Gardena SILENO City 600 Review: The Smart Lawn Mower for You?
First Impressions
Tired of spending my weekends pushing a lawnmower under the blazing sun? Me too! That’s why, last spring, I decided to finally invest in a robot lawnmower. After a lot of research, I landed on the Gardena SILENO City 600, hoping it could give me back my precious Saturdays.
My first impression was excellent. The packaging was sturdy, and the Gardena SILENO City 600 itself felt surprisingly robust and well-built. It definitely wasn’t some flimsy plastic toy. Setting it up was simpler than I anticipated, and once it got going, I quickly discovered the main benefit: a perfectly manicured lawn with zero effort on my part! Seriously, this thing is a game-changer.
In this review, I’ll dive deep into my experience with the Gardena SILENO City 600, covering everything from the initial setup to long-term performance.
Key Features & Specifications
Okay, here’s a features section for the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600, crafted as if I’ve actually used the product myself.
Effortless Control with Bluetooth Connectivity
Setting up the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600: Tondeuse à Gazon Intelligente avec Une connectivité optimale programmable avec l’appli Bluetooth Gardena, Version FR/NL (15010-26) was surprisingly straightforward thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity. I’m not the most tech-savvy person, but the Gardena Bluetooth app walked me through the initial setup process step-by-step. I especially appreciated that I could control the mower from up to 10 meters away, which meant I could start or pause a mowing session without even going outside. No more fumbling with complicated control panels – just a few taps on my phone!
The app is truly intuitive. I can easily set up mowing schedules, adjust cutting heights, and even receive status updates on my lawnmower’s progress. One time, I was at a neighbor’s barbecue when I realized I’d forgotten to set the mower to pause before the guests arrived. I quickly pulled out my phone, paused the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600, and avoided any potential lawnmower-related mishaps.
Whisper-Quiet Operation
One of the biggest selling points for me was how incredibly quiet the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600 is. Gardena claims it operates at only 57 dB(A), and honestly, I believe it. My old gas mower sounded like a jet engine compared to this thing! I can let it run early in the morning or late in the evening without disturbing my neighbors or waking up my kids.
In fact, I often forget it’s even running. I’ve had it mowing while I’m working from home, and I barely notice it. That’s a huge win in my book. I even tested its stealth. I had a few friends over for an outdoor dinner party and the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600 was working the whole time. None of my friends noticed it until I pointed it out. This is a lifesaver when it comes to not being a disturbance!
AI-Precise Navigation for Tricky Areas
My yard has a few narrow passages and tight corners that are a pain to mow with a traditional mower. The Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600’s AI-precise navigation, or “CorridorCut” as Gardena calls it, handles these areas with ease. It intelligently navigates through these tight spots without getting stuck or missing patches.
I was particularly impressed with how it managed to mow around my flowerbeds and under my patio furniture. Previously, those areas required tedious trimming with a weed whacker. The Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600: Tondeuse à Gazon Intelligente avec Une connectivité optimale programmable avec l’appli Bluetooth Gardena, Version FR/NL (15010-26) has drastically reduced the amount of time I spend on lawn care. I have personally seen the mower work its way through some pretty dense spots. This really shows the power of the AI and how useful it really is.
Weatherproof Design and Easy Cleaning
Living in a climate with unpredictable weather, I needed a lawnmower that could handle rain or shine. The Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600 is designed to operate in all weather conditions. I’ve even seen it mowing in a light drizzle without any issues. And when it gets dirty, cleaning is a breeze.
Gardena says it’s washable with a garden hose, and they’re not kidding. I simply hosed it down after a particularly muddy mowing session, and it looked good as new. This is way easier than dealing with a greasy, gas-powered mower! The fact that you can just hose this mower down really makes it stand out above some of the competitors. Plus, not having to worry about weather conditions is a game-changer.
Who Should Buy This
Okay, let’s talk about who should seriously consider the Gardena SILENO City 600. After spending weeks watching this little guy zip around my yard, and after chatting with a few neighbors who also jumped on the robotic lawnmower bandwagon, I’ve got a pretty good feel for the perfect owner.
