If you’re seeking a powerful tool for pruning large tree branches – thicker than anything you could cut with regular pruning shears – then the Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw might be the perfect tool for you.

This mini chainsaw packs tremendous cutting power into a lightweight and minimal design, weighing just 70 oz and fitted with a 4-inch chain. The tool comes with everything you need to start pruning, including a 24V lithium-ion battery and charger, a soft carry case, and some lubricating bar oil.

Do bear in mind that this pruner is not designed to meet all your pruning needs. It can’t reasonably be used to cut thin plant stems, or perform delicate tasks such as deadheading flowers. However, if you just need a tool for pruning thicker tree branches, then the Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw is surely one of the best pruners you can buy.

While this pruning saw is relatively user-friendly, it’s still technically a chainsaw. As such, you should always use it with care, while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The bar and chain will sometimes require oiling and tensioning between uses.

That being said, the battery and charger can be used with other tools from the Greenworks 24V/48V range, which includes a wide variety of DIY power tools and yard tools, which is very convenient. Buy this pruning saw first, and you can then buy other compatible Greenworks tools as bare units, at a very affordable price point.

Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw: At a glance

Since its launch in 2009, Greenworks has emerged as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of reasonably-priced, good-quality yard tools (as well as power tools for home improvement).

The 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw represents the brand at its best, with an innovative, user-friendly design, and cutting performance that rivals some of the tool’s premium-priced competitors.

This mini chainsaw is designed specifically for cutting tree branches, up to a thickness of 4" (and perhaps beyond, with the right technique).

You can pick up the Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw (plus accessories) for about $160, direct from the Greenworks online store or on Amazon. At the time of update, it's currently on sale for $147.28 on Amazon!

Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw: key specs

Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw: Performance

This mini chainsaw is made especially for cutting tree branches – and that’s exactly the kind of work we used it for during product testing.

The Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw proved capable of cutting through various sizes of branch with absolute ease. Tilting the saw back and forth, we were able to produce a clean cut every time, even when pruning trees with thicker branches.

For an even tougher test, we decided to use the pruner to cut a large, protruding knot away from a tree trunk. While this took a few more seconds than cutting through the branch, the task was effortless.

Using the Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw is incredibly easy, although it should be noted that the tool will require maintenance over time, including adjustment and lubrication of the chain.

The saw kicks up quite a bit of sawdust while it cuts through branches – so it’s a good idea to protect your eyes by wearing goggles during use. The operating noise is pretty loud and abrasive, so you might want to avoid using this tool for pruning while other folk are relaxing in the yard.

Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw: should you buy?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How does it compare?

Given that you’ve read this far, you’re probably comfortable with the idea of buying a mini chainsaw. However, we’d like to remind you that if you’re looking for an all-purpose pruner that can also cut soft plants, then you should be looking at a more versatile, lower-powered tool – for example, the manually operated Wolf-Garten Anvil Pruner RSEN, available on Amazon.

If branch cutting is your main requirement, another option to consider is the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Pole Lopper from Home Depot (which needs to be used with a compatible Ryobi battery and charger, both sold separately).

Ryobi’s lopper has a lower cutting capacity than the Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw, but it is better equipped to cut high-up tree branches, thanks to its telescopic pole lopper design. Which option is best? That depends on the size and shape of your trees.

How we tested the Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw

The Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw is designed especially for cutting tree branches, including thicker branches than most pruners could possible cut. To test the tool's capabilities, our reviewer used it to cut several branches away from the fruit trees in his yard, including branches with a thickness of over 4". The reviewer also tested the pruner's bundled-in accessories, including its 24V lithium-ion battery and charger.

First reviewed: September 2023

A lopper like the Felco 211-60 could be an even better option than the best pruners for some gardeners. This is especially true for folks who have lots of trees to keep in perfect shape.

If you know how to prune a tree, you’ll be aware that some branches are too thick or too tough to cut with an ordinary pair of pruning shears. With their larger blades and two-handed operation, loppers can provide that extra cutting power, when you need it. They are on the pricier side, but you can sometimes find Felco 211-60 loppers on sale at Amazon.

The Felco 211-60 is a top-notch model of lopper made by Swiss brand Felco, which has been manufacturing gardening shears of various types since 1945. Measuring 23.6in, the 211-60 tool gives you a lot of leverage – as well as extended reach – to cut through fairly thick tree branches. It promises 40% greater cutting power, compared to the Felco 200 and 210 series loppers.

Bundled in with the Felco 211-60 comes one small, but very important, accessory: an adjustment key. This key can be used to take the lopper apart, or put its parts back together again. With the 211-60 (and many other Felco cutting tools), it’s recommended to dismantle the tool frequently for cleaning, sharpening of the blades, and replacing worn out parts. You can buy replacements for almost all of the 211-60’s components, so you can keep the lopper in great condition for many years, without ever needing to send it for repairs.

Do bear in mind that this is a lopper, which means the tool is designed mainly for cutting thick tree branches. A smaller (and sometimes sharper) type of pruning tool such as a pair of pruning shears will usually be more appropriate for delicate pruning tasks – especially pruning soft plant stems. If you’re in need of a high-quality, specialized tool for tree pruning, the 211-60 could be a perfect solution.

To find out how the 211-60 compared to rival pruners and loppers, we put the tool through its paces in a hands-on testing process at our reviewer’s home. Read on to find out whether the Felco 211-60 really is the top of the loppers.

Felco 211-60 Lopper: At a Glance

Swiss tool-maker Felco is legendary, in green-thumbed circles, for its finely crafted cutting tools. Pruning shears, in particular, are Felco’s specialty – but the brand makes some very good loppers, too.

The Felco 211-60 is a 23.6in pair of loppers which takes part of its name from its length, this being a European tool measuring 60cm. With a 1.4in cutting capacity, the 211-60 can cut larger branches than any one-handed pruner we’ve tested, while its two-handed operation, sharp blades and long handles generate a high level of cutting force.

You can purchase the Felco 211-60 online from retailers such as Amazon, at prices in the region of $70-100. That may seem like a big spend, but when you consider this tool’s ease of maintenance (and the availability of spare parts), the Felco 211-60 starts to look like a good-value long-term purchase.

Felco 211-60 Lopper: Key Specs

Felco 211-60 Lopper: Performance

During our hands-on testing, the Felco 211-60 never failed to cut through the branches of our reviewer’s trees (which are a mix of hard-wooded crabapple and pear trees). The blades made their way through the wood within a few seconds or less, even when we were dealing with branches over 1-inch thick.

This being a lopper, not a pruner, a big part of its appeal is in the two-handed design, which should enable powerful, user-friendly cutting. On this front, the 211-60 delivers. The handles are comfortable and lightweight, thanks respectively to their ergonomic grips and aluminum construction. However, cutting large branches with the 211-60 did prove to be more strenuous than cutting similar branches with super-sharp Felco pruning shears, such as the Felco 6 Bypass Pruner.

We really appreciated the shock absorbers on the insides of the 211-60’s handles. Located just below the cutting blades of the loppers, this feature reduces the level of vibration that reaches your hands and arms, which can make a big difference during extensive pruning.

To preserve the 211-60’s optimum performance, it’s recommended to oil the blades frequently. It’s also advised to take the tool apart and sharpen the blades from time-to-time. We were sure to carefully clean the blades after each use, to preserve the their good condition. Thanks to the bundled-in adjustment key, it was simple to disassemble and then reassemble the lopper. With that said, some users who don’t feel confident in taking it apart may feel reluctant to carry out this chore.

Felco 211-60 Lopper: Should You Buy?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How Does It Compare?

For cutting fairly thick tree branches, with a diameter somewhere around 1in to 1.4in, you’re unlikely to find a more effective lopper than the Felco 211-60. However, some of our other top-rated pruning tools might be a better fit for certain users.

Costing a fraction of the price of the 211-60, and featuring a simple, one-handed design, the Wolf-Garten Anvil Pruner RSEN from Amazon is an easy-going option that gives you much of the wood-pruning power of the 211-60 – although it doesn’t offer anything like the same reach or leverage.

If you have lots of thick tree limbs to cut, with diameters greater than the 211-60’s 1.4" limit, then you might want to consider using a different type of tool, known as a pruning saw. One very good example is the Greenworks 24V 6" Pruning Saw from Amazon, which is essentially a mini chainsaw that’s purpose-made for tree surgery.

How We Tested the Felco 211-60 Lopper

We tested the Felco 211-60 Lopper by using the tool to prune a variety of tree branches in our reviewer’s yard – from spindly twigs to tough branches over 1in thick. The trees used in testing were a mixture of pear trees and crabapple trees, both of which have hard wood that proves difficult to prune for some cutting tools. We also tested the 211-60’s ease-of-maintenance, by disassembling it and cleaning the blades.

The Fiskars Solid Snip Pruning Micro-Tip SP13 is not your average pruner. This tool belongs to a category known as pruning snips. These tools are smaller than most bypass pruners or anvil pruners, and they have a specialized design that’s ideal for accurate, delicate work. For careful pruning tasks, the SP13 is one of the best pruning tools you can buy.

These snips are best described as pruning scissors, because of their symmetrical design. The blades are narrow, sharply pointed, and have a cutting edge along their entire length. This design equips the snips to cut soft plants cleanly and precisely. Although the snips are small, they have relatively long blades, which is useful when you’re pruning among dense or tangled stems and leaves.

Their size (and especially the size of the blade) makes this pruning tool ideal for reaching into dense plant clusters and slicing in an efficient, tidy manner. It's also great for comfort, allowing for accurate positioning without straining the fingers.

Let's get this out of the way quickly, though. Pruning snips like the SP13 are not suitable for cutting tree branches. Even narrow twigs are a challenge for this type of pruning tool. This Fiskars model can work well as a go-to tool for the delicate cutting tasks. But using it to prune woody stems or branches will only result in failure (and likely degradation of the blades). For that work, you are better using a good pair of bypass shears.

What the SP13 can do well is cut tender plant parts. Because these snips cut so cleanly, they’re an ideal choice for pruning soft plant stems. The sort of clean cuts you can make with the SP13 tend to heal well. With plant-friendly cutting in mind, the SP13 is a great choice not only for pruning tasks like deadheading, but also for taking cuttings for propagation.

Overview

Finnish brand Fiskars is a leading name for affordable cutting tools. Founded in 1649, the company has a long history of designing scissors and shears for a range of tasks. For repetitive garden-based work like pruning, Fiskars has earned a solid reputation for thoughtful ergonomic designs. In this regard, the SP13 is no exception.

This snipping tool is designed to bridge the gap between heavy-duty yard tools (like PowerGear loppers and bypass pruners) and utility scissors. Its beauty lies in its size and control in narrow reaches and its comfortable spring action. You can find Fiskars Solid Snip SP13 online at Amazon for $21.44, as well as via the main Fiskars store, in their Snips & Scissors section.

If shopping at Walmart or hardware stores like The Home Depot or Lowe’s, you might see it listed as the Fiskars 6-inch Stainless Steel Micro-Tip Pruning Snips. You can currently buy the Titanium model of SP13 from Home Depot for $13.98.

