Greenworks 40V 20-inch: the smartest budget buy
The Greenworks 40V consistently topped our sub- tests because it does the basics right without compromising where it counts. The 20-inch steel blade produces a clean, even cut at all height settings. Seven height positions from 1.5 to 3.75 inches cover everything from a lawn striping setup to a more casual cut in summer heat. The mulching blade included in the box is effective enough to avoid bagging on most spring and summer cuts.
Check price on Amazon →We mowed real lawns with the top cordless electric mowers to find which deliver clean cuts and enough runtime to finish a quarter-acre lot on a single charge.
Our methodology
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.
Side by side
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenworks 40V 20-inch: the smartest budget buy | Check price | ||
| Ryobi 40V 20-inch: best for existing Ryobi users | Check price |
The full reviews
Greenworks 40V 20-inch: the smartest budget buy
The Greenworks 40V consistently topped our sub- tests because it does the basics right without compromising where it counts. The 20-inch steel blade produces a clean, even cut at all height settings. Seven height positions from 1.5 to 3.75 inches cover everything from a lawn striping setup to a more casual cut in summer heat. The mulching blade included in the box is effective enough to avoid bagging on most spring and summer cuts.
Ryobi 40V 20-inch: best for existing Ryobi users
If your garage already has Ryobi 40V batteries, the Ryobi mower is the best value in this price range -- you may already have spare batteries to extend your mowing time. Performance is close to the Greenworks with slightly shorter runtime per charge. The handle height is adjustable for operator comfort, which the Greenworks lacks. For tall users or families sharing the mower, that ergonomic flexibility is worth the minor performance trade.
What matters most
Deck size
20-inch decks cover more ground per pass than 18-inch models and are worth the minimal size and weight difference for lawns over 1/8 acre.
Battery voltage and capacity
40V with 4Ah is the minimum for a quarter-acre lot. Two included batteries doubles your range without recharging.
Height adjustment
Single-lever height adjustment that moves all four wheels simultaneously is far more convenient than individual wheel adjusters.
Mulch and bag options
Both mulch plug and grass bag included in the box saves a separate purchase and gives you flexibility for different seasonal conditions.
Fold-flat storage
Any mower sold today should fold flat for storage. If it does not, look elsewhere.
Frequently asked
Yes, with a 40V+ motor and a 2Ah or larger battery. The Greenworks 40V with a 4Ah battery handles a quarter-acre in one charge in typical lawn conditions.
Mulching quality depends more on blade speed and deck design than price. Most 40V mowers with 3,000+ RPM blade speed mulch adequately in dry conditions.
A 4Ah battery on a 40V mower typically lasts 40-50 minutes under normal load. Wet or tall grass reduces this to 25-35 minutes.
Plastic decks are lighter and rust-proof but dent more easily from rocks. For home use on maintained lawns they last many years with no issues.
