Greenworks vs Ryobi Cordless Lawn Mower

Greenworks vs Ryobi: Which Cordless Mower Is Better?

Both Greenworks and Ryobi are top contenders in the cordless outdoor power equipment market, but they approach the category differently. Greenworks focuses on high-voltage, dedicated outdoor tools, while Ryobi leverages its massive 18V and 40V platforms to offer unmatched versatility. This guide compares their flagship cordless mowers to help you decide.

Key Differences at a Glance

The most significant difference is voltage and ecosystem. Greenworks uses an 80V system for maximum power, making it ideal for thick grass and larger lawns. Ryobi uses a 40V system that is lighter and more affordable, and it shares batteries with a huge range of other tools. Greenworks mowers generally feel more robust, while Ryobi mowers are easier to maneuver and store.

Battery and Ecosystem Comparison

Greenworks offers a dedicated 80V battery platform with around 75 tools, including string trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws. The 80V battery delivers high torque and longer runtime per charge. Ryobi offers both 40V and 18V platforms, with over 280 tools total. The Ryobi 40V battery is lighter and cheaper, and it works with everything from mowers to pressure washers. If you already own Ryobi tools, sticking with the same battery system saves money and reduces clutter.

Cutting Performance and Deck Quality

The Greenworks 80V 21-inch mower features a stamped steel deck and a brushless motor that provides consistent torque even in wet or thick grass. Owner reviews frequently praise its ability to mulch leaves without clogging. The Ryobi 40V 20-inch mower uses a similar stamped steel deck but with a slightly smaller cutting width. It handles standard lawns well, but some users report it struggles with tall, damp grass compared to the Greenworks. Both offer 7-position height adjustment.

Self-Propelled Drive and Maneuverability

Both mowers offer variable-speed self-propelled drive. The Greenworks system feels more powerful and responsive, especially on slopes. The Ryobi system is smoother on flat ground but can lag on inclines. The Ryobi is slightly lighter (55 lbs vs 58 lbs), making it easier to push manually if the battery dies. Neither is ideal for very hilly terrain, but the Greenworks has a slight edge in hill-climbing ability.

Build Quality and Warranty

Greenworks offers a 4-year warranty on the tool and 2 years on the battery, which is industry-leading for this price point. Ryobi offers 3 years on the tool and 2 years on the battery. Build quality is comparable, with both using durable plastics and steel decks. Ryobi has a larger service network through Home Depot, while Greenworks relies more on online support and independent dealers.

What to Check Before Buying a Cordless Mower

Before choosing between Greenworks and Ryobi, consider your lawn size, grass type, and existing battery system. Measure your lawn acreage and note any slopes or obstacles. Check the mower's deck size and cutting height range to ensure it fits your needs. Also, verify the battery Ah rating and runtime claims, as real-world performance varies with grass conditions.

Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Cordless Mower

Do not assume a higher voltage always means better performance. While Greenworks 80V is powerful, Ryobi 40V is sufficient for many lawns and costs less. Avoid buying a mower without checking battery compatibility with other tools you own. Do not ignore the weight and maneuverability, especially if you have a hilly yard. Finally, do not skip reading recent owner reviews for the specific model you are considering.

Greenworks 80V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower

The Greenworks 80V 21-inch mower is the top pick for homeowners with medium to large lawns who need raw power. Its 80V brushless motor handles thick grass and light weeds without bogging down. The 21-inch steel deck provides a wide cutting path, reducing mowing time. The variable-speed self-propelled drive makes it easy to control on slopes.

Owner reviews consistently highlight its strong mulching capability and long runtime with the included 4.0Ah battery. Some users note it is heavier than Ryobi models, and the battery is not compatible with other 40V or 18V tools. The higher price is justified for those who prioritize cutting performance over ecosystem size.

Ryobi 40V Brushless 20-Inch Self-Propelled Mower

The Ryobi 40V 20-inch mower is the smart choice for homeowners already in the Ryobi ecosystem or those with smaller lawns. It is lighter, more affordable, and shares batteries with over 280 Ryobi tools. The brushless motor provides good torque for standard grass, and the 20-inch deck is nimble in tight spaces. The variable-speed drive is smooth on flat ground.

Owner reviews praise its value and ease of use, especially for yards under 1/4 acre. Some users report it struggles with tall, wet grass and that the battery runtime is shorter than advertised in heavy conditions. The 6.0Ah battery provides decent runtime, but you may need a second battery for larger lawns.

Greenworks 60V 20-Inch Mower (Alternative)

For those who want a middle ground between power and price, the Greenworks 60V 20-inch mower is a strong alternative. It uses a 60V battery that is lighter than the 80V but still more powerful than Ryobi 40V. The 20-inch deck is ideal for medium lawns, and the brushless motor provides consistent cutting. It is also compatible with Greenworks 60V outdoor tools.

Owner reviews note it is quieter than the 80V model and easier to push. The battery runtime is slightly less than the 80V, but it is sufficient for most 1/4 to 1/2 acre yards. The 60V platform has a smaller tool selection than 80V or Ryobi 40V.

Ryobi 40V 21-Inch Dual-Blade Mower (Alternative)

Ryobi also offers a 21-inch dual-blade mower that provides a wider cut and better mulching than the standard 20-inch model. It uses two blades to create a finer clip, which is excellent for mulching leaves. The 40V system keeps it lightweight and affordable, and it shares batteries with the rest of the Ryobi lineup.

Owner reviews are positive for mulching performance, but some note the dual-blade system requires more battery power, reducing runtime. It is a good option for those who prioritize mulching over raw cutting power.

Greenworks 80V 25-Inch Mower (For Large Lawns)

For very large lawns (1 acre or more), the Greenworks 80V 25-inch mower is the most powerful option. Its 25-inch steel deck cuts more grass per pass, and the 80V motor handles thick grass with ease. It includes two 4.0Ah batteries for extended runtime. The self-propelled drive is robust and handles slopes well.

Owner reviews praise its speed and cutting quality, but it is heavy (over 70 lbs) and expensive. It is overkill for small lawns but ideal for those who want to minimize mowing time.