Smallest lawn mower available. 20 Best Lightweight and Electric Lawn Mowers (2023)

Best Lightweight and Electric Lawn Mowers (2023)

Choosing the right home appliance can be tough. Power tools especially are items that take consideration before going through with a purchase, especially when it comes to looking for the best lightweight lawn mower.

When on the hunt for the best lightweight and electric lawn mowers, there are many places to shop.

This guide has a range of new lawn mowers that are available in store at your local Home Depot, Lowe’s, or there are great options online on Amazon.

Sometimes it is hard to know what you are looking for until you see it in front of you. Hopefully, this guide points out a few features you didn’t know you wanted in a lawn mower.

The lawn mower you need depends on the size of your yard or how much storage space you have in your home. Pick the type of mower that includes the special features you’re looking for with this list.

Here’s the scoop on the best lightweight lawn mowers!

Lawn Mower Guide

Greenworks G-Max 40V

This cordless mower is the best option if you want to get the job done fast and with minimal effort. The battery life of this mower allows for enough power to have a run time of 60 minutes on a fully charged AH battery.

One of the extra features of this push lawn mower includes the ability to adjust its single lever into seven positions that make it possible to cut in all environments.

The Greenworks G-Max 40V delivers performance levels that are similar to gas-powered lawn mowers all from the push-button start.

This mower is a great choice thanks to its essential maintenance free operation with no need for gas, oil, or emissions. The Greenworks G-Max 40V is a top pick if you are looking to purchase it for efficiency.

Sun Joe MJ-HVR12E Lawn Mower

The next lightweight mower that is the best choice for someone looking to purchase a powerful lawn mower is the Sun Joe MJ-HVR12E. Its blade hub spins up to 7,000 revolutions per minute.

This is the best electric lawn mower for sloped lawns and smaller yards. The product comes with 30 replacement blades for easy maintenance.

Sun Joe also includes a customer promise as an additional feature to purchasing their product. Their policy is a no questions asked warranty where they will send you a new product at any time within two years of the purchase.

There is no need to worry about whether you will like this purchase or not thanks to their customer service policy. A stress-free purchase is the best purchase.

American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14

Push mowers from the American Lawn Mower Company are an excellent choice when looking for a lightweight mower that does a great job without causing damage to the grass blades. This lawn mower has a capable cutting height of successfully trimming grass up to four inches.

This manual grass cutter is environmentally friendly which is not the same as every other lawn mower on the market.

It is pollution-free, has no noise, has low maintenance, and is easy to use. If you have a small lawn at home this push mower is a good choice for you.

Craftsman M105

Gas mowers can be difficult to choose, but when the powerful engine doesn’t impact the weight of the machine, they are still products to consider.

The 3-in-1 capabilities of this gas lawn mower are ideal for larger lawns due to its inclusion of both side discharge and rear bag attachments.

over, the mower has six different height adjustments along with a 21-inch cutting deck.

The CC engine on this powerful mower will be sure to get the job done even if your yard has extremely thick grass. This Craftsman M 105 is accountable no matter what your grass looks like. It will get the job done with ease.

WORX WG743 Lawn Mower

This next option is a top pick when looking for one of the best battery-powered mowers. The battery charge indicator on this mower shows you what a single charge will give you when busy at work in the yard.

This mower allows you to get a sharp cut successfully in tight spaces creating less for you to go back and trim later. It has 2-in-1 bagging or mulching functionality.

Use the bag to catch your grass clippings to make your yard look clean and crisp, or you can use the bag to mulch your lawn when it needs to grow back healthier.

Thanks to the powerful motor in the WORX WG 743 this is an appliance you can trust.

SENIX Electric Lawn Mower

This next option is a good lawn mower when you don’t have access to a large amount of storage space. The quick release handles account for easy storage either horizontally or vertically.

It includes lithium-ion batteries and a 13-gallon grass collection bag. The SENIX lawn mower has a volt brushless motor gives off the performance of gas-powered mowers without the hassle of gas or cords.

Customers who purchased this product rave about the battery life of this mower and the benefits of its lightweight structure.

It has helped people get up the hills in their lawns and finish their lawn maintenance feeling confident in how it looks.

EGO Power LM2101 Lawn Mower

Another great option for battery-powered lawn mowers that includes optimal ease of use thanks to the easy push-button start feature is the EGO Power lawn mower.

The foldable handle creates a compact design feature for this mower which is ideal for people looking to find the right mower although they may not have a lot of space for one.

The electric motor of this product lasts up to 45 minutes off a single charge. The 3-in-1 bag functionality is beneficial.

You can decide if you want the bag to serve as a grass catcher on the back or side of your mower. It also holds mulch for when you need to go through your lawn and help with its growth.

Customers who use this mower talk nonstop about its ease of use. Nothing is too heavy or hard to handle when young adults are mowing the lawn for their parents, and it mows through high levels of grass without needing an extra push from the person walking behind it.

With all of the great features including the electric motors, this can make mowing your lawn a breeze!

Craftsman All-Wheel Drive

This powerful engine contributes to why this appliance is a reliable and dependable lawn mower. Some of the additional features include a rear-wheel drive and a bushel dust blocker bag that intakes grass clippings to prevent in-air debris.

These contribute to why the Craftsman All-Wheel Drive is one of the best walk-behind mowers available. The four-wheel drive feature is one of the most beneficial additions that you don’t see on every other mower on the market.

It matches your needs wherever you go. This mower swiftly moves around obstacles, up hills, and down into ditches when you need it to. Invest in a mower you can count on to get the job done successfully.

Litheli Cordless Mower

The next great option for the best cordless lawn mower is this easy to start electric mower. The design includes a grass bag that takes zero hassle to clean.

The 35-minute battery charge is ideal for a small yard, but there is a convenient compartment for AH batteries to be stored right next to the battery port for quick changing if you do run out mid-mow.

It includes five cutting heights which make it reliable for keeping your yard at a healthy height.

Troy-Bilt Riding Mower

Another lightweight mower that is best purchased when you need to mow large lawns is this Troy-Bilt riding mower. It is space-saving with the storage size of a wide-cut walk behind mower. If you feel like yard work is a chore, investing in a riding mower is a great idea.

This mower includes a speed that can be easily adjusted and controlled during your mowing. It is also very simple to switch from side discharging clippings to mulching mode, which helps avoid build up and keeps your lawn healthier.

You will maintain control with easier navigation around landscaped borders and obstacles with 18 inch turn radius.

It will also mow in reverse so the rear wheel drive will allow you to work efficiently. This mower is the one for you if you no longer want mowing to be at the bottom of your to do list.

Makita XML03CM1 36V

The next electric lawn mower has controlled noise levels to ensure you won’t wake up your family members in the house if you are a person that likes knocking out the yard work in the morning.

This mower is made from steel which makes it both durable and reliable. A customer raved about this product’s durability by saying they have owned Makita cordless tools for a decade.

Purchasing an appliance for your home is something you don’t want to do every couple years, it should be an investment. Makita is a product you can count on.

Black Decker Electric Lawn Mower

Another lightweight mower best for smaller lawns is the Black Decker electric lawn mower. One of the additional features you don’t see on every mower is the comfort grip bike handlebar design.

It reduces friction and enhances maneuverability across all of the square feet you need to cover during your mow. This mower includes enhanced clipping collection winged blade yields that account for 30% better clipping collection.

The no-hassle startup is thanks to the easy-to-use push button start. This electric lawn mower also has an adjustable cutting height ranging from 1 to 3 inches which allows you to get the trim you desire.

Customers who have purchased this mower were pleasantly surprised with how well it does cutting lawns that have become out of control for weather reasons. Customers rave about the lightweight functionality and talk about how they’ve owned their Black Decker electric lawn mower for years.

RYOBI Riding Mower

This next mower is clean, quiet, and powerful. The RYOBI riding mower is fully electric and has three high powered brushless motors to provide up to a full hour of runtime off a single charge.

The onboard control panel is a feature that lets you engage the blades, operate the headlights, check your battery level, and turn on cruise control.

The seven-position manual deck adjustment allows you to pick heights between 1.5” and 4.5” to get a clean and level cut on any lawn.

It features two steel blades and a durable 30” cutting deck that fits in fenced areas with ease.

A minor feature that was added to this mower is the rear access charging port that makes charging your ride easy when the job is complete. This mower is a recommended investment with its three-year warranty.

Honda HRN Lawn Mower

Another mower that is lightweight and user-friendly is this self-propelled mower designed by Honda. It includes variable speed control while mowing with five adjustable positions for user comfort.

The helpful front and rear levers conveniently adjust to seven cutting heights. This is the best self-propelled lawn mower and is integrated with a speed control feature that efficiently adapts the mowing speed to match your stride.

A self-propelled model is a lawn mower that will save you time and energy. If you always have things to do but don’t want your lawn to suffer from your busy schedule, this mower is right for you.

Kobalt Lawn Mower

This battery-powered mower provides up to 80 minutes of run time and includes a high efficiency brushless motor that starts with the push of a button.

Without the hassle of pulling cords or fueling the self-propelled rear-wheel drive system, the variable speed control takes the hard work out of mowing the lawn. This mower can handle both flat and sloped yards with ease.

The easy to fold aluminum handles work quickly to save space wherever you need to store your mower. Its auto-sensing technology automatically adjusts performance for greater power based on changing grass conditions.

The Kobalt lawn mower is the best lightweight appliance that has you covered in all areas. This is your mower if you want an appliance you can count on.

LawnMaster MED 114K

Another great electric lawn mower that includes six different cutting positions is the LawnMaster MED 114K. The wheels are 5.5” and 7.75” and only 28 lbs, which makes them easy to rotate and simple to maneuver.

This electric lawn mower includes three different adjustments for handle lengths and has a seven-gallon grass collection bag. The purchase guarantee comes with a priority shipping service to ensure you are receiving your mower efficiently.

Customers who own this mower love it and want to share how well it has done in their yard. People talk about this mower cutting through tall grass or wet grass with ease.

ApolloSmart

The ApolloSmart electric mower is eco-friendly and doesn’t produce smog, fumes, or emissions. The lightweight balanced design will help you move freely with professional quality and maximum control.

This appliance is designed with an adjustable deck for tailored raking depth with the five-position depth control mechanism.

Customers that own the ApolloSmart feel confident their lawn will be healthier within a year. They say it is easy to use and switching out the rear bag takes no time at all.

PowerSmart Lawn Mower

This next electric lawn mower has a low noise level with minimum assembly acquired. The brushless motor is built to last for a long time.

The foldable handle collapses to assist with easy storage. The five different available positions for cutting height assures to account for tall grass or short grass.

Its 40-minute run time works well when cutting grass in large yards. The functionality of this mower is one of its best features. It includes a bag design that works for mulching, side-discharge, and rear bag discharge.

Customers who have purchased this mower discuss how it gets the job done without a doubt.

Goplus Lawn Mower

Another great choice when looking at walk-behind lawn mowers is this lightweight electric mower. This is the mower you want to go with if your yard or garden has different needs for each portion.

Keep your flower beds tidy thanks to this mower’s three position depth control feature. The large front wheels can turn at will and the lightweight rear wheels are flexible and labor-saving.

Trim your grass exactly how you want it with the Goplus electric lawn mower.

MYTOL 40V

The last option that is a great choice for a battery-powered lawn mower is the MYTOL 40V mower. It includes a brushless mower that cuts smoothly and efficiently.

Its high-performance batteries last a long time. The electric mower eliminates the hassle of dealing with a pull cord or extension cord.

You never have to stress about running out of power mid mow because this power runs for a consistent amount of time.

The cutting width of 16” allows for a crisp wide path. This mower is the one for you if you have any fear about mowing thanks to its triple safety protection features.

Final Thoughts

The best lightweight lawn mowers share a large number of the same features. Electric mowers that don’t require the hassle of dealing with fuel to run the engine work efficiently.

If you are set on buying lawn mowers that include engine power derived from gas, then make sure you are purchasing one that is lightweight and easy to maneuver.

This list includes the best lawn mowers of every style to ensure every customer looking to purchase can feel confident that they’ll find what they’re looking for.

Hopefully, this guide helped point out the features you want to keep an eye out for when shopping for the best lightweight lawn mower.

So find your favorite option and grab yourself a new lawn mower today!

For more scoop, visit these:

Best Lawn Mowers For Small Yard 2020

This means you don’t have to search the whole internet for a lawnmower you can simply read this article and you will be able to decide what type of mower you want to go for and what model you want to buy.

Some of the links on this page will be affiliate links that take you over to Amazon (paid link), as an Amazon Associate this site earns from qualifying purchases.

Please have a read and leave a comment at the end to let me know what you think.

Gas-Powered Mowers

PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower

The PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower is an ideal lawn mower if you have a small yard.

It comes with a 161cc gas-powered engine which means it is plenty big enough to do an excellent job of quickly and efficiently cutting the grass in your yard. Gas-powered mowers have the ultimate versatility as you are not limited to where you can take them by cable or battery charge they will go all day if that is what you require.

This mower is height adjustable and that makes it easy to achieve the optimum height for your grass depending on the variety of grass or time of the season it is.

This mower has a pull string starting mechanism and it is very smooth and simple to use.

When you use this mower it makes mowing your lawn a fun experience and you will be looking forward to when your grass needs its next mow.

• This mower is very easy to assemble so you should be good to go within 10 minutes.
• A quality lawnmower for a very affordable price.
• An ideal lawnmower for a small yard as it is a small product but has lots of power.
• It can be easily set for mulching the grass back into your lawn.

Yard Machines 140cc Gas Powered Lawn Mower

This Yard Machines 140cc gas-powered mower will definitely do a good job of cutting your small to medium-sized yard.

