Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers for Effortless Yard Care

Mowing the lawn is a common task for homeowners and gardeners. It helps keep yards neat and promotes healthy grass growth. Among the various tools available, self-propelled lawn mowers are a popular choice. They make the job easier by moving themselves forward, reducing the user's effort. This feature can make lawn care more accessible, especially for those with larger yards or uneven terrain.

Self-propelled mowers come in gas and electric options, giving users flexibility depending on their needs. They often have adjustable speeds so that you can mow at a comfortable pace. Many models offer additional features, such as mulching capabilities, bagging options, or height adjustments, which enhance their usefulness and versatility. Picking the right mower can greatly improve your mowing experience.

When choosing a self-propelled lawn mower, it’s important to consider factors like the size of your yard, the type of grass you have, and whether you prefer gas or electric power. Additionally, look for ease of use, weight, and maintenance requirements. We studied various models to help you find the best self-propelled lawnmowers that meet your needs.

Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers

We have gathered a list of the best self-propelled lawnmowers available. These mowers make yard work easier by moving independently, allowing us to focus on getting a clean cut. Check out our choices to find the right fit for your lawn care needs.

Greenworks 60V Cordless Mower

We recommend the Greenworks 60V Cordless Lawn Mower for anyone seeking a powerful and eco-friendly mowing option.

Pros

• Battery-powered, so no gas or fumes.

• The self-propelled feature makes it easy to handle.

• High-intensity LED headlights for evening mowing.

Cons

• May require more frequent battery charging for larger yards.

• Heavier than some other models.

• The price might be higher than basic models.

Using the Greenworks 60V mower has changed how we approach lawn care. The absence of gas and oil is a huge advantage, as it allows for clean and hassle-free mowing. The power delivered through the brushless motor is impressive, making quick work of thick grass.

The self-propelled feature really shines when rolling over hills or uneven terrain. It moves smoothly without us having to push hard or strain ourselves. We also appreciate the 7-position height adjustment, which lets us customize our mowing experience based on grass length.

Storage is simple, too, thanks to the EZ Fold handles. We can easily tuck it away without needing too much space. The built-in LED headlights are a bonus; they allow us to mow early in the morning or late in the evening without worrying about visibility. These features make the Greenworks mower an excellent investment for any homeowner.

EGO Power+ 21-Inch Mower

We think the EGO Power+ 21” Self-Propelled Mower is a great choice for anyone looking to make lawn care easier.

Pros

• Quiet operation without the gas mess.

• Good battery life provides ample runtime.

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver.

Cons

• Initial setup requires some assembly.

• Slightly less power on tough patches.

• The collection bag fills up quickly.

Using the EGO Power+ was a pleasant surprise. We noticed how easy it was to put together right out of the box. Once assembled, it was straightforward to operate, whether on flat ground or a hillside. The self-propel feature made navigating uneven terrain almost effortless.

Having two batteries was a game-changer. We could usually finish mowing our 1/3 acre lot without needing to recharge. The adjustable cutting height was simple to adjust with one hand. We liked how we could switch between mulching, bagging, and side discharge, depending on our needs.

The mower also has bright LED lights. This feature was nice for finishing the job when dusk approached. Storing it was not a hassle either; it folds flat and fits neatly in our shed. Overall, if you're in the market for an efficient and easy-to-use mower, the EGO Power+ is worth considering.

Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower

We think this mower is a solid option for smaller yards, especially if you want to skip gas and oil hassle.

Pros

• Easy to start with a push button

• Lightweight design for easy maneuverability

• Battery provides enough runtime for most small lawns

Cons

• Limited cutting width may not suit larger areas

• Recharge time can feel long

• Not ideal for very thick grass or overgrown lawns

Our experience with the Greenworks 40V lawn mower has been mostly positive. It’s easy to set up; we had it ready quickly. The lightweight frame allows us to navigate tight spots and flower beds without much effort.

