Best Mower In 2023: Reviews and Buying Guide

Gardening Tools, Lawn Care / By /

Whether you are planning to buy your first lawnmower or a replacement for your existing equipment, choosing the right one is not an easy job. Among hundreds of choices available in different designs, sizes, and prices, there is a great deal to think and consider.

To help you overcome this dilemma we have created a complete buying guide for you, which includes all the dos and don’ts of choosing a lawnmower. Also, we have provided brief reviews of the best-selling lawn mowers available in the current market.

Factors to Consider While Buying a Mower

Having a posh lawn has become a trend of the modern-day, due to which lawnmowers are in great demand for the past few years. Hundreds of models are manufactured every year, making it difficult to choose. You should pick the one device which has everything that you would need in your mower. Given below are the basic factors that you should keep in mind while buying a lawnmower.

1. Mower Type

Mowers are classified into three types; ride-on, walk-behind, and the robotic mower

Ride-on Lawnmowers

This type is popular among homeowners with large lawns, as it allows you to ride on it and drive around using the steering wheel. They make cutting vast areas of grass easy and effortless, but they are larger and thus difficult to store. Also, ride-on lawnmowers are more expensive as compared to the other variants. Ride-on mowers are again available in three different constructions.

  • Front-engine Mowers

Known as lawn tractors, these are the most common type. With a powerful engine mounted in the front, the lawn tractor offers a better front-to-back weight ratio and its dual cutters enhance cutting and performance on large, hilly yards.

  • Rear-engine Mowers

Rear-engine ride-on mowers are an alternative for those with medium-sized lawns or for homeowners who lack the storage space or budget for a lawn tractor. Because the weight of the motor, rider, and fuel is concentrated at the rear of the device, its performance might be limited in sloppy terrain.

  • Zero-turn-radius Mowers

Also known as ZRTs, the engine of these mowers is mounted in the back and they generally contain dual steering levers to control the rear wheels individually, making them easier to maneuver around hurdles, but they are difficult to control on steep slopes, just like the rear-engine riders.

Walk-behind Mowers

Walk-behind mowers are designed in such a way that the operator will need to either manually push or navigate the equipment from behind. There are four types of walk-behinds; reel, hover, push, and self-propelled lawnmowers.

  • Reel Mowers

These mowers have a built-in vertical cutter that spins north-to-south to cut the grass. They don’t have an engine, but instead, the propulsion created while propelling the device makes the blade spin. As it requires a lot of labor to maneuver a reel mower, it’s useful only for mowing small yards.

  • Push Mowers

These machines are a little more advanced than the reel version as they come with an engine to power the blades, while you must push it around the lawn using your muscle.

  • Self-propelled Mowers

They are similar to push mowers, but with both wheels and blades powered by an engine. They don’t require manual pushing or manpower and only need you to navigate. Self-propelled mowers are easier and considerably convenient to use.

  • Hover Mowers

Hover lawnmowers are similar to self-propelled mowers but without wheels. These are mostly electric powered and contain rotary blades. They hover above the lawn surface, making them effortless to push and perfect at mowing irregular grounds. These machines are a decent option for unusual-shaped yards and more affordable than other types. However, hover mowers are not adequate for larger lawns.

Robotic Lawnmowers

Robotic or smart mowers are one of the newest and most sophisticated versions. The robotic lawnmower lets you mow your lawn hands-free. All you need to do is establish a perimeter wire around the region that requires mowing, and robotic mower will do the rest of the task on its own. Most smart mowers can be controlled or scheduled via smartphones.

However, they also have a few drawbacks. For instance, you have to schedule the perimeter wire each time, and most robotic mowers can’t operate on uneven landscapes or steep slopes. Additionally, your lawn must be free from obstacles that could damage your device.

2. Blade Type

Based on the blade construction, mowers are available in three designs. You should consider the blade type if you need to much your lawn.

Cylinder

Some mowers have cylindrical blades that are designed to rotate vertically at the front of the equipment. The blades slash against a fixed cutter at the rear of the mower. A good cylinder mower should have at least three blades or more. Mowers with cylinder blades are ideal for flat yards.

