WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 Review: The Small-Yard Champion That Punches Above Its Weight

I still remember the Sunday morning ritual: the trip to the garage, the hunt for the greasy gas can, the careful pouring to avoid a spill, and then the inevitable, frustrating battle with the pull cord. My old gas mower was a beast—loud, heavy, and temperamental. It vibrated so much my hands would feel numb afterward, and the exhaust fumes clung to my clothes for hours. Mowing the lawn felt less like yard care and more like wrestling a piece of industrial machinery. I knew there had to be a better way, a quieter, cleaner, and frankly, more pleasant way to maintain my small suburban yard. This quest for a simplified, low-maintenance solution led me away from the world of carburetors and spark plugs and into the rapidly advancing realm of battery-powered mowers.

What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Walk-Behind Mower

A cordless walk-behind lawn mower is more than just a tool; it’s a key solution for homeowners seeking freedom from the noise, fumes, and maintenance headaches of traditional gas mowers. The primary benefit is convenience. There’s no gas to buy, no oil to change, and no pull cord to yank. You simply slide in a battery and go. This makes lawn care less of a chore and more of a quick, quiet task. They are significantly lighter, making them easier to push, turn, and navigate around obstacles like flower beds and trees. For anyone with a small to medium-sized yard, the modern battery mower offers ample power and runtime without tethering you to an extension cord or a gas can. It represents a cleaner, quieter, and more user-friendly approach to maintaining a beautiful lawn.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with a yard up to a quarter-acre who values simplicity and low maintenance. This includes new homeowners, older adults who find heavy gas mowers cumbersome, or anyone living in a community with noise restrictions. It’s perfect for the person who wants to get the lawn cut quickly and efficiently without a fuss. On the other hand, a cordless push mower might not be suitable for those with very large properties (over half an acre) or those who frequently tackle extremely tall, dense, or wet grass. In those cases, a more powerful gas mower or a self-propelled battery model with a larger deck might be a better investment. For the most eco-conscious with very small, flat lawns, a manual reel mower could also be a viable, albeit more labor-intensive, alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Deck Size & Yard Capacity: The mower’s cutting width (or deck size) directly impacts how many passes you’ll need to make. A 17-inch deck, like the one on the WORX model, is a sweet spot for small yards (up to 1/8 acre), offering great maneuverability without sacrificing too much cutting swath. For larger yards, you might consider a deck of 20 inches or more to reduce mowing time.
• Battery Power & Performance: Look at both voltage (V) and amp-hours (Ah). Voltage is like the engine’s horsepower—higher voltage generally means more cutting power. Amp-hours represent the fuel tank’s size—higher Ah means longer runtime. The WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 cleverly uses two 20V batteries to deliver 40V of power, providing an excellent balance of strength and endurance for its intended yard size.
• Materials & Durability: Mower decks are typically made of either polymer (high-impact plastic) or steel. Polymer decks, like the polypropylene one on this WORX mower, are rust-proof and extremely lightweight, which is a huge advantage for pushing and storage. Steel decks are heavier and more robust, offering superior durability against rocks and debris, but they can be susceptible to rust if not maintained.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider features that simplify your life. A single-lever height adjustment is far superior to changing the height of each wheel individually. Look for handles that are comfortable and can collapse easily for compact storage. Battery-powered mowers require minimal maintenance—just keep the underside of the deck clean and the blade sharp.

While the WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 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:

First Impressions: Lightweight Design Meets Intuitive Assembly

Pulling the WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 out of the box was, in a word, a relief. Weighing a mere 35.3 pounds, I could easily lift it with one hand using the integrated carrying handle—a stark contrast to the 80-pound gas-guzzler it was replacing. Assembly was refreshingly simple. The handles unfold and lock into place with a pair of cam-lock levers, a process that took less than two minutes and required no tools. The grass collection bag clips on securely, and the mulch plug inserts with a satisfying click. The two included 20V 4.0Ah PowerShare batteries felt substantial and well-made. They slid into the dual-port housing on the mower and clicked firmly into place. The entire first impression was one of thoughtful, user-centric design. Everything felt accessible, intuitive, and built for someone who just wants to get the job done without consulting a complex manual. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its out-of-the-box experience.

