CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower Review: Worth The Hype?

Keeping your lawn looking fresh and well-maintained doesn’t have to mean dealing with gas fumes, constant maintenance, and noisy engines anymore. The CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower has become a popular choice for homeowners who want reliable performance without the hassle of traditional gas mowers.

This comprehensive review takes you through everything you need to know about this eco-friendly lawn care solution.

This guide will help you understand if the CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower fits your needs. We’ll explore its features, performance, pros and cons, and compare it with other options available in the market today.

Key Takeaways

• Powerful Performance: The 13-amp motor delivers consistent cutting power through thick grass without the need for gas or oil, making it perfect for small to medium-sized lawns up to 5,000 square feet.
• Three-in-One Versatility: This mower offers mulching, bagging, and side discharge options, giving you complete control over how you handle grass clippings based on your lawn’s needs and your preferred lawn care style.
• Lightweight and Maneuverable: At just under 21 pounds, this electric mower is significantly lighter than gas alternatives, making it easy to push, turn, and store without straining your back or taking up excessive garage space.
• Zero Emissions Operation: You’ll enjoy quiet, eco-friendly lawn care without producing harmful emissions or dealing with gas storage, oil changes, or spark plug replacements that traditional mowers require.
• Cost-Effective Maintenance: With virtually no maintenance required beyond blade sharpening and cleaning, you’ll save hundreds of dollars over the years compared to gas mower upkeep and fuel costs.

CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower Overview

The CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower represents a shift toward cleaner, simpler lawn care. This corded electric model eliminates the headaches associated with gas-powered equipment. You simply plug it in and start mowing. The 20-inch cutting deck covers substantial ground with each pass, reducing the time you spend on lawn maintenance. The mower’s design focuses on user comfort and efficiency. CRAFTSMAN built this model for homeowners who value convenience without sacrificing cutting quality.

The electric motor provides instant power when you press the start button. There’s no pulling cords or priming engines. This feature alone makes lawn care accessible to more people. The corded design means unlimited runtime as long as you have access to electricity. You won’t need to worry about battery life or recharging between sessions. The 20-inch steel cutting deck stands up to regular use season after season.

Power and Performance Details

The 13-amp electric motor delivers reliable cutting power through various grass conditions. This motor produces enough force to handle thick, overgrown lawns without bogging down. The consistent power flow from your electrical outlet ensures the blade maintains speed even when cutting through dense patches. Unlike battery-powered models that lose power as the charge depletes, this corded version maintains full strength throughout your entire mowing session.

The motor operates significantly quieter than gas engines, typically around 75 decibels compared to 95 decibals for gas mowers. This reduced noise level means you can mow early in the morning or later in the evening without disturbing neighbors. The quieter operation also protects your hearing during extended mowing sessions. You can easily hold conversations while mowing or listen to music without cranking up the volume.

The cutting performance handles both dry and slightly damp grass effectively. The blade speed remains constant, providing clean cuts that promote healthier grass growth. The sharp blade combined with adequate motor power prevents tearing or pulling grass blades, which can lead to browning and disease.

Cutting Deck and Height Adjustments

The 20-inch steel cutting deck offers an ideal balance between coverage and maneuverability. This size allows you to mow efficiently without creating excessive bulk that makes tight turns difficult. The steel construction resists damage from rocks, sticks, and other debris you might encounter. The deck’s design channels grass clippings effectively whether you’re mulching, bagging, or side discharging.

Height adjustment is simple with the single-lever system. You can select from six different cutting heights ranging from 1.5 inches to 3.75 inches. This range accommodates different grass types and seasonal needs. During spring growth, you might keep grass slightly taller to shade roots. In summer, you might lower the height for a manicured look. The adjustment lever requires minimal force to operate, making changes quick between passes if needed.

The cutting height remains consistent across the entire deck width. This uniformity prevents scalping or leaving strips of taller grass. The deck’s positioning relative to the wheels creates proper clearance for smooth operation over slightly uneven terrain.

