Thinking of buying a robot lawnmower? Your lawn could be forever grateful. Robot lawnmowers have come a long way and now they’re more reliable than ever.
It’s not just a question of saving time and energy–the right robot lawnmower can help improve the health and look of your lawn. It’s all to do with the precise, neat, and fussy way in which they work.
In this buying guide, we’ll explain how robotic lawnmowing works, review the ten best robot lawnmowers on the market, and show you what to pay attention to when shopping for one to make the right choice.
So, are you ready to pass on your lawn care worries to a robot?
How Does a Robot Lawn Mower Work?
Robot lawnmowers have built-in sensors that enable them to mow around obstacles within an area bounded by wire. The wire is usually installed underground and comes in the package.
They essentially mow in a random pattern, not changing direction until encountering an obstacle or reaching the wire.
Good to know: Robotic lawn mowers don’t collect grass clippings but return them to the ground. This is because they cut the grass frequently before it can grow tall.
They may also integrate a rain sensor so that when it starts to rain they automatically stop. Most lawnmowers are designed to be waterproof, but mowing wet grass isn’t usually a good idea.
The most advanced robot lawnmowers may create a virtual map of your garden and have a systematic rather than random approach to mowing.
Manufacturers often provide a mobile app to enable users to program, schedule, and control the mower. Connectivity is possible through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or GPS.
This means that your robotic lawnmower can operate at specific hours without requiring to be manually turned on or off each time.
Important: The autonomy and mowing area of a robot lawnmower depends on its battery and cutting width. Most models need at least an hour or two to fully charge.
Today, robot lawn mowers are being used to maintain large areas of grass in commercial or public settings, so top-rated models can handle a private lawn or large backyard without issues.
Robotic Lawn Mower Benefits
So what exactly are the benefits of a robot lawnmower compared to a gas, electric lawn mower, or pushmower?
Saves You Time
Robot lawnmowers can cut the grass while you’re at work, inside the house relaxing, or having a barbecue by the pool. Once you set them up, they don’t require your physical presence.
You may miss the physical exercise you get with a conventional mower, but you sure save a lot of time!
Increases Safety
Another notable benefit of this type of lawnmower is that it minimizes the risk of accidents resulting from flying debris, chords, or fires.
And since you don’t have to follow it around the lawn, your toes are perfectly safe, too!
Better Results
The first automatic lawn mowers may not have been the most efficient, but today, robot lawnmowing technologies have developed substantially.
The best robot mowers on the market now can navigate uneven terrain, adjust their program automatically, and recommend optimal mowing schedules.
This means healthier grass and a better lawn.
Requires Less Storage Space
Robot lawnmowers tend to have a smaller design so they won’t take much space. You can fit them into different garden storage solutions.
It’s More Convenient
Mowing the grass regularly isn’t everyone’s idea of fun. Maybe you like having a nice lawn but don’t always have the energy or willpower to mow it.
A robot lawnmower offers a convenient alternative to getting the job done with no serious effort on your part. It frees you from a regular chore so you can use that time in more fun ways.
It’s Environmentally Friendly
The most efficient robot lawnmowers may not be solar-powered just yet, but they are electric. That makes them a more environmentally conscious choice compared to gas-powered lawnmowers.
Makes Maintenance Easy
Automated lawnmowers require only blade changes and regular cleaning. You don’t have to worry about oil changes or air filters.
Protects Your Health
Grass allergies can be unpleasant–and quite unavoidable with most types of lawnmowers. But not with robot lawnmowers, which do the work for you when you’re not around.
In the end, the benefits you get depend on the model you choose. Some models are more advanced than others and provide better value for your money.
This brings us to our selection of the best popular robot lawn mowers available now.
Robot Lawn Mower Reviews
A robot lawn mower can be a big long-term investment, so you may as well make an informed decision.
Factors we weighed include performance, features, maintenance requirements, customer reviews, value for the money, and the quality of the customer service provided.
Here are the mowers that we feel deliver the best results right now for homeowners.
1. Husqvarna Robot Mower Automower 310
The Husqvarna 430XH robot automower is one of the most advanced and streamlined robot lawnmowers for the home market. It has excellent connectivity features, including GPS support.
It can handle 0.8 acres and steeper slopes than the competition, plus it can do its job in the rain, too.
If you have a big yard, this can be the ultimate robot lawnmower you can get. It can save you a ton of time and possibly even money on lawn mowing services in the long run.
The best part is that you can control it through smart speakers like Google Alexa or Google Home.
Pros
- Effective cutting system
- Mows up to 0.8 acres
- Built-in anti-theft alarm and PIN code
- Handles 24-degree slopes
- You can control it through a Google Home or Amazon Echo device as well as through a smartwatch
- Can mow in the rain
- You can see it on a map
Cons
- Steep price
- If you don’t have a smart home speaker or smartwatch, you may find some features unnecessary
Verdict
As a flagship Huqsvarna robotic lawnmower, this one has the connectivity, advanced features, and efficiency needed to mow a larger yard. It’s a great choice for upgrading an older lawnmower.
2. Worx Robot Mower WR147 Landroid L 20V with GPS Module
The Worx Robot Mower WR153 Landroid L is a popular choice that can maintain up to 0.5 acres of grass, comes with easy cut height adjustment settings, and anti-collision control.
Once you set it up, it will mow every part of your lawn over the course of a week, returning to the charging base whenever it needs to recharge or if it rains.
You can use this even if your property is not bounded by a fence, provided you define its cutting perimeter using the boundary wire in the package.
We’ve included the version with the cellular GPS module that enables you to control it via your phone without having to connect it to your local WiFi first as we think it’s a great addition.
Another advantage of this module is that it enables you to track the device if stolen.
Note that this is the biggest and most powerful model in the series. You can scale down to a lesser version with fewer features.
Pros
- Can handle 20-degree slopes
- Built-in rain sensor returns it to the charging base until the grass dries
- Auto-scheduling features save you the trouble of deciding when to mow
- Good at navigating narrow paths
- Returns automatically to the charging base when the battery is low
Cons
- Mobile app could be better
- It doesn’t allow scheduling mowing at night
Verdict
Overall, the Worx Robot Mower WR153 Landroid L is a capable and reliable mower that’s a great choice if you’ve never had a robot lawnmower before.
3. Husqvarna Robotic Lawn Mower Automower 115H
Husqvarna is a leading brand in the world of robotic lawnmowers, and the Automower 115H is one of their most popular and accessible products. It’s capable of mowing up to 0.4 acres.
Keeping things simple can be a good approach when it comes to getting your first robotic lawnmower. And that’s what this model is all about.
The Husqvarna Automower 115H provides good value for the money, striking a fine balance between essential features and cost.
Pros
- Quicker charging times compared to competitors in this price range
- You get more boundary wire, which can be useful if you have an irregularly shaped lawn
- DIY installation kit is easy to set up
- Effective grass cutting system
- Enables grass cutting adjustments up to 3.6 inches
Cons
- It won’t avoid less obvious obstacles, like dog poo
- Uses Bluetooth, which makes it controllable from only around 30 feet away
- Doesn’t connect to the internet
Verdict
You’re looking at an entry-level Husqvarna robot lawnmower that can get the job done in a fenced-in backyard or lawn.
It doesn’t have the more advanced features or other mowers made by this provider.
4. Gardena 4069 R80Li Robotic Lawnmower
The Gardena 4069 R80Li Robotic Lawnmower is silent, easy to install, and operates effectively in an area defined by the boundary wire included.
Other things we like about it is the anti-theft protection and its ability to mow even in rainy weather, something that automated entry level mowers don’t usually provide.
It features a built-in control panel through which you can program it but does not support remote programming through a mobile app.
Pros
- Quiet operation won’t disturb your neighbors
- Simple setup compared to other mowers
- Works when it’s raining too
- Built-in anti-theft protection
- Good cutting performance
Cons
- Looks a bit like a vacuum cleaner, which may not suit everyone’s taste
- More limited cutting height compared to competitors (0.7 to 2 inches)
- Doesn’t connect to a mobile device so you can’t program it remotely
Verdict
The Gardena 4069 R80Li Robotic Lawnmower is a viable alternative to the robot lawnmowers offered by Huqsvarna or Worx, provided that you don’t mind not being able to program it remotely.
5. Robomow RS612 Battery Powered Robotic Lawn Mower
The Robomow RS612 was designed for small yards of of 1/4 of an acre, which it can handle well provided you set it up properly. It has a better cutting quality than cheaper models.
It comes with a 22-inch cutting width and is pretty good at avoiding obstacles in its path that may have been carried by a dog, such as a toy.
It can travel slopes and different areas of your yard guided by the boundary wire included. It also has integrated safety features.
While not the most advanced mower in this price range, the Robomow RS612 can be a reliable choice for a small yard.
Pros
- Efficient cutting system
- You can wire it to travel to different zones, for example from your front yard to your backyard
- Silent enough to operate during the quieter hours of the day
- PIN-code anti-theft system
- Bluetooth connectivity enables remote control via a mobile app
- Floating moving deck pushes toys and other obstacles out of its way
Cons
- Handles only 1/4 acres
- You can’t access the built in GPS but can call customer support for them to locate your mower if it’s missing
- You may run across compatibility issues with Alexa or the mobile app
- Setup instructions could be clearer
Verdict
The Robomow RS612 can be a good choice as a first mower for smaller yards. But you may need to have a bit of patience with it at times, especially if you’ve never used a similar mower before.
6. Husqvarna Automatic Lawn Mower 450XH Automower (High Cut)
If you want to grow taller grass, the Husqvarna 450XH Automower is one of your best choices. It uses a high-cut mowing system that’s probably the best available right now.
It provides the same connectivity and autonomy you can expect from the more expensive range of products in the Husqvarna catalog.
It’s easy to set up and offers good connectivity and Alexa support, so you can remotely control it from a distance. Overall, it’s a great zero-emissions alternative to power mowers.
Pros
- Handles 1.25 acres of yard, more than competitors
- Lets you keep the grass up to 3.6 inches tall, which can give your lawn a richer look
- GPS navigation works well
- Has LED headlights
- Can handle complicated layouts with proper boundary wire planning
Cons
- Uneven areas or low spots may slow it down
Verdict
You’re looking at a powerful and effective mower that can help you maintain taller grass than the usual entry-level robot lawnmowers.
7. Husqvarna Remote Lawn Mower AUTOMOWER 310
The Husqvarna Remote Lawn Mower Automower 310 is a good entry-level choice for small lawns–it can tackle up to 0.25 acres and 22-degree slopes.
You can expect from it the same quality build, durability, and accessibility of all Husqvarna robot lawnmowers but with a smaller operational range.
One advantage of choosing a Husqvarna mower is that you can have a company representative come and install the boundary wire for you–no more worrying about that.
Pros
- Easy to set up and install
- Good value for the money
- You can program it to work at night–it’s quiet enough for that
- 100 feet Bluetooth connectivity range
- Works when it’s raining
Cons
- No GPS tracking
- No integration with Amazon Alexa or Google Home
Verdict
If you want to get your first robot lawnmower but are not willing to spend on a higher-end model just yet, you can test out the automated mowing experience with this one.
8. Mower MowRo Robot Lawn with Install Kit RM24
The Mower MowRo RM robotic lawnmower is one of the more affordable options on this list. It can handle lawns up to 0.25 acres in size and can be set up in minutes.
The adjustable 1 to 2.5-inch cutting height works well for most lawns and enables you to experiment to see which cutting setting provides the best results.
It’s equipped with a 28V 2Ah Samsung battery that comes with one year of warranty but can last longer without requiring replacement.
Pros
- Can climb slopes up to 30 degrees
- Quiet motor won’t give you a headache
- Simple customizable mowing schedule
Cons
- Only 9.5 inch cutting width
Verdict
Looking for a small and affordable robot lawnmower for a simple lawn design? The Mower MowRo RM robotic lawnmower can be a convenient choice.
9. Robomow Electric Robot Lawn Mower RX20
The Robomow RX20 is the bigger brother of the Robomow RS612–it features a similar design but can manage bigger yards. It can handle different mowing zones with proper wiring.
The rain sensor, fairly easy setup, and good build quality make it a reliable choice for most yards–whether or not you’ve had a robot lawn mower before.
It also has a simple pin-based anti-theft system that deters theft–something good to have if you intend to set it up and then forget about it.
Pros
- Can handle large yards up to 0.75 acres
- Quiet and effective on slopes up to 20 degrees
- 22 inch cutting width
- Easy to program
- Runs smoothly on even ground
Cons
- Takes up to 110 minutes to charge, longer than other models
- Alexa smart home support available but not yet optimized
- May require replacement parts over time
Verdict
You’re looking at a capable robotic lawn more that can help you maintain large yards without any hassle–all of this for a good price compared to competitors.
10. Robomow RX20 Battery Powered Robot Lawn Mower
Last but not least, the Robomow RX20 is a small and simple robot lawn mower that can help maintain a small to very small yard. It’s not the most advanced model around, but it’s affordable.
Setting it up shouldn’t take long, but depending on the shape of your yard you may need additional boundary wiring.
It works best on simple, level lawns without obstacles–which may otherwise cause it to get stuck more often than more advanced models.
Pros
- Low noise levels
- Security code for safe operation
- Affordable
- Easy introduction to robot lawnmowers
Cons
- Can’t easily handle loose material or problem areas
- 7-inch cutting width means it takes more time to cut
- No rain sensor
- You have to buy more boundary wire and accessories separately
Verdict
If you’re looking for the cheapest option around, the Robomow RX20 robot lawnmower can help you enjoy the convenience of a basic robot mower at an affordable price.
How to Choose a Robot Lawnmower
If you’ve been with us so far, you’ve seen that robot lawnmowers can have quite a few features.
It’s important not to get distracted by the details–focus on the features that really make a difference.
Here’s a step by step guide on how to choose a robot lawnmower that’s a good match for your lawn and that won’t fall short of your expectations.
Step 1 – Know Your Lawn Size
Do you need to maintain 1/4, 2/4/, 3/4 of an acre or more? Entry-levels models are generally designed for small yards.
If you want a lawnmower that can handle a big yard without issues, you have to pay extra.
Factors that influence how much lawn a robot lawnmower can handle include its cutting width, battery autonomy, and recharge time.
Step 2 – Factor in the Cutting Height
Most robot lawn mowers for home use have an adjustable cutting height of around 1 inch to over 2 inches. Special high-cut models provide cutting above 3 inches.
The ideal cutting height depends on the type of grass you have and your past experiences with maintaining it.
Step 3 – Decide How Much Connectivity Your Need
Robot lawnmowers may have Bluetooth, GPS, or else can connect to your local Wi-Fi network. Bluetooth provides a limited range so that you may not be able to control your device remotely while you’re at work or traveling.
GPS provides the best connectivity as it’s not limited by your local network, but it will add a few hundred dollars to the cost.
The type of connectivity your device has will also determine whether it can be controlled via a mobile, web app, smart home speaker like Alexa, and so on. It will also influence the amount of control you’ll have over it.
As a rule, good connectivity is a feature you’ll find in higher-end models.
Step 4 – Don’t Forget About the Noise
A robot lawnmower has to be really quiet for you to be able to let it operate at night. The best ones are quiet by design, but there can be individual differences, so make sure to check specifications.
Step 5 – Look for a Rain Sensor
The rain sensor will send the robot lawnmower back to its charging dock when it starts to rain–often it’s not the best idea to cut wet grass.
Almost all the devices on our list have a rain sensor or else are designed to operate during rain and wet conditions.
Step 6 – Warranty
Most robot lawnmowers come with a limited warranty for the battery, which you may have to replace after a few years. Warranties of over two years on the battery are a good sign.
Step 7 – Decide Whether You Need Theft Protection
Top robotic lawnmowers integrate safety features like PIN-code lock, auto-shutdown when lifted, and GPS tracking. GPS tracking is especially useful as it can help you locate a stolen device.
Robot Lawnmowers Commonly Asked Questions
Robot lawnmowers are receiving a lot of attention these days, and we’re hearing people ask plenty of questions about them.
We thought to put together this concise FAQ to help you make an informed decision. Explore the answers below!
Are robot lawn mowers any good?
Top-rated lawn mowers can help you maintain a small to large lawn without burning a hole in your pocket or causing you headaches.
The important thing is to choose the best robotic lawnmower for you, program it properly, and maintain it adequately.
How long do robotic lawn mowers last?
Robotic lawnmowers can last for years with proper cleaning and blade changes. Batteries may deteriorate within a few years, but in most cases these can be replaced.
Learn more about the benefits of robotic lawnmowers.
How much does robot lawn mower cost?
Reliable robot lawnmowers for home use cost anywhere from $800 to a few thousand dollars depending on their features and how much pre-programming they require.
Check out our robot lawnmower reviews to see the best options available.
What is the best robot lawnmower?
The best robot lawnmowers right now include the Husqvarna Robot Mower Automower 430XH, the Worx Robot Mower WR153 Landroid L, and the Robomow RS612.
Time to Entrust Your Lawn to a Robot
Robot lawnmowers have come a long way in the last decade or so. Today, you can rely on them to cut your lawn while saving you time and hassle.
And not only that, but you can actually get better results using a robot lawnmower compared to using a traditional one.
Hype aside, not all products on the market deliver the best experience. But robotic lawn mowers like the ones we have reviewed can be a great upgrade to a conventional mower or an older automated one.
Have you ever used a robot lawnmower? Or do you plan to get one?
Drop us a comment below and let us know–we’d love to hear from you! See you next post!
You have shared good information about, thanks for sharing the article!