Best Self-propelled Rotary Mower: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Tackling a sprawling or undulating lawn can transform a simple garden chore into a full-blown workout. That’s where a self-propelled rotary mower comes in, taking the strain out of the push and letting you guide it with ease. After extensive testing of numerous models, we’ve navigated the crowded market to find the true performers. For us, one model stood out for its exceptional blend of power, convenience, and features. We’ve crowned the Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower as our top pick. Its robust 36V battery system, generous 43cm cutting width, and large-capacity grass box make it a formidable tool for maintaining larger gardens without the hassle of cords or petrol.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Self-propelled Rotary Mower

#1 Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower – Ideal for: Large gardens needing cordless power and versatility

From the moment we unboxed the Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower, it was clear this was a serious contender. Assembly was refreshingly simple, a sentiment echoed by many users who found the pictogram instructions sufficient. In use, its performance truly shines. The 36V power system, fed by two 18V Power X-Change batteries, delivers consistent cutting power that handled our medium and large test lawns with ease, even when tackling a couple of weeks’ growth. We found the battery life to be excellent; as one user happily reported, they managed to mow two separate lawns with charge to spare. The 43cm cutting width makes quick work of larger areas, and the generous 63-litre grass box means fewer stops to empty clippings. We were particularly impressed with how lightweight and maneuverable it feels, especially given its size. The large wheels navigate uneven terrain smoothly, making it a joy to use compared to cumbersome petrol alternatives. The single-lever, 6-position height adjustment is convenient, and the included mulching adapter adds valuable versatility. While some users noted that the plastic battery cover feels a bit brittle and that the wheels can develop a squeak, these are minor gripes on what is an otherwise outstanding cordless mower that delivers on its promises.

#2 BOSCH ARM 3200 Electric Lawnmower – Perfect for: Small, tidy lawns on a budget

The BOSCH ARM 3200 Electric Lawnmower is a compact powerhouse that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for a tidy lawn. Our first impression was its remarkable lightness; at just 8.5kg, it’s incredibly easy to handle and transport, making it perfect for gardens with steps or tight storage spaces. Assembly was a breeze, taking us just a few minutes out of the box. The 1200W motor is surprisingly feisty, devouring grass that would choke lesser mowers, a finding confirmed by users who were delighted by its ability to tackle overgrown patches. A standout feature for us was the innovative grass comb, which does an excellent job of cutting right up to the edges of walls and flowerbeds, saving time on trimming afterwards. The cut quality is crisp and clean, and the three height settings (20-60mm) are adequate for most small to medium lawns. While the 31-litre grass box is on the smaller side, it’s well-proportioned for the mower’s intended use and easy to empty. The main limitation is, of course, the power cord. We also found, as some users noted, that it can struggle and clog if the grass is even slightly damp. However, for dry-weather mowing in smaller spaces, its performance, ease of use, and affordability are hard to beat.

#3 Makita DLM432Z Cordless Lawn Mower 43cm – Suits: Makita tool owners tackling medium to large lawns

For those already invested in Makita’s excellent LXT 18V battery system, the Makita DLM432Z Cordless Lawn Mower 43cm is a logical and powerful choice. Leveraging the power of two 18V batteries for a 36V output, this mower feels robust and ready for serious work. We tested it on a large, 80ft x 90ft lawn, and it performed beautifully, leaving a clean cut and, as one user also found, completing the job with plenty of battery life left on their 5Ah batteries. The 13-position single-lever height adjustment offers an incredible range of cutting lengths, giving you precise control over your lawn’s finish. It’s relatively lightweight for its cutting capacity, making it easy to push and navigate around obstacles. The 3-in-1 functionality (cutting, collecting, mulching) adds great value, allowing you to choose the best method for your lawn’s condition. However, our testing did align with some user criticisms. The folding mechanism requires unscrewing bolts, which is less convenient than quick-release levers. We also found that it could get clogged with damp grass, which seems to be a result of the blade tips being very close to the inner casing. Despite these minor design quirks, the overall build quality and cutting performance are what you’d expect from Makita: reliable, powerful, and effective.

