Greenworks 40V 17" Cordless Lawn Mower – Brushless vs STEELITE 40V 17-inch Electric Lawn Mower, 12-Inch

Overview of the Greenworks 40V 17" Cordless Lawn Mower

The Greenworks 40V 17" Cordless Lawn Mower is designed for efficient lawn care with several user-friendly features. Priced at $279.99, it offers a powerful brushless motor that operates 30% quieter than gas mowers, providing a runtime of up to 35 minutes on a single charge with its included 4.0Ah battery. This model is particularly well-suited for small to medium yards, accommodating up to 1/4 acre. The mower’s 2-in-1 functionality allows users to mulch or bag grass clippings, making it versatile for different lawn maintenance needs. Its lightweight design and adjustable cutting heights enhance maneuverability and ease of use.

Overview of the STEELITE 40V 17-inch Electric Lawn Mower

The STEELITE 40V 17-inch Electric Lawn Mower comes as part of a robust combo package, including a cordless string trimmer and a leaf blower, all for $329.99. This mower is powered by dual 20V 4.0Ah batteries, providing up to 25 minutes of runtime. With a high-efficiency brushless motor that operates at 3400 RPM, it delivers strong cutting power and durability. The mower also offers 2-in-1 bagging and mulching capabilities and features a user-friendly design with a single lever for height adjustments. The inclusion of additional tools in this combo adds significant value for those looking for a comprehensive outdoor maintenance solution.

Price Comparison

When comparing prices, the Greenworks mower is about 17% cheaper than the STEELITE model, costing $279.99 versus $329.99. This price difference may influence budget-conscious consumers who are primarily looking for a lawn mower without additional accessories. However, it's important to consider the value added by the STEELITE combo, which includes a string trimmer and a leaf blower, making it a more comprehensive investment for those needing multiple tools for yard care. While the upfront cost of the Greenworks mower is lower, the total package offered by STEELITE may justify the higher price for some buyers.

Runtime and Battery Performance

The Greenworks mower boasts a runtime of up to 35 minutes on its single 4.0Ah battery, which is slightly longer than the STEELITE’s 25 minutes of runtime with dual 20V 4.0Ah batteries. This performance difference may be critical for users with larger yards or those who prefer to mow without frequent interruptions. The brushless motor in the Greenworks mower not only provides a quieter operation but also extends the motor's lifespan with less maintenance required. In contrast, while the STEELITE's dual battery system aims to enhance power, the actual runtime falls short, making the Greenworks mower a more efficient choice for those prioritizing longer mowing sessions.

Cutting Versatility

Both the Greenworks and STEELITE mowers offer versatile cutting options, but they do so in slightly different ways. The Greenworks mower features 6 adjustable cutting heights, allowing users to tackle various grass types and lawn conditions effectively. This flexibility is beneficial for maintaining manicured lawns or tackling overgrown areas. The STEELITE mower also provides a 6-position cutting height adjustment, but its focus on dual functionality with bagging and mulching may appeal more to those looking to utilize grass clippings for lawn nutrition. Ultimately, both options cater well to diverse lawn care needs, though users may prefer the specific cutting height adjustments based on their lawn's requirements.

User Experience and Design

The user experience is a key factor in evaluating these mowers. The Greenworks model emphasizes lightweight maneuverability, weighing significantly less than many gas mowers, which can be cumbersome. Its simple push-button start enhances user convenience, ensuring that anyone can operate it with ease. Conversely, the STEELITE mower is designed with user-friendly features as well, including a foldable handle for easy storage and transport. However, its combined weight with additional tools may require more effort to manage. In terms of design, both mowers prioritize ease of use, but the lightweight nature of the Greenworks may provide a slight edge for users seeking a more effortless mowing experience.

Additional Tools and Accessories

The STEELITE mower stands out for its inclusion of a cordless string trimmer and a powerful leaf blower, making it a comprehensive lawn care package. This setup is especially appealing for users who want to streamline their outdoor maintenance without purchasing separate tools. The Greenworks mower, while lacking extra tools, is compatible with over 75 other Greenworks 40V tools, providing future flexibility for users who may wish to expand their equipment collection. This compatibility is a significant advantage for customers already invested in the Greenworks ecosystem, while the STEELITE’s combo package is perfect for those seeking an all-in-one solution right out of the box.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Greenworks 40V 17" Cordless Lawn Mower and the STEELITE 40V 17-inch Electric Lawn Mower ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. The Greenworks mower is better for users seeking a straightforward, efficient mowing experience at a lower price point, while the STEELITE combo offers greater value for those who need a complete set of lawn maintenance tools. If you prioritize runtime and ease of use, the Greenworks model may be the better choice. However, if you need additional tools and prefer the convenience of a package deal, the STEELITE mower could be worth the extra investment.