7 Best Electric Lawn Mowers for a Quieter, Cleaner Cut

Gas mowers might have done the job for decades, but they’re loud, messy, and smell like a workshop. If your weekends involve mowing, why not make the switch to something cleaner and quieter? The best electric lawn mowers now come packed with enough battery power and blade sharpness to give your grass a proper finish without the fumes or earplugs.

More and more homeowners are trading pull cords for push buttons. And it’s not just about convenience. Electric mowers are easier to maintain, better for the environment, and often surprisingly powerful. Whether you’re working with a tight urban patch or a sprawling backyard, there's an electric model built to handle it.

In this guide, you'll find top-rated picks across every category. From cordless workhorses to compact mowers made for tight corners. We’ll also share tips to help you pick a model that actually suits your yard, not just your budget.

And while you're dialing in your lawn care setup, it might be worth checking out our recommendations for the best garden hoses too because great results often come from the whole system working together, not just one tool.

What Makes an Electric Lawn Mower a Smart Choice?

Choosing the right mower is about more than just cutting grass. It’s about how much time you want to spend on upkeep, how loud you’re willing to let your backyard be, and how much space you have to store your tools. That’s where electric lawn mowers start to shine.

Understanding the Differences: Corded vs Battery Models

There are two types of electric lawn mowers to think about: ones that plug in and ones that run on a battery. Corded mowers tend to be lighter and more affordable, but you’ll need to navigate around the cord while you mow. They work best for smaller yards without too many obstacles. Battery-powered or cordless lawn mowers, on the other hand, give you total freedom to move around, and the latest models pack enough power to cover medium to large yards without fading.

Battery tech has come a long way. These days, even compact cordless electric mowers can run for 45 to 60 minutes on a single charge, which is more than enough for most homes. And if you already own other battery-powered garden tools from the same brand, there's a good chance the batteries are interchangeable.

Why More Homeowners Are Going Electric

It’s not just about ditching gas. Electric mowers are cleaner to run, simpler to maintain, and much easier on your ears. You don’t need to change oil or stock up on fuel, and in most cases, there’s nothing to pull just push a button and go. They’re also easier to store since many fold up or stand vertically.

For people who care about noise, environmental impact, or just want fewer weekend hassles, making the switch to an electric lawn mower is starting to feel less like a trend and more like the obvious choice.

Best Overall Electric Lawn Mower

When you're aiming for that just-right balance of cutting power, battery life, and usability, some mowers overpromise and underdeliver. But the Ego Power Plus Select Cut has managed to become a go-to for homeowners who want an electric mower that actually performs like a gas model without the noise or maintenance headaches.

Ego Power Plus Select Cut Mower

This model is known for its dual-blade system, which gives your lawn a finer, cleaner finish than many single-blade mowers. The self-propelled version lets you adjust speed on the fly, and it powers through thick grass with less resistance than you’d expect. The 56V battery lasts up to an hour on a full charge, and the unit folds vertically for tight storage spaces.

The mower is part of the Ego Power Plus ecosystem, so if you already have other tools in the lineup like a trimmer or blower, you can swap batteries between them, which is a nice touch. The build feels solid, the controls are intuitive, and the push-button start removes all the friction of a gas model.

Pros:

• Long-lasting 56V battery covers medium to large yards
• Excellent cut quality thanks to dual blades
• Self-propelled with variable speed makes it easier on slopes
• Quiet operation with no gas fumes
• Folds vertically to save garage space

Cons:

• Price is on the higher side
• A bit heavier than some non-self-propelled models
• Replacement batteries can be expensive

Best Cordless Lawn Mower

Cordless mowers are all about freedom. No extension cords trailing behind you, no strategic planning to avoid running out of length mid-row. The trick is finding one that delivers strong performance without draining the battery too fast. This next pick hits that balance really well.

Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Mower

The Greenworks Pro 80V is a standout for anyone looking to cut the cord without compromising on power. It runs on a beefy 80V battery that delivers solid torque, making it feel closer to a gas mower than many lower-voltage models. The steel deck gives it a durable feel, and the 21-inch cutting width means fewer passes, especially on wider lawns.

