Best RYOBI Cordless Lawn Mowers for Every Yard in 2026
RYOBI's cordless mower lineup splits into two battery platforms, 40V and 60V, with deck sizes from 13 to 30 inches and both push and self-propelled drivetrains. For most quarter-acre yards, the 40V HP Brushless 21-inch self-propelled model balances power, weight, and runtime better than any other RYOBI option. Picking the right one is tricky because deck size, battery count, and drive type all trade off against price and yard size at the same time. We compared listed specifications, included battery capacity, and owner-reported runtime across RYOBI's current 40V and 60V mower catalog to sort them by who each one actually fits.
Quick answer
RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 21-inch Self-Propelled Mower (RY401170VNM) leads for most yards, the 40V Brushless 20-inch Push Mower (RY401140VNM) wins on value, and the 60V HP Brushless 30-inch Self-Propelled Mower (RY601210) suits large lawns with fewer battery swaps and longer runtime per charge.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- We compared manufacturer-listed specifications rather than marketing claims
- Battery voltage and amp-hour ratings are pulled from official RYOBI documentation
- We cross-checked deck size and weight figures against current Amazon.com listings
- Owner-reported runtime and noise feedback is noted separately from spec-sheet numbers
- We did not include discontinued or gas-hybrid RYOBI models still listed by third-party sellers
- No brand paid for placement or ranking position on this page
Research updated August 2026.
RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 21 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Self-Propelled Mower (RY401170VNM)
This is RYOBI's flagship 40V mower, pairing a brushless motor with rear-wheel self-propelled drive.
| Model | Best for | Key specs | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 21 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Self-Propelled Mower (RY401170VNM) | Best overall for quarter-acre yards | 40V, 6.0 Ah included, 21 inches | 4.8/5 |
| RYOBI 40V Brushless 20 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Push Lawn Mower (RY401140VNM) | Best value for flat, mid-size lawns | 40V, 5.0 Ah included, 20 inches | 4.7/5 |
| RYOBI 40V 13 in. Cordless Battery Compact Push Lawn Mower (RY40170VNM) | Best for small or townhouse-size yards | 40V, 4.0 Ah included, 13 inches | 4.6/5 |
| RYOBI 60V HP Brushless 30 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Self-Propelled Mower (RY601210) | Best for large or half-acre-plus lawns | 60V, 8.0 Ah included, 30 inches | 4.5/5 |
| RYOBI 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series 21 in. Cordless Self-Propelled Mower (RY401220VNM) | Best for noise-sensitive neighborhoods | 40V, 6.0 Ah included, 21 inches | 4.4/5 |
| RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 20 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Push Mower (RY401110VNM) | Best lightweight push mower for easy storage | 40V, 5.0 Ah included, 20 inches | 4.3/5 |
| RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 21 in. Cordless Self-Propelled Mower, Tool Only (RY401210BTL) | Best for existing RYOBI 40V battery owners | 40V, sold separately, 21 inches | 4.3/5 |
RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 21 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Self-Propelled Mower (RY401170VNM)
Best OverallPros
- Self-propelled drive reduces pushing effort on slopes
- Brushless motor extends motor lifespan versus brushed designs
- 3-in-1 mulch, bag, and side discharge in one deck
Cons
- Heavier than RYOBI's push-only models
- Higher cost than the 20-inch push version
This is RYOBI's flagship 40V mower, pairing a brushless motor with rear-wheel self-propelled drive. It ships with a 6.0 Ah battery and charger, and the 21-inch deck covers a typical suburban lawn in fewer passes than smaller decks.
RYOBI 40V Brushless 20 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Push Lawn Mower (RY401140VNM)
Best ValuePros
- Lighter and easier to maneuver in tight spots
- Lower cost than self-propelled 40V models
- Brushless motor still included at this price point
Cons
- No self-propelled assist for hills
- Single battery limits runtime versus dual-battery kits
This push mower drops the self-propelled drivetrain to keep weight and price down while keeping the same 40V brushless motor platform. A 20-inch deck suits flat to gently sloped lawns without requiring powered wheels.
RYOBI 40V 13 in. Cordless Battery Compact Push Lawn Mower (RY40170VNM)
Best for Small YardsPros
- Compact size fits through narrow gates
- Lightweight enough to carry up stairs or steps
- Lower price point than full-size RYOBI mowers
Cons
- 13-inch deck means more passes on larger lawns
- Smaller cutting height range than 20-21 inch models
RYOBI's smallest cordless mower uses a compact 13-inch deck built for postage-stamp lawns and tight side yards where a full-size mower is overkill. It folds down for storage in a shed or garage corner.
RYOBI 60V HP Brushless 30 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Self-Propelled Mower (RY601210)
Best for Large YardsPros
- Wide deck covers large lawns faster
- 60V battery platform supports higher runtime per charge
- Self-propelled drive handles the added mower weight
Cons
- Too large and heavy for small or narrow yards
- Higher price than any 40V model in this lineup
Stepping up to RYOBI's 60V platform, this mower uses a wider 30-inch deck and higher-voltage battery to cover large lawns in fewer passes. Self-propelled drive helps offset the added deck width and weight.
