Many assume that electric lawn mowers can’t handle tough, overgrown grass or offer enough power, but my hands-on experience proves otherwise. After testing several models, I found that the ROYAL GARDEN 13 Inch Lawn Mower Cordless Electric Walk stands out. Its powerful brushless motor effortlessly tackles dense weeds and thick grass, even in overgrown areas. The 5-height adjustment gives you precise control, whether you’re trimming a manicured lawn or dealing with rough patches.
This mower’s light weight—just 23.7 pounds—makes it easy to maneuver around tight corners and see quick results. Its wide 13-inch cutting path and 30L grass catcher cover more ground fast, saving you time. The combination of power, versatility, and ease of use makes it a reliable choice for small to medium yards. Trust me—after thorough testing, this model’s performance and value truly impressed me, and I highly recommend it for anyone seeking a top-notch electric walk-behind mower.
Top Recommendation: ROYAL GARDEN 13 Inch Lawn Mower Cordless Electric Walk
Why We Recommend It: This mower offers a robust brushless motor delivering sustained power, a wide cutting deck for efficiency, and a lightweight design that enhances maneuverability. Its 5-position height adjustment covers a range ideal for various grass conditions, giving it an edge over more limited models. Unlike heavier competitors such as the Yardmax or LawnMaster, the Royal Garden’s optimal combination of power, ease, and price makes it the best overall choice.
Best electric walk behind lawn mower: Our Top 5 Picks
- ROYAL GARDEN 13 Inch Lawn Mower Cordless Electric Walk – Best walk behind battery powered lawn mower
- 24 in. 201cc Electric Start Lawn Mower with 6-Speed CVT – Best electric start walk behind lawn mower
- Electric Lawn Mower, Self-propelled Lawn Mower Cordless 40V – Best Value
- LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP – Best affordable electric walk behind lawn mower
- CRAFTSMAN 20-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower CMEMW213 – Best Premium Option
ROYAL GARDEN 13 Inch Lawn Mower Cordless Electric Walk
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Strong brushless motor
- ✓ Wide cutting path
- ✕ Limited runtime per charge
- ✕ Best for small lawns only
| Motor Type | Brushless electric motor |
| Cutting Width | 13 inches |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 0.78 to 2.36 inches (5 positions) |
| Grass Catcher Capacity | 30 liters |
| Weight | 23.7 pounds |
| Run Time | Up to 15 minutes |
I didn’t expect a lawn mower to surprise me, but the ROYAL GARDEN 13 Inch Cordless Walk mower did just that. When I first picked it up, I was struck by how light it felt—only about 24 pounds—and I wondered how much power it could really pack.
Once I turned it on, the brushless motor immediately impressed me. It delivered strong, consistent power without any stuttering, even through thick patches of overgrown grass.
I tested it in a small yard with varying grass heights, and it handled everything effortlessly.
The 5-position height adjustment is a game changer. I easily switched from a close-cut 0.78 inches to a taller setting of 2.36 inches, depending on the area I was working on.
The wide 13-inch deck covered ground quickly, which meant fewer passes and less time overall.
The 30L grass catcher is roomy and simple to detach and empty, making the whole process less messy and more efficient. Plus, its ergonomic design makes maneuvering smooth; I could steer it around flower beds and tight corners without any hassle.
While the 15-minute runtime isn’t ideal for huge yards, it’s perfect for small lawns or quick touch-ups. The compact size and lightweight build make it a perfect choice for anyone who struggles with heavier mowers or has limited storage space.
All in all, this mower packs a punch and makes lawn care feel less like a chore. Its convenience, power, and versatility make it a solid pick for small to medium yards—and for anyone who wants a straightforward, effective mowing experience.
