How to choose the best lawn mower for a summer residence: what types and characteristics are there?

Updated: 14.12.2018 12:33:35

Expert: Boris Mendel

On the selection criteria. This material is subjective, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

It is impossible to maintain the lawn on the personal plot in perfect condition without special equipment. If the grass occupies no more than 1000 sq. m of area, and there are buildings nearby, then the choice of an electric lawn mower would be an excellent option. These models do not make a lot of noise, therefore, during operation, the unit will not irritate the residents of the house and neighbors. Do not forget about the environmental component, the electric motor does not emit harmful substances into the atmosphere. Well, the decisive factor for many domestic homeowners is the affordable price of this garden technique. There is a wide range of electric lawn mowers on sale, so an ordinary consumer cannot do without the help of experts when choosing.

Types of lawn mowers

What lawn mower to choose: their variety is huge, you should consider the features of the operation of each unit:

• Electrical
• Gasoline
• Mechanical
• On battery
• Trimmers
• Raiders
• Robots

The electrical unit is intended to work in a small area, since they operate from the power supply network, therefore, the range of action is significantly limited. The set may include a container for collecting grass. The newest models are equipped with additional features such as adjustable cutting height.

Among the gasoline options, you can probably find the best lawn mower as they are considered the most common. It is not tied to electricity, so it has an unlimited range. Most of the devices have additional functions such as mulching and discharge of cut vegetation. However, you can choose a simpler option if you want to rarely use the equipment and not overpay when buying.

The mechanical model works on a drum basis. It is equipped with scissors with sharp blades. During the movement, pressure is exerted on the scissors and the grass is cut, which is just between the two blades. The mechanical lawn mower is divided into two types, depending on the type of cut:

• Contact - cutting grass is carried out due to the interaction of the upper and lower knives;
• Non-contact - there is a small distance between the blades, thanks to which the cut is thinner.

The only drawback is the need to apply force, therefore, such a model should be chosen only for a small area.

Battery-powered technology combines some of the advantages of gasoline and electric units. So, from the first type there is mobility, from the second - ecological cleanliness. However, battery-powered devices do not have sufficient power levels. They are suitable for medium-height dry grass areas. On average, a full battery charge is enough to cover an area of ​​up to 235-245 m².

The trimmer is a hand-held lawn mower. During operation, it must be secured to the shoulder using a special strap. It is ideal for mowing vegetation in hard-to-reach areas.Of course, there can be no question of an even cut. It is recommended to choose this model in addition to a more powerful and functional lawnmower, and it is intended, as a rule, for uneven surfaces and tall grass.

Note! If you want to achieve a level lawn, then a trimmer is not the best option in this case. It can complement more powerful equipment or be used in difficult areas.

Raiders work like a tractor and are applicable in areas with a large area. Customer reviews indicate that their main advantage lies in versatility, since with the help of a tractor lawn mower, you can not only cut the lawn, but also remove snow in winter, cultivate the soil, spread fertilizers and much more.

The last type is a robot, although its use in a summer cottage is impractical for several reasons. First, the robot is intended for large areas and is most often used in hotel areas. Secondly, such models are very expensive.

Power lawn mowers rating: 4 models

Power lawn mowers do not have an engine. The source of energy in this case is muscular effort. The list of advantages is complemented by budget cost, environmental friendliness and lack of noise effect. Such units are suitable for small areas covered with young grass.

The top includes the following models:

1. AL-KO Soft Touch 38 HM Comfort... This is a two-wheeled, non-self-propelled drum-type lawnmower. Its weight is about 8 kg. The drum is equipped with 5 knives. The case is durable and lightweight. The machine should be used for the treatment of lawns with difficult terrain, the area of ​​which does not exceed 250 m2. Cost: about 4000 rubles, a grass collector for it 1300-1400 rubles;
2. BOSCH AHM 30... The units do not have a mulching function, and there is no grass catcher in its design. The weight of the mowers in this series does not exceed 7 kg Price: 4500-5000 rubles.;
3. Gardena 400 Classic... The optimal cultivated area varies from 200 to 400 m2. The working parts do not have to be sharpened, as they are made of steel. Foldable handles for easy handling. Cost: about 6500 rubles;
4. Husqvarna 54... This lawnmower weighs 8.6 kg and has a mowing width of 0.4 m. The advantages include durability and easy handling. The cost is approximately 6500 rubles.

