Review
Gas vs Electric Lawn Mowers: Which One Is Better for You?
AAZparts Team
Updated on July 21, 2025
6 min read
When taking care of your garden or lawn, choosing the right lawn mower plays a crucial role in making the job easier and more efficient. Currently, there are two main types of lawn mowers on the market: gas-powered and electric-powered, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. So, between gas and electric lawn mowers, which one is truly suitable for your needs and conditions? In the article below, AZParts will help you better understand how they work, their pros and cons, and the factors to consider in order to make the best choice.
1. How Gas and Electric Mowers Work?
A lawn mower is an essential tool for garden care, and understanding how each type works will help you make a better choice.
1.1. Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers
Gas-powered lawn mowers use an internal combustion engine, typically either a 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine, to generate power that spins the blade. Users need to fill the fuel tank with gasoline (and oil, depending on the model). When started, the engine burns fuel to create strong rotational force, making it suitable for cutting thick, tall grass and large areas.
Features:
- Operates independently without the need for cords or batteries.
- Powerful and can work for long periods.
- Start with a pull cord.
In addition to the fuel tank and pull cord, gas mowers include several key parts:
- Spark plug: Ignites the air-fuel mixture to start the engine.
- Air filter: Prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine.
- Carburetor: Mixes air and fuel in the right ratio before combustion
Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers (Source: Freepik)
1.2. Electric Lawn Mowers
Electric lawn mowers use an electric motor to spin the blade. There are two main types:
- Corded electric mowers: Plug directly into a power source via a cord.
- Cordless (battery-powered) mowers: Use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, offering more flexibility in movement.
Features:
- Quiet operation with less noise.
- Environmentally friendly as they emit no harmful gases.
- Easy to start with just the push of a button.
Electric mowers have fewer components than gas models, which makes them easier to maintain. They typically don’t require spark plugs, air filters, or pull cords. Instead, they use:
- Electric motor: Runs on electricity instead of fuel.
- Battery or power cord: Powers the motor.
- Push-button start: Simple and convenient to operate.
Electric Lawn Mowers (Source: Freepik)
2. Comparison Between Gas vs Electric Lawn Mower
2.1 Cutting Quality
Criteria | Gas-Powered Lawn Mower | Electric Lawn Mower |
Cutting Evenness | Usually more even and powerful, suitable for thick and tall grass | Cuts evenly on average lawns; performance decreases with very dense grass |
Side Discharge Capability | Effective, especially in high-powered models | Available but less powerful than gas mowers |
Mulching Ability | Good, suitable for large areas and thick grass | Good under conditions of not too tall grass; limited by power |
Grass Bag Capacity | Larger, collects more grass in one use | Smaller, requires more frequent emptying |
2.2 Handling and Usability
Criteria | Gas-Powered Lawn Mower | Electric Lawn Mower |
Maneuverability | Harder to control due to heavy weight and strong vibrations | Easier to control, lighter and more flexible |
Weight and Portability | Heavier, difficult to carry and move; suitable for physically strong users | Lighter, easy to carry and store; battery-powered models are more flexible |
Noise Levels | Noisy, can be disturbing if used for long periods or in residential areas | Quiet, operates with almost no noise |
Starting Process | Usually requires pull cord, needs strength and may take time | Just press a button, quick and convenient start |
2.3. Environmental Impact
Criteria | Gas-Powered Lawn Mower | Electric Lawn Mower |
Emissions and Pollution | Emits CO, CO₂, and other harmful pollutants; contributes to air pollution | No direct emissions; more environmentally friendly |
Energy Consumption | Uses fossil fuel (gasoline); higher fuel costs | Uses electricity or rechargeable batteries; energy-efficient and lower operating costs |
Noise Pollution | Produces loud noise; not suitable for residential areas | Very quiet; operates smoothly, ideal for quiet neighborhoods |
3. Pros and Cons
3.1 Gas Lawn Mowers
Advantages:
- Powerful engine, handles thick, tall grass and large areas effectively.
- Can operate continuously for long periods without relying on electricity.
- Better at side discharge, mulching, and grass collection in tough conditions.
Disadvantages:
- Noisy and produces air pollution.
- Heavy, bulky, and difficult to move.
- Requires regular maintenance (oil changes, spark plugs, engine cleaning, etc.).
- Start with a pull cord, which can sometimes be difficult.
Gas Lawn Mowers has powerful engine but noisy and produces air pollution (Source: Freepik)
3.2 Electric Lawn Mowers
Advantages:
- Lightweight, easy to use and maneuver, suitable for those with less physical strength.
- Quiet operation, environmentally friendly with no emissions.
- Easy start with just a push of a button.
- Low maintenance, saving operating costs.
Disadvantages:
- Lower power, struggles with thick, tall grass or large areas.
- Corded models have limited range due to dependence on power outlets.
- Battery-powered models have limited runtime and need to be recharged after use.
Electric Lawn Mowers easy to use but struggles with thick grass (Source: AZParts)
4. Which Lawn Mower Is Better for You?
Choosing between a gas-powered and an electric lawn mower depends on various factors such as the size of your lawn, grass density, surrounding environment, and personal needs. Here are some suggestions to help you make the right decision:
Choose a gas-powered lawn mower if you:
- Have a large lawn with thick, fast-growing grass.
- Need a powerful machine that can work continuously for long periods.
- Don’t mind maintenance or noise.
- Prioritize cutting performance over convenience.
Choose an electric lawn mower if you:
- Own a small to medium-sized garden with thin, sparse grass.
- Prefer a lightweight, quiet, and environmentally friendly option.
- Want to avoid complex engine maintenance.
- Like quick starts and ease of use, especially if you are elderly or female.
In summary, gas mowers are suitable for those requiring strong power, while electric mowers are ideal for family users in residential areas.
Gas mowers are suitable for those requiring strong power, while electric mowers are ideal for family users (Source: Freepik)
5. FAQs about Gas vs Electric Lawn Mower
5.1. Are electric lawn mowers better than gas?
The answer depends on your usage needs. Electric lawn mowers are better if you prioritize lightweight design, quiet operation, environmental friendliness, and ease of use. On the other hand, if you need a powerful machine to work on large areas or dense grass, a gas-powered mower is the better choice.
5.2. Is it worth switching to an electric mower?
It’s definitely worth it if you live in a residential area with a small to medium-sized garden and want an environmentally friendly, easy-to-use, and quiet device. However, if you are already using a gas-powered mower effectively for a large lawn, switching may not be necessary yet.
5.3. Do electric mowers last as long as gas?
Electric mowers typically last around 5–8 years, while gas mowers can last 8–10 years or more with proper maintenance. Gas models often have a longer lifespan due to their durable, repairable parts, whereas electric mowers are limited by battery life and less modular components.
Choosing between a gas-powered and an electric lawn mower depends on your specific needs, the size of your garden, and your personal preferences. If you require a powerful device to handle large areas and thick grass, a gas mower is the suitable choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for convenience, environmental friendliness, and ease of use for a small to medium-sized garden, an electric mower is an ideal solution. Carefully consider factors such as performance, operating costs, noise levels, and flexibility to select the best lawn mower for your home.
If you need repair or replacement of any lawn mower parts, be sure to check out AZParts. They offer a wide range of high-quality lawn mower parts to keep your equipment running smoothly and efficiently. Whether you have a gas-powered or electric mower, AZParts provides reliable components to help you maintain and extend the life of your machine.
Contact Information:
8 The Green, Ste A, Dover, Delaware 19901-3618, United States
Lawn Mower
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