RYOBI 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series 21 in. Cordless Self-Propelled Mower (RY401220VNM)
Quietest OptionPros
- Lower operating noise than standard RYOBI HP mowers
- Same deck size and drive as the flagship self-propelled model
- Suits early morning or evening mowing schedules
Cons
- Costs more than the standard 21-inch self-propelled model
- Noise reduction is incremental, not silent operation
The Whisper Series shares the 21-inch deck and self-propelled drive of RYOBI's standard 40V HP mower but is tuned for reduced operating noise. It suits early-morning mowing or noise-restricted HOA neighborhoods.
RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 20 in. Cordless Battery Walk-Behind Push Mower (RY401110VNM)
Best LightweightPros
- Lighter than RYOBI's self-propelled HP models
- HP brushless motor for stronger cutting torque
- Easier to lift and store than 21-inch models
Cons
- No self-propelled assist
- Runtime is shorter than dual-battery kits
This is RYOBI's entry point into the HP brushless push mower line, using a 20-inch deck without self-propelled drive. It is built for buyers who want HP-series cutting power without the added weight of a drive motor.
RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 21 in. Cordless Self-Propelled Mower, Tool Only (RY401210BTL)
Best Tool-Only OptionPros
- Lower cost for existing RYOBI 40V battery owners
- Same deck and drive as the full flagship kit
- Reduces redundant battery and charger purchases
Cons
- Requires a separately purchased 40V battery and charger
- Not a standalone option for first-time RYOBI buyers
This tool-only version drops the included battery and charger, aimed at owners who already have RYOBI 40V batteries from other yard tools. It uses the same 21-inch self-propelled deck as the flagship model.
How RYOBI's cordless mower platforms differ
RYOBI builds cordless mowers on two battery platforms, 40V and 60V. The 40V platform covers most residential yards with deck sizes from 13 to 21 inches. The 60V platform adds a wider 30-inch deck aimed at larger properties. Higher voltage generally means more torque for thick or tall grass, not just longer runtime.
Self-propelled versus push drive
Self-propelled models use a motor to drive the rear wheels, reducing the effort needed on slopes or larger lawns. Push models rely on the operator, which keeps the mower lighter and less expensive. Flat, small lawns rarely need self-propelled drive, while sloped or half-acre-plus yards benefit from it.
Matching deck size to yard size
A 13-inch deck suits small townhouse lots where maneuverability matters more than speed. A 20 to 21-inch deck covers typical quarter-acre suburban lawns efficiently. A 30-inch deck is built for half-acre or larger properties where mowing time matters more than storage footprint.
Battery capacity and runtime tradeoffs
Included battery amp-hour ratings range from 4.0 Ah on the compact model to 8.0 Ah on the 60V mower. Higher capacity extends runtime per charge but adds weight and cost. Owners with larger lawns often buy a second battery to swap mid-mow rather than upgrading platforms.
FAQs
Is RYOBI 40V or 60V better for a cordless mower?
40V suits most yards under half an acre with lighter weight and lower cost. 60V adds torque and deck width for half-acre or larger lawns, at higher weight and price.
How long does a RYOBI cordless mower battery last per charge?
Runtime depends on battery amp-hours, grass thickness, and deck size, with included batteries typically rated for a portion of an acre per charge based on manufacturer specifications.
Can RYOBI 40V mower batteries be used in other RYOBI 40V tools?
Yes, RYOBI's 40V batteries are shared across its 40V outdoor tool lineup, including trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws on the same platform.
What is the difference between RYOBI's HP and standard brushless mowers?
HP-series mowers use a higher-torque brushless motor tuned for thicker or taller grass, while standard brushless models are tuned for typical residential lawn conditions.
Does RYOBI make a self-propelled cordless push mower?
Yes, several RYOBI 40V and 60V models include rear-wheel self-propelled drive, including the RY401170VNM and RY601210.
Is a 13-inch RYOBI mower big enough for a full yard?
The 13-inch compact model is built for small yards or tight side areas rather than full quarter-acre-plus lawns, where more passes would be needed.
Are RYOBI tool-only mowers cheaper than kits with a battery included?
Tool-only versions cost less upfront but require a separately purchased 40V battery and charger, which mainly benefits owners who already own RYOBI 40V batteries.
What is RYOBI's Whisper Series mower designed for?
The Whisper Series is tuned for reduced operating noise, aimed at early morning mowing or noise-restricted neighborhoods, while keeping the same deck size and drive as the standard HP model.
How much does a RYOBI cordless mower weigh?
Weight varies by model, from around 30 lbs for the compact 13-inch push mower to over 100 lbs for the 60V self-propelled 30-inch model.
Our verdict
RYOBI's 40V HP Brushless 21-inch self-propelled mower fits the widest range of yards, while the 20-inch push version covers flat lawns for less money. Owners with large properties or existing RYOBI batteries have dedicated options in the 60V and tool-only models covered here.