ECHO Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Sets The Stage For eForce Line

ECHO is no stranger to battery-powered equipment. However, it made a big change from its first-generation 58V line to its next-gen 56V eForce equipment. Headlining the system is the ECHO eForce battery-powered self-propelled lawn mower.

ECHO Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Performance

Like nearly all cordless mowers we recommend, ECHO uses a brushless motor to power the DLM-2100SP. The mower uses just one ECHO eForce 56V battery for power, and there’s room for two batteries onboard. The electronics automatically switch from one battery to the next, so you don’t have to worry about stopping and restarting.

Pro Tip: ECHO’s eForce 56V batteries are not interchangeable with the previous 58V batteries.

For most maintenance cuts, you don’t have to make any adjustments as you mow. However, if you hit thick patches over septic tanks or you’re a few days late on your weekly cut, there’s a turbo button that lifts the RPMs to help get through it. Just be aware that your runtime will take a hit.

The deck is 21 inches and made from heavy-duty steel. While it makes for a heavier mower than poly decks, it’s a more durable material. The blade is 20 inches.

This is a true 3-in-1 mower with mulching, bagging, and side discharge options. We prefer to have the side discharge over a rear discharge when we’re not bagging and mulching. It offers better clipping distribution, even though rear discharge models have an airflow advantage for better mulching and bagging.

Using a single 5.0Ah battery, you can expect mowing times up to 70 minutes in the lightest conditions. Your actual runtime will vary depending on the conditions you’re cutting in. Keep an eye on the battery indicator mounted on the control deck to monitor your battery use.

ECHO Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Design Notes

Cutting Height

The cutting height is adjustable from 1 – 4 inches with 7 positions, making the ECHO DLM-2100SP a good option for almost all grass species. A single-point adjustment lever on the back right wheel makes those changes quick and easy.

Vertical Storage

One of the big advantages of battery-powered lawn mowers is the ability to store them vertically and take up less space in your garage or trailer. Rather than having to reach all the way down to near the wheel, ECHO puts its handle releases near the top where they’re easy to reach. Just pull them toward you, pivot the handle all the way forward until it clicks into place, and lift the mower to stand it up.

The same adjustment lets you choose between the two handle height positions.

Additional Highlights

• Cushioned Handle
• LED headlights
• 10-inch rear wheels, 8-inch front wheels
• Compatible with all ECHO eForce 56V batteries

ECHO Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Price

The mower is available as a bare tool for $399.99 or as a kit with a 5.0Ah battery and charger for $499.99. There’s no 2-battery kit at the moment. There is an optional rapid charger that can take your charging time from 150 minutes per battery to 75 minutes per battery.

ECHO back the mower with a warranty for 5 years on a consumer-use basis or 2 years for commercial use. The batteries have a 2-year consumer and a 1-year commercial warranty.

The Bottom Line

ECHO’s battery-powered self-propelled mower has a solid design with elements that have been field-proven and that make it easy to use. With some flagship cordless mowers pushing toward $1000, the $500 price tag on ECHO’s kit strikes a nice balance with its performance, even though it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of higher-priced options. With its single 5.0Ah battery, it’s a good bet for lawns up to 1/4 of an acre and can extend to 1/2-acre lawns with an additional battery or two.

Check out ECHO’s entire lineup by clicking here!

Specifications

• Model: ECHO DLM-2100SP
• Power Source: ECHO eForce 56V batteries
• Deck: 21-inch steel construction
• Blade: 20-inch
• Weight: 65.5 pounds bare
• Mower Warranty: 5 years consumer, 2 years commercial
• Battery Warranty: 2 years consumer, 1 year commercial

The post ECHO Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Lawn Mower appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi 80V Battery Platform Adds A 30-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

At the Equip Expo (formerly GIE) in Louisville, Kentucky, we got to see a huge variety of the latest OPE from some big-name brands. Among them was Ryobi, which showed off the newest addition to its 80V lawncare lineup. The Ryobi 80V 30-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower ushers in some major upgrades to the brand’s walk-behind roster.

Ryobi 80V Self-Propelled Lawn Mower: The Big Deal

This mower is Ryobi’s first 80V walk-behind model. Until now, the 80V system consisted of three ride-on mowers. Adding a 30-inch walk-behind mower supplements those tools with a more nimble tool that continues to use the same batteries.

Ryobi 80V Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Battery

A 10Ah 80V suitcase-style battery provides a higher capacity (720Wh) than you can get from the 40V slide packs Ryobi employs on its other mowers. In fact, you can expect up to 90 minutes of runtime on a full charge. That gives you 20 additional minutes over their next highest-capacity model, the Whisper Series 21-inch CrossCut mower.

Blade Design And Cutting Width

Ryobi designed this mower to deliver aggressive cutting thanks to its multiple cross-cut blades. It features four blades—dual sets of two stacked blades that overlap slightly. Essentially, you get a pair of smaller CrossCut stacked blades. The side-by-side stacked design allows for better cut quality over using a single, higher-mass blade.

Another really big deal is that it gives this mower a 30-inch total cut width. This is a huge cut capacity for an electric walk-behind mower. In fact, the only other battery-powered walk-behind mower that we know of at the time of writing is the Greenworks Commercial 82V 30″ push mower which was also announced at Equip Expo this year.