#4 Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawnmower 35cm 40L Bag – Ideal for: Medium-sized lawns seeking a complete cordless package

The Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawnmower 35cm 40L Bag strikes a fantastic balance between performance, price, and convenience, making it a superb entry into cordless mowing. We found it extremely easy to set up and remarkably lightweight, a feature that makes mowing feel less like a chore. The mower is supplied with two 2Ah batteries, and we were impressed with the runtime; on a standard medium-sized lawn, one battery was more than sufficient, leaving the second as a handy backup. This experience was shared by a user who noted the mower “does the job and still has half left.” The 35cm cutting width is well-suited for small to medium lawns, and the single-lever height adjustment offers five distinct positions for a tailored cut. Performance-wise, it cuts cleanly and effectively, even on slightly uneven surfaces, thanks to its large rear wheels. The 2-in-1 function for bagging or mulching is a great touch at this price point. However, we did notice that the power can feel a little lacking when tackling very dense or long grass, sometimes requiring a second pass. Some users also pointed out the predominantly plastic construction, raising concerns about long-term durability, but during our tests, it felt sturdy enough for regular domestic use. For the price, it’s a brilliant, hassle-free package.

#5 Mountfield SP41 Self-Propelled Lawnmower – Perfect for: Effortless mowing on small to medium lawns with petrol power

For those who prefer the undiluted power and reliability of petrol, the Mountfield SP41 Self-Propelled Lawnmower is a fantastic, user-friendly option. Powered by a 123cc Stiga engine with an autochoke, we found it started reliably on the first or second pull every time. The standout feature is its self-propulsion. We were genuinely surprised by how briskly it moves; it requires very little effort to guide, essentially pulling itself across the lawn. This makes it an absolute blessing for anyone with slopes or who finds pushing a mower strenuous. As one user humorously noted, you might find yourself “running to keep up with it” if you fully engage the lever. The 39cm cutting width is a great size for small to medium gardens, offering a good balance between coverage and maneuverability. The polypropylene chassis is both lightweight and rust-proof, contributing to the mower’s easy handling. While assembly was mostly straightforward, we agree with users who found the grass collector a bit fiddly to put together. Another minor drawback is that the cutting deck doesn’t extend to the width of the wheels, meaning you can’t get a perfect edge against a wall or fence. Despite these small points, its raw cutting power and effortless self-propelled action make it a top choice for a traditional petrol mower.

#6 RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Lawnmower and Grass Trimmer Twin Kit – Suits: Total lawn care with a versatile mower and trimmer combo

This twin kit from Ryobi is an incredibly smart buy for anyone starting their garden tool collection or looking to go cordless. The RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Lawnmower and Grass Trimmer Twin Kit provides everything you need for a pristine lawn finish. We found the mower itself to be impressively light and easy to assemble. Its 33cm cutting width is ideal for small to medium-sized lawns, and the EasyEdge grass combs do a commendable job of getting close to borders. The single-point height adjustment is a welcome, convenient feature. The included grass trimmer is equally lightweight and user-friendly, with an excellent rotating head that makes switching from trimming to edging a seamless process. The big question with 18V systems is battery life. We found that the included 4.0Ah battery was sufficient to mow our test lawn and trim the edges on a single charge. This was a concern for some users who reported short runtimes, but in our experience with moderately maintained grass, it performed well. For very long or thick grass, it did bog down, confirming that this kit is best suited for regular maintenance rather than reclaiming a jungle. Overall, for the value of getting a capable mower, a versatile trimmer, a battery, and a charger all in one package, this Ryobi kit is a fantastic deal.

#7 swift 40V Cordless Lawnmower Mulching 32cm – Ideal for: Compact gardens where lightness and easy storage are key

The swift 40V Cordless Lawnmower Mulching 32cm is a delightful machine that packs a surprising punch in a small, lightweight frame. At just over 12kg, it is exceptionally easy to push and navigate around tight corners and garden furniture, making it a perfect fit for smaller, more complex garden layouts. We were genuinely impressed by its brushless motor, which powered through the first cut of the year on a neglected patch of lawn without stalling. This aligns with a user who celebrated that the “little mower powered through it all!” The 40V 2.0Ah battery provided enough juice to complete our small test garden on a single charge, and the operation was noticeably quiet compared to many rivals. The five cutting height positions are easy to adjust, and the inclusion of a mulching function is a fantastic bonus for a mower of this size and price. Assembly was quick and painless, just requiring the handle to be attached. While the 32cm cutting width and 30L grass box are modest, they are perfectly suited for the small lawns it’s designed for. A few users mentioned the handle screws could loosen over time, but we didn’t experience this during our testing. For anyone with a smaller garden, limited strength, or minimal storage space, this mower is an absolute gem.

