Petrol vs electric lawn mower running costs

Last updated: 2026-06-24

"Electric is cheaper to run" is true — but by how much, and is energy even the cost that matters? Here's how the three power types really compare once you add up everything you'll spend after the purchase.

The cost most people focus on: energy

Energy is the visible running cost, and it's where electric wins clearly. A petrol mower burns roughly a litre of fuel per hour of cutting; a corded or cordless electric mower draws a small amount of electricity for the same work. At typical European prices the electric option usually costs a fraction of petrol per hour — but the absolute numbers depend on your lawn size, how often you cut, and your local tariffs.

Put your own numbers in: the running-cost calculator compares petrol, cordless and corded for your lawn size and prices, with every assumption editable.

The cost people forget: maintenance

This is where petrol's true cost hides. A petrol engine needs oil changes, air filters, spark plugs, fuel stabiliser and the occasional carburettor clean or service — small sums that add up every year. Battery and corded mowers have none of that: no engine, no oil, far fewer moving parts. Over a mower's life, maintenance often outweighs the fuel-vs-electricity gap.

The cost that's hardest to compare: batteries

Cordless changes the maths. The bare mower may be cheap, but a capable battery is a real cost — unless you already own compatible packs. That's why the battery platform can decide the whole purchase.

Already own cordless tools? Check what carries over with the battery ecosystem checker, and read battery ecosystems explained.

So which is cheapest overall?

For most European gardens, cordless or corded wins on total running cost and convenience. Petrol earns its keep where runtime and reach matter more than economy — big, rough or off-grid lawns.

Next: robot vs cordless vs petrol — which type is right for you?