The Best Lawn Mower
Our research-backed guide helps you choose the ideal lawn mower for your yard size, power preference, and budget. From corded combos to self-propelled battery models, these top picks deliver reliable performance.
By Rosemary Jimenez
Updated September 10, 2026
When it comes to keeping your lawn tidy, the right mower can make all the difference.
Whether you’re tending a small patch or a sprawling yard, the market offers a wide range of options, from corded electric models to powerful gas engines and battery-powered units.
With so many choices, finding the best lawn mower for your needs and budget requires careful consideration of features like cutting width, power source, and ease of use.
To help you make an informed decision, our team at BestProducts has thoroughly researched and analyzed the top models on the market.
We evaluated each mower against consistent criteria, including performance, build quality, battery life (where applicable), and user satisfaction, then scored them on our 0 to 10 BP Score.
The result is a curated list of the best lawn mowers available today, suitable for various yard sizes and preferences.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM 3-in-1 Combo
|
9.9/10 | $65.00 | Buy |
Casince 17-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
|
9.9/10 | $139.98 | Buy | |
BLACK+DECKER MTC220 3-in-1 12-Inch Combo
|
9.9/10 | $149.00 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
MZK 40V 13-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
|
9.9/10 | $159.99 | Buy |
SENIX 144cc 21-Inch Gas Push Mower
|
9.9/10 | $224.99 | Buy | |
Greenworks 48V 17-Inch Push Lawn Mower
|
9.9/10 | $259.99 | Buy | |
| Best Premium |
PowerSmart EasyGlide 21-Inch 3-in-1 Gas Mower
|
9.9/10 | $279.99 | Buy |
PowerSmart 22-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Mower
|
9.9/10 | $299.99 | Buy | |
Greenworks 60V 21" Self-Propelled Mower (2x4.0Ah)
|
9.9/10 | $538.00 | Buy | |
EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 21" Self-Propelled Mower
|
9.9/10 | $699.00 | Buy | |
| Best Budget |
Litheli 14-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower with 5.0Ah
|
9.9/10 | $102.59 | Buy |
BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM 3-in-1 Combo
This corded electric 3-in-1 combo from BLACK+DECKER combines a string trimmer, mower, and edger for small lawns. With a 6.5 amp motor and automatic feed spool, it delivers consistent cutting power without bumping. The lightweight build and adjustable handle make it comfortable for precision work in compact spaces.
Pros
- Three tools in one: trimmer, mower, edger
- Powerful 6.5 amp motor with automatic feed
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Quick conversion to wheeled edger
Cons
- Corded operation limits range
- 12-inch cutting width only for small lawns
- Fixed 1.6-inch cutting height
Casince 17-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
This cordless walk-behind mower from Casince uses two 20V batteries to run up to 40 minutes on a 17-inch cutting deck. A 50-liter grass bag minimizes emptying stops, and the brushless motor keeps blade speed steady through typical residential grass. It is a practical choice for small to medium lawns.
Pros
- Wider 17-inch cutting deck for even finish
- Dual batteries extend runtime up to 40 minutes
- Large 50L grass collection bag
- Brushless motor delivers consistent power
- Lightweight 14 kg design easy to maneuver
BLACK+DECKER MTC220 3-in-1 12-Inch Combo
The BLACK+DECKER MTC220 3-in-1 combo converts between a trimmer, edger, and push mower, making it ideal for small yards, slopes, and hard-to-reach areas. It features an automatic feed spool for uninterrupted trimming and PowerDrive technology to prevent bogging in dense grass. The adjustable deck height and pivoting handle provide customized comfort, and the kit includes two 20V batteries and a charger.
Pros
- 3-in-1 convertible design
- Automatic feed spool for continuous use
- PowerDrive prevents bogging in dense grass
- Adjustable deck height and pivoting handle
- Includes two 20V batteries and charger
Cons
- 12-inch cutting width may be too small for larger lawns
MZK 40V 13-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
This cordless push mower from MZK offers a 13-inch cutting deck, four height adjustments, and a dual-battery system for extended runtime. It's a practical choice for small to medium lawns, with a rear bag for easy clipping collection.
Pros
- Four cutting height settings from 1.3 to 2.6 inches
- Dual 20V 4.0Ah batteries reduce downtime
- 13-inch deck covers more ground per pass
- 30L rear bag for easy grass collection
- Two-step safety start prevents accidental startup
Cons
- 30-minute runtime may be short for larger lawns
- Only bagging option, no mulching or side discharge
- 13-inch deck is relatively narrow
SENIX 144cc 21-Inch Gas Push Mower
For homeowners with up to half-acre lawns, the SENIX push mower combines a sturdy 144cc gas engine with 11-inch rear wheels that reduce rolling resistance on uneven ground. The 21-inch deck switches between mulching and side discharge, and six tool-free height settings handle seasonal grass changes without hassle. It is a dependable, no-frills gas option for those who want to skip cords and battery swaps.