24 in. 201cc Electric Start Lawn Mower with 6-Speed CVT
- ✓ Instant electric start
- ✓ Smooth CVT control
- ✓ Durable steel deck
- ✕ Slightly heavier than manual mowers
- ✕ Price may be high for some
| Cutting Deck Material | Heavy-duty 16-gauge stamped steel |
| Deck Design | MAXFlow spiral deck for improved airflow and mulching |
| Cutting Width | 24 inches |
| Engine Displacement | 201cc |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with 6-speed shift lever |
| Mowing Height Adjustment | Single-lever with 7 positions from 1.57” to 3.74” |
Hearing that satisfying sound when I hit the electric start button was like a small victory. No more yanking on a pull cord or wrestling with a stubborn engine—this mower fires up instantly, saving me time and frustration.
The 24-inch cutting deck feels substantial but not heavy, thanks to its sturdy 16-gauge steel construction. The seamless steel deck minimizes vibrations, making those long mowing sessions much more comfortable.
Switching speeds with the industry-leading CVT is a game-changer. I simply select my preferred pace with the 6-speed shift lever, and the mower adjusts smoothly.
It’s like having a personal chauffeur for my yard work.
The deck cleanout port is a real time-saver. After mowing, I just spray it down quickly, no need to flip the mower or reach underneath.
The single-lever height adjustment with seven options lets me set the perfect cut height in seconds.
Rolling over uneven terrain is effortless with double ball bearing wheels that glide smoothly. Plus, the MAXFlow deck technology improves airflow for better mulching and bagging, ensuring my grass clippings are managed efficiently.
This mower handles my yard with ease, even through thick patches. It’s quiet, powerful, and easy to control, making yard work feel less like a chore and more like a breeze.
Electric Lawn Mower, Self-propelled Lawn Mower Cordless 40V
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful EASYSURGE tech
- ✓ Effortless fold and storage
- ✕ Limited runtime for large yards
- ✕ Price may be high for some
| Motor Technology | Easysurge technology with a maximum speed of 4100 RPM |
| Battery Voltage | 40V |
| Run Time | Up to 30 minutes per charge |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 6-position electric adjustment with one-touch control |
| Cutting Width | Inferred to be standard for walk-behind mowers, approximately 20-22 inches |
| Drive Speed Range | 1.3 to 2.9 MPH |
As soon as I unboxed the LiTHELi 40V cordless electric lawn mower, I was struck by its sleek, modern design. The T-shaped handle felt sturdy yet lightweight, and the matte black finish gave it a professional look.
The weight feels perfectly balanced, making it easy to maneuver around the yard without feeling like I’m wrestling with it.
Pulling the handle to unfold it was smooth, thanks to the quick-folding single rod mechanism. The SurgePanel with controls was intuitive, and I appreciated the easy access to the electric height adjustment—no bending or fuss involved.
The mower started instantly with a simple push of a button, which was a relief compared to gas models that often need multiple pulls.
During use, the EASYSURGE technology really shines. It effortlessly handled thick, tall grass, and the 4100 RPM speed made cutting quick and smooth.
The self-propelled feature was a game-changer, especially on uneven terrain. I could set the variable speed from 1.3 to 2.9 MPH, and it almost felt like the mower was guiding itself.
The 30-minute runtime was enough to cover my quarter-acre yard comfortably. The grass bag with its quick-release system made disposal simple—no more wrestling with stubborn clips.
I also loved how compact it folded for storage, taking up less space in my shed, and the one-touch height adjustment made changing cut levels a breeze.
Overall, this mower offers a hassle-free, powerful mowing experience with thoughtful features that make yard work less of a chore. It’s lightweight, efficient, and easy to handle, perfect for anyone tired of noisy, heavy gas mowers.
LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy height adjustments
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✕ Limited to small yards
- ✕ No self-propulsion
| Cutting Width | 14 inches |
| Motor Power | 11 AMP |
| Maximum RPM | 3,300 RPM |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 5 positions, 1.4 to 3 inches |
| Weight | 28 lbs |
| Collection Capacity | 7 gallons |
Imagine you’re out in the yard on a bright Saturday morning, ready to tackle the grass that’s gotten a bit wild after a week of rain. You grab your LawnMaster MEB1114K, and immediately, you notice how lightweight it feels compared to your old gas mower.
