Are Robot Lawnmowers Worth It? A Comprehensive Guide

Robot lawnmowers represent the cutting edge of garden automation, promising a perfectly manicured lawn with minimal effort. But with prices ranging from £400 to over £3,000, are they worth the investment? Let’s explore everything you need to know.

How Robot Lawnmowers Work

Robot mowers are autonomous devices that cut your lawn automatically on a programmed schedule. They work similarly to robot vacuum cleaners but are designed for outdoor use:

Boundary Wire: You install a perimeter wire around your lawn to define the mowing area
Charging Station: The robot returns automatically when its battery runs low
Random or Systematic Patterns: Different models use various navigation strategies
Mulching: Clippings are finely cut and returned to nourish the lawn

Key Benefits

Time Saving

Once installed and programmed, your robot mower works autonomously. No more spending weekends pushing a mower around your garden.

Consistent Cutting

Regular, frequent cuts keep your lawn at an optimal height, promoting healthier, denser grass growth.

Quiet Operation

Most robot mowers operate at 55-70 decibels - quieter than traditional mowers - allowing operation during early morning or evening hours.

Mulching Benefits

Continuous mulching returns nutrients to the soil, potentially reducing your fertilizer requirements.

Weather Adaptable

Many models include rain sensors and can mow in light rain, ensuring your lawn receives consistent care regardless of weather.

Potential Drawbacks

Initial Cost

Quality robot mowers are expensive, with good models starting around £700 and premium options exceeding £2,000.

Installation Effort

Setting up the boundary wire requires time and effort, especially for complex garden shapes.

Not Suitable for All Gardens

Very steep slopes, extremely uneven terrain, or gardens with many obstacles may be problematic.

Security Concerns

Despite PIN locks and alarms, theft can be a concern. Some insurance policies may not cover robot mowers left outside.

Edge Trimming Still Required

Most robot mowers can’t cut right to the edge, so you’ll still need to strim borders occasionally.

What to Consider Before Buying

Garden Size

Match the mower’s capacity to your lawn size. Most manufacturers specify the maximum area each model can handle.

Garden Complexity

Simple, open lawns are ideal. Gardens with many flower beds, trees, or narrow passages are more challenging.

Slope Gradient

Check the maximum gradient your chosen model can handle. Basic models manage 15-20%, while premium versions tackle up to 35%.

Budget

Consider not just the purchase price but also potential installation costs if you hire professionals.

Security

Look for models with PIN locks, GPS tracking, and alarm systems. Check your insurance coverage.

Running Costs

While the initial investment is high, running costs are relatively low:

Electricity: Approximately £5-15 per year
Blade Replacement: £20-40 every 1-3 months depending on usage
Potential Maintenance: £50-100 annually for servicing

Who Should Buy a Robot Mower?

Ideal Candidates:

Those with open, relatively flat lawns under 1,000m²
People with limited time for garden maintenance
Tech enthusiasts who enjoy automation
Anyone wanting a consistently perfect lawn with minimal effort

Think Twice If:

Your garden is very small (under 100m²)
You have steep slopes or complex terrain
Your budget is tight
You enjoy the physical activity of mowing
You have frequent gatherings in the garden (it needs mowing time)

Popular Features to Look For

Smart Connectivity

App control, scheduling, and monitoring give you complete control from your smartphone.

Multi-Zone Management

Useful for gardens with separate lawn areas or different cutting requirements.

More efficient coverage and theft deterrence through tracking.

Weather Sensors

Automatic adjustment of mowing schedule based on grass growth conditions.

Our Verdict

Robot lawnmowers are genuinely impressive pieces of technology that can deliver excellent results in the right circumstances. They’re particularly worthwhile if:

You have a moderately sized, open lawn
Your time is valuable, and you’d rather not mow manually
You appreciate the consistent lawn appearance they provide
You can afford the initial investment

However, they’re not a magic solution for every garden. If you have a small, simple lawn or enjoy the satisfaction of manual mowing, a traditional mower remains the more economical choice.

For those on the fence, consider starting with a mid-range model. If it transforms your lawn care routine as dramatically as many users report, you’ll know you made the right choice.

Want specific product recommendations? Check our reviews of the latest robot lawnmowers to find the perfect model for your garden.