Summary
If you’re in the market for the best self-propelled cordless lawn mower, you’ll be pleased to know that modern garden equipment has come on leaps and bounds in recent years. Cordless self-propelled lawn mowers are now available, and they make light work of cutting the grass, while removing the risk of getting tangled, mowing over the cord, or having an accident. In fact, they’re now real competitors to petrol mowers.
In my search for the best self-propelled cordless lawn mower, I’ve personally tested two models on my own lawn. I’ve scrutinised their features such as cutting width, cutting height, grass collection capacity, and ease of use, and I’ve captured my findings in video reviews so that you can see these mowers in action for yourself. This hands-on evaluation allows you to see precisely what each mower delivers, aiding you in making a well-informed decision about which one is the right fit for your gardening needs.
The first model I put to the test was the Hyundai HYM80LI460SP. This mower stood out with its 45cm cutting width and the flexibility offered by its six cutting height options. The 65L grass collection box is a generous size for efficient mowing sessions. Constructed with a sturdy steel deck and fitted with a brushless motor, the Hyundai HYM80LI460SP provided an efficient and steadfast cutting performance during my trial.
Additionally, I examined the Cobra RM43SP80V, which is a high-end offering. With a slightly more compact cutting width of 43cm and seven cutting height options, this mower affords precision and adaptability. The 50L grass collection box is suitably proportioned for routine lawn upkeep. In my review, I was particularly impressed by the Cobra’s weather-resistant design and rear roller, which not only added to its robustness but also enabled me to create the much-desired striped effect on the lawn. The powerful motor ensured that the cutting performance was first-rate, even under more challenging lawn conditions.
This guide will give you all the information you need to know to make an informed and wise choice when purchasing a cordless self-propelled lawn mower.
In A Hurry?
Before we jump into the reviews and guide, I understand that some of you could be pushed for time. If you don’t have time to read my in-depth self-propelled cordless lawn mower reviews, I have listed my top selections below for your convenience.
Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5 Best Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mowers
Select your requirements by ticking the applicable tick boxes below; so I can help you pick the perfect self-propelled cordless lawn mower. Each mower has a link to a full review so you can out more information.
Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers Buyers Guide
Introduction
A cordless self-propelled lawn mower is an excellent option for people who have larger lawns and want the ease of not having to manually push along a traditional mower. They give you the freedom to get more work done without over-exerting yourself.
These pieces of garden equipment are ideally suited to older people who struggle to use a manual mower or those with mobility issues. However, even able-bodied people will find these mowers extremely advantageous when navigating sloped or rougher lawns.
Of course, thanks to the cordless design, you are not tethered to a power point, giving you the freedom to move around the garden with even more ease.
Since these models are in a higher price bracket, it pays to look at the features in order to make the best decision for your requirements and circumstances.
Pros and Cons of Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mowers
Pros
- Self-propelled cordless mowers are easier to manoeuvre especially on larger lawns or those with steep slopes.
- Self-propulsion can be switched off, if not required.
- No cables so not tethered by the power lead.
- Modern, powerful batteries give you better run time.
- Variable speed models are also available.
- Low maintenance.
- No fumes.
- Less noise.
- More ECO friendly.
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than manual models.
- Less control over the speed of the mower (if single speed only).
- Self-propulsion reduces the battery run time.
What Is A Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower?
In the main, there are two power options for push lawn mowers – electric or petrol and when we look at the electric option, you have the choice of a corded machine or a battery-operated one (cordless).
Cordless self-propelled lawn mowers come into the latter category and are powered by using a rechargeable battery. These batteries are measured in Ah (amp hours), and the higher the number, the more money you are going to have to part with. That being said combined with the voltage, you’ll also be getting something more powerful, so it does pay to consider this carefully.
The Advantages And Disadvantages Of The Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
As with any product, there are some good and bad points about owning this type of equipment – let’s explore these in a little more detail.
Using a mower that falls within this category will give you the freedom to tackle your lawn much more easily. Furthermore, you won’t be needing to battle the cables or work too hard since the mower will do most of the work for you.
Advantages
Let’s take a look at some of the best advantages of owning a cordless self-propelled lawn mower.
- No Cables
One of the clearest and obvious advantages of this type of equipment is the lack of cables, this makes the machine much easier to manoeuvre since you are not tied up to a single power point.
I’m sure you have found yourself in the situation of throwing a wire over your head to change directions and to avoid cutting the power cable, but this isn’t an issue you will ever experience with a cordless mower.