Key Specs

Performance

Since these snips are purpose-built for cutting tender stems, I focused on delicate types of pruning work. I started by using the SP13 to cut the stems of tender bedding plants. The snips did a great job of cleanly pruning stems, without chewing the plant or leaving messy cuts. The SP13 turned out to be ideal for deadheading, too. Using the snips, I was able to remove dead flower heads accurately and with minimal effort.

After testing, strong winds knocked over a row of dahlias in my yard. The SP13 snips turned out to be the best and most convenient pruner for cutting the broken stems down to size, so the dahlia flowers could be displayed in a vase indoors.

During testing, the plastic locking button on the review sample of the SP13 snapped off after getting jammed. Thankfully, I experienced no such problem with the replacement sample I received from Fiskars. The SP13 is generally reviewed very well by customers. Just bear in mind that this is a budget-priced pruner. Don't expect stellar construction.

Should You Buy?

Buy It If...

Don't Buy It If...

How Does It Compare?

The precision pruning market is competitive, which is good news if you are looking for a reasonably priced set of pruning tools. But depending on your pruning needs, the density of your plants, and the thickness of your stems, you need a different blade style, length, or ergonomic tension system. These picks offer unique advantages for food-safe hygiene, adjustable handle spans, or professional-grade bypass power. Here is how they stack up against the Fiskars Solid Snip Micro-Tip SP13 when it comes to precision cutting, price points, and everyday garden reliability.

How We Tested

Our reviewer tested the Fiskars Solid Snip Pruning Micro-Tip SP13 by using the snips to carry out light pruning tasks around the yard. He focused testing on slicing soft plant stems, deadheading flowering plants, and snipping stems to specific sizes for preparing cuttings and cutting flower arrangements.

First reviewed September 2023

Getting one of the best cordless lawn mowers for your lawn is essential for maintaining grass growth and health from spring to fall. I was fortunate to be offered the opportunity to review the Worx 40V 17 Cordless Lawn Mower. It's battery-powered with some familiar tech, pitched for small-to-medium lawns.

We have a lawn sized at 400 sq. ft at the back, and we also have front and side lawned areas in our house. This meant I could test the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower in stages throughout the day, between charges, or when I was distracted by other tasks to complete in the yard. It took less than a couple of hours to recharge both 40V batteries fully, so I didn't have to wait too long until I could restart a mow.

I found that the cutting performance was fantastic. There are seven cutting heights; I struck a happy medium by opting for a grade 4 cut across our yard to tackle the uneven ground. There were many grass cuttings, so I was grateful for the grass collector, although I could have done with this being larger. This is just a teaser of how I found the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower, which, as I'm sure you can tell, was riddled with pros and cons. Keep reading for the full run-down of this cordless electric lawn mower.

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Key specs

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Price & availability

The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower has a list price of $329.99 and is available from Amazon. Lowes has it for $350.65. I have seen it regularly discounted, so it would be worth watching the reseller sites if the budget is tight.

This RRP puts the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower in the mid-range price bracket. It comes with two 20V batteries, a charger, a mulch plug, a 1.2-bushel collection bag, and instructions.

Price & availability score: 5 out of 5

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: First impressions

It arrived in a cardboard box wrapped in thick plastic; my first impression of the Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower was that it was big and heavy. I did manage to get it through to our living space instead of dragging it out to the garage in the rain, but this wasn't without putting in some effort.

Upon cutting through the plastic and opening the box, it was evident that not much assembling was required (hurrah). While there were instructions, I didn't need to refer to them, but having them as a backup was good.

The box could have been recycled, but the plastic had gone into the trash. Inside the box was the lawn mower, 45L grass collection bag, 2x 20V PowerShare batteries, charger, and instruction manual.

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Setup

Setting up the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower was (thankfully) a breeze. All in all, it took me just 10 minutes to unbox and assemble this lawn mower.

All the parts were self-explanatory, so I didn't feel that I needed to refer to the instructions, but they were good to have as a backup. The blade was already in position, so all I needed to do was attach two sides of the handle and the grass collector bag.

Before the first use, I fully charged the batteries so I could attempt to tackle the overgrown backyard in one run. It took less than two hours to fully recharge two 20V batteries.

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Design

The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower measures 41.34 x 17.72 x 56.99in (h x w x d) and weighs 35.3 lbs, according to the specs. It looks and feels like a lawn mower with a few little quirks.

One of those quirks is that while you can extend the handle bar 110 - 115cm it doesn't collapse to enable easier storing. I found that adjusting it to 115cm which gave me a height of 100cm was the most comfortable for me (I'm 5ft 8in tall). To store, it'll mean that you'll need to be prepared to take the handlebar apart and / or remove the collector bag, as I did, so that you can fit it into a secure storage space.

It also has a removable 40-litre grass clippings collector that attaches to the rear of the mower. The handle on top of the grass collector, which can be slid on and off, is useful for emptying because it makes it easier to tip out the grass clippings.

For a shortcut of the grass, you can adjust the height of the deck and the 30-cm blade with a lever found in the front left-hand-side wheel. This lever can be adjusted when the mower is not in motion, but be prepared to use your other hand hold down the mower for adjusting because moving and lifting the mower from the ground with said lever can be stiff.

The two 20V 4.0Ah batteries neatly sit under the hood at the front of the lawn mower, which can be accessed by lifting the front of the hood to release them. A neat little design feature is the ability to check the remaining battery power levels by pressing a button next to the hood. This will light up a display in green to give an indication of how much battery is remaining, which is helpful to gauge whether or not it would be worth challenging another patch of lawn with the remaining battery charge.

Design score: 4 out of 5

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Performance

The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower was surprisingly easy to use and didn't make much noise while cutting, but it didn't come without some quirks.

To start up this mower is one of the easiest I have experienced. There's a safety key which slots in the a designated spot on the side of the handle bar, and then there's a lever that spans the full width of said handlebar that's required to be held down at all times while in use.

It did a fantastic job of cutting our 400 sq.ft lawn in the backyard, but I never quite finished the first mow in one go because the battery ran out. The first mow challenged longer, older grass; other subsequent mows were shorter, lusher green shoots. This lawn mower is advertised as suitable for lawn sizes up to 500sq.ft/1/8 acre, which ours is not, yet it failed to meet that specification when combating a more wildly lawn.

Fortunately, the two 20V batteries only took a couple of hours to charge, so I could finish the mowing that day (if I still felt like cutting the grass). If you have other Worx items in the PowerShare collection, switching to one of those batteries (fully charged) could be a good backup option.

While cutting the grass, the 45L grass collection bag quickly became filled with grass clippings. This is probably because I only mow once a week; if you mow more regularly, there will be less grass to collect. The filling up of the bag meant that I had to frequently stop to empty the grass clippings in the garden waste bin. If you prefer to add mulch back to your yard, you can use the mulch plug to return the nutrients to the grass. I did not do this because we're combating an embarrassing amount of weeds in our lawn, which I do not want to regrow.

Thankfully, the grass collection bag was easy to remove with the handle. It then hooked back over the rear of the mower to be refilled.

To test the cutting performance of the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower, I mowed over an apple. It's suffice to say that there wasn't much apple left; most of it had been turned into juice with a few scraps of peel scattered around the sides of the mower. What I was demonstrating here is the cutting power. Go over uneven ground with a low cutting height. The mower will automatically cut out (that blade is sensitive, too), so I'd adjust by selecting a sensible height - start high before dropping it to gauge the most suitable level.

I have a fence that runs both sides of our yard, so I like to get as close as possible to that before getting out the string trimmer. But this battery-powered mower didn't get as close as I wanted. It has chunky wheels and a chunky 17-inch deck to boot, which the blade edges couldn't surpass. Still, it didn't take too much effort to trample on the longer blades, remove the grass, or, as I say, get out the trimmer.

Getting to the end of the yard is a bit of a pinch point, too, although I'd say that there is still ample room to turn a lawn mower. The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower didn't make light work of this; it made a meal out of maneuvering. I resolved it by doing an awkward 5-point turn, which made its weight (38.1 lbs) feel a lot heavier than it actually was.

As a battery-powered, cordless lawn mower, it didn't cause a smell when operating and didn't generate a lot of noise. I measured 89dB on my noise level meter (lower than the advertised 92dB) similar to a food blender or dishwasher.

Cleaning and maintenance were super easy. All required is to charge the battery and ensure the empty grass collector bag. The blades may need sharpening or replacing after some months or years of use, depending how often or challenging the terrain is.

Performance score: 4 out of 5

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: User reviews

Looking at the reviews on Amazon, this cordless mower is a clear winner for small yards. Customers have rated the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower 4.2 out of 5 stars. They really like the size, quality, and weight of the lawn mower. One reviewer says, "It cuts well and is ideal for a smaller area," with another echoing, "It works well for my small front and back lawns."

Some appreciate maneuverability, but there are mixed opinions about the power and battery life.

Should I buy the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How does the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower compare?

Another electric mower we've reviewed is the Black + Decker BEMW472BH Electric Lawn Mower. It has a much lower price point, but it also has a cord. That means a bit less range and maneuverability, but you'll never run out of charge. Read our full review to see if that fits your needs better.

We've also compared popular cordless mowers from EGO and Greenworks. Read the full comparison to see fi those brands are more your style.

If you have a yard of 200 sqft or less, it would be worth getting another battery-powered mower with a smaller cutting width. The Greenworks 40V 19" Brushless Lawn Mower (Amazon) could be more suitable. It has a cutting width of 19 inches, folds down nicely for storage, and has a more palatable list price of $279.

Owners of larger yards would benefit from a ride-on lawn mower. Read our full review of the EGO TR4204 Power+ 42" T6 Lawn Tractor for more info.

How I tested the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower

The Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower was used for two months in my backyard. It was delivered to my house by courier. I then set it up, charged the battery, and cut the lawn several times. I adjusted the cutting height to see how that fared on uneven ground and even ran over an apple to see how well it turned to mush. Other specific tests I carried out included recording the noise level reading and how long it took to drain and recharge the batteries.

The Fiskars SmartFit Steel Bypass Pruner P68 is a classic, lightweight model of one-handed pruning shears, designed to perform a wide range of pruning tasks toward the easier-going end of the pruning spectrum.

These shears can delicately prune soft plants, remove dead flower heads, cut woody shrub branches, and – with a bit of effort – cut relatively thin tree branches. Do bear in mind that the P68 has a maximum cutting width of 5/8", which will limit your options when it comes to pruning trees.

One of the key reasons to choose this pruner, rather than another pair of bypass pruning shears, is affordability. The P68 costs far less than high-performing alternative models such as the Felco No. 6 pruners, which we also reviewed here.

Despite their reasonable price, Fiskars pruners have some great design features that earned the brand a place on the list of the best pruners experts recommend. The blades on this particular pair of Fiskars pruners are made with hardened steel – ideal for long-term performance with minimal upkeep required. Meanwhile, the handles are made with a combination of durable, lightweight aluminum and soft-surfaced plastic, ensuring easy, comfortable usage.