Three-in-One Functionality Explained

The versatility of three cutting modes gives you options based on your lawn’s current state and your preferences. Mulching mode chops grass clippings into fine pieces that fall back into the lawn, returning nutrients to the soil. This option works best when grass isn’t excessively long and when you mow regularly. The mulching blade and deck design work together to circulate clippings for thorough chopping before discharge.

Bagging mode collects clippings in the rear collection bag, leaving your lawn looking pristine. This option suits situations where you want a completely clean appearance or when dealing with excessive growth that would smother the lawn if left behind. The bag capacity holds a decent amount before requiring emptying, though you’ll need to empty more frequently when grass is thick or wet.

Side discharge mode expels clippings out the side of the deck, useful when grass is too long or wet for effective mulching. This mode keeps the mower from bogging down in challenging conditions. The side discharge chute directs clippings away from your path, preventing them from blowing back onto areas you’ve already cut.

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Build Quality and Durability

CRAFTSMAN has a long reputation for producing tools that withstand regular homeowner use. This electric mower continues that tradition with solid construction throughout. The steel deck resists rust when properly maintained and can handle impacts from hidden obstacles without denting easily. The plastic components use quality materials that resist UV degradation from sun exposure.

The wheels feature durable construction with bearings that roll smoothly. The rear wheels are slightly larger than the front, helping with traction and making it easier to pull the mower backward when needed. The wheel height adjustment mechanism feels sturdy and maintains settings without slipping during operation.

The handle assembly provides comfortable grip positions and folds down for compact storage. The handle height suits most users without requiring awkward postures that cause back strain. The electrical components are properly sealed against moisture, though you should still avoid mowing in heavy rain or through puddles.

Ease of Use and Maneuverability

One of the most appreciated features is the lightweight design. At approximately 21 pounds, this mower weighs far less than gas alternatives that typically exceed 60 pounds. The reduced weight makes it easy for anyone to push and control. Turning around obstacles, navigating slopes, and mowing around flower beds all become simpler tasks.

The corded design does require some planning. You’ll need to be mindful of the power cord location to avoid running over it. The key is to start mowing near the outlet and work outward, keeping the cord in areas you’ve already cut. After a few mowing sessions, managing the cord becomes second nature. Many users find a 100-foot outdoor extension cord provides sufficient reach for properties up to half an acre.

The push operation doesn’t require excessive force. The mower glides across level ground easily. The wheel design provides sufficient traction for most residential lawns without being difficult to push. The single-lever height adjustment allows quick changes without tools or multiple steps.

Maintenance Requirements and Costs

Electric mowers dramatically reduce maintenance compared to gas models. There’s no oil to change, no air filters to replace, no spark plugs to clean, and no carburetor issues to troubleshoot. Your maintenance routine simplifies to keeping the deck clean, sharpening the blade once or twice per season, and checking that all fasteners remain tight.

Cleaning the underside of the deck after each use prevents grass buildup that can affect mulching performance and promote rust. Simply tip the mower on its side and scrape away accumulated clippings. A quick spray with a hose completes the cleaning. This task takes only a few minutes but significantly extends the mower’s life.

Blade sharpening maintains cutting performance. You can sharpen the blade yourself with a file or grinder if you’re comfortable doing so, or take it to a hardware store for professional sharpening. The cost is minimal, usually around $10 to $15 for professional sharpening. A sharp blade cuts grass cleanly, promoting healthier growth and reducing the power needed to mow.

The motor requires no maintenance. It’s sealed and designed to run for many years without service. The electrical cord should be inspected periodically for damage, and any worn sections should be repaired or replaced to maintain safe operation.

Environmental Benefits

Choosing an electric mower reduces your environmental impact in several meaningful ways. Zero direct emissions means you’re not contributing to local air pollution while mowing. Gas mowers emit surprising amounts of pollutants. Running a gas mower for one hour can produce as much pollution as driving a car for several hours.

