The Yard Machines 18A-717-800 corded electric mower is a basic no-frills machine that does the job at a lower initial cost.

There's nothing fancy about the 18A-717-800. Unlike most electric mowers, the deck is steel rather than plastic. Grass discharge is through the side. The height adjustments are at the four wheels rather than a one-lever-changes-all feature. And the owner's manual can be a little confusing about assembly. However, once assembled, this model does everything that other 12-amp (1500 watt) corded electric mowers do -- and it does it for less initial investment. What's missing is the optional rear bag. If you need a bagger, spend the extra money for a model with a bag included.

To enlarge the mowing chamber and make it more efficient at mulching, the steel deck is higher than some electric mowers. The cutting width on this model is 19 inches, which is average for an electric mower.

There are nine height adjustments from 1 to 3-1/2 inches though you shouldn't cut off more than about the top one-third of a grass blade for its health. Wheel adjustments are made at each of the four wheels. If you usually cut grass at a specific height and don't adjust the height often, this works fine. But we recommend that you visually inspect the height adjustments at least once per mowing as a rough spot in the lawn can change one or more of the heights and make for uneven cutting.

We like this model's cord-minder, a neat feature that allows you to easily move the electric cord from one side of the handle to the other. Otherwise you have to keep stepping over the cord as you turn for a new row. A little practice will make using the cord-minder second nature.

With any less expensive mower we recommend that you sharpen the blade before initial use and at least once a season. Blades that come with lower-cost mowers are notoriously dull. If you buy from a mower shop, ask them to sharpen the blade and assemble the mower before delivery. It's well worth paying full price rather than getting the discounted model at a big-box store.

Yard Machines is a brand of MTD Products, makers of Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard Man, White Outdoor and Bolens. Many of the less expensive models are made in eastern Europe or in China.

The Yard Machines 18A-717-800 is a good electric mower that will appeal to folks with smaller yards and budgets.


Pros: No gasoline needed, relatively quiet, low initial price
Cons: For smaller lawns only, rear bagger not included

Warranty
2 years, limited