Looking for a budget lawnmower that won't let you down? Corded electric lawnmowers are still a favourite among many UK homeowners who want affordable, hassle-free gardening maintenance without the petrol model's noise, fumes or upkeep.
McGregor, being one of the better-known brands in budget garden machinery, offers a selection of highly-rated corded models but how do they cope with regular use? Are they stable enough for your needs, or are there drawbacks you need to know about before buying?
Real World Feedback
In this review, we try the real-world performance and user feedback of the McGregor 31cm 1200W and McGregor 34cm 1400W corded rotary lawnmowers two light-duty machines for small to medium gardens. With hundreds of positive reviews and good value for money, they're a safe bet. But, as with all bargains, they're not perfect for everyone. Let's take a closer look…
Value Alternatives
McGregor is a brand to be found on the shelves of leading UK retailers and is often sold as the value option to more expensive garden kit. The firm itself might not have the history of Bosch or Flymo but has carved out a niche for its range based on simple to operate designs, affordably priced and reasonable performance for smaller gardens.
Plug and Go Approach
The 1200W 31cm model is best for smaller areas of grass and lighter workloads, while the 34cm 1400W model is slightly more powerful and better-equipped with a rear roller for striped lawns and additional cutting height settings. Both models are corded, which gives them uninterrupted runtime as long as you stay in range of a socket. For those who don’t want the hassle of charging batteries or dealing with petrol fumes, this plug-and-go approach can be a major plus.
Trade Offs
But value-focused models often come with trade-offs. Customer reviews highlight both the practical strengths and the build limitations that are worth considering especially if your garden is uneven, has thicker grass, or if you’re expecting durability over many seasons.
Key Features
The 31cm 1200W electric rotary mower from McGregor is a no-nonsense, low-key choice for small lawns. Weighing only 9.6kg, it's light enough to push or carry with ease, so it will suit older users or those who don't have much room to store it. It features a steel winged 31cm blade that helps to enhance airflow for improved grass collection, and it benefits from a 30-litre grass box that will be able to cover small ground before needing emptying.
Torque Power
Power is delivered through a 1200W motor with Torque Drive, an upgrade that safeguards cutting performance when cutting slightly denser patches of grass. The cutting height is adjustable on three levels from 20mm to 60mm, though the system employs repositioning the wheels by hand a system that functions but is less convenient than one lever.
34cm Model Advantages
The McGregor 34cm 1400W step it up a notch with its more robust engine and bigger cutting deck, allowing it to maintain very slightly larger lawns more readily. The most obvious point is the rear roller, which allows it to create that classic striped effect gardeners so often want. This model also has a single-handed height adjust lever for six cutting heights of 20mm up to 70mm an optional convenience on the smaller model's wheel-removal system.
Manufacturer's Guarantee
Both mowers have a foldable handle for convenient storage, a 10m power cord, and soft grip handles for easier use. Safety is covered with a two-handed start switch and blade brake to stop accidents from happening while in use. Both models also have a two-year manufacturer's warranty, which provides extra confidence to your purchase.
Customer Reviews
A foray into consumer opinions on Argos reveals a plethora of both positive and mixed comments about these two McGregor cord mowers.
McGregor 31cm 1200W
It boasts a 4.2 / 5 average rating from over 300 reviews, clearly satisfying customers. Positive Experiences - Many customers praise its easy, lightweight handling. One customer said, "Perfect for my small garden – so simple to push and store." Others say its collection of grass is effective and has a good power output: "Cuts well and collects well for the size, does the job without complaint."
Mixed Feedback: Some users note that the mower struggles with slightly longer or damp grass. Typical complaint: "Good for regular cuts, but jams if grass is just a bit long or wet." Some also mentioned the wheel-adjust height mechanism, while functioning, is slow compared to lever-based ones.
In general, owners like its ease of use and compact design, particularly for smaller lawns that need regular maintenance. It could underperform in more challenging or denser grass situations.
McGregor 34cm 1400W
This larger model stands out with a score of 4.5 / 5 from nearly 1,500 reviews, with 91% of customers recommending it. Galore Praise - Customers frequently cite its strong motor and tidy finished lawn. For instance: "Strong enough for thick patches and leaves a beautiful stripe with the roller." Even the one-hand cutting-height lever is frequently complimented: "Changing heights is a doddle – much better than with the compact model."
