Cordless Lawn Mower Head-To-Head | 2022

Like Ricky Bobby says ” If you ain’t first then you’re last.” While we love the spirit of that statement, we feel that does not hold true when it comes to the Best Cordless Mower. We feel that there is a place for cordless mowers, whether it is in a small backyard, large backyard, or even a commercial field!

Cordless Lawn Mowers continue to be the most popular OPE (outdoor power equipment) in retail stores. The buzz is real and everyone is competing for a seat at the top when it comes to best in class. The field is ever-changing, even in the 2 years since our last 2020 Cordless Mower Head-to-Head there have been new models and technology improvements.

In this best cordless lawn mower head-to-head we compared 16 cordless mowers from 14 manufacturers. We put these mowers through specific tests against each other to crown the Best Cordless Mower.

Benefits Of A Cordless Mower

Gas-powered mowers require a lot of maintenance, such as oil changes, fuel filters, spark plugs, and air filters. Not to mention rising gas prices. Let’s be honest, most people don’t properly maintain their gas mowers, and put off service until the mower won’t start! Anyone who has had to get a small engine fixed understands how inconvenient and time-consuming it can be.  All of the above-mentioned maintenance, as well as last-minute fuel purchases, are eliminated with cordless mowers, which are also quieter to operate.

Cordless Lawn Mowers Tested

We reached out to 14 of the top cordless lawn mower manufacturers and asked if they would like to participate in our best cordless mower head-to-head article. The models we tested included:

Black and Decker

Model: CM2043C
Voltage: 40V
Deck Size: 20″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/2″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 47 Lbs
Price: $265.95

DEWALT

Model: DCMWSP255Y2
Voltage: 20V x 2 (40V)
Deck Size: 21-1/2″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/2″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 92 Lbs
Price: $669.00

ECHO

Model: DLM-2100SP
Voltage: 56V
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 69.5 Lbs
Price: $499.00

EGO

Model: LM2156SP
Voltage: 56V
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/2″
Number of Blades: 2
Weight: 68 Lbs
Price: $799.00

Greenworks

Model: 2533402
Voltage: 80V
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/2″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight:  74 Lbs
Price: $749.00

Hart

Model: HLPM061US
Voltage: 40V
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 89 Lbs
Price: $498.00

Kobalt

Model: KMP6080-06
Voltage: 80V
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/2″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 87 Lbs
Price: $599.00

Kobalt

Model: Model KSPM-1040A-03
Voltage: 40V
Deck Size: 20″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/4″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 65 Lbs
Price: $429.00

Makita

Model: XML11CT1
Voltage: 18v x2 (36V)
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/4″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 88.5 Lbs
Price: $499.00

Makita

Model: XML08Z
Voltage: 18v x2 (36V)
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/4″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 94 Lbs
Price: $699.00

Milwaukee

Model: 2823-22HD
Voltage: 18V x2 (36V)
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 80.5 Lbs
Price: $999.00

Ryobi

Model: RY401210
Voltage: 40V
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1.5″
Number of Blades: 2
Weight: 74 Lbs
Price: $799.00

Skil

Model: SM4910-10
Voltage: 40V
Deck Size: 20″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/2″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 60 LBs
Price: $449.00

Snapper

Model: 1687982
Voltage: 82V
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/2″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 71.5 Lbs
Price: $658.36

Stihl

Model: RMA 510 V
Voltage: 36V
Deck Size: 20″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 64 Lbs
Price: $699.99

Toro

Model: 21566
Voltage: 60V
Deck Size: 21″
Max Cutting Height: 4″
Min Cutting Height: 1-1/2″
Number of Blades: 1
Weight: 81 Lbs
Price: $799.00

Best Cordless Lawn Mower Head-to-Head Comparison

While this isn’t a professional testing facility and we are not a professional testing crew, we did gather measurements, analyze each mower in a variety of categories, and rank them against one another.

We always strive to figure out how to make our Head-To-Head tool tests uniform, reproducible, and fair when we start putting them together. In order to give you the Best Cordless Lawn Mower, we looked at the following 10 categories.

1. Noise
2. Run-Time
3. Speed Test
4. Ergonomics and Features
5. Handle Comfort & Adjustment
6. Amount of Grass Mowed
7. Maneuverability
8. Deck Height Adjustability
9. Compact Storage

Cordless Mower Cut Quality

There was no BIG discernible difference in the cut quality of the mowers. The grass we mowed was field-quality, green, and approximately 6-7 inches high. As a result, the grass plant type was not particularly uniform. This made the cut quality hard to determine, and since we did not have a sod-quality lawn, we did not rank this category.

Editor’s Note – Both the Ego and Ryobi have multiple cut blades which enhance the quality of the cut. All the other mowers that we tested had single-blades.

Ego has three blade sets included in your purchase. A set of Mulching Blades for shredding grass into fine bits. For all-around performance, the extended runt time blades set provides a perfect blend of cut quality and duration. Finally, they include their “High Lift Bagging Blade” set, which provides greater suction for bagging and leaves your yard free of clippings.

The Ryobi mower comes with stacked, two crosscut blades making the quality of the cut better, by creating smaller grass clippings.

Quietest Cordless Mower Winner  – Stihl

One of the most often asked topics concerning cordless mowers seems to be how much noise they make.

To gain a relative comparison of noise, we ran a basic decibel test to measure the loudness of the mowers in a controlled environment. The test consisted of running each mower in our barn, on a concrete surface with the deck lifted to its full height. Each mower was tested in the same spot on the floor, and the decibel meter was at the same height and relative position as an average user.

Note: the mowers were tested on top of a concrete slab. In practice, when utilized on a lawn, these mowers are significantly quieter.

When the ECO mode is selected, the mower operates at a lower RPM for situations requiring less power. This increases energy efficiency and battery runtime as well as reduces the noise of the mower. To switch the ECO mode on, swing the battery cover open and hit the ECO select button, and then close the lid.

We ran the test for enough time to have the mowers reach a maximum and stable rpm speed. Many of the mower motors start at a high RPM and then cycle down to a slower speed to save energy. The quietest mower we tested was the Stihl which measured in at 79 decibels.

A three-way tie for second at 80 decibels was Greenworks, Snapper, and Toro. Coming in the loudest mowers were the Ego and Makita XMLCT1 at 88.5 decibels.

There are five mowers that have a turbo feature which increased the noise decibels between 3.5 to 5.0 DBS.  Milwaukee, Echo, Stihl, Greenworks, and Toro. When in turbo mode, which Milwaukee calls “High lift mode,” the Milwaukee was the loudest mower we tested at 90.0 decibels. High lift mode uses a higher blade speed to achieve additional airflow and increased grass lift to deliver better quality mulch or bagging results.

Cordless lawn mowers allow you to cut your lawn efficiently and quietly, with none of the noise, gas, oil, or maintenance that comes with gas-powered solutions ~ ROB

Gas vs Cordless Mower  | Noise

For comparison, the average gas lawnmower produces 95–100 decibels. The noise measurements for our test mowers averaged 82.6 decibels. When compared to a loud gas mower, these cordless mowers cut sound energy by over 20 times when compared to a 100 dB noise level.

Many towns have enacted noise ordinances that limit the times of day you can mow with a gas mower. Cordless mowers are unaffected by these ordinances.

Most Grass Cut | Cordless Mower Run-time

Run-time used to be a big question in the minds of people considering the purchase of battery-powered tools. Huge advancements in battery technology have made cordless mowers a viable option for users. The million-dollar question on everyone’s mind is how much grass will a cordless mower cut on a battery charge?  Mowing run time will vary greatly depending on the height of grass, the thickness of grass, and the type of grass.

Best Cordless Mower Run-time Procedure

We measured and marked mowing lanes for each mower and kept track of the time and total distance that each mower traveled.

Grass Conditions: The grass we mowed was field-quality, green and white clover, and approximately 6-7 inches high. Every mower was set at its highest cut setting, 4″. We set each mower to its maximum speed if it were self-propelled. We asked the operators of non-self-propelled mowers to move at a comfortable pace. It was interesting to note that a 40-year-old man in good shape pushing a mower was faster than most of the self-propelled mowers.)

If any mower completed mowing its entire marked lane, we lowered the mower deck by one additional inch and re-cut that lane. Once the mower stopped running, we used a measuring wheel to measure its final resting spot.  Some mowers have dual batteries that will operate separately. In this instance, if the batteries were provided in the kit, we doubled the calculations to come out with our total distance mowed.

Most Grass Cut | Run-time Winner – Milwaukee

The winner of the most grass mowed in this year’s Best Cordless Mower Head-to-Head goes to Milwaukee.  The M18 mower runs on two 18V 12 Ah batteries.  These power banks propelled Milwaukee to run for 14,936 feet or 2.83 miles.  The total cutting area was 26,138 square feet, a truly impressive amount of grass for a battery-powered mower. The final ranking is based on the area the mower can cut with the total batteries on board. We also showed a column of data on area per watt-hour just as additional information. Ultimately what users are most interested in, is how much area can I mow on a single charge.

Just behind Milwaukee was the Kobalt 80V, mowing a distance of 14,017 feet and 24,540 square feet in our test. The Kobalt is powered by a single 6 Ah battery.

Rounding out the top three was the EGO mower. A single battery powers the EGO like the Kobalt and this kit came with a 10 Ah battery.  The EGO was able to run for 10,868 feet or 2.06 miles, cutting grass over a 19,000 square foot area.

Watt-Hours

It’s important to note that all 16 of these mowers have different battery Amp-Hour, capacities, and voltages.  Comparing one tool’s battery capacity to another by referencing “Amp Hours” is a common practice but an inaccurate and misleading one.  Watt-Hours is calculated by multiplying the voltage (actual load voltage, not the MAX that some companies advertise) by the battery pack Amp-Hours. This calculation allows us to compare the total energy available to do the work based on both the voltage and size of the battery pack (amp-hours).

