Introduction: Making the Switch to Electric
For years, gas mowers dominated the market, but the frustrations of carburetor cleaning, stale fuel, and unreliable pull cords have driven many homeowners to explore electric options. For a yard of about a third of an acre with a slight slope and a mix of thick Bermuda and fescue, the Greenworks 60V 21-inch Self-Propelled mower is designed to handle that workload without feeling underpowered. This review is based on extensive research, owner feedback, and a thorough analysis of the mower’s specifications and performance data.
This is not a lab test. It is an honest, research-based evaluation of what you can expect from this machine, covering its strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different lawn care needs.
Performance
Power and Cutting Ability
The most important aspect of any mower is its cutting power. The Greenworks 60V battery system delivers genuine power. The blade spins up to speed almost instantly and maintains that speed even in thick grass. Owners consistently report that it cuts through patches of crabgrass and clover up to three inches tall, even when damp from morning dew, without bogging down. The 21-inch steel deck provides a clean, even finish with no ragged edges, a quality often associated with gas mowers.
In excessively wet or tall grass, some clumping can occur, which is true of any mower. However, the Greenworks handles this better than many electric models. The rear bagger fills evenly and does not clog easily. The mulching plug produces fine clippings that disappear into the lawn within a day or two. The side discharge works well for cutting very tall grass when you want to avoid frequent bag emptying.
Self-Propulsion System
The self-propulsion system uses a variable speed trigger on the handlebar. Squeezing it engages the drive, and the more you squeeze, the faster you go. It is a rear-wheel drive system, which provides better traction on slopes. On flat ground, it is smooth and responsive. On moderate slopes, such as a 15-degree grade, it handles well without slipping or struggling.
One common observation from owners is that the trigger is sensitive. It may take a few mowing sessions to get used to feathering it just right. Once dialed in, it feels natural. The self-propulsion disengages when you release the handle, which is a useful safety feature.
Battery Life and Charge Time
The biggest tradeoff with this mower is the battery charging time. The 60V battery takes a full two hours to charge from empty. For a third of an acre, a single charge is typically sufficient if you use the self-propulsion sparingly and keep the blade speed at max. Owners report using about 80 percent of the battery capacity for a full mow. If the grass is wet or thick, you might need to finish the last strip with a partial charge.
For lawns over a quarter acre, buying a second battery is strongly recommended. This allows you to swap batteries and continue mowing while the first one charges. The charger is compact and plugs into a standard outlet. It runs warm but not hot. The battery indicator on the mower handle shows three LED lights, providing a simple and useful way to monitor remaining charge.
Build and Value
Durable Steel Deck
The deck is made of stamped steel with a powder-coated finish. It feels solid and durable. Owners report that it withstands bumps against rocks, tree roots, and concrete edges without dents, rust, or cracks. The 21-inch cutting width is a good balance between covering ground quickly and maneuvering around flower beds and fence posts.
The wheels are plastic with a rubber tread. They are not the beefiest available, but they hold up well. The rear wheels are larger than the front, which helps with rolling over uneven ground. The handle is a single-piece metal bar with a foam grip that is comfortable and does not vibrate excessively. The folding mechanism for storage is simple and works well, folding flat without needing any tools.
Weight and Handling
The mower is heavier than average. With the battery installed, it weighs about 85 pounds. This is heavier than many gas mowers and significantly heavier than smaller electric models. The self-propulsion helps when moving forward, but lifting it over curbs or loading it into a truck requires effort. If you have physical limitations, this weight could be a dealbreaker.
On the positive side, the weight provides stability. It does not bounce or skate on uneven ground and tracks straight. The push handle has a comfortable height adjustment, and the controls are all within easy reach. The blade engage lever is a safety bail that must be held down to start and keep running, which works reliably.
Value for Money
The Greenworks 60V sits in the upper mid-range for electric self-propelled models. You are paying for the 60V battery system and the steel deck. Compared to cheaper plastic-deck electric mowers, it feels much more substantial. Compared to premium gas mowers, it is quieter, lighter (despite being heavier than other electrics), and requires no fuel or oil changes.
The battery and charger are included in the box, which is important. Some brands sell the mower as a “tool only” and require a separate battery purchase. Greenworks includes one 60V battery and the rapid charger. The battery is also compatible with other Greenworks 60V tools, such as string trimmers and leaf blowers, creating a useful ecosystem benefit for existing owners.
Who This Suits
This mower is a great fit for specific types of homeowners. If you have a medium-sized lawn, roughly a quarter to half an acre, and want to move away from gas without sacrificing cutting quality, this is a strong contender. The self-propulsion makes it usable for people with slight slopes or who simply do not want to push a heavy mower. The steel deck means it will last for years with proper care.
It is also a good choice if you already own other Greenworks 60V tools. The battery sharing alone can save hundreds of dollars over time. If you value a quiet mowing experience, this mower is far quieter than any gas model, allowing you to mow early or late without disturbing neighbors.
However, it is not for everyone. If you have a very large lawn, over half an acre, the two-hour charge time will be a significant inconvenience. You will absolutely need a second battery, and even then, a gas mower or a larger electric model with a bigger battery might be a better fit. If you have a very steep hill, the self-propulsion might struggle. It handles moderate slopes well, but extreme grades are challenging for any electric mower.
Also, if you are physically unable to lift 85 pounds, this is not the mower for you. A lighter model, even with a plastic deck, may be a better choice despite the tradeoff in durability.
Final Verdict
Based on research and consistent owner feedback, the Greenworks 60V 21-inch Self-Propelled mower is one of the best electric mowers in its class. The pros are clear: the power from the 60V battery is impressive, the 21-inch steel deck cuts cleanly and handles thick grass without complaint, and the build quality is excellent for the price. The cons are also real: it is heavier than average, and the two-hour charge time is a limitation you need to work around.
For a medium-sized lawn, it delivers reliable, quiet, and powerful performance. It saves time on maintenance, eliminates gas fumes, and produces a lawn that looks as good as it did with a gas mower. The battery holds its charge well over a season, and the steel deck shows no signs of wear. If you are considering switching to electric, this mower makes a compelling case.
It is recommended for anyone with a medium-sized lawn who wants reliable, quiet, and powerful performance. Just be honest about the weight and charging time. If you can live with those two factors, this mower will serve you well.
