Snapper is known for its innovations in lawn mowers over the decades, and the Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense continues this noble tradition. Not only is it packed with convenient features, but it also has an impressive battery life of one hour, making it easy to cut even large backyards without having to stop and recharge.
Dimensions: 64" x 21.8" x 42"
Weight: 90 lbs
Deck size: 21 inches
Battery: Up to 5Ah
LED headlights: N
Dual battery: Y
Self-propelled: Y
Max cutting height: 1 and ⅜ inches
Min cutting height: 3 and ¾ inches
Warranty: 5-year warranty
Energy Star Certified: N
This self-propelling electric mower makes the switch from gas to electric a no-brainer, with a large cutting area of 21 inches, easy fold-down for storage, and a host of adjustable settings, including no less than 7 grass height options. You can choose whether to mulch or eject your cuttings, as well as bagging them up in a capacious 1.7-bushel bagger.
Our review of the Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense has the lowdown on all its features and specs, including what users make of their Snapper mowers. And if this isn’t the electric mower you’re looking for, you’re certain to find the right fit for your yard in our buying guide to the best electric lawn mowers.
Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense: Design and build
- 90lbs weight
- 82 volt system
- 21-inch cut area
The Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense uses a powerful 82 volt system to run an impressive 1500 watts Briggs and Stratton brushless motor for plenty of cutting power across the 21-inch blade area. That's got more power than Greenworks 21-inch 60V MO60L410 and Stihl RMA 510 V.
The lightweight design helps to make this maneuverable while the self-propulsion system aids in making uphill work less effort. You still get a steel deck so you know it's strong and reliable.
One of the really important design positives here is the dual battery system which allows you to run off two batteries or one. That means you can be charging one while the other one keeps you cutting.
Use a simple push button to start and then you can pick what to do with the grass including bagging, mulching and side ejecting as you cut. With seven height positions you should be able to find the ideal finish regardless of the grass length to start with.
The folding handle saves 70 percent of space so this can be easily stored, even in an upright position to take up less room in your garage.
Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense: Features
- Auto speed self-propulsion
- Rapid charging
- Load sensing tech
The Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense is smarter than most thanks to its intelligent load sensing tech. This will vary the power output depending on what's being cut, so you're not using up more power when cutting short grass, for example. It will simple draw more power when it detects it needs it for longer or thicker grass patches. All that means saving on power so you get the longest battery life performance.
The StepSense drive system is able to detect the walking speed of the user and adjusts to suit. Essentially this means it'll add enough power to pull along so that you don't have to put your back into mowing - ideal for hills.
The dual battery system has a rapid charger which allows you to get one battery up to charge fast so you can swap out or tandem with another battery. These vary from 2Ah up to 5Ah.
There is a 1.7 bushel bagger which can collect grass clippings up to 2.1 cubic feet so you don't have to keep stopping to empty that, making the job even quicker and easier.
The five year warranty is also a huge feature showing just how well made this machine is and giving you peace of mind.
Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense: Performance
- Reassuringly weighty
- Steady drive
- Great battery performance
The Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense isn't light and flimsy like some electric mowers, it's a reassuring 90 pounds. This means it feels strong and doesn't flex so all obstacles are overcome. The same is true for power where that brushless motor churns out the same amount as a gas equivalent, only far more quietly.
While you get two 2Ah batteries as standard, that'll get you 45 minutes of use tops. Opt for the larger 4 or 5Ah batteries and you're looking at over an hour easily. That smart power output adjusting system really works. Charge times are also great with just half an hour getting you back to full-on the 2Ah batteries and double that for the 4Ah units.
Even the self-propulsion of this mower is smart, adjusting to suit your pace. This feels really natural and means you don't have to think about adjusting speed or power – just point and go. On more delicate areas you may notice it takes a little delay to slow to nothing, unless you pull it to a stop. It's not a big deal just worth keeping in mind if you have a small lawn.
The foldaway arm does make this great for storage but it's still not a light unit to lift up, should you plan to hang this up on its side. The bag also needs to be placed separately, but you could hook it on or above to save space that way.
That adaptive power is worth another mention as it's great if you have varying types of grass in your yard since this will adapt perfectly. That means there's a nice even finish across your grass. The only gripe is some grass does escape the bag if you fill it too much but then that's the case with lots of mowers.
Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense: User reviews
Scoring an impressive 4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, people who purchased the Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense rate it highly, with over two thirds giving it the full 5-star review. Users like its long battery life and quick charging, although they do point out that using the self-propelling feature reduces the battery life.
Many users praise the Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense’s ability to make lawn maintenance a much easier and quicker chore. In fact, one reviewer with debilitating arthritis gave this mower a glowing review, saying “Snapper should be given a medal for developing this fantastic mower… it certainly has made my life easier”.
The Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense also scores highly when it comes to assembling, setting up and using the mower, and users rate its light weight and manoeuvrability during operation.
Around 1 in five reviews are less positive, though, with some purchasers criticizing poor customer service experiences, faulty batteries, and problems with the self-propel feature.
Should you buy the Snapper XD 82V Max StepSense?
If you want lots of power, quiet running and a smart self-propulsion system paired with a smart power delivery - this is for you. Get all the features and power of a gas mower but with the ease of use of electric.
There are few other electric mowers that offer so many features or such range but if you want to save money there are cheaper options out there.
If you're still set on a gas mower, then check out our round up of the best gas lawn mowers, while those with big lawns will want to take a look at our guide to the best riding lawn mowers.
If this product isn't for you
If you have a small backyard and just need a reliable mower that can do the job quickly and easily, the Greenworks 48V 20-inch lawn mower may be the one you need. Taking up to 70% less storage than an average electric mower, this cordless lawn mower’s simple, lightweight design makes it a great choice for homes with smaller lawn areas and limited outside space.
For those looking for an electric mower that can tackle large areas with ease, the EGO Power+ 21-inch LM2102 combines power and performance with a large 7.5Ah battery, plus LED headlights and a 5-year warranty.
For homes with acres to mow, or people with mobility issues, why not try the ride-on Ryobi RY48ZTR100? Equipped with a 3-hour battery life, zero-turn controls and no less than 12 cutting height options, it even features a drinks holder and a USB charger for your phone.