Mulching and Bagging

Regardless of whether you plan to mulch or bag, Ryobi makes it easy. To choose or switch between modes, simply twist the lever on the top of the deck and a door moves to open up or block the pathway to the rear bagger. In this way, you avoid the complications of having to deal with (and potentially misplace) a removable mulch plug.

Cutting High Adjustment and Storage

Using a single-lever cutting height adjustment system, Ryobi makes it easy to lift or lower the blades. It simplifies the required adjustment to get that perfect cutting height. The dual locking side rails also make this a stable setting, providing a nice even cut without requiring a separate lever on each wheel.

When you finish mowing, the Ryobi 80V self-propelled lawn mower’s handle folds down completely for compact storage. To engage this feature, simply pull up on the handle release lever and push the handle down to the mower body.

Additional Features

• Single-point height adjustment
• Integrated mulch plug—just flip a lever!

Ryobi 80V Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Price

This lawn mower will include an 80V 10Ah battery and an 80V Super Charger. While there isn’t any pricing information publically available yet, we’ll know more leading up to its 2023 release. Like all Ryobi products, it will be available exclusively at The Home Depot.

This lawn mower will be manufactured at Ryobi’s Anderson, SC facility, making it the first 80V product to be made in the USA with global materials.

Final Thoughts

Ryobi is moving into an interesting position with its 80V line. On one hand, homeowners with 1/2-acre to 1 acre lawns may find a 30-inch walk-behind more affordable and/or advantageous than a ride-on mower. On the other hand, most professional crews have a walk-behind to get into areas such as fenced-in lawn that their large riders won’t fit. In classic Ryobi style, the team is carving out a Prosumer category between the residential and commercial lawn care sectors. Don’t be surprised if you start seeing Ryobi battery-powered equipment tempt value-minded Pros as they transition from gas to battery power.

Kenny Koehler, Pro Tool Reviews managing editor

Specifications

• Cut width: 30 in
• Max runtime: 90 mins
• Voltage: 80V

The post Ryobi 80V 30-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

There’s Something For Everyone In The EGO Lawn Mower Line

We had the pleasure of testing the very first EGO battery-powered lawn mower way back in 2014. Since then, they’ve expanded their lineup significantly and stayed at the front of the pack when it comes to battery-powered mower innovation.

While the top of their current 10-model lineup is near the top of the price list for residential battery-powered lawn mowers, they also have a couple that hit a great value at lower price points if you’re buying an EGO lawn mower on a tighter budget. All in all, they do a nice job of hitting the entire spectrum of customer needs.

EGO Lawn Mower Battery

EGO runs on a 14-cell system that produces 56 volts. While their 2.0Ah and 2.5Ah batteries are the go-to for EGO’s string trimmers and hedge trimmers, it’s the 5.0Ah and 7.5Ah packs that we prefer to use for lawn mowers. 1 battery can typically cover lawns up to a 1/4-acre and two batteries can cover a 1/2-acre or more. 

For even larger properties, consider going with the 10Ah or 12Ah battery.

One thing that separates EGO from other cordless mower options is their battery design. The cells inside match the curved pack design and help cool the pack more effectively. Each cell also has a phase-change coating that helps cool them faster. 

When we test cordless lawn mowers down here in the central Florida, the batteries tend to heat up quickly between the heat and tougher St. Augustine and Bahia grass species. Those that make it through their full battery discharge without reaching thermal shutdown need a break before the chargers deem it safe to charge them. 

All except EGO’s. Even when we put their newest mowers through some brutally tough testing on a sod farm, the batteries we used immediately started charging, putting them back in the game hours before other brands in some cases. 

The other good news is that EGO runs their entire line on 56V batteries—even their zero-turn mowers. If you want to start by buying an EGO lawn mower and upgrade to a different model later, the batteries will work with it.

The same goes if you want to add other lawn care equipment, such as a string trimmer, hedge trimmer, or blower. They’re the same batteries that run the Nexus Power Station in case you’re looking for a battery-powered inverter. 

All that said, we recommend the entire line, though each model fits a different user. Choosing the right model for your needs and expectations is key to having the best experience. 

EGO Lawn Mower Models Coming In 2023

EGO’s lineup was already impressive, but they’re adding at least five more models in 2023, including another riding mower. Collectively, they bracket the market well, and we’ll have to wait and see if any of the earlier models are being discontinued in favor of these updates.

EGO 56V 42-Inch Zero-Turn Lawn Mower with E-Steer ZT4205S

EGO’s next-generation riding lawn mower takes the 42-inch Z6 concept and exchanges the lap bars for a steering wheel. It also shifts the controls from the operator’s right side and puts them on the steering wheel. If the idea of a zero-turn mower sounds appealing but the controls are a bit intimidating, this model is a great way to make the transition.

The kit includes four 12.0Ah batteries that can run the mower long enough to cut up to 2.5 acres. There are six total battery slots, so you can add more packs if you need longer runtime.

• 22HP gas engine equivalent
• 42-inch deck
• E-Steer control system
• 6 active battery ports
• Cuts up to 2.5 acres with included four 12.0Ah batteries

Price: TBA

EGO 56V 21-Inch Select Cut XP with Speed IQ LM2167SP

Taking over for the Select Cut XP, EGO’s innovative self-propelled mower is getting a drive update that they’re calling Speed IQ. This technology digitally senses and adapts the mower’s speed to your stride. You don’t have to worry about adjusting knobs or dials, just grab the presence bar and go.

