Keeping your lawn neatly trimmed shouldn’t require wrestling with heavy, loud mowers or dealing with tripping hazards from cords. Thick grass, uneven ground, and outdated mower technology often lead to uneven cuts and frustrating mowing sessions. If you’re looking for a cleaner, quieter alternative, a cordless electric reel mower offers a sustainable solution that’s easier on both your lawn and your schedule.
Modern cordless electric reel mowers deliver reliable performance thanks to brushless motor technology and long-lasting 40V to 56V battery systems that maintain power through thick patches. With precise reel blades that mimic hand scissor cuts, these mowers promote healthier grass growth while reducing strain. Key features like single-lever height adjustment, self-propelled drive systems, and space-saving vertical storage make them ideal for small to medium yards.
Our testing process analyzed cutting precision, battery longevity, ease of use, and durability across dozens of models. Based on real-world performance, check out our top-rated picks for best self-propelled cordless mowers and quietest electric lawn mowers to match your yard size and mowing preferences. You can also explore our full guide to eco-friendly lawn care tools for more sustainable yard solutions.
Our Top Picks
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Best Overall
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Greenworks 40V 21\” Self-Propelled
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40V 21″ 45 minutes |
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Best Budget Friendly
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Litheli 16\” Dual 20V Mower
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2 x 4.0Ah 16 In 6 positions |
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Best Premium Performance
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EGO POWER+ 21\” 56V Mower
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45 minutes 1.5 to 4 inches 56V |
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Best Lightweight
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Greenworks 40V 16\” Mower
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45 minutes 4.0Ah 35% lighter |
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Best Mid-Range Value
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YARDCARE 36V Brushless Mower
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2X4.0Ah 18V 60 min (low), 40 min (high) Brushless |
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Best Small Yards
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RB 9\” Ultra-Light Mower
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40V 30+ mins 5.2kg (11.5lbs not including battery) |
Best Cordless Electric Reel Lawn Mower Review
Greenworks 40V 21\” Self-Propelled – Best Overall
Power-packed and poised, the Greenworks 40V self-propelled mower brings rear-wheel drive traction, a 21-inch steel deck, and a brushless motor that feels built for real yards, not just spec sheets. The single-lever 7-position height adjust and 3-in-1 system (mulch, bag, side discharge) solve the common pain of switching between cut styles across seasons. Add vertical storage and maintenance-free operation—no gas, no oil—and you’ve got a cordless mower that cuts hassle as efficiently as it cuts grass.
In testing on mixed terrain and thick spring growth, the 5.0Ah battery delivered up to about 45 minutes, enough for many quarter-acre lawns when mulching. The 21-inch deck covers ground quickly, while the self-propelled rear-wheel drive helps on slopes or damp patches where front-drive models can slip. It’s quieter than gas yet still has punch, though very tall or wet grass can curb runtime and may require a slower pace.
Against the ultra-light Greenworks 16-inch (B00BBQVL5U), this model trades portability for cutting width, traction, and versatility. Compared to EGO’s LM2101, the Greenworks adds self-propel and a steel deck feel, while EGO leans into weather resistance and premium refinement. Ideal for homeowners who want a full-size cordless with real hill-climbing help, it strikes a smart balance of power and convenience—offering a feature set that feels broader than the Litheli budget pick without veering into premium-only territory.
- Self-propelled traction
- 21′ steel deck
- Brushless torque
- 3-in-1 versatility
- Vertical storage
- Heavier chassis
- Runtime varies
- Tall grass slowdown
Litheli 16\” Dual 20V Mower – Best Budget Friendly
Surprisingly capable for its footprint, the Litheli 16-inch cordless mower targets budget-minded buyers with dual 20V 4.0Ah batteries, a compact 16-inch deck, and adjustable handle for comfort. It’s designed to tame up to about 2,700 sq. ft. per charge, addressing small-lawn owners who want quick starts, light weight, and simple storage. The package adds practical perks like folding handles and cross-compatibility with Litheli tools.
On typical suburban patches, the high-efficiency motor and 6-position height control (roughly 0.98’–2.98′) handled weekly trims well. It’s easy to push, maneuvering around beds and fences where larger decks struggle. Expect around 30 minutes of runtime from the paired batteries; dense, overgrown grass will shorten that window and may require a second pass or frequent height adjustments.
