4 Top Electric Lawn Mowers for Small Lawns: Expert Picks

Keeping a small lawn looking neat and tidy doesn’t require a heavy-duty, expensive mower. Electric lawn mowers have come a long way, offering lightweight designs, quieter operation, and eco-friendly power. If you’re in the market for a new mower and have a smaller yard, this roundup of the best electric lawn mowers for small lawns is for you. We’ve tested and reviewed some of the top contenders to help you make the best choice.

Quick Product Comparison

Product Image Check Price
1. EWORK Cordless Mower Cordless Electric Lawn Mower with 2x 4.0Ah Batteries, Brushless Motor, Check Price
2. LawnMaster MEB1216K Mower LawnMaster MEB1216K 16-Inch Electric Lawn Mower Check Price
3. EWORK Corded Mower EWORK 14-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower with 30L Bag and 4 Height Adj Check Price
4. BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Electric Mower, Weed Eater, Edger Combo Check Price

Our Top 4 Best Electric Lawn Mower For Small Lawns Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended

🏆 Best Choice

1. EWORK Cordless Mower

EWORK Cordless Mower

The EWORK Cordless Mower is a fantastic option for those who want the freedom of cordless operation without the hassle of gas. It’s incredibly lightweight, making it a joy to maneuver around your yard. The included batteries offer decent runtime for smaller areas, and the brushless motor ensures it powers through grass effectively.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ Feather-light design at just 12 pounds.
  • ✓ Powerful 6500 RPM brushless motor for efficient cutting.
  • ✓ Comes with 2x 4.0Ah batteries and a charger for convenience.
  • ✓ Three adjustable cutting heights to suit your lawn’s needs.

Why We Recommend It

This mower is a dream for small yards. Its portability is unmatched, and the cordless design means no cords to trip over or manage. It’s quiet, powerful enough for most small lawns, and the ease of use makes lawn care less of a chore.

Best For

Homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who prioritize lightweight design and cordless freedom. It’s also a great option for those with mobility challenges.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Extremely lightweight and easy to handle.
  • Quiet operation compared to gas mowers.
  • Good power for its size.
  • Includes two batteries for extended use or charging while mowing.
Cons:
  • Battery life may be insufficient for larger small lawns without a third battery.
  • Cutting path is narrow, requiring a different mowing technique (more like a broom).

Customer Reviews

“Easy to put together, quick battery charge light weight and easy to use.” – Customer Review

“It’s small, which is not bad, but you have to adapt with it. The first mowing of the season is in and this performed decently despite it’s small size. It does have some flaws, in that the cutting path is so narrow, that trying to use it like a traditional lawn mower is not good. I tried out a few methods, and found that single arm motions more akin to a push broom are the best way to do it, and it’s fairly decent with that. If you don’t have a large part to work, or it’s irregular, it’s not that much slower, but if it’s long open parts, it’s slower. Each battery is about 15 minutes of runtime, which was not enough to complete the part of the yard. Fortunately it’s Makita compatible 18V (which max at 21V) and I have a number of those around, so I got it done with about 3 (2 included + 1 lower capacity) batteries. It handled everything including taller grass much better than expected. Though again, with kind of a broom motion. Overall, I’m going to give this 4 stars. I think 4 is a decent place for it.” – Customer Review

⭐ Editor’s Choice

2. LawnMaster MEB1216K Mower

LawnMaster MEB1216K Mower

The LawnMaster MEB1216K is a corded electric mower that offers consistent power without the need to worry about battery life. Its 16-inch cutting width is perfect for small to medium yards, and the multiple height adjustments allow for a customized cut. This mower is environmentally friendly, as it requires no gas or batteries.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ Powerful 3,500 RPM motor for efficient grass cutting.
  • ✓ 16-inch cutting width is ideal for small lawns.
  • ✓ Five cutting positions (1.4 to 3 inches) for versatile lawn care.
  • ✓ No gas or batteries means eco-friendly operation.

Why We Recommend It

If you prefer the simplicity and unlimited runtime of a corded electric mower, the LawnMaster MEB1216K is an excellent choice. It’s reliable, easy to operate, and the 16-inch deck is just the right size for navigating smaller spaces and around garden beds. This mower provides a clean cut and effective grass collection.

