Owning a reliable and high-quality lawn mower is an important accomplishment for every homeowner. While there are many options on the market, you can benefit from knowing the difference between a Ryobi vs Greenworks lawn mower if you are seeking powerful machinery to tend to your lawn and garden space.
Brand name lawn mowers have different benefits and strengths. Yet, how do the Greenworks and Ryobi lawnmowers differ from one another and which is the better option?
Greenworks and Ryobi lawn mowers are top picks for battery-powered mowers, but they differ in specifications and design. In terms of performance, the Greenworks mower’s dual-battery works best for longer mowing times and the Ryobi mower’s LED headlight system makes it the best solution for low-light conditions. Depending on the features you’d prefer, either choice is a great option for an easy-to-use mowing system.
Greenworks vs A Ryobi lawn mower
Evaluating the reliability of a brand, the pros and cons of machinery, and major differences in features can help you know what to expect while making a solid choice for lawn mowing. Here are a few elements to review when differentiating a Greenworks and Ryobi lawn mower:
Greenworks vs A Ryobi: About the brand
Greenworks is known as a leading eco-friendly tool manufacturing company in the United States. Originally, Yin Chen founded Greenworks in 2009 as a manufacturer of Global Tools. However, with their creation of the first lithium-ion string trimmer in 2007, Chen founded Greenworks under a marketing program and released an electric washer and mower in 2011.
Since 2016, Greenworks contributes 80% of all production output to many 60V devices of its parent company, Global Tools. All Greenworks products are made in their modern facility near Shanghai, China. Currently, Greenwork’s successful product line includes devices such as cultivators, hedge trimmers, and lawnmowers.
On the other hand, the Ryobi brand has over seventy years of production experience since its establishment in 1943. Yutaka Urakami initially founded Ryobi as Ryobi Seisakusho Co., Ltd in 1943 for diecast production. Later on, Ryobi’s first power tool was released in 1968 and the brand currently produces accessories within 12 countries and sells worldwide.
Since being listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 1968 Ryobi changed its name to Ryobi Ltd, and its manufacturing takes place in over ten countries. However, most production takes place in Hong Kong with its parent company, Techtronic Industries.
In comparison to Greenworks, Ryobi specializes in robotics and power tools including outdoor tools and energy and power items. Ryobi also has more experience in the market for outdoor tools such as lawnmowers, yet both companies offer high-quality lawn solutions.
Greenworks vs. A Ryobi: Pros and Cons
Choosing between two lawn mowers can seem like a challenge at first. When evaluating the pros and cons of Ryobi vs Greenworks lawn mowers, here are a few advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Ryobi Mower
Pros | Cons |
Low noise function | Battery can drain quickly |
Good handles for maneuvering and storage | Some parts lack durability |
Height adjustment capabilities | Auto-speed function is unreliable |
Self-propelled mowing |
Greenworks Mower
Pros | Cons |
Brushless motors | Faulty sensors for power supply |
Interchangable dual-batteries | Some parts are lower quality than others |
Easy to start and stop | Rubber mat skirt can get stuck between wheels |
Multiple grass discharge options |
What’s The Difference Between Greenworks and A Ryobi Based on Features?
Lawn mower features can vary, especially based on pricing and other factors. Generally, a good lawn mower offers a warranty, good battery life, low maintenance, fair pricing, cut quality, and non-negotiable safety features. For Ryobi vs Greenworks mowers, understanding the difference between the same features offered can help you in selecting the best choice for what your lawn needs.
1. Warranty:
GreenWorks four years limited warranty for tools and batteries protects against material defects, parts, and workmanship of its normal use from the date of purchase. This is advantageous because many warranties only cover products for one to two years.

Solutions such as repair, replacement, substitution with a comparable item, or refunds are given at the discretion of Greenworks once proof of purchase and product registration are received. Also, these warranties are only valid when products, such as lawn mower is maintained as directed in the owner’s manual.
For Ryobi, outdoor power equipment is backed by a three-year limited warranty. Defective products or parts may be replaced or repaired when returned to a Ryobi service center and the shipping costs or expenses related to returning the item are the owner’s responsibility. Like Greenwork’s policy, the warranty excludes products that have been misused or operated in a way that is contrary to the original manufacturer’s intention.
Greenworks and Ryobi products also have a 90-day warranty for commercial use of their products, instead of 3 or 4-year warranties, respectively. While Greenworks covers an additional year of use and repairs under the warranty compared to Ryobi products, both companies offer similar warranty coverage.
2. Battery:
A Greenwork 21-inch self-propelled mower 40V, 5.0 Ah battery with two battery ports. With interchangeable functions, when one battery is depleted, another steps in right away. The runtime of a Greenwork battery can vary based on the size and technology, such as brushless motors and their higher power-to-weight ratio.