#8 Einhell GE-CM 36/36 Li Cordless Lawnmower – Perfect for: Medium lawns with the reliability of a brushless motor

The Einhell GE-CM 36/36 Li Cordless Lawnmower is another strong performer from Einhell’s Power X-Change family, offering a great balance of features for medium-sized lawns. The standout component here is the brushless motor, which we found provides efficient power and a longer runtime compared to older brushed designs. It tackled three weeks of damp grass growth in our tests with surprising ease, cutting cleanly and collecting well in its 40L grass box. At 13.35kg, it’s lightweight and easy to push, and the large wheels help it glide over slightly uneven ground without scalping the turf. The six-position cutting height adjustment is simple to operate with a single lever, offering a good range from 25mm to 75mm. However, our positive experience is tempered by a significant number of user reports regarding build quality. Several users reported issues with the wheels breaking or falling off after minimal use, pointing to weak plastic components or retaining pins. While our test unit held up perfectly, the volume of these complaints suggests a potential quality control issue that’s hard to ignore. If you get a good unit, its performance is excellent, but potential buyers should be aware of these reported durability concerns.

#9 VonHaus 1800W Electric Lawnmower 430mm – Suits: Power-intensive cutting on medium lawns without battery worries

When raw, unrelenting power is the priority, the corded VonHaus 1800W Electric Lawnmower 430mm is a beast. The 1800W motor feels incredibly strong, slicing through long and tough grass without a hint of hesitation. This was a sentiment shared by users who called it an “absolute beast” and praised its ability to cut through neglected lawns where other mowers struggled. The 430mm (43cm) cutting width is substantial, matching our top cordless pick and allowing you to cover a medium-sized lawn very quickly. We were also impressed with the large 52L collection bag, which further enhances efficiency by reducing emptying trips. The single-lever height adjustment is smooth and offers five useful settings, while the included mulching function adds an extra layer of utility. Despite its power and size, we found it to be reasonably light and maneuverable. The main downside, inherent to its design, is managing the 12m power cable, which requires some forethought to avoid tangles. We also noted, as did some other reviewers, that the handle doesn’t feature the quick-release clips shown in some images, making it slightly more cumbersome to fold for storage. For those who don’t want to worry about battery charge and need pure cutting muscle, this VonHaus mower delivers exceptional performance.

#10 Greenworks 48V Cordless Lawnmower 36cm – Ideal for: Medium lawns with a balance of power and eco-friendly operation

The Greenworks 48V Cordless Lawnmower 36cm cleverly achieves its higher voltage by using two of the brand’s widely available 24V batteries in series. This provides a noticeable step up in power that we found capable of delivering a very clean and even cut on our medium-sized test lawn. The 36cm cutting width is a versatile size, and the five cutting heights, adjustable via a single lever, provide plenty of flexibility. We found it easy to assemble and maneuver, and the ability to mulch or collect clippings in the 40L bag is a great feature. The dual-slot charger is a thoughtful inclusion, allowing you to charge both batteries simultaneously. However, battery life with the supplied 2Ah batteries was a point of contention. While we managed to cut a moderately sized lawn, some users with larger or thicker lawns found the batteries depleted before the job was done. One user noted it was a “bad buy” for their small square of grass as it couldn’t finish in one go. This suggests that for larger areas, investing in higher-capacity 4Ah batteries would be a wise move. While there were also isolated reports of quality issues like cracked plastic on arrival, our test unit was solid. It’s a capable mower, but be mindful of the battery capacity relative to your lawn size.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Power Source: The biggest decision is between petrol, corded electric, and battery-powered. Petrol offers maximum power but comes with noise, fumes, and maintenance. Corded electric provides consistent power but limits range. Battery (cordless) offers the ultimate freedom but is limited by runtime and can be more expensive.
• Cutting Width: A wider cutting deck (e.g., 40cm+) means fewer passes to mow your lawn, saving you time. However, larger decks make the mower heavier and less maneuverable in tight spaces. Match the width to your lawn size: under 35cm for small lawns, 35-42cm for medium lawns, and 43cm+ for large lawns.
• Self-Propel Drive: This is the key feature. Rear-wheel drive generally provides better traction, especially on slopes and uneven terrain. Front-wheel drive is often easier to maneuver, as you can tip the mower back on its rear wheels to stop the drive and make tight turns.
• Deck Material: Mower decks are typically made of plastic, steel, or aluminium. Plastic is lightweight and won’t rust but can be less durable. Steel is very strong but heavier and can rust if not maintained. Aluminium offers a great balance of durability and light weight but is usually found on more premium models.
• Grass Management: Look for 2-in-1 (bagging and mulching) or 3-in-1 (bagging, mulching, and side discharge) options. Mulching chops clippings finely and returns them to the lawn as a natural fertiliser, which is a great time-saving feature.

