Electric lawn mower companies. Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers

Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, gas mowers cause 5% of the nation’s air pollution. Trade in your old gas mower for a rechargeable cordless electric lawn mower. You’ll save time and money—and help the environment. Compared with cars, gasoline-powered lawn mowers produce a disproportionate amount of air pollution. Mowing your lawn for one hour with a conventional gas lawn mower can cause more air pollution than driving from Madison to Chicago and back in a new car.

Federal regulations aimed at reducing smog-producing mower emissions have made today’s gas-powered mowers cleaner than old onessomething to consider if you’re now using an older gas powered mower. However, the new cordless models only use as much electricity as an ordinary toaster. The only pollution generated is from that used to generate the electricity at the power plant which is supposedly better equipped to handle pollution issues that the average homeowner and the recycling problems associated with worn out batteries used in cordless mowers.

Clean and Quiet

Perhaps the best feature of these new cordless mowers is their minimal environmental impact during operation. Even after accounting for power-plant emissions, replacing gas mowers with electrics results in a 99% reduction in carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and methane, and a 38% reduction in carbon dioxide.

Have you ever felt a twinge of guilt when your gasoline-powered mower first roars.- those of us with nearby neighbors have. Or have you waited until you knew your neighbors were up and about before mowing the lawn? Gas mowers run at some 90 decibels (ear-protectors are recommended for operators normal conversation about 75 decibels). Electric mowers, operating in the 65. 85 decibel range, make being a thoughtful neighbor a whole lot easier.

Although the typical lawn won’t pose any problems for these mowers, assess your situation before investing.

Cordless electric mowers are best for flat lawns smaller than 8,000 square feet and composed of cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, fine and tall fescues, and perennial ryegrasses. Warm season grasses such as St. Augustine or Zoysiagrass may create too much resistance to make the cordless mower feasible or you may have to mow it at higher than normal and keep a spare battery charged up.

Because of their overall weight, including batteries, These mowers are often hard to push up sloping lawns. Although they’re not that heavy in comparison to standard mowers, cordless models are not usually self-propelled.

Electric Mower Maintenance

Electric mowers eliminate the cost of oil changes, spark plugs, air filters and annual tune-ups. Electric mowers use about 5 worth of electricity each year for an average size yard. Beyond replacing the battery every 5. 7 years, periodic cleaning, and blade sharpening, theres little maintenance.

Batteries and Power

Cordless mowers generally come with one to three 12-volt, lead-acid batteries (12-, 24-, and 36-volt models). The two Lawnboy cordless electric mowers have 6-volt batteries. But the actual voltage (or power) delivered to the motor depends on amperage. For example, a 12-volt mower with high amperage can mow longer than a 36-volt mower with low amps.

Power is a function of battery type, blade and deck design, and power transfer. All manufacturers exploit computer-aided design techniques to optimize blades’ weight and shape and decks’ contours. Toro and Black Decker claim that their cordless mowers have more torque than a 5-horsepower gas engine.

Batteries lose power when they’re stored for a long time. To store most models during winter where temperatures fall below 40 degrees., charge the battery overnight, then disconnect the mower from the charger until the next mowing season (up to 6 months). If temperatures generally stay above 40 degrees where you live, leave the battery connected or plugged in year-round. However, check the owner’s manual for specific storage directions.

Run Time

Manufacturers’ run time numbers are only estimates. How long a machine will run depends on height and grass texture, moisture, and terrain. Cutting relatively dry lawns takes a less energy than cutting lush, wet turf.

As a general rule, if amperage is equal, 12-volt batteries provide 30. 40 minutes of mowing time; 24-volt mowers last 40. 75 minutes; and 36-volt mowers run for up to 90 minutes.

The more power required, the less time batteries last. For example, if your lawn is lush and thick, or if you let it grow tall before mowing, assume batteries will last for 4,000. 5,000 square feet or so. If your lawn is easier to mow, many cordless electrics can handle up to 8,000 square feet of lawn.

Electric Corded Mowers

The obvious difference between batteries and corded electric mowers is the cord. While neither version are suitable for larger lawns, the corded model is limited to about 100′ from a receptacle outlet (beyond this distance and voltage drops may cause a problems). You also have to be careful about running over the extension cord. To be on the very safe side, electrical outlets that you hook an electric corded mower to should have a GFI receptacle in place. This will help prevent you from being electrocuted should you accidentally run over the cord.

