Can a battery-powered mower make yard work…fun? (Spoiler: it can at least make it quieter and less smelly.)
I ditched gas and never looked back. My yard still grows like it has a vendetta, but mowing it now feels smarter, not harder.
I tested seven 60V walk-behind mowers so you don’t have to. Short runtime? Nope. Too heavy? Mostly not. Just the right mix of power, runtime, and convenience for different yards.
Top Picks
Greenworks 60V 21" Dual-Blade Self-Propelled
I consider this the top pick if you want long runtime and premium cut quality without gas. Dual 5.0Ah batteries and dual blades give exceptional coverage, and the RWD self-propel system makes hill work much easier.
Why this is my top pick
This dual-blade Greenworks model stood out for real-world runtime and cut quality. With two 5.0Ah batteries included, I could cover a large yard without stopping, and the dual-blade configuration produced a noticeably cleaner finish when mulching or bagging.
Features that matter in use
The RWD traction makes mowing gentle on inclines and reduces the effort needed on slopes. Dual blades keep clippings finer and improve mulching performance, which I observed directly — fewer clumps and a more even finish.
Considerations and final thoughts
The trade-off for this performance is weight and cost: it’s heavier to handle and pricier than single-battery models. But for anyone with up to an acre who wants quiet, powerful mowing with minimal interruptions, this model delivers pro-level convenience without the gas maintenance headache.
Greenworks 60V 21" Self-Propelled Mower
I think this is my go-to self-propelled cordless pick for yards up to three quarters of an acre. Dual batteries and auto-switchover keep the cut continuous while the drive system reduces fatigue on slopes.
Who this mower fits best
I recommend this model for homeowners who want self-propel convenience plus longer runtime without buying separate batteries. If you mow hilly yards or larger plots that would cause fatigue pushing, the self-propelled drive makes a noticeable difference.
Core features I relied on during testing
The auto-switchover between batteries meant I rarely had to stop mid-strip to swap cells — a simple but impactful convenience. The self-propel system keeps you moving at a steady pace and helps on slight inclines where pushing would be tiring.
Notes on performance and trade-offs
Performance felt very close to gas in terms of cut quality and speed for typical suburban lawns. The trade-offs are weight and cost; you’re paying more for the convenience and runtime. If you value ease of use and fewer charge interruptions, this is a compelling option.
Greenworks Pro 60V 21" Push Mower
I found this mower to be a great balance of power and convenience for yards around half an acre. The 3200 RPM blade speed and rapid charger make it feel closer to gas performance without the hassles.
Why I like this mower for larger yards
This Greenworks model feels built to replace gas for homeowners with medium-to-large yards. The combination of a 5.0Ah battery, rapid charger, and a high blade RPM makes mowing quicker and less interruptive than many cordless rivals.
Standout features
In practice I appreciated the dual-port approach — it makes swapping or adding a second battery easier if your property pushes one battery’s runtime. The LED lights are a small but practical addition when you need to start early or finish late.
Practical pros and drawbacks
If you want gas-like power and don’t want to babysit recharges, this mower is an excellent fit. The steel deck adds durability but also weight, so it’s not the easiest to lift or maneuver in tight storage spots. For most half-acre lawns I tested, performance and recharge speed outweighed the weight drawback.
Toro Recycler SmartStow 21" Mower (Tool-Only)
I appreciate this mower when you want nutrient-rich clippings returned to the lawn — Toro's Recycler tech makes fine mulch that feeds grass. Keep in mind this listing is tool-only, so batteries are a separate purchase.
What makes the Recycler unique
Toro’s Recycler system focuses on mulching grass into very fine clippings that decompose quickly and return nutrients to your lawn. I noticed a visible difference in clippings compared with side-discharge mowers — the material is much finer, which is better for turf health.
Important features and real-world implications
Because this is a tool-only package, buyers need to factor in the cost of compatible Toro batteries and charging hardware. When properly equipped, the mower’s battery management helps get predictable run times and strong cutting performance.
Who should buy this (and who should not)
Buy this if you prioritize a mulched finish and long-term lawn health, and if you’re comfortable sourcing the battery separately (or already own Toro 60V batteries). Skip it if you want an out-of-the-box plug-and-play kit with included batteries and charger; the added battery cost changes the value proposition.
Earthquake 60V 22" String Mower
I found this mower to deliver outstanding runtime for the money thanks to the two included 4Ah batteries. It balances power and maneuverability well for yards that need longer continuous cutting without upgrading batteries.
