Top Brushless Lawn Mowers for Spacious Lawns
The Ryobi 21-Inch 40V HP Brushless Walk Behind Mower stands out for most large yards. It offers up to 55 minutes of runtime, a 21-inch steel deck, and dual battery capacity. Its main advantage is the combination of power and extended run time. Its main limitation is that it requires two batteries for maximum performance, which adds to the initial cost.
Mowing a large yard with a corded or gas mower can be a hassle. Brushless motors offer more efficiency, longer life, and quieter operation. They also provide better torque for thick grass.
This roundup focuses on mowers that can handle big lawns without sacrificing performance. We looked at battery voltage, deck size, and runtime to help you find the best fit.
Before you buy
What we recommend
Ryobi 21-Inch 40V HP Brushless Walk Behind Mower
This self-propelled mower features a brushless motor and can run up to 55 minutes with two 40V batteries. It has a 21-inch steel deck and offers variable speed control. Users report it handles thick grass well.
Pros
- Long runtime with two batteries
- Powerful brushless motor
- Variable speed self-propulsion
Cons
- Heavy with batteries installed
- Requires two batteries for best performance
EGO Power+ 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower LM2135SP
EGO’s 56V mower delivers up to 60 minutes of runtime on a single charge. It has a 21-inch deck, brushless motor, and touch-drive self-propulsion. Owners praise its build quality and cutting ability.
Pros
- Excellent runtime on one battery
- Smooth variable speed control
- Durable construction
Cons
- Premium price
- Battery takes time to charge
Greenworks 21-Inch 60V Self-Propelled Mower
This Greenworks model offers a 21-inch deck and a 60V brushless motor. It provides up to 45 minutes of runtime and features self-propulsion. It is a cost-effective option for large lawns.
Pros
- More affordable than competitors
- Strong 60V power
- Rear-wheel drive traction
Cons
- Shorter runtime
- No dual battery option
Craftsman 21-Inch 40V Brushless Mower
Craftsman’s 40V mower features a lightweight design and a 21-inch deck. It has a brushless motor and offers up to 45 minutes of runtime. Users find it easy to push and turn.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Quiet operation
- Simple push start
Cons
- No self-propulsion
- Smaller battery capacity
Makita 18V X2 (36V) Brushless 21-Inch Mower
Makita’s mower uses two 18V batteries to deliver 36V of power. It has a 21-inch deck and offers a runtime of up to 45 minutes. It is known for its robust motor and long battery life.
Pros
- Powerful dual-battery system
- Batteries interchangeable with Makita tools
- Reliable brand reputation
Cons
- Batteries can be expensive to replace
- Slightly heavier
Kobalt 21-Inch 80V Self-Propelled Mower
Kobalt’s 80V mower provides high torque and a 21-inch cutting deck. It runs up to 50 minutes on a single charge and includes self-propulsion. It is built for heavy-duty use.
Pros
- High voltage for tough cutting
- Good runtime
- Variable speed control
Cons
- Battery is heavy
- Can be bulky
Toro 21-Inch 60V Recycler Mower
Toro’s Recycler mower features a brushless motor and a 21-inch deck. It excels at mulching leaves and grass, leaving a fine clippings. It offers up to 45 minutes of runtime.
Pros
- Excellent mulching performance
- Strong brushless motor
- Personal pace self-propel
Cons
- Batteries not interchangeable with other brands
- Slightly shorter runtime
How they compare
| # | Model | Deck Size | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ryobi 21-Inch 40V HP Brushless Walk Behind Mower | 21 inches | Best overall for large yards | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | EGO Power+ 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower LM2135SP | 21 inches | Best battery efficiency | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Greenworks 21-Inch 60V Self-Propelled Mower | 21 inches | Best value for big yards | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Craftsman 21-Inch 40V Brushless Mower | 21 inches | Best for maneuverability | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Makita 18V X2 (36V) Brushless 21-Inch Mower | 21 inches | Best dual-battery power | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Kobalt 21-Inch 80V Self-Propelled Mower | 21 inches | Best high-voltage option | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Toro 21-Inch 60V Recycler Mower | 21 inches | Best for mulching | 8.3 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What does brushless mean in a lawn mower?
A brushless motor uses electronic commutation instead of brushes, reducing friction and heat. This results in higher efficiency, longer motor life, and more torque compared to brushed motors.
How long does a brushless mower battery last?
Runtime varies by model and battery capacity. Most brushless mowers run between 30 and 60 minutes on a full charge. For large yards, look for higher voltage or dual-battery systems.
Can I mow a large yard with a battery mower?
Yes, if the mower has sufficient runtime and power. Models with 60V or higher and 21-inch decks can handle large lawns. Consider buying extra batteries for uninterrupted mowing.
Are brushless mowers more powerful than gas mowers?
In terms of torque, brushless mowers can rival gas models. However, gas mowers still have higher top-end power. For residential use, brushless mowers provide ample cutting power with less noise and no emissions.
Do brushless mowers require less maintenance?
Yes, brushless motors have fewer moving parts and no brushes to replace. They also eliminate the need for oil changes and spark plug maintenance associated with gas engines.
What is the advantage of a higher voltage battery?
Higher voltage (e.g., 80V) provides more power to the motor, enabling it to cut through thick grass with less strain. It also often results in longer runtime when paired with adequate amp-hour capacity.
Can I use one mower battery for other tools?
Many brands offer battery platforms that work across multiple tools, such as string trimmers and blowers. Check battery compatibility within the same brand to maximize versatility.
What is the best way to extend battery runtime?
Keep the blade sharp, mow when the grass is dry, and avoid cutting too much at once. Using a higher cutting height and reducing speed can also extend runtime.
Are brushless mowers quiet?
Yes, brushless mowers are significantly quieter than gas mowers. They typically operate at around 80 decibels or less, making them more comfortable for the user and neighbors.
How do I choose between self-propelled and push mowers for a large yard?
For large yards, self-propelled mowers are recommended to reduce physical effort. Push mowers are lighter but require more pushing force over long distances.
Our pick
For large yards, the Ryobi 21-Inch 40V HP Brushless Walk Behind Mower is the best pick because it offers a balance of power, runtime, and features at a reasonable price. If you want the longest runtime on a single battery, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP is worth the investment. For budget-conscious buyers, the Greenworks 60V provides solid performance at a lower cost. Choose the Ryobi for overall performance, or the EGO if you prefer a premium option.
Sierra Daniels
Sierra's background is in landscape design and nursery retail. She focuses on lawn and garden equipment, outdoor furniture and gear durability, weighing published specs against how materials actually hold up outside.
