Mowing your lawn doesn’t have to mean enduring ear-pounding noise or inhaling suffocating exhaust fumes. Quiet, clean-running, cordless electric mowers are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to conventional gas-powered machines. Although battery-powered mowers have been on the market for several years, recent improvements have made them more competitive.

To see how one of the newer models would stack up against a conventional walk-behind mower, I tested the recently introduced Neuton CE 6.2 ($499). The first thing I noticed was its sleek wedge-shape design and smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces. The second was how quietly it ran: much quieter than a four-cycle gasoline engine. And my third observation was its surprising power — not as much raw power as my gas mower, but more than enough to cut the grass without straining. Of course, it’s greener than a gas mower because it doesn’t generate exhaust gases, but it’s not totally guilt-free: Charging the battery requires electricity (likely generated by burning fossil fuel), and the battery will need to be disposed of or recycled after about five years.

The mower’s ergonomics are excellent. It features 10-in. rear wheels that make pushing relatively easy, a handle that can be adjusted from about 35 to 40-1/2 in., a one-handle, four-position cutting-height adjustment, and a full-width start/stop control bar with safety lockout. The controls on the handle include an easy-to-read charge indicator and a switch to select either the mower or the optional string-trimmer attachment. Under the top cover you’ll find the 36-volt interchangeable battery, onboard tool storage, a removable safety key and the cutting-height adjustment. The mower comes with a bagging attachment, a side-discharge chute and a deck plug for mulching, and its handle can be folded flat for transportation.

During my test, the Neuton’s 19-in. blade provided a very clean and even cut, but mulching wasn’t quite a complete as most gas mowers. At 70 pounds the mower is light weight, but it works best on flat terrain. I wouldn’t want to use the bag unless absolutely necessary because the added weight could make the mower difficult to push. My test confirmed the company’s claims that the mower will run 45 to 60 minutes on one charge. You should be able to mow a 1/3-acre lot with one battery; for a larger yard, opt for an additional battery. (Recharging takes eight to 24 hours.)

The CE 6.2 has a lot going for it. It’s green, quiet and well-made and requires very little maintenance. If you have a small lot with gentle terrain, this mower would be a smart choice. In fact, at the end of my test I found myself wishing for a smaller, flatter yard to justify this machine as a practical addition to my outdoor power equipment. Neuton, 800-798-2921, www.neutonpower.com – Larry Okrend