The MAMMOTION LUBA mini AWD LiDAR promises a small revolution in the robotic mower segment. Instead of relying on RTK satellite technology or the familiar boundary wire, the compact powerhouse uses solid-state LiDAR technology – a world first among lawn mowers. With 144 laser beams and 200,000 reference points per second, it can map even the most complex gardens with centimeter precision. And after our extensive test, one thing is certain: the future of autonomous mowing has begun. Definitely. Whether the sleek laser pioneer will really give the established competition a run for its money will soon be revealed.
MAMMOTION LUBA mini AWD LiDAR: The technical data at a glance
| Navigation | 144-channel solid-state LiDAR + AI vision |
| Power output | 88W motor with 200mm cutting width |
| Area coverage | Up to 1,500 m² (recommended 1,000 m²) |
| Cutting height | 20-65mm (adjustable via app) |
| Drive | All-wheel drive (AWD), omnidirectional front wheels |
| Slope | Up to 80% |
| Overall height | Approx. 30 cm (slightly higher than standard LUBA mini) |
| Rechargeable battery | Interchangeable battery system, up to 4h running time |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, WLAN, 4G module |
| Sensors | LiDAR (30m range) + camera + GPS |
| Special features | No RTK, no boundary wire, 6-blade system |
| App control | Mammotion app, Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Price (RRP) | RRP € 2,299 |
First impression: Imposing technology tower creates mixed feelings
The LUBA mini AWD LiDAR impresses as soon as it is unboxed. The massive LiDAR module is definitely the first eye-catcher before your gaze wanders to the other components. However, the module also needs to be installed first – 3 plug connections and 4 screws later, it is already firmly attached to the device. Instead of a round dome, as is usual with lower-priced models, there is a real technology tower with three LiDAR sensors arranged next to each other and an integrated camera. This looks quite futuristic and, as a side effect, underlines the high-tech claim of the robotic mower. A closer look also reveals the many cooling fins that ensure the necessary heat dissipation of the powerful electronics.
The workmanship is solid and of high quality. All components are precisely manufactured and the robust housing makes a durable impression. The choice of materials is impressive – while many competitors rely on cheap plastic, the MAMMOTION has a much higher quality appearance. However, plastic is also used extensively here. The omnidirectional front wheels and all-wheel drive also promise maximum maneuverability, while the interchangeable battery system enables uninterrupted mowing (at least in theory).
But innovation has its price – and not just financially. The LiDAR module makes the robot significantly taller than the standard LUBA mini. With an overall height of around 30 cm, it no longer fits under all low garden furniture or garage doors. These additional three centimeters may not sound like much, but in practice they can become a problem. Anyone using a flat robot garage will have to adapt or raise it.
Scope of delivery: Minimalism with sense
MAMMOTION concentrates on the core functions and deliberately avoids superfluous extras. The box contains all the important components for immediate use:
- LUBA mini AWD LiDAR robotic lawnmower
- Charging station with mains adapter
- LiDAR module to install yourself
- Replacement battery with 6.1 Ah, already integrated
- Ground screws for mounting the station
- Detailed operating instructions
- Quick-Start-Guide (in gigantic size)
This may seem a little spartan, but it shows how slim the system is. As no RTK antenna or external sensors are required, the scope of delivery remains clear. While other manufacturers overwhelm their customers with mountains of accessories, MAMMOTION limits itself to the essentials. One power cable to the charging station is enough for the complete installation – that’s all you need.
Setup and commissioning: really simple at last
Set-up is pleasingly uncomplicated and is in marked contrast to many RTK systems. Set up the charging station, connect to the power supply, download the Mammotion app – done. The lack of RTK antennas or boundary cables is clearly noticeable here. While other systems often require hours of installation with complicated antenna positioning, the LiDAR-LUBA is ready for operation in just a few minutes.
The app guides you safely through the set-up process and leaves nothing to chance. The robot connects reliably and directly on the first attempt via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, with the first calibration taking place automatically if desired. The start of the first mapping process is a clever solution: during the first run, the robotic lawnmower rotates once around its own axis to scan the surroundings and set initial reference points. This process takes around 30 seconds and gives the system an initial overview.
Two modes are then available for the actual mapping, with the choice depending on the garden in question. Automatic mapping works surprisingly well in structured gardens with clear lawn edges. The robot recognizes transitions between lawns and beds, follows path edges and avoids obstacles independently. On the other hand, manual control via app is recommended for winding or near-natural gardens. This is not only really fun, like a large remote-controlled car – it also runs much faster.
