Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower Review: A Gas Mower Convert’s Honest Verdict

For years, my weekend lawn care ritual was a symphony of frustration. It started with the ceremonial yanking of a pull-cord, a prayer to the small engine gods, and the inevitable cloud of blue smoke. The deafening roar of the gas engine meant no listening to music or podcasts, and the vibrations left my hands tingling for hours. Then there were the trips to the gas station, the messy oil changes, and the lingering smell of gasoline in the garage. I always thought this was just the price of a well-kept lawn—a noisy, dirty, and frankly, annoying price. The idea of a battery-powered mower seemed like a compromise, a step down in power for a bit more convenience. I was skeptical, convinced that no battery could truly replace the raw, brute force I was accustomed to. That skepticism was the wall I had to break through before finding a better way to manage my yard.

What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Walk-Behind Lawn Mower

A cordless walk-behind lawn mower is more than just a tool; it’s a key solution for homeowners seeking to reclaim their weekends from the tyranny of lawn maintenance. The primary benefit is freedom—freedom from gas cans, oil changes, spark plugs, and tangled extension cords. These machines offer a quieter, cleaner, and more user-friendly experience, transforming a chore into a more pleasant activity. They solve the problem of noise pollution in residential neighborhoods, eliminate harmful emissions, and drastically reduce the ongoing maintenance and fuel costs associated with their gasoline counterparts. By offering instant push-button starts and simplified operation, they make lawn care accessible and less intimidating for everyone in the household.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with a lawn ranging from a small city plot to a substantial 3/4-acre suburban yard. They are homeowners who value convenience, are environmentally conscious, and are tired of the constant upkeep and operational headaches of gas engines. It’s a perfect fit for those living in communities with noise ordinances or who simply prefer a more peaceful outdoor environment. However, a high-power cordless mower might not be suitable for professional landscapers who require all-day, non-stop runtime without the need to recharge multiple battery sets. Similarly, for those with extremely small, flat patches of grass, a simpler, non-propelled push mower or even a manual reel mower could be a more economical choice. For vast properties measured in acres, a riding mower remains the more practical solution.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Deck Size & Cutting Width: The cutting width, typically measured in inches, determines how many passes you’ll need to cover your lawn. A 21-inch deck, like the one on the model we’re reviewing, is a sweet spot for efficiency on medium-to-large lawns. A wider deck means fewer laps, saving you time and battery life. Consider your lawn’s layout; if you have many narrow strips or tight obstacles, a slightly smaller deck might offer better maneuverability.
• Power & Performance: In the world of cordless mowers, voltage (V) is a primary indicator of power. A 60V system provides significantly more torque and blade speed than a 20V or 40V system, allowing it to tackle thicker, taller, or wetter grass without bogging down. Also, look for a brushless motor, which is more efficient, durable, and quieter than older brushed designs, translating to better performance and longer battery runtime.
• Battery System & Runtime: The battery is the heart of the machine. Consider the Amp-hour (Ah) rating, which indicates capacity—a higher Ah means longer runtime. A mower that includes two batteries with an automatic switchover feature, like the Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower, is a massive advantage, effectively doubling your mowing time without interruption. Also, evaluate the brand’s entire tool ecosystem; a battery that can power your mower, string trimmer, and leaf blower offers incredible value and convenience.
• Build Quality & Durability: A mower’s longevity depends on its construction. Look for a steel cutting deck for maximum durability against rocks and debris, though high-impact polymer decks can be lighter and rust-proof. Handles made from aluminum or steel are preferable to all-plastic designs. Features like IPX4 water resistance also indicate a well-built machine designed to withstand the elements and an occasional cleaning with a hose.

Understanding these factors will empower you to choose a mower that not only meets your lawn’s needs but also enhances your overall lawn care experience, making the switch from gas a truly worthwhile upgrade.

While the Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing and First Impressions: Built for Business

The arrival of the Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower was an event. While some users have reported issues with shipping-damaged boxes, our unit arrived intact and well-packaged. The first thing we noticed was the sheer simplicity of the assembly process. As one user noted, it was “assembled in five minutes, it couldn’t have been easier.” There’s no complex instruction manual to decipher or a bag of a hundred bolts and screws. You simply unfold the sturdy aluminum handle, lock it into place with two intuitive knobs, and slide the grass catcher bag onto its frame. That’s it. It’s a stark, welcome contrast to the often-fiddly setup of gas mowers.