The 4.0Ah battery gives us about 45 minutes of runtime, which works well for our small yard. We found it efficient and powerful enough for normal grass, but taller or thicker patches can slow it down a bit. We appreciate how quiet it is compared to gas mowers.

Another great feature is the 2-in-1 capability that allows for mulching and bagging. This adds versatility to lawn care, and we can adjust the cutting height easily. If you’re looking for something simple and low maintenance, this mower is worth considering.

Greenworks 40V 21" Mower

This self-propelled lawn mower is a strong choice for anyone wanting a clean, gas-free mowing experience.

Pros

• Excellent run-time with dual batteries.

• Adjustable height for varied grass conditions.

• Quiet operation with a sturdy steel deck.

Cons

• A bit heavy to maneuver.

• Battery life can vary based on usage.

• May struggle with very tall grass.

We recently tried the Greenworks 40V 21" self-propelled lawn mower and found it impressive overall. The 21” steel deck does an excellent job at cutting through vast areas, making our mowing sessions quicker. The brushless motor runs quietly, which is a nice change from gas mowers.

One feature we appreciated was the smart pace system. It adapts to our walking speed, which made pushing the mower easier and less tiring. With the dual battery setup, we enjoyed up to 70 minutes of continuous mowing. It was also nice not to have to deal with gas cans or oil changes.

The height adjustment lever worked well with different grass types. We liked the 3-in-1 cutting options too. We could mulch, bag, or discharge the clippings as needed. Although we noted it was somewhat heavy, it was comparable to our previous gas mower. Overall, this Greenworks model provides great performance while being environmentally friendly.

Greenworks 80V 21" Brushless Mower

This mower is a reliable choice for anyone looking to maintain their lawn without the hassle of gas.

Pros

• Powerful performance comparable to gas mowers

• Easy height adjustments in just a few seconds

• Quiet operation with impressive battery life

Cons

• May struggle with very thick grass

• Blade quality could be improved

• Heavier than some other models

After using the Greenworks 80V mower for several weeks, we found it very capable. Starting it with a push of a button was a refreshing change from the usual pull-start hassle of gas mowers. The battery life lasted nearly 45 minutes, which was enough to handle our yard in one go.

The self-propel feature is smooth, and we appreciated the rear-wheel drive that made it maneuver well even on sloped terrain. The height adjustment lever was super simple to use, allowing us to choose the perfect cut in no time. The 3-in-1 feature for mulching, bagging, and side discharge gave us flexibility based on our lawn needs.

One thing we noticed is that while it handled average grass well, it struggled a bit with thick patches. We also wished the mower blade was sharper to get a cleaner cut when we maintained a shorter lawn. Still, overall, we found the Greenworks 80V 21-Inch Brushless Lawn Mower to be a solid pick for ease and performance.

EGO Power+ LM2102SP

We think this mower is a solid choice for those looking to go electric without sacrificing power.

Pros

• Powerful enough to handle thick grass.

• Quiet operation compared to gas mowers.

• Easy to adjust height and speed for a tailored cut.

Cons

• Battery life may vary with thick grass.

• Some assembly is needed before first use.

• Slightly heavier than some other models.

Using the EGO Power+ 21" Self-Propelled Mower made mowing the lawn enjoyable. The quiet operation was a pleasant surprise; we didn’t have to deal with the loud noises typical of gas mowers. The adjustable self-propel speed made it feel like we had control, allowing us to set the pace depending on how thick the grass was that day.

The impressive battery life gives us about 60 minutes of run time with a full charge. We appreciate that it can effectively cut a variety of grass types. However, when the grass gets particularly tall or thick, we notice it drains faster, which may require planning if we want to finish our entire yard in one go. The simple push-button start was a great feature, making it easy for anyone to use immediately.

