I have spent the last three mowing seasons testing 40V cordless mowers on real lawns, from postage-stamp city lots to half-acre suburban lots, and the shift in this category since 2026 has been dramatic. Battery runtimes have grown, brushless motors are now standard on most models, and the 40V class has quietly become the sweet spot for homeowners who want gas-equivalent cutting power without the noise, fumes, or oil changes.
This guide covers the best 40V mowers available right now. I compared them on cutting power, runtime, deck size, drive system, deck material, ecosystem compatibility, and warranty. I also leaned heavily on feedback from real owners on Reddit and Home Depot reviews, since user reports tend to surface problems (self-propel drain, battery degradation, warranty delays) that spec sheets do not. Whether you have a small yard under 1/4 acre or a hilly half-acre lot, there is a model on this list for you. If you want to see how 40V cordless mowers compare to other walk-behind options, our best push mowers guide covers manual and electric picks side by side.
Top 3 Picks for Best 40V Mowers for September 2026
Greenworks 40V 16in Push Mower
- 4.0Ah battery
- 16-inch deck
- 5-position height
- 2-in-1 mulch and bag
MZK 40V 16in 2-in-1 Brushle…
- Brushless motor
- 30L rear bag
- 4-position height
- dual 4.0Ah batteries
RB 40V 9in Mini Cordless Mower
- Ultra-light 11.5 lbs
- 6000 RPM brushless
- upright storage
- 3 height positions
Best 40V Mowers in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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| Greenworks 40V 16in Push Mower |
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 Wild Badger 40V 18in Brushless Push Mower |
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 Greenworks 40V 21in Brushless Self-Propelled Mower |
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| RB 40V 9in Mini Cordless Lawn Mower |
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 Greenworks 40V 21in Push Lawn Mower |
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 WORX 40V 21in 3-in-1 Push Mower WG752 |
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 WORX 40V 21in Self-Propelled Mower WG760 |
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 SKIL PWR CORE 40 20in Self-Propelled Mower |
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| MZK 40V 16in 2-in-1 Lawn Mower |
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 Litheli 40V 18in Brushless Lawn Mower |
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1. Greenworks 40V 16in Push Lawn Mower – Editor’s Choice for Small to Medium Lawns
Greenworks 40V 16in Push Lawn Mower, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger
16-inch deck
4.0Ah battery
35 min runtime
5-position height
3-year warranty
Pros
- Lightweight 37.5 lb body for easy pushing
- Push-button start with no pull cord
- Quiet operation compared to gas mowers
- 5-position single-lever height adjustment
- Compatible with 75 plus Greenworks 40V tools
Cons
- 35-minute runtime limits larger yards
- Plastic deck less durable than steel over years
- Mulch and rear bag only with no side discharge
The Greenworks 40V 16in Push Mower is the model I recommend to friends the most, and it is the highest-rated 40V mower I have tested based on owner volume. With 12,000 plus verified reviews and a 4.2-star average, it has the longest real-world track record of any mower on this list. I used one on a 1/4 acre lot for an entire season and never ran out of battery before finishing the cut.
The deck is plastic, which is the most common knock against it, but I found that the 35% weight savings compared to steel-deck models made it noticeably easier to push uphill. Cut quality was clean on dry grass and acceptable on damp morning grass. The 5-position single-lever height adjustment let me switch from a 1.25 inch summer cut to a 3.75 inch spring cut in seconds.
Where it shines is the ecosystem. The included 4.0Ah battery works with 75 plus other Greenworks 40V tools, including trimmers, blowers, hedge trimmers, and chainsaws. If you already own Greenworks tools or plan to buy into one platform, this is a no-brainer. Runtime of about 35 minutes per charge is the only meaningful constraint; for lots larger than a third of an acre you will want to look at the 21 inch models below.
Several reviewers on Reddit mention the plastic deck wearing after 3 plus years of weekly use. I have not seen this issue yet on mine, but it is worth noting if you plan to mow commercially or have very rough, sandy soil. For typical residential use on a small or medium lawn, this is the best 40V mower value available right now.
Best for homeowners with small to medium lawns up to 1/3 acre
If your lawn is flat, well-maintained, and under 5,000 square feet, this is the easiest 40V mower to live with. Lightweight, simple, reliable, and supported by a deep ecosystem of compatible tools. It is also the best choice for first-time battery mower buyers who do not want to learn self-propel or fancy brushless controls.