As with cordless models, corded electric mowers are capable of effective mulching action. The prime advantages over the cordless models is that you don’t have a battery that needs charging or disposing of when they reach the end of their life cycle. You’re also not limited to the mowing time of your battery’s charge (about 60 minutes).

When you compare total costs. purchase and maintenance. the electric mowers are cheaper than the gas driven mowers of similar power, but the difference between corded and cordless is negligible.

Solar Powered Cordless Mowers

Today there are several companies producing cordless electric battery chargers. The solar panels recharge the batteries in 2. 3 sunny days or 4. 5 cloudy days. This solar panel option costs about 250.

EPA Report Activity and fuel consumption data for these sources are limited in comparison to transportation sources. There is no one datsource that currently has information on all the non-transportation mobile sources [which includes lawn mowers], and different publications report significantly different estimates, complicating the estimation process. For instance, estimates derived from a 2004 analysis of various datsources, including FHWA, EPA, and EIA by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), were considerably higher than estimates currently used in developing the U.S. GHG [Green House Gases] Inventory. over, it is likely that the transportation and mobile sources estimates of GHG emissions in the U.S. GHG Inventory are missing emissions associated with off-road use of trucks, and these emissions may be captured under other sectors, especially the industrial sector.

Black Decker Cordless 24V Mower

• 24 Volt Sealed Lead Acid Battery for Trouble-Free Cutting of Up to 1/3 Acre Homesites (grass conditions will effect run-time)
• Rechargeable Battery Recharges to 60-70% in 4 Hours and to 100% in 10 Hours
• LIFETIME 19 Mower Deck. Mulch Plate and Bag Included; Deck Has Lifetime Warranty
• Cutting Path. 19
• Height Adjustment. 1 Touch
• Weight. 76 lbs
• Cutting Heights. 1 1/2-3 1/2
• Ideal Property Size. up to 1/3 Acre
• Mulching Capability. YES
• Charge Time at 60%. 4 hrs
• Charge Time at 100%. 10 hrs

New Standards for Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers

EPA has finalized a new emission control program to reduce hydrocarbon emissions from small spark-ignition engines by about 35 percent. The new exhaust emissions standards take effect in 2011 or 2012, depending on the size of the engine.

Electric Lawn Mower Reviews

You probably are ready to say goodbye to checking the oil, yanking the start chain, monitoring the gas, and enduring the noise of your gas mower. You can’t even listen to a podcast with that thing on! Still, the best reason to buy an electric lawn mower is that it’s one step closer to a carbon-neutral existence. Do your little part to halt climate change—if you need a mower, buy electric.

Best Electric Lawn Mower

Hands down, the best electric lawn mower is the Ego Power Plus Mower. We’re basing this on reviews, reliability, and the fact that we believe in the company.

EGO isn’t a traditional mower company with an electric line. They aren’t an electric tool company that also makes mowers. EGO focuses on electric lawn products, and that FOCUS shows in their products.

What we like about the EGO is the obvious thought that went into the design.

• The EGO folds up into a rectangular shape that’s not only easy to get home from the store, but takes up less space in your garage.
• The EGO has a ridiculously simple height adjustment system that’s as easy as shifting an automatic car from park to drive.
• The EGO has lights, so you can mow in the dark. (Remember, electric mowers are practically silent; your neighbors won’t mind.)
• The EGO’s powerful lithium-ion battery charges in just 30 minutes, and mows for 45. Plus, the battery fits their other tools…if you have a little charge left over, use it to blow away some leaves.

Are Electric Lawnmowers Any Good?

Yes, electric mowers are good. If your lawn is in decent condition, gets dry enough to mow, and isn’t subject to infestation by excessive amounts of falling twigs or pinecones, and isn’t serving as the putting surface for The Masters, an electric mower will do just fine.

The main thing that should excite you about an electric mower is energy efficiency. You can use the same electric power that powers your hair clippers—power which in many states is increasingly generated with renewable resources. You’ll save money by using an electric mower, and you’ll also be doing your part to save the Earth.

Electric mowers will provide the quietest lawn care experience of your life. One of the worst aspects of mowing the gas-powered way is that, unlike with other outdoor work like weeding, raking, fence post digging—you can’t listen to music or the ballgame while you do it…even through headphones. With your largely quiet electric mower, noise pollution’s at a minimum. You can enjoy your favorite form of aural entertainment, and your neighbors will have peace and quiet.