Beneficial Reports: Others caution that it's still great for small to medium lawns, since it may not do well in very long, wet grass. Some cited the weight (11.4 kg) as being heavier to manoeuvre, but still easily managed by most.
Reliability remarks - An extremely small percentage had cable connect troubles in the long term or grass spill-over on full bag, but these were balanced by rapid customer service replies assuring replacement or solutions.
Patterns Throughout Feedback
Highlights - Both mowers rate high on ease of use, convenience storage, and excellent value for money. The 1400W variant leads in power, cutting performance, and lawn looks (striping effect).
Common Caveats
Both mowers are only for light use, performance declines with long, damp, or heavy grass. Small mower's manual wheel adjustment is backwoods and fiddly. Cable length (10 m) limits usable range extenders may be needed by larger gardens.
Biggest Criticisms
While the majority of customers are satisfied with McGregor's 31cm and 34cm corded rotary mowers, there are consistent themes in the unhappy and mixed feedback that prospective buyers should consider. What is presented here is a cautious consideration of the most common complaints raised, based on detailed user reviews.
McGregor 31cm 1200W - Not for All Gardens
Despite being a favourite as a cheap option, the 31cm 1200W mower is often panned for not cutting anything better than short dry grass. One overheard a common comment being: "Stalls if the grass is too long or wet – had to re-mow the same spot twice." This is hand in hand with the mower having a modest motor, which while sufficient, may not be able to perform in adverse mowing conditions.
A common complaint is also about the adjustment system for cutting height. Instead of a lever, one must take off and replace the wheels to alter height settings. One reviewer was frank: "Adjusting the height by taking the wheels off is annoying and time-consuming."
There are also occasional comments about build quality. While not common, some noted that parts feel flimsy: “Does the job, but the plastic feels cheap – I’m not sure it’ll last more than a couple of seasons.”
McGregor 34cm 1400W - More Power, but Still Some Flaws
Even with improved overall reviews, the 34cm model is not without its own criticisms. The rear roller, much praised for its stripe-making abilities, is occasionally mentioned as being difficult to manage when it comes to cutting over rough ground. The above review was posted: "Roller is a good idea, but it does lift the back wheels slightly – makes the cut uneven sometimes."
Some commentators were concerned about weight and manoeuvres, one of them stating: "Heavier than I thought. Good in straight line, but awkward in tight curves." At 11.4kg, it is still within most individuals' reach, but those with less power or more complex gardens may not be so comfortable.
There were also a few sporadic mentions of electrical faults or failure following minimal use: "Failed after a few months – luckily within the guarantee." Although rare, these entries serve to highlight the worth of the included 2-year guarantee and keeping receipts.
Other Shared Issues
On both models, there are a few of the same criticisms which recur: Cable length limitations: "Would be an improvement with a longer lead – was forced to buy an extension just to get round the lawn." With only 10m cable, these mowers will not be suitable for those people who have medium sized or bigger gardens unless extension leads are available.
Grass box capacity - Some find the 30L and 35L grass boxes slightly too small, especially when cutting over a large area. As one user said: "Grass box fills quickly – lots of stopping and emptying."
Noise levels: Even if quieter than petrol mowers, some users still mention that the sound is higher, whiny: "Quieter than petrol, but still a bit whiny on the ears."
Who These Mowers Are For
Both the McGregor 31cm 1200W and 34cm 1400W are suitable for small lawns and will be perfect for residents or tenants looking for no-fuss, value-for-money electric mowing.
If your garden is up to 100 square metres, then the 31cm 1200W is a value option. It's ideal for…
- Light, regular maintenance of small grassy areas
- First-time buyers or those with limited space
- Users looking for a mower that's light and easy to manoeuvre
- Anyone budget conscious but looking for a decent grass collection box and some safety aspects
The 34cm 1400W is for slightly larger or thicker lawns up to 200 square metres and brings power and ability…
- Rear roller for striped lawn effect
- Enhanced height adjustment
- Enhanced cutting on slightly more demanding grass
- It's for users who require a little more capability but not into petrol or cordless models.
