For a long time, gas-powered mowers were the only option on the market. But they were loud, messy, and difficult to maintain. Homeowners and lawn care professionals wanted a simpler solution, so the electric lawn mower market filled that need.
In the beginning, they were slow, underpowered, and broke down easily. Instead of being a viable alternative, they turned out to be just a gimmick. But, over the last few decades, corded lawn mowers have evolved into reliable and efficient garden tools.
The best corded electric lawn mower can perform just as well as the average gas-powered models, they are not designed to replace garden tractors. A quality corded electric lawn mower will make your lawn care routine significantly easier. It can deliver great results, but without the messy maintenance and noxious fuel mixing. Read Electric vs Gas Lawn Mowers.
And, there’s an ocean of options to choose from. But, some are significantly better than others. Moreover, certain models are better for certain tasks. Whether your yard is big or small, rough, or flat, one of our top picks is sure to be the best corded electric lawn mower for your yard.
Our Top Pick: [amazon link=”B00NO4RP1G” title=”BLACK+DECKER MM2000 Lawn Mower”/]
Features
- 10″ rear / 7″ front wheels
- 20″ steel deck
- 3-In-1 (mulching, side discharge, and rear bag)
- 7-position height adjustment (1.5″ to 3.75″)
- 12-Amp motor
Contents
Corded Electric Lawn Mower Reviews
Greenworks 25142 Electric Lawn Mower
[amazon fields=”B079MS3P5B” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Greenworks 25142 Corded Electric Lawn Mower” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 10 Amps
- Deck size: 16″
- Weight: 37.5 lbs
If you live in a suburban or metropolitan area, you don’t want to be “that guy” with an obnoxiously noisy gas lawn mower. The Greenworks 25142 is a reliable, quiet option for urban dwellers.
It comes with a 10-Amp motor that draws more than enough power for the lawn care needs of the average homeowner. The Greenworks 25142 corded lawn mower comes with an optional mulching adaptor—it’s a great option if you want to ensure your lawn gets all the nutrients it needs. Giving nutrients to your lawn is based on healthy soil which you can achieve with top dressing your lawn.
The Greenworks 25142 corded lawn mower can be a great mower for larger yards as the manufacturer claims you can use it with a 150-ft extension cord—a rare exception to the 100 ft operating range rule.
The electric mower comes with a height-adjustment lever. It offers 5 settings ranging from 5/8″ to 2-5/8″. Its push-button start mechanism works like a charm every single time.
Pros
- 5 height settings
- Bagging and mulching attachment
- Maximum operating range of 150 feet
- Lightweight and nimble
- Attractive price point
Cons
- Height-adjustment lever takes some getting used to
[amazon fields=”B079MS3P5B” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
BLACK+DECKER MM2000 Corded Lawn Mower
[amazon fields=”B00NO4RP1G” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”BLACK+DECKER MM2000 Lawn Mower” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 13 Amps
- Deck size: 20″
- Weight: 47 lbs
The BLACK+DECKER MM2000 is a quiet but powerful lawn mower that can cut stubborn and tall grass with ease. It will slice through crabgrass like a hot knife through butter.
The mower comes with a super-efficient mulching attachment that cuts clippings into very fine pieces. You can mow right along lawn edges with great ease and efficiency, thanks to its one of a kind EdgeMax technology. It also makes it easy to maneuver around obstacles.
The assembly is very easy, it doesn’t require any tools. All you need to do is attach the upper handle and secure the motor cable. The mower comes with a starter handle that will automatically turn off the motor if you let it go by accident.
Even though the mower boasts a robust 13-Amp motor and a wide 20″ deck, it is easy to transport. The mower allows you to adjust the cutting height from 1.5″ to 4″.
Pros
- Starts easily
- 3-in-1 mower
- Compact
- Easy to maneuver
- Great for tough grass
Cons
- A lot of plastic components
[amazon fields=”B00NO4RP1G” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Greenworks 25022 Electric Corded Lawn Mower
[amazon fields=”B002ZVOLXE” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Greenworks 25022 Electric Corded Lawn Mower” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 12 Amps
- Deck size: 20″
- Weight: 56 lbs
The Greenworks 25022 is the bigger, more powerful cousin of the Greenworks 25142 model. The two mowers share many design features. The Greenworks 25022 offers a fast and eco-friendly solution to lawn care.
Boasting a 12-amp motor and 20-inch cutting deck, it can handle thick and tough grass more than well. You won’t get that much cutting power at such an attractive price point elsewhere. That’s why many lawn care professionals consider it to be the best corded electric lawn mower out there. And, it even comes as a cordless electric mower.
Its 3-in-1 grass management system works like a charm. It can seamlessly bag, discharge, or fine-cut clippings. The 7-position height adjustment allows you to set the cutting height from 1-1/2″ to 3-3/4″.
It’s not the lightest mower around, but it folds to a nice, compact size, so storage shouldn’t be a problem. The mower comes with a generous 4-year warranty. The Greenworks 25022 is a quality mower that has all that you need for no-frill lawn mowing.
Pros
- Sizeable cutting deck
- 7 height-adjustment settings
- 3-in-1
- Powerful
- 4-year warranty
Cons
- Heavy
[amazon fields=”B002ZVOLXE” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Sun Joe MJ401E
[amazon fields=”B01DTIC778″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Sun Joe MJ401E” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 13 Amps
- Deck size: 24″
- Weight: 28 lbs
The Sun Joe MJ401E is a lean but powerful lawn mower that allows you to easily get into those narrow spaces. It can maneuver around sandboxes, mailboxes, trees, and fences without any issue.
Weighing a mere 29 pounds, it allows you to mow a smaller yard without breaking a sweat. Since it’s a compact mower that can be folded, you can rest assured you’ll be able to store it almost anywhere you want.
Even though it’s small, it comes with a robust and dependable 12-Amp motor. So, don’t let its size fool you—the Sun Joe MJ401E can chew up tough grass without much effort.
Its durable steel deck can be set at three different heights (1.18″ – 2.5″). This is a great choice if you are going for a golf-course look. The mower starts easily and is easy to assemble. It’s undoubtedly one of the best electric lawn mowers for smaller lawns.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy assembly
- Adjustable cutting height
- Easy to maneuver
- Compact
Cons
- The bag seems a bit flimsy
[amazon fields=”B002ZVOLXE” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower
[amazon fields=”B078YYPWLY” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 6 Amps
- Deck size: 12″
- Weight: 13 lbs
When you see a model advertised as a 3-in-1 mower, you expect it to offer side discharge, mulching, and bagging options. But this Black & Decker unit is a completely different kind of 3-in-1—it-s an edger, trimmer, and a lawn mower. However, there is a difference between lawn edgers vs string trimmers.
The BESTA512CM is definitely something you don’t see every day. One would expect it to be nothing more than a gimmick, but it performs all of its three functions more than well.
If you have a small yard with lots of obstacles, as well as weeds, this may be the best solution for you. When it comes to maneuverability, nothing can beat a lightweight and compact unit. And, it will even leave you with one hand free.
It offers 2 height settings, 1.6″ and 2.4″. Since it uses a 0.65″ diameter line, you will never have to bother with replacing and sharpening blades. The automatic spool feed system allows you to work uninterrupted and with maximum convenience.
Pros
- Super-lightweight
- Compact
- Easy to maneuver
- Adjustable height
- Easy maintenance
Cons
- Only good for smaller yards
[amazon fields=”B078YYPWLY” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
BLACK+DECKER BEMW482ES Electric Mower
[amazon fields=”B078YYHQ8S” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”BLACK+DECKER BEMW482ES Electric Mower” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 12 Amps
- Deck size: 17″
- Weight: 42 lbs
This modern, sleek machine can zip around stone-lined flower beds and other obstacles without any problems. The mower is incredibly easy to maneuver, thanks to the unique pivot control handle. It looks like a sports car and its speed matches its look.
The Black & Decker BEMW482ES is fitted with rugged wheel threads that allow for better control in thicker grass. Its winged blade will chop up twigs, thatchy weeds, and other debris that comes its way, so you can rest assured that cutting stubborn grass won’t be a problem.
The mower offers 6 different height adjustments from 1″ to 3″. If you don’t like the pivot control handle, but still like this mower, there’s a version with bike handles as well.
Pros
- Pivot control handle
- 6 height adjustments
- High-grip wheels
- Push-button start
- Winged blade
Cons
- Assembly can be tricky
[amazon fields=”B078YYHQ8S” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Earthwise Electric Lawn Mower
[amazon fields=”B01707W0QW” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Earthwise 50520 Corded Electric Lawn Mower” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 12 Amps
- Deck size: 20″
- Weight: 53 lbs
The Earthwise 50520 comes with all the features you need to quickly and efficiently mow your lawn. You will be able to finish the jobs in just a few trips, thanks to its 20” wide cutting deck.
It comes with a 12-Amp motor that will power through tall and thick grass without any issue. The motor starts easily every time.
You can easily raise or lower the deck from 1.75″ to 4″ thanks to the single-lever height adjustment. To minimize hand tension, the mower is fitted with a comfortable, cushioned handle-grip.
