Everything You Need to Know About Autonomous Robot Lawn Mowers

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Husqvarna 430X, from Husqvarna.com

The Rise of the Robot Lawn Mower

Technology and smart hardware are changing our lives in ways we never imagined. From smartphones to smartwatches, and even smart vacuums, it's only natural that a smart lawnmower would eventually come into play. Autonomous robot lawnmowers have been around for decades, but early models were often expensive and lacked the advanced features we see today.

Fast forward to now, and it's clear that manufacturers are focusing on creating cost-effective and feature-rich robot mowers that are both affordable and user-friendly. These intelligent machines can significantly reduce the time and effort required for lawn care, making them a game-changer for homeowners.

Robot lawnmowers resemble their vacuum counterparts, like the iRobot Roomba. They're low to the ground, navigate autonomously, and can send notifications to your phone. Watching them work is not only efficient but also surprisingly mesmerizing.

Today, a handful of companies offer robot lawnmowers. Brands like Worx, Gardena, and Honda focus on residential models, while Husqvarna provides both residential and commercial options. iRobot is expected to enter the market soon, and other major players like John Deere and Kubota are likely to follow suit as they develop more autonomous solutions.

With prices becoming more competitive and performance improving, robot mowers are gaining traction. As they move along the adoption curve, we can expect more consumers to switch to these smart, eco-friendly alternatives.

Adoption S-Curve

Source: Stratechi.com

How Do Robot Lawn Mowers Work?

Robot mowers operate from a base station, where they charge and rest. When it's time to mow, they go out and cut the grass in small portions, returning to the base after each session. This frequent mowing leads to smaller clippings that naturally nourish the soil, similar to getting a weekly haircut instead of a monthly one.

Most models use electric batteries, making them quiet and environmentally friendly. The battery life varies, with some lasting up to 250 minutes. Larger lawns may require multiple charging cycles, but the mower handles this automatically.

Unlike traditional mowers, robot mowers don't collect clippings. Instead, they leave them on the lawn to decompose. However, during fall, you might need to find alternative methods for leaf collection.

Many models come with mobile apps that let you schedule mowing times and monitor progress. Some also have weather sensors that prevent mowing during rain or frost.

Robot mowers typically move in a random pattern, avoiding the straight rows of traditional mowers. They are lightweight and leave minimal visible marks.

A boundary wire helps define the mowing area, acting like an invisible fence. It can be laid above ground or buried, and experts suggest starting with above-ground placement before burying it for long-term use.

Gardena robot mower boundary wire

Source: Gardena.com

Robot Lawn Mower Path To Cut Lawn

Source: Husqvarna.com

Sensors help robot mowers understand their surroundings. These include ultrasound sensors for detecting objects, humidity and temperature sensors for weather monitoring, and bump sensors that stop the blade upon impact.

  • Ultrasound sensors detect nearby objects, much like bats do.
  • Humidity, rain, and temperature sensors help determine if mowing is safe.
  • Bump sensors stop the blade when the mower hits an obstacle.
Worx Landroid WR155 with anti-collision system attachment

Source: Worx.com. Worx Landroid WR155 with Anti-Collision System Attachment (the "eyes")

Most robot mowers can handle inclines up to 20 degrees, with some models capable of steeper slopes. You can adjust the cutting height using a dial or app, with typical ranges between 1 to 4 inches.

How Much Do Robot Lawn Mowers Cost?

Entry-level models start around $1,000, while commercial versions can exceed $4,000. Accessories may add to the total cost, so it's wise to calculate all-in expenses before purchasing.

Although pricier than push mowers, robot mowers are often cheaper than riding mowers. Their long-term savings come from no fuel costs, less maintenance, and convenience.

Can My Robot Lawn Mower Be Stolen?

Yes, they can be stolen, but many models come with GPS tracking and unique base pairing to prevent unauthorized use. Some also require a PIN to operate.

These mowers are relatively large, weighing between 10 and 40 pounds, making them noticeable if someone tries to take them.

The main risk is that a thief may not know about the security features, leading them to discard the mower.

Are Robot Lawn Mowers Safe?

Like any mower, there are risks due to moving parts and sharp blades. Manufacturers have designed safety features such as automatic blade shutdown on collision and emergency stop buttons.

How Long Do Robot Lawn Mowers Last?

Blades need replacement when dull, depending on usage. For example, Husqvarna models may last two months for a 1/4 acre lawn. Regular cleaning with a garden hose and brush helps maintain performance.

Batteries degrade over time, so checking manufacturer specifications is important. Most models allow easy battery swapping.

What Are The Downsides?

