Shopping for the best inexpensive battery lawn mower usually starts with a familiar frustration: gas mowers are noisy, high-maintenance, and heavy, while cheap cordless models can struggle with runtime, power, and uneven cuts. You want clean, quiet mowing without spending a fortune—or getting stuck mid-yard with a dead battery. Tight storage, varying lawn sizes, and concerns about deck durability only add to the challenge.
The best budget cordless mowers solve these pain points with brushless motors for efficient power, dual-battery systems for 30–60 minutes of runtime, and 16–18″ decks that cut more per pass. Single-lever height adjustment, foldable handles, and compatible battery platforms stretch value even further. We analyzed dozens of options, cross-referencing runtime, user reviews, motor type, and warranty to surface standouts.
We weighed performance, features, price, and long-term value—prioritizing models that balance cut quality, runtime, and reliability. Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best inexpensive battery lawn mower and find the right fit for your yard and budget.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
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Greenworks 48V 17\” Push Mower
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48V (2 x 24V) 4.0Ah (2 batteries) 17″ poly deck |
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Best Budget Friendly
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Litheli 13\” Compact Mower
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13 In 20,000mAh 5 settings (1 In to 2.5 In) |
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Best Mid-Range Value
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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 Cutting Width Under $180
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MightyMow 40V 18\” Brushless
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40V 18 inch 40 minutes |
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Best Lightweight
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MZK 40V 13\” Lightweight
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2x 4Ah 13 inch 4 positions |
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Best Features for Price
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YARDCARE 36V Brushless 2025
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2X4.0Ah 18V 60 mins (low), 40 mins (high) Brushless |
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Best for Tiny Lawns
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MightyMow 20V 13\” Starter
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20V 13 inch 5-position (1″ to 2.6″) |
Best Inexpensive Battery Lawn Mower Review
Greenworks 48V 17\” Push Mower – Best Overall

Confident and nimble, the Greenworks 48V (2x24V) 17-inch mower leans on a dual-battery system to deliver up to 45 minutes of runtime and genuinely gas-like performance without fumes or maintenance. The 17-inch rust-resistant poly deck keeps weight down for tight turns around beds, while a single-lever, 5-position height adjustment simplifies dialing in your cut. With 2-in-1 mulching and bagging, push-button start, and compatibility with over 125 Greenworks tools, it solves the biggest pain points for budget buyers switching from gas: hassle, noise, and upkeep.
In testing on small to medium lawns, the Greenworks mower handled weekly trims and slightly overgrown patches well, especially on flat or moderately uneven yards. The 48V platform provides steady torque for most residential grasses, and the compact deck helps around obstacles. It’s quiet enough for early-morning mowing and operates comfortably in temperatures from 32°F to 113°F. The smaller 17-inch deck means more passes on larger lots, and wet, dense grass will reduce runtime.
Compared with the MightyMow 40V 18-inch model, Greenworks sacrifices 1 inch of cutting width but returns with a more established ecosystem and a lighter poly deck that’s easier to maneuver. Versus the Litheli 16-inch dual-20V, the Greenworks offers a slightly wider cut and more refined controls, making it better for users who want a polished experience without premium pricing. Ideal for homeowners with up to a quarter-acre who value low maintenance and a versatile tool system; it feels like a step up in polish versus the MightyMow 13-inch while landing a better balance of features and performance.




- Dual-battery power
- Lightweight poly deck
- 2-in-1 mulching/bagging
- Single-lever height
- Tool ecosystem
- Narrower deck
- Runtime drops in wet
- Push-only drive
Litheli 13\” Compact Mower – Best Budget Friendly

Compact and sprightly, the Litheli U20 Handy+ 13-inch mower is built for quick touch-ups and tight spaces on a budget. Its 3400 RPM motor pairs with a single 20V 4.0Ah battery for up to about 15 minutes of cutting, ideal for small patches or regular maintenance on townhome lots. The 8-gallon bag, five-position height control (1.0’–2.5′), and lightweight folding frame check the essentials for first-time cordless buyers.
On short, dry grass and lawns around 1,300 sq. ft., the Litheli U20 trims cleanly and keeps noise low. The adjustable handle helps minimize fatigue, and the 13-inch deck threads easily around landscaping. Expect to slow down in thicker or damp grass, as the single-battery setup isn’t meant for heavy workloads; frequent bag emptying is also required with the smaller catcher.
Compared with the MightyMow 13-inch 20V (two battery packs included), this Litheli leans harder into minimalism and portability, but offers less total runtime. Against the Litheli 16-inch dual-20V, it’s more affordable and lighter but trades away coverage and endurance. Best for renters or owners of very small lawns who want simple storage, quick starts, and an ultra-light feel; it’s more about convenience than muscle, while the MightyMow 13-inch provides a better endurance-per-dollar mix.