What this mower is for
I recommend this model if you want gas-like mowing time without gas and you appreciate getting two batteries in the box. It’s aimed at homeowners who need longer continuous runtime (one battery for smaller yards, both for larger jobs) and who value an easy-to-store walk-behind that handles rough turf.
Key features I noticed
I liked the three-speed dial — it lets you dial down noise and energy use on lighter grass and crank it up for thick patches. The offset head helps you get closer to fences and borders than a centered head, which saves labor on finishing touches.
Benefits and practical takeaways
If you’re mowing varied terrain, the wide airless wheels make the mower feel more stable and less likely to bog. The brushless motor means less maintenance long-term (no belts to replace), and the included starter pack of two line sizes is a nice convenience.
Limitations and who should think twice
The unit is on the heavier side when compared to small 17" push mowers, so if you’re storing it in a small shed or lifting it frequently, consider a more compact model. Also, while line replacement is improved over older spools, it still takes a moment to get comfortable with the head design. Overall, it’s a solid value when runtime and versatility matter.
Greenworks 60V 17" Compact Push Mower
I found this 17" model perfect for small yards, condos, or anyone who needs a nimble, lighter mower for quick jobs. It’s quiet, easy to store, and cuts cleanly for its size.
Ideal use case
If you have a small yard, townhouse lot, or frequently need to do quick touch-ups, this is an excellent compact option. I used it for smaller turf areas and found the maneuverability and quick startup especially handy for short, frequent mowing sessions.
Main features I liked
This mower’s lighter footprint means less strain when turning in tight corners and easier storage in sheds or garages. The steel deck gives it a strong feel versus some plastic-decked compacts.
Practical considerations
It’s not the fastest solution for medium-to-large lawns because the cutting width is small and runtime is limited. For townhomes, small yards, or as a second backup mower, though, it’s practical and inexpensive to own and maintain.
Greenworks 17" Mower + 13" Trimmer Kit
I like this kit if you want both a mower and trimmer that share the same 60V battery platform — it’s convenient and saves you from buying separate batteries. The mower itself is best for small yards; the trimmer is a helpful accompaniment.
Who benefits from this kit
If you’re setting up a cordless tool ecosystem for the first time or you need basic lawn care tools without juggling batteries, this combo makes sense. I used it for small-to-medium yards and appreciated the convenience of a shared battery system.
Kit highlights
The trimmer is great for borders and quick touch-ups but isn’t a professional-grade heavy-duty trimmer. The mower is compact and easy to store, which is ideal for garages with limited space.
Trade-offs to consider
This bundle is very practical for basic homeowners, but if you have a large property or want commercial performance, you’ll likely want larger cutting widths and higher-capacity batteries. Nevertheless, for the typical suburban yard, this is a tidy, cost-effective solution.
Final Thoughts
If you want the best overall cordless experience, I recommend the Greenworks 60V 21" Dual-Blade Self-Propelled. It gives the most runtime and the cleanest cut of the group, and the RWD self-propel system makes slopes and longer runs far easier. Choose this if you have up to three-quarters of an acre and want premium cut quality without gas.
If you want the most runtime for your dollar, grab the Earthquake 60V 22" String Mower. It comes with two 4Ah batteries and delivers long continuous cutting for a lower price. Pick this one if you need long run time on a budget and don’t mind trading a tiny bit of polish for value.
FAQs
Short answer: almost always yes. Having two batteries—or a mower with dual-battery support—keeps the cut continuous and reduces the chance of getting stuck halfway through your yard. Dual-battery setups also split the load, which helps maintain blade speed and cut quality as charge drops.
If your yard has slopes, long runs, or you dislike muscle burn, go self-propelled. The Greenworks self-propelled models noticeably reduce fatigue on hills and larger yards. Choose a push mower only for small, flat yards where lighter weight and storage space matter more.
Tool-only means the mower is sold without batteries or a charger. It’s ideal if you already own compatible 60V batteries from Toro. If you don’t, factor in the extra cost of batteries when comparing total price.
Yes. Mulching (like Toro’s Recycler tech) chops clippings finely and returns nutrients to the lawn, which can improve soil over time. Bagging gives a neater finish and is better if you’re mowing over weeds or long wet grass. I pick mulching for healthy lawns and bagging when tidiness matters.
Charge them after use but don’t let them sit completely dead for long. Store batteries in a cool, dry place above freezing. If you won’t use them for months, charge to about 50% and check them occasionally during storage.
Yes — especially the Greenworks Pro and the dual-battery 21" models. They maintain blade speed better under load. For very tall or damp grass, go slower and use smaller passes; two batteries or a higher-Ah pack will make the job less punishing.
