Best Lawn Mowers Ranked. Which Model Should You Choose?

A lawn is an important element of landscape design, capable of transforming a garden. However, it requires constant and meticulous maintenance, which is impossible without a lawn mower. One is definitely worth purchasing if your garden is 10 acres or larger. This type of gardening equipment will help you achieve a smooth, even lawn effortlessly, something difficult to achieve with a trimmer.

Journalists from "Farm Expert" studied lawn mower models available in stores, read reviews from real customers, and compiled a list of the best lawn mowers.

A ranking table of the best lawn mowers for 2021.

The table below shows the TOP 15 lawn mower models:

How to choose a lawn mower: selection criteria

There are several criteria for choosing the best lawn mower. But to choose the right one, you first need to understand the fundamental differences between this device and similar tools. Often, property owners fail to recognize the significant differences between these machines, which can lead to mistakes when choosing.

Differences between the equipment:

• lawn mower — is a fairly powerful gardening machine for mowing grass, plants, and performing other functions on flat terrain, which moves on wheels.
• Trimmer — a low-power hand-held mechanism. It consists of cutting elements, rods, and a motor. Typically used for tackling relatively small areas and those that a lawn mower can't reach.
• Brush cutter — more powerful and reliable trimmer options. They are used for tall grass and uneven ground. If a lawn mower isn't feasible, a brush cutter can be used as a primary tool, but it's not suitable for lawn grass.

Once you've determined that a lawn mower is right for you, it's time to consider the selection criteria. These will vary depending on whether you're purchasing a manual, electric, or gas-powered mower.

Criteria for choosing electric lawn mowers

The electric device is equipped with an electric motor with a power output of 0.4 to 6 kW, which rotates the cutting element. This element can be a cylindrical (drum-type) blade or a blade (rotary type). These devices can cut grass up to 32 to 43 cm wide at a time, and the cutting height can be adjusted from 1 to 10 cm.

Electric lawn mowers come in:

• Plug-in poweredThey are environmentally friendly, do not require the purchase of fuels and lubricants, and have a low noise level (80 dB).
• Battery-poweredThey offer the same advantages as the devices above, with the added benefit of increased mobility.

Criteria for choosing electric lawn mowers:

• Engine powerThe power setting is selected based on the terrain of the area being landscaped. Thick, coarse grass requires more power, while fine grass requires less.
• Adjusting the cutting heightIt can have anywhere from 2 to over 50 fixed height levels, but typically it ranges from 2 to 10. If precision is important, buy a device with a central adjustment feature.
• Type of grass sheddingThe most common type is rear discharge. When mowing grass at the edge of a road, side discharge is the most convenient. Many models also come with a grass catcher (soft, hard, or a combination), and the most powerful weeders have a mulching function—they can discharge grass in various ways and are labeled "3-in-1."
• Self-propelledAn electric lawn mower can be self-propelled (it only needs to be started) or driven by a person. Self-propelled operation is usually not a significant factor in this case, as electric lawn mowers are lightweight and easy to operate, even if they are not self-propelled.
• Folding handleAllows you to easily load the lawn mower into the trunk of a car, allowing for convenient transportation and storage.

Criteria for choosing mechanical lawn mowers

Manual lawn mowers (also known as "hand mowers") don't have an engine. The cutting element is a cylindrical blade, driven by wheels. The operator pushes the mower forward; as the wheels turn, the blade turns, and the lawn is trimmed.

Criteria for choosing mechanical lawn mowers:

• Cutting widthA wide mower is suitable for open lawns without any obstacles. A narrower model is needed for lawns surrounded by trees and other plantings/obstacles.
• Length of cutting segmentThe productivity of the equipment increases with the increase of its length.
• Adjusting the cutting heightWhen purchasing, consider the height of your lawn. The more height settings, the more versatile the mower. Some mowers have eight or more height settings.
• Type of grass sheddingEverything here is similar to electric mowers. They have rear and side discharge options, and are equipped with grass catchers.
• Weight of the lawn mowerThe heavier it is, the more reliable the design. Lightness is convenient, but sometimes it comes at the expense of the device's overall performance and quality.

