Select the ideal lawn mower for your unique yard size, terrain, and features. Compare the pros and cons of gas-powered versus electric mowers, self-propelled models, cutting widths, and all major features to suit your grass conditions, budget, and needs. Get advice on buying the right type, size, and power mower upfront based on considerations like maneuverability, power tradeoffs, maintenance costs, and convenience factors. Find the best balance of affordability, ease of use, and durability that suits your property now and provides future flexibility as needs evolve.

Have a look at what we have probed for You

• Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Mower
• Types of Lawn Mowers
• Electric vs. Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers
• How do you choose a lawn mower with the right size and cutting width?
• Best Lawn Mowers of 2024
  • Gas Push Mowers
  • Electric/Battery Lawn Mower
  • Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
  • Robotic Lawn Mower
  • Pros and Cons of Lawn Mowers
  • Conclusion
  • FAQs

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Mower

Size of the lawn
The lawnmower must be appropriate for the entire area that needs to be mowed. To choose the appropriate mower size and cutting breadth, measure your lawn.

Terrain
If you don’t just have flat grass, a mower that can handle hills, uneven terrain, or tight spaces may be needed. Consider things like turn radius as well.

Features
Determine if you want features like electric start, variable speeds, mulching/side discharge, grass collection bags, all-wheel drive, or attachments. These provide more versatility and convenience.

Power source
Gas, electric corded, battery powered? The power source impacts convenience, operating costs, maintenance, noise, and environmental friendliness.

Cutting height adjustments
Check the mower’s adjustment range to change cutting heights via a lever or dial.

Durability
Higher-priced mowers typically have stronger builds, engines, and lasting endurance. Check warranties, too.

Ease of use
Key things are weight, handling, vibration, noise level, ease of pushing or driving, and other ergonomic factors.

Brand reputation and budget
Reputable brands indicate likely reliability and durability. Set a budget but also get the most features you need.

Prioritizing your specific property, usage needs, and preferences will help determine the ideal lawn mower.

Types of Lawn Mowers

The main types of lawnmowers are:

1. Push Mowers

• Manual mowers powered by you pushing them
• Best for smaller, flat lawns
• Examples: Reel, rotary push

2. Self-Propelled Mowers

• Powered by gas/electricity, but the user guides it
• Good for flat-medium yards
• Wheels propel it forward as you walk with it

3. Riding Lawn Mowers

• Sit-on mowers you ride behind a steering wheel
• Best for large, hilly, uneven lawns
• More powerful and convenient

4. Zero-Turn Mowers

• Riding mowers with a zero turning radius using lap bars
• Highly maneuverable for obstacles and tight spaces

5. Robotic Lawn Mowers

• Automatic, robotic, battery-powered mowers
• User programs scheduled via an app/panel
• Constant light mowing without effort

The type you need depends on your lawn’s terrain, size/shape, features you want, and budget you have.

Electric vs. Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers

The main differences between electric and gas-powered lawnmowers are:

Power:

• Gas mowers have more power, torque, and speed for larger yards. They can tackle thicker, taller grass.
• Electric is good for most residential lawns but may lack power for overgrown lawns.

Portability:

• Corded electrics are limited by cord length and can’t be moved far from the outlet.
• Battery-powered is portable, but run times are finite before needing a charge.
• Gas mowers are completely portable, with a fuel tank capacity to mow for over an hour.

Environmental Impact:

• Electric mowers are emissions-free to better for the environment.
• Gas mowers emit air and noise pollution.

Convenience:

• Electrics turn on instantly with a push button and require no fuel mixing.
• Gas requires regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filters, and fuel stabilizers.

Cost:

• Electric models typically have cheaper upfront costs.
• But gas usually has better long-term value, lasting over 10 years.

For small-medium flat yards, electrics like battery models can provide a quieter, eco-friendly solution without the hassles of gas. But gas remains ideal for large, complex lawns.

How do you choose a lawn mower with the right size and cutting width?

Choosing the right lawn mower size and cutting width depends largely on your lawn’s square footage and any unique aspects like slopes. Here are some key tips:

• First, measure your lawn’s length and width to calculate the square footage you need to cut. Mower suitability is typically based on maximum area capacity.
• For smaller lawns under 1/4 acre (10,000 sq ft), a 20” walk-behind mower should suffice. Go rotary or reel for precision.
• For mid-sized 1/4 to 1-acre lawns, consider a 22” self-propelled mower for easier maneuvering.
• Larger lawns over 1 acre will benefit most from the power of a wide 24”-30” riding mower or zero turn.
• Ensure the mower can handle terrain like hills, slopes, or tight spaces. Measure the gate widths it needs to fit through, too.
• Add about 20% more capacity than your exact lawn size to give flexibility as grass grows thicker. Don’t max out the mower’s capability.

