Electric Lawn Mower Reviews: The End of the Gas Era?
We tested the top battery-powered mowers on the market to find the best cut, the longest run-time, and the best value for your yard.
The Shift to Battery Power
The days of yanking a pull cord until your shoulder dislocates are largely over. In 2025, the debate of electric mowers vs. gas mowers has shifted decisively. Battery technology has advanced to the point where electric mowers aren’t just an eco-friendly alternative—they are often the superior choice for performance.
Modern lithium-ion batteries and high-efficiency brushless motors provide torque that rivals 160cc gas engines, without the noise, fumes, or maintenance headaches. Whether you are dealing with thick St. Augustine grass or maintaining a pristine fescue lawn, there is now an electric option that can handle the job.
In this comprehensive review, we break down the top contenders for this year, ranging from heavy-duty self-propelled units to agile push mowers, and even touch on the rising stars of the industry: robotic lawn mowers.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Category | Model | Voltage | Deck Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | EGO Power+ LM2135SP | 56V | 21-inch | Most Homeowners |
| Best Value | Greenworks Pro 80V | 80V | 21-inch | Budget & Power |
| Best Cut Quality | Toro Recycler 60V | 60V | 22-inch | Mulching Fans |
| Best Robot | Mammotion Luba 2 AWD | Battery | Dual Disk | Hills & automation |
| Best Lightweight | Worx Nitro 40V | 40V | 20-inch | Small Yards |
1. EGO Power+ LM2135SP Select Cut XP
The Gold Standard of Battery Mowers
If you ask any landscaping professional about battery equipment, EGO is usually the first name that comes up. The EGO Power+ LM2135SP continues to dominate the market because it balances power, run-time, and usability perfectly. It features the “Select Cut” multi-blade system, which uses two blades simultaneously to mulch grass into fine particles.
The 56V ARC Lithium battery is unique in its design, keeping the cells cool to prevent overheating during tough cuts. In our testing, the Touch Drive self-propel technology felt intuitive, adjusting speed with the pressure of your palm rather than a rigid lever.
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Verdict: For 90% of homeowners, this is the mower to buy. It replaces a gas mower without any compromises.
2. Greenworks Pro 80V 21-Inch Mower
High Voltage, Lower Price
Greenworks has been aggressive in pushing the voltage limits. Their Pro 80V system delivers massive torque, allowing the mower to power through damp or tall grass that would stall 40V models. The “Smart Cut” technology automatically increases blade speed when it detects resistance, saving battery life in thinner patches of grass.
One of the biggest selling points is the ecosystem. The same 80V battery works in their leaf blowers, chainsaws, and lawn edgers. If you are starting your tool collection from scratch, Greenworks offers incredible value bundles.
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3. Toro 60V Max Recycler
For the Lawn Perfectionist
Toro didn’t reinvent the wheel; they just electrified their legendary Recycler deck. The Toro 60V Max uses the same aerodynamic deck design as their gas models, which is famous for creating a vacuum that lifts grass for a clean cut. If you are obsessed with lawn care and want that manicured look, this is the machine for you.
The standout feature is the Personal Pace self-propel system. It senses your walking speed and matches it perfectly. There are no levers to adjust; you just walk, and the mower follows. It is the most natural driving experience on the market.
Maintenance Note: Like all steel-deck mowers, you should ensure you clean the underside to prevent rust and ensure airflow. Check our guide on removing dead grass buildup.
4. The Robotic Revolution: Why Walk at All?
If you are reviewing electric mowers in 2025, you cannot ignore the explosion of automation. Why push a mower when a robot can do it for you daily? The new generation of wire-free robots uses satellites (RTK) and cameras to navigate, eliminating the need for perimeter wires.
Top Contenders in Automation:
- Best for Hills: The Sunseeker Orion X7 features AWD and aggressive tread, handling slopes that even self-propelled walk-behind mowers struggle with.
- Best for Flat Lawns: The Segway Navimow offers precision cutting with a clean app interface, perfect for standard suburban lots.
