As warm-weather months approach, it’s time to gear up for lawn care. For small to midsize yards, walk-behind lawn mowers offer the perfect blend of value and efficiency. After extensive testing of various models, here are the top-performing walk-behind mowers to keep your yard pristine.
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Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower
EGO Power+ 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Push Lawn Mower
YARDMAX Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower
BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower
REVIEWS
Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower
For small yards, the Sun Joe Electric Lawn Mower is an affordable, lightweight, and easy-to-use option. Its 14-inch cutting deck navigates tight spaces effortlessly, though it may struggle with thick grass. Despite its small collection bag requiring frequent emptying, it remains an efficient choice for compact lawns.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- easy to maneuver
- electric (no gas or emissions)
- compact size.
Cons:
- Limited cutting width
- corded (requires extension cord)
- may struggle with thick grass
- small grass catcher bag.
EGO Power+ 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
The EGO Power+ Self-Propelled Lawn Mower offers eco-friendly operation with minimal maintenance. Its 21-inch cutting width and 56-volt battery provide ample power for up to 50 minutes. Despite a slight learning curve for starting, it delivers clean, even cuts and is easy to maneuver, making it ideal for larger yards.
Pros:
- Cordless, eco-friendly
- powerful motor
- self-propelled for easier operation.
Cons:
- Higher price point
- may require additional batteries for larger yards
- heavier than some electric models
- occasional difficulties with thick or wet grass.
Greenworks Lawn Mower
The Greenworks 3-in-1 Electric Corded Lawn Mower impressed us over six months of testing in various conditions. Its 20-inch cutting width and seven adjustable heights delivered reliable performance. Despite being slightly bulky to turn, it’s easy to operate and set up, making it a dependable choice for small yards.
Pros:
- Electric (no gas or emissions)
- various models available
- adjustable cutting height
- quiet operation.
Cons:
- Corded or battery-powered (depending on model)
- limited run time for battery-powered versions
- may struggle with thick grass
- small grass catcher bag.
American Lawn Mower
The American Lawn Mower corded model is a lightweight, affordable option ideal for small yards. Its 14-inch deck and 20-pound build ensure easy maneuverability, while offering bagging and mulching capabilities. Despite lacking side discharge, it delivers reliable performance and simple assembly, making it an excellent eco-friendly choice for smaller lawns.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- easy to maneuver
- eco-friendly (corded electric)
- adjustable cutting height, affordable.
Cons:
- Corded (requires extension cord)
- may struggle with thick grass
- limited cutting width
- small grass catcher bag.
Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Push Lawn Mower
The Fiskars StaySharp Max reel mower excels in providing eco-friendly lawn care with its InertiaDrive system and StaySharp blades. At 52 pounds, it maneuvers easily, cutting through coarse weeds and small sticks effortlessly. Features like offset wheels, adjustable height, and a versatile clipping chute make it ideal for small to midsize yards.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly (manual operation)
- durable construction
- precise cutting
- no fuel or electricity required.
Cons:
- Manual operation requires more effort
- may struggle with tall or dense grass
- limited cutting width
- regular blade maintenance required.
Makita Lawn Mower
The Makita XML10CT1 lawn mower kit offers cordless, eco-friendly mowing with impressive performance. Its powerful 3,000 RPM motor and lightweight plastic deck make for easy transport. With four LXT 5.0Ah batteries, it runs up to 50 minutes. The single lever height adjustment from 1-1/4” to 4” adds convenience.
Pros:
- Cordless
- powerful motor
- long run time
- adjustable cutting height.
Cons:
- Higher price point
- may require additional batteries for larger yards
- heavier than some electric models
- occasional difficulties with thick or wet grass.
YARDMAX Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower
The YARDMAX 21″ 2-in-1 high-rear-wheel walk-behind push mower is perfect for smaller lawns, offering a compact, maneuverable design. Its powerful 170cc OHV engine and seven adjustable cutting positions ensure optimal performance. With durable 16-gauge steel construction and smooth ball-bearing wheels, it delivers excellent mobility and reliability with minimal assembly required.
Pros:
- Gas-powered for mobility
- powerful engine
- adjustable cutting height
- suitable for various terrains.
Cons:
- Gas-powered (emissions and maintenance required)
- heavier and louder than electric models
- may be more difficult to start
- regular maintenance required.
BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower
The BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, with its 10 Amp motor and 15-inch cutting width, efficiently handles rough grass. Its comfort grip bike handlebar enhances maneuverability, while the push button start ensures easy operation. With six adjustable cutting heights and an included collection bag, it’s a user-friendly, lightweight, and effective mowing solution.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- corded (no batteries required)
- easy to start
- adjustable cutting height.
Cons:
- Corded (requires extension cord)
- may struggle with thick grass
- limited cutting width
- small grass catcher bag.
Gas Powered Push Lawn Mower
This reliable gas-powered push mower features a 125cc Briggs & Stratton engine, perfect for small yards with minimal obstacles. Its 20-inch deck with side discharge, 7-inch wheels for reliable traction, and three adjustable cutting heights ensure efficient and easy mowing. It’s a powerful, user-friendly choice for maintaining your lawn.
Pros:
- Powerful engine
- no cord limitations
- suitable for large yards
- adjustable cutting height.
Cons:
- Gas-powered (emissions and maintenance required)
- heavier and louder than electric models
- may be more difficult to start
- regular maintenance required.
Final thought
Choosing the right walk-behind lawn mower involves considering factors like yard size, terrain, and personal preferences. With a wide range of options available from top brands, finding the perfect balance of performance, convenience, and affordability can help keep your lawn looking pristine all season long.
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