Are you planning to buy a Black + Decker Corded electric Lawnmower in the coming week? Black + Decker EasySteer Corded Rotary Lawnmower range has emerged as one of the company's most beloved garden items. Coming in two variants, 38cm 1600W and 42cm 1800W, these mowers ensure greater manoeuvrability, stable operation and a host of easy-to-use features. Designed for big and medium gardens, they are marketed as easy products for household gardeners who value simplicity and effectiveness.
Mostly Positive
Although the range has managed to collect plenty of good comments owing to its innovative handle system and cutting ability, there have been some issues raised by customers about build quality and handling more demanding garden tasks. This article compares both models in detail, reporting key features, pros and cons, and what real users have to say.
Key Features
The only true standout aspect between both models is Black + Decker's EasySteer patented handle. The cutting-edge technology pivots the handle up to 20% in either direction, making it easier for users to manoeuvre around flower beds, trees, and other obstacles.
For the 38cm version (BEMW471ES-GB), the lawnmower is equipped with a 1600W motor, 38cm cutting deck, and 45-litre grass collector. This makes it suitable for medium-sized gardens where manoeuvrability is as important as cutting capacity.
Larger Version
The larger 42cm model (BEMW481ES-GB) raises the power to 1800W and has a greater cutting width, 50-litre collecting box, and longer 15m cable. This is ideal for larger gardens where the increased motor power can really enhance the performance.
Both models feature a six cutting heights one-lever height adjustment system (2cm to 7cm), Easy Start hand activation button with either hand operation, and twin carry handle configuration for easier lifting and carrying.
Comparison of Models - 38cm and 42cm
Although the two EasySteer models share the same basic features, there are a few self-evident distinctions. The 38cm is 16.7kg and somewhat less demanding to steer for consumers who consider cutting width less important than being easy to manoeuvre. Its 12m cable also makes it slightly more limiting for bigger grounds.
The 42cm version is heavier at 18.3kg but compensates with more deck space, 1800W motor and longer 15m cable. This should improve mow time for users of larger gardens, but the added weight may be noticeable if carrying or on slopes.
Ease of Use and Manoeuvrability
Most critics are impressed with the EasySteer handle design as a real innovation. The pivoting function is also reported to make it simpler to turn in confined spaces and edge up against trees or fences, a function particularly favoured in garden beds with complex designs. The cable management system with two points of protection also reduces the likelihood of running over the cord accidentally, a source of criticism commonly brought against other corded products.
On the negative side, a minority of users note that it takes time to get used to the pivoting handle. Some find it introduces an element of flex to the handle that might not appeal to everyone, particularly people who are used to rigid designs.
Cutting Performance
Their innovative blade design has been highlighted as a selling point. Operators praise how neat and even the cut is, with the rear roller producing good striped effects on the lawn.
The 42cm model, specifically, is reported to cut longer grass better due to the added power. Some reviewers do mention, however, that both models have some difficulty cutting very wet or heavy grass conditions and may need to be run over multiple times to produce an even result.
Build Quality and Durability
General build quality is complimented, and many customers enjoy the weighty feel of the mowers, as well as the foldable handle for convenient storage. The integrated carry handles are also much appreciated, spreading weight evenly when lifted.
All that being said, there are some drawbacks. Some of the reviewers mention that the long-term durability of some plastic components, such as the height adjustment lever and a portion of the grass box, is questionable. A few have mentioned that, in the long run, cable management clip loosening can be an issue.
While this article will later explore user reviews in detail, it is worth noting that the EasySteer range has plenty of positives balanced by a few common gripes. Ease of use, strong cutting performance, and clever design elements dominate the positive feedback. Meanwhile, criticisms tend to centre on weight, the learning curve for the handle, and occasional concerns about parts wearing prematurely.
Positive Reviews
The Black + Decker EasySteer Corded Rotary Lawnmowers have been universally praised by customers as strong, reliable, and well-thought-out. For most customers, the ease of use of the EasySteer handle, large grass collection capacity, and smooth as silk cutting action has transformed their mowing experience.
Ease of Use and Assembly
A number of consumers complimented how simple it was to put together from the box and how simple it is to operate, even for those who are not comfortable operating garden machinery. One consumer stated, "Easy to build and mow lawn with ease. Large grass collection box is handy." Another consumer added, "It is so easy to assemble. I am very impressed and have recommended it to family and friends."
