1) Quick comparison

If you mow weekly and value quiet operation, battery platforms shine. For large, sloped, or uneven plots, self-propelled petrol units still dominate. Corded makes sense where outlet access is easy and storage space is tight.

2) Deck width & lawn size

• Small lawns: 32–38 cm deck for tight paths and easy storage.
• Medium lawns: 40–46 cm deck balances speed and manoeuvrability.
• Large lawns: 48 cm+ deck reduces passes and time.

3) Drive, wheels & terrain

• Push: light, precise near borders; best on flat, small lawns.
• Self-propelled: eases fatigue on slopes and long runs; variable speed is gold.
• Wheels: large rear wheels track straighter on bumps; check bearing quality.
• Rear roller: creates stripes and stabilises along edges.

4) Grass handling: bag, mulch, or side discharge?

• Bagging: the tidiest look; useful during spring flush or after holidays.
• Mulching: returns nutrients; best with dry grass and regular schedule.
• Side discharge: rough or long grass; fewer clogs but more cleanup later.

5) Battery platforms & runtime

• Stay within one 18V/36V ecosystem to share packs with leaf blowers, drills, saws.
• Two batteries “leapfrog” for continuous mowing — one runs, one charges.
• Brushless motors deliver better torque and efficiency, extending runtime.

6) Seasonal cut heights (guideline)

7) Storage & winterising

• Clean deck after each cut; dried clumps disrupt airflow and mulching.
• Battery: store ~40–60% charge; avoid freezing temps.
• Petrol: run carb dry or use stabiliser; check oil and air filter before storage.
• Fold handles to save space; avoid stacking heavy items on the deck.

8) Safety snapshot

• Clear stones, toys, and twigs first; debris becomes projectiles.
• Never lift or tilt a running mower; blades coast even after shut-off.
• Wear sturdy shoes; avoid loose clothing near the drive belt.

9) Troubleshooting quality of cut

• Uneven cut / scalping: raise height; sharpen blade; slow down over bumps.
• Clumping: wet grass or dull blade; switch to bagging until dry.
• Stripes not visible: add rear roller or mow in alternating directions.

10) Quick scenarios

• Townhouse patch, weekend mowing: compact battery mower + mulching plug.
• Large lawn with slope: self-propelled petrol, 48 cm+ deck, bag in spring.
• Holiday growth recovery: two passes: high then normal height; bag first pass.