Electric mowers have come a long way in recent years, with advanced battery technology and smart features that rival gas-powered options. Two of the top electric mower lines are the Hart 40V and DeWalt 20V Max. While DeWalt is a well-known power tool manufacturer, Hart tools are exclusive to Walmart and made by TTI, the company behind RYOBI and RIDGID brands.
If you‘re trying to decide between the Hart 40V and DeWalt 20V Max cordless electric mowers, this comprehensive comparison will help you select the best model for your needs. We‘ll analyze key factors like power, construction, accessories, warranties, and more. Read on to see which mower comes out on top!
Side-By-Side Comparison
First, let‘s overview the specs of the Hart 40V HLPM061US model versus the comparable DeWalt 20V DCMWSP244 mower:
| Spec | Hart 40V HLPM061US | DeWalt 20V DCMWSP244 |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Size | 21" | 21.5" |
| Batteries Included | 2x 40V 6Ah | 2x 20V 10Ah |
| Estimated Runtime | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Warranty | 5 years (mower), 3 years (battery) | 3 years (mower & battery) |
| Price | $598 | $699 |
As you can see, these two models match up very closely in key areas like runtime, deck size, and included batteries. But the Hart offers a longer mower warranty at a slightly cheaper price point.
Power Analysis
When it comes to cordless electric mowers, power is a top concern. Many worry that battery-powered models don‘t have enough oomph to get the job done. However, both DeWalt and Hart deliver ample power for most residential yards.
The DeWalt stands out here by using an innovative dual 20V battery system that combines both packs to supply 40V maximum power to the mower. So while the Hart batteries technically have a higher voltage at 40V each, the DeWalt can match and even exceed that when operating with both batteries engaged. This dual voltage approach gives the DeWalt an edge when tackling thick, tall grass.
Both mowers utilize efficient brushless motors for long-lasting performance without maintenance. And they incorporate separate motors to power self-propulsion on hills or uneven terrain when needed.
When it comes to battery life, the included DeWalt 20V 10Ah and Hart 40V 6Ah packs deliver very similar runtimes around 60 minutes total. Real-world results may vary depending on yard conditions, but you can expect 45-75 minutes from each set before needing to recharge or swap packs.
Winner: DeWalt 20V Max thanks to innovative dual voltage for maximum power when you need it.
Deck Construction Comparison
The mower deck – which houses the cutting blades and guides grass flow – plays a big role in overall durability and functionality. Deck materials and design impact how smoothly and efficiently the mower performs.
Here we see a clear difference between the Hart and DeWalt models. The DeWalt features an all-steel deck, which is rare among cordless electric mowers. Steel decks offer exceptional strength and resistance against impacts, gauging, and general wear and tear. However, steel can succumb to rust over time if not properly maintained.
Meanwhile, the Hart 40V employs a sturdy composite plastic deck. Composite materials hold up well to abuse and won‘t rust. The main downside is that plastic decks typically don‘t offer the same ruggedness and longevity of steel.
Both mowers have 21” cutting paths with durable steel blades that are easy to access and replace when needed. In the end, the ideal deck material comes down to personal preference and maintenance habits.
Winner: Toss-up. The DeWalt steel deck is brawnier but the Hart composite won’t rust. Either choice is robust enough for most homeowners.
Ease of Use Comparison
When evaluating lawn mowers, ease of use is a practical consideration for those who simply want to get mowing done without hassles. Both Hart and DeWalt designed their electric mowers to be user-friendly and accessible to amateur yardworkers.
As with most cordless electric models, you simply install charged battery packs, power on, adjust cutting height, and away you go. The intuitive controls and responsive self-propelled speeds make mowing almost effortless, even up and down sloped yards. Handling tight corners or landscaping obstacles takes practice but becomes second nature.
While the Hart does have a built-in LED light to enable nighttime mowing, the DeWalt offers slightly smoother maneuverability with its front-wheel power assist. And since two battery packs must be installed to operate the dual-voltage DeWalt system, you don’t have to decide when to swap in a fresh pack.
But ease of use largely comes down to your experience level and preference navigating different mower designs. Either model will get the job done with minimal fuss.
Winner: Toss-up. For simplicity and accessibility, both are equally user-friendly lawn mowers.
Accessories Comparison
Robust accessory offerings increase a mower‘s functionality and value. Key attachments allow you to tailor grass handling or tackle other yard maintenance tasks.
The good news is that both Hart and DeWalt come equipped with the “holy trinity” of mower accessories right in the box:
- Side discharge chute – directs clippings out to the lawn‘s edge
- Rear bag – collects grass clippings for compost or disposal
- Mulching plug – recycles grass cuttings back into the turf
These three attachments provide all the essential grass handling options most homeowners need. And you’d normally have to purchase them separately with other mower brands and models.
The other handy accessory is the dual rapid battery chargers included with the DeWalt model. This enables simultaneously charging both battery packs to reduce downtime. Hart includes just one standard charger.
When it comes to accessories, Hart and DeWalt both deliver excellent added value. But the dual rapid chargers give DeWalt an edge in convenience.
Winner: DeWalt 20V Max thanks to dual rapid battery chargers included.
Technology Updates
Given the rapid improvement of batteries and related technology, it’s important to consider recent tech updates when comparing cordless electric mowers. Manufacturers pursue ongoing innovation to address issues, improve performance, and keep pace with competitors.
Hart rolled out a major firmware update for their 40V mower line in April 2023. Beyond fixing some functionality bugs, Hart focused this release on refinements to the integrated self-propulsion system. This resulted in smoother operation, more power on hills, and greater efficiency when engaging the drive motors.
