Our verdict
The bottom line
The mower in millions of UK sheds. Qualcast/Suffolk/Argos lineage means people inherit them, sell them, and buy another. Disposable but legendary value at sub-£30 used.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Cheapest reputable electric with rear roller
- Tiny and storable
- Rear roller for stripes — rare at this price
- Massive used supply
Cons
- 30cm cut very narrow
- Plastic everything
- Motor windings can fail after 5+ years
Full specs
| Type | Electric |
|---|---|
| Cut width | 30 cm |
| Engine / Power | 1000W motor |
| Weight | 9 kg |
| Deck | Plastic |
| Self-propelled | No |
| Rear roller | Yes (stripes) |
| Mulching | No |
| Cutting heights | 6 positions |
| Bag capacity | 25 L |
| Suited to lawn | Small |
| Noise level | 78 dB |
Buying second-hand
Used-market tip
£15–35 used and Marketplace has dozens. Cable repair is the most common fault — £10 to rewire if you can. Listen for motor whine (worn brushes). Rear roller bearings should turn freely. If the seller will not run it on the day, walk away.
Where to look: Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are usually 20–30% cheaper than eBay UK for petrol mowers because most sellers want local pickup. eBay tends to win on cordless and electric (lighter, easier to ship). Always insist on a starting demonstration before paying.