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Kobalt 40V Mower vs. DeWalt 20V Max Mower: Which One Wins?

Hi there! If you‘re trying to decide between the Kobalt 40V mower and the DeWalt 20V Max mower, you‘ve come to the right place. I‘ve done a deep dive on these two popular cordless electric mowers to help you figure out which one is the best choice for your needs. After looking at the key specs, models, pricing, warranties and reviews, the DeWalt 20V Max comes out on top for several reasons. But the Kobalt 40V still offers strong competition, especially if you‘re on a budget.

Let me walk you through all the details so you can make the most informed decision for your yard. Stick with me, and by the end you‘ll know exactly which mower is right for you!

Getting Started: Why Cordless Mowers?

Before we get into the Kobalt vs. DeWalt debate, let‘s briefly go over why cordless electric mowers have become so popular:

  • No gas or oil changes – Electric mowers are much more convenient and environmentally friendly.

  • Lower maintenance – Other than sharpening the blades, there‘s minimal upkeep required.

  • Quieter operation – You and your neighbors will appreciate the reduced noise.

  • Lightweight – Cordless mowers weigh up to 70 lbs less than gas models on average.

  • Clean power – No fumes or smell like with gas engines.

Cordless technology has improved vastly in recent years. Runtime is now sufficient for most residential yards. Top brands like Kobalt and DeWalt offer mowers packed with features that rival gas models in power and performance.

If you want an easy, eco-friendly way to tame your lawn, going cordless is the way to go! Now let‘s see how Kobalt and DeWalt compare.

Sizing Them Up: Key Specs and Features

Whenever you’re trying to compare products, it always helps to start with a side-by-side look at the key specs. Here’s an overview of the core features and capabilities you’ll get with each mower brand:

Specs Kobalt 40V DeWalt 20V Max
Voltage 40V (single battery) 20V (dual battery)
Motor Brushless Brushless
Cutting Width 19" – 21" 19" – 21"
Cutting Height 1.12" – 4" 1.5" – 4.5"
Wheels 7” – 10” 8” – 11”
Batteries 4Ah – 6Ah 10Ah – 12Ah
Warranty 5 years 3 years

As you can see, both mower lines offer brushless motors and cutting width/height in the same range. The main technical differences are that Kobalt uses a single higher voltage 40V battery while DeWalt combines two 20V batteries together.

DeWalt also tends to include higher capacity 10Ah or 12Ah batteries with their mowers. The larger batteries allow their mowers to run longer between charges, which is important for tackling bigger yards.

For warranty coverage, Kobalt distinguishes itself by providing an outstanding 5 year warranty on the mower, battery and charger. That‘s two more years than DeWalt‘s warranty.

So in terms of core features and specs, both brands are fairly comparable. But DeWalt does have advantages when it comes to battery power and warranty duration. Next let‘s look at the different mower models each brand offers.

Model Lineups: Options to Fit Your Needs

Beyond the basic specs, the specific mower models available can be really important depending on your lawn and needs:

Kobalt 40V Mower Models

Kobalt has two core 40V mower lines:

Kobalt 40V Mowers

  • KSPM 1040A-03 – Self-propelled, 20" cutting width, includes 6Ah battery
  • KMP 4230D-06 – Self-propelled, 21" cutting width, dual 4Ah batteries, LED headlight

Kobalt 40V Max Mowers

  • KPM 1040A-03 – Push, 20” cut, 6Ah battery included
  • KPM 1040B-03 – Push, 19.5” cut, tool only (no battery)
  • KM 2041B-06 – Push, 19.25” cut, 5Ah battery
  • KSPM 1040B-03 – Self-propelled, 19.25” cut, tool only
  • KM 4041-06 – Push, 19" cut, 4Ah battery, most affordable model

The 40V Max line provides more variety in terms of features, prices and options for buying with or without a battery. Having both self-propelled and push mowers is also great for handling different lawn sizes and terrains.

Now let‘s look at the DeWalt lineup:

DeWalt 20V Max Mower Models

DeWalt offers several 20V Max mower variants across five models:

  • DCMWSP255Y2 – 21” cut, rear-wheel drive, dual 12Ah batteries
  • DCMWSP255U2 – 21.5” cut, rear-wheel drive, dual 10Ah batteries
  • DCMWSP244U2 – 21" cut, front-wheel drive, dual 10Ah batteries
  • DCMWP233U2 – 21” cut, push, dual 10Ah batteries
  • DCMW220U2 – 20” cut, push, dual 5Ah batteries

The options range from basic push mowers up to higher-end rear wheel drive models. Battery capacities also vary, with runtime extending up to an acre with the larger 12Ah batteries.

So Kobalt provides more diversity and affordability with their models, while DeWalt focuses on outstanding runtimes and rugged performance. Depending on your needs and budget, one lineup may suit your situation better.

Price Tags: What‘s the Investment?

Here’s a look at what you can expect to pay for these cordless mowers:

Kobalt Pricing

  • $219-$650
  • Lower cost options available
  • Some models sold tool only (without battery)

DeWalt Pricing

  • $399-$850
  • Includes batteries and charger
  • No tool-only purchase options

DeWalt mowers only come as kits with batteries and a charger included, while Kobalt offers more flexibility for buyers who already own compatible batteries.

However, the larger 10Ah-12Ah batteries DeWalt includes help justify the higher price tags on their mowers. You‘re getting outstanding battery life right out of the box.

So if you‘re budget-minded or need multiple batteries for other tools, Kobalt provides the most affordable path into cordless mowing. But if runtime is your top priority, DeWalt‘s upfront investment gets you the most powerful battery systems.

Reviews: How Actual Owners Rate Them

Looking at real customer reviews is always helpful to see how these mowers perform in the real world. Here‘s an overview of feedback from each brand:

Kobalt Reviews

  • Owners praise power, cutting quality and battery runtime
  • Typical rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars

DeWalt Reviews

  • Also receives great feedback for power and durability
  • Average ratings of 4.7 to 4.8 out of 5 stars

Both mower lines receive glowing reviews overall, with the majority of owners truly impressed with their performance, construction quality and ease of use. DeWalt does score slightly higher ratings, likely thanks to their best-in-class batteries.

The Verdict: Which Brand Gets My Vote?

Now for the big question: all things considered, which cordless mower comes out on top in a Kobalt 40V vs DeWalt 20V Max duel?

In my opinion, the DeWalt 20V Max takes the win for a few key reasons:

  • Longstanding reputation – 90+ years experience making professional-grade tools

  • Higher capacity batteries – More power for larger yards with 10Ah or 12Ah batteries

  • Slightly better reviews – Owners consistently give DeWalt a rating of 4.7 stars and up

  • Availability – Sold at Home Depot and other major retailers

  • Resale value – DeWalt tools maintain value well if you ever want to sell or upgrade

However, I don‘t think you can go wrong either way. The Kobalt 40V lineup offers really stiff competition, providing excellent performance for the money.

The wider range of lower-priced Kobalt models make them the value choice for tight budgets. And that 5-year warranty provides amazing long-term coverage.

At the end of the day, choose based on your specific needs and yard size. For larger lawns and maximum cutting time, DeWalt is hard to beat. But if you want reliable cordless cutting at the best price, Kobalt still shines.

I hope this detailed comparison helps you feel 100% confident about deciding between Kobalt vs DeWalt for your next cordless mower. Let me know if you have any other questions!