**Review of the Best Robotic Lawn Mowers**
In today’s fast-paced world, advancements in technology have revolutionized the way we live. From smart televisions to automated home devices, our lives are becoming more convenient and efficient. One area where technology has made a significant impact is in lawn care. Robotic lawn mowers are changing the game, offering a hands-free solution to keeping your lawn looking pristine. In this review, we will explore some of the best robotic lawn mowers on the market, putting them to the test to see how they perform in real-life scenarios.
**How We Tested the Best Robotic Lawn Mowers**
To ensure that we provide you with accurate and reliable information, we enlisted the help of Kody J. Ketterling, the founder of K-IT Products, a lawn care company based in Twin Falls, Idaho. Kody shared valuable insights on what to look for in a robotic lawn mower, emphasizing the importance of choosing a model that can handle the specific challenges of your lawn. With Kody’s advice in mind, we tested several popular models on different types of terrain, evaluating their performance based on specific criteria. Our testing process included assessing the mowers’ reliability, navigation capabilities, obstacle avoidance, and overall coverage of the test area.
**Our Top Picks**
1. **Worx Landroid M 20V Robotic Lawn Mower**
– *Best Overall*
– Coverage area: 0.25 acre
– Mowing height range: 1.5 to 3.5 inches
– Slope rating: 20 degrees
– Pros: Easy installation, user-friendly mobile app, long runtime, competitive price
– Cons: Docking issues, some features not included in base kit
2. **Gardena 15001-20 Sileno City Automatic Robotic Mower**
– *Best Bang for the Buck*
– Coverage area: 2,700 square feet
– Mowing height range: 0.8 to 2.0 inches
– Slope rating: 14.04 degrees
– Pros: Value-priced, reliable mowing, navigates slopes and narrow areas
– Cons: Daily runtime limit, not Wi-Fi or GPS enabled
3. **Husqvarna Automower 415X Robotic Lawn Mower**
– *Upgrade Pick*
– Coverage area: 0.4 acre
– Mowing height range: 0.8 to 2 inches
– Slope rating: 22 degrees
– Pros: Precision control features, GPS-assisted navigation, cellular and Bluetooth connectivity
– Cons: Premium price, limited runtime per charge
4. **Redback MowRo 9.5-Inch Robot Lawn Mower**
– *Best for Steep Hills*
– Coverage area: 0.25 acre
– Mowing height range: 1 to 2.5 inches
– Slope rating: 30 degrees
– Pros: Navigates steep slopes, simple controls, long runtime
– Cons: Limited scheduling options, lacks precision navigation features
5. **Husqvarna Automower 115H Robotic Lawn Mower**
– *Best for Large Lawns*
– Coverage area: 0.4 acre
– Mowing height range: 2 to 3.6 inches
– Slope rating: 17 degrees
– Pros: Impressive performance on slopes, intuitive programming, multiple starting points
– Cons: Premium price, limited runtime per charge
6. **Gardena 15202-41 Sileno Minimo Robotic Mower**
– *Best for Small Lawns*
– Coverage area: Up to 5,400 square feet
– Mowing height range: 0.8 to 1.8 inches
– Slope rating: 14.04 degrees
– Pros: Value price point, customizable mowing settings, multiple scheduled mowing times
– Cons: Not Wi-Fi compatible, lacks collision detector
**What to Consider When Choosing a Robot Lawn Mower**
When shopping for a robotic lawn mower, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right model for your needs. Here are some key considerations:
1. **Yard Size**: Determine the size of your lawn to find a mower that can cover the entire area efficiently.
2. **Terrain Handling**: Consider the complexity of your yard’s terrain, including slopes and obstacles.
3. **Mowing Height**: Choose a mower that offers flexibility in mowing height to suit your grass type and terrain.
4. **Controls**: Look for mowers with user-friendly controls, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, and mobile app compatibility.
5. **Power Source and Battery Life**: Ensure the mower has a reliable power source and sufficient battery life for your lawn size.
6. **Smart Technology**: Opt for mowers with onboard sensors, collision detection, GPS navigation, and remote control capabilities.
7. **Noise Levels**: Consider the noise level of the mower to ensure it doesn’t disturb you or your neighbors.
8. **Security**: Look for mowers with security features like PIN protection, alarms, and GPS tracking to prevent theft.
9. **Safety Features**: Choose mowers with safety features like collision sensors, automatic shutoff, and recessed blades for added protection.
10. **Weather Protection**: Ensure the mower is weatherproof and can operate safely in various weather conditions.
**FAQs**
– **Q. How does perimeter wire work?**
Perimeter wire carries a low-voltage electrical signal that keeps the mower within the designated mowing area.
– **Q. How often should I use a robotic lawn mower?**
Robot mowers are designed to cut several times per week, depending on the grass growth rate.
– **Q. Can I use a robot lawn mower while it rains?**
While some mowers can operate in the rain, it’s best to mow when the grass is dry for optimal results.
– **Q. How long do robot mowers last?**
Robot mowers can last over 10 years, with blades lasting about 2 months and batteries around 3 years on average.
**Why Trust Bob Vila**
Bob Vila has been a trusted source of home improvement advice for over four decades. Our team of experts thoroughly researches and tests products to provide you with accurate and reliable information. With a focus on practicality and user experience, we aim to help you make informed decisions when it comes to your home and garden needs.
**Meet the Tester**
Mark Wolfe, our writer and product tester, brings over 20 years of experience in the nursery and landscaping industry. With a background in outdoor power equipment and lawn care products, Mark puts his expertise to the test to provide you with valuable insights and recommendations for your lawn care needs.
In conclusion, robotic lawn mowers offer a convenient and efficient solution for maintaining your lawn. With a wide range of models available, there is a robotic mower to suit every lawn size and terrain type. By considering the factors mentioned above and exploring our top picks, you can find the perfect robotic lawn mower to keep your lawn looking its best with minimal effort.