We spent several weeks testing the new Ecovacs GOAT A3000 Lawn Mower, we’re impressed. This mower uses LiDAR technology (the shiny “Black Pearl” on top) to map and navigate your yard without boundary wires or satellite connections. After extensive testing in various conditions, we found the GOAT A3000 delivers an impressive combination of cutting performance and smart technology that makes lawn maintenance nearly effortless.
Current price of the ECOVACS GOAT A3000: https://bit.ly/4hGa3oQ
We have previously reviewed 5 other Robot Mowers. They are:
EUFY E18 – article here
Mowrator S1 – article here
Mammotion Yuka – article here
Luba 2 – article here
Segway Navimow – article here
What makes the ECOVACS GOAT A3000 different from other robot mowers?
The standout feature is its dual LiDAR navigation system that uses laser light (rather than cameras or satellites) to create highly accurate maps of your yard. Unlike traditional robot mowers that require boundary wires or satellite connections, the GOAT sees and understands your lawn boundaries automatically. This means it works perfectly under trees or near buildings where satellite-based mowers often struggle.
How easy is the ECOVACS GOAT A3000 to set up?
Setup was remarkably simple compared to other robot mowers we’ve tested. We downloaded the app, connected the mower to Wi-Fi, and let it map the yard automatically. However, we learned an important lesson: follow the instructions about leaving adequate space in front of the docking station. When we initially placed the dock in a tight spot, the mower struggled to return properly. After relocating it to an open area as recommended, everything worked perfectly.
How well does the ECOVACS GOAT A3000 cut grass?
The cutting performance impressed us with its 32V system powering a 100W motor and 30,000 RPM blades. The dual disc system with three blades on each disc creates a 13-inch cutting width, which is wider than single-disc mowers. This results in more efficient mowing with wider, more attractive cut lines. After a week of regular use, we noticed consistently even cuts across the entire lawn, with excellent mulching that returns nutrients to the soil.
How does the ECOVACS GOAT handle obstacles and boundaries?
During our testing, the obstacle avoidance system successfully detected and navigated around toys, pets, and other yard items. What really impressed us was how it remembered missed spots and returned to them later when obstacles were removed. For boundaries that weren’t automatically detected (like a concrete edging around a rock bed), we easily created a no-mow zone in the app.
What’s the maximum slope the GOAT A3000 can handle?
We tested the mower on a 20° slope, and it handled the incline with no problem. The large wheels provided excellent traction on uneven terrain, making it suitable for most residential yards with moderate hills.
How quiet is the GOAT A3000 during operation?
The GOAT A3000 is remarkably quiet – almost “ninja silent.” During testing, we could hear a gas mower operating several blocks away while the GOAT quietly worked right in front of us. This makes it perfect for early morning or evening mowing without disturbing neighbors.
Can the GOAT A3000 mow at night?
Yes! Unlike vision-based mowers that need daylight, the LiDAR system works perfectly in low-light conditions. We tested night operation, and the mower navigated just as effectively as during daylight hours. This flexibility lets you schedule mowing when your yard isn’t being used, regardless of time.
Pros and Cons Based on Our Testing
Pros
- Simple setup with no wires, antennas, or manual mapping
- Excellent cutting performance with dual disc system
- Quiet enough for night operation
- Works under trees and near buildings
- Smart obstacle avoidance with return to missed spots
- Remote control with camera view (FPV mode)
Cons
- LiDAR sensor and cameras can get dirty, affecting performance
- No protective cover for the docking station
- Requires adequate space for proper docking
- Size and weight make it somewhat unwieldy to carry
- Exposed wires on the docking station connector
Pictures
The Freshly Charged Take
After days of testing, the Ecovacs GOAT A3000 has proven itself as a significant advancement in robot lawn mower technology. The LiDAR navigation system eliminates the most frustrating aspects of traditional robot mowers – complex setup, boundary wires, and satellite connectivity issues.
For homeowners who value their time and want a consistently well-maintained lawn with minimal effort, the GOAT A3000 delivers exceptional results. While it has a few minor drawbacks like the exposed docking station and occasional need for sensor cleaning, these are far outweighed by the benefits of wire-free setup, excellent cutting performance, and smart navigation.
The GOAT A3000 represents the future of lawn care – smarter, simpler, and more reliable than previous generations of robot mowers. If you’ve been hesitant about robot mowers because of complex setup requirements, the GOAT might be the breakthrough product that finally makes sense for your lawn care needs.
Current price of the ECOVACS GOAT A3000: https://bit.ly/4hGa3oQ