Combining that with the stacked blade system, blade options, and 8.3 ft-lbs of torque from the original Select Cut XP, the LM2167SP will be EGO’s flagship self-propelled lawn mower moving forward.

The kit includes a 12.0Ah battery that EGO tells us will run the mower for up to 90 minutes.

• Speed IQ self-propelled drive
• 21-inch poly deck
• Brushless motor
• 8.3 ft-lbs of torque
• Stacked blade Select Cut system
• Single-point height adjustment
• Vertical storage
• 90-minute runtime with kitted 12.0Ah battery

Price: TBA

EGO 56V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower with Touch Drive LM2125SP

Stepping down in price, EGO’s LM2125SP stands in the middle of the self-propelled mower lineup. This model uses EGO’s Touch Drive dial system for its self-propelled control and features a solid 6.0 ft-lbs of torque. With the 7.5 Ah battery that comes in the kit, you can expect up to an hour of runtime.

• Touch Drive self-propelled drive
• 21-inch poly deck
• Brushless motor
• 6.0 ft-lbs of torque
• Single-point height adjustment
• Vertical storage
• 60-minute runtime with kitted 7.5Ah battery

Price: TBA

EGO 56V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower LM2114SP

EGO’s LM2114SP is poised to take over as the value leader for the self-propelled line. Shifting to a dual-bar drive engagement system you can operate with either hand, it has the same 6.0 ft-lbs of torque as the Touch Drive model. The kit comes with a 6.0Ah battery that’s capable of 50 minutes of runtime.

• Dual bar self-propelled mower
• 21-inch poly deck
• Brushless motor
• 6.0 ft-lbs of torque
• Single-point height adjustment
• Vertical storage
• 50-minute runtime with kitted 6.0Ah battery

Price: TBA

EGO 56V 21-Inch Push Lawn Mower LM2114

Take the model above, remove the self-propelled drive, and you get EGO’s newest push mower. It shares the same 6.0 ft-lbs of torque along with all the other goodies. It comes with a 6.0Ah battery that can run up to 55 minutes in this model. This is the only model EGO specifically mentions coming with an advanced Gator blade.

• Push mower
• 21-inch poly deck
• Brushless motor
• 6.0 ft-lbs of torque
• Single-point height adjustment
• Vertical storage
• 55-minute runtime with kitted 6.0Ah battery

Price: TBA

Best EGO Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

EGO Z6 52-inch Zero-Turn Mower ZT5207L

Increasing the deck size of the original EGO ZT4204L zero-turn mower, the EGO ZT5207L 52-inch zero-turn keeps everything we love. This best EGO lawn mower article would be incomplete without it.

There’s a lot to like about this EGO 52-inch zero-turn. If we had to boil it down to a few key points, you’d get the following:

• Fabricated deck
• 6 x 12Ah batteries (for maximum runtime)
• 8MPH top mowing speed
• 4 acres on a single charge
• Onboard charging of batteries
• LED headlights/taillights
• Smooth controls

For residential users looking to ditch gas, the EGO 52-inch zero-turn currently offers the most refined residential mowing solution on the market.

Price: $6,999 kit with six 12.0Ah batteries and charger. 5-year limited warranty.

Best EGO Walk-Behind Lawn Mower

EGO 56V Select Cut XP Self-Propelled Lawn Mower (LM2130SP)

There’s no doubt in our minds that the EGO Select Cut XP mower is the top walk-behind model currently available. That’s not just in the EGO lineup, we think it’s the best of all the cordless residential lawn mowers. 

It features a stacked blade system that only EGO currently has in the electric walk-behind sector. The “Select Cut” in the name is because you get two blade options that both come with the kit. One blade offers a quality cut with better runtime and the other optimizes mulching. With our grass growth rates, we use the mulching blade. 

It’s not the most powerful or the most expensive in EGO’s line. However, there’s plenty of power available to even handle some overgrowth if the weather or vacation forces you to let your lawn go a few extra days. It also has a newly designed drive control system that we prefer over EGO’s other self-propelled models.

Estimated kit runtime: 60 minutes

Price: $799 kit with 10.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Most Powerful EGO Lawn Mower

EGO 56V Peak Power Self-Propelled Lawn Mower (LM2142SP)

When we tested gas and battery-powered lawn mowers side-by-side, we thought gas would easily exceed what any brand could do with a battery. The 21-inch EGO Peak Power Self-Propelled lawn mower shocked us by out-cutting every other mower we tested except for Honda’s HRX-series and perhaps the EGO Select Cut XP. It also put some massive distance over several other commercial gas mowers. 

Two active battery ports combine the power of two batteries, letting you pack up to 24.0Ah of battery capacity on board and hitting higher torque. If you have grass that grows 3 or more inches between cuts or is really thick, this is the EGO mower you should grab to give you the power you need for an even cut.

Estimated kit runtime: 80 minutes

Price: $799 kit with two 5.0Ah batteries and rapid charger

Toughest EGO Lawn Mower

EGO 56V Steel Deck Self-Propelled Lawn Mower (LM2020SP)

If you’re the kind of guy or gal that wants the toughest build, consider EGO’s steel deck mowers. Unsurprisingly, we prefer the self-propelled model, though there’s also a push mower if you have a smaller lawn and want to save some money.

