Best Robotic Lawn Mowers

Review & Comparison, Last Update December 17, 2023
Are you tired of constantly mowing your yard in order to keep it neat and tidy? Relay this task to a robotic lawn mower and just relax while it does the job for you. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Maximum lawn size
Expected runtime
Charging time
Cutting width
Cutting height
Maximum slope
Modes
Sensors and other features
WARRANTY
 
PROS

The 400XH line adopts rubberized front bumpers that protect these machines against collisions with most objects, including trees and shrubs. The high-res display features an intuitive layout, with a menu that uses easily digestible graphics. The backlit keyboard will let you fiddle with this menu even in the dark. 

CONS

The replacement blades are expensive. 

OUR VERDICT

Even the bumpiest, most uneven land will not present a formidable challenge for the Husqvarna Automower 430XH. Equipped with massive coarse-tread wheels, this robot easily handles most obstacles, improving traction upon slippery surfaces and handling <44% slopes without breaking a sweat.

detailed parameters
Maximum lawn size

0.8 acres

Expected runtime

145 mins

Charging time

50 mins

Cutting width

9.45 inches

Cutting height

2 - 3.6 inches

Maximum slope

Up to 44% (24°)

Modes

Chaotic moving patterns, Can maintain several mowing zones

Sensors and other features

Alarm, PIN code, Installation lock, Time lock, Lift sensor, Tilt sensor

WARRANTY

2 years

PROS

The model operates on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The mower cuts the tips with razor-sharp blades. Since grass clippings remain on the lawn, they serve as a natural fertilizer, thus allowing your grass to grow without any chemical interventions. It can work during rain.

CONS

The battery indicator is somewhat inaccurate. 

OUR VERDICT

We would recommend the Gardena R80Li robotic lawn mower to environmentally conscious folks first and foremost. It also wouldn't disappoint those who are looking for a mower that is simple to operate without being underwhelming in terms of what it can bring to the table.

detailed parameters
Maximum lawn size

0.2 acres

Expected runtime

65 min

Charging time

50 min

Cutting width

6.69 inches

Cutting height

0.79 - 1.97 inches

Maximum slope

Up to 25% (14°)

Modes

Chaotic moving patterns, Can maintain several mowing zones

Sensors and other features

Alarm, PIN code, Installation lock, Time lock, Lift sensor, Tilt sensor

WARRANTY

2 years

PROS

The sensors integrated into this machine employ ultrasonic tech, detecting objects before the robot runs into them, slowing the machine down, and preventing hard collisions. These sensors also automatically identify narrow passages, making sure that the mower changes its route when it is necessary to avoid unpleasant tracks.

CONS

The tires start wearing out with time. 

OUR VERDICT

Robotic lawn mowers that can handle lawns as large as 1.25 acres on a single charge are few and far between and none are as good overall as Husqvarna 450XH. Stretching the runtime 270 minutes, this machine easily covers the largest lawns, including those with countless obstacles, inclines, and declines.

detailed parameters
Maximum lawn size

1.25 acres

Expected runtime

270 mins

Charging time

60 mins

Cutting width

9.45 inches

Cutting height

2 - 3.5 inches

Maximum slope

Up to 44% (24°)

Modes

Chaotic moving patterns, Can maintain several mowing zones

Sensors and other features

Alarm, PIN code, Installation lock, Time lock, Lift sensor, Tilt sensor

WARRANTY

2 years

PROS

The mower's blades are offset, letting the machine mow closer to your lawn’s border than ever before. The result is less grass to trim and more free time to enjoy. The robot can sense and bypass movement and will automatically turn off when it is picked up, making the mower pet- and kid-friendly. 

CONS

The mower is loud. 