- Commercial Grade: For massive properties, look into Kress Robotic Mowers, which utilize RTK networks similar to agricultural equipment.
While robotic mowers are a higher upfront investment, they save hundreds of hours of labor over their lifespan. They also promote lawn health by cutting frequently, which acts as natural lawn fertilizing through micro-clippings.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Electric Mower
Not all battery mowers are created equal. Here are the critical specs you need to understand before clicking “buy.”
1. Voltage (V) vs. Amp Hours (Ah)
Think of Voltage as the “horsepower” and Amp Hours as the “gas tank size.”
- Voltage: Higher voltage (60V, 80V) helps the mower plow through thick, wet grass without bogging down.
- Amp Hours: A 2.5Ah battery might last 20 minutes, while a 7.5Ah battery can go for over an hour. For a standard 1/3 acre lot, aim for at least 5.0Ah.
2. Deck Material: Steel vs. Composite
Steel decks (like Toro and Greenworks) are durable and create better suction for bagging, but they are heavy and can rust. Composite/Plastic decks (like EGO) are lighter, rust-proof, and carry a lifetime warranty on the deck shell, though they can crack under extreme impact.
3. Brushless Motors
Always choose a mower with a brushless motor. They are more efficient, run cooler, and provide more torque than older brushed motors. This is the secret sauce that allows electric mowers to compete with gas.
🔧 Maintenance Tips for Electric Mowers
Just because you don’t need oil changes doesn’t mean you can ignore maintenance. To keep your cut crisp:
- Sharpen Blades: Dull blades tear grass rather than cutting it, leading to disease. Learn how to sharpen lawn mower blades properly.
- Clean the Deck: Wet grass buildup reduces battery efficiency. Scrape the deck after every few mows.
- Battery Care: Store batteries indoors during extreme heat or winter cold. See our guide on preparing your lawn and tools for winter.
- Check for Damage: If you hit a rock, check the blade adapter. Unlike gas mowers which might bend a crankshaft, electric mowers often have sacrificial plastic parts to save the motor.
Common Issues and Fixes
Even the best tools have hiccups. If your electric mower stops mid-cut, it is usually one of two things: the battery overheated (let it cool for 15 mins) or the overload protection tripped due to tall grass.
If you are transitioning from a gas mower because you are tired of engine issues, you will find electric troubleshooting refreshing. No more carburetor cleaning or wondering why the lawn mower won’t start after winter storage. Usually, you just click the battery in and go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can electric mowers mulch leaves?
Yes! High-voltage mowers like the EGO and Toro 60V are excellent at mulching dry leaves in the fall. You may need to make two passes for heavy leaf coverage.
Are they rain-proof?
Most modern electric mowers have an IPX4 rating, meaning they can handle splashes and light rain. However, we never recommend mowing wet grass as it clumps and can spread fungi like brown patch.
Is self-propelled worth the extra cost?
If your yard is perfectly flat and under 1/4 acre, a push mower saves you money and battery life. For anything larger or sloped, self-propelled is a back-saver.
What happens if the battery dies in the middle of the lawn?
The blade stops instantly. If you have a rapid charger (common with EGO and Greenworks), you can usually get enough juice to finish the job in 20-30 minutes. We recommend owning two batteries to swap continuously.
Final Verdict: Which Mower Should You Choose?
The electric mower market in 2025 offers incredible options for every type of homeowner.
- Buy the EGO Power+ LM2135SP if you want the best all-around performance and a massive ecosystem of compatible tools.
- Buy the Toro Recycler 60V if you prioritize cut quality and the familiar feel of a traditional steel deck.
- Buy the Greenworks Pro 80V if you want heavy-duty power on a budget.
- Consider a Robot like the Worx Landroid or Luba 2 if you are ready to give up mowing entirely.
Whichever you choose, be sure to pair it with a good string trimmer to keep those edges sharp.
Ready to make the switch?
Shop All Top Rated Electric MowersLooking for more ways to improve your turf? Check out our guides on best lawn fertilizers and irrigation systems.
