John Smith Can batteries finally make the lawn-mower roar polite? Quiet power, fewer fumes, and fewer trips to the gas station.
The gas can is getting jealous. Lawn day no longer needs a cloud of exhaust and a wrestling match with a pull cord. Battery mowers now deliver real power, less fuss, and a lot more silence.
Neighbors notice the quiet. The homeowner notices the convenience. They get long runtimes, easy starts, and fewer maintenance headaches—sometimes for an entire yard on a single charge.
Our Top Picks
EGO 21" Select Cut Self-Propelled
It pairs gas-like cutting power with a versatile multi-blade system and long runtime from included batteries. For homeowners who want configurable cut quality and the convenience of fast charging, this mower hits a high bar.
What this mower is for
The EGO 21" Select Cut is designed for homeowners who want near-gas performance without the fuss of fuel. It’s aimed at medium to larger yards where cutting quality and runtime matter—especially when owners want choices between mulching, bagging, and longer runs.
Key features and how they perform
The mower’s headline feature is the Select Cut multi-blade system. Owners can swap lower blades depending on whether they want fine mulching, high-lift bagging suction, or an extended-runtime blade that balances cut quality and battery life. The included 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery delivers around an hour of runtime in typical conditions; the bundled extra 5.0Ah battery adds flexibility on longer jobs.
These components work together to give a cutting performance that reviewers said comes close to comparable gas mowers. The self-propelled Touch Drive is intuitive by pressure control, and the LED work lights extend usable mowing hours at dawn or dusk.
Benefits, limitations, and real-world tips
Buyers will appreciate the fast charging and cross-compatibility with other EGO 56V tools; if a household already has EGO batteries, the mower becomes an even better value. The Select Cut system is genuinely useful—switching blades makes a noticeable difference when someone switches between weekly mulching and heavier bagging jobs. However, the mower is a premium product and carries a premium price; shoppers should expect to pay for that capability.
Overall, this mower is best for people who want configurable cutting behavior and quick recharge times and who are comfortable paying for a top-tier battery setup.
Greenworks 82V 21" Self-Propelled Bundle
It pairs a powerful brushless drive with high-capacity batteries to deliver long run times and strong cutting performance. For homeowners with up to 1.5 acres, the bundle reduces the need to swap packs mid-job and integrates into Greenworks' wider ecosystem.
Intended use and performance profile
This Greenworks 82V bundle is aimed at buyers who prioritize runtime and power over entry-level cost. The combination of an 8.0Ah and a 6.0Ah pack is useful for properties that are too large for a single small pack but where cordless convenience is still preferred over a gas engine.
What stands out
The kit’s 2.5 kW brushless motor and high blade-tip speed are engineered to deliver consistent cuts and strong performance through thicker growth. The batteries include multi-protection BMS circuitry that manages temperature, charge levels, and current to protect cells and extend service life.
In day-to-day use, owners will notice fewer interruptions: the higher-capacity packs let taller or denser lawns be mowed with fewer battery swaps. The mower is engineered to compete with comparable gas models on drive and cut consistency, and the ecosystem compatibility lets owners power other Greenworks 82V tools with the same batteries.
Trade-offs and buying tips
The main trade-off is cost and weight—high-capacity batteries add price and heft—so shoppers should weigh that against the time and hassle saved by longer runtimes. The two-year tool and battery warranty is standard for the brand, but consumers who prioritize longer protection windows should verify warranty terms at purchase.
Overall, the Greenworks 82V bundle is a strong choice for homeowners who want battery runtime that approaches gas convenience without sacrificing electric advantages like quiet operation and low maintenance.
Greenworks 80V 21" Brushless Self-Propelled
It delivers strong brushless performance and a useful feature set at a competitive price, with acceptable runtime for many suburban yards. Those who need longer continuous runtime may want additional batteries but will appreciate the included charger and aluminum handles.
Who should consider this mower
This Greenworks 80V 21" mower suits homeowners who want a robust brushless motor and useful convenience features without stepping up to the most expensive bundles. It’s a sensible pick for half-acre and smaller properties when paired with an extra battery.
Notable features and everyday use
The brushless motor increases torque and longevity compared with brushed alternatives; the steel deck and aluminum folding handles give a mix of strength and easier storage. The mower supports a 4-in-1 system for versatility across seasons and tasks, and the included LED headlight is handy for early- or late-day work.
In practice, the mower cuts cleanly for routine maintenance and handles moderate thickness well. The 4.0Ah pack typically covers smaller lawns; buyers with larger yards should budget for a second high-capacity battery to avoid mid-job swapping.
