning the key.

By taking this simple step, you can ensure that your Kobalt electric lawn mower will start up without any problems.

Safety Handle is not Engaged

Kobalt electric mower owners may find that their mower won’t start when they first use it.

This is because the safety handle on Kobalt electric mowers must be engaged in order for the mower to start.

To engage the safety handle, simply push it down while starting the mower. Once the handle is engaged, the mower will start and run as normal.

Kobalt electric mower owners should also be sure to read the owner’s manual for their mower before using it for the first time.

This will ensure that they are familiar with all of the safety features and controls on their Kobalt electric mower.

Insufficient Power

Kobalt electric mowers are equipped with a Kobalt-branded 40-volt MAX battery. This battery is designed to deliver fade-free power and has a quick charge time.

If your Kobalt electric mower won’t start, the first thing you should check is the battery. Make sure that the battery is properly charged and inserted into the mower.

If the battery is fully charged and inserted correctly, then the next step is to check the power connection.

The power cord must be properly plugged into the mower and into a functioning outlet.

Once you have checked the battery and power connection, if the mower still does not start, then read the following possible solutions.

Filled with Excess Grass and Debris

Your Kobalt electric mower won’t start if its bag is full of grass or debris. This is because the mower cannot collect any more trimmings, so it’s important to check the status of the bag regularly and empty it as needed.

If your mower won’t start, first detach the cutting bag and check to see if it’s full.

If so, simply empty the bag and reconnect it to the mower. You should also be sure to clean any debris from the mower’s blades and undercarriage.

With a little regular maintenance, you can keep your Kobalt electric lawn mower working properly for years to come.

Clogged Vents

If your Kobalt electric lawn mower won’t start, you should check its vents. Because vents help keep the motor cool and maintain an optimal temperature during use.

However, if the vent is clogged, it can increase the risk of overheating the motor.

Most Kobalt electric lawn mowers won’t even turn on if the vent is somehow blocked or clogged, as this could damage the motor.

Try to use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off anything that might be on the vent. Refrain from using any liquids, as they could disintegrate the motor’s lubrication.

If you can’t clean or unclog the vent with a rag, opt for an air-related tool.

How do I Start my Kobalt Electric Mower?

To start your Kobalt electric mower, first, make sure that the battery is charged. Once the battery is charged, press the power button to turn on the mower.

Then, use the throttle lever to increase the speed of the blade.

To stop the mower, simply release the throttle lever and press the power button to turn it off the mower.

How Long Does Kobalt Lawn Mower Battery Last?

The Kobalt lawn mower battery is supposed to last for 60 minutes, but in reality, it does not even last for 20 minutes on a full charge.

This is significantly shorter than the advertised time and can be frustrating when trying to get the job done.

Conclusion

The Kobalt electric lawn mower is a high-quality machine that can provide many years of service.

However, there may be times when it doesn’t start for some reason.

We have listed all possible reasons why it may not be starting. Hopefully one of these solutions will fix your mower.

However, if problems persist then you should consult a lawn mower professional.

Things you Didn’t Know About Who Makes Kobalt Mowers

Kobalt mowers are a good choice for homeowners who are looking for an efficient and eco-friendly way to maintain their lawn. Kobalt mowers were introduced to the market in 2014, and they quickly gained popularity among homeowners

But who makes Kobalt mowers? The American home improvement company Lowe’s Companies, Inc. manufactures Kobalt lawnmowers. The mowers are created and produced particularly for the Kobalt brand of power tools and outdoor furniture.

Who Makes Kobalt Mowers?

Kobalt is a brand of power tools and outdoor equipment that was launched by the American home improvement retailer Lowe’s Companies, Inc. in 1998. The brand is known for its high-quality and innovative products, including Kobalt mowers.

The American home improvement company Lowe’s Companies, Inc. manufactures Kobalt lawn mowers. The establishment of Kobalt mowers was part of Lowe’s strategy to offer high-quality, innovative, and eco-friendly products to their customers.

About Lowe’s Companies Inc.

Lowe’s Companies Inc. is an American home improvement retailer that was founded in 1921 in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. Today, it is one of the largest home improvement retailers in the world, with over 2,200 stores in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Lowe’s offers a wide range of home improvement products and services, including appliances, hardware, tools, outdoor equipment, building materials, and home decor. In addition to its brick-and-mortar stores, the company also offers online shopping and delivery services.

