The Ultimate Electric Lawn Mower Buyer's Guide
Electric lawn mowers have become a popular choice for homeowners who want a quieter, cleaner alternative to gas-powered machines. Whether you're maintaining a small suburban yard or a medium-sized lawn, an electric mower can deliver reliable cutting performance with far less hassle.
Why Choose an Electric Mower?
Electric mowers offer several distinct advantages over traditional gas models. They run significantly quieter, produce zero exhaust emissions at the point of use, and require far less routine maintenance — no oil changes, spark plugs, or fuel stabilizers to worry about. Simply plug in or charge up and you're ready to mow.
- Quieter operation — ideal for early-morning or evening mowing without disturbing neighbors.
- Lower maintenance — no gas engine upkeep; fewer moving parts mean fewer repairs.
- Lightweight design — easier to push, maneuver, and store than most gas mowers.
- Eco-friendly — no direct emissions and reduced carbon footprint.
Corded vs. Battery-Powered
Electric mowers come in two main varieties, each with its own strengths:
Corded Electric Mowers
Corded models plug directly into a standard outlet and offer unlimited runtime — you'll never run out of charge mid-mow. They tend to be lighter and more affordable than battery-powered alternatives. The trade-off is managing the extension cord, which makes them best suited for smaller, unobstructed lawns up to about a quarter acre.
Battery-Powered (Cordless) Mowers
Battery-powered mowers provide cord-free convenience and greater freedom of movement. Modern lithium-ion batteries deliver enough runtime for most small to medium lawns on a single charge. They're slightly heavier than corded models and come at a higher price point, but the convenience factor is hard to beat for yards with trees, flower beds, or irregular shapes.
Featured Review: GreenWorks 25022 Corded 20-Inch Mower
The GreenWorks 25022 is a corded electric mower with a 20-inch cutting deck, well-suited for small to medium lawns. Its corded design means no battery charging or gas refueling — just plug it in and start cutting. The mower is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a practical option for homeowners who want simplicity and reliability without the upkeep of a gas engine.
What to Look For When Buying
- Cutting width — wider decks (19–21 inches) cover more ground per pass, reducing mowing time.
- Power source — decide between corded (unlimited runtime, lower cost) and battery (cord-free, more flexible).
- Cutting height adjustment — look for easy, tool-free height adjustment with multiple positions.
- Grass handling — consider whether you want mulching, side discharge, or rear bagging capabilities.
- Weight and storage — lighter mowers are easier to push and can often be folded or stored vertically.
Explore More Mower Types
Not sure an electric mower is right for you? Compare your options:
- Push Mowers — lightweight and budget-friendly for small lawns.
- Self-Propelled Mowers — reduced physical effort for medium to large yards.
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