Good commercial push mower. 8 Best Stand-On Mowers of 2023

Have you ever wondered if a stand-on mower is the right option for your lawn? We break down the pros and cons and help you make a decision.

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Buying a Stand-On Mower

If you’ve ever seen professional landscapers zipping around on stand-on mowers and completing their work in record time, you’ve likely wondered if you should get one for your own home lawn care.

These machines are favorites among pros for their nimbleness, comfort, durability and relatively small footprint, which means more of them fit onto a landscaping trailer.

Homeowners can also enjoy the benefits of these mowers. In particular, some homeowners favor the comfortable ride and precision controls.

Comfort comes from the design. Stand-on mowers spread the bouncing and jolts across your entire body, rather than concentrating it in your hips and back. Precision is another benefit. A stand-on mower provides a line of sight to the cutting line that can’t be beaten.

However, they’re not for everyone. Stand-on mowers are much more expensive than typical residential models, running in the thousands of dollars. It makes sense for pros to pay extra for that kind of reliability and power, but many homeowners find them cost prohibitive.

If you’re in the market for a stand-on mower, here are some essential factors to consider:

• Price: These mowers are built for rugged daily or near-daily use, which is why they’re targeted to commercial buyers. The cheapest will still run you more than 5,000, while most models are more than 10,000.
• Deck size: If you need to navigate gates and turn tight circles around beloved bushes and trees, a smaller deck is often better. If you have more wide-open spaces, look for a mower with a wider deck.
• Deck construction: A lower gauge steel deck can take more of a beating. Most stand-on mowers come with seven- or 10-gauge steel decks.
• Cutting speed: Stand-on mowers typically move forward at seven to 12 miles per hour. This puts them in line with. or even ahead of, most residential zero-turn riding lawnmowers. The bigger and more open your lawn is, the more that cutting speed pays off.
• Fuel supply: Almost all stand-on powers are gasoline powered, though one we’ll mention below runs on propane. If you have a particularly large yard, look for a mower with a larger fuel tank.
• Warranty: These vary by manufacturer and model. Most run at least a two years, but check the fine print. Some are different for commercial or residential use, and some limit coverage it you exceed a certain number of operating hours.

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Best All-Around Stand-On Mower

The Husqvarna V548 is a good middle-of-the-road option. Its 48-inch cutting deck is narrow enough to make it through most gates, while still big enough to make quick work of larger yards.

The seven-gauge steel deck can take a beating, and the seven gallon fuel tank carries enough gas to handle most jobs in one filling. It comes with a 24.5-horsepower (HP) Kawasaki engine, and a maximum cutting speed of 11 miles per hour (mph). Oh, and if you like robotic lawnmowers, check out the Husqvarna Automower, too.

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Best Entry-Level Stand-On Mower

Cub Cadet’s Pro X 636 comes with a 36-inch-wide deck, allowing you to navigate tighter obstacles. It’s also a good choice if you’ll need to pass through narrower gates, or have limited storage options.

The Pro X 636 features an 18.5-HP Kawasaki engine and an 8.5 mph maximum cutting speed. It comes with a six-gallon fuel tank. The 10-gauge steel deck shell is on the thinner side, but should handle the wear and tear of residential use.

of the Best Gas Mowers for 2023

With the right gas mower, cutting the grass can feel less like a chore and more like a calming ritual.

Not merely an item to check off your to-do list, it can be a relaxing and satisfying way to escape the stresses of life.

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A high-quality mower slices through turf with ease, handles like a dream, and leaves your lawn looking like it belongs on the cover of a landscaping magazine.

A shoddy mower, on the other hand, can be unwieldy, strenuous to maneuver, and prone to depositing clumps of grass like a heaving hound.

Therefore, it’s essential to have the right gas mower from the get-go. But in a market that’s full of excellent lawn care equipment, how do you know which one is the right fit for you?

With this roundup of the best gas mowers, you’ll be well-equipped to select the perfect model for your unique lawn care needs.

“Best” is subjective, of course, but I’m confident in saying that any and all of these products can leave your lawn looking like a million bucks.

Here’s a preview of the lineup:

IN-DEPTH LOOK | BAD BOY REVOLT 2022 Best Stand-On Mower

of the Best Gas Mowers

A quick note, for the sake of clarity and avoiding numerical redundancy: I’m classifying “small,” “medium,” and “large” lawns as being up to a quarter-acre, a half-acre, and a full acre in size, respectively.

But these classifications are based on the land being relatively flat. Keep in mind that a hilly acre of lawn has more surface area than a flat acre, and it will obviously have more turf to mow.

Additionally, I’d like to emphasize that we’re covering gas mowers here, which are typically more powerful and easier to repair than both corded and battery-powered electric models.

Black Decker 12A-A2SD736

Let’s begin with how this model starts: it’s got an auto-choke, folks.

Meaning that as soon as you’ve pulled it out of storage, filled it up with gas, and topped it off with four-stroke engine oil, you can give the starter cord a hearty rip. Presto, you’re off and running!

Fans of an orange and black color scheme are sure to appreciate this 78-pound, 140cc mower with a 21-inch mowing deck, which is perfect for small- to medium-sized lawns.

Treaded wheels make movement over uneven terrain efficient and effortless.

With an adjustment handle on each wheel, you can switch between six different cutting heights, which can enable a close shave, a light trim, or anything in between.

Grass clippings can be sent into the rear bag, mulched, or discharged out the side, and you can switch between these options relatively quickly. This model comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 140cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 78 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches

Ready to add the Black Decker 12A-A2SD736 to your arsenal of lawn tools? Pull the trigger and make the purchase at Amazon.

Craftsman M105

Not flashy and free of unnecessary bells and whistles, yet a rock solid worker – just as a craftsman should be.

This bright red model has a mowing width of 21 inches, along with an auto-choke for easy starting.

At a weight of 72.8 pounds, this gas push mower with 140cc engine is light enough to easily muscle and maneuver around a small lawn.

The Craftsman M105 can discharge clippings out the side, collect them in a rear bag, or mulch them back into the turf. For the latter, a mulch kit is included.

With six different height positions, you can quickly and easily switch up how low or high you cut your grass – from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches – via levers on the front wheels.

For added comfort, the handle height is adjustable and it can be folded down for easy storage.

This product comes fully assembled, and should it ever break on you, a two-year warranty has your back.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 140cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 72.8 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches
• Cut Height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches

All in all, a pretty sweet product. Reliable, efficient, a modest aesthetic… What more could you want?

To score this bad boy for yourself, head on over to Amazon.

Honda HRX2176HYA

Admittedly, “Honda HRX2176HYA” doesn’t really roll off the tongue. But it’s not like anyone will be speaking as they gaze upon this beauty. Their jaws will be too busy touching the floor.

This 21-inch, 97-pound mower looks awesome, plain and simple. Its red, black, and gray chassis gives off aesthetic efficiency, which allows the user to shave a small- to medium-sized lawn in style.

The auto-choke, throttle-mediated self-propulsion, 201cc engine, and twin-blade MicroCut® system all make mowing as easy as pie.

Plus, hydrostatic cruise control allows the user to precisely control its speed. No longer can the mower yank you along if you over-throttle!

Need to change the bag, move a toy, or take a break? With a push of a button, the Roto-Stop® system stops the blades without stopping the engine, which saves a lot of time.

The fuel tank can hold about a quart of gas, the engine is started with an easy tug of the pull cord, and the rear collection bag has a capacity of over 23 gallons!

Speaking of, Honda’s Versamow System™ can bag, discharge, or mulch clippings, as well as shred leaves.

For mulching and bagging simultaneously in a custom proportion, the Clip Director® knob comes in handy, allowing you to send some clippings into the bag while others are mulched into the turf… at the same time!

Seven different cutting positions, adjustable via a lever on each wheel, provide a height range of 0.75 to four inches.

Once you’re done, the adjustable handle folds down for convenient storage.

A five-year residential warranty (three-year commercial) covers this product, and the deck – made of dent- and rust-free NeXiteⓇ polymer – is covered for life.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 201cc
• Propulsion: Self-propelled
• Weight: 97 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches
• Cut Height: 0.75 to 4 inches

Is owning the gorgeous Honda HRX2176HYA gas mower a powerful dream? Then make it a reality by picking up one of your own via Home Depot.

Murray 152506

As someone with long legs and a lengthy stride, I can find myself kicking a mower’s rear collection bag if I’m not careful.

With its compact and bagless design, this 20-inch, 125cc model from Murray is the perfect grass-cutting tool for any gawky-legged user with a small lawn.

The Murray 152506 definitely rocks the minimalistic vibe. Petite in appearance yet powerful in performance, this jet-black mower is an economical option for the casual grass cutter with a small backyard.

Weighing a tad under 44 pounds, it can turn on a dime and, compared to heavier manual push models, practically feels self-propelled.

Starting the engine is painless – simply prime thrice and yank the cord.

This mower’s gas tank has a capacity of a little more than a fifth of a gallon, and a four-point adjustment system allows for five different height positions, enabling grass cutting as low as 1.2 inches or as high as 3.75 inches.

