Keeping a well-manicured lawn can be a struggle, especially when dealing with heavy gas mowers, tangled cords, or unreliable battery life. Ryobi’s 40V cordless lawn mowers solve these pain points with powerful, no-hassle performance—whether you need an easy push mower for small yards or a self-propelled model for hilly terrain.
We evaluated key factors like battery runtime, cutting width, and drive systems, testing models in real-world conditions and analyzing user feedback. From budget-friendly push mowers to feature-rich brushless options, our recommendations ensure you find the best Ryobi lawn mower for your needs. Below, we break down the top performers based on performance, durability, and value.
Our Top Picks
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Best Overall
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Ryobi 40V Brushless Self-Propelled Mower
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40-Volt Brushless Lithium-Ion 6.0Ah |
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Best Budget Friendly
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Ryobi 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower
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Cordless Push Lawn Mower 20 in. 40-Volt |
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Best Mid-Range
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Ryobi 40V Lithium-Ion Cordless Mower
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Cordless walk behind 40-Volt Lithium-Ion |
Best Ryobi Lawn Mower Review
Ryobi 40V Brushless Self-Propelled Mower – Best Overall
This self-propelled beast redefines what cordless mowers can achieve, delivering effortless cutting power across uneven terrain thanks to its intelligent Smart Trek system and 21-inch brushless motor. The 40-volt brushless motor doesn’t just offer sustained torque—it adapts to grass density, reducing strain on both the machine and your body, making it a godsend for sloped or overgrown lawns. With a generous 6.0Ah battery, runtime is impressive, easily tackling lawns up to half an acre on a single charge, all while operating significantly quieter than gas-powered competitors.
In real-world testing, the mower glides through thick fescue and damp morning grass without bogging down, thanks to the high-torque brushless motor and precision-balanced blade. The Smart Trek self-propulsion is responsive—adjust your pace, and it follows instantly, eliminating the jerky starts common in budget models. It handles transitions from flat yards to inclines with confidence, though very tall weeds can overwhelm the deck’s airflow if you mow too quickly. At 85 pounds, it’s on the heavier side for a cordless model, but the self-propel function largely offsets that during operation.
Compared to the lighter RYOBI 20-inch push model, this one dominates in performance and comfort but trades some simplicity for advanced features. It’s ideal for homeowners with larger, uneven yards who want gas-like power without the noise, fumes, or maintenance. While it costs more than the mid-range B088BW2TPB, the Smart Trek drive and superior battery integration justify the step up—especially if you value ease of use over manual pushing.
- Self-propelled Smart Trek
- Brushless motor power
- 21-inch cutting deck
- Long battery life
- Quiet operation
- Heavier than push models
- Higher price point
Ryobi 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower – Best Budget Friendly
If you’re tired of gas fumes and ear-splitting noise, this whisper-quiet workhorse delivers a refreshingly peaceful mowing experience without sacrificing reliability. The 20-inch cutting deck and 40-volt motor handle standard suburban lawns with ease, making it a top pick for small to medium yards under a quarter acre. Its standout feature? The ultra-quiet brushless motor—it runs so quietly you can mow early morning without waking the neighborhood, a game-changer for noise-sensitive areas.
In daily use, the mower excels on flat, well-maintained lawns with light to moderate grass growth. It starts instantly with a push of a button, and the low center of gravity ensures stable maneuvering around flower beds and tight corners. The single lever height adjustment makes changing cutting levels quick, though the five-position range is slightly more limited than premium models. On damp grass or thick patches, it can struggle to maintain clean cuts at full speed, requiring slower passes to avoid clumping. At just 56 pounds, it’s one of the lightest 20-inch cordless mowers in the RYOBI lineup, making it easy to store and transport.
When stacked against the B088BW2TPB, it offers nearly identical performance but at a noticeably lower price, making it the best value for budget-conscious buyers. It’s perfect for those who prioritize simplicity, quiet operation, and affordability over self-propulsion or extended runtime. While it doesn’t match the power or deck size of the RY40LM10-Y, it delivers 90% of the performance at a fraction of the effort and noise—ideal for hassle-free weekly maintenance.
- Whisper-quiet motor
- Lightweight design
- Easy push-button start
- Affordable entry point
- Low maintenance
- Smaller deck size
- Limited for thick grass
Ryobi 40V Lithium-Ion Cordless Mower – Best Mid-Range
This precision-engineered cut machine strikes a near-perfect balance between power, runtime, and usability, making it the sweet spot in RYOBI’s mower lineup for most homeowners. The brushless 40-volt motor provides consistent power delivery, eliminating the voltage drop common in brushed motors, while the 20-inch steel deck ensures clean, even cuts across varied grass types. It features tool-free deck cleaning—a small but brilliant touch that prevents grass buildup and saves time post-mow.
Out in the field, it handles typical suburban lawns with confidence, maintaining blade speed through slightly overgrown or damp grass without stalling. The seven-position height adjustment (from 1.5 to 4 inches) gives fine-tuned control for everything from manicured looks to taller, drought-resistant cuts. Runtime is solid with a 5.0Ah battery—about 45 minutes on medium settings—enough for up to a third of an acre, though larger yards may require a spare battery. While it lacks self-propulsion, the ergonomic handle and rear-wheel drive make pushing surprisingly smooth, especially on level ground.
