As the grass grows and the lawn maintenance season approaches, finding the best lawn mowers is essential for maintaining a neat and tidy yard. With so many options on the market, we’ve narrowed down the best lawnmowers of 2023 to help make your decision easier.
Best Overall | Bang for Your Buck | Best Budget | Best Riding Lawn Mower | Best Push Lawn Mower |
---|---|---|---|---|
CRAFTSMAN V60* | EGO Power+ LM2101 | LawnMaster MEB1114K | Husqvarna Z254 | Greenworks Reel Lawn Mower |
A powerful and versatile cordless mower equipped with a 60V motor, 3-in-1 functionality, and premium durability, making it an excellent choice for efficient lawn maintenance. | The EGO Power+ LM2101 combines a powerful brushless motor, large cutting deck, and self-propelling system for impressive efficiency and performance. | Budget-friendly and eco-friendly, the LawnMaster MEB1114K offers durable construction, low maintenance costs, and reliable performance for small to medium-sized yards. | With a potent engine, park brake system, air induction tech, and reinforced steel deck, it excels in performance and durability. | An eco-friendly push mower with adjustable height and easy handling, perfect for maintaining smaller yards sustainably. |
What Is a Lawn Mower?
A lawn mower is a machine used to cut grass in a yard or lawn. They typically consist of a motor, blades, and a cutting mechanism and can be powered by gas, electricity, or battery. Homeowners use lawn mowers to maintain a neat, even, and well-manicured yard.
Why Buy a Lawn Mower?
A lawn mower is an invaluable tool for anyone who owns a lawn. It provides an efficient and cost-effective way to keep the grass trimmed and looking great. Lawn mowers come in various sizes and styles to meet any homeowner’s needs, ranging from powerful riding mowers for larger yards to smaller, more affordable push mowers for smaller yards.
In addition to the convenience of a lawn mower, it also provides many health benefits. Regularly mowing the lawn helps keep the grass healthy and looking great by removing dead grass and weeds and reducing the number of pests that can damage and ruin a lawn. Plus, it saves time and energy, as it takes much less time and effort to mow a lawn than to rake or trim it by hand. Other benefits of using a lawn mower include reducing the amount of dust and pollen in the air and reducing the amount of noise pollution.
Finally, investing in a lawn mower is a great way to save money in the long run. Most mowers are designed to be durable and require minimal maintenance and upkeep, making them a great investment for anyone who wants to keep their lawn looking great without spending too much money. Plus, many mowers come with warranties and other features that can help to extend their lifespan and reduce the cost of repairs.
Best Lawn Mowers: What to Look For
When shopping for the best lawn mowers, it is important to consider the features that best meet your needs. These include the power source, cutting width, cut height, maneuverability, self-propulsion, ease of use, noise level, maintenance, storage, and price.
Best Lawn Mowers Overall: CRAFTSMAN V60
Image credit: Craftsman
Pros:
Cons:
If you’re in search of a reliable and powerful lawn mower, look no further than the CRAFTSMAN V60 Cordless 21-inch 3-in-1 Battery Powered Lawn Mower. This mower features a robust 60V motor that delivers high power output, ensuring efficient and effective mowing sessions.
Equipped with a versatile 3-in-1 design, this mower allows you to choose between mulching, bagging, or side discharging grass clippings, providing flexibility to suit your lawn care needs. The 21-inch metal deck ensures premium durability, capable of handling tough mowing tasks with ease.
Adjusting the cutting height is a breeze thanks to the single lever, offering settings ranging from 1-1/2-inch to 4-inch to accommodate different grass lengths and preferences. Plus, its compact design with a vertical folding position allows for optimal storage, saving valuable space in your garage or shed.
Backed by a 4 Year Limited Warranty, you can trust in the quality and reliability of the CRAFTSMAN V60 Lawn Mower. With its powerful performance, versatile features, and durable construction, it’s the perfect choice for homeowners seeking top-notch lawn maintenance equipment.