We assessed this pruner by using it to perform a variety of pruning tasks around the yard. In keeping with the tool’s advertised capabilities, our test activities included deadheading, cutting soft plant stems, and pruning slender tree branches.

The UK equivalent to the P68 is the Fiskars Solid Bypass Pruner P121. The two models are similar in most respects, although UK readers should note that the P121 does not feature the "SmartFit" lever used to adjust the width of handle opening on the P68. A Fiskars P121 is shown in the testing photographs.

Overview

Finnish brand Fiskars is one of the biggest-names in affordable cutting tools for the home and garden. Founded in 1649, the company has a remarkably long history of designing and making useful, accessible products – especially scissors and shears.

The SmartFit Bypass Pruner P68 continues Fiskars’ fine tradition, offering a great combination of effective design and economical manufacture. A good pair of bypass shears is one of the 3 types of pruners every gardener should have and these are a good beginner model.

It’s usually possible to get hold of a Fiskars P68 for less than $20, from big box retailers such as Lowe's and Walmart. Readers in the UK who are seeking a similar option that’s available in their region can turn to the Fiskars Solid Bypass Pruner P121 on Amazon, for example..

Key Specs

Performance

The Fiskars P68 is designed for all-purpose pruning, from delicate tasks like deadheading to cutting relatively thin tree branches and twigs. So, our reviewer tested the shears by using them to perform a variety of tasks around the yard.

We started with the relatively tough task of cutting tree branches. The P68 proved capable of doing this type of work, although we had to put in a little more effort than was necessary when doing similar tasks with higher-spec bypass pruners. Nonetheless, the P68 cut a variety of tree branches effectively.

The P68 also proved capable of carrying out lighter pruning work, such as deadheading and cutting the stems of tender plants. We were satisfied with the clean, hygienic cuts the P68 made across the stems.

All things considered, the P68 is by no means the right pruner for every pruning task. However, this tool is a good option to cover most of the bases, from precision plant pruning to light tree pruning tasks.

This is an affordable model of pruner and you will usually get what you pay for, when it comes to product quality. The P68 won’t last you a lifetime, but based on our hands-on testing, these shears could indeed give you effective pruning in the short-to-medium term.

Should You Buy?

Buy It If...

Don't Buy It If...

How Does It Compare?

While we would gladly recommend the Fiskars P68 to users who value affordability and versatility, some other readers will be better served with an alternative model.

How We Tested

Our reviewer tested the Fiskars SmartFit Steel Bypass Pruner P68 by using it to prune various plants around the yard. He tested the shears on a wide range of plants, from marigolds with juicy stems to half-inch-thick crabapple tree branches.

With an 8-inch bar, the DeWalt 20V MAX 8 in Brushless Cordless Pruning Chainsaw is your go-to for smaller jobs around the yard, whether it be pruning small branches or splitting firewood to a better size. Just because it’s small doesn’t mean this DeWalt chainsaw has less power or capabilities. In fact, its power output impressed me (just as every other DeWalt tool does!), and its cutting capabilities were superb.

Although it’s compact and lightweight, I don’t think you can use this chainsaw with one hand. At least I couldn't, and I felt safe and secure. And if I were left-handed, I don’t think I could use this chainsaw comfortably.

I tested all the different features of this chainsaw on the trees in my own backyard and shared my findings below. Keep reading to see who this mini chainsaw ideally suits and why it’s one of the best chainsaws to have on hand.

DeWalt DCCS623B: Key specs

DeWalt DCCS623B: Price & availability

Although this is a pretty small chainsaw, don’t expect it to come cheap. The DeWalt 20V MAX 8 in Brushless Cordless Pruning Chainsaw is sold for about $229 with the battery and charger included, but you can buy it without the battery for $144. Oil is not included with the purchase of this chainsaw.

It’s not sold on the DeWalt site, but if you click “Buy Now,” you can see that this tool is sold through reseller sites such as Amazon and Home Depot.

The price tag on this tool doesn’t surprise me. DeWalt is a little pricier than most brands, but that's because the quality of the tools they produce.

Score: 8 out of 10

DeWalt DCCS623B: Setup

Upon removing the DeWalt 20V MAX 8 in Brushless Cordless Pruning Chainsaw from its cardboard box, I thought it was quite compact. It came fully assembled with a sheath over the 8-inch bar.

At first, I thought the chainsaw could be used one-handed, but when I picked it up, I realized that due to the positioning of the triggers and the weight, I could not safely use it with one hand. Maybe someone with a larger hand and stronger than me could, but that's still pushing it.

The chainsaw came with a 20V battery and charger. The battery took about three hours to charge fully. No oil was provided, so I used some oil that I had on hand to fill the small oil container.

I also noticed right away that the chainsaw didn’t have a kickback brake but, rather, was outfitted with a tip guard. This was the first chainsaw I would be testing with a tip guard.

Score: 7 out of 10

DeWalt DCCS623B: Design

While the DeWalt 20V MAX 8 in Brushless Cordless Pruning Chainsaw is compact and lightweight, it’s not light enough to comfortably hold it with only one hand. That being said, the hand grip is comfortable and has a trigger. There is a button on the left side, above the trigger. The button and the trigger must be pushed and pulled simultaneously to start the machine. Unfortunately, because the button is on the left side, it is unlikely that a left-handed person could use this tool (unless they're willing to hold it like a right-handed person).

Another handle is placed right on top of the main handle. It’s like an extension of the main handle, only a bit thinner. I wish it were perpendicular to the main handle so I could better place both my hands for a more comfortable and secure grip.

The oil cap is on the left side of the tool's body. There is an opaque viewfinder on the oil chamber, but it’s not clear enough to tell the oil level easily. Not to mention, the oil cap is easy to screw off, but it takes a little bit of finesse to screw it back on.

The battery is placed at the back of the chainsaw. An eight-inch bar extends out the front. There are some plastic built-in ridges on the front of the chainsaw. They’re a version of bumper spikes.

This chainsaw comes with a sheath that clips together over the bar. Built into the sheath is a spot that holds a tension tool that can be used to adjust the tension of the chain. The DeWalt mini chainsaw doesn’t have a kickback brake. Instead, there is a removable metal tip guard on the front. DeWalt says it’s designed to “provide stability during upcuts.” They can also reduce kickbacks. A lot of people don’t like them because they can get in the way of cutting if you're not used to them.

Score: 8 out of 10

DeWalt DCCS623B: Performance

I was hoping that I could use this mini chainsaw with just one hand. It’s only 8.4 lbs., but I could tell right away that using only one hand would be a bad idea.

After fitting the battery to the chainsaw, I took it into my backyard and found a variety of limbs, branches, and logs that ranged from 1.5 to 7 inches in diameter. The chainsaw didn’t vibrate that much in my hand, and it had an 84-decibel output, which is about what I expect from battery-powered chainsaws.

I started by cutting some trees between 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in width and was amazed by the quality. Every time I use a DeWalt product, they’ve been consistent in great power output. This mini chainsaw was no different. It sliced through trees with ease and little effort on my part. I only had to guide the chainsaw, and it did all the work for me. This surprised me a bit because the chainsaw only uses a 20V battery. That goes to show that you don’t always need a 40V or 60V battery to get good performance.

The chainsaw also did well with logs and larger branches, as long as they were less than 8 inches, of course. For smaller branches, I had to use the chainsaw on the part of the limb closest to the trunk.

Like I said, I wish I could have used this chainsaw with one hand, but I found it a lot more comfortable to use two hands because I had more control. There is a second handle above the main one, but it didn’t feel comfortable to put my left hand there for control, so I put it on the main handle. Perhaps if that second handle were perpendicular to the main handle, it would have made for a better design.

The plastic bumper spikes were really not noticeable. I don’t think they make much difference in my control of the chainsaw. The tip guard didn’t get in my way when cutting, perhaps because I was mindful of it. If I had cut anything that was exactly 8 inches, it might have been a slight issue, but I mostly cut things that were 7 inches or smaller.

If you’re looking for a small chainsaw to do quick jobs around the yard, this DeWalt mini chainsaw is a great choice. The battery lasts a long time, and the tool itself cuts quickly and smoothly. Once again, I’m impressed with DeWalt.

Score: 8 out of 10

Should you buy the DeWalt DCCS623B?

 Buy it if… 

 Don’t buy it if…  

How does the DeWalt DCCS623B compare?

If you want a small chainsaw but one that can tackle small to medium jobs, go for the DeWalt 20V Max XR DCCS620P1 12 in Battery Chainsaw, available on Amazon. The 12-inch bar means you can handle larger tree limbs. Plus, it has a kickback brake and is only $30 more.

The Zeeksaw 8-inch Cordless Mini Chainsaw, available on Amazon, also has an eight-inch bar, but it’s designed to be held with one hand. It doesn’t hurt that the chainsaw has a built-in tension tool and is way cheaper, to boot.

Let’s say you don’t necessarily need an 8-inch bar. If you have small jobs, go for the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hatchet on Amazon. The lightweight chainsaw has a built-in tensioner and can cut tree limbs less than 6 inches in diameter. Unfortunately, it’s a bit expensive for such a small chainsaw.

How I tested the DeWalt DCCS623B

I tested the DeWalt 20V MAX 8in Brushless Cordless Pruning Chainsaw in my backyard a few times. It’s the fifth chainsaw I’ve tested and the smallest one. I made sure to test it on trees and pre-cut logs that were less than 8 inches in diameter. Every element of the chainsaw was tested to provide a full review.

• First reviewed: January 2024

If you’ve got a yard full of hedges, or even some particularly stubborn ones, the Husqvarna Hedge Master 320iHD60 Hedge Trimmer (320i) is made for you.

Don’t let the fact that it’s battery powered fool you; this thing will cut anything and everything you can throw at it. I trimmed my own hedges, including some fairly large branches, as well as my neighbor’s and my parent’s hedges (as a one-time courtesy) and nothing slowed the 320i down.

The 360i is part of Husqvarna’s MAX battery series of tools, which also includes their new Combi Switch multi-tool, as they branch out into the competing space of electric hedge trimmers. The idea is to use the same battery system to power a whole range of outdoor tools and in this case, the 360i comes with the company’s Bli22 battery and charger. The long cutting length means it can get to even the most hard-to-reach places, and the three-position handle makes for easy angle cutting so you’re not breaking your wrists trying to twist the thing.

It also comes with the ability to unjam the blades at the push of a button, so you don’t ever have to worry about getting caught or stuck somewhere and your blade snapping. All the power and features of the Hedge Master make it ideal for even the toughest hedges, but all this makes it fairly heavy so just be ready to take some breaks if using for longer periods.

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 Hedge Trimmer: price & availability

You can get the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360i from Husqvarna directly, from your local Husqvarna dealer, or from resellers such as Lowe’s, Amazon, and others.

To get one bundled with a battery an charger will set you back $319, but sometimes we’ve seen it for as low as $299. If you’ve already got a compatible battery, you can pick up just the tool itself for $229. This puts it definitely towards the higher end of its competitors, but if you need to be able to cut through just about hedge, you can’t go wrong.

