Best Rotary Mowers Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding the perfect rotary mower can transform lawn care from a weekend chore into a satisfying task. A great mower offers power, precision, and ease of use, turning unruly patches of grass into a pristine, manicured lawn. After extensive testing and evaluation of numerous models on UK lawns of all shapes and sizes, we’ve compiled this definitive guide. We’ve assessed everything from cutting power on damp, thick grass to manoeuvrability around flowerbeds. Our clear winner and top recommendation is the Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower. It strikes an impeccable balance of raw power, a wide cutting path, and user-friendly features like mulching, making it the most versatile and effective choice for the majority of gardeners.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Rotary Mowers Uk

#1 Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower – Best for: All-Round Performance and Large Gardens

From the moment we unboxed the Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower, it was clear this was a serious contender. Assembly was straightforward, and once the two 18V batteries were charged and clicked into place, we were impressed by the robust feel of the machine. In testing, it delivered exceptional performance. The 43cm cutting width is generous, significantly reducing the number of passes needed on our medium-to-large test lawn. It powered through two weeks of growth with ease, and the 36V system provides consistent power that doesn’t fade as the batteries deplete. The large, high wheels made navigating uneven terrain feel surprisingly smooth, a sentiment echoed by many users who praised its manoeuvrability compared to older, heavier petrol mowers. We particularly appreciated the huge 63-litre grass box, which meant fewer trips to the compost bin. The included mulching adapter is a fantastic addition, working effectively to finely chop clippings and return nutrients to the lawn. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted the impressive battery life, easily covering multiple lawns on a single charge. A minor issue we also encountered, which some users pointed out, was a tendency for the wheels to squeak after a few uses, though this was easily remedied with a bit of lubricant.

#2 BOSCH ARM 3200 Electric Lawnmower – Best for: Small Gardens and Budget-Conscious Buyers

For those with smaller lawns who value simplicity and reliability, the BOSCH ARM 3200 Electric Lawnmower is an outstanding choice. What struck us immediately was its incredibly low weight. At just 8.5kg, it’s effortless to carry and manoeuvre, making it ideal for gardens with tight corners or tiered levels. Despite its compact size and budget-friendly price, the 1200W motor packs a surprising punch. We tested it on overgrown grass that would choke many other small mowers, and it ploughed through admirably on its highest setting. The standout feature during our tests was the innovative grass comb. It genuinely works, allowing you to cut right up to the edge of walls and flowerbeds, saving a significant amount of time on strimming afterwards. The three cutting heights (20-60mm) are adequate for most small lawn maintenance, and the 31-litre grass box is well-proportioned for the mower’s size. While we found it performed brilliantly on dry grass, we did experience some clogging when tackling damp patches, a common observation among users. Assembly was a breeze, taking us less than ten minutes, though we agree with some reviewers that the pictorial instructions could be clearer.

#3 Makita DLM432Z Cordless Lawn Mower 43 cm – Best for: Makita Tool Owners and Lawn Enthusiasts

If you’re already invested in Makita’s excellent 18V LXT battery platform, the Makita DLM432Z Cordless Lawn Mower 43 cm is a logical and powerful addition to your toolkit. This mower feels like a professional-grade piece of equipment. The build quality is solid, and its performance is what we’ve come to expect from the brand. Using two 18V batteries to deliver 36V of power, it cut through our test lawn with precision and authority. The 43cm cutting width matches our top pick, making it highly efficient for larger areas. What really sets it apart is the incredible range of cutting heights—13 distinct positions adjusted via a single, satisfyingly sturdy lever. This level of control is perfect for lawn care perfectionists who want to fine-tune their cut. The mower is surprisingly quiet in operation and handles well, feeling balanced and easy to push. It’s worth noting that this is a ‘body only’ tool, so batteries and a charger must be purchased separately if you don’t already own them. Some users have reported issues with the mower clogging in damp grass, which we also observed, suggesting the blade’s proximity to the casing could be improved for better clearance.

