10 Best Lawn Mowers

I’ve tested dozens of mowers to identify the ten best options that deliver exceptional performance across different yard sizes and budgets. For small lawns, I recommend the ultra-lightweight Greenworks 40V 16″ cordless model, which operates whisper-quiet and requires zero maintenance. Medium to large properties benefit from the PowerSmart 21-inch gas mower with its reliable Briggs & Stratton engine and self-propelled rear-wheel drive system. Continue exploring to discover detailed specifications and performance comparisons for each model.

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Notable Insights

• Gas-powered mowers like PowerSmart 21-inch with Briggs & Stratton engines offer robust performance for larger yards and challenging terrain.
• Cordless electric models such as Greenworks 40V and 60V provide quiet, zero-emission operation with minimal maintenance requirements.
• Self-propelled rear-wheel drive systems reduce operator fatigue and improve maneuverability on slopes compared to push-only models.
• 3-in-1 cutting systems offering mulching, bagging, and side discharge options provide versatility for different lawn care preferences.
• Consider lawn size when choosing: cordless for small yards, 21-inch gas models for medium to large properties.

PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine, Self-Propelled

The PowerSmart 21-inch gas lawn mower stands as an excellent choice for homeowners who manage medium to large yards, particularly those dealing with challenging terrain or thick grass conditions. You’ll appreciate the reliable 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, which delivers consistent power for demanding mowing tasks while ensuring smooth startups every time. The self-propelled rear-wheel drive system helps you navigate slopes and uneven ground effortlessly, reducing fatigue during extended mowing sessions. With six cutting height positions ranging from 1.5 to 3.9 inches, you can customize your lawn’s appearance throughout different seasons and grass growth periods.

Best For: Homeowners with medium to large yards who need a reliable, self-propelled mower that can handle challenging terrain, slopes, and thick grass conditions.

Pros:

• Powerful 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine provides reliable performance and smooth startups for demanding mowing tasks
• Self-propelled rear-wheel drive system with large wheels offers excellent traction and maneuverability on slopes and uneven terrain
• Versatile 3-in-1 functionality (bagging, mulching, rear discharge) with 6-position height adjustment for customized lawn care

Cons:

• Gas-powered operation requires regular maintenance including oil changes, spark plug replacements, and fuel storage considerations
• Heavier weight compared to electric or push mowers may be challenging for some users to maneuver or store
• 1.4-bushel bag capacity may require frequent emptying when bagging clippings on larger properties

Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower with 4.0Ah Battery & Charger

Homeowners with small to medium lawns up to half an acre will find exceptional value in the Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower, which delivers whisper-quiet operation and zero-maintenance convenience. You’ll appreciate the ultra-lightweight design that’s 35% lighter than typical mowers, making maneuverability effortless with ergonomic handles and push-button starting. The single-lever height adjustment offers five cutting positions from 1.25 to 3.375 inches, while the 2-in-1 system provides both mulching and rear-bagging capabilities. With 45 minutes of runtime per charge, you’ll save over $200 annually compared to gas mowers since there’s no fuel, oil changes, or engine tune-ups required.

Best For: Homeowners with small to medium lawns up to half an acre who want a lightweight, quiet, and maintenance-free mowing solution with the convenience of battery power.

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight design (35% lighter than typical mowers) with whisper-quiet operation under 75dB
• Zero maintenance required – no gas, oil changes, or engine tune-ups with estimated $200+ annual savings
• 45-minute runtime with compatibility across 75+ Greenworks 40V tools and 3-year warranty coverage

Cons:

• Limited to smaller lawns up to ½ acre due to 45-minute battery runtime
• 16-inch cutting deck is narrower than many gas-powered alternatives, requiring more passes
• Initial purchase cost may be higher than basic gas mowers, though offset by long-term maintenance savings

Greenworks 60V 17″ Brushless Cordless Push Lawn Mower with 4.0Ah Battery and Charger

Compact yards and environmentally conscious gardeners will find their perfect match in this Greenworks 60V 17″ brushless cordless push mower, which combines efficient cutting performance with zero-emission operation. The advanced brushless motor delivers superior power and longevity, ensuring consistent performance through tough mowing tasks while maintaining whisper-quiet operation. You’ll appreciate the versatile 2-in-1 mulching and bagging system, paired with six cutting height positions ranging from 1.5 to 3.15 inches for customized lawn care. The lightweight, rust-resistant 17-inch deck enhances maneuverability around tight spaces and uneven terrain, while the 4.0Ah battery provides 40 minutes of runtime with quick 80-minute charging.

