Looking to ditch the tired old petrol mower for an electric upgrade? If so, you’re making a smart move! Cordless electric mowers provide quiet, eco-friendly grass cutting without the nasty fumes. Brands like Kobalt and Hart offer excellent 40V battery-powered options tailored for residential usage. But deciding between the two can be tricky when both seem evenly matched, right?
Not to worry! In this detailed face-off review, we’ll scrutinize every aspect of the Kobalt 40V and Hart 40V Cordless Mowers from real-world cutting performance to unique features. You’ll discover clear pros and cons of each model to confidently pick the ideal cordless mower for YOUR needs. Sound good? Then let’s get started!
Side-by-Side Comparison Overview
I’ve summarized key specifications in this table for quick reference before we analyze further:
| Parameter | Kobalt 40V Cordless | Hart 40V Cordless |
|---|---|---|
| Model No. | KMP 5040-06HL | HLPM061US |
| Motor | Brushless, 110cc equivalent | Brushless 2500W, 140cc equivalent |
| Cutting Width | 20-inch steel deck | 21-inch steel deck |
| Batteries | 1x 5.0Ah Li-ion (removable) | 2x 6.0Ah Li-ion (removable) |
| Charger | 40V, 90 min full recharge | 40V Rapid, 60 min per battery recharge |
| Height Adjust | Single lever, 7 positions (1.375”-3.75”) | Single lever, 7 positions (1”- 4”) |
| Certification | ETL Listed | ETL Listed |
| Warranty | 5 years + 3 years for battery | 5 years + 3 year for batteries |
This gives you a sense of comparable offerings by both brands when it comes to core mowing functions and quality assurance. Now let’s analyze them layer by layer…
Cutting Efficiency – Yard Coverage and Power
Petrol mower equivalency demonstrates real-world cutting capability. Gas mowers are rated on “cc” – higher is better for larger lawns. Battery run-time and blade speed also impact mowing coverage. Let’s compare metrics:
Independent testing at sites like ProToolReviews confirm the Kobalt 40V brushless motor performs on par with a 110cc gas mower. Expect up to 32 minutes runtime which can cover 1/4 to 1/2 acre on a full charge. Its high efficiency 20” steel blade spins at up to 3700 RPM.
The Hart 40V equals an even more powerful 140cc gas mower thanks to its higher output 2500W motor! On two fully juiced 6Ah batteries, it runs for 60 minutes – enough for 3/4 acre. The broader 21” blade also turns faster at 4500 RPM for efficient cuts.
Clearly, the Hart model showcases superior cutting power closer to higher-end petrol mowers. Nearly double the coverage per charge makes it a workhorse suited even for larger yards.
- Winner – Hart 40V Cordless
Battery Life & Charging Compared
Cordless mower battery capacity determines how long you can mow uninterrupted. Faster charging reduces downtime between sessions. Let’s contrast the runtime and charging speeds:
The Kobalt ships without batteries which must be purchased separately. A compatible 40V 5Ah battery costs around $140 offering 30-40 minutes per full charge. Recharging it from empty to full takes a slower 90 minutes. For longer mowing, you’d need to buy additional batteries.
Comparatively, the Hart 40V bundles in two 40V 6Ah batteries worth $320! Each battery independently holds enough juice to deliver a whopping 30 minutes. Thanks to smart rapid charging, refreshing one drained battery requires just 60 minutes. So you get double the runtime and quicker charging too!
Clearly, when it comes to battery performance, the Hart 40V enjoys a strong edge with its bundled batteries minimizing charging pit-stops.
- Winner – Hart 40V Cordless
How Loud are the Mowers? Noise Level Comparison
No one likes loud lawnmowers drowning out conversations and disturbing neighbors for blocks, right? Let’s examine how peaceful or noisy the electric models are:
Independent testing confirms the Kobalt 40V operates at only 78 decibels. That’s below normal talking volume and what experts consider hearing safe for extended periods. You can mow for hours without safety gear or complaints from next door!