Aged consumers, particularly, complimented the convenience of using the mower. A consumer noted, "Bought this to replace broken lawnmower. Right from the start it was easier to handle and easy to push around garden as I am now elderly this was imperative to me. It is just the lawnmower I wanted."
Light handling feel (at least when the grass box is not full) and pivoting handle design were also praised. One reviewer stated, "The steering took some getting used to but now it's really good. Cuts well at different levels. Long lead."
Cutting Performance and Results
Customers repeatedly made comments about the quality level of cut, highlighting how well it coped with varying lengths and types of grass. A user simply wrote, "Cuts very short on lowest setting very good, wheeled action helps with uneven lawn too." Another responded, "Strong, very quiet, very efficient."
There were also comments made about how the mowers performed on larger gardens. To paraphrase one consumer, "I just love this mower and I have a big garden and it works really well. I would recommend it to everyone else."
Comfort and Adjustable Features
The height of the handle received extra praise from users who are taller and usually suffer from backache while working on traditional mowers. One critic wrote, "The variable handle height is a bonus for tall people like me and saves a backache."
Cutters were also commended for the ease of single-lever cutting height adjustment. "You can easily change the cutting level by handle on wheel. Cut grass easily," said one owner, who indicated how much simpler it was to accomplish compared to older systems that required tools or manual deck adjustments.
Grass Collection and Capacity
The large grass collection boxes on each unit were a highlight as an added bonus. One buyer commented, "Great for my garden. A sturdy grass cutter with lots of grass collecting room in the box."
But while most of the customers were stunned at the capacity, some did mention the trade-off. As one put it, "While the grass box has a high capacity of grass before the need to empty, this does make the mower heavier when cutting if you leave it until full."
Value for Money and Reliability
One of the threads running through the feedback was price-performance ratio satisfaction. One called it "Excellent price and product, easy to use, highly recommended, best lawn mower I had so far." Another was just as pleased: "So far, happy with my purchase of the lawnmower! Used 4 times and settings are flexible with easy operation of machine! Hopefully no problems!"
Certain customers even commented that they hope this is the last time they will ever purchase a mower, which says a lot regarding its durability. "I saw this and thought it seems like a many-year mower… using this only 3 times since buying I'm surprised, I just hope it is the last mower I ever have to buy."
Helping Others
Unexpectedly, some customers purchased the mower for their elderly relatives or older family members who owned larger gardens. One of them explained, "I bought this for my nan and auntie as they were finding their one difficult work and turning but this is a doddle to turn and use." Another person mentioned, "I bought this for my son a few months ago.". He has tried using it a couple of times and says it is great. Exactly what he was looking for. And really well priced too."
Mixed Reviews
While Black + Decker EasySteer Corded Rotary Lawnmowers have been impressive for most of their customers, there are a few customers who were more critical in their experience. These mixed reviews highlight where the mower shone as well as areas of disappointment over weight, quality of build, and design features.
Weight and Manoeuvrability
Several users also commented that while it does have its so-called EasySteer technology, the mower was actually heavier and bulkier than expected. One user said, "It looks light and easy to walk around but it wasn't." Another said, "Talk of heavy, it was ridiculous."
The issue was often blamed on the large grass collection box, which, when full, seemed to make the mower harder to push. As one reviewer put it, "The mower itself cuts well. However, the basket doesn't work properly, and I had to cover mine with mesh to make it usable. The mower is also quite heavy. Generally, regret buying this."
Pivoting Handle – A Key Feature
The pivoting EasySteer handle also garnered mixed reactions. Some felt it was not worth having as an improvement. "The steering thing is useless unless you have a curved lawn," a user simply wrote.
Others found it difficult at first to adjust to, and it was said to take some users potentially longer to get used to the design.
Build Quality Concerns
The other common theme among mixed reviews was dissatisfaction with the perceived build quality. In comparison to mowers from past models, one user had the following complaint, "Materials feel light compared to my old model even the blade is lighter, making pinging noises when crossing the occasional twig."
Another put it this way: "It cuts the grass as promised, but assembling the grass collection box was not fun at all, and compared to the old McGregor one, really felt cheap to say the least."
These comments suggest some consumers may expect more sturdy construction from a well-known company like Black + Decker.
Assembly Challenges
The mowing assembly, particularly the grass box collection, was infuriating for some customers. One said, "I found the assembly of the grass box a bit tricky and someone with not much dexterity may have difficulty." Another stated, "Extremely difficult to assemble. The instructions leaflet is utterly useless."