Best For

Homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who prefer the consistent power of a corded electric mower and don’t want to deal with battery charging or limitations. It’s also great for those who value eco-friendly solutions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Unlimited runtime thanks to the corded power.
  • Good power for its class.
  • Easy height adjustment.
  • Environmentally friendly operation.
Cons:
  • The cord can sometimes be a minor inconvenience in smaller or more complex yards.
  • Requires access to an outdoor power outlet and extension cord (not included).

Customer Reviews

“Working fine for me. Easy to use. No battery. Lightweight. No gas. Has enough power to cut tall weeds and grass. I’m almost 72 in good health, fit, I can lift a 50 pound cement bag, that kinda stuff. I didn’t want to smell gas fumes. Yes it will take me longer using an electric mower but I also wanted the grass clippings picked up. More of a manicure lawn look. Sometimes I clip the weeds with my long handle shears then use the mower. I know it’s a long arduous process! But at retired 72 all I got is time and burning calories too. I take the clippings over to my next door neighbors goats sheep and chickens and ducks. They love the fresh cut grass and weeds. I’m cutting the Cal Fire required 100 feet clearance around my house, goats pen and dog house. We have 29 acres and lost everything but one house in the June 2024 Apache Wildfire. Barring some other catastrophic event we will be in good shape if another wildfire happens.” – Customer Review

“The media could not be loaded. I was trying to find something that would pick up grass clippings before the winter. I did not want to deal gas or batteries. I looked at multiple electric corded push lawn mowers on Amazon. The LawnMaster had the best features, prices and reviews. This little lawn mower exceeded my expectations. It cuts the grass with no issues. The lever to change the height is very convenient. It is very easy to push. The cord was not a nuisance and very easy to deal with while pushing the mower back-and-forth. The collection bag is very easy to remove and dump. I filled up two trash cans of grass clippings in under an hour. I highly recommend this lawn mower.” – Customer Review

💰 Best Budget

3. EWORK Corded Mower

EWORK 14-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower

The EWORK 14-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features. It offers a decent cutting width for small yards, a manageable weight, and a convenient grass bag. This mower is perfect for those looking for an affordable and effective way to maintain their small lawn.

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Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ Lightweight design at only 17.6 lbs for easy handling.
  • ✓ 14-inch cutting deck suitable for small lawns.
  • ✓ 30L grass collection bag minimizes trips to the compost bin.
  • ✓ Single-lever adjustment for 4 different cutting heights.

Why We Recommend It

For its price point, the EWORK corded mower is a fantastic value. It’s easy to assemble and operate, and it does a good job of cutting grass cleanly. The inclusion of a grass bag is a bonus that many budget mowers lack, making cleanup much simpler. If you’re on a tight budget and have a small yard, this is a smart choice.

Best For

Budget-conscious individuals with small lawns who need a simple, lightweight, and effective electric mower for regular lawn maintenance.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Very affordable price.
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
  • Includes a grass collection bag.
  • Simple height adjustment mechanism.
Cons:
  • Build quality might feel less robust compared to more expensive models.
  • Cord management is required.