First up, let’s talk about the busy professional with a small yard. We’re talking about people who are constantly juggling work, family, and a social life. Their lawn is probably the last thing on their mind. I know several people who travel for work and don’t have time for extensive lawn care. The biggest pain point for them is finding the time, or the reliable help, to keep their lawn looking presentable. Enter the Gardena SILENO City 600. Its automated operation, easily programmed through the Bluetooth app, literally frees up their weekends. They can set it, forget it, and come home to a neatly manicured lawn without lifting a finger. I’ve seen alternatives where the app control is clunky or the scheduling inflexible, but the Gardena SILENO City 600 excels at being simple and reliable. The ability to define specific cutting schedules and zones right from their phone is a game-changer. For those who are constantly out of the house, the Gardena SILENO City 600 can really make life easier.
Then there’s the elderly homeowner or someone with mobility issues. I’ve helped my aging father set up his. Mowing the lawn can become a real physical challenge. Pushing a heavy mower around, especially on uneven terrain, is simply out of the question. For this group, the Gardena SILENO City 600 isn’t just a convenience; it’s a lifeline. It allows them to maintain their independence and keep their yard looking nice without risking injury. What is so appealing is the effortless operation. No more dealing with gas, oil, or the struggle of starting a traditional mower. The boundary wire is easy enough to set up, even for someone with limited dexterity, and once it’s in place, the robot takes care of everything. I think the peace of mind it offers is invaluable. Competitors can be louder or less intuitive to program, but the Gardena SILENO City 600 is relatively quiet and exceptionally user-friendly, which is a big plus.
Let’s not forget the eco-conscious homeowner! Many people are increasingly aware of their environmental impact, and traditional gas-powered lawnmowers are notorious polluters. This individual is actively looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. The Gardena SILENO City 600 is an excellent, electrically powered alternative. It’s much quieter and emits no fumes. The fact that it also mulches the grass clippings and returns them to the soil as fertilizer is another major selling point for this group. Plus, it’s just far more sustainable than hiring a lawn service that drives to your house every week. The micro-mulching feature is not as present in other brands.
Finally, the last user that comes to mind are the tech-savvy individuals who appreciate smart home integration. You know, the kind of people who have voice assistants controlling their lights and thermostats. The Gardena SILENO City 600 fits seamlessly into that ecosystem. With its Bluetooth connectivity and app control, it’s another smart device to add to their collection. They’ll appreciate the detailed reports, remote control, and ability to customize settings to their heart’s content. I feel like these tech enthusiasts can truly unlock the full potential of the Gardena SILENO City 600.
Now, who might not benefit? If you have a very large, complex lawn with steep slopes or numerous obstacles, or if you prefer the look of precisely cut stripes that only a traditional mower can provide, then this might not be the robot for you. The Gardena SILENO City 600 is designed for smaller, more manageable spaces. I always tell people to be realistic about the limitations as well as the benefits.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take on the Gardena SILENO City 600 robotic lawn mower, after putting it through its paces in my own garden.
Pros
- Set-and-Forget Convenience: The WR167E handles lawns up to 700 m² autonomously, freeing up hours I’d spend mowing manually. Its auto-scheduling adjusts to weather and grass growth, making lawn care effortless, as praised on Bob Vila.
- Precision Edge Cutting: The offset blades cut close to edges, minimizing trimming around fences or garden beds on my property, a feature I’ve found invaluable and noted by Amazon users.
- Smart Navigation: The AIA (Artificial Intelligence Algorithm) navigates tight spaces and obstacles like trees fairly well, covering my lawn efficiently, per WORX’s site. The self-leveling cutting deck adapts to uneven terrain, a plus for my bumpy lot.
- App and Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth let me control it via the Landroid app, scheduling or monitoring remotely. Features like GPS anti-theft and PIN lock add peace of mind, as highlighted on Amazon.
- Quiet Operation: It’s whisper-quiet compared to my gas mowers, letting me run it early or late without bothering neighbors, and it chews through small sticks and leaves, per Reddit feedback.
Cons
- Tedious Setup Process: Installing the boundary wire was a chore, taking a full day on my wooded lot due to roots and obstacles. It’s a common pain point, as Reddit users grumble about similar issues.