- No Physical Exertion
Mowing the lawn can be a strenuous task, especially if you have limited strength, mobility or simply want to make a light work of the job, as using a self-propelled model takes out all of the physical labour of the task. All you are required to do is simply guide the mower along.
- Better Than Petrol
In days gone by, people were reluctant to switch to a battery-powered lawn mower, especially if they have been using a traditional petrol mower. The original batteries in these machines left a lot to be desired and this is a stigma that has remained with mowers in this category.
However, as technology has improved, so too have the batteries used in cordless mowers and they are now a real alternative to their petrol counterparts. Many higher end cordless mower are competing with petrol in terms of power, however cordless mowers require significantly less maintenance when compared to petrol. All cordless mowers use lithium-ion batteries which in modern times are considered to be one of the best battery types providing longer run times and faster charge times.
Additionally, since the earlier powered mowers were not self-propelled, they were not as good as the petrol versions and this was another point of contention amongst garden enthusiasts, with many arguing that a battery-powered option would never match up.
But the advent of self-propelled mowers arrived and now many gardeners prefer this type of equipment thanks to its ease of use.
- Eco-Friendly
Petrol mowers are great but there’s no denying that the fumes and damage to the environment are very real. All of this is eliminated when using a cordless self-propelled mower.
For further eco friendly benefits you can opt for cordless mulching mowers, that will reduce your waste and will bring benefits to the health of your lawn.
- Quiet Operation
Petrol lawn mowers are notoriously noisy and this can be a nuisance for your neighbours as well as an interruption to the peace and tranquillity of your outdoor space. However, a cordless self-propelled mower operates at a much lower decibel, meaning these interruptions are minimal. Furthermore, these machines do not vibrate anywhere near as much, which contribute to the quieter operation and makes for a more pleasant user experience.
Disadvantages
Now we will take a look at some of the disadvantages of this type of equipment.
- Higher Price
Owing to the technology that is required to craft these lawn mowers, there is a higher price tag when compared to a corded version. Petrol mowers are comparable in price, but with a cordless option, you are getting convenience over power.
It is also important to remember that over time, you will need to purchase replacement batteries, which can be quite pricey. That being said, thanks to the low maintenance nature of these mowers, you will save on the cost of petrol, spark plugs, oil and other things that petrol mowers frequently require.
Another great feature of a cordless lawn mower, that mitigates the cost of the battery, is the ability to share the battery across multiple garden tools from the same manufacturer. You can often purchase battery powered garden tools without the battery (bare tool). This is particularly useful if you are looking to complement your cordless lawn mower with a cordless grass trimmer, again from the same manufacturer, as only 1 battery is then required.
- Less Power Than A Petrol Mower
Petrol lawn mowers are always going to have more in terms of power – this is simply in their nature, but the modern battery cordless mowers do have a very competitive rate of power and should not be sniffed at. An example of this is the EGO LM1701E.
For people who keep on top of their lawn mowing, a cordless option will work well, but if you are attempting to cut wet or long grass, it might be a little more problematic.
- No Control Over Speed
Self-propelled mowers are often set to run at a particular speed so you are required to go along with this.
If you are a person who likes to have complete control over the task at hand, you may not get along well with this type of equipment. However, the good news is that there are some models that do feature adjustable speed, but you will likely have to invest slightly more for this option.
Things To Consider When Purchasing A Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Before making any type of purchase, it is crucial that you consider a few things and buying a cordless self-propelled mower is no different.
The size of the lawn will play a very important role in making a decision on whether to go for a cordless self-propelled mower. Whilst these are nifty little machines, their shorter battery span means that they won’t be suitable for very large lawns, unless, of course, you don’t mind waiting for the battery to charge and going back to the job later. Or of course you may have a spare battery at hand to use. A normal battery-operated lawn mower will give you between 30-60 minutes of juice per charge. If you have a small or medium-sized lawn, this will be ideal. Also higher end models, with battery combinations of 56v 7.5Ah for example, are available that will deal quite nicely with larger lawns, but this will come at a price.
How you want the lawn to look is also something else to think about. Some people like to have a striped lawn and in order to achieve this, a rear roller is required. Whilst some cordless self-propelled mowers have this option, not all do so it is worth checking first.
What type of lawn grass you have should be considered since thicker, rougher grass such as Annual Meadow Grass, may require the power that only a petrol mower or very powerful cordless battery mower can offer. This is particularly true if you are not going to keep up with a regular lawn mowing schedule.