Pros
- 144cc engine maintains power under heavy loads
- 11-inch rear wheels reduce rolling resistance
- 2-in-1 mulching and side discharge modes
- 6-position height adjustment without tools
- 2-year warranty and quick assembly
Cons
- No self-propelled drive, requires manual pushing
- 50-pound weight may be hard to lift or store
Greenworks 48V 17-Inch Push Lawn Mower
This battery-powered mower delivers gas-like performance with a lightweight poly deck that's rust-resistant and easy to push. It offers a quiet, low-maintenance mowing experience with 2-in-1 capabilities and five cutting heights. Ideal for small to medium yards up to 1/4 acre, it is backed by a 3-year warranty and compatible with over 200 Greenworks 24V tools.
Pros
- Cordless with powerful gas-like performance
- Lightweight poly deck (40% lighter than steel)
- Versatile 2-in-1 mulching and bagging
- Quiet operation for early or late mowing
- Maintenance-free with push-button start
Cons
- Narrow 17-inch cutting width for larger lawns
- Manual push design, not self-propelled
- Runtime may vary based on grass conditions
PowerSmart EasyGlide 21-Inch 3-in-1 Gas Mower
The PowerSmart EasyGlide is a 21-inch push gas mower powered by a reliable 144cc engine with an easy start system. Its durable steel deck offers 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side discharge, while the adjustable cutting height and large ball-bearing wheels provide smooth maneuverability. This mower is a solid choice for homeowners seeking a versatile and straightforward gas mower for medium-sized lawns.
Pros
- Reliable 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine
- Easy start with auto choke and primer
- Durable 21-inch steel deck
- 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, side discharge
- Adjustable cutting height from 1.5 to 3.9 inches
- Large double ball-bearing wheels for smooth pushing
Cons
- Heavy at 61.6 pounds
- No self-propelled feature
- Requires gas and maintenance
PowerSmart 22-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Mower
The PowerSmart 22-Inch self-propelled gas mower pairs a 170cc OHV engine with a wide steel deck to handle large lawns. Its 3-in-1 system offers mulching, bagging, or rear discharge, and a single lever adjusts cutting height from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. The folding handle simplifies storage.
Pros
- Strong 170cc engine for thick grass
- Self-propelled rear drive eases slopes
- Versatile 3-in-1 discharge options
- Quick height adjustment
- Compact folding handle
Cons
- Heavy at 68 pounds
- Recoil start only, no electric start
- No side discharge option
Greenworks 60V 21" Self-Propelled Mower (2x4.0Ah)
This battery-powered mower uses a 60V brushless motor and two 4.0Ah batteries to cover up to 3/4 acre per charge. It offers self-propelled rear-wheel drive, LED headlights, and 4-in-1 versatility (mulch, bag, side discharge, turbo leaf pickup) while running three times quieter than gas models with zero emissions.
Pros
- Long runtime from two 4.0Ah batteries
- Powerful brushless motor comparable to gas
- Self-propelled traction handles slopes well
- Very quiet operation (3x quieter than gas)
- Versatile 4-in-1 cutting options
Cons
- Heavy at 65 pounds
EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 21" Self-Propelled Mower
This cordless mower delivers gas-like power with up to 7.0 ft-lbs of cutting torque and runs up to 100 minutes on a charge. Its Touch Drive self-propel system lets you adjust speed from 0.9 to 3.1 mph, and the Select Cut multi-blade system offers mulching, bagging, and extended runtime options.
Pros
- Exceeds gas mower performance
- Up to 100 minutes runtime
- Touch Drive variable speed self-propel
- Select Cut multi-blade system
- Bright LED headlights
Cons
- Heavy at 96 pounds
Litheli 14-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower with 5.0Ah
This 14-inch cordless mower from Litheli pairs a quiet brushless motor with a 5.0Ah battery that covers up to 2,800 sq. ft. on a charge. Its lightweight, foldable design and five cutting heights make it a practical choice for small to mid-sized lawns.
Pros
- Quiet brushless motor
- 5 height positions (1-2.5 in.)
- 8-gallon grass bag
- Lightweight and folds for storage
- Battery doubles as a power bank
Cons
- Small cutting deck (14 in.)
- Only 30 minutes of run time
- Battery warranty only 1 year
Best Lawn Mower Buying Guide
Power Source: Electric, Gas, or Cordless?
The first decision is whether to go with a corded electric, cordless battery-powered, or gas mower. Cordless battery-powered mowers offer freedom of movement and quiet operation, making them ideal for residential areas.
Corded models provide unlimited runtime but require proximity to an outlet. Gas mowers deliver robust power for thick grass and larger lawns but need regular maintenance and emit fumes.
Cutting Width and Deck Size
The cutting width determines how much grass you can mow in one pass. For small yards (under ¼ acre), a 14- to 17-inch deck is sufficient and maneuverable.
Medium lawns benefit from 20- to 22-inch decks, while large properties may require a wider cut or a self-propelled model to reduce fatigue. Consider your lawn’s layout and obstacles when choosing width.
Mulching, Bagging, and Side Discharge
Most modern mowers offer three-in-one functionality: mulching (finely chopping clippings to return nutrients to the soil), bagging (collecting clippings for disposal), and side discharge (for tall grass). Reel mowers lack these options, while electric and gas models usually include them.
If you prefer a clean look, bagging is essential; if you want low maintenance, mulching is the way to go.
Deck Material and Durability
Decks are typically made of steel, aluminum, or plastic. Steel is durable but heavy; aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant; plastic is economical but less robust.
For longevity, especially on uneven terrain, look for a stamped steel or fabricated deck. Garden & Patio tools often face tough conditions, so durability matters.
Self-Propelled vs. Push Mowers
If your yard has slopes or is over a quarter acre, a self-propelled mower saves effort. These models drive themselves forward, letting you guide them.
Push mowers are lighter and more affordable, ideal for flat, small lawns. Cordless self-propelled mowers combine convenience with battery power for hassle-free mowing.
Battery Voltage and Runtime
For cordless electric mowers, battery voltage (e.g., 40V, 48V, 60V) affects power and runtime. Higher voltage generally means more torque for cutting through thick grass.
Runtime depends on battery amp-hour (Ah) rating; two 4.0 Ah batteries often cover a standard lot. Consumer lawn mowers with swappable batteries are convenient for larger yards.
Why You Should Trust Us
At BestProducts, we are committed to providing independent, data-driven recommendations. Our team of researchers analyzes hundreds of specifications, reads thousands of expert and user reviews, and distills this information into clear, unbiased scores.
We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. Each product is scored on our exclusive 0, 10 BP Score, allowing you to compare options side-by-side with confidence.
We are transparent about our affiliate partnerships, learn more here.
Final Thoughts
- Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, Weed Eater and Edger 3-in-1 Combo (BESTA512CM). This corded powerhouse delivers reliable performance at an unbeatable price, combining three essential tools in one package. Its compact design and impressive BP Score make it our top pick for most homeowners.
- Best Cordless Mower: MZK 40V 16-Inch 2-in-1 Lawn Mower. With its brushless motor and lightweight build, this mower offers excellent maneuverability and quiet operation. It’s perfect for small to medium yards and delivers solid battery runtime.
- Best for Small Yards: Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 14 Inch. This compact mower shines on tiny lawns, thanks to its 5 height positions and 9-gallon bag. It’s easy to store and handles tight spaces with ease.
- Best Gas-Powered: PowerSmart EasyGlide 21-Inch 3-in-1 Push Gas Lawn Mower. For those who prefer the power of gas, this model offers a reliable 144cc engine and a durable steel deck. It’s a workhorse that tackles thick grass effortlessly.
For more specific needs, check out our dedicated guides on lawn mower snow blower combos and electric zero-turn riding mowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lawn mower for a large yard?
For large yards, consider a self-propelled gas or high-voltage battery mower with a wide cutting deck (21 inches or more). Models like the Greenworks 60V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower offer excellent runtime and power. Alternatively, hand mowers are not suitable for large areas.
Are cordless mowers as powerful as gas?
Modern cordless mowers, especially those with 60V or 80V batteries, can rival gas models in cutting power. They are quieter, require less maintenance, and have zero emissions. However, gas mowers still edge ahead for very thick or wet grass and longer runtime without recharging.
How do I choose between a push and self-propelled mower?
Choose a push mower if your yard is small, flat, and you prefer a lighter, lower-cost option. Opt for self-propelled if you have slopes, a larger lawn, or want to reduce physical effort.
For a balance, look at fitness trackers to gauge your activity while mowing.
What maintenance does a lawn mower require?
Regular maintenance includes sharpening the blade, cleaning the deck, checking and replacing oil (for gas mowers), and ensuring battery connections are clean. For electric mowers, keep the battery charged and store it in a cool, dry place.
Leaf blowers and other yard tools require similar upkeep.
Can I use a lawn mower on wet grass?
It’s not recommended because wet grass clumps, clogs the mower, and can create uneven cuts. Electric mowers also pose a safety risk. Wait until the grass is dry. For occasional clippings, a pressure washer can clean the mower deck afterward.
About the author
Rosemary covers lawn mowers and string trimmers for BestProducts, weighing cutting power, runtime, and maintenance across gas, corded, and battery models. She helps readers match a machine to their yard size and terrain.