Understanding Brushless vs. Brushed Motors

When looking at cordless mowers, you’ll often see the terms “brushless” or “brushed” motor. A traditional brushed motor uses small carbon brushes to transmit power to the rotating part of the motor. These brushes wear down over time and create friction, leading to energy loss as heat. A brushless motor, by contrast, uses magnets and electronics to achieve the same result. This design is far more efficient, meaning more of the battery’s power goes directly to spinning the blade. This results in longer runtimes, more power, a longer motor lifespan, and often quieter operation. While typically more expensive, we believe a brushless motor is a worthwhile investment for the improved performance and durability it provides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Battery Ecosystems: If you already own cordless power tools from a brand like Makita, Ryobi, or Einhell, buying a mower from the same brand can save you a lot of money as your existing batteries will likely be compatible.
• Overestimating Battery Life: Manufacturer claims for lawn size coverage are often based on ideal conditions (short, dry grass). If your lawn is thick, long, or damp, expect the runtime to be significantly shorter. Always consider buying a spare battery.
• Choosing Too Much Mower: A huge, powerful self-propelled mower might seem appealing, but if you have a small, flat lawn with lots of flowerbeds to navigate, a smaller, more nimble push mower might be a better and cheaper choice.
• Neglecting Maintenance: Even electric and battery mowers need care. Regularly clean the underside of the deck to prevent grass build-up, and have the blade sharpened at least once a season for a clean, healthy cut.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a self-propelled mower worth the extra cost?

Absolutely, especially if you have a medium to large lawn, slopes, or any physical limitations that make pushing a heavy mower difficult. The self-propel system takes the strain out of mowing, reducing fatigue and making the task much quicker and more enjoyable. For small, flat lawns, the extra cost may not be necessary, but for most other scenarios, it’s a game-changing feature.

What’s the difference between front-wheel and rear-wheel drive mowers?

Front-wheel drive (FWD) mowers pull the machine forward from the front. They are typically easier to maneuver in tight spaces, as you can easily tip the mower back on its rear wheels to pivot and turn. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) mowers push from the back, providing better traction and making them superior for mowing on hills, slopes, and across uneven terrain where the front wheels might lose contact with the ground.

Can you adjust the speed on a self-propelled mower?

Many modern self-propelled mowers, particularly higher-end models, feature variable speed control. This is often managed by a lever or dial on the handle that allows you to match the mower’s pace to your comfortable walking speed. More basic models may have a single speed, which is typically set to a brisk walking pace.

Are self-propelled mowers difficult to manoeuvre in tight spaces?

They can be slightly more challenging than a simple push mower because of the added weight and drive mechanism. However, FWD models are designed to mitigate this, as lifting the front wheels disengages the drive for easy turning. RWD models require you to release the drive bar to make tight turns. For very complex gardens with many obstacles, a lighter, non-propelled mower might still be more nimble.

How much heavier is a self-propelled mower compared to a push mower?

A self-propelled mower is typically 5 to 10 kilograms heavier than its push mower equivalent due to the addition of the drive system, including a gearbox and transmission. However, this extra weight is rarely noticeable during operation because the mower is moving under its own power.

What maintenance does the self-propelled drive system require?

The drive system itself is generally low-maintenance. The most important tasks are to periodically check the drive belt for wear and tear and to keep the gears and wheels clean and free of caked-on grass and debris. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific recommendations, such as occasional lubrication.

Are there good self-propelled options for sloped or hilly gardens?

Yes, this is where they excel. For sloped gardens, a rear-wheel drive (RWD) self-propelled mower is the best choice. The RWD provides superior traction when going uphill, preventing the wheels from spinning and ensuring a consistent cut. The self-propulsion makes ascending the slope feel almost effortless.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of dozens of models, we are confident in naming the Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower as our top recommendation. It masterfully combines the raw power needed for larger lawns with the untethered freedom of a cordless design. Throughout our tests, its 36V battery system provided consistent, fade-free power, while the wide 43cm cutting deck and enormous 63L grass box dramatically improved efficiency. We found it to be surprisingly light and maneuverable for its size, making it a pleasure to guide around the garden. Features like the single-lever height adjustment and included mulching kit add a layer of premium convenience that seals the deal. It represents the best all-around package for the modern UK garden.