OUR VERDICT

The WORX WR140 Landroid M offers an excellent price-performance ratio. The model does not trail behind its more expensive competition in just about every important regard. It will be able to keep any small/medium-sized lawn in the most pristine condition. The robot doesn't require any effort on your part.

detailed parameters
Maximum lawn size

0.25 acres

Expected runtime

~60 min

Charging time

90 min

Cutting width

7 inches

Cutting height

1.5 - 3.1 inches

Maximum slope

Up to 30% (17°)

Modes

Chaotic moving patterns, Can maintain several mowing zones

Sensors and other features

Alarm, PIN code, Installation lock, Time lock, Lift sensor, Tilt sensor

WARRANTY

3 years

PROS

The seemingly low-profile design is actually able to handle slopes up to 45%. It has no problems tackling narrow passages. You can start mowing at three different remote locations along the patented guide wire. This is particularly important and helpful for larger lawns.

CONS

It might take some time to set the mower up. 

OUR VERDICT

The Husqvarna Automower 310 builds upon its predecessors' successful implementations and is able to take that robotic mowing game to the next level. The machine is relatively lightweight and nimble but rugged and robust at the same time. It will be able to work under any weather conditions.

detailed parameters
Maximum lawn size

0.25 acres

Expected runtime

70 min

Charging time

60 min

Cutting width

8.7 inches

Cutting height

0.8 - 2.4 inches

Maximum slope

Up to 40% (22°)

Modes

Chaotic moving patterns, Can maintain several mowing zones

Sensors and other features

Alarm, PIN code, Installation lock, Time lock, Lift sensor, Tilt sensor

WARRANTY

2 years

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Husqvarna Automower 430XH

Merciless Disposition

The Husqvarna Automower 430XH is a merciless machine, and the lawn-mowing vehicle bearing a pretty close resemblance to a Batmobile has nothing to do with its merciless disposition, even though we can appreciate its almost imposing-looking profile nonetheless. No, with this one, the part that lacks mercy comes primarily from the enlarged coarse-tread wheels ensuring improved traction even when the surface underneath them is quite slippery. With these wheels, the machine can handle even 44% slopes. Meanwhile, the front bumper, made from heavy-duty rubber, protects the robot from collisions with trees, shrubs, and most objects around the yard.

All that being said, there's also nothing merciful about the sharp blades on this one. Shaped like razors and made from high-strength carbon steel, these blades keep the model's operation efficient and its energy consumption low. What's more, owing to the high-strength construction, the blades are quite resilient, which's great since replacement blades cost more than you would expect. The robust cutting disc system that the blades are mounted upon contributes as well though. Clipping grass a little at a time, this system ensures excellent turf health and pristine appearance.

Review of Husqvarna Automower 430XH Robotic Lawn Mower

Systematic Spiral Pattern

As impressive as the machine's output is, and it is fairly impressive, the controls sells this product as much as everything that we have highlighted above. With the large high-resolution screen and an intuitive menu layout using straightforward graphics, programming individual settings becomes an easy task even on the first try. Plus, the keyboard is backlit, so you can adjust these settings even in low-light conditions.

Among these settings, you'll find the special spot cutting mode that mows limited areas with increased growth. These areas usually include spots beneath garden furniture. Mowing in tight spirals, the mode lets you easily trim these areas. To add more, there's also the automatic cutting mode that easily evens out grass height differences, wit the disc sensors detecting the height and automatically running a systematic spiral pattern.

Of course, the housing on this machine can withstand the elements without hiccups and the security systems include an alarm, PIN code, and installation lock, and a time lock, these solutions come without saying when you're discussing high-end robotic lawn mowers.

So, without going into less impressive details, the Husqvarna Automower 430XH towers above most robotic mowers, with its robust yet well-thought-out construction, accessible controls, and efficient but also effective operation.

Husqvarna Automower 430XH Robotic Lawn Mower in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $2,699.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07TS69X9J

 

Gardena R80Li

Eco-Friendly Assistant

The Gardena R80Li has quite a few tricks up its sleeve in order to attract a number of different customers. First things first, not dissimilar to the majority of mid-range and high-end robotic mowers, the model operates on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. That means zero emissions compared to orthodox lawn mowers that run on gas and far less environmental factor compared to disposable batteries. As you would imagine, that makes the model in question a great choice for environmentally conscious people as it will allow them to reduce their environmental footprint.