For example, we can take a look at the two leaders of the runtime/area mowed test, Milwaukee and the Kobalt 80V.  The Milwaukee uses two batteries at 18V and 12 Ah a piece.  Each battery has 18V*12Ah equaling 216 Watt Hours capacity.  Adding both batteries together yields 432 WH onboard and supplied with the kit.  The Kobalt has a single 80V Battery rated at 6Ah with a Watt-Hour capacity of 480.  The takeaway here is that even though the Milwaukee has two batteries each with an advertised 12 Amp Hour, and the Kobalt has a single with “only” 6 Amp Hour, the Kobalt has a larger/more energy-rich battery.

Since we already gathered the data we went ahead and calculated the Area (sf) / watt-hour mowed for each mower kit in the test.  This value is a crude measurement of the efficiency of the mower at cutting grass given its battery capacity.

While an interesting exercise that helps explain how some mowers with smaller batteries outperformed those with larger ones, we feel that this data and any kind of battery normalized performance is irrelevant in this case.  We set out to find which mower “Out of the Box” could cut the most grass.  If you already own batteries of a particular mower platform, this could greatly swing your decision to invest in a particular mower if run-time and cutting area is a concern.

Speed Test – Winner – Milwaukee and Toro

After performing our runtime test, many of the mower operators shared that they wished that their mower moved faster. We decided to test the highest setting propelled speed of the mowers. We set up a 100-yard dash to see who was the fastest. Two crew members were assigned per mover; one operator and one to record the time.

Because many of the mowers require several feet to ramp up speed, we started every mower 6 to 8 feet in front of our timing line. Once the wheels hit the orange line the timer started. Once the wheels hit the 100-yard mark the timer stopped. We tested each mower twice and recorded the average time. There were two mowers that were not self-propelled, the Black and Decker and the Kobalt 40V. These mowers did not compete in this test.

Milwaukee and  Toro tied as the fastest mowers, with an average time of 51 seconds.

ECHO and Ryobi tied for third place, with an average time of  57.5 seconds, and the turtle in the race was the Snapper mower coming in at 78 seconds.

Ergonomics and Features– Winner Ryobi

All 16 mowers have fairly similar features, we considered the following features for this category…

1. Handles
2. Propulsion
3. Controls
4. Foldability / Storage
5. Deck Adjustment
6. Mulching
7. Bagging

For the ergonomics/features, we evaluated seven areas. These included the adjustability of the handle, the effort of maneuverability, human factor in the ease of foldability and storage, deck adjustment, ergonomics, and propulsion/control ergonomics.

The Ryobi shined in this category with 10-points. This 40V HP brushless whisper series 21″ all-wheel-drive mower, has a super easy push-button start, and an onboard lever to choose from: mulching, or bagging.  The 7-position single point height adjustment quickly changes the height from 1″ to 4″. We thought the handle was super comfortable with no hot spots or pinch points. The self-propelled paddle lever being adjustable is a nice feature allowing the user to pick their desired setting. The variable speed control is in a perfect position to adjust on the go without having to take your hand off the handle.

The external fuel gauge ensures was clear and easy to see the battery charge and the one-touch aluminum folding handles store this mower horizontally or vertically into a more compact package.

EGO came in a close second place at 11-points, with its simple and intuitive adjustments and controls. EGO provides an excellent user experience. Most of the control and adjustment buttons or levers are bright green making them easy to find. Our crew also liked how quick and easy the mower handle folds for storage, as well as, the comfortable rubber over-mold handle grip.

Echo came in third with 13-points, with simple, intuitive, and ambidextrous controls. The contoured handle, while comfortable does not allow multiple gripping positions, and the crew noted that while the controls were easily accessed, they were spread out a bit, requiring the operator to remove the hand from the handle. There is NO variable speed paddle, and it has a separate on/off the headlight switch.

Notable Mentions

The DEWALT mower has an “average ” 45-degree pronated grip. The propulsion control lever has little to no modulation. Fine control is difficult to achieve and appears to be a mechanical clutch mechanism. The auto-adjusting speed slows down the mower blade over easy-to-cut grass, and because the propulsion is based on a mechanical clutch it also slows down your pace (at exactly the time when you want to speed up). Slow speed necessitates the operator to extend and hold their fingers, which is awkward and causes hand fatigue. When walking over gravel while pushing the mower, it cannot be propelled without the blade spinning, which could result in a flying item hazard.

The Makita (not PRO) has excellent controls that are easily accessed on the top of the handle assembly. You do however have to move your hand from the handle to access them. It does have an easily adjustable deck height and the handle is all metal making it very durable.

In the last two years, the biggest upgrade to mowers seems to be in the lower tier mowers – Ethan

The Makita Pro has similar features as the other Makita but is way more solid a build. The crew noted that the speed control is a bit off the reach, making awkward adjustments on the fly.  It has excellent controls, easily accessed on top of the handle assembly, you do have to remove your hand from the handle.

Overall the crew felt that the Makita Pro was easy to use, maneuvered fine and the self-propulsion can be left on its turn as the mower speed is slower.  The mower is a bit slow on the speed-up – ramp-up speed which is one reason many of the crew users did not turn off the self-propulsion on turns.

The crew noted that the mower bogged down in 7” inch clover set at 4” deck height.  Operating on two batteries, this mower has a compartment for 4 batteries with a switch between the 2 with a knob on the motor, so you do not have to open the lid to access it. A battery led shows all 4 battery charges at the same time.

When set at mid-range [or lower] we noted that the front right wheel was not touching the ground. The crew all felt that in terms of cut quality it would have a negligible difference on the cut, as this measurement off was 1/8” strong.

The Makita Pro has two handle height adjustments that require a tool to set.   This is a heavy machine, with front and rear lift points, it is truly built for daily Pro use.

The TORO has what they call a “Personal Pace” self-propel drive, which is a  sliding handle grip that slides along with the handle frame – as you push it forward,  it starts propulsion and controls it. It definitely takes some getting used to. The arched [rounded] shaped handle is unique looking, and comfortable but has side-to-side slop possibly causing it to rack. Other than the propulsion system this mower is no-frills and could use an upgrade. (Cannot be propelled without the blade spinning, requires each wheel lever to adjust the deck height Handle does not telescope).

The SNAPPER has a self-propelled sliding handle similar to the Toro, Snapper calls it “step-sense” The Snapper has a variable speed that is built into the Step-sense handle feature. Unlike the Toro, the variable speed can be locked out with a locking knob on the handle deck. Lightweight. This is a no-frill mower, with no lift points.

Maneuverability Winner – Black and Decker and Kobalt 40V

Because they were not self-propelled, the Black and Decker and Kobalt 40V mowers were more maneuverable than the others. To move tightly with self-propelled machines, the user must disconnect the propulsion. The operator must press against the propelling mechanism to turn the mower tightly.

The Black and Decker is super light, very maneuverable, and great for smaller framed people or folks who might have issues with a heavier mower. Because of the weight and no propulsion, this makes trimming around gardens and trees incredibly easy.

The same can be said about the Kobalt 40v, due to the not having a self-propulsion, this mower is geared to smaller yards or a yard with lots of maneuvering around planting beds.

Milwaukee took 2nd place and was the best maneuverability in the self-propelled mowers. This was due because of the short wheelbase front to back. The mowers with the longest wheelbase ranked towards the bottom.

The maneuverability of push mowers is especially important when trimming around gardens, trees, and other landscaping features. The ease with which the mower turns is largely due to the wheels and mower weight.

EGO took third place, and the crew noted that by applying pressure with your palm you can easily engage the self-propelled system. When mowing, users discovered that easing up on the drive button made for smoother, tighter turns.

The Hart mower lost a wheel on one of our maneuvering tests. It looks like the nut /washer on the wheel could benefit from a Nylock nut. Based on this, Hart received a low score in the fit and finish the scoring. The mower itself once repaired maneuvered well.

Deck Height Adjustability Winner – Kobalt 40V and Kobalt 80V

All of the mowers, with the exception of one, we tested include a single-lever, deck height adjustment feature. This sure does beat adjusting each wheel like the old-style mowers we grew up with.

The winners of this category were the Kobalt 40V and 80V due to a combination of their large lever, they both have a strong return spring and are easy to engage. They both feature a 7 deck-height adjustment option, ranging from 4″ at its highest to lowest at 1-1/4″ setting.

Ryobi, Milwaukee, and Stihl came in a close second due to their large handle levers, spring-assisted, and easy-to-use lifting and lowering levers.

The only mower that still has individually adjustable wheels is the Toro. Due to this, we had no choice but to put it in last place for deck adjustability – that’s just archaic.

“Come on Toro! Individually adjustable wheels? Nobody has time for that… it’s 2022!” – SCOTT

Notable Mention

The crew liked the EGO deck adjustment height lever. It has a nice handle but agreed that it was tough to actuate. We assume in time the spring might loosen up and might be easier to raise and lower. 

Some mowers had knuckle-busting setups that would cause the user to hit the lower part of the handle assembly when adjusting the mower for taller cutting.

Compact Design & Storage Size Winners – EGO and Ryobi,

Garages tend to get taken over by mowers, trimmers, and tools throughout the summer, so foldability and storage are crucial to some people. Furthermore, cordless mowers CAN be stored upright without the worry of spilling gas or filling the engine cylinder with oil.

The entire crew considered factors such as; telescopic handles, pivot points, grab handles, and the ability to stand upright on its own while evaluating how easy it was to set up and fold down each mower.

We examined these aspects and attributes as a group and then scored them on a scale of one to five, with one being the best.

There was a three-way tie for the most compact mower in this category. When folded, the EGO, Ryobi, and Hart have the smallest storage space. They are incredibly compact and can easily be stored vertically or horizontally.

EGO

The EGO mower is easy to fold and store compact. You can hang it from the front handle or store it upright. The handle can be telescoped in and out using two side levers. To fold the handle down horizontally, simply pull a large, easily accessed lever. If needed, the EGO additionally has two handles for easy carrying.