Criteria for choosing a petrol lawn mower

This type of equipment is equipped with a gasoline engine with a power of 1 to 6 horsepower, due to which the knife blade rotates.

A gas-powered mower can cut grass from 42 to 87 cm wide at a time, and the cutting height can be adjusted from 2 to 11 cm. Cut grass can also be discharged to the rear, to the side, into a grass catcher, or mulched.

Self-propelled models are equipped with a wheel drive and come in:

• front-wheel drive;
• rear-wheel drive;
• all-wheel drive.

Criteria for choosing petrol mowers:

• Engine powerIt's the same as with electric mowers: more powerful mowers perform better when cutting tough grass and thick stems.
• Engine starting methodMost models are equipped with a pull-cord ignition system (requiring a special cord to be pulled), but some are key-started.
• Adjusting the cutting height. Similar to electric mowers.
• Type of grass shedding. Similar to the other two types of mowers.
• Self-propelledGasoline-powered lawn mowers are usually heavy, making them difficult to operate without proper physical fitness. Self-propelled models allow for comfortable mowing without requiring much effort.
• Folding handle. Similar to electric models.

Video help for choosing a lawn mower:

The best budget lawn mower models

Below are descriptions and specifications of the products from the previously compiled rating. These models are the best of their kind and cost less than other top-tier lawn mowers.

1Makita ELM3320

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − Makita;
• the brand's homeland is Japan;
• application – household;
• cutting width – 33 cm;
• body – plastic;
• power – 1200 W;
• adjustment - central;
• type of work – non-self-propelled;

• grass catcher volume: 30 l;
• mowing type - 2 in 1 (grass collector and rear discharge);
• grass collector - combo (soft bottom, hard top);
• grass after cutting - minimum 20 mm, maximum - 55 mm;
• weight - 10.2 kg;
• approximate cost: 7,500 rubles.

This lawn mower from a world-renowned manufacturer of high-quality tools is an affordable model for small areas (up to 400 sq. m). The Makita ELM3320 is lightweight, compact, reliable, and easy to maintain.

2CHAMPION EM3313

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − Champion;
• the brand's homeland is Russia;
• application – household;
• body – plastic;
• cutting width – 33 cm;
• power – 1300 W;
• adjustment - central;

• type of work – non-self-propelled;
• grass catcher volume: 35 l;
• mowing type - sending to grass collector;
• grass collector - combo (soft bottom, hard top);
• grass height after mowing: minimum 25 mm, maximum 65 mm;
• weight - 8.8 kg;
• approximate cost - 7,000 rubles.

The model is also equipped with a special lever that allows you to adjust the cutting height (there are five options in total). With a single movement, you can change the height of all wheels at once, which is more convenient than manually moving each wheel.

3Huter GLM-3.5LT

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − Huter;
• the brand's homeland is Germany;
• application – household;
• cutting width – 42 cm;
• power – 4 horsepower;
• tank volume – 1 l;
• adjustment - manual;

• type of work – non-self-propelled;
• grass catcher volume: 40 l;
• mowing type - sending to grass collector;
• grass catcher - soft (fabric);
• grass height after cutting: minimum 25 mm, maximum 75 mm;
• weight - 19.2 kg;
• approximate cost: 15,400 rubles.

The model is equipped with an advanced internal combustion engine (ICE). The 4-stroke engine, while heavier and bulkier than a 2-stroke, consumes less fuel.

4GARDENA 400 Classic

Main characteristics:

• warranty period – 730 days;
• manufacturer − Gardena;
• the brand's homeland is the Czech Republic;
• application – household;
• mowing width – 40 cm;
• body – steel;

• adjustment - central;
• mowing type - rear discharge;
• grass after cutting - minimum 12 mm, maximum - 42 mm;
• weight - 8.9 kg;
• approximate cost: 7,600 rubles.

The GARDENA 400 Classic uses no electricity or gasoline at all, as it's a mechanical model. Since it has no engine, it requires minimal maintenance and operation costs. It's the most economical and environmentally friendly model.

