16 Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Reviews
If you’re looking for the best self-propelled lawn mower, look no further! In this blog post, we will discuss 16 of the best options on the market today. We’ll go over what to look for when shopping for a self-propelled lawn mower, and then provide reviews of 16 different models. So whether you’re a homeowner who wants to take care of your own yard or a professional landscaper who needs a durable and reliable machine, we’ve got you covered!
The self-propelled mower is the machine of choice for many homeowners when it comes to keeping their grass under control. With a compact transmission that powers the front or rear wheels, these mowers relieve you of some of the mowing weight, which is important during the hot and humid mowing season. Because that season can last from early spring to late fall, it’s critical to choose a mower that has features that make sense for the way you mow. We put a bunch of mowers to the test to help you make that selection. As always, our goal is to assist you in finding the right one and, in doing so, make your yard work a little simpler.
A self-propelled lawnmower mimics a standard push mower in appearance, but it performs differently. When you squeeze the bail, it engages the drive system (the bar on the handle). This triggers the rotary to begin rotating, allowing the mower to move itself using its own power.
1) RYOBI 40-Volt Lithium-Ion Battery Brushless Self-Propelled Lawnmower
It goes without saying that RYOBI produces the best self-propelled lawnmower, as the company is popular among consumers for cordless yard equipment. The 40-Volt Brushless variant (RY401120-Y) relies on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and has the power of a gas mower. It also comes with its own charger, making upkeep a breeze.
The high-capacity battery can cover up to a half-acre of grass on a full charge, and it starts up at the stroke of a button. Its built-in bag assures a tidy lawn with no trimmings visible, and the lock-and-release design makes emptying a breeze. This self-propelled mower has seven variable grass height options and folds up for easy storage.
2) Toro 21382 21-inch Personal Pace Super Recycler Self-Propelled Mower
Good mulching starts with a deck design and airflow that keeps clippings up in the deck long enough for the blade to chop them into small pieces (s). The Toro 21-inch Personal Pace Super Recycler is our recommendation for the best self-propelled mulching lawnmower. A kicker mechanism under the deck combines with Toro’s mulching blade and clipping accelerators to give better mulching, building on the expertise of their Recycler mowers.
Aside from the mulching, the Honda GCV160 engine is one of the features we enjoy about the 21382 model. If you don’t mind a different engine, other variants in the range provide Spin-Stop, electric start, and SmartStow. The Toro Mower retails for $599.99.
3) Troy-Bilt 140cc 550e Series 2-in-1 Gas Self Propelled Lawnmower
The Troy-Bilt TB200 is a reliable gas-powered grass cutter that comes at a reasonable price. This self-propelled lawnmower is strong and easy to manage, featuring a Prime ‘N Pull starter and a Stratton engine with single-speed front-wheel drive. It boasts a TriAction system that produces an even cut by combining a symmetrical deck, a rake guard, and a unique blade. The cutting height may also be readily adjusted using the handles on the side.
4) Honda 3-in-1 Variable Speed Gas Self Propelled Lawnmower
The Honda 3-in-1 Variable Speed Lawnmower (model HRN216VKA) cannot disappoint people who prefer gas-powered lawnmowers. It has a strong GCV170 engine and a temperature-controlling automatic choke. This self-propelled mower includes variable speed control, five handle settings, and seven cutting heights, as well as adapting to the speed of your step.
You may also shift between bagging, mulching, and discharging by sliding the clip director—no special accessories are required. Honda’s RotoStop system is also included. It’s a design that allows the blade to be stopped without shutting down the engine. You may now open gates, move litter, empty the bag, and traverse non-grass areas without needing to worry about the blades spinning or the motor restarting.
5) EGO Power+ Select Cut Self-Propelled Mower
If you have a large yard, the EGO Power+ Select Cut can be a good option (model LM2135SP). This cordless walk-behind lawnmower is powered by a sophisticated lithium fuel-gauge battery that can cut grass for over an hour on a single charge.
Because of the brand’s Touch Drive Technology, it’s even more efficient than gas mowers and easy to manage. It also comes with a cutting system that has three interchangeable blades.
