It can be a tiresome task to mow the grass, but investing in the best lawn mowers can significantly reduce the amount of work required to complete this task. Don’t worry if you are unfamiliar with lawn equipment and are unsure of where to begin your search; we have analyzed every type of mower to come up with our list, taking into account things like fuel type, suitable terrain, and cutting width.
Continue reading to learn more about our top picks, which will be presented below. These are the top 5 lawn mowers that you can purchase right now.
Our Top Picks
Below is the list of the five best lawnmowers in 2024 that Antonio Smitham has researched and picked out for you.
- Best Overall: Honda 21″ Walk Behind Mower
- Best Gas: Craftsman M260 163-cc 21″ Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- Best Battery: Ego Power+ 21″ Mower
- Best Corded: American Lawn Mower 14″ 120V Corded Mower
- Best Robotic: Worx Landroid M 20V Robotic Lawn Mower
Best Overall: Honda 664060 Smart Drive Lawn Mower
The Honda 664060 lawn mower is a high-quality machine that provides an excellent cut. It is powered by Honda’s durable and reliable GCV170 engine that starts effortlessly, even when cold, thanks to the convenient auto choke feature
Power source: Honda GCV170 gas engine
Type: Self-propelled walk-behind
Deck size: 21 inches
Pros
System with two blades for better mulching
Automatic choke for quick and easy starting
Clip system makes it easy to change cutting modes easy
Variable speed, 0 to 4 miles per hour
Cons
Pricey
Variable-speed controller is slightly difficult to use
Honda engines are reliable and durable, whether it’s a generator, car, or lawn mower, and this self-propelled gas lawn mower is no exception. Its strong GCV170 engine propels two blades, not one, making a cleaner, more accurate cut than the majority of other gas-powered lawnmowers that only have one blade.
This mower’s rear-wheel drive makes it the perfect choice for handling yards with slopes and more difficult terrain. Both its features and engine are powerful. A clip system that’s easy to use simplifies the changing process among its three grass-clipping alternatives: side discharge, mulching, and bagging. Additionally, the excellently designed speed controls further enhance the quality of this high-end self-propelled walk-behind mower.
Especially because their cutting system includes dual blades that can handle all types of grass to dry twigs without hindrance. Especially with thick and wet grass fields, they work extremely effectively with power boost in dense foliage.
The build quality and engineering of Honda lawn equipment are simply unmatched. This mower is no exception, constructed with corrosion-resistant materials to withstand demanding outdoor use season after season. Even after years of use, the GCV170 engine continues to deliver powerful and fuel-efficient performance.
They are truly value-for-money products and belong to the high-end segment. After many of our extremely harsh tests, I even let the Honda lawn mower run continuously for more than 6 hours but they seemed to have no engine problems.
How It Works For Long Term
A gas lawn mower may make you consider your budget before deciding to buy it, but this is not the wrong choice if you are looking for the best lawn mower with good performance and durability.
Because it is a product in the high-end segment, we did not have “mercy” when giving them the harshest tests. To test stability and performance, we spent many hours running them on the lawn and there seemed to be no problems during subsequent starts. Capacity remains stable, with no signs of reduction. The engine shows no signs of problems such as oil leaks or smoke, the only drawback is that they make quite a loud noise.
Thick and wet grass can be a big obstacle for electric or low-power lawn mowers, but with Honda, it is handled extremely easily. We tested it on rough ground and many objects such as dry branches, dirt, and rocks, but they were all handled neatly inside the deck. We also tested the engine’s starting system and they reached 98% on the first pull, even in fairly cold weather or when it was raining.
Editor’s Verdict: A lawn mower in the high-end segment that stands out for its strength and durability. All components are made of sturdy materials and achieve high perfection. However, their prices are not cheap or even higher than other products in the same segment.
Best Value: Craftsman M260 163cc Lawn Mower
The Craftsman M260 163cc Lawn Mower is a compact and lightweight lawn mower that is designed for easy cutting of small to medium-sized lawns. It features a 163cc engine and a 4-stroke design, providing a smooth and quiet cutting experience.
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Power source: 163 cc Briggs & Stratton gas engine
Type: Walk-behind
Deck size: 21 inches
Pros
Great value for the price with multiple upgrades
Easy to start, no choke or priming required
Front-wheel drive
Mulch, bag, or side-discharge
Cons
Self-propelled feature is not controllable
Non-padded grip could cause hand fatigue
In the world of lawn mowers, Craftsman is a well-known and highly recognized brand, and this gas-powered model is an example of its caliber. It is perfect for yards that are up to three-quarters of an acre because of its strong 163-cc engine and roomy 21-inch mowing deck.
This mower is simple to push thanks to its large 8-inch back wheels and heavy tread, and it has six different cutting heights for versatility. Side discharge, mulch, and bag are the three disposal options available on the mower. And even though this mower may not have the equivalent power of other walk-behind mowers, it’s substantially less expensive than them, making it a fantastic option for people with level yards to whom a self-propelled mower may not be necessary.
The Craftsman M260 is a well-built and durable gas-push lawn mower that delivers strong yet quiet performance for domestic yards. Powered by a 163cc Craftsman engine, it starts easily with the simple pull of the recoil starter and runs smoothly even when the grass is high and thick. The steel 20-inch twin-blade cutting system cleanly slices through grass and mulches clippings finely, leaving an attractive striped pattern behind.
Additional features like the ease of use of side-to-side lever controls, integrated clip director, and rear bag make for comfortable operation. Its rear bagging capabilities combined with mulching capabilities provide flexible clippings options depending on yard conditions and user preference.
The sturdy all-steel deck and durable powder-coated finish provide lasting resistance to rust and corrosion no matter the environment. Wheels with ball bearings and oversized rear tires traverse uneven terrain with exceptional stability and grip. Simple yet robust components like the durable high-quality steel blade are designed to last for many seasons of consistent use without fail.
How It Works For Long Term
Even after years of constant weekly use through various weather extremes, the powerful Craftsman engine retains its peak performance thanks to easy maintenance access and simple tune-ups. Its reasonable price also makes this Craftsman mower an excellent long-term value. With the ability to power through most residential yard sizes, comfortable controls, and Craftsman’s reputation for reliability, the M260 provides convenient high-quality cuts that homeowners can depend on for many growing seasons to come.
Editor’s Verdict: Craftsman M260 delivers straightforward and dependable performance for medium-sized residential lawns at an affordable price point. Homeowners seeking an easy to use, no-fuss mower that needs little maintenance but keeps working season after season will find the Craftsman M260 to be an excellent choice.
Best Battery: Ego Power+ 21″ Lawn Mower
The EGO Power+ LM2101 21-inch cordless lawn mower is a fantastic tool for any homeowner or gardener looking to cut their grass without the hassle of gas-powered mowers. With its 56-volt lithium-ion battery and rapid charger included, this mower is incredibly powerful and easy to use.
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Power source: 56-volt, 5-Ah lithium-ion rechargeable battery
Type: Self-propelled walk-behind
Deck size: 21 inches
Pros
A single charge lasts 45 minutes before the next one is required
Battery charging takes less than 60 minutes.
The battery is compatible with many other Ego Power+ tools
Power equivalent to a gasoline mower
Cons
Higher price than a gas mower with equivalent power
Low traction on slopes
Drive system is noisy
The Ego Power+ is equipped with a battery and quick charger so it is ready to mow. With its battery-powered mower, Ego has made improvements over cordless ones. Thanks to its large 56-volt, 5-Ah battery, and brushless motor, it offers a 45-minute runtime. The Ego is appropriate for yards up to half an acre with its 21-inch deck. Other characteristics of the Ego Power+ that make it a desirable purchase include the ability to bag, mulch, or discharge waste, and speed settings that can be operated by the user using a simple dial.
The rapid charger is a game-changer for cordless lawn mowers, as it allows you to quickly and easily recharge the battery when it starts to run low. This means you can spend more time cutting your lawn and less time waiting for the battery to recharge. The charger is also very easy to use, simply plug it in and let it do its job while you continue to mow your lawn.
Another advantage of the EGO Power+ LM2101 is its portability. The mower is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for those who have a small lawn or who want to mow their lawn in multiple locations. The battery is also easy to remove and replace, making it simple to swap out the battery when it starts to lose its charge.
How It Works For Long Term
After using them for a long time, I feel they work quite stably and effectively. Although they are not gasoline engines, I rate their power as equivalent to gasoline lawn mowers in the same segment. The parts, especially the outer shell, are designed to be sturdy and highly complete. They can withstand impacts very well and do not cause any damage to the inside.
One thing that makes the machine’s operating capabilities quite limited is that the cutting length is small (only 14 inches) and requires connecting a power cord to provide power when operating, so it is only suitable for small lawn areas.
Editor’s Verdict: The EGO Power+ LM2101 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing cordless lawn mower.
Best Corded: American Lawn Mower 14″ 120V Lawn Mower
A corded lawn mower may make you feel a bit inconvenient during the mowing process, but it is suitable for households that own a small lawn and have a limited budget when buying. American Lawn Mower 14″ 120V Lawn Mower has the same power as gas lawn mowers, see our analysis below.
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Power source: 11-amp corded motor
Type: Walk-behind
Deck size: 14 inches
Pros
Inexpensive
An electric motor is durable and requires minimal maintenance
Easy to use
Lightweight
Offers mulching and bagging options
Cons
No side-discharge option
Suitable for the smallest yards only
For smaller yards where a gas-powered mower could be a headache, corded lawn mowers are a convenient, cost-effective option. With this mower from American Lawn Mower Company, you can maintain your yard’s appearance at a reasonable price without having to worry about the mess or the cost of batteries or gasoline.
Its 14-inch deck works well in compact yards and storage spaces. This mower weighs only 20 pounds, which is easy to control, especially for people who might find it difficult to maneuver a bigger model. Additionally, it features an amazing array of choices, enabling one to mulch or bag cuttings (although strangely, it doesn’t have a side-discharge option). Additionally, it provides a handy single lever for height control, removing the need to manually modify the height of each wheel.
How It Works For Long Term
After using them for a long time, I feel they work quite stably and effectively. Although they are not gasoline engines, I rate their power as equivalent to gasoline lawn mowers in the same segment. The parts, especially the outer shell, are designed to be sturdy and highly complete. They can withstand impacts very well and do not cause any damage to the inside.
One thing that makes the machine’s operating capabilities quite limited is that the cutting length is small (only 14 inches) and requires connecting a power cord to provide power when operating, so it is only suitable for small lawn areas.
Editor’s Verdict: The lawn mower is suitable for households with small and medium-sized lawns. Although in the low-price segment, their performance is superior to other products in the same segment
Best Robotic: Worx Landroid M 20V Lawn Mower
Worx Landroid M 20V is an awesome choice for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful cordless lawn mower. Using a robotic lawn mower eliminates the need for physical labor, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while your lawn is being mowed. This is especially beneficial for people who have mobility issues or who simply prefer to relax while their lawn is being maintained.
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Power source: 20-volt, 4.0-Ah battery
Type: Robotic
Deck size: 18 inches
Pros
Mows up to a quarter of an acre
Can be monitored via an app through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity
Brushless motor lengthens battery life
The mower is protected by onboard rain sensor
Cons
Initial cost is high
A detailed setup procedure is required.
This robotic lawn mower from Worx pushes the limits of technology even farther. It works like a robot vacuum cleaner by independently mowing a specified area up to 1/4 acre in size. The lawn mower only mows in the designated area once the operator installs wire barriers that it won’t pass through. It navigates around any potential yard impediments with the help of a laser eye. It moves through the yard on two big back wheels and a single front caster, turning on a dime.
Additionally, the Worx Landroid M can connect with a smart device, allowing the user to configure daily routines or command the mower to start or stop. When the battery is running low, it automatically returns to its charging station and is powered by the same 20-volt Worx battery that powers the company’s other yard products.
Beyond its autonomous automated functionality, the Worx Landroid M feels well-engineered down to the smallest details. Sturdy corrosion-resistant materials like die-cast aluminum and rugged wheels ensure it withstand outdoor use in nearly any climate or landscape conditions. An anti-theft PIN code safeguards it from unwanted operation.
App controls allow scheduling, monitoring, and firmware updates from inside. Worx backs it with a robust 3-year warranty showing confidence in its proven reliability over thousands of installations worldwide. For homeowners seeking the ultimate hands-free, consistent mowing solution, the Landroid M robotic lawn
How It Works For Long Term
Our team has been using the Worx Landroid M 20V robotic lawn mower for almost a year now, and we must say that I am extremely satisfied with its performance. The mower has proven to be very reliable and efficient, and it has saved me a lot of time and effort in maintaining my lawn.
Another thing that I like about the Worx Landroid M 20V is its cutting performance. The mower is equipped with sharp blades that can cut even the longest and toughest grass with ease. The mower is also able to adjust its cutting height according to the type of grass that it is mowing, which is a great feature that has helped me to achieve a consistent cut throughout my lawn.
In terms of maintenance, the Worx Landroid M 20V has been very easy to use and maintain. The mower is equipped with a rechargeable battery that is easy to charge, and the mower itself is very easy to assemble and disassemble. I have only had to replace the blades once since I purchased the mower, and even that was a very straightforward process.
Editor’s Verdict: Worx Landroid M represents the pinnacle of hands-free, convenient mowing. It automatically and uniformly trims lawns up to half an acre with zero supervision needed. Robotic mowers remain an investment, but the Landroid M performs reliably for years to come, saving homeowners countless hours spent pushing a traditional mower.
Choosing the Best Lawn Mower for Your Needs
Now that you’ve had an overview of our top five Lawn Mowers. Refer to our buying guide below for further details on how to select the best lawn mower for yourself.
Types of lawn mowers
The first step to choosing the right mower is to decide the type of mower that’s most suitable for the yard.
Riding
Lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and rear-engine riding mowers are the primary types of riding mowers. The priciest lawn mowers available – zero-turn mowers – have a motor that is mounted behind the operator and is controlled by two levers. The mowers’ capacity to pivot 360 degrees when stationary gives them their name. In addition, zero-turn mowers’ mowing decks are very large. They are perfect for cutting huge lawns with obstacles that the operator must drive around due to their size and mobility.
Lawn tractors are large machines that mow lawns. They have a variety of attachments that allow them to cut grass, trim hedges, and do other chores. Lawn tractors come in a wide range of sizes and power. The most basic models are small, simple, and inexpensive. They’re perfect if you just want to mow the lawn or do light-duty work around the yard. The next level up is medium-sized, more powerful models that can do more than mow and trim. These models are more expensive, but they offer a larger cutting deck that allows you to do more work around the yard.
Lawn tractors and rear-engine lawn mowers are similar but the latter have their engines in the back. Although rear-engine lawn tractors generally have smaller decks, they give the operator more view and more maneuverability.
Walk-behind
Push and self-propelled mowers are the two types of walk-behind mowers. Power wheels on self-propelled mowers drive the machine forward. Certain self-propelled mowers incorporate an adjustment function to raise or lower the travel speed for better operator convenience and comfort. Manual mowers don’t have any power-assisted wheels and must be pushed by hand by the user.
Robotic
Robotic lawn mowers are the most recent type, and while they resemble robotic vacuum cleaners in appearance, they are bigger and have larger wheels that allow them to drive across grass. Robotic lawn mowers may automatically cut a lawn while being operated by a mobile device.
Key things to consider when selecting the best lawn mower
When looking for a lawn mower, it’s important to take into account additional factors such as fuel requirements and deck size in addition to mower type. Continue reading to find out more about these and other crucial features of lawn mowers.
Drive
Self-propelled lawn mowers can have rear-wheel, front-wheel, or all-wheel drive as a choice of driving wheels.
Rear-wheel drive mowers put the weight of the mower over the drive wheels, resulting in improved traction for climbing slopes and inclines.
Front-wheel drive mowers are easier to turn by enabling the operator to lift the front wheels and pivot using the rear wheels.
All-wheel drive mowers are suitable for yards with tougher slopes and more challenging terrain.
Cutting Width and Yard Size
The size of a mower’s deck affects how much grass it can cut in one pass and, thus, how fast it can mow a lawn. Additionally, a mower with a broader deck is less maneuverable, which can make it challenging to mow small lawns with trees, flower beds, and gardens to handle.
For a smaller yard of up to roughly half an acre, a walk-behind mower with a 22-inch deck is typically a suitable size. For lawns up to one acre, riding mowers with decks ranging from 30 to 46 inches are a good option. For bigger properties, lawn tractors and zero turn mowers with 48- to 60-inch decks might be effective options.
Fuel Type
Three different fuel options are available for lawn mowers: gas, corded electricity, and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Electric mowers have a consistent source of power, but their range is limited by a cord that plugs into a regular wall outlet. Because of this, using corded lawn mowers might be inconvenient. However, they are nearly maintenance-free, have no batteries to replace or recharge, and are incredibly robust.
Lawn mowers that run on gas have the most power, can go for an extended time on a single tank, and don’t need to be recharged. However, compared to electric mowers, gas mowers are noisier, need more upkeep, and emit exhaust pollutants.
Mowers that operate on batteries use lithium-ion batteries. They have less power and a runtime of just around 45 minutes per charge, but they are quicker to start than gas lawn mowers and emit no exhaust pollutants. Mowers that run on batteries often need to have their batteries changed every five years, and they are also substantially more costly to purchase than mowers that run on gas.
How We Picked And Tested
Our experts go through a rigorous testing process to ensure that lawn mowers that are chosen perform well in real-world conditions.
Grass areas are calibrated to specific heights and densities to test the cutting performance at various blade speeds. Areas with denser grass, weeds, or rocks are incorporated to evaluate how well the mower can maneuver and handle heavier vegetation. The mowers are run for multiple hours continuously to test reliability and ensure components like the engine, blade, and transmission hold up over time without failure.
For lawn mowers with high capacity, which are usually commercial lawn mowers, after testing all functions, we put them through more difficult tests, specifically operating on uneven terrain. Usually, there will be steep areas and many obstacles such as rocks and soil to test their performance
Why Trust New York Garden
At New York Garden, we understand that trust is a vital component when it comes to selecting a lawn mower. That’s why we’ve put together a team of experts who have extensive experience in the industry and have personally tested the latest lawn mowers on the market.
Our team includes seasoned gardeners and lawn care professionals who have spent years perfecting their craft. They have hands-on experience with a wide range of lawn mowers and have personally tested them to ensure they meet our high standards. From gas-powered mowers to electric models, we have evaluated them all and can confidently recommend the best ones for your specific needs.
We believe that trust is built on experience and expertise, which is why we’ve made it a priority to provide you with the most honest reviews. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect lawn mower for your needs, and we’re committed to providing you with the highest level of trust.
FAQs
If you’re concerned about taking care of a lawn mower or wondering the engine size the best lawn mowers require, continue reading to seek answers to these commonly asked questions.
1. How long does a lawn mower usually last?
Depending on the frequency of its usage and the level of maintenance it receives, a mower can last around 10 years.
2. How many ccs in a lawn mower do I need?
Walk-behind mower engines can range between 140 cc and 190 cc in capacity. A larger engine is typically a better option for challenging terrain that has thick grass.
3. Can the pull cord on a lawn mower be replaced?
Yes. Actually, changing a mower’s pull cord only needs a wrench and a screwdriver, making it a relatively easy fix.
Final Thought
To conclude, here is our recommendation for the best lawn mower. While some homeowners find battery-powered and electric mowers to be fantastic alternatives, many others still need the flexible, convenient freedom of a gas-powered mower. The Honda lawn mower is a good option for individuals with up to half an acre of land because of its sturdiness, reliability, exceptional cut quality, and user-friendly features.
Sources
1. [Consumer Reports – Lawn Mower Buying Guide](https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/lawn-mowers/buying-guide/index.htm)
2. [The Spruce – Choosing the Best Lawn Mower for Your Yard](https://www.thespruce.com/choosing-the-best-lawn-mower-2131119)
3. [This Old House – Lawn Mower Buying Guide](https://www.thisoldhouse.com/lawn-mowers/21260116/lawn-mower-buying-guide)
4. [Angie’s List – How to Choose the Right Lawn Mower](https://www.angi.com/articles/how-choose-right-lawn-mower/)
5. [Family Handyman – How to Choose the Right Lawn Mower](https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-choose-the-right-lawn-mower/)
6. [Home Depot – Lawn Mower Buying Guide](https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/lawn-mowers-buying-guide/9ba683603be9fa5395fab9093bf31fa)
7. [Lowes – Lawn Mower Buying Guide](https://www.lowes.com/n/buying-guide/lawn-mower-buying-guide)
8. [Consumer Reports – How to Choose the Right Lawn Mower](https://www.consumerreports.org/lawn-mowers/how-to-choose-the-right-lawn-mower/)