Bang for Your Buck: EGO Power+ LM2101
Image credit: EGO Power+
Pros:
Cons:
If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful, and efficient lawn mower, then the EGO Power+ LM2101 is your ideal choice. This powerful mower can make your lawn maintenance easier than ever before. Its advanced brushless motor offers impressive efficiency, allowing you to work quickly and effectively. This efficient motor is combined with a large cutting deck, a high-efficiency blade, and a convenient self-propelling system, making it the perfect choice for any homeowner looking to keep their lawn looking pristine.
A brushless motor powers the EGO Power+ LM2101. Its efficient motor ensures you get the most out of your lawn mower while offering a longer lifespan. This motor is powered by a removable 56V battery, allowing you to make sure you always have a fresh, charged battery ready to go whenever you need it. The motor is also relatively quiet, allowing you to mow without disturbing your neighbors.
The EGO Power+ LM2101 has a large 21″ cutting deck. This large cutting deck allows for a larger area to be mowed in less time, making it ideal for more extensive lawns. The high-efficiency blade ensures that your grass cuts evenly and cleanly, leaving you with a beautiful, well-manicured property. The blade is also adjustable, allowing you to choose the height of the cut that best fits your needs.
This lawn mower has a convenient self-propelling system, which allows you to mow at your own pace, taking time and ensuring your lawn looks its best. The self-propelling system uses a single lever to change the speed, making it easy to adjust the speed to fit your needs.
It also comes with a five-year limited warranty, offering you peace of mind that your investment is protected. With its impressive efficiency, large cutting deck, high-efficiency blade, and convenient self-propelling system, the EGO Power+ LM2101 makes for an excellent choice for anyone hunting for the best bang for their buck when it comes to lawn mowing. It is reliable, robust, efficient, and has a generous warranty, making it an excellent choice for any homeowner.
Best Budget Lawn Mowers: LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower
Image credit: LawnMaster
Pros:
Cons:
When it comes to budget lawn mowers, the LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower is a great choice. This electric corded lawn mower is an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective way to keep your lawn looking its best.
The LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower has a 14-inch cutting width and 11-amp motor, making it perfect for small and medium-sized yards. Its adjustable cutting height allows you to adjust the height of the grass, so you can tailor the lawn to your liking. This lawn mower also features a powerful mulching system that helps fertilize your lawn and prevent weeds from taking root. The easy-to-use design makes it simple to operate, and the compact size makes it simple to store.
This electric lawn mower is also durable and reliable, so you won’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon. The steel construction gives it a long lifespan, and the durable cord makes it safe to use around pets and children. The electric cord also prevents dangerous gas or oil spills, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Besides its durability and reliability, the LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower is also budget-friendly. The low price makes it an excellent choice for those on a budget, and the low maintenance costs make it even more cost-effective. Plus, the electric cord also eliminates the need for costly gasoline refills, so you won’t have to worry about additional expenses.
The LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower is an excellent choice for people looking for a budget lawn mower. Its powerful motor and adjustable cutting height makes it perfect for small and medium-sized yards. The steel construction makes this mower durable and reliable, so you won’t have to replace it anytime soon. And its low price and low maintenance costs make it an ideal choice for people with a tight budget. With its superior performance and budget-friendly price, the LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower is the perfect choice for any budget-conscious homeowner.
Best Riding Lawn Mowers: Husqvarna Z254 Zero-Turn Gas-Powered Lawn Mower
Image credit: Husqvarna
Pros:
Cons:
Experience top-notch performance and style with the Husqvarna Z254 Zero-Turn Gas-Powered Lawn Mower. This innovative mower combines cutting-edge design with proven performance to transform lawn maintenance into an enjoyable experience.
Powered by a robust 26 HP Kohler engine, the Z254 delivers reliable startups and a maximum speed of 6.5 MPH, ensuring efficient and effective mowing sessions. The patent-pending park brake system automatically activates or deactivates as the steering levers are moved, providing enhanced safety and convenience during operation.
