best small electric lawn mower

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Before testing this mower, I never realized how much a small, lightweight electric lawn mower could make yard work less of a chore. I pushed several units around my yard, and the LawnMaster MEB1216K Electric Lawn Mower 16-Inch 12AMP stood out with its powerful 3,500 RPM motor and 16-inch deck. It felt agile, with easy maneuverability thanks to its rear wheels, and the adjustable height—set via five positions—helped me perfect my cut. It was surprisingly light at under 33 lbs, making it easy to lift and store.

What really impressed me is how it combines raw power with user-friendly features. The large collection bag kept my yard tidy, and the foldable handles made storage fuss-free. After comparing, I saw that it offers a stronger motor and larger deck than others like the 15-inch LawnMaster or the 12-inch BLACK+DECKER, which are great but less versatile for bigger, more demanding yards. If you want a reliable, balanced mower that handles small to medium yards effortlessly, the LawnMaster MEB1216K is my top pick!

Top Recommendation: LawnMaster MEB1216K Electric Lawn Mower 16-Inch 12AMP

Why We Recommend It: It offers the most powerful motor (3,500 RPM) and the largest deck (16-inch), helping it cut faster and cover more ground. The 5-position height adjustment and sturdy rear wheels improve precision and ease of use. Its lightweight design under 33 lbs makes it simple to handle and store. Overall, it strikes the best balance of power, size, and convenience—making it ideal for small to medium yards, unlike smaller or less capable models.

Best small electric lawn mower: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewLawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMPBLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower, Weed Eater & EdgerLawnMaster MEB1216K Electric Lawn Mower 16-Inch 12AMP
TitleLawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMPBLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower, Weed Eater & EdgerLawnMaster MEB1216K Electric Lawn Mower 16-Inch 12AMP
Cutting Width15 inches12 inches16 inches
Motor Power11 AMP6.5 AMP12 AMP
RPM3300 RPM3500 RPM
Cutting Height Adjustment5 positions (1.4 – 3 inches)1.6 inches (fixed height)5 positions (1.4 – 3 inches)
Rear Wheel Size7.75 inches8.86 inches
Collection Bag Capacity7 gallons8 gallons
Weight28 lbsless than 33 lbs
Additional FeaturesFoldable handles, lightweight, environmentally friendlyMulti-function (mower, trimmer, edger), automatic feed spool, cord managementFoldable handles, lightweight, environmentally friendly
Available

LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP

LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Adjustable height settings
  • Compact storage design
Cons:
  • Not suitable for large lawns
  • Cord limits mobility
Specification:
Cutting Width 14 inches
Motor Power 11 amps
Cutting Height Adjustment 5 positions, 1.4 to 3 inches
Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) 3,300 RPM
Weight 28 lbs
Collection Capacity 7 gallons

This lawn mower has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted something lightweight but still powerful enough to handle my small yard. When I finally got my hands on the LawnMaster MEB1114K, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

Right out of the box, I noticed how easy it was to maneuver, thanks to its compact 15-inch cutting deck and 7.75-inch rear wheels.

Firing it up, I was impressed by the 11AMP motor spinning at 3,300 RPM. It felt like I was cutting through grass with minimal effort, even around tricky corners.

The adjustable height settings are a real plus—flipping a lever to switch between 1.4 and 3 inches is smooth and quick.

The lightweight design, weighing only 28 pounds, made pushing it around my yard effortless. Folding the handle was a breeze, which means it takes up very little storage space.

Plus, the 7-gallon collection bag kept my lawn tidy without constant emptying.

What really stood out is how environmentally friendly it is—no gas or batteries to worry about. It’s a quiet operator, too, so I could mow early in the morning without disturbing anyone.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for small yards, offering power, portability, and convenience in one package.

BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower, Weed Eater & Edger

BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower, Weed Eater & Edger
Pros:
  • Easy multi-function switch
  • Powerful for small yards
  • Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
  • Limited for large lawns
  • Short cord may require extension
Specification:
Motor Power 6.5 amp electric motor
Cutting Width 12 inches
Cutting Height 1.6 inches
Maximum Speed 8000 RPM
Cutting System Automatic Feed Spool (AFS)
Versatility Convertible from trimmer to wheeled edger

The moment I flipped this BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 into action, I was impressed by how seamlessly it transitions from a weed eater to a mower and edger. The quick switch between functions feels like magic—no tools needed, just a simple rotation of the head.

It’s surprisingly lightweight, so maneuvering around small lawns is effortless without sacrificing control.

The 6.5 amp motor with POWERDRIVE Transmission handles thick grass and stubborn weeds with ease. I especially appreciated the automatic feed spool; it kept the line going without me fussing with bumping or manual adjustments.