- Ultra-lightweight
- Quick folding
- Easy height adjust
- Tidy bagging
- Low noise
- Short runtime
- Narrow deck
- Struggles in thick grass
Litheli 16\” Dual 20V Mower – Best Mid-Range Value

The Litheli 16-inch dual-20V strikes a sweet spot for budget shoppers who want more yard coverage without jumping up in size or complexity. With a 16-inch deck, 6-position height range (0.98’–2.98′), and two 4.0Ah batteries delivering up to about 30 minutes of continuous work, it feels notably more capable than tiny 13-inch units. The efficient motor keeps noise down and torque steady, and the folding handle makes storage painless.
On medium-sized townhome lots or small suburban lawns up to around 2,700 sq. ft., it maintains a clean, even cut at a comfortable walking pace. The design is light enough to steer around garden edges, while the included handle adjustments reduce back strain. Thick, wet grass will still sap runtime, and there’s no self-propel, so expect more passes versus 18-inch options.
Versus the Greenworks 48V 17-inch, Litheli gives you similar maneuverability with a slightly smaller deck and a more bare-bones feature set. Compared to the MightyMow 40V 18-inch, it trades cutting width for lighter handling and friendlier storage. Ideal for buyers upgrading from a compact 13-inch mower who want better coverage and longer sessions without moving to a heavyweight—while the Greenworks offers a more polished ecosystem at a similar tier.




- Dual-battery setup
- 16-inch coverage
- Six height settings
- Quiet operation
- Easy storage
- No self-propel
- Average bag capacity
- Runtime dips in dense grass
MightyMow 40V 18\” Brushless – Best Cutting Width Under $180

Built for speed on a budget, the MightyMow 40V 18-inch packs a brushless motor up to 4200 RPM and a wider 18-inch deck to chew through more lawn per pass. With two 4.0Ah batteries and up to 40 minutes of runtime, it handles regular weekly cuts confidently. A 40L bag, 6-position single-lever height control (1’–3′), and a three-level adjustable handle make it approachable for different users and grass conditions.
In real use, the wide deck shines on rectangular yards where long straight lines reduce turnaround time. The brushless motor keeps noise down and torque consistent on dry or moderately tall grass; the mower remains light enough to maneuver around shrubs. It can bog slightly in soggy, overgrown areas, and the larger deck needs a bit more storage space.
Compared with the Greenworks 17-inch 48V, MightyMow wins on raw coverage and blade speed but lacks the broader tool ecosystem. Against the Litheli 16-inch, it’s simply faster across medium lawns, though a bit bulkier in tight landscaping. Perfect for homeowners prioritizing cutting width and pace under a strict budget; for a more refined feel and multi-tool versatility, the Greenworks 48V edges it on overall polish.




- Wide 18-inch deck
- High 4200 RPM
- Dual-battery runtime
- Easy height lever
- Adjustable handle
- Bulky storage
- Less nimble edges
- Wet-grass slowdown
MZK 40V 13\” Lightweight – Best Lightweight

Featherlight and focused, the MZK 13-inch aims at users who want maximum maneuverability with a true 40V dual-battery punch. The brushless motor improves efficiency and longevity, while the 25L bag and 4-position height adjustment (1.2’–1.5′) keep the interface simple. At just 24.3 pounds, it’s effortless to lift, store, and pivot around garden features.
For small, segmented yards or narrow side strips, the slim 13-inch deck and compact chassis make quick work of frequent trims. The two 4Ah batteries help maintain consistent power over short sessions, and the two-step start adds a welcome layer of safety for family use. The tight height range limits tall-cut preferences, and the small catcher fills quickly on thick spring growth.
Compared to the Litheli U20 13-inch, MZK’s brushless motor and dual-battery design feel more muscular with better endurance. Against the MightyMow 13-inch, this MZK is lighter and more nimble, but its narrower height range may be restrictive. Ideal for users prioritizing lightweight handling and easy storage on very small lawns; for broader height flexibility and more bag capacity, the MightyMow 13-inch has the edge.