Best Lawn Mowers of 2024

Based on expert and consumer reviews, some of the best lawn mowers currently on the market across different categories are:

Gas Push Mowers

YARDMAX Lawn Mower

A strong and user-friendly mower is crucial for keeping up a lovely lawn. With a heavy-duty 16-gauge steel deck that can withstand yard debris and lessen vibration for smooth operation, this model has a sturdy structure. With its spiral helical shape, the unique MAXFlow Deck Technology maximizes airflow and mulching capabilities. The handy single-lever adjustment ranging from 1.25 to 3.75 inches in seven adjustable increments makes cutting heights easy.

Ease of use continues with the double-ball-bearing wheels that significantly reduce pushing effort. This allows you to maneuver the mower’s durable steel frame with less exertion. The adjustable three-position handle provides ergonomic control for users of all heights. When finished mowing, the mower folds up to a compact size for space-saving storage in garages or sheds, aided by the balanced 7-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels. With quick assembly out of the box, this mower delivers robust power and user-friendly features to make lawn care simple and efficient.

SENIX LSPG-M7 Lawn Mower

This powerful 21-inch gas mower is built to breeze through yard maintenance. The durable steel construction and 3-in-1 versatility easily handle small and medium spaces, while the included 16-gallon bagger enables bagging clippings when desired. Its robust 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine delivers consistent cutting power and longevity thanks to innovative features that minimize vibration and simplify upkeep. Adjusting the six cutting height positions between 1.25 to 3.75 inches is seamless, with the dual-lever system to dial in the perfect length every time.

Maneuverability excels with 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels that navigate uneven terrain with stability and control. The ergonomic handle maximizes comfort even during extended use, while the side discharge and mulching functions provide alternative ways to disperse grass clippings. With engine oil and key accessories included alongside a 2-year warranty, this mower truly epitomizes worry-free yard care through its reliability, versatile performance, and thoughtful design focused on user needs. Now, yard work feels less like work, thanks to this capable companion.

Yard Force Lawn Mower

Achieving a pristine, freshly cut lawn is effortless with this versatile 22-inch gas-powered mower. It features a durable steel deck to tackle large yards, while the 7-position height adjustment lever allows customizing cuts from 1.25 to 3.75 inches to suit needs and grass types. The mower converts seamlessly between robust rear bagging, effective mulching, and practical side discharge functions. Powered by a professional-grade Briggs & Stratton engine, it reliably self-propels and handles sloped terrain with aplomb.

Supporting the mower’s hill climbing capacity are 12-inch rear wheels and 8-inch front wheels wrapped with durable PVC to glide easily across various landscapes. The wide-mouth bag enables efficient collection of large clippings to keep yards immaculate, while the foldable handle allows compact storage between mowing sessions. With its ample power, all-terrain mobility, adaptable performance, and thoughtful convenience features, this mower makes it simple to achieve a flawless, professional-quality cut on residential properties that stand out from the neighborhood.

Electric/Battery Lawn Mower

Amazon Brand Lawn Mower

Achieving a flawless lawn is now a cordless convenience thanks to this innovative 18-inch battery-powered mower. Part of the flexible SKIL PWR CORE system, it shares batteries and chargers across 20+ tools for ultimate flexibility. It packs gas-like power from an efficient digital brushless motor and a 30-minute runtime per charge of the included 4Ah Denali lithium-ion batteries. Variable cutting heights between 1 – 3 inches cater to preferences and grass conditions courtesy of the single lever adjustment and durable polymer deck.

Thoughtful design optimizations like push button start, vertical storage enabled by the foldable handle, and easy lift bag removal minimize effort while maximizing functionality. Robust mulching and rear bagging options boost versatility in containing or dispersing clippings. Covered by a 2-year battery and 5-year tool warranty, this mower provides the adaptability, endurance, and performance to handle small and mid-sized yards with an innovative cordless convenience perfect for the needs of modern homeowners. Ditch pull cords and extension cords but not power with this capable battery-powered solution.

Greenworks 40V Lawn Mower

This innovative cordless electric mower delivers efficient, hassle-free lawn care for small to medium-sized yards. Its powerful 40V battery and lightweight 16-inch deck allow it to glide through up to half an acre on a 45-minute charge. Maneuvering the push mower is seamless thanks to the push button start and thoughtful ergonomics, making it easy for anyone to operate. Adjusting cutting heights from 1.25 to 3.38 inches is simple, with the single lever dialing in the ideal level for healthy lawns.