The cutting deck on this lawnmower is an incredible 21 inches which means you are able to cut a wide area of your lawn with every pass you make and this enables you to make cutting your lawn a quick job instead of a lengthy challenge.

This lawnmower has a lever that makes it easy to adjust the cutting height to 6 different heights which is ideal if you want to cut your grass to different heights at different times of the growing season.

The wheels on this mower are a relatively big size of 7 inches at the front and 8 inches at the rear and they both have a bar treading so these wheels make it possible to easily navigate this mower through thick grass or uneven terrain.

• The oil that you need to run this lawn mower is included for your convenience.
• This is a great mower for tall grass and some people report that it is possible to mow grass that is an incredible 5 feet tall.
• The fact this is a lightweight yet powerful mower makes it ideal for mowing slopes or uneven surfaces.

PowerSmart DB2194S Gas Lawn Mower

The PowerSmart DB2194S is a self-propelled gas-powered lawn mowerhttps://greenthumbplanet.com/blisters-from-mowing-lawn/ that has a 161cc engine that makes it very lightweight yet powerful enough to do a good job of cutting the grass in your small to medium-sized yard.

This mower is a step up in quality for affordable gas-powered mowers as it is capable of 3 cutting options for your ultimate convenience, side-discharge of grass clippings, mulching your grass clippings, or bagging your grass clippings so you don’t have to rake clippings up after you finish mowing.

This lawnmower has an easily adjustable height option which can be adjusted to 5 different heights which make it suitable for cutting everything and anything from grass like a putting green to weeds and overgrown tall grass.

I especially like the mulching option as mulching the grass is the most natural way to put nutrients back into the soil which is like using natural fertilizer.

• Works especially well if you want to quickly mow your lawn as it is a self-propelled mower.
• 3 Convenient options for side discharge, mulching, or bagging your grass clippings.
• Easy to adjust the height so you can mow your lawn to the perfect height.
• 21 inches wide mowing deck which is a wide area that cuts the grass quickly.

Lawn-Boy 17734 21-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower

This Lawn-Boy 17734 self-propelled gas lawn mower has the added convenience of being an electric start mower which means you don’t have to worry about getting a sore arm as you start it up.

This lawn mower is rear-wheel drive which gives it greater traction in all types of lawn conditions and will give you greater control of maneuverability as you mow your lawn.

The larger than most mowers bag for collecting your grass clippings enable you to cut a larger area of your lawn before you have to worry about emptying it.

This mower features a 3-way cutting system that enables you to choose between your mower discharging clippings to the side, bagging them, or mulching them so that they add nutrients back into your lawn which should make it more lush and green.

• Electric start gas mower which means you can start it with a key.
• A very easy to handle mower that has awesome power at a very reasonable price.
• This mower is very simple to adjust the height of the cut to make it suitable for different grass varieties or seasons.
• The larger than normal bag for collecting grass clippings makes it easier to finish your lawn quickly.

Craftsman M105 Gas Push Lawn Mower with Bagger

The Craftsman M105 is a gas-powered lawnmower with a bag for collecting the grass clippings attached.

I t is powered by a 140cc engine and it has an automatic choke so you are able to start it with ease.

This mower has 3 options for the discharge of the grass clippings and they can either be set to side discharge, rear discharge, or set it to mulch your grass clippings.

It has a 21 inch cutting deck which enables you to cut the grass in 21 inch sections.

The wheels on this lawnmower are 7 inches tall on the front and 8 inches tall in the rear and the tread is a zig-zag pattern and this enables you to easily maneuver the mower in all sorts of different terrain whether it’s on a hill or rough underfoot it will be capable of doing a good job.

To get the healthiest lawn possible you should cut your grass to different heights throughout the season and this mower has an incredible 6 different height settings.

• Bag for catching your grass clippings is included for your convenience.
• 3 discharge options rear discharge, side discharge, mulching.
• Auto choke so that it is easy to start this mower even if it has been sitting unused all winter.
• A lightweight mower that will enable ease of handling in all different types of terrain.

Husqvarna 7021P Gas Powered Mower With High Rear Wheels

This Husqvarna 7021P push gas powered lawn mower is a quality lawnmower and it will become a crucial tool in your quest to have a beautiful lush green lawn.

The 21-inch cutting deck is slightly larger than most lawn mowers in this price range and this will enable you to mow larger stripes in your lawn which should speed up the amount of time it takes you to complete your lawn mowing.

This is a lightweight yet powerful lawnmower so it takes very little effort to run it over your lawn no matter what the terrain is like underfoot.

When you are not using this mower it will take up the minimum space possible due to the design of the foldable handles which minimizes the space required for storage.

T he cutting height of this mower is also easily adjustable so you will always be able to set it to the desired height for optimum results.

• Designed with foldable handles to minimize storage space required when not in use.
• Gas-powered so you don’t have to worry about charging or cable length when mowing your yard.
• 21-inch cutting deck which is a bit bigger than most other lawn mowers in this price range.
• Starts up with a pull start system so you should never have any difficulty when you need to start it up.

Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers

EGO 21 in. Cordless Push Mower With Battery And Charger

This Ego 21” battery-powered and cordless lawn mower is a really magnificent mower and it will give you joy every time you use it.

This lawn mower uses lithium-powered batteries that are capable of being quickly charged although on one charge it should run for 45 minutes which should be long enough for you to mow the lawn in your small or medium-sized front and back yard.

There are 3 options for the grass clippings discharge you can either set it to mulching which will mulch the grass back into your lawn and add healthy nutrients back into the soil, set it to side discharge, set it to bag the grass so you can dispose of it (or put clippings in your compost bin).

This mower is perfectly suitable for a variety of grass types and you will be able to take it to all corners of your property without having to worry about cables.

• Powered by lithium-powered batteries.
• 3 settings for grass clippings discharge – mulching, side discharge, bagging.
• 45 minutes mowing time on a full charge which should be long enough for a small/ medium-sized yard.
• Using a battery-powered mower will reduce your carbon footprint.

Sun Joe iON100V-21LM-CT Cordless Self Propelled Lawn Mower

This Sun Joe iON100V-21LM-CT lithium battery-powered lawn mower is at the ‘cutting edge’ of grass grooming technology.

The standard-sized battery for this mower is a 2.5 Ah battery which will enable 45 minutes of mowing so is good for small or medium-sized yards but if you have a larger yard or just want more mowing time there is an option for a 5 Ah battery which will give you up to an incredible 90 minutes of mowing time.

This mower has 2 settings for grass discharge you can either use the supplied 13.2-gallon grass collecting bag or attach the discharge chute that will direct the grass clippings back into your lawn.

If you are looking for a mower with zero carbon emissions to do your bit in helping to save the environment then this is one of the best lawn mower options on the market.

This is a self-propelled electric powered mower so it takes very little effort to run it over your lawn and there are different speed settings so you can mow at a comfortable speed.

• 2 battery options 2.5 Ah for 45 minutes or 5.0 Ah for a 90-minute charge.
• Self-propelled mower so you just set the speed and point it in the correct direction.
• The advanced brushless motor that improves efficiency and cuts down on vibrations and noise.
• 2 options for the discharge of grass clippings wither into the supplied bag or out the side and back into your lawn.

Greenworks GLM801601 21-Inch 80V Lawn Mower

This Greenworks 21-Inch 80V battery-powered lawn mower is a severely good piece of lawn mowing equipment and comes in one of the most complete packages anywhere on the internet.

This mower comes with 2 2.0Ah batteries included so if you run out of power midway through mowing your lawn you will always have a spare battery that can be easily swapped over.

The brushless battery-powered motor produces the equivalent power to a 160cc gas-powered lawnmower engine.

This mower comes with a Rapid charger that can charge the batteries in as little as 30 minutes.

With one full charge you should be able to cut a small or medium-sized yard that is up to 1 acre in size or anywhere that can be done with the 60 minutes of mowing time you get from one charge.

This battery-powered lawn mower has a push-button start which makes it simple to start and get going and has 3 settings for grass discharge either mulching, side discharge or bagging.

• It comes with a Rapid charger that will charge the batteries in as little as 30 minutes.
• 2 batteries are included so you never have to worry about running out of charge halfway through your lawn.
• The brushless motor ensures a smooth operation with fewer vibrations that results in less noise.
• Push-button start so you never have to worry about pulling a cord to start it simply push a button and you are good to go.

WORX WG744 17″ Mulching Lawn Mower

The WORX WG744 40V is a very affordable battery-powered lawnmower.

This mower has a 17-inch cutting deck but has more features than most other mowers in this affordable price range.

The 2 batteries that are supplied make it possible to cut up to 1/8 of an acre per charge making it perfectly suitable for small or medium-sized yards.

This mower has different options for discharging the grass clippings you can set it to either rear discharge, mulching, or bagging, and the bagging option has a fancy feature that will alert you when the bag is full, so you don’t have to worry about checking if the bag is full mid-mow it will alert you.

Depending on what height you want to cut your grass there are six different easily adjustable height options so whatever type of grass or whatever season it is you can cut it to the optimum height.

• 3 grass discharge options for your convenience – rear discharge, mulching, or bagging.
• 6 easily adjustable height options so you can always mow your lawn to the optimal height.
• Grass bag has a full warning indicator so you never have to check how full it is halfway through mowing.
• Perfect battery-powered mower for small yards as it can cut up to ⅛ of an acre (or 2500 sq feet) per charge.

Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless 19-Inch Lawnmower Kit

This Snapper XD 82V MAX battery-powered lawn mower is a quality looking and performing example of lawn care technology.

This mower has 3 options for grass clippings discharge, you can set it to either mulching, side discharge or bagging.

The cutting deck is only 21 or 19 inches wide but as the running time is 45 minutes it is kind of irrelevant that you may have to make a couple of more passes as it has one of the longest-running times on one charge.

This electric mower has a push-button start, which is always a lot more convenient than a drawstring device which can be a chore to get started.

The height adjustment for selecting the length you want your grass is very easy to adjust and has 7 settings so you can always cut your lawn to the desired height. The self-propelled version means you have to put very little effort into the process you just have to guide it in the direction you want to mow.

• 7 different cutting heights so you can always cut your lawn to the desired height.
• Capable of vertical storage so it takes up very little space when you are not using it.
• 45 minutes of run time on a single charge which makes it ideal for mowing small to medium-sized yards.
• Self-propelled lawn mower so you basically only have to point it in the direction and guide it.

Greenworks 16-Inch Cordless Battery Powered Lawn Mower

This Greenworks 16-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower comes with a 4 Ah lithium battery that can be used in many other greenworks tools, on one charge you can easily cut a 400 square meter lawn.

It is very simple to change the height of the cutting deck with single lever adjustment and it can be adjusted between 1 inch to 3 inches high depending on the length you desire your lawn to be.

The 16-inch cutting deck makes this mower highly maneuverable even in tight spaces so this would be an ideal mower for a small yard.

The push-button start and quiet operation of this mower make it a great little mower for anyone who is attempting to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining a beautiful yard.

• One charge and you should be able to mow a ½ acre of lawn or 45 minutes of run time.
• Easy to set this mower to either mulching or bagging so you have full control over what happens to your grass clippings.
• A very affordable and maneuverable lawnmower that makes it ideal for small yards.
• The lithium battery is suitable to be used in over 40 other greenworks tools.

Reel Lawn Mowers

Scotts Outdoor Power Tools Push Reel Lawn Mower

This classic push reel lawn mower by Scotts Outdoor Power Tools is a very sturdy design which is why these push reel mowers have remained popular since they were invented and are still preferred by many people to fancy electronic mowers.

The height on this reel mower is very easy to adjust between 1-3 inches high so you can always cut your lawn to the desired height depending on the season or variety of grass you grow.

The 20 inch wide cutting area makes it cut a reasonable amount of grass with every push but it will always take quite some effort to mow the lawn with a push reel mower, especially if it is any larger than a small lawn.

The handle on this mower is designed with a cushion grip so that it is comfortable to use and should help prevent blisters on your hands.

• This reel mower will cut a 20-inch wide area which is a relatively wide area for a push reel mower.
• The height is easily adjustable between 1-3 inches so you can always get the desired height for your lawn.
• The blades are made from high-quality alloy heat-treated steel which enables the blades to stay sharp longer.
• A very lightweight and easy to use classic push reel lawnmower.

Great States 204-14 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower

This Great States hand reel push lawn mower is a classic example of quality lawn care technology that is still good for the job decades after the original push reel mowers came on the market.

Depending on what your budget is this reel mower is available with different cutting widths and comes in versions that are 14, 16 or 18 inches wide and also comes in 4 or 5 blade versions.

This push reel mower is really easy to assemble and is in fact so simple to assemble you don’t even require any tools, it is tooless assembly.

The handle on this mower is a classic T shape which makes it easy to control the exact direction you want to mow the grass in. The heat-treated blade is designed to remain sharp for a long period of time and a sharp blade means it won’t rip your grass it will precisely cut it and that is what is required for a healthy lush green lawn.

• Very low maintenance lawn mower which means there is very little hidden cost in the years ahead, just keep the blade sharp.
• Reel mowers have been around for over 120 years so it has stood the test of time.
• This is a very lightweight and easy to maneuver mower and it is also very easy to store when not in use.
• The sharp blade will ensure you have a beautiful healthy and green lawn.

Fiskars 362050-1001 StaySharp Reel Mower

The Fiskars 362050-1001 Max Reel mower is not a standard reel push mower it has advanced technology that makes it 60% easier to use which means you have to put 60% less effort into mowing your lawn.

Using a reel mower is the only 100% environmentally friendly way to mow your lawn as it doesn’t use a power supply apart from your people power. This mower has an easily adjustable height mechanism that you can adjust from between 1-4 inches so you can always cut your lawn to the optimum height.

The inertia drive technology that makes this mower easier to use also makes it a lot more efficient due to the larger than normal cutting blades and cutting reel which means you can cut through thicker grass with less effort.