How to choose an electric lawn mower

Choosing the right electric lawn mower will help you to significantly reduce the financial costs and time for caring for the vegetation in the country. In order not to be mistaken in your choice, carefully study the main parameters and technical characteristics of the model in question. You should also first determine your expectations regarding the operation of the device.

Power

Power is one of the main criteria. It determines the whole process of work and the performance of the device. Models with electric motors have power from 900 to 1800 watts. Due to these parameters, the cutting knives work at a very high speed, regardless of the complexity of the operating conditions. What power to choose a lawnmower: Don't overpay for the electric model with the highest power if you don't really need it. It is recommended to evaluate the size of your site, its relief and vegetation features.

Housing

All functional elements are attached to the body, so it must be durable and resistant to damage, deformation, and corrosion processes. In most models, the housing is made of impact-resistant plastic. Thanks to this, manufacturers were able to minimize the costs of manufacturing equipment, as well as its weight. There are also units with a steel body, however, this material is prone to corrosion and has a significant weight.The body made of ordinary plastic is prone to frequent damage, in addition, it bursts under the influence of high and low temperatures.

Important! It is not recommended to skimp on body material as it plays an important role in the entire structure. Materials susceptible to corrosion, shock, deformation and other damage will quickly destroy the unit. Opt for high impact plastic, which is cheaper and lighter.

Wheels

Pay attention to models of electric lawn mowers, which have large rear wheels, they provide more maneuverability of the device and ease of control. The larger their diameter, the more comfortable you will work due to the fact that the disadvantage of small wheels is that they fall into the soil and spoil the appearance of the lawn.

Noisiness

Low noise level is one of the advantages of electric lawn mowers, especially when compared to gasoline counterparts. The noise figures for these models are 69-87 dB. They will not create discomfort for neighbors or people passing by, which is very good.

Watch the video how to choose a lawn mower

Drive unit

By the type of drive, electric models are divided into two types:

1. Non-self-propelled - this includes an affordable technique, for which you need to make your own efforts. It is recommended to choose this type for work on flat areas.
2. Self-propelled - the device performs its functions almost independently - you only need to slightly control its course. The self-propelled lawn mower is divided into two subspecies - front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive models. RWD models should be preferred as they are more stable.

If you need to choose an inexpensive model, then the electric model needs less costly and time-consuming maintenance.

Clean the blades regularly after use (monthly provided that you use the unit more than 4 times a month), and clean the deck after each use, this will increase the life of your device!

TOP 5 popular models

The market for electric lawn mowers is wide enough to match the price and the task. Below we highlight the five best models in the price range from 7 to 60 thousand rubles:

1. Greenworks GLM1035 (USA) - model with an electric motor powered from 220 V. Mulching option is provided, there is a grass catcher with a volume of 40 liters. The motor power is 1 kW, and the working width is 35 cm. The cutting system is of a rotary type. The manufacturer's warranty is two years. The height of the bevel is adjustable in the range from 2 to 8 cm. The advantages of the model are the combination of mulching and collection in a bag, convenient height adjustment and a large collection for grass. The handle is covered with a rubberized compound, which reduces worker fatigue. Thanks to the wide wheels, the electric lawnmower does not slip when driving on soft ground.

   

2. Bosch ARM 33W / EEU (Germany) - a model with a 1.3 kW electric motor and four wheels. Powered only by 220 V. The lower parameter of the cut of the grass is 2 cm, and the upper 7 cm. The weight of the model is 11 kg Working width 34 cm. Volume of collection for grass 40 liters. The body is made of plastic.

   

3. Black & Decker EMAX42I-QS (USA) - electric lawn mower operating from 220 V, 1800 W. A grass catcher with a capacity of 50 liters is provided. The bevel width is 42 cm. The minimum and maximum cutting heights are 2 and 7 cm, respectively. Cutting system - rotary. Product weight 13.9 kg. The package includes a lawn mower, handle (can be folded), grass catcher and instructions.

   

4. DDE LME3816 (USA) - lawn mower with an electric motor for 220 V, 1650 W. The model is equipped with a 45 l grass catcher. Handles an area 38 cm wide. Height adjustable from 2.5 to 6.5 cm. Weight 11.5 kg. Features - rigid collector, large rear wheels, rear discharge.Advantages (according to reviews) - ease of assembly, reliability, maneuverability and high quality components.