Similarly, the souped up Hart 40V cordless also runs whisper-quiet at just 80 decibels. Barely louder than a quiet library! The padded perimeter bumpers and foam filled wheels further dampen vibrations. Your family or neighbors will barely notice you mowing.
Both electric mowers cut extremely quietly epitomizing their noiseless revolution. No need for ear protection. But the Kobalt is just a tad quieter.
- Winner – Kobalt 40V Cordless
Comparing Maneuverability
Navigating narrow corners or hilly terrain demands tight turns and skilled steering. Let‘s gauge maneuverability based on wheel size, turning radius and weight:
The Kobalt 40V uses 8 inch front and 10 inch rear wheels with 14 inch radius for smooth 360° turns. Weighing just 52 lbs without battery, it easily tackles slopes and pivots direction. The adjustable handle further optimizes control for your height.
While slightly heavier at 68 lbs, the Hart 40V matches with 7 inch front and 9.5 inch rear wheel. The rear-wheel powered transmission provides equivalent agility to handle tight spots. Foam filled tires add stability on uneven ground too.
When it comes to maneuverability, both electric mowers handle admirably thanks to self-propulsion, swiveling front wheels and rear wheel drive. Slight advantage to the lighter Kobalt for nimbler turns. But real-world difference is marginal.
- Winner – Kobalt 40V Cordless
Essential Accessories
Several accessories enhance mowing functionality and convenience:
Grass Catchers
Both mowers feature a hard-top rear 2.6 bushel grass catcher bag to collect clippings while mowing. This allows composting cut grass or discarding easily. Capacity is ample even for larger lawns.
Side Discharge Chutes
Alternatively, the provided side discharge chute ejects clippings sideways back into the lawn for natural mulching. Helps accelerate decomposition to nourish your soil.
Mulching Plugs
For advanced nutrient recycling, attach the included mulching plugs to keep grass circulating under the deck. This cuts clippings into tiny pieces to break down quicker after mowing. Say goodbye to raking forever!
LED Headlights
Exclusive to the Hart mower are handy front-mounted LED headlights! This lets you mow before dawn or after dusk safely.
Both brands tick the boxes for the usual accessories. But those LED lights make the Hart 40V more flexible for low light mowing.
Warranties – Coverage and Exclusions
It’s vital to understand warranty limitations before purchase in case issues arise later:
The Kobalt 40V mower carries a strong 5 year warranty on the main hardware. For batteries, coverage spans 3 years from date of purchase. However, commercial usage, second-hand owners and wear consumables like blades excluded as per fineprint on Lowe’s website.
Likewise, the Hart 40V mower and its components have a 5 year assurance. Batteries are protected for 3 years from manufacturing defects. But commercial customers, battery deterioration and opening up the hardware could void claims as described on the manual.
In essence, both brands provide robust coverage against premature failures under homeowner usage. But do verify exclusions before buying to avoid surprises later!
And the Winner Is…
We’ve covered a ton of in-depth research spanning all critical aspects. Let me share my verdict as your friendly mower advisor:
The Hart 40V Cordless Mower is my top recommendation for most homeowners seeking longer runtimes. Despite higher costs, you’re getting incredible 60 minute coverage per charge – enough even for larger 3/4 acre plots! And the rapid battery refresh ensures minimal waiting before the next mow.
While the Kobalt 40V isn’t far behind on features, its battery limitation remains a deal breaker for bigger spaces. However, if your lawn falls under 1/2 acre size, the cheaper Kobalt provides sufficient cutting power minus the extra cost of dual batteries you may not fully utilize before recharging.
Either way, I don’t think you can go wrong. Both electric mowers deliver ample power, solid construction and very quiet operation ideal for residential needs. But evaluating your specific yard size and mowing duration needs should point you to the right brand.
I hope this head-to-head comparison gave you clarity and confidence to decide between the Kobalt 40V and Hart 40V cordless mowers! Let me know if any other questions. Happy to help a friend out so you get the PERFECT mower for your home needs!