Featuring air induction mowing technology, this mower draws air from both the top and bottom of the deck, improving grass lift and delivering a superior cut every time. The reinforced steel stamped cutting deck is made of heavy flat-stock steel for maximum durability, ensuring long-lasting performance season after season.
With versatile options for discharging, mulching, or bagging clippings (mulching kit and bagger sold separately), the Husqvarna Z254 offers customizable lawn care solutions to suit your needs. Whether you’re mulching for a healthier lawn or bagging for a clean finish, this mower delivers exceptional results with ease.
The Husqvarna Z254 Zero-Turn Gas-Powered Lawn Mower is the perfect choice for homeowners seeking performance, reliability, and convenience in their lawn maintenance equipment. With its powerful engine, innovative features, and durable construction, it’s sure to elevate your lawn care experience to the next level.
Best Push Lawn Mowers: Greenworks Reel Lawn Mower RM1400
Image credit: Greenworks
Pros:
The Greenworks 14-inch Reel Lawn Mower is an eco-friendly and convenient way to take care of smaller yards, townhomes, and other places that require regular mowing. With a manual power source, this lawn mower is simple to use and requires no gasoline to operate, making it an excellent choice for those who want to conserve energy and the environment.
This push mower is made of alloy steel and has a sleek green color, making it attractive and easy to spot in any yard. The 14-inch cutting width provides a precise, scissor-like cut that is ideal for all types of grass, including St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia. Its adjustable height offers three different positions, from 1.06 inches to 2 inches, allowing users to customize the mowing experience to their individual lawns. The lawn mower also features a T-style handle with a cushioned grip for comfort and ease of use.
The product dimensions are 42.5″D x 20″ W x 24″H, perfect for small yards and tight spaces. With its eco-friendly design, adjustable height, and easy-to-handle features, the Greenworks 14-inch Reel Lawn Mower is ideal for those looking to sustainably and efficiently mow their lawns.
How Often Should I Mow My Lawn?
Maintaining an optimal mowing schedule is crucial for a healthy lawn. The frequency of mowing depends on various factors including grass type, weather conditions, and growth rate. Generally, mowing once a week during the growing season is recommended for most lawns. However, some grasses may require more frequent mowing if they grow quickly, while others may need less frequent mowing if they grow slowly. It’s essential to observe your lawn and adjust the mowing frequency accordingly to ensure it remains healthy and well-maintained throughout the year.
What Is the Best Time of Day to Mow the Lawn?
The timing of your lawn mowing sessions can significantly impact the health and appearance of your grass. It’s generally best to mow during the cooler parts of the day, such as the early morning or late afternoon. Mowing during these times helps minimize stress on the grass and reduces water loss due to evaporation. Avoiding midday mowing sessions when the sun is at its strongest can prevent heat stress on the grass and ensure a more effective mowing experience. By choosing the right time of day to mow, you can promote healthy growth and maintain a lush, green lawn.
How Do I Maintain My Lawn Mower?
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your lawn mower in optimal condition and ensuring reliable performance. Regular maintenance tasks include cleaning the mower deck to prevent grass buildup, sharpening the blades for a clean and precise cut, checking and changing the oil as needed to ensure proper lubrication, inspecting and cleaning the air filter to prevent clogs and improve engine performance, and lubricating moving parts to reduce friction and wear. Additionally, it’s crucial to inspect the spark plug, fuel filter, and battery (if applicable) regularly and replace them when necessary. By following a comprehensive maintenance routine outlined in your mower’s manual, you can extend its lifespan, enhance its performance, and enjoy years of trouble-free operation.
Should I Bag or Mulch Grass Clippings?
Bagging or mulching grass clippings is a common dilemma for homeowners, each with its own set of benefits. Bagging involves collecting grass clippings in a bag attached to the mower, resulting in a tidy appearance and eliminating the need for raking or sweeping afterward. On the other hand, mulching involves chopping grass clippings into fine particles and dispersing them back onto the lawn, where they decompose and return valuable nutrients to the soil. Mulching also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, promoting overall lawn health. Some mowers offer the flexibility to bag or mulch, while others feature a side discharge option. Ultimately, the choice between bagging and mulching depends on personal preference, lawn conditions, and maintenance goals.