LiDAR navigation for optimal path finding
The LiDAR system is the real centerpiece and shows the fundamental difference to conventional robotic lawnmowers. The solid-state LiDAR works completely differently to rotating lasers or RTK satellite technology. Instead of a rotating dome, three permanently installed LiDAR modules with 144 channels scan the surroundings and generate up to 200,000 reference points per second. This amount of data enables three-dimensional mapping in real time.
The result is impressive and is particularly evident in more difficult areas of the garden. The robot navigates across the lawn with centimetre precision, detects obstacles up to 30 meters away and works completely independently of satellite reception. While RTK mowers often capitulate in the presence of trees, buildings or bad weather, the LiDAR system works reliably even under the densest treetops. Even when it is completely cloudy or in shady corners of the garden, LUBA does not lose its bearings.
The combination of laser and AI camera ensures extremely precise obstacle detection. Toys, garden furniture and even pets are reliably detected and skillfully avoided (if they haven’t already left). The system demonstrates remarkable intelligence – instead of simply reversing, it plans intelligent detours around obstacles. This approach leads to significantly better area coverage than with simple collision systems and prevents annoying getting stuck in corners. Of course, if the worst comes to the worst, the robotic lawnmower uses the bumper sensors so that an emergency stop is still possible if all else fails.
Mowing performance: Powerful, smooth and efficient
The 88W motor is a powerful yet economical solution. It can even tackle thicker lawns or taller grass without any problems and without using up too much valuable battery capacity. The 6-blade system with 200 mm cutting width works much more efficiently than many 3-blade competitors and leaves an even, clean cut. The electric height adjustment from 20-65mm works precisely and can be used conveniently via app.
This is where the all-wheel drive shows its best side. The compact mower masters inclines of up to 80% effortlessly – only a few competitors in this price range can manage this. The MAMMOTION LUBA mini AWD LiDAR also proves its qualities on uneven terrain. The traction of all four wheels ensures reliable grip, even when other robots already need the tow truck. After rain showers, when the ground becomes soft and slippery, the advantage of the AWD system becomes clear.
The mowing strategy is well thought out and is determined automatically. Instead of chaotic random movements, the system plans well thought-out paths for consistent results. Of course, professional gardeners can also define numerous settings themselves, such as mowing direction, overlap or headlands, as required. The robotic mower navigates narrow passages with graceful elegance thanks to the omnidirectional front wheels. And this is where the clever design really pays off. These wheels can not only move forwards and backwards, but also sideways, allowing the robot to turn practically on the spot.
Practical test: Put to the test under difficult conditions
Our test garden presented a good mix of challenges – from narrow passages between beds to shady areas under large trees and a steep slope with a gradient of around 60%. The superiority of the LiDAR system was clearly demonstrated under the tall juniper at the back of the garden. While an RTK mower tested at the same time (namely the LUBA’s bigger brother) sometimes gave up the ghost here and quit its service with a lost GPS signal, the LUBA mini AWD LiDAR continued to work unimpressed. Even in changing weather conditions – from bright sunshine to cloudy rainy days – the navigation always remained stable.
While garden furniture or larger toys were detected and navigated around without any problems, the system was occasionally less precise with very flat objects. A flat garden hose, for example, was not always reliably detected. The height of the sensors plays a role here. What is visible at a height of 30 cm is not necessarily visible on the ground.
Obstacle detection: mostly reliable, but not completely error-free
Thanks to the clever combination of LiDAR and AI camera, the LUBA mini is one of the safest robotic lawn mowers on the market, even if minor weaknesses remain. Small obstacles such as toys left lying around or the obligatory garden decorations are generally detected and avoided without any problems. Detection even works with only 10% reflectivity – so even black, matt or poorly lit objects are usually no problem.
In the practical test, the robot mower’s obstacle detection was largely convincing. The robot stops in good time in the event of an obstacle, plans an alternative path and continues its work without missing any areas.
An important safety feature also deserves a mention: when lifted, the mower stops immediately and completely. This is an essential feature, especially in households with children, who could become curious and are strong enough to lift the not-so-light mowing bot. Additional sensors detect when the robot tips over and stop the blades preventively. There is therefore no risk of injury even if it accidentally tips over.