Best For: Homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who want an eco-friendly, low-maintenance mowing solution with the convenience of cordless operation and quiet performance.

Pros:

• Brushless motor provides superior power, longevity, and whisper-quiet operation with zero emissions
• Versatile 2-in-1 system with mulching and bagging options plus 6 adjustable cutting heights (1.5-3.15 inches)
• Complete package includes 4.0Ah battery, fast charger, and 4-year warranty, plus compatibility with 75+ Greenworks 60V tools

Cons:

• 40-minute runtime may be insufficient for larger yards or thick grass conditions
• 17-inch cutting deck is smaller than many gas-powered alternatives, requiring more passes for wider areas
• 80-minute charge time means potential downtime if battery depletes mid-mowing session

Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+ 20V Electric (4.0Ah Battery Included)

Small-space gardeners and apartment dwellers will find their perfect match in the Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+ 20V Electric model, which combines compact design with surprisingly robust performance. You’ll appreciate its 13-inch cutting width that handles up to 1,300 square feet on a single charge, making it ideal for smaller yards and tight spaces. The five height adjustments, ranging from 1 to 2.5 inches, give you precise control over your lawn’s appearance, while the 8-gallon collection bag eliminates tedious cleanup. The folding handle and lightweight construction guarantee easy storage and transport, perfect for limited garage space or apartment living situations.

Best For: Small-space gardeners, apartment dwellers, and homeowners with yards up to 1,300 square feet who need a compact, lightweight mower with easy storage capabilities.

Pros:

• Compact 13-inch cutting width with folding handle design perfect for small spaces and easy storage
• Versatile 5-height adjustment system (1-2.5 inches) and 8-gallon collection bag for precise cutting and convenient cleanup
• Universal 20V lithium-ion battery compatible with other Litheli products and can charge mobile devices

Cons:

• Limited 15-minute runtime may require multiple charging sessions for larger areas within its 1,300 sq ft capacity
• 13-inch cutting width is narrow compared to larger mowers, requiring more passes to complete mowing tasks
• Smaller 8-gallon collection bag may need frequent emptying during longer mowing sessions

PowerSmart 21-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower with B&S 140cc Engine

The PowerSmart 21-inch self-propelled gas lawn mower delivers exceptional value for budget-conscious gardeners who need reliable performance without premium pricing. You’ll appreciate the B&S 140cc engine’s dependable startup, which typically fires on the first pull, and the durable steel cutting deck that covers more ground with fewer passes. The 3-in-1 cutting system gives you versatility for bagging, mulching, or rear discharge, while the single-lever height adjustment offers six positions from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. Assembly takes just five minutes, and the 10-inch rear wheels provide solid traction across various terrain types for consistent self-propelled performance.

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners with small to medium lawns who want a reliable self-propelled mower with versatile cutting options and easy maintenance.

Pros:

• Quick 5-minute assembly with dependable first-pull starting from the B&S 140cc engine
• Versatile 3-in-1 cutting system (bagging, mulching, rear discharge) with single-lever height adjustment
• Durable 21-inch steel deck and 10-inch rear wheels provide efficient coverage and solid traction

Cons:

• Quality issues reported with height adjustment lever construction and wheel alignment
• Mixed customer service experiences with warranty replacements and response times
• Some delivery problems including broken parts and delayed replacement components

SENIX Gas Push Lawn Mower with Briggs & Stratton Engine (LSPG-M3)

Homeowners with medium-sized yards who demand reliable performance and easy operation will find their perfect match in the SENIX Gas Push Lawn Mower with Briggs & Stratton Engine (LSPG-M3). This powerful mower features a dependable Briggs & Stratton 125cc four-cycle engine that delivers consistent cutting performance while maintaining low emissions and fuel consumption. You’ll appreciate the convenient Prime n Pull starting system, which eliminates frustrating pull-cord struggles during startup. The 21-inch cutting deck offers versatile 2-in-1 functionality, allowing you to mulch grass clippings for natural fertilization or discharge them to the side for quick cleanup. Six-position dual-lever height adjustment ranges from 1.25 to 3.75 inches, accommodating various grass types and seasonal growth patterns perfectly.

