Ryobi OLM1833B ONE+ Cordless Lawnmower Review

📝 Introduction

I recently got my hands on the Ryobi OLM1833B 18V ONE+ Cordless 33cm Lawnmower, and I must say, I had a fair bit of curiosity about it. Having been in the contracting game for over 15 years and having tested a variety of mowers, I was eager to see how this cordless model performed. At the current Amazon price, it sits in a competitive price bracket for battery-operated mowers. I set realistic expectations, especially since this mower does not come with a battery or charger, which can add to the overall cost if you need to buy those separately.

⚡ Performance

When it comes to performance, this Ryobi mower has its strengths and weaknesses. It cuts evenly, and the adjustable cutting heights (25mm to 65mm) are handy for different lawn types. However, I found it struggled a bit when tackling longer grass, particularly if it hadn’t been cut in a while. Given its cordless nature, I did appreciate the freedom of movement, but it’s not as powerful as petrol mowers. On flat terrain, it performed adequately, but on sloped areas, it was a bit less stable.

🤲 Ergonomics & Comfort

In terms of ergonomics, the Ryobi is quite user-friendly. Weighing in at around 13kg, it's not overly heavy, so manoeuvring it across the garden isn't much of a chore. I found the adjustable handle height to be a thoughtful touch, allowing for comfort during longer mowing sessions. The controls are intuitive, with a simple push-button start, which is easier than faffing about with pull cords. I didn’t encounter any fatigue during my typical jobs, although I’d say prolonged use could lead to some strain on the arms due to its width requiring a bit more effort on turns.

💰 Value for Money

At the current Amazon price, I’d argue it’s fairly reasonable for a cordless mower, especially since Ryobi is a reputable brand. However, when you factor in the price of the battery and charger, it could push the total cost significantly higher. Comparatively, other brands might offer similar performance with included batteries for a similar price. I’d recommend this mower for homeowners with smaller gardens who want the convenience of a cordless option. For larger lawns or professionals needing heavy-duty equipment, it might not be the best fit.

🎯 Final Verdict

The Ryobi OLM1833B is a solid choice for domestic users with small to medium gardens looking for a cordless solution. While it has its limitations with longer grass and battery life, it offers decent performance and ease of use for the price. Just be prepared for the extra costs if you don’t already have compatible batteries.