Black & Decker CMM1200

May 2009. Although it's cordless, reviewers say the 19-inch Black & Decker CMM1200 does a better job than most corded electric mowers and many gas mowers as well. Objective tests find that it mulches more effectively and cuts more evenly. It's now the only lawn mower that earns an Energy Star rating. Reviews say it is relatively easy to convert into a solar lawn mower, making it even more eco friendly. You can mow about one-fourth to one-third of an acre per battery charge (less if you have to contend with tall or wet grass), so it's not appropriate for large lawns. For a bigger yard, you'll need to buy a mower that lets you insert a freshly charged battery -- such as the Neuton CE 6 (*est. $490) -- or go with a gas-powered mower such as the self-propelled Lawn-Boy 10795 Insight Platinum (*est. $550).

We found the most objective tests of the Black & Decker CMM1200 cordless lawn mower at Consumer Reports, where it is compared with four other cordless mowers plus 45 gas models. A 2009 review in Mother Earth News is less objective but provides more detail, comparing it with three other cordless lawn mowers. Wired magazine also tests the Black & Decker CM1200, comparing it with three corded mowers and one other cordless mower. The single-product review at ConsumerGuide.com includes ratings and details, and the more critical review at the Curious Cat Blog compares the CMM1200 with an earlier model. User-written reviews round out the picture.