Ryobi

The Ryobi mower has a single pull lever to open to fold the handle. Once folded it is very compact and easily stands vertically. The Ryobi had one rear carrying handle the no telescoping features.

HART

The “fast-fold” feature on the Hart mower is a lever that pulls up for a quick, smooth handle fold. There is no need for a telescoping feature because of the short handle, and it folds up extremely compact.

The one mower that does not fold is the Makita PRO grade. We believe that commercial mowers are not meant to store. They are put in a trailer and come off at every site. With that being said the Makita Pro mower has front and rear lift points and is truly heavy duty! A workhorse for sure!

Best Cordless Mower Price Winner – Black and Decker

One of, if not the most sought question is going to be how much money are these mowers.  We always mention that one big factor is what battery platform you are working off of. Well, we think that for cordless mowers that might not be the case. There are several brands on this list that do not manufacture power tools and the majority of the ones that do have larger voltage systems for their mowers.

At the time of publication, these prices are mowers that come in a kit form. Some of these mowers can be purchased in big box stores, or on the web at Acme Tools, or other retail websites. Below is a chart of how these mower kits are sold and the components in each kit.

Coming in at the lowest cost is the Black and Decker CM2043C which will run you $347.0.0 and is a great mower for someone who is mowing a smaller area. The mower deck is plastic and is a “no-frills” mower that will get the job done for your average homeowner. Cutting at roughly 1/4 acre on a single charge, this mower can handle your weekly lawn cut!

With a price of $399.00, the Skil mower comes in second place as the lowest-priced mower. Powered by Skil’s PWRCORE 40V battery, this mower covered a lot of grass on our tests! Covering more than 1.5 miles of mowed grass, this Skil finished mid-pack. It is lightweight and has a telescoping handle for great storage.

The Kobalt 40V mower is the third-ranked lowest-priced mower at $429.00. This mower also has a steel deck and provides about 45 minutes of continuous cut on a 40V 6.0Ah battery. This is a good choice if you are already using other 40V Kobalt Outdoor Power Equipment!

On the flip side, the Milwaukee 2823-22HD comes in at the highest mower and will run you $999.00. That being said, it shined in our area mowed testing, it won the fastest mower test and has some sick features like multiple LED lights. This mower ships with (2) M18 12.0 Ah batteries which probably make up half the cost of the mower!

Best Cordless Mower – Milwaukee

These tests and evaluations are very difficult, take a lot of time, and are ultimately limited in scope as we’re not a professional testing company. We also cannot do long-term testing that would shed light on durability. In order to choose the best cordless mower, all six [6] evaluated categories were scored and ranked 1 through 16, to define the winner. We then tallied those category numbers to come up with a total number. The lower the number the better.

The Milwaukee M18 21″ Self-Propelled Dual Battery Mower took the crown on Best Cordless Mower of 2022. This mower is powerful, running on (2) M18 12.0Ah batteries! It was super fast in our speed test and it covered over 14, 936 feet mowed. That is 2.83 miles of mowing. It ran at full speed for over 44 minutes which is up at the top of the pack when it comes to run time. The team really appreciated its great ergonomics, foldability, maneuverability, and nicely thought-out design!

The team was impressed with the fit and finish of the handles, controls,  steel deck, and overall durable design of this mower. The rear wheel self-propelled drive allowed this mower to move fast and maneuver well.

Many of the crew members who used the mower commented on how quick the throttle to the motor reaction was.  

Milwaukee claims that its optimized steel deck design, higher blade speed, and airflow deliver increased lift which reduces missed grass blades and clumps for better quality grass cutting. Our team noted that the mower’s higher blade speed helped, and did not stall the mower in taller grass.

The blade and propulsion reached full throttle in under 1 second. The throttle or “Active Speed Management Paddle,” as Milwaukee refers to it allowed us to easily adjust mower speed to walking pace. The Milwaukee delivers 10 ft-lb cutting torque and a variable speed self-propel: 0 MPH – 4 MPH.

Many of the crew liked and commended the futuristic 4 location LED light design, although we all agreed that lights on a mower are not an important feature.

As a Milwaukee cordless tool user, I immediately recognized that the two 12Ah batteries with this unit separately cost $500, and can be used in my other high-demand tools. That makes this mower much more attractive to me and puts it in the $400 range. ~ ROB

Lastly, the single-point height adjustment, 2-point carry handles, and easy vertical storage allowed this mower to rise quickly to the top.  As professional contractors, we also like that the Milwaukee mower batteries will run Milwaukee tools.

Our hats go out to The EGO POWER+ 21″ Select Cut XP Self-Propelled Mower which continues to crush its competitors when it comes to outdoor power equipment. This mower is no slouch and it finished right under the winner. It has great ergonomics, cut just over 2 miles at 10,868 ft on a single 56V 10.0Ah battery. This machine will cut anything you throw in front of it. Having the ability to turn off the self-propel feature avoids accidental flying hazards while moving the mower over non-grass areas. 

The team liked that you can engage the “Touch Drive” self-propel function with the touch of your palm, and control the variable speed with a dial with your other hand.  The Ego delivers 8.3 ft-lb cutting torque and a variable speed self-propel: .9 MPH – 3.1 MPH

The Ego also has a 7-position cutting height adjustment from 1.5″- 4″ and bright LED headlights. Ego’s Select Cut Multi-blade Cutting System is equipped with three, interchangeable lower blades; the Mulching Blade, High Lift Bagging Blade, and Extended Run-time Blade.

Ryobi and Stihl tied for third with 30-points.

The Ryobi was the only all-wheel-drive lawn mower. It features two interactive battery ports, and a fast and easy  7-position single-point height adjustment from 1″ to 4″. The crew appreciated the external fuel gauge, LED lights, and one-touch folding handles but were impressed by the integrated mulch plug which engages with a simple one-handed lever.

The Stihl RMA 510 V performed exceptionally well in all of our tests with exception of the speed test. Users wished that this awesome mower self-propulsion was a little faster.

The Stihl was highly maneuverable with an easy-to-use variable speed setting control, allowing mowing speed between 0.6 mph to 2.8 mph. Our crew was impressed with this mower’s fit and finish, especially the durable, 10-inch rear wheels and 8-inch front ball-bearing wheels.

Our team liked that it offers seven adjustable cutting heights, and the handlebar adjusts to three height positions for user comfort. The Stihl is priced $100 less than the Ego and Ryobi, and $300 less than the Milwaukee.

Best Cordless Mower Value Winner – Greenworks

The ECHO mower is our best value winner. This mower competed with the big boys for sure. It scored 6th in the overall finish scoring and came in 5th with a cost of $499.00.

The ECHO scored top three in the fit and finish speed, and ergonomics categories.  It has simple, intuitive, and ambidextrous controls. This machine gives you seven adjustments for cutting increments between 1 and 4-inch cutting heights and an auto-switch dual-battery dock.

Overall the team thought you would get the best bang for your buck, or should we say “cut for your green.”  

Final Thoughts

The noise, odor, and maintenance that come with owning a gas-powered mower are no longer an issue for cordless mower owners. Coupled with other cordless outdoor power equipment, you can now keep the gas to your cars. Cordless outdoor power equipment has come leaps and bounds since its inception and it continues to impress us.

Gas mowers have been around for over 100 years but with powerful lithium-ion battery technology, they are really competing with gas-powered mowers!

Thanks for following and please check out our other Head 2 Head tests!

Best Cordless Mower 2022 | Tool Testing Review Video

Best Cordless Mower 2022 is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HART 20V Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer Review

20V Pole Hedge Trimmer & 8" Pole Saw Kit

3/5

Manufacturer: HART
Model number: HGPH011VNM & HGPS011
Power source: 20V Li-Ion Battery

20V Pole Saw Specs

• Bar Length: 8″
• Extension Pole Length: 9.5′
• Bar Oil: Not Required
• Warranty: 3 Year limited

20V Pole Hedge trimmer Specs

• Blade Length: 18″
• Cut Capacity: 5/8″
• SPM: 3,000
• Weight: 8.35 Lbs.
• Warranty: 3 Year Limited

HART Extendable Pole System

Both the pole saw and hedge trimmer use an extendable pole system. There is a length attached to the powerhead with the controls as well as the cutter head. An extra midsection is included with each tool to reach the max length. These sections connect through a hand screw system, as pictured above. This collar is easy to use and held securely during use.

HART 20V Pole Hedge Trimmer

The HART pole hedge trimmer features an adjustable head that is capable of rotating a full 90° in either direction. This flexibility is excellent for trimming tall bushes overhead. I found it most beneficial when trimming those annoying thick weeds and saplings that are too large for a string trimmer and too small for a pole saw. The HART trimmer is capable of cutting up to 5/8″ diameter which makes it well suited for this job. I set the trimmer head parallel to the ground and held the extended shaft where it was comfortable to use, then simply walked along cutting the brush.

HART Cordless Pole Saw

Of the two tools tested, the performance of the 8″ pole saw most impressed me. The bar and chain feature a screw-turn tension adjustment system. The system worked well and the chain never slacked-out excessively. There is also a brush hook molded into the bottom of the housing that is excellent for moving limbs out of the way or hooking a stuck branch after it is cut.

Pole Saw Cutting Performance

The pole saw lacks any form of lubrication for the bar and chain. There is no bar oil reservoir and therefore long-term durability of the tool is a concern of mine. But then I remember, this is not designed for a professional landscaper or arborist. So occasional homeowner use should not be an issue at all.

I performed an impromptu runtime test with the saw on an approximately 4″ diameter maple tree limb. To my surprise, the HART made a total of 14 full depth cuts and then approximately 3/4 depth on the 15th. This was done with the included 2.0 Ah battery. I fully anticipated less than ten cuts with such a small battery. The unbranded saw chain also threw chips well and did not bo down at all.

