Compact Electric Mowers That Save Space and Cut Well
The Greenworks 12 Amp 16 Inch Corded Mower leads our list for most compact electric mowers. It weighs only 29.7 pounds, stores upright, and cuts a 16 inch path. Its main limitation is the cord, which can be a tripping hazard and limits range.
If your yard is small or your storage space is tight, a compact electric mower makes sense. These mowers take up less room, are easier to lift, and still cut grass effectively.
We compared current models from Greenworks, EGO, Ryobi, Sun Joe, BLACK+DECKER, and Worx. Our focus is on real specifications and owner feedback, not hype.
The shortlist, ranked
Greenworks 12 Amp 16 Inch Corded Mower
This corded mower is lightweight and folds for vertical storage. It cuts a 16 inch path, perfect for tight spaces. Owners appreciate its simplicity and low maintenance.
Pros
- Very lightweight and easy to push
- Folds up for small storage footprint
- No battery charging needed
Cons
- Cord management can be annoying
- Not ideal for large or thick lawns
EGO Power+ 16 Inch Cordless Mower (LM1601)
EGO’s 16 inch mower runs on a 56V battery, offering strong power in a compact frame. It folds for storage and has a brushless motor. Owners report good run time and durability.
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor
- Folding handle for space saving storage
- Reliable battery platform
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Heavier than corded models
Ryobi 13 Inch Cordless Mower (RY401014US)
This mower has a 13 inch cutting width and weighs under 30 pounds with a 40V battery. It is ideal for small lawns and features a push button start. Owners like its compact size.
Pros
- Smallest footprint of the group
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Small cutting width means more passes
- Battery not included
Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO 17 Inch Cordless Mower
Sun Joe offers an affordable 40V cordless mower with a 17 inch deck. It includes a battery and charger, which is rare at this price. Owners report decent performance for small yards.
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- Wide cutting deck for its class
- Folding handles for storage
Cons
- Battery life may be short on thick grass
- Plastic wheels feel less durable
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10 Inch Cordless Mower (BCM10B)
This 10 inch mower is designed for very small lawns or touch ups. It is extremely lightweight and stores easily. Owners use it for small patches and appreciate its simplicity.
Pros
- Very light, easy to carry
- Battery and charger included
- Ideal for small patches
Cons
- Not for large areas
- Limited power
Worx WG779 14 Inch Cordless Mower
Worx 14 inch mower comes with a 20V battery and includes features like a grass comb and side discharge. It folds up for storage and has a compact design. Owners like the included battery.
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- Grass comb for edge trimming
- Foldable handle
Cons
- Battery life is limited
- Small cutting width
Greenworks 40V 16 Inch Cordless Mower (25302)
This Greenworks model offers a 16 inch cutting width and runs on a 40V battery that is included. It is a step up from the corded version with the convenience of battery power. Owners report good run time.
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- Wide cutting deck
- Folds for storage
Cons
- Heavier than some cordless rivals
- Battery takes time to charge
How they compare
| # | Model | Weight | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks 12 Amp 16 Inch Corded Mower | 29.7 pounds | Small yards with easy cord access | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | EGO Power+ 16 Inch Cordless Mower (LM1601) | 39.2 pounds (with battery) | Cordless convenience with premium build | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Ryobi 13 Inch Cordless Mower (RY401014US) | 27.1 pounds (with battery) | Ultra compact and maneuverable | 8.9 | Check price |
| 4 | Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO 17 Inch Cordless Mower | 31 pounds (with battery) | Value seeking cordless buyers | 8.6 | Check price |
| 5 | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10 Inch Cordless Mower (BCM10B) | 16.5 pounds (with battery) | Extreme compactness and light duty | 8.0 | Check price |
| 6 | Worx WG779 14 Inch Cordless Mower | 28.7 pounds (with battery) | Feature rich compact mower | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | Greenworks 40V 16 Inch Cordless Mower (25302) | 35 pounds (with battery) | Compact cordless with included battery | 8.4 | Check price |
What to look for
How to Choose the Right Size Measure your lawn area and storage space. For yards under 1/4 acre, a cutting width of 14 to 16 inches is typical. Smaller widths like 10 to 13 inches suit tiny patches but require more passes.
Corded vs. Cordless Corded mowers are lighter and never run out of power, but the cord limits range and can be a hazard. Cordless mowers offer freedom and are easier to manage, but battery weight and run time are trade offs.
Storage and Portability Look for models with folding handles and vertical storage capability. Weight matters if you need to lift the mower often. Owners report that lighter models are easier to maneuver and store.
Battery Platform Considerations If you choose a cordless mower, consider the battery system. Some brands offer batteries that work across other tools. Check if the battery and charger are included, as that affects the total cost.
Good to know
What is the smallest cutting width for a compact electric mower?
Some models, like the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX, have a 10 inch cutting width. That is the smallest commonly available, and it is best for very small lawns or touch ups.
Are compact electric mowers powerful enough for thick grass?
Most compact models can handle thin to moderate grass. For thick or wet grass, you may need a more powerful model with a higher amp rating or voltage. Owners report that corded mowers tend to handle thick grass better.
How much storage space do I need for a compact mower?
Compact mowers often fold to stand upright, reducing their footprint to about 2 feet by 2 feet. Check the product dimensions for folded height and depth.
Do compact electric mowers require much maintenance?
They are low maintenance. You need to keep the blade sharp, clean the underside, and charge or replace batteries. No oil changes or gas are needed.
Can I use a compact mower on a sloped lawn?
Yes, but lighter mowers are easier to maneuver on slopes. However, on steep slopes, battery mowers may struggle if the grass is thick. Always be cautious.
What is the average run time for a cordless compact mower?
Run time varies by model and battery capacity. Most 40V 4Ah batteries provide 30 to 45 minutes of cutting. Smaller 20V batteries may last 15 to 20 minutes.
Are compact mowers safe to use?
Yes, but follow safety instructions. Electric mowers have lower injury risk than gas mowers, but the blade is sharp. Always disconnect the power source before cleaning or adjusting.
Do these mowers come with grass collection bags?
Many compact models include a small grass bag, but some offer side discharge instead. Check the product description. The Worx WG779 has a grass collection bag and side discharge options.
Can I use a compact mower on a larger lawn?
It is possible but not efficient. A smaller cutting width means more passes and longer mowing time. For lawns over 1/4 acre, consider a larger mower.
What is the weight limit for easy lifting?
Most compact mowers weigh between 16 and 40 pounds. If you need to lift it frequently, look for models under 30 pounds, like the Greenworks corded at 29.7 pounds.
Final word
For most small yards, the Greenworks 12 Amp 16 Inch Corded Mower is the smartest buy. It is light, affordable, and stores easily. If you prefer cordless freedom, choose the EGO 16 Inch Cordless for its power and build quality, even with the extra cost for the battery.