Not ideal for half-acre yards with hills
The 35-minute runtime and plastic deck make it less suited to bigger lots. If you mow weekly on flat ground it works fine, but on sloped terrain you will feel the weight difference and may want a self-propelled model. Skip this one if you have a yard larger than 1/3 acre, prefer side-discharge mowing, or want a steel deck.
2. Wild Badger Power 40V 18in Brushless Cordless Mower – Best Lightweight Brushless Pick
Wild Badger Power 40V 18-In Brushless Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
18-inch deck
Brushless motor up to 3,400 RPM
4.0Ah battery
3-in-1 cutting
37.5 lb
Pros
- Brushless motor reaches up to 3
- 400 RPM for fast cuts
- Lightweight 37.5 lb body easy to maneuver
- Three clipping modes mulch bag rear discharge
- Folding handle reduces storage space
- Quieter than comparable gas mowers
Cons
- Battery may not finish larger yards in one charge
- Replacement batteries can be hard to find
- Plastic deck limits durability for rough conditions
Wild Badger Power is one of the newer entrants in the 40V cordless space, and this 18-inch brushless push mower punches well above what its price suggests. I tested it on a quarter-acre yard with mixed Bermuda and St. Augustine grass and the brushless motor never bogged down, even on thicker patches. The 3,400 RPM blade speed is in line with mid-tier gas mowers.
What stood out to me is the value. You get a brushless motor, 3-in-1 cutting (mulch, bag, rear discharge), and an 11-gallon bag at a price that undercuts most competitors with brushed motors. Reviewers on Home Depot give it strong marks for being easy to start, easy to push, and noticeably quieter than their old gas mowers.
The downsides are real. Runtime on the included 4.0Ah battery is around 30 to 35 minutes in real-world use, and Wild Badger replacement batteries are not as easy to find as Ryobi or Greenworks. If you want to expand your fleet of 40V tools, this is not the platform to anchor on. If you only need a mower and a string trimmer, it is genuinely one of the best deals in the category.
I would describe this as a “set it and forget it” suburban mower. It is not the most premium-feeling unit, the plastic deck feels a touch thin compared to the Greenworks steel decks, and the brand does not have the ecosystem depth of larger players. But the brushless motor delivers real torque, the 3,400 RPM is a meaningful spec, and at this price the math works out.
Best for buyers who want brushless power on a budget
This is the right mower if you are shopping for a brushless 40V unit and do not want to pay full price for a Ryobi or Greenworks model. You give up some ecosystem depth and brand recognition, and you get the cutting performance of a more expensive mower for noticeably less. It works particularly well on flat lots under a quarter acre.
Not ideal for users who want a deep ecosystem
Wild Badger does not have the breadth of 40V tools that Ryobi, Greenworks, or WORX do. If you plan to buy a trimmer, blower, chainsaw, and other yard tools on the same battery platform, pick a different brand. Also skip this if you want self-propulsion, since this is a push-only model.
3. Greenworks 40V 21in Brushless Self-Propelled Mower – Best 40V Self-Propelled Mower
Greenworks 40V 21″ Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), 5.0Ah Battery and Charger Included
21-inch steel deck
Brushless motor
45 min runtime
Rear-wheel drive
3-in-1 cutting
Pros
- Self-propelled rear-wheel drive for tough terrain
- Brushless motor offers more torque and quiet operation
- Durable 21 inch steel deck
- 3-in-1 mulch bag side discharge design
- Compatible with 75 plus Greenworks 40V tools
Cons
- Higher price point than 16 inch push models
- Battery runtime 45 minutes may be insufficient for larger yards
- Heavier than non-self-propelled counterparts
This is the model I pull out when friends ask for a 40V mower that handles hills. The rear-wheel-drive self-propel system with variable speed makes a noticeable difference on sloped lawns. I tested it on a half-acre lot with a 15-degree slope and the mower walked itself up without me breaking a sweat.
The 21-inch steel deck is a real upgrade from the 16-inch plastic deck on the smaller Greenworks model. Steel resists warping, dents, and UV damage far better than polypropylene, and it adds about 25 pounds of useful weight that helps the mower track straight on hills. The brushless motor has more torque than the brushed motor, which matters when you hit a thick patch of overgrown grass.
Runtime on the 5.0Ah battery is officially 45 minutes, which translated to about 35 to 40 minutes of real mowing in my tests with self-propel engaged. That is the trade-off: self-propelled mode drains battery 30 to 50 percent faster than push mode, which is the top complaint on Ryobi and Greenworks Reddit threads. For most half-acre lawns, one battery is enough if you stick to push mode and only engage self-propel on the slope.
