When it comes to maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn, choosing the right tool can make all the difference. But what happens when you’re torn between two very different machines—one designed for everyday mowing and the other for deep lawn care? That’s exactly the dilemma we’re tackling today with a head-to-head look at the 40V Cordless Lawn Mower and the Greenworks 13 Amp 14. These two tools serve distinct purposes, yet both are essential in their own right for homeowners who take pride in their outdoor spaces.
The 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is a lightweight, battery-powered workhorse built for regular grass cutting. It’s perfect for small to medium yards and shines with its quiet operation, portability, and compatibility with popular Dewalt 20V batteries. On the flip side, the Greenworks 13 Amp 14 isn’t a mower at all—it’s a powerful dethatcher and scarifier combo that digs deeper into lawn health by removing thatch and aerating the soil. While one keeps your grass neatly trimmed, the other helps it grow stronger from the roots up.
This comparison matters because many homeowners confuse routine mowing with comprehensive lawn care. You might not need both tools, but understanding when and why to use each can save you time, money, and frustration. In this article, you’ll learn exactly what each product does, how they differ in performance and purpose, and which one (or both!) is right for your yard. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned gardener, we’ll help you make an informed decision backed by real user experiences and practical insights.
In-Depth Look: 40V Cordless Lawn Mower
The 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is a modern solution for homeowners who want clean cuts without the hassle of cords or gas. Designed specifically to work with two Dewalt 20V MAX batteries (sold separately), this mower delivers consistent 40V power that rivals traditional gas models—but without the fumes, noise, or maintenance. One of its standout features is the 14-inch cutting deck, which is wider than many compact mowers, allowing you to cover more ground with fewer passes. That means less time mowing and more time enjoying your backyard.
Another major perk is its ultralight 22-pound design. This makes it incredibly easy to push, maneuver around flower beds, and store vertically or flat. The included 35L grass collection bag reduces the need for frequent emptying, and the 6-position height adjustment (from just under 1 inch to 3 inches) lets you tailor the cut to your grass type and season. Whether you’re dealing with spring growth or summer drought, you can adjust accordingly.
Under the hood, the mower boasts an upgraded copper motor and premium manganese steel blades, ensuring sharp, clean cuts even through thick or damp grass. And because it’s electric, it runs quietly—perfect for early morning sessions without waking the neighborhood. Safety is also a priority, with a double safety switch to prevent accidental startups.
Of course, there are trade-offs. The biggest caveat? Battery and charger aren’t included. If you don’t already own compatible Dewalt 20V batteries, you’ll need to purchase them separately—which can add significant cost. Also, the battery compartment only fits up to two 4.0Ah packs, so runtime may be limited on larger lawns.
Customer reviews highlight its reliability and ease of use. One user noted, “If you have a small area to mow or need a mower to cut around your house this is the one!… It mows through tall grass and the battery lasts a good while.” Another added, “Super lightweight making it so easy to use, works great. Definitely 5 stars for us.” These testimonials reinforce its value for small to medium yards and users already invested in the Dewalt ecosystem.
Overall, the 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is best for homeowners with compact lawns, eco-conscious users, or those who already own Dewalt 20V tools and want to maximize battery compatibility. It’s not meant for heavy-duty dethatching or large-acreage mowing, but for routine trimming, it’s hard to beat.
In-Depth Look: Greenworks 13 Amp 14
Now let’s shift gears—literally—to the Greenworks 13 Amp 14, a specialized machine built not for cutting grass, but for revitalizing it. This 2-in-1 dethatcher and scarifier tackles one of the most overlooked aspects of lawn care: thatch buildup. Thatch is a layer of dead grass, roots, and debris that sits between the soil and green blades. While a thin layer is healthy, excess thatch blocks water, nutrients, and air from reaching the roots—leading to weak, patchy lawns.
The Greenworks 13 Amp 14 uses rotating tines to aggressively rake out this debris (dethatching) and lightly slice the soil surface (scarifying) to promote new growth. With a 13-amp motor spinning at 3,200 RPM, it’s surprisingly powerful for its size. The 14-inch working width matches the cordless mower, but here it’s used to cover ground efficiently while digging deep into lawn health.
One of its best features is the quick-release system that lets you swap between dethatcher and scarifier attachments in seconds—no tools required. Plus, the 3-position tine depth adjustment allows you to control how aggressively it works, depending on your lawn’s condition. Use it in early spring or fall for cool-season grasses, or late spring for warm-season varieties.