Electric Mower Durability

Like any mechanical product, electric mowers are prone to the occasional breakdown. Most mowers carry a warranty that protect you against product defects. Any mower will need blade sharpening at some point. The known durability issue with electric mowers is that—if you choose a cordless one—the battery will eventually lose power. Most companies also offer a warranty on the battery as well, but the fact is that, like your car battery, it will need to be replaced every few years, depending on how much you use it.

Electric Mower Power Needs

A cordless mower simply needs its battery charged to run properly. Mower batteries vary in how long they take to charge. How long they will run depends on the terrain of your yard and how long your grass is. The longest-running cordless mower on the market, the EGO, runs about 45 minutes.

If you buy a corded electric mower, you can mow for as long as you like, but you must use a high-rated extension cord. Extension cords are rated by the size of the wires within, or wire gauge. The sizing isn’t very intuitive: the lower the number, the thicker the wire, and thus the more power can run through the cord. The size you’ll need will depend on the mower you buy, and how far away from your outlet you plan to mow. Consult the owner’s manual before you mow to avoid blowing a fuse.

Electric Lawn Mowers vs. Gas Lawn Mowers

This is the fun part. Let’s count the reasons you should choose electric mowers over gas ones.

Electric Lawn Mower Cost

Top-of-the-line electric mowers cost about the same as self-propelled gas mowers. Given that electric mowers are much lighter, and require very little exertion to push, you’re basically getting the same product without the hassle of using gas. On the low-end, electric mowers are cheaper than gas ones. You’ll have a tough time finding a gas mower for less than 150, while you many choices at that price point with electric mowers. The least-expensive electric mower we were able to find you can get for less than 100.

Electric Lawn Mower Performance

Gas has electric beat on pure mowing performance. The engines of gas mowers are more powerful, so they are going to do better with tough mowing tasks like high grass, wet grass, and debris. If you deal with these situations—you’re either going to stick with gas or buy a very high-end electric mower. The EGO runs at 3300 RPM, which is comparable to gas mowers. But the average person, with a relatively basic lawn, doesn’t notice any difference in performance between a gas and electric mower.

Electric Lawn Mower Energy Use

Using a corded electric lawn mower won’t save you much in energy costs—Consumer Reports estimates that you’ll save around 15/year. But you will be using cleaner energy—instead of polluting the air around your home with gas fumes, you’ll drop your emissions to zero.

Electric Lawn Mower Batteries

Most cordless electric lawn mowers now come with lithium-ion batteries, replacing the lead-acid batteries that most had used. Lithium ion batteries are longer-lasting and lighter than lead-acid batteries; on the other hand, they aren’t as powerful and cost more. Some models, like the Black Decker CM1936ZA 36V Cordless Lawn Mower, still use lead-acid batteries to generate a little more power. However, it’s 90 lbs; some cordless mowers weigh as little as 30 lbs.

Electric Lawn Mower Motors

Because your mower is creating torque with electric power rather than through internal combustion, it’s much quieter. Most make hardly any noise at all. The power of the motor depends on the voltage of the battery—the higher the voltage, the more powerful the motor. You’ll spend more for a more powerful mower.

Electric Mulching Lawn Mowers

Most electric mowers on the market have some sort of mulching capability, with a bag to capture the mulch or by shooting the clippings out the side of the mower. Don’t expect an electric mower to shred twigs, pinecones or other debris the way a heavy-duty gas mower might.

Used Electric Lawn Mowers

Most electric mowers on Amazon are available used on their site as well, usually at a 10-25% discount. You’ll find a pretty good selection on Craiglist as well. Just about everyone has a mower, and if they move or trade up they’ll sell theirs for a decent price. You do need to be careful, though, if you buy a used cordless electric mower.

The batteries of cordless models wear down over time, taking longer to charge and not holding as much of a charge. If you are buying a used cordless mower, you might ask for a test drive to see just how much battery power is left.

Going electric isn’t just about ease of use. It’s also about doing the right thing for the Earth. Along with choices like avoiding unhealthy chemical fertilizers, mowing your lawn with electric power will reduce your footprint on the only world we have.