The question of environment aside, robotic lawn mowers can be as complicated as the next sophisticated piece of technology, which is why the manufacturers of this one made sure to design a model that is easy to install and just as easy to use and maintain. All you have to do is set up a boundary wire around the edges of your lawn and any large objects and you should be good to go. 

Speaking of those edges, the model offers about 65 minutes of runtime, which given the average cutting width of 6.69 inches and between 0.8 and 2 inches of cutting height should be enough to handle under 9,000 square feet of land. And if not, it takes the mower about 50 minutes to recharge and go back to the grass cutting task.

Review of Gardena R80Li Robotic Lawn Mower

Improve Your Garden

By the way, we probably would be remiss not to mention the fact that this robotic lawn mower doesn't just cleave a large part of the grass but instead cuts the tips with razor-sharp blades. Since grass clippings remain on the lawn, they serve as a natural fertilizer, thus allowing your grass to grow without any chemical interventions.

Other than that, the mower will be able to handle a maximum slope of up to 25% (14°), which should be enough for your average lawn with some uneven terrain here and there. And, again, not dissimilar to the majority of robotic mowers, the model includes chaotic moving patterns and is capable of maintaining several mowing zones.

As for the features, the robotic lawn mower from Gardena comes equipped with both an audible alarm and a PIN code, so you wouldn't have to worry about a jealous neighbor stealing your robot from you. Furthermore, you won't have to hide the model when it starts to get slightly drizzly outside as it can perfectly work during rain. It doesn't produce a whole lot of noise either, so that scoundrel neighbor of yours wouldn't be able to complain about that either. Finally, the mower is fairly programmable and you will be able to set different mowing times and days according to your preferences.

In short, we would recommend the Gardena R80Li robotic lawn mower to environmentally conscious folks first and foremost. It also wouldn't disappoint those who are looking for a mower that is simple to operate without being underwhelming in terms of what it can bring to the table.

Gardena R80Li Robotic Lawn Mower in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $1,493.41
Stock In stock
ASIN B06XD2X262

 

Husqvarna 450XH Automower

Covering 1.25 Acres

The Husqvarna 450XH Automower is everything that the 430XH model is but with even more impressive coverage. Sure, the price on this one does not seem especially attractive initially but considering that most robotic lawn mowers are capping at 0.25 acres while this one easily covers 1.25 acres and stretches its single-charge runtime 270 minutes, the price becomes quite reasonable, all things considered. The people behind this model are claiming that this is the world's most capable robot and we can see where they're coming from.

To get the ball rolling, employing integrated sensors that use ultrasonic tech, this machine can detect objects before running into them, slow down, and prevent hard collisions. What's more, the same sensors will be automatically sensing narrow passages and ensuring the robot finds its way through the smallest, most narrow passages, changing the route when necessary and avoiding unpleasant tracks.

Its silent operation, with the wheel motors adopting two step gearboxes, is also not something to be taken for granted. Keeping the machine's operation discreet, these wheel motors let you use this lawn-mowing vehicle even at night without disturbing the neighbors.

Review of Husqvarna 450XH Automower Robotic Lawn Mower High Cut

Triple Guidewires

The machine borrows the menu structure from its 400XH relatives, so we will not be discussing the graphics that make its settings as easily accessible as they are and the large display that serves the same purpose. We can, however, discuss the uniform cutting results that the machine ensures throughout the entire lawn. With five remote locations along the guidewire, the model lets you schedule multiple starting points and have the machine target them straight from the station.

Naturally, weatherproofing is mandatory when you're designing ~$4,000 mowers, so you can have the machine cutting and trimming when it is raining and/or snowing outside knowing that its internal components will remain safe from harm. When the charge runs out (something that will not be happening on a frequent basis), this robot will automatically return to the charging station without your guidance or assistance.

Taking the high-end price into account, the tires on its wheels are not as durable as you would expect. Apart from that, the Husqvarna 450XH Automower is practically flawless, with multiple cutting modes, balance control, countless sensors, and more, all working towards making this machine the most impressive prospect on the market today.

