Mountfield Empress 41 Li Review – Freedom500

Mountfield Empress 41 Li Review
Mountfield Empress 41 LI
Performance/Cut Quality
84
Features
88
Durability
84
Value
70
Warranty/Support
86
What I Like
Self-propelled drive.
Great for lawns up to 550m².
4 mowing options – cut and collect, mulching, side & rear discharge.
Hybrid grass collection box with indicator.
Power share batteries across the range.
What I Don't Like
Battery and charger not supplied (bare tool).
Higher initial investment required.
No foam on handle bars.
No larger rear wheels – available on larger 46 Li and 51 Li models.
82
My Overall Rating

Summary

Mountfield Empress 41 Li Review

The Mountfield Empress 41 Li is an electric self-propelled cordless lawn mower weighing 25kg and is recommended to be powered by two 4.0Ah STIGA batteries. It has a 41cm cutting blade, a 60 litre grass collection bag and is designed for medium lawns up to 550m². There are 6 cutting heights available that range from 22mm to 65mm and the mower comes with a two year manufacturer’s warranty that includes the batteries.

Mountfield is one of the more well-made brands since it is owned by STIGA and this means that you can feel confident that the equipment will always be robust, reliable, and powerful. In the case of this cordless lawn mower, you are getting the best of everything. Part of the Freedom 500 range and new for 2021, this Mountfield Empress 41 Li lawn mower is designed to give the power of a petrol mower while offering the convenience of cordless.

The ways in which you can mow with this self-propelled tool are endless. There are six easy to adjust cutting heights and a choice of four mowing modes. If it is versatility you are after, you won’t find much else quite as adept as the Empress 41 LI.

This lawn mower is ideally suited to larger gardens thanks to its generous 41cm cutting width. It will make light work of lawns up to 550m², but it certainly won’t be tiring work thanks to the compact and lightweight design that is fantastically easy to manoeuvre. If you would like to get to know this tool a little better, my Mountfield Empress 41 LI review will tell you all you need to know.

Main Features

  • 41cm cutting deck
  • Self propelled drive
  • 6 cutting heights
  • 4-in-1 cutting options – cut and collect, mulching, rear discharge & side discharge
  • 60-litre grass box
  • Power share battery sold separately
  • Up to 40 minutes run time
  • 1500w brushless motor
  • 2-year warranty

Power System and Battery

Mountfield Freedom500 Empress 41LI Four-Wheeled Self-Propelled 4-in-1...

If you want the power of a petrol lawn mower but don’t want the hassle of maintaining it, then the Mountfield Empress 41 LI might be a viable option for your garden. In terms of power, you will be astonished by what this can achieve. It runs on a 1500w brushless motor which offers smooth, quiet and long-lasting operation, but it is the batteries that will really impress.

While you do have to purchase the batteries separately, this gives you a huge advantage in that you have a good choice of what you use. The minimum recommended battery power for this machine is 2 x 4.0Ah 48 v batteries, but you can also upgrade to the 5.0Ah version of these for a little extra running time. Where the 4.0Ah batteries will give you up to 35 minutes, the 5.0Ah will go up to 40 minutes. It might not seem like a lot, but that extra five minutes could be what you need to finish the job.

These are reliable STIGA batteries that are known for their power and thanks to the battery share feature of the Freedom 500 range, you can use them with your other tools.

Again, you won’t be getting a battery charger with this Mountfield Empress 41 LI lawn mower, but there are choices when it comes to purchasing it. Most notably there is an option to choose a dual charger, so you can refill both of your batteries together. Furthermore, there are options when it comes to charging speed. With a standard charger, you would expect the 4.0Ah to charge in around 180 minutes and the 5.0Ah within 220 minutes. However, if you want something a little quicker, there is a rapid charger available that will recharge in 110 minutes and 120 minutes respectively.