The grass clipping chute is also adjustable so you can set the clippings to either go forward or backwards and downwards for ultimate control.

• The inertia drive system will make this mower 60% easier to use than a standard reel mower.
• Good for the environment as it doesn’t need a power source apart from good old people power.
• The larger cutting reel and thicker than normal blades will result in double the cutting power.
• The stay sharp cutting system will extend the time your blades stay sharp which means more healthy grass cutting.

DuroStar 16″ Push Reel Mower

The DuroStar 16″ 5-Blade push reel mower is a really good piece of lawn mowing equipment for a really reasonable price.

When you use a push reel mower you never have to worry about gas and oil which makes these mowers good for your bank balance and good for the environment. The grass catcher is an amazing feature of this mower and it is definitely large enough to hold all the grass clippings from a small or medium-sized yard in one go.

The larger than normal reel mowers 10-inch wheels make this reel mower uniquely maneuverable over all sorts of terrain compared to other similar models.

To adjust the height of the blades this mower uses a simple knob adjustment system that can be easily adjusted between 1 and 2 inches in height.

• Never have to worry about buying oil and gas for your mower again.
• Easily adjustable height settings so you can mow your lawn to the precise height you want.
• Eliminate the noise and vibrations from a powered mower and get used to a quiet, smooth experience.
• The conveniently supplied grass catcher is large enough to hold grass clippings from a small to medium-sized lawn.

Snow Joe MJ500M Reel Mower With Grass Catcher

The Snow Joe MJ500M manual reel mower is a real quality lawn mower if you want a beautifully cut lawn but you want to do it within a budget.

This mower is very lightweight and easy to handle which makes it an ideal piece of equipment if you have a small yard that needs mowing. It is easy to adjust the height of this reel mower and it can be easily adjusted between 0.88 inches and 1.81 inches so it is ideal for a variety of grass types.

The grass catcher can hold up to 6.6 gallons of grass clippings and it is easy to detach just incase you do manage to fill it up and want to empty it on your compost pile.

The design of this mower is so simple that it is practically maintenance-free and you never have to worry about running out of gas and oil!

• A very lightweight push reel mower which makes it very easy to maneuver.
• Rear collection bag means you never have to rake grass clippings from your lawn.
• Easily adjustable height settings so you can always mow your yard to the optimum height.
• Never have to worry about gas and oil when mowing your lawn and that makes it environmentally friendly.

Corded Electric Lawn Mowers

Ryobi Corded Electric Walk Behind Push Mower

This Ryobi 11 AMP 13″ electric mower is a very good priced piece of lawn care equipment if you are looking for a corded electric lawn mower without spending loads of cash.

Corded electric mowers are an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint if you are switching from a more traditional gas-powered lawnmower. The single point height adjustment makes this mower very easy to adjust between 1 – 2 ½ inches so you can always mow your lawn to the optimal height.

The handles on this mower are easily collapsible so when it’s not in use it will take up very little room wherever you store it.

Electric mowers have practically no maintenance as you never have to worry about gas, spark plugs, oil, or filters, you only need to keep the blades sharp which is a job you only have to do every few years.

• Reduce your carbon footprint significantly if you are switching from a gas lawnmower.
• Easy to adjust the cutting height so you can always mow your lawn to the optimal height.
• Collapsible handles are designed to reduce the amount of space you need to store this mower.
• Very little maintenance will be required as you don’t need to worry about spark plugs, gas, oil, etc.

BLACKDECKER EM1500 Cordless Lawn Mower

The Black Decker EM1500 is a quality machine as you would expect from Black Decker.

This mower is designed so that it can easily cut through tall grass so this is an ideal mower if you’re not a fan of cutting the lawn and only want to mow it a few times per year, it is also a quality machine if you are looking to achieve lawn perfection.

The push-button start on this mower makes it very easy to use, simply plug it in and push the button to start it up.

6 height adjustments from 1 inch to 3 inches make this a versatile mower for all different varieties of grass and for cutting your lawn to different heights at different times in the season.

The advanced winged blade design means that it is designed to collect more grass than most other mowers can achieve.

• Designed so that it is easy to cut through tall grass with very little effort.
• Push-button start makes it simple to use just plug it in and push the start button.
• Very easy to adjust the height to 6 different settings so you can find the perfect height whatever variety of grass you grow.
• The winged cutting blade is designed so that it guides more grass clippings into the collection bag than similar mowers would.

Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 50620S 20-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower

This Scotts Outdoor 50620S corded lawn mower is a very environmentally friendly mower as you never have to use gas or oil just plug it in and go.

The 20-inch cutting width make this one of the widest mowers in this very affordable price range and will result in you having to cut fewer stripes to get the job done.

It is very easy to adjust the cutting height between 1.5 and 4 inches giving this mower one of the biggest ranges for cutting height selection.

This Scotts mower has 3 different options for the grass clippings you can set it to either mulching, side discharge, or bagging which is convenient if you want to bag clippings to put in your compost bin.

The 12 Amp electric motor is powerful and compares to the performance of a traditional gas-powered mower.

• The 20-inch cutting deck makes this one of the widest mowers on the market for this price.
• 1.5 to 4 inches height adjustment make this mower one of the most versatile for cutting height.
• The 12 Amp powered electric motor is very efficient and similar in power to a traditional gas mower.
• 3 options for grass discharge mulching, side discharge, or bagging.

Greenworks MO09B01 14-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower

This Greenworks 14-Inch corded electric mower is an excellent lawnmower for anyone who is looking for a quality mower within a tight budget.

This mower is very lightweight and maneuverable and the small 14-inch cutting deck makes this lawn mower an ideal choice for anyone with a small yard. The large wheels that are 7 inches at the front and 8 inches at the rear make this mower easy to maneuver no matter what the terrain or length of grass is underfoot.

The 5 different settings for cutting height range from ⅝ of an inch to 2 and ⅝ of an inch so you can always cut your grass to the desired height at different times in the growing season.

This is a hassle-free mower as you never have to worry about charging or running out of gas just simply plug it in and you are good to go.

• The small 14-inch cutting width make this mower a good choice for anyone with a small yard.
• Greenworks is a very dependable brand and this mower is an excellent price.
• 5 cutting height settings mean you can always mow your lawn to the desired height.
• For grass discharge you can choose between mulching and rear discharge/ bagging.

American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower

This corded electric mower from the American Lawn Mower Company 50514 is a really solid mower from a very dependable company.

If you are looking for a good lawnmower with a small budget then one of these corded electric lawn mowers would be an excellent choice.

The 11 Amp electric motor provides enough power to cut all types of grass and delivers a similar amount of power as a gas mower of a similar size.

The grass clippings discharge system has 2 options you can either set it to mulching or rear discharge.

When you set this mower to rear discharge you can attach the 16-gallon grass-catching bag which has a grass level indicator so you can keep an eye on how full the bag is while you mow without having to open it up and check.

• This is a quality corded electric lawn mower for a very reasonable price.
• The grass catching bag has a level indicator so you don’t have to open it up to check how full it is.
• Environmentally friendly compared to traditional gas mowers so you can reduce your carbon footprint.
• Single lever height adjustment so it is simple to set what length you want to mow your lawn.

WORX WG720 19″ Electric Lawn Mower

This WORX WG720 Corded Electric Lawn Mower is an excellent choice if you are looking for a corded mower that has specialized mulching capabilities.

The cutting deck for this mower has a nutricut specialized mulching blade which is ideal if you want to naturally fertilize your lawn by mulching the grass clippings.

The 7 different height settings mean you can always find the optimum height to mow your lawn depending on what variety of grass you are growing or what time of the season it is.

This is a very quiet mower compared to traditional gas mowers and you can reduce your carbon footprint by switching from a gas-powered mower to an electric mower and because this is a corded mower you don’t have to worry about charging simply plug it in and go.

• This mower has a specialized blade for mulching your grass clippings and using them as a natural lawn fertilizer.
• The versatile height settings mean you can always find the optimum cutting height for your grass.
• You will never have to worry about charging or running out of gas simply plug it in and go.
• Switch from gas powered mowers to electric mowers and you can reduce your carbon footprint.

Best Lawn Mowers for Small Yards 2023

Taking care of lawns is not an easy task as it involves a lot of time and manual effort. But you can simplify the process by investing in a lawn mower.

These lawn mowers are available in different sizes and capacities to suit user requirements. Without proper knowledge, it can be difficult to analyze and shortlist a model among the varied range.

We suggest considering the below-mentioned main factors while purchasing a lawn mower for your small yard.

• Power Source: Manual and electricity (corded or cordless) are two main types of power sources available for lawn mowers while dealing with small yards. The gas-powered mower is considered the less convenient option for small yards. Why because its powerful engine is not necessary for mowing small areas with less grass.
• Cutting Width: The cutting width of a particular lawn mower will determine the grass cutting area in a single pass. The cutting width range will be 14 – 16 inches (for gas-powered mowers), and 15 – 21 inches (for electric and reel style mowers). A mower with higher cutting width will make it difficult to maneuver around small spaces while having a mower with a little small cutting width, then it takes a longer time to mow.
• Cutting Height: Though it is essential to cut the grass to make it grow with even height. The range of cutting height will be 1 – 3. 5 inches, in which you can adjust and set the cutting height as per your requirement. After doing, the grass length in the lawn will be equal.

We have explained everything about lawn mowers for small yards in our detailed Buying guide. Also, to cut down your searching time, here we came up with a list of the best lawn mowers for small yards.

Read on to purchase your best lawn mower within your budget range and perfect for your lawn requirement.

Best Lawn Mowers for Small Yards Table

Lawn Mowers for YardsCutting WidthCutting HeightMotor PowerWarrantyBuy Now

Best Lawn Mowers for Small Yards: Reviews

GreenWorks Electric Lawn Mower

GreenWorks is another great brand of lawn mowers that offers highly reliable options. And we are here with a great 20 inch electric lawn mower from GreenWorks.

GreenWorks 250022 electric lawn mower is in the 1st position in this article as it offers a powerful 12 amp motor. And this motor offers you with a 20 inch cutting width which is quite useful for larger lawns. You also get a push start system in this lawn mower and it is quite easy to use. This lawn mower offers a 7 position height adjustment system with a range of 1-½ to 3-¾ inches according to your needs and requirements.

The 10 inch rear and 7 inch front wheels allow you to easily use this lawn mower even in long grass without any issues. Another great feature of this lawn mower is that it offers a foldable handle for easily storing it once you have used it. You also get a rear bag in this lawn mower for storing grass along with the option of side discharge.

Best Features

• 20 inch cutting width
• 1-½ to 3-¾ inch cutting height
• Grass bag with discharge option
• 12 amp motor
• 4 year warranty
• Large sized wheels
• Foldable handles
• 7 position height adjustment

BLACKDECKER Electric Lawn Mower

Black and Decker is another highly popular brand out there if you are looking for power tools. It also offers multiple lawn mower options out there out of which we have mentioned one of the most popular ones in this article.

The Black and Decker Besta is one of the smallest electric powered lawn mowers present in this article. It has a 12 inch cutting width that offers a great balance between cutting performance and compactness for easily storing this lawn mower. You also get a cutting height of 1.6 inch to 2.4 inch that can be adjusted as per your requirement. As for its power, it is powered by a 6.5 amp motor that is powered using a power cord.

Top 5 Lawn Mowers for Small Yards in 2023 �� [don’t buy one before watching this]

This lawn mower can also be converted between a trimmer and an edger as per your needs and requirements. You also get an automatic feed spool that lets you use the mower without having to adjust the spool again and again. The blade of this lawn mower spins at 8000 RPM which is quite high when compared with other options out there.

Best Features

• 12 inch cutting width
• 6 to 2.4 inch cutting height
• 5 amp 8000 RPM motor
• Works as a trimmer and an edger
• 2 year warranty
• Corded lawn mower
• Automatic feed spool

American 1204 Lawn Mower

American Lawn Mower is a leading manufacturer of lawn and garden maintenance equipment. The brand has been fulfilling the needs of garden enthusiasts with its innovative products for the past 120 years.

American Lawn Mower’s lawn mower uses a 4-blade reel with a decent cutting width of 14 inches that is ideal for cutting overgrown grass on a small yard. The height of the blade can be adjusted allowing you to cut grass at heights of 0.5 to 1.75 inches. With this lawn mower, you can cut grasses that are up to 4 inches tall.

The blades are made of heat-treated alloy to retain the sharpness even after years of use. It would be sufficient if you sharpen the blades once every 3-5 years. As an electric-powered lawn mower, this operates without producing any noise. Furthermore, it is easy to start with just the press of a button and there is no maintenance work involved.

Although this lawn mower has to be assembled, you can assemble it easily in less than 10 minutes. It is lightweight with just 20 lbs. Plus, it is equipped with 8.5-inch durable wheels that provide easy maneuverability.

American Lawn Mower Company backs this lawn mower with a 90-day limited warranty from the original date of purchase.

Best Features

• 14-inch cutting width
• 0.5 to 1.75-inch cutting height
• Cuts grass up to 4 inches
• 90-day warranty
• Low maintenance
• Lightweight with 20 lbs
• Large 8.5-inch wheels for maneuverability

Worx Lawn Mower

Worx is another popular brand that specializes in developing power tools, lawn maintenance equipment, and other outdoor equipment. The brand leverages advanced technology to design products with innovative features and superior performance.

This lawn mower is one of the most powerful options on our list. It is powered by two 20V 4.0Ah Power Share batteries for your heavy-duty cutting tasks. With this battery capacity, you can mow up to ⅛-acre area on a single charge.

The lawn mower comes with an Intellicut feature that provides torque on demand for tougher conditions. The 14-inch blade features 6 height adjustment levels. Using the lever, you can adjust the height of the blade to maintain uniform height of the grass based on your preference. You can adjust the height of the blade from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.

