Maintaining a pristine lawn no longer requires the noise, fumes, and maintenance of a gas-powered mower. Modern electric lawn mowers offer a quieter, more environmentally friendly, and surprisingly powerful alternative. For homeowners seeking a beautiful cut without the hassle, the cordless and corded options available today are more capable than ever.
Finding the right mower that fits both your yard’s needs and your budget can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a roundup of top-performing electric lawn mowers that deliver excellent value. This list focuses on reliable models that provide the performance you need to keep your lawn looking its best all season long.
The Best Electric Lawn Mowers for Your Home
- Greenworks 80V 21” Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Combo Kit
- YARDCARE 36V Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower with LED Display
- Cordless Electric Lawn Mower with Dual 40V Batteries
- WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
- LawnMaster 15-Inch 11AMP Electric Corded Lawn Mower
- EGO POWER+ Self-Propelled Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
- Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless 21″ Push Lawn Mower
- WORX 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
- Makita 18V X2 Brushless Cordless 21″ Self Propelled Lawn Mower
- Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
Greenworks 80V 21” Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Combo Kit
This powerhouse 80V system from Greenworks is more than just a mower; it’s a complete yard care solution. The kit includes a leaf blower and a string trimmer, all powered by the same two 2.0Ah batteries and rapid charger. The 21-inch steel deck offers a 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side-discharge system, providing the flexibility to handle any lawn condition.
The brushless motor ensures efficient and reliable performance, extending the tool’s life and providing consistent power. With a 30-minute rapid charger, you can minimize downtime and keep your yard work on schedule. This combo is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to invest in a single battery ecosystem for multiple outdoor tools.
YARDCARE 36V Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower with LED Display
Stay fully informed about your mowing session with the YARDCARE mower’s smart LED digital display. This feature provides real-time information on battery life, cutting speed, and any potential errors, allowing you to mow with confidence. Powered by two 4.0Ah batteries, it offers substantial runtime for small to medium lawns.
The sturdy brushless motor operates quietly while delivering 3200 RPM for a clean cut. With five-position height adjustment and a large 8-gallon grass bag, this mower combines smart technology with practical lawn care features. It’s a user-friendly option that takes the guesswork out of battery management.
Cordless Electric Lawn Mower with Dual 40V Batteries
This mower’s dual 40V 4.0Ah battery system is designed for extended runtime, offering up to 50 minutes of continuous mowing. The included 120W dual-port rapid charger can replenish both batteries in about 90 minutes, making it easy to complete your lawn care in one session. The high-performance brushless motor reaches 3,400 RPM for a powerful and efficient cut.
You have control over the finish with six different mowing height adjustments, ranging from 1 to 3 inches. The 8.8-gallon grass bag is sizable, reducing the frequency of stops to empty clippings. This model is a solid performer for those with medium-sized yards who need a balance of power and runtime.
WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
Ideal for smaller lawns, the WORX 17-inch mower is compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver. Its Intellicut technology is a standout feature, automatically sensing grass density and adjusting the cutting speed accordingly. This smart system provides extra power for thick grass and conserves battery in thinner areas.
The mower uses two 20V 4.0Ah PowerShare batteries, which are compatible with over 140 other tools in the WORX ecosystem. With seven cutting height positions and a simple push-button start, this mower combines convenience with intelligent design. It’s a great entry point into a versatile cordless tool system.
LawnMaster 15-Inch 11AMP Electric Corded Lawn Mower
For those who prefer the consistent power of a corded electric mower, the LawnMaster offers a simple and effective solution. With a robust 11AMP motor and 3,300 RPM, it delivers reliable power without the need for gas, oil, or battery charging. You can start mowing immediately and continue for as long as needed.
This model features a 14-inch cutting deck and five cutting height positions, from 1.4 to 3 inches. It’s an environmentally friendly option that eliminates runtime anxiety, making it well-suited for small to medium-sized yards with convenient outdoor power access.
EGO POWER+ Self-Propelled Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
Take the effort out of mowing with the self-propelled feature of the EGO POWER+ mower. You can adjust the speed from 0.9 to 3.1 MPH to match your walking pace, which is particularly helpful on hills or uneven terrain. The included 56V 7.5Ah battery provides ample power for up to 60 minutes of runtime.
This mower offers six cutting height positions, allowing for a precise cut from 1.5 to 4 inches. EGO is known for its high-performance battery platform, and this mower lives up to that reputation, combining convenience with powerful, gas-like performance.
Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless 21″ Push Lawn Mower
The Snapper XD boasts an impressive 82V MAX system, designed to handle tough mowing conditions with ease. Its 21-inch steel deck features a versatile 3-in-1 design for mulching, bagging, or side discharge. With a runtime of up to 45 minutes on a single charge, it can cover a significant area.
This is a tool-only option, meaning the battery and charger are sold separately. This can be a benefit if you already own compatible Snapper batteries or want the flexibility to choose a battery size that fits your specific needs. It’s a powerful choice for those invested in or planning to build a high-voltage tool system.
WORX 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
For very small lawns, patios, or difficult-to-reach spots, this compact 14-inch mower from WORX is an ideal choice. Its smaller size makes it highly maneuverable and easy to store. Like its larger sibling, it features the intelligent Intellicut system and uses the same versatile PowerShare battery platform.