Husqvarna 450XH Automower Robotic Lawn Mower High Cut in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $3,299.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07TXD9RXT

 

WORX WR140 Landroid M 20V

Comprehensive Algorithm

The WORX WR140 Landroid M is as affordable as robotic lawn mowers come. The model has its flaws compared to its more expensive peers but nothing that would prevent the machine from competing against these peers.

First and foremost, what we're dealing with here is an outside robot. It lives in your yard, rain or shine. Sure, the weather can get too harsh for its taste. That's when the robot automatically heads back to the charging station to wait out the storm. You don't have to direct the mower yourself nor do you have to worry about certain weather conditions damaging its components.

That being said, it all starts with the mobile app. You can use the company's proprietary application to adjust the mowing schedule and control the robot remotely. The model's algorithm measures your yard using the lawn size calculator and suggests an automatic schedule based on your yard's size and overall conditions. Don't care for that schedule? You can always use the manual schedule feature to set the schedule according to your needs and preferences.

The application's intuitive layered interface is as accessible and straightforward as these things come. You'll have no issues figuring out the settings and controlling the robot in general. You can track the robot via GPS, set notifications, the usual deal.

Review of WORX WR140 Landroid M 20V Robotic Lawn Mower

Kid- and Pet-Friendly

As far as the model's performance is concerned, we don't have any major complaints. It is able to work for an hour straight and takes no more than 90 minutes to fully recharge.

The mower's blades are offset, letting the machine mow closer to your lawn’s border than ever before. The result is less grass to trim and more free time to enjoy. At the same time, the robot can sense and bypass movement and will automatically turn off when it is picked up, making the mower pet- and kid-friendly.

The model's 7-inch cutting width is not necessarily impressive in general but it is more than sufficient considering that the mower is designed for small- to medium-sized lawns less than 0.25 acres. The cutting height ranges from 1.5 -to 3.1 inches, standard stuff that lets the mower handle short and tall grass alike.

All things considered, the WORX WR140 Landroid M offers an excellent price-performance ratio. The model does not trail behind its more expensive competition in just about every important regard. It will be able to keep any small/medium-sized lawn in the most pristine condition. You won't have to do anything yourself.

WORX WR140 Landroid M 20V Robotic Lawn Mower in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $1,580.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07TWHSWW8

 

Husqvarna Automower 310

Free Movement Pattern

The Husqvarna Automower 310 isn't necessarily cheap but the model's price is justified considering what it is packing and how much it offers on just about every level. It is both the little things and huge changes that make the mower so much better compared to its already impressive predecessor.

We really like how balanced the control is. The mower is able to automatically detect any imbalances in the cutting system for that silent, trouble-free operation. We're talking about imbalances that could be caused by missing, double-mounted, or damaged blades.

The model's free movement pattern isn't necessarily new but it has been upgraded to an extent that you'll hardly have any issues keeping the lawn perfectly cut, giving you that beautiful carpet-like look. Its razor-sharp blades are able to cut the grass gently from all and every direction, letting it grow strong afterward. Plus, this way, you'll also be able to effectively prevent moss growth.

In many ways, that uniform cutting result is possible thanks to the fact that the model lets you start the mowing process at three different remote locations along the patented guide wire, right out from the charging station. This is particularly important and helpful for larger lawns.

Review of Husqvarna Automower 310 Robotic Lawn Mower

Any Terrain Will Do

Another little detail that helps achieve that universal cutting result is the mower's automatic cutting functionality that excels at evening out the grass height differences. Its cutting disc sensors are able to detect when the mower enters an area with higher grass and switch the cutting technology to a systematic spiral pattern.

The high-resolution, medium-sized display with a graphic menu structure doesn't necessarily hurt too. The menu is straightforward and intuitive. Though the model is packing ample functionality, you shouldn't have any issues figuring them out. It might take you some time since there are so many little extra details here but probably not too much effort. Among other things, the model incorporates personal settings that will let you schedule the machine to mow at a specific time(s).