- Ultra-light body
- Brushless motor
- Dual-battery power
- Two-step safety
- Easy transport
- Limited height range
- Small bag
- Narrow deck
YARDCARE 36V Brushless 2025 – Best Features for Price

Smartly equipped and still budget-minded, the YARDCARE 36V packs a brushless motor at 3200 RPM with a real-time LED display that shows battery life, cutting speed, and error alerts—features rare at this tier. With two 18V 4.0Ah batteries, it delivers up to 60 minutes (low) or 40 minutes (high), and the 5-position height adjustment (0.98’–2.56′) covers most seasonal needs. The 8-gallon bag and a 3-step safety start underline a user-first design.
On small to medium lawns, the YARDCARE’s feedback-rich display helps you manage runtime and avoid surprises, especially in mixed grass or when switching speeds. Power delivery is smooth, and noise levels are neighbor-friendly; the mower cuts cleanly when kept to regular schedules. Dense, wet grass at high speed reduces runtime more quickly, and the chassis isn’t as featherlight as 13-inch models.
Versus the Greenworks 48V 17-inch, YARDCARE counters with smarter telemetry and longer potential runtime at low speeds, while Greenworks remains more maneuverable with a wider tool family. Compared with the MightyMow 40V 18-inch, YARDCARE trades deck width for feature richness and better runtime management. It’s a great pick for users who value smart monitoring and safety features; if pure speed across wide lawns matters more, the MightyMow 18-inch is the performance play.




- LED status display
- Long runtime
- Brushless efficiency
- Safety start system
- 5-height control
- Heavier feel
- Runtime drops on high
- Less deck width
MightyMow 20V 13\” Starter – Best for Tiny Lawns

Lean and handy, the MightyMow 20V 13-inch is purpose-built for tiny lawns and frequent quick trims. With two 4.0Ah battery packs providing up to two 20-minute sessions, a 13-inch deck, and 5-position height control (1’–2.6′), it prioritizes simplicity and portability. At 24 lbs with a foldable handle, it’s easy to carry upstairs, store in closets, or tuck into tight sheds.
In practice, it shines on townhome strips, small courtyards, and tight landscaping where big mowers feel clumsy. The 35L bag is spacious for a 13-inch class, and the mower maintains a clean cut on dry, short grass at a relaxed pace. It’s not intended for thick or overgrown lawns, and runtime will drop if you push it hard in dense patches.
Compared with the Litheli U20 13-inch, the MightyMow stands out with more total usable runtime and a larger catcher. Versus the MZK 13-inch, it’s slightly heavier but offers a broader height range and roomier bag. Best for owners of very small lawns who want easy storage and enough endurance to finish in one go; for more power and deck width, the MightyMow 40V 18-inch offers better performance per pass.




- Very portable
- Two battery packs
- Large 35L bag
- Wide height range
- Easy storage
- Limited power
- Narrow deck
- Not for tall grass
How to Choose an Inexpensive Battery Lawn Mower
Match the mower to your lawn size and runtime
- Small lawns (under ~2,000 sq. ft.): 13″ decks and single 20V batteries are affordable and easier to maneuver (e.g., 15–20 minutes per pack). Ideal for quick weekly trims.
- Medium lawns (2,000–5,000 sq. ft.): Look for 16–18″ decks and dual-battery systems (2x20V/24V/18V) delivering 30–60 minutes. More coverage per pass reduces total mow time.
- Consider brushless motors for better efficiency and longer runtime at the same battery capacity.
Cutting performance and adjustability
- Deck size: 13–18″ is common at budget prices. Larger decks (16–18″) speed up mowing but may be heavier.
- Height settings: 5–6 positions with a single lever make seasonal adjustments easy. Range near 1″–3″ covers most grass types.
- RPM/torque: Higher RPM (e.g., 3,200–4,200) and brushless motors improve cut quality in thicker grass.
Battery ecosystem and value
- Included batteries/chargers: Buying a kit saves money versus bare tools. Dual 4.0Ah packs offer the best value for medium lawns.
- Platform compatibility: If you own tools from the same brand, shared batteries cut costs long-term.
- Warranty: Look for 2–3 years on the mower and at least 1–2 years on batteries for peace of mind.
Ease of use, storage, and ergonomics
- Weight and maneuverability: Lightweight models (~24 lbs) are easier for tight spaces and slopes.
- Foldable/adjustable handles: Save storage space and improve comfort across user heights.
- Bagging/mulching: 2-in-1 (mulch/bag) is standard; verify bag volume (25–40L) for fewer trips to empty.
Durability and build
- Deck material: Poly/composite decks are rust-resistant and lighter—great for budget models.
- Maintenance: Cordless mowers are low maintenance—no gas or oil. Push-button or multi-step safety starts add simplicity and safety.
Quick picks based on needs:
– Tiny lawns and tight budgets: 13″ deck, single battery kit, lightweight frame.
– Best overall value for small–medium yards: Dual-battery 16–18″ deck with brushless motor, 30–60 min runtime, 5–6 height settings.
– Prioritize quiet and longevity: Brushless motor, higher RPM, and rust-resistant deck.
Inexpensive Battery Lawn Mower Comparison
Product | Deck Width (in) | Runtime (mins) | Cutting Height Adjustments | Grass Collection (gal) | Weight (lbs) | Motor Type | Battery Voltage (V) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Greenworks 48V 17″ | 17 | Up to 45 | 5 | Rear Bag | Not Listed | Brushless | 48 |
Litheli 13″ Compact | 13 | 15 | 5 | 8 | Not Listed | Not Listed | 20 |
Litheli 16″ Dual 20V | 16 | 30 | 6 | Not Listed | Not Listed | Not Listed | 20 |
MightyMow 40V 18″ | 18 | Up to 40 | 6 | 40 | Not Listed | Brushless | 40 |
MZK 40V 13″ Lightweight | 13 | Not Listed | 4 | 25 | 24.3 | Brushless | 40 |
YARDCARE 36V Brushless 2025 | Not Listed | 40-60 | 5 | 8 | Not Listed | Brushless | 36 |
MightyMow 20V 13″ Starter | 13 | 40 | 5 | 35 | 24 | Not Listed | 20 |
Data-Driven Analysis of Inexpensive Battery Lawn Mowers
Evaluating the best inexpensive battery lawn mower requires moving beyond marketing claims and focusing on comparative data. Our analysis centers on runtime tests reported by independent review sites (like Consumer Reports and Wirecutter) and user feedback aggregated from retailers like Amazon and Home Depot. We prioritized models offering consistent performance across varying grass types and conditions.
A key metric is ‘minutes per square foot’ achieved with a fully charged battery – directly impacting usability for different lawn sizes (as outlined in our buying guide). We cross-referenced stated battery amp-hour (Ah) ratings with real-world runtime data to identify discrepancies and assess manufacturer accuracy. Furthermore, we analyzed warranty data, noting that longer battery warranties (2+ years) correlate with higher perceived reliability.
Comparative feature analysis focused on motor type (brushless vs. brushed), deck material durability (poly vs. steel), and user ratings for ease of use and maneuverability. Finally, price trends were monitored to identify models offering the best value proposition – balancing features, performance, and cost within the battery lawn mower market. We considered the total cost of ownership, factoring in battery replacement costs and platform compatibility with other gardening tools.
FAQs
What size lawn is a battery lawn mower best suited for?
Battery lawn mowers are excellent for small to medium-sized lawns (under 5,000 sq. ft.). For larger areas, consider models with dual batteries or higher voltage for extended runtime. Choosing the best inexpensive battery lawn mower requires matching the mower to your lawn size.
Are battery lawn mowers as powerful as gas mowers?
While early models lacked the power of gas mowers, modern battery lawn mowers, especially those with brushless motors and higher voltage batteries (40V+), offer comparable cutting performance for most residential lawns.
How long do batteries last, and how much do replacements cost?
Runtime varies based on lawn conditions and battery capacity, but expect 30-60 minutes per charge for dual-battery systems. Battery replacements typically range from $50-$150+ depending on voltage and amp-hour (Ah) rating. Consider platform compatibility to reuse batteries with other tools.
What are the benefits of a brushless motor in a battery lawn mower?
Brushless motors are more efficient, delivering longer runtime and increased power compared to brushed motors. This translates to better cutting performance, especially in thicker grass, and a longer lifespan for the battery lawn mower.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, choosing the best inexpensive battery lawn mower depends on your specific needs and lawn size. By carefully considering runtime, deck size, and features like brushless motors, you can find a model that delivers a satisfying cut without breaking the bank.
Investing in a battery-powered mower offers a convenient, eco-friendly alternative to gas, with minimal maintenance and quieter operation. Don’t hesitate to prioritize platform compatibility and warranty length to maximize value and ensure long-term satisfaction with your purchase.