6) Kobalt 80-Volt Max Self-Propelled Electric Lawnmower
Every year, lithium batteries improve, and the Kobalt 80-Volt Max (model KMP 6080-06) didn’t waste any time incorporating new technology. A powerful 6.0 Ah battery powers this brushless lawnmower, which provides 80 minutes of cutting time on a fully charged battery.
The supplied charger makes charging between mowing sessions simple, and an icon shows how much battery capacity you have remaining. We particularly like that this mower has rear-wheel drive, seven cutting heights, adjustable speed control, and sensors that regulate the power and speed automatically depending on the grass conditions.
7) Cub Cadet SC900 23-inch Self-Propelled Mower
There aren’t many commercial mowers that use lithium-ion batteries. Because of its long endurance and 25-inch cutting swath, the Greenworks Commercial 25-inch model has been named the best battery-powered self-propelled lawnmower for commercial use. With two active battery ports, they can run for just under two hours and cut more than an acre of St. Augustine grass under a moderate load. Price: Without batteries or charger, it starts at $649.
8) EGO 56V Select Cut 21-inch Self-Propelled Mower
With its stacked-blade design, the EGO Select Cut mower won our pick as the finest electric lawnmower for domestic use. You can choose whether you want better mulching or longer runtime (both choices are included in the box). Though not as strong as EGO’s Peak Power mower, it still has more torque than other electric lawnmowers on the market to keep those blades going. It achieves an ideal balance of runtime and power for a larger number of property owners.
9) Cub Cadet SC 500 EQ Signature Cut Self-Propelled Lawnmower
There’s no denying that an electric start mower is extremely convenient, and there are several excellent ones available. The Cub Cadet SC 500 EQ is our recommendation for the best electric start self-propelled lawnmower. Its 159cc engine provides ample power to maintain high blade speeds, and it comes with all three discharge options (mulch, bag, side discharge).
This lawnmower’s SmartSound Technology—a design that decreases engine noise without sacrificing performance—sets it apart from other electric start lawnmowers. If you like to start your yard maintenance early, your neighbors may be grateful for this. The Cub Cadet usually retails for $449.
10) Snapper Hi-Vac Series Self-Propelled Lawnmowers
Our top pick for the finest self-propelled lawnmower for bagging is Snapper’s Hi-Vac series, which is engineered to have improved airflow that draws grass clippings up and distributes them to the bag. The same airflow also produces a clean-cut, making it an excellent mulcher.
Furthermore, the series consists of three models. Since we’re focusing on self-propelled versions, one is a push mower, so it doesn’t really count. They’re all powered by a 190cc Briggs & Stratton Professional Series engine. You can pick between a recoil start or an electric start for $100 extra on the two self-propelled variants.
If you already have a mower you like but want greater bagging, search for high-lift blade kits that are compatible with it. There are several to choose from, and there’s a good chance one would fit your mower. Price: $649 (recoil), $799 (non-recoil) (electric start).
11) Craftsman M210 21-inch Self-Propelled Mower
It’s difficult to find a good self-propelled lawnmower for less than $300. When you use OEM engines instead of big brands, the power levels drop and the cut quality suffers. Even yet, there are some who perform an excellent job.
The Craftsman M210 is our top selection for the finest walk-behind lawnmower under $300. It is powered by a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine. The downside is that it has a single-speed drive and can only mulch or bag, but not side discharge. On the plus side, this is a mower made in the United States using global materials by people in Tupelo, Mississippi.
12) GreenWorks Pro 80V Cordless Mower
GreenWorks’ series of cordless, lithium-ion battery-operated lawnmowers has an 80-volt version that has a battery life of 60 to 70 minutes and only takes 30 minutes to fully charge. What’s better? The brushless motor in this self-propelled mower provides roughly as much power as a standard 160 cc gas-powered engine without the emissions.
Aside from helping you go green with your lawn care, the MO80L510 model comes with several features that make this regular duty a breeze:
- When more power is needed to cut thicker grass, smart-cut technology automatically increases blade speed.
- The mower’s 10-inch rear wheels make it easier to maneuver over a variety of terrains.
- An electronic, push-button starter that is simple to use.
