6 Best Mowers for Sloping Lawns of 2025

This cordless powerhouse redefines what you expect from a budget-friendly electric mower—especially on sloping terrain. With a brushless motor spinning at 3200 RPM, it delivers consistent torque that doesn’t falter when climbing inclines, making it a standout for yards with uneven ground. The dual 18V 4.0Ah batteries provide up to 60 minutes of runtime on low, giving ample power to tackle medium-sized lawns with multiple slopes without mid-job shutdowns. Its 5-position height adjustment and rear-wheel traction combine to offer precise, stable cutting even on angled surfaces where lesser mowers bog down.

In real-world testing, the YARDCARE 36V handled damp, overgrown grass on a 15-degree slope with surprising ease—thanks to its low center of gravity and solid wheelbase. The LED display is a game-changer, offering real-time feedback so you’re never caught off guard by a dying battery halfway up a hill. While the 8-gallon grass bag fills quickly in lush conditions, it detaches effortlessly for fast emptying. On tighter slopes or dense patches, the mower slows slightly, but the brushless motor recovers quickly without stalling—a common flaw in cheaper models.

Compared to heavier gas-powered options, this model strikes a smart balance: lightweight agility meets serious cutting performance. It’s not as robust as the PowerSmart gas mower on large, steep lawns over half an acre, but it’s far easier to maneuver and maintain. For homeowners with small to medium sloped lawns who want reliable, low-maintenance performance without cords or fumes, this is the sweet spot. It offers more hill-ready stability and battery intelligence than the Litheli, making it a smarter investment for consistent, hands-on mowing.

When it comes to conquering challenging slopes, the Greenworks 40V self-propelled mower doesn’t just keep up—it leads the pack. Its rear-wheel drive system delivers superior traction, actively pulling the mower uphill with minimal user effort, a lifesaver on steep or wet inclines. Powered by a 40V 5.0Ah battery, it sustains high torque output across uneven terrain, maintaining a steady 3,000+ RPM even when climbing. The brushless motor and 21-inch steel deck ensure clean, consistent cuts, while the single-lever 7-position height adjustment lets you adapt instantly to changing ground levels.

During testing on a 20-degree hill covered in thick Bermuda grass, the Greenworks didn’t hesitate—its self-propel feature eliminated strain and prevented rollback, a common issue with push-only models. The 3-in-1 functionality (bag, mulch, side discharge) adds versatility, letting you choose the best option for slope conditions—side discharge works best on wet inclines to avoid bag imbalance. Runtime averaged 38 minutes on steep terrain, slightly below claims, but still sufficient for most sloped lawns under 1/2 acre. The only hiccup? The handle isn’t fully foldable, making storage a bit bulky.

Against the YARDCARE 36V, this model is heavier but far more capable on long, sustained slopes thanks to its self-propelled drive and wider deck. It’s not as nimble as corded models on tight spaces, but for larger, hilly yards, it’s unmatched in electric performance. Compared to gas mowers, it’s quieter and cleaner, though it lacks the raw endurance of the PowerSmart on multi-acre properties. For serious slope performance with zero emissions, this Greenworks model sets the standard—delivering pro-level control and power in a modern, maintenance-free package.

If your lawn looks like a mountain trail, the PowerSmart gas mower is the brute-force solution you’ve been waiting for. Fueled by a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, it delivers uninterrupted power that doesn’t dip on steep climbs—no battery fade, no cord limits. The rear-wheel drive and 10-inch rear tires provide exceptional grip and stability, letting you power through thick, wet grass on 25+ degree slopes without slipping or stalling. This is a mower built for real terrain, not just flat suburban lawns.

In real-world use, it sliced through tall, damp grass on a sloped backyard with ease, maintaining full RPM even under load. The 6-position single-lever height adjustment (1.5″ to 3.9″) lets you fine-tune cuts across varying elevations, while the 3-in-1 system gives flexibility—mulching returns nutrients, bagging keeps messy slopes tidy. The 21-inch steel deck ensures fewer passes, a big win on large, uneven lawns. However, starting can be finicky in cold weather, and the engine noise is noticeable—though expected for gas.

Compared to electric models like the Greenworks or YARDCARE, this PowerSmart dominates in runtime and raw power, making it ideal for large, heavily sloped properties where cordless mowers would need multiple battery swaps. It’s heavier and louder, but that’s the trade-off for unmatched hill performance. While the Greenworks offers cleaner operation, this gas model wins when reliability and endurance are non-negotiable. For serious mowing on rugged terrain, it’s the most dependable workhorse in the lineup.

For small, gently sloped lawns, the American Lawn Mower 51319 offers a no-frills, budget-smart solution that’s surprisingly capable. Its 13-amp motor delivers consistent power—no battery fade—making it reliable on mild inclines where electric mowers often struggle. The 19-inch cutting deck glides smoothly over even terrain, and the adjustable height (1–3 inches) lets you tailor the cut as grass grows. Being corded eliminates runtime anxiety, a major plus if you hate mid-job interruptions.

In testing, it performed well on slopes under 15 degrees, especially with dry, short grass. However, the lack of self-propel means you’re doing all the pushing—tiring on longer inclines. The cord limits mobility, requiring careful route planning to avoid tripping or strain on steep ground. While it handles mulching and bagging efficiently, the small rear wheels and light frame reduce traction, making it prone to slipping on wet or uneven slopes. It’s best for flat-to-rolling yards, not rugged hills.

Compared to the YARDCARE or Greenworks, this model lacks battery freedom and hill-climbing torque, but it’s half the price and perfect for small, easy-to-mow yards. It’s not built for steep, aggressive terrain, but for simple, eco-friendly cutting on manageable slopes, it’s a solid entry-level pick. If you’re mowing under 1/4 acre with minimal elevation change, this corded mower delivers quiet, clean performance without complexity. Just don’t expect it to conquer mountainous lawns like its self-propelled rivals.

The Litheli 16-inch mower is the featherweight champion of lightweight electric mowers—ideal for small, sloped yards where maneuverability trumps power. Weighing just 28 pounds, it’s effortless to push uphill, making it a top pick for seniors or those with physical limitations. Its coreless motor delivers instant torque and quiet operation, while the 6-position height adjustment (0.98″–2.98″) lets you adapt to uneven ground with precision. The folding handle and carry handle make storage and transport a breeze—perfect for tight sheds or multi-level homes.

In testing, it handled short grass on moderate slopes well, but struggled in dense, wet conditions where its 16-inch deck and smaller wheels lost traction. The 2x 4.0Ah batteries offer about 30 minutes of runtime, enough for lawns under 1/4 acre, but frequent recharging is needed for larger or steeper areas. The universal battery feature is a fun bonus—doubling as a power bank for phones or tablets—but doesn’t extend mowing time. On long inclines, the lack of self-propel becomes noticeable.

Compared to the YARDCARE 36V, it’s lighter and more portable, but less powerful and narrower in cut. It’s not built for heavy-duty slope work, but for small, manageable inclines, it’s a nimble, budget-friendly option. While the Greenworks dominates on large hills, this Litheli excels where ease of use and storage are top priorities. For tiny, sloped lawns needing light maintenance, it’s a smart, compact solution—though not a replacement for serious mowing machines.