A Ryobi self-propelled mower uses a Lithium-ion battery with a 6.0 Ah capacity and remains suitable for using LED lighting in the evenings. This differs from a double-battery powered Greenwork mower in that the 40, HP 20-inch Ryobi mower is suitable for extended run times.
In this matter, Greenwork’s lawn mower has a two-battery system that allows for mowing duration at full charge and proves advantageous over Ryobi’s product. Depending on the size of your lawn and how you plan to complete a routine mowing session for your lawn or garden, choosing a mower based on desired battery power may be an important element to consider.
3. Mowing Time After Full Charge:
GreenWork’s lawn mower houses a battery life of 30 to 60 minutes depending on the model and the battery. For example, Greenwork’s 21-inch pushback mower can run for up to 45 minutes at full charge. However, this run time can decline if you are mowing thick grass or if you use turbo mode settings.
Ryobi lawn mowers at full charge can last 20 to 40 minutes depending on the model and battery. For Ryobi’s 40V HP push-back 21-inch lawn mower, which houses a dual active battery port and can run on 6Ah batteries, mowing time can extend to up to 70 minutes.

Depending on factors such as grass height, lawn size, and desired settings during your lawn mowing sessions, both Greenworks and Ryobi lawn mowers are powerhouses when mowing at full charge. Yet, Ryobi’s 3-in-1 mowing system and dual-active battery ports are advantageous over Greenwork’s lawn mower battery power.
When searching for a reliable mower with lengthy mowing time, choosing a Greenworks or Ryobi lawn mower will prove to be better than many on the market. When you mow your lawn, ensure your mower batteries are ready to go and fully charges, as used lithium-ion batteries can cause hazards or die out without proper charge.
4. Price:
The average price for Greenworks lawn mowers, whether in-store or online can vary between $300-$600 and costs less than Ryobi’s products. Basic models and smaller units differ in battery power and number of features compared to their higher-end models which can cost thousands.
Lawn mowers are worthwhile investments because they are typically built to last. An advantage of purchasing Greenwork’s mowers online is the financing option available at checkout. Since buying a lawn mower can be pricey, choosing a monthly installment payment plan can help you invest in a necessary product for your home and lawn care at your own pace.
Ryobi lawn mowers cost more than than Greenworks, ranging from $400-$800 for basic and middle range models. Depending on the retailer or E-commerce site, Ryobi’s outdoor tools and products can vary in pricing due to supply and demand, production costs, and Ryobi manufacturing.
Despite Greenwork’s better pricing, both Ryobi and Greenworks are alike in pricing their premium high end mowers. For, a 54-inch ride-on mower with all the bells and whistles costing thousands of dollars and is among the best kinds of lawn mowers out there.
5. Maintenance
Another aspect to consider for lawnmowers is the maintenance and upkeep of your machinery. For Greenwork’s and Ryobi lawnmowers, there isn’t much maintenance required. This remains an advantage to using battery-powered lawnmowers.
For Greenwork’s lawn mowers, you’ll want to ensure you keep the batteries charged and keep the blades carefully sharpened. Additionally, make use of your warranty in the case a piece or part of the lawnmower is damaged within the aspects of reasonable use.
For your Ryobi lawn mower, lithium-ion batteries and brushless motors can last when taken care of properly. Whether your electric lawn mower is cordless or not, both brands can operate well and last a long time if properly maintained.
Always make sure your blades are sharpened and the batteries are charged. Checking the cords, cleaning aluminum decks, and using safe storage for your lawn mower when it is not in use can help in maintaining its longevity.
Safe operation and maintenance of lawn mower blades and systems help avoid accidents and damage not covered under warranty. Generally, mowing and trimming safety involves knowing how your lawn mower operates and how to maintain the blades or motor.
6. Performance
The performance of a lawn mower is based on several factors such as cutting-edge technology and features. GreenWork’s G-max 25302 model offers Greenworks’ SmartCut technology which allows for adjustable power based on the surface you are mowing. This model offers low-noise settings and saves battery life even with a dual battery system.
On the other hand, Ryobi’s load-sensing technology is similar to SmartCut technology, except it also comes with LED lighting to enhance low light conditions while adjusting to the necessary cutting settings. In situations with tough and thick grass, the system will recognize the terrain and increase power output.
To conserve battery life, Ryobi’s mower also adjusts power while recognizing it’s on a thinner turf. Both brands offer cutting-edge technology that is unbeatable for the performance of middle to high-end mowers. However, Ryobi’s mowing system proves advantageous in its use for light or dark outdoor conditions with optimal performance in both instances.
Ryobi’s chargers can also show the state in which your battery is in, as well as include a fast charge battery system to eliminate the downtime your mower needs. The battery powered-system and high-performing engine of Greenwork or Ryobi lawnmower do away with the hassle of maintaining a lawnmower’s top performance.
7. Cut quality
When you mow your lawn with a battery-powered lawn mower, it’s important to see how well the mower will cut your grass and the quality of different height settings before making your purchase. The cut quality in Greenwork’s lawnmowers isn’t as great as Ryobi’s for different reasons.
Greenwork’s lawn mower, the G-max 25302 has 5 settings for cutting grass. These settings work best for grass 1.15 inches to 3.5 inches above the ground. While the sharp blades and proficient mower performance work well for those on the market, the Ryobi has the upper hand when it comes to cut quality.
In the Ryobi RY40180, 7 settings are available to cut anywhere from 1.5 inches to 3.75 inches above the ground. In this case, the Ryobi beats Greenwork for cut quality, performance, and added features such as LED lighting while in use.