Customer Reviews

“Update: Decided to keep this mower and have used it 4 times now. I am impressed at what a good job it does at cutting evenly, the bag is plenty big for my small size yard (approx 24\’x 60\’), and the batteries have plenty of power left at the end of the job. Still not thrilled about the need to use both batteries then charging them separately, but I suppose it would bother me more if I had a bigger yard and ran out of power in the middle of cutting. If one of them does die, I will need to replace, but crossing my fingers they have longevity — at least 2 or 3 seasons. Other than that, still kind of cheap feeling, but the plastic is pretty sturdy and it is very light weight to move all around the tight spaces in the yard.Original review:The mower was delivered timely and the driver was extremely cordial. The Amazon box that it came in was a bit rag tag and the product box had a hole in the top. When I opened the box, it almost looked like this item was returned and re-packaged as there were knobs and bolts scattered throughout the box. All parts appeared to be included in the box. As I assembled it, the mower was smaller than I expected and I am apprehensive about all parts except the bolts, handle, and blade being plastic of very light to light grade-especially the wheels. I charged the batteries immediately, and it’s nice that there is a way to check their charge status with the light on the batteries themselves. Not real thrilled about needing both batteries to run this as it takes over 2 hours to charge both. Once both batteries were charged, I inserted and began mowing the smallest portion of my yard (the entire yard is small at 10\’x40\’). I just bought this home that has an automatic sprinkler system, so I set the height at 3 to make sure I cleared the sprinkler heads. The mower itself seemed to cut evenly and well, but this yard is really “clumpy” (earthworms, I think). and getting through it was a little challenging with these small plastic wheels (I had to tilt the front and lift the back many times to get through it). It took 20 minutes to finish where my previous lawn took 45 minutes to complete with a self propelled walk behind (120\’x75\’). Plus the bagger was full after this small section. I charged the batteries before mowing the second half of my yard (took an hour to charge one and 40 minutes to charge the second one and both had at least 1/3 power left). Like the 1st side, this section of the yard is extremely clumpy and has more obstacles than the first section (more sprinkler heads, had to move some rocks from neighbors yard, and some downspouts to mow around). It was also a little taller than the 1st section, so I adjusted the height by 1 setting higher. It took 40 minutes to mow this section and I had to empty the bag in the middle of mowing and at the end (this section is 60\’x13\’). The batteries were strong throughout and the cut was clean and even. My biggest concern is whether this mower will last through one summer with its flimsy plastic parts especially the wheels. I will mow one more time with it to see how it holds up, but I think my skepticism about the construction is leaning toward a return especially if I end up needing to buy a new mower after one season (about 3 months of mowing) when I could spend a little more now for a gas powered with better construction and no need to stop half way through to charge the batteries !”- Customer Review

“I just love this little lightweight mower. I did half my yard on Sat and the other half on Sunday. It did a really good job and took care of a lot of the weed eating also. With nothing sticking out on the sides, it cuts close against all the trees and shrubs. I hope it holds up for a long time. I love it. Would highly recommend.” – Customer Review

4. BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM

BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Electric Mower, Weed Eater, Edger Combo

The BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM is a unique 3-in-1 tool that functions as a mower, string trimmer, and edger. While not a traditional mower, its ability to convert makes it incredibly versatile for small yards that need more than just a simple cut. It’s a great space-saver and a practical choice for quick touch-ups.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ Three-in-one functionality: mower, trimmer, and edger.
  • ✓ Lightweight and easy to switch between modes.
  • ✓ Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) system for uninterrupted trimming.
  • ✓ POWERDRIVE Transmission for added torque.

Why We Recommend It

This BLACK+DECKER tool is perfect for those who want maximum utility in a minimal package. It’s ideal for small yards where you might also need to do some trimming or edging. The ease of conversion and operation makes it a go-to for quick lawn maintenance jobs, and it’s a great lawn trimmer for small yards that can also mow.

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Best For

Homeowners with very small yards or those who value multi-functional tools. It’s also a good option for individuals who find traditional mowers too cumbersome.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Highly versatile 3-in-1 design saves space and money.
  • Lightweight and easy to handle.
  • Efficient for trimming and edging.
  • Simple to convert between functions.
Cons:
  • Mowing function is best suited for very short grass and small areas.
  • Requires cord management.
  • The locking mechanism for the trimmer can sometimes be a weak point.