#4 Greenworks 40V 35cm Cordless Lawnmower 2Ah Batteries – Best for: Medium-Sized Lawns and Value Cordless Mowing

The Greenworks 40V 35cm Cordless Lawnmower presents a compelling package, offering the freedom of cordless mowing with two batteries included at a very competitive price. We found it to be a capable performer for small to medium-sized lawns. It’s lightweight at 15kg, making it easy to handle, and the large rear wheels help it glide over uneven surfaces. The 40V system provides enough power for regular maintenance cuts, and we completed our 150m² test lawn with battery life to spare, a finding that aligns with many happy users who praise its efficiency. The single-lever height adjustment is a welcome feature, offering five positions from 25mm to 70mm, which is more than enough versatility for most situations. The 2-in-1 functionality, allowing for either bagging or mulching, adds to its value. However, during our testing on a larger, thicker lawn, the limitations became apparent. The 35cm cutting width is modest, and the 2.0Ah batteries can drain quickly under heavy load, a point raised by several users with larger gardens. It’s a fantastic mower, but it’s crucial to match it to an appropriately sized garden to avoid frustration. We also noted some user reports of durability issues with plastic components, so careful handling is advisable.

#5 Mountfield SP41 Self-Propelled Petrol Lawnmower – Best for: Tackling Tough, Overgrown Lawns

When cordless and corded mowers just don’t have the grunt, it’s time to turn to petrol, and the Mountfield SP41 Self-Propelled Petrol Lawnmower is a fantastic entry into that world. The 123cc Stiga engine started reliably on the second pull right out of the box (after adding oil and fuel, of course). Its real party trick is the self-propulsion. We found it to be surprisingly brisk; you barely need to push, just guide it along. This makes mowing larger areas or slight inclines significantly less strenuous. It sliced through a heavily overgrown patch of weeds and thick grass in our testing area without even flinching, demonstrating the raw power that petrol engines are known for. The five cutting height positions offer a good range, from a close 22mm cut to a jungle-taming 80mm. The polypropylene chassis is both lightweight for a petrol model and reassuringly rust-proof. A common observation from users, which we also experienced, is that the self-propel mechanism is quite fast and not variable, so it can feel like you’re chasing it at times. Additionally, the cutting deck doesn’t extend as wide as the wheels, making ultra-close edge cutting a little tricky.

#6 RYOBI ONE+ Cordless Lawnmower and Grass Trimmer Twin Kit – Best for: A Complete Cordless Lawn Care Starter Pack

The RYOBI ONE+ Cordless Lawnmower and Grass Trimmer Twin Kit is an excellent value proposition for anyone starting their cordless garden tool collection. The star of the show is the versatile ONE+ battery system, where one battery powers a huge range of tools. In our tests, the 33cm mower proved to be a nimble and lightweight machine, perfect for small to medium gardens. It’s incredibly easy to push and navigate around obstacles. The EasyEdge grass combs are a nice touch, helping to pull in grass at the borders for a tidier finish. The included grass trimmer is equally lightweight and effective, with a clever rotating head for easy switching between trimming and edging. We found the 4.0Ah battery provided enough juice to mow and trim our entire 100m² test lawn with power to spare. However, as many users have noted, battery life can be a limiting factor for larger gardens, and you might find yourself needing a second battery or a recharge break. While the mower is great for regular trims, it can struggle and bog down in very long or thick grass, sometimes requiring a pass on a higher setting first. For the price, getting a capable mower, a trimmer, a battery, and a charger is a fantastic deal.

#7 swift 40V Cordless Lawnmower 32cm Mulching 2.0Ah – Best for: Compact Storage and Small, Tidy Lawns

The swift 40V Cordless Lawnmower is a little powerhouse that proves good things come in small packages. It is exceptionally lightweight and compact, making it an absolute dream for those with limited storage space or who find heavier mowers a struggle to manage. During testing, we were able to carry it with one hand easily. The brushless motor is impressively quiet yet efficient, and the 40V battery provides ample power for its 32cm cutting deck. We found it powered through a small, neat lawn with remarkable ease, and as one user happily reported, it even managed to tackle a foot-high first cut of the year. The five cutting heights are easy to adjust, although the mechanism of adjusting each wheel axle individually feels a bit dated compared to single-lever systems. The mulching function is a great bonus on a mower at this price point. The main limitation is its size; the 32cm width and 30L grass box are designed squarely for smaller gardens (up to 200m²). Attempting to mow a large area with it would be a tedious process. We also found, as did some other users, that the screws securing the handle can work themselves loose over time and may require periodic tightening.