Pros
- Easily handles tall and thick grass
- Padded bars
- Mulching and bagging options
- Adjustable cutting height
- Folds for easier storage
Cons
- Short manufacturer’s warranty
[amazon fields=”B01707W0QW” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
WORX WG719
[amazon fields=”B00Q6EH72S” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”WORX WG719″ image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 13 Amps
- Deck size: 20″
- Weight: 57 lbs
Thanks to its front caster wheels, the Worx WG719 is very easy to maneuver. The mower can deftly circumnavigate obstacles it comes across. It executes angles and sideways movement like a champ—no other model can compare with it in this area.
When you need to mow slopes, you can lock the front caster wheels to ensure proper control. The built-in mechanism allows you to quickly and seamlessly engage or disengage the wheels.
Its generous cutting path can significantly reduce mowing time. The Worx WG719 is heavier than the average corded model, but its robust 13-Amp motor handles the extra weight without a problem.
The mower comes with a convenient one-touch collapsible handle that allows for easy storage. The WG719 is a great example of how smooth and efficient corded electric mowers can be.
Pros
- Efficient
- Very easy to maneuver
- Locking front caster wheels
- Double-edge NutriCut blade
- One-touch collapsible handle
Cons
- Heavier than average
[amazon fields=”B00Q6EH72S” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
GREENWORKS 25012 Corded Mower
[amazon fields=”B07JN6FFH8″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”GREENWORKS 25012 Corded Electric Lawn Mower” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 12 Amps
- Deck size: 18″
- Weight: 51 lbs
The GreenWorks 25012 mower is a quiet and nimble mower that can cut stubborn weeds just as well as it can cut grass. It’s a great mower to have in fall as it can efficiently mulch leaves and grass. The large 7″ wheels allow you to easily maneuver around flower beds and uneven terrain.
Assembling the mower is easy as pie. Once it’s out of the box, you will have it up and running in no time. Like most other GreenWorks mowers, it has a starter handle mechanism.
The adjustable handle is a nice touch. It folds for easier storage. The mower offers a 7 height adjustment setting, from 1-3/4″ to 3 3/4″.
Pros
- Easy to maneuver
- 7 height adjustment settings
- Effortlessly cuts through tough grass
- Handles uneven terrain
- Adjustable handle
Cons
- No bagging option
[amazon fields=”B07JN6FFH8″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Electric Lawn Mower
[amazon fields=”B07JVQDKGK” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Electric Lawn Mower” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Power: 11 Amps
- Deck size: 14″
- Weight: 25.4 lbs
If you want to go green but you are on a tight budget, the American Lawn Mower Company corded mower is a solid option. Even though it’s an entry-level model, it doesn’t skimp on performance and features.
The ALMC 50514 corded mower offers side discharge and mulching options. Its reliable 11-Amp motor provides more than enough power for its 14” cutting deck.
The mower comes with a comfortable adjustable handle. It folds for compact storage. The assembly takes no more than a couple of minutes. The deck offers 5 different cutting heights, from 1″ to 2.5″.
Its weight is one of its strongest features as it makes it very easy to maneuver. Weighing in at 25.4 lbs, it’s one of the lightest models in its category.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to store
- 5 cutting height settings
- Budget-friendly
- Adjustable handle
Cons
- Plastic deck
[amazon fields=”B07JVQDKGK” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Corded Electric Mower Buying Guide
The size and shape of your lawn will largely determine what kind of corded electric lawn mower you need. If you want to be sure you’ll pick the best electric lawn mower for your yard, here are the main factors you need to consider:
Deck Size
The deck of an electric lawn mower can be anywhere between 15” and 20” wide. A mower with a larger deck can cut more grass in one pass. If you have a large, square, and open yard, you should go with a model that has a bigger deck. The wider the deck is, the fewer trips you will need to make.
But, bigger isn’t always better. While it is true that a mower with a larger deck allows you to finish the job faster, it’s also important to note that such mowers are heavier and harder to push. But, if you have a narrow yard with plenty of trees, shrubbery, or other obstacles you have to mow around, it’s best to go with a model that has a narrower deck.
Wide-deck mowers cannot navigate obstacles as easily as narrow-deck models since they are heavier and larger. Moreover, mowers with wider decks are more expensive and require more storage space.
Push Lawn Mowers vs. Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
All corded electric lawn mowers are push lawn mowers. Push lawn mowers require more manpower, so they are a great choice for those who are looking for a workout.
But, they also offer more control. If you need to mow a narrow lawn that forces a lot of turning and twisting, it is best to go with this type of lawn mower.