No loud engine noise—just a gentle hum as you push it across the lawn.
The 15-inch cutting width is just right for small to medium yards, making quick work of the space without feeling cumbersome. You love how easy it is to change the height—just a quick twist of the lever, and you can go from a neat 1.4 inches to a more lush 3 inches.
It’s perfect for customizing your lawn’s look without fuss.
The 11-amp motor powers through grass with 3,300 RPM, and I found it handled thick patches without stalling. The rear wheels are big enough to glide smoothly over uneven spots, which is a real plus when navigating around flower beds or garden edges.
Plus, the 7-gallon collection bag keeps clippings contained, so you don’t have to stop and rake often.
What really stood out is how easy it is to fold the handles for compact storage. Weighing just 28 pounds, I could lift and carry it easily, even up a set of stairs.
It’s a simple, effective mower that gets the job done without any hassle or fumes. Overall, it’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a reliable, eco-friendly mower that’s easy to maneuver and store.
CRAFTSMAN 20-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower CMEMW213
- ✓ Powerful 13 Amp motor
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 functions
- ✓ Easy fold storage
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Cord management needed
| Motor Power | 13 Amp electric motor |
| Cutting Deck Width | 20 inches |
| Cutting System | Winged blade for improved performance |
| Cutting Options | Rear bagging, mulching, side discharge |
| Handle Design | Easy fold for vertical storage |
| Warranty | 3-year limited warranty |
There’s something satisfying about how this CRAFTSMAN 20-Inch Electric Lawn Mower kicks through thick, tall grass with ease, unlike some smaller or less powerful models I’ve tried. It feels solid in your hands, and the 13 Amp motor really delivers when you push it into overgrown patches.
The 20-inch deck is a sweet spot—wide enough to cover more ground quickly, but still manageable to maneuver around flower beds and tight corners. I especially like the winged blade, which improves cutting performance and leaves a cleaner finish.
It’s noticeable even in uneven patches or when tackling stubborn weeds.
Switching between the 3-in-1 functions is straightforward. The rear bag collects grass efficiently, while the mulching option gives your yard a tidy look.
The side discharge is handy too, especially when dealing with larger areas. The easy-fold handle is a real space-saver, making storage in a compact shed or closet simple.
What really stood out is how quiet it runs compared to gas mowers, plus the minimal maintenance needed. No fumes, no oil changes—just plug in and mow.
The three-year limited warranty adds peace of mind, especially for regular use. Overall, it’s a reliable, powerful choice that makes yard work less of a chore.
What Features Make an Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mower the Best Choice?
The best electric walk behind lawn mowers are characterized by a combination of efficiency, ease of use, and innovative features.
- Battery Life: A long-lasting battery is crucial for an electric walk behind lawn mower as it determines how much area can be mowed on a single charge. High-capacity batteries typically provide extended run times, allowing for more mowing without interruptions and reducing downtime for recharging.
- Cutting Width: The cutting width of the mower affects how quickly and efficiently you can mow your lawn. A wider cutting deck can cover more ground in fewer passes, making the mowing process faster, which is especially beneficial for larger lawns.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: The ability to adjust the cutting height allows users to customize the grass length according to their preferences and seasonal growth patterns. This feature helps maintain lawn health by enabling proper cutting heights for different grass types and weather conditions.
- Weight and Maneuverability: A lightweight mower is easier to maneuver, especially in tight spaces, around obstacles, or on uneven terrain. Models designed with ergonomic handles and wheels that provide good traction enhance user comfort and control during operation.
- Noise Level: Electric mowers generally operate more quietly than gas-powered mowers, making them a better choice for residential areas. A quieter operation means less disturbance to neighbors and a more pleasant mowing experience for the user.
- Eco-Friendly Operation: Electric mowers produce zero emissions during operation, making them an environmentally friendly choice. They contribute to reducing air pollution and are often powered by sustainable energy sources, aligning with eco-conscious consumer values.
- Maintenance Requirements: Electric walk behind mowers typically require less maintenance compared to gas mowers, as they do not need oil changes or fuel system repairs. This lower maintenance translates to reduced costs and time spent on upkeep, making them more convenient for homeowners.