5PATRIOT PT 1634E

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − PATRIOT;
• the brand's homeland is Russia;
• application – household;
• body – plastic;
• cutting width – 34 cm;
• engine operating type – from a socket;
• power – 1600 W;
• adjustment - central;

• lawn mower type – non-self-propelled;
• grass catcher volume: 35 l;
• mowing type - 2 in 1 (grass collector and rear discharge);
• grass catcher – hard (plastic);
• grass height after cutting: minimum 25 mm, maximum 75 mm;
• weight – 11.2 kg;
• approximate cost – 7,400 rubles.

A standard lawn mower model. Reliable, convenient, and affordable. There are no bells and whistles, but that's normal for this price range.

The best electric lawn mowers

Electric models are in high demand. They are lightweight, quieter, and more affordable than gas-powered lawn mowers. Below, we take a closer look at the top electric lawn mowers.

1Makita ELM3720

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − Makita;
• the brand's homeland is Japan;
• application – household;
• body – plastic;
• cutting width – 37 cm;
• engine operating type – from a socket;
• power – 1400 W;
• cutting height adjustment - central;

• type of work – non-self-propelled;
• grass catcher volume: 40 l;
• mowing type - 2 in 1 (grass collector and rear discharge);
• grass collector - combo (soft bottom, hard top);
• grass after cutting - minimum 20 mm, maximum - 55 mm;
• weight - 11.6 kg;
• approximate cost - 10,000 rubles.

A worthy model with a simple and reliable design. The body is made of durable plastic. The motor is durable. This lawn mower is corded.

2BOSCH ARM 34 (0.600.8A6.101)

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 3 years;
• manufacturer − Bosch;
• the brand's homeland is Germany;
• application – household;
• body – plastic;
• cutting width – 34 cm;
• power – 1300 W;
• adjustment - central;

• type of work – non-self-propelled;
• grass catcher volume: 40 l;
• mowing type - sending to grass collector;
• grass collector type - solid;
• grass after cutting - minimum 20 mm, maximum - 70 mm;
• weight - 12 kg;
• approximate cost: 8,200 rubles.

The mowing height adjustment is centralized (more convenient than manual adjustments, as the height change occurs instantly with a lever). There are five mowing height settings.

3BOSCH ARM 37 (0.600.8A6.201)

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − BOSCH;
• the brand's homeland is Germany;
• application – household;
• body – plastic;
• cutting width – 37 cm;
• engine operating type – from a socket;
• power – 1400 W;
• adjustment - central;

• lawn mower type – non-self-propelled;
• grass catcher volume: 40 l;
• mowing type - 2 in 1 (grass collector and rear discharge);
• grass catcher – hard (plastic);
• grass height after cutting: minimum 20 mm, maximum 70 mm;
• weight – 12 kg;
• approximate cost – 9,400 rubles.

A good lawn mower that can cut grass even close to walls. It differs from the previously mentioned BOSCH ARM 34 in that the ARM 37 has a slightly more powerful engine and a slightly wider cutting width (by 3 cm), meaning you can finish a large area a little faster. However, the BOSCH ARM 37 is also more expensive.

4AL-KO 112856 Classic 3.82 SE

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 2 years;
• manufacturer − AL-KO;
• the brand's homeland is Germany;
• application – household;
• body – plastic;
• cutting width – 38 cm;
• power – 1400 W;
• adjustment - manual;
• lawn mower type – non-self-propelled;

• grass catcher volume - 36 l;
• mowing type - 2 in 1 (grass collector and rear discharge);
• grass catcher – hard (plastic);
• grass height after cutting: minimum 20 mm, maximum 60 mm;
• weight – 13 kg;
• approximate cost – 10,300 rubles.

A classic model without any significant drawbacks, the AL-KO 112856 Classic 3.82 SE features a wide cutting width, a decent engine, and a grass bag discharge (with a full bag indicator).