Practical considerations and verdict
The standout of this package is its price-to-feature ratio: brushless drive, LED lights, and a folding handle are features usually found on higher-priced models. The bonus 24V tool kit also adds immediate household value. The trade-off is runtime—if a property regularly demands long continuous runs, a larger battery or a different model in the Greenworks 82V family would be a better fit.
Overall, this mower is a solid choice for customers who want strong brushless performance and useful extras without stretching to the highest-priced bundles.
RYOBI 40V HP Whisper Series 21"
It’s one of the quietest high-performance battery mowers and offers convenient features like push-button start and SMART TREK pacing. For homeowners who mow early or late and care about low noise, this model is a compelling choice.
Who should buy this mower
The RYOBI 40V HP Whisper Series will appeal to homeowners who prioritize quiet operation without sacrificing cutting power. It’s especially attractive in neighborhoods with noise concerns or for people who need to mow at non-peak hours.
Standout features and practical operation
RYOBI’s HP brushless motor and Cross Cut multi-blade system let users choose between a two-blade option for precise cutting or a one-blade mode for longer runtime. SMART TREK technology adapts drive speed to the user’s walking pace, making it easier to maintain a consistent pace across varied terrain.
In practice, reviewers and owners note how quiet the mower is compared with gas equivalents; neighbors remark less frequently at early starts. The all-wheel-drive system helps on small slopes and uneven yards, although the unit’s weight can make lifting or transporting it more strenuous than with lighter models.
Considerations and advice
For many users the trade-offs—added weight and slightly more mechanical complexity—are worth the quieter operation and convenience features. RYOBI’s generous warranty on the deck and five-year tool warranty provide extra reassurance, but buyers should factor in the mower’s heft if storage access or frequent vehicle transport is expected.
Overall, the RYOBI 40V HP Whisper Series is a solid mid-to-upper-tier cordless mower for people who value low noise, smart pacing systems, and dependable brushless performance.
Worx 40V Brushless 3-in-1 Self-Propelled
It offers excellent value for smaller yards and for households already invested in the Worx PowerShare battery platform. The mower is light, easy to maneuver, and its Intellicut sensor-driven efficiency stretches runtime in mixed conditions.
Who this mower is for
The Worx 40V WG753 targets cost-conscious buyers and those who already use Worx PowerShare batteries. It’s an appealing option for townhouse yards, moderate suburban lots, and homeowners who value low weight and ecosystem compatibility.
Features that matter in everyday mowing
A brushless motor provides extra power and longer life, while Intellicut technology automatically ups motor speed for thick patches and dials it back in sparse areas to conserve energy. The mower ships with two 5.0Ah batteries and a dual-port charger, which makes it ready to tackle most small-to-medium lawns without additional purchases.
In real-world use the mower is easy to start and maneuver. Owners frequently note that the light weight and self-propelled assistance reduce fatigue, and the included batteries are often enough for yards under about half an acre. For very tall, wet, or dense grass, runtime will fall and users report needing to recharge or swap in fresh packs mid-job.
Practical advice and limitations
This mower’s strengths are accessibility and affordability rather than maximum runtime or commercial-level durability. It’s a good match for smaller properties and buyers who want an inexpensive entry into cordless mowing with a popular battery platform.
Overall, the Worx 40V is a sensible, value-oriented mower that will please most homeowners with smaller lawns and those who already own Worx battery tools.
Final Thoughts
Best overall: EGO 21" Select Cut Self-Propelled — It combines near-gas cutting power with a configurable multi-blade system and long runtime from the included batteries. Choose this if the priority is cut quality and the flexibility to dial in finish and speed. It’s best for homeowners who want a premium feel and fast charging so they can finish larger jobs without drama.
Best for big yards and long runtime: Greenworks 82V 21" Self-Propelled Bundle — The high-capacity batteries and brushless drive make this the pick for yards up to about 1.5 acres. It’s a practical choice for someone who wants sustained runtime and fewer battery swaps, and it plugs into Greenworks’ wider battery ecosystem for other yard equipment.
FAQ
They can, but performance drops with very dense or soggy turf. Brushless motors (like on the Greenworks and EGO models) keep torque high under load, so they cut better in tough conditions. For consistently heavy or wet grass, the EGO’s multi-blade system and stronger power delivery will hold up best.
It depends on battery size and grass conditions. For the high-capacity Greenworks 82V bundle, one full set often covers up to about 1–1.5 acres under normal conditions. For smaller 40V systems, plan on 1–2 battery swaps for an acre unless the grass is light and the mower is very efficient.