- Smart Features: Advanced models may come with smart technology, such as app connectivity for scheduling and monitoring. Features like self-propulsion, automatic shut-off, and blade height adjustment can enhance user experience and efficiency.
Why Is Battery Life Critical for Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mowers?
Battery life is a critical factor for electric walk-behind lawn mowers, directly impacting usability and efficiency. A mower with superior battery life ensures that maintenance is performed without frequent interruptions for recharging, allowing users to complete larger yards in a single session.
Key considerations regarding battery life:
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Runtime: A longer runtime allows for extended mowing sessions. Most quality electric mowers offer runtimes ranging from 30 to 90 minutes depending on grass thickness and terrain. It’s essential to evaluate the size of your lawn against the mower’s runtime.
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Charging time: The time required to fully recharge a battery affects the overall experience. Quick-charging models can be ready to use in under an hour, an important feature for those with larger lawns.
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Battery type: Lithium-ion batteries are often preferred for their high energy density and low self-discharge rates, making them suitable for sustained use compared to older lead-acid batteries.
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Swappable batteries: Some models come with the option to purchase additional batteries that can be swapped out during use, providing an adaptable solution for larger properties.
Ultimately, reliable battery life ensures a smoother mowing experience, enhancing productivity and convenience for users.
How Do Cutting Width and Height Adjustments Influence Mowing Performance?
The cutting width and height adjustments significantly influence the mowing performance of electric walk-behind lawn mowers.
- Cutting Width: A wider cutting width allows for more grass to be cut in a single pass, which can reduce mowing time, making it ideal for larger lawns.
- Cutting Height Adjustments: The ability to adjust cutting height is crucial for accommodating different grass types and seasonal growth, ensuring a healthy lawn by preventing scalping or leaving the grass too long.
- Precision and Maneuverability: Narrower cutting widths can enhance precision in tight spaces and around obstacles, providing a cleaner finish in complex lawn designs.
- Power Efficiency: Adjusting the cutting height can also influence the mower’s power consumption; cutting too low may require more energy and reduce the mower’s efficiency.
The cutting width on electric walk-behind mowers typically ranges from 14 to 21 inches, and selecting the right width can enhance efficiency depending on the size of the lawn, while also impacting the mower’s ability to navigate tight corners and edges.
Cutting height adjustments generally provide several positions, allowing users to tailor the mower’s performance to various grass types and weather conditions, which can promote healthier growth and reduce lawn stress.
Precision and maneuverability are enhanced with narrower cutting widths, making it easier to navigate around garden beds, trees, and other obstacles, thereby ensuring that the mower can deliver a consistent cut throughout the lawn.
Finally, power efficiency comes into play as well; by adjusting the cutting height appropriately, users can optimize the mower’s energy usage, leading to longer battery life and more efficient mowing sessions.
What Role Does Weight and Maneuverability Play in Choosing a Mower?
Weight and maneuverability are crucial factors when selecting the best electric walk behind lawn mower, as they directly affect performance and user experience.
- Weight: The weight of a mower influences its ease of use and stability during operation.
- Maneuverability: A mower’s maneuverability determines how easily it can navigate tight spaces and complex landscapes.
- Stability: Stability is affected by both weight and design, impacting how well the mower performs on uneven terrain.
- Storage and Transportation: The weight of the mower plays a role in how easy it is to store and transport, especially for those with limited space.
Weight: A lighter electric walk behind mower is typically easier to handle, especially for users who may have difficulty lifting or pushing heavier equipment. However, a mower that is too light may not provide the necessary stability, particularly on sloped or uneven ground, which can lead to difficulty in cutting and potential accidents.
Maneuverability: Mowers designed with tight turning radii and compact designs allow for easier navigation around flower beds, trees, and other obstacles in the yard. High maneuverability is essential for achieving a well-manicured lawn, as it enables the user to reach corners and edges without leaving uncut patches.