Apart from cutting the grass, you can also bag it up or mulch the grass back into the ground using this versatile equipment. It is equipped with a.85 bushels capacity and a full-bag indicator that lets you know when it is time to empty the bag. There is also an on-board battery level indicator that shows exactly how much charge is left in the mower.

With a weight of just 29 lbs, you can maneuver this lawn mower easily around your small yard. It features a dual-port charger for faster charging.

Worx backs this lawn mower with a 3-year limited warranty from the original date of purchase.

Best Features

• 14-inch cutting width
• 2.5 to 3.5-inch cutting height
• 2-in-1 function
• 3-year warranty
• .85 bushel-capacity bag
• Full bag indicator
• On-board battery level indicator
• Lightweight with 29 lbs
• Lawn Mower
• Two 20V batteries
• Charger
• User manual
• Warranty card

American Lawn Mower

American Lawn Mower Company is one of the most reputable brands out there if you are looking for a lawn mower for your backyard. We have mentioned a great electric option from this company in this article.

The American Lawn Mower Company 50514 is in the 5th position in this article as it is one of the cheapest options in this article. And even then it offers a 14 inch cutting width along with a decently powerful 11 amp motor. As a result, you can easily cut a lot of grass at once using this lawn mower. It is a corded lawn mower that requires you to plug it into a wall socket for using it to cut your backyard grass. You also get a 2 year warranty with it.

This lawn mower also offers a cutting height of 1 to 2.5 inch which is quite decent for its given price. To make this lawn mower highly practical, it includes an inbuilt grass bag. And this hard top grass bag offers a capacity of 16 gallon for easily disposing grass once you have cut it. You also get a grass level indicator in this grass bag for ease of use.

Best Features

• 14 inch cutting width
• 1 to 2.5 inch cutting height
• 16 gallon grass bag
• 11 amp motor
• 2 year warranty
• Corded lawn mower
• Large sized wheels
• Multiple handle height options

Great States Lawn Mower

Great States is one of the highest rated lawn mower brands available out there. And unlike all other options in this article, this Great States lawn mower is a manual push lawn mower.

This Great States 204-14 lawn mower is in this article as it is a push lawn mower. As a result, it requires almost zero maintenance and a great option for small yards. It comes with a 14 inch blade with 3 spiders and 4 blades. You also get an adjustable cutting height of 0.5 to 1.75 inch for easily cutting grass as per your requirement. This lawn mower offers 8.5 inch wheels for easily navigating it through grass.

It uses heat treated alloy steel and this allows the blades last for a really long time. Since this is a manual lawn mower with no engine, storing it is quite easy. You also get a T-style handle in this lawn mower that can be used to easily mowing your grass. Unlike a powered lawn mower, this one does not make any noise either.

Best Features

• 14 inch cutting width
• 3 spiders and 4 blades
• 5 to 1.75 inch cutting height
• T-shaped handle
• Easy to store
• 2 year warranty
• 5 inch wheels
• No maintenance and noise

EGO Power Lawn Mower

Ego Power offers some of the most premium lawn mower options out there. And we are here with the only battery powered lawn mower present in this article from Ego Power.

This Ego Power lawn mower comes with an included battery kit for easily using it without needing to plug into a wall socket. It comes with a 56 volt lithium ion battery that can be easily charged. The included 5.0 Ah battery can be easily charged using the included charger. You get a battery life of up to 55 minutes while using this lawn mower on battery power. Just like other electric mowers out there, this one also offers a push start button.

You get a large 20 inch cutting width in this lawn mower along with a cutting height of 1.2 inch to 3.5 inch. As a result, it is among some of the most powerful lawn mowers out there. And since it is a highly expensive lawn mower, you also get a 3 year warranty with it for peace of mind. It also has a grass bag on the back along with the option of side discharge and mulching lawn mower as required by the user.

Best Features

• 20 inch cutting width
• 2 to 3.5 inch cutting height
• Grass bag with option for side discharge and mulching lawn mower
• 0 Ah battery
• 3 year warranty
• Push start button
• 55 minute battery life

How to Choose the Best Lawn Mower for Small Yards

Here we are going to know some of the key factors that have to be taken into consideration while shopping for a lawn mower for a small lawn/garden.

Cutting Width

The cutting width of the mower will let you know the grass cutting area in a single pass. Picking a mower with a big cutting width will make it a bit difficult to maneuver around the small spaces. If you select too small mower, then it takes a bit longer time to do the task.

So, it is essential to get the right mower with 14 – 16 inches cutting width for small yards. If you have a uniform layout of the lawn (rectangle or square), then prefer to choose a mower with a 16-inches cutting width. While if a yard is full of obstacles, then pick a 14-inch cutting width mower for better maneuverability.

Generally, electric mowers are made with widths of 15 – 21 inches to make them perfect for small yards. The same is applicable for the reel-style mower.

Cutting Height

Cutting height of a mower is another essential feature to check out when cutting the grass on the lawn. Here the grass should be of even height for best results. The range of cutting height for most mowers will be 1 – 3.5 inches, in which lawn mower helps you to cut grass as per your requirement. One can adjust and set the cutting height of the mower within this range. When once it is done the grass length in the lawn will be of the same cutting height.

Power Source

Gas-powered lawn mowers are not meant to use for small yards, why because their maintenance and usage will be a big hassle rather than taking care of a small lawn area of grass. Though manual and electric (corded cordless) are two main power sources available for lawn mowers to use on small yards. But a few manufacturers designed gas-powered mowers for small lawns to help to mow your lawn quickly without much effort.

Here is the detailed explanation of each option that helps you to choose the best one, as per your requirement.

Electric Corded Lawn Mower –

It is the most popular mower for small yards, offering a bit more features at an affordable price range. With its continuous usage, until it is plugged in, it is considered the better and powerful option than battery-powered models.

The power cord length is its main drawback. It makes it a bit difficult to maneuver around, particularly while the yard possesses lots of obstacles like flower beds or trees. Also, electric corded mowers are considered the next lighter and cheaper option after reel mowers.

Battery Powered or Cordless Lawn Mowers –

With their rechargeable batteries, the cordless mower is used to mow anywhere on the lawn without any nearby electric outlet or power cord length. These are lightweight, noiseless, and eco-friendly mowers. Though it is gaining popularity these days, yet one has to check the charge and runtime of a particular mower before buying.

It is a perfect and convenient option for smaller yards. The main drawback of this type is the limited battery life (runtime) and has to recharge the battery (or keep extra battery) to continue your work. So, check out the battery life and warranty on the product before buying.

Manual (or) Push Lawn Mowers –

Since they cut grass without using electricity or gas, it is considered simple, eco-friendly, portable, compact, easy to store, and maintenance-free mowers. These are hand-powered mowers that come at an affordable price range with a simple design and are a perfect option for those mowing the lawn regularly.

The main drawback for this type is that they won’t work well on thick or long grass (4-inch or taller). But one can mow over a thick lawn with this reel mower in a checkerboard or overlapping pattern.

Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers –

They have a powerful engine that makes them work more effectively than other types of mowers. Yet these are heavier, noisier, and hard to maintain like changing oil regularly, fuel mix-ups, and produce emissions, which makes it not an eco-friendly mower. So, for all these reasons, it is the least preferred option while dealing with small yards. Yet a perfect powerful option for medium-large yards.

Weight

It is quite difficult to push a heavier mower, especially for seniors, or children. Usually, the electric or manual powered mowers used for small yards are not as heavy as gas-powered models. Yet, one has to check out the weight of a given lawn mower before making its purchase. It will help you to know whether or not, you can push the mower around the lawn for perfect cutting.

Starting Mechanism

It is quite essential to check out the starting mechanism before buying a lawn mower for small yards. Mostly this problem is faced while using electric models (gas models are not preferred mostly for small lawns), but not for manual models. The mower should be easy to start without much ordeal.

Although, it is a simple and straightforward to start an electric mower. All you need is to connect the mower to an electric power source, turn on the power and push the button to start the mower. While if using gas-powered mower for small lawns, then it is a bit difficult to start the mower compared to electric models.

Grass Disposal System

Some people use clippings as mulch, while others won’t like the lawn clippings on their yard. Most lawn mowers discharge clippings through the space available on the mower’s side for grass clippings to dispose of the mower. A few models offer a perfectly fitted detachable bag in this space, which allows the user to bag those clippings and use them as mulch. So, most people prefer to choose a mower with a detachable bag. The reason is that they keep the yard clean, and also the mulch will enrich the soil with nutrients and restricts the weeds from growing.

Maneuverability

An easily maneuverable lawn mower is a perfect option for the yard having lots of obstacles or less spaces between garden beds and shrubbery. This will help to manage for small passages and perfect tight turns.

Yet make sure to check out the weight of this easy to maneuver mower, as a lighter mower (of 50 pounds or less) will aid in tighter turns and accurate mowing. Also, a mower with a small width is easy to go through the tight spaces. Plus, check out the mower deck, as it supposes to mow in tight spots, even if it takes more passes.

Safety Features

Irrespective of the mower’s type you are using, it should run safely without any hazards while operating, and also, it should be stored easily after its usage.

Electric Mowers – Though there are easy to start mowers, which makes them a bit dangerous to operate. Since it can be started easily, even by a child by a simple press of a button. So, to get rid of this issue, you have to check out for electric mowers having a lockable switch or removable key.

Reel Mowers – Though it is manually operated, it offers fewer safety features, especially its blades that move whenever its wheels spin.

Gas-Powered Mowers – Offers the best safety features, as they have a throttle bar to shut down the mower whenever the push bar is unconfined. So, for those who fall or lose grip of the mower, then it shut off immediately.

Common Safety Features – Make sure to wear perfectly fitted shoes, especially closed-toe model while mowing. Keep the pets children out of this mower.

Storage Space

If you lack space for its storage, then check out for foldable options. Most compact lawn mowers offer a foldaway handle along with the grass box. As some models have soft material grass boxes that flatten down.

Maintenance

Reel and electric mowers won’t need much maintenance and also, a cold weather won’t affect them. Plus, they won’t use filters or spark plugs and all it needs is to have some common maintenance. Make sure to clean the mower’s underside regularly for a few times every year. This will avoid the build-up of grass and thereby restrict corrosion. Also, resharpen the blade regularly to maintain it sharpen and cut the grass evenly.

Price

Price is another essential feature to consider while buying the best lawn mower for small yards. However, the price of manual and corded electric lawn mowers are less compared to cordless lawn mowers. So, check out the price of various models having decent qualities and built-in construction.

Motor Power

Motor power is essential to consider while buying a powered lawn mower like electric or gas-powered mowers. If using an electric lawn mower for small yards, check out the motor amp usage, which ranges around 11 or 12 amps. The usage of a mower with a higher amp is more powerful and works quickly and easily.

Alternatively, one has to check the power of a gas-powered model with its engine having CC ratings. Just like any other gas-powered engine, the lawn mower engine has CC ratings like 149 CC or 196 CC. As expected, a mower with a larger engine displacement like 196 CC offers more power to cut grass effectively.

Tips to Use the Small Lawn Mower Effectively

Knowing the right tips and tricks will let you use the small lawnmower with ease. Here are some of the common tips explained that helps you to use them effectively.

Avoid Mowing Wet Lawn – If the lawn gets wet due to rain or morning dew, then it is advised to wait till it is dried before mowing. The reason is that wet grass is a bit heavier and makes the mower unable to cut the grass effectively, and also it may damage the mower, but not with the case of dry grass.

Clean the Mower Deck – Grime and grass build-up under the deck and on the blades of the mower happens commonly. If left untreated, it makes the mower less effective and dull. If using a gas-powered model, then ensure the gas tank is empty and the spark plug wire is disconnected while cleaning the deck with a garden hose. Also, use a blower to blow off the mower after its every usage.

Be Cautious While Mowing – Before you start mowing the lawn, make sure to clear the sticks and other debris which may ruin the mower blades. Also, prevent vines and stumps, which may damage or wrapped around the blades of the mower while mowing the lawn.

Use Grass Clippings for the Lawn – Some people won’t like to leave grass clippings on their lawn, yet they are good for the yard’s health. They act as a natural fertilizer and when having a mulching feature on a mower, then it decomposes quickly by breaking down the grass and dried leaves. Also, bagging clippings for grass or weeds is helpful to clean the lawn.

Lawn Mowers for Small Yards FAQs

Not at all necessary to upgrade or buy a new mower every year until the present mower is working in perfect condition and meets all your lawn requirements. So, we suggest you buy or upgrade a mower when you have a definite need for it, or else it is a waste of money spent on its purchase.

It completely depends on the growth rate of grass in your yard, and seasonality is another main factor affecting grass growth. Usually, the grass growth rate is more in summer than winter. So, most experts suggest you mow the lawn once a month in winter and twice a month in summer (depending on the growth of grass in your lawn).

Both gas and electric lawn mowers are best in their ways. Though they work in the same way of mowing the lawn, yet they use different power sources. In some cases, gas-powered mowers are considered a bit more powerful than electric mowers. Both have their pros and cons, in which the final choice is based on one’s personal preference and requirements.

Absolutely not for mowing small lawns. Mostly, experts recommend using a lawnmower by yourself without going for any professional lawn mower service, as it is considered healthy exercise and aids in family bonding.

Mostly, NO. We recommend not to use a lawn mower (irrespective of its type) while drizzling slightly outside. The reason is that the mower comes with steel parts, which might catch rust or an engine gets jammed due to the increased humidity levels.