The Best Electric Lawn Mower, According to 25,760 Customer Reviews

Welcome to the Thomas guide to the best electric lawn mowers 2023. Thomas has been connecting North American industrial buyers and suppliers for more than 120 years. When you purchase products through our independent recommendations, we may earn an affiliate commission.

An excellent electric lawn mower can help maintain a beautiful lawn without the noise and demanding maintenance requirements of a gas mower. Available as cordless or corded models, these garden tools can be self-propelled for yards with a steep incline and are usually lightweight, making them easy to maneuver around trees and bushes.

Electric mowers, especially corded mowers, are among the most common types of lawn mowers available. At the same time, battery technology has improved over the last decade, so lithium-ion batteries, combined with brushless motors in these machines, create a longer-lasting and more powerful mowing experience.

Electric mowers come in several types for different needs; for instance, an electric riding mower can bring ease, power, and comfort to mowing large properties of over two acres. Below we outline the different types of lawn mowers, their optimal uses, and suggested lawn size for each type.

Here is a list of the best electric lawn mowers, followed by a buying guide to help you select the best electric lawn mower for your needs.

Thomas’ Top Picks for the Best Electric Lawn Mowers 2023

Our top picks for the best electric mowers for small, medium, or large lawns are listed below.

Best Cordless Electric Mower: Greenworks Electric Mowers | Buy Now

Best Mulcher and Lawn Mower: Sun Joe Mulcher and Mower | Buy Now

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower: Ryobi Brushless Motor Lawn Mower | Buy Now

Scroll down to read more about these best electric lawn mowers and learn what thousands of shoppers have had to say about what they love about them.

listed in this article were as shown in US on amazon.com (USA) and The Home Depot as of February 2023

Best Electric Lawn Mower for Wet Grass—Greenworks Electric Mower

Fans of Greenworks power tools will appreciate the simplicity of this cordless lawn mower. Able to cut wet grass, this versatile and lightweight mower is an excellent choice for those living in damp or humid climates.

This battery mower uses a 4.0Ah lithium-ion battery, doesn’t take up much storage space, has variable speed controls and five adjustable height settings.

One reviewer commented, “Because of heavy rains in the northeast, the grass was both thick and wet, but it chewed through and did a good job on getting the clippings. Light and easy to handle.”

Cutting width: 16-inch

Power: Lithium-Ion battery-powered

BUY NOW: US319.99, Amazon

Also Available at: Walmart

Best Corded Electric Lawn Mower—American Lawn Mower Company Corded Lawn Mower

This corded mower from the American Lawn Mower Company was highly rated for small yards. This mower features 2-in-1 mulching and mowing with a rear discharge chute and a 16-gallon bag to collect grass clippings.

The 14-inch cutting deck is made from alloy steel and it has five cutting heights. Like most corded models, its 11-amp engine requires a thicker extension cord.

One customer who used this on their small yard described, “The grass was crazy tall, and I wasn’t sure this mower would be able to handle it, but it did. Three minutes to set it up. Plugged it in, and bam; I was chopping down the forest in the backyard.”

Cutting width: 14-inch

Power: Corded

BUY NOW: US152.70 (Was US159.99), Amazon

Also Available at: Walmart

Best Electric Self-Propelled Mower—Ego Power Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Lawn care has never been easier than with this self-propelled electric battery mower from Ego Power, with the rear wheels of this unit providing a powerful grip even on steep terrain.

The dual battery works with most Ego power tools and other features include side discharge, LED headlights, and different height settings. The battery power allows users to use one battery and charge the other for near-unlimited mowing capabilities.

One customer wrote of this Ego mower, “Easy to maneuver and no maintenance other than sharpening blade when needed. Self-propelled operates smoothly on [an] incline on my property. The machine is far quieter than gas.”

Cutting width: 21-inch

Power: Lithium-ion battery-powered

BUY NOW: US799, Amazon

Also Available at: Walmart

Best Cordless Electric Mower—Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower

For a mower with excellent battery life, this Greenworks mower provides longer run times thanks to the included dual battery system. Its 20-inch cutting deck works well for maintaining lawns in medium yards of up to ⅓ of an acre.

While it doesn’t offer a side discharge option, it does have a rear discharge function that can be used as a mulcher or with the included bag to catch grass clippings if you prefer a tidier experience.

