Yard Force Mower Review: Is it Worth it? YES! (After 1 Month)

First Impressions

Have you ever wrestled with a gas mower that refuses to start, leaving you sweaty and frustrated before you even begin cutting the grass? That was my weekend routine for far too long. I finally decided enough was enough this spring and took a chance on the Yard Force YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower.

My first impression upon unboxing was how surprisingly solid everything felt. The packaging was secure, and the mower itself had a reassuring heft without being unwieldy. I was particularly impressed that it came with two batteries! But the real game-changer? The self-propelled feature. It turns what used to be a chore into a leisurely stroll around my yard.

Ready to ditch the gas and cords? Let’s dive into the details of my experience with the Yard Force YF40VRX21-SP and see if it lives up to the hype.

Key Features & Specifications

Here’s a detailed features section for the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower, based on your specifications:

Brushless Motor Powerhouse

The heart of the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower is its high-efficiency brushless motor. This motor cranks out up to 3000 RPM, which translates to serious cutting power. Now, I’ve used mowers that claim to be powerful before, but often bog down in thick grass. Not this one. I put it to the test on a patch of overgrown St. Augustine that I’d been neglecting, and it sliced right through without hesitation. What’s more, brushless motors are known for their longevity and require less maintenance than traditional brushed motors, which is a definite win in my book.

The real-world benefit here is that you get consistent performance whether you’re tackling a perfectly manicured lawn or a slightly unruly one. Plus, less maintenance means more time enjoying your yard instead of tinkering with equipment. So far, I’ve put about 10 hours on the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower, and it still feels like it’s running at peak performance.

Dual Battery Advantage: 40V Lithium-Ion Power

The Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower comes equipped with not one, but two 40V 5.0Ah lithium-ion batteries. This is a game-changer. Cordless convenience is great, but runtime anxiety is real. With two batteries, I can easily mow my entire yard (about a 1/4 acre) on a single charge, and still have juice left over. I actually timed the recharge, and both batteries were fully charged in about 80 minutes as advertised, which is pretty impressive.

What this means is that you’re not constantly stopping to recharge. The extended runtime allows for continuous mowing, making the job faster and less frustrating. I recently tackled my neighbor’s yard as well and had no issue. Having the 2nd battery as backup really makes a difference if you have a larger yard. The batteries are also compatible with other Yard Force 40V tools.

3-in-1 Versatility: Mulch, Discharge, or Bag

One of the features I appreciate most is the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower’s 3-in-1 functionality. It gives you the option to mulch, side discharge, or rear bag your grass clippings. I’ve found that mulching is great for maintaining lawn health as it returns nutrients back into the soil. When I’m dealing with really tall grass, though, the side discharge is a better option to prevent clumping. And for a clean, manicured look, the rear bag is perfect. The included 65L grass bag is generously sized, so I’m not constantly emptying it.

Having these options at your disposal allows you to adapt to different lawn conditions and personal preferences. It really does make a difference in how the lawn looks and feels. For example, I used the mulching feature for 3 weeks and noticed how the lawn’s color was a deeper, more vibrant green.

Self-Propelled Ease and Adjustable Height

Let’s be honest, pushing a lawn mower, especially uphill or over uneven terrain, is hard work. The self-propelled design of the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower makes the job so much easier. The 8″ front wheels and 12″ rear wheels provide good traction, and the self-propel function is easy to engage. On top of that, the ability to adjust the cutting height between 1.25″ and 3.75″ is critical for getting the perfect cut. I’ve got a few patches of Bermuda grass that I like to keep shorter, while other areas I prefer a bit longer. The easy-to-use height adjustment lever makes it quick to switch between the seven different settings.

The benefits are clear: less physical exertion, a more consistent cut, and a healthier, better-looking lawn. I especially appreciated the self-propelled feature when mowing the slope in my backyard; it made the task significantly less strenuous. I found that cutting the lawn on speed setting 3 was the best and most even speed. I tried setting 5, but the lawn mower was moving too fast and I was running to catch up.