In addition to its retail operations, Lowe’s is also committed to corporate responsibility and sustainability. The company has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including reducing energy consumption in its stores and distribution centers.

Where Are Kobalt Mowers Made?

Mowers for Kobalt are produced by a number of independent companies in various countries all over the world. The model and kind of mower can affect the precise location of manufacture. The Kobalt brand’s owner, Lowe’s, collaborates with a number of producers to make its goods.

Greenworks, a Chinese business that specializes in electric and battery-powered outdoor equipment, and Global Garden Products, an Italian company that makes lawn mowers and other gardening tools, are two well-known producers of Kobalt mowers.

Additionally, the design and specifications of the mowers are developed by Lowe’s in collaboration with the manufacturers, to ensure that they meet the needs and preferences of Kobalt customers.

What Type of Mowers Do Kobalt Make?

Kobalt makes a range of electric and battery-powered lawn mowers that are designed for efficient and eco-friendly lawn maintenance. Here are the main types of mowers that Kobalt offers:

Push mowers: Kobalt offers several models of push mowers, which are ideal for small to medium-sized lawns. These mowers are powered by either an electric cord or a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and typically have cutting widths of 16 to 21 inches.

Self-propelled mowers: Kobalt also offers several models of self-propelled mowers, which are designed to make it easier to mow large lawns. These mowers are also powered by either an electric cord or a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and they typically have cutting widths of 21 inches.

Riding mowers: For larger lawns, Kobalt offers a range of riding mowers that are powered by lithium-ion batteries. These mowers are equipped with wide cutting decks that range from 42 to 54 inches and can cover large areas of grass quickly and efficiently.

Robotic mowers: Kobalt also offers a robotic mower that can be programmed to automatically mow your lawn. This mower is equipped with sensors that allow it to navigate around obstacles and can be controlled using a smartphone app.

Overall, Kobalt offers a range of mowers to suit different lawn sizes and needs, all of which are designed to be eco-friendly and efficient.

Is the Kobalt Mower Provide Lifetime Warranty?

For a set amount of time, Kobalt provides a limited warranty on their lawn mowers that covers manufacturing flaws and craftsmanship. The warranty does not, however, offer perpetual protection.

Depending on the type of the mower and the nation in which it was purchased, the warranty’s particular conditions and duration may change. A two- or three-year limited warranty that covers flaws in both materials and workmanship typically comes with Kobalt lawn mowers.

It’s crucial to understand that misuse, neglect, or typical wear and tear are not covered by the guarantee and may result in damage or malfunctions.

Is Kobalt a Good Mower Brand?

Kobalt is generally considered a good mower brand, with many customers praising the quality and performance of its mowers. Here are some of the factors that make Kobalt a good mower brand:

Eco-friendly: All of Kobalt’s mowers are electric or battery-powered, which makes them a more eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers.

Range of options: Kobalt offers a range of mowers to suit different lawn sizes and needs, from push mowers to riding mowers.

Quality construction: Kobalt’s mowers are designed to be durable and long-lasting, with high-quality construction and materials.

Convenient features: Many of Kobalt’s mowers come with features that make them more convenient and user-friendly, such as adjustable cutting heights and foldable handles for easy storage.

Warranty: Kobalt offers a limited warranty on its mowers that covers manufacturing defects and workmanship, providing customers with peace of mind.

What are the Features to Consider Before Buying a Kobalt Mower?

If someone is considering buying a Kobalt mower, there are several features he should consider to ensure that he chooses the right model for real needs. Some key features to consider include:

  • Cutting width: The cutting width of the mower determines how much grass the machine can cut in a single pass. Kobalt mowers come in a range of cutting widths, so you’ll want to choose one that’s appropriate for the size of your lawn.
  • Power source: Kobalt mowers are available in both corded electric and battery-powered models. Consider your lawn size and whether a corded or cordless model is best for you.
  • Battery life: If you choose a battery-powered model, consider the battery life and charging time. You’ll want to choose a model with a battery life that is long enough to mow your lawn without needing to recharge.
  • Cutting height adjustment: The ability to adjust the cutting height of your mower is important, as different grass types require different cutting heights. Look for a model with multiple height adjustment settings to ensure you can cut your lawn to your desired length.
  • Grass collection: If you prefer to collect grass clippings instead of mulching or discharging them, look for a model with a grass collection bag or box.
  • Maneuverability: Kobalt mowers come in both push and self-propelled models. Consider the size and slope of your lawn and choose a model that is easy to maneuver for your needs.