Customer Reviews

“Like others, I needed to know the lowest measurement setting from the ground to the operating button with the mower attachment and trimmer in place. For some unknown reason, the community answers seemed to avoid such an easy question for those who owned one?! With that said, I just purchased my own to get that exact answer with a measuring tape. The LOWEST MOWER HEIGHT (from ground to button pressed): 22-1/2 inches. The HIGHEST MOWER HEIGHT (from ground to button pressed): 31-1/2 inches. **Due to my very own physical needs, the lowest height works perfectly for me! Fortunately, I did not have any of the ‘troubles’ that some have reported with theirs. If it works as it all did with my first use on a small yard today for even a season or two, I would definitely purchase again! Although it does kind of sound like a small shop vac in use, it is absolutely adorable and FUN for me to use. I love it!! It does look like a toy and is nearly identical to vacuuming (with both physical motions & width). So those that are impatient, hate vacuuming or want to look ‘manly’, may not appreciate this trimmer/mower like I already do. Did I mention that I I love this thing! 🙂 However, as not to wear down the thin and very narrow plastic lip that holds the trimmer into the mower attachment, I personally won’t be pressing the trimmer into the mower attachment until it “clicks” per the instructions. Instead, I simply press on the pedal and gently seat the trimmer all the way in before releasing the pedal to lock it in place. Noting again, that’s just my own suggested solution to hopefully prevent that thin plastic ‘lock’ from wearing down so easily, or as I see that it probably could otherwise. Further, the trimmer seems to hold in place just fine when pressing the trimmer handle down to make turns (just like placing the weight on the back wheels to turn a vacuum). To ‘lift up’ on the trimmer handle when mowing, is when it wants to detach from the mower –so don’t do that people lol. Just like every electric tool that I’ve ever owned, it does NOT come with an extension cord (and it makes me laugh that anyone would expect it to). However, since I wanted an extension cord designated just for this unit, I also purchased what did NOT work –and that was a 50 ft 16AWG Yellow HUANCHAIN brand through Amazon at the same time as well. To my disappointment and even trying to force it further into the plug hole, that extension cord does NOT and will NOT make a tight enough contact to fit but for ‘brief’ contact spurts. At first, that was a big GRRR there for me because the mower kept cutting out before I realized it was that extension cord that was barely making contact. Okaaay…. **Instead though and most fortunate for me, I ended up using my older orange extension cord (that most of us have laying around) that has a slightly narrower plug encasement … which seats all the way into the plug for continuous contact well and fits perfectly tight! With my recent experience: If it feels slightly wobbly, kind of loose or pulls out too easily… just forget it and try another extension cord plug! You’re welcome. Lol Again, before getting super frustrated with the extension cord constantly coming loose from the plug (like I did with the brand new yellow one), you may want to try to find an older style or better fitting extension cord first (even if to take the trimmer to your local hardware store to try one there)! See my extension cord pics as example: Orange (narrower) = Perfect & Tight Fit! Yellow (chubbier) = Frustrating, Loose & Horrible Fit!! Lastly, my reason for purchase: Living in an apartment with a small yard has became just too ridiculous annoying every year to ‘wait’ for yard maintenance not even mowing until the weeds are almost 18″ high and allowing the clippings to just fall where they may for their tenants to just track long grass/weed clippings into our cars and apartments — I finally had ENOUGH when a thorn weed recently caught my pant leg causing me to trip and fall! With this fun to use, light and nifty little edger/mower that I can enjoy taking care of my yard weekly and all by myself… I won’t and NEVER will want such careless “yard maintenance” in or around my yard (or vehicle) again now anyway! I’m not done yet but just after mowing the whole yard once & quickly edging to ‘test’ it today, my yard already looks way better than it ever has before! I’m HAPPY and very pleased with this fun little B&D trimmer/mower being my new ‘toy’! The only reason I’m not including pics of the results with its use on my yard today is due to some privacy concerns but it already looks GREAT! Yet, I hope my lengthy review helps answer some of the questions that I had prior to my having to purchase it to find out for myself anyway. I’m sure glad I did though! I don’t enjoy raking so to prevent that, I will just be sure to mow weekly through the growing season because I CAN and will enjoy doing so, too. Just make sure you get a tight fitting extension cord and well then . . . Happy mowing the easy way!! :)” – Customer Review

