Hey there! If you‘re shopping for a new cordless electric mower, you likely have questions about the top brands available. Makita and Black & Decker both make popular battery-powered lawn mowers. But which is better for your needs and budget?
I‘ve tested models from both lines extensively. In this detailed face-off, I‘ll compare Makita 36V versus Black & Decker 40V mowers across all the key factors – from cutting performance to features to warranties.
My goal is to help you decide which cordless mower best suits your lawn size, features wish list, and budget based on real-world experience with both brands.
At a Glance Overview
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, here is a high-level overview of how Makita and Black & Decker cordless mower options stack up:
Makita 36V Cordless Mowers
- 2x 18V LXT batteries create 36V system
- Brushed and brushless motors available
- 17-21" cutting widths
- Commercial-grade steel decks
- 3-in-1 clipping function
- Rear wheel drive on self-propelled models
- Higher cost but better for larger lawns
Black & Decker 40V Cordless Mowers
- Single 40V Max lithium battery
- Only brushed motors currently
- 16-20” plastic decks
- 2 basic push mower models
- No self-propel options yet
- Lower price better for small yards
Now let‘s analyze how these brands compare across some key decision factors.
Cutting Performance & Power
Cutting performance impacts how quickly and efficiently your mower can trim grass. To deliver consistent cutting, you need an adequate motor, sharp blades, and sufficient deck size.
Let‘s see how engine power and deck specs measure up across Black & Decker and Makita‘s battery-powered offerings.
Power Comparison
| Brand | Voltage | Motor Info | Battery (included) | Mow Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black & Decker | 40V Max | Brushed motor | 40V 2.0Ah x 2 | 20 min per battery, 40 min total |
| Makita | 36V | Brushed or brushless | 18V 4.0-5.0Ah x 2 | 45+ minutes continuous |
- Makita uses more advanced brushless motors on some models which run cooler and more efficiently
- Makita batteries have 2-2.5x the power capacity resulting in over 45 min mowing per charge
- You must stop and swap Black & Decker batteries halfway through larger yards
Deck & Cutting Widths
| Brand | Deck Materials | Cutting Widths |
|---|---|---|
| Black & Decker | Plastic | 16-20 inches |
| Makita | Steel | 17-21 inches |
- Makita offers larger mowing swaths overall for faster mowing
- Black & Decker‘s 16-incher convenient for petite urban plots
- Makita‘s steel decks more durable against impacts over time
Based on sustained battery life, more advanced brushless motor options, and ability to cut more grass fast thanks to larger widths – Makita earns the win for best-in-class cutting efficiency and power.
But Black & Decker still makes capable, affordable mowers suitable for small suburban plots.
Adjustable Cutting Height
Properly adjusting mower height prevents scalping and lets grass grow strong. The more height settings available, the better you can dial-in proper lengths.
| Brand | Height Settings | Cutting Height Range |
|---|---|---|
| Black & Decker | 6-7 | 1.5”-4” adjustable |
| Makita | 10-13 | .8”-4” adjustable |
The lowered .8 inch setting on certain Makita mowers allows "scalping" passes to remove crown material when overseeding or transitioning between grass types each season.
Thanks to more settings and extreme hi/lo ability – Makita offers superior cutting height flexibility.
Ergonomics & Weight
Manually pushing heavier mowers leads to fatigue and strain over time. Meanwhile, self-propelled power makes mowing sloped or hilly terrain effortless.
Let‘s compare weights across manual push mowers first:
| Brand | Push Mower Weights |
|---|---|
| Black & Decker | 48.8-53.6 lbs |
| Makita | 44.1-56.8 lbs |
Surprisingly the premium Makita mowers actually edge out Black & Decker‘s bulkier budget models as the kings of lightweight maneuverability – a huge win for ergonomics.
