If you’re tired of wrestling with gas cans, oil changes, and pull cords that seem to have a personal vendetta against your shoulder, you’re not alone. More homeowners are making the switch to cordless electric lawn mowers—and for good reason. Two standout options in the compact 13-inch category are the Greenworks 24V 13″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower and the Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower. Both promise quiet operation, zero emissions, and hassle-free maintenance, but they take different approaches to power, runtime, and versatility.
This head-to-head comparison cuts through the marketing fluff to help you decide which mower is right for your yard. Whether you’ve got a postage-stamp lawn or a modest suburban plot, we’ll break down performance, battery life, build quality, and real-world usability. You’ll also find honest customer feedback, key differences in design, and answers to common questions—so you can mow with confidence (and maybe even enjoy it).
In-Depth Look: Greenworks 24V 13″ Brushless
The Greenworks 24V 13″ Brushless is a compact, no-nonsense mower designed for small to medium yards where simplicity meets reliability. At its core is a brushless motor—a big upgrade over traditional brushed motors—which means less friction, cooler operation, and significantly longer lifespan. This isn’t just marketing jargon; brushless motors are known for their efficiency, especially under load, so you’ll notice smoother cuts even when tackling slightly overgrown grass.
One of the standout features is its runtime. While Greenworks claims up to 30 minutes, real-world users report often exceeding that—especially on shorter grass or with lighter mowing patterns. That’s enough time to handle roughly a quarter-acre lawn without interruption. The included 4.0Ah battery charges fairly quickly (usually within an hour), and the push-button start eliminates the frustration of pull cords forever.
The 13-inch deck is lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to maneuver around flower beds, trees, and tight corners. The single-lever height adjustment offers five settings from 1 to 3 inches, giving you flexibility whether you’re going for a tidy carpet-like finish or letting your lawn breathe a bit more during hotter months. Plus, the 2-in-1 mulch-and-bag system works well—most users prefer mulching, which returns nutrients to the soil and reduces cleanup.
Maintenance? Practically none. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no fumes. Just rinse off the deck after use and store it folded up in your garage. Speaking of storage, the handle folds flat, saving precious space—a huge plus if you’re tight on room.
Pros:
– Brushless motor = longer life and better efficiency
– Lightweight and highly maneuverable
– Excellent mulching performance
– 3-year warranty on both tool and battery
– Quiet operation (great for early mornings or HOA-friendly neighborhoods)
Cons:
– Battery life may feel short for larger lots
– Bag capacity isn’t clearly specified (smaller than Litheli’s)
– No cross-compatibility with other tool brands
Customer Reviews:
> “Love this little mower! We have a small yard and this does the trick. It says the battery only lasts 30 minutes but we’ve found it lasts longer. It’s easy to navigate around the yard and has great height adjustment. Love the mulching feature although it comes with a bag we typically don’t use it. Highly recommend for smaller yards.”
> “I’ve had this for about 8 months now and so far no issues. It works well on my fairly small yard.”
> “Great mower, battery could last longer but you get what you pay for. Cuts well, light weight—gets the job done. Maneuvers well and folds up small to store in the garage.”
Best for: Homeowners with small to medium yards (up to 0.25 acres), eco-conscious users, or anyone upgrading from a manual reel mower who wants modern convenience without complexity. If you value quiet operation and low maintenance, this is a solid pick.
In-Depth Look: Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower
The Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower takes a slightly different approach—focusing on versatility and multi-functionality. Powered by a 20V 4.0Ah battery (marketed as 20,000mAh, which is technically the same but emphasizes capacity), it delivers strong cutting power with a high-speed 3400 RPM motor. While it’s a brushed motor (not brushless), it’s still efficient and quiet compared to gas alternatives.
Where Litheli really shines is in its ecosystem. The battery isn’t just for mowing—it’s part of the Litheli U20 Handy+ series, meaning it can power other Litheli cordless tools like trimmers, blowers, or even serve as a portable power bank via USB to charge your phone or tablet. That’s a clever touch for campers, tailgaters, or anyone who values off-grid utility.
Runtime is shorter—around 15 minutes per charge—which limits its use to very small yards (think 1,300 sq. ft., as advertised). But if your lawn is tiny or you don’t mind swapping batteries (or owning a second one), it’s manageable. The 8-gallon collection bag is generous for a 13-inch mower, reducing how often you need to stop and empty clippings.