The debate between steel and poly (plastic) decks runs deep. Generally speaking, steel decks can take more abuse. That said, we haven’t had a poly deck fail on us yet. There’s also more design flexibility to optimize airflow compared to steel.

But there’s still no denying that steel mower decks inspire a lot of confidence for the long haul. With EGO’s 5-year warranty backing it up, we’re totally on board with a steel deck sealing that long-term commitment.

Estimated kit runtime: 60 minutes

Price: $499 bare, $699 with 7.5Ah battery and rapid charger ($499 push mower kit with 5.0Ah battery)

Best Value EGO Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

EGO 56V Self-Propelled Lawn Mower (LM2102SP)

If you’re looking to save some money and still get a great self-propelled battery-powered lawn mower, EGO’s 21-inch LM2102SP is a great fit.

While it’s more basic than the other models we mentioned above, it’s no slouch in the feature department. Here are some of the highlights:

• Mulch, bag, or side discharge
• Vertical storage
• 21-inch poly deck
• LED headlights
• Single point height adjustment

The kit price with a 7.5Ah battery is $549, and it’s certainly fair to say that there are cheaper self-propelled cordless mowers out there. However, finding good value means balancing price, performance, and quality, and that’s what EGO does so well with this model compared to less expensive options.

Estimated kit runtime: 60 minutes

Price: $449 bare, $599 kit with 7.5Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Value EGO Push Lawn Mower

EGO 56V Push Mower (LM2101)

EGO’s 21-inch LM2101 push mower kit is one of the best values in the battery-powered lawn mower space, period. Running $399 for the kit with a 5.0Ah battery, it has the runtime to cover lawns up to a 1/4-acre on one charge.

Like its high-value self-propelled cousin, it keeps most of the best features from EGO’s foundational design:

• Mulch, bag, or side discharge
• Vertical storage
• 21-inch poly deck
• LED headlights
• Single point height adjustment

While you may be skeptical that hitting such a high value mark leaves questionable performance, this is actually the first EGO lawn mower to exceed the power of entry-level gas mowers.

Estimated kit runtime: 45 minutes

Price: $339 bare, $399 kit with 5.0Ah battery and rapid charger

The post Best EGO Lawn Mower Reviews 2022 (Plus Bonus 2023 Models) appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

By now you’ve probably seen commercials for trimmer mowers and they are absolutely useful tools. Can or should they replace your lawn mower, though? We took a deep dive into the design and uses of each to help you decide for this lawn mower vs trimmer mower comparison.

Lawn Mower Vs Trimmer Mower Design

On the surface, the comparison between a lawn mower and a trimmer mower is simple. A lawn mower cuts using a spinning blade and a trimmer mower uses a thick trimmer line.

There’s more to it than what each one cuts with, though. A lawn mower completely surrounds its blade with a deck while a trimmer mower only partially encloses its line.

Then there’s the drive system. Lawn mowers use four wheels, usually no more than 8 or 10 inches on the back and 6 inches or so on the front. Self-propelled drive systems can reduce the amount of effort you put into mowing. A trimmer mower uses just two wheels and they are oversized to roll well on terrain that doesn’t get as much attention as a typical lawn.

To adjust the cutting height of your lawn mower, you pivot the wheels so they either raise or lower the deck. On a trimmer mower, you change the location of your trimmer line up or down on the head.

One design feature that makes a big difference in how these tools are used is engine placement. A lawn mower’s engine is a direct drive and sits immediately above the blade. A trimmer mower has an elongated front section that extends the center of the head well in front of the engine.

Of course, lawn mowers have ride-on options that take their design to a whole different level. Trimmer mowers don’t, per se, but they do have tow-behind models making your UTV or tractor a ride-on trimmer mower.

There are a couple of things they have in common, though. Both have both gas and battery-powered options available (though battery-powered lawn mowers are far more widespread). You can also find electric start options for models with gas engines.

Lawn Mower Vs Trimmer Mower Cutting Characteristics

How well each type of mower cuts varies as widely as what they cut with. A lawn mower’s blade slices through grass and creates clippings. The deck design creates airflow that lifts the clippings up where they can be cut multiple times before they discharge.

Many lawn mowers have a 3-in-1 design. They can discharge out the side (which is great when you miss a cut and your lawn gets too tall). You can bag to leave a clean lawn or you can mulch to return nutrients back to the soil. Lawn mowers also have the advantage of choosing between standard, high-lift, and mulching blades to match the way you mow. Plus, there are dethatching blades, making your lawn mower a bit more versatile.

Trimmer mowers attack grass with the tips and edges of the line cutting through. Because of the open design of its deck, most grass is only cut once before the line throws it aside with enthusiasm. This leaves you with much longer clippings.

While there are some line options, they don’t affect the cut quality in terms of evenness or efficiency the way lawn mower blades do. It primarily boils down to the thickness and durability of the line you want and pairing it with the type of grass you’re cutting.

When to Use a Lawn Mower

Use a lawn mower for cutting defined lawns and other areas that are maintained regularly. If you need to cut more than 8 to 10 inches off, you’re getting out of range of what a lawn mower is designed for.

Keep in mind a lawn mower’s ability to side discharge if you’re cutting overgrown grass. Once you have it under control, you can bag or mulch to get that even, cultivated look back to your lawn.