Yes. Models such as the RYOBI 40V HP Whisper Series are explicitly designed to be quiet, making early-morning or late-evening mowing less likely to bother neighbors. Even the more powerful 80V/82V machines are noticeably quieter than comparable gas mowers.
Manufacturers generally recommend storing batteries and the mower in a dry, sheltered place. Leaving the mower under a covered shed for a day is usually fine, but long-term exposure to rain, extreme heat, or freezing temperatures can shorten battery life and damage electronics.
Yes. Brushless motors run more efficiently, produce more power for their size, and last longer with less maintenance. That efficiency translates to longer runtime per charge and better performance in dense grass—which is why most high-rated models on this list use brushless drives.
If the homeowner already owns compatible batteries, it saves money and simplifies charging. The Worx PowerShare and Greenworks ecosystems let batteries swap between tools—handy for someone who uses multiple cordless yard tools. If they don’t own other tools yet, they should weigh cost vs. future convenience.
I appreciate that you included the Whisper Series. Noise matters to me — I mow early before work and don’t want to wake the neighbors.
Five-line impressions from my experience:
1) Super quiet compared to other battery mowers.
2) Push-button start = love it.
3) SMART TREK pacing actually helps on inclines.
4) Not the longest runtime, but fine for smaller yards.
5) Overall would buy again.
Glad to hear the Whisper Series performed well for early-morning mowing — the quietness is definitely its standout. Thanks for the detailed bullet points!
Does the SMART TREK make it feel like it’s doing the work for you? I’m a bit lazy and that feature sounds perfect 😂
Question for anyone who knows: are Greenworks 82V batteries compatible with the Greenworks 80V 21″ model listed here? I see different voltage numbers and it confuses me. I don’t want to buy the wrong batteries and end up with them useless.
Please advise — battery ecosystems are a jungle.
If you want, tell us the exact model numbers and we can double-check compatibility for you.
Good catch — voltage differences usually indicate different battery platforms. The 82V bundle and the 80V models are from different product lines and batteries are typically not cross-compatible. Always check the manufacturer’s compatibility chart before buying extras.
Correct — I tried to mix 80V and 82V once and they wouldn’t snap in. Painful lesson 😅
Thanks for explaining — battery standards are the worst part of cordless tools for sure.
Also, some brands call their packs like ’82V’ when the nominal rating is different; it’s best to rely on the exact model numbers on the pack.
I got a Worx WG753 last summer because I wanted something cheap and light. It’s fine for my tiny front lawn, but the battery life was… underwhelming. I had to take a coffee break and swap batteries halfway through. Not a deal-breaker, but don’t expect miracles.
Also, the Intellicut sensor is neat but seems more like marketing than magic.
Same here — bought Worx for a 0.15-acre patch and it was perfect. If your yard is bigger, it’s a no-go.
Appreciate the honest take, Michael. Worx tends to be a value choice — great for small yards or for people already in the PowerShare ecosystem, but it won’t match the runtime of higher-voltage systems.
I bought the Greenworks 80V with the LED headlight and aluminum handles. The headlight is surprisingly useful for shady properties — I mow a lot of low-light spots under trees.
One tip: tighten the handle bolts after a few uses; they loosened on mine.
Ooh headlight feature I hadn’t thought about. Thanks — that might push me to the 80V.
I didn’t even know mowers had headlights now. That’s brilliant for folks in wooded lots.
Great practical tip about the bolts. Small maintenance items like that can save headaches later.
I’m torn between getting a 21″ mower or something smaller. I like the idea of self-propelled for my back incline, but worried about service/repairs if something goes wrong. Do these brands have decent support? Any horror stories?
Service experiences vary by region. EGO and Greenworks generally have good parts availability and service networks; Worx and other value brands may rely more on local dealers. Check local repair shops and warranty terms before buying.
I had an EGO charger issue last year and the warranty exchange was straightforward. YMMV depending on your dealer.
Noise aside, how different is the cut quality between these models? Does the Greenworks 80V perform close to the EGO or is there a noticeable difference?
Also curious about maintenance: do blades need professional sharpening often, or are they simple to DIY?
EGO tends to give a slightly crisper cut thanks to its multi-blade system, but Greenworks 80V is close for most lawns — you might notice the difference more on fine fescue or if you care about striped finishes.
Blades can be DIY-sharpened a few times; replace when they get bent or mass is lost. Always follow safety steps when removing and installing blades.
Is there a place that sells replacement blades that aren’t ridiculous? I found OEMs pricey.