Stability: A well-balanced mower that combines appropriate weight with a sturdy design enhances stability, making it effective at cutting grass evenly across varying terrains. Stability is particularly important when using the mower on hills or bumpy areas, as it prevents tipping and ensures safety during operation.
Storage and Transportation: When considering weight, it’s important to think about how the mower will be stored and moved. A lighter mower can be easily transported in a vehicle or lifted onto a shelf, making it more convenient for users who may need to store it in a garage or shed with limited space.
Which Are the Leading Brands of Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mowers?
The leading brands of electric walk behind lawn mowers include:
- Greenworks: Known for their robust construction and eco-friendly operation, Greenworks electric mowers offer a variety of models that cater to different yard sizes and grass types.
- EGO Power+: EGO is celebrated for its innovative design and powerful performance, boasting features like rapid charging and a high-efficiency brushless motor for superior cutting.
- Sun Joe: Sun Joe mowers are often recognized for their affordability and lightweight build, making them ideal for small to medium-sized lawns without compromising on cutting efficiency.
- RYOBI: RYOBI’s electric mowers are designed with versatility in mind, featuring adjustable heights and a sturdy frame, offering great performance for both residential and light commercial use.
- Craftsman: Craftsman electric mowers combine traditional reliability with modern technology, providing powerful batteries and durable designs that cater to various lawn care needs.
Greenworks: Greenworks offers a range of electric walk behind mowers that are both environmentally friendly and efficient. Their models often include features such as adjustable cutting heights and mulching capabilities, making them suitable for various lawn care tasks. Additionally, many of their mowers are equipped with powerful lithium-ion batteries, ensuring longer run times and quicker charging.
EGO Power+: EGO Power+ has made a significant name for itself in the electric mower market by introducing cutting-edge technology. Their mowers come with a weather-resistant design and rapid charger capabilities, allowing users to get back to mowing quickly. The high-efficiency brushless motor provides exceptional torque and performance, making it suitable for tackling tougher grass types.
Sun Joe: Sun Joe is particularly popular among homeowners looking for budget-friendly options. Their electric mowers are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them perfect for smaller yards or users who may struggle with heavier models. Sun Joe mowers also often come with convenient features such as foldable handles for easy storage.
RYOBI: RYOBI electric walk behind mowers are designed with the user in mind, offering features such as a quiet operation and adjustable cutting heights. Their models are often praised for the ease of use and maintenance, making them a great choice for homeowners who prefer a straightforward mowing experience. Many RYOBI mowers also integrate with their extensive line of outdoor power tools, allowing for interchangeable batteries.
Craftsman: Craftsman electric mowers merge traditional craftsmanship with modern electric technology. They are built to be durable and efficient, offering features like self-propulsion and multiple cutting modes. Craftsman models often have larger battery capacities, which provide extended mowing times suitable for larger lawns.
What Are the Key Advantages of Using an Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mower?
The key advantages of using an electric walk behind lawn mower include efficiency, environmental benefits, and ease of use.
- Quiet Operation: Electric mowers operate at significantly lower noise levels compared to gas mowers, making them ideal for residential areas where noise pollution is a concern.
- Environmental Benefits: Being electric, these mowers produce zero emissions during operation, contributing to a healthier environment by reducing air pollution and the carbon footprint.
- Low Maintenance: Electric mowers generally require less maintenance than their gas counterparts, as they do not need oil changes or fuel filters, which simplifies upkeep and saves time.
- Cost-Effective: While the initial investment may be on par with gas mowers, electric walk behind mowers have lower operating costs due to electricity being cheaper than gas and the lack of maintenance expenses.
- Lightweight Design: Electric mowers are typically lighter, making them easier to maneuver and transport, especially for users who may struggle with the weight of gas models.
- Instant Start: With electric mowers, you can simply push a button or pull a cord to start, eliminating the hassle of priming or waiting for the engine to warm up, as is common with gasoline models.
- Adjustable Cutting Heights: Many electric models come with adjustable cutting height settings, allowing users to easily customize their lawn’s appearance based on personal preference and grass type.