Push mowers are much more nimble than self-propelled lawn mowers. However, they are best suited for flat terrain. They can handle slopes, but if you have a large hilly yard, you may get tired very quickly. Self-propelled gas or electric cordless models are the best lawn mowers for hills.
Unfortunately, they don’t make self-propelled corded mowers because the cord poses a safety hazard. If you want a self-propelled mower, you will have to settle for a battery-powered or gas-powered model.
They allow you to take on steeper slopes and tougher grass without breaking a sweat. But, all of this power comes at a price—literally.
Self-propelled mowers of any kind are much more expensive corded lawn mowers. Moreover, they are larger and heavier. If you have a flat, average-sized yard, a corded electric mower is a better purchase.
Height Adjustments
Most corded electric lawn mowers allow you to adjust the cutting height. A corded mower that offers more mowing heights is more versatile and gives you the possibility to cut more types of grass. The best corded electric lawn mowers offer at least four height options ranging from 1.5” to 4”.
No matter what type of grass grows in your yard, don’t give it a buzzcut. If you cut it too short, you will reduce its resilience and it may dry out during summer.
Some models allow you to adjust the height of each wheel separately. However, if you want to achieve an even cut, it is not such a useful feature. Look for a model that has a single mechanism for lowering all wheels.
Starting Mechanism
One of the best things about electric mowers is the fact that they are so easy to start. However, when it comes to this type of lawn mower, not all starting mechanisms are the same. Some are safer than others.
Starter button lawn mowers: This type of mechanism requires you to use a key and push a start button to fire up the mower. Models that use this mechanism are generally easier to operate. However, they are more difficult to stop in emergency situations. If you let go of the grip by accident, the mower will keep running.
Starter handle lawn mowers: This type of lawn mower requires you to pull a handle to fire it up. You need to hold the handle for the entire time, or the mower will stop. It’s a great safety mechanism, but it can be tiresome to use.
Grass Clipping Disposal
The cut grass has to go somewhere, and the best corded electric lawn mowers offer you a few ways you can dispose of or deal with the grass clippings.
Lower-end mowers usually have no grass management system. They just have a side or rear discharge chute for grass clippings. So, if you do not want to mulch the lawn, this means more work for you. If you want to avoid this, you should get a mower that comes with a bagging option for grass clippings.
Corded electric mowers are generally great for mulching. Higher-end models usually come with a mulching setting that allows you to cut grass extra-fine and leave it on the lawn as fertilizer.
Models that come with all three settings (side discharge, mulching, and bagging) are called 3-in-1 corded mowers. Models that let you choose between mulching and side discharge are 2-in-1 mowers.
Extension Cord
If you get a corded electric lawn mower, your mowing range will be limited to 100 ft from the closest power outlet. Getting a longer extension isn’t a good idea because it can lead to voltage drops and cause your mower to malfunction.
Some even recommend not getting an extension cord that’s longer than 50 ft. If you have a particularly large yard, consider investing in a riding lawn mower or garden tractor.
The type of extension cord you need depends on how powerful your lawn mower is. But even if your lawn mower isn’t so powerful, you don’t want to settle for an ordinary extension cord.
You need a product that is suited for heavy-duty outdoor use. It should have extra-thick wires, one socket instead or several, and double-tough polymer outer coating. The extra strength of the coating and the wire inside will protect the cord against damage and abrasions.
The gauge or wire thickness needs to match the amp rating of your lawn mower. Corded-electric lawn mowers are generally rated between 6 and 12 amps. The lower the gauge number of an extension cord is, the more amps it can handle.
So, for instance, if the motor of your mower draws fewer than 10 amps, a 16-gauge cord will do. If the motor rating is between 10 and 15 amps, a 12-gauge outdoor extension cord is the best choice.
The distance from the outlet to the mower is also a factor. A cord with a lower number is better for longer distances. If the gauge number of your cord is not low enough, it can cause the mower to overheat.
If you are unsure about what type of cord you need, it should be stated in the owner’s manual. You should also make sure the cord is CSA certified and UL listed.
Takeaway
Reliable and highly efficient, the [amazon link=”B0078KWAL” title=”Greenworks 25022 Electric Corded Lawn Mower” /] is the best corded electric lawn mower on our list. It packs enough power to handle any challenge that comes its way, but it is fast and easy to maneuver as well.
GreenWorks have really outdone themselves with their series of corded electric lawn mowers. However, Black & Decker, Worx, and Earthwise are certainly not far behind. Each of the models on the list is a dependable and eco-friendly solution for your lawn.
