Robot mowers are no longer niche gadgets. Thanks to wire‑free navigation and intuitive apps, more UK homeowners are adopting them. With models ranging from simple drop‑and‑mow units for small lawns to powerful machines for acres of land, choosing the right mower requires understanding key specifications and technologies. This guide covers the main factors to consider in 2026.1 – Lawn size and complexityMeasure your lawn – Know your total area and note any separate zones.
If you have separate front and back gardens or multiple lawns, choose a mower with multi‑zone mapping. EGO’s AURA‑R2 maps up to 40 zones; Mammotion’s Luba series manages up to 100 smart zones (per marketing materials).Obstacles and passages – For narrow passages and complex layouts, opt for mowers with
Navigation technology
For high precision, choose RTK‑enabled mowers like Mammotion’s Luba 3 and Segway Navimow. Kress’s RTKⁿ uses a network of antennas to achieve inch‑level accuracy.
LiDAR and vision – LiDAR scanners and
AI cameras improve mapping and obstacle detection. Mammotion’s Tri‑Fusion and Segway’s X4 series use LiDAR; EGO’s PATH IQ uses VSLAM and VIO.App mapping – STIGA, Kress and
Slope capabilityAssess the steepest slope in your garden. Mowers like Mammotion Luba 3 handle 80 % gradients, Segway Navimow X4 manages 84 %, while more affordable models handle 35–45 %. Choose a model that comfortably exceeds your slope to ensure reliability.4 –
Longer runtimes reduce the number of charges. High‑capacity batteries in Luba 3 and EGO RMR6000E allow mowing of large areas in fewer passes.Cutting width and height – Wider decks cut more area per pass but may struggle in narrow spaces.
Systematic vs random patterns – Wire‑free mowers usually use systematic stripe patterns, improving efficiency and lawn health. STIGA’s AGS and Kress’s RTKⁿ produce neat stripes.5 – Connectivity and smart features
Most 2026 models integrate with iOS/Android apps; some support Alexa or Google Home.Data connectivity – EGO provides three years of data for free; check subscription costs after the included period.Scheduling and zones – Choose mowers that let you set different schedules per zone. EGO, Mammotion and STIGA offer advanced scheduling.Weather sensors – Many mowers pause during rain to protect your lawn;
Price and total cost of ownershipPurchase price – Wireless mowers start around £1,000; advanced models like
With plug‑and‑play mowers, installation is free if you do it yourself.
Energy and maintenance –
Wh per week.
Software updates and subscriptions –
Brands and after‑sales supportSTIGA – Offers
Known for Tri‑Fusion navigation and all‑wheel drive; Luba mini, Yuka mini 2 and Luba 3 suit various garden sizes.
LiDAR; X4 and i2 series cover different lawn sizes.
Kress – RTKⁿ mowers deliver precision without wires or antennas; suitable for residential and commercial lawns.
EGO – AURA‑R2 range uses PATH IQ (RTK, VSLAM, V
IO) and offers multi‑zone mapping and app control.
Nera models (beyond our citations) incorporate RTK and satellite navigation.
Internal link suggestionsSlope-friendly mowers –
Consider slope capability.Installation cost guide – Budget for setup.
Large garden mowers – Options for bigger lawns.Small garden mowers – Recommendations for compact plots.Summary & call to actionChoosing a robot mower in 2026 means understanding your garden’s size, complexity and slopes and selecting the right navigation technology.
Wire‑free models dominate the market, with STIGA, Mammotion, Segway, Kress and EGO offering plug‑and‑play installation and sophisticated mapping. Evaluate runtime, zone management, connectivity, price and after‑sales support. Use this guide to shortlist models, then explore our individual reviews or contact us for personalised advice.
