Reliability score
Compared side by side
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21 in. vs Greenworks Pro 80V 21 in.
Reliability scores
Reliability score
Scores compared
Pulled from each product’s full review.
- Reliability
- 65 / 100
- 65 / 100
- Estimated 3-year upkeep Parts and repairs, rough estimate
-
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21 in.
Calibrating maintenance feedback
-
Greenworks Pro 80V 21 in.
Calibrating maintenance feedback
Pros and cons
Good and bad, as each full review tells it.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21 in.
Strengths
- One owner called it the "best mower" they have used, especially when acquired at a good price with free batteries.
- The cutting performance is considered strong, with one comparison to high-end gas push mowers.
- Runtime appears sufficient for typical homeowners with smaller yards.
Concerns
- Owners report it **cannot be used in rain** due to a lack of weather resistance and no IP rating, a significant issue for professionals in wet climates.
- The 60-minute runtime per charge is often seen as **insufficient for commercial use**, making gas mowers more efficient for multiple properties.
- The **high price point** for the mower, batteries, and chargers raises questions about its value for both home and commercial users.
- The single-lever height adjustment is disliked by some for limiting fine-tuning when cutting near sidewalks or other obstacles.
Greenworks Pro 80V 21 in.
Strengths
- Strong power for tackling various grass conditions
- Easy to push and maneuver, feeling lighter than gas models
- Quiet operation and low maintenance compared to gas mowers
- Mulching capability works well for many users
Concerns
- Batteries often fail to charge, sometimes requiring specific "tricks" to revive
- Battery repairs are difficult, costly, and may not be long-lasting
- Cutting quality can be inconsistent, occasionally leaving an "uneven" or "bad haircut" appearance
- Reports of poor customer service and quality control for the brand's 80V products
The verdict
Our bottom line after lining up both full reviews.
Bottom line
Ultimately, choosing between these two means accepting a specific set of trade-offs, as neither offers a comprehensively superior experience.
Key takeaways
- Both the Milwaukee M18 FUEL and Greenworks Pro 80V mowers aim to provide capable battery-powered lawn care, yet neither achieves a definitive lead in overall owner satisfaction, reflected in their identical reliability scores.
- The Milwaukee unit delivers on cutting power but struggles with weather resilience and runtime limitations.
- The Greenworks, while powerful, is hampered by consistent battery charging issues and concerns about its overall build quality and customer support.
Performance
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21 in. mower generally delivers competent cutting performance suitable for many residential lawns, but its battery runtime is frequently cited as insufficient for larger yards or professional use. Conversely, the Greenworks Pro 80V 21 in. is praised for its strong power output, making it a viable alternative for those looking to transition from gas-powered mowers.
Durability
Durability is a major concern for the Milwaukee M18 FUEL, with significant owner criticisms centered on its lack of weather resistance, which can compromise its longevity and reliability in varied outdoor conditions. The Greenworks Pro 80V, despite its robust power, suffers from persistent battery charging issues and broader quality control concerns across its 80V tool line, raising questions about long-term dependability.
Community sentiment
Community sentiment for the Milwaukee mower is mixed; owners appreciate its cutting ability but are frustrated by the short runtime and susceptibility to adverse weather. For the Greenworks Pro, while users value its power and ease of use, widespread complaints regarding unreliable battery charging and disappointing customer service significantly detract from the overall user experience.