Buying Guide for the Best Electric Lawn Mowers
Choosing the right electric lawn mower means thinking carefully about your yard size, the type of grass you have, and how much physical effort you want to put in. Electric mowers come in a range of designs, from small lightweight models for tiny lawns to larger, more robust machines for bigger gardens. Your goal should be to find a mower that feels comfortable to use, has enough power for your lawn, and makes your mowing jobs as easy and pleasant as possible. Consider also how much storage space you have, and think about how easy the mower will be to maintain.Power Source: Corded vs. CordlessElectric lawn mowers are either corded, where you plug directly into an outlet, or cordless, using a rechargeable battery. Corded mowers usually deliver constant power and are lighter, but you're limited by the length of your extension cord and must manage the cord while mowing. Cordless mowers give you more freedom to move around and are good for larger or more awkwardly shaped lawns, though you're limited by the battery life. If you have a small, close-to-the-house yard and don't mind managing a cord, corded could work well. For bigger yards or those with lots of obstacles, cordless is often more convenient.
Cutting WidthThis is the width of the stripes you mow with each pass and it affects how quickly you can cut your grass. Narrower widths (under 14 inches) are lighter and easier to maneuver in tiny lawns or between flowerbeds. Medium widths (14 to 18 inches) balance speed and maneuverability, suitable for small to medium lawns. Wider decks (over 18 inches) cut more grass at once, ideal for larger yards, but may be harder to push or turn in tight spaces. Think about your lawn's size and how much time or effort you're willing to put in—smaller widths for intricate spaces, wider for open lawns.
Battery Life (for Cordless Models)Battery life determines how much area you can mow on a single charge. Shorter runtimes (15-25 mins) are good for very small lawns, while medium (25-40 mins) or longer (over 40 mins) can handle bigger spaces before recharging. Remember, actual time depends on grass thickness and the mower’s power. If a single session is all you need, pick a battery that matches your yard size. If your lawn is large or you hope to mow in one go, look for a longer battery life or consider getting a spare battery.
Grass Disposal OptionsElectric lawn mowers can collect clippings in a bag, discharge it to the side, or mulch it back into the lawn. Bagging keeps your lawn tidy but requires you to empty containers. Side discharge is faster with less maintenance but leaves clippings behind. Mulching chops grass very finely and returns nutrients to the soil, good for lawn health if you mow regularly. Choose bagging if you want a tidy look, mulching if you care for lawn health, and side discharge for fast, infrequent mowing.
Adjustable Cutting HeightThe ability to raise or lower the mowing deck lets you control grass length. Having several height options (like from 1 inch to over 3 inches) is useful—lower settings for a neat, golf-green look and higher settings for longer grass or drought conditions. Most users benefit from at least a few options, so they can manage changing weather or grass growth. Consider your lawn’s needs, and look for a mower that makes changing heights quick and easy.
Weight and ManeuverabilityA mower’s weight impacts how easy it is to push, lift, and turn, especially if your yard has slopes or tight corners. Lightweight mowers are simple to maneuver and store—great for small or complicated lawns. Heavier models, often more powerful or wider, can be better for large, flat areas but might be a struggle to maneuver for some people. Think about your physical comfort and yard challenges when judging the best weight.
Noise LevelElectric lawn mowers are already quieter than gas ones, but some run even more silently than others. Lower noise is particularly useful in quiet neighborhoods or for early/late mowing without disturbing others. If noise is a concern, check user reviews or look for mowers advertised as very quiet.