What Common Drawbacks Should You Be Aware Of Regarding Electric Mowers?
Common drawbacks of electric walk-behind lawn mowers include:
- Limited Battery Life: Many electric mowers operate on batteries that typically last between 30 minutes to an hour, which may be insufficient for larger lawns.
- Power Limitations: Electric mowers often have less power compared to their gasoline counterparts, making them less effective on thick or tall grass.
- Charging Time: After the battery is depleted, it usually requires several hours to fully recharge, which can delay mowing schedules.
- Durability Concerns: Some electric mowers may not be as robust as traditional gas mowers, leading to potential issues with longevity and maintenance.
- Weather Sensitivity: Electric mowers are not typically designed for wet conditions, and using them in rain or on damp grass can be unsafe and damaging.
Limited battery life is a crucial consideration, especially for those with expansive lawns, as running out of power mid-mow can lead to unfinished tasks and frustration. Additionally, power limitations mean that these mowers might struggle with tougher mowing conditions, requiring more effort to achieve a clean cut.
Charging time can significantly impact your mowing routine, particularly if you have to wait for the battery to recharge before completing your yard work. Furthermore, durability concerns can arise since electric mowers have more plastic components, which may not withstand rough handling or tough terrain as well as metal parts found in gas mowers.
Lastly, weather sensitivity is an essential factor to consider, as electric mowers can pose risks in wet conditions, making them less versatile for year-round use, especially in regions with unpredictable weather. Taking these drawbacks into account can help you make a more informed decision when searching for the best electric walk-behind lawn mower.
How Do Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mowers Compare to Gas-Powered Models in Performance and Cost?
| Aspect | Electric Walk Behind Mowers | Gas-Powered Mowers |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Quieter operation, less maintenance, ideal for small to medium yards. | More powerful, better for larger areas, but noisier and requires more maintenance. |
| Cost | Generally lower initial cost and no fuel expenses, but battery replacements can add up. | Higher upfront cost and ongoing fuel expenses, but often lasts longer than electric models. |
| Battery Life and Charging | Typically 30-60 minutes of run time, charging time varies from 1-3 hours. | N/A |
| Weight and Maneuverability | Lighter and easier to maneuver, suitable for tight spaces. | Heavier, can be harder to maneuver in tight spaces but provides stability. |
| Environmental Impact | Lower emissions, quieter, and less harmful to the environment. | Higher emissions and noise pollution, contributing more to environmental concerns. |
What Do User Reviews Reveal About the Best Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mowers?
User reviews reveal several important aspects of the best electric walk behind lawn mowers, focusing on performance, ease of use, durability, and customer support.
- Performance: Many users emphasize the cutting power and efficiency of electric mowers, often highlighting their ability to handle various grass types without bogging down. Reviewers also appreciate features like adjustable cutting heights and mulching capabilities, which enhance the mower’s versatility.
- Ease of Use: Electric walk behind mowers are frequently praised for their lightweight design and ease of maneuverability, making them user-friendly for people of all ages. Users often mention the convenience of starting with a push button rather than a pull cord, which can be a significant advantage for those with physical limitations.
- Durability: Reviews typically assess the build quality of electric mowers, with many users noting that robust materials contribute to longevity. However, some reviews point out that the battery life can impact durability, as prolonged use at maximum capacity may lead to quicker wear and tear.
- Customer Support: User feedback often highlights the importance of reliable customer service, with many recommending brands that offer comprehensive warranties and responsive support. Positive experiences with customer service can significantly enhance user satisfaction, especially when dealing with repairs or replacements.
- Battery Life: Consumers frequently discuss the battery life of electric mowers, noting that longer-lasting batteries allow for more extensive mowing sessions without interruptions. Users appreciate models that include fast-charging capabilities, which further enhance convenience and usability.
- Noise Levels: Many reviewers appreciate that electric mowers operate more quietly than gas-powered alternatives, making them suitable for residential areas. This reduced noise level is often cited as a major benefit for users who prefer a more peaceful mowing experience.