This means I could focus on trimming rather than stopping every few minutes to feed new line.

The 12-inch cutting width is perfect for tight spaces, and the adjustable handle makes it comfortable for different heights. I tested it on a slightly uneven patch, and it maintained consistent cutting speed—up to 8000 RPM—delivering a clean, precise cut.

Switching to edging was a breeze—just rotate the head, and suddenly you’re lining your driveway with professional-looking edges. The cord retention system also helped prevent accidental disconnections, which can be frustrating with other electric trimmers.

All in all, it’s a versatile little tool that packs a lot of punch for small lawns and easy maintenance.

My only minor gripe is that the 12-inch cut width can be limiting for larger areas, so it’s really best suited for compact yards. Still, for its size and multi-function design, it’s a great all-in-one option that saves time and storage space.

LawnMaster MEB1216K Electric Lawn Mower 16-Inch 12AMP

LawnMaster MEB1216K Electric Lawn Mower 16-Inch 12AMP
Pros:
  • Lightweight & portable
  • Easy height adjustments
  • Eco-friendly operation
Cons:
  • Limited to small lawns
  • No self-propulsion
Specification:
Cutting Width 16 inches
Motor Power 12 AMP
Cutting Height Adjustment 5 positions, 1.4 to 3 inches
Maximum RPM 3,500 RPM
Collection Capacity 8 gallons
Weight Less than 33 lbs

Imagine dragging around a bulky, noisy gas mower that’s heavy to steer and leaves a trail of fumes behind. Now, picture replacing that with the LawnMaster MEB1216K, which weighs less than 33 pounds and feels almost effortless to push.

During my tests, I was surprised how smoothly it glided over my small yard, thanks to its 8.86-inch rear wheels.

This mower’s 16-inch cutting width is perfect for tight spots and smaller lawns. The 3,500 RPM motor packs enough punch to cut through thick grass without stalling.

Changing the height was a breeze—just a quick flip of the lever to select one of five positions, from 1.4 to 3 inches. No fuss, no tools needed.

The 8-gallon collection bag is a real plus, trapping clippings neatly and reducing cleanup time. I appreciated how lightweight it was when I needed to carry it across uneven patches or store it in tight spaces.

Its foldable handles make it super compact, which is great if storage space is limited.

Since it’s electric, there’s no gas smell or messy cords to worry about—just plug in and go. The environmentally friendly aspect is a big win, especially if you’re eco-conscious.

Overall, it’s a simple, effective mower that handles small to medium yards with ease and minimal noise.

MightyMow 20V Cordless 16″ Lawn Mower with 2 Batteries

MightyMow 20V Cordless 16" Lawn Mower with 2 Batteries
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Quiet operation
  • Adjustable handle for comfort
Cons:
  • Short battery life for larger lawns
  • Limited to 3-inch max height
Specification:
Motor Power High-efficiency motor with a top speed of 4200 RPM
Battery Voltage 2 x 20V (40V total system)
Battery Capacity 4.0Ah per battery
Cutting Width 16 inches
Cutting Height Range 1 to 3 inches with 6-position adjustment
Weight 26.5 lbs

The first time I unboxed the MightyMow 20V Cordless Lawn Mower, I was struck by how lightweight it felt—only 26.5 pounds, yet surprisingly solid. As I unfolded the handle, I immediately appreciated the three-level adjustable height, which made customizing my comfort super easy.

Pulling the mower across my yard, I noticed how smooth the 16-inch deck glided through grass. The single lever 6-position height adjustment was straightforward to use, letting me switch from 1 to 3 inches in seconds.

The 40L grass bag filled quickly, and I liked how easy it was to detach and empty without any mess.

The dual 20V batteries provided up to 30 minutes of runtime, which was enough for my small yard. The high-efficiency motor spun at 4200 RPM, making mowing quieter and less tiring than my old gas mower.

I appreciated that the handle foldable for storage, saving space in my shed.

Overall, it handles well, even around tight corners and narrow spaces. The ergonomic handle and lightweight design kept fatigue at bay, making the whole process more enjoyable.

Plus, the quiet operation meant I could mow early on weekends without waking the neighbors. This mower is perfect for small gardens and yards where convenience matters.

AMERISUN 14-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower, 12.5A

AMERISUN 14-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower, 12.5A
Pros:
  • Powerful motor performance
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Versatile with mulching and bagging
Cons:
  • Corded design limits range
  • Smaller cutting width
Specification:
Motor Power 1500W (12.5 Amp)
Cutting Width 14 inches
Cutting Height Adjustment 6 positions from 1.0 to 3.0 inches
Grass Catcher Capacity 10 gallons with fill-level indicator
Weight Approximately 31.9 lbs
Wheels 6-inch front wheels and 7-inch rear wheels

Many folks assume that small electric mowers like this AMERISUN 14-inch model lack the power needed for effective yard work. I’ve found that to be a misconception once I actually put it to the test in my small backyard.

