Are Cordless Lawn Mowers Worth It? Pros and Cons

The short verdict

Cordless mowers work well when the lawn matches the battery. Cut a modest yard on a full charge and they feel simpler than gas: push a button, mow, plug in the battery afterward.

They are a weaker fit for large, thick or wet lawns that demand long, hard mowing in one session. That is where runtime becomes the deciding factor. The rest of this guide shows how to judge that for your own yard.

What cordless mowers do well

The biggest gain is convenience. There is no fuel to store, no oil to change and no spark plug to replace. You press a start control and go. Most of the upkeep is keeping the blade sharp and the deck clean.

They are also quieter than gas mowers in general. Greenworks says its 60V and 80V models run about 3x quieter than gas, though that is a maker claim from the listing, so treat it as a rough guide. Even a quieter mower still deserves hearing protection if you are sensitive to noise or mow for long stretches.

Cordless models can also be lighter and easier to store. The EWORK 40V 14 in. weighs 21 lb and has a collapsible handle, and the MZK 2602 weighs 24.3 lb. Many are built around batteries you can share with other tools, such as trimmers and blowers from the same brand.

• Instant start with no pull cord, fuel or oil
• No exhaust fumes at the mower
• Lower noise than most gas models
• Less routine maintenance
• Light, compact options for small yards and tight storage
• Batteries that can work across a brand's other tools

The major disadvantage: runtime

If you ask what the biggest downside of a battery mower is, it is runtime. The battery holds a fixed amount of energy, and once it is empty you must recharge or swap. A gas mower just needs a refill.

Published figures show the range. The EGO LM2135SP lists up to 60 minutes of runtime, the EGO LM2114 lists 55 minutes, and the MZK 2602 lists 45 minutes. Makers note that results vary with grass condition, terrain and technique, so plan on a margin rather than the maximum.

Some brands rate by area instead. The Greenworks MO60L424 is rated for up to 0.75 acre per charge, and the Greenworks MO80L416 for up to 0.5 acre. Minutes and acres are not directly comparable, so compare like with like. Our best cordless lawn mower page explains how to match each rating to your yard.

Other drawbacks worth knowing

Runtime is not the only catch. Tall, wet or dense grass uses more energy, so a battery that finishes a trim in dry conditions may run out sooner after a rainy week. Mowing more often, and cutting less at a time, helps.

Weight can also surprise you. Self-propelled models pull themselves, but they are heavier to lift, turn and store. The self-propelled mowers on our comparison page run from 55.3 lb to 74.95 lb. If you must carry a mower up steps or into a loft, that matters.

Batteries age, and they dislike extreme heat and cold. Store them as the maker advises, and check the warranty. Listed terms include 5 years for the EGO LM2114 and 4 years for the Greenworks models, which gives a sense of how makers back their packs.

• Runtime ends when the battery does
• Wet or tall grass shortens a charge
• Self-propelled models are heavy to lift and store
• Extra batteries add to the cost of a kit
• Recharging takes time, such as 80 minutes for the EGO LM2114 battery with its included charger

Cordless vs gas, in plain terms

Neither type wins everywhere. This table summarizes the general trade-offs, not a test of any one product.

How to tell if one is worth it for you

Work through a few checks before you decide. They take a few minutes and prevent most disappointment.

First, estimate how long your lawn takes to mow. If it is well under the listed runtime, one battery will do. If it is close, look for a kit with two batteries, such as the Greenworks MO60L424 or the MZK 2602, so you can swap and keep going.

Second, consider your yard layout. A wide deck means fewer passes but is harder to fit through gates and around beds. Four of the five mowers on our page cut 21 in, while the EWORK cuts 14 in and the MZK cuts 16 in.

Third, decide how you handle clippings. If you bag them, compare capacity. The EGO LM2114 lists an 18.5 gal bag. If you mulch, a model that supports it can skip the bag. You can see these numbers side by side on our cordless mower comparison.

• Estimate your mowing time and compare it with listed runtime, with margin
• Check how many batteries come in the box
• Compare weight, especially if you lift or store the mower often
• Match cutting width to gates and beds
• Choose bagging, mulching or both

Safety notes

Stop the blade and remove the battery before you clear a clog, check the blade or work under the deck. A removed battery cannot start the motor by accident.

Wear closed shoes with grip and eye protection, because stones and sticks can be thrown. Clear the lawn of toys, hoses and debris before you start.

Mow across slopes with care and never mow wet grass on a steep hill, since footing is poor. Charge batteries with the charger that came with them, indoors or in a dry spot, and keep them away from water and heat.

Frequently asked questions

Why do some people say electric lawn mowers are bad?

Most complaints come down to runtime and mismatch. A battery that is too small for a big or thick lawn runs out mid-job. Matching battery capacity to yard size, or adding a second battery, solves most of it.

Can a cordless mower handle thick grass?

Many can, especially brushless models with more torque, but thick or wet grass drains the battery faster. Mow more often and raise the deck height for the first pass.

How long do cordless mower batteries last?

Makers do not publish a single lifespan, so check the warranty term on the model you like. Storing batteries at moderate temperatures and avoiding deep drain habits generally helps.

Is a self-propelled cordless mower better than a push model?

Self-propelled models reduce effort on larger or sloped lawns, but they weigh more. Push models can be much lighter, which suits small yards and tight storage.