Ryobi Cordless Lawn Mower Review
Ryobi offers a wide range of cordless lawn mowers powered by its 40V and 18V ONE+ battery systems. This review covers the key models, real-world performance from owner feedback, and how they compare to other brands.
Quick answer
The Ryobi 40V Brushless 20-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower (RY401140) is the best overall pick for most homeowners. It delivers strong cutting performance, a brushless motor, and excellent runtime on a single charge. For smaller yards, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 13-Inch mower is a budget-friendly option.
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Research updated June 2026.
Ryobi 40V Brushless 20-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower (RY401140)
Brushless motor, 20-inch cutting deck, and 6-position height adjustment.
| Model | Best For | Deck Size | Battery | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryobi 40V Brushless 20-Inch | Overall Best | 20 in | 40V 6Ah | 4.6/5 |
| Ryobi 40V 16-Inch | Small Yards | 16 in | 40V 4Ah | 4.3/5 |
| Ryobi 18V ONE+ 13-Inch | Budget Buy | 13 in | 18V 4Ah | 4.1/5 |
| Ryobi 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled | Large Yards | 21 in | 40V 6Ah | 4.5/5 |
| Ryobi 40V 20-Inch CrossCut | Mulching | 20 in | 40V 6Ah | 4.4/5 |
Who Is the Ryobi Cordless Lawn Mower For?
The Ryobi cordless lawn mower range is designed for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns, typically up to 1/3 acre. The 40V models offer enough power to handle thick grass and uneven terrain, while the 18V ONE+ mower is best for tiny patches or trimming. Ryobi mowers are a good choice for users already invested in the Ryobi battery ecosystem, as batteries are shared across many tools.
Performance and Cutting Quality
Owner reviews from major retailers consistently praise the 40V brushless models for their cutting performance. The 20-inch deck on the RY401140 provides a good balance between maneuverability and coverage. Users report clean, even cuts on standard grass heights. The brushless motor delivers consistent torque, even in damp grass. The 18V ONE+ mower is less powerful but adequate for light use. Some owners note that the self-propelled models can struggle on steep inclines, but for flat or gentle slopes, they perform well.
Battery Life and Charging
Ryobi uses a 40V lithium-ion battery system. The 6Ah battery provided with most models gives around 45-60 minutes of runtime on a single charge, depending on grass conditions. This is enough for a 1/4 acre lawn. The 18V ONE+ mower uses the standard 18V batteries, which offer about 20-30 minutes of runtime. Charging times are around 2 hours for the 40V 6Ah battery. Ryobi offers a range of battery sizes, so you can upgrade for longer runtime if needed.
Build Quality and Durability
Ryobi mowers are built with a durable plastic deck that resists rust and corrosion. The wheels are typically 7-inch front and 8-inch rear, providing decent stability. The folding handle design on many models makes storage easy. Some owners report that the plastic deck can crack if hit hard against rocks or curbs, but for normal use, it holds up well. The warranty is 3 years for the mower and 2 years for the battery, which is standard for the price range.
Alternatives to Ryobi Cordless Mowers
If you are not already in the Ryobi ecosystem, consider the DeWalt 40V Max mower for more power and a metal deck, or the Makita 36V (18V X2) mower for longer runtime. For smaller budgets, the Greenworks 40V mower offers similar specs at a slightly lower price. The Milwaukee M18 mower is a premium option with a steel deck but costs more.
What to Check Before Buying a Cordless Mower
Before purchasing a Ryobi cordless mower, check the size of your lawn. A 20-inch deck is best for 1/4 to 1/3 acre. Verify the battery voltage: 40V models offer more power than 18V. Consider the terrain: self-propelled models are helpful on slopes. Check the height adjustment range to ensure it matches your grass type. Finally, look at the warranty and replacement parts availability.
Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is buying an 18V mower for a lawn larger than 1/8 acre, as runtime will be insufficient. Another is not checking the battery compatibility with other Ryobi tools. Some owners forget to register the product for warranty. Avoid using the mower in very wet grass, as it can clog the deck and strain the motor. Do not skip blade maintenance; a dull blade tears grass instead of cutting it.
FAQs
How long does the Ryobi 40V mower battery last?
The 6Ah battery provides 45-60 minutes of runtime on a single charge, enough for a 1/4 acre lawn.
Can I use Ryobi 18V batteries in the 40V mower?
No, the 40V mower requires 40V batteries. The 18V ONE+ mower uses 18V batteries.
Does the Ryobi mower mulch grass clippings?
Yes, most Ryobi 40V models include a mulching plug for fine clipping distribution.
Is the Ryobi mower self-propelled?
Some models, like the 21-inch self-propelled version, offer variable speed self-propulsion.
What is the warranty on a Ryobi mower?
Ryobi offers a 3-year warranty on the mower and a 2-year warranty on the battery.
How do I fold the Ryobi mower handle?
Most models have a quick-release lever that folds the handle down for compact storage.
Can I use a Ryobi mower on thick grass?
Yes, the brushless 40V models handle thick grass well, but you may need to raise the deck height.
Does the Ryobi mower come with a bag?
Yes, most models include a grass collection bag, typically with a 1.5-2 bushel capacity.
How heavy is the Ryobi 40V mower?
The 20-inch model weighs approximately 55 pounds with the battery installed.
Is the Ryobi mower easy to push?
Yes, the self-propelled models are easy to push, while the push models are light enough for most users.
Our verdict
The Ryobi 40V Brushless 20-Inch mower is the best overall choice for most homeowners, offering a great balance of power, runtime, and features. For tight budgets or very small lawns, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 13-Inch mower is a solid budget pick. Both models benefit from Ryobi's extensive battery ecosystem.