Rotary

Many high-end mowers come with a single rotary blade that rotates horizontally beneath the device, like the propellers of an aircraft. Mowers with rotary blades are versatile and will deal with most types of grass. They are better at chopping taller and rougher grass.

3. Power Supply

All mowers need to be powered by a source. You can choose the type of power that best suits your requirements.

Electric

Electric-powered mowers consist of a cord that needs to be plugged into a socket to operate. These mowers are light, quiet, and require almost zero maintenance. The only drawback of an electric mower is that the cord may limit the area covered by the mower.

Battery

Battery-powered mowers also run on electricity, but they are rechargeable, hence eliminating the hassle of a cord during mowing. However, you have to make sure that the mower is charged; else you may have to leave the task unfinished if the battery drains out while mowing.

Gas

Gas-powered mowers mostly operate on petrol. They are heavier and more powerful than the electric version and can effortlessly cut through tall and tough grass. Their range is not limited, unlike the corded electric powered mowers. However, these mowers are loud and require routine engine maintenance to enhance performance and retain longevity.

Manual

Manual mowers work on muscle power. Whether it’s a push mower or reel mower, your strength only will make it work. While push lawnmowers do have a motor that powers the blades, there is no mechanism for maneuvering the device.

4. Drive type

The drive type is an important factor if you are buying a self-propelling push mower or a ride-on. The maneuverability of the mower depends on its drive type. There are three drive options.

Front-Wheel Drive

In this type, the mower is pulled forward by the front wheel. Mowers with front-wheel drive function can deliver more maneuverability than other variants.

Rear-Wheel Drive 

A rear-wheel-drive mower is propelled forward by its back wheels. There are two types of back wheels; low or high. It refers to the size of the back tires, with the low wheels having the same size as front tires and high wheels are larger in diameter than the front wheels.

Low wheels are terrific on flat and even ground, whereas high wheels are more effective on rough, irregular, or sloppy terrain.

All Wheels Drive

In this, all four wheels of the mower are linked to the power source and move forward together. AWD lawnmowers are powerful and they move fast.

5. Start Type

Starting some lawnmowers can be difficult. You should always consider the start type of the mower so that you won’t have to struggle to get your machine going. Mowers come with three different types of start.

  • Push Button: With this function, you only need to push the power button and the machine is good to go. It’s found mostly in electric-powered mowers.
  • Key Start: Just like in an automobile, in this, you have to use a key to turn on the ignition and start the mower.
  • Pull Start: As the name refers, mowers with pull start have a recoil system that must be pulled to start and stop the motor. Pulling can be an ordeal, so go for this type only if you have the patience and energy.

6. Lawn Size

If you have a very small lawn then you can go for a less powerful and smaller model. A reel lawnmower should be perfect for the job if your lawn is only of a few sq ft. For those with yards of ½ acre or slightly lesser, we would recommend a push mover.

A lawn bigger than ½ acre will require more energy to cover the area. Even with a self-propelled lawnmower, this could be time-consuming and exhausting, particularly during the summer. If your yard is more than ½ acre, a riding mower is the best choice.

7. Landscape 

Terrain may vary depending on the location. You would want to consider the landscape as it can be flat and clear, or hilly, with obstacles. For small and significantly flat yards a basic push lawnmower or a reel mower would do, but if your lawn is hilly or sloppy, a self-propelled lawnmower can carry some of the strain off the task, as its wheels are powered by the engine.

In case there are likely to be obstacles like rocks, fountains, flower beds or other lawn accessories to mow around, you may want to consider getting a zero-turn-radius lawnmower, which can be navigated around obstacles more easily than any regular ride-on mower.

8. Climate and Grass Type 

Not all mowers are great for every climate or grass type. You should consider these conditions before making a final decision. It depends on whether you need to mow throughout the year, or just a particular season of the year, if the climate is wet or arid, and the liable average temperature.

You won’t want to push around a heavy lawnmower if you have to mow during a hot and humid climate. In case you are planning to use the grass clippings as mulch, you must consider the type of grass and make sure it can be content by your mower.

9. Grass Clippings

Lawnmowers can discard the cut grass in various ways. The most affordable option is to get a discharge mower, which delivers the clippings back out onto your yard. Many homeowners use the grass clippings as mulch that act as fertilizer for the grass.