This model includes a rapid charger and can reach a full charge in under an hour. It also features a three-in-one design: mulch, bag, or side discharge—so you can adapt depending on how you manage clippings. The handle adjusts for different heights, and you can fold the entire unit flat for easier storage.

Pros:

• High-voltage battery handles thick or wet grass well
• Fast charging keeps downtime short
• Mulching, bagging, and discharge options all included
• Sturdy build with a wide cutting path
• Zero emissions and much quieter than gas models

Cons:

• It’s fairly large and not ideal for tight storage spaces
• Heavier than some other cordless mowers
• Not as maneuverable in small or oddly shaped yards

Best Self-Propelled Electric Lawn Mower

Pushing a mower up a slope or across thick grass can get old fast. That’s where self-propelled models come in. They give you a bit of momentum so the task doesn’t turn into a workout. If you want a mower that moves with you, not against you, this one stands out for both ease and efficiency.

Toro Recycler SmartStow 60V

The Toro Recycler SmartStow 60V brings legacy into the electric era with its innovative features. The standout is the Personal Pace system. It adjusts to how fast you naturally walk, making mowing effortless. The 60V battery provides up to 45 dakika runtime, enough for most yards.

The 22-inch deck helps cover more ground quickly, and it includes a rear bag, mulch plug, and side discharge. The SmartStow design allows vertical storage, saving space.

Pros:

• Self-propel system adjusts to your walking speed
• Wide deck reduces mowing time
• Vertical storage saves space
• Good battery life for medium yards
• Trusted brand reputation

Cons:

• Not ideal for small or tight spaces
• Heavier in tight corners
• Higher price compared to push mowers

Best Budget Electric Lawn Mower

Not everyone wants to spend top dollar to keep their lawn looking tidy. If you’ve got a smaller yard or just want something straightforward without a lot of bells and whistles, there are electric mowers that can do the job without draining your wallet. This next model proves that decent performance doesn't always come with a big price tag.

Sun Joe MJ401E

The Sun Joe MJ401E is compact, simple, and designed for people who want a basic solution to regular lawn maintenance. It’s a corded electric lawn mower, which means no worries about charging or replacing batteries. Just plug it in, press the button, and you’re off.

It features a 14-inch cutting deck, ideal for small lawns, townhome yards, or tight spaces. The included grass bag is easy to detach and empty, and you can adjust the cutting height to three levels. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or sheds.

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Lightweight and easy to store
• Simple, quick to operate
• No batteries or gas needed
• Great for small, fenced yards

Cons:

• The 14-inch deck isn’t suited for large lawns
• You need to manage a power cord while mowing
• Less durable plastic build
• Less powerful for tall or thick grass

Best Electric Mower for Small Yards

If your yard is modest—like a city yard, narrow strips, or a cozy backyard—you need a compact, maneuverable, and easy-to-store mower that still performs well.

Ryobi 18V ONE Plus Compact Mower

The Ryobi 18V ONE Plus is perfect for tight spaces. It’s lightweight, with a 13-inch deck, and folds flat for vertical storage. Its quiet operation makes it ideal for early mornings or late evenings.

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Folds for compact storage
• Compatible with Ryobi 18V batteries
• Quiet operation
• Best for yards under 1/8 acre

Best for Large Lawns

If your yard is big enough that a quick pass isn’t enough, you need a mower with stamina and width.

Snapper XD 82V Max Walk Mower

The Snapper XD 82V Max is built for large yards. It runs on a powerful 82V battery, with two batteries included. The 21-inch deck and load-sensing tech help you mow efficiently, with options for mulch, bag, and side discharge.

• Dual batteries for longer runtime
• Load-sensing tech for efficiency
• Wide deck for faster mowing
• Multiple discharge options

Best Lightweight Electric Lawn Mower

If ease of handling is your priority, this mower is lightweight, easy to carry, and store.

BLACK plus DECKER 40V Max Mower

Weighing under 40 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver. The 16-inch deck is suitable for small to medium yards. It’s simple, quick to start, and compatible with other 40V tools.

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Compact and easy to store
• Good for small to medium yards
• Battery charges quickly