Mowing a lawn with steep hills can feel like a workout, and not always in a good way! Finding the right lawn mower that can handle inclines without tipping over or making you sweat more than necessary is key. We’ve tested and reviewed some of the best options out there that are designed to give you control and confidence on even the trickiest slopes. Let’s dive in and find the perfect mower for your hilly terrain!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Lawn Mower For Steep Hills Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WORX WG743 Lawn Mower
★★★★☆ 4.2/5 Rating
The WORX WG743 is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-handle mower for those sloped yards. Its lightweight design makes it a breeze to push uphill and downhill, and the 2-in-1 functionality means you can either mulch or bag your clippings. This mower is particularly great for those who appreciate a quieter mowing experience compared to gas-powered models.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 40V Power System with two 20V batteries for robust cutting.
- ✓ IntelliCut Technology automatically adjusts cutting speed for optimal performance.
- ✓ Lightweight and Compact Design makes it easy to maneuver on hills.
- ✓ 7-Height Adjustments for a customized cut.
Why We Recommend It
We love the WORX WG743 for its user-friendly nature. It’s powerful enough to tackle varied grass conditions thanks to its IntelliCut technology, and its battery system is interchangeable with other WORX PowerShare tools, adding extra value. It truly simplifies mowing even on challenging terrain.
Best For
This mower is best for homeowners with medium-sized yards who need a lightweight, easy-to-control mower for slopes and inclines.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent maneuverability on slopes due to its light weight.
- Quiet operation compared to gas mowers.
- Battery compatibility with other WORX tools.
- User-friendly design with simple adjustments.
Cons:
- Runtime may be reduced in very tall or wet grass.
- Bagging capacity could be larger for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have had this mower for 2 years now. It is fantastic! I bought it as a backup for when the landscapers did not show up, so I could cut the part of the lawn down by the lake that grows so fast. When the landscapers missed cuts the grass down there would grow to 2 foot tall before they would come back to cut. I got tired of it always looking messy so bought this mower and would go out between the landscaper visits to keep the grass maintained. After about 6 months of that I decided I could do the yard maintenance myself. I am so happy with this mower! It is so easy to use and does a great job. It is so light and easy to push! My yard has never looked better and my grass is always thick, full and green now. The original set of batteries still get 45 minutes when the grass is manageable. If the grass gets to high or the mower stalls out a lot it cuts the battery life down to about 35 minutes. I bought another set of batteries which also get me about 45 minutes. I have about 1/2 an acre to cut of mixed grass types and different levels. With both battery sets I can do the full yard. There are no tricks or fancy maneuvers. Just slide in the charged batteries, slide over the little orange latch and squeeze the handle. I can go forwards or backwards easily and if the weeds/grass is too long it’s easy enough to pull down on the handle to put the cutting blade up so it doesn’t stall or get stuck. I can cut down near the lake so easily, even if it’s muddy, as the mower is so light. People told me to get a self propelled but after looking at the way to reverse them that would be needed by the lake I wasn’t sure if it would be usable there. This mower just goes where I push it so no issues with reverse or the lake. This is one of the best things I have ever bought from Amazon. I am happy to go out and cut my grass whenever I need to, as I know it will be an easy process. I always cut until the batteries run out and then recharge them fully overnight. Sometimes I hose down the mower since it mainly plastic , to keep it clean, but a lot of times I just wipe it clean with a rag. I don’t use the bag to catch the cuttings because it fills up to fast but leaving the cuttings in my grass is never even noticeable. It cuts through all my oak and magnolia leaves. I am an overweight 64 year old woman who has never had to cut grass before and I am glad I don’t have to worry about gas or oil!”
