Ryobi 40V 18" 2-IN-1 Push Mower

Upgrading to a battery-powered mower has been on my to-do list for a while, and I recently had the opportunity to try out the Ryobi 40V 18" 2-IN-1 Push Mower. This mower promises a compact and lightweight design, suitable for small yards up to 1/4 acre, with a runtime of up to 30 minutes on a single charge. It also features mulching and side discharge functions, a single-point height adjustment, and collapsible handles for easy storage.

First Impressions and Assembly

Straight out of the box, the Ryobi mower impresses with its lightweight build and ease of assembly. The setup was straightforward, taking just a few minutes to attach the handles and charge the battery. The mower feels sturdy despite its mostly plastic construction, although I did note that some parts, like the battery cover, seemed a bit flimsy.

Performance and Battery Life

My lawn is about 2500 square feet, and I was eager to see how the Ryobi mower would perform. The 40V battery charged in about three hours, which is fairly standard for this type of equipment. However, the real test was in the mowing.

For smaller, well-maintained lawns, this mower is a gem. It’s incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a breeze to push across flat terrain. The single-point height adjustment is a fantastic feature, allowing me to switch between different grass heights with minimal effort. I found the mulching function particularly effective, leaving no visible clippings behind and contributing to a healthier lawn.

However, when it came to more demanding conditions, the mower struggled. If the grass was slightly damp or had grown a bit too long, the mower would occasionally bog down and even shut off. This required multiple passes in some areas to achieve an even cut. Additionally, the battery life was a bit of a letdown. Despite the advertised 30-minute runtime, I found that it lasted closer to 20-25 minutes under normal conditions, and even less when tackling thicker grass.

Usability and Convenience

One of the standout features of this mower is its ease of use. Starting the mower is as simple as pushing a button and engaging the pull handle. The collapsible handles make storage convenient, especially for those with limited space. I also appreciated the quiet operation, which is a significant improvement over traditional gas mowers.

The mower’s lightweight design makes it easy to handle, even for those who might find heavier mowers cumbersome. This is particularly beneficial for older users or those with smaller yards. However, the light weight comes at the cost of durability. The plastic components, particularly the battery cover and side discharge chute, seem prone to breaking. I had to be extra cautious to avoid any accidental bumps or drops.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability is where the Ryobi mower shows some weaknesses. After a few uses, I noticed that the battery cover had a tendency to come loose, and the side discharge chute felt fragile. These issues are minor but can be frustrating over time. On the plus side, the mower requires minimal maintenance. There’s no need to worry about oil changes, spark plugs, or other hassles associated with gas mowers. Just keep the blade sharp, and you’re good to go.

Environmental Impact

Switching to an electric mower like the Ryobi 40V 18" 2-IN-1 Push Mower has clear environmental benefits. There are no emissions, and the quiet operation reduces noise pollution. For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, this mower is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 40V 18" 2-IN-1 Push Mower is a mixed bag. For small, well-maintained lawns, it’s a fantastic option. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and offers the convenience of electric power without the hassles of gas. The mulching and side discharge functions work well, and the single-point height adjustment is a real time-saver.

However, if you have a larger lawn or one with thicker, more challenging grass, you might find the battery life and power lacking. The plastic components also raise concerns about long-term durability. Despite these drawbacks, the mower’s ease of use and environmental benefits make it a compelling choice for those with smaller yards.

Recommendation

I would recommend the Ryobi 40V 18" 2-IN-1 Push Mower for anyone with a small, flat yard who values convenience and environmental friendliness. Its lightweight design and ease of use make it perfect for quick, regular mowing sessions. However, if you have a larger or more demanding lawn, you might want to consider a more robust option or be prepared to invest in an additional battery.