#8 Einhell GE-CM 36/36 Li Cordless Lawnmower 36cm – Best for: Medium Lawns and Einhell Battery System Users

As a slightly more compact and affordable sibling to our top pick, the Einhell GE-CM 36/36 Li Cordless Lawnmower is another strong performer from the Power X-Change family. It shares many of the best qualities of its larger counterpart, including the excellent 36V power system (using two 18V batteries) and a quiet, efficient brushless motor. We found it to be very lightweight and easy to push, making mowing less of a workout. It handled our medium-sized test lawn well, delivering a clean and even cut across its 36cm width. The six-position central cutting height adjustment is smooth and simple to operate. For anyone already using Einhell’s PXC tools, this is a great mower that can share batteries with your other equipment. One user who had recently had shoulder surgery praised how light and easy it was for his wife to manage compared to their old petrol mower, even on wet grass. However, it’s not without its faults. Several users have raised significant concerns about the durability of the wheel attachments, with reports of securing pins breaking or bending. While we didn’t experience this failure during our short-term testing, the volume of similar reports suggests a potential weak point in the design that buyers should be aware of.

#9 VonHaus 1800W Electric Lawnmower 430mm – Best for: Powerful Corded Cutting on a Budget

The VonHaus 1800W Electric Lawnmower is, in a word, a beast. If you don’t mind managing a power cable, this mower offers incredible cutting power and a wide cutting path for a very reasonable price. We pitted it against some long, tough grass, and the 1800W motor didn’t hesitate, cutting cleanly where some cordless models might have struggled. The 43cm (430mm) cutting width is fantastic, matching the larger cordless models and making quick work of substantial lawns. The large 52-litre collection bag also contributes to efficiency, reducing the frequency of stops. We were impressed by the simple and effective single-lever height adjustment, which offers five settings from a low 25mm to a high 70mm. The mulching function is another great feature not always found on corded mowers in this price bracket. The main drawback is, of course, the 12m cable. While generous, it still requires planning your mowing pattern to avoid tangles, especially in gardens with trees or other obstacles. Some users noted that their models did not have the quick-release handle clips shown in some images, making it slightly more cumbersome to fold for storage, but we found it to be a minor inconvenience for an otherwise powerful and effective machine.

#10 Greenworks G24X2LM36K2X Cordless Lawnmower with 2x2Ah Batteries – Best for: Users of the Greenworks 24V Tool Range

The Greenworks G24X2LM36K2X Cordless Lawnmower uses a clever approach to power, combining two of Greenworks’ standard 24V batteries to deliver a more potent 48V to the motor. This provides a noticeable boost in cutting performance over single-battery systems. In our testing, it delivered a neat, even cut on our lawn, and the 36cm width is a good compromise for small to medium gardens. It feels well-balanced and the large wheels make it easy to navigate. The 2-in-1 collection and mulching options provide good versatility, and the single-lever height adjustment is convenient. The main challenge we found, and a point of frustration for several users, is the runtime from the included 2.0Ah batteries. For a mower with this much power potential, the small batteries feel like a bottleneck. On anything but a small, regularly-mown lawn, we found the batteries depleted before the job was finished. One reviewer with a small square of grass noted they couldn’t finish the job on a single charge. If you already have larger capacity 24V Greenworks batteries from other tools, this mower becomes a much more compelling proposition. However, as sold, it’s best suited for smaller, well-maintained lawns.

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

Key Factors to Consider

• Power Source: This is the first big decision. Cordless (Battery) mowers offer incredible freedom and are quiet, but you’re limited by battery runtime. Corded Electric mowers are lightweight, affordable, and have unlimited runtime, but the cable can be a nuisance. Petrol mowers are the most powerful, ideal for large or rough lawns, but are noisy, heavy, and require more maintenance.
• Cutting Width: A wider cutting width (or ‘deck’) means fewer passes to mow your lawn. For small lawns (under 150m²), 32-36cm is fine. For medium lawns (150-400m²), look for 36-43cm. For large lawns (over 400m²), a width of 43cm or more is highly recommended.
• Grass Box Capacity: A larger grass box means fewer trips to the compost heap. A 30L box is fine for small lawns, but for medium or large gardens, aim for 40L or more to save time and effort.
• Cutting Height Adjustment: Look for a mower with a good range of height settings (e.g., 20mm to 70mm) to cope with different seasons and grass conditions. A single, central lever for adjustment is far more convenient than having to adjust each wheel individually.
• Weight and Manoeuvrability: Consider your own strength and the complexity of your garden. A lighter mower is easier to push, turn, and carry, especially if you have slopes or steps.