Transitioning between precision mulching and practical rear bag collection takes seconds while discharging no emissions. Virtually maintenance-free without the headaches of gas or oil, it starts instantly with gas-rivaling power to tackle tough yard work. The included 4Ah battery, rapid 2-hour charger, and collection bag provide the complete package. Supported by a 3-year warranty on both the tools and batteries, this mower’s portable convenience, versatility, and reliability embody an eco-friendly, user-friendly future for lawn care.

Ryobi Lawn Mower

While this 13-inch cordless mower is a tool-only offering, it is optimized for use within the flexible RYOBI ONE+ 18V battery ecosystem, recommended for use with 4Ah to 9Ah battery capacities. The compact deck width and single-point height adjustment between 1.5 to 4 inches cater to navigating tighter spaces and dialing in the perfect cut. Transitioning from a clean 2-in-1 mulching capability to practical rear bagging takes seconds, while easy lift removal minimizes effort.

As part of an expansive ONE+ platform, the mower can tap into various interchangeable batteries and chargers to suit needs and budgets. While an initial battery investment is required, the long-term versatility and convenience are unmatched. For small urban plots to mid-sized suburban yards, the tool’s lightweight and elegant design, coupled with the customization of RYOBI’s batteries, makes maintaining beautiful grass smooth, simple, and sustainable. Let your yard needs and preferences guide the ideal battery and accessories to complete the mowing system that works for you.

Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

American Lawn Mower

For those seeking an eco-friendly approach to small lawn care, this manual 14-inch reel mower is a top choice. Weighing just 19 pounds with durable 8.5-inch wheels, it glides easily across yards to provide quiet, fume-free cutting. The adjustable blade heights from 0.5 to 1.75 inches adapt to turf grass varieties and desired lengths. Four sharp blades utilize a clipping action that causes less damage to grass than rotary blades, keeping your lawn healthy.

While best suited for lawns under 4 inches high, increasing the mowing overlap when the grass is longer allows this push mower to tackle overgrowth with its non-motorized precision. Remove no more than a third of each grass blade per cut for optimal results, so root systems remain intact and strong. Built without a noisy, polluting engine, this lightweight human-powered mower makes maintaining small urban and suburban yards sustainable. Its simplicity, maneuverability, and gentle cutting make lush lawns possible with just a little exercise!

Great States Lawn Mower

For those seeking a green, quiet way to care for smaller yards, this 14-inch manual reel mower delivers. Its lightweight yet durable construction features a 5-blade ball bearing reel inside an alloy steel cutting assembly that glides easily over grass while providing a clean, even cut. The adjustable cutting height spanning .5 to 1.75 inches enables customizing for lawn variety and desired finish. Control and comfort excel with the T-style handle, integrating cushioned grips and minimal vibration.

Assembly requires no tools – attach the handle and get mowed within minutes. Powered by you rather than noisy, polluting engines, the mower’s smooth composite wheels, precision blades, and thoughtful ergonomics minimize the work of achieving lush, pristine turf. This nimble human-powered mower provides eco-friendly convenience for urban and suburban spaces under half an acre, perfect for frequent light trimming rather than occasional heavy mowing. Achieve weekly lawn care success without fines or emissions – just old-fashioned elbow grease resulting in gorgeous grass.

Robotic Lawn Mower

Husqvarna 970471745 Lawn Mower

The Husqvarna 415X robotic mower delivers seamless, hands-free convenience for those seeking an autonomously maintained lawn. As an industry leader in smart tech, it enables controlling and monitoring mowing from your phone through integration with the Automower Connect app. Customizable settings like run schedules, designated work areas, and off-limit zones provide bespoke yard care and real-time status updates.

Installation leverages DIY-friendly kits, allowing homeowners to easily place the charging station and boundary wires. Then relaxation begins as the weatherproof all-terrain mower handles up to 0.4 acres, precisely navigating tight spots and 40-degree inclines. Safety features like alarm systems, GPS tracking, and PIN code locks provide security and theft deterrence. For flawless turf without the toil, this technologically advanced robot makes lush lawns achievable 24/7 with minimal effort beyond the app’s touch-of-a-button convenience. The future of yard work is here, and it’s autonomous.