Customer Review: “UPDATE: 29March2023Well I’ve had two cuts so far this spring & I’m even more impressed. Lawn was dry both times; I cut about an inch off for the first cut of the year; raised the mower up to 4” for the second cut. Cut the entire lawn (mulched) both times with a runtime of about 40 minutes on each cut & still had some juice left in the batteries (one light was on when pressing battery power meter buttons). Impressed me!!After each cut, I recharged the batteries to a full charge in about 2hrs. Pretty darn good.I was so pleased, I just ordered a worx weed wacker on the same 40V battery shared platform!! No need for more batteries or chargers.Original review:Very lightweight. Surprised it worked so well! Nice build by Worx!! Of course, very quiet & EZ to push even on my inclines & sloped yard.I have about 6,000 sq ft yard. (Total lot – sq ft of house, driveway, sidewalks).Charged batteries full, gave it a go. Had 4” of grass, wet from prior day’s rain. Even in mulch mode, it chomped thru the cut effortlessly. But… due to mulching 2” of wet grass, batteries fizzled after 20min. I didn’t have to use turbo mode. Regular eco mode worked fine.I charged batteties again & finished the job the next day. I bought the WG743 17” cut model. Anything with a smaller cut is silly.It finished up the job easily (grass was drier) and it did an amazingly even cut. For a small yard, it does the job well. Worked very good on drier grass. I didn’t try the bag; only mulched. Mulching is healthier for lawn.This was the last cut before winter so I cut 2” off to a height of 2” and it did a great job !!!”
2. 40V Electric Lawn Mower
★★★★☆ 4.7/5 Rating
This 40V Cordless Electric Lawn Mower is a solid contender for hilly yards, especially if you already own Dewalt 2x20V batteries. Its 14-inch cutting deck is wider than many competitors, allowing you to cover ground faster, and the foldable design makes storage a breeze. The ease of use and quiet operation are also big pluses for tackling those slopes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dewalt 2x20V Battery Compatibility offers flexibility if you’re in the Dewalt ecosystem.
- ✓ 14-inch Cutting Deck for wider coverage and faster mowing.
- ✓ Foldable Design for convenient storage.
- ✓ 6-Height Settings for adapting to different grass lengths.
Why We Recommend It
We chose this mower as an editor’s pick because of its excellent compatibility and user-friendly features. The ability to use existing Dewalt batteries can be a significant cost-saver, and the wider cut means less time spent wrestling with inclines.
Best For
Ideal for homeowners with moderate slopes who already use Dewalt 20V batteries and appreciate a wider cutting path.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Leverages existing Dewalt batteries for power.
- Efficient mowing with its 14-inch deck.
- Easy to store due to its foldable nature.
- Quiet operation.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not included, adding to the initial cost.
- The 35L bag might require frequent emptying for larger lawns.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this cordless lawn mower for regular yard maintenance, and it’s been convenient for smaller areas. The mower is lightweight and easy to push, which makes it simple to maneuver around the yard.The adjustable cutting heights are useful for different grass lengths, and the grass collection bag works well for keeping things tidy. It runs quietly compared to gas mowers, which is a nice bonus.It’s a practical option for basic lawn care, especially if you prefer something easy to handle and maintain.”
Customer Review: “Switching to an electric lawn mower was something I had been considering for a while, especially since I try to keep things a little lower maintenance around the house. After using this one for several weeks, I can confidently say it has made yard work feel much less overwhelming and a lot more manageable.• The first thing I noticed was how much quieter it is compared to gas models. I can mow early in the morning without feeling like I am waking up the entire neighborhood.• It starts instantly with the push of a button, no pulling cords or dealing with fumes, which I really appreciate.• It is lighter than I expected, so turning around trees and edging along the fence feels easier and less tiring.• The cut is even and clean, and my lawn looks just as tidy as it did with my previous mower.• Cleanup is simple since there is no gas or oil to worry about, and storing it in the garage takes up less space.For anyone who wants something straightforward, lower noise, and easier to handle, this has been a really positive change in how I take care of our yard.”
3. EGO LM2135SP Lawn Mower
★★★★☆ 4.8/5 Rating
The EGO Power+ LM2135SP is a powerful self-propelled mower that makes tackling hills feel less like a chore. Its intelligent Touch Drive technology adjusts speed to your pace, offering great control on uneven ground. Plus, the included batteries and rapid charger make it a fantastic value, especially for larger yards.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Touch Drive Self-Propelled Technology for intuitive speed control on inclines.
- ✓ 21-Inch Cutting Deck for efficient mowing of larger areas.
- ✓ Includes 7.5Ah and 5.0Ah Batteries and a rapid charger for extended runtime.
- ✓ Select Cut Multi-Blade System for customizable cutting performance.
Why We Recommend It
This EGO mower is a powerhouse that simplifies mowing steep hills. The self-propelled feature is a game-changer, reducing physical strain, and the inclusion of multiple batteries ensures you can finish the job without interruption. It’s a well-rounded package for demanding terrains.