   

5. Champion EM3813 (Russia) is a domestic mower with a 35 l grass catcher, powered by a household network. The cutting height is adjustable from 2 to 6 cm. The power of the device is 1.3 kW. Rotary cutting system. Weight 12.8 kg. Features - plastic body, rear selection, 3.5 thousand rpm. According to reviews, the model is excellent for treating areas up to 6 days.

   

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How to choose a gasoline lawn mower

A gas mower, just like an electric one, has its own strengths and weaknesses. However, the rating of lawn mowers cannot do without gasoline models due to their power and performance. They are distinguished by a higher cost due to their versatility. The choice of a gasoline lawn mower is advisable if you need to handle large areas of grass.

Engine and power

The engine of this device is of great importance to the job. Three types of device should be distinguished, depending on the installed type of engine:

• Household level - intended for mowing grass on a not too large area (up to 8 acres, 800-1000 W).
• Semi-professional - models of medium power, used to work on an area of ​​up to 20 acres (1100-2000 W).
• Professional - powerful units for processing an area of ​​20 hectare (2100-2500 W).

Housing

The body of the mower can be made of steel, regular or impact-resistant plastic. The stronger and more reliable the case material, the longer a particular model will last, since it is to the case that the rest of the structure is attached. Which lawn mower is better to buy: choose impact-resistant plastic if you want to save a little, but not to the detriment of the quality of the equipment. Weight cannot be attributed to the number of advantages of these mowers due to the powerful motor.

Wheels

It is important that the petrol lawn mower you choose has large rear wheels. This ensures good cross-country ability of the mower even on tall grass (with rear wheel drive). Front piano wheels are considered to be more maneuverable. With their help, you can easily get around obstacles like trees and flower beds.

Noisiness

The excessive noise of a gasoline lawn mower is a significant drawback. If the lack of noise is important to you, then this option will not work. Noise is associated with very powerful motors, but even the weakest motor will emit a noise of 94 dB during operation.

Important! If the high noise level is unacceptable to you or your neighbors, there is no way to avoid it with a petrol mower. Even the quietest models operate at 94 dB of noise during the bevel process.

According to the type of drive, gasoline lawn mowers are divided into two categories:

1. Non-self-propelled - affordable models that move due to human efforts. Suitable for completely level or nearly level areas.
2. Self-propelled lawn mowers move almost independently and are intended for uneven areas. They are divided into rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Most of the load falls on the rear of the vehicle, so it is recommended to give preference to rear-wheel drive models.

In terms of maintenance, mowers are considered more whimsical than electric models, but they are best suited for a complex area with trees and shrubs. In addition to sharpening knives and general cleaning the device from grass, it is necessary to change the oil, spark plugs, filters (air and fuel) at the beginning of each new season, and run the engine in before starting work with a load. Break-in is carried out by starting the engine at low and medium speeds before the start of full-fledged operation of the equipment.

Mulching advantages and disadvantages

A lot of them:

• there is no need to clean the grass catcher;
• you can save a lot on the purchase of fertilizers;
• the noise level of the working tool is reduced.

There is only one drawback - mulch quickly clogs the lawn if you work with tall grass. If you do not remove the mowed grass from the lawn, make the choice in favor of rear discharge. This choice will shorten the mowing time, since it does not have to be spent on cleaning the grass catcher.

Select side discharge when you want to mow:

• tall weeds;
• wet grass;
• overgrown area.

General parameters to consider in both cases

1. The deck is a structural element that covers the knives. The deeper it is, the better: with the formation of a strong air flow, all the grass is collected in the grass catcher and does not crumble. The best proven aluminum deck is rust resistant and more durable.
2. Types of grass ejection - most models are equipped with a rear ejection (the cut grass falls under the feet of the person operating the equipment), a side ejection is also possible (it is advisable when processing roadsides). In addition, the grass can accumulate in the collector or be mulched.
3. Grass Catcher - Thanks to the grass catcher, after mowing, there is no need to collect the grass in the field. Instead, you only need to clean the container from time to time while treating the lawn. The grass catcher can be made of plastic or strong fabric (mesh). It is easier to clean a plastic container, but you can immediately see from the bag if it is full.
4. Cutting width - the wider the cutting width, the faster you can handle cutting the grass. This indicator depends on the power of the engine. The average is 40-50 cm.
5. Mowing height - the ability to adjust the height of the lawn after mowing. The higher the wheels, the more modes of operation. The minimum height is 0-110mm. If you are looking for a lawnmower for tall grass, make sure that the cutting height can be adjusted from 7mm to 150mm.
6. Mulching - chopping the grass mowed by the mower and then throwing it out onto the lawn for the purpose of feeding, but it should be clarified that a high-quality mulching system can only be obtained from soft and completely dry grass. In addition, an excess of such fertilizer can interfere with the growth of the lawn.

