Advice on choosing a robot mower for every yard type

A robot mower is an expensive purchase, and the right choice depends more on your yard than on brand names. Consider layout, terrain, obstacles and the navigation system; those factors determine whether a model will work well for you. Navigation falls into three main types.

Wired boundary mowers follow a buried perimeter wire and offer reliable containment but require labor to install. GPS/NetRTK models create and stick to a satellite-based map, with easier setup than wire but a need for a clear view of the sky and higher cost. Visual navigation uses LiDAR, cameras and AI for a near ‘‘drop-and-mow’’ experience that’s easiest to set up, though the technology can still drift or misidentify areas.

Match mower specs to yard size, terrain and budget. Lot acreage determines battery and cutting-width needs; price bands run roughly $500–$1,000 (budget), $1,000–$2,000 (midrange) and $2,000–$6,000 (premium). Hilly or rough terrain may require all-wheel drive.

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