40V vs 24V Lawn Mowers: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a 40V vs 24V lawn mower often comes down to your specific yard needs. Both options offer cordless convenience and brushless motor efficiency for reliable performance. The main difference lies in their power systems and primary functions. One model delivers higher voltage for standard mowing tasks, while the other combines two 24V batteries for specialized dethatching and scarifying. Understanding these specs helps you pick the right tool for your grass care routine.
Key differences
| Aspect | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | Sun Joe 48V 15-Inch Cordless Dethatcher and Scarifier |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 40V | 48V (2 x 24V) |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 15 in |
| Drive Type | Push | not listed |
| Mowing Function | Mulch and rear bag | Scarifying and dethatching |
| Motor Type | not listed | Brushless |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower if
- You need a dedicated push mower for cutting grass up to 1/3 acre
- You prefer a wider 16-inch cutting deck for faster mowing coverage
- You want mulching and rear bagging options for grass clippings
Choose Sun Joe 48V 15-Inch Cordless Dethatcher and Scarifier if
- You need to dethatch or scarify your lawn to promote thicker growth
- You want the combined power of two 24V batteries for extended runtime
- You prefer a brushless motor for efficient and durable operation
Verdict: Choose the Greenworks 40V model if you need a standard push mower for cutting grass with mulching or bagging capabilities. Select the Sun Joe 48V dethatcher if your priority is lawn rejuvenation through scarifying and dethatching rather than primary mowing. Your choice depends on whether you are maintaining grass height or treating thatch buildup.
40V vs 24V Mower Specs Compared
Voltage and Power
The Greenworks 40V mower operates on a single 40V system, providing robust power for standard mowing tasks. In contrast, the Sun Joe unit uses two 24V batteries to create a 48V output. This dual-battery configuration in the Sun Joe model allows for higher voltage delivery, which can enhance performance in tougher conditions. The Greenworks relies on its 40V platform, which is compatible with a wide ecosystem of other tools. You should consider whether your existing battery lineup favors the 40V or 24V standard for future expansions.
Cutting Width
Deck size directly impacts how many passes you need to cover your lawn. The Greenworks mower features a 16-inch cutting width, offering a slightly wider swath per pass. The Sun Joe dethatcher has a 15-inch cutting width. While the difference is only one inch, the wider deck on the Greenworks model can reduce mowing time on larger, open areas. The Sun Joe is designed for maintenance rather than primary grass cutting, so its narrower width is tailored for precision work. For pure mowing efficiency, the extra inch matters.
Drive Type
How you move the machine affects effort and control. The Greenworks is a push mower, meaning you must provide all the forward momentum. This makes it lightweight and easy to maneuver around obstacles but requires physical effort on slopes. The Sun Joe is also a push-style tool, lacking a self-propelled drive system. Both units rely on your strength to move them across the yard. If you have a flat lawn, either works. For hilly terrain, the lighter weight of the Greenworks might be easier to carry or push.
Mowing Function
These tools serve different primary purposes. The Greenworks is a true lawn mower with a 2-in-1 system that allows for mulching and rear bagging. It cuts grass cleanly for disposal or reuse. The Sun Joe is a dethatcher and scarifier. It uses tines and blades to remove thatch and moss, not to cut grass blades to a height. You cannot use the Sun Joe to mow a lawn. If your goal is to trim grass, the Greenworks is the only viable option. The Sun Joe is for lawn care maintenance.
Battery Capacity
Runtime depends on battery storage. Both machines utilize 4.0 Ah batteries. The Greenworks uses one 4.0 Ah battery for its 40V operation. The Sun Joe requires two 4.0 Ah batteries to achieve its 48V output. This means the Sun Joe consumes battery capacity faster because it draws from two cells simultaneously. You will likely get less runtime per charge from the Sun Joe compared to the Greenworks, assuming similar power demands. Always check if batteries are included, as the Sun Joe needs two for operation.
Which 40V or 24V mower fits you
Homeowners with small lawns under a third acre
The Greenworks 40V mower features a 16-inch cutting width and a 4.0 Ah battery rated for up to a third of an acre. Its 37.5-pound weight and 16-inch deck make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The single-lever height adjustment offers five positions, allowing you to quickly set the cut height. This model is designed for straightforward, reliable mowing of standard residential lawns without complex maintenance.
Users needing precise thatch removal and dethatching
The Sun Joe unit is a dethatcher and scarifier, not a standard mower. It uses two 24V batteries to deliver 48V power through a brushless 600W motor. The 15-inch width accommodates a 24-tine cylinder for thatch removal and a 7-blade cylinder for scarifying. You can adjust the depth from -0.375 inches to 0.4 inches across five positions. This tool is built for lawn rejuvenation and debris collection, not primary grass cutting.
Buyers wanting compatibility with a larger tool ecosystem
The Greenworks 40V system works with over 75 other Greenworks 40V tools, including trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws. This allows you to share the same 4.0 Ah battery across multiple devices. The mower includes a charger and a 3-year limited warranty for the tool and battery. If you already own or plan to buy other 40V equipment, this mower integrates seamlessly into your existing cordless toolkit.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | small lawns under one-third acre | Check price of Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower on Amazon |
| 2 | Sun Joe 48V 15-Inch Cordless Dethatcher and Scarifier | Lawn aeration and thatch removal tasks | Check price of Sun Joe 48V 15-Inch Cordless Dethatcher and Scarifier on Amazon |
The products compared
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower
Best for: small lawns under one-third 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 40V push mower features a 16-inch cutting width and a 4.0 Ah battery. It offers five cutting height positions and supports both mulching and rear bagging. The lightweight design is 35% lighter than steel deck mowers. It includes a 3-year warranty and works with other Greenworks 40V tools. This model suits small to medium lawns up to one-third acre.
