Spear & Jackson are now a household name in UK gardens, with their corded rotary lawnmowers consistently amongst the top-selling electric models on the high street. In particular, two of their top-selling machines the 37cm Corded Rotary Lawnmower (1600W) and the 40cm Corded Rotary Lawnmower (1700W) are causing waves for offering good value for money in features and price, often via retailers like Argos.
Plug in Solution
Both mowers are of interest to homeowners in need of a low-maintenance, plug-in solution to lawn maintenance without the cost or maintenance needs of petrol. On balance, the brand name and general feedback are both good, but customer experiences vary depending on lawn makeup, user expectations, and lasting durability. In this review, we attempt to look past the product listings and provide a better sense of what customers might reasonably expect from these products.
Spear & Jackson 37cm 1600W Corded Rotary Lawnmower
This is a medium lawns model, with its 1600-watt motor giving a good thump for the average UK grass conditions. It comes in a 37cm cutting width, which is a sensible compromise between ease of use and productivity. Part of the major selling point is the rear roller, which guarantees that classic British lawn stripes—something that most buyers desire for a tidier finish.
Height adjustment is simple, with a single-lever setup allowing users to access a range of cutting heights. The 40-litre grass box is large enough, and the mower folds for easy storage. On paper, it looks a sound choice for regular domestic use. But some consumer reports have experienced problems with performance on wet grass or rough ground, and questions about long-term durability do crop up in a couple of reviews.
Spear & Jackson 40cm 1700W Corded Rotary Lawnmower
A boost in power and capacity, the 1700W model features a bigger 40cm cutting deck, and is therefore more suited to slightly larger lawns or those who prefer not to spend so long each time. Like its smaller sibling, it features a rear roller and centralised height adjustment, but with a higher 50-litre grass box and better, more powerful motor, it will aim to give quicker results with less emptying.
It would appear to offer an upscale upgrade at first glance, but still fall within the category of low-price electric mower. The additional weight and size could translate to more stability and a more pleasurable mow for some. For others, it would be less convenient, especially when cutting tight corners or small lawn details. Again, although the majority of reviews are highly positive—mentioning ease of use, quality of cut, and cost—are mixed reports regarding the plastic build and lengthy cable at times getting in the way.
How They Compare
Side by side, the Spear & Jackson 37cm 1600W and 40cm 1700W corded rotary lawnmowers are highly similar—but also possess significant differences which will determine the user experience according to lawn size, terrain, and personal preference.
Power and Cutting Width
The most stark difference is in power and cutting width. The 1600W machine possesses a respectable 37cm cut, while the 1700W version offers a very slightly wider 40cm cut. While the 3cm margin is close, it will make a significant difference on bigger lawns, reducing the number of passes needed. The increased wattage of the 1700W model also means that it will be able to handle harder or thicker grass slightly better, although both machines are intended for home use, not industrial use.
Grass Collection Capacity
The bigger model is also equipped with a bigger grass collector box, 50 litres compared to the 40 litres of the 37cm mower. For those with larger surfaces to cut, this will be fewer interruptions to empty the collector. Some will no doubt prefer the smaller box, however, and find it less clumsy and easier to lift when full.
Manoeuvrability and Weight
Typically, the 37cm version is lighter and slightly smaller and therefore easier to store and more suitable for gardens with complex corners or obstructions. The 40cm mower, being wider in frame and greater in components, may be more heavy-duty but may also be harder to manoeuvre for people who would prefer something fast on its feet.
Both models feature rear rollers for creating lawn stripes, a feature unusual at this price. Both mowers, it is reported, can leave a neat and crisp finish on well-groomed lawns. The slightly heavier 40cm mower may even produce crisper stripes due to greater downward pressure from its build and roller.
Cable Length and Build Quality
Both of these machines come with a 12-metre cable, which is typical for corded mowers of this cost but maybe limiting on very long gardens. Extension leads can be employed to provide full cover. Build quality is typically cited as being good value for the money but with some mention of the plastic casing and durability—issues that exist on both machines and seem more related to overall wear over time rather than specific faults.