Mountfield Empress Battery Summary

Battery Range

  • 2 x 4.0Ah batteries – 35 runtime for lawns 550 m² – 180 MINUTES CHARGING TIME WITH STANDARD CHARGER/110 MINUTES WITH FAST CHARGER
  • 2 x 5.0Ah batteries – 40 runtime for lawns 600 m² – 220 MINUTES CHARGING TIME WITH STANDARD CHARGER/120 MINUTES WITH FAST CHARGER

Empress Recommended batteries – Run Times / Coverage

  • Empress 41 Li = 41cm cutting width – recommended 2 x 4.0Ah batteries – 550 m² – up to 35 min run time
  • Empress 46 Li = 46cm cutting width – recommended 2 x 4.0Ah batteries – 550 m² – up to 25 min run time
  • Empress 51 Li = 51cm cutting width – recommended 2 x 5.0Ah batteries – 600 m² – up to 25 min run time
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Performance

Mountfield Empress 41 Li Features

As I have mentioned, the idea of the Freedom 500 range is to provide users with the utmost in power and convenience and this is superbly met with the Mountfield Empress 41 LI. It will cover up to 600 square metres depending on the grass conditions, but with a self propelled drive, it is also suitable for use on lawns that have inclines and rougher areas. This mower is single speed at 3.7 Km/h, this is a normal walking pace speed.

That being said, Mountfield does offer other options. For example, if you have the need for a wider cutting width, this mower has two older brothers with a 46cm and a 51cm cutting diameter. The former is suitable for areas up to 550m² and has a run time of 25 minutes, whereas the latter will work on 600m² and has a similar running time.

But your choices don’t end there, because Mountfield also offers the Princess range, which is similar to the Empress range only with a little less power and therefore is more affordable.

In any case, the Mountfield Empress 41 LI is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful mower that could replace their old petrol tool. It offers incredibly quiet operation and is beautifully easy to move around thanks to its compact and lightweight design.

Deck and Blade

One of the things that you will instantly notice about the Empress 41 LI is that it boasts a strong steel cutting deck. The large 41cm deck is ideal for gardens where the terrain is a little more challenging thanks to its durable design. With impact resistance, you won’t need to worry about accidentally bumping into things and causing damage.

As already mentioned, there are three Empress models all with varying deck sizes.

  • Empress 41 Li = 41cm cutting width
  • Empress 46 Li = 46cm cutting width
  • Empress 51 Li = 51cm cutting width

Mountfield Empress Comparison Table

Empress 41 Li
Mountfield Freedom500 Empress 41LI Four-Wheeled Self-Propelled 4-in-1...
Empress 46 Li
Mountfield Freedom500 Empress 46LI Four-Wheeled Self-Propelled 48V...
Empress 51 Li
Mountfield Freedom500 Empress 51LI Four-Wheeled Self-Propelled 48V...
Lawn Coverage
550sqm
550sqm
600sqm
Noise Level
79 dB
82 dB
83 dB
Battery / Power (Not Supplied)
recommended 2 x 4Ah batteries
recommended 2 x 4Ah batteries
recommend 2 x 5Ah batteries
Mowing Time
35 minutes
25 minutes
25 minutes
Cutting Width
41 cm
46 cm
51 cm
Weight
25 kg
26 kg
29 kg
Grass Box Capacity
60 L - Hybrid Collection Box
60 L - Hybrid Collection Box
60 L - Hybrid Collection Box
Cutting Height Adjustment
Centralised Lever
Centralised Lever
Centralised Lever
Cutting Heights
6 (22mm – 65mm)
6 (22mm – 80mm)
6 (22mm – 80mm)
Larger Rear Wheels
Wheels
200/200mm soft tread grooved wheels
200/280mm soft tread grooved wheels
200/280mm soft tread grooved wheels
Foldable handlebar
Mulching Plug Supplied
Side Discharge
Rear Discharge
Price
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Empress 41 Li
Mountfield Freedom500 Empress 41LI Four-Wheeled Self-Propelled 4-in-1...
Lawn Coverage
550sqm
Noise Level
79 dB
Battery / Power (Not Supplied)
recommended 2 x 4Ah batteries
Mowing Time
35 minutes
Cutting Width
41 cm
Weight
25 kg
Grass Box Capacity
60 L - Hybrid Collection Box
Cutting Height Adjustment
Centralised Lever
Cutting Heights
6 (22mm – 65mm)
Larger Rear Wheels
Wheels
200/200mm soft tread grooved wheels
Foldable handlebar
Mulching Plug Supplied
Side Discharge
Rear Discharge
Price
Price not available
More Information
Full Review
Empress 46 Li
Mountfield Freedom500 Empress 46LI Four-Wheeled Self-Propelled 48V...
Lawn Coverage
550sqm
Noise Level
82 dB
Battery / Power (Not Supplied)
recommended 2 x 4Ah batteries
Mowing Time
25 minutes
Cutting Width
46 cm
Weight
26 kg
Grass Box Capacity
60 L - Hybrid Collection Box
Cutting Height Adjustment
Centralised Lever
Cutting Heights
6 (22mm – 80mm)
Larger Rear Wheels
Wheels
200/280mm soft tread grooved wheels
Foldable handlebar
Mulching Plug Supplied
Side Discharge
Rear Discharge
Price
Price not available
More Information
Full Review
Empress 51 Li
Mountfield Freedom500 Empress 51LI Four-Wheeled Self-Propelled 48V...
Lawn Coverage
600sqm
Noise Level
83 dB
Battery / Power (Not Supplied)
recommend 2 x 5Ah batteries
Mowing Time
25 minutes
Cutting Width
51 cm
Weight
29 kg
Grass Box Capacity
60 L - Hybrid Collection Box
Cutting Height Adjustment
Centralised Lever
Cutting Heights
6 (22mm – 80mm)
Larger Rear Wheels
Wheels
200/280mm soft tread grooved wheels
Foldable handlebar
Mulching Plug Supplied
Side Discharge
Rear Discharge
Price
Price not available
More Information
Full Review

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Handles

Mountfield Empress 41 Li Cutting Diameter

Storing a lawn mower is one of the biggest problems for homeowners since many people do not have ample outdoor storage. Whilst the handles do fold at the central point with quick release levers, they do not fold so easy at the lower deck point. The operator will need to remove the two wing nuts on each side to fold flat at both points on the bars. I believe Mountfield have done this to provide a more sturdy and secure join between the handle and the deck. This is not such a big issue, but something to be aware of as it will take a little longer if you want to fold the handles completely.

It’s also a shame that Mountfield did not include any foam on the handles for comfort. Yes I know there is very little vibration from a cordless mower compared to that of a petrol equivalent, it just would have been a nice to have.

Height Adjustment

If there is anything that I really love about this mower it is its versatility. While some other mowers don’t give you a terrible number of options, this one allows you much more freedom when choosing how to mow. One of the best examples of this is the generous number of cutting heights. There are six to choose from that range between 22mm and 65mm. Now, there are mowers out there with much longer top end extremes but for the most part, 65mm is more than sufficient.

Furthermore, the cutting heights are beautifully easy to change. Rather than flipping the mower upside down and messing around with tools, it features a single lever central adjustment that can switch between heights quickly and easily.

It’s worth pointing out that on the two larger brothers, the 46 Li and the 51 Li, the range of cutting options are slightly different. Refer to the comparison table above for more details.

  • Empress 41 Li – 6 (22mm – 65mm)
  • Empress 46 Li – 6 (22mm – 80mm)
  • Empress 51 Li – 6 (22mm – 80mm)
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Grass Collection Box

Mountfield Empress 41 Li Rear Roller

If you choose to use the cut and collect option, the Mountfield Empress 41 LI boasts a huge 60 litre grass box. The grass collection box also features a handy flap that allows you to know when it is time to empty. If you’re sick of guess work, this is a very beneficial feature.

I do prefer this hybrid type of collection box as you not only get the great circulation and fold flat ability from the cloth sides (more efficient collection of the cuttings), but the hard top prevents dust and debris being directed up towards the operator. Hard tops are also more durable and not as prone to damage like their all cloth counterparts.

It’s also worth noting, that the grass collection box on all three models is the same size at 60 litres. So for the smallest model, you are getting a very respectable size collection box.

Roller

The Empress 41 LI does not come with a rear roller, which is a shame if you want the option to create a neat, striped lawn. However, there are other models within the Mountfield range such as the S42R PDLi and the S46R PDLi or the entire range of Mountfield Princess cordless mowers, if this is a feature that you would like to use.

Mulching

I have already raved about the fact that this Empress 41 LI is a diverse lawn mower and this is again demonstrated in the number of mowing options available to you. For starters, there is the cut and collect option which delivers clippings into the large 60-litre grass box. The box features a full warning so you always know when you need to stop and empty; not that that will be often thanks to the generous size.

Furthermore, there are options for side and rear discharge as well as a mulching mode. Mulching would be ideal for anyone who is trying to improve or maintain the health of the grass as the grass clippings are finely cut before being delivered back to the lawn as a natural fertiliser, that is packed with essential nitrogen and moisture needed for a healthy, green and thick lawn.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of mulching read my article The Benefits of Mulching. 

Safety Features

Mountfield Empress 41 Li Practicalities

As with all cordless mowers, this one comes with the standard safety button that releases the Operator Presence Control lever. It is also supplied with a removable safety key next to the batteries. When this key is removed, the mower cannot be started.

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Practicalities

There aren’t that many self-propelled cordless mowers on the UK market that have decent run times that I would recommend. It’s great that Mountfield have added the Empress range and kept to their tradition of designing and manufacturing a product that works as stated and will stand the test of time. Yes, this mower is not cheap. Just look at it as an investment that will pay for itself over the coming years. Is it practical? Yes most certainly. Not only because it’s cordless and self-propelled, but because of all the cutting options and features this mower has to offer.

Keeping your lawn mower clean can be a bit of pain but the Empress 41 LI has got you covered with a handy wash port. You can attach your garden hose and wash out any grass clippings or dirt before storing your mower. This makes maintenance that little bit easier.

Moreover, since Mountfield is now owned by STIGA, as mentioned above, the equipment is always incredibly well made and robust. If you are looking for a mower that will stay the course then the durability of this model is bound to impress.

What’s more, the Empress comes with a two-year warranty, so in the unlikely event that anything does go wrong, you can feel confident that you are covered.

Mountfield Empress 41 Li User Manual

Click here to access the Mountfield Empress 41 Li user manual.

What’s Included In The Box?

  • 1 x Mountfield Empress 41 Li lawn mower
  • 1 x mulching plug
  • Side discharge chute
  • 1 x 60 litre grass box
  • User manual

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Self-propelled drive.
  • Great for lawns up to 550m².
  • 4 mowing options – cut and collect, mulching, side & rear discharge.
  • Hybrid grass collection box with full indicator.
  • Power share batteries across the range.
  • Double hand switch and cam locks.
  • Good selection of 6 easy to change cutting heights that range from 22mm to 65mm.
  • Comes with a two year warranty (including batteries).
  • Well made machine that is durable.
Cons
  • Battery and charger not supplied (bare tool).
  • Higher initial investment.
  • No foam on handle bars.
  • No larger rear wheels – available on larger 46 Li and 51 Li models.

Should You Buy This Model?

Mountfield Empress 41 Li Conclusion

Whether you should buy this Empress 41 LI model or not will depend on what you want to achieve with your mower. If you are looking for something to tackle a medium sized garden yet is lightweight and easy to use then this might be a good choice for you. This Mountfield Empress 41 LI would also be an excellent mower for people who are looking to move over from petrol, but do not want to lose out on the power of their machine.

While this is a slightly more pricey lawn mower, the features and quality of the tool perfectly reflect this. With a self-propelled drive, mowing just got a whole lot easier especially if your garden has a little more rugged or sloped terrain. With the four mowing options and a range of cutting heights, this is a mower that would suit a garden with more diverse needs.

The only dilemma you face is choosing which of the three Mountfield Empress models to choose from. Use the handy comparison table above to help you choose.

Conclusion

I have been impressed by a lot of the Mountfield mowers in the past, but this one really caught my attention and with so much to offer, it is little wonder. This is a robust, powerful and reliable piece of equipment that doesn’t scrimp on features. While it is missing a rear roller, no foam on the handles and a little tricky to fold the handles at the lower point, these are minor inconveniences when you think about everything else you are getting.

Once you have chosen your batteries and given them a charge, you’ll benefit from a nice running time and excellent operation and performance. For medium to large gardens, this is by far one of the best self-propelled cordless mowing tools on the market at the moment.

 


Where Should I Purchase This Mountfield Empress 41 Li?

Mountfield Freedom500 Empress 41LI Four-Wheeled Self-Propelled 4-in-1...
  • Includes 2 x E440 4Ah Batteries & C415DU Dual Charger
  • Collecting, Mulching, Side Discharge, Rear Discharge
  • Cutting Heights: 22 - 65 mm
  • Rear Wheel Drive
  • Grassbox 60L

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Mountfield Empress 41 Li FAQs

What is the cutting width of the Mountfield Empress 41 Li?

41cm.

Does the Mountfield Empress 41 Li come with a rear roller?

No.

How many batteries are supplied with this mower?

None, bare tool only.

How much does the Mountfield Empress 41 Li weigh?

25kg.

Can the Mountfield Empress 41 Li be stored vertically?

No vertical storage on this model.

What are the dimensions on the Mountfield Empress 41 Li?

Dimensions L x W x H (mm) 1250 x 670 x 1150.


Not sure about this electric mower? Click here to see more electric cordless lawn mower reviews.

Lawnmower Product Expert, Reviewer and Author at EasyLawnMowing.co.uk | 01284 615144 | info@easylawnmowing.co.uk | Website | + posts

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.

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