By considering these features, you’ll be able to choose the right Kobalt mower for your lawn care needs.

Kobalt Vs. Greenworks Vs. Bosch: Which one is Better for Mowers?

Kobalt, Greenworks, and Bosch are all popular brands of lawn mowers, and each has its own unique features and benefits. Here’s a quick comparison of the three:

Kobalt

Kobalt mowers are known for their power and performance, and they offer a wide range of cutting widths and power sources. They are typically priced in the mid-range for electric mowers, and they offer good value for the price.

Some models also come with convenient features like easy fold handles for storage and dual battery ports for longer run time. They are designed to be easy to use and maintain, and they typically come with features like adjustable cutting height, grass collection bags, and easy fold handles for storage.

Greenworks

Greenworks mowers are known for their eco-friendliness, as they are all electric and emit zero emissions. They are typically priced in the mid-range and are a great option for those who are looking for an environmentally friendly lawn mower.

Greenworks mowers also come with convenient features like easy fold handles for storage and dual battery ports for longer run time.

Bosch

Bosch mowers are known for their durability and reliability, and they offer a range of cutting widths and power sources. They are typically priced in the high-end for electric mowers, but they offer superior build quality and performance.

Bosch mowers also come with convenient features like adjustable handles and grass combs for improved cutting.

In general, each brand offers a good range of options for electric mowers, and the choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences.

Maintaining a beautiful lawn can be a daunting task, especially if you lack the appropriate know-how and tools to handle the challenges that may crop up. Fortunately, LawnAsk is here to offer you an all-encompassing resource that covers everything you need to know about lawn care.

Recent Posts

Tool Box Buzz

Browse all brands »

Browse all categories »

Head to Head Lawn Mower Shootout

UPDATE: We have recently done a NEW Cordless Law Mower Head-to-Head article. Click on the link to view that one with the latest models tested.

Cordless Lawn Mowers are quickly taking over the lawn and gardens section in stores, so we wanted to test several of the leading brands and find out who makes the best Cordless Lawn Mower.

The first U.S., gasoline powered lawn mower was manufactured in 1914 by Ideal Power Mower Co. and they certainly do a great job cutting small to medium size lawns and trimming tough areas on large lawns. But gas mowers are noisy, smelly, and require a bunch of regular maintenance on the gas powered engine.

Why Cordless Lawn Mowers?

Cordless Lawn Mowers are being touted for being quieter, odorless, and nearly maintenance free. On the other hand, gas powered mowers require lots of service including oil changes, fuel filters, spark plugs and air filters. Any often times people wait to do service until the mower won’t start and the lawn is growing faster than the hair on your head! Cordless mowers eliminate much of the maintenance and they are quieter and odorless.

Our cordless lawn mower head to head will tell you who we think makes the best model, and we’ll answer the question whether cordless mowers perform similar to a gas powered mower.

Cordless Lawn Mower Head to Head Comparisons

While this head to head isn’t a scientific research project, we did make an attempt to evaluate each mower in several categories and rank them against each other. The results are not necessarily comparative to other models on the market, but they are relative to the 5 models tested. For this comparison we looked at the following categories:

  • Quality of Cut – This was a subject comparison based on mowing adjacent areas of lawn and comparing the quality of the cut areas.
  • Noise – We measured decibel levels for each mower. The test was performed with each mower set at the highest deck level, sitting on a concrete slab. We measured the noise at the highest motor speed and the lowest ( Note – some models motors ra mp down due to demand to save battery life).
  • Run Time – Run time is affected by so many different variables that there’s no great way to test this. However, we wanted to give a relative comparison for discussion purposes so we tested the run time under “no load” conditions.
  • Handle Comfort Adjustment – Another subjective comparison focusing on the handle height, adjustments, and overall comfort.
  • Maneuverability – We evaluated how easily the mowers were to push. This category is largely factored based on the mower weight and wheel design.
  • Deck Height Adjustability – We ranked each of the mowers based on how easy they were to adjust th e cutting deck hei ght.