The reduced noise pollution benefits your neighborhood. Quiet operation means less noise stress for yourself, your family, your neighbors, and local wildlife. Many communities have noise ordinances that restrict gas mower use during certain hours. Electric mowers typically operate well within acceptable noise levels anytime.

Eliminating gas and oil means no risk of spills that contaminate soil and groundwater. You won’t have partially used gas cans sitting in your garage creating fumes. There’s no need to dispose of used motor oil. These seemingly small factors add up to significant environmental benefits when multiplied across millions of homeowners.

Performance on Different Grass Types

The CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower handles various grass species effectively. For cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass, the mower provides clean cuts at recommended heights. These grasses typically thrive at 2.5 to 3.5 inches, right in the mower’s optimal range. The motor power easily handles the density of cool-season lawns.

Warm-season grasses including Bermuda, St. Augustine, and zoysia also cut well with this mower. These species often benefit from lower cutting heights, and the mower’s ability to cut as low as 1.5 inches accommodates these preferences. The blade speed maintains sufficient force to cut through the tougher blades characteristic of warm-season varieties.

Fine fescue and other delicate species respond well to the sharp blade and consistent cutting action. The mower doesn’t pull or tear delicate grass blades when the blade is properly sharpened. This clean cutting promotes healthier grass that resists disease and browning.

Ideal Lawn Size and Terrain

This corded electric mower works best for small to medium-sized lawns up to approximately 5,000 square feet. For properties in this range, a 100-foot extension cord provides adequate reach when you plan your mowing pattern efficiently. Larger properties might require multiple extension cords or strategic positioning near different outlets.

The mower handles flat to gently rolling terrain well. The lightweight design and adequate wheel size navigate small bumps and dips without difficulty. Steeper slopes present more challenge, not because of power limitations but because electric cords on slopes can be more difficult to manage. For very steep sections, a self-propelled or battery-powered model might serve better.

The 20-inch deck width makes this mower suitable for lawns with some landscaping features. You can navigate around trees, shrubs, and flower beds with reasonable ease. Very intricate landscaping with tight spaces might benefit from a smaller deck size, but for most suburban yards, the 20-inch width provides a good balance.

Storage and Portability

The lightweight construction makes storage simple. The handle folds down, reducing the mower’s overall height for easy storage in garages, sheds, or other spaces. The compact footprint when folded allows you to tuck the mower into corners or alongside other equipment without consuming excessive space.

Transporting the mower is equally straightforward. You can easily lift it into a vehicle for transport to storage facilities or when moving. The reduced weight compared to gas mowers makes it accessible for more people to handle without assistance. There’s no fuel to drain before transport, and no risk of oil spills in your vehicle.

The corded design means one less thing to store. There’s no separate battery pack or charger to keep track of. You simply need the mower and your extension cord. This simplicity reduces clutter in storage areas.

Cost Analysis and Value

The initial purchase price of the CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower typically falls in the $200 to $300 range, making it an affordable entry point into electric lawn care. This price point positions it well below many battery-powered alternatives while offering comparable performance for appropriate lawn sizes.

Operating costs are minimal. Electricity consumption is negligible, typically costing less than 50 cents per month for regular mowing. Compare this to gas mowers that might consume several gallons of gas per season at fluctuating prices. The lack of oil changes, air filter replacements, and other maintenance further reduces operating costs.

Over a typical 7 to 10 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership for this electric mower is substantially lower than gas alternatives. You’ll save hundreds of dollars in fuel and maintenance alone. The environmental benefits come at no additional cost, making this mower an economically and ecologically sound choice.

Common Issues and Solutions

Some users report that the cord management takes getting used to. The solution is developing a consistent mowing pattern that starts near the outlet and works outward. Draping the cord over your shoulder or using cord management clips can prevent accidental cutting. After a few mowing sessions, most users develop comfortable techniques.