Overall Impressions of the HART Cordless Pole Tools

In my opinion, HART continues to deliver upon its philosophy of value and convenience-based tools for the average homeowner or DIYer. The 20V cordless pole saw and pole hedge trimmer fully lives up to that reputation. They are adjustable and surprisingly powerful tools that are well suited to maintaining a small home or garden area. As with all HART tools, they are exclusively available from Walmart.

Currently, the pole saw retails for $158.00 as a kit and the hedge trimmer for $148.00. Overall this is a great value for the tool with a charger and one 2.0 Ah battery, for occasional use with no extra maintenance needed. I would strongly recommend a larger battery pack if you intend to use the tools for extended periods of time. Follow the Buy Now link below to purchase directly from Walmart.

HART 20V Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HART 20V Cordless Combo Kit Review

20V Cordless Tool Combo Kit

3/5

Manufacturer: HART
Power source: 20V Battery

At the time HART sent these tools to me for review, they were available as a standard combo kit. HART’s kit offerings have changed since then and these three specific tools are no longer available as a standard kit. You can see the current kit configurations here.

HART 20V Battery Platform

Overall the I have found the 20V battery platform to be the main strength of HART’s cordless platform. The batteries are reliable and provide sufficient power. Additionally, the four-port charger offered by HART works well and charges the smaller 1.5 Ah batteries quickly. This larger charger greatly helps with battery management as well because the batteries do not feature a charge gauge. This can be frustrating at times as I mentioned in my review of their 20V Cordless Sander.

HART 20V Inflator

The Model HPIF01 is capable of up to 150 PSI of output. Overall this tool is well suited for common household tasks like bike tires or other outdoor power equipment. It has a very large grip that I found to be very comfortable, but I do have XXL hands. The HART inflator is also perfectly capable of inflating car tires as well.

The controls are definitely a shortcoming though. With the air hose attached to the valve stem, the display screen clearly shows the current PSI of the object you are inflating. However, once you are pulling the activation switch, the screen no longer reads the proper PSI. There is also no lockout on the trigger and it must be held down the entire time. This turned into an odd game of guessing in my head what the PSI might be, then releasing the trigger to see where the PSI actually drops to and settles. This became aggravating at times.

HART 20V Hand Vac

As a kid, my mother had a hand-held cordless that really wasn’t very useful at all. Dust and debris seemed to fall out of it more than it actually cleaned. The HART Hand Vac is the complete opposite. HART’s Model HPHV01 vacuum is powerful and convenient. It quickly became a “go-to” in my house for quick cleanups.

The nose of the vac has a folding crevice tool that greatly helps reach into small areas. The crevice extension clicks solidly into place during use. To empty or clean out the vacuum, the entire front end disconnects from the main tool body. The blue filter holder is then removed by hand and the collection tank can be emptied.

Overall the HART Hand Vac is great for small cleanups. It is not well suited for heavy cleanup work or large piles of sawdust, but it does well with smaller dry piles. One concern is that the detachable tank has a bit of a weak detent connection and occasionally popped off while I was using it. Making another mess to clean up. The mesh screen in the filter area would often get clogged if cleaning up pet hair.

HART 20V Rotary Tool

Of all the tools I tested in this kit, the Model HPRL01 rotary tool is my favorite. The cordless convenience allows the tool to be used anywhere. This is a true craft/DIY style tool and I enjoyed using it outside with my family for a variety of projects. The speed is adjustable from 5,000-34,000 RPM with designated high and low settings. The RPMs are easily adjusted using a speed control nob on the front of the tool.

The rotary pen portion of the tool has a flexible shaft and a convenient spindle lock built into the grip. Swapping out tool heads is fast and easy thanks to this lock. Furthermore, the tool includes 33 accessories bits with a built-in storage case. There are round peg-holes on the top of the tool for convenient access and storage during use. The spindle is compatible with all common rotary tool accessories.

Price and Availability of the HART 20V Cordless Combo Kit

Like with all HART tools, the 20V cordless combo kit that I had the opportunity to review is exclusive to Walmart stores. Pricing and availability will also vary depending on which combo-kit purchased or if going the bare tool route. HART’s bare tool pricing is very attractive for individuals looking for occasional use or craft/DIY platform. The 20V Rotary tool retails currently for $69.00, the hand vac for $29.76, and the inflator for $19.88. These prices are typically unheard of in the power tool world.

The variety of combo kit options offered by HART is, in my opinion, extremely attractive when purchasing for others or first-time buyers. An individual looking for tools to craft with or projects with their families would be well suited with the HART offerings.

Click the Buy Now box below to browse the wide selection of HART tools at Walmart.

Overall Impression of the HART 20V Combo Kit

Overall the performance of the tools from HART was not in the same class as their professional-grade counterparts. However, they do work and they are affordable. The secret niche I have seen with HART’s offerings is that they are encouraging individuals to get out there and try things for themselves. More importantly, it becomes almost a household event. My kids were even more excited than I was to get out and use and test the HART 20V cordless combo kit. That’s a powerful thing. The fact that individuals who may be hesitant to try things can save some money by purchasing a HART combo kit is just the icing on the cake.

If you are looking for professional performance and capability, then you need to shop accordingly. For instance, purchasing a compact 12V compact platform or 18V sub-compact platform form a professional brand. However, for tinkering and doing projects around the house, my kids and I can give a big thumbs up (or one tongue sticking out) to HART.

HART 20V Cordless Combo Kit Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HART Tools 40V Brushless Turbo Fan Blower Review

HART sent me their new 40V Turbo Fan Blower Model #HLBL031VNM for this latest tool review. Over the last year HART has really hit the ground running with their cordless tool options. Their lines of 20V and also 40V cordless tools is ever expanding. Tool Box Buzz has been fortunate enough to wring out man of these offerings. Therefore I was excited to check out this new piece of outdoor power equipment from HART.

40V Brushless Turbo Fan Blower

4/5

Manufacturer: HART Tools
Model number: HLBL031VNM
Price: $197.00
Power source: 40V Battery
Weight: 7.85 Lbs.

HART tools are a great mix of value and performance. The turbo fan blower is another well executed product from HART that lives up to that ideology. While it may not pack the power of a commercial grade blower, the Turbo Fan is infinitely useful at home or while cleaning up a jobsite.

Features and Specifications:

• Air Volume: 550 CFM
• Air Speed: 125 MPH
• Brushless Motor
• Turbo Button for Extra Power
• Variable Speed Trigger
• Weight: 7.85 LBS.

Standout Features of the HART Turbo Fan

Ergonomics

The turbo fan blower is well balanced and comfortable in hand. The handle is positioned over the motor housing and is over sized. The grip features rubber over molding for traction and the variable speed trigger is large enough to get a couple of fingers on. The handle also features a cant to it that allows the blower to hang at a comfortable angle during use.

Power

A Power Boost button is located on the top of the handle. While holding the variable speed trigger all the way down and then simultaneously pressing this button, the turbo fan really…blows! Power Boost achieves the full potential of the HART brushless motor and generates the 550 CFM power that is advertised. The turbo fan had plenty of power for clearing the driveway after mowing, moving small piles of leaves, or cleaning out the shop floor.

Staring down the business end of the Turbo Fan

Battery Life

HART includes a 4.0 Ah battery pack with the 40V turbo fan. This battery pack uses a simple slide charger system like all HART batteries. The 40V platform also thankfully includes a push button battery charge level gauge. This is a feature that is missing from some of the smaller 20V packs. My 40V battery pack was more than sufficient for general around the house use.

Pricing and Availability of the Turbo Fan Blower

HART currently only offers the turbo fan as a kit for $197.00. Which includes the blower, charger, and a single 4.0 Ah battery pack. As with all HART tools, this model is exclusive to Walmart. As of writing this article the blower is available online and in stores. Click the buy it now box below to purchase directly from Walmart.

Pricing on this model is good, but not great. Ideally I would like to see it come down slightly to put it more in range of it’s cousins being sold at big orange box stores. But it is incredibly convenient being able to purchase this tool from a mega retailer like Walmart.

Overall Thoughts on the HART HLBL031VNM

This latest offering from HART really impressed me as powerful and well balanced tool. The Turbo Fan blower has become my go-to option for cleaning up my garage floor as well as my shop. The ease of use and power of the 40V system also have me leaving my gas powered backpack blower in the corner and relying upon the HART more and more often.

Overall this tool is well suited for the homeowner looking to do small cleanups as well as contractor looking for virtually maintenance free option for site cleanup. If HART was able to lower the retail price slightly, I think this would be an absolute blowout. Pun unashamedly intended.

Check out the HART website for more information or Walmart to purchase directly. This would make an excellent companion tool to HART’s 40V Cordless lawnmower as featured in our recent Head-2-Head article.

HART 40V Turbo Fan Blower Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Cordless Lawn Mower Head-To-Head | 2020

Cordless Lawn Mowers have taken over the lawn and garden section in many retail stores. Six years ago, Tool Box Buzz ran a Best Cordless Lawn Mower Head-to-Head test of five cordless mowers, so we were really interested in how the field of manufacturers has increased and how the offerings have changed after six years.

Our 2020 cordless lawn mower head-to-head will answer the question of whether cordless mowers’ performance “cut it” when compared to a gas-powered mower.

Why Cordless Lawn Mowers?

Even when operated correctly, gas-powered mowers require lots of service including oil changes, fuel filters, spark plugs, and air filters. Oftentimes people wait to do service until the mower won’t start! Anyone who has had to get a small engine repaired knows the hassle and time-sink that can be. Cordless mowers eliminate all of the above-mentioned maintenance, last-minute fuel purchases and they’re quieter to operate and do not emit fumes.