Trigger and Button Design
Others complained about hassle caused by the activation mechanism, where the button has to be constantly pressed while using it. One customer summed up, "I think this lawn mower is a little too heavy to push around and with holding the handles and having to press the button in all the time for it to move, my thumbs started to get tired and slip."
Reliability Issues
Although less prevalent, a few instances of mechanical issues were reported. One disgruntled consumer wrote, "Cut out 5 times when used for the first time… Not impressed with the name EasySteer since it isn't."
Negative Reviews
Despite a general positive opinion, there have been some chronic issues from several users with Black + Decker EasySteer mower line. Most concerns revolve around weight, big and bulky build, reliability, and insufficient design flexibilities specifically for different gardens.
Heavy Weight & Uncooperative Manoeuvrability
Another frequent criticism is that the mower is heavier and clumsier than advertised. Independent testing supported this, describing "Not as easy to manoeuvre as some of the others I tested, particularly when the grass box fills." Owners also complained about this, stating that it was "ridiculous" how it turned so heavy when in operation or when towing a full grass box.
Fragile Build Quality & Component Reliability
Some reviews challenged the build quality of certain components. One reviewer stated - "Materials feel flimsy compared to my old model…" Additional reviews also warned the mower might be "toy-like," with reports of blades snapping or plastic components breaking within months of ownership.
Clogging, Motor Shutdown & Reliability Issues
Others have faced problems with performance in dense or long grass. Some users reported that corded models tend to clog and struggle under thick growth: “Mine clogs and shuts off constantly while I’m using it… they overload easily when cutting thick grass.” Multiple users also mentioned the mower abruptly stopping mid-session, possibly due to overheating or motor faults.
Height Adjustment & Blade Concerns
Feedback is also that the height adjustment lever will loosen or break during mowing. One reviewer noted "The plastic height adjustment goes down to 1″ every time… I always need to stop the mower and turn it upside down." Reviewers also mentioned that it is hard to replace new blades, which might be a downfall for extended use.
Cable Constraints & Cord Management
While designed to offer eternal runtime, sitting on a cord was not a success with all. Manufacturers developed cable hooks into styling, but the consumer complained "Getting used to a cord was difficult… corded lawn mower equals always having cord out of the way.
Who it is For
The Black + Decker EasySteer Corded Rotary Lawnmower range is for those with medium-sized to large gardens who want a fashionable, well-specified mower using the convenience of mains power. It would be perfect for anyone with a lawn full of obstructions such as trees, bushes, or garden furniture. The EasySteer swivelling handle is the major advantage here, as it makes steering round tight spots much easier.
It is equally suitable for speed and efficiency-conscious consumers. The 38cm and 42cm cutting widths allow quicker mowing on larger lawns, and the spacious 45L and 50L grass boxes reduce trips to the compost. The single-lever height adjustment will charm users who want an effortless setup, and features like the Easy Start button and built-in carry handles make it easier for older consumers or those with diminished strength.
If you are upgrading from a smaller, older lawn mower or a hover mower, you will appreciate the power boost (1600W or 1800W), cutting and grass collection capacity. For lawns with relatively even terrain and access to power sockets, the corded model also offers no waiting time for charging and uninterrupted mowing.
This mower will particularly suit…
- Homeowners with medium-to-large lawns (where 12–15m cable reach is sufficient).
- People looking for quick and efficient cutting as a result of wider decks.
- People who need a corded mower for uninterrupted runtime.
- People looking for a combination of affordability and modern features.
Who It Is Not For
This mower is less suitable for those that need lightweight, extremely manoeuvrable machines. Various reviewers have noted that while the EasySteer handle helps, the overall weight (16.7kg for the 38cm model and 18.3kg for the 42cm) is heavy especially when the grass box is laden.
It can also frustrate customers with sloping or uneven lawns. The weight of the machine, combined with its corded version, makes it cumbersome in gardens where you find yourself repositioning and lifting the machine all the time.
If you want a sturdy, robust build, this range may not be for you. Some buyers criticized the mower as being light in certain spots, particularly the grass box and adjustment component. If you often mow long or damp grass, you may also have issues with clogging or motor overload, as some complaints have indicated.
Also, somebody who does not like working with a power cord may enjoy a cordless version. Even though the built-in cable management system, people complained it was a nuisance having to keep the cord out of the way when mowing.
