Battery garden tools: what has actually changed, and what to check before switching

The shift from petrol to battery in domestic garden equipment is largely complete for mowers, trimmers and blowers at consumer sizes. The buying decision has moved from engine specification to battery platform.

The platform is the purchase

Batteries are rarely cross-compatible between manufacturers. Choosing a tool effectively commits to that maker's battery range for future purchases, and spare batteries are frequently the largest single cost over several years.

Reading runtime claims

• Runtime figures are usually quoted at light load; cutting wet grass or thick stems reduces them substantially.
• Amp-hours describe stored energy, volts describe the platform — a higher voltage does not imply longer running.
• Charge time matters as much as runtime for anyone working with one battery.

Rules that affect the choice

Several cities and regions have introduced restrictions on petrol-powered garden equipment or on noise during set hours. Where those rules apply, they narrow the practical options regardless of preference.