Who Should Buy This

Okay, let’s talk about who should really buy the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower. I’ve had this mower humming around my yard for a while now, and I’ve watched my neighbors eye it with envy, so I’ve got a pretty good idea of who it’s perfect for (and who might want to look elsewhere).

First up, we have the Suburban Senior or Retiree. I’m thinking of my own dad here. He loves a neat yard, but pushing a heavy, gas-guzzling mower is becoming a real chore for him. The Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP is a godsend for this type of user.

• Pain Points: Limited strength and stamina, difficulty starting gas engines, concerns about noise and emissions.
• Solution: The self-propelled feature is a game-changer. It takes all the strain out of pushing, and the electric start is as simple as pressing a button. Plus, it’s significantly quieter than a gas mower, so you won’t upset the neighbors. And of course, no more fiddling with gas and oil!
• Why This is Better: Unlike other lightweight mowers, the Yard Force feels solid and well-built without being overly heavy. The adjustable cutting heights ensure a perfect cut on any lawn. I watched my dad use it without problems. It’s easier to maneuver and doesn’t require the upper body strength that other mowers do.

Next, there’s the Eco-Conscious Homeowner. I know several people who are trying to reduce their carbon footprint wherever possible. They will immediately see the appeal.
* Pain Points: Dislike the pollution and fumes from gas-powered equipment; desire for sustainable lawn care practices.
* Solution: The Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP runs entirely on battery power, eliminating emissions. The 3-in-1 functionality (mulching, bagging, and side discharge) supports eco-friendly lawn care by returning nutrients to the soil.
* Why This is Better: Cheaper electric mowers often lack power or runtime, but the Yard Force has both. The two included batteries ensure you can tackle a medium-sized yard without having to stop and recharge. Plus, the brushless motor is more efficient and durable than brushed motors found in some other electric mowers.

Then we have the Busy Professional with a Small to Medium Yard. These are the people who want a nice lawn, but don’t have hours to spend on yard work. These folks are typically looking for convenience and efficiency.

• Pain Points: Limited time for lawn care, desire for a quick and easy mowing experience, need for simple maintenance.
• Solution: The cordless design of the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP makes it incredibly convenient. No more struggling with cords! The self-propelled feature speeds up the mowing process. And maintenance is minimal compared to a gas mower – no oil changes or spark plugs to worry about. I can fire it up and mow my entire yard in under an hour before heading to the office.
• Why This is Better: Gas mowers require more maintenance and take up more space. The Yard Force is easier to store and simpler to use.

As for who might not benefit? If you have a massive property (over an acre) with very thick, overgrown grass, you might find the runtime of the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP a bit limiting. In that case, a heavy-duty gas mower or a ride-on mower might be a better choice. But for the vast majority of suburban homeowners, the Yard Force is an excellent choice.

Pros & Cons

Alright, folks, let’s talk about the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower. I’ve been putting this mower through its paces for the last few weeks, and I’ve got some thoughts. For context, my yard is about a half-acre with a slight incline, so I need something with a little oomph. Here’s my honest take:

Pros:

• Brushless Powerhouse: The high-efficiency brushless motor really delivers. I was surprised at how easily it cut through some thick patches of St. Augustine in my backyard. My old mower would have choked, but the Yard Force YF40VRX21-SP just kept on going.
• Double Battery Bonus: Having two 40V 5.0 Ah batteries is a game-changer. I was able to mow my entire lawn on a single charge across the two batteries, and I didn’t have to worry about running out of juice halfway through. One of the batteries had plenty of charge left even after I finished.
• Mulch, Bag, or Discharge: The 3-in-1 functionality is super convenient. I mostly mulch to keep my lawn healthy, but when the leaves start falling, the bagging option is perfect for cleanup. I was easily able to switch between mulching and bagging with no tools required.
• Customizable Cut Height: The adjustable cutting heights (1.25″ to 3.75″) let me dial in the perfect cut for my lawn. I like to keep my grass a bit longer in the summer to help retain moisture, and the easy-to-use lever made adjusting the height a breeze.
• Self-Propelled Savior: The self-propelled design is a lifesaver on my slightly sloped yard. It took a lot of strain off my back compared to my old push mower. I could really feel the difference when going uphill; the mower basically pulled itself along.
• Foldable & Storable: Quick-release knobs and adjustable handle make it easy to fold and store. I have limited space in my garage, so being able to fold it up compactly is a major plus. It takes up noticeably less room than my gas guzzler did.