Conclusion

Lawn mowers are one of the most essential tools for maintaining your backyard lawn. While some of them are manual, some might be powered via electric motors or gas engines. Similarly, there are various other things to check before buying a lawn mower. And thus, we have mentioned some of the best lawn mower options in this article along with their major features and differences. You can also find a detailed buying guide with all of the aspects related to lawn mowers. But if you are still not able to choose the perfect lawn mower for your needs and requirements, here are some of our requirements:

• If you want an electric lawn mower with decent power and a 14 inch cutting width, then you can go with the American Lawn Mower. It offers a very justified price tag to its users while offering decent power. And you also get a 2 year warranty with it despite the affordable price tag.
• On the other hand, if you have a small lawn in your backyard, then you can also go with the Great States Lawn Mower. This is a hand powered lawn mower which is quite simple and cost effective when compared to powered options and.
• But if you are looking for a powerful lawn mower, then you can go with the BLACKDECKER Electric Lawn Mower. It comes with a 6.5 amp motor that offers a 12 inch cutting width. And you get a great cutting performance from this lawn mower that also offers a 2 year warranty.

Make sure to share your thoughts in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев section. You can also post any questions down there if you have any!

The 10 Best Electric Lawn Mowers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Sage McHugh has written for Dotdash Meredith since 2019. With over a decade of experience in consumer-oriented content, Sage has a passion for products and how they enhance our everyday lives.

Barbara Gillette is a Master Gardener, herbalist, beekeeper, and journalist. She has 30 years of experience propagating and growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals.

Shereen Jegtvig is an author, fact-checker, and expert with over two decades of experience in health and wellness in the lifestyle space. In addition, she is a Developmental Editor for Dotdash Meredith where she reviews the work of other fact checkers.

Electric lawn mowers have many advantages over gas-powered models. For example, electric models don’t release exhaust fumes and can be significantly quieter and easier to operate, resulting in a much more pleasant mowing experience all around. “Electric lawn mowers come with many features to help owners stay safe, comfortable, and productive,” says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI).

We researched many different types of electric lawn mowers and tested several in our own backyards across the country. We then evaluated products based on their setup, design, performance, usability, safety, and value and selected our favorites in a range of categories for this list. During our first run with the mower, we timed the assembly process and made careful notes about how clear and simple the included directions were. Following this, we utilized the mowers on three separate occasions, taking note of the grass length cut, the total area of the yard mowed, and the time it took to complete the task.

In our latest round of testing, we put six riding lawn mowers through their paces in our personal yards and selected the best electric ones based on its power, maneuverability, and noise level.

Best Overall

EGO Power Select Cut 56-Volt 21-Inch Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower

• Powerful and easy to use
• Lightweight and foldable for vertical storage
• 60-minute runtime and recharging
• Relatively affordable

After testing other electric mowers across the country, the EGO LM2102SP POWER 21-Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower is our best overall pick because it is very easy to use, lightweight and compact, and offers additional power when you need it, all at a relatively affordable price. Self-propelled mowers make mowing—especially over hills and rugged terrain—much easier because the mower moves for you at your pace, while you simply guide it around your yard. This option is no exception. While we tested this mower, we almost found it too powerful at first, especially because it was our first time using a self-propelled mower. But once we got the hang of it, we turned it off and on easily, and adjusted the speeds when needed by using the levers on the handle. We found the self-propulsion helpful for going up small hills (the lowest speed was all we needed) and turned it off when navigating around obstacles.

✌️Best Lawn Mowers For Small Yards �� 5 Best Lawn Mowers For Small Garden 1

We also appreciated the battery life and fast recharging this mower offers. Although it comes with just one EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery, it has a 60-minute runtime and only takes about the same time to recharge using the included Rapid charger. And while it only took 50 minutes to mow our lawn, we are happy to report that the battery did not run out. If you have other EGO products at home with the same battery, you could always swap in that battery if you have a larger lawn and want to continue mowing without much of a break.

Other user-friendly features we love include the easily-adjustable handle: You have two options for the height and three options for the angle, so you can pick the one that is most comfortable for you. We also found adjusting the cutting height to be a simple task, with six settings to choose from ranging in height from 1.5 to 4 inches. And when you are done, the handle is just as easy to fold, so you can store your mower vertically in your garage or shed. We do want to note that while we think this mower did a great job mowing in dry and damp conditions, once when mowing over a particularly wet area, an orange light came on and the mower stopped. However, once we moved the mower to a more drier area, we were able to start it again easily. The only other minor issue we reported is putting on the grass collection bag. We found it would be much easier with two people since it clips on tightly and it’s a bit hard to get around the support bar (it popped off a few times during this process). But other than those small issues, we think this is an excellent electric mower for navigating different types of terrain with ease.

How It Performed Long-Term

We’ve been testing this lawn mower for three months and are impressed with its long-lasting battery life. With the ability to mow the lawn three times before requiring a recharge, which only takes around 20 minutes, it is a reliable and efficient machine. This mower can effortlessly handle thick, tall grass and can even manage up to 10 days of uncut grass without any issues. While we initially experienced some issues with the mower stopping and a light running orange while mowing grass, we have since been able to handle damp grass with ease. Overall, this mower is ideal for individuals who may not have the hand or upper body strength to adjust tires or use a pull cord.

Price at time of publish: 549

Cutting Width: 21 inches | Weight: 62.61 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge

Best Budget

Greenworks 12 Amp 20-Inch 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower

• Affordable, powerful, and compact
• Unlimited run time
• Seven cutting positions
• Bag, mulch, and side-discharge settings

We’ve tested the Greenworks Electric Corded Lawn Mower several times over the last few years, and it continues to stand out as the best affordable choice for small yards and tight spaces, even those with somewhat challenging terrain. In fact, while testing this mower in our latest round of testing, we had no issues navigating over divots, clumps, bumps, and other parts of our lawn that were uneven—we found that this mower powered right through them. Plus, the 12-amp motor is powerful enough for tough cutting and mulching, including the tall, spindly weeds in our yard. We didn’t report any issues mowing over slightly wet grass either.

The 20-inch cutting deck is narrower than some other options, but we found that it helped us get through the tight areas of our yard easily. Adjusting the cutting height (seven different heights ranging from 1.5 to 3.75 inches) is simple as well, and really is the only setting you need to worry about. However, we did note that the mower didn’t go quite low enough to cut some patches of clover. Although it’s budget-friendly, we love that you have three options for your grass clippings—bag, mulch, or side discharge—and you don’t have to purchase any of these features separately (which would add to the cost). The grass collection bag was easy to clip on, although we did spill some grass clippings the first time we removed it and noted that the bag was not even full. However, we think this won’t be an issue once we get the hang of it.

Although this electric model is corded, we appreciated the unlimited runtime and didn’t find the cord to be cumbersome. We did find ourselves holding on to the cord even though there was a cord restraint system that kept it in place, but we were able to mow the lawn easily with our other hand. It’s important to note that this mower must be used with a 14-gauge 50-foot extension cord or a 12-gauge 100-foot extension cord (not included). Overall, we found this to be a really easy lawn mower to set up (just a few screws are needed for the handle), use, and store (just fold the handle), and it continues to impress us with its performance and price.

Price at time of publish: 230

Cutting Width: 20 inches | Weight: 56 pounds | Power Source: Corded | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge

Best Self-Propelled

Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21-Inch Dual-Blade Self-Propelled Mower

• Powerful performance
• 70-minute runtime
• Fast, 60-minute charging
• Lightweight and folds for storage

Although it is a little more of a splurge compared to other options we tested, The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21 Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower stands out for its powerful performance (comparable to some gas models), and long, 70-minute runtime. We tested this mower on the first grass of the season and were quickly impressed by its ease of use and quiet performance (we thought it almost sounded like white noise), especially compared to gas models we’ve used in the past. Thanks to the self-propelled technology, it was a breeze to mow over uneven terrain, even over hills, with little effort on our part. It did take a little bit of time to select the right cutting height for our uneven lawn (the blade did get stuck a few times), but once we adjusted the height, we were impressed by the cutting performance. Luckily this mower offers seven adjustable cutting heights (1.5 to 4 inches), so you can easily pick the one you need. We also want to mention that like our best overall mower, the EGO LM2102SP POWER 21-Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower, the self-propelled feature does take some time to get used to, and you may feel like the mower will run away on you at first until you figure out which setting you need for each part of your yard.

This model comes with two 40-volt batteries and a Rapid charger. Since only one battery is needed at a time, you will always have one ready to go should you need it. Our lawn took only 45 minutes to an hour each time to mow, and we never had to stop and recharge it to finish the job. However, we did have to stop the first time we mowed to empty the grass collection bag, which we found to be surprisingly small. It filled up after mowing about 25-30 feet of tall grass. The next two times weren’t as much of an issue because the grass wasn’t as overgrown. It was very simple to remove the full bag, but we found that it spilled easily and a few blades even spilled when the mower was in use (whether or not it was filled.) These few issues aside, we appreciated the bag, mulching, and side-discharge options for the grass clippings overall, although it is worth noting that it did not break up older leaves very well.

Like most of the mowers on this list, the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21 Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower is easy to fold and store vertically to save space. We were equally impressed with all of the safety features. Although it has a simple, push-button start, the mower has a key that you can store separately so no one can accidentally start the mower. When ready to use, the key has to be inserted behind a flap. Plus, the mower only works while you are gripping a lever. The LED headlights provide extra light that might be helpful when mowing around dusk or dawn. Although this mower is a bit more pricey than our best overall (which is also a battery-powered self-propel model), we think it’s worth the extra cost for the power, long runtime, and extra battery.

How It Performed Long-Term

After three months of use, we can report that this lawn mower has continued to impress us with its ease of use and quiet operation. The self-propelled feature makes navigating hills and uneven terrain a breeze, and we were able to get up to 4 uses out of a single charge. The mower excels at cutting grass and collecting clippings, and while it may struggle with heavier weeds, we had no issues with damp grass. It’s worth noting that the grass bag became heavy with clippings, but overall, we are confident in recommending this lawn mower to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient cutting tool.

Price at time of publish: 799

Cutting Width: 21 inches | Weight: 75 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge

Best Push

Sun Joe MJ401E-P2 Electric Lawn Mower

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Budget-friendly
• Relatively quiet
• Folds for compact storage

While testing, we found that the Sun Joe MJ401E-P2 Electric Lawn Mower was as easy to use as a corded vacuum. At under 30 pounds, this mower is very easy to push, even though it’s not a self-propelled model. It is corded, so you will most likely have to use an extension cord. However, you won’t have to worry about the battery running out, stopping to recharge a battery, or fumes from a gas model. We were also impressed by how quiet this mower was, especially compared to gas mowers we’ve used in the past. This mower was simple to set up—we just had to attach the bag and two parts for the handle.

Thanks to the 14-inch cutting deck, we found this to be a great push mower for navigating around tight corners and spaces. However, we do want to point out a few issues we came across while testing. We found that the grass collection bag filled up pretty quickly (after mowing about 20-30 feet). And when we mowed without the bag, we did notice that the grass would get stuck underneath the blades. As a great safety feature, the mower would immediately shut off. The grass was easy to remove though, and we were able to get back to mowing quickly. Also, it’s worth noting that this mower only has three settings for the cutting height, ranging from 1.12 to 2.52 inches. While you won’t get as a precise cut as other models, and you may have to stop to empty a bag or remove grass from underneath the mower when tackling long grass, we think this is a great budget-friendly push mower that is perfect for small lawns.

How It Performed Long-Term

We are still very satisfied with its performance, even after using it for three months. The grass has grown thicker and longer since we first tested the lawn mower, but we were able to adjust the height of the mower to handle it with ease. Even after it rained, we were able to cut through the grass without any problems. However, it should be noted that the grass catcher bag becomes heavier with damp clippings and more difficult to empty. Although we appreciate not having to refill the mower with gasoline constantly, we believe it would be more convenient if it ran on batteries rather than a cord. Having to connect the extension cord to different outlets in the yard can be a bit inconvenient. All in all, we believe it is a dependable mower for its price.

Price at time of publish: 108

Cutting Width: 14 inches | Weight: 29 pounds | Power Source: Corded electric | Cutting Options: Bag, side-discharge

Best Riding

Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-Inch Electric Cordless Riding Lawn Tractor

• Powerful Performance
• LCD Screen and app for tracking battery life
• 13 cutting heights
• Many extra features

If you have a larger yard to mow, a riding lawn mower can save you time and energy with its speed and efficiency. While testing the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-inch Battery Riding Lawn Tractor we were impressed with its exceptional cutting performance, long battery runtime, and maneuverability. The electric mower has four steel blades that provide 13 different cutting height positions, ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 inches, for a very precise cut. We found that the mower was able to handle a variety of debris with ease, effectively chopping up sticks, leaves, grass clippings, and even short dandelions that normally would be difficult to cut. The cutting height can be adjusted using a manual lever on the mower’s right side. However, we did find that the lever was surprisingly close to your leg, which can result in unintentionally changing the cutting height, although we did not experience this issue ourselves.

While putting this battery-powered mower to the test after a rainy morning, we found that it had no trouble dealing with wet grass and cutting it evenly. Even when the grass was damp, the lawn mower effectively discharged the grass clippings. While we love that this mower gives you three options for grass clippings—bag, side-discharge, or mulch—note that you will have to purchase the bagger and mulching kit separately. We were also impressed with the riding mower’s quietness despite its size. When the cutting blades were not moving, the riding mower sound resembled that of a battery-powered ride-on car for kids. And, when the blades were spinning, the noise level was super low compared to traditional gas mowers.

The mower has an onboard LCD screen that lets you check the runtime and charging status and control the LED headlights, drive, and blade speeds. The battery percentage also appears on the digital display menu. You can even monitor the charging status while you are taking a break, using the Ryobi Riding Mower app. We found charging the mower to be a simple process. The battery arrived with just 23 percent charge, and it only took us about an hour to fully recharge. For each mowing session we did, only about 10 percent of the battery was utilized. While we would have preferred a physical speed control lever, we found it manageable to switch while driving. The mower has an accelerator pedal that allows for slow and precise maneuvering around obstacles while providing instant speed when necessary. The mower is also equipped with a backup beeping noise, which is intended as a safety feature but we found it annoying over time.