One elderly shopper wrote, “It’s powerful enough to get through my rather thick grass even when I’ve let it get taller than I should. I love having a quiet, efficient, easy-to-use mower that doesn’t belch smoke or require me to buy gas.”

Cutting width: 20-inch

Power: Lithium-ion battery

Best Mower for Thicker Grass—Senix Lawn Mower

The brushless motor of this Senix mower provides ultimate power and long battery life when mowing thicker grass is required. Though ideal for small to medium-sized yards, the dual battery operation on this mower gives it a longer run time.

A safety key that comes with it provides an extra layer of safety when starting the machine. It also comes with a bagger that must be attached to the machine when using it as this model has no rear or side discharge options.

One shopper explained, “It manages thick grass pretty well as long as it’s dry. Overall I’m happy with it, and I much prefer a nice quiet electric machine that does not spew fumes or need any maintenance.”

Cutting width: 15-inch

Power: Lithium-ion battery

BUY NOW: US279, Amazon

Also Available at: Walmart

Best Lawn Mower for Tall Grass—Snapper Cordless Mower

The battery life and power of this Snapper cordless mower are top-notch for when it’s time to cut grass up to four inches tall. The 21-inch cutting deck of this tool also has an adjustable blade speed for the seven height adjustments.

Providing multiple gardening options for many different needs, the steel deck on this machine has a 3-in-1 option for grass clippings that can be bagged, mulched, or expelled out of the side discharge.

Some customers helpfully suggested sharpening the mower’s blades every spring for optimal performance. One satisfied buyer described, “It cuts through tall grass with ease, and the 82 volts is plenty of power. The batteries charge very quickly.”

Cutting width: 21-inch

Power: Lithium-ion battery

BUY NOW: US891.61, Amazon

Also Available at: Walmart

Best Affordable Lawn Mower—Sun Joe Corded Electric Lawn Mower

At under US140, this corded electric mower from Sun Joe is a steal. The over 10-gallon bag collects plenty of grass clippings and there is also the added option of a side discharge with three cutting positions.

This Sun Joe mower is small and light enough to maneuver around bushes and tree roots, but, since corded electric mowers require access to an electrical outlet, these types of machines are best left for small yards. However, purchasing a long outdoor extension cord can provide more freedom for covering a greater area.

“This is the perfect lawnmower for our 10×50 foot lawn,” reported one consumer. “The bag is small, but so is the lawn. Love the simplicity of this mower, and the price was good for the value I am getting out of it.”

Cutting width: 14-inch

Power: Corded electric

BUY NOW: US131.84 (Was US179), Amazon

Also Available at: Walmart and The Home Depot

Best Mulcher and Lawn Mower—Sun Joe Lawn Mulcher and Mower

When you want your mower to provide more than just grass-cutting capabilities, a 2-in-1 mulching and mowing machine like this Sun Joe mower which has a 17-inch mower deck is ideal, especially for medium-sized lawns.

This model comes with a 12-gallon bag to catch grass clippings but also provides the option to turn clippings into compost via the side discharge. It also has a steel grass blade and, like other corded mowers, requires an electric extension cord for power and more mowing freedom.

One reviewer who uses the mulch for compost reported, “It is designed for simple, lightweight operation, yet it’s able to mow my lawn, mulch my leaves, and not leave me exhausted when I’m done.”

Cutting width: 17-inch

Power: Corded electric

BUY NOW: US173.99, Amazon

Also Available at: The Home Depot

Best Powerful Lawn Mower—Makita Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

This Makita mower is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a more powerful option as it is similar to a gas-powered mower but without the fumes and maintenance demands.

This model is self-propelled with speeds that reach three miles per hour. Its brushless motor and 18V batteries allow it to mow up to ½ acre. In addition to the mower, the set comes with four batteries and a Rapid two-charger base.

One customer with a medium-sized lawn described, “This is a professional quality tool that delivers professional quality results. I did my entire front lawn—bagged only—using one battery bank… I love this mower. It gives me all the benefits of a gas mower with none of the negatives.”

Cutting width: 21-inch

Power: Lithium-ion battery

BUY NOW: US699, Amazon

Also Available at: The Home Depot

Best Electric Riding Mower—Ryobi Brushless Motor Lawn Mower

For a carefree, easy, comfortable, and sweat-free mowing experience, nothing beats this Ryobi riding mower. This model is top of the line as far as electric mower options go.