The mower’s performance can decrease if the blade becomes dull. Symptoms include ragged grass edges and increased effort to push. The solution is regular blade sharpening or replacement. Keeping a spare sharpened blade allows quick swaps, so you’re never unable to mow due to a dull blade.

Extension cord compatibility matters. Using an undersized extension cord can cause voltage drops that reduce motor performance. The solution is using a 12-gauge extension cord for runs up to 100 feet. This gauge ensures adequate power delivery for full performance.

Some users wish for self-propelled functionality. While this model is push-only, the lightweight design minimizes the effort required. For those who truly need self-propelled assistance, CRAFTSMAN offers battery-powered self-propelled models, though at higher price points.

Safety Features and Considerations

The mower includes important safety features. The blade stops within seconds when you release the handle, preventing injuries. This dead-man switch ensures the blade never runs without operator presence. The safety key must be inserted for the mower to start, preventing unauthorized use.

The electrical components are designed for outdoor use with appropriate protection against moisture. However, you should still avoid mowing in wet conditions. Wet grass clumps and clogs the deck, reducing cutting quality. More importantly, wet conditions increase electrical hazards. Wait for grass to dry before mowing.

The corded design creates a different hazard profile than gas mowers. There’s no hot engine or exhaust to burn you. No gas fumes create inhalation or fire risks. However, the electrical cord presents a cutting hazard if you’re not attentive. Always know where the cord is positioned as you mow.

Proper footwear protects your feet from the blade and debris. Closed-toe shoes with good traction prevent slips and shield your feet if anything is thrown by the blade. Eye protection guards against debris, particularly when side discharging or if rocks might be present.

Warranty and Customer Support

CRAFTSMAN backs this electric mower with a three-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty period demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability. The warranty covers replacement of defective parts but doesn’t include normal wear items like blades.

Customer support is accessible through multiple channels including phone, email, and online resources. The CRAFTSMAN website provides manuals, troubleshooting guides, and parts diagrams. Most common questions can be answered through these resources without needing to contact support directly.

Replacement parts are readily available through various retailers and online sources. Common items like blades, grass bags, and wheels can be found at reasonable prices. The widespread availability of CRAFTSMAN products means parts access won’t be a problem years down the road.

User Reviews and Real-World Feedback

Owners consistently praise the mower’s ease of use and low maintenance requirements. Many reviews highlight how refreshing it is to simply plug in and start mowing without dealing with gas and oil. The quiet operation receives frequent positive mentions, with users appreciating the ability to mow at times that would be inconsiderate with gas mowers.

The lightweight design garners appreciation from users of all ages and physical abilities. Older users and those with physical limitations find the reduced weight makes lawn care manageable when gas mowers were becoming too difficult to handle. The ease of pushing and maneuvering receives consistent compliments.

Some users note limitations with very tall or wet grass. The mower performs best with regular mowing that keeps grass at reasonable heights. When grass grows excessively, users recommend making multiple passes at increasing lower heights rather than trying to cut down to final height in one pass.

The cord management learning curve appears in many reviews, with most users noting it becomes natural after a few uses. Some users share creative solutions they’ve developed for their specific property layouts, highlighting that different approaches work for different situations.

Comparing Corded vs Battery Models

The corded design of this CRAFTSMAN model offers distinct advantages over battery-powered alternatives. Unlimited runtime means you can mow as long as needed without battery concerns. You’ll never be halfway through mowing when the battery dies, forcing you to wait for recharging. The consistent power delivery throughout your entire mowing session maintains cutting quality.

Corded models typically cost less than comparable battery models. You’re not paying for expensive battery technology and charging systems. The reduced initial cost makes electric lawn care accessible to more budgets. Over time, you won’t face battery replacement costs that battery models eventually incur.

