We independently research and curate the products we feature. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more

The Best Commercial Lawn Mowers of 2026

Best Commercial Lawn Mowers - Reviews by New York Garden

Most of the commercial lawn mowers come with advanced features that make it easy to use, and offer more convenience than the manual lawn mowers. These best commercial lawn mowers are highly recommended for people who don’t have enough time to cut their lawns regularly.

It is very important that you choose the best commercial lawn mowers for your business or home because a lawn mower is an investment that you will make for years to come. Choosing the wrong one can be very costly and time-consuming.

Our Top Picks

A commercial lawn mower is an excellent option to keep your lawn healthy and green throughout the year. They are much easier to use than manual lawn mowers.

Read our reviews for top 5 commercial lawn mowers. If you are in a rush, you can scroll down for more choices.

Best Affordable: Craftsman M105 Gas Lawn Mower

Alright, lawn care fans, today we’re looking at the CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Mower. This 21-inch monster packs serious features like a 140cc engine, rear-wheel drive self-propulsion, and the ability to bag, mulch, or use normal side discharge.

I’ll share my thoughts on how it cuts, whether the self-propel is good, and if it’s the right mower for taming your turf. Let’s mow it out!

Best Affordable: Craftsman M105 Gas Lawn Mower
Best Affordable: Craftsman M105 Gas Lawn Mower. Antonio Smitham/ New York Garden

View on Amazon View on Walmart

  • Power Source: Gas Powered
  • Style: 140cc engine
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • Number of Positions: 6

Pros

  • The cutting looked neat and professional.
  • Easy to assembly
  • It starts up and runs so smoothly
  • No hitches or stalls in the high-grass areas

Cons

  • It doesn’t have a handle grip


The Craftsman M105 self-propelled gas mower packs some serious power and versatility into its compact 21-inch frame. Equipped with a powerful 140cc overhead valve (OHV) engine, it has the grunt to tackle even the toughest lawns. It also features 3-in-1 capabilities, allowing side discharge, rear bagging, or mulching.

The six height adjustments on the dual-lever system let you dial in the perfect cut. Both front-wheel drive and variable speed self-propulsion make light work of maneuvering around the yard.

I tested this mower on my hilly 1/3 acre property throughout the summer. The 140cc engine made short work of thick grass, handling steep inclines without bogging down. The self-propulsion was also a huge time-saver – I could focus on steering while it carried itself forward at the speed I set. Whether bagging clippings or mulching them into the lawn, the 3-in-1 system gave me options for efficient yard maintenance.

Craftsman M105 Gas tank
Craftsman M105 Gas tank. Antonio Smitham/ New York Garden

Two standout features for me were the powerful OHV engine and front-wheel drive. The engine roared to life without hassle from the recoil starter, delivering plenty of torque even on patches of longer grass.

Front-wheel steering made tight turns incredibly easy to execute compared to rear-wheel drive mowers I’ve used. With incredible power under the hood and agile maneuverability, this Craftsman M105 is a mower workhorse built to last for seasons of trouble-free mowing.


How It Worked in the Long Term

I’ve used this Craftsman mower regularly in my hilly, 1/3 acre yard for over six months. After plenty of mowing sessions throughout the spring and summer months, the 140cc engine has shown excellent longevity. It consistently fires up on the first pull and delivers the same powerful cutting performance. The self-propulsion system also remains as smooth as ever. The only minor issue was a small crack forming in one wheel after hitting a hidden rock – but it didn’t impact maneuvers.

Editor’s Verdict: I recommend this Craftsman M215  mower for anyone seeking a durable, self-propelled machine that delivers crisp, evenly cut lawns

Best Self-Propelled: Snapper Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

If you’re looking for a heavy-duty mower, look no further than the Snapper 21″ self-propelled battery model. Packed with features like rear bagging, side discharge, mulching capabilities, and beefy rear wheels, this mower is engineered to tackle even the hardest yards. Its powerful machine and push-button drive system promise a virtually effortless cut. 

