Updated 11 Nov 2011

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Introduction

Time for a new lawnmower? Our test results and buying advice will help you choose the right one for the job.

We've tested  mulch-and-catch mowers, petrol-powered rotary mowers, electric- and battery-powered mowers and eco-friendly push mowers. We explain the different types, look at their performance and assess their ease of use.

We also explain what to consider when buying a mower, and provide tips for using them safely.

Models we tested

This report contains test results and recommendations for the following lawnmower types and models:

Standard petrol mowers

Mulching mowers

Electric mowers

Push mowers

Types of mower

Push mowers

Push mowers are a cheap form of exercise and you're not burning fossil fuels. But they're not that practical for large or sloping lawns.

To get a consistent cut with a push mower you need to keep the blades sharp and properly adjusted. Resharpening the blades means a visit to your local mower shop.

Electric mowers

Electric mowers are light, quiet, have no emissions and are easy to manoeuvre and push around. But they are not very powerful and have a narrow cut compared to a petrol mower.

Battery or mains?
Battery-powered mowers are a clear winner where trees or other obstacles have to be negotiated. With mains-powered models the power cord can get tangled on obstacles and has to be dragged around. You also have to plan your mowing pattern carefully, to avoid running over the cord.

Battery models don't have the hassle of a mains lead - but they have a limited cutting time and you have to remember to charge the battery before mowing.

The running time and cutting area of the battery-powered models in our test was measured from full charge until the battery was flat, on short grass without the catcher. Longer or wetter grass would reduce the mowing area and running time.

Battery-powered models tend to be heavier than mains-powered models - not quite so suitable for sloping sections or if you don't have much upper-body strength.

Petrol mowers

Petrol driven mowers are powerful, have a wide cut and can handle long or wet grass. But they are heavy and harder to manoeuvre than electric ones and starting can be a hassle.

Also handling and storing petrol can be hazardous.

Two-stroke or four-stroke?
There are two types of engine, two-stroke and the much more popular four-stroke.

Two-stroke engines are simpler and usually lighter, and require you to mix the petrol and oil. They're more powerful for their size and weight than four-stroke ones, so are better for rough or hilly conditions, but they're not as efficient and cause more pollution.

Four-stroke engines comprise most of the market. They have their oil in the crankcase, like a car. They're more efficient, so you'll get better fuel economy, and the exhaust is less smoky.

Mulching or standard?
Mulching mowers have a specially shaped cutting blade and a catcher-chute plug. With the catcher removed and the plug inserted, the clippings are spun under the body and chopped up further by the blade. They are then blown down into the lawn, leaving a smoothly mown surface.

For successful mulching, the grass can’t be too short or too long. Cut too short and there won’t be a carpet of grass for the mulch to sink into and decompose. Left too long after cutting and the mulch will form clumps on the lawn – especially if the grass is wet. As well, the length of the cut shouldn’t be more than 25mm.

These mowers can also operate in conventional mode with a catcher. 

Price

If you want a cheap mower, buy second-hand. Many local or suburban lawnmower shops do a steady business in turning over second-hand machines, and they should back them with good service.

Features to consider

Body
A rotary mower’s body is made from steel, aluminium alloy or (less commonly) plastic.

An alloy body is more expensive. It’s corrosion resistant and likely to last longer in damp conditions – although it won’t last as well in sandy coastal areas because sand wears away the aluminium.

Steel is cheaper but will rust unless cleaned and dried after use. However, if hit by a large rock it’ll only dent – whereas an alloy body can crack.

Plastic is lightweight and doesn't corrode … but it may not last as well if regularly pounded by stones and other debris. A plastic body is more suitable for well-tended lawns where there’s only a slight chance of it being hit by rocks or stones.

Handle
A turned-up handle is generally regarded as easiest to use. Adjustable height is also an advantage, although it's not as common as you might think. The handles should fold easily for stowing.

Throttle control
Located on the handle bar for quick and easy access. It shouldn't be stiff.

Cutting height
Look for a large number of cutting positions. It should be easy to change the position using one lever acting on all four wheels.

Catcher
Catchers can be either solid plastic or partly mesh. Rigid plastic is heavier, but stronger than the mesh type, which can allow dust to blow over the user. The catcher should have two handles, one for carrying and the other for emptying. It should be easy to remove and replace.

Engine maintenance
How easy will it be to change the oil, air filter and spark plug?

Starter cord
Some mowers have the starter cord on the handle, so you use just your arm and perhaps upper body to operate it. Others have the cord down on the engine casing, requiring a full body pull. Neither guarantees an easy start, and both have their fans. If you're not familiar with either style, ask to try it in the shop.

Some cords are located on the upper handle, which restricts the pulling action more than those placed further down the handle. Left-handers may find it harder to use a starter cord on the handle.

Wash port
Look for a hole on top of the body, designed for you to connect a hose to, for easy cleaning underneath

Noise
There's no such thing as a quiet petrol-driven mower, but some are noisier than others. Check the vibration as well.

Easy push
Ball-bearing wheels make pushing easier.