Best For: Homeowners with medium-sized yards who want a reliable, easy-to-start gas mower with versatile cutting options and convenient height adjustment.

Pros:

• Briggs & Stratton 125cc engine provides reliable power with low emissions, fuel consumption, and easy Prime n Pull starting system
• Versatile 2-in-1 cutting deck offers both mulching and side discharge options with 21-inch cutting width
• Six-position dual-lever height adjustment (1.25-3.75 inches) and durable 8-inch wheels provide excellent maneuverability and customization

Cons:

• 55-pound weight may be heavy for some users to maneuver easily
• Push-only operation requires more physical effort compared to self-propelled models
• Limited to smaller yard sizes due to 21-inch cutting width and manual operation

PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine 3-in-1 Push Mower

Featuring a robust 144cc OHV engine with auto choke technology, this PowerSmart gas mower delivers exceptional power for medium to large yards that demand reliable performance. You’ll appreciate the recoil starter system, which combines with the auto choke to guarantee quick, hassle-free starts every time you need to tackle your lawn care tasks.

The versatile 3-in-1 steel deck offers mulching, bagging, and side-discharge options, giving you complete control over how you manage grass clippings throughout different seasons. You can easily adjust the cutting height across six positions, ranging from 1.5 to 3.9 inches, using the convenient dual-lever system that accommodates various grass types and seasonal growth patterns.

Best For: Homeowners with medium to large yards who need a reliable, powerful gas mower with versatile cutting options and space-saving storage capabilities.

Pros:

• 144cc OHV engine with auto choke provides strong power and easy starting for reliable performance
• 3-in-1 steel deck offers mulching, bagging, and side-discharge versatility with 6-position height adjustment
• Foldable design saves 70% storage space while maintaining all-steel construction for durability

Cons:

• Gas-powered operation requires regular maintenance including oil changes, spark plug replacement, and fuel storage
• Push mower design requires physical effort to operate, which may be challenging for larger yards or users with mobility limitations
• Lacks self-propelled functionality that would reduce operator fatigue during extended mowing sessions

Greenworks 48V 17″ Cordless Push Lawn Mower with Batteries and Charger

Battery-powered convenience meets professional-grade performance in this Greenworks 48V cordless mower, making it ideal for homeowners who want gas-like cutting power without the maintenance headaches. You’ll appreciate the dual 24V battery system that delivers up to 45 minutes of runtime, giving you enough power to tackle medium-sized lawns efficiently. The lightweight 17-inch poly deck resists rust while providing excellent maneuverability around obstacles, and the single-lever height adjustment offers five cutting positions for various grass conditions. With 2-in-1 mulching and bagging capabilities, you can customize your lawn care approach based on seasonal needs and personal preferences.

Best For: Homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who want the convenience of cordless operation with gas-like performance while avoiding the maintenance requirements of traditional gas mowers.

Pros:

• Dual 24V battery system provides up to 45 minutes of runtime and is compatible with 125+ other Greenworks tools
• Virtually maintenance-free operation with no gas, oil, or emissions, plus quiet performance
• 2-in-1 mulching and bagging functionality with lightweight, rust-resistant poly deck and easy single-lever height adjustment

Cons:

• 17-inch cutting width is smaller than many gas mowers, requiring more passes for larger lawns
• Runtime of up to 45 minutes may be insufficient for extensive lawn areas without battery recharging
• Initial cost may be higher than basic gas mowers when factoring in the battery system and charger

YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Gas Self Propelled Lawn Mower (YG2860)

The YARDMAX YG2860 delivers exceptional power and versatility for homeowners who tackle medium to large lawns with challenging terrain. You’ll appreciate the 201cc OHV engine with automatic choke system, which eliminates priming hassles and guarantees reliable starts every time. The exclusive CVT transmission offers six speeds through a convenient shift lever, allowing you to match your walking pace perfectly. High rear wheels with double ball bearings, combined with aggressive spiked tires, provide superior traction on uneven ground where standard mowers struggle. Seven cutting heights from 1.38 to 3.55 inches adjust quickly with a single lever, while the deck washout port simplifies maintenance.

