Stiga Autonomous Robot Mower Summary
In days gone by, it was necessary to install a boundary wire if you wanted to use a robot lawn mower; what a faff that was! However, with technology advancing faster than the speed of light, we’re now in a position where wires are becoming a thing of the past.
At the moment, this is still a relatively new concept, so you won’t find masses of wire-free robot mowers out there. But there is a semi-decent number and mower giants Stiga are one of the first on the bandwagon with their Experience Series.
This series comprises three robotic lawn mowers that come in a choice of sizes meaning you’ll be able to find something that perfectly matches the needs and size of your garden. In my Stiga Experience Series Autonomous robot mower review, I’m going to cover the ins and outs of each of these products and help you to decide whether this is the right range for your garden.
Main Features
- Suitable for gardens up to 5000m²
- Durable, high quality blades that are designed to stay sharp
- 10 mowing zones
- Stiga Go app compatible with Alexa
- Active Guidance System GPS
- 4G connection to the cloud
- No need for a boundary wire
- Powerful 5.0Ah battery
- Ability to work on sloped gardens
- Gentle on your lawn with Stiga Soft Touch
Stiga Autonomous Robot Mower Capabilities
The Stiga Experience Series offers easy lawn mowing like never before. These machines may be pricey but they’re bursting with capabilities that make them super efficient and will leave your lawn looking incredibly well manicured.
Lawn Area Coverage
The Stiga Experience Series comes in a choice of three sizes, and this is in relation to the size of the cutting deck and the lawn area the machine is most suited to. The great news is that even the smallest mower in the range is designed to cut an impressively large area so those with big gardens can rejoice!
Let’s start with the Stiga A 1500 which is suitable for lawns up to 1500 square metres and comes with an 18 cm cutting width. However, if you’re looking for something for a slightly larger lawn then you might opt for the Stiga A 3000 which, as the name suggests is ideal for gardens up to 3000 square metres and boasts a 26 cm cutting width; that’s quite a difference from the smaller model.
At the far end of the spectrum, there is the Stiga A 5000 and, you guessed it, this one is ready to tackle lawns up to 5000 square metres thanks to its 26 cm cutting deck. Now, I hear what you’re thinking; that’s the same size as the Stiga A 3000, so what’s the difference in terms of lawn size?
Well this is all down to the run time. The Stiga A 5000 operates using 2 5.0Ah batteries giving it a run time of up to 270 minutes. The Stiga A 3000 only runs on a single 5.0Ah battery so the running time is reduced to 150 minutes which is more than suitable for a 3000 square metre garden. But I’ll talk more about power later on.
Max Incline
One of the things I get asked all the time is whether an autonomous robot mower will cope with slopes. For the most part, the answer is yes but the incline varies between models.
With the Stiga Experience Series, you can expect your robot mower to handle inclines up to 50%. However, if you go for the Stiga A 1500 then this is reduced to 45% so this model may not be as suitable for gardens with as many steep slopes.
Moreover, when cutting near the edge, the Stiga Experience Series’ ability to cope with inclines is reduced to 20% and that applies to all of the models in the range.
Charge Mow Time
If you purchase the Stiga A 1500 or 3000 then the battery will fully recharge within 120 minutes. However, if you’ve opted for the Stiga A 5000 then this charge time increases to 150 minutes. It’s not a huge difference when you consider that you’re having to charge two batteries. Besides, the mower charges at its charge station and as such the charge time does not have any bearing on the actual running of the mower. As long as it covers the area specified and mows the lawn twice each day, then we don’t need to worry about the charge nor the run-time. Just be sure to choose the Stiga that best suites your lawn size and configuration.
Cutting Heights
Having the ability to set different cutting heights is essential to the health of your lawn. The great news is that the Stiga Experience Series offers excellent versatility compared to some robot mowers.
The Stiga A 3000 and Stiga A 5000 both have an adjustable cutting height between 20 mm and 65 mm. If you go for the smallest model in the range, the Stiga A 1500 then this versatility is dampened slightly with choices between 20 mm and 60 mm; it’s a minute difference and far from being a deal breaker.
What I really love is that you don’t even have to touch the lawn mower to adjust the cutting height as this is a smart feature that can be operated via the app.
There are two main types of navigation system for autonomous robot mowers without a boundary wire. You can read more about these in my guide to buying boundary wireless robot mowers.
All three of the Stiga Experience Series mowers benefit from AGS (active guidance system) which is a form of GPS. But it’s far more advanced than some of the GPS systems you may have used for other applications.
For starters, this is an intelligent system that learns as it works. It’ll pick up on areas where there is a weakness or blockage in the signal. On top of this, it learns which time of the day signal may be lost in line with satellite orbit, so it’ll adjust its mowing habits to ensure maximum efficiency at all times.
Of course, one of the biggest benefits of the Stiga Experience Series is the lack of a boundary wire. This works because the AGS maps out the lawn and remembers it, saving this information so it knows when and where to cut. If you’re looking for a totally hassle-free way of keeping your lawn well maintained, this smart system really does have you covered.
You may be wondering how the system functions, and this is thanks to the constant connection with the cloud. This is achieved via a 4G signal which is incredibly reliable. However, I should point out that in order to use this signal, you must purchase a connection kit which involves a subscription fee. I realise that some people might find this a little excessive considering the upfront cost of the mowers within the Stiga Experience series. However, you have to consider that some other robot lawn mowers require extra equipment like additional reference stations and the signal isn’t as reliable. Personally, I think it’s an extra that’s worth forking out for.
You have the option to choose between different connectivity packs and these are set out with various mowing hours. This essentially refers to the time the mower leaves the docking station to when it returns. Which pack is right for you will depend on the model and the size of your garden.
Power System
Stiga hasn’t missed a trick with the Experience Series and each of the models is kitted out with the most up to date lithium-ion batteries for maximum performance. They use empower batteries which are five times more durable than the industry standard requires so you know you’re getting the best bang for your buck. Not only are these batteries powerful enough to mow the entire lawn in just two sessions each day, their longevity is astonishing.
Stiga claims that each battery is designed to stand the test of time and that even after four years of use; that’s around 1500 charging sessions, the batteries will still be at 80% of their original capacity. One of the things that people hate about using battery powered mowers of any type is the need to replace the batteries every couple of years, but I doubt this will be an issue with this range.
Not only are the batteries super reliable but they’re also incredibly powerful and that’s what gives them their long running time. With each of the models in the Stiga Experience Series, you get a 5.0Ah battery (two batteries with the Stiga A 5000.)
These batteries provide you with enough power for two cuts each day which Stiga claims is more than enough to keep your lawn well maintained. Below you can see the running time for each model:
- Stiga A 1500 – 150 minutes
- Stiga A 3000 – 150 minutes (while the run time is the same as above, this mower covers more ground at once thanks to its larger cutting deck.)
- Stiga A 5000 – 270 minutes (while the cutting deck on this model is the same as the previous model, it benefits from 2 5.0Ah batteries, hence the longer running time.)
Each of the Stiga Experience Series mowers also benefits from a brushless motor which offers smooth operation and a long life without much maintenance.
Charging Station
All of the models within the Stiga Experience Series come with a docking station in the box so there’s no need to buy any additional equipment. I love that not only does the mower automatically charge itself, but it’ll take the shortest path back to the docking station when it needs to refill its batteries.
You’ll also get a reference station which is the piece of equipment that provides a signal between the charging station and the lawn mower. I was very impressed to see that there was a 5-metre cable for this reference station included in the box which extends your options on where it can be placed.
To ensure that your docking station is securely installed, you’ll also receive seven docking station pegs in the box.
Cutting Pattern
One of the main benefits of the Stiga Experience Series is that you don’t need a boundary wire. This truly is the main selling point and means that each of the mowers in the range is able to intelligently learn the perimeter of your lawn as you enter it in the app.