Now let‘s factor in self-propelled options…
Unfortunately, self-propelling capabilities come at a cost. And with no self-propelled models in its 40V Max lineup yet, Black & Decker fails to compete with Makita‘s advanced offerings targeted at larger yards.
| Brand | Self-Propelled Model | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|
| Makita | Yes | Variable speed rear wheel |
Makita’s variable speed rear wheel self-propelled models eliminate pushing effort entirely across hilly or uneven terrain thanks to convenient speed dials integrated into the handle grip.
So for sloped yards or aging users needing power assistance, Makita has you covered.
Durability & Construction
Cordless tools withstand far more wear-and-tear than plug-in alternatives. Premium materials that better handle moisture, impact, and dust make professional grade models outlast consumer variants.
Let‘s check the housing and deck construction between these brands:
| Brand | Body Housing | Cutting Deck | Water/Dust Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black & Decker | Plastic | Plastic | No |
| Makita | Metal/Plastic | Steel | IPX4 Yes |
- Black & Decker favors cheaper plastics that become brittle over time
- Makita combines steel and engineered polymer composites to endure serious use
- Commercial thick-gauge steel cutting decks resist impact dings and dents
- Makita sealing withstands exposure to liquid/debris during mowing operations
Makita clearly leads for durability – no surprise given their tools are made for landscaping pros and constant job site use. Black & Decker consumer models work fine for homeowners but sacrifice longevity.
Now let‘s compare unique extra features available on both cordless mower brands.
Special Features
Optional bonus functions add convenience when mowing – from built-in headlights to quieter operation.
Makita Uniqueness:
- Rear discharge keeps debris aimed away from user
- LED headlights improve visibility in low light
- "Quiet mode" reduces noise pollution for neighborhoods
- Up to 3 year limited warranty for peace of mind
Black & Decker Exclusives:
- EDGEGUARD protects deck from scrapes and scratches
- Folds upright to reduce storage footprint
- POWERCONNECT batteries interchange with 75+ outdoor tools
- Single lever adjusts all cutting heights at once
Both brands offer thoughtful extras. But Makita‘s LED lights, long warranty, and universal batteries available across all 36V tools give them the overall nod.
Pricing
There‘s no doubt Makita commands premium pricing given their commercial standards and reputation for outstanding performance. How much more will their tools set you back?
| Model | Voltage | Cutting Width | Motor | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black & Decker CM2040 | 40V | 20" | Brushed | $329 |
| Makita XML04 | 36V | 17" | Brushed | $429-$499 |
| Makita XML08 (self-propelled) | 36V | 21” | Brushless | $599+ |
If you only need an occasional use mower for a postage stamp urban yard, the Black & Decker 40V at $329 can‘t be beaten.
But serious lawn enthusiasts should consider Makita long-term for unmatched quality across all areas that matter – runtime, power, deck durability and ergonomics. You get what you pay for.
Cordless Mower Recommendations
So based on this comprehensive Makita vs Black & Decker cordless mower showdown, what‘s my professional verdict?
For tiny lawns under 1/4 acre – Black & Decker CM2040
This lightweight push mower tackles tight spots easily given the smaller plastic deck and single lever cutting height adjustment. Low maintenance users save over $100 opting for Black & Decker‘s budget build.
Medium yards 1/4 – 1/3 acre – Makita XML04
The premium Makita specs edge into the lead on larger plots – longer battery life, metal reinforced parts, and ability to mulch, bag or discharge clippings impress. The extra investment justified for homeowners mowing more frequently.
Large yards 1/3 acre+ – Makita XML08 Self-Propelled
Once your turf size expands, Makita‘s commercial grade engineering seals the win – beefier batteries, faster/wider mowing, smooth power-assisted self-propulsion…this professional model dominates acreage day in, day out without blinking for years thanks to legendary Makita reliability.
So in the battle between Black & Decker vs Makita cordless mowers, both brands earned praise. The right option depends on your realistic needs. I hope breaking down all the details helps you decide the best electric lawn mower to keep your grass gorgeous yet effortless!
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Ryan
Cordless Lawn Tools Expert
