These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (2024)

These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (1)

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Lawn mower batteries might just be the last thing on your mind as you're preparing your outdoor space for spring and summer. In fact, you may not even give your lawn mower battery much though at all—until it fails, that is. At that point, the importance of having a reliable, long-lasting battery becomes eminently clear.

A good battery is the key to guaranteeing your riding lawn mower starts quickly every time–and keeps running smoothly as long as it takes to get your yard looking great. If the battery fails, your new lawn mower may end up sitting idle in your garage or shed. At the same time, if your battery dies quickly or doesn't provide ample power to your mower, half-mowed lawns are expected in the future.

To make your spring and summer maintenance as smooth as possible, we’ve rounded up the best batteries on the market, with an array of types, sizes, and prices for battery-powered lawn mowers at every level.

Best Lawn Mower Batteries

    What to Consider

    Most riding mower batteries have the same common voltage—12 volts—and the majority also have similar dimensions, falling within an inch or two of standard format in terms of height, width, and length. If your mower takes a battery that deviates outside of that standard voltage or size range, your options for replacements are more limited; in that case, we suggest consulting your mower’s manufacturer. For the rest of the buyers in the market for lawn mower batteries, keep the following in mind.

    Battery Type

    There are several types of batteries used in lawn mowers and other small electric vehicles. The most common, with a long track record of safety, are rechargeable sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries. There are also rechargeable absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries, which last longer but cost more up front.

    Gel batteries excel at resisting shock and can be mounted in any position, plus they’re considered maintenance-free because there’s no need to add water; the downside is that they’re susceptible to overheating. Lithium, or lithium-ion batteries are growing in popularity for their efficiency, high energy storage, and performance in cold and hot temperatures.

    Battery Rating

    Cold-Cranking Amps (CCA)

    CCA is a rating that tells you how much current a fully-charged battery can deliver in cold temperatures. Specifically, this clarifies the current, measured in amps, that the battery can achieve in 30 seconds at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. While it is unlikely that you would be using a lawn mower on frigid days, this can give you a sense of how powerful (and reliable) the battery may be.

    A battery with a too-low CCA rating may not provide sufficient current to start your mower. A battery with a high CCA like the Mighty Max ML-U1-CCAHR—our top pick—stand up well to the cold for powerful energy no matter when you choose to mow.

    Amp Hours (Ah)

    Deep cycle batteries, which are designed to provide ongoing power and are often discharged at least 50 percent on a regular basis, are typically rated in terms of amp-hours (Ah) instead of CCAs. Amp hours show you how much amperage the lawn mower battery can provide for one hour.

    Terminal Position

    Many lawn mower batteries use the terms U1L or U1R in their specs. This tells you the orientation of the terminals, with the L and R indicating which corner (left or right) on the top of the battery the positive terminal is located. Select a battery with the correct terminal orientation so it can fit properly within reach of the battery.

    Your lawn mower’s manual is the best source to find out what terminal orientation and minimum CCA rating you need. You can also use the “battery lookup tool” or compatibility checker offered by the retailer or manufacturer to confirm the battery you plan to buy fits your lawn mower.

    How We Selected

    We studied specs and product information for many batteries and looked at trends that stood out among hundreds of user reviews; we also consulted other experts in the field. We only included manufacturers with solid reputations for creating durable and reliable products. We also made choices across price point and power levels to match a variety of mower needs from large rideable options to smaller, electric push mowers.

    1

    Best Overall

    Mighty Max ML-U1-CCAHR Lawn Mower Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (8)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (9)Impact-resistant design
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (10)High CCA rating
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (11)Easy to install
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (12)Some users mention issues with leakage

    This battery boasts an impressive CCA rating of 320, providing peace of mind about its reliability. We recommend it as our top pick for its immediate, reliable power right out of the box, which allows lawn mowers to start quickly on the first try—even on cold days.

