EGO LM2156SP vs Ryobi RY401170US: Battery Mowers Compared
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Battery mowers have gotten good enough that most homeowners don't need gas anymore. The EGO LM2156SP runs on a 56V 7.5Ah battery and self-propels at up to 3.1 MPH. The Ryobi RY401170US uses a 40V 6Ah battery with a brushless motor and self-propulsion. Both cut a 21-inch swath and bag, mulch, or side-discharge. The question is whether the EGO's larger battery and higher voltage justify the price premium.
Quick Verdict
The EGO LM2156SP is the better mower. Longer runtime, variable speed self-propulsion, and stronger mulching all add up to a noticeably better cut. The Ryobi RY401170US is the better deal. At $250 less, it handles a 1/4 acre yard just fine. If your lawn is under 5,000 square feet and relatively flat, save the money.
60+ minutes of runtime on the 7.5Ah battery means you can finish without swapping cells.
Variable-speed self-propulsion lets you match speed to slope. Single speed on hills is frustrating.
Nothing else self-propels for $299 with a battery included. The cut quality is perfectly adequate.
If you already have 40V batteries from a trimmer or blower, you can buy the mower bare for even less.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | EGO LM2156SP | Ryobi RY401170US |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 21 in | 21 in |
| Cutting Height Range | 1.5 in to 4 in | 1.5 in to 4 in |
| Battery Voltage | 56V ARC Lithium | 40V |
| Battery Capacity | 7.5Ah (included) | 6Ah (included) |
| Self-Propelled | Yes, variable speed up to 3.1 MPH | Yes, single speed |
| Weight | 62 lb (with battery) | 55 lb (with battery) |
| Deck Material | Steel | Steel |
EGO LM2156SP
Price: $549 (Home Depot)
Pros
- 56V 7.5Ah battery delivers 60+ minutes of runtime on a single charge for most lawns
- Variable-speed self-propulsion adjusts to your walking pace without jerking
- Steel deck is more durable than plastic and handles rocks and roots without cracking
Cons
- 62 lb with battery is heavy to lift into a truck or carry up stairs
- $549 is nearly double the Ryobi price point
- Steel deck will rust if you don't clean grass buildup off the underside
Ryobi RY401170US
Price: $299 (Home Depot)
Pros
- $299 with battery and charger is the lowest price for a self-propelled battery mower that actually works
- 40V platform shares batteries with Ryobi's entire outdoor line (trimmer, blower, chainsaw)
- 7 lb lighter than the EGO, easier to push up slopes and lift over obstacles
Cons
- Single-speed self-propulsion can feel too fast or too slow depending on the terrain
- 6Ah battery runs about 40 minutes, which may not finish a 1/3 acre lawn in one charge
- Mulching performance is weaker than the EGO in tall or thick grass
Best For
Lawns over 1/4 acre
EGO LM2156SP
60+ minutes of runtime on the 7.5Ah battery means you can finish without swapping cells.
Hilly or uneven terrain
EGO LM2156SP
Variable-speed self-propulsion lets you match speed to slope. Single speed on hills is frustrating.
Budget under $350
Ryobi RY401170US
Nothing else self-propels for $299 with a battery included. The cut quality is perfectly adequate.
Existing Ryobi 40V owners
Ryobi RY401170US
If you already have 40V batteries from a trimmer or blower, you can buy the mower bare for even less.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can battery mowers handle thick or wet grass?
Both can handle moderately thick grass. The EGO does better in tall, thick conditions because the 56V motor maintains blade speed under load. In wet grass, both slow down and can clog the discharge chute. Mow when the grass is dry for best results.
How long does it take to charge the batteries?
The EGO 7.5Ah battery charges in about 60 minutes with the included rapid charger. The Ryobi 6Ah battery takes around 90 minutes with the standard charger. Both chargers are included in the kit price.
Do battery mowers need maintenance like gas mowers?
No oil changes, no spark plugs, no air filters, no carburetor cleaning. You still need to sharpen or replace the blade once or twice a season and clean grass buildup off the deck. That's it.