Putting the Mower to the Test: A Detailed Performance Breakdown

A mower’s true worth is revealed on the lawn, not in the spec sheet. Over several weeks, we put the WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 through its paces on a typical 1/8-acre suburban lot with varying grass densities, a few tricky slopes, and the usual assortment of fall leaves. Our findings confirmed that this isn’t just a mower; it’s a meticulously designed solution for a specific type of homeowner.

Power and Cutting Performance: The Intellicut Difference

The star of the show is WORX’s patented Intellicut technology. It’s not just marketing jargon; it’s a feature you can actively hear and feel working. On standard, well-maintained parts of the lawn, the mower runs in a quieter, power-saving mode. But as soon as it hits a thicker, denser patch of grass, you hear the brushless motor instantly ramp up its speed and torque. It powers through the tough spot and then immediately quiets back down to conserve energy. This is a game-changer for battery life.

We found this feature particularly effective when tackling a section of the yard that had grown a bit too long after a week of rain. As one user noted after mowing down high grass, the mower is “surprisingly powerful for thicker grass. It basically increases power when necessary.” We experienced the same thing. The mower never truly bogged down or stalled, even in grass that was pushing 6 inches tall. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations. As another user discovered tackling ditch grass, it can struggle with truly neglected, foot-tall weeds. For its intended purpose—regular maintenance of a residential lawn—the power is more than sufficient. We also tested its mulching capability on a lawn covered in dry autumn leaves. It performed exceptionally well, chopping them into fine pieces that disappeared back into the turf. This confirmed another owner’s experience, who was thrilled that it “mulches them like nobodies business.”

Battery Life and The PowerShare Ecosystem

Perhaps the biggest anxiety for anyone switching from gas to electric is runtime. Will it finish the job on a single charge? With the WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1, our answer for yards up to 1/8 acre is a resounding yes. The mower is powered by two 20V 4.0Ah batteries running in series to produce 40V. In our tests on a roughly 5,000 sq. ft. lawn, we consistently finished the entire yard, using the mulching function, with power to spare. This mirrors the experience of a user who reported, “Cut the entire lawn (mulched) both times with a runtime of about 40 minutes on each cut & still had some juice left.”

The onboard battery indicator is a simple but crucial feature, letting you check your remaining charge with the push of a button. The included dual charger replenishes both 4.0Ah batteries from empty in about two hours, which we found to be accurate and convenient. What truly elevates the value proposition is the PowerShare platform. If you already own other 20V WORX tools—like a string trimmer or leaf blower—these batteries are interchangeable. This creates a versatile, cost-effective ecosystem for all your yard work. For newcomers, it provides a compelling reason to stick with the WORX brand as you expand your tool collection. The fact that two high-capacity batteries and a dual charger are included makes this package an excellent value from the start.

Ergonomics and User Experience: A Featherweight Contender

This is where the WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 truly excels and wins over converts from gas power. At 35.3 pounds, it feels less like you’re pushing a heavy machine and more like you’re guiding a tool. The lack of weight makes maneuvering around tight corners, trees, and garden beds effortless. We were especially impressed with its performance on inclines. One user with a very steep backyard noted that their old self-propelled mower would just spin its tires, but this mower’s light weight made it “easier to push up the slopes that are 45 degrees in some places.” Our experience was similar; pushing it up a moderate slope was shockingly easy.