Score: 4.5 out of 5

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 Hedge Trimmer: First impressions

The first thing I noticed was that the box itself seemed to be a bit more dinged up than I’d expect. My only assumption here is that since mine is a review device, it could quite possible have been a returned item due to the damage of the box. I can’t say for sure, but I would hope assume that most first-time purchase boxes would be in better shape. It also could entire have happened during transit, but either way, it arrived with some dings to the box.

Once inside the box, I was pleasantly surprised at the lack of plastic and Styrofoam present. Some of the pieces had their own plastic bags, but for the most part everything in the packaging was cardboard, which was nice to see. It was also nice that there was essentially no assembly required. You can quickly insert the included option sweeper on top of the blade if you like, but that’s all you would need to do. I also very much appreciated that they included hardware to mount the battery charger to the wall if desired. Other battery-powered tools I’ve purchased did not include that.

After I had it out of the box and got a good look at it, it was clear to see that the 360i means business. The teeth are large and sharp and it’s clear this thing is ready to work.

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60: Design

The Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 is extremely easy to use. The large handles are easy to grasp, especially while wearing gloves, and the D-shaped forward handle makes it easy to slide your hand around as you turn the trimmer when changing cutting angles. The safety button built-in the forward handle covers the entire length of the handle so you don’t ever have to take your hand off when adjusting. While the rear handle doesn’t rotate for seamlessly switching cutting angles like on some competitor models, “tri-handle” still makes it fairly easy to rotate quickly.

The large cutting blade certainly helps reach the trickier spots, but that does mean the whole thing is quite large. You’ll need to reserve plenty of space in your garage or tool shed for it. Also, while not as heavy as a gas-powered hedge trimmer, the 360i is still quite heavy, especially for prolonged periods or higher up places. It’s not necessarily a deal breaker, but if you don’t need all the power of the 360i, you could certainly find something smaller and lighter.

The battery operation does allow for adjustable speeds, however. Just above the power button on the handle is another button that adjusts the cutting speed letting you opt for more power when you need it and more battery life when you don’t. Next to the speed controls is a release button that will open the teeth allowing any stuck branches to fall out; no more jammed blade.

Score: 4.5 out of 5

Husqvarna Hedge Master 320iHD60 Cordless Hedge Trimmer: key specs

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60: Performance

The Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 absolutely lives up to its name. No matter what I tried to cut with it, it sliced through it cleanly like a hot knife through butter. I started on a few small, rounded shrubs we have and was able to give them a nice trim in a couple of minutes.

As they are about the height of our garage, this is really where the large size and weight of the 360i made an impact. It almost became a bit unwieldy on such small shrubs. I was certainly feeling it after a couple of minutes, but luckily it didn’t take me long and this hedge trimmer is not designed for such small bushes. To get your money’s worth, you need to take on some larger shrubs.

So that’s what I did.

Next, I tackled our much larger shrub on the other side of the house and appreciated even more the power and versatility of the Hedge Master. Trimming this hedge has taken me as long as half an hour in the past doing it by hand, but now I can knock it out in less than 10 minutes.

I also cut an entire row of my neighbor’s waist-high hedges and again was thoroughly impressed with how quickly and neatly I was able to do it. Not only did the Hedge Master cut through everything fast, it left clean, precise cuts, almost as if done by professionals. On some of the thicker spots in the hedges I cranked up the cutting speed and whipped through them with no problem. I even cut through some branches that were fairly thick and never had an issue.

I was pleased to see that battery life was never an issue either. Granted, I wasn’t using it for hours at a time, but most people should not have any trouble trimming their hedges in one charge. The LED indicator on the battery is helpful for keeping track of how much juice you’ve got left.

Once you’re done for the day, there’s really no way to easily disassemble or collapse the Hedge Master so you’ll just have to make room in your garage or tool shed. I do recommend covering the blades between uses with the included blade cover, particularly if you’ve got kids around.

Before you put it away, it’s a good idea to make sure there are any leaves or wood chips stuck in the blades and that could damage them over time. Other than a gentle cleaning every now and then sharpening the blades from time to time should be all you need to do.

Score: 5 out of 5

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60: User reviews

Customer reviews of the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 all echo one another, all speaking highly about the battery-powered tool. It's worth noting that the majority of the reviews I'm reading are incentivized, and the reviews appear across multiple sites; I'll highlight anything standout.

Looking direct on the Husqvarna site it has overall scored 4.8-out-of-5 stars. Reviewers rave about the long battery-life, and how easy and safe it is to use. There is a comment about the cost of batteries for it, though, and the size being bigger than expected. Still, from what I can see, even those three reviews who gave it four stars speak well about it.

Over on reseller sites, Amazon customers have given it an overall rating of 4.6-out-of-five stars. One reviewer says "Great product for the value, I would recommend this to others needing a professional type hedger" whereas another said "This Husqvarna Hedge Master trimmer is exactly what I was looking for". There is a negative comment, though, which is about the lack of power but this seems to be an unfortunate isolated incident. And on Lowe's it scored 4.5-out-of-5 stars with an independent reviewer noting that the trimmer is great to what they had before, but it arrived in a wet box.

Should you buy the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How does the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 Hedge Trimmer compare?

Overall, the Husqvarna Hedge Master performed tremendously during my testing and offers a lot of value for the money. But as with everything, it’s not perfect.

Lucky for us, Husqvarna isn’t the only hedge trimmer manufacturer in town. If you only have a few small hedges and a good extension cord, the Greenworks 24V is a solid, low-cost option.

For those with taller shrubs or trees that need a good trimming, the DEWALT 20V is well-made.

How I tested the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60

I tested as many different types of hedges as I had access to for this review. I started with two small, ball-shaped shrubs that stand about head height outside my garage. Next, I attacked a rather large rounded hedge on the corner of our house that had not been trimmed in over two years. Lastly, I trimmed several rows of waist-high rectangular hedges at a few different locations.

The Napoleon Freestyle 425 has all the hallmarks of a premium grill, from its chic graphite grey porcelain enamel finish to its sleek design – yet it comes with a surprisingly affordable price tag. The question is, does it cook like a high-end grill too?

With four burners, the Freestyle 425 certainly has a generous cooking surface, capable of grilling up to 26 burgers at once. It also features two sizeable side tables for food preparation and holding dishes, along with three hooks for hanging your barbecue tools. And, unless you also want to invest in one of the best pizza ovens, you can even add a pizza stone to the grill for a perfectly crispy base. When the grill isn't in use, the side tables fold down to make storage more compact.

The stand features soft-close doors and sturdy wheels that enable you to move it around your yard with ease. The enclosed cabinet neatly conceals the gas bottle, keeping unsightly hoses and battered cylinders out of sight.

To find out how the Napoleon Freestyle 425 performs in the real world, I assembled it from scratch, noting how long the process took and how easy the instructions were to follow. I then put it through a series of cooking tests, grilling steaks, burgers, sausages, and vegetables, before roasting a whole chicken using the indirect grilling method (I didn't have the optional rotisserie attachment, which is sold separately).

Read on to find out how the Napoleon Freestyle 425 performed in my tests.

Napoleon Freestyle 425: Key Specs

Price & Availability

The Napoleon Freestyle 425 currently retails for around $629. You can pick it up on Amazon, at The Home Depot, or Lowe's.

If you're looking for a grill in a similar price range, the Weber Spirit E-425 Liquid Propane Grill, available at the Weber Store on Amazon, is a good option. Both brands also sell a smoker box for that classic 'barbecued' flavor.

If you're on a tight budget, the Cuisinart CGG-7400 Propane 54-Inch Full-Size Four-Burner Gas Grill is a couple of hundred dollars cheaper and has similar features. Keep in mind that the Napoleon grill has a 10-year warranty, which makes it a better value in the long run compared to the Cuisinart grill, which only has a three-year warranty.

Setting up the Napoleon Freestyle 425

The Napoleon Freestyle 425 gas grill is easy to set up. It comes with clear and concise instructions that make assembly a breeze, and the sturdy base has wheels that make it easy to move around. The grill is compact but not flimsy, making it ideal for smaller outdoor spaces, and the cookbox and lid are quite heavy and seem to be built to last with a 10-year warranty.

Premium Design

The graphite grey color of the Napoleon Freestyle 425 gas grill gives it a sleek appearance that stands out from other gas grills with black or stainless steel finishes. Its porcelain enamel finish gives it a premium look, and it is less prone to greasy finger marks compared to other gas grills.

Rounded edges make it easy to move around safely, thanks to the sturdy wheels on the base. A large warming rack offers extra cooking space for quickly cooking items, while the main cooking area is spacious enough to accommodate up to 26 burgers.

The cast iron porcelainized enamel cooking grids feature Napoleon’s iconic wavy sear marks, while the temperature gauge has a retro look. An aluminum firebox aims to create a convective oven effect. On the right-hand side, the folding table is also home to three hooks to keep your tools within reach.

Grilling Performance

I experienced some trouble with the ignition system while using the grill, as I couldn't get the burners to stay lit initially. However, I eventually got the hang of it and didn't have any issues after that.

The grill heated up quickly, but I did notice that the temperature dropped rapidly when I opened the lid. On the other hand, it rose rapidly once the lid was closed again. There was a cooler spot towards the front of the grill, which could be problematic if you're trying to cook a large quantity of food at once.

In general, the grill cooked everything well, but it does burn quite fiercely. As a result, it may require some practice to get the temperature just right. Nonetheless, I was able to achieve a nice sear on my steaks, and I was also able to cook a whole chicken over indirect heat, which took around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Maintenance

The tables of the grill can be easily folded down for storage. Once assembled, the barbecue is lightweight and easy to maneuver. When the tables are folded, the width of the grill drops from 55 inches to 33 inches, which is a significant difference when you need to move it to a confined place for storage. If you want to keep the grill outside, you can purchase a specific cover for this model on Amazon. I found some online offers that included a free cover with the grill purchase.

Napoleon recommends seasoning the cast iron cooking grids to prevent corrosion. After use, mild dish soap and water should be used to clean them, but they should not be put in the dishwasher. It is advisable to use a brass wire brush to clean the inside and underside of the cooking box and scrape the sear plates using a plastic putty knife, like this Skrapr design. To avoid any chips or scratches, plastic putty knives or scrapers should be used on all porcelain parts.

The Napoleon grill has a drip pan that can easily slide out for cleaning, which should be done after every fourth or fifth cook. It is recommended to clean the control panel only with soapy water and to avoid using abrasive cloths or cleaners. After cleaning, make sure to cover the equipment to protect it from the elements. This will help keep your grill in the best possible condition until you use it again. Although it may seem like a fiddly job, covering your barbecue is an important step in maintaining it.

Napoleon Freestyle 425 User Reviews

Online customer reviews of the Napoleon Freestyle 425 are overwhelmingly positive, with buyers praising its ease of assembly, reliable ignition, and even cooking performance.

On Amazon, the Freestyle 425 has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, while Lowe's customers rate it 4.4 out of 5 stars. The Home Depot reviewers are even more impressed, awarding it 4.5 out of 5 stars, with 85% of customers recommending the grill.

Like me, many owners highlighted the grill's straightforward assembly, heavy-duty cooking grates, and generous warming rack. However, a small number of reviewers said it struggled to maintain high temperatures when much of the cooking surface was in use, making it harder to achieve a good sear across a full grill load.

Should You Buy the Napoleon Freestyle 425?

The Napoleon Freestyle 425 is a great grill that offers excellent value for money. It has a 10-year warranty, is well-built, and features a large cooking area with four burners. While it may not have all the fancy features found in premium models, it is a fantastic choice for those who want to cook for a large family or friends. However, it's important to note that this grill does not come with a side burner, which may not be suitable for some users.

How Does the Napoleon Freestyle 425 Compare?

While the Napoleon Freestyle 425 is a great option, there are plenty of other grills out there to consider too.

How I Tested the Napoleon Freestyle 425

To test the Napoleon Freestyle 425, I assembled it from scratch, timing the process and assessing how easy the instructions were to follow. I then put the grill through a series of cooking tests, grilling burgers, steaks, sausages, and vegetables, before roasting a whole chicken using the indirect grilling method.

During testing, I evaluated how quickly the grill heated up, how evenly it cooked across the four burners, how well it maintained its temperature, and how easy it was to control the heat. I also assessed the quality of its construction, the usefulness of its features, including the folding side shelves and warming rack, and how straightforward it was to clean after cooking.

To provide a more rounded assessment, I also considered long-term ownership factors such as the warranty, replacement parts, and customer feedback, helping determine whether the Napoleon Freestyle 425 offers good value for money.

When I moved into my house, I knew I’d have to invest in raised beds if I ever wanted to grow edible plants. My soil was full of weeds, broken glass, trash, and a whole host of other unappetizing and unsafe items. Plus, there is a black walnut tree growing right next door in my neighbor’s yard. So I started looking for the best budget raised beds.

My search brought me to Amazon, of course, where I found a fantastic deal on these FOOWIN Galvanized Raised Garden Beds. I was on the hunt for a high-quality, yet low-cost dupe of the beloved Vego Garden raised beds, which our Senior Editor Liz added to her own front yard a few years ago. And I found just what I was looking for in this 2-pack of metal raised beds from Amazon.

I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these affordable raised beds before buying, from the pros and cons to installation tips. But don’t take too long to make your decision because these beds are on sale right now for Amazon Prime Day!

Price & Availability

This 2-Piece FOOWIN Galvanized Raised Garden Bed Kit is available on Amazon for $127.79 for Prime Day, which is a 33% discount off the regular price. You can also get this raised garden bed kit on sale from Walmart now for $128. It is only available online.

One of the biggest benefits of this raised garden bed is the price. Each bed costs less than $65, which is an incredible price for a metal raised bed of this size.

Setup

The setup wasn’t that difficult, but it did take quite a bit of time to complete. I did the first bed on my own and it took about 2-2.5 hours to put together.

The instructions were very limited. They didn’t include any images other than for a list of the parts and had very brief, unclear written descriptions for the setup process. But these beds are fairly simple to put together just using your own logic.

However, I still made a couple mistakes that I had to fix on the first bed. I wasted quite a bit of time undoing one of the ends of the first bed after I screwed it on because I thought I did it wrong. It turned out I did it right and ended up redoing it again.

It also took extra time putting together the first bed because I did it by myself. I was able to put the bed together just fine, but I enlisted the help of my sister and dad to assist with the second bed. That ended up going faster because I had another person helping to screw all the pieces together while I worked on other parts of the bed. It also helped to have someone hold the sides up while I screwed them together.

Thankfully all of the parts, including screws and nuts, were included in the packaging. There were even extra screws and nuts, which came in handy when a couple screws were damaged and I couldn’t use them. However, you do need to provide your own tools, which include a ratchet and wrench.

Design

These raised beds are 8 feet (2.4 m) long, 4 feet (1.2 m) wide, and 2 (0.6 m) feet deep. They are really quite large, which is exactly what I was looking for when I chose these beds. I wanted to fill as much of my yard as possible with these beds. I even put the one bed over top of an old tree stump. I’m hoping that turning these planters into hügelkultur beds filled with logs, sticks, compost, and plants will suppress the suckers that keep sprouting out of the tree stump.

I will easily be able to grow vining plants like pumpkins, butternut squash, and cucumbers in these beds as well as tons of tomatoes, herbs, and even some flowers for cutting. I plan on adding a trellis to the one raised bed as well to create a privacy screen on the patio that doubles as usable vertical growing space.

These metal raised garden beds are made of steel with a zinc alloy coating and non-toxic paint finish. They come in six different colors: silver, brown, yellow, navy, dark green, and black. I opted for the black powder-coated finish. The beds also come with plastic covers for the corners to prevent any accidental cuts or scrapes while you’re working in your garden, which is a nice touch.

These raised beds have an open bottom, so I recommend laying down cardboard at the base before filling with your growing medium to prevent weeds from coming up from the ground. They also have three turnbuckles in the center of the beds to help stabilize the sides and prevent them from bowing out when you fill the beds with soil.

User Reviews

The FOOWIN Galvanized Raised Garden Beds have over 700 reviews on Amazon with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Reviewers frequently mention the good quality and sturdiness of these beds, which I noticed as well when I put these beds together. Other reviewers on Amazon also had difficulty assembling these raised garden beds, which I did a bit at first as well.

Our Verdict

All in all, I’m impressed by these metal raised garden beds. I have not filled them or planted in them yet, so the real test of durability and usefulness is still yet to come. But I have high hopes. Because the beds are so large, I intend on filling the bottom half to two-thirds with old logs, dead brush, and finally compost and soil before planting.

I think the height of these beds will make them great for planting and tending to my garden. I won’t have to crouch all the way down to the ground like I have in the past with my in-ground beds.

These raised beds also look great around the perimeter of my patio at the back of my house. Even with nothing planted in them yet, they add privacy and make the space feel more intentional. Once they’re filled with tall green plants and vine-covered trellises, they will be absolutely beautiful.

Also Consider

Deadheading is dead easy with the Felco 6 One-Hand Pruning Shears. A classic style of pruning shears – Europeans would call them secateurs – is realized here with exceptional class.

These shears are designed specifically for light pruning tasks. Any stem or slender branch up to about ⅔″ is within the Felco 6’s cutting scope, from the juicy stems of tender plants to woody shrubs and even small tree branches. Typically, you would use pruning shears for deadheading, removing unwanted branches, and other pruning tasks around the yard. And if you like to create arrangements of your yard-grown flowers in a vase indoors, you can use these pruners to cut those stems down to size, too.

The Felco 6 belongs to a category of pruning shears known as ‘bypass pruners.’ This means the cutting action happens when the two blades pass against each other – as is the case with most household scissors or shears. With this type of shear, the two blades must be nicely in tension to contact each other closely along their entire cutting length. Proper tension makes for a smooth cut.

With this in mind, the Felco 6 gives you some control over tensioning the blades, which may lose their straight-out-of-the-workshop tension through normal, repeated use. Tension adjustment is done using a Felco 2/30 Adjustment Key (included), which you can use to tighten or loosen the nuts on the tool. You’ll sometimes need this tool for dismantling the Felco 6, ready for cleaning or blade replacement.

We tested the Felco 6 using the pruner to cut various plant stems and thin tree branches in our reviewer's yard. The results were so impressive that we ranked the Felco 6 first in our roundup of the best pruners you can buy.

Felco 6 Bypass Pruner: At a Glance

The Felco name will probably be familiar to our plant-loving readers. Since the 1960s, this Swiss manufacturer has reliably made some of the finest pruning shears you can buy.

Deriving much of its design DNA from the classic ‘Felco 2’ model, the Felco 6 is a bypass pruner with ergonomically molded handles and sharp, exquisitely tensioned cutting blades. The shears are intended for various pruning applications, from high-precision tasks such as deadheading and cutting tender plant stems to cutting through tree branches up to 0.79″ thick. You can pick up a pair of these premium shears for around $60 from online retailers such as Amazon.

Felco 6 Bypass Pruner: Key Specs

Felco 6 Bypass Pruner: Performance

The Felco 6’s first test in our reviewer’s yard was to prune tender plant stems and remove dead flower heads. It did this with great ease and precision and at the expense of practically zero effort from the user.

Cutting tree branches was a little tougher, especially towards the upper end of the pruner’s cutting width capacity. However, after a few seconds, the shears effectively made their way through the wood.

Pruning is truly a pleasure with these sensational shears. The spring mechanism gives the pruner a lovely, light, and easy action, and you won’t need to put in much effort to cut through plant matter (just so long as the shears are well-maintained).

The more closely you consider the details of these shears, the more you’ll appreciate them. We were particularly impressed with the soft stoppers above the spring mechanism on the insides of the shanks, which allow for quiet, peaceful pruning. The brushed finish on the hardened steel blades is another nice touch.

Felco is a sustainability-focused brand, so it’s natural that they’ve made the Felco 6 easy to maintain long-term. A bundled-in adjustment key lets you take the shears apart, ready to sharpen the blades or replace parts. The Felco 6 can be your trusty pruning helper for a lifetime with proper care. Felco also makes a great carbide blade sharpener that can be found on Amazon and will keep your pruners in peak performance.

Felco 6 Bypass Pruner: Should You Buy?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How Does it Compare?

It’s worth considering a few alternative models of bypass pruner before you go ahead and buy the Felco 6.

Another option with a similar design, but designed for users with larger hands, is the Felco 8. This slightly larger pruner also has a greater cutting capacity, meaning you can cut thicker branches. However, the Felco 6 will feel more comfortable in most users’ hands.

At the lower end of the price spectrum, the Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears provide respectable pruning capabilities at an unbeatable price of around $10-20 (depending on the retailer). The Fiskars pruner is nowhere near as special as the Felco 6, but it’s an effective choice for most pruning work.

How We Tested the Felco 6 Bypass Pruner

Our reviewer tested the Felco 6 Bypass Pruner by using it to prune various plants around the yard. He tested the shears on a wide range of plants, from marigolds with juicy stems to half-inch-thick crabapple tree branches. He also tested the bundled-in Felco 2/30 Adjustment Key by using it to loosen and tighten the nuts on the pruners.

I’ll admit it, I am a sucker for yard work. My wife makes fun of me when I moan about having to go out and mow the lawn. She’ll say, “Don’t act like you don’t like it.” Honestly, she’s right. If I do have a complaint, it isn't in the work, but in some of my tools. My current tools, like my trimmer and leaf blower, are corded. I've learned what a relief it is to use a battery-powered leaf blower compared to a corded one. I wondered if it would be the same testing out the Sun Joe 24V-ST14 Cordless String Trimmer.

I tested the Sun Joe Cordless Trimmer by edging and weed-eating my lawn. I have a big front lawn with a perimeter that measures close to 200 feet (60 m). To edge my entire front and back yard, this aspect of lawn care usually takes me 20 minutes. My front porch, admittedly, has some unsightly thick weeds. After trimming the yard's perimeter, I used the Sun Joe Trimmer to cut down those weeds. I also used the trimmer to trim down tall grass around the fence line in my backyard. So how does it compare to the best string trimmers? Read on to find out.

First Impressions

The first thing that caught my eye when I unboxed the Sun Joe 24V-ST14 String Trimmer was the telescopic pole and rotating head. By being able to adjust the length of the pole, you also manipulate the weight distribution, making the job feel easier when you’re holding the weed whacker for long periods of time. The rotating head also looked like it would come in handy when trying to get between specific areas around my house, like my spigot and front porch. My current string trimmer hasn’t got adjustable anything, so these were two major features for first impressions.

The prospect of not having to unwind a lengthy cable, move it around, and wind it back up after the job is finished, thanks to a battery-powered unit, was desirable. One thing I was curious about with a battery-powered unit, though, is whether it would have enough power to cut through some of the thicker weeds around my home.

I was also curious how well the wheel edger feature would work out. Again, my current trimmer does not have wheels to roll along the sidewalk to conveniently edge the yard. I wondered how well it would work, and if it would make trimming the perimeter of my yard a much easier task.

Pricing & Availability

You can buy the Sun Joe 24V-ST14 kit from Amazon for $139.99 with the battery and charger included. However, if you don’t need the battery and charger, you can get the Sun Joe 24V-ST14-CT from Amazon for just $79.97. At the time of writing, stock was flagging up as limited. Another option for those who already own a Sun Joe battery system is to buy the Sun Joe 24V-ST14-CT (Tool-Only) version from Target, also $79.97.

Alternatively, you can head over to ShopJoe.com, which stocks the Sun Joe 24V-ST14 Trimmer + 4.0-Ah Battery + Charger for $139.99. This is the full kit version, but you can also select from a dropdown on the product menu to get just the trimmer without the extras if you prefer.

Score: 3 out of 5

Design

The adjustment features and the operation of the design were well thought out. As mentioned, the length of the trimmer can be adjusted to suit your size, strength, and preferences. I prefer the trimmer to be a little closer to me to provide more control. With this in mind, I really enjoyed having the telescoping pole length feature.

I had a little difficulty getting the handle attached to the telescoping pole during the installation. The instructions say the handle should slide onto the corresponding tabs: it did not. I needed a rubber mallet to "slide" the handle in. After checking customer reviews, I’m not the only one who had this issue. Once the handle is attached, though, there will never be a reason to remove it. It's just something to consider when installing.

Another design feature I thought was smart was the safety button’s disengagement ability on either side of the handle. To start the machine, you must press the safety button before pulling the lever to start the motor. As you hold the handle, with your middle, ring, and pinky finger on the lever, you can use either your thumb to push the safety button inward or your index finger on the other side of the handle to push it outward. Either way, this activates the ability to pull the lever and start the motor. It’s a small thing, but I thought it was very convenient.

The head also has the ability to rotate. You can quickly press down on the tab near the head and rotate the head to your desired angle. I found this useful when trying to trim between two objects, like the spigot in my front yard and my porch.

Score: 4.5 out of 5

Key Specifications

Performance

After unboxing the trimmer, I immediately powered up the battery. Once it was powered, the first test I performed was the battery test. I taped the trigger down and ran the motor at full speed until the battery was fully drained. The battery lasted for an impressive one hour and 26 minutes of non-stop use. Next, I tested how long it would take to recharge the dead battery. It took one hour and 46 minutes to fully recharge.

Once the battery test was complete, I took the trimmer to the yard. One of the first things I tested was the edging feature, and adjusting the head so I could roll the wheels along the cement to the edge of my yard. I'm not sure if my lawn is tall enough compared to the sidewalk, but edging my yard this way didn’t do anything. The line never got low enough to edge my yard, and there wasn’t any way to adjust the height of the wheels. So, a feature I was excited about turned out to be a bust. I also removed the metal flower guard on the front, which I found got in the way while trimming.

With both the wheels and the flower guard removed, it was time to edge the lawn. I was delighted by how much precision the telescoping pole and rotating head provided as I edged my lawn. With my corded trimmer, I usually have to trim sections, moving back and forth as I go, but with the Sun Joe 24V-ST14, I could mostly walk in one direction and trim exactly where I wanted. For anyone who has issues mowing tricky spots, this trimming tool offers a lot of control.

Another thing that sped up the trimming process was not worrying about a cable. A battery-powered motor free of a cable provides a great deal of mobility and freedom that helps make quick work of trimming and edging. Speaking of the battery, there is a button on the battery that, when pressed, displays how much battery life is left. This is convenient if you’re unsure if the battery has enough life to finish the task.

I noticed that the motor wasn’t as powerful as my corded trimmer, which was to be expected. When trimming the thick weeds around my porch (don’t judge me), I could feel the motor really working to cut through. Now, the weeds I was cutting through weren’t necessarily that thick, not comparable to brush or anything. The Sun Joe 24V-ST14 could still trim the weeds but took a few passes over an area short enough. Regardless, it could do a decent job of lawn weed control, but I wouldn’t trust it to attack a field full of tall brush.

Score: 4.5 out of 5

Should You Buy Sun Joe 24V-ST14?

 Buy it if…  

 Don’t buy it if….

Editor's Note: The official Sun Joe 24V-ST14 spec features a dual-line auto-feed spool design. However, because of how the spool is wound, it can feel like handling a single-line trimmer. If raw, heavy-duty dual-line clearing is your top priority, you might prefer a premium brushless upgrade.

How Does the Sun Joe 24V-ST14 Cordless String Trimmer Compare?

The cordless string trimmer market is competitive, but there are some decent 24V and 20V battery-powered options worthy of consideration. This curated trio of options all have easy, gas-free handling, but each offers a unique advantage, whether that is an accessible entry price for a full kit, specialized inline wheels for sidewalk maneuvering, or a terrific battery ecosystem for seamless tool expansion. Here is how they stack up against the Sun Joe 24V-ST14 for power, pricing, and everyday backyard reliability.

How I Tested the Sun Joe 24V-ST14 Trimmer

I tested the Sun Joe battery by tapping the trigger and running the motor at full speed until the battery died. I also timed how long it took to fully charge the depleted battery. I tested the Sun Joe 24V-ST14's ability to edge and trim by using it for the full landscaping duties around my yard. I tested the weight distribution and accuracy. I also tested the ability to maneuver around tight areas around my yard and house. Finally, I tested the power of the motor cutting thick weeds around my front porch. From extensive testing, I was able to write this in-depth review for potential buyers.

• First reviewed: October 2023

Need more ideas for timely gardening jobs and seasonal expert advice delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for the free Gardening Know How Newsletter!

With a half an acre yard, a riding lawn mower is a necessary tool to get my lawn cut in a decent amount of time and without overly exerting myself. That said, I’ve only ever used a zero-turn lawn mower, so when I was given the opportunity to test the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor, I was happy to give it a go.

I’ve had my eye on EGO and their battery-powered riding lawn mowers for a while. Among lawn mower brands, they seem to be excelling considerably on this front and I couldn’t wait to tackle my yard with the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor. Over the course of a few cutting sessions, I learned how to drive a lawn tractor, especially one with an 18-inch (46 cm) turning capacity in an area with lots of trees. With a maximum 6 mph speed, I was able to quickly mow the open spaces of my yard and even set the cruise control to make cutting easier.

While it took me some time to figure out all the buttons and features of this riding lawn tractor, once I did, I found it easy enough to use. It didn't hurt that the EGO cut my yard with precision and quality. Sure, the turn radius took some getting used to, but I was glad to see that I still had over 40% of battery left by the time I was done mowing. Keep reading to see my full take on this lawn tractor.

Price & Availability

Riding lawn mowers are not cheap by any means, but the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor sits in the middle range. While Amazon has the mower priced at $4,754.99, it’s available for $4,399 from Lowe’s and Ace Hardware.

Considering how big the lawn mower is and the amount of features that come with it, the price tag is exceptionally fair and matches up with the product quality.

Score: 5 out of 5

Setup

I was very curious how the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor would be dropped off at my house. It is an exceptionally large product after all. In the end, UPS gave me a call and set up a day and time for the mower to be delivered. When the truck arrived, a man removed the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor and brought it into my garage.

I'm glad that I had cleaned out my garage so I could place the mower in the very center as I needed a lot of space to set it up. The EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor arrived in a large metal cage that was covered on all sides by cardboard and plastic. I had to remove the cage by hand. Thankfully, EGO provided all the tools needed to undertake this task, which I thought was a nice touch. This task took me a few hours to complete, but I managed it just fine all on my own.

The tractor comes practically put together, except for the seat and the steering wheel. Once I removed the cage, I pushed the tractor out and got to work putting the seat and the steering wheel onto the lawn mower.

From there, I aired up the front tires a bit and put the batteries into the mower so I could charge them. While I tried to set up the EGO tractor in the app, I did not see this particular product as an option in the app, and thus, couldn’t connect it.

Take note that the mower comes with an attachment rack, but not with any attachments. It’s something you can hold onto in case you want to buy attachments in the future and need to attach it to the tractor.

Design

The EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor is, as the name implies, a lawn tractor, which is a type of riding lawn mower with a mid-mounted cutting deck. It has rear wheel drive which provides the mower with better traction on slopes and inclines. Not all riding lawn mowers can be used on hills, but you can use this tractor to cut grass on a hill that is less than 15°.

This is a battery-powered lawn mower with six batteries that are placed in the front of the tractor. To charge the batteries, you keep them in the mower and use the provided charger to plug into the EGO’s charging port.

Even though it has a 42-inch (107 cm) deck with a side discharge chute, the tractor is as compact as a riding lawn mower of this size can be. The deck is adjustable with 12 different cutting height positions from 1.5 to 4.5 inches (3.8-11.4 cm) and a lever along the back side of the machine to control the mowing height. Anti-scalp wheels prevent the deck from scalping the lawn when the tractor goes over a tall spot.

The steering wheel will feel familiar to those who know how to drive, as will the accelerator foot lever on the right side of the machine. The parking break pedal is on the left side. It works in conjunction with the parking break lock lever that’s on the left side of the steering wheel. You release the parking break by pushing on the lever with your foot. To set the parking brake in place, you need to lift the brake lock lever up and then push the parking break pedal down with your foot until you feel it catch. This was a bit tricky for me to figure out.

I’m of the mind that gardening tools should be as simple to use as possible, and while this EGO tractor is easy to use, it did take some time to figure out all the levers, buttons, and LCD screen icons. There are quite a lot.

I had to ride around with the instruction manual in the storage compartment the first few times so I could have something to reference. There were way too many things to remember otherwise.

Next to the wheel is the direction control lever. Push the lever forward and the tractor will go forward. Push it down and the tractor will go in reverse. On the opposite side of the direction control lever is the PTO switch which must be pulled to start the blades.