Best For
Homeowners with large, sloped yards who need a self-propelled mower with ample power and runtime.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent self-propelled system for hills.
- Long runtime with the included batteries.
- Wide cutting deck for efficiency.
- Premium build quality.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to basic models.
- May be heavier than some non-self-propelled mowers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “After having used this mower for an entire season, I couldn’t be happier with it. This is my first battery operated mower and I was banking on the Ego brand to come through for me, and it did. The mower is easy to start and was reliable the whole season. The batteries held up well. I have about a half acre to mow so it requires two batteries to get the job done. I have noticed that you don’t get as much battery time when the grass is high or wet. I usually mow every 3-4 days in peak season. It also obviously uses more battery power if you use the self-propelled function, which I always do. With a full battery, the self-propelled function is a pretty good clip. As the battery wears down, the mower propels more slowly. I’m usually ready to slow down by then, and when it runs out, I go to the second battery and pick up the pace again.I cut my grass with the mulching blade and I’ve been pleased with the sharpness of the cut. By the end of the season I was definitely noticing uneven cutting because it needed to be sharpened. I don’t know how to do that, so I’ll need to figure that out this winter but I’m pleased that it held up an entire season.My grandson always wants to help, so sometimes I leave a block of grass that he can mow. The handle is adjustable so that it is at the height a preschooler can push. He has no trouble knowing how to start the mower and engage the self-propelled feature because it is that easy, and while he doesn’t mow in a straight line because he’s a kid, he can handle the mower in the slower mode. (Yes, I am always out there with him, and I always remove the battery after mowing.)Overall, I am thrilled with the Ego mower. It’s light enough that I can use it for the 75 minutes that it takes me to mow. I highly recommend it.”
Customer Review: “This is my first experience with a battery operated mower so, I don’t really have anything to compare this to. Here are my thoughts about the mower. I have a relatively small yard, roughly 1/3 of an acre. My yard is anything BUT flat. I live on the side of a mountain. So, those of you who live in the mountains/hills or have a sloped yard this thing rips! I started with the smaller capacity battery to see how long it would last. It made it all the way through the front yard, and about half of the back. Pretty impressive considering how NOT flat my yard is. The self-propel feature was a lifesaver especially up and down the hill. The back yard was pretty overgrown and is more sloped than the front. I have no problem saying the larger capacity battery would have no issues taking care of both the front and back in a single charge. It took just over an hour to cut both front and back.Excellent – Easy to setup and use. It has an extra battery. Plenty of power to mow thick overgrown areas. Clipping bag has decent capacity. Perfect size mower for my needs. Good speed control for self-propel feature.Good – Weight of the mower is good. Value seems good for the money. We’ll see how the blades hold up over time.Not so good – My only gripe so far is the self propel feature doesn’t always engage the first time. – This is just me being nit-picky.Bad – Nothing so farUgly – NothingI also own the 16″ String Trimmer which I bought from a brick and mortar big box store, which is pretty awesome as well.”
4. Sunseeker X7 Robot Mower
★★★★☆ 4.0/5 Rating
For those who want to completely eliminate the physical effort of mowing steep hills, a robot mower like the Sunseeker X7 is a game-changer. It’s designed to handle significant slopes (up to 70%) with its all-wheel drive and advanced AI vision for safe navigation. You can set it and forget it, letting it maintain your lawn perfectly without you lifting a finger.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ All-Wheel Drive with 70% Slope Capability tackles the steepest inclines.
- ✓ Binocular 3D AI Vision ensures safe and precise obstacle detection.
- ✓ Handles up to 0.75 Acres automatically, perfect for large, complex yards.
- ✓ Smart App Control allows for easy scheduling and zone management.
Why We Recommend It
The Sunseeker X7 offers the ultimate hands-off solution for steep yards. Its advanced technology handles the challenges of hills and uneven terrain with ease, providing a consistently manicured lawn without any manual labor. It’s a serious investment for ultimate convenience.
Best For
Large properties with very steep slopes or homeowners who want a fully automated lawn care solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Effortlessly mows extremely steep slopes.
- Fully automated operation with app control.
- Advanced safety features for obstacle avoidance.
- Quiet and efficient cutting.
Cons:
- Significant upfront cost.
- Requires initial setup and boundary wire installation (though RTK GPS is an option).