  • Reduced physical activity compared to traditional mowing.
  • Not suitable for leaf collection; alternative methods may be needed.
  • Higher initial cost than push mowers.
  • Some models do not support easy battery swaps.

Things to Consider Before Buying

  • Price and budget.
  • Mobile app usability—try it before buying.
  • Cutting height range to match your lawn needs.
  • Blade size and durability.
  • Cost and frequency of blade replacements.
  • Battery capacity for your lawn size.
  • Security features like GPS and base pairing.

Worx

Worx offers the most affordable robot mowers, though accessories may add to the cost. Reviews highlight their simplicity and effectiveness.

Their mobile app has over 3,000 reviews with an average rating of 3 stars.

Worx Landroid L WR155

Worx Landroid L WR155 Robotic Lawn Mower

Price: $1,399

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.5 acres

Cutting Height: 1.5-3.5 in

Battery Mow Time: 115 min

Worx Landroid M WR147

Worx Landroid M WR147 Robotic Lawn Mower

Price: $1,099

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.25 acres

Cutting Height: 1.5-3.5 in

Battery Mow Time: 75 min

Worx Landroid S WR165

Worx Landroid S WR165 Robotic Lawn Mower

Price: $949

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.125 acres

Cutting Height: 2.0-3.5 in

Battery Mow Time: 75 min

Husqvarna

Husqvarna offers a wide range of robotic mowers, including residential and commercial models. Their mobile app has over 10,000 reviews with an average of 4.5 stars.

Husqvarna Automower 155H

Husqvarna Automower 115H

Price: $1,199-1,399

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.4 acres

Cutting Height: 2.0-3.6 in

Battery Mow Time: 60 min

Husqvarna Automower 315X

Husqvarna Automower 315X

Price: $1,799

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.4 acres

Cutting Height: 0.8-2.4 in

Battery Mow Time: 70 min

Husqvarna Automower 430X/430XH

Husqvarna Automower 430XH

Price: $2,499

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.8 acres

430X Cutting Height: 0.8-2.4 in

430XH Cutting Height: 0.8-3.6 in

Battery Mow Time: 145 min

Husqvarna Automower 450X/450XH

Husqvarna Automower 450XH

Price: $4,099

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 1.25 acres

450X Cutting Height: 0.8-2.4 in

450XH Cutting Height: 0.8-3.5 in

Battery Mow Time: 270 min

Husqvarna Automower 520/520H

Husqvarna Automower 520H

Type: Commercial Mower

Area: 0.6 acres

520 Cutting Height: 0.8-2.4 in

520H Cutting Height: 0.8-3.6 in

Battery Mow Time: 75 min

Husqvarna Automower 550/550H

Husqvarna Automower 550H

Type: Commercial Mower

Area: 1.25 acres

550 Cutting Height: 0.8-2.4 in

550H Cutting Height: 0.8-3.5 in

Battery Mow Time: 270 min

Husqvarna Automower 550 EPOS/550H EPOS

Husqvarna Automower 550H EPOS

Type: Commercial Mower

Area: 1.25 acres

550 EPOS Cutting Height: 0.8-2.4 in

550H EPOS Cutting Height: 0.8-3.6 in

Battery Mow Time: 200-210 min

Husqvarna Automower 535 AWD

Husqvarna Automower 535 AWD

Type: Commercial Mower

Area: 0.9 acres

Cutting Height: 1.2-2.8 in

Battery Mow Time: 100 min

Gardena

Based in Europe, Gardena offers fewer models with smaller coverage areas compared to other brands.

Garden SILENO minimo

Garden SILENO minimo

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.12 acres

Cutting Height: 0.8 -1.8 in

Battery Mow Time: 70 min

Garden SILENO city

Garden SILENO city

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.06 acres

Cutting Height: 0.8 -2.0 in

Battery Mow Time: 65 min

John Deere

John Deere currently offers the Tango E5, a residential model without a mobile app. As a leader in agriculture and lawn care, it’s expected to expand its robotic offerings in the future.

John Deere Tango E5

John Deere Tango E5

Price: $1,999

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.5 acres

Cutting Height: 0.7-4.0 in

Battery Mow Time: 90 min

Honda Miimo

Honda is known for its expertise in lawn care and robotics, and it's likely to expand its robotic line in the future. Currently, it offers the Miimo model.

Honda miimo HRM310 / HRM520

Honda miimo

Type: Residential Mower

Area: 0.75 acres

Cutting Height: 0.8-2.4 in

Battery Mow Time: 30-60 min

Resources

Are Robot Lawn Mowers Any Good?

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