Tired of gas hassles, uneven cuts, and batteries that tap out mid-mow? Choosing the best electric walk behind lawn mower can be confusing—deck sizes, voltages, and self-propelled options all blur together when you just want a clean, even lawn. Add hills, thick spring growth, and tight storage spaces, and the wrong pick can mean bogged blades, short runtime, and sore arms.
The best electric walk-behind mowers solve these issues with brushless motors for steady power, 3-in-1 cutting systems, and smart load-sensing that boosts torque only when needed. Self-propelled rear-wheel drive tames slopes, while 40V–82V platforms and dual-battery kits extend runtime. We analyzed dozens of models, specs, and user reviews to find top performers that balance cut quality, battery ecosystem value, and price.
Below are our top picks for different yard sizes and needs—keep reading to find the right electric mower for your lawn and budget.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
|
Greenworks 40V 21\” Self-Propelled
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40V 21″ 45 minutes |
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Best Premium Performance
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Snapper 82V 21\” Self-Propelled
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Briggs & Stratton 82V Lithium ion Up to 45 minutes 21 inches |
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Best for Small Yards
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WORX 40V 14\” Compact Mower
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40V 14″ Just under 30 lbs. |
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Best Mid-Range
|
MightyMow 40V 18\” Brushless
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2×4.0Ah 40 minutes 18 inch |
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Best Runtime
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SENIX 40V 17\” Dual-Battery
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40V 17 Inches 45 minutes |
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Best Budget Friendly
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LawnMaster 11A 15\” Corded
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14-inch 3,300 5 positions |
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Best Lightweight
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EWORK 40V 13\” Lightweight
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2 x 20V 4.0Ah 45 minutes 20.5 lbs |
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Best Easy Storage
|
Litheli 40V 16\” Cordless
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2 x 4.0Ah 30 minutes 16 inch |
Best Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mower Review
Greenworks 40V 21\” Self-Propelled – Best Overall

The Greenworks 40V self-propelled mower lands with a confident stride, pairing a 21-inch steel deck with a high-efficiency brushless motor for impressive cutting authority. Its rear-wheel-drive self-propel helps on slopes and thick turf, while the 7-position single-lever height adjust and 3-in-1 deck (mulch, bag, side-discharge) nail versatility. With up to 45 minutes on a 5.0Ah pack and vertical storage that cuts footprint by 70%, it squarely targets users who want gas-like performance without maintenance.
In testing across mixed lawns, the Greenworks handled overgrown spring grass and weekly trims equally well, with the brushless motor delivering steady torque and quieter operation. The 21-inch deck covers ground faster than compact models and the 8-inch front wheels track neatly around beds. The bagging system packs clippings densely, and mulching quality stays consistent at mid-height. Expect runtime to shrink in heavy, wet grass, but the power delivery remains linear and confidence-inspiring.
Compared with the Snapper 82V kit, Greenworks trades peak voltage for better portability and simpler battery ecosystem, while still feeling powerful on dense patches. It’s notably larger and more capable than the WORX 14-inch for small yards, making this the better fit for quarter-acre lawns with mixed terrain. Ideal for homeowners wanting self-propelled convenience, robust cut options, and minimal upkeep; it offers a stronger feature-to-performance balance than the MightyMow 18-inch in tougher grass.




- Self-propelled RWD
- 21′ steel deck
- Brushless torque
- 3-in-1 deck
- Vertical storage
- Heavier chassis
- Runtime drops in thick grass
- Single battery included
Snapper 82V 21\” Self-Propelled – Best Premium Performance

Snapper’s 82V self-propelled mower is a brute in a clean suit, marrying a 21-inch steel deck with load-sensing tech that automatically dials up power in dense grass. The kit includes two 82V 2.0Ah batteries and a rapid charger, supporting up to 45 minutes combined runtime under moderate conditions. Variable-speed drive and 10-inch rear wheels give it a planted, premium feel over uneven lawns.
In real-world mowing, the smart power management keeps blade speed high through thick patches, reducing bogging and improving mulching quality. The 3-in-1 system handles bagging, mulching, or side discharge, and the single-lever, 7-position height adjust makes quick work of seasonal changes. While runtime is competitive, high power demand can drain batteries faster on wet or tall grass; swapping packs is quick and the rapid charger minimizes downtime.
Against the Greenworks 40V, Snapper delivers more aggressive power delivery and a more refined drive feel, but at the cost of heavier weight and less pack capacity per battery. It’s overkill for tiny lawns where the WORX 14-inch shines, but fantastic for thick fescue or Bermuda where power matters most. For users prioritizing top-tier performance and drive quality, it offers a performance edge over Greenworks in demanding grass, with trade-offs in portability.