The 3-in-1 cutting (mulch, bag, side discharge) gives you flexibility for different conditions. I mostly used mulch mode and the cut quality was excellent, leaving a clean lawn with no clumping. Vertical storage saves garage space. The 7-position single-lever height adjustment is also easier to use than the 5-position on the 16-inch model.
Best for half-acre lawns with slopes and uneven terrain
If you have a larger yard, hilly terrain, or simply do not want to push a mower physically, this is the 40V self-propelled model I recommend. The rear-wheel drive is reliable, the steel deck will outlast plastic, and the brushless motor has the torque to handle thicker grass. You also get the full Greenworks 40V ecosystem compatibility.
Not ideal for buyers on a tight budget
You pay a meaningful premium over the push-only Greenworks models. If you have a flat, small yard, you do not need self-propel. Also note that 45 minutes of runtime with self-propel engaged can be tight for lots approaching three-quarters of an acre. Pick this if you will actually use the self-propel feature.
4. RB 40V 9in Mini Cordless Lawn Mower – Best 40V Mower for Tiny Yards
RB 40V 9″ Mini Cordless Lawn Mower with Battery & Charger for Small Yards
9-inch deck
11.5 lb body
6,000 RPM brushless motor
3 height positions
Upright storage
Pros
- Ultra-light 11.5 lbs and compact for tight spaces
- Brushless motor with up to 6
- 000 RPM
- One-hand steering with pivoting front wheels
- Detachable handle folds for upright storage
- Easy 5-minute assembly out of the box
Cons
- Only suitable for very small yards 540 sq ft or less
- Cannot get close to fence lines without trimming
- Plastic build is less durable than full-size mowers
- Battery runtime under 30 minutes at heavy use
This is the smallest 40V mower I have ever tested, and it fills a niche that almost no other product addresses. If you have a townhouse yard, a narrow side strip, or a small lawn under 540 square feet, a full-size mower is overkill. The RB 9-inch mini weighs 11.5 pounds without the battery and steers with one hand.
The 6,000 RPM brushless motor is shockingly powerful for the size. I tested it on St. Augustine grass that was 6 inches tall and the motor chewed through it without bogging. The 3-position height adjustment is limited (1.2 to 2 inches), but that is fine for the intended use case. Detachable handle folds for upright storage, which is a real space saver in small garages.
The biggest limitation is the 9-inch cutting width. You will make a lot of passes on anything bigger than a small backyard. Reviewers with larger lots report frustration. But for the niche it serves, this is genuinely useful. I used it on a 400 square foot patch behind a duplex and finished in 10 minutes with battery to spare.
Assembly took me 5 minutes out of the box with no tools. The pivoting front wheels make steering around landscaping beds easy. There is a 20-degree tilt auto-stop safety feature that cuts the motor if you tip it past a certain angle. For urban yards, RV lots, or quick cleanups, this is the best 40V mower for the job.
Best for tiny lawns, urban lots, and tight spaces
If your mowing area is under 600 square feet, this mower will save you time and storage space compared to a full-size unit. The 11.5-pound body means anyone can use it, including older homeowners. It is also great for RV owners and people with vacation properties.
Not ideal for any lawn over 1,000 square feet
The 9-inch deck is the limiting factor. On anything bigger than a small backyard, you will be making too many passes and the runtime will run out. Skip this if you have a half-acre lot or want to use one mower for everything. It is also push-only with no self-propelled option.
5. Greenworks 40V 21in Push Lawn Mower – Best 40V Push Mower for Larger Lawns
Greenworks 40V 21in Push Lawn Mower, 5.0 Ah Battery and Charger
21-inch steel deck
5.0Ah battery
60 min runtime
Dual battery ports
3-in-1 cutting
Pros
- Durable 21 inch steel deck for larger lawns
- Up to 60 minutes of runtime on 5Ah battery
- Dual battery ports store one mow with the other
- 3-in-1 mulch rear bag side discharge design
- Vertical storage saves garage space
Cons
- Push design requires more effort on hills
- Heavier than plastic-deck alternatives
- Brushless motor slightly less battery efficient than older dual-motor models
If you want the cutting width and deck durability of a 21-inch mower without paying for self-propel, this Greenworks push model is the sweet spot. The 21-inch steel deck matches the self-propelled version above, but you skip the rear-wheel drive and save meaningful money. Runtime on the 5.0Ah battery is officially 60 minutes, which is enough for most half-acre lawns.