Buy a front or rear drive mower?

Next, to choose the right mower, are determined with the drive?

If the area is flat, you need to choose a rear-wheel drive tool - less maneuverable than a front-wheel drive one, but it works well in difficult areas. In other cases, a front-wheel drive model is appropriate.

Which company to choose a lawn mower

Instead of answering the question of which lawn mower company to choose, we will give a rating of the most popular and demanded manufacturers who have proven themselves well in terms of price and quality:

• AL-KO
• Bosch
• Hyundai
• Makita

For 2020, these companies released the most successful models of lawn mowers: affordable, high-quality, functional. It is recommended to choose the model that is optimal in terms of parameters among the range of manufacturers presented in the rating.

Who needs a self-propelled mower?

If the goal is not only to tidy up the site, but to combine work with physical activity, you can choose a self-propelled mower. The tool of the companies Bosch and Craftsman, leaders in the rating, have proven themselves well.

The grass collector helps to reduce the time for lawn care, where the cut weeds are collected, which are later retrieved for disposal. If the mower is equipped with a grass catcher, there is no need to pick up the cut grass with a rake.

It is not bad when there is a mulching function, i.e. chopping and turning the cut weeds into mulch. She, in the process of work, scatters on the ground, acting as a good fertilizer. In addition, it protects the soil from drying out.

Other aspects of choice

It is important, when making a choice, to pay attention to the material of the case.Undoubtedly, the metal case is more preferable.

When choosing a garden assistant, do not forget about wheels: the option when the diameter of the rear is large, speaks of the maneuverability of the structure, even on uneven areas.

It's not bad if the tool is equipped with a gearbox that allows you to adjust the speed - Partner gas mowers, electric ones - Texas Hobby, etc.

Video: How to choose a lawn mower

Top 3 best trimmers

AL-KO 112924 BC 1200 E

Price: 7000 rubles.

The area of ​​application is limited to mowing soft grass. Carries out the processing of the territory around trees, benches, bushes. The maximum durability is limited to 1.2 kW. Mowing strip - 35 cm. The adjustable handle provides sufficient comfort for users of different heights. The presence of a passive engine cooling system guarantees stable operation for a long time. The two-speed drive adjusts the rotation speed as required.

Country of origin - Sweden. Factory warranty - 2 years.

Pros:

• smooth start-up;
• does not overheat;
• collapsible design.

Minuses:

• short user manual;
• narrow focus.

Bosch ART 26 18 LI

Price: 8900 rubles.

Lightweight model - 2.45 kg. Independence is provided by a Li-Ion battery with a capacity of 2500 mAh. Ergonomic design with telescopic boom, floating handle. With the help of the settings, you can select the ideal position of the working bodies for the growth of the mower.

The main body - disc, made of hardened steel, supplied 2 pcs. The processed strip is 26 cm. The autonomy of use is 25 minutes, depending on the load. The battery charge lasts for 3-3.5 hours of operation.

Trademark registration - Germany. Manufacturer - China. Factory warranty - 2 years.

Pros:

• the ability to cut different types of grass;
• quality blades;
• the ability to customize the cutting head;
• light weight;
• equipment.

Minuses:

• weak battery;
• no charge indicator.
• the risk of damage to the cutting part on hard objects;

Greenworks GD40BC

The price is 14,000 rubles.

Universal trimmer brush cutter. 1.4 kW unit, provides enough power for cutting bushes. The diameter of the cut bush is 12 mm. Reliability is provided by an asynchronous, squirrel-cage motor. Combined cutting head device.

Passage 35cm / 25cm for line or knife, respectively. Working time is limited to 30 minutes. Battery charging - 5 hours.

The only moment that spoils the picture - the mass of the device is 5.5 kg. Manufacturer's warranty 24 months. Manufacturer - China.

Pros:

• wide range of applications;
• high mobility;
• the possibility of processing shrubs;
• easy renewal of the cutting body;
• rotor speed control.

Minuses:

• no battery included;
• dimensions.