When to Use a Trimmer Mower

Trimmer mowers do their best work in reclaiming overgrown areas that are too tall for a lawn mower’s fully enclosed deck. The height of the grass isn’t the question—only the thickness of the stalks. Thanks to the open front section, a trimmer mower is great for trimming under fences and into areas that a lawn mower’s deck and engine placement can’t reach.

Trimmer mowers are better for areas of field rather than maintained lawns. The trade-off for their much greater cutting range is a rougher finished cut compared to what you can get from a lawn mower blade.

Lawn Mower Vs Trimmer Mower Price

While it may be a surprise, lawn mowers and trimmer mowers run in similar price ranges. You can find both in the $350 – $1000 range, though there are some lawn mowers that run on both the lower and higher sides of it.

One of the big differences is the availability of battery-powered options. You can find effective battery-powered lawn mowers running from basic homeowner all the way to commercial level with a lot of options and price points. Battery-powered trimmer mowers are much less common at this stage.

Want to know more about the mowers we used in this comparison? Check them out at DR Power Equipment’s website!

The post Lawn Mower Vs Trimmer Mower: When To Use Each appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

EGO Adds Smart Drive Technology To Your Self-Propelled Mowing Experience

Compared to traditional push mowers, self-propelled mowers can save you time and don’t require you to exert as much energy. EGO took this concept and improved upon it with the EGO Select Cut XP Self-Propelled Mower With Speed IQ. We dug deeper to see how its user-oriented convenience and new technology can help you tackle lawn day.

EGO 21-Inch Select Cut XP Self-Propelled Mower With Speed IQ: The Big Deal

This self-propelled mower (LM2167SP) takes the foundation of the EGO Select Cut XP and adds Speed IQ technology, which digitally senses and adapts the mower’s speed to your stride. You don’t need to adjust levers or dials like with previous models; all the work is done by the mower itself.

We only have one photo to go from at the moment, so we’re having to make our best guesses based on it. It looks like the handle design is different from the other self-propelled models, so it may be that the sensor is built in there and reacts to how hard you’re pushing into it. We’ll know for sure when we get it in our hands.

EGO also tells us that it features the industry’s first handlebar-integrated digital display which provides real-time information. It monitors your speed, the battery charge level, and blade speed setting. Again, with just a photo to work with and not being able to see the display, it’s tough to make any substantive comments about it. Still, we’re anxious to learn more.

Like previous Select Cut models, the LM2167SP mower is a multi-blade system that includes three interchangeable blades. In past models, your blade options were a Mulching Blade, a High Lift Bagging Blade, and an Extended Runtime Blade. Although the blades have not yet been specified for this exact model, it’s most likely to come with the same ones.

Additional Features

• Exceeds gas performance
• Delivers 8.3 ft-lbs of torque
• Cuts for up to 90 minutes on a single charge
• LED headlights
• Three blade types included
• Compatible with all EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries

EGO 21-Inch Select Cut XP Self-Propelled Mower With Speed IQ Price

As of the time of writing, we don’t have an official retail price to share. However, we do know that your purchase will include a 56V 12.0Ah ARC Lithium battery. We will be sure to update this page as more information becomes available.

Check out more EGO lawn mowers here!

Specifications

• Model: EGO LM2167SP
• Power Source: EGO 56V battery
• Torque: 8.3 ft-lbs

The post EGO Select Cut XP Self-Propelled Mower With Speed IQ appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Whip Your Lawn Into Shape With The HART 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

What a difference a year makes! Looking back on HART’s 40V cordless mowers, there was plenty of room to move into higher performance levels. The HART 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower promises to reach higher as we move into the spring mowing season. We tested it to see if it’s a good fit for your lawn.

Pros

• Excellent cut quality
• Easy handle folding for vertical storage
• Bag, mulch, or side discharge
• Single-point height adjustment
• Power boost mode gives you a brief jump in power in thick grass

Cons

• We’d like the presence bar recessed into the handle to make the grip more comfortable
• Drive speed slider is easy to bump by mistake

Using The HART 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Cutting Power

HART’s brushless motor spins a 21-inch blade that has some decent muscle behind it. Cutting through our thick St. Augustine grass, it was much more confident than some of the previous HART mowers we’ve tested.

One cool feature is a temporary power boost. The motor adjusts power automatically as we expect. You can also proactively kick it up when you’re approaching a tough patch by just pressing the blade activation button again. It steps up into high power for about 6 seconds.

There’s a power gap to the top-performing battery-powered mowers, but they’re also hundreds of dollars more. In terms of replacing gas, this mower cuts better than the 140cc class.

Cut Quality

HART gives you three discharge options and includes everything you need with the mower. Using a true side discharge rather than a rear attachment, the mower easily distributed cuttings several feet out of our mowing path.

If you’re like us and prefer to mulch, the plug is simple to install. Just lift the rear hatch and seat the plug to close off the bagger chute. The mulching results were satisfyingly good compared to what we’ve seen from HART in the past and much more like what we expect from mid to high-level mowers.

The high airflow that contributes to very its mulching characteristics also produces impressive bagging for a battery-powered mower.

Cut Evenness

Looking back over the section of grass we cut, we were definitely pleased with the results. Save for a few stray blades, we saw big improvements to how even the overall cut was.