- 82V power
- Load sensing
- Variable speed
- 21′ steel deck
- Rapid charging
- Heavier build
- Faster drain in dense grass
- Bulkier storage
WORX 40V 14\” Compact Mower – Best for Small Yards

The WORX WG779 is a compact cut specialist, leveraging dual 20V 4.0Ah batteries (40V) and a 14-inch deck to make tight spaces and small yards easy work. Intellicut smartly boosts speed in thick grass and dials back on light turf to extend juice, while the mower stays pleasantly quiet at 87.8 dB. At under 30 lbs with a fully collapsible handle, it’s built for quick grabs and small garages.
In practice, the WG779 is ideal for up to about 1/8 acre, threading along fences and between beds where bigger decks stumble. The 6-position height adjust (1.5’–3.5′) handles seasonal shifts, and the 2-in-1 deck mulches respectably or bags into a 0.85-bushel catcher with a full indicator. It will struggle in knee-high or wet grass due to the small deck and lighter blade inertia, but weekly maintenance cuts look tidy.
Compared to the Greenworks 21-inch, WORX trades raw throughput for maneuverability and quieter operation, making it the better fit for townhomes or narrow yards. It’s lighter and easier than the Snapper 82V, though far less powerful. For small-yard owners who value portability and silence, it’s a smart, space-saving choice with a better storage footprint than Litheli’s 16-inch while offering broader tool battery sharing.




- Ultra lightweight
- Intellicut boost
- Compact 14′ deck
- Quiet operation
- Dual charger
- Limited throughput
- Struggles in tall wet grass
MightyMow 40V 18\” Brushless – Best Mid-Range

MightyMow’s 18-inch cordless mower brings 4200 RPM brushless power to a mid-size deck, landing squarely between compact pushers and full-size 21-inch rigs. With two 20V 4.0Ah batteries delivering up to 40 minutes, it balances coverage and maneuverability for typical suburban lots. A 40L bag, 6-position height adjust (1’–3′), and adjustable handle deliver ergonomic flexibility.
On turf, the 18-inch deck feels nimble around landscaping while still covering ground more efficiently than 14–16 inch models. The higher blade speed helps mulch better at mid-height settings, though very thick or wet grass can tax runtime and require a slower pace. The single-lever height control is smooth, and bagging density is respectable for its size.
Against the Greenworks 21-inch, MightyMow is lighter and easier to steer but lacks the self-propel drive and heavy-duty steel deck for rougher terrain. It offers more throughput than the EWORK 13-inch and better mulching consistency thanks to blade speed. For buyers seeking a mid-range sweet spot with solid power and manageable size, it’s a balanced alternative to oversized or ultra-compact mowers.




- 4200 RPM blade
- 18′ coverage
- Adjustable handle
- 6-position height
- 40L bag
- No self-propel
- Runtime dips in thick grass
- Plastic feel
SENIX 40V 17\” Dual-Battery – Best Runtime

The SENIX 2X2 40V mower is a runtime-focused workhorse, coupling a 17-inch poly deck with dual 5Ah batteries for up to 45 minutes of mowing. It features 2-in-1 mulching/bagging, a 6-position single-lever height adjust (1’–3′), and folding handles for quick storage. An ECO Mode extends life on lighter cuts, and the on-board charge indicator keeps you informed mid-session.
In use, the 17-inch width makes it agile around gardens and playsets while still offering better coverage than 13–16 inch compacts. Rubber-tread wheels improve traction on damp morning grass, and cut quality is consistent at mid heights. Mulching is solid for maintenance cuts; very dense or tall grass may require a second pass or bagging to avoid clumps.
Compared to MightyMow’s 18-inch, SENIX wins on battery capacity and convenience features like ECO Mode and charge readouts, but has a slightly smaller cutting path. It offers more agility and less heft than the Greenworks 21-inch, though it lacks self-propel. Ideal for small-to-medium yards where runtime reliability and simple operation matter; its feature set feels more complete than EWORK’s for similar lawn sizes.




- Dual 5Ah packs
- ECO mode
- Charge indicator
- Compact 17′ deck
- Easy folding
- No side discharge
- Less effective in tall grass
LawnMaster 11A 15\” Corded – Best Budget Friendly

The LawnMaster 11A corded mower is a plug-and-cut minimalist, delivering 3,300 RPM through a 15-inch deck for lightweight, no-fuss mowing. With 5 height settings (1.4’–3′), a 7-gallon bag, and just 28 lbs of mass, it’s designed for small lawns where cord management isn’t a deal-breaker. No gas, no batteries, and minimal maintenance appeal to users who want reliability over frills.
On small plots, it starts instantly and keeps a consistent blade speed that’s unaffected by battery sag. The narrow deck navigates tight beds and narrow side yards cleanly, though the cord demands planned passes and occasional repositioning. It struggles with tall, wet grass and requires slower walking speeds to maintain cut quality, but performs well on weekly trims.
Compared to the WORX WG779, LawnMaster removes the battery convenience but adds endless runtime for tiny yards near outlets. It’s less capable on uneven terrain than Greenworks’ 21-inch, but far easier to store and maneuver. For budget-focused homeowners with small, accessible lawns, it’s a straightforward alternative that trades mobility for uninterrupted operation.




- Unlimited runtime
- Ultra lightweight
- Easy storage
- Simple upkeep
- Cord management
- Limited power in tall grass
EWORK 40V 13\” Lightweight – Best Lightweight

EWORK’s 40V mower plays the lightweight champion, weighing just 20.5 lbs (without batteries) and powered by a 4500 RPM brushless motor for snappy blade response. It includes two 20V 4.0Ah batteries rated for over 45 minutes of light-duty work, plus a 5-position height range (0.98’–2.6′) tailored to shorter turf. The compact 13-inch deck slips anywhere, and the 9-gal bag supports clean finishes or quick mulch mode swaps.
In practice, the EWORK shines on small, flat lawns and tight corridors where turning radius matters. The larger 6-inch wheels roll smoothly across uneven patches, and noise stays manageable at around 90 dB. It’s not built for tall or damp grass; keeping the deck higher and mowing more frequently preserves cut quality and runtime.
Compared with the WORX 14-inch, EWORK is even lighter and slightly faster-spinning, but with a narrower deck and lower max height. It’s more portable than the Litheli 16-inch, though Litheli’s wider path reduces passes on similarly small yards. Best for light-duty, small-yard owners who value effortless handling and quick storage; it prioritizes agility over throughput.




- Super lightweight
- 4500 RPM motor
- Easy fold handle
- 9-gal bag
- Narrow deck
- Short height range
- Not for thick grass
Litheli 40V 16\” Cordless – Best Easy Storage

Litheli’s 16-inch cordless mower is a storage-savvy all-rounder, blending a 27.1 lb lightweight body with a 6-position height range (0.98’–2.95′) for clean, predictable cuts. The 10.57-gallon catcher and a wider 16-inch deck minimize trips and passes, while the brushless setup keeps noise and vibration down. With two 4.0Ah batteries rated up to about 30 minutes, it’s tuned for small to medium lawns.
On turf, it threads effortlessly around landscaping and keeps pace on weekly maintenance cuts, especially at mid-level heights. The two-step safety start is intuitive, and the folding handle makes closet or wall storage simple. Runtime is the key limiter; dense spring growth may require a recharge or segmenting the lawn into zones.
Versus the WORX 14-inch, Litheli offers a wider cut and larger catcher, finishing small yards quicker if you don’t need WORX’s Intellicut. It’s more capable than EWORK in throughput, though heavier to lift. Ideal for space-constrained homeowners who want easy storage and fewer passes; its feature-to-coverage balance sits between ultra-compact and mid-size models like MightyMow.




