The DeWALT 2x20V Lawnmower is a cordless, battery-powered solution designed for homeowners seeking professional-grade performance without the hassle of gasoline. Tested in real-world conditions ranging from bumpy terrain to significantly overgrown grass, this mower delivers a high-quality finish but presents notable ergonomic challenges.
Where to Buy & Pricing Info
Key Features
The mower utilizes a dual-battery system, drawing power from two 20V batteries simultaneously to tackle demanding tasks. A standout technical feature is the cross-blade system, which uses two blades to improve cutting efficiency and mulch quality.
For versatility, the mower offers multiple grass management modes:
- Mulching: Includes a removable plug for fine nutrient recycling.
- Side Discharge: Capable of throwing clippings a significant distance.
- Self-Propelled Drive: Features a thumb-wheel speed control located on the handle.
Pros: Cutting Performance and Power
The most significant strength of the DeWALT mower is the quality of the finish it leaves on the lawn.
- Clean Cut Quality: Users noted that the mower cuts exceptionally clean, leaving a smooth surface even on bumpy ground.
- Consistent Finish: Unlike some competitors, it does not leave behind random patches or uncut blades of grass.
- Strong Discharge: When the mulch plug is removed, the mower demonstrates high power, swinging and throwing clippings effectively without bogging down.
- Quiet Operation: The machine is remarkably quiet, allowing for a more peaceful mowing experience compared to gas alternatives.
- Comfortable Main Grip: The overmold on the main bail handle is soft and ergonomic for the hands.
Cons: Ergonomics and Drive System
While the cutting performance is top-tier, the user interface and drive mechanics received several criticisms.
- Uncomfortable Drive Levers: The self-propelled levers are made of small, hard plastic. Users reported that holding them down is painful and can lead to blisters on the thumbs.
- Jerky Speed Control: The drive system lacks a progressive throttle, making the movement feel "all or nothing" and jerky rather than smooth.
- Small Adjustment Wheel: The thumb wheel for speed control is considered too small, making it difficult to adjust while navigating uneven terrain.
- Maneuverability Issues: The motor often fails to disengage immediately when pulling the mower backward, making it heavy and difficult to reverse in tight spots.
- Stalling Under Load: Despite its power, the motor can shut off when hitting extremely thick tufts of grass or if the deck bottoms out on a bump.
Target Audience
Based on the performance characteristics, this mower is best suited for:
- DeWALT Ecosystem Users: Those who already own 20V DeWALT batteries and chargers.
- Aesthetics-Focused Homeowners: Users who prioritize a "perfect" clean cut and a smooth-looking lawn.
- Small to Medium Yards: Ideal for those who don't require extended runtimes or massive physical effort to manage the jerky drive system over long periods.
Final Verdict
The DeWALT 2x20V Lawnmower is a powerful cutting machine hampered by specific design flaws. It excels at its primary job—cutting grass cleanly and quietly—rivaling the finish of a traditional gas mower. However, the ergonomics of the self-propelled system leave much to be desired. If you value cut quality above comfort and are already part of the DeWALT battery platform, this mower is a strong contender; however, those looking for a smooth, intuitive drive experience may find the controls frustrating.