Outdoor Power Equipment Reviews

Our outdoor power equipment reviews include best battery powered lawnmowers, best riding mowers, best zero turn mowers, hedge trimmers, string trimmers, edgers, blowers, and chainsaws. More than that, our OPE reviews hit on both gas and cordless battery powered tools. If you’re a landscaping Pro, you want to make sure your crew is doing their work quickly and efficiently. Zero turns, for example, are not all designed the same. Some cut more quickly than others, while others have the build quality to last. For string trimmers, we look for max line size, speed, and ergonomics. You want power, but you also want to be able to operate a tool all day long with ease. Ergonomics and vibration consistently get more attention from organizations like OSHA and NIOSH.

Recharge 36V Cordless Riding Mower Preview

Recharge 36V Cordless Riding Lawnmower Preview

The G1-RM10 Recharge Mower has been under development for over 3 years. The 36V battery-powered riding lawn mower delivers up to three hours of continuous cutting and driving – and all this without gas, oil, or emissions. What’s really impressive is that the mower sports a fairly compact size, easy maneuverability, adjustable cutting height, and a large (3 bushel) grass catcher. The Recharge Mower seems perfectly suited for just about every lawn. On top of that, it’s actually pretty ergonomic, so it’s also great for those who may have physical disabilities (it has an easy-access seat). Now the people behind the Recharge Mower wee going for the “truly” green mower. The Recharge uses three eco-friendly electric motors and, of course, it emits absolutely no carbon emissions.

Husqvarna Automower 305 Robotic Lawnmower Preview

Husqvarna Automower 305 Robotic Lawnmower Preview

I hate mowing the grass. Some say it’s relaxing and soothing, even. For me, it’s a necessary evil – and part of the homeowner process that I’d just as soon see gone forever. Somebody at Husqvarna obviously agrees because they invented the Automower 305. The 305 is literally a robotic lawnmower – the company’s third, in fact. It is silent. It’s automatic. And it’s designed to give homeowners a perfectly cut, trouble-free lawn. While its not for those living on an acre of land, the mower is perfect (and designed) for people responsible for around 5000 square feet or less of lawn area. The tool cuts with the power of lithium-ion, and since it is quiet, it can cut at any time of day or night without worry.

Black & Decker SPCM1936 19" Self-Propelled 36V Rechargeable Mower

Black and Decker SPCM1936 19″ Self-Propelled 36V Lawnmower

We like green – and what can be more green than a rechargeable lawn mower? Well, Black & Decker is improving its line of rechargeable lawn care products with the introduction of its new SPCM1936 36 volt cordless rechargeable mower that has variable speeds. This new rechargeable mower also offers a self propelled feature which allows users to adjust the mowing speed to their personal pace so they can achieve great cutting results with minimal effort.

Black & Decker 18V Hard Surface Sweeper & Blower Review

Black and Decker NS118 18V Blower Review

If you have decks, patios, porches, sidewalks and garages that need to be swept a lot; then chances are that the Black & Decker NS118 18-Volt Cordless Hard Surface Sweeper & Blower might work well for you. With a cordless and compact design, this powered sweeper is easy to maneuver and requires much less effort then a traditional outdoor broom.

Black & Decker 18V String Trimmer & Edger NST2018 Preview

Black and Decker 18V String Trimmer and Edger NST2018 Preview

For power tools, battery technology seems to be making inroads and moving an increasing number of products into the realm of emissions-free, cordless technology. Yard tools have been understandably delayed, since the bettery power and sustained use periods make it difficult to transition over to a reliable, rechargeable solution. Black & Decker is still at the forefront, however, and has released a new 18V String Trimmer & Edger (Model NST2018) that eliminates gas in favor of NiCd batteries. While clearly more convenient than a corded solution, the real question is whether or not the power and usability will cause anyone not paranoid about emissions to switch to the new technology. Our guess is that it may take a few more product iterations before mainstream users pick up these new cordless tools over their more traditional gas-powered counterparts.