The LCD has a number of buttons and icons. Let’s start with the buttons. The right side has a blade speed adjustment button, a Mowing in Reverse Button, and the Start/Stop button. On the left side is the driving speed adjustment button, the LED light and Bluetooth button, and the Cruise Control System button.

As for the LCD screen, it has 18 different icons noting everything from the battery power to which battery compartments are occupied or vacant. You’ll also see whether the Mowing in Reverse button, the Cruise Control System button, or the parking pedal are engaged or not. It also notifies you when the LED lights and the Bluetooth is on. An alert and temperature icon will light up if there are any issues. It even notes when you’re driving forward or in reverse with “D” and “R” icons. You can also see which blade speed or driving speed setting you’re on. You have three options for each.

Other notable features of this tractor are the LED headlights in the front, the double cup holder, a front storage compartment, and a USB port under the wheel where you can charge your phone. The seat can be adjusted forward or backwards to your liking.

Score: 4 out of 5

Key Specifications

Performance

Starting the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor is easy enough. The tractor comes with two keys, but only one needs to be placed in the key port for it to start up. (I store the other key in the storage compartment of the EGO so I never lose it.)

After charging the batteries and placing the key in the port, I disengage the parking brake and press the start/stop button for three seconds until the LCD lights up. A green light shines at the top of the LCD screen. I adjust the direction control lever to D or R, depending if I need to go forward or backwards.

To move the tractor, I pushed the accelerator pedal with my foot and moved the steering wheel as I would do in my car. The pedals and steering wheel are very responsive. When my foot comes off the pedal, the lawn mower takes a second or two to stop. I usually tap the parking break if I need to stop quickly.

As I mentioned, there are quite a number of buttons, levers, and icons on the LCD screen to figure out. I constantly forgot what buttons were related to the different settings. Some tractors require users to shift gears to increase speed. EGO gets around that with a button that you can switch between three speed settings: low, standard, and max. All I had to do was push the button one to three times to set the speed.

When I tested this EGO, I usually set the drive speed and the blade speed on the medium setting, and always set the mower to cut in reverse. I don’t know why you would not want to mow in reverse, but at least you have the option. Usually, I set the deck height to two inches. I only lowered the deck when I was on grass. To start the blades, I pulled the PTO switch.

When the blades are off, and the EGO is at a standstill, it doesn’t emit any noise. It's only when I move the EGO that it emits a 67 dB rating. Even when the blades are on, this tractor is considerably quiet compared to gas-powered riding lawn mowers emitting about 87-91 decibels. The noise is louder the faster the speed setting of the blades of which there are three: eco, standard, and heavy duty.

As I said, it’s very easy to drive this tractor forward or in reverse. Where I had some trouble or frustration was when I was mowing the part of my yard that is full of lots of obstacles. I have trees, a swing, and sharp corners around flower beds. Since I’d never used a tractor before, I wasn’t sure how to move quickly through an area with lots of obstacles. I found myself having to stop and switch to reverse quite a bit, which slowed my progress.

An 18-inch (46 cm) turn radius, which isn’t uncommon among riding tractors, was still cumbersome to deal with when mowing this part of my yard. Even in my front yard, which is empty of obstacles, there was a learning curve. I couldn't really mow in stripes like I usually do with a zero-turn mower, because the 18-inch (46 cm) turning radius doesn't allow for sharp enough turns.

I ended up mowing in a perimeter pattern for the entire yard. The second time I mowed, I tried to play around with the mowing pattern, but ultimately reverted to a perimeter cut. It was admittedly easier to cut the front yard which lacks any obstacles. I’m still not a fan of the 18-inch (46 cm) turn, but with each use, I’m sure I'll get more comfortable using the “D” and “R” levers and figuring out how to maximize the turn radius to my benefit. It’ll just take some practice.

All that said, I did like that the tires didn’t ruin my yard when I turned. They have high-quality traction which made me feel very secure throughout the mowing period.

The EGO has a maximum speed of 6 mph, which felt really fast. You can really cut quickly once you’ve gotten a handle on how this lawn mower works. I did use the cruise control, though I only turn it on when I'm mowing the part of my yard that has little obstacles, and only when the drive speed is on low or standard.

I do have slopes in my yard, but they’re much steeper than 15 degrees, so I didn’t feel comfortable mowing them with this tractor. Per the instructions, you should only use this tractor on slopes that are less than 15 degrees.

I liked that if I stood up or moved away from the chair while mowing, the mower would shut off. That’s a nice safety feature in case an issue occurs, and I need to jump off the tractor.

While mowing, I did charge my phone with the USB port. There is a little woven storage area below the port to place your phone in.

The batteries handled my half an acre yard with no problem. I had about 44 percent of charge left after the first testing experience, and 46 percent the second time around. I thought that the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor did a great job cutting at my preferred height.

Charging the lawn mower was easy. I’m glad that I didn’t have to remove the batteries and charge them one by one. They remain in the tractor and all I had to do was plug the charger into an extension cord and then the charger into the charging port on the side of the tractor. I usually mowed in the afternoons, so typically, the mower would be fully charged before I went to sleep.

All in all, I think this is a quality tractor and I can see why users love it so much. As someone coming from a zero-turn mower to a lawn tractor, it was a bit of a learning curve for me, but I think overtime, I’ll handle it with the same dexterity and skill as I do my car and I’ll cut my yard faster and faster in no time.

Score: 4 out of 5

Maintenance

As a battery-powered lawn mower, there is a lot less maintenance required than if it were gas-powered like this Troy-Bilt self-propelled mower I also reviewed. That said, you’ll have to do some maintenance. Before you use the tractor, you should visually inspect the tires. If they seem deflated, give them some air. Otherwise, you don’t have to air them up except after every 25 hours of use.

Whenever you're done mowing, you should use a blower to remove debris and utilize the wash port to clean the deck. Before storing your lawn mower for winter, remove the batteries and the safety key and store them in a place where the temperature is above 45 degrees. It’s also not a bad idea to check that all the lug nuts are fastened and that the tire pressure is good. Once a year, lubricate the shaft sleeves of the front wheels.

Other types of maintenance, like leveling the deck or replacing and balancing your lawn mower blades, are tasks you’ll need to do if you notice that the cut isn’t as good as it was before or it looks uneven.

User Reviews

This EGO lawn tractor has over 100 reviews with an average star rating of 4.3 stars on Amazon. Customers rave about the power capabilities of this battery-powered lawn mower. Some claim it’s on par with their old gas-powered mowers and is able to cut through tall weeds and various grasses.

Others like being able to charge all the batteries at the same time, driving it on hills, and how quiet it is. The only complaints seem to be that that the lawn mower cannot be set up in the app still.

Should You Buy the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor?

Buy It If...

Don’t Buy It If…

How Does the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor Compare?

How I Tested the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor

I tested the EGO TR4204 POWER+ 42” T6 Lawn Tractor by mowing my half-acre yard with it a few times. Since I’ve never used a lawn tractor before, there was a bit of a learning curve. However, eventually I managed to figure out the different blade settings, how to drive and turn the mower, and the best method for cutting my grass. From extensive testing, I was able to write this in-depth review for potential buyers.

• First reviewed: April 2024

Summer is almost here, and many of us are on the hunt for a new lawn mower to prepare our lawns for warmer weather. As you browse the best lawnmowers on the market, you’ll notice many of these machines look similar.

But the Black + Decker BEMW472BH stands out thanks to an innovative steering assembly that promises easier control. On this mower, you steer with upright handles that make navigating awkward areas, such as nearby trees or plant pots, easier.

I was excited to find out how well it measures up against its advertised claims of "precision handling" and "cutting-edge performance." So I opted to put the mower to the test by using it to mow my lawn on multiple occasions. I used the upright handles to navigate obstacles such as plant pots and I also tested various cutting heights to assess the effect on mowing performance.

In keeping with most of the Black + Decker yard care products I've used, the BEMW472BH promises effective performance at a reasonably low price point. It’s important to note that this is a corded electric lawn mower, meaning it runs off household electricity. Let's take a look at how this lawn mower worked in my medium-sized yard.

Black + Decker BEMW472BH: key specs

Price & Availability

One key incentive to choose this Black + Decker lawn mower is price. The BEMW472BH retails for $199 in the United States, but it frequently dips lower during seasonal sales. At the time of writing, the mower is available for that price via Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, and the Black + Decker site.

Official replacement blades for the mower are available via Black + Decker and third parties.

Setup

The BEMW472BH arrived in perfect condition and was efficiently packaged in robust cardboard. I was pleased to note that all the materials used to pack the mower were recyclable – except for a few tiny pieces, like the cable tie around the power cable.

Some parts of the mower come flat-packed in the box, so the package is less bulky than it could have been. The mower is relatively lightweight, so two reasonably fit people (or one strong person) should be able to move the box quickly. Just take a moment to get a solid grip around the bottom of the box, as it doesn't have handles.

Setting up the BEMW472BH proved relatively straightforward – although I did encounter a few finicky tasks along the way. Putting together the two halves of the grass collector box was a challenge. Assembling components such as the cable tidies that clip onto the metal bars proved much more manageable. The parts all click together or fasten using the winged screws provided. You don’t need any tools whatsoever to complete assembly.

Overall, I completed the setup (single-handedly) in about 20 minutes, which is fast by my standards! This was thanks partly to the instruction manual, which gives good, clear directions on assembling the mower and using its features in diagram and written form.

Design

Tough, good-quality plastic is used throughout this mower, except for parts of the handle assembly and the mowing blade, which is metallic. At about 38 lbs (17 kg), it’s pretty lightweight for a mid-sized lawn mower – a big win for users who want to minimize the physical strain of lawn mowing.

This is a nicely finished, sporty-looking machine in Black + Decker’s instantly recognizable black, orange, and gray. The design looks quite elongated due to the upright handle assembly used to control the mower. You’ll notice the added length when you push the mower from behind.

The upright steering controls are by far this mower's most unusual and exciting feature. You can use the sporty-looking handle to turn the mower left or right more quickly than a standard bar-style handle.

I found that feature on this ergonomic garden tool quite helpful when steering around plant pots at the edge of the lawn and I expect it could be a bit of a game-changer if you find it challenging to maneuver lawnmowers with regular handles. Admittedly, it takes a little while to get used to this novel lawn mower steering method.

So, those upright handles could prove helpful – especially for users with potential lawn obstacles, such as trees or mid-lawn flower beds. However, the extra length it adds to the mower has one big drawback: it may impair your ease of movement when mowing in tight spaces, such as in front of overhanging tree branches.

This mower does not come with a cover and is not designed to be stored outdoors. However, the low proportion of metal parts could make it relatively rust-resistant. Still, it is always best to store your gardening tools indoors in a space such as a garage or shed.

I recommend folding the mower’s handle assembly for efficient storage. Otherwise, it will take up a needlessly large space.

Performance

Let's cut to the chase. I was pleased with the Black + Decker BEMW472BH mowing performance. Operating at 1,600W, it offered plenty of power to mow the grass efficiently (and also to cut through tough weeds like dandelions – the bane of my lawn and myself).