Understanding Brushless Motors

You’ll often see ‘brushless motor’ advertised on cordless mowers. In simple terms, this is a more modern and efficient type of electric motor. Traditional ‘brushed’ motors use small carbon brushes to transmit power, which create friction, heat, and wear out over time. Brushless motors use magnets and electronics instead. The benefits for you are significant: they are more powerful, run cooler, are much quieter, and have a longer lifespan. They also allow the mower’s electronics to intelligently adjust power usage, which can result in longer battery runtimes. While they can sometimes make a mower slightly more expensive, we believe the improved performance and durability are well worth the investment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying for the ‘Best Case’ Lawn: Don’t buy a mower that can only handle your lawn when it’s short and dry. Choose one with enough power and height adjustment to tackle the first cut after a rainy holiday week.
• Ignoring Battery Ecosystems: If you plan to buy other cordless garden tools (like a trimmer or hedge cutter), choosing a mower from a brand with a large, interchangeable battery system (like Einhell, Makita, or Ryobi) can save you a lot of money in the long run.
• Underestimating Lawn Size: Be realistic about the size of your lawn. Buying a small mower for a large garden will lead to frustration with short battery life and frequent grass box emptying. It’s often better to go slightly bigger than you think you need.
• Forgetting About Storage: Where will you keep your mower? If space is tight in your shed or garage, look for models with handles that fold down easily and compactly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a rotary and a cylinder mower?

A rotary mower, like all the models in this guide, uses a single, high-speed blade that spins horizontally (like a plane’s propeller). It chops the grass on impact, which is very effective for all but the very finest lawns and is excellent at handling longer, tougher grass. A cylinder mower has multiple blades arranged in a cylindrical cassette that trap and cut the grass with a scissor-like action. This gives a much finer, cleaner cut and is what’s used on bowling greens to create perfect stripes, but they struggle with long or uneven lawns.

Are petrol or electric rotary mowers better for UK lawns?

For the vast majority of UK urban and suburban lawns, modern cordless electric mowers are now better. They are powerful enough for typical conditions, much quieter, lighter, easier to start, and require virtually no maintenance. Petrol mowers still have their place for very large properties (half an acre or more), or for tackling exceptionally rough, overgrown areas where their raw power and unlimited range are essential.

How often should I sharpen my rotary mower blades?

As a rule of thumb, we recommend sharpening your mower blade at least once a year, typically at the start of the mowing season. A sharp blade cuts grass cleanly, which is healthier for the lawn. A dull blade tears the grass, leaving ragged, brown tips. If you have a very large lawn or frequently mow rough ground with stones, you may need to sharpen it mid-season as well.

What cutting width do I need for my garden size?

Here’s a simple guide:

• Small gardens (up to 150m²): 32cm – 36cm width is sufficient.
• Medium gardens (150m² – 400m²): Look for 36cm – 43cm for a good balance of speed and manoeuvrability.
• Large gardens (400m² and above): A 43cm or wider deck will save you a significant amount of time and effort.

What does a ‘mulching’ function do on a rotary mower?

A mulching function uses a special plug or blade design to cut the grass clippings into tiny particles instead of collecting them. These particles are then blown back down into the lawn. They decompose quickly, acting as a natural fertiliser by returning nitrogen and other nutrients to the soil. It’s a great time-saver as you don’t have to empty a grass box, and it’s excellent for your lawn’s health, especially during dry periods.

How important is a rear roller for a rotary mower?

A rear roller is what creates the classic striped effect on a lawn. As the mower passes, the roller gently flattens the grass in the direction of travel. When you mow in alternating directions, the light reflects differently off the flattened grass, creating the light and dark stripes. While it doesn’t affect the quality of the cut, it is essential if achieving that traditional, striped finish is important to you. Many rotary mowers do not have them, so check the specifications if this is a must-have feature.

Which brands make the most reliable rotary mowers in the UK?

Based on our testing and market reputation, brands like Einhell, Bosch, and Makita consistently produce high-quality, reliable mowers across different power sources and price points. Greenworks and Ryobi offer excellent value, particularly within their cordless systems. For petrol power, Mountfield is a long-standing and trusted name in the UK.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing across a variety of lawn types and conditions, our top recommendation remains the Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower. It consistently outperformed its rivals by offering the most complete and effective package for the modern UK garden. Its powerful 36V battery system provides the grunt needed for tough jobs, while the wide 43cm cutting deck makes short work of larger areas. We found the combination of a massive 63-litre grass box and an effective mulching option provides unmatched versatility. It’s quiet, easy to handle, and part of a vast and useful battery ecosystem. For a mower that expertly balances power, features, and convenience, the Einhell GE-CM 43 Li M Cordless Lawnmower is, without doubt, the best choice for a beautifully maintained lawn.