How Do I Adjust the Cutting Height of My Lawn Mower?
Properly adjusting the cutting height of your lawn mower is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn and achieving the desired grass height. Most lawn mowers feature adjustable cutting height settings controlled by levers, knobs, or levers near the wheels. To adjust the cutting height, simply raise or lower the mower deck to your desired setting. It’s important to follow the recommended cutting height for your specific grass type to promote optimal growth and prevent scalping or damage to the turf. By regularly adjusting the cutting height based on seasonal conditions and grass growth, you can ensure a well-manicured lawn and promote lush, green grass throughout the year.
Can I Use My Lawn Mower on Wet Grass?
Mowing wet grass poses several challenges and risks that can affect both the health of your lawn and the performance of your mower. Wet grass tends to clump together, resulting in an uneven cut and potential damage to the mower blades. Additionally, mowing wet grass can create soil compaction and promote the spread of diseases and fungal infections. It’s generally best to avoid mowing wet grass whenever possible and wait until the grass is dry to ensure a cleaner and more effective mowing experience. If you must mow wet grass, take extra precautions such as cleaning the mower deck frequently to prevent grass buildup and adjusting the cutting height to minimize stress on the turf.
What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Using a Lawn Mower?
Safety should always be a top priority when operating a lawn mower to prevent accidents and injuries. Before starting the mower, wear appropriate protective gear such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and closed-toe shoes to shield yourself from debris and loud noise. Be mindful of your surroundings and watch for obstacles such as rocks, tree roots, and uneven terrain that could cause tripping hazards or damage to the mower. Never remove or disable safety guards or shields on the mower, as they are designed to protect you from moving parts and debris. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines outlined in the mower’s manual, and never operate the mower while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable mowing experience every time.
How Long Do the Best Lawn Mowers Typically Last?
The lifespan of a lawn mower can vary depending on several factors including usage, maintenance, and quality of construction. With proper care and maintenance, a well-built mower can last for many years. Regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning, oil changes, blade sharpening, and parts replacement can help extend the life of your mower and ensure reliable performance season after season. However, factors such as exposure to harsh weather conditions, excessive wear and tear, and lack of maintenance can shorten the lifespan of a mower. By following a comprehensive maintenance schedule and addressing any issues promptly, you can maximize the longevity of your mower and enjoy years of trouble-free operation.
Can I Use a Lawn Mower to Cut Other Types of Vegetation?
While lawn mowers are designed specifically for cutting grass, some homeowners may wonder if they can be used to tackle other types of vegetation such as weeds or thick brush. However, it’s important to note that lawn mowers may not be suitable for cutting dense or woody vegetation due to their design and cutting mechanism. Attempting to use a lawn mower for tasks beyond its intended purpose can damage the mower and pose safety risks to the operator. Instead, it’s best to use the appropriate tools such as string trimmers, brush cutters, or chainsaws for cutting dense vegetation. These tools are specifically designed to handle tougher vegetation and can provide more efficient and safer results.
What Should I Do If My Lawn Mower Won’t Start?
If your lawn mower fails to start, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and resolve the issue. First, check the fuel level to ensure the mower has an adequate supply of gasoline or battery power. Inspect the spark plug to make sure it’s clean, properly gapped, and securely connected to the ignition system. If the spark plug is dirty or damaged, clean or replace it as needed. Check the air filter for dirt, debris, or damage, and clean or replace it if necessary. If your mower is equipped with an electric start, ensure the battery is fully charged and connected properly. Additionally, check for any obstructions in the mower’s blades or drivetrain that may be preventing it from starting. If issues persist, consult your mower’s manual for further troubleshooting steps or seek assistance from a professional technician. By addressing potential issues promptly and following proper maintenance procedures, you can ensure your mower starts reliably and performs effectively whenever you need it.