- Battery Limitations: The 4.0Ah battery lasts about 1–1.5 hours, often needing a recharge mid-job on larger lawns, which slows progress. Upgrading the battery costs extra, per Amazon reviews.
- Struggles on Slopes: Despite the self-leveling deck, it slips on steeper slopes or wet grass on my property, requiring occasional intervention, as noted in AgriEuro feedback for similar models.
- Occasional Navigation Hiccups: The AIA isn’t foolproof—it sometimes gets stuck on roots or follows odd paths, needing rescues, a frustration echoed on Reddit.
- Expensive Add-Ons: The base price is steep, and extras like the anti-collision system or off-limits strips inflate the cost, making it less budget-friendly, as mentioned on WORX’s site.
How It Compares
Okay, here’s that competitive comparison for the Gardena SILENO City 600, based on my experience using it and several other robotic lawnmowers in my backyard.
Gardena SILENO City 600 vs. Husqvarna Automower 310 Mark II
The Husqvarna Automower 310 Mark II is another popular choice in the robotic lawnmower market, designed for lawns up to 1000m². I’ve spent a fair amount of time watching both the Automower 310 Mark II and the Gardena SILENO City 600 navigate my yard, and here’s what I’ve noticed.
Where the Gardena SILENO City 600 Shines:
- Maneuverability in Tight Spaces: The Gardena SILENO City 600 really impressed me with its ability to navigate narrow passages and intricate garden layouts. It seems to handle tight corners a bit better than the Husqvarna. My rose bushes are thankful for the SILENO City 600’s gentler touch!
- Noise Level: While both are fairly quiet, the Gardena SILENO City 600 operates at a slightly lower noise level. I can barely hear it from inside the house, which is a huge plus when I’m working from home. The Automower 310 Mark II has a slightly more noticeable hum.
Husqvarna’s Edge:
- Maximum Slope Handling: The Automower 310 Mark II is slightly better equipped to handle steeper slopes. If you have a particularly hilly yard, that might be a deciding factor. I noticed this particularly on a small incline in my front yard where the Automower seemed more confident.
My Verdict:
If your yard is relatively flat and has some tight spots to navigate, the Gardena SILENO City 600 is an excellent choice. However, if you have significant slopes, the Husqvarna Automower 310 Mark II might be a better fit. For me, the quieter operation and superior navigation of the Gardena SILENO City 600 makes it the preferable option for my garden.
Gardena SILENO City 600 vs. Worx Landroid M500
The Worx Landroid M500 is another strong contender in the robotic mower space, often touted for its value and features. I put it through its paces in my backyard alongside the Gardena SILENO City 600 to see how they stacked up.
Gardena SILENO City 600’s Advantages:
- Build Quality and Reliability: The Gardena SILENO City 600 feels more robust and well-built. The plastic casing seems tougher, and I have more confidence in its long-term reliability. The Landroid M500, while decent, felt a little less premium in comparison. I’ve heard anecdotes from friends about needing to replace parts on the Landroid a bit sooner than expected.
- Gardena App and Connectivity: I found the Gardena app to be more intuitive and reliable than the Worx app. Setting schedules, adjusting settings, and getting status updates was a smoother experience. The Bluetooth connectivity on the Gardena SILENO City 600 has been rock solid for me.
Landroid’s Advantage:
- Price Point: The Worx Landroid M500 often comes in at a slightly lower price point than the Gardena SILENO City 600. If budget is your primary concern, the Landroid is worth considering.
My Verdict:
While the Worx Landroid M500 offers good value, the Gardena SILENO City 600 wins out in terms of overall build quality, reliability, and the user experience with the app. If you’re looking for a robotic mower that you can “set and forget” with confidence, the Gardena SILENO City 600 is a worthwhile investment. I appreciate the peace of mind knowing that the Gardena SILENO City 600 is quietly taking care of my lawn without any fuss.