There are many components and features here that make the mower so universal and versatile. We've already covered a few but none matter as much as the model's construction. The seemingly low-profile design is actually able to handle slopes up to 45%. It has no problems with narrow passages.

Long story short, the Husqvarna Automower 310 builds upon its predecessors' successful implementations and is able to take that robotic mowing game to the next level. The machine is relatively lightweight and nimble but rugged and robust at the same time. It will be able to work under any weather conditions. Its performance and functionality are as good as it gets.

Husqvarna Automower 310 Robotic Lawn Mower in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $1,799.98
Stock In stock
ASIN B07B1HW5QS

 

What Is a Robotic Lawn Mower?

A robot lawn mower is exactly what it sounds like. It's a battery-powered automated robot that moves around on wheels and trims grass with razor blades on its bottom. Such mowers come with a docking station, used for recharge, and a special perimeter wire for setting the boundaries. Some models also have a solar battery on top, which prolongs their working time. Many of them have an option to be programmed with a mowing schedule, and some other features.

Once all of the preparations are complete - the wire is laid, the station is connected to the power supply, the battery is charged, and the mowing schedule is set - the robot lawn mower will automatically start trimming, requiring no control on your side. The cut grass is not collected in a bag but rather left on the ground as the soil fertilizer, boosting the future grass growth. Thus, you will get a perfectly maintained lawn with healthy green grass without even having to go outside.

On a related note, we can also offer you our pick of the best hedge trimmers for keeping the green fences well-manicured. Also, you might be interested in smart sprinklers systems that can be scheduled to irrigate the flower beds and the grass in your yard during the desired time of a day even when you are away.

Best Robotic Lawn Mowers

What Features to Compare

Maximum Coverage

When selecting a robot lawn mower, first check out what area it can cover. Some of them can cover only 2,000 sq. ft. while others may patrol one acre and more. Thus, if you choose a model with a coverage area smaller than your yard, you will need to control it and constantly move its docking station. Of course, it's not a huge problem, but it does defeat the whole point of buying a robot lawn mower in the first place. So, if you want to get the most benefit, make sure a max coverage of the model you choose is suitable for your lawn. 

Perimeter Wire Length

Unlike some robot vacuum cleaners that can scan the room for possible obstacles beforehand, mowers rely on a perimeter wire which is laid along the borders of your lawn and around some obstacles that you want it to bypass. Thus, check out beforehand how much wire you will need to cover the necessary area.

Sensors

As a rule, mowers come equipped with several smart sensors that allow the robot to detect the perimeter wire and/or turn around when it bumps into an object that it can't push away. Another useful sensor is a rain detector - it will help protect the blades from clogging when the grass is wet and return it to the docking station to avoid damage to the tool.

Programmable Features

Most any robot lawn mower can be scheduled to mow only during a specific time of a day. Some of them will also allow you to set a password for accessing controls as well as to configure different behavior scenarios and change mowing patterns. In general, though, most mowers move in a chaotic pattern randomly choosing the direction. This allows them to produce excellent results leaving your lawn beautifully trimmed with no traces of wheels. There are also models that can run in linear and spiraling mowing patterns.

Lawn Grass Types

Although most robot lawn mowers should have no issues cutting down various vegetation including tall weeds, there are models that might actually be fit only for trimming small grass, so it is a good idea to check out the specs and make sure it will be right for the job.

Sources:

1. Lawn mowers & tractors, Consumer Reports. September 2016.

2. Robotic lawn mower, Wikipedia. November 2016.

3. Types of Lawnmowers, eXtension. September 22, 2015.

4. How to Get and Maintain a Healthy Lawn, wikiHow. February 2017.

5. Glenn Derene The Robots Are Coming (To Mow Your Lawn), Popular Mechanics. July 29, 2013.

6. Sal Vaglica Does a Robotic Lawn Mower Really Cut It? The Wall Street Journal. April 12, 2016.

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