Battery models do offer the freedom from cords, which some users strongly prefer. Battery technology continues improving, with modern lithium-ion packs providing longer runtimes. However, for properties where cord management is reasonable, the corded model provides excellent value and unlimited runtime advantages.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

The CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower delivers solid performance for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who want to escape gas mower hassles. The combination of adequate power, three-in-one functionality, lightweight design, and minimal maintenance creates a compelling package. The affordable price point makes it accessible without sacrificing quality.

This mower suits you well if your property is under 5,000 square feet, relatively flat, and has outdoor electrical access. You’ll appreciate the quiet operation, zero emissions, and simple maintenance. The three cutting modes provide versatility for different situations throughout the mowing season.

Consider alternative options if you have a very large property where cord reach becomes impractical, steep slopes where cord management is challenging, or if you absolutely need self-propelled assistance. For these situations, battery-powered or gas options might serve better.

For the right property and user, this CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower provides years of reliable service at a fraction of the cost and hassle of gas alternatives. The environmental benefits and neighborhood-friendly quiet operation are valuable bonuses to the practical advantages.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower last with regular use?

With proper maintenance, this electric mower typically lasts 7 to 10 years or longer. The electric motor has no wearing internal parts like gas engines do, significantly extending lifespan. Regular blade sharpening, deck cleaning, and proper storage protect the mower from premature wear. Many users report their electric mowers outlasting previous gas models by several years.

What extension cord should I use with this electric mower?

You should use a 12-gauge outdoor extension cord for the best performance. This gauge handles the power requirements without voltage drops that reduce motor effectiveness. For runs up to 100 feet, 12-gauge provides adequate power delivery. Always use outdoor-rated cords designed for the power requirements. Using undersized cords can cause the motor to overheat or perform poorly.

Can the CRAFTSMAN Electric Lawn Mower handle thick grass effectively?

Yes, the 13-amp motor provides sufficient power for thick grass when approached correctly. For best results with overgrown lawns, make an initial pass at the highest cutting height, then lower the deck and make a second pass. This two-pass approach prevents overloading the motor and produces better results than trying to cut thick grass down to final height in one pass.

Does this mower work in wet conditions or light rain?

You should avoid mowing in wet conditions for both safety and performance reasons. Wet grass clumps and clogs the deck, producing poor cutting results. Moisture also increases electrical hazards with corded equipment. Wait for grass to dry before mowing for the best results and safest operation. The mower can handle slightly damp grass from morning dew, but standing water or rain should be avoided.

How does the mulching function perform compared to dedicated mulching mowers?

The mulching function works well for regular maintenance mowing when grass isn’t excessively long. The blade and deck design create adequate circulation for effective mulching. However, dedicated mulching mowers with specialized blades and deck designs may produce finer clippings. For most homeowners mowing regularly, this mower’s mulching capability provides satisfactory results that return nutrients to the lawn.

What is the actual cutting width and how much time does it save?

The 20-inch cutting deck provides approximately 18 to 19 inches of effective cutting width when you account for overlap. For a 2,500 square foot lawn, expect mowing to take 25 to 35 minutes depending on obstacles and your walking speed. This represents a significant improvement over smaller 14 to 16-inch decks that can add 10 to 15 minutes to your mowing time.

Is the grass collection bag easy to remove and empty?

Yes, the rear collection bag attaches and removes quickly without tools. The bag capacity holds enough clippings for several passes before requiring emptying on average lawns. When full, you simply lift the bag off and empty it into your compost bin or yard waste container. The bag’s design allows easy shaking to remove clinging grass clippings.

Can I sharpen the blade myself or should I take it to a professional?

You can sharpen the blade yourself if you’re comfortable with basic tools. Remove the blade, secure it in a vise, and use a file or angle grinder to restore the cutting edge at the original angle. Balance the blade afterward by hanging it on a nail through the center hole. If it tips to one side, remove more material from the heavier side. Professional sharpening costs $10 to $15 and ensures proper balance.

Last update on 2026-02-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API