Features include LED headlights, variable speed control, cruise control, a USB charger, twin steel blades, and height adjustments that range from 1.5–4.5 inches in height.

This machine comes with a three-year warranty for the tool and one year warranty on the battery. “No more gasoline,” raved one consumer. “A lot less noise. This lawn tractor is a beast. Plenty of battery life for my almost one-acre lawn. I use around half a charge on the battery.”

Cutting width: 38-inch

Power: 100Ah battery and a brushless motor

BUY NOW: US3,199, The Home Depot

Also Available at: Amazon

The Best Electric Lawn Mowers—Summary

For over two acres of lawn care, the Ryobi ride-on mower (US3,199, The Home Depot) is one of the best options available and has handy features like LED headlights, a large steel deck, and a low maintenance brushless motor.

For smaller yards with hills, the Ego Power (US799, Amazon) received high praise from many customers for its self-propelled feature and dual battery design.

Choosing the Best Electric Lawn Mowers—Buying Guide

Regardless of power source, human-operated mowers (as opposed to robot mowers which are gaining popularity lately) are available as push mowers, self-propelled, or riding mowers. You can also find a cylinder mower that provides a more manicured look with a more even cut, or a rotary mower that has longer blades but doesn’t offer as even a cut.

Electric Mowers

Electric mowers are either corded-electric or battery-powered mowers. They aren’t as powerful as gas mowers but don’t require the level of maintenance that a gas model does, they don’t emit noxious fumes, and aren’t as loud.

Corded Electric Mowers

Corded lawn mowers are more powerful than battery-operated mowers and can be used on St. Augustine grass or other types of thick and unruly grasses. Corded electric lawn mowers have one downside which is that they require access to an electric outlet so unless you have a very long extension cord, you can’t go too far. Users must also be careful not to run over the cord.

Gas Mowers

A gas lawnmower requires gas to work, is heavier, and requires more maintenance than an electric lawn mower. The primary perks of gas-powered mowers are that they tend to be more powerful than electric mowers and are optimal for tall and thicker grass. In addition, they don’t need a cord to work.

Battery-Powered Lawn Mower

Battery mowers are cordless mowers powered by lithium-ion batteries, usually with a brushless motor for maximum running time. Some mowers come with a dual-battery system that allows users to have a fully charged battery handy for steady mowing. However, battery life can be a concern for larger lawns.

Riding Electric Mower

Unlike a gas lawn mower, a riding electric mower is quieter, doesn’t emit gas fumes, and doesn’t require the level of maintenance that a gas-powered mower does, such as changing spark plugs or oil. What’s more, gas models are more expensive since they need gas to power them. Like other electric models mentioned above, electric riding mowers are powered by batteries, are designed for lawns that are one acre or above, and have a ride-on design.

We hope our review of the best electric lawn mowers has been helpful. For more suppliers of related products, including lawn mower handles, lawn mower tractors, blades, and bags, consult our additional guides, or visit the Thomas Supplier Discovery Platform.

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The Best Electric Riding Lawn Mowers in 2023

Henry Parker is a home improvement enthusiast who loves to share his passion and expertise with others. He writes on a variety of topics, such as painting, flooring, Windows, and lawn care, to help homeowners make informed decisions and achieve their desired results. Henry strives to write high quality guides and reviews that are easy to understand and practical to follow. Whether you are looking for the best electric riding lawn mower, the easiest way to remove paint from flooring, or the signs of a bad tile job, Henry has you covered with his insightful and honest articles. Henry lives in Florida with his wife and two kids, and enjoys spending his free time on DIY projects around the house. You can find some of his work on Today’s Homeowner, where he is a regular contributor.

May 26, 2023 March 22, 2023

Compared to gas models, relatively few electric riding lawn mowers are available to choose from, but with a little research you can still find a riding mower that will get your lawn in shape without the mess and fumes of gas.

The best electric riding mowers handle smoothly, cut evenly, and can mow an acre or more on one battery charge, but each has strengths and weaknesses you’ll want to know about before you choose.

Ryobi #RY48111

An industry leader in electric riding lawn mowers, Ryobi produces a range of models, but the RY48111 stands out as a consistent favorite among homeowners. This mower’s 100Ah lead acid battery powers its three brushless motors for up to 2.5 hours, enough to mow 2.5 acres.