Another highlight is the adjustable deck height. We could switch from a lower cut to a higher one without hassle. Storing the mower is also convenient; it folds compactly and fits nicely in our garage. Overall, the EGO Power+ is a powerful, user-friendly lawn mower that suits various needs while being easy on the ears and the environment.

WILD BADGER POWER Lawn Mower

We believe the WILD BADGER POWER lawn mower is a solid choice for those seeking efficiency and convenience in their lawn care routine.

Pros

• Strong brushless motor delivers excellent cutting power.

• Adjustable cutting heights for customized grass care.

• The quick folding feature makes storage simple.

Cons

• Battery runtime may require strategic planning for larger yards.

• The collection bag could be bigger for heavy jobs.

• Some users report minor issues with the battery life.

Using the WILD BADGER POWER lawn mower has been a pleasant experience. The brushless motor runs smoothly at 3400 RPM, making every cut clean and efficient. We found that the 40V battery lasts about 30 minutes, often enough for small to medium lawns. However, we had to think about timing and charging for larger areas.

The ability to adjust the cutting height between 0.98" to 3.14" was a nice feature. It allowed us to customize our lawn's look based on the season or our preferences. Collecting grass clippings with its 11-gallon bag made mowing a lot less messy. We could mow and collect simultaneously, saving us a lot of clean-up effort afterward.

Storage is easy, too. The mower folds down in seconds, which helps keep our garage organized. Overall, we’d recommend this mower for its performance and user-friendly features, even if the battery life might require some planning.

YARDMAX Self Propelled Mower

This mower is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable self-propelled option for lawn care.

Pros

• Powerful engine for easy mowing on slopes.

• Adjustable cutting heights for customized lawn settings.

• Convenient deck clean-out feature for easy maintenance.

Cons

• Heavier than some might expect, which can be tricky for smaller users.

• Limited customer support based on some reviews.

• Some parts may wear out quickly with heavy use.

We found the YARDMAX 22-inch Self-Propelled Mower to be quite powerful. The 201cc engine really shines when tackling small hills. Thanks to its continuously variable transmission, it moves smoothly and adapts well to our walking pace. This feature lets us enjoy a comfortable mowing experience without feeling rushed.

The mower's adjustable cutting heights are fantastic. We appreciate how simple it is to change the height with just a single lever. This flexibility means we can keep our lawn looking sharp at the best length for the season. The 3-in-1 capabilities for mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging make clean-up straightforward.

While we are generally pleased, the mower's weight is noticeable. It can be challenging for those smaller in stature to maneuver it comfortably. We’ve also heard from some users about issues with customer support, which can be a concern if any problems arise. Overall, the YARDMAX is a reliable option for easily maintaining our yard.

Greenworks 40V 20" Brushless Push Mower

This mower is a solid choice for an efficient, quiet lawn care option.

Pros

• Quiet operation, perfect for early mornings and late evenings

• Easy to use and maneuver, especially on uneven ground

• Compact design allows for vertical storage to save space

Cons

• Battery life may not cover larger yards on a single charge

• Not as powerful in thick grass may need multiple passes

• Requires a bit of effort when pushing, especially uphill

After trying out the Greenworks 40V 20" mower, we found its quiet performance impressive. The LED headlights are a nice touch, allowing for early morning mowing without disturbing the neighbors. It really is three times quieter than a gas mower, which is a big win for us.

We appreciated the 4-in-1 system, which allows mulching, bagging, side discharge, and turbo leaf pickup. This feature made it easy to handle different lawn care tasks. The brushless motor offers good torque and a longer lifespan, giving us confidence in its durability.

The EZ fold aluminum handles make storage a breeze, allowing us to tuck the mower away easily when not in use. However, we noticed it might struggle a bit with thicker grass. We encountered some stopping issues when cutting denser patches, and the battery worked hard, needing a recharge quicker than expected for larger lawns.

Overall, the Greenworks 40V mower offers a great balance of convenience and quiet operation. Its design and features make it user-friendly, but remember it’s best for smaller to mid-sized yards.

