Best Ryobi Cordless Lawn Mower of 2026

The Ryobi 40V Brushless 21-inch is the top performer in Ryobi's lineup. Owner reviews consistently praise its powerful brushless motor that handles thick, damp grass without bogging down. The 21-inch steel deck provides a wide cutting path, reducing mowing time for medium to large lawns. The included 6Ah battery delivers enough runtime for most yards under half an acre.

Where this mower truly excels is in its cut quality. The dual blade system creates a vacuum effect that lifts grass for a clean, even cut. The single lever height adjustment is quick and tool-free. Many owners report that after two years of use, the mower still performs like new, highlighting Ryobi's build quality on this model.

The Ryobi 40V 20-inch CrossCut is designed specifically for owners who prioritize mulching. Its unique dual blade system cuts grass twice, producing fine clippings that decompose quickly and return nutrients to the soil. Owner reviews highlight that this mower leaves no clumps, even in slightly damp conditions, which is a common issue with standard single-blade mowers.

The 20-inch deck is a good compromise between maneuverability and cutting width. It fits through standard garden gates easily while still covering ground efficiently. The brushless motor provides consistent power, and the 5Ah battery offers enough runtime for most quarter-acre lawns. Some owners note that the battery is sold separately in certain bundles, so check the package carefully before purchasing.

The Ryobi 40V 16-inch is the perfect entry point for owners with small to medium lawns. At just 45 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the larger models, making it easy to push and maneuver around flower beds and garden obstacles. The 16-inch deck is ideal for yards up to a quarter acre, and the 4Ah battery provides ample runtime for most mowing sessions.

While the brushed motor is less powerful than the brushless options, it still handles typical residential grass well. Owner reviews note that it struggles slightly in very thick or wet grass, but for regular weekly mowing, it performs admirably. The mower folds for compact storage, which is a major plus for those with limited shed space.

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 16-inch mower is the ultimate budget option for those already invested in Ryobi's 18V ecosystem. At just 35 pounds, it is the lightest mower in this roundup and incredibly easy to push and maneuver. The plastic deck keeps weight down and will not rust, though it is less durable than steel decks on larger models.

Owner reviews indicate that this mower is best suited for very small lawns (under 1/8 acre) and for light trimming. It uses two 18V batteries (sold separately) for power, and runtime is limited compared to the 40V models. However, for owners who already own Ryobi 18V tools, this is the most cost-effective way to add a mower to their arsenal.

The Ryobi 40V 21-inch Smart Trek is the self-propelled version of our top pick. It features a variable speed drive system that allows you to match the mower's pace to your walking speed. This is a significant advantage on sloped lawns or when mowing thick grass that requires more effort to push. The Smart Trek system uses a paddle control that is intuitive and responsive.

Owner reviews consistently rate this mower highly for its combination of power and convenience. The brushless motor and 6Ah battery provide the same excellent cut quality and runtime as the non-propelled version. The added weight from the drive system is noticeable, but the self-propelled feature more than compensates for it. This is the best choice for those with larger lawns or physical limitations.