All in all, the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-inch Battery Riding Lawn Tractor is a great riding mower that offers a quiet and efficient mowing experience that eliminates the hassle of gas and oil. While this isn’t the best choice for small yards, if you want to keep your large yard looking great without a lot of effort, this is an excellent choice with lots of extras.

Price at time of publish: 4,999

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Weight: 557 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Mulch, bag, or side-discharge

Best Zero-Turn

Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-Inch Battery Electric Cordless Zero Turn Riding Mower

• 12 height settings
• Powerful performance
• LCD screen and app to monitor battery life
• Joystick steering

Zero-turn mowers are built to be fast and easily navigate obstacles, and the Ryobi Battery Electric Cordless Zero Turn Riding Mower does just that. We put the riding mower through its paces and found it to be a highly intuitive and easy-to-operate machine. Instead of a steering wheel, this riding mower has a joystick that can be operated with just one hand, for better maneuverability while turning. The joystick gave us complete control over the mower’s direction and speed, from a complete stop to top speed. With its impressive turning abilities, we were effortlessly able to mow around trees in a single pass, a task that would have previously required about four passes with a different mower.

Setting the cutting height was equally simple, thanks to the conveniently located lever that offered twelve height settings ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 inches. The mower even comes with a height-stopping key, that allowed us to adjust the mowing deck to our desired cutting height quickly. Overall, the mower did a phenomenal job of cutting the grass evenly. We did encounter some thicker grass areas in the yard, but we found that slowing down the mower’s speed allowed it to power through without any issues. We were able to mow our half-acre yard much faster with this mower compared to the Troy-Built Pony 17 HP 42-inch Deck Rider we previously used. In fact, it took us 40 percent less time to complete the task. It also is much quieter than the gas riding mower, and you don’t have to deal with flammable gas or oil changes.

The RYOBI 80V HP Brushless Riding Mower is equipped with two 80-volt, 10-amp hour batteries and two 40-volt, 12-amp hour batteries, providing ample power for extended mowing sessions. During our testing, we appreciated the ability to install up to three 80-volt and four 40-volt batteries, allowing us to extend the mower’s runtime even further. Charging the batteries was a breeze. We simply had to plug the charging cord into the rear of the mower to simultaneously charge all the onboard batteries. We were also delighted to find out that the 40-volt batteries can be used with different cordless Ryobi tools like trimmers and blowers, expanding the range of our outdoor power equipment collection.

And while it has many of the same features as the Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Battery Riding Lawn Tractor, this option has the power equivalent of a 31-horsepower gas engine and the ability to cut up to three acres on a single charge, according to the manufacturer. It also offers an app to monitor the battery status and has an LCD screen onboard so you can control the LED headlights, blade and drive speed, as well as monitor the battery, runtime, and charging status. This is an expensive mower, but we think it is an excellent zero-turn option that will make your lawn look great quickly and efficiently.

Price at time of publish: 6,999

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Weight: 700 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge

Best Heavy-Duty

Toro 22 60V MAX Electric Battery SMARTSTOW Personal Pace High Wheel Mower

• Automatically adjusts to walking pace
• Nine cutting positions
• Vortex Technology results in finer grass clippings
• Quick-connect bagging and mulching

Toro’s cordless, walk-behind mower is a powerful and precise piece of machinery. It has a three-phase brushless motor that maximizes RPM and torque, and a 22-inch deck. While it may come with a fairly steep price tag, its advanced features make mowing hassle-free. There are nine different cutting positions available, ranging from 1 inch to 4 inches, so you can make a clean cut even in tight spaces. Toro’s patented Vortex Technology also ensures finer grass clippings and a healthier lawn.

The mower comes with one battery that can run for up to 40 minutes, allowing you to cut up to 0.33 of an acre on a single charge. However, some users have reported the battery running out of juice in half that time. The mower’s 10-inch rear wheels provide excellent traction on tough terrain without damaging your lawn. It also features a self-propelled transmission that adjusts to your walking pace, making it easy to maneuver. Thanks to its quick-connect bagging system, you can easily switch from mulching to bagging. Despite its heavy weight, the Toro Recycler Walk Behind Mower folds up compactly for easy storage.

Price at time of publish: 729

Cutting Width: 22 inches | Weight: 95 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Mulch, bag, or side-discharge

Best for Small Yards

Worx WG779 Power Share 40-Volt 14-Inch Cordless Walk Behind Mower

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Dual charging port for batteries
• Battery charge indicator
• Batteries compatible with other Worx tools

The Worx Power Share Battery Walk-Behind Mower has a 14-inch cutting deck that can cut up to 0.12 acres per charge, making it an ideal choice for smaller yards. At 29 pounds, it’s light enough for almost any user to handle. This unit is equipped with two batteries and a dual charging port to maximize the recharging time. For added convenience, there’s an on-board battery charge indicator that lets you know when you’re running out of juice. Another great thing about these batteries is that they’re compatible with a variety of other Worx tools.

This mower has six height adjustments, and you can easily add more torque with the turn of a knob. It also has the ability to mulch or bag grass clippings, and you can easily gauge when the bag is full, thanks to its transparent plastic top. Keep in mind that this compact model is best-suited for smaller jobs, so you will need to limit your expectations when it comes to performance. According to some reports that we read, it has difficulty powering through tough grass, and it sometimes stalls on lips and edges.

Price at time of publish: 300

Cutting Width: 14 inches | Weight: 29.1 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch

Best Cordless

Makita 36-Volt Lithium-Ion Push Lawn Mower

• Powerful motor
• Durable construction
• 10 cutting heights
• Optional quiet mode
• Includes extra set of batteries

If you’re looking for a cordless, battery-powered option, this push mower from Makita won’t disappoint. The brushless motor is incredibly powerful, delivering up to 3,300 RPM. This tool is powered by two 18-volt batteries, but four batteries are included, so you can swap them out for extended run time. All together, the batteries deliver up to 43 minutes of runtime. The handlebar has a rubberized grip for user comfort, and the handles fold for compact storage.

The Makita Push Lawn Mower has an 18-inch commercial-grade steel deck for optimal durability. It features a wide range of cutting heights—10 settings ranging from 0.81 to 3 inches. Though it performs well on most turf types, this mower may struggle a bit in overgrown grass. It has the ability to bag, mulch, or rear-discharge clippings. There’s even a quiet mode so you can mow your lawn without disturbing your neighbors.

Price at time of publish: 599

Cutting Width: 18 inches | Weight: 60.46 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, rear-discharge

Best Robot

Worx Landroid Robotic Mower

• Fully automated
• Customize mowing schedules via app
• Navigates 20-degree slopes
• Detects rain and avoids obstacles

Tired of mowing the lawn? This fully automated, robotic lawn mower does all of the work for you. It can mow medium-sized lawns up to 1/4 acre in size. To set it up, you’ll need to put down a boundary wire around your yard and connect the mower to the app. You can start or stop the machine, set up a mowing schedule, and check the mowing progress via the app. The Landroid is equipped with an 8-inch cutting width, the height of which can be adjusted between 1.9 and 3.5 inches. Two brushless wheel motors give it enough traction to navigate 20-degree slopes.

If the mower encounters an obstacle, it will simply back away. For more precise detection, an additional collision is available at an additional cost. It can also be programmed to avoid certain areas of your yard. When the Landroid detects rain or the battery runs low, it will return to the docking to either recharge or wait until the lawn is dry. With all of these features, the Landroid Robotic Mower is certainly worthy of its steep price tag. One thing worth noting is that even though this robotic option gets fairly close to the edges of a yard, you’ll likely need a string trimmer for touch-ups every so often.

Price at time of publish: 2,000

Cutting Width: 8 inches | Weight: 48.5 pounds | Power Source: Battery | Cutting Options: None

Compare

After testing this mower in our own backyard, the EGO LM2102SP POWER 21-Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower earns our top spot. This powerful mower offers up to an hour of uninterrupted runtime and is easy to use, thanks to self-propelled technology. We also love the adjustable and foldable handle for compact storage. If you’re looking for a more affordable option for your small yard, we found the Greenworks Electric Corded Lawn Mower to be compact and lightweight enough to navigate around obstacles with ease, and offers unlimited runtime, as long as you don’t mind a cord.

How We Tested the Electric Lawn Mowers

We tested eight walk-behind lawn mowers including gas, electric corded, and cordless, battery-powered models in our own yards across the country. After putting them to the test on our own lawns—ranging from small to large—we evaluated them on setup, design, performance, usability, safety, and value. For the first use, we timed setting up the lawn mower and noted what assembly, if any, was required, and if the instructions were detailed and easy to follow. We also recorded the battery charging time if it was a cordless model. We then used the mowers on three separate occasions when the weather and growing conditions allowed and recorded the length of grass cut, the surface area of the yard mowed, and the time it took to accomplish the task. We noted how easy (or not) it was to start the mower, adjust the handle, adjust the speed (if self-propelled), and change the cutting heights. We also evaluated the different features including bagging, mulching, and side-discharge options (if included) for the grass clippings. Aside from evaluating each mower’s set up and features, after use, we noted how easy it was to navigate around obstacles, up slopes, and other challenging areas including uneven or tall grass. We then looked at the appearance of the lawn and noted if it looked evenly cut. We also noted all of the safety features as well as any extra features such as LED headlights, foldable handles for storage, cord management systems, and more. After testing, the top electric mowers were added to this list. In our latest round of testing, we tested six riding lawn mowers in our yards and evaluated them on the same criteria explained above. We conducted thorough testing and compared the results with our previous product recommendations in order to provide the best suggestions possible. We made adjustments to the categories based on standout performance, either by swapping out or adding new options.

What to Look for in an Electric Lawn Mower

Mower Type

Electric mowers fall into four main categories: push, self-propelled, riding, and robot mowers. Choosing the right model depends on the size of your lawn, budget, and how much labor you’re willing to put in. Push mowers require that you walk behind them and manually propel them. Since they lack many of the features that you’ll find on more advanced electric lawn mowers, push mowers tend to cost significantly less. Push mowers also require the most amount of labor, making them an ideal choice for small to medium-sized yards with relatively flat terrain. We like the Greenworks Electric Corded Lawn Mower because it is very easy to navigate around your yard and comes at a very budget-friendly price. Self-propelled mowers are equipped with technology that propels the wheels as you mow. These mowers are often significantly pricier than push mowers, but they require a lot less effort on the user’s part. A self-propelled mower like the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21 Inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower is a great choice for medium-sized to large lawns with sloped or uneven terrain. An electric riding mower is the most powerful option—and likewise the most expensive. Users must either sit or stand on the machine in order to operate it. With an ultra-wide cutting swath and the ability to navigate difficult terrain, a riding mower is well-suited for large yards with steeper slopes. We love the Ryobi Battery Electric Cordless Riding Lawn Tractor because it can cut up to two acres on a single charge and offers plenty of great features. Robot lawn mowers are typically programmed through an app, allowing them to operate autonomously with little to no effort. Some initial setup is required, but a robot mower can be programmed to mow your lawn automatically, avoid collisions and inclement weather, and more. Although they’re incredibly convenient, robotic models also have a shorter runtime and a smaller cutting width swath, limiting their use to smaller yards. Our top choice in this category, the Worx WR147 Landroid Robotic Mower, is almost 100 percent autonomous once it’s been set up.

Power Source

Cordless electric lawn mowers run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. A cordless model gives you more flexibility and portability because it doesn’t restrict your movement. However, you will have to be mindful of the battery life, which typically runs down between 30 and 60 minutes. Some cordless electric mowers come with extra batteries that can be swapped out to extend their runtime. You could also purchase a second battery to increase the operating time. That way, you don’t have to worry about running out of juice mid-task. Our top choice for a cordless model, Makita 18-Volt X2 LXT Lithium-Ion Push Lawn Mower, includes an extra set of batteries so users can mow longer without having to recharge. The biggest advantage to a corded electric lawn mower is that it provides unlimited power. Corded models typically cost less than their battery-operated counterparts. However, your movement is restricted to the cord’s length. A corded mower must be used with a heavy-duty extension cord, which is often sold separately. Most manufacturers recommend a 12-gauge or 14-gauge cord, but you should always refer to the owner’s manual to ensure safe operation.

Deck Size

Deck size refers to the width of the mower, and determines how wide a path it can cut. A wider deck size results in a wider cutting swath, allowing you to cover a larger area in one pass. The standard deck size on both push and self-propelled mowers typically ranges from 13 to 22 inches. Robotic mowers usually have a much smaller cutting deck between 5 and 10 inches. Riding mowers, on the other hand, can have a deck size as wide as 54 inches. A riding mower is best-suited for large lawns that normally take a good deal of time to mow. Our top pick for zero-turn, the Ryobi Battery Electric Cordless Zero Turn Riding Mower has a 42-inch deck and 12 cutting heights to make short work of a big job, navigating around obstacles with ease.

Motor Power and Type

Cordless electric mowers that run on batteries produce anywhere from 18 to 20 volts of power. The higher the voltage, the longer the motor will run on a single charge. Likewise, a mower with a higher voltage will allow you to cover more ground in one pass. Higher voltage is usually necessary to mow large lawns and generate enough torque to cut through tall, dense grass. The amp rating is also important in determining how powerful an electric lawn mower is. For example, a 12-amp electric mower can power through tough grass, while a 6-amp model would struggle. A corded electric lawn mower typically draws between 6 and 13 amps from a standard outlet. The battery on most cordless models delivers about 18 amps per hour.