Runtime

The HART 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower has two active battery bays. It doesn’t have an automatic switchover, though. When one battery runs out, you need to flip the red key under the lid, restart the mower, and keep on truckin’. If you have a smaller lawn, you’re able to run the mower on just one battery.

HART estimates you can cut up to 3/4 of an acre on one charge in optimal conditions. We tested runtime with a medium maintenance cut on a dry day with temps hovering right around 90° F (runtime tends to drop slightly at higher temps). With the two 6.0Ah batteries that come in the kit, we cut for a total of 50:57. Hart’s estimation may be a little ambitious, but a 1/2-acre is certainly possible.

HART 21-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Design Notes

• The 21-inch Polymax composite deck is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and strong enough to withstand moderate impacts from yard debris
• The Fast-Fold handles make it easy to store this mower upright if space is limited
• Quickly adjust the deck height between 1 inch and 4 inches with a single-point adjustment
• LEDs in front for mowing in low light situations
• A sliding thumb switch lets you easily adjust the drive speed to match the walking pace you prefer

HART 21-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Price

Grab this HART mower at Walmart for $498. It comes with two 6.0Ah batteries and a rapid charger that’ll charge each battery in one hour. It has a 5-year limited tool warranty as well as a 3-year limited battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

After using the HART 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower we’re impressed with the improvements in performance, cutting performance, and design compared to last year’s models. The design team over at HART set their sights high and stepped up to compete well against other mowers in the $500 range.

To check out the full HART 40V lineup, click here.

HART 21-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Specifications

• Model: HART HLPM061US
• Power Source: HART 40V battery
• Cutting Swath: 21-inch
• Accessories: mulch plug, side discharge chute, collection bag
• Motor: Brushless
• Self-propelled
• Cutting Height: 1-4 in.
• Deck Height Adjustment: 7-positon single-point
• Warranty: 5-year tool, 3-year battery
• Price: $498 (kit)

The post HART 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Green Machine Targets High Value In Mid-Level Price Range

You may have noticed a new outdoor power equipment brand showing up as you search Home Depot’s website: Green Machine. We got our hands on both Green Machine battery-powered lawn mower models to see where they fit in the wider range of cordless options and if one is a good fit for your lawn.

Green Machine Battery-Powered Lawn Mower Performance

Green Machine has two mowers to choose from. One is a push mower and the other is self-propelled. Aside from the drive system, the two mowers are very similar.

Green Machine uses a 62-volt brushless motor to power its 22-inch blade. That’s a larger blade than most battery-powered lawn mowers use. Despite the additional load, the motor is able to keep the blade turning at high RPMs even in our thick St. Augustine grass. Even in areas that we allowed to grow a few extra days, the mower did an excellent job of cutting without dropping the drive speed down to a crawl.

Green Machine says to expect up to 45 minutes of runtime on each 4.0Ah battery (90 minutes with two batteries) and be able to cut 1/2 an acre with the two that come in the kit. Grass thickness, heat, and moisture can all affect that, so if you have thick, fast-growing grass, plan on closer to 30 minutes worth of cutting using a 4.0Ah battery during the summer.

*Note that the push mower comes with one battery and the self-propelled model comes with two.

Everything you need to mulch, bag, and side discharge comes in the box. Both mowers use a true side discharge rather than a rear attachment that attaches to the bagger connection. If you’re cutting down overgrown grass or simply prefer to side discharge, you’ll get better distribution than many battery-powered models.

Green Machine Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Design Notes

Self-Propelled Drive System

Green Machine uses a dial to set the drive speed. What’s odd is that there’s no separate drive engagement bar and it’s a rear-wheel-drive system. That means there’s no quick way to stop the drive wheels when you turn aside from flipping the dial down to zero and then pushing it back up when your turn is complete. The good thing is the dial placement is easy to adjust on the fly. Still, it’s something the design team will need to address in the next version.

Of course, this isn’t a problem on the push mower.

There’s an “SP” button on the left that’s for engaging the self-propelled drive for transport without turning the blade on.

Single-Point Deck Height Adjustment

Deck adjustments are a piece of cake thanks to a single-point adjustment lever. The large handle is easy to grasp and the movement is easier than most of the mowers we’ve tested. The range is excellent with six levels starting at 1 1/4 inches on the low side and 3 3/4 inches at the highest setting.

Vertical Storage

Like many battery-powered models, both Green Machine lawn mowers store vertically by folding the handle forward. Simply twist the same detent knobs you use to adjust the handle height, fold the handle forward until the detents click into place, and stand it up. It’s super-easy and saves a whole lot of your garage floor space.

LED Indicators

Right behind the battery housing, there are 4 LED indicators. Reading from left to right, they let you know about a low battery, detected errors, high temperature, and power on.

Additional Highlights

• Simple push-button starting
• Three handle height positions
• 23-inch steel deck
• 11-inch high rear wheels improve traction
• Push mower is 72 pounds
• Self-propelled mower is 76 pounds
• Compatible with all Green Machine 62V batteries
• Low noise, no emissions, no gas, and no oil

Green Machine Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Price

Green Machine’s entire cordless lineup is available exclusively at The Home Depot online. The self-propelled lawn mower runs $449 as a kit with two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger. The push mower is $329 with one 4.0Ah battery and a charger. When you order, they’ll ship it to your home or your local Home Depot for free.

Green Machine warranties the mower for 5 years and the batteries for 3 years.

Considering what other brands are charging for similar designs, Green Machine’s price makes for a compelling value.

The Bottom Line

For the price, Green Machine’s lawn mower options are worth taking a close look at. If you’re looking for a push mower, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better bang for the buck. It’s worth holding off on the self-propelled mower until they deal with the drive control, though. Once they do, Green Machine will be in a great position to earn the top value picks for both styles.

Green Machine Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Specifications

• Model: Green Machine GMSM6200
• Power Source: Green Machine 62V battery
• Deck: 22-inch steel
• Blade: 22 inches
• Cutting Height: 6 positions, 1 1/4 – 3 3/4 inches
• Weight: 75.8 pounds (78.8 pounds with a 4.0Ah battery)
• Warranty: 5 years on the mower, 3 years on batteries

Green Machine Push Lawn Mower Specifications

• Model: Green Machine GMPM6200
• Power Source: Green Machine 62V battery
• Deck: 22-inch steel
• Blade: 22 inches
• Cutting Height: 6 positions, 1 1/4 – 3 3/4 inches
• Weight: 72.1 pounds (75.1 pounds with 4.0Ah battery)
• Warranty: 5 years on the mower, 3 years on batteries

The post Green Machine Battery-Powered Lawn Mower Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Makita’s XML11 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Raises Value For Homeowners

Makita is expanding its line of cordless residential OPE with an updated 18V X2 (36V) 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower: the Makita XML11. You may have seen it in our Best Makita Lawn Mower article, and now it’s time to take a deeper dive.

Makita XML11 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Performance

Cutting Performance

We’re in central Florida and the rainy season is here, so our lawns are pretty lush and hydrated which puts a bit more strain on any mower. Plus it’s pushing 90° by the time the grass is dry enough to cut… just in time for the next set of storms to threaten us. To test the XML11, we used our Toro Timemaster to cut the lawn down to 4.5 inches and set Makita’s deck height to 2.5 inches.

Makita’s brushed motor powers its 21-inch blade up to 3,000 RPM using a pair of 18V batteries to operate at 36V. For the most part, it did a good job of maintaining blade speed in our tests but it did slow down when we hit some of the thickest patches of grass of St. Augustine.

Dropping the deck all the way down, it did a good job keeping the blade moving high enough to cut at a slow pace. It did finally stop after about 40 feet, but that’s pretty darn good for mowers in this price range.

Mulching, Bagging, and Rear Discharge

Whether you’re mulching, bagging, or using a side/rear discharge, you need high lift and airflow to produce good results.

When the grass conditions let the XML11 run near its 3000 RPM top speed, it does a fine job of mulching and bagging. But as you hit thicker sections, you’ll notice the effectiveness drops a bit. Try to slow down when you mow those areas to keep the lift high.

Makita uses a rear discharge chute rather than a true side discharge, and that’s a call every mower manufacturer has to make. On one hand, a side discharge does a better job of distributing clippings. On the other, rear discharge allows for less airflow interruption in the deck design with better cut quality as a result. It’s an even bigger difference when you’re using a composite deck like Makita and you can really dial in the shape to maximize airflow.

Makita’s design gets the clippings out, but not as well as some cordless mowers we’ve used. However, the mulching and bagging benefit from it.

Runtime

Makita tells us to expect up to 40 minutes of cumulative runtime when you cycle through both sets of 5.0Ah batteries that come with the kit.

Our test yielded 14 minutes and 58 seconds on the first set of batteries and 14 minutes and 48 seconds on the second. Environmental (especially our heat) and lawn conditions always affect overall runtime. Even though we didn’t quite get to the full 40 minutes, it’s very possible.

Self-Propelled Drive System

Makita uses a rear-wheel-drive system for this mower, which is more helpful than a front-wheel-drive if you’re dealing with minor slopes and inclines.

The speed control is on your left when you’re driving and ranges from 1.5 to 3.0 MPH. It’s an infinite-position design with no stops and the tension is perfect—not too stiff and not too loose. We also like that it’s out of the way of your hands, so there’s little chance of bumping it to a different speed when you’re turning.

Makita’s rubberized tires have an aggressive tread that helps a lot with grip. As a bonus, the bearings are very smooth and the self-propelled drive releases easily, making this one of the few battery-powered lawn mowers we’ve tested that operates well when you need to push it.

Makita XML11 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Design Notes

Controls and Ergonomics

Makita uses a dual-bar system to run the mower rather than a presence bar and thumb bar design. One cool thing Makita did is with the shape of the drive bar. It cuts in on the left side so that you can release the drive bar with your right hand and still have your left on the presence bar to keep the blades running.

The full length of the handle has a rubber overmold on it. It adds comfort and grip security, but it doesn’t have foam under it as some mowers do. That should keep it from degrading as quickly from season to season.

The handle has two positions it can lock into. Some mowers have three, but nearly everyone will find a height they can work with between the two.

Deck Height

This mower uses a single-point lever system to quickly adjust the cutting height from 1.25 inches up to 4 inches. There are eight deck height positions that adjust in 1/2-inch increments.