Both mowers, however, have low-noise operations while mowing. Diced-up clippings are also easier to dispose of and gather while mowing grass. The Ryobi in this case cuts significantly finer clippings making it easier to avoid clumping and making for easier disposals. Despite this, the Greenworks mower works at a similar level for cutting and disposing of clippings.
8. Handling and safety
Mowing your lawn can be dangerous for many reasons, one being the use of sharp blades within the machinery of a mower. With this in mind, manufacturers create lawn mowing systems with unique safety features in place to help home or business owners avoid harm.
The Greenworks G-max 25302 lawn mower has safety features including a safety plug you can tug when preparing to start or turn on the mower. In the case of an emergency, pulling the safety plug will stop the motor.
When a mower is easy to use and understand, the less chance of a safety issue occurring while in use. The size and durability of the Greenwork’s mowers also make them easier to maneuver and store away. With this feature, you’ll find ease in handling, storing, and maintaining your lawn mower.
In a similar sense, the Ryobi RY40180 has a push-button starter, but you have to press a lever and use a fuse key when starting the mower. These safety measures help prevent accident startups or accidents.
Common mishaps with lawnmowers occur when the engine starts unexpectedly or increases to full gear, beyond anyone’s control. In these cases, serious accidents can occur or your equipment can catch fire, furthering the extent of damage to your lawn or garden.
Without these updated and important safety features, you may forgo the use of safe and well-test machinery for your home lawn care. Purchasing a trusted brand and having the right information can help you avoid unwanted dangers with outdoor lawn equipment and machinery.
Greenworks or Ryobi: Which One to Choose?
After reviewing the differences between Ryobi vs Greenworks lawn mowers, you can’t go wrong when selecting either choice for personal or commercial use. Ryobi lawn mowers offer features such as bright LED lights and cup holders for added comfort during your mowing sessions.
However, the Greenworks lawn mower’s dual battery system is the best choice for longer running time and average to medium-sized lawns. Although both types of mowers perform well, investing in a lawn mower with payment flexibility plans such as in the case of purchasing a Greenworks model, you can’t go wrong with this brand.
Considering its safety features and overall ease of use, Greenworks may be the more trustworthy and reliable lawn care equipment you need for your lawn care and gardening upkeep.
Product recall
Like any machinery or equipment, maintenance reviews and reports of faulty parts can lead to mass product recalls for lawnmowers. Most often, a common danger with many lawnmowers is a fire hazard or engine explosion incident.
From April 2014 to July 2015, Greenworks G-MAX lawn mowers were recalled due to incidents involving the cordless electric lawn mower short circuit and catching fire. Posing a hazard, these items were recalled and anyone possessing this model is advised not to continue mowing grass with this equipment.
Additionally, some Ryobi products including battery-powered and corded lawnmowers were recalled due to power buttons getting stuck and leading to incidents of injury in 1995. In this case, over 20,000 lawnmowers were recalled after people suffered lacerations and other injuries involving mower blades.
Although these two recalls differ, lawn mower accidents can occur, and recalls should always be taken seriously by all consumers. In recent years, both Greenworks and Ryobi have made improvements and the handling and safety of everyday home and lawn equipment.
When you purchase a lawn mower or related home care equipment, be sure to do some research and be attentive to the valuable safety measures available to help you avoid unnecessary harm or mishaps. Registering your products with the brand and making use of your warranty when applicable can help you best care for your items and enjoy the quality of your lawn care.
Conclusion
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong when purchasing a lawn mower crafted by Greenworks or Ryobi. Although Greenworks are less expensive, they don’t offer unique additions such as cup holders, LED lighting, and a quality lithium battery of a Ryobi brand.
Despite this, Greenwork’s warranty policy beats Ryobi’s by an additional year of coverage, except for commercial-use mowers. If you’re seeking a reliable and durable lawn mower, both Greenworks and Ryobi offer solid choices for homeowners and businesses alike.

Ruben has been doing online marketing for the last 4 years. Prior to that, he spent 15 years managing different brick-and-mortar businesses, in the home improvement and logistics industries. Overall, he has 20 years of business experience under his belt. Recently, he added SEO, affiliate marketing, and link building to his business skills.