Even towing accessories takes little out of the battery. The 38-inch two-blade deck can be manually adjusted in 12 positions, from 1.5 to 4.5 inches, for precise cutting.

It’s highly maneuverable even at slow speeds, and with its exceptionally small turning radius of 16 inches, it has no trouble with tight corners. If you’re a lawn perfectionist, this is the riding mower for you.

Although designed for flat terrain, it handles well on small inclines. The mower’s impressive weight of 695 pounds adds stability, but can make maintenance challenging. It mows in reverse at up to 3 mph, but speed and turning control are less precise.

As an electric model, it’s quieter than any gas mower, but when the blade is engaged, it’s loud enough that you’ll want ear protection. This machine’s biggest downside is its lead acid battery, but proper maintenance helps maximize the battery’s lifespan. If the battery fails to charge, leaving it unplugged from the charger for several hours, then plugging it back in can help.

Ryobi #RY48130

If Ryobi’s reputation appeals to you, but you’re looking for something compact and easy on the wallet, consider model #RY48130. This model’s 30-inch cutting deck manually adjusts in seven positions between 1.5 to 4.5 inches, offering plenty of flexibility for the average lawn.

Its 48V/50Ah battery lets you work for an hour and cover around an acre. As with the 38-inch model, this smaller model is equipped with three brushless motors for serious cutting power, and its 16-inch turning radius makes it easily maneuverable. The Ryobi #RY48130 is a practical option if you’re cutting thick grass or weeds in a tight space with multiple obstacles.

Troy-Bilt TB30 E

From one of the most trusted gardening equipment manufacturers around comes the highly rated Troy-Bilt 30-inch TB30 E. A full charge of the 56V lithium-ion battery lets you mow for around an hour and cover an acre. Better yet, the battery recharges in just four hours. The accurate battery level indicator ensures you won’t run dry in the middle of your work.

This machine easily handles rough ground and slight slopes and can cut in reverse. The mower operates with a simple foot pedal control that lets you easily switch between forward and reverse. Working around trees and landscaping features is effortless with this model’s responsive steering and 18-inch turning radius.

The body is mostly plastic, making the mower particularly lightweight and easy to push away for storage. The front-end suspension gives you a smoother ride. Because the mower lacks anti-scalping wheels, however, the combination of light weight and front-end suspension increase the risk of scalping.

Oddly, although this mower is equipped with a headlight, the control panel isn’t backlit, which makes mowing at dusk a little harder.

Craftsman E150

This compact little riding mower is ideal for small lawns of less than an acre. The lithium-ion 56V battery gives you around an hour of runtime, enough for an acre. Even on low battery it performs well and can power ahead at a brisk 5 mph.

The 30-inch single-blade steel deck has five adjustable cutting heights between 1.5 and 3.75 inches. With a foot pedal for speed control and an 18-inch turn radius, it handles as easily as a golf cart.

It’s an exceptionally quiet machine, letting you mow in the early morning without irritating your neighbors. Although it struggles with tall grass and thick grass species such as Bermuda and zoysia, it can get through them if you take it slow. Trying to force the mower through will stop the cutting deck.

It’s designed for flat terrain, but can handle driving straight on slight inclines. The mower’s light weight means it tends to bounce on uneven ground and can get stuck in small pits, but also makes it easy to push into the garage for storage.

As a safety feature to prevent children from using the mower, the motor won’t start without sufficient weight on the seat. The cutting deck turns off in reverse, but you can disengage this feature with the push of a button. The telescoping Soft Touch steering wheel and the adjustable mid-back seat keep you comfortable. A mulching kit is available separately.

Cub Cadet CC 30 e Electric Rider

The Electric Rider was designed with the goal of creating an electric riding mower that’s as effective as a gas model. Its 56V/30 Ah lithium-ion battery gives you an hour of runtime for an acre of mowing. Charge it for 4 hours, and you’re up and running again. The 30-inch single blade deck can be adjusted in five positions between 1.5 to 4 inches.

The pedals provide good speed control at up to 5 mph or 4 mph in reverse, while the responsive steering and 18-inch turning radius makes maneuvering around obstacles easy. It handles tall grass well even in damp conditions.

On level ground, the mower produces an exceptionally even cut, but because it lacks guide wheels, results on uneven ground vary. It’s also prone to getting stuck on roots, mole hills, and divots, which can cause the wheels to spin or the blade to stop.