Against the Greenworks 21-inch self-propelled model, Litheli sacrifices deck size and drive assistance for a lighter, cheaper, simpler experience. Compared with the RB 9′ micro mower, it offers far more coverage and flexibility without getting unwieldy. Best for townhomes and small yards where storage and weight matter, it delivers strong value—more capability than the RB for larger areas, while staying far more affordable than premium contenders.
- Lightweight build
- Compact deck
- Dual batteries
- Easy folding
- Tool compatibility
- Shorter runtime
- No self-propel
- Narrow cut path
EGO POWER+ 21\” 56V Mower – Best Premium Performance
Engineered for enthusiasts, the EGO LM2101 leans into 56V ARC Lithium power, a 21-inch deck, and rapid charging to deliver confident cuts without gas drama. The push-button start, LED headlights, and IPX4 weather resistance add polish that makes mowing feel modern and dependable. Its 3-in-1 system and one-hand 6-height deck adjust (1.5’–4′) give it the flexibility to handle seasonal growth.
In real use, we saw up to 45 minutes on the included 5.0Ah battery when mowing regularly maintained turf, with strong performance on thick patches at modest pace. The deck folds compactly, and the adjustable handle improves ergonomics for different users. While it’s a push mower (no self-propel in this configuration), the balanced chassis rolls smoothly across flat and gently sloped lawns.
Versus Greenworks’ 21-inch self-propelled model, EGO emphasizes refinement and weather resistance over hill-climbing assistance; Greenworks climbs better, EGO feels more premium. Compared to the Greenworks 16-inch lightweight, EGO is heavier but far more capable for mid-size yards. Ideal for homeowners wanting premium cordless polish and reliability, it competes well on performance and features, trading self-propel for a cleaner, more robust overall package.
- 56V power
- Rapid charging
- IPX4 resistant
- LED headlights
- Compact folding
- No self-propel
- Heavier push
- Runtime drops in thick grass
Greenworks 40V 16\” Mower – Best Lightweight
Feather-light yet capable, the Greenworks 40V 16-inch mower is built for easy handling with an ultra-light design, push-button start, and a nimble 16-inch deck. The Smart Cut single-lever height system (1.25’–3.375′) lets you dial in a clean trim without juggling knobs, and the 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging setup suits tidy finishes. With up to 45 minutes from a 4.0Ah battery, it’s a strong fit for small to medium yards.
On tight spaces, this mower shines—gliding around obstacles, garden beds, and narrow side yards where 21-inch decks feel clumsy. It’s quiet (<75dB), needs virtually no maintenance, and stores easily in crowded garages. Dense or tall grass will require slower passes and may nip at runtime compared with larger, more powerful units.
Against the Greenworks 21-inch self-propelled, this model trades traction and deck size for a much lighter frame and easier storage. Stack it against Litheli’s 16-inch: Greenworks offers a more refined cut feel and better ecosystem integration, while Litheli pushes lower cost. Ideal for users prioritizing maneuverability and comfort, it punches above its size with runtime that rivals bigger batteries on smaller decks.
- Ultra-lightweight
- Smart Cut adjust
- Quiet operation
- Easy storage
- Ecosystem ready
- No self-propel
- Narrow deck
- Struggles in tall grass
YARDCARE 36V Brushless Mower – Best Mid-Range Value
Thoughtfully modern, the YARDCARE 36V mower pairs a 3200 RPM brushless motor with a live LED display that shows battery, speed, and error states—ending guesswork mid-mow. Dual 18V 4.0Ah batteries deliver up to 60 minutes on low or 40 minutes on high, and the 8-gallon bag keeps clippings tidy for a manicured finish. The 5-position height range (0.98’–2.56′) suits frequent trims and low-to-medium grass profiles.
In real-world cuts, it felt nimble and predictably efficient on small to medium lawns, with the display helping you manage pace before the battery dips. The safety-focused three-step start and sturdy chassis give confidence around kids and pets. Runtime shortens in thick or wet grass, and the lower max cutting height may not suit users who prefer taller turf in summer.
Compared to the Greenworks 21-inch self-propelled, YARDCARE misses powered drive but counters with longer indicated runtime management and smart diagnostics for fewer surprises. It’s more capable than the Litheli on sustained sessions thanks to its display feedback loop and bag capacity. For homeowners who love data-driven control and neat bagging, it offers a compelling mid-range balance—more tech-forward than budget picks, without pushing into premium territory like EGO.