    The lawn mower battery can resist impact and vibration thanks to its absorbed glass mat, or AGM, design, so this battery’s construction helps extend its lifespan. Its flexibility is also a plus, as it can be installed in any position.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA and AGM
    Weight14 lbs.
    CCA Rating320
    Terminal PositionPositive on right

    2

    Most Affordable

    Mighty Max Battery Gel Lawn Mower Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (13)

    Now 50% Off

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (14)Fully charged on arrival
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (15)Easy to use
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (16)On the small side

    This gel battery is a perfect pick for ride-on lawn mowers, as well as users who want a low-maintenance, reliable battery. The factory-activated battery arrives fully charged, so no work is required to get it up and running.

    This inexpensive lawn mower battery is perfect for anyone who wants a battery that works upon arrival and it performs well in both cold and hot weather. However, because it’s smaller than many other batteries, it may not be suitable for all mowers.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryGel
    Weight49.4 lbs. (for two)
    Ah Rating3
    Terminal PositionPositive on right

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    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (18)Spillproof
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (19)Can power lighting and generators too
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (20)Slightly heavy

    Interstate Batteries is one of the most established names in the battery business, delivering consistently optimal results. We give this mower battery high marks for dependable performance and for being rechargeable and maintenance-free. This SLA1155 model can also be used to power emergency lighting or UPS backup stations and it comes with a 12-month warranty.

    This Interstate Batteries option is also versatile as it’s compatible with most small electric scooters, carts, or mowers.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA
    Weight21.7 lbs.
    Ah Rating35
    Terminal PositionPositive on right

    4

    Best Low Maintenance Option

    NOCO Lithium NLP14 Lithium Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (21)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (22)Charges fast
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (23)Versatile
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (24)Highly rated
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (25)Larger than most

    This 12-volt lithium battery is good to go upon arrival. It comes fully charged, ready to use, and delivers reliable, long-lasting performance. The NOCO utilizes advanced rapid-charge technology, meaning it provides enough starting power with just five minutes of charge. This battery fits various size machines, with a mounting block that can accommodate legacy battery applications.

    This battery works in lawn mowers, but also generators, jet skis, wave-runners, four-wheelers, and more. It also comes with a 5-year limited warranty attached.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryLithium
    Weight14 lbs.
    Ah Rating4
    Terminal PositionMulti-terminal configuration

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    5

    Best for Longevity

    Universal Power Group Universal Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (26)

    Now 31% Off

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (27)Long lifespan
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (28)Versatile
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (29)May not fit every mower

    If you want a maintenance-free plug-and-go battery, this Universal Power Group one is worth checking out. Like other deep cycle batteries, this UPG model is designed to be depleted and recharged many times, consistently providing the power needed to get the job done yet maintaining a long lifespan, even with heavy use.

    This battery can be mounted in any position, making it versatile enough to fit a broad range of mowers (as well as numerous other machines). This battery comes with a 12-month warranty.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA and AGM
    Weight22.5 lbs.
    Ah Rating35
    Terminal PositionPositive on left

    6

    Most Versatile

    Chrome Battery Chrome Battery Deep Cycle SLA Replacement Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (30)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (31)Arrives fully charged
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (32)Multiple uses
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (33)Can drop a charge when not in use

    This Chrome Battery is a workhorse, easily powering lawn care tools and much more.

    Arriving on the shelf fully charged, this battery is ready to power your mower immediately at a price point that is sure to please bargain hunters. Its versatility is another plus. In addition to fitting a range of lawn mower models, it can also be used to run a number of other machines and systems, including mobile scooters and alarm systems.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA
    Weight21.71 lbs.
    Ah Rating35
    Terminal PositionPositive on the left

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    7

    Best Green Option

    Greenworks 40H Lawn Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (34)

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (35)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (36)On-board power indicator
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (37)Versatile
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (38)Lightweight
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (39)Only works with Greenworks tools

    This high-performing G-MAX 40-volt Lithium-ion battery offers immediate power with no memory loss after charging for your electric lawn mower. The Greenworks battery also features a “fuel” indicator that lets you know how much power is remaining on deck.

    It takes 120 minutes to fully charge. When up and ready, the Greenworks battery delivers gas-like power without the mess, and virtually no maintenance. This single battery powers 50-plus yard work tools, making it a great buy if Greenworks is your brand of choice.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryLithium
    Weight2.97 lbs.
    Ah Rating4.0
    Terminal PositionPositive on right

    8

    Best Lifespan

    AJC Toro Titan 12V Lawn Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (40)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (41)Durable
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (42)High quality
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (43)On the heavy side

    This factory-activated battery arrives fully sealed, charged, and ready to go. This AJC battery adheres to international quality standards, delivering high-rate, short-term power.