“UPDATE: May 17, 2024, after owning for one year This little lawn mower has been GREAT! Haven’t had ANY problems with it so far. I only cut my grass every 2 weeks or so. The original trimmer string lasted all that time. I just bought replacement string off a web site (rhymes with hay) super cheap. While my string was out and I waited on a replacement, the front and back grass was getting TALL. Easily 8-10 inches, thick, like a small jungle. I should have taken pictures but it never crossed my mind. It was much taller than the pictures submitted in my original review. I did have to go over most parts 2-3 times, but this little mower did the job just fine, never bogged down in HEAVY grass, just chopped it right up, and kept going. Honestly people, for a small to medium yard, this thing does a great job! ORIGINAL REVIEW MAY 2023: Pros: – Easy assembly. Just had to connect shield to weed wacker, lock it in the base, and attach the trimmer/edger handle. – Light weight, can pick it up with one hand. – Compact, can be tucked into a small corner. – Did exceptionally well on my tall grass! Many sections were well over 6 inches. It took a couple times going over, but this little unit worked great and never bogged down! I kept the wheels at the lowest setting the entire time. – I didn’t find it loud at all. Just a typical weed wacker. Definitely not as loud as a gas lawn mower. – Wheels adjust from about 1-2 inches high if you like your grass a little taller. – Handle telescopes out approximately 12 inches. If you are really tall this might not be adequate. – Briefly used the edger, the wheel was a big help, it did the job fine. Haven’t tried the trimmer yet. – Great for a small to medium size yard, limited space for storage, people with arthritis, seniors, disabled, those who can’t lift much weight, and want virtually maintenance free! Besides cleaning, you only need to replace the trimmer cord when it runs out. Cons: – Weed wacker locking mechanism into base is poorly designed. Mine popped out several times. It’s not a constant problem, but annoying (like the IRS or DMV). – Power cord came out of the loop in the handle numerous times. A spring loaded clamp would be much better. – Would be nice to have a grass discharge port in the side. – Sucks having to rake grass afterwards. Other: – Some reviewers said it doesn’t come with a power cord. My warehouse item said missing cord but I don’t recall the box or description saying it is included. You will need an extension cord regardless. Any standard cord plugs into the 2 prong handle fine. This doesn’t require an engineering degree folks. – I bought a warehouse return to save a little money. It was FILTHY! Previous owner did a bad job cleaning it. I’ve bought many warehouse items, but never had anything this dirty before. I did get a nice discount so I can’t complain too much. Also didn’t include owners manual. Maybe I can download a PDF from B&D? These are not product cons as none are B&D fault.” – Customer Review

Complete Buying Guide for Best Electric Lawn Mower For Small Lawns

Essential Factors We Consider

When choosing the best electric lawn mower for small lawns, we look at several key features. Weight is crucial for maneuverability in tight spaces and ease of storage. Cutting width is important; a narrower deck is often better for smaller, more intricate yards. Power source – whether corded or cordless – plays a big role in convenience and runtime. We also consider ease of height adjustment, grass collection capabilities, and overall build quality. Safety features are always a priority, as is user-friendliness for those who might not be experienced gardeners.

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Budget Planning

Electric mowers for small lawns generally fall into a more affordable range compared to their gas-powered counterparts. Corded models are typically the most budget-friendly, followed by entry-level cordless models. The price can increase with battery capacity, brushless motors, and added features. It’s important to balance cost with your specific needs; a slightly more expensive mower with better battery life or a wider cutting deck might save you time and frustration in the long run. Consider if you need a mower that can handle thick grass or if a lighter-duty model will suffice.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right electric lawn mower for a small lawn is about finding a balance between power, portability, and practicality. Whether you opt for the convenience of cordless or the consistent power of corded, there’s a perfect electric mower out there for you. Remember to consider your yard’s specific layout and your personal preferences. A well-chosen mower will make lawn care a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your beautiful yard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are electric lawn mowers good for small yards?

A: Yes, electric lawn mowers are excellent for small yards. They are typically lighter, quieter, and easier to maneuver than gas mowers, making them ideal for tighter spaces and easier storage. Many models are specifically designed for small lawns.

Q: Corded vs. Cordless electric mowers for small lawns?

A: For small lawns, both corded and cordless electric mowers have their advantages. Corded mowers offer unlimited runtime but require managing a cord. Cordless mowers offer freedom of movement but have limited battery life, which is usually sufficient for small yards. If your yard is very small and has an accessible outlet, a corded mower might be ideal. For slightly larger small yards or those with more obstacles, a cordless model is often preferred.

Q: How much power do I need in an electric mower for a small lawn?

A: For typical residential grass, a mower with a 4-amp to 6.5-amp motor (for corded) or a 20V to 40V battery (for cordless) is usually sufficient for small lawns. If you have particularly thick or tough grass, you might look for models with higher amperage or voltage, or those featuring brushless motors for improved efficiency and power.

Q: What is a good cutting width for a small lawn mower?

A: A cutting width between 14 to 18 inches is generally ideal for small lawns. This width provides a good balance between cutting efficiency and maneuverability. Wider decks can be harder to navigate around obstacles and in tight corners.

In conclusion, finding the best electric lawn mower for small lawns doesn’t have to be complicated. The models we’ve highlighted offer a great mix of features, performance, and value, perfect for keeping your compact yard looking its best. Whether you prioritize lightweight design, cordless freedom, or budget-friendly options, there’s a mower here to suit your needs. Ready to upgrade your lawn care routine? Explore the options and make the switch to a cleaner, quieter, and more convenient way to mow!