Robot Lawn Mower Cost Comparison: Cheap vs. Expensive
Cheaper, entry-level robot lawn mowers (with costs ranging from $600 to $1,000) offer basic features. In comparison, mid-range ($1,000 to $2,500) and more expensive high-end models ($2,500 to $5,000+) handle larger areas with longer battery life and advanced tech. Home maintenance has progressed significantly thanks to technological advancements, and lawn care is no different.
As lawnmowers moved from lead-acid batteries to more efficient lithium-ion batteries, lawn mowing became easier and cheaper. Today, the global robotic lawn mower market is estimated to reach $4.3 billion by 2029, potentially removing the need to work hours under the hot sun entirely — but are they worth the cost?
Whether you're a homeowner or looking to start a robot lawn mowing business, understanding the cost differences between models is essential. Explore which options offer the best value and features for your needs.
Our team at Mowrator strives to be at the forefront of lawn care innovation, with our Mowrator S1 Remote Control Lawn Mower as our flagship. We’ve created a comprehensive guide for the price ranges of robot lawn mowers, what other costs you can expect, and if they are worth the investment compared to remote-controlled lawn mowers.
When comparing the costs of different robotic lawn mowers, it's important to consider features like security. Are Robotic Lawn Mowers Theft Proof? What You Need To Know explores how manufacturers protect these devices from theft.
Key Takeaways
- Entry-level robot lawnmowers cost around $600, while high-end models can exceed $5,000.
- Factors like battery capacity, technological features, and range can increase a robot lawn mower’s price.
- Boundary-wire installation can add up to $800 to a robot lawn mower’s cost if professionally done.
- Operation and maintenance costs for robot lawnmowers are minimal.
Price Ranges for Robot Lawn Mowers
The price ranges for robot lawnmowers generally range between $600 and $5,000+, depending on whether you're looking for an entry-level or high-end model. We've outlined the price ranges and features below:
| Entry-Level Robot Lawn Mowers | Mid-Range Robot Lawn Mowers | High-End Robot Lawn Mowers | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $600 to $1,000 | $1,000 to $2,500 | $2,500 to $5,000+ |
| Lawn Size | Up to 0.125 acres | 0.25 to 0.75 acres | 0.75 to 1.25+ acres |
| Battery Life | 30 to 60 minutes | 60 to 90 minutes | 2+ hours |
| Key Features | Basic navigation, Bluetooth, innovative features, customization | GPS, Wi-Fi functionality, smartphone connectivity, adjustable cutting height, weather sensors, perimeter-free | Cameras and precise mapping, app control, highly customizable, smart home integration, anti-theft, improved slope handling |
What Affects the Price of a Robotic Mower?
Several factors can increase the price of a robotic mower, including:
- Lawn size capacity (usually measured in mowing acres)
- Features and technology (cutting width and height customization, charging station, etc.)
- Brand reputation
- Battery capacity and recharge time
- Installation type (boundary wire or wire-free)
Installation and Setup Costs
Installation and setup costs are mainly divided into two categories: boundary wire installation and wire-free installation. Once you’ve purchased your electric robot lawn mower, you need to pay these additional costs to set it up properly.
Boundary Wire Installation
Boundary wire installation uses perimeter wire that your robotic lawn mower can sense, which keeps it within the space you want it to mow. Professional installation typically costs around $200 to $800. However, costs can vary for boundary wire installation, depending on how big and complex the space is. Once you've set the boundary, there may be minor maintenance costs, but otherwise, you can program your mower to mow the landscape.
Another option is DIY boundary wire installation. This is a cost-effective option at around $50 to $150.
Wire-Free Installation
Wire-free installation requires no set-up as the computerized lawn mower has GPS technology, cameras, or sensors to navigate your backyard. These models are more expensive than mowers that require boundary wire installation, but you save on installation costs and maintenance in the long run. Intelligent robotic systems that allow active GPS can also open multi-zone management options to mow your lawn dynamically.
Robot mowers, brands, and models will all differ in what they offer you. Spend some time online researching the automatic lawn mower that fits your outdoor space and budget.
Operating Costs and Maintenance
Even though robot grass mowers have a high upfront cost, they require little to no maintenance after you’ve purchased them. Operating costs like electricity are often negligible, as robotic lawn mowers are very energy efficient. In fact, they only use a couple of dollars a month to charge. Replacement costs for blades will vary from model to model, so it’s worth looking up prices for your chosen model online before you commit.
You may also need to bring your robotic lawn mower in for professional servicing once or twice a year to ensure it remains under warranty, depending on the brand. This can add to your operating expenses, but it’s less expensive than entirely replacing or repairing your lawn mower out of its warranty.
Robot Lawn Mower vs. Remote Control Mower: What Do Studies Show?
Universities have conducted thorough research to test the performance of robot lawn mowers vs. remote control mowers, with a specific focus on safety. So, if you’re a homeowner who isn't sure how robot lawnmowers compare to remote-control mowers, then you’re in luck. Here’s what these studies found:
One primary concern for fully automatic lawnmowers is their threat to the wildlife that lives or visits your backyard. Another study, published in MDPI’s Animals journal in 2024, aimed to test the safety of robotic lawnmowers, specifically against small rodents like hedgehogs. The study found that robot lawnmowers still have trouble navigating around wildlife and may injure animals.
With a remote-controlled lawn mower, wildlife can easily be avoided since you’re in control of the lawn mower.
Are Robot Lawn Mowers Worth the Investment?
Yes, robot lawnmowers are worth the investment if you don’t mind paying a premium for one of the mid-range to high-end models. One major consideration that can influence your purchase is the size of your lawn. A robot lawn cutter can handle up to an acre or two currently, and you’ll need to move and program it to begin tackling large backyards. Similarly, if your lawn or garden has rough terrain requiring delicate or specific cutting, it may be challenging to find a robot lawn mower to handle it.
On the other hand, remote-controlled lawn mowers have been proven to tackle rugged garden terrain exceptionally easily and can navigate slopes and steep angles better than robotic mowing machines. Lawn maintenance done by a lawn mowing robot can occasionally skip corners, unlike a remote-controlled lawn mower, where you are in control. A robot lawn mower you control may take more active time than a fully automatic lawn mower, but it provides superior flexibility.
If you want to enjoy the benefits of remotely controlling your lawn mower, consider Mowrator’s S1 3-in-1 Remote Control Lawn Mower 4WD. Our team of innovative engineers ensures that our products match your needs using the latest technology available, including all-wheel drive and perimeter wire-free controls. Browse our selection of the most popular remote control lawnmowers and accessories today.
FAQs on Robot Lawn Mower Cost Comparison
What are the disadvantages of robot lawn mowers?
The biggest disadvantage of robot lawnmowers is the upfront cost. While you can buy entry-level robotic mowers for around $500, they don’t offer enough to justify the price compared to traditional push or riding mowers. The best robotic lawnmowers can cost between $2,500 and $5,000 or more, which discourages many homeowners looking to purchase one for their lawn.
Can robot lawn mowers cut wet grass?
They can, but they shouldn’t. Many models can cut wet grass as long as the grass isn’t too high or thick. For the best results, ensure that your robot lawn mower is trimming your lawn daily to avoid clumping and damage to your mower.
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