- LED display
- Long runtime
- Brushless power
- Large bag
- Safety start
- No self-propel
- Lower max height
- Thick grass slows
RB 9\” Ultra-Light Mower – Best Small Yards
Compact and laser-focused, the RB 9-inch mower targets micro lawns with 6000 RPM brushless speed, a pivoting front wheel, and one-hand steering for surgical control. At just 11.5 lbs (without battery), it’s incredibly easy to carry, store upright, and deploy for quick trims. The built-in safety tilt shutoff (20°–70°) is a thoughtful touch for uneven garden edges and tight slopes.
On postage-stamp yards up to about 540 sq. ft., it zips through weekly cuts, excels along borders, and sneaks into spaces standard decks can’t reach. Runtime lands around 30 minutes from the 40V 2.0Ah pack, which is ample for micro parcels. Its 3-position cut range (1.2’–2′) is intentionally short; longer lawn styles aren’t its forte, and very tall growth will require staged passes.
Versus the Litheli 16-inch, the RB trades area coverage for precision and portability, shining as a secondary or urban-focused mower. It can’t match the versatility of Greenworks or EGO for larger yards, but it’s unmatched for tiny plots and tight storage. For city dwellers or as a trim-tool complement to a larger mower, it offers unique agility at a fraction of the bulk.
- Ultra-portable
- One-hand steering
- 6000 RPM cut
- Upright storage
- Very narrow deck
- Short height range
- Small lawn only
How to Choose the Right Cordless Electric Reel Lawn Mower
Key Decisions to Make
- Cutting system and deck size: Choose a reel-style cutting action for a scissor-like, lawn-friendly finish; match deck width to yard size—14–16 inches for small lawns and tight spaces, 20–21 inches for faster cuts on medium yards.
- Battery voltage and runtime: Higher voltage generally means more torque for thicker grass. Look for at least 40V systems with 4.0Ah–5.0Ah batteries for 30–45 minutes of mowing; 56V for premium power. Dual-battery systems can extend runtime and maintain performance.
- Drive and maneuverability: Self-propelled rear-wheel drive helps on slopes and larger yards; ultra-light push models excel in small or intricate lawns. Adjustable/folding handles and vertical storage are major storage and comfort wins.
- Height adjustment and cut options: A single-lever system with 5–7 positions (about 1–4 inches) makes seasonal adjustments easy. 3-in-1 capability (mulch, bag, side discharge) offers flexibility for lawn health and cleanup.
- Build quality and motor: Brushless motors provide more torque, quieter operation, and longer life. Steel decks add durability; composite decks reduce weight—pick based on yard size and storage needs.
- Safety and usability: Push-button start, LED indicators, and safety start systems reduce hassle and risks. IPX weather resistance and bright LEDs are helpful for early/late mowing.
Matching Features to Your Yard
- Small yards and tight spaces: Go ultra-light with a 16″ or smaller deck for easy storage and quick turns. A compact mower with 30+ minutes runtime is sufficient.
- Medium yards up to 1/2 acre: Opt for 40V–56V systems with 20–21″ decks and 40–45 minutes runtime. Self-propelled rear-wheel drive helps on uneven terrain.
- Thick or variable grass: Prioritize higher voltage, brushless motors, and wider height ranges to prevent bogging and scalping.
- Minimal maintenance: Choose maintenance-free, cordless models with vertical storage and foldable handles.
Quick Look: How the Featured Models Fit
- Best Overall (Greenworks 40V 21″ Self-Propelled): 21″ steel deck, brushless motor, 3-in-1 options, 7-position height, self-propelled—great for medium yards and mixed terrain.
- Best Budget Friendly (Litheli 16″ Dual 20V): Lightweight 16″ deck, 5 heights, foldable handle—ideal for small lawns and easy storage.
- Best Premium Performance (EGO POWER+ 21″ 56V): Strong 56V power, 1.5–4″ heights, LED headlights, compact fold—excellent for tougher grass and larger areas.
- Best Lightweight (Greenworks 40V 16″): Ultra-light with 5-position height and 2-in-1 mulching/bagging—good for comfort and small to medium lawns.
- Best Mid-Range Value (YARDCARE 36V): Dual 18V batteries, brushless, LED display—balanced power and runtime with user-friendly controls.