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was between the Orion X7 and the Luba mower. I decided on the Orion based off reviews and capabilities the Orion offers. I needed a mower that could manage a small hill in my backyard, but also manage different areas of my yard since it has several “islands” of grass.First off, I received the mower 2 days after ordering! It took about 2 hours for me to install. I followed the directions in the app, and I couldn’t figure out how to connect the robot to the internet, so I watched their YouTube video “Sunseeker ORION X7: Step-by-Step Installation Guide” (SUPER helpful). Setting up mowing zones was very easy, and I LOVE how it mows in rows.It looks like Sunseeker pushes updates frequently in their app, so I am excited to see what other options are going to be available. So far, obstacle avoidance has worked perfectly (we always have a ball or some toy in the yard). RTK was easy to connect to. Cuts almost my whole yard in one charge, but I also have a mix of grasses and the hill which will obviously use more battery to navigate.Overall, very impressed. I like how they put their dealer info on their website so if there are any issues, I can call them for a quicker response. It is very quiet, I hardly realize it is even there. Being in the South, I am SO happy I don’t have to mow in 95 degree weather anymore! Recommending to all my friends and family!”
Customer Review: “Great buy! I didn’t mow my lawn with my old push mower at all last year! Runs day or night and does a great job. Bermuda does great when it’s kept short – and having this mower run a couple times per week is clutch! Great support as well.”
5. LawnMaster LMRM1602 Reel Mower
★★★★☆ 4.2/5 Rating
For a truly manual and eco-friendly approach to mowing hills, a reel mower like the LawnMaster is an excellent choice. It requires physical effort, but its lightweight design and simple mechanics make it surprisingly manageable on inclines. It offers a clean, scissor-like cut that’s healthier for your grass.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Scissor-like Cut promotes a healthier lawn by cleanly slicing grass blades.
- ✓ Lightweight and Easy to Maneuver, making it manageable on slopes.
- ✓ No Gas, Oil, or Electricity Needed for a truly eco-friendly option.
- ✓ Adjustable Cutting Height with 4 positions.
Why We Recommend It
The LawnMaster reel mower is a fantastic option for those who want a quiet, sustainable, and workout-friendly way to maintain their lawn on hills. It provides a superior cut quality that leaves your grass looking its best, and it’s incredibly simple to operate and maintain.
Best For
Environmentally conscious homeowners with moderately sloped yards who don’t mind a bit of manual effort and value a healthy, finely cut lawn.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Provides an exceptionally clean cut.
- Very quiet and eco-friendly.
- Easy to assemble and maintain.
- Provides a good physical workout.
Cons:
- Requires more physical effort than powered mowers.
- May struggle with very tall or thick grass without pre-trimming.
- Can be sensitive to debris like rocks and twigs.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Anyone can put this together in less than 5 minutes. All’s needed is a fraction of upper body strength in order to snap on the handle bar assembly. No tools required besides your bare hands. Best Mower I have ever owned. Period. I no longer worry about an extension cord getting in the way, gas not keeping the thing oiled besides using wd40 to keep the rust off and things running smoothly. People suggest it’s a work out, well I say it’s equivalent to owning a rotary manual push lawn mower (The ones with a loud motor). Takes just as much force and energy! I have seen an 80 year old push Reel mowers easily.. If your Grass is so long use weed eater first then reel. Watch for rock as hitting one can knock the bed blade out of alignment but easily fixed. So far after my first cut it seems to be holding together! Someone said the tires are rubber but that’s not true more of a soft hard plastic but even in slight dry mud it maneuvered extremely well! I didn’t see a lot of people using the bag so I wanted to say the bag works great with some minor adjustments to the clip strap I was able to mow my entire yard by pushing the clipping to the back and filled the bag all the way to the top! My yard is large. Went through crab grass, weeds easily. Cut quality superb much better than any rotary! After I was done I wiped it down best I could, clean it and hit it with some wd40 including the blades. Highly recommended! By the way 1 reviewer said his stopped moving…Thats because you probably hit a rock and the blades are hitting the bed blade to much causing it to lock.. you need to actually read your manual there are 2 screws you need to find on the sides and make minor adjustment to fix that!”
