40V vs 20V Lawn Mowers: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a 40V vs 20V lawn mower depends on your lawn size and storage needs. Both models are cordless push mowers designed for residential use. The main difference lies in power and cutting width. The 40V option offers a wider deck and longer runtime, while the 20V model is lighter and more compact. You should pick based on whether you prioritize cutting capacity or ease of handling.
Key differences
| Aspect | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | MZK 13-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 40V | 20V |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 13 in |
| Drive Type | Push | Push |
| Motor Type | not listed | Brushless |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0 Ah | 2x 4.0 Ah |
| Mowing Function | Mulch and bag | Bag |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower if
- You have a larger lawn up to 1/3 acre and need a wider 16-inch cutting deck.
- You want the flexibility to mulch clippings or use a rear bag.
- You already own other 40V Greenworks tools for battery compatibility.
Choose MZK 13-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower if
- You need a lightweight mower that weighs only 13 pounds for easy storage.
- You prefer a brushless motor for efficient power and longer motor life.
- You want dual batteries to swap out and extend your total runtime.
Verdict: The 40V Greenworks is better for standard lawns where cutting width and mulching options matter. The 20V MZK suits small spaces or users who prioritize light weight and brushless efficiency. Pick the voltage that matches your lawn size and storage constraints.
40V vs 20V Mower Specs
Voltage and Power
The Greenworks 40V model operates at 40 volts, while the MZK runs on 20 volts. Higher voltage generally supports more robust motor performance and sustained power under load. The 40V system is designed to handle denser grass conditions without stalling. The 20V system uses a brushless motor to maximize efficiency, delivering up to 3400 RPM on high. This allows the smaller mower to cut effectively despite the lower voltage. You should choose the 40V option if you expect thick or wet grass. The 20V unit is sufficient for standard residential lawns with regular maintenance.
Cutting Width
Deck size determines how many passes you need to cover your lawn. The Greenworks 40V mower features a 16-inch cutting width. The MZK 20V mower has a narrower 13-inch deck. The wider 16-inch deck allows you to clear more ground with each pass, reducing total mowing time. The 13-inch deck is compact and easier to maneuver in tight spaces or around garden beds. If you have a large, open lawn, the 16-inch width is more efficient. For small yards with many obstacles, the 13-inch width offers better agility.
Runtime and Batteries
Runtime depends on battery capacity and motor efficiency. The Greenworks 40V mower includes a single 4.0 Ah battery. The MZK 20V mower comes with two 4.0 Ah batteries, providing a combined capacity of 8.0 Ah. The MZK lists a runtime of up to 30 minutes on a full charge. You can swap batteries to extend mowing time without waiting for a recharge. The Greenworks 40V system is compatible with over 75 other tools, allowing you to share batteries across your toolkit. If you already own Greenworks 40V tools, this is a significant advantage. Otherwise, the dual-battery setup offers flexibility.
Weight and Maneuverability
Weight affects how easy the mower is to push and store. The Greenworks 40V mower weighs 37.5 pounds. The MZK 20V mower weighs only 13 pounds. The MZK is significantly lighter, making it much easier to lift, carry, and store in a small shed or garage. The Greenworks is described as 35% lighter than steel deck mowers, but it is still heavier than the MZK. If you have physical limitations or limited storage space, the 13-pound MZK is the better choice. The 37.5-pound Greenworks is stable but requires more effort to move.
Cutting Height Adjustment
Both mowers offer adjustable cutting heights to suit different grass types and seasons. The Greenworks 40V mower has five height positions. The MZK 20V mower has four positions, ranging from 1.3 inches to 2.6 inches. The Greenworks offers more granular control with five settings. The MZK provides a specific range that covers most standard lawn needs. Both use a lever or knob system for adjustment. The MZK’s range is slightly lower at the minimum setting, which may be preferred for a closer cut. The Greenworks offers more options for fine-tuning your lawn’s appearance.
Mowing Function
Disposal options impact cleanup convenience. The Greenworks 40V mower supports a 2-in-1 system, allowing you to mulch clippings back into the lawn or bag them in a rear bag. The MZK 20V mower is designed for bagging only. Mulching returns nutrients to the soil, reducing the need for fertilizer. If you prefer to mulch, the Greenworks is the only option. Both include a rear bag for collecting clippings. The MZK includes an 8-gallon bag. The Greenworks bag size is not specified in the data. Choose Greenworks if you want mulching capability.
Which Mower Fits Your Lawn Needs
You have a small yard and need easy storage
The MZK weighs just 13 pounds, making it the lightest option here. Its compact 13-inch cutting width and small footprint suit tight spaces. The dual-battery system offers 30 minutes of runtime, which covers small lawns efficiently. You get two batteries and a charger in the box, ensuring you have power ready when needed without heavy lifting.
You need versatility for mulching and bagging
The Greenworks 40V model features a 2-in-1 system that handles both mulching and rear bagging. This flexibility lets you choose how to manage clippings based on your preference. The 16-inch deck covers more ground per pass than the smaller 13-inch option. You also get a 3-year warranty, providing long-term reliability for your outdoor maintenance tasks.
You want maximum runtime for larger areas
This mower is rated to cut up to one-third acre on a single charge. The 40-volt system paired with a 4.0 Ah battery delivers sustained power for denser grass. The 16-inch cutting width reduces the number of passes required. You benefit from a wider deck and higher voltage, which helps maintain consistent cutting speed across larger residential lawns.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | small lawns up to 1/3 acre | Check price of Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower on Amazon |
| 2 | MZK 13-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower | Small lawns needing a lightweight, portable mower | Check price of MZK 13-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower on Amazon |
The products compared
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower
Best for: small lawns up to 1/3 acre
- Voltage
- 40V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
- Cutting Height
- 5 position
View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower Affiliate link
This Greenworks 40V mower offers a 16-inch cutting width and a 4.0 Ah battery. It weighs 37.5 pounds and is 35% lighter than steel deck mowers. The single lever adjusts height across 5 positions. You get a 2-in-1 system for mulching and rear bagging. It cuts up to 1/3 acre on a full charge. This model suits small to medium lawns needing lightweight maneuverability.