- Height adjuster using a single lever
- Storage on a vertical plane
- Mulching, bagging, and side discharge capabilities all in one machine.
The mower’s battery is compatible with more than 20 other GreenWorks tools, making life even easier for brand-loyal homeowners.
13) GreenWorks GMAX 40V Brushless Mower
This 40-volt, lithium-ion battery-powered mower is a great choice for convenience and ease of use. Additionally, this self-propelled model has a push-button, electric start, and a powerful brushless motor that emits less noise, so you won’t have to deal with tricky pull-cords or feel anxious about waking the neighbors with your early-morning work. Once you’re up and running, your battery should last about 40 minutes — longer if you use the dual port.
The GreenWorks mower is ideal for small yards up to about half an acre. It’s lighter in weight, has a 21-inch steel deck with mulching, bagging, and side discharging abilities, and uses rear-wheel-drive for better handling. It also has a single lever that adjusts to seven different height settings, from 138 inches to 334 inches.
A self-propelled mower is also extremely low-maintenance, requiring no gas or oil. All you have to do is clean the grass cuttings and debris from the undercarriage after each usage, and wipe down the rest of the mower with a dry towel every now and then. The GreenWorks GMAX mower, which costs less than $500, can meet both your budget and your lawn-care needs. What’s better? It has the advantage of being able to be stored vertically.
14) Lawn-Boy 17732
Traditional gas mowers have improved in terms of usability and maintenance over the years. Take, for example, the Lawn-Boy 17732. Its 149 cc engine is powered by a highly lightweight Gross Torque Kohler XTX OHV engine, which provides homeowners like you with commercial-grade energy to handle a variety of grass conditions.
This is aided by the variable-speed rear-wheel drive, which provides increased traction and ease while tackling hillsides and slopes. Even though it, like the others on our list, has three-in-one cutting capabilities, this machine’s system stands out due to its greater bag capacity. The 17732 bag can contain the equivalent of two bushels of clippings, allowing you to cut for extended periods of time without having to empty it. Because this is a gas-powered mower, you have to deal with a pull cord and recoil start, but you never have to change the oil on this one. Simply check for enough oil inside to mow your grass before each usage, add more if necessary, and get started.
15) Powerworks MO6OL512PW
Traditional gas mowers have improved in terms of usability and maintenance over the years. Take, for example, the Lawn-Boy 17732. Its 149 cc engine is powered by a highly lightweight Gross Torque Kohler XTX OHV engine, which provides homeowners like you with commercial-grade energy to handle a variety of grass conditions.
This is aided by the variable-speed rear-wheel drive, which provides increased traction and ease while tackling hillsides and slopes. Even though it, like the others on our list, has three-in-one cutting capabilities, this machine’s system stands out due to its greater bag capacity. The 17732 bag can contain the equivalent of two bushels of clippings, allowing you to cut for extended periods of time without having to empty it. Because this is a gas-powered mower, you have to deal with a pull cord and recoil start, but you never have to change the oil on this one. Simply check for enough oil inside to mow your grass before each usage, add more if necessary, and get started.
16) Powerworks MO6OL512PW
Powerworks’ 60-volt brushless lawnmower has a lithium-ion battery with a 45-minute run time, making it another cordless choice. This is ideal for homes with yards of up to half an acre. The MO60L512PW model, like other mowers of its type, cuts through the grass with ease thanks to its 21-inch steel deck, which can be adjusted to seven different heights with a single lever.
This self-propelled lawnmower is practically noiseless and includes a secondary on/off switch for safety, three-in-one mulching, bagging, and side discharge features, as well as smart-cut technology. However, be mindful that the Smartcut tech’s added power, especially when mulching, may reduce run time. When it’s time to put this mower away between uses, take note of how the handlebars fold up into a little package, making vertical storage a breeze.
Plan to lean it against a wall instead of hanging it, as its 68-pound weight may be too much for the latter. There isn’t much in the way of cleaning and maintenance. After each mowing, simply collect grass clippings and debris from the bag and undercarriage, then wipe off the outside. Remove the battery to allow it to charge, and you’re ready to go.