This mower is not great if…
- Your lawn is super large or far from power sources (due to cable limitations).
- You have mobility issues or prefer to use light equipment.
- You need a mower for frequent heavy-duty use on rough terrain.
- You prioritise premium build quality and ultra-durable components.
Pros for the Black + Decker Corded Lawnmowers
1, Excellent manoeuvrability with EasySteer handle - The pivoting handle design allows the mower to tilt by 20% in either direction, making it easier to steer around trees, flowerbeds, and garden furniture. Many users say it saves time and reduces effort compared to traditional fixed handles.
2, Quick and easy height adjustment - A simple single-lever cutting height system enables you to change between six positions (2cm–7cm) without difficulty. This is much less troublesome than in previous models that required spanners or more than one action.
3, Roomy cutting widths and capacity grass box - 38cm and 42cm decks cater to medium to large gardens. Coupled with 45L or 50L grass boxes, you spend less time emptying clippings and more time mowing.
4, Adequate power for majority of lawn cutting - Equipped with 1600W and 1800W motors, these mowers possess well above average power for typical garden grass. Consumers report clean, even cuts even with reduced height settings.
5, Centralised start button and ambidextrous use - The centralised start button allows single-handed use with either hand, making it easier for left-hand use or for changing hands when mowing.
6, Cable management system - Two cable clips keep control of the 12m–15m power cord, which stops it from being run over by accident or being entangled when mowing.
7, Good accessibility features - Specifically designed to fit taller users, the height-adjustable handle avoids back strain. Carry handles are also integrated for convenient lifting and storing of the mower.
8, Reasonable price point for feature set - Both models are good value for money (£120–£150 for the 38cm and £170–£200 for the 42cm), which means that purchasers need not sacrifice on up-to-date features when seeking a bargain.
Cons of the Black + Decker Corded Lawnmowers
1, Heavier than anticipated - At 16.7kg and 18.3kg respectively, these mowers are not light machines. A few reviewers noted that they are heavy to push, especially with the grass box full. They can be a hindrance to those with limited strength or mobility.
2, Plastic parts are not as robust - Some users complained about the build quality, especially the grass box and parts of the handle. What was expressed were terms like "flimsy" and "cheap" compared to older or more expensive models.
3, Pivoting handle takes practice - While others enjoy the EasySteer feature, others found it clumsy initially and said that it requires a learning curve. If you are used to rigid old-fashioned handles, then this will not be second nature.
4, Corded design limits range and mobility - Although the 12m–15m cable is quite generous, it will never be enough to cover very large gardens without an extension lead. Handling the cord still remains a nuisance for some even with the cable management system.
5, Struggles with wet or tall grass - Similar to most electric mowers, they struggle with very long or wet grass, which could lead to clogging or motor overload.
6, Diddly assembly for some customers - Some customers complained that it was difficult to assemble the grass box, and the instruction manual was not adequate.
Final Verdict
Black + Decker EasySteer Corded Rotary Lawnmower series is a great, user-friendly option for homeowners looking for a reliable electric mower with modern features. The pivoting handle feature is a real winner, making it easier to steer around obstacles and reducing arm and shoulder stress. Along with powerful engines, large cutting widths, and heavy grass collection boxes, these mowers are best suited for medium to large gardens where efficiency is needed.
Economical Accessible to Many Users
Most customers applaud EasySteer models for even, clean cuts, simple height adjustment, and thoughtful conveniences like cable management and carry handles. Easy Start technology and handle height adjustment also make it easier for most users, especially the elderly or for taller individuals.
Few Compromises
All of that aside, there are one or two sacrifices to keep in mind. The heaviness of both machines, especially when the grass box is loaded, has been a regular complaint, and some considered the plastic components less robust than anticipated. The corded build, while cost-effective, can sometimes be limiting if you possess a very large lawn or prefer the ease of cordless use.
Reasonable Price Point
Overall, the EasySteer series is as good as its word of convenience and performance at a reasonable price. For the majority of users, especially those who are upgrading from older or simpler models, it is excellent value for money. However, if you have a terribly uneven garden, struggle with heavy machinery, or dislike messing around with cord handling, you may want to reconsider.
Rating 4 out of 5 stars
A very well-made and effective electric mower with first-class features and good cutting power. Minor disadvantages like weight and cord limitations prevent the final score, but the majority of consumers are extremely satisfied with their purchase.
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