Many models use rechargeable batteries for power – and can use the same batteries you may already own if you are a brand loyalist – making them easier to integrate into your workshop. There are models powered by extension cords, though I can’t recommend them; there is always the risk of running over the live wire and getting hurt. While an electric mower won’t have the same run time as a gas-powered model, you can still get at least 30 to 50 minutes of work out of a fully-charged battery on average. You’ll typically see electric push mowers, but there are a few different models of electric riding mowers as well. To help you find the perfect electric mower for your yard, we rounded up five of the best models you can buy. We compare their features and price points below, so you can decide which one is the best fit for you. Must read:
The 5 best lawn mowersThe 5 best riding mowersThe 5 best zero-turn mowersThe 5 best robot mowersThe 5 best push mowersHow to choose a mower
1-hour run time on full chargePush-button start21-inch cutting deck with 6 heights
The Ego Power+ 21-inch, battery-powered push mower is one of the most popular choices for customers looking to make the switch from gas to electric lawn equipment – and for good reason. With an ultra-easy push-button start, you can say goodbye to frustrating rip cords and get near-instant motor starts. You can adjust the 21-inch cutting deck at six different heights with the simple shifter knob on the side, and the included bagger attachment means you won’t have to spend hours of your day raking up clumps of clippings. But if you prefer not to bag your lawn cuttings, the mower also has a mulching feature to create extra-fine clippings to feed your lawn between landscaping appointments. The entire unit folds up into a compact form for easier storage, which is perfect for garages and tool sheds where space is at a premium. Its 56-volt battery can be used with other Ego Power branded tools and gives you up to 45 minutes of run time on a full charge. It even has LED headlights for when you need to cut your grass early in the morning or later in the evening. Pros:
One battery, multiple toolsBagger attachment includedPush-button startFolding design
Cons:
45-minute run time may be too short for larger lawns
3 cutting heightsIncludes .85 bushel baggerOnboard meter informs you of run time
Most electric mowers are pricey – or just down right expensive – but the Worx 40V, 14-inch push mower is one of the most budget-friendly on the market. And just because it retails comfortably under $300 doesn’t mean it skimps on features. You can adjust the cutting deck to three different heights, so you can tackle everything from the first spring mow to a quick re-cut before it rains. It includes a .85 bushel bagger attachment for collecting clippings, or you can use the mulching feature to re-feed your lawn with cuttings. The on-board battery meter lets you know at a glance how much run time you have left before you need to recharge, and the included dual-port charger lets you top up both batteries at the same time. A push-button start eliminates difficult rip-cords, and the dual-battery power system gives you up to two full hours of run time. Pros:
2-hour run timeAdjustable cutting heightPush-button start and bagger includedOn-board battery indicator
Cons:
Smaller cutting deck may not be ideal for yards over 5,000 sq. ft.
90 minutes of run time42-inch, dual blade cutting deck16-inch turning radius
Cub Cadet is one of the most recognizable names in lawn mowers, and they’ve released a battery-powered version of their XT1 Enduro series. It has the same 42-inch, dual-blade cutting deck and three-year warranty as its gas-powered cousin, but it doesn’t require all of the maintenance. The 56V battery provides enough power for 90 minutes of run time, which is plenty of time to mow up to two acres of grass before you need to recharge. And when you do need to plug in, you can recharge your mower with a standard wall outlet – no special cords or equipment needed. A push-button cruise control lets you set-and-forget your mowing speed for a consistent cut across your whole lawn, and two USB ports let you charge your phone while you ride. The mower has a 16-inch turn radius, which gives it zero-turn quality performance when cutting grass around obstacles like trees, light posts, and mailboxes. This model doesn’t include any accessories, though you can buy a bagger attachment, mulching blades, and tow-behind wagons to tackle all of your yard work. Pros:
90-minute run timeMows up to 2 acresCharges with regular wall outletCruise control
Cons:
ExpensiveNo attachments included
Self-propelled for easier operationAdjustable speed with clutch70 minutes of run time
Using a push mower can be a workout, but the Ryobi 40V self-propelled electric push mower makes it a bit easier to cut your grass. The brushless motor works with the 10-inch rear wheels to move the whole unit forward, and you can adjust the speed with the integrated clutch. If you have other battery-powered Ryobi tools, this push mower uses the same 40V battery to make it easier to integrate into your workshop or tool shed. The two batteries on full charge give you up to 70 minutes of run time, which is enough to handle up to .75 acres of grass. You can adjust the 21-inch cutting deck to seven different heights to handle mowing in any season, and the deck is covered by a lifetime warranty against damage. It includes a bagger attachment for collecting grass clippings, or you can use the mulching feature to re-feed your lawn as you mow. The whole mower also folds up into a compact size for easier storage, which is perfect if your garage or tool shed is on the smaller side. Pros:
70-minute run time1 battery, many tools10-inch rear wheels with forward drive7 deck height levels
Cons:
On the pricey sideCutting deck is plastic instead of metal
Charge batteries in as few as 90 minutes42-inch cutting deckZero-turn maneuverability
The biggest drawback of an electric mower is waiting for your batteries to charge. Fortunately, the Greenworks 60V CrossoverT has one of the fastest charging times on the market. The mower comes with six batteries and three dual-port chargers, which allow you to top up your mower batteries in as few as 90 minutes. This is perfect for quick-charging your mower while you tackle other chores like pulling weeds, trimming hedges and tree limbs, or tending to your flower and garden beds. The 42-inch cutting deck is perfect for lawns up to 2.5 acres, and the 20-inch rear-drive tires give you forward and reverse speeds up to 8 and 5MPH, respectively. You’ll also get zero-turn maneuverability for mowing around obstacles like lawn decorations, trees, and lamp posts. There is even an integrated cargo bed, which allows you to haul up to 200 pounds at a time. An integrated USB port lets you charge your phone while you drive, and a built-in GPS lets you track your mower in case of theft. Pros:
Built-in GPS200 pound cargo capacity90-minute charge time2.5 acre max lawn
Cons:
ExpensiveNo attachments included
If you have a yard that’s larger than an acre, you’ll want to avoid a push mower and invest in a riding tractor. These models have 42- or 46-inch cutting decks, which makes short work of larger yards, even within the typical 60-minute time limit. Electric riding mowers tend to be very expensive, but what you spend on the unit itself is saved in the long run by not having to purchase fuel, oil, filters, and other parts you see in gas-powered mowers. We avoided electric mowers that require an extension cord, since they can be a hassle to set up – and you run the risk of running over the electrical cable, which can cause injuries and even death. With electric mowers, you also run the risk of electric shock and shortages. Water can work its way into the motor and electronics housings, which may lead to damage to the electrical components (requiring costly repairs or even replacing the whole unit) or electrocuting yourself (which not only hurts, but can also lead to disability or even death). So make sure your yard is as dry as possible to avoid ruining your new mower or getting injured.
