Buying Guide for the Best Robotic Mowers
Choosing the right robotic mower can make lawn maintenance a breeze, saving you time and effort. When selecting a robotic mower, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your needs and works efficiently in your yard. Here are some key specs to look at and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.Lawn Size CapacityLawn size capacity refers to the maximum area that the robotic mower can handle. This is important because you want a mower that can cover your entire lawn without needing frequent recharges. Lawn size capacities are usually divided into small (up to 0.25 acres), medium (0.25 to 0.5 acres), and large (over 0.5 acres). To pick the right one, measure your lawn and choose a mower that can comfortably cover that area. If your lawn is on the larger side, opt for a model with a higher capacity to avoid interruptions.
Battery Life and Charging TimeBattery life indicates how long the mower can operate on a single charge, while charging time is how long it takes to recharge the battery. These specs are crucial because they affect how often the mower needs to return to its charging station and how long it takes to resume mowing. Battery life can range from 60 minutes to several hours, and charging times can vary from 30 minutes to a few hours. If you have a larger lawn, look for a mower with a longer battery life and shorter charging time to ensure efficient mowing cycles.
Cutting Width and HeightCutting width is the width of the path the mower cuts in a single pass, and cutting height is the range of heights at which the mower can cut the grass. These specs are important for determining how quickly and effectively the mower can trim your lawn. Cutting widths typically range from 7 to 22 inches. A wider cutting width means fewer passes to cover the lawn, which is ideal for larger areas. Cutting height usually ranges from 0.8 to 3.5 inches. Choose a mower with adjustable cutting heights to match your preferred grass length and the type of grass in your yard.
Navigation and Mapping TechnologyNavigation and mapping technology helps the robotic mower navigate your lawn efficiently, avoiding obstacles and ensuring complete coverage. This is important for preventing missed spots and ensuring the mower can handle complex yard layouts. Basic models use random navigation, while advanced models use GPS and mapping technology for more precise mowing patterns. If your lawn has many obstacles or an irregular shape, consider a mower with advanced navigation features to ensure thorough and efficient mowing.
Slope HandlingSlope handling refers to the mower's ability to operate on inclines. This is important if your lawn has hills or uneven terrain. Slope handling capabilities are usually expressed as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating better performance on steeper slopes. Most robotic mowers can handle slopes of up to 20-30%, while some advanced models can manage up to 45%. Assess the steepest parts of your lawn and choose a mower that can handle those inclines to ensure consistent mowing performance.
Noise LevelNoise level indicates how loud the mower is while operating, measured in decibels (dB). This is important if you have close neighbors or prefer a quieter mowing experience. Noise levels for robotic mowers typically range from 55 to 75 dB. For a quieter operation, especially if you plan to run the mower during early mornings or late evenings, choose a model with a lower noise level.
Smart Features and ConnectivitySmart features and connectivity options, such as app control, scheduling, and integration with smart home systems, enhance the convenience and functionality of the robotic mower. These features are important for users who want to control and monitor their mower remotely. Basic models may offer simple scheduling, while advanced models provide app control, GPS tracking, and integration with voice assistants. If you value convenience and tech integration, look for a mower with robust smart features.