Cordless Lawn Mower Line Up

We reached out to 10 of the top cordless lawn mower manufacturers and asked if they would like to participate in our head to head article. We received 12 mowers, Greenworks and Kobalt sent two models. The models we tested included:

Black and Decker  60 V POWERSWAP 20″ Cordless Mower CM2060C

DEWALT  2x 20V Brushless 20 in. 3-IN-1 Cordless Lawn Mower DCMW220X2C 

EGOPower+ 21″ Select Cut Mower with Touch Drive Self-Propelled Technology LM2130SP

Greenworks   60V 21 in. Cordless Brushless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower with 5Ah Battery and Charger 2520102

Greenworks 60V 25 in. Cordless Mower  with 4Ah and 2.5 Ah Battery and Charger 2510802

HART 40V Brushless 21″ Self Propelled Mower Kit HLPM021VMN

Kobalt 80-volt Max Brushless  Self-propelled 21-in Cordless Mower MP 6080-06

Kobalt 40-volt Max Brushless Self-propelled 21-in Cordless Mower KMP 2580-06

Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT® Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 21″ Self‑Propelled Lawn Mower Kit with 4 Batteries (5.0Ah) XML08PT1

Ryobi 21 in. 40-Volt Cordless Self Propelled Mower with 7.5 Ah Batteries & 1 Charger RY401130

SKIL PWRCore 40 Brushless 40V 20″ Self-Propelled Mower Kit SM4910-10

STIHL Cordless Lawn Mower RMA 510 V

** Weight includes batteries but does not include clippings bag.

Cordless Lawn Mower Head-to-Head Comparison

While this head to head is not a scientific research project, we did take measurements, evaluate each mower in several categories, and rank them against each other. When we begin to pull together our Head-To-Head tool tests, we always try to figure out how to make the tests consistent, repeatable, and fair. Often, we figure out how to take the human variable out of a test, but we couldn’t do that with mowers.

We looked at the following categories in order to give you the Best Cordless Lawn Mower.

• Quality of Cut – This was a subjective comparison based on mowing adjacent areas of lawn and comparing the quality of the cut areas.
• Noise – We measured decibel levels for each mower. The test was performed with each mower set at the highest deck level, sitting on a concrete slab. We measured the noise at the highest motor speed and the lowest (Note – some models motors ramp down due to demand to save battery life).
• Run-Time – Run-time is affected by so many different variables. However, we wanted to give a relative comparison for discussion purposes so we tested the run-time using a very large field and ran the mowers under “load” conditions.
• Ergonomics – Ergonomics play a major role in all of our evaluations and testing. Not only does the mower need to perform well, but it’s very important that it is comfortable, which ultimately leads to more productivity and reduced risk of injury.
• Handle Comfort & Adjustment– Another subjective comparison focusing on the handle height, adjustments, and overall comfort.
• Maneuverability – We evaluated how easily the mowers were to push and to cut around trees.  This category is largely factored based on the mower weight, self-propulsion, and wheelbase design.
• Deck Height Adjustability – We ranked each of the mowers based on how easy they were to adjust the cutting deck height.
• Rough Stuff – We took the mowers to a field that had 18” tall grass to see which mowers could handle this condition.
• Compact Storage – Users know that folding up and storing these mowers is an important consideration for purchasing. We examined what it took to fold these up and how much volume it takes to store them.

Cordless Lawn Mower Features

All 12 mowers have fairly similar features included the ones noted in the table below:

Both Hart and Stihl have an inoperable battery storage bay (this means when one battery is exhausted, the pack needs to be swapped out manually). One of the big differences with the mowers is how many battery packs each one uses, and how those packs are combined/utilized to power the mower.

• The Greenworks switches automatically to the next battery pack when the first one is exhausted.
• Makita has a switch that is used to change from one set of packs to the other when the first packs are exhausted.
• Lastly, there are others that run two batteries in parallel, like DEWALT and Makita (Makita holds 4 batteries onboard that swap over with a switch).

Cut Quality – Winner EGO Power+

To evaluate the cut quality we mowed adjacent areas with each mower side by side. After cutting the grass we evaluated how well the grass was cut.  The cut quality of the grass areas was excellent. This is due to the fact that each mower was brand new with an extremely sharp and new blade. There was no BIG discernible difference in the cut quality of the mowers.

Note on grass quality: The grass we mowed was field-quality. As a result, the grass plant type was not particularly uniform. This made the cut quality harder to determine than if we had cut a sod-quality lawn.

Since we were evaluating cut quality, we noted that one mower had a unique blade configuration. The Ego Power+ mower comes with three blades. The mower itself runs with a two-blade combination. The top blade is consistent in any combination. The bottom blade is designed to be switched out with either:  a ‘Premium Mulching Blade’ or a ‘Premium Bagging Blade’.

The Premium Mulching Blade is ideal for weekly mowing, giving you the cut quality and run time expected from high-end gas lawnmowers. The Premium Bagging Blade is a heavy-duty blade that turns grass into fine fragments ideal for both bagging and mulching.

We wanted to see if there was a difference in cut quality between all of the single-blade mowers, and the two mowers that had unique blade configurations, [EGO and 25″ Greenworks] hoping to see a cut quality difference.

We attached grass bags to the mowers and mowed a consistent section of grass. The team examined the clippings and saw a substantive difference in the size of the grass pieces. The EGO clippings were much smaller in size than the second-best sample that belonged to the 25″ Greenworks mower. Both of these mowers cut the grass into much finer pieces than the single-blade mowers.

We ranked the EGO mower in the top spot, followed by the 25″ Greenworks mower. The ten single-bladed mowers ranked in third place for cut quality.

Noise Winner – Makita XML08PT1

One of the biggest questions readers have asked about cordless mowers seems to be how much noise do they produce?

We did a basic decibel test to measure the noise of the mowers in a controlled situation to get a relative comparison of noise. The test consisted of running each mower with the deck raised to its midpoint level sitting on a concrete slab. We placed each mower in the exact same designated spot on the floor in a large barn and the decibel meter located in the same height and relative position to the test mower. The decibel meter used an ITU-R 468 frequency rating.

We ran the test for enough time to have the mowers reach a maximum and stable rpm speed. Many of the mower motors start at a high RPM and then cycle down to a slower speed to save energy. Our time interval took the readings before the speed algorithms stepped the rpm down because of the no-load condition.

Makita took the win with 80.5 dB and was noticeably quieter even without a decibel meter. HART came in second place with 82.4 dB and EGO was third with 84.1 dB.

For reference, the average gas lawnmower produces approximately 95 – 100 dB. The average of the noise measurements for our test mowers was 86.1 dB. Compared to a 100 dB noise level, these cordless mowers reduce the sound energy you hear by just over 20 times compared to a loud gas mower. (decibels are a logarithmic scale, 14 decibels difference is approximately 20 times louder).

Many communities have adopted noise restrictions that limit the time that you can mow with a gas mower. Please note that these mowers were measured while running on top of a concrete slab. In practice, these are much quieter when used on a lawn. As a group, these mowers will not have to be limited in their time of use. That is a great improvement!

Run-Time Winner – Kobalt 80v MP 6080-06

Run-time is a big question on the minds of people considering the purchase of battery-powered mowers. Huge advancements in battery technology are making these cordless mowers a viable option but the million-dollar question on everyone’s mind is how long can you mow on a battery charge? Mowing run time will vary greatly depending on the height of grass, the thickness of grass, and the type of grass.

The winner of our run-time test was the Kobalt 80v mower.

It’s important to note that all 12 of these mowers have different battery Amp-Hour, capacities, and voltages. So, how do you make any sense of that in order to determine the best runtime?  We measured the performance of the mowers “out of the box,” and also normalized performance on the basis of the energy available. [Watt-Hours explained below]

In order to get a relative comparison of run time, we tested the mowers in a very large field under load conditions. The field was mowed a week prior to our test and the grass type and height were very consistent within the borders of the test area. We set the deck height at the same height of 2 ½” for each mower.

We set each mower to its maximum speed if it were self-propelled. For the push mowers, (DEWALT and Black & Decker) we asked the operators to move at a comfortable pace. (It was interesting to note that a 40-year old man in good shape pushing a mower was much faster than most of the self-propelled mowers.)

Runtime Procedure

We measured, and marked off mowing lanes for each mower and kept track of the time and total distance that each mower traveled by counting the number of laps it traveled. We required the operator to place the wheel onto the furthest extent of the previous lap.

In the event that any mower completed its entire lane, we lowered the mower deck by one additional inch and re-cut the lane.

Watt-Hours is calculated by multiplying the voltage (actual load voltage, not the MAX that some companies advertise) by the battery pack Amp-Hours. This calculation allows us to compare the total energy available to do the work based on both the voltage and size of the battery pack (amp-hours).

The Kobalt 80v took first place, it ran 85.5 minutes and mowed 38,600 sq. ft. Second place went to the MAKITA, it ran 83 minutes, and mowed 35,000 Sq. Ft. Third place went to the Greenworks 60V 21″ mower which ran for 65 minutes and mowed 27,700 Sq Ft.

The HART mower ran the least at 22 minutes and mowed 8,400 Sq. Ft.

Ergonomics – Winner 25″ Greenworks

Ergonomics is the science of designing and producing tools that improve a worker’s efficiency while reducing discomfort, fatigue, and risk of injury.

For the ergonomics, we evaluated seven areas. These included the adjustability of the handle, the effort of maneuverability,  human factor in the ease of foldability and storage, deck adjustment ergonomics, and the control ergonomics.

The Greenworks mowers were virtually identical in a number of ergonomic categories and scored very well in those. The mowers’ handle adjustment factors, the ease of folding and unfolding the mowers, and the design of the mower control were where the Greenworks units shined. In close second place was the ergonomic scores in these categories that the EGO mower collected.

Handle Comfort & Adjustment Winner –Both Greenworks Mowers Models 21″ 2520102 and 25″ 2510802

When it comes to comfort with respect to push mowers the handle is a big deal. Both of the Greenworks mowers were superior to the group in terms of comfort, handle height, and adjustments. Adjustment is easily done with the two slides on each side of the handle. Just pull back on them and they dis-engage pins that set the adjustment and you can move the handle up or down. Release the slides and once the pins spring back into place you’re ready to go!