Pros
- 40V power source with 4.0 Ah battery
- 16-inch cutting width for manageable maneuverability
- Lightweight build, 35% lighter than steel decks
- Single-lever height adjustment with 5 positions
- 2-in-1 mulch and rear bag system
Cons
- 16-inch cutting width is narrower than larger models
- Push drive requires manual effort
- 3-year warranty is shorter than premium competitors
Good fit if
- You have a lawn under one-third acre
- You prefer a lightweight mower for easy storage
- You already own other Greenworks 40V tools
Skip if
- You need self-propelled power for steep terrain
- You require a wider 21-inch cutting deck
- You want a battery larger than 4.0 Ah
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16in Push Mower fits users with small lawns who value lightweight handling and tool ecosystem compatibility. It is not suitable for large properties or those needing self-propulsion.
Sun Joe 48V 15-Inch Cordless Dethatcher and Scarifier
Best for: Lawn aeration and thatch removal tasks
- Voltage
- 24V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Cutting Width
- 15.0-Inch
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0-Ah
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Dimensions
- 26.5 × 18.8 × 16 inches
View on Amazon: Sun Joe 48V 15-Inch Cordless Dethatcher and Scarifier Affiliate link
This Sun Joe tool combines dethatching and scarifying using two 24V batteries for a 48V system. It features a 15-inch cutting width and a brushless 600W motor. The unit includes five depth positions ranging from -0.375 to 0.4 inches. A large 10.6-gallon collection bag captures debris. It suits homeowners needing precise lawn care and thatch removal without gas maintenance.
Pros
- 48V output from two 24V batteries for extended runtime
- Brushless 600W motor for efficient power delivery
- Five adjustable depth positions for precise control
- 10.6-gallon collection bag reduces cleanup time
- Versatile 2-in-1 design for scarifying and dethatching
Cons
- 15-inch width is narrower than standard mowers
- Requires two separate batteries to operate
- Heavier at 36.4 pounds than typical push mowers
Good fit if
- You need to remove thatch and moss from your lawn
- You want precise depth control for scarifying
- You already own compatible 24V Sun Joe batteries
Skip if
- You only want to cut grass without dethatching
- You prefer a wider cutting deck for speed
- You need a single battery for operation
Verdict: Sun Joe 48V Cordless Lawn Scarifier is a specialized tool for homeowners who prioritize lawn health over simple mowing. It fits those who already have the batteries and need a narrow, precise machine for thatch removal.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | Sun Joe 48V 15-Inch Cordless Dethatcher and Scarifier |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless | Cordless |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 15.0-Inch |
| Voltage | 40V | 48V (Dual 24-V) |
| Drive Type | Push | not stated |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0 Ah | 4.0-Ah |
| Cutting Height | 5 position | not stated |
| Mowing Function | 2-in-1 (mulch, rear bagging) | not stated |
| Motor Type | not stated | brushless |
| Application | Lawn | not stated |
| Dimensions | 50.8 × 18.9 × 39 inches | 26.5 × 18.8 × 16 inches |
| Weight | 37.5 pounds | 36.4 pounds |
| Size | 16" Cordless (4.0Ah) | Cordless; 15.0-Inch |
| Color | Green | GREEN |
| Model | 25322 | 24V-X2-DTS15 |
Frequently asked questions
Is 40V better than 24V for small yards?
Yes, 40V systems often provide more consistent power for standard mowing tasks. The Greenworks 40V model weighs 37.5 pounds and features a 16-inch cutting width. This setup suits homeowners with small lawns under one-third acre who need lightweight handling. It delivers reliable performance without the bulk of heavier self-propelled units.
Can a 24V mower handle thick grass?
The Sun Joe unit listed uses two 24V batteries to create a 48V output. This configuration offers robust power for specialized tasks like dethatching. While it weighs 36.4 pounds, its brushless motor ensures efficiency. It is designed for homeowners prioritizing lawn health and thatch removal over simple grass cutting.
Which mower is lighter to push?
The Sun Joe dethatcher is slightly lighter at 36.4 pounds compared to the Greenworks mower at 37.5 pounds. Both are push-style units, meaning you provide the propulsion. The Sun Joe also has a more compact length of 26.5 inches, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces or store away.
Do I need a self-propelled mower for a small yard?
No, self-propulsion is not necessary for small lawns under one-third acre. The Greenworks 40V mower is a push model that remains lightweight and easy to handle. It fits users who value simplicity and tool ecosystem compatibility. You can manage the yard manually without the added weight and complexity of a drive system.
What is the difference between the two cutting widths?
The Greenworks mower offers a 16-inch cutting width, while the Sun Joe unit has a 15-inch width. The extra inch on the Greenworks can help cover ground faster during standard mowing. The Sun Joe’s narrower deck allows for more precise work when dethatching or scarifying your lawn's surface.
Is the Greenworks mower suitable for large properties?
No, the Greenworks 40V mower is not suitable for large properties. Its 4.0 Ah battery and 16-inch deck are optimized for small lawns under one-third acre. The verdict explicitly states it lacks the power and runtime needed for larger estates. You should look for higher-capacity batteries or self-propelled models for bigger yards.
Does the Sun Joe mower have a brushless motor?
Yes, the Sun Joe 48V dethatcher features a brushless motor. This type of motor typically offers longer life and better efficiency than brushed alternatives. It supports the unit's role in lawn aeration and thatch removal. The brushless design helps maintain performance over time for these specialized yard care tasks.
How wide is the Greenworks mower overall?
The Greenworks 40V mower has an overall width of 18.9 inches. This dimension includes the handle and deck assembly. The cutting deck itself is 16 inches wide. The total width affects how easily you can navigate around obstacles like flower beds or trees in your yard.