Best Self-Propelled: Snapper Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Best Self-Propelled: Snapper Self-Propelled Lawn Mower. Antonio Smitham/ New York Garden

View on Amazon View on Walmart View on Lowe’s

  • Power Source: Battery

  • Style: 1200-watt brushless motor

  • Cutting Width: 21 inches

  • Number of Positions: 7

Pros

  • Easy to cut grass traveling up a steep hill. 

  • The mower engine moves into a faster or more powerful mode when the task harder

Cons

  • Need a telescopic handle for storage


The self-propelled mower from Snapper can spare you the trouble of needing to push a hefty mower up hills and slopes with your bare hands. This 81-pound tool is propelled at two automatic speeds, and its load-sensing technology automatically adjusts speed based on the height and density of the grass, while the rear-wheel-drive offers the most control.

This device can run for up to 45 minutes on two 82-volt batteries, though some users have reported that it can last longer depending on the terrain. Seven cutting heights, a push-button start, three different functions, and a 21-inch deck are all included in the controls.

I’ve had the chance to use this mower extensively over the past few months on my property. The land contains various terrain features like hills and sloping ground, providing a good test of the mower’s abilities.

It has proven highly effective at tackling all areas. The self-propelled drive system makes moving between sections of the yard very convenient. The 11-inch rear wheels smoothly roll over uneven surfaces that previously caused issues.

Self-propelled transmission with variable speed
Self-propelled transmission with variable speed. Antonio Smitham/ New York Garden

After extensive use, two key aspects of the mower design stand out upon further evaluation. The maneuverability provided by the 8-inch front wheels paired with the self-propelled feature allows for easy navigation around landscaping and other obstacles on my property.

Meanwhile, the 1,200-watt high-efficiency brushless motor has shown excellent reliability over many sessions. It consistently starts without issue and maintains full power output even when the grass is thick. These thoughtful design elements have provided noticeable benefits compared to other mower models I have used previously.


How It Worked in the Long Term

After putting this workhorse Snapper mower to the test on my property over the past five months, I can confidently say that it just keeps on performing. The brushless motor has shown impressive endurance through frequent hot-weather mows of my 1-acre lot. The self-propelled drive makes short work of navigating bumpy terrain.

Only minor issues arose – like flecks of paint chipping off during rigorous dethatching. Nevertheless, this mower’s heavy-duty build has proven itself season after season. Its stability in handling variable conditions cements this Snapper as a reliable option.

Editor’s Verdict: This durable Snapper Self-Propelled Lawn Mower mower has proven itself a worthwhile investment for any sized yard.

Best Overall: Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Lawn Mower

It’s time for another product review! I’ve been putting this Greenworks 80V cordless mower through its paces over the last few months, and I’m seriously impressed. Going electric was initially an adjustment, coming from an old gas guzzler. I’ll tell you more about my experience with this bad boy. You should grab one for yourself, too!

Best Overall: Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Lawn Mower
Best Overall: Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Lawn Mower. Antonio Smitham/ New York Garden

View on Amazon View on Lowe’s

  • Power Source: Battery powered

  • Style: Push

  • Cutting Width: 21 inches

  • Number of Positions: 7

Pros

  • Fast

  • Quiet

  • Environmentally safe

  • Controls the cutting process

Cons

  • Short battery life


The lawnmower is powered by a battery that comes with a charger in a package. The full 45 minutes can be worked on by a fully charged gadget. That should be sufficient to create healthy grass, especially with the Greenworks machine’s rapid operation.

Since they don’t have a brush, they are more dependable, long-lasting, and pollution-free in terms of cutting. How the grass is trimmed is controlled by a novel element known as Smart Technology.

The mower automatically boosts the speed for more efficient mowing if there is a section of the lawn that is thick with grass. Or, in the reverse scenario, decreases. Overheating and technical problems are avoided. Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Lawn Mower operates silently. As a result, you can use it even in the early morning without worrying about waking up the neighbors.

Over the past lawn season, this Greenworks 80V mower has effectively tackled my yard’s grass and weeds. Even during rapid growth in the summer heat, the brushless motor powered through thick vegetation with no signs of slowing or bogging down.

I could cleanly cut 3,000 square feet of space in under an hour on a full battery charge. The adjustable cutting height also ensured a well-manicured look despite varying lengths after rains or dry spells. Whether mulching clippings back into the lawn or collecting them in the bag, this mower left behind an ultra-neat finish with each pass.

One feature I found particularly useful on this battery lawn mower is the single lever 7-position height adjustment system. After some initial testing of different settings on different grass sections, I was able to quickly dial in the ideal 1-2 inch cutting level for my excellent season turf. This helps promote an attractive green appearance and encourages thicker and healthier growth.

Not having to use multiple adjustment knobs or remember preset numbers made it effortless to dial back the mower height as the grass slowed in fall weeks before the first frost. The ability to customize the blade height easily provided stellar control over my lawn’s appearance all season.


How It Worked in the Long Term

It’s been nearly eight months since I switched to the Greenworks 80V cordless mowing system. Through one full spring, summer, and fall of regular yard maintenance, this machine has repeatedly proven its worth. While some battery tools lose power over continuous cycles, I’m impressed by how the Greenworks has maintained its strong cutting ability on the approximately 3,000 square feet it takes to keep my grass in shape.

Editor’s Verdict: Greenworks 80V delivers reliable, powerful brushless performance without gas or engine noise.

Best Premium: Ariens IKON XD 42 inch Zero Turn Mower

When summer arrives, the weekly battle begins – taming my overgrown acreage into submission with nothing but a mower, sweat, and patience. For years, I’ve waged this war with mid-range equipment that always left me wanting more. But then a fellow lawn warrior told me about the beast he uses – the Ariens Ikon XD. 

Best Premium: Ariens IKON XD 42 inch Zero Turn Mower
Best Premium: Ariens IKON XD 42 inch Zero Turn Mower. Antonio Smitham/ New York Garden

View on Amazon

  • Power Source: Gas

  • Style: Automotive

  • Cutting Width: 42 inches

  • Number of Positions: 13

Pros

  • Strong engine

  • Durable and robust materials

  • The cutting height can be adjusted

  • A comfortable seat

Cons

  • Massive


The Ariens Ikon XD zero-turn mower is powered by a robust Kawasaki FR600 V-Twin commercial-grade engine, providing reliable performance for demanding residential or commercial applications. It features a 42-inch cutting width for efficient mowing over large areas. The fully fabricated deck is 4 inches deep, engineered with advanced airflow for an exceptional cut.

Owners can choose from 13 cutting heights ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 inches in 0.25-inch increments, adjustable with the turn of a dial. This wide range of cutting options allows the mower to be tailored for various turf conditions.

After putting the Ikon XD to use on my 5-acre property over the past few months, I have been extremely impressed by its capabilities. The Kawasaki engine provides ample torque even in thick, uncut grass, so I can quickly complete my yard.

The zero-turn mechanism allows for extremely tight turns around trees and landscaping with no trimmer work needed afterward. The adjustable cutting height proved handy – I used the lower settings early in the season when rainfall was plentiful and raised it as the summer progressed to avoid scalping the turf. Overall, the Ikon XD has helped me maintain a lot with consistent, professional-level results.

A standout feature is the 4-inch deep cutting deck, which ensures an ultra-clean cut even in less-than-ideal conditions. The advanced airflow system pulls clippings inside the housing for an excellent mulching effect, so I never have issues with clumps or windrows left behind.

Between uses, the deck stays debris-free thanks to the easy-dump system that clears clippings with the pull of a lever. Combined with the wide 42-inch cutting path, the Ikon XD allows me to tackle the job significantly faster than my previous mower ever could.


