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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.
Pros
Impact-resistant design- High CCA rating
- Easy to install
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA and AGM |
|---|---|
| Weight | 14 lbs. |
| CCA Rating | 320 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on right |
Pros
- Fully charged on arrival
- Easy to use
Cons
- 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 Battery | Gel |
|---|---|
| Weight | 49.4 lbs. (for two) |
| Ah Rating | 3 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on right |
Pros
- Spillproof
- Can power lighting and generators too
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA |
|---|---|
| Weight | 21.7 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 35 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on right |
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4
Best Low Maintenance Option
NOCO Lithium NLP14 Lithium Battery
Pros
- Charges fast
- Versatile
- Highly rated
Cons
- 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 Battery | Lithium |
|---|---|
| Weight | 14 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 4 |
| Terminal Position | Multi-terminal configuration |
Pros
- Long lifespan
- Versatile
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA and AGM |
|---|---|
| Weight | 22.5 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 35 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on left |
Pros
- Arrives fully charged
- Multiple uses
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA |
|---|---|
| Weight | 21.71 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 35 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on the left |
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7
Best Green Option
Greenworks 40H Lawn Battery
Pros
- On-board power indicator
- Versatile
- Lightweight
Cons
- 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 Battery | Lithium |
|---|---|
| Weight | 2.97 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 4.0 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on right |
Pros
- Durable
- High quality
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA and AGM |
|---|---|
| Weight | 23.2 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 35 |
| Terminal Position | Available as positive on right or left |
Pros
- Reliable over a long period of time
- Easy to get up and running
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA and AGM |
|---|---|
| Weight | 22 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 33 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on left |
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Pros
- 100% recyclable
- Leakproof design
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA and AGM |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.17 lbs. |
| CCA Rating | 210 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on the left |
Pros
- Anti-overheat cover
- Lead plated terminal for improved conductivity
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA and AGM |
|---|---|
| Weight | 21.8 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 35 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on left |
Pros
- Lead calcium to prevent corrosion
- Sealed, spillproof design
Cons
- 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 Battery | Rechargeable SLA |
|---|---|
| Weight | 14.85 lbs. |
| Ah Rating | 18 |
| Terminal Position | Positive on the right |
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Tom Price
Associate Reviews Editor
Tom Price is an Associate Editor of Reviews for Popular Mechanics, and also contributes to Runner's World, and Bicycling. He has previously covered product reviews, startup news, and even professional wrestling. In his free time, he enjoys watching pretentious TV, low-brow movies, and exercising for beauty, not health. If you are interested in exploring more of his work, check out his website.
Kathleen Willcox
Kathleen Willcox is a journalist who writes about parenting, technology, shopping, food and wine. Her work appears in a variety of publications, including Popular Mechanics, Wine Enthusiast and SevenFifty Daily. She is based in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., where she lives with her husband and twins.
Bobbi Dempsey
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.