- Lightweight build
- 16′ coverage
- Large catcher
- Easy folding
- Short runtime
- Less power in dense grass
How to Choose the Right Electric Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
Match mower size and power to your lawn
- Deck width: 14″–17″ suits small yards and tight spaces (e.g., WORX 14″, SENIX 17″); 18″–21″ covers more ground faster for medium yards (Greenworks/Snapper 21″, MightyMow 18″).
- Voltage/runtime: 40V mowers handle typical suburban lawns; 80V-class (Snapper 82V) offers stronger performance for thicker grass.
- Claimed runtime: Look for 30–45 minutes per charge; dual-battery kits or eco/load-sensing modes extend effective runtime.
Drive type and maneuverability
- Self-propelled vs push: Self-propelled (rear-wheel drive) eases hills and larger lots (Greenworks, Snapper). Push models are lighter and better for small, flat yards (WORX, SENIX, Litheli).
- Weight and wheel size: Lighter mowers (20–30 lb) are easier to store and lift; larger rear wheels (8″–10″) improve traction and control on uneven terrain.
Cutting system and adjustability
- Height adjustment: Aim for single-lever, 5–7 positions around 1″–3.5″ to adapt to seasons and grass types.
- 3-in-1 or 2-in-1: Mulch, bag, and side discharge provide flexibility. If you mulch often, prioritize a strong brushless motor and a well-sealed deck.
- Smart load sensing: Tech that adjusts blade speed (e.g., Intellicut or load-sensing) maintains cut quality in dense patches and saves battery in light grass.
Battery ecosystem and charging
- Battery platform: Sharing batteries across tools adds value (e.g., WORX PowerShare). Consider included batteries/chargers and charge times (rapid chargers reduce downtime).
- Dual-battery setups: Swappable pairs keep you mowing longer without waiting to recharge.
Build quality, storage, and convenience
- Deck material: Steel decks are durable and improve cut quality but add weight; poly/composite decks resist corrosion and are lighter.
- Storage: Vertical or folding handles save space (handy for garages/sheds).
- Ease-of-use: Push-button start, charge-level indicators, and safety startup sequences reduce hassle. Noise levels under ~90 dB are neighbor-friendly.
Quick picks by need
- Small yards/tight spaces: Compact 14″–16″ push mower with 2-in-1 and quick height adjust.
- Medium yards/mixed terrain: 18″–21″ deck, self-propelled rear-wheel drive, 3-in-1, robust brushless motor.
- Long runtime/minimal interruptions: Dual-battery kits, eco/load-sensing modes, and rapid charger.
- Budget/plug-in simplicity: Corded model if outlet access is easy and you want unlimited runtime.
Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mower Comparison
Product | Voltage | Cutting Width (in.) | Runtime (mins) | Weight (lbs) | Deck Material | Mulching/Bagging/Side Discharge | Self-Propelled | Special Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Greenworks 40V 21″ | 40V | 21 | Up to 45 | Not Listed | Steel | 3-in-1 | Yes | Vertical Storage |
Snapper 82V 21″ | 82V | 21 | Up to 45 | Not Listed | Steel | 3-in-1 | Yes | Variable Speed, Load Sensing |
WORX 40V 14″ | 40V | 14 | Up to 1/8 acre | Under 30 | Not Listed | 2-in-1 | No | IntelliCut, Compact & Lightweight |
MightyMow 40V 18″ | 40V (2x20V) | 18 | Up to 40 | Not Listed | Not Listed | Not Listed | No | Brushless Motor, Adjustable Handle |
SENIX 40V 17″ | 40V | 17 | Up to 45 | Not Listed | Poly | 2-in-1 | No | ECO Mode, Battery Charge Indicator |
LawnMaster 11A 15″ | Corded | 15 | N/A | 28 | Not Listed | Bagging | No | Budget Friendly, Corded |
EWORK 40V 13″ | 40V (2x20V) | 13 | Up to 45 | 20.5 (w/o batteries) | Not Listed | 2-in-1 | No | Brushless Motor, Lightweight |
Litheli 40V 16″ | 40V | 16 | Up to 30 | 27.1 | Not Listed | Bagging | No | 6-Height Adjust, Easy Startup |
Data-Driven Evaluation of Electric Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers
Choosing the best electric walk-behind lawn mower requires moving beyond specifications and leveraging available data. We analyzed performance claims from manufacturers (Greenworks, Snapper, WORX, etc.) alongside user reviews from major retailers and independent testing sites like Consumer Reports and Reviewed.com. Our research focused on correlating reported runtime with deck size and voltage; data consistently shows 80V models outperform 40V options in thicker grass, aligning with the Buying Guide recommendations.
Comparative analysis of motor types (brushless vs. brushed) revealed brushless motors offer significantly longer lifespan and consistent power delivery, especially crucial for mulching functionality. We also examined the impact of drive type (self-propelled vs. push) on user satisfaction scores, finding self-propelled models consistently rated higher for larger yards and inclines. Evaluating battery platform compatibility—like WORX PowerShare—demonstrated cost savings for users already invested in that ecosystem. Finally, analysis of customer feedback highlighted the importance of noise levels (under 90dB) and ease of storage features when assessing overall user experience with these electric lawn mowers.
FAQs
What size electric walk-behind lawn mower do I need?
The best size electric walk-behind lawn mower depends on your yard size. For small yards (under ¼ acre) and tight spaces, a 14-17 inch deck is ideal. Medium yards (¼ to ½ acre) benefit from an 18-21 inch deck for faster mowing.
Are 40V or 80V electric mowers better?
Generally, 80V mowers offer more power and longer runtime, making them better for thicker grass and larger yards. However, 40V mowers are often sufficient for typical suburban lawns and are usually more affordable. Consider the demands of your lawn when choosing between electric lawn mowers.
What does “self-propelled” mean and do I need it?
Self-propelled mowers drive themselves, making them easier to use on hills or larger lawns. Push mowers require you to exert more effort but are lighter and better for smaller, flat yards.
How important is a brushless motor in an electric mower?
Brushless motors are more efficient, durable, and provide consistent power compared to brushed motors. They’re especially beneficial if you plan to mulch frequently, as they maintain blade speed even in dense grass. This feature contributes to the overall quality of your electric walk behind lawn mower.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best electric walk-behind lawn mower is the one that best matches your specific lawn size, terrain, and needs. By carefully considering factors like deck width, voltage, drive type, and battery ecosystem, you can confidently select a model that delivers a satisfying and efficient mowing experience.
Investing in a quality electric mower offers a quieter, more eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered options, without sacrificing performance. Don’t hesitate to leverage the detailed comparison data and quick picks provided to find the perfect fit for your yard and enjoy a beautifully manicured lawn.