What To Look For In A Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
If you have come to the decision that a cordless self-propelled lawn mower is the right option for you, then there are some things that you should keep an eye out for when making a purchase.
Weight
Self-propelled lawn mowers are generally much easier to operate since they take the hard work out of cutting the grass, but this doesn’t mean that their weight should be ignored.
As a rule, these mowers tend to be much lighter than their petrol cousins thanks to the lack of a bulky engine, but it is important to check the weight, especially if you are looking to purchase one to make mowing the lawn easier on you physically.
Self-Propelled and Variable Speed Options
As I mentioned earlier, many models come with one speed, but there are some that allow you to adjust this with a variable speed option. This will ensure that you mow at the pace that best suits you and the job at hand. How you want to use the mower will determine the best option for you.
Additionally, you should check whether the mower has a self-propulsion lever – if it does, this will give you the option to turn off this feature so that you regain control over the mower.
This is great for power-saving since using the self-propulsion will require more battery power. Most people find that engaging the self-propulsion option for steep inclines or rougher terrain is enough and disengaging for flat, even ground works well.
Battery Life
I have already touched on the fact that the higher Ah number the battery has and combined with the voltage, the more powerful it is and the longer it will run. If you require a longer run time, you should look for, in general, a higher Ah rating.
Furthermore, if you are planning to use the self-propelled option regularly, you may wish to consider getting a more powerful battery, or at least have a replacement so you can have one on charge whilst the other is in use. Turning the self-propulsion off, when not required, will improve the life of the battery.
Finally, you should look at how long the batteries take to charge. There are a lot of self-propelled mowers out there with exceptional charging times, some as little as 30 minutes with a fast charger, meaning that you can get on with the job much more quickly.
Before purchasing check if your mower is supplied with a fast charger or at least you have the option to purchase one at a later date.
Some models also allow you to charge more quickly up to 80% capacity, again a very handy feature if you need that little extra to finish the lawn.
It is also worth looking at whether or not the battery that comes supplied with your cordless lawn mower is power share, meaning it can be used across a range of other garden tools from the same manufacturer.
Just remember that a battery will not last forever. Ensure that replacements can be purchased, as if not it will render the mower useless.
Cutting Height And Width
Most modern lawn mowers have a good range of adjustable cutting heights, normally from 20mm to 70mm, but it is worth checking what the extremes are and how much leeway you are given between each height. It is always advisable with all lawn mowers not to cut more than 1/3 of the length of the grass blades. If you have to cut the lawn shorter, start at a higher setting and work your way down gradually.
What’s more, depending on the size of your lawn, you will want to choose a cutting width that works well for your garden. Remember, the wider the cutting width the more grass will be cut on each pass, allowing you to cut more on a single charge. Just ensure you have enough storage space for this wider mower. There are many cordless self-propelled models with a variety of cutting widths to accommodate all needs, and some even have the ability to be stored vertically, should storage be an issue. Use the filters above to narrow down your selection to include any of the features mentioned.
Conclusion
A cordless self-propelled lawn mower is a modern invention that can make cutting the grass so much easier, however, it is important to keep in mind that in some cases, a petrol option may work better. For example, for thicker and neglected lawns or very large areas.
A cordless self-propelled mower should be a real and genuine consideration for your garden, as the advancement in recent lawn mower and battery technology now make them a real viable option. You can see the power and performance in action in my video below, where I reviewed the latest EGO self-propelled cordless lawn mower.
Many die hard petrol lawn mower users in the US, are now switching from their beloved petrol mowers to cordless battery mowers due to all the advantages and features mentioned above.
If you are convinced, and quite rightly so, to purchase a cordless self-propelled lawn mower, see my best choice of mowers I have reviewed above.
If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences, please use the comments box below. I will be happy to respond.
Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower FAQs
Can You Back Up (Reverse) A Self-Propelled Lawn Mower?
No, the majority of self-propelled cordless lawn mowers are not designed to go backwards when the power is on. If you disengage the self-propelled drive, mowers with this feature will allow you to pull the mower backwards.
How Does A Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Work?
Self-propelled lawn mowers have a drive system that is controlled using a secondary bar or lever on the mower handle. When you squeeze this, the mower engages its drive and the machine begins to move forwards, using its own power. The only thing that you need to do is guide the mower where you want it to go. Most cordless lawn mowers will allow you to engage the drive even when the blades are not running. This is handy, when you are moving the mower to and from its storage location.
