For most domestic gardens up to around 500m², a cordless battery lawn mower is more convenient — no fuel, lower maintenance, quieter, and no fumes. Petrol mowers suit larger gardens or rough terrain. Modern 40V and 56V cordless mowers are now capable enough for most garden sizes.
For light pruning and logs up to 25cm diameter, a cordless chainsaw with a 12-14 inch bar is sufficient. For felling trees or heavier work, a 16-18 inch bar gives more capacity. The bar should always be at least 2 inches longer than the diameter of wood you're cutting.
Blade length (50-60cm suits most domestic hedges) and tooth spacing (18-20mm for soft growth, 25-28mm for thicker stems) are the key specs. Cordless hedge trimmers are the most popular choice for domestic use. For large formal hedges, a longer blade and higher battery voltage makes the job much faster.
For cleaning patios, cars and garden furniture, 100-140 bar is sufficient. For tougher jobs like driveways or removing moss, 140-160 bar is more effective. Flow rate (litres per hour) is equally important — a higher flow rate cleans faster even at the same pressure.
Whether you're maintaining a small lawn or managing a large plot, the right garden tools make the job far easier. At 1sttools.co.uk we compare prices on garden tools from UK retailers daily — cordless, electric and petrol across all major brands.
Lawn mowers — for most gardens under 300m² a cordless lawn mower is the most convenient choice. Look for at least 40V battery platform, adjustable cutting height, and a grass box capacity of 40 litres or more. If you're already on a Dewalt, Makita or EGO battery platform, check for compatible mowers to save on battery costs.
Hedge trimmers and strimmers — a cordless hedge trimmer with a 50–55cm blade covers most garden hedges comfortably. For long grass and edges, a cordless strimmer with a split shaft is easier to store and transport. Again, matching battery platforms saves money.
Pressure washers — for patios, driveways and garden furniture a pressure washer in the 130–150 bar range handles most domestic jobs well. Electric models are quieter and need less maintenance than petrol; petrol suits professionals who need more power away from a socket.
Chainsaws — cordless chainsaws are now powerful enough for most domestic felling and log cutting. For regular heavy use or large diameter logs, petrol still wins on runtime and power. Always use the correct PPE: chainsaw trousers, gloves, helmet and visor.
All prices checked daily across Screwfix, Toolstation, Amazon and other UK retailers.