5Champion EM4118

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − Champion;
• the brand's homeland is Russia;
• application – household;
• cutting width – 42 cm;
• engine operating type – from a socket;
• power – 1800 W;
• adjustment - central;
• lawn mower type – non-self-propelled;

• grass catcher volume: 50 l;
• mowing type - 2 in 1 (grass collector and rear discharge);
• grass catcher - soft (fabric);
• grass after cutting - minimum 25 mm, maximum - 75 mm;
• weight - 13 kg;
• approximate cost: 11,700 rubles.

The model is equipped with a combination bag, which makes it easier to unload mown grass and at the same time allows the bag to be folded quite compactly for storage.

Not a single battery-powered model made it into the ranking of the best electric models. This is because the journalists at Farm Expert based their list of top lawn mowers on real user reviews, and buyers rated cordless models poorly. Here's why:

• Battery-powered lawn mowers cost from 10,000 rubles, and good models can cost up to 20,000 rubles or more (for the same amount of money, you can buy a powerful petrol-powered mower);
• The manufacturer's recommended mowing area is 300 sq. m (operating time is about 30 minutes), which is not enough for medium and large areas, so you have to take breaks to recharge or buy a second battery;
• Over the course of a year, the battery capacity decreases, and the price of new batteries reaches about half the cost of a lawn mower.

The best petrol lawn mowers

Below is a detailed description of the top gasoline models, which is designed to help the reader make a choice and a successful purchase.

1Oleo-Mac G 48 PK Comfort Plus

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 2 years;
• manufacturer − Oleo-Mas;
• the brand's homeland is Italy;
• application – household;
• body – plastic;
• cutting width – 46 cm;
• engine capacity – 140 cc;
• power - 6.5 horsepower;
• type of work – non-self-propelled;
• tank volume – 1 l;

• adjustment – ​​central;
• mowing type - 2 in 1 (grass collector and rear discharge);
• grass catcher volume: 70 l;
• grass collector - combo (soft bottom, hard top);
• grass after cutting minimum – 28 mm, maximum – 75 mm;
• weight - 25.4 kg;
• approximate cost: 30,000 rubles.

The Oleo-Mac G 48 PK Comfort Plus is a reliable lawn mower with a high-quality, fuel-efficient engine. This model is made of steel with an anti-corrosion and impact-resistant coating.

2AL-KO 119387 Silver 46 BR Comfort

Main characteristics:

• warranty period – 2 years;
• manufacturer − Al-Ko;
• the brand's homeland is Germany;
• application – household;
• cutting width – 46 cm;
• engine operating type – from a socket;
• engine model - 500E;
• engine capacity – 148 cc;
• power – 4 horsepower;
• tank volume - 0.8 l;
• adjustment - manual (each wheel separately);

• lawn mower type – self-propelled, rear-wheel drive;
• mowing type - 3 in 1 (grass catcher, rear discharge, side discharge, and mulching);
• collection volume - 65 l;
• grass catcher type – hard (plastic);
• wheel bearings – yes;
• body material – steel;
• grass after cutting – minimum – 25 mm, maximum – 75 mm;
• weight – 30 kg;
• approximate cost – 25,000 rubles.

This is a self-propelled model that does not require pushing, so despite its weight, this lawn mower can be operated by a teenager, a woman, or someone with limited physical fitness.

3Champion LM4627

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − Champion;
• the brand's homeland is Russia;
• application – household;
• body material – steel;
• cutting width – 46 cm;
• tank volume – 0.9 l;
• engine model − T475;
• power – 3.5 horsepower;
• engine capacity – 139 sq. cm;

• adjustment - central;
• lawn mower type – self-propelled, rear-wheel drive;
• grass catcher volume: 60 l;
• mowing type - 3 in 1 (grass collector, rear discharge and mulching);
• grass collector - combo (soft bottom, hard top);
• grass after cutting – minimum – 25 mm, maximum – 75 mm;
• weight – 32 kg;
• approximate cost – 22,200 rubles.

This lawn mower has a 4-stroke engine, which means it runs quieter and consumes less fuel.

4Huter GLM-5.0S

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• manufacturer − Huter;
• the brand's homeland is Germany;
• application – household;
• cutting width – 46 cm;
• type of work – self-propelled, rear-wheel drive;
• power – 5 horsepower;
• tank volume – 1.2 l;
• adjustment - central;

• grass catcher volume: 60 l;
• mowing type - 2 in 1 (grass collection in the grass catcher and rear discharge);
• grass catcher type – hard (plastic);
• grass after cutting - minimum 20 mm, maximum - 85 mm;
• weight - 35 kg;
• approximate cost: 26,800 rubles.

A powerful self-propelled model. It doesn't require pushing, so even a teenager, a frail woman, or an elderly person can operate it. Another convenient feature is the ability to adjust the cutting height with a single movement, rather than having to adjust each wheel.

5Daewoo Power Products DLM 5100SP

Main characteristics:

• warranty period: 1 year;
• Manufacturer: Daewoo Power Products;
• the brand's homeland is Hungary;
• application – household;
• body – steel;
• mowing width – 50 cm;
• power – 6 horsepower;
• tank volume – 1.2 l;

• adjustment - central;
• type of work – self-propelled, rear-wheel drive;
• grass catcher volume: 70 l;
• mowing type - 3 in 1 (grass collector, rear discharge and mulching);
• grass catcher - soft (fabric);
• grass height after cutting: minimum 25 mm, maximum 75 mm;
• weight − 35.6 kg.

A high-quality self-propelled lawn mower with a wide cutting width, a powerful 4-stroke engine, and a steel cover. This model would have topped the list if not for its high fuel consumption and high price.

Comparison table of products from the rating

User rating

Based on readers' votes (Like/Dislike).

Resume

When choosing a lawn mower, it's recommended to base your selection on personal preferences and your specific needs. The following guide will help you make your final decision:

• Gasoline or electric? If you have a large plot, consider a gas mower, as these models typically have a wider cutting width and a more powerful engine, meaning you can finish the job faster, without the cord getting in the way. A lawn up to 500 square meters can be quickly and efficiently trimmed with an electric mower.
  There are electric lawn mowers with batteries.
• Self-propelled or non-self-propelled?Gasoline-powered lawn mowers typically have powerful engines, meaning they weigh a significant amount. Pushing a 30 kg mower is no easy task, so manufacturers have taken the trouble to release self-propelled models that even the physically weak can operate.
  
  If there are a lot of stones on the property, they should be collected and discarded first, as they will damage any lawn mower. On a moderately flat area, moving a heavy (non-self-propelled) lawn mower will be difficult, so choose either a lightweight non-self-propelled or a heavy self-propelled model. If the surface is significantly uneven, it's best to trim the grass with a trimmer. Such a surface can't be considered a lawn, so buying a lawn mower isn't the best option.
• Is mulching necessary or not? This is a convenient and practical way to dispose of grass clippings. This mulch fertilizes the soil, helps retain moisture, and keeps it loose. Some models are already equipped with mulching functionality (we've listed them in our ranking). Some lawn mowers can be purchased with a special mulching attachment. You'll need to search online for a store that sells these attachments for your specific model and check if they're available.
  
  Mulching is a useful, but not essential, feature. You can collect the grass clippings, shred them yourself, and use them in your garden as mulchIt's just a matter of time and effort.
• What should the mowing width be?The width of the mowing strip determines how many passes you'll need. If you have a large area (over 1,000 square meters), it's best to choose models with a wider cutting width (this will finish the job faster). A cutting width of over 40 cm is ideal for larger lawns.
• Does the cutting height adjustment method matter? Some models require manual adjustment of the cutting height by moving each wheel. Others, however, do this automatically, by turning a lever—a convenient feature that saves time and effort. However, there's no need to pay extra for this feature. Typically, the cutting height is set once before starting work. It's not that difficult to do.

A mower that's perfect for use in open spaces, free of trees and shrubs, may be completely unsuitable for mowing grass, for example, between garden beds. Therefore, when choosing a lawn mower, you should first consider the size of the area you need to mow, its topography, and how open it is. Then, select the type of mower, the appropriate power, cutting width, and so on.

Frequently Asked Questions