Best Electric Lawn Mower for Small Gardens UK (2024): Top Picks & Buyer’s Guide
Maintaining a neat and tidy lawn doesn’t have to be a chore, even with a smaller garden. The best electric mower for small garden spaces offers a fantastic balance of convenience, affordability, and eco-friendliness. Gone are the days of struggling with heavy, petrol-guzzling machines. Electric mowers are quieter, require less maintenance, and are much better for the environment. This guide will help you navigate the options available in the UK and find the perfect mower for your needs. Their increasing popularity in the UK is down to ease of use and reduced running costs. If you’re looking to improve your outdoor space, consider complementing your lawn care with stylish and comfortable garden furniture sets for relaxing after a perfect mow!
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Table of Contents
What to Consider When Buying an Electric Mower for a Small Garden
Choosing the right electric mower for a small garden requires careful consideration. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors:
Corded vs. Cordless
This is the first major decision. Corded electric mowers are typically more affordable and offer continuous power, but their reach is limited by the length of the cable. Cordless electric mowers offer freedom of movement, but rely on battery power, which has a limited runtime. For a truly small garden, a corded mower might be sufficient, but if you have obstacles or a slightly larger small garden, cordless is the way to go.
Cutting Width
For small gardens, a narrower cutting width is preferable. This makes the mower more manoeuvrable and easier to navigate around flowerbeds and furniture. Look for mowers with a cutting width between 30cm and 38cm. A wider cut means fewer passes, but can be harder to control in tight spaces.
Battery Life (for Cordless)
If you opt for a cordless mower, battery life is crucial. Consider the size of your garden and how long it typically takes to mow. Voltage (V) is a good indicator of power, with higher voltage generally meaning longer runtime. Look for mowers with a runtime of at least 30 minutes, and ideally models with interchangeable batteries for extended use.
Weight
A lightweight mower is easier to push and manoeuvre, especially around obstacles. This is particularly important if you have any mobility issues or a garden with slopes.
Storage
Space is often at a premium in small gardens. Consider a mower with foldable handles or a compact design for easy storage in a shed or garage.
Features
Some mowers offer additional features like mulching (which finely chops grass clippings and returns them to the lawn as fertiliser), adjustable height settings, and grass box capacity. Mulching is a great way to nourish your lawn, while adjustable height settings allow you to achieve your desired cut. A larger grass box means fewer trips to empty it.
Price
Electric mowers range in price from around £100 to £400 or more. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it. Don’t necessarily need to spend a fortune to get a good quality mower.
Corded Electric Mowers: Best Options for Small Gardens
Corded electric mowers offer a reliable and affordable option for smaller gardens. They’re perfect if you don’t mind being tethered to a power outlet.
Flymo EasiMow 300R
The Flymo EasiMow 300R is a popular choice for small lawns. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and offers a decent 30cm cutting width.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, easy to assemble and use.
- Cons: Cord can be restrictive, smaller grass box.
Price: £129 (Argos, Amazon UK)
McGregor 30cm Corded Electric Rotary Lawnmower
This McGregor model provides a basic yet effective solution for keeping a small lawn trimmed. It’s a no-frills option perfect for those on a tighter budget.
- Pros: Very affordable, simple to operate, compact storage.
- Cons: Basic features, corded operation.
Price: £79 (Argos)
Cordless Electric Mowers: Freedom & Convenience
Cordless electric mowers offer unparalleled freedom and convenience. They’re ideal if you want to avoid the hassle of a cord, and are willing to pay a bit more for the convenience.
Worx WG779E 20V PowerShare Cordless
The Worx WG779E is a versatile cordless mower with a 34cm cutting width and a 20V battery. It’s part of the PowerShare platform, meaning the battery can be used with other Worx garden tools.
- Pros: Cordless convenience, PowerShare battery compatibility, foldable handles.
- Cons: Battery life could be longer for larger small gardens, slightly more expensive.