- Best Small Yards (RB 9″ Ultra-Light): Extremely light with 3 heights—best for tiny patches, edging, and tight corners.
Other features to note in a line:
– Vertical/compact storage; tool ecosystem compatibility; included batteries/chargers; warranty length; noise level; weather resistance.
Cordless Electric Reel Lawn Mower Comparison
| Product | Voltage | Cutting Width (in) | Runtime (mins) | Weight (lbs) | Deck Material | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenworks 40V 21″ Self-Propelled | 40V | 21 | Up to 45 | Not specified | Steel | Self-Propelled, Vertical Storage, 3-in-1 (bag, discharge, mulch) |
| Litheli 16″ Dual 20V Mower | 20V (Dual) | 16 | 30 | Not specified | Not specified | Folding Handle, Universal Battery, 6 Height Adjustments |
| EGO POWER+ 21″ 56V Mower | 56V | 21 | Up to 45 | Not specified | Not specified | LED Headlights, Folds Compact, 6 Cutting Heights |
| Greenworks 40V 16″ Mower | 40V | 16 | 45 | Not specified | Not specified | Ultra-Lightweight, 2-in-1 (mulch/bag), 5-Position Height Control |
| YARDCARE 36V Brushless Mower | 36V (Dual 18V) | Not specified | 40-60 | Not specified | Not specified | LED Display, 5 Height Adjustments, 8-Gallon Bag |
| RB 9″ Ultra-Light Mower | 40V | 9 | 30+ | 11.5 (without battery) | Not specified | Ultra-Lightweight, Pivoting Front Wheel, Auto-Shutoff |
Data-Driven Analysis of Cordless Electric Reel Lawn Mowers
Choosing the best cordless electric reel lawn mower requires moving beyond specifications to understand real-world performance. Our analysis leverages user reviews from major retailers (like Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Amazon), aggregated data from sources like Consumer Reports, and comparative tests published by landscaping publications. We prioritize models exhibiting consistently high ratings (4.0 stars or higher) across a significant sample size (over 500 reviews).
Key data points analyzed include reported runtime aligning with manufacturer claims for cordless electric reel lawn mowers, frequency of reported motor failures, and user feedback regarding cutting quality on varying grass types and thicknesses. We cross-reference battery voltage (40V, 56V) with reported user experience to determine the correlation between power and performance, particularly for yards with challenging conditions.
Comparative analyses focus on features like self-propulsion effectiveness, mulch quality, and ease of height adjustment, weighing these against price points to identify optimal value. We also examine the impact of motor type (brushless vs. brushed) on longevity, drawing from long-term user reports. Analysis of warranty length and customer service responsiveness provides insight into manufacturer support, a critical factor for electric reel lawn mowers representing a significant investment.
FAQs
What size yard is a cordless electric reel lawn mower best suited for?
Cordless electric reel lawn mowers excel in small to medium-sized yards (up to 1/2 acre). For larger properties, consider a gas-powered mower or a higher-voltage cordless option with extended runtime.
How long do the batteries typically last on a cordless electric reel lawn mower?
Battery runtime varies, but most 40V systems offer 30-45 minutes, while 56V models can reach up to 45 minutes or more. Dual-battery systems maximize runtime for larger lawns. Consider the size of your yard when selecting a cordless electric reel lawn mower.
Are electric reel mowers as effective at cutting thick or wet grass as gas mowers?
While gas mowers generally have more raw power, higher voltage (56V+) cordless models with brushless motors can handle thick grass effectively. Wet grass can be challenging for any mower, but a wider cutting deck and higher blade speed help.
What maintenance is required for a cordless electric reel mower?
Electric reel lawn mowers require minimal maintenance compared to gas mowers. Routine tasks include blade sharpening, cleaning the deck, and occasionally checking the motor brushes (if not brushless). No oil changes or fuel stabilization are needed.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best cordless electric reel lawn mower depends on your specific needs and yard size. By carefully considering factors like battery voltage, cutting width, and desired features – and referencing our detailed comparison – you can confidently choose a model that delivers a beautifully manicured lawn with minimal effort and environmental impact.
Investing in a cordless electric reel mower offers a quieter, cleaner, and more convenient alternative to traditional gas-powered options. With a growing range of powerful and innovative models available, now is the perfect time to make the switch and enjoy a hassle-free lawn care experience.
