Spring has finally arrived and, chances are, that lawn of yours needs a fresh cut. But what if you need a new mower? If that’s the case, it might be time to consider buying an electric mower. Let’s talk about why.

The most common types of lawn mowers

There isn’t one single type of lawn mower. In fact, there are several different types of lawn mowers. According to Consumer Reports, some of the most common types of mowers include battery mowers, gas mowers, lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and rear-engine riders.

More recently, manufacturers have introduced battery-powered or electric lawn mowers. Consumer Reports says that these types of lawn mowers are best suited for small yards. They are also more eco-friendly and not nearly as noisy as gas-powered mowers are.

How does an electric lawn mower work?

According to Electric Mower Report, it all depends on whether or not the electric lawn mower has a cord. If it does, the mower will be able to cut grass as long as it remains plugged into a working outlet.

If the electric mower does not have a cord, it works just a tad bit differently. Rather than having to plug it in, a cordless electric mower runs on battery power. Like all battery-powered devices, an electric mower’s battery will need to be charged. Electric Mower Reports that the major advantage to buying a cordless electric mower is its longer range.

To start a cordless electric lawn mower, simply turn a key and either pull a lever or push a button. If the electric mower needs to be plugged in, start by plugging it in and then either pushing the on button or flipping a switch.

Reasons to buy an electric lawn mower

There are several advantages to buying an electric mower. According to the Electric Mower Report, they often require less maintenance than gas mowers do. Starting an electric mower is also significantly easier than starting a gas-powered one. 

SFGate added that another reason to buy an electric mower has to do with how quiet they are. Electric mowers operate at an average of 75 decibels, which is a similar noise level as a normal conversation. In comparison, gas-powered mowers operate at about 90 decibels. They also require ear protection, while electric mowers don’t.

Those aren’t the only reasons to buy an electric lawn mower, either. Unlike gas-powered mowers, electric mowers are considered eco-friendly. “Electric mowers emit no exhaust or other pollutants, making them an environmentally friendly choice,” explained SFGate. 

Perhaps the biggest advantage of electric lawn mowers is that they’re often less expensive. In fact, CNET reports models like the Electric Hover Walk Behind Push Mower from Sun Joe start as low as $88. For a mower, that’s pretty cheap.

The best electric lawn mowers to buy 

As for the best electric lawn mowers to buy? The Spruce reports that the EGO 21″ POWER+ Self Propelled Mower ($499) is ideal for houses with less than a half-acre of land. 

For a cheaper electric lawn mower, The Spruce suggests the American Lawn Mower Company Corded Electric Lawn Mower ($120.) “For lawns that just need quick shape ups, this budget pick has easily adjustable height, an ergonomic handle, and a compact size,” The Spruce explained.

Is buying an electric lawn mower worth it?

For both small yards and eco-conscious shoppers, buying an electric lawn mower can make for a worthwhile investment. The good news is that there are several electric mowers to choose from.