Value for Money
In price, the 1600W lawn mower typically is slightly cheaper and may be better for smaller lawns or for those requiring a trim, no-frills product. The 1700W is somewhat more expensive but better suited to medium lawns and those who prefer speed and fewer instances where they have to release the grass box.
In brief, the 37cm model is more convenient and easy, while the 40cm one has extra cutting power and cutting area. Both are not subjectively superior, the right pick simply relies on your lawn area, how powerful you are, and how much you can afford to spend on extra power and width.
Positive Reviews
In both models, Spear & Jackson mowers are consistently praised for lightness, ease of use, and quality finishes especially impressive given their affordability-led positioning.
Spear & Jackson 37cm 1600W Corded Rotary Lawnmower
Several reviewers commented on how amazingly light and easy to manoeuvre this mower is: "Light & smooth cutter… it's so light to move around the garden… I now cut the lawn in a quarter of the time". The same light-frame and accurate cutting blade resonated with other reviews: "Easy to use, light to push and cuts well. The grass box is a good size."
Another review emphasized the mower's capability to cut long grass: "Small but powerful… Runs like a dream… Cuts the grass very well… Excellent mower." Independent review sites also emphasize its depth of features: Good grass collection performance, aided by an inventive comb that aids edge-reaching.
Seven height settings from 2.5 cm to 7 cm. Rear roller leaves neat lawn stripes. Long 12 m cable avoids constant repositioning of power source.
In addition, The Sun added that the mower was given a 4.6-star rating by over 1,100 reviewers with 94% recommending it. Shoppers adored its easy assembly, sturdy build, quiet operation, and excellent warranty despite a few complaining of early motor issues.
Spear & Jackson 40cm 1700W Corded Rotary Lawnmower
Response for larger 1700 W model is similarly positive: "Good for medium or larger gardens. Cuts well… Everywhere I am so far pleased with it… Good value for money too.".
Someone else praised its power and ability: "Just what you need for a medium to large garden… Best Buy of the year so far.". Higher capacity and longer durability also get repeated accolades: "Power mower… much bigger and stronger than my last mower—worth the cost.".
Even more negative respondents made comments on quality: "This cuts really well and is more substantial than some other makes."
And while there are some installation teething issues, most consider this mower to be good DIY quality: "Grass collector part … instructions … not well detailed… we struggled … you need two pair of hands… I am so far pleased with it.".
37cm Versus 40cm
Both models rate highly in terms of user-friendliness, cutting power, and value. The 37 cm excels on agility and ease of use, and the 40 cm on added power and increased capacity—ideal for large lawns. Unbiased critics concede they over-perform on their price point, and several reviews mention their striped finish and cleverly designed lawn-edge cutting combs.
Mixed Reviews
While both Spear & Jackson corded rotary lawnmowers receive overwhelmingly positive reviews, there have been mixed experiences from a range of users—most prominently those who reviewed at 3-star level or below. These kinds of reviews usually reflect problems with real-world use that aren't always obvious from product descriptions.
Spear & Jackson 37cm 1600W Corded Rotary Lawnmower
There are a number of 3-star reviews stating that the mower is just fine but maybe not durable. A few users complained that the mower was great initially but soon began to lose condition, even after only a single or two seasons. This varied from decreased motor power or dull blades to even more despite fairly moderate use.
A frequent grouse in lower ranks is that the mower struggles to cut long or damp grass. While much as the engine is adequate for short, neat grass, buyers found it occasionally clogged or faltered on tougher ground.
Assembly and design also attracted some criticism. One 2-star reviewer commented that the grass collection box was flimsy and did not remain securely in position while it was in use. Others found the height adjustment lever difficult to use or unintuitive on uneven lawns.
The cable handling was also a cause of frustration. Even though there was a 10 m cable, some users complained that this was limiting, particularly for bigger gardens, and the cable consistently obstructed them while mowing.
A few 1-star reviews were reports of early product failure, including motors stopping abruptly or machines not wanting to turn on after a few uses. While such a thing appears rare, it raises questions about the quality check procedure or even variable batches.
Spear & Jackson 40cm 1700W Corded Rotary Lawnmower
The larger 1700 W model also received mixed reviews from a few users, typically about build and initial impressions rather than durability. Some 3-star reviewers mentioned that the mower was "okay" but not very substantial. Complaints included thin plastic components that did not feel as substantial as they needed to be, particularly in the handle and wheel bracket.
Assembly once more was controversial. Some buyers reported that the instructions were confusing or badly illustrated, and a small number reported that the grass box was awkward to attach and easily came off while mowing.
Among the 2-star reviews, there were complaints of blade alignment issues and choppy cut results on bumpy or uneven grounds. Some reviewers complained of the mower not cutting near the edge despite its advertised edge comb feature.
There were also 1-star reviews noting premature motor failure or units that were received as defective out of the box. Although these were minority complaints, they do raise concerns about consistency and reliability after the sale.
Some Trade Offs…
These blended reviews suggest that while both mowers are good performers under ideal conditions, there are compromises made in terms of build quality, durability, and assembly experience. Power and cutting quality tend to be well lauded, but pragmatism needs to be sacrificed in terms of expectation—particularly for those with irregular ground, heavy grass loads, or extended use requirements. The mowers are great value, but sporadic quality control issues and component susceptibility do arise and need to be weighed.
Who It's For
These Spear & Jackson corded rotary lawnmowers are ideal for the homeowner who desires a utilitarian, affordable mower for regular garden maintenance. The 37 cm 1600 W is ideal for small to medium-sized gardens, typically up to 250 m² (about the size of a tennis court). It's light in weight, compact, and convenient to store—which makes it an appropriate alternative for anyone who has little space or who wants convenience over brawn.
The 40 cm 1700 W model offers extra cutting width and a larger collecting box, well-suited for medium to larger lawns—up to around 400 m². Its increased power can handle slightly thicker grass or longer mowing sessions without blocking. For light weekly mowing and tidy stripes with minimal effort, both machines are suitable when operating within their limitations.
These lawnmowers are especially well-suited for...
- New householders or occasional gardeners.
- People who prefer the ease of cords but without all the bother of charging or petrol.
- Those with fairly level, neatly mown grass and straightforward configurations.
Who It's Not For
Those will likely not work for users with large gardens (over 400–500 m²) or very complex, sloping, or uneven terrain. The 10 m power cord is limiting except in combination with an extension lead, and frequent plugging/unplugging becomes a chore on bigger lawns.
Those gardeners who frequently deal with soggy, overgrown, or thick grass might prefer motors underpowered for demanding conditions, particularly with the 1600 W model. Under such situations, a more powerful petrol or premium cordless mower will be a better alternative in performance and build quality.
They're not, though, for those who need heavy-duty reliability or for those who envision a mower lasting decades with high-frequency, hard use. While mowers are good value, they're built to an economy and need to be thought of as lightweight equipment for typical household use—not multi-years workhorses.
Lastly, noise-sensitive or plastic assembly piece-problem individuals may be content to spend money on a higher model with premium design and improved sound dampening.
Pros of Spear & Jackson Corded Lawnmowers
1, Good Value for Money - Both of them are good power for their price. Customers frequently say you get a lot of extras—rear roller, mulching plug, and edge combs—for less than many other mowers cost.
2, Lightweight and Easy to Manoeuvre - Especially with the 37 cm model, the light weight makes it easy to push and turn. Ideal for those who may struggle with heavier petrol or older-style mowers.
3, Clean and Sharp Cutting Performance - Both models cut cleanly on normal lawn conditions. Seven adjustable cutting heights (25–75 mm) provide flexibility when you're doing a close trim or tougher longer grass.
4, Rear Roller for Lawn Stripes - The models also have a rear roller, uncommon at this price. Even though not as heavy as a commercial roller, it still creates a noticeable stripe effect that gives your lawn a neat look.
5, Ample Grass Box Capacity - The 40 cm variant in particular features a 50-litre grass box, reducing the need to stop and empty it. Even the 37 cm has a respectable 40 litres.
6, Low Maintenance and Silent Operation Since they are corded electric mowers, there is no concern about fuel, batteries, or oil. They begin with the touch of a button and are relatively quiet—something of an edge in residential neighbourhoods.
7, Good for Edges and Borders - By adding a side grass comb, it will suck the grass in towards the edge so blades will cut right up to fences and flowerbeds. It means less to have to strim later on.
Cons for Spear & Jackson Corded Lawnmowers
1, Limited Range Due to Cable Length - Both mowers come with a 12 m power cord, which may be too short for larger gardens. You’ll likely need a weatherproof extension lead to reach all corners of your lawn.
2, Not Ideal for Large or Irregular Ground - Despite the higher wattage of the 1700 W model, neither mower is ideal for large gardens (larger than 400–500 m²) or ground that's hugely irregular. They work best on flat, well-maintained lawns.
3, Build Quality Is Basic - Some reviewers note that parts—the handles, grass box, and levers for adjustment—are a bit lightweight. While functional, they may not hold up to heavy or rough treatment for an extended period.
4, Combination Assembly Experience - It is difficult to put it together. Some users complained that the instructions were ambiguous and fitting the grass collector was not straightforward. This is more often reported on the 40 cm model.
5, Tricky in Wet or Tall Grass - The models work as well as they can on dry days and regular mowing. Operators attempting to mow wet, heavy, or tall grass will encounter clogging, bogging, or blade stalling.
6, No Auto Propulsion - As with most low-cost electric lawn mowers, you must push them yourself. While light, they can become tiresome on long sessions or on hills.
7, Irregular Quality Testing (As Reported by Some) - There were some reports of early failure by users, such as motors failing within months or machines not starting. Although under warranty, it suggests some irregularity of factory testing.
Know the Limits
The benefits far outweigh disadvantages for the average homeowner with a small to medium-sized yard requiring a dependable, simple-to-use mower at a reasonable cost. However, consumers should be aware of limitations and set expectations appropriately—especially regarding assembly, ground manipulation, and long-term performance.
Biggest Criticisms
Both Spear & Jackson corded rotary lawn mowers have some positives, but they do have some of the same criticisms echoed by real users:
1, Cable Management Is Exhausting - Despite the 12 m power cable—longer than the usual 10 m—you still find the cord management a permanent nuisance. You must keep readjusting and moving the cable so that you do not drive over it, and this slows you down and disrupts your rhythm.
2, Construction makes it feel flimsy - Most reviewers describe the mower's construction as "a bit flimsy"—especially around the grass box, handles, and height-adjustment levers. Functional, yes, but not the solidity of more expensive models.
3, Assembly and Grass Box Issues - A number of owners have some kind of assembly complaint—confusing instructions, tricky handle fixings, and grass boxes that do not fit. One of the 40 cm model reviewers said: "Grass collectors’ part … instructions … not well detailed… you need two pair of hands…" / "The grass collection box was lightweight and did not remain securely attached in use.".
4, Blade and Durability Issues - Some customers have complained about motor failures within a short time, in addition to blade problems. There was one less frequent but serious criticism by The Sun that complained of motor blowouts and poor after-sales service. As admitted by some customers, there are difficulties with blade servicing: "Blade broke while mowing…the rotating axle just turns when I try to remove it". This indicates that part replacement and servicing would be difficult for all customers.
5, Challenging Conditions Performance - While adequate for routine maintenance, the mowers struggle with wet grass, long grass, or uneven surfaces. Feedback mentions bogging up or jamming, and customers frustrated with the need for too much stopping to clear clumps of grass.
Final Verdict
The Spear & Jackson corded rotary lawnmowers, 37 cm (1600 W) and 40 cm (1700 W), offer an excellent balance of power, convenience, and value for normal UK gardens. Even though not ideal for coarse ground or seriously large areas, they work very well on flat, small to medium lawns with regular servicing.
For anyone seeking a mower that is easy to use, produces neat stripes, and is good value without the hassle of petrol or batteries, these models are just the thing.
⭐ Verdict: 5/5 for small gardens, value, and ease
⭐ Verdict: 3.5/5 for build quality and longevity in larger or more challenging gardens
In summary, they're ideal for casual mowers with small gardens who want an easy-to-use electric mower that gets the job done without any fuss.
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