The 12.5 Amp motor delivers a surprising punch, effortlessly tackling thick grass and uneven patches.

The compact size initially made me think it might struggle with larger or more stubborn areas. But with a 14-inch cutting width and six height adjustments, I was able to customize the cut for different zones—whether I wanted a neat, ornamental look or a more utilitarian finish.

The lightweight design, weighing just under 32 pounds, made it easy to maneuver around flower beds and narrow spaces.

Switching between bagging and mulching was straightforward, thanks to the included accessories. The 10-gallon grass catcher filled up quickly, but the fill-level indicator helped me avoid overflows.

The mulching function finely shredded clippings, returning nutrients to the soil, which I appreciated for eco-friendly lawn care.

Handling the mower felt comfortable with its small wheels and balanced weight distribution. It’s clearly built with safety in mind, featuring a safety lock switch and water resistance.

No gas, no fumes, and minimal maintenance meant I could just plug it in and start mowing, which is perfect for regular upkeep without hassle.

Overall, this mower proved to be a reliable, easy-to-use option for small yards. Its power, versatility, and lightweight design make it a solid choice for everyday homeowners seeking a straightforward lawn tool.

What Is a Small Electric Lawn Mower and Why Should You Consider One?

To maximize the benefits of small electric lawn mowers, it is advisable to adhere to best practices such as regular cleaning of the mower deck, keeping the blades sharp for efficient cutting, and charging the battery properly if using a cordless model. Additionally, selecting the right size and model based on the specific lawn size and terrain can enhance performance and user satisfaction.

What Are the Key Features to Look for in a Small Electric Lawn Mower?

When searching for the best small electric lawn mower, consider the following key features:

  • Cutting Width: A wider cutting width allows you to mow larger areas more efficiently, while a narrower width offers better maneuverability in tight spaces.
  • Battery Life: A long-lasting battery is crucial for completing your mowing tasks without interruptions; look for mowers that offer at least 30-60 minutes of runtime.
  • Weight: Lightweight models are easier to push and maneuver, making them ideal for small yards and for users who may have difficulty handling heavier equipment.
  • Adjustable Cutting Height: This feature allows you to customize the height of your grass cut, ensuring you can maintain your lawn according to your preferred aesthetic and seasonal needs.
  • Noise Level: Electric mowers are generally quieter than gas models, but look for those specifically designed to minimize noise, which is especially important in suburban areas.
  • Bagging and Mulching Options: A mower that offers both bagging and mulching features provides versatility in lawn care, allowing you to choose between collecting grass clippings or returning nutrients to the lawn.
  • Ease of Storage: Compact designs that allow for vertical storage can save space in your garage or shed, which is beneficial for those with limited storage options.
  • Durability and Build Quality: Look for mowers constructed with sturdy materials like high-quality plastic or steel, as well-built models will typically last longer and endure the rigors of regular use.

Which Models Are Considered the Best Small Electric Lawn Mowers?

The main options for the best small electric lawn mowers include:

  • Greenworks 20-Inch 3-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower: This model is highly regarded for its versatility and performance.
  • Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower: Compact and lightweight, this mower is perfect for small yards.
  • Black+Decker BEMW213 12-Amp 15-Inch Electric Mower: Known for its affordability and ease of use, this mower is suitable for urban gardens.
  • RYOBI RY40180 40V 20-Inch Electric Lawn Mower: This cordless mower offers power and convenience for a range of lawn sizes.

Greenworks 20-Inch 3-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower: With a robust 12 amp motor and a 20-inch cutting deck, this mower can handle various grass types efficiently. Its 3-in-1 functionality allows for mulching, side discharge, or bagging, making it adaptable to user preferences and yard needs.

Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower: This mower is designed for small to medium-sized lawns, featuring a 14-inch cutting width that makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Its lightweight build and foldable handles contribute to convenient storage and transport, while the 12-amp motor provides ample power for effective cutting.

Black+Decker BEMW213 12-Amp 15-Inch Electric Mower: This mower combines affordability with performance, featuring a 15-inch cutting deck and a powerful 12-amp motor. Its ergonomic design, along with a height-adjustable deck, allows users to customize the cutting height easily, making it a great choice for maintaining a neat lawn.

RYOBI RY40180 40V 20-Inch Electric Lawn Mower: This cordless model is equipped with a 40V battery system, providing the freedom of movement without the hassle of cords. The 20-inch cutting deck and advanced brushless motor enhance efficiency and runtime, making it suitable for both small and moderately sized lawns.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Each Recommended Model?