DeWalt also deployed an important firmware update for their 20V Max mower models in May 2023. Primarily, this update enhanced mulching performance for more effective grass recycling. It also resolved a troubling overheating problem that impacted some users under heavy mowing strains.
Based on these latest updates, both Hart and DeWalt prove responsive to customer feedback and committed to improving their mowers via firmware patches. This bodes well for future revision support down the road.
Winner: Tie. Recent tech upgrades show comparable dedication to product enhancement from both brands.
Future Outlook
In addition to past updates, understanding the future technology roadmap for Hart and DeWalt mowers provides helpful perspective. Product evolution often foretells which company is innovating faster.
Battery Life: Improving battery efficiency continues to be a priority for all cordless tool makers. Emerging cell technologies promise up to 50% longer runtimes for Hart over the next 2 years. DeWalt also suggets they are experimenting in this area, but provides no firm targets.
Smart Features: With smart home tech expanding into the lawn care realm, rumors abound of GPS-enabled “smart mowing” features down the road. Both Hart and DeWalt mowers may eventually support custom navigation patterns, automated scheduling, and other intelligent assists.
Durability Upgrades: Mower makers also continue tweaking designs for greater resilience against wear, weather, and other demands. Hart and DeWalt alike seem committed to evaluating more robust materials and chassis construction methods in this vein.
New Accessories: From robotic attachments to plow blades, companies are expanding into multi-purpose yard maintenance tools beyond traditional mowing. Hart and DeWalt will likely introduce inventive add-ons to corner this emerging accessorized mower market.
For future-forward development, Hart appears slightly ahead in battery upgrades while DeWalt leads in smart controls. But both brands show promising innovation pipelines overall.
Winner: Toss-up. Hart edges ahead predicting battery improvements while DeWalt pioneers smart mower tech.
Pricing Considerations
When evaluating any major purchase, price rightfully weighs into the decision. And lawn mower shoppers have several cost factors to balance:
- Upfront mower investment
- Ongoing battery & accessory expenses
- Long-term value via durability & warranties
At respective MSRPs around $600-700, neither the Hart 40V or DeWalt 20V Max models are considered “budget” buys. But you do get high-capability mowers alongside dual batteries & charging equipment included.
Compared to gas mowers, electric cordless units carry higher initial cost but lower lifetime operating costs without gas, oil, tune-ups, etc. And purchasing into battery platforms like 40V or 20V Max provides discounted power source compatibility with other tools down the road.
Viewed through the lens of value over 3-5 years, both mowers deliver robust return on investment. However, the longer Hart warranty grants more years of coverage should problems arise. And Hart mowers carry a slightly lower MSRP, giving them the overall price advantage.
Winner: Hart 40V thanks to a lower purchase price and longer warranty protection.
Battery Platform Compatibility
As mentioned earlier, selecting an electric mower means investing into the accompanying battery system. The batteries that ship with your mower will eventually need replacing. And you’ll likely want compatible batteries to power other cordless tools you acquire.
Here’s where DeWalt emerges as the undisputed leader. Their established 20V Max battery platform drives hundreds of tools from drills to leaf blowers to work lights. If you ever upgrade into DeWalt’s vast cordless tool ecosystem, 20V Max batteries proliferate across their entire power tool catalog.
Hart offers growing 40V compatibility too but with a narrower assortment focused on outdoor yard tools. You won’t find Hart batteries running a table saw or hedge trimmer like DeWalt supports. Still, Hart covers all the essential lawn and garden equipment with expanding 40V adherence.
This category comes down to battery platform breadth over the long run. For mowing alone, Hart suffices. But DeWalt simply can’t be matched for versatile 20V Max battery compatibility across countless tools.
Winner: DeWalt 20V Max for vastly wider compatibility across all types of power tools.
Verdict: Which Mower Comes Out On Top?
Considering all the factors explored above, both the Hart 40V and DeWalt 20V Max represent compelling battery-powered smart mowers. You really can’t go wrong with either brand.
But when we tally up the wins so far, the DeWalt DCMWSP244 emerges as the stronger overall cordless electric mower option compared to the Hart HLPM061US.
The Hart 40V offers admirable quality and an approachable sub-$600 price point. It even bests the DeWalt with a longer warranty and slightly lower upfront cost. Homeowners focused strictly on mowing may find the Hart checks all the boxes.
However, the DeWalt 20V Max mower pulls ahead where power and long-range versatility matter most. Dual 20V batteries unlock maximum voltage for conquering thick grass. The steel deck withstands years of abuse. And an unrivaled 20V battery system powers every other cordless tool imaginable should your needs expand.
In the end, homeowners seeking a capable mower alone can’t go wrong either way. Yet the DeWalt 20V Max mower’s robust construction, abundant power, and industry-leading battery platform make this model our clear winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the DeWalt come with two battery chargers?
Since the DeWalt requires both battery packs connected to achieve full 40V power, they include two chargers so you can charge both simultaneously. This reduces downtime.
Are Hart tools sold anywhere besides Walmart?
No, Hart power tools and lawn equipment are exclusive to Walmart stores. But you may find authorized Hart products sold via third parties online at retailers like Amazon.
Is a steel or composite deck more durable in the long run?
Opinions vary on this topic. Steel decks can withstand more outright abuse but composite plastic won’t rust. Either material choice results in a robust mower deck if properly maintained.
How long can the Hart mower run on a single charge?
Hart doesn‘t specify exact battery runtimes. But based on comparable cordless mower technology, you can expect 30-45 minutes of mowing from one fully charged 6Ah 40V battery.
Where can I purchase replacement batteries and accessories?
Both DeWalt 20V Max and Hart 40V batteries are widely available at retailers like Home Depot, Walmart, and Amazon. You’ll also find mower accessories like mulch kits at the same stores. DeWalt typically offers greater accessory selection.