Price: £299 (Amazon UK, Currys)
Bosch EasyRotary 36V-36
The Bosch EasyRotary 36V-36 is a powerful and efficient cordless mower with a 36V battery and a 36cm cutting width. It features ProSilence technology for quieter operation.
- Pros: Powerful 36V battery, quiet operation, ergonomic design.
- Cons: More expensive than some other options, battery charging time.
Price: £249 (Currys, Amazon UK)
Greenworks 21LM40K 40V Cordless Lawnmower Kit
This Greenworks model is a step up in power with a 40V battery and a 40cm cutting width. It’s a good choice for slightly larger small gardens or those with thicker grass. Maintaining a healthy lawn is just one part of a beautiful garden – don’t forget to consider a quality garden hose for efficient watering!
- Pros: Powerful 40V battery, larger cutting width, good runtime.
- Cons: Higher price point, slightly heavier than some models.
Price: £349 (Amazon UK)
Top 5 Best Electric Mowers for Small Gardens (UK) – Our Picks
Our Top Pick: The Worx WG779E 20V PowerShare Cordless strikes the perfect balance between price, performance, and convenience. Its cordless design offers freedom of movement, while the PowerShare battery compatibility adds extra value.
Here’s a more detailed look at our top 5 picks:
- Worx WG779E 20V PowerShare Cordless: Best all-rounder for most small gardens.
- Bosch EasyRotary 36V-36: Best for quieter operation and power.
- Flymo EasiMow 300R: Best budget corded option.
- Greenworks 21LM40K 40V Cordless Lawnmower Kit: Best for thicker grass and slightly larger small gardens.
- McGregor 30cm Corded Electric Rotary Lawnmower: Best for those on a very tight budget.
Electric Mower Comparison Table
| Model | Power | Cutting Width (cm) | Battery Life/Cord Length | Weight (kg) | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch EasyRotary 36V-36 | 36V | 36 | Up to 60 mins | 14 | £249 |
| Flymo EasiMow 300R | Electric (Corded) | 30 | 10m | 9 | £129 |
| Worx WG779E 20V PowerShare Cordless | 20V | 34 | Up to 25 mins | 11.8 | £299 |
| McGregor 30cm Cordless Electric Rotary Lawnmower | 20V | 30 | Up to 30 mins | 8 | £159 |
| Greenworks 21LM40K 40V Cordless Lawnmower Kit | 40V | 40 | Up to 45 mins | 16 | £349 |
Electric Mower Maintenance & Safety Tips
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your electric mower and ensure it operates safely. Here are some essential tips:
- Blade Sharpening: Sharp blades are essential for a clean cut. Sharpen the blades at least once a year, or more often if you mow frequently. Consider using a professional garden tool sharpening service.
- Cleaning: After each use, clean the mower deck to remove grass clippings and debris.
- Storage: Store the mower in a dry, sheltered place. Disconnect the battery or unplug the cord before storing.
- Electrical Safety: Always ensure the power cord is in good condition. Never use the mower in wet conditions if it’s corded.
- Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses and sturdy footwear when operating the mower.
Where to Buy Electric Mowers in the UK
You can find a wide selection of electric mowers at the following retailers:
- Amazon UK: Offers a vast range of models and competitive prices.
- Argos: Convenient for click-and-collect and often has special offers.
- Currys: Stocks a good selection of leading brands.
- B&Q: Offers a variety of mowers and gardening accessories.
- Wickes: Good for DIY and garden tools.
- Local Garden Centres: Provide expert advice and a personal touch.
- John Lewis: Offers quality and reliable products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What cutting width is best for a small garden?
For a small garden, a cutting width of between 30cm and 38cm is ideal. This provides a good balance between manoeuvrability and efficiency.
How long does a cordless mower battery last?
Battery life varies depending on the voltage, battery capacity, and the thickness of the grass. Most cordless mowers offer between 20 and 60 minutes of runtime on a single charge.