There are reputable third-party blades; just ensure the blade matches the mower’s model and has proper balance specs. When in doubt, OEM is safer but more expensive.
I sharpened my blades at home once a season and it’s simple: remove, file/bench grinder, rebalance. But if you’re not comfortable, a small shop can do it cheaply.
Hands-on with the EGO LM2135SP:
I own this mower and can say the multi-blade system really improves cut quality — it leaves a nicer finish compared to older single-blade models I used to have.
The included 7.5Ah + extra 5Ah means I stop worrying about swapping mid-job for my ~3/4 acre. Build feels solid, and the rapid charger actually is rapid.
Only caveat: it’s heavier than some competitors, so if you lift it often (into a truck or overhead shelf) plan accordingly.
Agreed — the finish is a big reason I stuck with EGO. My lawn looks professionally done after mowing.
Bags well — I switch to mulch in spring/fall and bag in late fall for leaves. The chute design helps.
Thanks for the detailed write-up, Robert — that multi-blade note is useful for readers prioritizing finish quality over absolute weight.
Does it bag well? I’m thinking about mulch vs bagging for leaf season.
If you have up to 1.5 acres and want long runtime, the Greenworks 82V bundle is excellent.
I ran a side-by-side on a 1-acre mixed grass lot:
– Greenworks 82V (8.0Ah + 6.0Ah): completed mowing in one go with ~10–15% reserve.
– EGO (single 7.5Ah): powerful but needed the extra 5Ah to match total runtime.
So the 82V bundle is more ‘set-and-forget’ for larger yards, and it integrates well with other Greenworks tools if you plan to expand.
Good to know — plus, the dual port charger in that bundle is a big convenience.
Thanks for the comparative data, Emily — very helpful for readers choosing for acreage and tool ecosystem considerations.
That’s exactly the reassurance I needed. Thanks for the real-world numbers.
Nice list. Quick question — for a 1-acre lawn with some hills, would you pick the EGO LM2135SP or the Greenworks 82V bundle? I’m leaning toward runtime so swapping batteries is a pain.
Any owners of the 82V have input on how long it actually runs with the 8.0Ah + 6.0Ah included?
I used the 82V bundle last season on ~1.2 acres. With the 8Ah battery I could do about 40–45 mins on moderate grass. The 6Ah was handy to finish steeper patches. If you hate swaps, the 82V bundle is probably the way to go.
If you have hills, test the self-propelled feature before buying — some models handle slopes better than others.
Thanks — that matches what I’ve read elsewhere. Also check if your property has thick crabgrass or tall weeds; that kills runtime faster.
Good question. Our testing notes suggest the Greenworks 82V bundle gives better continuous runtime overall because of the higher combined amp-hours, which makes it a great choice for larger lots. The EGO has slightly stronger cutting feel per battery but the extra battery in the package helps close that gap.
I live in a townhouse and my yard is tiny. Is 21″ overkill? I want something lightweight that’s easy to store. Any suggestions from the list?
Another thought: some brands fold handles very compactly — check folded height before buying.
For a very small yard, 21″ could be more mower than you need. The Worx is the lightest and most compact option on the list; also consider a smaller push-only model if storage space is tight.
I have a narrow backyard and bought a 16″ push mower — cheaper and easier to store. But if you want self-propelled, maybe the Worx is the best compromise.
Great roundup — thanks! I own the EGO LM2135SP and can confirm the cutting power feels very close to gas. The extra BA2800T battery they bundle is a game changer for my 0.6-acre yard.
Pros: solid mulch, quiet compared to my old mower, quick charger.
Cons: it’s a bit heavy when lifting into the shed.
Would recommend if you want near-gas performance without fumes.
I have the EGO too — with the extra 5.0Ah I can do my lawn and still have ~20% left. YMMV depending on grass and terrain.
Great to hear! How many passes before you need the extra battery? I’m trying to decide between the EGO and the Greenworks 82V bundle.
Thanks for sharing your hands-on experience, Sarah — especially on the weight. Good tip for people with sheds or small garages to consider lifting assistance or a ramp.
My yard is basically a jungle and requires industrial-strength tech — kidding, but I did pick the Worx because broke college student vibe. It’s light, zippy, and won’t make my wallet cry.
If you’re a lawn snob, don’t expect pro-level power. If you want ‘cleans lawn without drama’ it’s perfect. 😂
This made me laugh. Same — I wanted something that gets the job done without emptying my savings.
Humor appreciated! Value picks like Worx have a solid place for many buyers — just be honest about expectations on runtime and heavy-duty performance.