Pros
- 40V power with 4.0 Ah battery included
- 16-inch cutting width for efficient mowing
- 37.5-pound weight, 35% lighter than steel decks
- 5-position single lever height adjustment
- 2-in-1 mulch and rear bagging system
Cons
- Push drive requires manual effort
- 16-inch cutting width is narrower than self-propelled options
- 3-year warranty is shorter than premium competitors
Good fit if
- You have a lawn up to 1/3 acre
- You prefer a lightweight mower for easy storage
- You want mulching and bagging capabilities
Skip if
- You need self-propelled power for hills
- You have a lawn larger than 1/3 acre
- You prefer a wider 21-inch cutting deck
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Mower fits owners of small to medium lawns who value lightweight handling and basic mulching or bagging. It delivers adequate power for flat terrain but lacks the self-propelled drive needed for slopes.
MZK 13-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
Best for: Small lawns needing a lightweight, portable mower
- Voltage
- 20V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless battery
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Drive Type
- push
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Runtime
- Up to 30 minutes
View on Amazon: MZK 13-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Affiliate link
This MZK mower uses two 20V 4.0Ah batteries to deliver up to 30 minutes of runtime. Its 13-inch deck and 13-pound weight make it compact and easy to maneuver. The brushless motor offers two speed settings for efficient cutting. You get a 30L grass bag and four height adjustments. This model suits small lawns where portability and ease of use matter more than wide coverage.
Pros
- Brushless motor provides up to 3400 RPM on high speed
- Dual 20V 4.0Ah batteries allow swapping to extend runtime
- Lightweight 13-pound design fits in tight storage spaces
- Four-position height adjustment from 1.3 to 2.6 inches
- Includes two batteries and a charger in the kit
Cons
- 13-inch cutting width requires more passes than wider decks
- 30-minute runtime limits use on larger lawns
- Single-port charger means slower total recharge time
Good fit if
- You have a small lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You need a lightweight mower for easy lifting
- You want to swap batteries to keep mowing
Skip if
- You have a large lawn requiring wide cuts
- You need more than 30 minutes of continuous runtime
- You prefer a 40V system for higher power
Verdict: MZK 20V 13-Inch Brushless Mower fits small yards where you value a light, easy-to-store tool over wide cutting speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | MZK 13-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless | Cordless battery |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 13 in |
| Voltage | 40V | 20V |
| Drive Type | Push | push |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0 Ah | 4.0Ah |
| Runtime | not stated | Up to 30 minutes |
| Cutting Height | 5 position | 1.3 to 2.6 inches, 4 positions |
| Mowing Function | 2-in-1 (mulch, rear bagging) | Bagging |
| Motor Type | not stated | Brushless |
| Application | Lawn | Lawn |
| Dimensions | 50.8 × 18.9 × 39 inches | 16 × 17 × 9 inches |
| Weight | 37.5 pounds | 13 pounds |
| Size | 16" Cordless (4.0Ah) | 13IN |
| Color | Green | Red |
| Model | 25322 | ET2601 |
Frequently asked questions
Is a 40V mower better than a 20V for small lawns?
It depends on your storage space and handling preference. The Greenworks 40V model weighs 37.5 pounds and offers a 16-inch cutting width. The MZK 20V mower is much lighter at 13 pounds with a 13-inch deck. If you prioritize easy lifting and compact storage, the 20V option is more suitable. For wider cuts, the 40V system provides more power.
Do I need a self-propelled mower for slopes?
Yes, if your lawn has inclines, a self-propelled drive is essential. The Greenworks 40V mower is a push model, meaning you must provide all the forward momentum. It lacks the drive mechanism needed for slopes. The MZK 20V mower is also a push mower. Neither listed model assists with uphill movement, so you must push both manually.
How does voltage affect runtime and power?
Higher voltage generally supports more robust motor performance and sustained power under load. The 40V Greenworks system is designed to handle denser grass with greater torque. The 20V MZK uses a brushless motor for efficiency. While both are cordless, the 40V battery capacity of 4.0 Ah supports longer continuous operation compared to typical 20V configurations for similar tasks.
Which mower is easier to store in a garage?
The MZK 20V mower is significantly easier to store due to its compact size. It measures 16 inches in length and weighs only 13 pounds. The Greenworks 40V mower is larger, measuring 50.8 inches in length and weighing 37.5 pounds. If you have limited space, the smaller 20V model fits into tighter areas more easily.
Can I use the 40V battery with the 20V mower?
No, the batteries are not interchangeable between these different voltage platforms. The Greenworks mower requires a 40V battery, while the MZK mower operates on a 20V system. You must use the specific battery type designed for each voltage. Mixing systems is not possible, so you need separate power sources for each tool type.
What is the best cutting width for a small yard?
A 13-inch cutting width is ideal for small yards and tight spaces. The MZK 20V mower features this narrower deck, making it easier to maneuver around obstacles. The Greenworks 40V mower has a wider 16-inch deck. While it covers more ground, the narrower option provides better precision for small, cluttered lawns.
Is a brushless motor better than a standard motor?
Brushless motors offer improved efficiency and durability. The MZK 20V mower utilizes a brushless motor, which reduces maintenance needs and extends runtime. The Greenworks 40V mower specifications do not explicitly list the motor type. However, both systems are designed for reliable cordless operation. The brushless design specifically helps maintain power as the battery drains.