RoboMover remote control lawn mower,yard machine lawn mower,lawn mower robot,mowing the lawn,auto lawn mower,auto robot lawn mowerCorded vs. Cordless Lawn Mowers
Corded vs. Cordless Lawn Mowers
2024/11/12

In today’s market, more American homeowners are choosing electric lawn mowers over traditional gas-powered models. In fact, market research forecasts that by 2034, North American consumers will represent 31.2% of the global market share for electric mowers. If you're planning to make the switch, the main decision you'll face is choosing between a corded and cordless lawn mower.

We’re at the forefront of lawn care innovation, with in-depth expertise in the mower industry. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve put together this detailed comparison. We’ll explore the key differences between corded and cordless mowers, the factors you should consider, and the pros and cons of each option.

Key Takeaways

The primary difference between a corded and cordless lawn mower lies in their power source. A corded mower relies on being plugged into a continuous power supply, while a cordless mower operates on a rechargeable battery.

The size of your lawn plays a significant role in determining which mower is more suitable. For larger lawns, a cordless mower can be especially beneficial due to its mobility and lack of restrictions from a power cord.

In terms of performance, both corded and cordless mowers generally offer similar cutting capabilities. However, corded mowers provide more consistent power since they are directly connected to a power source. On the other hand, cordless mowers are limited by their battery runtime, typically offering between 30 to 80 minutes of use per charge, depending on the model and battery capacity.

Additionally, corded mowers are generally lighter, weighing about 3 kg less than their cordless counterparts. This is mainly due to the absence of a built-in battery, which makes cordless mowers slightly heavier.

What Sets Corded and Cordless Mowers Apart?

Corded mowers are powered through a long extension cord connected to a power supply, whereas cordless mowers run on a rechargeable battery. Both types of electric lawn mowers have their own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, a corded mower’s range is limited by the length of the extension cord, which can restrict mobility.

Key Factors to Consider: Corded vs. Cordless Lawn Mowers

When deciding whether to invest in a corded or cordless electric mower for your lawn, there are several key factors to take into account, such as lawn size, power, battery life, and maintenance costs. While it’s tempting to focus on specs and design, the most important consideration is understanding the specific needs of your home and yard. Here are some of the main factors you should think about before making your decision.

Lawn Size

The size of your lawn plays a crucial role in deciding between a corded or cordless mower. For larger lawns (over 300 m²), a cordless mower is often the better choice. Without the restriction of a power cord, you can freely move around your yard, making cordless mowers ideal for large backyards and front lawns.

For medium-sized lawns (between 100 m² and 300 m²), either a corded or cordless mower will work well. In this case, you should consider other factors like power, battery life, and weight, as both types offer similar performance for this size. If your lawn has challenging slopes, for example, you might prefer the lighter weight of a corded mower.

For smaller lawns (up to 100 m²), a corded mower is usually more practical. At this size, you’re less likely to mind the limitations of the cord, and the mower’s power is usually sufficient for the job. However, keep in mind that corded mowers can be relatively heavy (up to 10 kg), which may make them harder to maneuver on a small lawn.

Corded lawn mower

Power and Performance

Power and performance are key factors when choosing between corded and cordless lawn mowers, but in general, both offer comparable cutting abilities.

The advantage of corded mowers is their consistent power. Since they are directly plugged into an electrical outlet, they provide uninterrupted, high-level performance throughout your mowing session. Corded mowers also tend to handle thicker or damp grass better due to their steady power supply.

Cordless mowers, while still delivering strong performance, can experience some variability. Modern lithium-ion batteries are efficient and powerful, often matching the performance of corded models. However, cordless mowers may struggle with thicker grass or damp conditions, and performance can decline as the battery drains or ages.

Runtime and Battery

Efficiency in lawn care is largely determined by runtime, which varies between corded and cordless mowers. Cordless mowers typically offer a runtime of 20 to 80 minutes per battery charge, depending on the battery size. If you have a larger lawn or if your mowing takes longer than the battery lasts, you may need to pause and recharge the battery, which can take up to an hour.

Corded mowers, on the other hand, have no runtime limitations, as long as they are plugged into a power source. This can offer peace of mind and allow you to mow for as long as needed without interruptions. However, the limitation of the cord’s length can restrict maneuverability, especially for larger lawns. Using an extension cord or an extra battery for a cordless mower can alleviate these limitations, but ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference.

Weight and Ease of Use

The weight of the mower affects how easy it is to handle, particularly if you mow frequently or have a large yard. Corded mowers are generally lighter since they don’t carry a battery pack, making them easier to push, maneuver, and handle on slopes.

Cordless mowers tend to be heavier, typically weighing 2 to 3 kilograms more than their corded counterparts due to the battery. While this extra weight might make them slightly more challenging to maneuver, it doesn’t typically pose a major issue for most homeowners. However, for those with smaller lawns or those who need a mower for frequent use, the lighter weight of a corded mower may be a significant advantage.

Corded Lawn Mower vs. Cordless Mowers — Advantages and Disadvantages

Corded Mower vs. Cordless Mower

Advantages

Corded Mower:

  • Lower upfront cost

  • Consistent power

  • No charging required

  • No replacement batteries needed

  • Unlimited runtime

Cordless Mower:

  • Greater mobility

  • Minimal setup required

  • Ideal for medium to large lawns

  • Quieter operation

Disadvantages

Corded Mower:

  • Limited range (restricted by power cord)

  • May require an extension cord for larger lawns

Cordless Mower:

  • Higher upfront cost

  • Limited runtime (depends on battery life)

  • Battery performance decreases over time

  • Heavier and bulkier due to battery

Is a Cordless Lawn Mower the Right Choice for You?

Although a cordless lawn mower typically comes with a higher initial cost compared to a corded model, it’s a great option for small to medium-sized lawns. If you're thinking about investing in a cordless mower, you might also want to explore the next evolution in lawn care technology — remote-controlled lawn mowers.

Our remote control lawn mower offers a hassle-free solution for lawn care, making it easy for anyone to maintain their yard. With intuitive controls, a 6-hour battery life, and advanced sensors, it’s designed to simplify lawn maintenance. Explore our full selection of lawn mowers and accessories today.

remote control lawn mower

Corded vs. Cordless Mowers: FAQs

How Long Do Cordless Mowers Last?
With proper maintenance, cordless lawn mowers can last between 8 to 10 years. However, you may need to replace the battery once or twice during this period, as batteries typically need replacement every 3 to 5 years.

Are Electric Lawn Mowers Noisy?
Electric lawn mowers are much quieter than gas-powered models. They typically produce around 75 decibels of noise, which is unlikely to cause hearing damage during short-term use, according to the Hearing Health Foundation. In comparison, gas mowers can reach up to 95 decibels, which may harm your hearing over time.

Do Cordless Lawn Mowers Need Servicing?
Yes, like all electric mowers, cordless models benefit from regular maintenance. While they are generally low-maintenance, the battery in a cordless mower requires cleaning and occasional care to ensure optimal performance throughout its lifespan.