The Greenworks 60V 21-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower: A Review
For years, I yearned for the day when electric lawn mowers could finally banish the fumes, noise, and hassle of gas-powered machines. I had a core childhood memory of standing in the expansive yard of a family friend, trying to get their old gas mower to start – a futile exercise involving a tugged pull cord and a stubborn engine. It was a memory that underscored my desire for something simpler, cleaner, and quieter. So, I eagerly jumped on the electric mower bandwagon, embracing the switch with the same enthusiasm I had for replacing VHS tapes with Blu-ray.
I’ve owned numerous electric mowers over the years, both plug-in and battery-powered. Each seemed to offer a trade-off: sacrificing either an annoying extension cord or a lackluster battery for the advantages of a quick start, quieter operation, and an absence of smoke. However, this year, I discovered a game-changer: the Greenworks 60V 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower – a machine that delivered on the promise of a truly fulfilling electric mowing experience.
After four months of testing this mower on my Midwestern lawn, I can confidently say it has surpassed my expectations in every way. This Greenworks mower effortlessly tackles my lawn and executes tasks with grace, leaving me free from the anxieties of other electric mowers. While there are undoubtedly more feature-rich mowers available for the dedicated lawn devotee, this Greenworks model appeals to my desire for simplicity. I don’t yearn for a complex lawn care experience – I want a mower that starts with the push of a button, cuts my grass effectively, and then quietly disappears back into the garage. Finally, I had found a mower that delivered precisely that.
Sixty Beats Forty: The Power of 60V
The first thing that drew me to this mower was its 60V battery system. After decades of using corded electric mowers (which, until recently, offered the best combination of power and affordability), I knew the limitations of 40V batteries. The Greenworks mower, however, boasts dual battery ports, comfortably accommodating two 60V batteries. While I’ve only utilized a single battery so far, it has been more than enough for my needs.
A single 5-Ah battery provides sufficient power to mow my small lawn twice with the turbo setting engaged, or three and a half times with the standard setting. My lawn measures approximately 3,000 square feet, which is considerably smaller than the average US residential lawn, which clocks in at 10,000 square feet. It’s worth noting that if you reside in a state like Vermont or Montana, with their larger average lawn sizes, you may need to consider purchasing that second battery. Greenworks advertises a range of up to an acre, which translates to 43,560 square feet. However, based on my experience, achieving that level of cutting power with two fully charged batteries would be a stretch, even with the most efficient mowing techniques.
The 60V battery system translates to a noticeable power advantage over the more common 40V systems, particularly when tackling leaves. With a peak power output of 3200 RPMs – rivaling the upper range of standard gas mowers – the Greenworks model effectively mulches leaves in turbo mode. However, I observed that longer, wet grass can drain the battery faster than expected. A half-charged single battery proved insufficient to finish mowing my yard, highlighting the importance of keeping batteries charged to full capacity for larger cutting jobs.
Beyond the Battery: The Mower’s Features and Performance
The Greenworks mower is more than just about its powerful battery; it’s a well-designed machine with a number of user-friendly features that have consistently impressed me.
Self-propelled power: The self-propulsion system takes the chore out of mowing, smoothly moving forward with minimal effort on my part. This is particularly helpful for larger lawns or areas with sloped terrain. The forward speed is easily adjustable with a simple lever, allowing you to fine-tune the pace depending on the terrain and grass density.
Height adjustment: The mower features a seven-position height adjustment, ranging from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. This allows you to fine-tune the cut based on your desired lawn height and grass type. The adjustment mechanism is straightforward, with a simple lever for raising and lowering the cutting height.
Mulching capabilities: The Greenworks mower boasts a mulching function, which finely chops grass clippings and distributes them back into the lawn as fertilizer. This feature eliminates the need for bagging clippings, reducing waste and enriching your lawn. My experience with the mulching function has been highly positive. The clippings are finely shredded, creating a nutrient-rich mulch that enriches the soil without leaving unsightly clumps on the lawn.
Durable construction: The mower’s cutting deck is made of sturdy steel, and the overall construction feels robust and durable. It’s designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular use, ensuring longevity. This sturdy build instills confidence in the mower’s ability to tackle even the toughest mowing challenges.
Easy handling: It’s surprisingly light and easy to maneuver, allowing for comfortable maneuvering around obstacles and tight corners. The overall design promotes effortless control.
Quiet operation: With minimal noise and vibration, it provides a quieter mowing experience compared to gas-powered machines. This is a huge advantage, especially for individuals who are sensitive to noise pollution or want to avoid disturbing their neighbours. The quiet operation allows for mowing without disrupting the peace and tranquility of your neighborhood.
Minimal maintenance: The Greenworks mower requires minimal maintenance. Unlike gas-powered mowers, there’s no need for oil changes, spark plug replacements, or carburetor cleaning. This translates to less time spent on upkeep and more time enjoying a well-maintained lawn.
The Greenworks Mower: A Verdict
The Greenworks 60V 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower represents a significant leap forward in the world of electric lawn care. It seamlessly blends power, features, and user-friendliness, delivering a hassle-free mowing experience that surpasses the limitations of many of its predecessors.
If you’re looking for a mower that offers the convenience of electric power without compromising performance, this Greenworks model is an excellent option. It effectively handles a range of grass types and conditions, effortlessly navigates through obstacles and tight spaces, and provides the quiet operation and ease of use that I’ve longed for in an electric mower.
While there are undoubtedly more advanced mowers on the market with additional features and functionalities, the Greenworks mower stands as a testament to the simplicity of electric lawn care. Its straightforward design, powerful battery, and user-friendly features make it an ideal choice for individuals who value efficiency, convenience, and a well-maintained lawn, without the headaches of traditional gas-powered mowers.
This mower is a testament to the progress in electric lawn care. It’s the culmination of my years of searching for a truly effective and enjoyable electric mowing solution. The Greenworks 60V 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower has finally delivered on that promise, ensuring that my lawn-mowing experience is now one of quiet, efficient, and satisfying success.
Important Note: This article is a review based on personal experience. It’s essential to conduct your own research and determine which lawn mower best meets your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like:
- Lawn size: The battery life and cutting capacity of the mower should be sufficient for your specific lawn.
- Terrain: The mower should be able to navigate your terrain, whether it’s flat, hilly, or uneven.
- Features: Determine which features are essential, such as self-propulsion, height adjustment, mulching, or bagging capabilities.
- Price: Set a realistic budget and compare prices from different manufacturers and models.
By taking these factors into account, you can select the perfect lawn mower to transform your mowing experience from a chore into a chore-less enjoyment.