Brushless vs. Brushed Motor

Brushless motors are more efficient, because they don’t lose much energy through friction and heat, both of which could potentially damage the motor. Plus, you don’t have to worry about replacing brushes when they wear out. All of these factors contribute to a more reliable performance and less maintenance. Brushed motors, on the other hand, generate more heat, which explains their tendency to stall and overheat. Although brushed motors are more affordable upfront, you may pay more for maintenance in the long run. You’ll also need to replace worn-out brushes as needed, which is an additional expense.

Standout Features

Grass Bag Catcher

A grass bag catcher attaches to the side or rear of a lawn mower and collects grass clippings. Grass cuttings are collected in a bag at the same time as they are cut. This is a convenient feature because it saves you from having to bag or clean up the clippings yourself. With a grass-catching bag, your lawn will look neat and well-maintained after mowing.

Mulcher

An electric lawn mower with mulching capabilities will chop grass up finely and drop the clippings back onto the lawn. As the clippings decompose, they release nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, into the soil. Since mulching naturally improves the health of your lawn, it may need fewer fertilizer treatments.

Adjustable Cutting Height

Most electric lawn mowers have an adjustable cutting height, ranging from 1 to 4 inches, which allows users to cut a variety of grasses and tackle tall, overgrown lawns. As a general rule of thumb, the ideal height for cool-season grass is about 2 1/2 inches. When mowing, you should only remove about the top third of the grass blades.

“The lifespan of an electric lawn mower varies, based on make, model, and consumer care practices,” says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). “Just like other outdoor equipment, with proper maintenance, charging, and battery storage practices, then the electric lawn mower can easily meet the user’s expectations.”

• Regularly inspect the cords for nicks and frays, as well as the batteries for any damage or deformities.
• Confirm that all of the vents are free from debris.
• Be sure to only use batteries and chargers in conjunction with manufacturer recommendations.

In the case of electric lawn mowers, convenience comes with a cost. Push mowers are on the lower end of the price scale, but they also require the most amount of manual labor. Self-propelled mowers typically cost several hundred dollars more than push mowers, but they reduce the amount of manual labor that’s needed. advanced models, such as robotic and riding mowers, can be quite expensive, but they essentially do all the work for you. It’s up to you to decide whether you want to put in the labor or pay more to make your life easier.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Sage McHugh, a home and lifestyle writer who has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019. To select the best electric lawn mowers for this roundup, she considered dozens of products, carefully evaluating their motor type, power source, cutting width, special features, and overall performance. McHugh consulted hundreds of customer reviews, as well as write-ups from third-party websites. For additional insight, she interviewed Kris Kiser, president and CEO of Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI).

Jenica Currie, Commerce Editor for The Spruce updated this list with insights gathered from testing various electric lawn mowers in our own backyards across the country. She also added additional picks and reporting.

What Is The Spruce Approved?

Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure that we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all of these products ourselves, though occasionally, we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut.

The 8 Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Michelle Ullman is a home decor expert and product reviewer for home and garden products. She has been writing about home decor for over 10 years for publications like BobVila.com and Better Homes Gardens, among others.

Barbara Gillette is a Master Gardener, herbalist, beekeeper, and journalist. She has 30 years of experience propagating and growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals.

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

For lawns that are 1 acre or more, a riding lawn mower can make turf maintenance less of a chore. Instead of sweating behind a push mower, you’ll ride in comfort while keeping your lawn in tip-top shape. Marc Mayer, Director of Technical Operations at TruGreen, says, Commonly, homeowners choose a riding lawn mower to save time and/or energy if they have a large lawn area that is too much work to utilize a walk-behind mower. Most ride-on mowers can also be used for other chores around the yard to improve efficiency, such as pulling a trailer or aerator.

Noah James, professional landscaper and owner of Liberty Lawn Maintenance, adds, A riding mower gives you the precision you need to make straight lines and even cuts. Plus, with options like zero-turn technology, you’ll be able to trim around obstacles and corners like a pro. Riding mowers have the power, agility, and versatility to handle it all with ease.

We’ve tested over a dozen lawn mowers in our own lawns across the country including six riding lawn mowers, using each for three separate mowing sessions. During each session, the mowers were evaluated for ease of operation, comfort while riding, intuitiveness of the controls, battery runtime where applicable. and of course, how well the mower cut the grass. We considered how well the mowers maneuvered around obstacles, the range of accessories available for separate purchase, and the overall value of each mower before compiling our final list of winners.

Best Overall

John Deere S100 42-Inch 17.5 HP Gas Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Tractor

• Very easy to maneuver even around tight turns
• Excellent performance cutting both wet and dry grass
• Smooth, comfortable ride
• White Glove Service

Our top-scoring riding mower performed like a Champion on all three mowing sessions at our 10-acre New Jersey yard (although the manufacturer recommends it for yards up to 1 acre in size). We were amazed at how easy it was to maneuver even around tight corners or close to trees. And it did a great job of cleanly cutting both dry and wet grass; remarkably, it did not leave any ruts on the wet grass, just small indentations. The mower provides a comfortable, smooth ride; we drove it down a 500-foot gravel path to reach the lawn without any discomfort or difficulty. This mower has 13 cutting levels ranging from 1 inch to 4 inches, and we found it very easy to set the desired cutting height. Even better, it was delivered already assembled and ready to go thanks to its White Glove Service.

The cutting deck is 42 inches, which is a good size for making quick work of the lawn, yet not so large that it’s bulky or hard to steer. It has a tight 18-inch turning radius. And with its 17.5-horsepower Briggs Stratton engine, this is a powerful mower that won’t struggle with slopes, tall grass, or thick weeds. It discharges the clippings to the side, and we found that it also easily cleared away fallen leaves from the grass. John Deere sells clipping bags, mulchers, and several other yard maintenance accessories separately. Like most gasoline-powered riding mowers, you will need to occasionally perform oil changes, but the process is not too difficult. And thanks to the electric start, it’s very easy to power the mower up and get right to work.

We found the seat to be quite comfortable, and you can adjust the position to suit your height. All of the controls are easy to identify and use, although it took us a few minutes to get used to the side-by-side foot pedals for going forward or reversing. The mower’s top speed is 5.5 mph going forward, and 3.2 mph in reverse. It can cut the grass in either direction. It has headlights if you want to mow at dusk or dawn, and a cup holder to keep your favorite beverage close at hand while you work.

This riding mower is covered by John Deere’s 2-year/120-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty. And it’s quite reasonably priced for a riding mower; overall, it’s hard to go wrong with this hard-working mower.

Price at time of publish: 2,399

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 414 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 1 acre

Best Electric

Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-Inch Electric Cordless Riding Lawn Tractor

• Excellent performance
• Comfortable and fun to drive
• Long battery runtime
• LCD screen and app for tracking battery life

If you are looking for an electric riding lawn mower with all the power of a gas model, but without the fumes or bother of a gas engine, the RYOBI 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Battery Riding Lawn Tractor is our top choice. We found it fun to ride; with a maximum forward speed of 7 mph, this is a zippy mower that speeds up or slows down almost immediately when adjusting your foot on the lever, but we did find it a bit jerky at times. It also was somewhat tricky to assemble, taking us over an hour to have it ready to go. The mower has a 42-inch deck and four steel blades with 13 different cutting height positions to choose from (within 1.5 to 4.5 inches), so you can really fine-tune the look of your lawn. It did a great job cutting the grass, whether wet or dry, at our third-acre Iowa test garden, and even chopped up small sticks, leaves, and weeds very easily. It even features a warning beep when backing up; while we appreciate this safety feature, it admittedly did become tiresome to hear the beep every time we reversed.

According to the manufacturer, it has the equivalent of a 21-horsepower engine, but it runs on the included three 80-volt, 10Ah batteries which allow you to cut up to 2 acres on a single charge (about 60 minutes of runtime) and quickly recharge in less than 2.5 hours thanks to the onboard charger. In our test sessions, the batteries never dropped much below 80 percent capacity, and we appreciated the LCD touchscreen that lets you keep tabs on the battery runtime and charging speed, as well as blade speed, driving speed, and blade height. Other extra features we like include LED headlights, front and back storage compartments, two tow hitches, two cup holders, and two USB ports to charge your phone.

Of course, the most important feature of a lawn mower is how well it cuts grass, and this one left our test lawn looking great, without creating ruts, ridges, or unevenly chopped grass. The mower discharges clippings to the side, but you can purchase a bagger and mulching kit separately, as well as various lawn care attachments. This is a powerful, feature-packed riding lawn tractor so it comes at a bigger price tag than other picks. If you don’t need all of these features, you may want to choose a more budget-friendly model. However, we think if you are looking for a great electric riding mower with all of the features and power you need, this is your best bet. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty.

Price at time of publish: 4,999

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 557 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres

Best Gas

Toro TimeCutter 50 inch 24.5 HP Zero-Turn Riding Mower

• Excellent cutting performance
• Very comfortable, smooth ride
• Easy maintenance
• Zero-turn radius
• A bit of a learning curve to handle
• Bagger and mulching kit must be purchased separately
• No headlights

While we did have a bit of a learning curve with this powerful gas riding mower from Toro, once we got the hang of using the hand levers to control our speed, braking, direction, and blade engagement, we found that it was easy to maneuver between trees and other obstacles on our half-acre Iowa lawn. But if you have a larger property, you’ll be happy to know that this mower is rated for yards up to 4 acres in size. It has a hefty 50-inch cutting deck, so the zero-turn capability comes in handy when swiveling such a large mower around flowerbeds, between trees, or near retaining walls or other obstacles. We also found it very easy to set the cutting height, which ranges from a low of 1.5 inches to a high of 4.5 inches.

On our first mowing session, the grass was wet and the mower’s tires slipped a bit while moving down a slope, but on subsequent sessions, we had little problem in mowing over wet grass, thick grass, leaves, and other small lawn debris. The mower left the grass very evenly cut, with a lush, full appearance. Like many riding mowers, the clippings discharge to the side; if you want a bag or mulching kit, you’ll have to buy them separately. We definitely appreciated Toro’s MyRide suspension system, which keeps the ride smooth and pleasant even when the terrain isn’t completely level. And with a top speed of 7 mph, this mower can get the job done quickly. It has a cup holder to keep a cold beverage close at hand but does not have headlights, unlike many other riding mowers.

One great feature of this gas mower is that while it does require annual oil changes, it’s designed to make the task as easy as possible, so you won’t have to waste your afternoon on maintenance. It also has wash-out ports underneath the deck, so you can quickly blast away caked-on grass, mud, and grunge with your garden hose. And the sturdy construction, including the steel deck, means that this mower can take a beating and keep right on mowing without a pause. It comes with a 3-year residential limited warranty.

Price at time of publish: 4,299

Cutting Width: 50 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 694 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 4 acres

Best Lawn Tractor

Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 46-Inch Hydrostatic Drive Gas Riding Lawn Tractor

• Comfortable, adjustable seat
• Reasonable price
• Excellent performance in cutting grass

We put this gas-powered lawn tractor to the test on a 6-acre Iowa property that once housed horses, and so is rather bumpy, and also has many trees and other obstacles. The mower was easy to assemble, but the instructions for starting it were somewhat unclear, and it took us several tries to get it up and running. Still, once we figured it out, we were very pleased with the mower’s performance. It operated beautifully over wet grass, thick grass, and uneven spots, plus, it maneuvered easily around all obstacles. The mower has a 23-horsepower/725 cc Kohler engine with plenty of power, and the 46-inch deck is big enough for getting the job done quickly but not so large that it’s hard to slip between trees and other obstacles.

The mower has 12 cutting settings ranging from 1.5 inches to 4 inches. We found it very easy to adjust the cutting height, as well as other controls on the mower. It has a 16-inch turn radius, which is tight enough for most lawns, although we couldn’t get quite as close to some trees as we would have liked. The maximum forward speed is 5.5 mph, which is a bit slower than some other models, but more than sufficient for most users. Overall, we felt like our lawn looked great once we finished mowing, and the mower spewed the grass clippings evenly from the side chute. Like most riding mowers, if you want a bagger or mulching kit, you’ll need to purchase them separately. There are quite a few other attachments available for this mower as well.

The seat can be adjusted, which was a definite plus for us, along with the smooth ride. On the downside, this mower does require periodic oil changes, but the process shouldn’t be too difficult or time-intensive. And on the plus side, the mower has cruise control, so once you find a speed that you like, you can easily set the mower to continue at that pace. It also has headlights for mowing in shady spots or at dusk. While riding mowers are undeniably expensive, this one is reasonably priced for the quality and performance it provides. It’s rated for use on lawns up to 4 acres in size and comes with a 3-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 2,574

Cutting Width: 46 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 575 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 4 acres

Best Battery Zero-Turn

Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-Inch Battery Electric Cordless Zero Turn Riding Mower

• Intuitive and easy to use
• Joystick for steering and speed control
• Long battery runtime
• Very clean cut on all types of grass
• Initially received a defective mower, although customer service was excellent
• Expensive

We tested this mower on a half-acre property in Iowa. While it was fairly straightforward and quick to assemble the mower and give the batteries an initial charge, it turned out that our first test mower had an electrical problem that required several phone calls and a technician’s visit before determining that the mower was defective. However, we were quickly provided a new mower, which was already assembled and ready to go. Despite this unfortunate start to our testing sessions, we were very impressed with the manufacturer’s customer service, and we loved the performance of this zero-turn mower, which has a 42-inch deck and power that Ryobi claims is equivalent to 31 horsepower.