    The batteries are made with 99.99 percent pure, new lead, which means better performance and a much longer lifespan, and they can be used to power up machines other than lawn mowers, too. While this is an all-around solid performer, it does come at a steep price.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA and AGM
    Weight23.2 lbs.
    Ah Rating35
    Terminal PositionAvailable as positive on right or left

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    9

    Most Consistent Performance

    ExpertPower EXP1233

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (44)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (45)Reliable over a long period of time
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (46)Easy to get up and running
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (47)Smaller size may not fit all mowers

    This user-friendly battery is easy to install and gets your mower up and running in a snap. This battery is on the smaller end of the standard dimensions for a lawn mower battery. Don’t be fooled by its compact look, though—this battery packs a powerful punch.

    It keeps going strong for a long time and it’s reliable. Designed with impact-resistant construction, this model’s tough outer casing also protects it from heat, chemicals, and other conditions that could damage it or shorten its lifespan.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA and AGM
    Weight22 lbs.
    Ah Rating33
    Terminal PositionPositive on left

    10

    Best for Rider Vehicles

    Deka 12-Volt 210 Amps Mower Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (48)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (49)100% recyclable
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (50)Leakproof design
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (51)Costly considering total amps

    The Deka Magna Power mower battery is built specifically for lawn and garden equipment. The battery comes with reinforced straps specifically designed to withstand the heavy vibration and movement that comes with lawn mowers and riders. The external polypropylene shell stands up well to scratches and impacts without leaking or cracking over time.

    The Magna Power battery is built for long-term environmental sustainability. Designed to be rechargeable and long-lasting, the battery reduces the need for replacement purchases. When you finally do need a replacement, the battery is 100 percent recyclable for easy, circular disposal.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA and AGM
    Weight8.17 lbs.
    CCA Rating210
    Terminal PositionPositive on the left

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    11

    Best for Mid-Size Versatility

    WEIZE 12V Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (52)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (53)Anti-overheat cover
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (54)Lead plated terminal for improved conductivity
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (55)May not be suitable for larger, more powerful items

    At an affordable price for its power, the Weize 12-volt battery is a great option for lawn mowers. The battery is built to extend not just the battery life per charge, but the long-term life of the total battery. The anti-overheat cover improves battery health as well as helps maintain charge.

    The battery comes with enough power to run lightweight electric vehicles, so you should be able to use it for a smaller rider lawn mower without issue.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA and AGM
    Weight21.8 lbs.
    Ah Rating35
    Terminal PositionPositive on left

    12

    Best for No Corrosion

    Yuasa YUAM320BS YTX20L-BS Battery

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (56)

    Pros
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (57)Lead calcium to prevent corrosion
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (58)Sealed, spillproof design
    Cons
    • These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (59)Low AH for the price

    Another quality lead acid battery, the Yuasa battery sets itself apart from other, similar options through the use of lead calcium. The lead calcium technology the battery uses, maintains battery density for longer than many other options, and prevents corrosion on the interior of the item.

    The Yuasa battery also comes with a grid-style interior built to withstand heavy vibration from electric vehicles and heavy duty equipment. Each battery comes with a safety valve to prevent overheating and fires.

    Key Specs

    Type of BatteryRechargeable SLA
    Weight14.85 lbs.
    Ah Rating18
    Terminal PositionPositive on the right

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    Bobbi Dempsey is the former owner of a construction and property maintenance business and a die-hard DIYer whose main project these days is her 100-plus-year-old home that’s a never-ending series of home improvement challenges and adventures; she has written reviews, product roundups, and shopping guides about drain snakes, all manner of saws, nostalgic toys, and more. She’s an economic justice fellow at Community Change and a reporting fellow at Economic Hardship Reporting Project. In addition to Popular Mechanics, she has written for a range of publications including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Muscle & Fitness, and Parade.

    These Powerful Lawn Mower Batteries Are Built to Last (2024)
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