Model Pros Cons Price Warranty Cutting Height Adjustment Weight
Model A (e.g., Greenworks 40V) Lightweight and easy to maneuver, ideal for small yards. Smaller battery capacity, may need frequent recharging. $299 4 years 3 positions 30 lbs
Model B (e.g., EGO Power+ 56V) Longer battery life and wider cutting deck for efficiency. Heavier design, may be challenging for some users. $499 5 years 6 positions 60 lbs
Model C (e.g., Ryobi 40V) Quiet operation and environmentally friendly. Limited power for thick grass and larger areas. $349 3 years 5 positions 40 lbs

How Do Price Points Vary Among Small Electric Lawn Mowers?

The price points for small electric lawn mowers can vary significantly based on factors such as brand, features, and battery life.

  • Entry-Level Models: These are typically priced between $100 to $250 and are designed for basic lawn care. They usually have limited features, a smaller cutting width, and are best suited for small yards or light-duty tasks.
  • Mid-Range Models: Priced from $250 to $500, these lawn mowers often include better battery life, more advanced features like self-propulsion, and a wider cutting deck. They are suitable for medium-sized lawns and provide a balance of performance and affordability.
  • High-End Models: These range from $500 to $1,000 or more and come with premium features such as larger cutting widths, longer battery life, and enhanced ergonomic designs. They are ideal for larger properties and offer superior performance and durability.
  • Specialty Models: Some mowers are specifically designed for unique purposes, such as mulching or bagging, and can cost anywhere from $300 to $800. These mowers often incorporate advanced technology and features tailored for specific lawn care needs, appealing to enthusiasts and professionals alike.

What Maintenance Do Small Electric Lawn Mowers Require for Longevity?

Maintaining a small electric lawn mower is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.

  • Regular Cleaning: Keeping the mower clean from grass clippings and debris prevents buildup that can affect performance. After each use, wiping down the blade and body and clearing the undercarriage helps maintain airflow and efficiency.
  • Blade Maintenance: Sharp blades are crucial for a clean cut, so they should be inspected regularly and sharpened or replaced as needed. A dull blade can tear grass rather than cut it, leading to a less healthy lawn and requiring more effort by the mower.
  • Battery Care: For battery-operated models, proper battery maintenance is vital. This includes regularly charging the battery fully and avoiding complete discharges, which can extend battery life and ensure reliable performance.
  • Checking Cables and Connections: Inspecting the electrical components for frays or damage is important to prevent electrical failures. Ensuring that all connections are secure can help avoid operational issues and enhance safety.
  • Storage Practices: Storing the mower in a dry, sheltered environment protects it from weather-related damage. It’s advisable to disconnect the battery and clean the mower before storing it for an extended period, especially in winter months.

What Do User Reviews Say About the Best Small Electric Lawn Mowers?

User reviews highlight various features and benefits of the best small electric lawn mowers.

  • Greenworks 20-Inch 3-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower: Users praise its lightweight design and easy maneuverability, making it ideal for small yards.
  • EGO Power+ 21-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Mower: Reviewers appreciate its powerful battery performance and long run time, allowing for efficient lawn care without interruptions.
  • Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower: Customers love its compact size and affordability, which makes it a great choice for those with limited storage space.
  • BLACK+DECKER 20-Inch 40V Cordless Mower: Users commend its versatility and user-friendly features, such as the adjustable cutting height and easy start mechanism.
  • RYOBI 20-Inch 40V Brushless Mower: Reviewers highlight its exceptional cutting power and durability, making it suitable for tackling thicker grass and uneven terrain.

The Greenworks 20-Inch 3-in-1 Electric Lawn Mower stands out for its combination of lightweight design and versatility, featuring a mulching capability that users find beneficial for maintaining lawn health while keeping the mower easy to handle.

The EGO Power+ 21-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Mower is often noted for its impressive run time and fast charging capability, which allows users to complete their mowing tasks efficiently without having to pause for long charging intervals.

The Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower is frequently mentioned for its compact design, making it not only affordable but also easy to store in tight spaces, appealing to urban dwellers with small yards.

Customers of the BLACK+DECKER 20-Inch 40V Cordless Mower appreciate features like its adjustable cutting height, which provides flexibility for different grass types and lawn conditions, combined with the convenience of a cordless operation for greater mobility.

Lastly, the RYOBI 20-Inch 40V Brushless Mower garners praise for its robust build quality and efficient cutting capabilities, allowing users to tackle various lawn conditions effectively, which is a significant advantage for homeowners with diverse yard types.

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