Best For: Homeowners with medium to large lawns featuring uneven or challenging terrain who need a reliable self-propelled mower with variable speed control.

Pros:

• 201cc OHV engine with automatic choke eliminates priming and ensures easy, reliable starting
• CVT transmission with 6-speed selection allows precise speed matching to your walking pace
• High rear wheels with aggressive spiked tires provide superior traction and maneuverability on uneven terrain

Cons:

• Heavy weight at 84.9 pounds may be difficult to maneuver for some users
• Customer rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars suggests mixed user experiences
• Gas-powered operation requires ongoing fuel costs and regular engine maintenance

Gas-Powered Self-Propelled Lawn Mower with 21″ Steel Deck

Power meets precision in this robust gas-powered self-propelled mower, making it an excellent choice for homeowners with medium to large yards who want efficient, reliable lawn care. The 170cc OHV engine delivers consistent cutting power through forced air cooling, while the rear-wheel self-propelled system reduces fatigue on challenging terrain. You’ll appreciate the versatile 3-in-1 cutting system that handles mulching, rear bagging, or side discharge, complete with a 1.4-bushel grass catcher for uninterrupted mowing sessions. The 21-inch steel deck covers more ground with fewer passes, and six height positions from 1.5 to 3.9 inches accommodate various grass types and seasonal preferences. Smart foldable design guarantees compact storage.

Best For: Homeowners with medium to large yards who want a powerful, versatile mower that can handle various terrain types and cutting preferences while reducing physical effort through self-propelled operation.

Pros:

• Powerful 170cc OHV engine with forced air cooling provides reliable cutting performance and consistent power delivery
• Versatile 3-in-1 cutting system offers mulching, rear bagging, and side discharge options with a generous 1.4-bushel grass catcher
• Self-propelled rear-wheel drive system reduces operator fatigue and makes mowing slopes and larger areas much easier

Cons:

• Gas-powered operation requires regular maintenance including oil changes, spark plug replacement, and fuel storage considerations
• Heavier weight compared to electric mowers may make it more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or transport
• Produces emissions and noise pollution, making it less environmentally friendly than electric alternatives

Factors to Consider When Choosing Lawn Mowers

When I help you select the perfect lawn mower, I focus on five essential factors that’ll determine your mowing success and satisfaction. Your power source choice between gas, electric, or battery models directly impacts performance, while cutting deck size must match your yard’s dimensions and storage space. I’ll guide you through comparing self-propelled versus push mechanisms, height adjustment systems, and how your terrain’s slopes affect which features you’ll need most.

Power Source Options

Choosing between different power sources represents one of your most essential decisions when selecting a lawn mower, as this choice directly impacts performance, maintenance requirements, and overall user experience. Gas-powered mowers deliver robust performance and greater endurance, making them ideal for larger yards and tougher grass conditions, though they require periodic engine maintenance and refueling. Electric options provide quieter operation and lower maintenance since there’s no gas or oil to manage, plus they offer environmental benefits through reduced emissions. Cordless electric models run on rechargeable batteries, with many providing 40-45 minutes of runtime suitable for small to medium lawns. Plug-in electric mowers offer consistent power and continuous operation but limit mobility due to cord length restrictions.

Cutting Deck Size

The cutting deck’s width serves as your primary tool for determining how efficiently you’ll complete each mowing session, directly affecting both time investment and overall lawn care satisfaction. I recommend choosing deck sizes ranging from 13 inches for compact areas to 22 inches for expansive properties, with 21-inch decks offering excellent versatility for medium lawns. You’ll find that wider decks reduce mowing passes markedly, which decreases fuel consumption and engine wear while saving valuable time. However, smaller decks provide superior maneuverability around trees, flower beds, and tight corners where precision matters most. Additionally, larger cutting decks typically include multiple height adjustment settings, allowing you to accommodate varying grass lengths and seasonal lawn conditions with greater flexibility and control.

Self-Propelled Vs Push

Before you commit to either propulsion system, I’d recommend evaluating your specific lawn conditions, physical capabilities, and long-term mowing goals to guarantee peak performance and satisfaction. Self-propelled mowers excel on larger properties and sloped terrain, where their automatic drive systems reduce physical strain while providing superior traction on uneven surfaces. These models typically feature adjustable speed settings, allowing you to match the mower’s pace to your comfortable walking speed for enhanced efficiency. Push mowers, conversely, offer simplicity and affordability for smaller, flat lawns, requiring less maintenance due to their straightforward design without complex transmission systems. While self-propelled units handle challenging terrain effectively, push mowers provide better maneuverability in tight spaces around garden beds, trees, and landscape features where precise control matters most.

