Battery vs Gas Lawn Mowers: Which is Right for You?

Published on July 13, 2025

Performance Comparison

Power and Cutting Ability

Gas mowers typically offer more raw power, making them ideal for large lawns or tough grass conditions. Many professional-grade gas mowers manufactured in China, such as those from Shandong Deyou, deliver exceptional performance with engine outputs reaching 190cc or higher.

Battery mowers have made significant advancements in recent years. Modern lithium-ion batteries can provide enough power for most residential lawns, with runtime improving dramatically. High-end models now offer comparable cutting performance to gas mowers for areas up to 1/2 acre.

Runtime and Refueling/Recharging

Gas mowers can run continuously as long as there’s fuel available. Refueling takes just minutes, making them suitable for large properties. However, storing gasoline can be inconvenient and potentially hazardous.

Battery mowers typically offer 30-60 minutes of runtime per charge. Some models come with swappable batteries, allowing for continuous operation by quickly swapping depleted batteries for charged ones. Charging times range from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the battery capacity and charger technology.

Cost Analysis

Initial Purchase Price

Gas mowers generally have a lower upfront cost for basic models, with prices starting around $200. Commercial-grade gas mowers can cost $500-$1,000 or more.

Battery mowers typically cost more initially, with prices ranging from $300 for basic models to $600+ for premium versions with additional batteries. However, prices have been decreasing as battery technology improves and production scales up, particularly in Chinese manufacturing hubs.

Operating Costs

Gas mowers require regular purchases of gasoline and oil, along with periodic maintenance items like spark plugs and air filters. Over five years, fuel costs alone can add $200-$400 to the total cost.

Battery mowers require electricity to charge batteries, which costs significantly less than gasoline. A full charge might cost just pennies. The main expense is potential battery replacement after 3-5 years, though many manufacturers now offer batteries that last the lifetime of the mower.

Maintenance Requirements

Gas mowers require regular maintenance including oil changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, and winterization. The engine has many moving parts that can wear out over time.

Battery mowers have far fewer maintenance needs. There’s no engine to service – just blade sharpening, occasional cleaning, and battery care. This simplicity makes them attractive for homeowners who want minimal upkeep.

Environmental Impact

Gas mowers emit greenhouse gases and other pollutants. The EPA estimates that one gas mower emits as much pollution in one hour as 11 cars driving for the same amount of time.

Battery mowers produce zero direct emissions. Their environmental impact depends on how the electricity used to charge them is generated. As power grids become cleaner with more renewable energy, battery mowers’ environmental advantage grows.

Noise Levels

Gas mowers typically produce 85-95 decibels of noise, which can be disruptive to neighborhoods and require hearing protection for the operator.

Battery mowers operate at 60-75 decibels – about the level of normal conversation. This allows for early morning or late evening mowing without disturbing neighbors.

Safety Considerations

Gas mowers involve handling flammable liquids, hot engine components, and potentially dangerous maintenance activities like blade sharpening while dealing with a pull-start mechanism.

Battery mowers eliminate fuel hazards and can feature instant shut-off when releasing the handle. However, lithium-ion batteries require proper handling and storage to prevent potential fire risks.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a gas mower if: You have a large property (over 1/2 acre), need maximum power for tough grass conditions, or prioritize lowest upfront cost.

Choose a battery mower if: You have a small to medium lawn (under 1/2 acre), value convenience and low maintenance, want to reduce noise and emissions, or have storage space limitations.

Many Chinese manufacturers like Shandong Deyou now offer excellent options in both categories, combining quality engineering with competitive pricing.