Do You Need A Self-Propelled Lawn Mower?
A self-propelled lawn mower is a good choice for people whose garden is on a slope, or which features several hilly areas. This prevents you from having to use your own strength to push the mower over the tricky terrain. They’re also excellent for people with generally limited strength regardless of the terrain. Self-propelled cordless lawn mowers also tend to be better suited to larger lawns as these require even more physical effort.
How Long Should A Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Last?
A good quality self-propelled lawn mower may last up to ten years when properly taken care of, but it’s unlikely that your battery will last this long. You may find that you need to replace your battery every few years; typically, they’ll last up to 500 charges.
How Fast Does A Cordless Self-Propelled Mower Go?
The speed of your cordless self-propelled mower will depend on the make and model. Generally speaking, they’ll go between three and four miles per hour, but many models have variable speed which means you can adjust the pace to your own walking speed.
Which Is The Best Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower?
There are lots of excellent brands offering cordless self-propelled mowers and what is best for you will depend on your budget as well as what other features you need. Some of the best manufacturers of cordless self-propelled lawn mowers are Hayter, EGO, Mountfield, Greenworks, Einhell and Hyundai.
How Much Is A Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower?
The price you pay for your self-propelled cordless lawn mower will depend on the brand, the batteries supplied and what else the mower can do. For the most part, you will be able to pick up a decent self-propelled cordless mower for between £300 and £500. However, there are some extremely high-end models that come in nearer to the thousand-pound mark.
Is A Self-Propelled Cordless Mower Worth It?
If you want an easy and manageable way to mow your lawn that doesn’t require any effort from yourself, then a self-propelled cordless lawn mower is certainly worth considering. You’ll find it much easier to cut through dense grass and move over sloped ground without exerting yourself. Just remember, that you will pay more for a self-propelled model and they will also be somewhat heavier.
Is It OK To Push A Self-Propelled Mower?
Giving your cordless self-propelled mower a little push is unlikely to do it much harm, but you may find it’s quite difficult to do. The concept of these machines is that they will operate themselves, so why would you want to push it in the first place? Some models will allow you to disengage the drive completely, and therefore allow you to push and pull the mower freely.
What’s The Difference Between Self-Propelled And Hand Propelled?
If you’re looking for a cordless mower, it’s important to know the difference between certain features. Self-propelled cordless mowers use a mechanism that automatically moves them forwards making it easier for you to mow. On the other hand, a manual, or hand propelled mower requires the user to push it around the garden which is more tiring and requires more physical effort.
Are Self-Propelled Cordless Mowers Easy To Use?
The great thing about a self-propelled cordless mower is that it is very user friendly. Not only does it do most of the work for you, but it’ll also usually have larger rear wheels which make it more stable and easy to steer, especially around obstacles.
Are Self-Propelled Cordless Mowers As Good As Petrol?
Advancements in battery technology means that self-propelled cordless mowers now rival their petrol counterparts. While it is true the run-time of a cordless model will be less than that of a petrol mower, this can be outweighed by the benefits cordless has to offer. These benefits include, lower maintenance and on-going costs, easier to start, cleaner and safer to use, less noise and the ability to share the batteries across a range of tools from the same manufacturer. If you are planning on using your lawn mower for commercial purposes, then a petrol mower would be recommended over a cordless model.
How Do You Maintain A Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower?
Self-propelled cordless lawn mowers are super easy to take care of. There’s no oil changes, engine maintenance or fuel to think about, so all you really need to do is make sure that the mower is kept clean and check bolts and screws to ensure they’re tight. You should also make sure that the battery is stored at an ambient temperature and isn’t exposed to extremes.
As a seasoned expert in the field of garden power tools, I have dedicated over a decade to working with and reviewing a wide variety of lawn mowers. My extensive experience has allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the benefits and limitations of different types of mowers and garden tools.
Over the years, I have honed my skills in writing informative articles and creating helpful videos for various blogs and publications. This has given me the ability to not only recognise what makes a good lawn mower, but also to help you choose the perfect garden tool for your specific needs and requirements.
With my wealth of knowledge and expertise, I am confident that I can provide you with valuable insights and recommendations when it comes to selecting the right lawn mower for your lawn. So, whether you're looking for a battery cordless, electric, petrol, or robotic mower, you can trust in my expertise to guide you towards the best option for your garden.