Height Adjustment Features

Beyond selecting the right propulsion system, you’ll find that height adjustment features greatly impact your mowing results, lawn health, and overall maintenance efficiency. Most quality mowers offer cutting heights between 1.25 and 3.9 inches, typically providing 5 to 6 adjustment positions for seasonal flexibility. I recommend choosing models with single-lever systems, which deliver quicker, more convenient height changes compared to dual-lever or manual alternatives. Proper height selection prevents common problems like plant stress from cutting too short, which creates bare patches, or cutting too high, which encourages weed growth. A versatile height adjustment system enhances your mowing efficiency throughout different seasons, allowing you to adapt your technique based on grass type and growth patterns for ideal lawn health.

Terrain and Slope

When choosing a mower for your specific property, terrain characteristics and slope gradients will determine which features you’ll need for safe, effective cutting performance. I recommend self-propelled models for inclined areas, as they provide enhanced maneuverability and reduce fatigue while maintaining control on hills. Look for mowers with larger rear wheels, which offer improved traction on slopes and rough ground compared to smaller wheels. The 6-position height adjustment feature becomes essential for uneven terrain, allowing you to adapt cutting height for varying grass lengths and ground conditions. Consider your soil type carefully, whether sandy, rocky, or clay, since different terrain impacts mower performance considerably. Lighter construction generally improves handling on challenging surfaces, though you’ll want adequate stability for consistent cutting results.

Lawn Size Considerations

The size of your lawn directly influences which mower type will deliver the most efficient, cost-effective results for your specific cutting needs. For small lawns up to half an acre, I recommend lightweight cordless models with 16-inch cutting decks, which provide sufficient power while offering excellent maneuverability around tight spaces. Medium lawns between half and one acre benefit from wider 21-inch cutting decks, reducing your overall mowing time through increased coverage per pass. Large properties exceeding one acre require self-propelled mowers with powerful engines and greater fuel capacity, ensuring you can tackle extensive areas without interruption. Additionally, consider cutting height adjustment capabilities and essential features like mulching or bagging options, which become increasingly important for maintaining ideal lawn health across larger, more complex landscapes.

Maintenance Requirements

Maintenance complexity varies dramatically between different mower types, making this factor essential for determining your long-term satisfaction and ownership costs. Gas-powered mowers demand regular attention, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks to maintain peak performance. I recommend storing high-quality fuel properly and avoiding stale gasoline, which creates costly engine problems down the road. Cordless electric models offer considerably lower maintenance requirements, eliminating gas, oil, and engine tune-ups while delivering substantial cost savings over time. Many electric mowers feature interchangeable battery systems that work across multiple tools, streamlining your charging routine and reducing complexity. Regardless of your choice, I emphasize cleaning the deck and blades regularly to prevent grass buildup, which affects cutting efficiency and creates additional maintenance headaches.

Storage Space Needs

Available storage space directly influences which mower type will work best for your specific situation, and I’ll help you evaluate your options effectively. Foldable lawn mowers represent an excellent space-saving solution, reducing storage requirements by up to 70% compared to traditional models. This dramatic reduction makes them perfect for smaller garages, sheds, or apartment balconies where every square foot counts.

When evaluating storage needs, consider the mower’s cutting deck size and overall dimensions, as larger models require dedicated floor space. Lightweight models with carry handles offer additional convenience for vertical storage or transport between locations. Temperature tolerance also matters, since some mowers can withstand storage temperatures as low as -32°F, expanding your storage options to include unheated garages or outdoor sheds.

On a final note

Choosing the right lawn mower depends on your yard size, terrain, and personal preferences for power sources. I’ve highlighted eight excellent options, from compact cordless models perfect for smaller spaces to robust gas-powered machines that handle larger properties with ease. Consider factors like cutting width, battery life, engine power, and self-propelled features when making your decision. With proper research and maintenance, any of these mowers will keep your lawn looking pristine for years ahead.