App and operation: Sophisticated without ballast
The Mammotion app benefits from years of development and is correspondingly sophisticated without being overloaded with functions. The most important areas are logically arranged and easily accessible even for beginners. However, there is one fly in the ointment. The app has obviously been developed more for smaller smartphones. On larger devices, the scaling does not always work as it should, and it can happen that elements are cut off or overlapped by others.
- Intuitive map creation and subsequent editing
- Flexible zone management for up to 20 different areas
- Individual schedules per zone with different settings
- Different mowing patterns and customizable path directions
- No-go zones at the tap of a finger directly on the map
- Live tracking with real-time position and POV view
- Remote control for manual trips
- Detailed maintenance instructions and wear indicators
- Weather-based automatic control
Another clever and positive feature is the intelligent load optimization, which sets the robot apart from many of its competitors. The system independently calculates how much charge is required for the remaining work order and only charges for as long as necessary. Instead of always charging fully and thus wasting time, the LUBA mini AWD LiDAR returns to work with a 30 or 40% charge if this is sufficient for the remaining area. This not only saves time, but also protects the battery in the long term.
Battery life and efficiency: quality over quantity
The interchangeable battery system is a clever solution for various usage scenarios. With one charge, the LUBA mini AWD LiDAR can cover 150-200 m² in one pass, depending on the conditions. This may not seem like much, but is put into perspective by the intelligent charging optimization and the option of using a second battery (not included). The thorough working method also plays a role here – it’s better to have less area, but really clean. And let’s be honest, appliances of this type don’t need to set record times, as they work autonomously anyway.
Maintenance: little effort, lots of automation
The maintenance effort is kept within pleasant limits and demonstrates the sophistication of the overall system. The LiDAR system is simply cleaned with the brush provided and residue from grass and soil can also be removed effortlessly. Of course, things look different in rainy weather and wet meadows – but that’s why you should always mow in the dry. The regular tasks are limited to a few important points:
- Changing blades every 2-3 months depending on use
- Housing cleaning as required or when visibly dirty
- Battery check and replacement if necessary after about 2-3 years
- Software updates (run automatically via WLAN, but can sometimes take half an hour)
- Monthly check of the charging station and contacts (these are exposed and can get dirty)
The 6-blade system is robust and durable. Replacement blades are available at fair prices and changing them is easy. The exchangeable battery system makes long-term operation much easier if required and prevents the problem of declining battery power after a few years that is common with many other robots – the battery can simply be exchanged without having to dismantle the whole thing.
Test conclusion: Future technology with a clear purchase recommendation
The MAMMOTION LUBA mini AWD LiDAR is without question one of the most innovative robotic lawn mowers currently on the market. With its solid-state LiDAR technology, it brings (the necessary) breath of fresh air to the industry – and consistently dispenses with boundary wires. The navigation system works precisely and reliably in a wide range of conditions, the obstacle detection is of a high standard and the all-wheel drive ensures superior traction even in difficult terrain.
The mowing performance is also impressive. The robot works efficiently, cleanly and extremely quietly. The app appears to be fully developed and commissioning is pleasantly uncomplicated. The LUBA mini AWD LiDAR proves to be a sensible solution, especially for complex plots with trees, height differences or poor satellite coverage – and in many cases even the only one that works without compromise.
Of course, not everything is perfect. Due to its slightly taller design, the robot mower can get stuck somewhere, for example on low-hanging branches, playground equipment or in a garage that is not designed for it. The price is clearly in the upper segment and the device does not manage record-breaking areas per battery charge. The availability of spare parts and long-term experience are also currently limited for a model that is still young.
Nevertheless, if you appreciate technology, maintain a demanding garden and are looking for a reliable alternative to boundary wire-based systems, the LUBA mini AWD LiDAR is a very good choice. In view of the technology on offer, the extra price is well justified and shows where the market for robotic mowers is likely to be heading in the future.
VORTEILE
- Solid-state LiDAR system
- Works without RTK or boundary wire
- All-wheel drive with 80% gradeability
- Precise navigation even under the densest vegetation
- Intelligent charging optimization saves time and protects the battery
- Robust workmanship and high-quality materials
- High price
- Lower area coverage per load than the competition
- Still little long-term experience available
- Automatic mapping not ideal for all garden types
- Occasional problems with flat obstacles
Fazit
The MAMMOTION LUBA mini AWD LiDAR impresses with precise navigation, powerful all-wheel drive and innovative LiDAR technology - without any boundary wires. It masters the narrowest passages, steep slopes and shady gardens with ease. Its only weaknesses are flat obstacles, area coverage and price.