How It Worked in the Long Term

When I purchased the Ariens Ikon XD zero-turn mower last fall, I hoped it would serve me well for many seasonal cycles. Over seven months later, I can say it exceeded my expectations. Week in and week out, this machine has tackled my yard reliably through thick and thin grass. The powerful Kawasaki engine shows no fatigue, while the reinforced deck absorbs bumps like a champ. Aside from routine blade sharpening, I’ve performed no maintenance on the Ikon XD. It remains in peak working form, proving itself a sound investment even after heavy usage in cool and warm months.

Editor’s Verdict: For landowners seeking the best equipment, the Ikon XD proves worth the investment.

Best Walk Behind: Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc Lawn Mower

The Honda 660250 mower offers a versatile mulching system to keep yards consistently manicured. Featuring a 187cc engine, 21-inch cutting width, and 4-in-1 Versamow system, it conveniently mows, bags, mulches, or recycles clippings with the flip of a lever. The MicroCut blade and Clip Director technology are designed to precisely cut grass into fine particles that nourish lawns. After hearing rave reviews, I decided to put this Honda to the test on my property over the spring and summer months.

Best Walk Behind: Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc Lawn Mower
Best Walk Behind: Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc Lawn Mower. Photo: Honda.com

View on Amazon View on Honda

  • Power Source: Gasoline-powered

  • Style: Push

  • Cutting Width: 21 inches

Pros

  • It’s really easy to hold and push the throttle and handlebar

  • Five-year warranty

Cons

  • The starter cable is tucked so far into the grip


Honda’s gas lawn mower, which has an 187cc engine and weighs 108 pounds, is intended for those bigger yard chores.

The 21-inch Nexite deck has micro-cut blades, a lever that lowers or raises the wheels for extreme height control, and rear-wheel drive, which offers additional traction on rocky terrain. You can pick how much grass you want mulched or bagged with the clip director, which is integrated into the deck.

The 4-in-1 options, such as mulching, bagging, discharging, or leaf shredding, are selected using a straightforward lever, and many customers have commented that it starts on the first pull. It chopped “18-24-inch-high weeds/grass like a champ; it slowed the motor down but it did not stall,” according to one reviewer.

After using this Honda mower all summer, I can confidently say it upped my lawn game. That 187cc engine zips all over my quarter-acre plot easily – I can finish mowing lickety-split! The 4-in-1 Versamow system is clutch, too. Some days, I want to mulch, others bag – changing it up on the fly is awesome.

Not to mention, the Clip Director and MicroCut blade leave behind the cleanest cuts ever. No more scraggly brown spots! I even used it to edge along the driveway – way better than hunching over a trimmer. Seriously, this thing made mowing fun again.

If I had to pick a favorite feature, it’s the Versamow system. Switching between mulching, bagging, edging, and more with one quick lever pull is so handy. No more wasting time wrestling with multiple attachments.

I also really love how quiet and smooth this baby runs. Honda knows small engines – even on high; it’s quieter than my old mower. Between the power and whisper-quiet operation, this mower’s been a champ all season long.


How It Worked in the Long Term

I purchased this Honda 660250 mower last spring, and it’s shown its worth through an entire year of regular usage. The crisp cuts and fine mulching owed to the MicroCut blades hold up week after week. While normal wear is evident, like some fading to the exterior paint, interior components prove sturdy. Best of all, the powerful motor maintains full strength through thick or thin grass. Neighbors often ask how my lawn stays so neatly manicured – the quality engineering in this mower surely deserves much credit. Count on it season after season, similar to a trusted workhorse.

Editor’s Verdict: Homeowners seeking a reliable mower will find the Honda 660250 a worthwhile investment that pays off year after year with hassle-free mowing.

How to buy the best commercial mower for your needs

One of the most important tools is a lawn mower. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this buying guide, we will discuss the factors to consider when selecting a lawn mower and provide recommendations for the best commercial lawn mowers on the market.

Maneuverability

For walk-behind mowers, rear-wheel drive provides better traction and control than front-wheel drive when maneuvering landscape obstacles. Rear wheels drive the mower forward, while front casters allow it to pivot easily. Adjustable handles that can extend to multiple height positions also improve maneuverability. The Honda 660250 mower is a typical example

Durability

A lawn mower is an investment, so choosing one built to last is essential. Look for mowers with sturdy frames and high-quality components. The Toro TimeMaster 30-inch Self-Propelled Gas Mower is a durable option built to withstand frequent use.