Customer Review: “I’ve been using a reel mower for a few years now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made for my lawn. Initially, I was a bit intimidated – I’d only ever used rotary mowers – but it turned out to be much easier than I expected, and the results are truly impressive.The biggest advantage is the cut quality. A reel mower slices the grass blades cleanly, like a pair of scissors, rather than hacking at them like a rotary mower. This creates a much healthier lawn that’s less susceptible to disease and pests. The grass looks incredibly lush and even, almost like a golf course. It’s a noticeable difference.Beyond the aesthetics, I also appreciate the eco-friendliness of a reel mower. Mine is a manual push model, so it requires no gas or electricity, making it completely emissions-free. It’s also much quieter than a gas-powered mower, which my neighbors appreciate. Even the electric reel mowers are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional gas mowers.While there’s a bit of a learning curve, mastering the reel mower is surprisingly easy. The key is to mow frequently, taking off only a small amount of grass each time. This prevents the mower from getting bogged down and ensures a clean, even cut. It also encourages the grass to grow thicker and healthier.Some people might think reel mowers are only suitable for small lawns, but I’ve found that’s not necessarily true. While they’re certainly great for smaller yards, I’ve seen people use them effectively on larger lawns as well. It just might take a little longer.Overall, I’m thrilled with my reel mower. It gives me a beautiful, healthy lawn, it’s environmentally friendly, and it’s a great way to get some exercise. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional mowers and want to take your lawn care to the next level, I highly recommend giving a reel mower a try. You might be surprised at how much you love it.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Lawn Mower For Steep Hills
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best lawn mower for steep hills, we focus on a few key attributes. Maneuverability is paramount; a lightweight mower with good balance is essential for safe operation on inclines. We also look for models with good traction, ensuring the wheels grip the terrain without slipping. For powered mowers, battery life or fuel efficiency is important, especially if you have a larger sloped yard to cover. Features like self-propulsion can significantly reduce the effort required, making steep inclines much more manageable. Finally, durability and build quality are crucial, as mowers on hills can experience more stress.
Budget Planning
The price of lawn mowers designed for steep hills can vary widely. Basic push reel mowers are the most budget-friendly, offering a simple and effective solution. Cordless electric push mowers typically fall in the mid-range, providing a good balance of power, convenience, and price. Self-propelled electric or gas mowers, and especially robotic mowers, represent a higher investment but offer the most in terms of ease of use and advanced features. Always consider the long-term value, including battery replacements or fuel costs, when planning your budget.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right mower for steep hills is all about balancing safety, efficiency, and personal preference. Whether you opt for a lightweight manual push mower, a convenient cordless model, or a high-tech robot mower, prioritize models that offer excellent control and stability. For those with particularly challenging terrain, a mower with self-propulsion or a robotic solution can truly transform your lawn care routine. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect tool to conquer those slopes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a lawn mower good for steep hills?
A: A good lawn mower for steep hills is typically lightweight, has excellent traction, and offers features like self-propulsion or intuitive controls for stable maneuvering. For electric or battery-powered models, good battery life is also a key consideration.
Q: Are self-propelled mowers better for hills?
A: Yes, self-propelled mowers are generally better for hills because they provide assistance in moving the mower forward, significantly reducing the physical effort required to push it uphill and maintain control going downhill.
Q: Can I use a robot mower on a steep hill?
A: Some robot mowers are specifically designed to handle steep slopes, often featuring all-wheel drive and advanced navigation systems. It’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s specifications for slope tolerance before purchasing a robot mower for hilly terrain.
Q: Are push reel mowers suitable for hills?
A: Push reel mowers can be suitable for hills, especially if they are lightweight and well-balanced. They require manual pushing, so the incline will determine the effort needed. Their simple design and lack of motors make them easy to control on slopes.
Q: How important is the cutting deck size for mowing hills?
A: While a larger cutting deck can mean fewer passes, for steep hills, maneuverability often takes precedence. A slightly smaller, lighter mower might be easier to control on inclines than a very large, heavy one, even if it means a few extra passes.
Mowing a lawn with steep hills presents unique challenges, but with the right equipment, it can be a manageable task. We’ve explored some of the best lawn mowers designed to handle inclines, from user-friendly electric models to advanced robotic solutions. Consider your yard’s specific slope, size, and your personal preferences when making your final decision. Ready to tackle those hills with confidence? Explore the latest deals on top-rated mowers for hilly terrain on Amazon today!