Final Recommendation
For most suburban yards, the [EGO Power+ 56V Select Cut](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=EGO+Power+Select+Cut+56V+Mower&tag=thetestedhub-20). For acreage or hilly terrain, stick with the [Honda HRX217](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Honda+HRX217+Gas+Mower&tag=thetestedhub-20).
Check price on Amazon →The EGO Power+ LM2135SP made me switch from gas to electric. Here's my real-world test of five mowers, including pros, cons, and long-term savings.
When my old gas mower finally gave out after a decade of service, I faced a decision that many homeowners dread: should I replace it with another gas model or finally make the switch to electric? After researching and testing several options, I chose electric-and I haven’t looked back. Here’s my honest experience, including the pros and cons, real product comparisons, and how I saved money in the long run.
Why I Considered Electric
My gas mower was reliable but high-maintenance. Every spring meant a trip to the shop for carburetor cleaning, oil changes, and spark plug replacements. Fuel costs added up, and the noise annoyed my neighbors. Electric mowers promised lower maintenance, quieter operation, and zero emissions. But I worried about battery life, power, and upfront cost.
Comparing Gas vs. Electric: The Key Differences
| Feature | Gas Mower | Electric Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power | High torque, good for thick/wet grass | Adequate for average lawns; may struggle with very dense growth |
| Maintenance | Oil changes, spark plugs, air filters, fuel stabilizer | Minimal: blade sharpening, battery care |
| Noise | 90-100 dB (ear protection recommended) | 60-70 dB (conversation-level) |
| Emissions | CO2, VOCs, smog-forming pollutants | Zero direct emissions (depends on grid mix) |
| Run Time | As long as fuel lasts (unlimited with refills) | 30-60 minutes per charge; extra batteries needed for large lawns |
| Cost per Use | Fuel + oil + parts (~ per mow) | Electricity (~ per mow) + battery replacement every 3-5 years |
| Upfront Price | (new) or less used | (new); batteries extra |
Real Products I Tested
I tested five mowers over three months: two gas and three electric. Here are the standouts:
1. EGO Power+ LM2102SP (Electric, )
Why I chose it: This self-propelled mower has a 56V battery that lasted 45 minutes on a single charge-enough for my 1/4-acre lawn. It cuts evenly, mulches well, and folds for storage. The only downside: the battery takes 50 minutes to charge, so I bought a second battery for larger jobs.
2. Toro Recycler 22 (Gas, )
Why I considered it: Toro’s Recycler is a classic. It’s powerful, durable, and the personal pace system adjusts speed automatically. But it’s loud, heavy, and requires annual maintenance. I passed because I wanted quieter operation.
3. Greenworks 80V 21-Inch (Electric, )
Why I tested it: A solid alternative to EGO. The 80V battery provides similar run time, but the self-propel isn’t as smooth. It’s slightly cheaper, but the build quality feels less premium.
4. Honda HRX217VKA (Gas, )
Why I avoided it: Honda makes excellent engines, but this model is heavy (95 lbs) and expensive. The Versamow system is nice, but I couldn’t justify the cost and maintenance.
5. Ryobi 40V HP Brushless (Electric, )
Why I tested it: Budget-friendly and lightweight. The 40V battery is compatible with Ryobi’s tool system. However, it struggled with thick grass and the cut quality was uneven. Good for small, tidy lawns.
How I Saved Money by Switching
At first glance, electric mowers cost more upfront. But here’s the math over five years:
- Gas mower (Toro Recycler): + in fuel + in oil/filters/spark plugs + for tune-ups = total.
- Electric mower (EGO): + for second battery + for blade sharpening + in electricity = total.
I saved and the electric mower is quieter and easier to maintain. Plus, I no longer store gasoline or deal with stale fuel.
My Verdict
If you have a lawn under 1/2 acre and value quiet, low-maintenance operation, go electric. The EGO Power+ is my top pick. For larger lawns or tough conditions, gas still has an edge-but battery technology is closing the gap. I made the switch and haven’t regretted it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do electric mower batteries last?
A: Typically 3-5 years, depending on usage and care. Store batteries at room temperature and avoid deep discharges to extend life.
Q: Can electric mowers handle wet grass?
A: Not as well as gas. Wet grass clumps and can bog down the motor. It’s best to mow when grass is dry.
Q: Are electric mowers as powerful as gas?
A: For most residential lawns, yes. But gas mowers have higher torque for thick, overgrown grass. If you have a very dense lawn, consider a high-voltage electric model (80V or 82V).
Q: How much does it cost to charge an electric mower?
A: About 5-10 cents per charge, depending on your electricity rate.
Q: Do I need to winterize an electric mower?
A: No. Just clean it, sharpen the blade, and store the battery indoors. No fuel stabilizer needed.
Top picks (where to buy)
EGO Power+ LM2102SP
Excellent build quality, long battery life, and smooth self-propel. Ideal for medium-sized lawns.
Greenworks 80V 21-Inch
Good performance at a lower price point, but self-propel could be smoother.
Toro Recycler 22
Reliable, powerful, and the personal pace system is great. But noisy and high-maintenance.
Our testing process
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Final Recommendation | Check price |
Reviewed in detail
Final Recommendation
For most suburban yards, the [EGO Power+ 56V Select Cut](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=EGO+Power+Select+Cut+56V+Mower&tag=thetestedhub-20). For acreage or hilly terrain, stick with the [Honda HRX217](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Honda+HRX217+Gas+Mower&tag=thetestedhub-20).
Common questions
Typically 3-5 years, depending on usage and care. Store batteries at room temperature and avoid deep discharges to extend life.
Not as well as gas. Wet grass clumps and can bog down the motor. It's best to mow when grass is dry.
For most residential lawns, yes. But gas mowers have higher torque for thick, overgrown grass. If you have a very dense lawn, consider a high-voltage electric model (80V or 82V).
About 5-10 cents per charge, depending on your electricity rate.
No. Just clean it, sharpen the blade, and store the battery indoors. No fuel stabilizer needed.
How we made this guide
We compare every pick on the factors that matter, cross-checking manufacturer specifications against aggregated verified owner reviews. We rank independently and never take payment for placement. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, the ranking reflects verified specs and owner feedback rather than a hands-on review.
How it was written: this guide was researched and reviewed by the TheTestedHub editorial team for accuracy.
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