However, if the clippings are clumpy or thick, they may harm your lawn, so make sure your mower delivers finely sliced mulch. If you don’t want to use the grass as mulch then you would want a mower with a bagger. The cut grass will be collected in the bagger while you are mowing, which can be disposed of later.

10. Cutting Width and Height

Lawnmowers come in a wide range of sizes and so they have different swaths. Swath refers to the cutting width of the mower. The swath of standard lawnmowers can range between 20 inches to over 60 inches, while the cutting width of large lawn tractors can be as broad as 140 inches. Mowers with larger cutting widths are excellent for huge yards as it can cover the area faster. Narrow swath mowers are great for smaller lawns and those with obstacles.

Cutting height is very important when it comes to grass. You must learn about the type of grass being cultivated and the clipping limit of the particular type. If you exceed the limit, you may harm the grass. We would suggest choosing the cutting height of the mower according to your needs. Most mowers have a height-adjustable feature, making them an ideal option.

11. Ease of Use

You would want a mower that is easy to handle and operate. You can also look for various other aspects like quick start and stop, minimal maintenance and additional expenses, less noisy, safety features, easily accessible speed control, multi-function features, and other attachments. All these are the traits of a good lawnmower.

12. Price and Warranty

The cost of the mower depends on its power, size, type, and features. It also depends on what features you want in your mower. You should always fix a budget in your mind so that you can look for the best one. Make sure everything you want is included in the mower in that budget.

Even if you don’t have a price limit, choose only the machine that best suits the job. For a general idea, the price of lawnmowers ranges from $60 to $5000. Reel mowers are the least costly options, while ride-on mowers are the most expensive ones.

All popular mower brands provide at least 2 to 5 years of warranty with their machines as you are investing a huge sum on the mower. Buy a device that is backed with a reasonable warranty policy.

Popular Brands

There hundreds of lawnmower manufacturers. Here are some of the best lawn mower brands;

  • Honda
  • Husqvarna
  • Toro
  • Craftsman
  • John Deere
  • American Lawn Mower Company
  • GreenWorks

8 Top Selling Lawnmowers

1. Husqvarna TS348XD

The Husqvarna TS348XD is a commercial-grade lawn tractor that offers unbeaten performance in its category. Its versatile cutting deck and strong, durable motor deliver fast mowing and excellent results. If you are looking for a front-engine ride-on mower, then this could be an ideal option for you.

Key Features and Benefits

  • 48-inch cutting width, with 26 HP Kohler engine enables faster mowing on larger yards.
  • ClearCut fabricated deck design attributes a welded 10 gauge steel blade with extra reinforcement streaks for utmost durability.
  • Turn key start and easy electric blade engagement allows effortless operation.
  • Heavy cast-iron front axle provides outstanding balance and stability. Its rotating function helps smooth out rough terrain.
  • Larger rear wheels for better performance on uneven surfaces.
  • Tilt indication and fuel level meter help reduce maintenance and increase productivity.
  • Armrest ensures user safety.

Pros

  • It’s user-friendly and ergonomic.
  • Good for sloppy terrain and tough surface.
  • Ideal for large size yards.

Cons

  • It needs a large storage space.
  • Runs on gas, so the engine needs routine maintenance to retain its efficiency and longevity.

2. Snapper Classic Rider

The classic Snapper rear engine riding mower with its tried and true features, and ergonomic design is a mowing icon in its class. The snapper rider features a straight-forward construction that offers easily accessible controls and a convenient drive system, specially designed for homeowners and lawn enthusiasts.

Key Features and Benefits

  • 28-inch to 33-inch cutting width and adjustable height between 1.5 to 4 inches makes it a versatile device.
  • Briggs & Stratton Intek Engine with a pro-level built and OHV system ensures better durability in the long run.
  • Vertical Stand-on-Edge feature reduces the need for larger storage space and makes deck maintenance easier.
  • User-friendly controls and foot pedal operation make the snapper classic rear engine rider straightforward and comfortable to navigate.
  • HI VAC Mower Deck efficiently trims the class grass and sucks up the grass clippings for a neat finish. Its remarkable mower blade and rolled deck edge together generate a large amount of air to induce suction.
  • Backed with a 3-year warranty.