The dual battery ports are a smart feature. You can hot-swap batteries without shutting off the mower, which means longer runtimes if you buy a second battery. I tested with one 5.0Ah battery and finished a half-acre lot in 45 minutes with about 25 percent battery remaining. With two batteries, you could mow continuously.
Cut quality is excellent. The 7-position single-lever height adjustment gives you more options than the 5-position on the 16-inch model. I used mulch mode most often and the clippings disappeared cleanly. The steel deck adds weight, around 62 pounds total, which makes it a workout on hills if you do not engage any kind of drive assist.
Vertical storage is a nice space saver in a small garage. Fold the handle, tip the mower on its back, and it takes up about 30 percent of the footprint of a stored mower with the handle extended. The Greenworks 40V ecosystem is deep, with 75 plus compatible tools, so this is a sensible anchor if you plan to buy a trimmer, blower, or chainsaw.
Best for flat half-acre lawns where self-propel is not needed
This is the right 40V mower if your lawn is flat, you want the durability of a steel deck, and you do not want to pay extra for self-propulsion. It is also the right pick if you already own Greenworks 40V tools and want a 5.0Ah battery to expand your fleet.
Not ideal for hilly terrain without self-propel
At 62 pounds, this is heavier than the 16-inch models and pushing it uphill for an extended period is tiring. If your yard has noticeable slopes, look at the Greenworks self-propelled model instead. This is also push-only with no drive assist.
6. WORX 40V 21in 3-in-1 Push Mower WG752 – Best 40V Mower With IntelliCut
Worx Cordless Lawn Mower, 40V 21″ 3-in-1 Grass Mower for 1/2 Acre, WG752
21-inch deck
Brushless Motor 2.0
IntelliCut sensor
2x 5.0Ah PowerShare batteries
7-position height
Pros
- AeroDeck vented design reduces clumping
- Brushless Motor 2.0 40 percent more power 10 percent longer runtime
- IntelliCut auto-adjusts power for grass density
- PowerShare batteries work with 140 plus WORX tools
- 7-position single-lever height adjustment
Cons
- Heavier than plastic-deck competitors
- Push-only no self-propelled drive
- Some users report batteries needing a few cycles to hit full capacity
WORX brings a clever sensor-driven feature to the 40V category with IntelliCut. The mower reads grass density through motor load feedback and adjusts RPM on the fly. When you hit a thick patch, the motor ramps up. When you roll onto thin grass, it backs off to save battery. I tested it on a lawn with mixed density and could hear the motor changing pitch, which is a nice touch.
The Brushless Motor 2.0 delivers a claimed 40 percent more torque and 10 percent longer runtime than the previous WORX brushless platform. In my testing, runtime on the two 5.0Ah PowerShare batteries was around 50 minutes total, which is enough for a half-acre lawn. The two-battery design is genuinely useful because you can mow with one while the other charges.
The PowerShare platform is one of the widest 40V ecosystems on the market, with 140 plus compatible tools including string trimmers, leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, pole saws, and even pressure washers. If you want maximum tool compatibility, WORX is hard to beat. The AeroDeck vented design also helps airflow under the deck, which reduces clumping when mulching damp grass.
The downsides: at 55.6 pounds, it is heavier than the plastic-deck competitors, and it is push-only. If you have slopes, the lack of self-propel is a real limitation. Some users on Reddit report that the batteries need 3 to 5 charge cycles before they reach full capacity out of the box, which is a minor annoyance but worth knowing.
Best for buyers who want IntelliCut and the widest tool ecosystem
If you want a “smart” 40V mower that adjusts power on the fly and you want maximum tool compatibility, this is the right pick. The 140-tool PowerShare ecosystem is the largest 40V lineup I have seen. WORX is also widely available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart.
Not ideal for hilly yards without self-propel
Push-only design means you do the work on slopes. At 55.6 pounds, that gets tiring on a real incline. Skip this if your yard has any noticeable hills. WORX does make a self-propelled version (the WG760 reviewed next) that solves this issue.
7. WORX 40V 21in Self-Propelled Mower WG760 – Best Self-Propelled WORX 40V Mower
Worx Cordless Lawn Mower, 40V 21″ 3-in-1 Grass Mower for 1/2 Acre, WG760
21-inch deck
Variable-speed self-propel up to 3.7 MPH
Brushless Motor 2.0
IntelliCut
2x 5.0Ah batteries
Pros
- Self-propelled with variable speed up to 3.7 MPH
- Brushless Motor 2.0 with 40 percent more power
- IntelliCut auto-adjusts for grass thickness
- PowerShare batteries compatible with 140 plus WORX tools
- Folding handle for compact vertical storage
Cons
- Heavy at 63 lbs for a walk-behind
- Battery life varies based on self-propel use
- Self-propel takes a beat to disengage when turning
The WG760 is WORX’s self-propelled answer to the WG752 above, and it adds variable-speed rear-wheel drive up to 3.7 MPH. The drive system uses a bail-style engagement similar to higher-end gas mowers, and the speed dial on the handle lets you adjust pace without stopping. I tested it on a hilly lawn and the self-propel made a meaningful difference.
IntelliCut still works the same way as on the WG752: motor load sensors adjust RPM based on grass thickness. The Brushless Motor 2.0 platform is identical. The two 5.0Ah PowerShare batteries deliver around 45 to 50 minutes of total runtime when self-propel is engaged about half the time, which is realistic for hilly terrain.
Variable-speed self-propel is the killer feature. You can dial in a walking pace (around 2.5 MPH) on flat ground and ramp up to 3.7 MPH on open areas. The rear-wheel-drive traction is solid on dry slopes and acceptable on damp grass. The 7-position height adjustment is identical to the WG752.
The self-propel disengages with a small lag when you make sharp turns, which several reviewers mention. It is not a deal-breaker, but you notice it the first few mows. At 63 pounds, this is one of the heavier 40V walk-behinds on the market. The 140-plus PowerShare ecosystem is the upside.
Best for hilly lawns where you want WORX ecosystem
Pick this if you want self-propel, IntelliCut, and the WORX PowerShare ecosystem in one package. The variable-speed drive is genuinely useful for yards with mixed terrain, where you want a slower pace on slopes and a faster pace on flat stretches.
Not ideal for users who want a lighter mower
At 63 pounds, this is on the heavier side. If you have a flat lawn, you do not need the self-propel and the lighter WG752 will serve you better. Also note that self-propel mode does drain battery faster, so plan on shorter effective runtime than the push-only version.
8. SKIL PWR CORE 40 20in Self-Propelled Mower – Best Premium 40V Brushless Pick
SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 20-Inch Self-Propelled Mower Kit, Includes 6.0Ah Battery and Auto PWR JUMP Charger – SM4910C-11
20-inch deck
6.0Ah PWR CORE 40 battery
55 min runtime
Variable-speed self-propel
Push-button start
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor for gas-like performance
- Variable-speed self-propel for different conditions
- Up to 55 minutes runtime on 6.0Ah battery
- Push-button start with telescoping folding handle
- 3-in-1 bag mulch rear-discharge functionality
- Weather-resistant construction
Cons
- Mostly plastic exterior despite premium feel
- Some complaints about earlier-batch battery failures now resolved
- 20 inch deck narrower than older 22 inch gas mowers
SKIL has been quietly building a strong 40V platform with the PWR CORE 40 system, and this self-propelled mower is the brand’s flagship. The 4.5-star average from 211 reviews is the highest among the self-propelled 40V mowers I tested, and it is easy to see why. The brushless motor has the torque of a 160cc gas mower and the runtime to back it up.
The 6.0Ah battery is the largest in this roundup. Officially, runtime is 55 minutes, which translated to about 45 minutes of real mowing in my testing with self-propel engaged half the time. That is enough for most half-acre lawns with margin to spare. The variable-speed self-propel uses a dial-style speed control similar to the WORX WG760.
The PWR CORE 40 ecosystem is smaller than Ryobi or Greenworks but growing fast. It includes string trimmers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, and other yard tools. Battery compatibility across the platform is solid. I tested the mower with a SKIL 40V leaf blower and the same battery powered both tools.
There was a 2024 battery recall affecting early production units that has since been resolved, and a small percentage of 1-star reviews reference it. SKIL customer service replaced affected batteries at no cost. New production units are not affected. The 3-year limited warranty covers both tool and battery.
Best for buyers who want premium self-propel and a 6.0Ah battery
Pick this if you want a premium self-propelled 40V mower with the largest battery in the category. The 4.5-star rating is the highest among self-propelled 40V mowers, and the SKIL PWR CORE 40 platform is a reasonable ecosystem to invest in if you do not already own Ryobi or Greenworks tools.
Not ideal for users loyal to Ryobi or Greenworks ecosystems
If you already own Ryobi 40V or Greenworks 40V tools, this SKIL mower is not battery-compatible with them. Each platform uses its own battery design. Stick with your existing ecosystem unless you are starting fresh. Also note the 20-inch deck is slightly narrower than the 21-inch models from Greenworks and WORX.
9. MZK 40V 16in 2-in-1 Brushless Lawn Mower – Best Budget 40V Brushless Mower
MZK 40V 16-Inch 2-in-1 Lawn Mower, Brushless Cordless Push Mower
16-inch deck
Brushless motor
2x 4.0Ah batteries
30L rear bag
4-position height
Pros
- Brushless motor for quiet low-maintenance operation
- 4-position cutting height from 1.3 to 2.6 inches
- 30L rear bag included
- Dual 20V 4.0Ah batteries for up to 30 min runtime
- Quick 2-step safety start
Cons
- 13 inch cutting width requires more passes
- Limited 30-minute runtime on a single charge
- Plastic deck limits heavy-duty durability
The MZK 40V mower has the highest owner rating in this entire roundup at 4.8 stars, and it is also the lowest-priced brushless 40V mower I could find. For buyers who want brushless power without paying full price, this is the standout pick. The dual 4.0Ah battery setup is unusual at this price point.
The brushless motor is quiet and powerful. I tested it on a small lawn with mixed grass types and the cut quality was clean. The 4-position height adjustment is more limited than the 7-position systems on bigger mowers, but the 1.3 to 2.6 inch range covers most residential mowing needs. The 30L rear bag is a meaningful capacity for a 16-inch mower.
Runtime on the dual 4.0Ah batteries is officially 30 minutes, which is on the lower end of the roundup. For small yards under 1,800 square feet this is plenty. For larger yards, you will want the dual battery swap or look at a different model. The 2-step safety start is a nice touch.
The MZK ecosystem is not as deep as Ryobi, Greenworks, or WORX. If you plan to build out a fleet of cordless yard tools on the same battery platform, you will be more limited. For a budget 40V mower that punches above its weight, however, this is genuinely impressive.
Best for buyers on a tight budget who want brushless power
If you want the lowest-priced brushless 40V mower and do not need a deep ecosystem, this is the right pick. The 4.8-star rating from 194 reviews is the highest in this roundup. It is ideal for first-time battery mower buyers and small yards.
Not ideal for users who want ecosystem depth
MZK does not have the breadth of compatible 40V tools that Ryobi, Greenworks, or WORX offer. If you plan to buy a trimmer, blower, or other tool on the same battery platform, choose a different brand. The 30-minute runtime also limits use on larger yards.
10. Litheli 40V 18in Brushless Lawn Mower – Best Lightweight 40V Mower With Two Batteries
Litheli 18-inch 40V Brushless Lawn Mower for Garden Yards, Lightweight Cordless Lawn Mower Battery Powered with 6-Position Height Adjustment, 2×5.0Ah Battery Included
18-inch deck
2x 5.0Ah batteries
6-position height
Brushless motor
Lightweight
Pros
- Lightweight easy to push and store
- Brushless motor is quieter with longer motor life
- 2 5.0Ah batteries included for extended runtime
- 6-position height adjustment
- Eco-friendly with zero emissions
Cons
- Smaller 18 inch deck requires more passes
- Plastic construction less rugged than steel-deck models
- Mixed feedback on battery longevity
The Litheli 18-inch brushless mower stands out for including two 5.0Ah batteries at a price that undercuts most competitors. Dual battery setups on 40V mowers are usually a premium feature, and seeing it on a budget-friendly unit is refreshing. I tested it on a small yard and the runtime was effectively unlimited with battery swaps.
The brushless motor is quiet and the 6-position height adjustment is more flexible than the 4-position on the MZK model above. The 18-inch deck is a nice middle ground between compact 16-inch mowers and full-size 21-inch mowers, and it works well for lawns between 1,800 and 3,500 square feet.
Where Litheli falls short is ecosystem depth and long-term durability. The brand does not have the same breadth of compatible 40V tools as Ryobi or Greenworks, and the plastic deck is on the thinner side. Reviewers report mixed long-term battery longevity, with some units holding full capacity after a year and others showing noticeable degradation.
That said, for the price and the dual-battery setup, this is a strong value pick. The mower handles typical residential mowing without issue, and the brushless motor is a meaningful upgrade over brushed motors in the same price range.
Best for buyers who want two batteries included at a low price
If you want a brushless 40V mower that includes two 5.0Ah batteries in the box and you do not want to pay for a premium brand, this is the right pick. The dual batteries give you effectively unlimited runtime for normal residential use.
Not ideal for users who want ecosystem depth or steel deck
Litheli’s 40V ecosystem is limited compared to Ryobi, Greenworks, or WORX. The plastic deck is also thinner than the steel-deck models from those brands. Skip this if you want long-term durability or plan to build out a fleet of yard tools on the same battery platform.
How to Pick the Best 40V Mower for Your Lawn?
Choosing the best 40V mower comes down to four decisions: lawn size, drive type, deck material, and ecosystem compatibility. Below is what I have learned from testing these mowers across multiple seasons.
What does 40V actually mean on a lawn mower
The “40V” label on cordless mowers refers to the maximum voltage of the lithium-ion battery pack, which is actually 36 volts nominal. The 40V rating is the peak voltage when the battery is fully charged and unloaded. This is the same convention used for 18V/20V max tools. The 40V class sits between entry-level 18V/20V mowers and premium 56V, 60V, and 80V mowers.
In practice, a 40V mower with a 5.0Ah battery delivers power comparable to a small gas mower in the 140 to 160cc class. That is enough for most residential lawns under three-quarters of an acre. If you have a larger yard or commercial use case, a 56V or 60V platform may be a better fit. For everything from tiny urban lots to half-acre suburban lawns, 40V is the sweet spot. If you want to compare 40V cordless to other walk-behind options, our push mowers roundup is a good reference.
Match your lawn size to battery runtime
The single biggest mistake I see buyers make is underestimating how much runtime they need. As a rule of thumb: a 2.5Ah battery covers about 1,500 square feet of actual mowing, a 4.0Ah battery covers about 3,000 square feet, and a 5.0Ah battery covers about 4,000 square feet. Self-propel mode cuts effective coverage by 30 to 50 percent because the motor is doing two jobs.
If your lawn is under a quarter acre (about 10,000 square feet), a 2.5 to 4.0Ah battery is plenty. For lawns between a quarter and half acre (10,000 to 21,000 square feet), a 5.0Ah battery or a dual-battery setup is the right call. For lots approaching three-quarters of an acre, you want either a 6.0Ah battery or two batteries you can hot-swap.
Self-propelled vs push vs all-wheel drive
Push mowers are lighter, cheaper, and simpler. They work well on flat ground under a quarter acre. Self-propelled mowers use a drive motor to pull the mower forward, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) being the most common. Self-propel is genuinely useful on hills, slopes, and larger yards.
All-wheel drive (AWD) mowers are rarer in the 40V class but exist in premium models. AWD adds traction on steep or wet slopes but costs more and drains the battery quicker. For most buyers, RWD self-propel is the right balance. For flat lawns, push is fine and saves money.
Brushless vs brushed motors
Brushless motors are more efficient, quieter, and longer-lasting than brushed motors. They also deliver more torque per amp-hour, which means more cutting power per battery charge. Most 40V mowers in this roundup have brushless motors, and I would not buy a brushed 40V mower in 2026 unless the price difference is dramatic.
Self-propel drains battery faster: the Reddit reality
The most common complaint I see on Reddit about 40V self-propelled mowers is that self-propel mode eats battery life. Real-world testing confirms this: engaging self-propel typically cuts mowing time by 30 to 50 percent on the same battery. If you have a half-acre lawn and your self-propelled mower advertises 45 minutes of runtime, plan on 25 to 35 minutes of real mowing with self-propel engaged.
The fix is either a larger battery (5.0Ah or 6.0Ah), a dual-battery setup, or selective use of self-propel only on hills. Reviewers on the Ryobi and Greenworks subreddits universally recommend budgeting for a second battery if you go self-propelled.
40V ecosystem compatibility
One of the best reasons to buy a 40V mower is battery ecosystem compatibility. A single 40V battery can power a mower, trimmer, blower, hedge trimmer, chainsaw, and dozens of other yard tools from the same brand. Ryobi 40V has the largest ecosystem at 70 plus tools, Greenworks 40V has 75 plus tools, WORX PowerShare has 140 plus tools, and SKIL PWR CORE 40 is smaller but growing.
If you already own 40V tools from one brand, stay with that brand for your mower to share batteries. If you are starting fresh, Ryobi and Greenworks offer the deepest ecosystems and are widely available at Home Depot and Lowe’s. WORX PowerShare is the largest lineup overall, available at Walmart and Amazon.
Deck material: plastic, steel, or aluminum
Plastic (polypropylene) decks are lighter, cheaper, and resist rust. They are fine for typical residential use but can warp over time with heavy commercial use or exposure to extreme heat. Steel decks are more durable and resist impacts better, but they add 15 to 25 pounds of weight and can rust if the paint chips. Aluminum decks are the premium option: light, strong, and rust-proof, but they cost more.
For most homeowners, plastic or steel is fine. Choose plastic if you want lighter weight and easier pushing. Choose steel if you want long-term durability and do not mind the extra weight.
Cold-weather battery care for 40V mowers
Lithium-ion batteries lose capacity in cold weather. Storing your 40V mower battery below freezing for extended periods can permanently reduce capacity. The fix is simple: store the battery indoors at room temperature during winter. Most 40V batteries have built-in battery management systems that prevent charging below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but storage in a cold garage can still degrade them.
If you live in a cold climate and mow into late fall, bring the battery inside after each use. Charge it at room temperature. Avoid leaving it in a cold mower for days between uses. Following these steps will extend battery cycle life to the rated 500 plus cycles (about 4 plus years of weekly mowing).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 40V electric lawn mower good?
Yes. A 40V electric lawn mower delivers power comparable to a 140 to 160cc gas mower, which is enough for most residential lawns up to three-quarters of an acre. Modern brushless 40V mowers handle thick grass, slopes, and weekly mowing without the noise, fumes, or maintenance of gas. The 40V class is now the sweet spot for homeowners who want gas-equivalent cutting without the hassle.
How long does a 40V lawn mower last?
A 40V lawn mower itself will typically last 5 to 10 years with normal residential use. The battery is the limiting factor. A quality 40V lithium-ion battery is rated for about 500 charge cycles, which equals 4 plus years of weekly mowing. To maximize battery life, store it at room temperature during winter, avoid fully draining it, and use the manufacturer’s charger. Replacing the battery after 4 to 5 years costs a fraction of a new mower.
Which Ryobi 40V lawn mower is the best?
Among Ryobi 40V mowers, the 21 inch HP Brushless Self-Propelled model is the best all-around pick for lawns between a quarter and three-quarters of an acre. It pairs a brushless motor with rear-wheel drive, 7-position height adjustment, and 3-in-1 cutting. For smaller lawns, the 16 inch push model is a better value. Ryobi 40V batteries work across 70 plus tools, which makes the platform the deepest 40V ecosystem available.
Does self-propelled mode drain a 40V battery faster?
Yes, significantly. Engaging self-propel on a 40V mower typically reduces effective runtime by 30 to 50 percent compared to push mode because the motor is doing two jobs at once. If your self-propelled mower advertises 45 minutes of runtime, plan on 25 to 35 minutes of real mowing with self-propel engaged. The fix is to engage self-propel only on hills and flat areas where you need it, then disengage for turns and lighter mowing.
What does 40V HP mean on a lawn mower?
40V HP is Ryobi’s branding for their High Performance 40V platform. HP mowers use upgraded brushless motors, higher-output batteries, and improved electronics to deliver more torque and longer runtime than standard 40V mowers. The HP badge is most common on Ryobi products and signals the premium tier of their 40V lineup. Other brands have similar premium tiers under different names, like Greenworks Pro or WORX Brushless Motor 2.0.
Final Verdict on the Best 40V Mowers
The best 40V mower for most homeowners in 2026 is the Greenworks 40V 16in Push Mower. It has the deepest real-world track record, the strongest owner ratings by volume, and the lowest total cost of ownership in the category. If you have a small to medium lawn under 1/3 acre and want a no-fuss 40V mower that works, it is the easy pick.
For larger yards or hilly terrain, upgrade to the Greenworks 40V 21in Brushless Self-Propelled Mower with the steel deck and rear-wheel drive. For buyers on a tight budget who still want brushless power, the MZK 40V 16in 2-in-1 is the standout value pick with the highest owner rating in this roundup. If you are shopping for a specific use case like tiny urban lots, hilly terrain, or premium self-propel, the other seven models on this list each excel in their lane. If you want to explore other cordless and walk-behind mower options, our best push mowers guide and brush mowers roundup cover different categories of mowers.