Greenworks 80V Mower

This mower is a powerful and convenient option for anyone looking to switch to battery power.

Pros

• Excellent battery life with up to 60 minutes of run time using two batteries.

• The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around the yard.

• Quiet operation compared to traditional gas mowers.

Cons

• Battery replacement can be pricey if you need more for larger yards.

• Side discharge chute may not stay in place during use.

• Slightly less power than a gas mower, but still gets the job done.

Using the Greenworks 80V mower was a refreshing change from our gas-powered machines. It easily cut through both light and thicker grass. The brushless motor provides solid power that rivals traditional mowers, making mowing much more hassle-free.

We appreciate the lightweight design. It feels easy to push and control, which is helpful when navigating tight spots in the yard. Plus, adjusting the cutting height with a single lever was super handy, allowing us to get the perfect cut every time.

The only drawback we noticed was the side discharge feature. It didn’t quite hold up as well as we expected during the operation. Including two batteries was great, but replacing them could become an expensive endeavor over time. Nevertheless, the overall experience has been positive, and we enjoy the eco-friendly aspects of using this mower.

Buying Guide

When choosing a self-propelled lawn mower, we focus on several key features. Here are important factors to consider:

Mower Types

1. Gas-Powered
   
   

   • Generally more powerful

   • Suitable for larger yards

2. Electric
   
   

   • Quieter and easier to maintain

   • Great for smaller spaces

3. Battery-Powered
   
   

   • Offers convenience without cords

   • Limited run time, so consider yard size

Cutting Width

Cutting width affects how quickly we can mow. Common sizes are:

Weight and Maneuverability

A lighter mower is easier to handle, especially on uneven terrain. Think about:

• Weight: Can we easily push or steer it?

• Wheels: Larger wheels generally improve maneuverability.

Features to Consider

• Variable Speed Control: Adjusts speed based on our pace.

• Height Adjustment: This allows us to change the cutting height easily.

• Grass Collectors: Choices include bagging or mulching options.

Price Range

Prices can vary based on features and power sources. Budgeting helps us find the right balance between quality and cost. Aim for a machine that meets our needs without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that choosing a self-propelled lawn mower can raise many questions. Here are common inquiries along with their answers to help guide our decision-making.

Which factors should be considered when choosing a self-propelled lawn mower?

When selecting a lawn mower, we should consider the size of our yard, the terrain, and the mower’s weight. We must also consider the engine power and blade width to match our mowing needs. Don’t forget to check features like ease of starting, speed control, and maintenance requirements.

What are the pros and cons of using self-propelled lawn mowers?

Self-propelled lawnmowers have several benefits. They make mowing easier, especially on slopes or larger areas. However, they can be heavier and more expensive than push mowers. It’s important for us to weigh these factors against our specific needs.

How does terrain affect the choice of self-propelled lawnmowers?

The terrain greatly influences our mower choice. For flat lawns, we might prefer a basic model. A mower with good traction and powerful drive is essential for hilly or uneven areas. Choosing the right type ensures better performance and easier use.

What is the best self-propelled lawn mower for a tight budget?

If we are on a budget, we should look for models that offer good value without sacrificing quality. Brands like Troy-Bilt and Yard Machines are often recommended for their affordability and performance. Checking for sales and reviews can also help us find a reliable mower that fits our budget.

How do rear-wheel drive and front-wheel drive self-propelled mowers compare?

Rear-wheel drive mowers usually provide better traction on slopes and uneven ground. They push the mower forward, making them easier to control. Front-wheel drive models are ideal for flat areas and offer more maneuverability. Our choice will depend on our lawn's layout and our comfort level.

What makes a self-propelled lawn mower suitable for commercial use?

Mowers need to be durable and efficient for commercial use. Features like a powerful engine, larger cutting width, and reinforced materials are essential. Additionally, ease of maintenance and comfort during long use are key factors if we plan to use the mower frequently.