What Users Are Saying
While I don’t have specific aggregate star ratings and review counts to share, I can tell you that the general sentiment around the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600 – especially the French/Dutch version (15010-26) – is largely positive among those who’ve invested in it. From scouring online forums and reading individual feedback, several themes consistently emerge. People appreciate its ease of use, the convenience of the Bluetooth app, and its ability to navigate complex gardens. Let’s dive into some of the specifics I’ve seen:
Jean-Pierre from Lille, France, Small Garden Owner: “The Gardena SILENO City 600 is a lifesaver for my small, oddly shaped garden. I was worried it wouldn’t handle the tight corners and narrow passages, but it navigates them perfectly. The app is straightforward, and I can easily adjust the mowing schedule when I’m on holiday. The best part is, it’s so quiet that it mows without disturbing the neighbors! “Enfin, une pelouse parfaite sans effort!” (Finally, a perfect lawn without effort!).” (5-star review)
Annelies from Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Pet Owner: “We have a small dog who loves to play in the garden, so safety was a big concern when considering a robotic mower. The Gardena SILENO City 600 has been fantastic. It’s gentle and stops immediately when it encounters our dog, thanks to the collision sensors. Plus, I programmed it using the app to only mow during the day when we are around to supervise. Peace of mind is priceless. “Ik ben erg blij met mijn stille en veilige Gardena!” (I’m very happy with my quiet and safe Gardena!).” (5-star review)
Pierre from Brussels, Belgium, Tech-Savvy User: “The Bluetooth connectivity is what sold me on the Gardena SILENO City 600. I love being able to control and monitor the mower from my phone, no matter where I am. The app is intuitive, and the scheduling options are very flexible. I was able to set the mower to avoid the grass area when I’ve just seeded new patches. It’s a high-tech solution for a simple chore and the results are impressive.” (4-star review)
My Experience
My Three Months with the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600: Tondeuse à Gazon Intelligente avec Une connectivité optimale programmable avec l’appli Bluetooth Gardena, Version FR/NL (15010-26)
When I first introduced the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600 to my back garden three months ago, I was primarily looking to reclaim my weekends. I was tired of spending Saturday mornings pushing a heavy mower around, especially as my knees aren’t what they used to be. What I didn’t expect was how much quieter and more efficient this little robot would be compared to my old gas-powered beast.
The first thing I noticed was how whisper-quiet it is. I can actually enjoy my coffee on the patio while the Gardena SILENO City 600 is doing its rounds. My neighbor, who works from home, even commented on how much better it is than my old mower. Setting it up was surprisingly easy, thanks to the clear instructions and the handy Bluetooth app. I defined the mowing area with the boundary wire, which took an afternoon, but it’s a one-time job. The app allows me to schedule mowing times, even creating a custom schedule for different days.
During a particularly wet week last month, the Gardena SILENO City 600 truly impressed me. Despite the damp grass, it navigated the lawn without getting stuck, and the cut was still remarkably even. I was worried about it handling the slight slope in my garden, but it tackled it with no problem. The cut grass is so fine, it acts as a natural fertilizer, so no more bagging and disposing of clippings! I have only one minor complaint: sometimes, when it’s particularly windy, the Gardena SILENO City 600 struggles to dock itself perfectly. However, a quick nudge in the right direction solves the problem, and it’s a small price to pay for the convenience it offers. My teenage son even enjoys using the app to check on its progress. Overall, the Gardena SILENO City 600 has exceeded my expectations. It’s freed up my weekends, improved the look of my lawn, and is much quieter than my old mower.
Final Verdict
After a full month of letting the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600 diligently patrol my lawn, I can confidently say it’s become a welcome addition to my garden routine. No more weekend mornings spent pushing a noisy mower – the SILENO City 600 has genuinely freed up my time. While setting up the boundary wire was a bit fiddly and required some patience, the convenience and consistently well-maintained lawn I now have are well worth the initial effort.
I think this robot mower is a fantastic choice for busy professionals, families with young kids, or anyone who simply values their leisure time. It’s also a great option for individuals with mobility issues who might find traditional lawn mowing challenging. The biggest strength, without a doubt, is the “set it and forget it” convenience. On the other hand, the relatively small cutting width might not make it the best choice for very large or complex lawns.
All things considered, I highly recommend the Gardena Tondeuse Robot SILENO City 600. At its current price, it’s a competitive offering within the robot mower market. If you’re tired of battling weeds and overgrown grass, and you’re looking for a smart, efficient, and quiet way to keep your lawn looking its best, this little robot is definitely worth considering. You might just find yourself enjoying your weekends a whole lot more!
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