The EGO has a very simple and intuitive adjustment single lever near the base of the handle. Testers liked the large rubber over-mold handle and found it to be quite comfortable. The controls are also easy to use and everything is pretty intuitive, most buttons or levers are green making them easy to find.

The Skil has a wide paddle switch for the self propel mode along with an easy handle adjustment. Making it a third-place runner up in this category.

Maneuverability Winner – Black & Decker Model CM2060C

Black and Decker and DEWALT were more maneuverable than the rest of the mowers because they were NOT self-propelled. The self-propelled units require the user to disengage the propulsion in order to maneuver tightly. The user must then push against the propulsion mechanism to turn the mower tightly.

The 25″ Greenworks was the best maneuverability in the self-propelled mowers. This was due because of the short wheelbase front to back. The mowers with the longest wheelbase ranked towards the bottom.

The maneuverability of push mowers is especially important when trimming around gardens, trees, and other landscaping features. The ease with which the mower’s turn is largely a result of the wheels and mower weight.

Deck Height Adjustability Winner – Ryobi

All of the mowers we tested include a single lever deck height adjustment feature. This sure does beat adjusting each wheel like the old-style mowers. The Ryobi mower was a dramatic stand out with a grab handle that allowed the user to lift or drop the mower while adjusting the height. Rather than the other mechanisms which all relied on a short lever to lift the mower.  EGO took second place with the deck height adjustment out on the deck, clear of any obstructions. Third place went to the Skil, the large handle and reinforced plastic detent plate worked smoothly and easily.

Some mowers had knuckle-busting setups that would cause the user to hit the lower part of the handle assembly when adjusting the mower for taller cutting.

Rough Stuff Testing – Not included in Rankings

We took the mowers to a field that had 18” tall grass and weeds to see which mowers could handle this condition. We recognize that this is the WRONG application for this type of equipment, and did not use the results in the final rankings.

Almost all of the mowers pushed the larger weeds down and simply cut the leaves off of them. The lighter mowers with plastic decks tended to float over the top of the weeds, the Skil and Hart mowers were especially prone to this. Amazingly only one mower failed this test. The 40v Kobalt stalled out three times in quick succession and was the only mower that we felt ‘did not finish’.

Some mowers stalled out but started back up or were simply clogged up with leaves and weeds, and once cleared started up again. The Black and Decker, 21″ Greenworks, 25″ Greenworks, Skil, and Kobalt 80v mowers completed the test without stalling or needing their bags emptied. Testers found that the lightweight Black and Decker, Skil, and Hart mowers basically just slid over the top of the really tall weeds and didn’t do much cutting, but they did cut the overgrown grass.

A few mowers clogged up and needed their bags emptied (we decided to give them a thorough test on bagging in this context as well).  The 25″ Greenworks cut well, which we attribute to the dual blades. The Stihl stopped running a few times because the bag was full but completed the test and absolutely dominated bagging efficiency. The Makita clogged up but would get right back to it when the bag was emptied. The Kobalt 80V got through the test without stalling but didn’t cut as well as some of the other mowers. The EGO’s dual blades made for better cutting and it filled it’s bag near the end of the test and stopped at that point but picked right back up after the bag was emptied. All in All the 25″ Greenworks, 21″ Greenworks, and Kobalt 80v mowers performed best in this test, no stalling and doing a decent job of knocking down the rough stuff.

Compact Design & Storage Size Winner – EGO LM2130SP

Storage is important to some folks, as garages seem to be taken over by mowers, trimmers, and tools during the summer.  Additionally, cordless mowers CAN be stored vertically without the fear of spilling gas onto the floor or filling the cylinder with engine oil.

The EGO LM213oSP really blew away the competition with their very easy to store design. In just 15 seconds you can quickly fold the unit up and store it vertically in a space the size of a suitcase. Because the EGO can be stored both horizontal and vertically, it offers a better solution in tight spaces. Also, with the vertical solution, you can even hang it on the wall which I think is a great option for those of us with a need to hang everything in its place.

Both Greenworks and the HART models also fold up fairly small. The Makita model doesn’t fold and that is due to its durability and PRO grade construction. This mower is designed to be a professional-grade piece of equipment that lives on a landscaping trailer. The handle was specifically designed this way to eliminate a weak point at a hinge.

Fit & Finish Winner – Makita XML08PT1

Makita stands out in this category. This mower was built for daily nonstop use by professional landscapers. The Makita features large-diameter rubber over-molded wheels, a steel deck, and everything about it is tight and made to stand up to some hard use. Screws and bolts hold everything together including the handle which is not adjustable or foldable without a wrench. Almost all of the parts are metal. In short, this high-quality tool is made for the long haul.

The Ego and Greenworks mowers also stood out with regard to fit and finish. The EGO has heavy-duty parts, simply to operate levers and clamps, and a very polished appearance. The Greenworks mowers also have heavy-duty parts and smooth operating features.

Best Value Winner –Greenworks 21″

At the time of publication, the 21″ Greenworks mower was priced at about $349 with a 4.0Ah battery given the performance and overall quality this was a solid pick for the best value. This mower came in tied for 1st place overall and is the second least expensive in the group.

Best Cordless Lawn Mower – EGO and 21″ GreenWorks 

These tests and evaluations are very difficult, take a lot of time, and ultimately limited in scope as we’re not a professional testing company. We also cannot do long term testing that would shed light on durability.

In order to choose the best cordless lawn mower, all ten [10] evaluated categories were scored and ranked 1 through 12, to define the winner. We then tallied those category numbers to come up with a total number. The lower the number the better.

Our test in 2014 crowned EGO as the best cordless lawn mower and its obvious they didn’t take their foot off the gas with this generation 3 mower.  EGO tied for the best mower with the 21″ Greenworks mower. Third place went to the 25″ Greenworks and Black and Decker coming in 6-points behind the top two mowers.

Each of the mowers we tested did a good job cutting grass and offer features that you’d expect from a great mower.

The EGO LM2130SP has an excellent portable design and performed well in all categories, especially the quality of cut, fit and finish, handle comport, adjustments, controls, and ergonomics.

EGO also offers a platform of outdoor power equipment with a blower, trimmer, edger, hedge trimmer, snowblower, chainsaw, a multi-head system, and a portable power station. The EGO is above average in cost compared to the rest of the mowers.

Greenworks also offers a platform of outdoor power equipment with a chainsaw, blower, trimmer, edger, hedge trimmer, pressure washer, and a portable power station. Both EGO and Greenworks tools work off the same battery platform and provide a complete solution for all of your lawn and garden tasks.

Final Thoughts

While gasoline mowers have been around since 1914, the advances in powerful lithium-ion batteries have created a battery-powered lawnmower market that can truly compete for many users with gasoline-powered mowers. Today’s cordless mower owners are not subject to the noise, smell, and maintenance issues that are the hallmarks of gas mower ownership.

Best Cordless Lawn Mower Video Review

Best Cordless Lawn Mower 2020 is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HART Tools 20V 5″ Random Orbit Sander Review

20V Cordless 5" Random Orbit Sander

3.5/5

Manufacturer: HART Tools
Model number: HPSD01
Price: $44.88 Bare Tool
Power source: 20V Lithium-Ion Battery
Weight: 2.3 Lbs.

The Tool Box Buzz Crew has reviewed several of HART’s offerings previously. As a brand HART fits a niche for new tools owners who may be intimidated by investing in a pro grade tool and battery platform. The 20V 5″ random orbit sander is a tool that would serve a casual user, or cheapskate, extremely well.

HART Sander Features

• Capable of 10,000 RPM With a HART 4.0 Ah Battery
• 5″ Hook and Loop Sanding Pad Attachment
• Vacuum Hose Compatibility With 1 1/4″ & 1 7/8″

The 5″ hook and lop attachment pad for the HART sander. This worked well with a variety of sandpapers used during the testing process.

Standout Size and Ergonomics

HART’s 20V cordless sander is very compact and ergonomic. At only 2.3 Lbs. it was easy to use in any position for extended periods of time. The contoured body shape and generous rubber over-mold make the tool extremely comfortable in the hand as well. The HART random orbit sander has a small overall profile, but felt vibration is very minimal during use.

The small size and light overall weight stood out to me while using the HART sander on a finishing project. The sander as used to finish sand in preparation for paint on a shiplap bathroom. Moving from nail hole to nail hole was effortless and less fatiguing while using the HART random orbit sander.

Dust Collection on the HART Cordless Sander

A fabric dust bag is included with the bare tool from HART. Using just the dust bag yielded surprisingly good results from the HART sander. While working in a finished space the cleanup was minimal and the sander collected the majority of the dust and was easy to empty out.

The dust-port on the HART random orbit sander is compatible out of the box with both 1 1/4″ and 1 7/8″ vacuum hoses. This common size will allow the tool to be used with many popular shop vac systems. Admittedly, I did not use the sander with dust collection. My reasoning for this was that if I am going to bother lugging and setting up dust collection, I am going to use one of my professional grade sanders currently set up for collection. The HART random orbit sander excels as quick grab and go tool for finish work or used in an outdoor or garage space where dust collection is not a primary concern.

HART 20V Battery Performance

During my testing I had access to only one HART 1.5 Ah 20V battery. This battery pack is slim and small and helps to keep the size and bulk of the overall tool down. However, the 1.5 Ah battery provided me with only approximately twenty to twenty-five minutes of continuous use.

This run time would be acceptable for the casual user who may be using it for a small project. For a larger project or more continuous use, I would strongly recommend having a spare battery on hand or investing in one of HART’s larger 2.0 Ah or 4.0 Ah battery packs.  These larger batteries will increase the size and bulk of the tool.

Room for Improvement on the HART Sander

Overall this tool impressed me with how simple yet functional it is. However my major complaint for the HART random orbit sander as well as all other HART 20V cordless tools is the lack of a battery gauge system. There is no option on the tools or batteries to check the level of charge and this make battery management difficult. Several times while using the sander it unexpectedly died and led to great frustration.

