Greenworks 40V 21" Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), 5.0Ah Battery and Charger Included Review

Overview

The Greenworks 40V 21" Brushless Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower is a battery-powered workhorse designed for homeowners with medium-sized lawns who want to ditch gas, oil, and pull cords without sacrificing performance. With a 5.0Ah battery and charger included at $399.99, it’s a strong contender for anyone tired of maintaining a gas engine but still needing enough power to tackle a half-acre or less.

Who Should Buy This

The “I’m Done With Gas” Homeowner – If you’re sick of storing stale fuel, changing oil, and wrestling with a stubborn pull cord, this mower is your ticket to a simpler Saturday morning. It starts with a button press and runs quietly enough to mow before the neighbors wake up.

The 1/4 to 1/3 Acre Lawn Owner – This mower is ideal for lots that take 45–60 minutes to cut. The 5.0Ah battery will handle about 45 minutes of continuous self-propelled mowing on a single charge, which covers most suburban lawns. If your yard is much bigger, you’ll want a second battery.

The “Tool Ecosystem” Buyer – Greenworks has over 75 tools that share this 40V battery platform. If you already own a Greenworks trimmer, blower, or chainsaw, this mower fits right in. If you’re starting fresh, you’re buying into a system that grows with your needs.

The Environmentally Conscious Mower – Zero emissions, no spilled gas, and significantly quieter operation than any gas mower. Perfect for neighborhoods with noise restrictions or for anyone who wants to reduce their carbon footprint one lawn at a time.

Key Features Breakdown

40V Brushless Motor – Brushless motors are more efficient and last longer than brushed motors. This one delivers consistent torque even in thick grass, and it won’t bog down as easily as older battery mowers. It’s also quieter and requires zero maintenance.

21-Inch Cutting Deck – This is the sweet spot for residential mowing. Wide enough to cover ground quickly (fewer passes than a 20-inch deck) but narrow enough to maneuver around flower beds and trees. The deck is stamped steel, durable but not overly heavy.

Self-Propelled Drive – The rear-wheel drive system is what you want for hills and uneven terrain. It’s variable speed, controlled by a bar on the handle. You can walk at a comfortable pace without pushing. The drive engages smoothly, though it’s not as refined as a Honda or Toro gas model.

5.0Ah Battery & Charger Included – This is the larger battery option, and it’s the one you want. It provides enough juice for most lawns without needing a second battery. The charger takes about 2 hours to fully recharge. The battery has a fuel gauge so you know how much run time is left.

75+ Compatible Tools – This is a major selling point. The same battery works in trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, and even a pressure washer. It’s a genuine ecosystem, not just a gimmick.

Single Lever Height Adjustment – One lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously from 1.5 to 4 inches. It’s quick and easy, though the range isn’t as wide as some gas mowers.

Foldable Handle – The handle folds down for compact storage. It doesn’t require tools, and it locks securely. Great for hanging on a garage wall or tucking into a corner.

Pros

• Instant start, zero maintenance – Push a button, mow. No gas, no oil, no spark plugs, no carburetor cleaning. This alone is worth the price for many buyers.
• Quiet operation – You can mow early or late without annoying the neighbors. It’s also easier on your ears—no earplugs required.
• Good battery life for the price – The included 5.0Ah battery genuinely covers most 1/4 to 1/3 acre lawns. You won’t feel cheated out of a smaller battery.
• Variable speed self-propulsion – You control the pace. On flat ground, you can walk fast. On hills, slow down without fighting the mower.
• Brushless motor is powerful enough – It handles thick St. Augustine or tall fescue without struggling. Not as strong as a gas mower, but close enough for residential use.
• Tool ecosystem – If you already have Greenworks 40V tools, this is a no-brainer. If you don’t, you’re buying into a versatile system.

Cons

• Battery can’t handle larger lawns – If your yard is over 1/3 acre, you’ll need a second battery or you’ll have to recharge mid-mow. The 5.0Ah is good, but not great for big properties.
• Self-propelled drive is not premium – It works, but it’s not as smooth or responsive as gas mowers from Honda or Toro. On steep hills, it can feel a bit sluggish.
• Plastic deck feels less durable – The deck is sturdy enough, but it’s plastic. It won’t rust, but it can crack if you hit a rock or stump hard. Gas mowers with steel decks feel more solid.
• Bagging performance is just okay – The grass bag fills unevenly, and you’ll need to stop and empty it more often than with a gas mower. Mulching is better, but bagging leaves something to be desired.

Bottom Line

The Greenworks 40V 21" Brushless Self-Propelled Mower is an excellent choice for homeowners with small to medium lawns who want the convenience of battery power without breaking the bank. At $399.99 with a 5.0Ah battery, it delivers reliable starting, quiet operation, and enough power for most residential yards. It’s not the best choice for steep hills, large properties, or those who demand premium bagging performance—but for the vast majority of suburban homeowners, it’s a smart, practical buy. I’d recommend it confidently to anyone ready to quit gas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the battery last on a full charge?
Expect about 45 minutes of continuous mowing with the self-propelled engaged. If you walk without the drive, you can stretch it closer to 60 minutes. That covers roughly 1/4 to 1/3 acre, depending on grass thickness.

Can I use other Greenworks 40V batteries with this mower?
Yes. Any Greenworks 40V battery (2.0Ah, 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, etc.) will work. The larger the amp-hour rating, the longer the run time. The mower also accepts the 40V “G-Max” batteries from older Greenworks tools.

Does this mower handle wet grass well?
It handles damp grass okay, but it struggles with really wet or thick grass just like any battery mower. The brushless motor helps, but you’ll get better results m