Depending on which model you buy, the mower will be fitted with 4 (Stiga A 1500) or 6 (Stiga A 3000 and 5000) pivoting blades that offer precise cutting. What’s more, the blades are made from a material that is designed to stay sharp which will certainly help to lessen the amount of maintenance you need to do.
In terms of cutting patterns, the Stiga Experience Series robot mowers use a systematic cutting pattern which ensures that no area will be overmown. It does this thanks to a variety of multi direction patterns which you can change within the app. This means that you can optimise the health of your lawn by choosing the most appropriate mowing pattern; while you might not have to physically mow, you’re still in complete control.
There is, of course, a limit on the number of cutting patterns which include chessboard, parallel east-west, parallel north-south and dense grid. But the beauty of the STIGA GO app is that you can combine these in any way you please.
Multi Zone
If you’re planning to spend so much money on an autonomous robot lawn mower, then I’ll assume that you want to get as much use out of it as possible. Well, there’s good news if you opt for one of the Stiga Experience Series machines; you can set up to 10 mowing zones and this is all done directly from the app so it’s really easy.
Rain Sensor
All of the robot lawn mowers within the Stiga Experience Series come with a rain sensor. It’s never good to mow in wet conditions as this could be detrimental to the health of your grass. Not to mention the damage it could do to the electrics in your mower.
However, as soon as the Stiga A 1500, 3000 or 5000 senses rain, it will return to its docking station and wait for conditions to improve. I love this feature as it means that, even when you’re away from home, you don’t need to worry about rushing back to rescue your mower.
App and Installation
If there’s one thing that I really loved about the Stiga Experience Series, it’s the fact that the app is so user friendly. It’s no secret that a lot of people are fearful of technology because they think it’s going to be complex but setup and using the app couldn’t be easier, even if you’re totally new to this type of tech.
You will have full control over your machine with the STIGA GO app and what really stood out to me was that you can link the app to Alexa. This makes controlling your robot mower even simpler.
Stiga Autonomous Robot Mower Safety Features
Generally speaking, robot lawn mowers are pretty safe, but this wouldn’t be possible without some of the following safety features.
Lift and Tilt Sensors
Like many robotic lawn mowers, the Stiga Experience Series benefits from a lift and tilt sensor. What this does is stops the blade in the event that the mower is lifted off the ground or tilted which is a super important feature if you have curious children and will prevent injuries from the sharp blades.
Obstacle Detection
I’ve talked a lot about how smart the Stiga Experience Series autonomous robot lawn mowers are. One of the things that makes them so smart is their ability to detect and avoid obstacles. Even if you’ve got decorative items, walls, fences, flower beds or even things like kids toys on the lawn, the mower will detect these and mow in the opposite direction.
App Lock
I know that many people are worried about their robot mowers being stolen but most brands offer some kind of anti-theft feature to prevent this. With the Stiga Experience Series, this comes in the form of App Lock which allows you to remotely lock your lawn mower so, if anyone tries to take it, they aren’t going to get much use out of it.
Warranty
I think it’s pretty clear that the Stiga Experience Series is a reliable, robust and long lasting range of lawn mowers and the warranty certainly reflects this quality.
Stiga offers a comprehensive 5 year warranty on all of the robot mowers within this range but there are some things to keep in mind if you don’t want to void it. For example, according to the Stiga terms, you must have the machine serviced by the end of the second year or the warranty will no longer be valid. Furthermore, this service must be carried out by an authorised dealer.
You can find out more about the terms and conditions of your Stiga warranty by following this link.
What’s Included In The Box?