Given its ample cutting power, you should be able to use this mower to cut lawns up to 1⁄8 acre (or 600 ㎡) in area. The cutting width of the mower’s blade is similarly well suited to medium-sized lawns, at 15 inches (38 cm) wide.

Of course, because the mower is corded, there’s no fear of running out of power mid-mow – and the affordable price point is due in part to that corded design, too. In other respects, the presence of the power cord is a moderate inconvenience. I found that moving the cable safely around the lawn was a chore, and the need to avoid running over it was never far from my mind during testing.

That said, the BEMW472BH does more to help with cable management than some other corded mowers. The bright orange color of the power cable helped me keep it in sight, while the handle-mounted cable clips reduced the risk of entanglement.

Meanwhile, this lawn mower's 12 gallon (45 L) grass collection box gathers grass clippings pretty effectively, although I did notice some cuttings were dropped during testing. You should expect to empty the box at least a couple of times while mowing a medium-sized lawn, which is what I found anyway. Handily, there’s a status indicator that flips open when the box is getting pretty full, so you’ll know when to empty out the clippings.

The mowing height was simple to adjust using the height selection lever on the left-hand side of the mower. Switching between mowing heights created an appreciable difference in cutting, as you would hope. Shorter mowing height settings seemed to produce a more uniform cut than the highest settings did, during my hands-on testing.

Given that this is a corded electric mower (powered by household electricity), you should not use it in wet conditions due to the risk of electrocution.

In terms of noise levels, this powerful mower sits towards the noisier end of the spectrum. My sound meter gauged the noise level of the mower at somewhere between 79 and 81 dB, which is around the same level as a noisy restaurant.

Maintenance

After mowing, it’s a good idea to clean out the mowing deck using a cloth or brush to remove any leftover grass cuttings. Be careful not to touch the cutting blade while you clean.

The lawn mower blade will need to be sharpened (read about how to balance and sharpen lawn mower blades) about once per 25 hours of use to preserve optimal mowing performance. In terms of mower maintenance, that's about all this mower needs since it doesn't have batteries that require charging or gas engine components that need changing from time to time.

User Reviews

Online customer reviews of Black + Decker's lawn mower are generally good, especially considering its reasonable price.

Black + Decker customers in the United States gave the BEMW472BH an average rating of 3.5 stars, with some buyers remarking upon the mower's easy handling and lightweight build.

Meanwhile, Amazon customers in the US had overwhelmingly positive views of the mower, with ratings averaging out at 4.1 stars from over 3,000 users. Like me, many buyers highlighted the mower's light build and maneuverability.

Would I Buy the Black + Decker BEMW472BH?

Buy It If...

Don't Buy It If...

How Does the Black + Decker BEMW472BH Compare?

While Black + Decker's mower is well worth your consideration, there are plenty of other mowers out there that we can recommend, too.

How I Tested the Black + Decker BEMW472BH

• I tested the Black + Decker BEMW472BH by using it to mow my lawn on several occasions during spring 2024, including that difficult first cut of the year.
• Used rigorously for several springtime mows.
• Because the mower is advertised as easy to steer, I tested it in awkward areas around the edge of the lawn, including near plant pots and the bases of tree trunks.

Keeping your lawn mowed and maintained is hard work, and yet it shouldn’t be difficult. When I was asked to review the Troy-Bilt XP 21 in. 163 cc Briggs and Stratton ReadyStart Engine 3-in-1 Gas RWD Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, I said yes immediately. I’m no stranger to Troy-Bilt yard products or lawn mowers. It’s a quality brand and I soon learned that this particular lawn mower fit right into Troy-Bilt's stellar offerings.

Over the course of a few weeks, I discovered how easy it was to start this lawn mower and use it to mulch and bag the clippings in my yard. Best yet, with a self-propel feature, I could effortlessly move the mower up and down the slopes in my yard. The drawbacks of this lawn mower were so few, especially compared to the pros.

As someone who has half an acre yard, I can confidently say that this 21-inch (53.3 cm) deck mower is one of the best gas types of lawn mowers suited for small to medium yards.

Key Specs

Price & Availability

The Troy-Bilt TB310B lawnmower is priced at $519 on the Troy-Bilt website. The price tag makes sense, especially since the lawn mower has self-propel capabilities and can mulch and bag clippings. Even the fact that the user doesn't have to choke the engine to start it up adds to the quality of the product.

Setup

If you’re new to cutting the grass and lawnmowers, you’ll be glad to hear that setting up this particular one isn’t difficult, though it does take about 5-10 minutes to complete. The lawn mower arrived in a large box on a wood pallet. After moving the box off the pallet, I cut the sides of the box so that they fell flat, allowing me to roll the lawn mower out.

The lawn mower itself comes nearly assembled. I only had to lift the handle and add the side discharge chute or the bag, if I wanted.

The handle was folded down against the lawn mower. When storing the lawn mower away, you can fold the handle again. To lift the handle, I had to remove the T-bolts near the back wheels and then lift the handle until the holes aligned before I could screw the T-bolts back in.

There are also T-bolts in the middle part of the handle. I also adjusted those so the handle was at the height I needed. Truthfully, these T-bolts are a bit of a hassle, especially considering that Troy-Bilt offers lawnmowers with EZ-fold handle release levers, making adjusting the handle quicker and easier.

From there, I cut the zip tie from the side of the handle to pull the starter rope and place it in the rope guide.

I grabbed the oil pouch in the packaging and added the entire thing to the oil container. Next, I added fresh gas and then adjusted the wheel height. While the front wheels are very easy to change, I had a lot of trouble adjusting the back wheels.

To adjust the wheels, I had to pull a lever on the wheels out, move it to the left or the right, and fit it on another spoke. Pulling the lever out was a struggle. While it was easier to move the lever to the left, it was almost impossible to move that lever to the right, thus lifting the wheels higher.

For the first testing session, I added the side discharge chute to the deck (and left the plug in the back) as I prefer to mulch my grass clippings and let them discharge out the side.

Design

This Troy-Bilt lawn mower is a gas-powered push lawn mower with a 21-inch (53.3 cm) deck, making it better equipped to handle small-to-medium yards. It’s designed with rear-wheel drive rather than front-wheel drive, which results in improved wheel traction, especially when cutting grass on a hill.

The 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine is easy to start thanks to Troy-Bilt’s ReadyStart technology. In the past, many gas lawnmowers required choke starting – or pressing a plastic button a few times so that it filled with gas. With this lawn mower, there is no choke. You only need to pull the recoil starter rope once or twice for the lawn mower to start.

There are six deck positions, which means the cutting height ranges from 1.25 to 3.75 inches (3.2-9.5 cm). When the lever is placed on the spokes toward the front of the mower, the deck is closer to the ground. Alternatively, when the lever is placed on the spokes in the direction of the back of the mower, the deck lifts.

If you need to adjust the handle for your height, you can do so by unscrewing the T-bolts and arranging it to your liking before screwing the bolts back in.

Above the handle is the blade control. When you start the lawn mower, it must be held down toward the handle, or the mower won’t start. It’s also what keeps the mower running. Let go of it and the mower stops.

To manage the self-propulsion speed, you pull on the dual levers below the handle. The more you squeeze them, the faster the mower goes. The maximum speed of the self-propulsion feature is 3.7 mph.

In addition to an integrated mulch plug, the lawn mower comes with a 2.3-bushel grass bag and a side discharge chute, both of which can be used or removed.

Performance

One of my favorite aspects of this lawn mower is that it doesn’t require a choke to start the engine. It only took me one or two pulls of the coil rope for the engine to start every time.

My hands felt comfortable gripping the blade control and the self-propel levers throughout the mowing process. I was so thankful for the self-propel feature, especially since I have quite a large yard.

At 86.5 lbs (39.2 kg), this Troy-Bilt mower is not the heaviest 21-inch (53.3 cm) push lawn mower on the market, but it’s not something you want to push around for an hour on your own.

Granted, a maximum speed of 3.7 mph isn’t the fastest among self-propelled mowers, but it’s average. When set at max speed, I walked briskly without the lawn mower getting away from me.

As someone with many slopes in their yard, including one ditch, the self-propel feature was a game changer. I can’t quickly push 86.5 lbs (39.2 kg) of metal up my hills without struggling (or hurting myself). But I didn’t have to do that thanks to the self-propel feature. Instead, the self-propel feature propelled the lawn mower up the slopes with little effort on my part.

Some of the slopes in my yard require me to mow stripes up and down, while others require back-and-forth mowing. When I mowed the slopes back and forth, I noticed the rear-wheel drive, as it prevented the lawn mower from slipping down the slope.

Some areas of my yard had higher, thicker grass, and it would have been nice to have been able to lift the lawn mower slightly. However, since I had a lot of difficulty raising the deck of the lawn mower, especially on the back wheels, I decided to power through the grass despite how difficult it was. The lever design is my biggest issue with the lawn mower.

Most of the time, I used the side discharge chute or nothing, as I don’t mind the mulched grass clippings in my yard. I tested the mower's mulching capabilities on a pile of leaves that I removed from my flower beds, and it quickly shredded them.

I did use the grass bag once, just to make sure it worked. It took me a few minutes to attach it, but once I did, it caught the clippings, which were easy to deposit in the trash.

All in all, I had no real issues with this lawn mower and it performed remarkably well in mowing my lawn.

Maintenance

If you invest in this Troy-Bilt lawn mower, you must know it will require maintenance. It’s no more maintenance than other gas lawnmowers, but it’s more than you’d have to do for a battery-powered mower.

First, you'll need to keep the deck clean of grass clippings. Use a blower to remove clippings around the engine and the top of the deck. You can screw a lawn hose to the deck wash adaptor and wash the bottom of the deck with water. If you don’t do this, the grass will get stuck on the underside of the deck and need to be removed with a scraper.

You will have to sharpen your mower blade or replace it occasionally. You should also check the oil intermittently throughout the cutting season to see if you need to add more. Spark plugs and the air filter must also be replaced once a year.

Before storing tools in the winter, run the lawn mower until it’s empty of gas. Also, remember to give the lawn mower a thorough cleaning.

User Reviews

This Troy-Bilt lawn mower has about 50 reviews, which average around a four-star rating out of five stars (some of the reviews on one site were also found on other sites).

Reviewers rave over how easy this lawn mower is to start. Many others appreciate its mulching capability and the self-propel features. A few were disappointed that some parts around the wheels were made of plastic and were not durable.

Would I Buy the Troy-Bilt TB310B?

Buy It If...

Don’t Buy It If…

How Does the Troy-Bilt TB310B Compare?

How I Tested the Troy-Bilt TB310B

After mowing my half-acre yard a few times, I got a good sense of this lawn mower and its features, from the pull start to its mulching capabilities and everything in between.

Because my yard is full of slopes, large spaces, obstacles, and different varieties of grass, I was able to provide some great insights into the features of this lawn mower and, ultimately, which the mower will best suit your grass cutting needs.