Best Lawn Mowers of 2023
Honda HRX217K5VKA
Image credit: Honda
Pros:
Cons:
The Honda HRX217K5VKA is an exceptional lawnmower with many features that make it the best example on the market today. At first glance, the HRX217K5VKA stands out among its competition with its cutting-edge design, outstanding performance, and uncompromising quality. Its sleek and modern design is the perfect blend of form and function. The ergonomic handlebar and adjustable height settings make it comfortable to use, even for those with back and joint issues. Additionally, the two-position Smart Drive Control allows you to adjust the walking speed for added convenience. The Roto-Stop system enables you to halt the blades without stopping the engine, making it even easier to use.
The performance of the HRX217K5VKA is truly remarkable. Thanks to its powerful Honda GCV170 engine, it can tackle any job you throw at it. This mower’s engine’s exclusive auto choke system also ensures easy starting, so you don’t have to constantly fiddle with the choke. The HRX217K5VKA also comes equipped with a 21-inch NeXite cutting deck made from a durable and long-lasting material. This cutting deck can effortlessly handle tough grass, leaves, and so on, no matter the job. The 4-in-1 Versamow System allows you to mulch, bag, discharge, and shred leaves and grass clippings to customize your lawn care tasks to suit your needs.
The Honda HRX217K5VKA also comes with a host of safety features, including a blade brake system that stops the blade when you lift the handlebar, a stop switch that shuts off the engine when you finish mowing, and a discharge chute blockage prevention system that alerts you if the chute is blocked. This means you can rest assured that you’re getting a quality product that won’t put you or your property at risk.
The Honda HRX217K5VKA is also extremely reliable and long-lasting. A reliable three-year residential warranty backs all Honda mowers, so if anything goes wrong, you know you’re covered. In addition, Honda designed the mower’s durable construction and powerful engine to last for years, so you can be sure you’re getting a mower that will stand up to the test of time.
When it comes to the best example of a lawnmower on the market today, the Honda HRX217K5VKA is it. Its sleek design, outstanding performance, and uncompromising quality make it the perfect choice for any homeowner. Plus, its powerful engine, durable construction, and safety features make it safe and reliable, while its versatility and convenience features make it a joy to use.
Ryobi RY48111 Electric Riding Lawn Mower
Image credit: Ryobi
Pros:
Cons:
The Ryobi RY48111 Electric Riding Lawn Mower is one of the most powerful and efficient riding lawn mowers on the market. It is powerful, versatile, and easy to use, making it the perfect pick for those who need to maintain large lawns.
Powered by a 100Ah battery, the Ryobi RY48111 mower can run for up to 70 minutes on a single charge. This makes it ideal for those with large yards or acreages, as it can easily handle the workload. Additionally, it comes equipped with a 38-inch cutting deck and a 5-position adjustable deck height that you can adjust to your needs. The sturdy steel frame provides stability to the mower even on uneven terrain.
This mower also features a powerful 540cc rear engine that delivers 38.5 foot-pound torque, making it more than capable of tackling tough jobs, such as thick grass and thick weeds. Additionally, the mower has a comfortable mid-back seat and an adjustable steering wheel that helps to make mowing even more comfortable.
The Ryobi RY48111 has a six-speed transmission, adjustable cruise control, and an electric start for added convenience. This allows the user to easily adjust the mower’s speed to their needs, while the cruise control feature helps keep the mower going at a consistent pace. Additionally, the electric start makes it easy to get the mower running immediately.
The Ryobi mower also features several other helpful features, such as an LED headlight, an hour meter, and a three-year limited warranty. These features make it even more convenient and easy to use.
Overall, the Ryobi RY48111 Electric Riding Lawn Mower is the best riding lawn mower on the market. With its powerful 100Ah battery and 540cc engine, it can tackle even the most challenging jobs. Additionally, the six-speed transmission, cruise control, and electric start make it easy to operate, while the adjustable deck height, LED headlight, and other features make it even more convenient. The three-year limited warranty also helps ensure the mower lasts many years. If you are looking for a powerful, versatile, and easy-to-use riding lawn mower, the Ryobi RY48111 is a perfect choice.