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Which mower is right for me?
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For many homeowners, maintaining a sloped lawn is more than just a routine chore—it’s a challenge. Mowing on an incline can be physically demanding, time-consuming, and in some cases, even hazardous. Pushing a traditional mower uphill (and controlling it downhill) is hard work that often leads to inconsistent results and potential slips or strain.
That’s where robotic lawn mowers come in. These smart machines promise to remove the stress and sweat from lawn care, offering a hands-free solution that can navigate your garden independently—including those tricky sloped areas.
But how well do robotic mowers really handle inclines? Can they manage where manual mowers struggle?
In this article, we’ll break down the technology, design features, and performance factors that enable robotic mowers to tackle uneven terrain. We’ll also highlight real-world examples—such as the Segway Navimow series—to show how today’s advanced models are redefining what’s possible in automated lawn care, even on a hill.
Before diving into how robotic lawn mowers handle hills, it’s important to understand how slope is measured. Many product specifications will say a mower can handle a “30% slope,” but what does that actually mean in real-world terms?
A percent slope describes the steepness of an incline using the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run. For example, a 30% slope means that for every 100 units of horizontal distance, the ground rises (or falls) by 30 units.
In simpler terms, 30% slope = 30 units up for every 100 units forward.
To picture this, imagine a ramp that climbs 30 feet over a span of 100 feet. It’s not a vertical wall, but it’s steep enough to challenge both humans and machines.
You can estimate your lawn’s slope using a spirit level and a tape measure, or by using a smartphone app that measures incline angles. Some apps will give you the reading in degrees, so it’s helpful to know that:
10 degrees = approx. 17.6%
15 degrees = approx. 26.8%
17 degrees = approx. 30%
Knowing the steepest part of your lawn is absolutely critical when choosing a robotic mower. A model rated for 20% slopes may work fine on flat ground but struggle—or stop entirely—on steeper patches. Choosing a mower that matches your lawn’s incline ensures better performance, avoids unnecessary wear, and prevents potential safety issues.
Before you buy, measure your slope. It’s the first and most essential step toward smart, hassle-free mowing on any terrain.
Robotic lawn mowers designed to handle sloped terrain incorporate a range of carefully engineered features that allow them to maintain traction, stability, and precision—even on tricky gradients. From specialised wheels to intelligent software, every component plays a part in ensuring safe and efficient mowing on inclines.
On sloped or uneven ground, grip is everything. That’s why many robotic mowers, including models in the Segway Navimow range, come equipped with off-road tyres featuring aggressive tread patterns. These deep, durable treads help the mower maintain traction on damp grass, loose soil, and minor surface irregularities—minimising the risk of slipping or stalling mid-slope.
Larger wheels provide two crucial advantages: better ground clearance and a wider contact patch with the surface. For example, the Segway Navimow i-Series features 24.5cm (9-inch) diameter front wheels, which help the mower roll more easily over uneven ground and maintain traction on inclines.
While not standard across all models, AWD systems are increasingly found in premium robotic mowers, including higher-spec machines like Segway’s Navimow X3 series. These systems distribute power to all wheels, enhancing grip and control on steeper or more complex gradients. AWD is particularly valuable when tackling slippery surfaces, tight corners on a slope, or multi-directional inclines.
A low centre of gravity is key to keeping the mower stable on slopes. Manufacturers strategically place internal components such as batteries and motors to ensure balanced weight distribution. This design prevents tipping during climbs or descents and improves handling on variable terrain.
Climbing a hill takes more power than gliding over flat grass. Slope-capable robotic mowers are fitted with more powerful drive motors that can handle the increased resistance encountered on inclines—especially when also cutting thick or damp grass.
A strong motor is only as good as its power supply. Advanced models feature efficient battery management systems that regulate power output under strain. Models like the Navimow i108E, with its 5.1Ah battery, provide longer runtime and more torque compared to smaller units like the i105E. This allows the mower to perform reliably on sloped sections without draining the battery prematurely or reducing cutting performance.
These internal sensors detect changes in elevation and adjust the mower’s operation in real time. If the slope becomes too steep for the model’s rated capacity, the mower can reroute or slow down, preventing slips or motor overload. These adjustments are key to maintaining performance while preserving safety.
Wire-free robotic mowers like the Segway Navimow series rely on GPS navigation to stay precisely on track. For enhanced accuracy, RTK GPS (Real-Time Kinematic positioning) can correct location errors down to centimetres, allowing the mower to follow virtual boundaries and planned paths—even on inclines—without veering off course or missing patches of lawn.
Inclines often come with added visual challenges—obstacles, changes in surface, or garden borders. Vision systems such as Segway’s VisionFence use onboard cameras to identify and avoid hazards in real time. This allows the mower to maintain its planned route without getting stuck or unbalanced, especially on sloped terrain where recovery could be difficult.
Unlike random navigation, modern robotic mowers follow intelligent mowing patterns that take the shape and incline of the lawn into account. This reduces battery waste, avoids unnecessary passes, and limits wear on grass, which can be more vulnerable on slopes. Planned routes ensure full coverage, even when the terrain gets challenging.
Segway’s Navimow robotic mower range isn’t just known for its wire-free installation and smart features—it also offers impressive performance on sloped terrain. Whether you have a modest incline or a steep bank to contend with, there’s likely a model in the Navimow lineup designed to handle it.