Unlike many smaller riding mowers, this model is engineered to handle hills of up to 20 percent, and it does the job well, although turning on a hill can be difficult.

A bagger, mulching kit, and hauler are available separately for this side-discharge mower. The high-back, spring cushioned seat with arm rests is built for comfort, and there’s even a USB charging port. It’s one of the pricier models around, but a wise choice if you need a mower that performs reliably on hilly lawns.

Weibang Lithium-ion E-Rider (Model #WB76E)

The E-Rider, powered by a 72V/18AH lithium-ion battery, is built for light work on small lawns. The 30-inch two-blade cutting deck can be adjusted in 10 positions from 1 to 4 inches, giving you precise control over your lawn’s height, while the 18-inch turning radius helps with handling.

The two pedal driving system – right for gas and left for brake – might take some getting used to if you’re new to it. The speed can be hard to finesse when going slow, although this model isn’t particularly fast, running at 3.7 mph or 3.1 mph in reverse. It can mow in reverse and cuts wet grass and weeds with little difficultly.

Slopes are a challenge, however, and the lack of suspension makes for a bumpy ride on uneven lawns. The motor shuts off without enough weight on the seat, which is a helpful safety feature, but considering the rough ride, it can kill the engine unexpectedly when you hit a bump.

It’s an effective mulcher, but no bagger is available. Despite its compact size, it’s comfortable for taller drivers. Even with the blade running, it’s hardly louder than a vacuum cleaner. The main downside is the long battery charging time of 8 hours.

Turf One (Weibang) E-Rider VOLT (Model #30-EB)

Produced by Weibang and sold under the Turf One brand name, this mower is identical to the lithium-ion E-Rider in almost all aspects, including the cutting deck, control panel, speed, and maneuverability.

The difference is that while the E-Rider runs on a lithium-ion battery, the E-Rider VOLT is powered by a traditional lead acid battery. Just like the E-Rider’s battery, the E-Rider VOLT’s battery should give you 120 minutes of runtime on a single charge, enough for a little over an acre. Because it’s lead acid, however, you’ll need to replace it sooner than you would a lithium-ion battery.

To make up for this fact, the E-Rider VOLT sells for a lower price than the E-Rider. That’s a valuable benefit if you need a budget-friendly riding mower this season, but when you’re shopping, pay close attention to the model number to ensure you get the model you want.

Mean Green Nemesis NXR-48/52

Mean Green specializes in professional-grade electric riding lawn mowers and the Nemesis NXR-48/52 is one of its more compact models, designed for large residential lawns and small commercial properties. This powerful zero-turn mower can run for 1.5 hours hours, enough to mow three acres, on the small LEM4880 Green Lithium Battery. If you need more runtime, pick up the large LEM48140 Green Lithium Battery and mow for 2.5 hours.

The cutting deck is made from heavy gauge welded aluminum and equipped with high/low blade speed control. Cutting decks are available in 48- and 52-inch widths to make quick work of large lawns. The anti-scalp wheel mounts help you achieve an even, healthy cut. The rear tires and seat are both designed for comfort, and the mower’s low center of gravity makes driving even smoother.

At almost 650 pounds, it’s a hefty machine, but light for a zero turn model. It’s also surprisingly quiet for its size, running at just 76 dB, quieter than most gas mowers.

All that extra power, runtime, and durability doesn’t come cheap, though. At a price of over 12,000, it’s only worth the investment if you routinely mow spaces of 2 acres or more.

Even with the limited selection of electric riding lawn mowers on the market, there’s a reliable model for every type of lawn. When you’re shopping around, pay attention not just to battery life and cutting deck size, but also to maneuverability, comfort, and how well the mower performs on your type of terrain.

Henry Parker is a home improvement enthusiast who loves to share his passion and expertise with others. He writes on a variety of topics, such as painting, flooring, Windows, and lawn care, to help homeowners make informed decisions and achieve their desired results. Henry strives to write high quality guides and reviews that are easy to understand and practical to follow. Whether you are looking for the best electric riding lawn mower, the easiest way to remove paint from flooring, or the signs of a bad tile job, Henry has you covered with his insightful and honest articles. Henry lives in Florida with his wife and two kids, and enjoys spending his free time on DIY projects around the house. You can find some of his work on Today’s Homeowner, where he is a regular contributor.