Lifting it out of the box, the mower feels substantial but not excessively heavy at 65 pounds. The weight is well-balanced, and the combination of the polymer deck and robust aluminum handles gives it a premium, durable feel. It doesn’t feel like a toy; it feels like a serious piece of equipment. The large rear wheels inspire confidence for handling uneven terrain. The single-lever height adjustment is a standout feature—smooth, easy to operate, and offering seven distinct cutting heights from a low 1 inch to a tall 4 inches. It’s a thoughtful design that speaks to a user-centric approach. Paired with the dual-port rapid charger and two 4.0Ah batteries, the entire package feels complete and ready to tackle serious yard work right out of the box. You can explore its full specifications and design features to see the quality for yourself.

Performance Deep Dive: Can It Truly Dethrone Gas?

A mower’s worth is proven on the turf. It’s about more than just specs on a page; it’s about how it feels, how it cuts, and how it holds up when the grass is thick and the yard is challenging. We put the Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower through its paces on a quarter-acre lot with varied terrain, including a significant slope and patches of dense, fast-growing fescue, to see if it lives up to its gas-like power claims.

Raw Power and Cutting Quality: The Heart of the Machine

The moment you press the start button and engage the blade, the first thing you notice is the sound—or rather, the lack of it. The high-performance brushless motor spins up to 3200 RPM with a low hum, a world away from the rattling roar of a gas engine. But don’t let the quiet operation fool you; this mower has serious cutting power. We tested it on grass that was a little longer than it should have been after a week of rain, and the 21-inch steel blade sliced through it cleanly without any sign of bogging down or struggling. The mower maintained its blade speed, producing a uniform, neat cut across the entire lawn. The cut quality is crisp and professional, which we found was a common sentiment, with users noting it “cuts nicely.”

This model offers a 4-in-1 system: mulching, bagging, side discharge, and a leaf pickup mode. We found the bagging to be exceptionally effective, with the high-lift blade creating powerful suction that packed the grass bag densely. Side discharge worked as expected, evenly dispersing clippings. The mulching function, however, is where we encountered some nuance. While it performed adequately on dry, moderately-sized grass, we were able to replicate the experience of one user who noted it left “lines of grass on the lawn.” This tended to happen in very thick or slightly damp conditions, where the deck design struggled to circulate and chop the clippings finely enough. For most users who mow regularly, this won’t be an issue, but for those who are mulching purists and often cut overgrown lawns, it’s a point to consider. However, for overall versatility and raw cutting strength, this machine delivers power that truly rivals its gas counterparts.

Battery Dominance: Runtime, Charging, and the Power of an Ecosystem

The single biggest fear for anyone switching from gas to electric is battery anxiety. Will it last long enough to finish the job? The Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower puts this fear to rest with its intelligent dual-battery port system. It comes with two 4.0Ah batteries, and the mower runs on one until it’s depleted, then automatically switches to the second. This is a seamless transition you won’t even notice, providing a continuous, extended runtime. Greenworks claims up to 45 minutes of runtime, and in our real-world testing, this was a conservative estimate. Mowing a quarter-acre with the self-propel system engaged, we finished the entire lawn in about 35 minutes, and the second battery still had half its charge remaining. This aligns perfectly with a user who was initially skeptical but found they could do their entire medium-sized yard in 35 minutes with “still 1 green bar” of battery left. For lawns up to 3/4 of an acre, this system provides more than enough juice.

The included dual-port charger replenishes both batteries quickly, so you’re ready for the next job. But the true value extends beyond the mower itself. These 60V batteries are the cornerstone of the Greenworks 60V platform, which includes over 75 other tools, from string trimmers and leaf blowers to chainsaws and snow blowers. This ecosystem compatibility is a massive advantage. Your investment in the batteries for your mower becomes an investment in an entire suite of high-performance, cordless yard tools. This shared power source simplifies your storage, eliminates the need for multiple battery types and chargers, and provides incredible long-term value. The dual battery and charger kit included here is the perfect entry point into a powerful and versatile system.

Ergonomics and Ease of Use: Making the Chore a Pleasure

Power is useless if a mower is a pain to operate. Greenworks clearly prioritized user experience in the design of this machine. The standout feature is the rear-wheel-drive self-propelled system. A simple lever allows you to adjust the walking speed from a slow crawl to a brisk pace, letting you match the mower’s speed perfectly to your own. This system is a game-changer on inclines. We tested it on a steep hill in our test yard, a section that used to be a real struggle with a traditional push mower. As one satisfied user exclaimed, “Mowing a hill isn’t easy. But with the Greenworks self propelled it is!” The mower effortlessly climbed the grade, requiring only guidance from us, not muscle. The large rear wheels provide excellent traction, ensuring a stable and controlled ascent.