Cordless Lawn Mower Lineup

We reached out to several of the top cordless lawn mower manufacturers and asked if they would like to participate in our head to head article. We received 5 different models from 4 manufacturers including: Kobalt, Craftsman, Black Decker and EGO. The models we tested include:

  • Black Decker 36V Lead Acid 19″ Single Blade Cordless Lawn Mower – Model CM1936
  • Craftsman 40V Lithium-Ion 20″ Dual Blade Cordless Lawn Mower – Model 25081
  • EGO Power 56V Lithium-Ion 20″ Single Blade Cordless Lawn Mower – Model LM2001
  • Kobalt 40V Lithium-Ion 19″ Single Blade Cordless Lawn Mower – Model KM1940-06
  • Kobalt 40V Lithium-Ion 20″ Dual Blade Cordless Lawn Mower – Model KM2040X-06

Cordless Lawn Mower Features

All 5 mowers have fairly similar features included the ones noted in the table below. The EGO does offer a unique LED light system to help mow in the dark if you feel like stretching your work day!

Cut” Quality & Performance Winner – EGO LM2001

To evaluate the cut quality we mowed areas of lawn with each mower side by side. After cutting the grass with both a bag and in mulching mode we looked over the grass to evaluate how well the grass was cut. Two mowers really stood out with excellent cut quality and they are the EGO and Black & Decker models.

Both mowers did a great job cutting tall grass. To test the mowers in an extreme (really tall grass to strain the motor) case we mowed a section of lawn that was just over 6″ tall. The EGO really excelled when mowing tall grass due to it’s powerful 56V engine. The EGO also edged out the Black & Decker slightly when cutting in mulching mode and that’s was also a result of power of power. The 56V battery platform pushes the EGO LM2001 into an entire category by itself with respect to power and I really felt like I was using a gas powered mower.

Noise – Winner Kobalt KM1940-06

One of the biggest questions readers have asked about cordless mowers seems to be how loud are they?

We did a basic decibel test to measure the noise of the mowers in a controlled situation to get a relative comparison of noise. The test consisted of running each mower with the deck raised to it’s highest level sitting on a concrete slab. We measured the decibel levels with a simple cell phone app. Many of the mower motors start at a high RPM and cycle down to a slower speed to save energy (the motors cycle up in RPMs with tall er or thick grass). We measured the noise at both high and low levels where applicable.

kobalt, electric, push, mower, 40-volt

The average gas powered lawn mower is approximately 90 dB. Therefore, these cordless mowers are almost 100 times less noisy compared to the gas mower. (decibels are a logarithmic scale, 20 decibels difference is 100 times louder). While the Kobalt did edge out the other models, all of them are significantly quieter compared to a traditional gas powered mower which is a good thing!

Run Time Winner – Black & Decker CM1936

Run time is another big question on the minds of people considering the move from gas powered to battery powered mowers. Huge advancements in battery technology are making these cordless mowers a viable option but the million dollar question on everyone’s mind is how long can you mow on a charge? Mowing run time will vary greatly depending on height of grass, thickness of grass, and type of grass.

In order to get a relative comparison of run time we tested the mowers under “no load” conditions. Obviously this results in longer run times than can be expected while mowing grass, it does allow us to compare the mowers on the same conditions to rank them from longest run time to shortest run time.

While the Black & Decker definitely took the run time category it does come at a price and that’s overall weight. The large, bulky battery weighs 30 lbs and it’s the size of a small car battery. The battery is a sealed lead acid battery much like an automobile battery which is much different than the other battery types.

All of the other mowers averaged about 1 hour of run time. The Craftsman and 20″ Kobalt both use two batteries so we tested them with the 4.0 and 2.0 Ah batteries that came standard with the mowers. The run time would definitely go up if you used two 4.0 Ah batteries in them so that’s certainly something to consider as an upgrade.

Also, another thing to consider in this category is the charge time for the batteries. While the B&D lasts longer, it takes MUCH longer to charge. The user manual states 12 to 20 hours to charge the battery compared to just an hour or two with all the other models. EGO really does great with their 30 minute fast charger which really comes in handy.

Handle Comfort & Adjustability Winner – EGO LM2001

When it comes to comfort with respect to push mowers the handle is a big deal. We evaluated the five mowers on comfort and adjustability and found that the EGO LM2001 was not only the more comfortable but it offered the easiest height adjustment. The EGO offers a durable, yet comfortable foam/rubber padding on the handle and a comfortable angle configuration on the main handle that allows for a couple different hand positions.

