The LawnBott Evolution LB3200 cordless robotic mower from Kyodo America brings space-age technology down to earth in a completely programmable unit that automatically mows the grass in your yard. What's more, this eco-friendly mower needs no gas in order to do its thing, as its energy source comes from a high-capacity 24-volt lithium-ion battery. This is a totally automated robotic mower that can handle lawns of up to 33,000 square feet and 27 degrees of slope without pushing a button. And the Evolution does it with no pollution, no emissions and no sweat from you. The LB3200's noise level is negligible at a mere 58 decibels, which we find really comes in handy when the robotic mower is out for a late-night or early-morning cut.

At first glance, the LB3200 reminds of a futuristic device you might see on the Jetsons. It works by means of its intelligent computer and an underground perimeter cable that you install to create a boundary around the lawn edge, flowerbeds and bushes. If the unit bumps into an obstacle or perimeter cable, it will stop, back up and get back on track to mowing where it should. Its compact size allows it to mow in areas as small as 18 inches wide, and it can mow for up to four hours on a single charge. Crossing a permitted path or paved surface to mow another area is no problem, as the unit reduces its blade speed to conserve power without any intervention from you. When the job is complete or the batteries start running low, it will automatically return to its docking station to recharge.

Another standout feature of the LB3200 is its capability to mow up to three separate lawn areas per day. Between jobs it will once again return home to its mini-garage to recharge before continuing on with the next area. We are amazed that the mower can sense high grass and respond accordingly by mowing higher or lower as needed. It also adjusts its running times to match how fast or slow the grass grows; if there's not much grass to cut, the LawnBott will remain in its dock for a longer period of time. Installation can take anywhere from several hours to a full day, depending on the size and complexity of your lawn. Setup isn't strenuous, though it is time-consuming.

The Evolution is a bit pricey, but it may be worth the cost over the long haul. The LawnBott Evolution LB3200 cordless robotic mower is ideal for large yards and is a no-nonsense solution to a riding lawn mower or a costly lawn service.


Pros: Totally automated, mows up to 33,000 square feet of lawn, lithium-ion power, can mow up to 27 degrees of slope, quiet, zero emissions, programmable in six different languages, mows in tight spaces, recharges on its own, rain sensor
Cons: Takes time and work to install underground perimeter cable, outdoor docking station needs to be located near an electrical source and weatherproof shelter, maximum cutting height of 2.75 inches may be too low for some lawns