Max Slope: Up to 30%
The i-Series, which includes the i105E and i108E, represents Segway’s smart, compact robotic mowers ideal for small to medium-sized gardens. Both models are capable of handling slopes of up to 30%, making them suitable for most typical residential gardens with gentle to moderate inclines.
How They Do It:
Off-Road Tyres with Deep Tread for grip on wet or uneven surfaces
Large 24.5cm (9-inch) Diameter Front Wheels for improved traction and stability
Intelligent Navigation via GPS and RTK for precise control on sloped terrain
VisionFence System for obstacle detection, reducing the risk of getting stuck mid-slope
Low Centre of Gravity and well-balanced weight distribution to minimise tipping risk
While both the i105E and i108E share this 30% slope capability, the i108E’s larger 5.1Ah battery and 120-minute mowing time make it a more efficient option for larger gardens that include sloping sections. The i105E may require more frequent recharging if used on a similarly sized, uneven lawn.
Max Slope: Up to 45%
The H-Series steps up in terms of slope-handling ability, offering support for gradients up to 45%. While detailed specifications are less widely available, the increase in slope capability suggests a range of likely enhancements over the i-Series.
What Likely Contributes:
Stronger Drive Motors to handle increased resistance on steep inclines
Improved Tyre and Traction Systems for better grip under more demanding conditions
More Advanced Weight Distribution to stabilise performance on challenging terrain
Possibly Higher Torque Output and refined motor control for smoother, safer climbing
The H-Series would be a suitable choice for properties with consistently steep sections or landscaped gardens with raised banks and terraces.
Max Slope: Up to 50%
At the top end of Segway’s range, the Navimow X3 Series represents a premium-class robotic mower designed to conquer the most challenging outdoor environments.
Why It Excels:
Likely All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System for balanced power distribution across all wheels
Ultra-Robust Construction, potentially including reinforced chassis and enhanced suspension
Advanced Sensor Suite, possibly combining GPS, RTK, slope detection, and obstacle avoidance into a seamless, responsive control system
High-Performance Battery System capable of powering climbs with consistency and endurance
With a maximum slope capability of up to 50%, the X3 Series is built for demanding landscapes—including steep hills, complex garden contours, and areas where traditional mowers simply can’t operate safely or efficiently.
Choosing a robotic mower capable of handling slopes is only part of the equation. To get the best performance and ensure a smooth mowing experience on hilly terrain, homeowners should also consider several practical aspects of setup, maintenance, and day-to-day operation.
Before anything else, it’s essential to know the gradient of your lawn’s steepest section. As mentioned earlier, slope ratings are given in percentages, and selecting a mower with a suitable slope tolerance depends entirely on how steep your garden really is. Use a spirit level and tape measure or a smartphone inclinometer app to measure properly. Even a rough estimate can help you avoid choosing a mower that’s underpowered for your needs.
While many models, such as the Segway Navimow series, use wire-free virtual boundaries, other robotic mowers still rely on physical boundary wires. On sloped lawns, correct placement of these wires is crucial. Many manufacturers recommend leaving a buffer zone at the base and top of steep inclines, allowing the mower room to turn safely without crossing over edges or losing traction. Improper wire placement can cause erratic behaviour or navigation errors.
Your charging station should always be placed on flat, level ground. This ensures that the mower can dock and undock smoothly without struggling against a slope. Placing the station on a slope may cause alignment issues or lead to failed charging attempts, especially during wet conditions.
Slopes require strong, consistent traction. Over time, grass clippings, mud, and debris can build up on tyres, reducing grip. Regular cleaning helps maintain the traction needed to climb inclines safely—especially important after rain or during damp conditions.
Blunt blades increase resistance, making it harder for the mower to cut effectively—particularly when working uphill. Keeping the blades sharp ensures cleaner cuts and allows the mower to maintain cutting performance without putting extra strain on the motor.
On sloped terrain, safety becomes even more important. Features like blade halt sensors, which instantly stop the blades if the mower is lifted or tilts excessively, offer an added layer of protection. These are especially useful if your garden includes steps, drop-offs, or is used by pets or children.
It’s worth noting that mowing on inclines consumes more energy than mowing flat areas. The motor works harder to drive uphill, and more effort is required to maintain cutting performance. For this reason, choosing a mower with a larger battery capacity—like the Navimow i108E or premium models from other ranges—can lead to better efficiency and fewer charging interruptions. This becomes even more important for larger gardens with multiple sloped sections.
Modern robotic lawn mowers are no longer limited to flat, square gardens. Thanks to advances in design, traction, and smart navigation, today’s models are more than capable of tackling varied terrain—including challenging inclines. From compact options like the Segway Navimow i105E, to slope specialists like the X3 Series, there’s a mower built to handle just about any gradient.
By understanding your lawn’s specific needs—particularly its steepest slopes—and matching them with the right features, you can confidently invest in a robotic mower that will transform the way you care for your garden. Whether it’s battery capacity, wheel design, or intelligent navigation, each element plays a part in ensuring reliable performance, even on uneven ground.
Say goodbye to pushing heavy mowers uphill and hello to a beautifully cut lawn with minimal effort. Whatever the shape or slope of your garden, there’s a smart mower ready to do the hard work for you—quietly, efficiently, and effortlessly.