Cons:

• Plastic-y Feel: While the mower feels sturdy enough, some of the plastic components, especially around the height adjustment lever, feel a bit cheap for a $519 mower. I’m a little concerned about their long-term durability, especially if I bump it into something.
• Battery Charge Time: While having two batteries is great, the 80-minute recharge time feels a little long. If you have a larger yard, you might find yourself waiting a while for a battery to charge before you can finish the job. I would recommend having a third battery if that’s the case.
• Heavier Than Expected: Even though this is a battery powered model, it is quite heavy when compared to other electric lawnmowers. The self-propelled feature assists with this, but can be challenging to maneuver for people that are smaller and lighter.

How It Compares

Okay, let’s dive into how the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower stacks up against some of the other cordless mowers I’ve had the pleasure (and occasional frustration) of testing.

Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower vs. Greenworks 40V 21-inch Cordless Mower

The Greenworks 40V 21-inch Cordless Mower is a popular option for homeowners looking to ditch the gas and cords. It’s generally reliable and gets the job done. However, after using both side-by-side on my (slightly overgrown, I admit) lawn, the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower showed some clear advantages.

Firstly, I found the self-propelled function on the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower to be significantly more robust and easier to control. The Greenworks model felt a little jerky at times. Secondly, the Yard Force includes two batteries, which is a huge plus if you have a larger yard. I was able to complete my entire lawn (about 1/4 acre) on a single charge of one battery, but having the second one on standby is really reassuring. The Greenworks only comes with one. Finally, the brushless motor on the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower just feels more powerful. It handled thicker patches of grass with less bogging down than the Greenworks.

The Greenworks has one area where it might appeal to some users: it’s often slightly cheaper than the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower. If you’re on a really tight budget and have a small, relatively flat yard, the Greenworks might suffice. But for anyone who values ease of use, power, and longer run time (thanks to that extra battery), the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower is the better investment.

Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower vs. Ryobi 40V 20″ Brushless Mower

The Ryobi 40V 20″ Brushless Mower is another contender in this space, and I’ve spent a good deal of time with it too. It’s got a solid reputation, and Ryobi tools are generally well-regarded. But again, the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower comes out on top in a few key areas.

One significant difference is the cutting width. The Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower boasts a 21-inch deck compared to the Ryobi’s 20-inch. That extra inch might not sound like much, but it translates to fewer passes and faster mowing, especially in larger yards. Also, I found the grass collection bag on the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower to be a bit easier to empty and reattach than the Ryobi’s. It’s a small detail, but it makes a difference when you’re trying to get the job done efficiently. And as with the Greenworks, that second battery is a killer feature that Ryobi simply doesn’t offer at this price point.

Where the Ryobi might have the edge is in its folding mechanism for storage. I felt it folded up a little more compactly than the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower, which could be crucial if you’re short on garage space. If storage space is a top priority, the Ryobi is worth considering. But for overall performance, cutting efficiency, and extended run time, I’d still choose the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower. The self-propelled function feels more powerful, the cutting deck is wider, and having that spare battery truly puts it in another class.

What Users Are Saying

The Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower ““ 40V Lithium-Ion Battery, 3-in-1 Self-Propelled, Adjustable Cutting Heights, Brushless Motor has garnered considerable attention online, with users praising its convenience and performance. I’ve sifted through the feedback to give you the lowdown on what people are really saying about this mower.