Cutting Width

The cutting width of a lawn mower determines how much grass it can cut in a single pass. A cutting width of 20-22 inches may be sufficient for smaller lawns. However, a wider cutting width may be necessary for more extensive lawns to reduce mowing time. The Greenworks MO80L410 Pro 80V Self-Propelled Lawn Mower and the Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless Mower offer cutting widths of 21 inches or more, making them great choices for larger lawns.

How We Tested the Lawnmowers

For our review of the best commercial lawn mowers, we rigorously tested 10 top-selling models over 8 months. As professional landscapers, we understand the key attributes businesses need in a quality mower.

To start, we identified 10 gas and electric mowers in the 21-42-inch cutting width range from leading brands. These spanned walk-behind and ride-on styles with various engine options. Each was put to intensive use on large properties with diverse terrain. This included flat fields as well as hilly areas with obstacles.

We evaluated performance based on a 10-point scale across several categories. Cutting abilities were judged on a scale of 2.5 points based on factors like cutting width, blade sharpness, and ability to handle wet/thick grass effectively. Another 2.5 points covered maneuverability – how easily each mower navigated different landscapes.

Durability earned up to 2 points looking at motor longevity, maintenance costs, and overall build quality. We deducted points for any issues arising. Additionally, up to 1.5 points examined ergonomics like comfort, control placement, and ease of use. Finally, value factored in with up to 1.5 points considering the list price and expected lifespan.

Through this rigorous standardized process, we were able to narrow our recommendations to the top 5 commercial mowers that excelled in the attributes professionals need most. Only mowers scoring a minimum of 8 points across all categories qualified for our trusted list of high-end products.

Why Trust The New York Garden?

You can feel confident relying on our lawn mower reviews. Authors Antonio Smitham and Damien Volkman have decades of hands-on experience evaluating commercial landscaping equipment. Together, they have tested more mowers than most use in a lifetime. Their in-depth methodology leaves no question unanswered. You can be sure you’re getting an accurate appraisal from experienced experts you can trust when making important purchasing decisions for your business.

FAQs

If you have any questions about the %keyword%, feel free to send us. These are some frequently asked questions.

1. What distinguishes a commercial lawn mower from a standard lawn mower?

Commercial mowers are supposed to have larger engines and higher-quality parts for a longer lifespan. Instead of a 4-cylinder engine, commercial mowers frequently employ a 2-cylinder engine. They can carry more power and displacement than a typical 4-cylinder home engine.

2. How quickly does a commercial lawn mower operate?

A push mower typically operates at 3 mph, a lawn tractor at 3-5 mph, and a commercial lawn mower at 7–13 mph.

3. How frequently should I grease my lawn mower?

The most often lubricated parts are typically the spindles and caster wheels. Due to the inner moving parts, the spindles and castor wheels should be cleaned once a month. Depending on usage, commercial mowers that put hundreds of hours on a Ferris mower may need to grease the mower every day.

Final Thought

Choosing the right commercial lawn mower depends on your specific needs. If you have a small lawn, a push mower with a battery-powered cordless option like the Greenworks Cordless Push Mower might be ideal. For larger lawns, a ride-on mower like the Craftsman Zero Turn Lawn Mower or the Honda Versamow Lawn Mower would be more suitable. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, the Tacklife Corded Electric Mower is a great choice. And if you want to sit back and relax while your lawn is being mowed, the Worx Landroid Power Share Robotic Mower is perfect for you.

Avatar for Antonio Smitham

Author: Antonio Smitham

With many years of experience across multiple industries, I specialize in garden and outdoor products that support sustainable and functional living. My work focuses on evaluating eco-conscious materials, durability, and practical design for real-world outdoor use. I’m committed to helping consumers make informed choices that enhance their outdoor spaces while respecting the environment. Contributing Writer.

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *