What to Know Before Buying an Electric or Petrol Lawnmower
The debate around the electric lawnmower vs petrol lawnmower is growing among gardeners. With more models available than ever, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This practical buyer’s guide breaks down the key differences in cost, power, ease of use, and suitability for different garden sizes – so you can find the mower that fits your needs best.
Comparing Electric and Petrol Lawnmowers
If you’re weighing up a petrol or electric lawn mower, it helps to see the key differences side by side. Below is a quick comparison of the most important features to help you decide which type suits your garden and lifestyle best.
| Feature | Electric Mower | Petrol Mower |
| Power Source | Mains or battery-powered | Petrol engine (2-stroke or 4-stroke) |
| Maintenance | Low – no fuel, fewer moving parts | Higher – needs fuel, oil, servicing |
| Price Range | Lower upfront cost | Often higher initial cost |
| Emissions | Zero emissions during use | Produces emissions while running |
| Noise Level | Quiet – ideal for neighbours | Louder – less suited to noise-sensitive areas |
Whether you’re choosing an electric or petrol mower, each has pros and cons depending on your lawn size, terrain, and usage preferences.
Electric Lawnmowers – Pros and Cons
Whether you’re looking at a corded model or a battery-powered lawnmower gardeners trust, electric options are ideal for smaller to medium-sized gardens.
- Corded models are lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and perfect for noise-sensitive areas.
- With no fuel or oil required, maintenance is minimal, and there’s no mess or storage of flammables to worry about. They’re also much quieter than petrol machines.
- If you prefer the freedom to move without cables, many of the best battery lawn mower UK models now offer impressive runtimes, fast charging, and consistent cutting power.
- Electric mowers typically have smaller cutting widths and grass boxes, so they’re not suited for very large or overgrown lawns.
- Battery life may limit how much you can mow in one go, though this continues to improve with newer models.
Every one of our electric mowers comes fully assembled, tested, and demonstrated by our expert team. You’ll also benefit from our impartial advice, full aftercare support, and genuine parts when needed.
Petrol Lawnmowers – Pros and Cons
If you’re dealing with a large or rugged garden, a petrol mower is often the best tool for the job. With more power and no cables to restrict you, these machines make light work of tougher mowing conditions – especially where longer grass or uneven ground is involved.
- Petrol models offer wide cutting decks, strong engines, and features like variable or single-speed self-propulsion. These make mowing faster, smoother, and less physically demanding over larger areas.
- Many mowers use a recoil start, but some models now offer the convenience of a petrol lawn mower electric start – ideal for users who prefer ease of operation.
- Unlike electric models, petrol mowers require more regular maintenance. You’ll need to top up fuel, check the oil, and occasionally service the engine. For smoother running and longer engine life, a lawn mower fuel additive is also worth considering.
- While they produce more noise and emissions, petrol mowers remain a top choice for anyone needing consistent performance and full range without battery limits or power cables.
As with our electric models, we offer full support for petrol lawnmowers, including expert servicing from trained mechanics, a stocked parts department, and a range of fuels and oils. We even offer collection and delivery for servicing, making ownership as convenient as possible.
Garden Size & Terrain – What’s Right for You?
Choosing between a petrol or electric lawn mower often comes down to your garden’s size and layout. For small to medium-sized lawns (under 300m²), especially those with easy access to plug sockets, a compact electric mower is usually ideal. They’re lightweight, easy to store, and perfect for flat or gently sloped lawns.
If you have a larger garden, uneven ground, or thick, fast-growing grass, a petrol mower offers the power and cutting width you need. Petrol models handle rougher terrain effortlessly, and self-propulsion helps on slopes or over longer sessions.
Consider the space you have for storage too – petrol mowers are bulkier, but many now feature foldable handles for compact storage.
Running Costs & Maintenance Comparison
When comparing the long-term running costs of an electric or petrol mower, electric models typically come out on top. With no fuel to buy and fewer moving parts, electric mowers are cheap to run and low maintenance. Battery models may need a replacement battery after a few years, but ongoing costs remain minimal.
That said, in terms of lifespan, a well-maintained petrol mower will often last longer than a budget electric model. But both can offer excellent value if looked after properly.
Environmental Impact & Noise
If you’re concerned about emissions or noise pollution, electric lawnmowers are the clear winner. Battery and corded models produce zero emissions during use and run far quieter than petrol alternatives, making them ideal for built-up or noise-sensitive areas.
We’re committed to supporting more sustainable gardening through our wide range of cordless, electric, and robotic mowers. These machines help to reduce your carbon footprint while making lawn care cleaner and more enjoyable.
Made Your Choice?
Every mower we sell is delivered across the UK, fully assembled, tested, and demonstrated by a qualified technician. You’ll be shown exactly how to use and maintain your machine. We also offer flexible finance options, comprehensive aftercare, and a fully equipped on-site workshop for servicing and repairs.
Whether you’re shopping for a petrol or electric lawn mower, we will do our best to make the buying process easy and stress-free. Order online or visit our Stratford-upon-Avon showroom to get hands-on advice from our team.