- 1 x Stiga A robot lawn mower (three sizes to choose from)
- Docking station
- Reference station
- Charger
- Docking station pegs
- Docking station peg tool
- 5 metre cable for reference station
- 4 blades and 4 screws (Stiga A 1500 only)
- 6 blades and 6 screws (Stiga A 3000 and A 5000 only)
- Note that the user manual is available to download from the Stiga website
Stiga A 5000 User Guide
Click here to download the Stiga A 1500, A 3000 & A 5000 User Guide
Stiga A 5000 Pros and Cons
Stiga A 5000 Autonomous Robot Mower Video Guide
Should You Buy This Model?
The first thing that most of you are going to notice about the Stiga Experience Series is the high upfront cost. I can’t deny that this is a pricey investment, but I do think it is one that is worth it.
If you have been looking for a top of the range autonomous robot mower with all the latest tech then I’d absolutely recommend the Stiga A 1500, 3000 or 5000. They are packed with features that make getting started with a robotic lawn mower a breeze and the quality of the cut is excellent.
What’s more, while the investment is high, this is a fantastic way to stay on top of your lawn care without having to do any of the hard work. And that’s a statement I really mean. With most robot mowers, you have to first install the boundary wire but with the Stiga Experience Series, you have to do nothing more than go through a few settings on the app; then you’re good to go!
I would recommend the Stiga Experience Series to anyone who is serious about switching to robotics. Since the range is so well built and so reliable, this is a tool that can be considered an investment in the future of your garden.
Conclusion
The robot mower has become a common feature in gardens around the world in recent years. But if there’s one thing that grinds everyone’s gears it’s the fact that you have to install boundary wires, and these aren’t always the most reliable form of navigation.
All that is about to change with the Stiga Experience Series which contains a choice of three powerful, reliable and efficient autonomous robot lawn mowers which I think are an excellent investment.
Each mower in the range suits a different sized garden in terms of cutting width and battery power. But everything else remains the same and you’ll benefit from smart navigation, mowing on sloped or uneven terrain, a range of smart adjustable cutting heights, safety features and so much more.
If you’re about to get into the world of robotic lawn mowers, I think the Stiga Experience Series is a great range to choose.
Learn more about GPS RTK technology and current robotic mower technology here.
Boundary Wireless Robotic Mowers FAQs
Do all robot mowers need boundary wires?
No, new technology means that the boundary wire could soon be a thing of the past. While there are still many robot mowers that use boundary wires, manufacturers are now introducing wireless options which will be available in 2023.
Which brands make robot mowers without a boundary wire?
At the moment, the number of wireless robotic lawn mowers on the market is not large. This is still new technology and, as such, only a few manufacturers have jumped on board so far. These include Husqvarna, Stiga and Mammotion for RTK mowers as well as Segway, Toro and Lawnmaster who make mowers with camera guidance.
How does a boundary wireless robot mower work?
Robot mowers without a wire work in one of two ways. Firstly, there is the Real Time Kinematics system which relies on satellites in a similar, but more advanced way to GPS. Secondly, there are robotic mowers that are fitted with cameras that essentially act as eyes, preventing it from bumping into things or moving out of the mowing zone.
Will my robotic lawn mower cross my driveway?
No, the new boundary wireless robotic lawn mowers are intelligent enough to detect where they are within a 2 cm accuracy and determine where they need to go next. This makes it easy for them to stay within the mowing zone.
When were boundary wireless robotic mowers invented?
Boundary wireless robot mowers are still a very new concept and were only introduced to the market last year. In 2023, UK buyers can now purchase and pre-order the latest models.
Why would I want to get rid of a perimeter wire?
One of the main reasons that boundary wireless mowers look set to take the world by storm is they are much more low maintenance. When you install a boundary wire, there is a risk of it being damaged by things like ground movement, animals and other things. This means regularly adjusting or replacing the wire.
Final Thoughts
I know there’s a lot to think about when it comes to choosing a robotic lawn mower, but it really is worth taking the time to weigh up your options. If you’re still unsure, I have lots of helpful information throughout this website to make it easier for you. Why not try out my tool where you can simply enter your requirements and I’ll recommend the best matched mowers for you. Together, we’ll find a great lawn mower for you and your garden!
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.
