Full review
Longer notes from the same comments we summarized above.
What people reported
When working correctly, owners describe the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Mower as superb, with more power and speed. The self-propel feature is often highlighted as powerful and easy to operate, especially in newer models. Many appreciate its effectiveness for mulching leaves. The mower also has a practical fold-and-stand-up design for storage. A significant portion of owner feedback involves solutions to common starting problems, suggesting that while issues arise, they often have simple fixes once the cause is identified.
Problems people mention
A major recurring theme is starting problems often linked to the mower's sensitive safety switches. Users reported issues with the handle not being fully extended, loose handle locks, keys not being reset, or the discharge chute/bag/mulch plug not being correctly in place. Some found the mower "finicky" or "sensitive" because of these requirements. Other users experienced poor lift and suction, to the point where it wouldn't clear grass or dirt from a walkway. There are also concerns about build quality, including reports of a wheel falling off due to a missing bolt from the factory, and mentions of "too many plastic fragile parts." Blade reinstallation sometimes led to the shaft chewing up a plastic holder. A few owners also faced battery charging issues or the mower running for only brief periods before stopping.
Where owners disagree
There isn't significant disagreement on specific features, but rather a spectrum of experience. Some owners are highly satisfied with the mower's performance, while others express deep frustration over persistent starting problems or perceived fragility, leading some to say they would "never buy one of these again." However, the sheer volume of "thank you" comments for videos explaining how to fix starting issues suggests that many common problems are resolvable, mitigating some of the frustration.
Who it's for
This mower is for those who want a powerful electric lawn mower for regular use and are comfortable troubleshooting its somewhat sensitive safety features. It suits users who value mulching capabilities and the convenience of a foldable design. Potential buyers should be aware of the reported quality control issues and be prepared for occasional quirks, but also know that many common starting issues have straightforward solutions.
