The 10 Best Electric Start Lawn Mowers
This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in March of 2019. If you're tired of struggling with a manual pull cord to get your lawnmower going, one of these electric start models will be a refreshing alternative. We've included corded and battery-operated options with height-adjustable cutting decks, sturdy wheels for maneuvering around obstacles, and powerful motors that can be fired up with either the turn of a key or push of a button. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Greenworks Pro
2. Snapper XD
3. Makita XML03PT1
Editor's Notes
August 03, 2020:
When it comes to lawn care, there is no shortage of available mower types to help you keep your property well manicured, regardless of its size. You can invest in anything from riding or zero turn machines, for maneuvering around obstacles in a large field, to the more traditional walk-behind models for cutting the grass in your backyard. A key benefit to our list of electric start mowers is that they eliminate the physical strain of tugging on a pull cord over and over just to get them going.
The Honda, Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, and Remington models have been removed due to availability concerns.
We've added the Greenworks Pro for its 21-inch cutting deck, large wheels, and self-propelled operation.
Also newly added this year is the Makita XML03PT1, which is equipped with a protective inner seal to keep water and dust away from its motor. Depending on their construction, some mowers may have a tendency to clog, especially around their motors and/or collection bags, so this one provides some additional assurance when landscaping large areas. Its battery system also provides automatic overload protection.
While the Lawn-Boy 17734 is one of the few gas-powered models we've included, it is CARB-compliant with a rear-wheel drive system that gives you plenty of traction when maneuvering over rough terrain or mowing uphill.
We've also included the Tacklife KALM1340A for its integrated safety feature for preventing accidental startups.
The LawnMaster 60V offers several intuitive controls, not least of which include a choice of three power levels for tackling both light and heavy-duty mowing jobs.
Finally, we've added the Scotts 60040S due to its telescoping and folding handles (for vertical shed storage) and twin LED headlights, making it a convenient option for nighttime use.
March 29, 2019:
While the range of models available with electric start is somewhat limited when compared to pull-crank selections, you still have a healthy number of options to choose from. If you’re looking for an electric choice, the Poulan Pro and Black & Decker models are known for their reliable battery performance, easy operation, and compact size for easy storage.
If you prefer the power of a gas model but without the pull-cord, the Husqvarna on our list is easy to maneuver around obstacles and when making turns, thanks to its front-wheel-drive design. Rather, if rear-wheel-drive is your thing, look to the rugged Snapper 3-N-1, which delivers impressive traction. Or if you want one with multiple starting options, the Remington RM220 also comes with a manual pull cord that can be used as backup.
No matter which you ultimately select, make sure it has a cutting deck size that you feel is appropriate for your yard, along with any extra bells and whistles you prefer that’ll help you achieve a healthy, well-manicured lawn.
Special Honors
Orec 4WD Brush Rover If you have a lot of landscaping to do across a wide swath of land, and you aren't confident that a conventional gas- or electric-powered lawn mower can get the job done, consider adding the Orec 4WD Brush Rover to your arsenal of outdoor power equipment. Thanks to its low center of gravity, this all-terrain ride-on solution is ideal for tackling tall brush and overgrown grass on slopes, open fields, and other hard-to-reach areas. It is equipped with a 21-horsepower Briggs & Stratton gas engine, foot-pedal controlled hydrostatic transmission, two flail blades, and responsive rack-and-pinion steering. orecamerica.com
Ferris FW15 Powered by a 10.2-horsepower Honda engine with electric start, the Ferris FW15 offers a top ground speed of four miles per hour, adjustable speed controls, and a narrow footprint for maneuvering around trees and plant beds. Its mounting system allows for efficient deck leveling and improved flexibility when mowing over rough terrain. Additionally, its integrated power take-off switch enables you stop its cutting blades quickly and safely. ferrismowers.com
WorldLawn WY32X11BSE Good for mowing in hard-to-reach spaces, the self-propelled WorldLawn WY32X11BSE has an electric start with recoil backup, floating deck with pull-pin style height adjustments, ergonomic hand grips, a belt-driven transmission for extended operating life (and low maintenance), and a three-in-one design that accommodates mulching, bagging, and side discharging of its grass clippings. worldlawn.com
4. Greenworks 25022
5. Lawn-Boy 17734
6. Sun Joe ION16LM
7. Black & Decker CM1640
8. Tacklife KALM1340A
9. LawnMaster 60V
10. Scotts 60040S
Jeff is a dedicated writer and communications professional from San Francisco with a bachelor of arts in anthropology from UC Berkeley. He began his career in computer consulting and later branched out into customer service. Jeff focuses on making complex topics easy to understand. With over 10 years' experience in research, his relentless curiosity fuels a love of writing and learning how things work, and has helped to build expertise in categories such as heavy-duty power tools and computer equipment. Jeff's passion for animals affords him a strong understanding of pet products, including dog houses, beds, and grain-free foods. When he's not writing, he prefers spending time with his family and three dogs, while kicking back and relaxing with a nice glass of red wine.