The user-friendly design extends beyond its weight. The single-lever height adjustment is a dream to use, allowing you to cycle through all 7 positions (from 1.5 to 4 inches) in seconds with one hand. When you’re done, the cam-lock levers on the handle release, allowing it to fold down completely flat over the mower’s body. This creates an incredibly compact footprint for storage, allowing it to be stood upright against a garage wall, saving precious floor space. The 1.2-bushel collection bag is easy to attach and remove, and the full-bag indicator, while simple, effectively prevents you from overfilling it and leaving clumps of grass on your lawn.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring feedback from dozens of owners, a clear picture of the WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 emerges. The overwhelming majority of praise centers on its light weight and ease of use. One user, a self-described veteran of many gas mowers, was reluctant to go electric but stated, “I will never go back, not after this.” Another confirmed its surprising power, noting, “My yard is pretty small but we just moved in plus a ton of rain equals 10inch grass… and this 17inch mower handled it beautifully.” Many users are thrilled with the battery life, easily finishing their small to medium lawns on a single charge.

However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. A recurring theme in critical reviews involves durability over the long term and its limitations. One owner experienced a sheared gear after hitting an unseen object, while another reported a broken start toggle after a couple of years, deeming it “cheaply made.” It’s clear the lightweight polymer construction, while a huge benefit for maneuverability, may not withstand heavy abuse as well as a steel-decked mower. Another common point is its performance in wet conditions. As one user was advised by support, it’s “HIGHLY suggested not to cut wet grass,” as it doesn’t bag or mulch it effectively.

How Does the WORX 40V Mower Compare to the Competition?

The market for battery-powered mowers is fierce. While the WORX excels in its niche, it’s important to understand where it fits among its rivals. Depending on your yard size, budget, and power needs, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.

1. EGO Power+ LM2200SP Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

The EGO Power+ is a significant step up in size, power, and features. With a large 22-inch aluminum deck and a powerful self-propelled drive system, it’s designed for larger yards (up to 1/2 acre) and homeowners who want a premium mowing experience. Its Select Cut multi-blade system offers superior cut quality. However, it’s considerably heavier and more expensive than the WORX, and this particular model often comes as a “tool only,” meaning the high-capacity battery and charger are a separate, significant investment. The EGO is for the user with a larger lawn and budget who prioritizes power and advanced features over the lightweight simplicity of the WORX.

2. Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

The Greenworks 80V model operates in a similar class to the EGO, positioning itself as a true gas replacement. Its 80V platform delivers immense power, and the 21-inch steel deck is built for durability and efficiency on larger lawns. Features like self-propel and LED headlights make it a robust and versatile machine. Like the EGO, it’s much heavier and more of an investment than the WORX. Someone should choose the Greenworks if they have a large or challenging yard with thick, tough grass that demands maximum power, and they value the convenience of a self-propelled system to handle the machine’s extra weight.

3. Earthwise Power Tools by ALM 1715-16EW 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower

The Earthwise push reel mower represents the opposite end of the lawn care spectrum. It uses no motor, no battery, and no gas—only your own power. It’s the quietest, most environmentally friendly option available. With a 16-inch cutting width, it’s best suited for very small, flat, and well-maintained lawns. It provides a great cut quality on the right type of grass but requires more physical effort and more frequent mowing to prevent the grass from getting too long for it to handle. A user would choose the Earthwise for a tiny lawn, a desire for a bit of exercise, and the absolute lowest environmental impact and operating cost.

The Final Cut: Is the WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 Right for You?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2-in-1 is overwhelmingly positive, with one important condition: it has to be the right mower for the right yard. For homeowners with small lawns up to 1/8 of an acre, this machine is a near-perfect blend of convenience, performance, and value. Its featherlight construction makes mowing feel less like a chore, the Intellicut technology is genuinely smart and effective, and the battery life is more than sufficient for its target demographic. It’s quiet, easy to store, and requires virtually no maintenance.

It is not, however, a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have a half-acre lot, battle thick, wet grass regularly, or need the lowest possible cutting height, you should look at more powerful, heavy-duty alternatives. But for the suburban homeowner tired of the gas-and-oil routine, this mower is a liberating upgrade. It delivers a clean, even cut and a hassle-free experience from start to finish. If you’re looking for an agile, quiet, and remarkably user-friendly mower for your small yard, we wholeheartedly recommend it. You can check the latest price and discover if it’s the perfect fit for your lawn care needs.