Worx Landroid M 20V Lawn Mower

For those seeking a fully automated approach to lawn care, the Worx Landroid M robotic mower delivers customized convenience. After a one-time boundary wire setup, it independently maintains up to quarter-acre plots guided by AI navigation, detecting and avoiding obstacles. Integration with the Worx Power Share platform enables controlling and monitoring mowing from your phone while sharing batteries across compatible tools.

Customizable settings balance customized schedules with auto recommendations adapting to yard conditions. Narrow passageways and 20-degree slopes pose no issue for this nimble bot, nor does wet grass, thanks to integrated rain sensors ceasing mowing. Its intelligent obstacle detection, 7-inch offset blades reaching close to edges, and 20V interchangeable Power Share battery minimize manual intervention, needing only occasional trim touch-ups. This app-controlled auto mower provides fully realized, hands-free help around the home for bespoke yard care without personal toil.

MAMMOTION LUBA AWD 5000 Lawn Mower

The LUBA AWD 5000 robotic mower delivers advanced navigation and power for those seeking maximum cutting efficiency with minimum effort. Ditching boundary wires, its RTK guidance system enables virtual mapping and zoning down to the centimeter via app controls. This allows bespoke management of task schedules, modes, and 1.18 to 2.8-inch heights across multiple working areas. Channels between zones pose no issue for its all-wheel-drive system and off-road tires that climb an insane 75% inclines with precision.

A 16-inch dual-blade deck more thoroughly cuts up to 1.25 acres 50% faster than standard random patterns, freeing up more personal time to enjoy the results. Safety features like lift and tilt sensors, ultrasonic radar, and a protective bumper shield the mower and its family from harm. Additional theft prevention technology and accessories like mounting poles and extra blades provide peace of mind. This robotic overachiever cuts the concern along with the grass for sprawling, challenging properties demanding immaculate, efficient yard care.

Pros and Cons of Lawn Mowers

Here is a table comparing the pros and cons of different types of lawn mowers:

Lawn Mower Type	Pros	Cons
Gas Lawn Mowers	More powerful Long run time per tank Consistent performance for thicker grass	Higher maintenance (oil, filters)  Emissions less eco-friendly Typically louder
Electric Lawn Mowers	Lower maintenance  Zero emissions  Quieter operation Typically cheaper	Runtime limited by battery life  Less power for wet/thick grass Corded models have a limited range
Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers	Self-powering for less user effort  Good for hilly yards Wings/wheels aid maneuverability	Cost more than standard push mowers  Heavier to move/store when needed
Robotic Lawn Mowers	Fully autonomous operation  Customizable via app controls  Handle slopes and narrow areas	High upfront investment  Installation more complex Potential security/theft issues

Conclusion

There is no one-size-fits-all solution
Consider your unique yard size, terrain, features needed, and budget. Let your specific grass conditions and needs drive the best type and size mower.

Think power source trade-offs
Electric mowers win for convenience, while gas has more consistent strength. Bolstered battery tech is closing the power divide, but runtimes still fall short of gas capacity.

Prioritize ease of use
From controls to maneuverability to vital basics like height adjustments and folding handles, don’t underestimate user experience and effort.

Cutting width impacts efficiency
Wider decks move faster, but compact models allow tighter turns. Find the right balance for your environment.

Balance affordability with quality
Consider total lifespan value, not just upfront cost. This includes deck durability, warranty coverage, and cost of ownership.

Keep future-proof room to grow
Even if you are buying for a small yard today, choose features and sizing that provide flexibility should changes be made.

FAQs

What type of lawn mower is best for a small yard?

For small, flat yards under 1/4 acre, a walk-behind push mower with a 20-21-inch cutting width is usually ideal. Go for lightweight and easy maneuverability.

Should I get a gas or electric mower?

Electric mowers (corded and cordless) work well for smaller yards up to 1/2 acre. They are quiet, eco-friendly, and convenient but may lack power for thick/wet grass. Gas mowers have more consistent power for larger yards but require more maintenance.

How do I choose the right cutting width?

Measure your lawn size and base the cutting width on the coverage needed. Around 20-21 inches suits most small or mid-sized lawns. Wider decks of 24+ inches are best for larger yards over 1 acre for faster mowing.

What features should I look for?

Key features depend on your needs, but variable speed control, height adjustment levers, folding handles, and headlights improve convenience. Other nice extras are washout ports, side discharge, mulching/bagging options, and dual battery bays.

How much does an average lawn mower cost?

Basic push mowers start around $150+. Self-propelled gas mowers range from $300-$600. Heavy-duty riding mowers run $1500+. Robotic mowers start around $800 and go up significantly. Set your budget, but get the most features you can afford.