With six cutting height adjustments and a lightweight design, this mower takes the strain out of maintaining small grassy areas. It starts with the push of a button and includes two batteries and a dual charger, providing a complete, ready-to-use package for minor lawn care tasks.
Makita 18V X2 Brushless Cordless 21″ Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Makita’s offering combines the convenience of its popular 18V LXT battery platform with the power of a four-bay system. By using four 5.0Ah batteries (included), this mower delivers extended runtime and consistent power for a 21-inch cut. The self-propelled feature with variable speed control reduces user fatigue.
This is an excellent option for those who already own Makita tools and want to expand their collection. The brushless motor ensures efficiency and durability. With its robust construction and high-capacity power source, this mower is built to handle demanding lawn care routines.
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
Greenworks offers a more compact 16-inch cordless mower that is perfect for smaller properties. Part of the extensive 40V ecosystem, this mower benefits from a proven battery system that powers a wide range of other garden tools. Its smaller deck size makes it easy to handle and store.
This model provides a straightforward, reliable mowing experience without unnecessary complexity. It’s a practical choice for homeowners with limited storage space or those who need a lightweight and efficient mower for basic lawn maintenance. The Greenworks 40V platform ensures you have access to a variety of compatible batteries and tools.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Electric Lawn Mower Under $500
When I started looking for a new mower, I realized that finding the best electric lawn mowers under $500 for homeowners is all about matching the machine to your specific yard and habits. It’s not just about the price tag; it’s about getting a tool that makes your life easier. The first and biggest decision you’ll face is choosing between a corded and a cordless (battery-powered) model.
If you have a smaller, flat yard that’s less than a quarter-acre, a corded electric mower can be a fantastic, low-maintenance option. You get unlimited runtime, which is great, but you are tethered to an outlet. This means you need to be mindful of the cord at all times to avoid running over it. For larger or more complex lawns with gardens and trees, a cordless mower offers complete freedom of movement. The trade-off is that you’re limited by the battery’s life. You need to check the estimated runtime (often based on a standard lawn) and consider buying a second battery if your yard is on the larger side for the model you choose.
Next, think about the deck size. This is the width of the blade’s cutting path. A wider deck, like 21 inches, means you can cover more ground with each pass, reducing your mowing time. For smaller or more intricate yards with many tight corners, a narrower 18 or 19-inch deck might be easier to maneuver. The deck material matters, too. Steel is durable but can rust, while plastic or polymer decks are rust-proof and lighter, though they may not feel as robust.
Don’t overlook the cutting height adjustments. Look for a mower that allows you to easily change the height with a single lever that controls all wheels at once. This is so much more convenient than adjusting each wheel individually. A good range, typically from about 1.5 to 4 inches, lets you adapt to different grass types and seasonal growth.
Finally, consider the extras. A folding handle makes for incredibly easy storage in a garage or shed. A grass bag that’s easy to detach and empty is a small feature that makes a big difference every time you use it. And if you’re looking at a battery-powered model, check if the battery and charger are included in the price—some budget-friendly options might sell them separately, which can push you over your $500 budget.
FAQ
How long does the battery last on a cordless electric mower?
Battery life varies a lot depending on the model, battery voltage (e.g., 40V, 56V, 80V), and your lawn’s conditions. On a single charge, most mowers in this price range will last between 30 to 60 minutes. Thick, wet grass will drain the battery faster than dry, thin grass. If you have a larger yard, I recommend looking for a mower that comes with a higher-capacity battery (measured in Amp-hours, or Ah) or a model that allows you to use a second, interchangeable battery to finish the job.
Are electric mowers powerful enough for my lawn?
Absolutely. For the vast majority of residential lawns, modern electric mowers have more than enough power. They start instantly with the push of a button and have plenty of torque to handle standard grass. The key is choosing the right type. If you have a very hilly yard, a higher-voltage battery model will generally handle the incline better than a lower-voltage one or a basic corded mower, which might struggle with the extra load on a steep slope.
What is the main difference between a brushed and brushless motor?
This is a great technical question. A brushed motor is a simpler, older design that is less expensive but also less efficient. It creates more friction and heat, which can lead to a shorter motor life. A brushless motor is more advanced, more efficient, and runs cooler. This means it often provides more power and longer runtime from the same battery. While brushless motors are typically found in more premium models, you can sometimes find them in the best electric lawn mowers under $500 for homeowners, and they are worth looking for.
How do I maintain an electric lawn mower?
Maintenance is one of the biggest perks of going electric. It’s significantly easier than maintaining a gas mower. There’s no oil to change, no spark plug to replace, and no air filter to clean. Your main tasks are to keep the underside of the deck clean of grass clippings, occasionally sharpen the blade (just like a gas mower), and for battery models, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for charging and storing the battery to maximize its lifespan.
Can I use my existing battery platform with a new mower?
This is a fantastic way to save money and reduce clutter. Many brands that make other power tools—like DeWalt, Ryobi, EGO, and Milwaukee—offer lawn mowers that use the same battery platform. If you’re already invested in one of these systems, it makes a lot of sense to check if they have a mower that fits your budget. This way, you can share batteries between your tools, which is incredibly convenient.