The adjustable handle reduces strain on your back and arms, and like the Greenworks, it folds for compact storage. Height adjustment ranges from 1 to 2.5 inches—slightly less than Greenworks’ range—but still covers most common grass heights.
Pros:
– Universal battery works across Litheli tools + USB charging
– Large 8-gallon collection bag
– Ergonomic, adjustable handle
– Good cutting power for its size
– Affordable entry point into cordless mowing
Cons:
– Shorter runtime (~15 mins)
– Brushed motor (less efficient/long-lasting than brushless)
– Smaller max cutting height (2.5″ vs. 3″)
– Only 1-year battery warranty
Customer Reviews:
(Note: At time of writing, this product has limited verified reviews. However, based on Litheli’s brand reputation and similar models, users generally praise its value and multi-tool compatibility.)
Best for: Urban dwellers with tiny yards, renters, or DIYers who already own (or plan to buy) other Litheli cordless tools. Also ideal if you want a backup power source for devices during outages or outdoor trips.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Performance & Power
The Greenworks 24V 13″ Brushless holds a clear edge here. Its brushless motor delivers more consistent torque, especially in thicker grass, and the higher voltage (24V vs. 20V) translates to better overall performance. The Litheli isn’t weak—it handles normal lawn conditions fine—but it struggles more with damp or overgrown grass.
Battery Life & Runtime
Greenworks wins again with up to 30 minutes of runtime versus Litheli’s 15 minutes. For context, that’s the difference between mowing your entire lawn in one go versus needing a recharge mid-job. If you have even a modest-sized yard, Greenworks’ battery is far more practical.
Versatility & Ecosystem
This is where Litheli shines. The ability to use the same battery for multiple tools—and even charge your phone—adds real value beyond mowing. Greenworks batteries are proprietary and don’t offer USB output. If you’re building a cordless tool collection, Litheli’s ecosystem could save you money long-term.
Build Quality & Warranty
Both mowers feel solid for their price, but Greenworks offers a superior warranty: 3 years on both tool and battery, compared to Litheli’s 3-year tool / 1-year battery coverage. That extra battery protection matters—lithium-ion cells degrade over time, and replacing them can cost nearly half the mower’s price.
Ease of Use & Storage
Tie. Both fold compactly, have lightweight designs, and feature push-button starts. The Litheli’s adjustable handle is a nice ergonomic touch, but Greenworks’ slightly wider height range gives it a minor advantage for lawn customization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which mower is better for a small yard under 0.25 acres?
A: The Greenworks 24V 13″ Brushless is the better choice due to its longer runtime and brushless motor. It’ll handle the job in one charge with power to spare. Check current price on Amazon.
Q: Can I use the Litheli battery to charge my phone?
A: Yes! The Litheli battery includes a USB port, so it doubles as a portable power bank. Great for emergencies or outdoor use. See details on Amazon.
Q: Do these mowers work well on hills or uneven terrain?
A: Both are lightweight and manageable on gentle slopes, but neither is designed for steep hills. For hilly yards, consider a riding mower built for inclines.
Q: Is mulching effective on both models?
A: Yes—both support mulching, but Greenworks users consistently praise its finer clippings and better nutrient return. For tips on maintaining healthy mulched lawns, see our guide on how to prevent lawn thatch.
Q: How do I maintain these mowers?
A: Rinse the deck after each use, keep blades sharp, and store in a dry place. No oil, gas, or spark plugs needed! For deeper care, check out lawn repair after dethatching—sometimes mowing reveals underlying soil issues.
Q: Can I buy extra batteries?
A: Yes—both brands sell spare batteries. Greenworks offers higher-capacity options (like 6.0Ah), while Litheli’s are interchangeable with their tool line.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
If you prioritize runtime, durability, and cutting performance—and have a yard up to a quarter-acre—the Greenworks 24V 13″ Brushless is the clear winner. Its brushless motor, longer battery life, and excellent warranty make it a reliable long-term investment.
On the other hand, if you have a tiny yard, already own (or plan to buy) Litheli tools, or love the idea of a battery that doubles as a phone charger, the Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower offers unique versatility at a competitive price.
Ultimately, both are excellent upgrades from gas or manual mowers. But for most homeowners, the Greenworks delivers more consistent value. Ready to make the switch?