The new 4.0 Ah battery packs include this feature but it is not available on the compact HART 1.5 and 2.0 Ah batteries.

Who is the HART Cordless Sander Designed For

This sander is a very capable tool for the majority of DIY tasks and projects. My four year old daughter and I used the HART random orbit sander to refinish a wooden rocking chair and it excelled in this role.

The tool lacks the grunt and power of a serious professional grade sander and would be terrible for major material removal. However, for light finish sanding the HART cordless sander excelled and left minimal scratched and marks with fine grit sandpaper.

Overall this offering from HART would make a great out of the box option for anyone looking to get into woodworking and other DIY projects. The sander would also be a good, and disposable, option for a professional contractor that will not break the bank. It is small, ergonomic, has multiple battery options, and has an up and coming product line to support it.

Pricing and Availability for the HART Random Orbit Sander

The HART random orbit sander is available exclusively through Walmart both online and in store. Ordinarily this sander sells for $44.88 as a bare tool. That is a tremendous value from HART.

Check out the Walmart website if you are interested in saving some money on a new tool offering from HART like the 20V cordless 5″ random orbit sander.

HART Random Orbit Sander Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HART Tools 215 Piece Mechanics Hand Tool Set Review

HART Tools continues to expand their lines of cordless battery powered tools as well as hand tools available exclusively through Walmart. This review will take a look at the new HART Tools 215 Piece Mechanics Hand Tool Set (Model #HHMTS404). HART’s mission is to provide homeowners and DIYers with affordable yet capable tools for any project on the do list. We recently reviewed some HART 20V cordless tool offerings and found them to be capable performers with a low price tag.

Turning a wrench or working on an engine is a passion for many people. Many enthusiasts make it their profession and keep our cars and trucks running for us. For me, if I never had to do a an oil change again it wouldn’t be too soon. Because of this I have never placed a priority on my mechanics tools. Most of my sets are piecemeal and hodgepodge together from yard sale finds. The HART Tools 215 Piece Mechanics Set provides me with a compact and portable tool set that is extremely affordable. The HART set includes all of the basic tools needed for working on OPE or tinkering in the garage.

HART Mechanics Tool Set Features

• Plastic Locking Carry Case
• 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″ Ratchets and Other tools
• (16) Hex Bit Sockets
• (6) 1/4″ Drive Combo Star Bit Sockets
• (6) 3/8″ Drive Star Bit Sockets
• (23) 3/8″ Sockets
• (21) 1/4″ Sockets
• (14) 3/8″ Deep Well Sockets
• (14) 1/4″ Deep Well Sockets
• (18) Nut Driver Bits
• (21) 1/2″ Drive Sockets
• (20) Short Arm Hex Keys
• (43) 1″ Insert Bits

Standout Features of the HART Model HHMTS404

HART’s set provides a good mix of options and features for general mechanical tasks. Having the option of 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drive makes large and small tasks easy to work through. The variety of standard as well as deep well sockets in both metric and SAE cover all the bases. The bright polished chrome finish is rust resistant but contrasts well against the HART logo and socket size lettering.

The carrying case itself keeps all of the tools organized and compact. The two individual trays will slide out independently of the rest of the case. A couple of folding plastic wings secure the trays from coming out during transport or storage.

Once removed, the trays provide easy access to the assorted sockets and hex keys. There is also an extra open space that could store a set of gloves or any other extra tools you may need.

Pricing and Availability

Whether you prefer to shop in store or online, the new HART Tools 215 Piece Mechanics Set is available now from Walmart. Priced at $148.00 for the complete set, HART is providing users with an incredible value. This set provides high capability with low initial investment. This set is priced far below that of comparable, value based, mechanic sets with the convenience of buying from Walmart. At the time of writing this article, the 215 piece mechanics set is available on the shelves at my local store.

Click the Buy Now box below to be brought directly to set available online.

Room For Improvement With HART’s Mechanic Set

Overall I found the tool selection of the HART set to be very comprehensive. The ratchets specifically felt well finished in hand, but their mechanical features lacked refinement.

The socket release button would occasionally catch and not fully disengage the detents. The selector switch also lacked a positive feeling detent and would move on it’s own. HART designed the ratchet head’s themselves with a 90 locking tooth action. The teeth felt faint while resetting the ratchet and I am unsure that they would hold up to repeated stress or impact.

An exploded view of HART’s ratchet head design.

Overall these issues are not a deal-breaker for me. While I do not expect to see NASCAR Pit Crews using these tools, they are perfectly serviceable for doing an oil change on the lawnmower or fixing my daughter’s bike.

Overall Impressions of the HART Tools Mechanics Set

The overall compact package and portability of the HART Tools 215 Piece Mechanics Tool Set makes it an easy grab and go option for the majority of wrench turning tasks. When factoring the in the low price and convenience of buying from a mega retailer like Walmart, this set is a home run for homeowners DIYers, and general tinkerers alike. After spending time using the set, I am now looking to clear a place in my trailer for it for those days when something needs to be fixed in a hurry. While the tools are not as refined as professional grade mechanic tools, they are more than adequate for common repair and maintenance tasks.

HART Tools continues to offer good quality value based tools that take away most of the initial cost anxiety for most users. The new 215 Piece Mechanics Tool Set is an excellent example of that.

HART Tools 215 Piece Mechanics Tool Set Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HART 20V Cordless Tool Offerings Review

HART Tools has a whole new look and Tool Box Buzz was given the opportunity to review some of their 20V cordless tool offerings. HART’s new mission is to provide homeowners, DIYers, and first time project tacklers with affordable cordless tool offerings. Lets be clear, these are not professional grade tools designed for demanding job sites. But that is okay! These tools are available to users without the intimidating amount of financial invest and commitment that goes along with buying into a cordless tool line.

To see how the HART line stacks up, I selected three commonly used cordless tools found on the professional contractor job site. I then used the HART tools in place of my typical battery of tools and found that they are actually very capable. They will get the job done and that is really what matters. When you factor in the low cost of the tools, that makes their capability even more impressive.

This review will focus on the 20V 1/2″ Hammer Drill, the 20V 1/4″ Impact Driver, and the 20V Oscillating Multi-Tool. These three offerings are types of tools that pros rely on every day and would be just as valuable to the weekend warrior doing projects around their own home.

HART 20V 1/2″ Hammer Drill Model #HPHD01B

A 2″ forstner bit was no problem for the HART hammer drill.

A hammer drill/driver is an invaluable tool on the professional job site. For homeowners or DIYers it is a tool that is unbelievably versatile. If you need to bore a large diameter hole through wood, set concrete anchors in your garage for shelving, or hang a clock or picture on a masonry fireplace, a hammer drill is what you want to reach for.

To learn more about the capabilities of hammer drills check out the Tool Box Buzz Best Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill article.

The HART 20V hammer drill easily bored through 2×4 lumber with a 2″ forstner bit.

HART’s hammer drill features a metal chuck, two speed gearbox, 24 position clutch, LED work light as well as an optional auxiliary handle. The HART hammer drill was fully capable of drilling and driving through concrete and masonry.

Hart included 2 speeds and a 24 position clutch on their 1/2″ hammer drill.

The drill is slow during demanding tasks but still capable. The molded attachment point for the auxiliary handle is awkward and would be more ergonomic if it was longer and located above the chuck instead of below.

HART 20V 1/4″ Impact Driver Model #HPID01B

The cordless impact driver pretty much owns the modern day construction world. The overwhelming majority of fasteners being driven by contractors and pros are being driven by impact drivers. They are also a big favorite of all of us here at Tool Box Buzz.

HART’s impact driver is pretty basic. It will drive fasteners in and then back them out and that’s about it. There is a LED light built into the base of the tool that projects upwards towards the work surface. The 1/4″ collet is also not a one handed insert and requires the use of two hands. While this may be too basic for specialized professionals, this Spartan design removes the guess work for new users when selecting the appropriate speed or mode.

The 1/4″ collet on the HART 20V impact driver requires two hands to operate.

The impact driver was fully capable of installing a variety of structural fasteners. During use I had no issues with 3″ coated deck screws or a variety of GRK Rugged Structural Screws. Again, while not the fastest option it will still get the job done.

3″ coated deck screws through dimensional framing lumber. No problem for the HART 20V impact driver.

The tool is on the larger side. It is tall and wide and was difficult getting into small cabinets or other confined spaces. The driver I am using currently features a brushed motor. HART offers a brushless version as part of a combo kit that appears to cut down on some of the overall size of the tool.

HART 20V Oscillating Multi-Tool Model #HPMT01

Cut outs for in baseboard trim is a task commonly performed using an OMT. The HART 20V OMT performed well in this test.

The capabilities of an oscillating multi-tool (OMT) are essentially endless. They solve a lot of problems from finish sanding, to detailed trim work, as well as tile and drywall installation. They are also a tool that we have reviewed extensively at Tool Box Buzz as part of our Head to Head series.

HART includes a surprising amount of features with their OMT. A power range from 0-20,000 osculations per minute, a variable speed dial, LED work light, on board storage for a blade change wrench, as well as a variety of cutting blades and sanding pads. The grip of the OMT is ergonomic and includes textured rubber over molding. The LED work light broadcast well onto the work surface and greatly enhances visibility.

The LED work light on the Hart OMT is bright and projects well onto the work surface.

While using the Hart OMT it was able to power through 5/8″ thick drywall for electrical box cut outs and also 3/4″ primed pine baseboard trim for cabinet cutouts.

This thing is huge. It is longer than any OMT I have ever used before which can feel awkward at times. The blade change system is completely tooled and very slow. The motor is also slightly under powered and the tool struggles with hardwoods and other high demand cutting tasks.

With a battery installed the HART 20V OMT is approximately 16″ long. It is a BIG tool.