It’s worth noting that the EGO had a much higher handle height than the other models which I prefer as I’m over 6′ tall. For shorter users, this height may be an issue to consider. Rob is quite a bit shorter than I am and he still found the lower setting to be comfortable.

Maneuverability Winner – Craftsman, EGO & Kobalt

Maneuverability of push mowers is especially important when trimming around gardens, trees and other landscaping features. The ease with which the mowers role is largely a result of the wheels and mower weight. We had a 3 way tie for this category between the Craftsman 25081, EGO LM2001, and the Kobalt KM2040X-06. All three mowers had good size wheels, relatively low total weight, and comfortable handles.

The heavier weight and smaller wheels on the Black & Decker made this mower feel much harder to push and maneuver around obstacles. The steel deck Kobalt KM1940-06 also felt “heavy” and less nimble in this category.

Deck Height Adjustability Winner – Black & Decker CM1936

All of the mowers we tested include a single lever deck height adjustment feature. This sure does beat adjusting each wheel like the old style mowers. Four of the mowers use some sort of lever while the Black & Decker uses a unique patented One-Touch height adjustment. The Black & Decker CM1936 is very easy to move both up and down with a single hand. All the other models need a bit of assistance from a second hand to help lift the mowers up. The Kobalt KM1940-06 came in 2nd place because it offered 7 positions (more than any other model) and it has a spring assisted system that also helps moving the deck up with less effort compared to other models.

Compact Design & Storage Winner – EGO LM2001

One of the big reasons you should consider one of these cordless mowers is some of them offer a very compact design that allows you to store them in small spaces. Garages seem to be taken over by mowers, trimmers and tools during the summer and some of these models do a great job minimizing storage space. The EGO LM2001 really blew away the competition with their very easy to store design. In just 15 seconds you can quickly fold the unit up and store it vertically in a space the size of a suitcase.

Because the EGO can be stored both horizontal and vertically, it offers a better solution in tight spaces. Also, with the vertical solution you can even hang it on the wall which I think is a great option for those of us with a need to hang everything in it’s place.

The Kobalt and Craftsman models also fold up fairly small, but the handles don’t lock into place making it hard to store vertically like the EGO. The B&D model only folds at the deck so it doesn’t fold up as small as some of the other models.

Fit & Finish Winner – EGO LM2001

Two of the mowers really stood out with regard to fit and finish. The EGO LM2001 was our first choice with heavy duty parts, simple operate levers and clamps, and a very polished appearance. The runner up in this category goes to the Black & Decker CM1936. It too has heavy duty parts and smooth operating features. It’s worth noting that all five mowers are well built and operated easily.

Winner of Fit & Finish – EGO LM2001

Runner-Up Fit & Finish – Black & Decker CM1936

Value Winner – Kobalt KM1940-06

This category was tough to decide on a winner but we are giving it to the Kobalt KM1940-06 because it’s the cheapest model we tested and it comes with two batteries (2.0 Ah and 4.0 Ah). Kobalt has a great line of outdoor power equipment that runs off this same platform so having a mower for 349 including two batteries is a great value. The Black & Decker CM1936 is roughly the same price but the big bulky battery isn’t useful for anything else so in our opinion it’s not nearly the same value.

Best Value – Kobalt KM1940-06

The EGO was the most expensive at 499 but we believe it’s a case of you get what you pay for. The great fit and finish along with exceptional design features make the extra cost worth it in our opinion.

Best” Cordless Lawn Mower – EGO LM2001 56V Mower

Best Cordless Mower – EGO LM2001

Each of the mowers we tested did a good job cutting grass and offer features that you’d expect from a good push mower. However, the EGO LM2001 was definitely a cut above the competition. Starting with it’s excellent portable design to the powerful 56V motor, the EGO outperformed the competition when it came to performance, store-ability, and durability.

EGO also offers a platform of outdoor power equipment with a blower, trimmer and chainsaw so you can combine batteries and have one platform and a solution for all of your lawn and garden tasks. Th e EGO was the most expensive model we tested but we feel the extra cost is worth it and likely to pay off in a very short period of time.

If the Black & Decker was on a more current battery platform it would have competed much closer for the top billing. A newer battery platform would help the mower shed some unnecessary weight and make it more versatile.

>

| Denial of responsibility | Contacts |RSS | DE | EN | CZ