Beyond the self-propel feature, other design elements enhance the experience. The single-lever height adjustment is brilliantly simple, allowing you to change the deck height for all four wheels in seconds. The padded aluminum handle is comfortable to grip and reduces vibrations. When the job is done, the EZ Fold handles are a masterstroke of engineering. You simply pull a lever, and the handle folds forward, allowing the mower to be stored vertically. This reduces its storage footprint by up to 70%, making it easy to tuck away in a tight corner of the garage—something impossible for a gas mower with its leaky fluids. Add in the bright LED headlights for those late-evening mows, and you have a machine that is not just powerful, but genuinely pleasant to use. The thoughtful design makes lawn care significantly less taxing and more enjoyable.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the sentiment from other users largely confirms our own findings. There’s a strong chorus of praise from lifelong gas mower users who were initially skeptical but are now converts. One such user summed it up perfectly, stating they were “VERY skeptical” but found the assembly took just five minutes and the battery life far exceeded their expectations for a medium-sized yard. The ease of use is a recurring theme, with another happy customer highlighting how the self-propelled feature makes mowing hills effortless and praising the fast charging and nice cut quality.

However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect, which gives a realistic picture. The most common complaints are not about the mower’s performance itself but about external factors. Several users mentioned receiving boxes that were “ripped apart” or had holes, indicating potential issues in the shipping and handling process. The other notable criticism came from a user who was disappointed with the mulching performance, stating, “It is not! I’ve had many mulching mowers and they do not leave lines of grass on the lawn.” This mirrors our own test results, suggesting that while the mower is a fantastic bagger, its mulching capabilities may not satisfy the most discerning users, especially in challenging grass conditions.

How Does the Greenworks 60V Mower Compare to the Alternatives?

The Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower stands as a formidable option in the market, but it’s important to see how it stacks up against other choices that might better suit different needs or budgets. We’ve compared it to three distinct alternatives.

1. Greenworks 48V 5-Piece Garden Tool Set

For the homeowner starting from scratch, this Greenworks 48V kit represents incredible value. Instead of just a mower, you get a complete yard care ecosystem in one box: a 20″ push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, chainsaw, and hedge trimmer. The key trade-off here is power and features. The 48V (2x24V) system is a step down from the 60V platform, and the mower is a push model, not self-propelled, with a slightly smaller 20″ deck. This makes it a better fit for smaller, flatter lawns where the extra muscle of the 60V self-propelled model isn’t necessary. If your priority is acquiring a full suite of reliable cordless tools for total yard maintenance on a budget, this package is an unbeatable starting point.

2. Wild Badger Power 18″ Cordless Lawn Mower 40V Brushless

The Wild Badger Power mower is a compelling option for those with smaller yards and a tighter budget. Its main differentiators are the 40V power system and a more compact 18-inch cutting deck. This smaller size makes it incredibly maneuverable in tight spaces and easy to store. While it lacks the raw torque of the 60V Greenworks, its brushless motor is still more than capable of handling standard residential lawns. It’s a no-frills, efficient machine that focuses on core functionality. If you have a simple, small-to-medium lawn and don’t need the advanced self-propelled capabilities or the wider cutting path of the Greenworks 60V, the Wild Badger offers a solid performance at a more accessible price point.

3. Sun Joe Cordless Push Reel Lawn Mower 15”

The Sun Joe Reel Mower occupies a completely different niche. This isn’t a rotary mower; it’s a modern, battery-assisted reel mower. It provides the clean, scissor-like cut that reel mowers are famous for, which is healthier for the grass blades. With a 15-inch cutting width, it’s designed exclusively for small, well-maintained, and relatively flat lawns. It’s the quietest and most environmentally friendly option by a large margin. It’s for the lawn purist with a small patch of grass who prioritizes cut quality and simplicity above all else. It cannot handle tall weeds or rough terrain like the Greenworks 60V can, making it a specialized tool rather than a direct competitor for most suburban yards.

The Final Verdict: A Worthy Successor to Gas Power

After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently say that the Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower is a top-tier machine that bridges the gap between the convenience of electric and the raw power of gasoline. It addresses and overcomes the most common fears of switching to battery: inadequate power and insufficient runtime. The brushless motor and 60V system provide ample strength for thick grass, while the innovative dual-battery setup ensures you can finish most suburban lawns on a single charge. Add in the fantastic self-propelled system that tames hills, the ridiculously easy assembly, and the brilliant vertical storage feature, and you have a clear winner.

While its mulching performance in damp, heavy grass could be more refined, its capabilities as a bagger and side-discharger are excellent. We wholeheartedly recommend this mower to any homeowner with a lawn up to 3/4 of an acre who is ready to ditch the noise, fumes, and maintenance of gas for good without sacrificing performance. It’s a powerful, well-designed, and user-friendly machine that makes lawn care a genuinely better experience. If you’re ready to make the switch and invest in a mower that delivers on its promises, we encourage you to check the latest price and availability for the Greenworks 60V 21″ Self-Propelled Mower today.