HART included a few factory blades with their tool, but I would strongly suggest investing in a more high quality set of blades from your local home center or hardware store.

Blade change is slow and requires an allen key with the HART 20V OMT.

HART 20V Cordless Tools Battery System

The kit options from HART Tools included a 1.5Ah 20V battery along with a 2 Amp slide on type charger. The batteries lack any kind of fuel gauge option which makes battery management more difficult. The 2 Amp charger is compact and extremely simple to use. HART has additional battery offerings for the 20V platform in 2.0 and 4.0 Amp Hours ranges as well as a stand alone power source adapter.

HART 20V Cordless Tools Pricing

For a casual use homeowner or a entry level apprentice just starting out, the cost associated with tools is a big issue. It is clear that HART kept this in mind when developing this new line of cordless tools. While the features may seem basic and the tools lack some of the refinement of higher end brands, HART tools are an incredible value. Each of the tools reviewed above cost less than $80.00 as a full kit. Here is a breakdown of the pricing further;

• 1/2″ Hammer Drill Kit: $79.00
• 1/4″ Impact Driver Kit: $69.00
• Multi-Tool (Bare Tool): $54.00

To get a capable tool, with battery and charger, for sub $80.00 is almost unheard of today. But it gets better. To make these tools widely available, HART partnered with Walmart as their exclusive retailer. All HART cordless tools, hand tools, and outdoor power equipment options are available now at Walmart stores and online. The buy it now box below will bring you to a full listing of tools available at Walmart.

The low cost of HART tools combined with the easy accessibility through a mega retailer like Walmart make these a no brainer for anyone just starting out in the construction field or looking to try a DIY project at home.

Overall Thoughts on HART 20V Cordless Tools

I was initially skeptical of HART’s new lineup of 20V cordless tools. I knew that they were going to priced low and I fully expected them to be on time use and throw away type tools. However after spending time with these tools in hand and performing common construction tasks with them, I found that I was absolutely wrong.

The HART lineup represents a solid range of options for anyone who wants to get into cordless tools for minimal investment. I can think of countless people in my life who would be well suited using HART tools for common projects around the house. There are also some knuckle-head crews out there that I have worked with that can’t be trusted with nice things. They would be well served with a set of HART tools that the company will likely end up replacing several times.

Overall HART has impressed me with their first generation of cordless 20V tools. One welcome change would be to include some sort of charge gauge either on the tool or the battery. This feature would assist with managing the tool batteries more easily.

For a low cost but capable cordless tool option, check out the 20V line of HART tools that can be found online or at a store likely not too far from your house or jobsite.

HART 20V Cordless Tools Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HART Tools Exclusive to Walmart

HART Tools has announced an exclusive deal with Walmart to offer an extensive new line of tools for the DIY and Home Improvement market. The new line of HART Tools will include hand tools, cordless power tools, outdoor power equipment, storage and safety, and accessories. This new line will allow shoppers at Walmart to find nearly any tool they could possibly need for home repairs, DIY projects and yard care.

HART Tools has been around for a long time, and many of you know them from their great line of hammers. Owned by TTI (Techtronic Industries Company Limited), Hart Tools is one of several brands including Milwaukee, Ridgid, Ryobi and several others that TTI manages. So it’s not surprising that when Walmart went looking for a new exclusive line of tools that TTI stepped up to the plate.

HART Tools Lineup

With this new lineup of tools from HART targeting the DIY and home improvement market the number of tools is quite extensive. The preliminary lineup of tools that HART will be offering through Walmart includes:

• 45+ Power Tools
• 20+ Outdoor Power Equipment Tools
• 180+ Hand Tools and Storage Options
• 70+ Power Tool Accessories

HART 20V Cordless Tools

The new cordless tools from HART are based on a new 20V MAX (18V) slide pack. With over 45 tools launching in this category there are tools for every possible project around the house or garage. Drills, impact drivers, saws, lights, blowers, fans, and even buffing wheels are included in this new line of tools. While these are not developed for contractors, they are designed for DIY projects at a price point that is hard to ignore.

HART 40V Outdoor Power Equipment

The HART line of OPE (Outdoor Power Equipment) is powered by their new 40V MAX (36V) battery pack. Tools include mowers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, chainsaws and blowers. With the explosion of cordless OPE in the market this line is sure to be very popular.

HART Hand Tools, Accessories and Storage

The hand tool, accessory and storage market is huge. Whether fixing a leaking faucet, tightening training wheels on a kids bicycle or assembling your new gas grill, everyone needs pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers and basic hand tools. Storing all those tools and having enough accessories to do the projects are all things homeowners deal with. Having all these tools available at a store like Walmart that’s open nights and weekends will be very convenient for those of us less prepared for projects around the house.

The new line will include a huge array of tools including hammers, pliers, wrenches, mechanic sets, tape measures, knives, and screwdrivers to name just a few. Tool storage bags, rolling carts, and tool boxes will round out the storage category.

Final Thoughts

We review a ton of PRO grade tools here at Tool Box Buzz. However, there is a massive market for DIY tools and we’d be remiss for not covering this segment of the market. From what we’ve seen so far at the Media Event this is a very wide ranging offering from HART and the marriage with Walmart makes great sense for the DIY market. Consumers will benefit from the TTI backing that brings massive resources behind the launch.

We plan on getting some of these tools in to review so we can offer our thoughts on them. These tools will start showing up online at Walmart in December with many tools rolling out after the new year in the stores. With great pricing and a wide range of tools we feel this will be a win win for DIY’ers looking for affordable tools.

Hart Tools Launches New Line of Tools at Walmart is a post from Tool Box Buzz

2015 Holiday Tool Guide – DIY Edition

Another year has come and gone and the holidays are rapidly approaching. Instead of hastily grabbing something out of the special buy bins up by the register at the big box store, let us help. Take a peak through the holiday tool guide and find something for the loved ones in your life. The items on the list are geared toward the DIY-er, someone who is just getting into improving their home, a new woodworker, or maker. Despite being geared towards the DIY-er, all of the tools on this list would be right at home with the Pro user too. Each item on the holiday tool guide has links to both our review as well as a Buy Now link in case you want to order one up.

Ryobi Super Combo Kit

The first tool on the list is for the person without any power tools or maybe they have old tools with really tired batteries. The Ryobi kit has the tools to get them going on that next big project. I used these tools exclusively to demo a set of pine stairs and install oak treads and balusters. Despite the diminutive price of $129, the kit packs a big punch.

Full Review

Buy Now

Bosch Daredevil Spade Bits

If your loved one does a fair amount of drilling or is thinking about tackling a big remodeling project, chances are they could use some spade bits for drilling larger holes in wood. There is no finer spade bit than the Bosch Daredevil and that’s why they made our holiday tool guide. I have a full set of these and have nothing but praise for them. Hold onto the drill tight though, these things remove material at a very rapid rate. Don’t forget your safety glasses, the chips practically jump out of the way when these bits spin up. A 13 piece kit goes for less than $20.

Full Review

Buy Here

Milwaukee Fastback II

Everyone needs a good utility knife. One that’s comfortable in the hand, is easy to control, and has good balance. The Milwaukee FastBack series of knives have these in spades. Other knives have come and gone and the FastBack is the one I go back to and use every day. In fact I own 3 of them so that there is always one close by. These are a pro level knife at a DIY friendly price. At just $15 for the FastBack II I’ve often contemplated buying a case of them just to pass out to my friends and family. $15 will also buy a 2 pack of the original FastBack, that way you can buy one for your loved one and keep one for yourself. Win-win.

Full Review

Buy Now

Milwaukee 25′ Tape Measure

The tape measure is easily one of the most used tools on the jobsite and it has to be durable to last through the harsh conditions. DIY-ers need a good tape too and the Milwaukee fits the bill. Even though it’s marketed as a General Contractor tape, it feels good in the hand and is easy to use. With hand tools, I always recommend that people spend a few more bucks to get a tool that will last them a long time. At $18 it is a few more bucks than the cheap bargain basement tapes but it will last you 10x as long. If your loved one doesn’t need a 25 footer, the 16′ is $14 and is built to the same high standards. I have both of them and use the 25 out in the field and the 16 in the woodshop.

Full Review

Buy Now

Hart Quicktatch

I have a box that I keep all of my trowels in. All of my concrete and tile trowels of various sizes all have permanent handles affixed to them and they are really hard to store. Enter the Hart Quicktatch and all of the major sizes of trowels fit into the space just a little larger than one.  This tool makes so much sense that I feel like an idiot that I didn’t think of it first. If you’re adding a tiling project to the “Honey Do” list than do your honey a favor and buy them this. It’s an innovative storage solution to an age-old problem and at $20 for a limited time, we couldn’t help but include it on this year’s holiday tool guide.

Full Review

Buy Now

RIDGID Combo Kit

Earlier this year the RIDGID Gen5x Combo Kit was released and it was a serious piece of kit for a very modest price. It was 5 tools for $499. That sounds like a lot of money but considering the pro level tools, it is a pretty good bargain. Now entering the holiday season, RIDGID has started offering more tools and combinations of tools in the Gen5x line. They are now offering the hammer drill and impact driver as a combo kit for the unbelievably low price of $169. That’s two tools, two batteries, a charger, and a bag. You may feel like your name should be scratched from the nice list and put on the naughty one after buying this tool and for good reason. At $169, it feels like stealing.

Full Review

Buy Now

Craftsman 10 Inch Sliding Miter Saw

In our Miter Saw Head 2 Head the Craftsman emerged as the clear value winner. At a tick under $300 it offered pro level features for a very reasonable price. It would make a very nice DIY saw or beginning pro saw. While it’s the most expensive item on this year’s holiday tool guide, it makes the best “one more thing” gift to surprise your loved one with. Just think about all the projects they can get done with this baby out in the shop. Honey do list? More like honey done list.

Full Review

Buy Now

2015 Holiday Tool Guide DIY Edition is a post from Tool Box Buzz