Who These Mowers Are Not For
These models may not meet expectations for users with large, uneven, or heavily overgrown lawns. Avoid the 31cm 1200W if…
- Your lawn is overgrown, bumpy, or exceeds 100m²
- You need fast cutting height adjustment – the wheel-based system is fiddly
- You want premium build quality or long-term durability
Avoid the 34cm 1400W if…
- You expect petrol-like cutting power on wet or very thick grass
- You struggle with turning or lifting heavier tools (over 11kg, it isn't feather-light)
- You need complete freedom in a garden – the 10m cable is too restrictive
Neither mower is for heavy-duty commercial work, large gardens, or continuous endurance cutting. They're ideal as the odd residential tool in tidy areas.
Advantages/Pros of the McGregor Corded Lawnmowers
1, Value for Money - Both offer great value for money. At a price between £50–£100, they are far cheaper than the majority of cordless or petrol alternatives.
2, Light & Folded - The 31cm model is especially lightweight at 9.6kg and is ideal for anyone who requires something that is easy to manoeuvre, store, and push. The 34cm model, although heavier, folds neatly and stores well in small sheds or garages.
3, Reasonable Power for Small Lawns - Both motors feature Torque Drive technology that gives them sufficient, consistent power for small to moderate-sized lawns. The 1400W motor of the 34cm lawn mower can take moderate thick grass areas.
4, Good Grass Collection - The two machines both have sufficient grass box capacities (30L and 35L) with sufficient airflow from winged or steel cutters to help maximize collection. All users reported barely any clippings left behind after cutting.
5, Safety Features & Comfort - Safety switches and two-handed start provisions are reassuring features, especially in the home environment. The soft grip handles also add to comfort over long sessions.
6, Rear Roller (1400W Model) - A rare added value at this price, the rear roller on the 34cm model offers a striped finish that is appealing to the majority of lawn lovers.
Cons of the McGregor Corded Lawnmowers
1, Not for Big or Problem Lawns - Neither mower is appropriate for lawns larger than 200m² or where the grass is long, wet, or uneven. Both machines are likely to clog or bog in these situations.
2, Short Power Lead Length - The 10m power lead is a continuing nuisance. For anything larger than a tiny garden, an extension lead is a near-obligatory additional purchase.
3, Discomfort Height Adjustment (1200W Model) - The 31cm model requires wheels to be taken off to change cutting height, which is clunky and old-fashioned in its design in the eyes of most users. In contrast, the 34cm model uses much simpler lever design.
4, Construction Quality Smells Basic - While mostly reliable, some customers felt that the plastic parts and frame (especially on the 31cm model) fail to inspire confidence in the long term.
5, Can Struggle with Wet or Thick Grass - Even the more powerful 1400W machine can labour in heavy grass situations. Dry weather mowing is the secret to maximum performance.
6, Weight (1400W Model) - At 11.4kg, the 34cm mower is considerably heavier and potentially harder to manoeuvre for some users, especially on slopes or rough terrain.
Verdict: A Good Budget Option with Realistic Restrictions
The McGregor corded lawnmowers are punching well above their weight in a number of areas. Both the 31cm 1200W and 34cm 1400W offer good cutting for smaller gardens, practical safety features, and smart design touches like fold-down handles and soft grip. The larger model's rear roller and improved height adjustment make it the more capable of the two but they both have a great attraction to tight-fisted gardeners who do a regular volume of mowing and keep on top of growth.
Not for Everyone
That said, they’re not for everyone. Larger gardens, wet or thick grass, or users looking for premium build quality will likely run into limitations. Build materials are functional rather than robust, and the short cable is a practical frustration unless you’re well set up with extensions.
If you have a tidy, neat little to medium garden and want a decent mower without breaking the bank, either McGregor option is a good buy. Just be sure of your requirements before buying.
Rating Breakdown
Value for Money⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) Excellent features at a decent price
Cutting Power⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) Good on short or dry grass, poor at harder jobs
Ease of Use⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) Light in weight, simple to handle, but cable limits movement
Build Quality⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) Good enough, some parts appear to be basic
Storage & Portability⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) Folds well, adequately small for small sheds
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.6 out of 5)
A good option for beginner electric mowers and suitable for smaller gardens and regular use.
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