Additional Features

• IPX4 ingress rating
• Handle folds up for vertical storage
• Two handle height positions

Makita XML11 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Price

The Makita 21-Inch self-propelled lawn mower kit retails for $499.00 and carries a 3-year limited warranty. That price includes four 5.0Ah 18V batteries and a dual-port charger. When you consider those four batteries and the charger retail for $508.99 when you buy them separately, it’s like you’re getting the mower for free!

It’s also available as a bare tool for $479, but that kit price is so good, it’s worth an extra $20.

*Two batteries and charger kit is $279.99 and another two-pack of batteries is $229.00.

The Bottom Line

Compared to other mowers in the same price range, Makita’s XML11 cuts well and it’s a good fit for homes that sit on a 1/4-acre or less. Overall, it’s the value that seals the deal as one of the best residential mowers under $500.

Click here to check out the full Makita LXT lineup.

Makita XML11 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Specifications

• Model: Makita XML11Z (bare tool), XML11CT1 (kit)
• Power Source: two Makita 18V batteries
• Deck Width: 22 in.
• Cutting Width: 21 in.
• Motor Type: brushed
• No-Load Speed: 3,000 RPM
• Cutting Height Range: 1.25 – 4 in.
• Warranty: 3-year limited
• Price: $499 (kit)

The post Makita 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Review XML11 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Greenworks Announces Availability Of The Next Generation Of Professional-Level Battery-Powered OPE

Over two dozen 82V products will join the Greenworks Commercial family of Pro-grade lawn care equipment in this 2022 expansion. Find out how Greenworks’ battery-powered lineup is changing the outdoor power equipment game on a professional level.

Greenworks Commercial 82V Lawn Care Expansion: The Big Deal

This expansion of Greenworks Commercial’s 82V battery-powered lawn care line marks the company’s largest launch to date. Throughout 2022, the lineup will add twenty-six new products, with a select few available at the time of writing.

Greenworks focuses exclusively on manufacturing battery-powered products, so the company is excited about the 82V commercial lawncare expansion. Klaus Hahn, President of Greenworks, stated:

“Greenworks is proud to transform the landscaping industry and provide a full ecosystem of solutions to improve the productivity of work.

“With high performing machines for enhanced workflow, top-of-the line materials and innovative technology, Greenworks Commercial is made to be reliable for everyday landscapers.”

So what should you expect? PTR Managing Editor got a close-up look at many of the new products at GIE last fall and had this to say:

“Expect the next generation of Greenworks Commercial handheld tools to be lighter with higher performance. That’s a huge win for professional lawn care crews. We’ll also see expansion in the overall capability of battery power with products like the industry’s strongest 20-inch chainsaw along with UTVs and charging solutions designed to keep you working more efficiently.”

Lawncare professionals should be on the lookout for work solutions such as edgers, trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws. Additionally, fall and winter 2022 will see more products added to the lineup, including walk-behind mowers and snow blowers.

Making the switch from gas to battery-powered lawn care should is easier than ever in this day and age. Greenworks aims to put electric commercial lawn equipment on the map to compete with gas power and change the lawn care game for good.

You can find out more about this launch by visiting the Greenworks Commercial website.

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DeWalt Continues Electric Lawn Mower Line with the 21.5-inch Self-Propelled Model

We love watching battery-powered lawn equipment mature each year as more and more manufacturers create new products and improve others. DeWalt is tackling the runtime issue with two new lawn mowers. The DeWalt DCMWSP255Y2 and DCMWSP255U2 21.5-inch self-propelled lawn mower each come with two different battery options. Will these options prove significant enough to deliver just the right amount of runtime to suit your yard?

DeWalt 21.5-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower – The Big Deal

This is a rear-wheel drive self-propelled lawn mower with auto-sensing technology. That adjusts the brushless motor driving the blade so that the speed (RPM) varies based on the thickness of the grass.

No matter where you live, the DeWalt DCMWSP255 should let you cut the grass to your preferred height. The lawnmower has a variable cutting height range of 1.5 to 4-inches. As with many lawn mowers, you can choose to mulch or bag your grass. DeWalt also offers a true side discharge option (with chute) as well.

Another notable feature is the fold-over handle. While almost standard on consumer-level mowers now, it makes it easy to transport and store your tool when you put it up for the week (or season). With the handle folded, you can store the mower upright. In that position, it takes up roughly 70% less space.

DeWalt DCMWSP255Y2 vs DCMWSP255U2 Model Options

DeWalt offers up this 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower with two battery options. The DeWalt DCMWSP255Y2 includes two 12Ah 20V batteries and gets up to 70 minutes of runtime. DeWalt DCMWSP255U2 includes two 10Ah 20V batteries and mows for up to 60 minutes.

Additional Features

• Push-button start
• Self-propelled
• 11-inch rear wheels

DeWalt 21.5-Inch Self Propelled Lawn Mower Price

The DCMWSP255Y2, with a 70-minute runtime, retails for $799. The 60-minute runtime version, the DCMWSP255U2, has a retail price of $669. DeWalt backs each purchase with a 3-year limited warranty.

Specifications

• Model: DeWalt DCMWSP255Y2/DCMWSP255U2)
• Power source (DCMWSP255Y2/DCMWSP255U2): 2 x 20V 12Ah/10Ah batteries
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 21.5 x 23.82 x 17.38 inches
• Cutting width: 21 inches
• Rear-wheel size: 11 inches
• Front-wheel size: 8 inches
• Deck material: 15 gauge steel

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