Pros

  • Easy to start and control.
  • Stable and durable.
  • Eliminates the need to clean up after mowing.
  • It requires lesser storage space than other riding mowers.

Cons

  •  Additional lifetime gas expenses and engine maintenance.

3. Husqvarna Z242F

The all-new Husqvarna Z242F is the latest edition to the Husqvarna Z200 series Zero-turn-radius mowers. It’s an unbeatable package of performance and class. With cutting-edge construction, unique innovative features, and verified performance combine to make mowing enjoyable.

Key Features and Benefits

  • ClearCut fabricated 48-inch cutting deck features welded 10 gauge steel construction with added support strips for maximum durability.
  • Kawasaki engine delivers quiet, smooth and dependable power. Heavy-duty parts offer extended life.
  • Carefree execution with minimal supervision, integrated zero-turn transmissions.
  • Robust wheel frame and casters guarantee durability and fewer chassis flex.
  • Park brake system automatically turns on or deactivates when the steering controls are pushed outward or pulled inward.
  • Simple and quick key start.
  • 3-in-1 clipping option. Grass clippings can be discharged, mulched or bagged.
  • Spring-assisted deck-lift system for ease of use and can be accessed easily by the operator.
  • Has removable footplate and anti-slip foot area.

Pros

  • It can turn anywhere, hence ideal for mowing lawns with obstacles like rocks or garden accessories.
  • Safe for the operator and easy to use and control.

Cons

  • It may not be great for mowing on steep slopes.
  • As it runs on gas, it requires cleaning, gas refill, and routine maintenance.

4. American Lawn Mower Co. 5 Blade Reel Mower

If you are looking for a reliable manual lawn mower for a significantly narrow lawn then this 5 blade reel mower from American Lawn Mower Company is best for you. The 18-inch reel mower is solid, sharp and easy to use. Designed to mow efficiently on hard to reach areas, it can also be a good substitute for mowing narrow spaces where your lawn tractor can’t reach.

Key Features and Benefits

  • 18-inch wide cutting path and 0.5 to 2.75- inch tool-less adjustable cutting height.
  • Two 10-inch sturdy composite wheels with radial tires and molded rims.
  • 5 knife-sharp blades and tempered steel ball-bearing reel offer precise scissor action cut.
  • Plated loop-type grip with full-length ergonomic cushioned handle for strain-free operation.
  • A rugged steel side plate and 2-inch welded shrub bar for better maneuverability.

Pros

  • Light and easy to push.
  • Due to its small size, this tool requires relatively less storage.
  • Zero maintenance.
  • No gas, no noise and no emission of fumes. Also, no additional expenses in the long run.

Cons

  • Not ideal for large lawns
  • Needs muscle strength. Mowing during summer could be a sweaty and exhausting experience.

5. GreenWorks 20-Inch Electric Push Lawn Mower

The 20-inch GreenWorks push lawn mowers features a 12 amp motor that delivers enough power to capture the toughest grass and weed. At 56 pound with a durable 20-inch cutting deck and 3-in-1 clipping features, it’s s an ideal lawn mower for small to medium size lawns.

Key Features and Benefits

  • 3-in-1 feature design provides multiple options for grass clippings from side discharge, mulching, and rear bagging.
  • 7-position height adjustment offers a range from 1.5 to 3.75 inches for the perfect cut on all grass types.
  • Wide 10-inch rear wheels and 7-inch front wheels ensure the mower will move on any yard.
  • 20-inch steel cutting deck and 12 amp engine deliver powerful performance and results.
  • Easy and hassle-free push-button start.
  • Cushioned and convenient grip with foldable handles for compact storage.
  • Backed with a 4-year warranty to protect your investment.

Pros

  • Smooth operation and less noise.
  • Dependable and constant power.
  • Easy plug and go with no batteries or charging need.

Cons

  • Its cord is relatively short, and it will require an additional extension cord, which is not included with the mower.
  • Not recommended for larger yards as it can only cover a limited area due to the cord.

6. Honda 4-in-1 Self-propelled Mower

This self-propelled mower from Honda, in particular, is one of the most powerful and best-suited mowers for heavy-duty work. It is the most efficient when it comes to gas consumption. Designed with a self-propelling and walk-behind function, it can be operated effortlessly. This 4-in-1 Honda mower is a good option for all types of lawns.

Key Features and Benefits

  • 21-inch NeXite cutting deck with a micro-cut twin blade system featured with four cutting surfaces provides ultra-fine clippings for excellent mulching and more clippings to the bag.
  • 4-in-1 Versamow System with an exclusive clip director allows you to rear discharge, bag, mulch, or shred leaves.
  • Honda’s powerful New GCV200 engine features a reliable, easy start function.
  • Hydrostatic Cruise control enables precise and fully adjustable speed control ranging from 0 to 4 mph.
  • 9-inch rear wheels and ball-bearings on each wheel ensure smooth movement in all types of terrain.
  • 7 different quick adjustable heights ranging from 3/4 inch to 4 inches.
  • 3 positions, easy to adjust quick release handle for comfortable mowing. It can also be folded over for compact storage.
  • Flywheel safety brake system stops the motor as soon as you let go of the brake lever.

Pros

  • Durable and optimum quality.
  • More versatile than other mower models.
  • No muscle strength is necessary.

Cons

  • It needs routine maintenance as the mower operates on gas.

7. Husqvarna Automower 315X

Automower 315X from Husqvarna is a robotic mower that guarantees to give you a perfect yard and more free time at the same time. If your lawn is small or medium-sized up to 0.4 acres, this robotic mower is an excellent choice. Featuring smart technology and an automatic interface, Automower 315X is considered the world’s one of the most capable robotic mowers.

Key Features and Benefits

  • Automower Connect offers you full control of the lawnmower anywhere right in your smartphone.
  • GPS navigator creates a map of the law, including where the borderlines and guide wires are established.
  • It can mow on slopes up to 22 degrees and has a quickly adjustable cutting height of up to 2.4 inches.
  • Its weatherproof feature allows the lawnmower to work even in the rain.
  • Energy-efficient LED headlights for better sight and control even in the dark. The lights also start flashing if any malfunction occurs in the mower.
  • Unique level theft protection for outstanding security. If the mower is carried away, a high-pitched alarm is set off, which can only be deactivated by inserting the mower’s unique PIN code.
  • With an automatic charging feature, the mower redirects to its charging station when it needs charging.
  • Lift and tilt sensors will automatically shut down the blades if the mower is lifted and also when the blades touch any obstacle it changes its course without causing damages.

Pros

  • Hands-free operation.
  • Low maintenance.
  • No noise and emissions.
  • Every control on your fingertip.

Cons

  • Installing perimeter wires can be challenging for novices.
  • The operator must be familiar with smartphones.

8. Sun Joe MJ-HVR12E

If you want to buy a good hover mower for your small-sized lawn then Sun Joe MJ-HVR12E is a cutting-edge option for you. It offers you lighter-than-air lawn care. The hover mower slides across the yard for the supreme wheel-free trim. At just 10 lbs it can skim across uneven terrain and slopes, providing maximum maneuverability without wheels.

Key Features and Benefits

  • The blades spin at up to 7000 rpm to generate a cushion of air, enabling the mower to skim effortlessly across the lawn.
  • 3 rotating blades deliver a crisp, 11-inch wide cutting path in any direction, without wheels.
  • A powerful 10-amp eco-friendly electric engine means no gas, fumes or costly expenses.
  • Quick and easy blade replacement. It includes 30 replacement cutters.
  • Lightweight and compact design offer ultimate maneuverability and easy storage.
  • Ideal for sloped terrain, and small lawns.

Pros

  • Easy operation.
  • Quite light in weight and it hovers, so no muscle strength is required unlike the reel or manual push mowers.

Cons

  • Blades may break if the mover encounters obstacles like rocks, so make sure your lawn is free of obstacles.

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Conclusion

We hope now you have a clear idea of what you need. Every mower has its own set of benefits and limitations, but irrespective of all the drawbacks, you should look at the brighter side and choose that one device that seems to best suit your requirements. As it may be a once-in-a-lifetime purchase for many, don’t rush in making the final decision.

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