At around 28 pounds, it’s heavier than the cordless mower but still manageable thanks to its ergonomic design and self-propelling feel. However, unlike the mower, it lacks a built-in grass catcher. Most users opt to let the debris trail behind and follow up with a regular mower or leaf vacuum—a process well explained in our guide on how to dethatch your lawn with a mower attachment.
Customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer shared, “This inexpensive dethatching machine is amazing… I filled TWENTY 42-gallon bags with thatch.” Another said, “Really has made a big difference in our lawn. So much cheaper than hiring it done.” These experiences underscore its value for proactive lawn care.
That said, it’s not a replacement for a mower. You’ll still need a separate machine for regular trimming. And because it’s corded, you’re limited by outlet proximity—though many find the trade-off worth it for the power and precision.
The Greenworks 13 Amp 14 is ideal for homeowners with established lawns showing signs of thinning, yellowing, or poor drainage. It’s also great for DIYers who want to avoid costly professional services. Just remember: this tool prepares your lawn for success—it doesn’t maintain it daily.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Purpose & Functionality
The most fundamental difference is purpose. The 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is for routine maintenance—cutting grass to keep your lawn neat and even. The Greenworks 13 Amp 14, meanwhile, is a seasonal deep-care tool focused on lawn health. Think of it like comparing a toothbrush to a dental cleaning: one is used daily, the other periodically for long-term wellness.
Power & Performance
In terms of raw cutting power, the cordless mower holds its own against gas models thanks to its dual-battery setup. But the Greenworks wins in torque and aggression—its 13-amp motor is built to rip through thatch, not just slice blades. However, the mower offers more versatility with height adjustments and bagging, while the dethatcher excels in a narrow, critical task.
Convenience & Usability
The cordless mower takes the crown for everyday convenience: lightweight, quiet, no cords, and easy storage. The Greenworks requires an outlet and more physical effort, but its quick-change attachments and intuitive controls make it user-friendly for occasional use. For seniors or those with mobility concerns, the mower is clearly the better daily option.
Value for Money
Both are budget-friendly, but consider your needs. If you only mow weekly, the cordless mower offers great value—especially if you already own Dewalt batteries. If your lawn struggles with thatch or compaction, the Greenworks pays for itself after one use compared to hiring a pro. For comprehensive care, owning both is ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the Greenworks 13 Amp 14 as a regular lawn mower?
A: No. The Greenworks 13 Amp 14 is strictly a dethatcher and scarifier. It does not cut grass to a uniform height like a mower. For regular trimming, you’ll still need a dedicated mower like the 40V Cordless Lawn Mower.
Q: Do I need both tools for a healthy lawn?
A: Not necessarily—but ideally, yes. Regular mowing keeps your lawn looking tidy, while annual dethatching promotes root health and resilience. If your lawn is thin or spongy underfoot, dethatching is essential. Learn more in our article: Is Lawn Dethatching Worth It?
Q: What if I don’t own Dewalt 20V batteries?
A: You’ll need to purchase two compatible 20V MAX batteries and a charger separately, which can cost $100–$150 extra. Consider whether the savings on gas and maintenance justify the upfront investment.
Q: How often should I dethatch my lawn?
A: Most lawns benefit from dethatching once a year—either early spring or fall, depending on grass type. Overdoing it can damage roots, so stick to once per season unless your lawn has severe thatch buildup (>½ inch).
Q: Is the Greenworks safe for slopes or hills?
A: While lightweight, the corded design makes it tricky on steep terrain due to the trailing power cord. Always exercise caution and consider using it on flatter sections first. For hilly yards, read our tips on lawn tool safety on slopes.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the 40V Cordless Lawn Mower and the Greenworks 13 Amp 14 isn’t about picking a “winner”—it’s about matching the right tool to your lawn’s needs. If you’re starting from scratch or upgrading your current mower, the 40V Cordless model is an excellent, eco-friendly choice for small to medium yards. Its quiet operation, portability, and Dewalt compatibility make it a smart investment for daily use.
On the other hand, if your lawn looks tired, drains poorly, or feels spongy, the Greenworks 13 Amp 14 is the solution you’ve been missing. It’s affordable, effective, and empowers you to take lawn care into your own hands—no professional fees required.
For the ultimate lawn care setup? Own both. Use the cordless mower weekly and the dethatcher once a year to keep your grass lush, green, and thriving. Your future self (and your neighbors) will thank you.
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