Unlike many other riding mowers, which have levers, pedals, or steering wheels to control the motion of the machine, this one has Ryobi’s iDrive joystick, which lets you set your speed in forward or reverse, as well as turn and maneuver the mower. Not only was this fun, but it was also very intuitive and easy to use. The mower also has an LCD screen that shows battery life and runtime. This mower comes with four batteries: two 80-volt, 10-amp hour and two 40-volt, 12-amp hour batteries, which can all be charged simultaneously. In our testing sessions, the batteries still had plenty of charge left once mowing was finished. Ryobi claims that you can mow up to 3 acres on a single full charge.

Setting the cutting height, which ranges from 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches, is easily accomplished with a single lever, and with four blades, this mower easily handled wet grass, thick grass, and tall grass, leaving our lawn looking great. The clippings discharge from the side, although you can purchase a bagger or mulching kit separately if desired. While riding the mower, we especially appreciated how quiet it is in comparison to gas mowers—we could actually talk to nearby family members while riding it—and how smooth and comfortable a ride it provides, thanks to the superior seat suspension that absorbs a lot of the bumps and vibrations. The mower also has some nice extra features, including headlights, cup holders, and USB charging ports. While this mower is undeniably a big investment, we felt that its performance, power, and ease of use make it well worth the cost for those with big yards. It has a 5-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 5,999

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 700 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 4 acres

Best Gas Zero-Turn

Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42-Inch 22 HP Zero-Turn Mower

• Seat can be fully adjusted for a comfortable ride
• Zero-turn
• Relatively reasonable price
• Easy to control

While all riding mowers are fairly expensive, particularly zero-turn mowers, the Cub Cadet Ultima Series ZT1 Zero-Turn Mower is relatively reasonable in price, making it even more of a great option for yards up to 4 acres in size. While testing, It took us around 30 minutes to assemble, but it did take us a little longer to figure out the choke. However, once we understood the instructions, we got started mowing a third-acre Iowa lawn that includes hills, several obstacles, and areas of very thick, tall grass. Initially, we took it easy and went slowly while we got used to the handling of the mower, which was a bit touchy. However, once we got the hang of it, we did find the mower to be easy to control, and we really liked being able to make sharp turns around obstacles. We did report some rattling from a belt that needed to be tightened, but that didn’t affect the performance.

While mowing, we found it very easy to adjust the cutting height, which has an impressive range of 1 inch to 4.5 inches. We mowed right through very tall patches of grass without a hitch and liked the way the clippings were ejected far to the side of the mower, so there was no annoying buildup of clumps. It’s easy to speed up or slow down; the more you push the handlebars, the faster you’ll go, up to a top speed of 7 mph. Plus, you can mow both forward and in reverse, which made it easier to reach some trickier spots on the lawn. The mower felt very stable and safe even while mowing on slopes. Initially, we found the ride to be somewhat bumpy, but once we had the fully adjustable seat set to our ideal position, the ride became quite smooth.

With a 22-horsepower Kohler engine, this is a powerful mower with a very sturdy build. Like other gas mowers, it does require periodic oil changes. While we liked its side-discharge function, you’ll have to purchase a bagger or mulching kit separately if that’s your preference. Cub Cadet also sells various attachments that can be added to the mower for other lawn care functions. It has a 3-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 3,499

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 580 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 3 acres

Best for Hills

Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 in. 19 HP Automatic Drive Gas Riding Lawn Mower

• Automatic transmission
• Good traction on hills
• Extra leg room
• Compatible with a variety of accessories

While we were not able to personally test the Bronco 42, we still recommend this 19-horsepower, 42-inch gas mower for yards up to 2 acres in size, especially if your yard has a lot of slopes. This sturdy mower has an automatic transmission and uses a simple foot pedal to control your speed, just like your car. That means you are likely to feel comfortable handling the mower from the start, even if you have never used a riding lawn mower before.

The mower has anti-scalp, 20-inch all-terrain wheels, making it much easier to mow smoothly over uneven terrain or up and down slopes without bogging down or damaging your turf. Note that as with all riding mowers, you should always mow from side to side across a slope, not up and down the slope, to maintain stability. There are five cutting height settings, which are easy to adjust with a single lever, and range from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. That’s a smaller cutting range than many other riding mowers, but it easily handles most common lawn grasses, and the double blades, large wheels, and sturdy construction of the mower allow it to plow right through tall or thick turf without a problem.

The Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 has a step-through frame that offers more leg room, and the mid-back seat and rubber footpads keep you comfortable while you work. Its 18-inch turn radius is tight enough to maneuver around most yard obstacles, such as trees, fences, flowerbeds, or playsets. The machine has a rear hitch to pull garden carts, sprayers, and spreaders. It comes with a side-discharge chute for clippings, but if you prefer to bag or mulch the grass clippings, you’ll need to buy those accessories separately. Like all gas mowers, you’ll need to carry out periodic oil changes, usually recommended after every 50 hours of use or annually. It comes with a 2-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 2,199

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 520 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres

Best Small

Cub Cadet 30 in. 56-Volt MAX 30 Ah Battery Riding Lawn Tractor

Not everyone needs a beast of a mower that can handle yards up to 4 acres in size. If you have a lawn that’s 1 acre or less, or you have a lot of obstacles on your property that require a smaller mower to maneuver between and around them, we recommend this battery-powered mower from Cub Cadet. It has a 30-inch deck that can slip through a 36-inch gate, and which won’t take up a lot of space in your garage or garden shed. While we were unable to test this mower ourselves, it’s still our top choice for smaller yards.

The mower comes with a 56-volt MAX 30 amp-hour battery that can mow up to 1 acre, or for 1 hour, before needing a recharge, which takes roughly 4 hours. It’s supremely quiet compared to gas mowers, and the ride is smooth and comfortable. Plus, no need for oil changes, pouring gasoline into a fuel tank, or smelly fumes. You can adjust the cutting height within a range of 1.5 inches to 4 inches, and no bogging down on tall or thick grass. The 18-inch turning radius is tight enough to easily work your way around most obstacles.

One feature that we especially approve of, and yet isn’t offered on many riding mowers, is this model’s cruise control, which allows you to set your speed up to a maximum of 5.5 mph and then let the mower keep your pace steady; no need to concentrate on maintaining an even speed by pushing pedals or gripping levers. Plus, it has a very comfortable high-back seat with armrests, LED headlights, a cup holder, and two onboard USB ports to power up your phone or music while you ride. Additionally, unlike every other mower on our list, this one includes the mulching kit—all others require you to purchase that separately—so you can turn the grass clippings into fine mulch to help feed your lawn. It comes with a 3-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 3,600

Cutting Width: 30 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 362 pounds | Cutting Options: Mulch, side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 2 acres

Our top recommendation, the gas-powered John Deere S100 42-Inch Riding Lawn Mower, is supremely easy to maneuver around obstacles while creating a very smooth cut even on thick or tall grass. It comes with “White Glove Service” delivery, so you won’t have to assemble it, and it is easy to operate and maintain. However, if you prefer an electric mower, then we recommend the Ryobi 80V 42-Inch Battery Riding Mower, which has a lot of power and excellent battery runtime; you can get up to an hour of mowing done before needing to recharge. That’s enough for most people to complete the task on just one charge.

How We Tested the Riding Lawn Mowers

After testing eight walk-behind lawn mowers across the country, we tested six riding mowers, including gas, electric, and zero-turn options, each tested on a different property with varying terrain and lawn conditions, including slopes, rough spots, tall grass, and wet areas. We started by recording how long it took to unbox and assemble the riding lawn mower, as well as the difficulty or ease of assembly. (Two of the mowers were delivered assembled and ready to go, however.)

Once the grass was long enough to require mowing, we tested the riding mower on three separate occasions. For each session, we recorded the date and weather conditions, the size of the area to be mowed, the height of grass to be cut, and the length of time it took to accomplish the mowing. At the end of the session, we noted how cleanly and evenly the lawn had been cut, as well as how well the side-discharge chute shot the clippings back onto the lawn. (Only one of our tested mowers included an option other than side-discharge of the clippings; commonly clippings bags and mulching kits are not included with a riding mower, but must be purchased separately if desired.)

As we rode the mowers, we noted how easy it was to speed up or slow down the machine in both forward and reverse, the ease of raising or lowering the cutting height, how well the mower maneuvered around obstacles, and how evenly the mower cut all types of grass, including tall or thick patches as well as wet turf. We also paid attention to the comfort of the seat and the overall comfort of the ride, noting if it was unusually rough, had excessive vibration, or was in any other way uncomfortable to use the mower. We also tried out any extra features on the mowers, including headlights, cupholders, USB charging ports, or onboard storage areas.

At the end of each mowing session, we noted how much battery charge was left on electric mowers, as well as the length of time required for a full recharge. Finally, we summed up each experience with the mower, noting whether or not we felt it was a good value for the performance delivered.

What to Look for in a Riding Lawn Mower

Power Source

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to buy a gas- or electric-powered riding lawn mower. Marc Mayer, Director of Technical Operations at TruGreen, says, Like in the automobileworld, battery-powered equipment is popular right now. Electrical mowers on both the residential and professional/commercial side are becoming more preferred over gas powered. You have to take into account that they both require different maintenance schedules, and it’s important to ask questions like ‘How long does the battery last, and what is the cost of a replacement battery’ before making a commitment to electric.

As a general rule, gas mowers, including our Best Overall choice, the John Deere S100, are more powerful than electric models, but they’re louder, less eco-friendly, and require more maintenance, including regular oil changes. Plus, in some locations, gas mowers have very stringent requirements for emission levels that some models can’t meet. However, Noah James, professional landscaper and owner of Liberty Lawn Maintenance notes that the power of a gas mower can be especially useful if your lawn has rough areas, thick weeds, or especially tough grass.

Electric mowers, on the other hand, like our Best Electric Riding Mower, the Ryobi 80V Brushless Electric Riding Mower, are typically less powerful and require you to keep an eye on the battery charge level, but they’re also quieter, easier to start, and better for the environment. Still, while electric mowers require consistent charging, they often don’t require as much maintenance as gas models that have spark plugs, belts, and filters that must be maintained over time.

Deck Size

The deck size of a lawn mower dictates how wide a path it cuts—larger decks cut wider paths on each pass. Most residential riding mowers have decks that are around 42 inches, but if you have a very large property, you might want to consider a mower with deck that’s considerably bigger, like our Best Gas Mower pick, the Toro TimeCutter Zero-Turn Mower, which has a 50-inch deck. And of course, small properties, or lawns with many obstacles, might do best with a mower that has a smaller deck.

Keep in mind that the larger the mower, the harder it will be to maneuver through gates and other obstacles, plus the more space it will require in your garage or shed. Also, a mower‘s deck size will impact its turning radius—except for zero-turn mowers, which can manage wider decks thanks to their overall design—and will also make it more challenging to navigate uneven terrain. Our Best Battery Powered Zero-Turn Mower, the Ryobi 80V Electric Zero-Turn Riding Mower, turns on a dime even with its 42-inch deck.

Engine Power

While the typical push mower’s engine is just 2 to 5 horsepower or the equivalent in battery power, a riding mower requires considering more oomph, with most having engine power or equivalent battery power of 13 to 30 horsepower. Noah James says, Make sure the riding mower you’re considering has enough horsepower to handle your specific needs. A larger engine will be able to handle thicker grass and steeper hills with ease.

As a rough guideline, a lawn that’s less than an acre can be handled by a riding mower with at least 13 horsepower, but a 3-acre lawn needs at least 18 horsepower to get the job done, and even more if your lawn has slopes or rugged terrain.

Grass Clippings

Don’t forget to consider how the lawn mower handles grass clippings. Just about every riding mower has a side-discharge chute to spit the clippings back out onto your lawn. But many brands also offer mulching kits or clipping bags for their riding mowers; note that you’ll generally have to purchase these separately. However, our Best Small Mower, the Cub Cadet 30-Inch Battery Mower, does include a mulching kit. If you want to mulch or bag your clippings, be sure that any riding mower you are considering offers these options, and remember to add the price of the accessories to the cost of the mower itself.

The defining feature of zero-turn mowers is a zero-degree turning radius, but these mowers are generally also much faster than regular riding mowers. However, keep in mind that it’s easier to maintain control around obstacles at lower speeds, so unless you have a very large, flat lawn, you’re unlikely to be running your mower at top speed very often. Plus, zero-turn mowers are much more expensive than regular riding mowers.

According to Marc Mayer, a riding lawn mower is suited to any type of turf, but because these machines are heavy, they can cause soil compaction, which can affect the health of your grass. You can help prevent this by not mowing when the ground is wet, and by trying to avoid mowing over the same area more than once.

The top speed for standard riding lawnmowers ranges from 4 to 6 mph. Zero-turn mowers are much faster, with some going 8 to 10 mph at full speed. While speed is a great factor to consider if you prefer to quickly complete outdoor tasks, a speedy job does not always result in a better cut, so don’t automatically assume that you need the fastest mower available.

The easiest way to transport a riding lawn mower is with a trailer. Mowers can be driven up a ramp into a low trailer and towed behind a vehicle. You may also transport riding mowers in the bed of a pickup truck, but special ramps are required. Of course, if you are merely loaning the mower to a neighbor or somewhere very close by, you may be able to ride the mower to the location, as long as the terrain permits this and you keep the blade turned off and elevated.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Michelle Ullman is the home improvement/tool expert for The Spruce. She has extensive experience not only in writing about all things related to the home, but also in carrying out various DIY projects, including landscaping, painting, flooring, wallpapering, furniture makeovers, and simple repairs around the house and yard.

For this roundup, she relied on input from our team of testers, but also considered dozens of other riding lawn mowers of various types, evaluating each for features, power, effectiveness, ease of use, and overall value. She also considered feedback from customers, both positive and negative, as well as reviews and information on landscaping websites. Noah James, professional landscaper and owner of Liberty Lawn Maintenance, and Marc Mayer, Director of Technical Operations at TruGreen, also provided additional expert input.

What Is The Spruce Approved?

Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally, we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut.