A cordless electric lawn mower can be a game-changer—no gas fumes, no pull cords, and a much quieter mowing experience. But not all models are created equal. If you’re thinking about making the switch, there are a few important questions to ask before you buy.
A mower that’s perfect for one yard might not work as well for another, so it’s worth taking the time to make sure you’re getting the right fit.
1. Will It Handle the Size of Your Lawn?
The size of your yard plays a huge role in which cordless electric lawn mower you should choose. Cordless models run on battery power, and once that battery runs out, you’re stuck waiting for a recharge—unless you have a spare.
For small yards, most models will get the job done on a single charge. If your yard is on the larger side, though, you’ll need to check the battery life carefully. Some mowers run for just 30 minutes before they need a recharge, while others can last over an hour.
If you don’t want to deal with mid-mow interruptions, look for a model that either has long battery life or allows for easy battery swaps.
2. How Powerful Does It Need to Be?
Not all cordless mowers have the same power. A lower-voltage model might be fine if you have a small lawn with well-maintained grass, but if your yard tends to get overgrown—or if you have thick grass varieties—you’ll want a mower with more cutting power.
Higher-voltage batteries and brushless motors tend to handle tougher conditions better. A weaker motor may struggle with wet or dense grass, forcing you to go over the same patch multiple times. That’s frustrating and drains the battery faster.
If your grass is thick or you tend to let it grow longer between mows, don’t skimp on power.
3. How Easy Is It to Adjust the Cutting Height?
Different seasons, grass types, and personal preferences mean you won’t always want to cut your lawn to the same height. A mower that makes height adjustments simple can save you a lot of hassle.
Some models have a single lever that lets you adjust all four wheels at once—quick and easy. Others require you to adjust each wheel separately, which can be annoying if you change heights frequently.
Check the adjustment range, too. Some mowers only let you choose between a couple of height settings, while others give you more flexibility.
4. What’s the Right Deck Size for Your Yard?
Deck size refers to the width of the cutting path. A wider deck means fewer passes across the lawn, which can save time—but it also means a bulkier mower.
If you have a smaller yard or lots of tight spaces, a compact model might be the better choice. A wider deck (20 inches or more) can be great for larger lawns, but only if you have enough room to maneuver it easily.
The best choice depends on a balance between efficiency and ease of use.
5. What Happens to the Grass Clippings?
Do you prefer bagging, mulching, or just letting the clippings discharge onto the lawn? Some cordless mowers let you switch between all three options, while others only offer one or two.
● Bagging keeps the lawn tidy but means stopping to empty the bag.
● Mulching chops the grass into tiny pieces that decompose quickly, feeding your lawn.
● Side discharge spreads clippings out, which works fine if you don’t mind a slightly messier look.
Think about what works best for your yard and how much effort you want to put into cleanup.
6. How Long Will the Battery Last?
Battery life isn’t just about runtime—it’s also about longevity. How long will the battery hold a charge after a few seasons of use?
Some mowers come with batteries that start losing efficiency after a year or two, meaning shorter mow times and more frequent recharges. Check how long the manufacturer says the battery will last before it needs replacing.
It’s also worth looking into how long it takes to charge. If a full charge takes several hours, you may want an extra battery to swap in when needed.
7. How Easy Is It to Store and Maintain?
Cordless mowers are generally lower maintenance than gas models, but some are easier to take care of than others.
If you’re short on storage space, look for a mower with foldable handles or vertical storage capability. Some models take up a surprising amount of room, so double-check the dimensions before you buy.
Blade maintenance is another thing to consider. Are replacement blades easy to find? Is the mower designed for easy cleaning? A model that lets you rinse off the deck quickly will save you from grass buildup and clogging issues down the road.
Picking the Right Mower for You
A cordless electric mower can make lawn care a whole lot easier, but choosing the wrong one can lead to frustration. By thinking through these questions beforehand, you’ll have a much better chance of finding a mower that fits your needs.
Whether you prioritize battery life, cutting power, or ease of use, taking the time to choose wisely will ensure you get a mower that makes yard work smoother and more enjoyable.