Compared to the budget B07V3FG49D, it offers better build quality, improved airflow, and enhanced deck design for superior mulching and bagging. It’s the ideal choice for users who want premium features without the self-propel premium, sitting comfortably between entry-level simplicity and high-end performance. While the RY40LM10-Y offers more automation, this model delivers better value when self-propel isn’t a must-have.
- Brushless motor efficiency
- Tool-free deck cleaning
- 7 height settings
- Rear-wheel drive
- Premium build quality
- No self-propulsion
- Battery sold separately
Choosing the Right Ryobi Lawn Mower
Power Source & Voltage: Cordless Convenience
Ryobi lawn mowers predominantly operate on 40V batteries, offering cordless freedom. This is a major benefit for those wanting to avoid extension cords and the limitations they impose. However, runtime is directly tied to battery Amp-hour (Ah) rating (sold separately). Higher Ah = longer runtimes. Consider your lawn size: smaller yards (under ¼ acre) can often manage with a 2.0Ah battery, while larger lawns (½ acre or more) will benefit significantly from 4.0Ah or even 6.0Ah batteries. Investing in multiple batteries allows for uninterrupted mowing.
Drive System: Push vs. Self-Propelled
This is a crucial factor affecting effort and usability. Push mowers (like the Ryobi 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower) are more affordable and suitable for small, flat lawns. They require more physical exertion, especially on inclines. Self-propelled mowers (like the Ryobi 40V Brushless Self-Propelled Mower) take over the work of moving the mower forward, making them ideal for larger yards, hilly terrain, or users with limited physical strength. Self-propelled systems come in rear-wheel drive (better for hills) and front-wheel drive (easier maneuverability).
Cutting Width & Deck Material
Cutting width determines how quickly you can mow your lawn. Wider decks (typically 20-21 inches) cover more ground per pass, reducing mowing time for larger areas. Deck material impacts durability. Ryobi mowers generally use impact-resistant polymers. While lighter and rust-proof, they may not be as robust as steel decks found on higher-end mowers.
Other features to consider:
* Brushless Motor: Increased efficiency and motor life.
* Single Lever Height Adjustment: Easy adjustment of cutting height.
* Folding Handle: Compact storage.
* Mulching Capability: Returns grass clippings to the lawn as fertilizer.
* Bagging Capability: Collects grass clippings for disposal.
* Runtime: Consider battery Ah rating for runtime expectations.
Ryobi Lawn Mower Comparison
| Product | Best For | Drive Type | Voltage | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryobi 40V Brushless Self-Propelled Mower | Best Overall | Self-Propelled | 40V | Brushless Motor |
| Ryobi 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower | Best Budget Friendly | Push | 40V | Includes Accessories |
| Ryobi 40V Lithium-Ion Cordless Mower | Best Mid-Range | N/A | 40V | N/A |
Data-Driven Ryobi Lawn Mower Evaluation
Choosing the best Ryobi lawn mower requires analyzing performance data and user feedback beyond feature lists. We focused on comparative analyses of Ryobi models, examining runtime reports from independent testing sites (like ToolGuyd and The Spruce) against advertised specifications, factoring in varying grass types and conditions. Crucially, battery performance – considering the 40V system and Ah ratings detailed in the buying guide – was a key metric.
We analyzed user reviews across multiple retail platforms (Home Depot, Amazon, Ryobi’s website) using sentiment analysis to identify recurring themes regarding cutting performance, self-propel system effectiveness (particularly on inclines), and overall durability. This revealed consistent positive feedback on brushless motor models for extended runtime and power. Comparative data on deck materials, while Ryobi primarily utilizes polymer, showed negligible long-term difference in user-reported issues when properly maintained. Finally, we cross-referenced model specifications with reported user lawn sizes to assess the suitability of push versus self-propelled Ryobi lawn mowers for different property dimensions.
FAQs
What size lawn is a Ryobi 40V mower suitable for?
Ryobi 40V mowers are versatile. Smaller lawns (under ¼ acre) work well with a 2.0Ah battery, while larger lawns (½ acre+) benefit from 4.0Ah or 6.0Ah batteries, or multiple batteries for uninterrupted use. Choosing the best Ryobi lawn mower depends on your property size.
Are Ryobi lawn mowers self-propelled or push?
Ryobi offers both push and self-propelled Ryobi lawn mowers. Push mowers are more affordable for smaller, flat lawns, while self-propelled models are better for larger yards, hills, or users needing less exertion.
What is the advantage of a brushless motor in a Ryobi mower?
Ryobi mowers with brushless motors offer increased efficiency and a longer motor lifespan compared to brushed motors. This translates to extended runtime and potentially better cutting performance for your Ryobi lawn mower.
What are the deck materials used in Ryobi mowers and how durable are they?
Ryobi primarily uses impact-resistant polymers for their mower decks. While not as heavy-duty as steel, they are rust-proof and offer good durability with proper maintenance. User feedback suggests minimal long-term issues with the polymer decks.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best Ryobi lawn mower hinges on your specific needs and lawn characteristics. Whether you prioritize affordability with a push mower, convenience with a self-propelled model, or maximizing runtime with a brushless motor and higher Ah battery, Ryobi offers a compelling option within the 40V ecosystem.
Ryobi consistently delivers reliable performance and user-friendly features, making them a popular choice for homeowners. By carefully considering your lawn size, terrain, and desired level of effort, you can select a Ryobi mower that will keep your yard looking its best for years to come.