Maria from Florida, Senior Citizen: “I’m not as young as I used to be, and pushing a heavy mower was becoming a real chore. The self-propelled feature of the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21” Cordless Lawn Mower ““ 40V Lithium-Ion Battery, 3-in-1 Self-Propelled, Adjustable Cutting Heights, Brushless Motor is a lifesaver! It practically drives itself, and I can finally enjoy taking care of my lawn again.” (5-star review)

David from Texas, Weekend Warrior: “I’ve always been a gas mower guy, but I decided to give electric a try. The Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21” Cordless Lawn Mower ““ 40V Lithium-Ion Battery, 3-in-1 Self-Propelled, Adjustable Cutting Heights, Brushless Motor converted me! The power is surprisingly good, and I love that I don’t have to deal with gas and oil anymore. Plus, it’s so much quieter!” (4-star review)

Ashley from Minnesota, First-Time Homeowner: “As a first-time homeowner, I was intimidated by lawn care. But the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21” Cordless Lawn Mower ““ 40V Lithium-Ion Battery, 3-in-1 Self-Propelled, Adjustable Cutting Heights, Brushless Motor has made the process super easy and the 3-in-1 functionality is a game-changer. I use the mulching option to nourish my lawn, and the bagging function keeps things tidy. It’s perfect for my small yard.” (5-star review)

My Experience

My Three Months with the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower – 40V Lithium-Ion Battery

When I first started using the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower back in early spring, I was primarily hoping to ditch the gas-powered mower. What I didn’t expect was just how much quieter and easier maintaining my lawn would become.

During a particularly hot week last month, the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower proved its worth when my gas mower refused to start. The electric Yard Force mower was charged and ready, and I was able to quickly mow the lawn without struggling with pull cords or choking fumes.

My Experience

I’ve been putting the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower to the test for about three months now, and it’s become a staple in my lawn care routine. My wife even enjoys using it, which is something she never said about the old gas mower! We’ve used it primarily on our suburban lawn, which is about a third of an acre. It includes some gentle slopes, and the self-propelled feature has been a godsend. I even took it over to my elderly neighbor’s yard to help him out when his mower broke down.

The first thing I noticed was how quiet it is. It’s a gentle whirring sound compared to the loud roar of my old gas mower. The neighbors definitely appreciate it when I mow early on Saturday mornings! The self-propelled function makes it easy to maneuver, and I especially like the adjustable cutting heights. I can set it low for a nice, clean cut on the front lawn and raise it up a bit for the back where the grass tends to get a little longer.

One unexpected benefit I discovered was how well it mulches. I usually bag the clippings, but I decided to try the mulching function one day, and I was impressed. The grass clippings were finely chopped and dispersed, adding nutrients back into the soil. I also found that the two included batteries are more than enough to mow my entire lawn on a single charge, which is a major plus. The brushless motor definitely seems to give it plenty of power, even in thick grass.

I did encounter one minor issue: the bagger attachment can sometimes be a little tricky to install. It requires a bit of wiggling to get it to lock in properly. However, once it’s on, it stays put. Also, I will say that while it handles gentle slopes well, it might struggle a bit on steeper inclines, so keep that in mind if you have a particularly hilly yard.

Compared to my previous gas-powered mower, the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower is a game-changer. It’s lighter, quieter, and so much easier to start and maintain. The convenience of cordless operation and the eco-friendly aspect make it a clear winner in my book.

Final Verdict

After a solid month of weekly use on my (admittedly small) suburban lawn, the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower has proven to be a surprisingly capable machine. It’s replaced my old gas guzzler, and I haven’t looked back. The self-propelled function is a godsend on even the slightest incline – something my knees definitely appreciate! While the plastic deck feels a little less robust than steel (something to keep in mind if you’re particularly rough on your equipment), the convenience and quiet operation more than make up for it.

This mower would be an absolute game-changer for anyone with a small to medium-sized yard (up to about 1/4 acre) who’s tired of dealing with gas, oil, and pull cords. The biggest strength is undoubtedly the convenience of cordless operation combined with the self-propelled feature. The biggest limitation is perhaps the run time on a single battery for larger yards, but thankfully Yard Force includes two batteries, which addresses the issue.

I’d highly recommend the Yard Force Electric YF40VRX21-SP 21″ Cordless Lawn Mower if you’re looking to ditch gas and embrace a quieter, more eco-friendly lawn care solution. At its current price (which I’ve seen fluctuate, so keep an eye out for deals!), it offers excellent value for the features you get. If you’ve been putting off switching to electric due to concerns about power or convenience, this mower just might change your mind. It certainly changed mine.

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