As far as dispersal goes, you can either eject the clippings out the side for later raking or mulch them back into the lawn.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 125cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 43.92 pounds
• Mowing Width: 20 inches
• Cut Height: 1.2 to 3.75 inches

A two-year limited warranty is icing on the cake. Have yourself a metaphorical slice and pick this guy up at Home Depot.

PowerSmart DB8621PH

Are you intrigued by the dark aesthetic and design of the Murray mower described above, but you need a few more features – like a rear collection bag and a larger engine? Give this 21-inch gas mower from PowerSmart a go!

Right off the bat, you’ll notice its sleek, black design and robust appearance.

Arriving almost fully assembled, the 75-pound frame is amply sturdy, yet light enough for easy maneuverability through a small to medium lawn.

After priming the carburetor and pulling the cord, the four-stroke 209cc engine roars to life, slicing through grass like Wesley Snipes’ Blade through vampires.

The clippings can either be mulched, fed into the 15.9-gallon rear bag, or discharged out the side.

A cutting height of 1.18 to three inches is made possible by five different blade settings, with each wheel sporting its own adjustment lever.

The gas tank holds about a quart of gas, and once the yard is cut, the handle folds over for convenient storage. And a three-year warranty is included with purchase.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 209cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 75 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches
• Cut Height: 1.18 to 3 inches

You can find this mower available via Amazon.

Toro Recycler 21462

A bright red, 83-pound mower with a 22-inch steel deck and a quart-sized fuel tank, the Toro 21462 Recycler® is ideal for those who want the convenience of cutting their small- to medium-sized lawns with a mower that features an intuitive propulsion system.

What does that mean? Straddling the line between push and self-propelled models, the Personal Pace Auto-Drive™ system adjusts the mower’s speed based on the user’s push.

The harder the user pushes, the faster the mower moves, adjusting quickly as the moment demands it.

You can move slowly on turns and around edges, then up the speed for straight shots through the lawn, never having to fiddle with a speed adjustment switch.

This model’s 163cc engine consistently starts with a single pull of the start cord – no priming required – and cuts grass in a height range of one to four inches, thanks to nine different cutting positions via a four-point adjustment lever system.

The cuttings can either be side-discharged, mulched to an ultra-fine consistency, or bagged, with a lever that allows for easy switching between the latter two while the bag remains attached.

This mower comes with a two-year warranty and a three-year “guaranteed-to-start” engine warranty.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 163cc
• Propulsion: Self-propelled
• Weight: 83 pounds
• Mowing Width: 22 inches
• Cut Height: 1 to 4 inches

Check current now at Home Depot.

Toro Timemaster 21200

The Toro 21200 Timemaster definitely helps you save time, thanks to its large 30-inch mowing width.

It actually has two rotors, rather than one – twin blades spin rapidly side-by-side to cut grass efficiently. Personally, these remind me of the tandem rotors of a Boeing CH-47 Chinook.

And just like that particular helicopter, the Timemaster is a big boy: it has a 223cc engine, weighs 145 pounds, holds 1.2 quarts of fuel for an hour of runtime in one go, and has a rear collection bag volume of about 26 gallons!

It’s the perfect workhorse for those who have a medium to large lawn, but don’t quite need a huge walk-behind or riding model.

For those with smaller lawns, the Toro 21200 Timemaster may be overkill – I’d recommend going with a smaller model.

Equipped with the same Personal Pace® system as the Toro Recycler® described above, this black and red beast also has a traction-assist handle, which allows for additional control over rough terrain.

Starting with the push of a button, rather than a pull cord, this model can side-discharge, mulch, or bag clippings, and the Spin-Stop™ system allows users to halt the blades without cutting the engine.

The Toro 21200 Timemaster has a cutting height range of 1.25 to 4.25 inches, which is adjustable at two points on the left wheels.

Once you’re finished cutting grass, you can attach a hose to the deck’s washout port to clean the underside of grassy gunk, and two storage positions allow for easy storage.

The first folds the handle up vertically, while the second folds the handle all the way down, allowing you to nestle the mower upright in a tight spot in the shed.

With a three-year limited warranty and a three-year guaranteed-to-start engine warranty, you’ll have some peace of mind for a hot minute.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 223cc
• Propulsion: Self-propelled
• Weight: 145 pounds
• Mowing Width: 30 inches
• Cut Height: 1.25 to 4.25 inches

Grab yourself a Toro 21200 Timemaster now from Tractor Supply Company.

Troy-Bilt TB110

I’ve used mowers with sub-par traction on hilly lawns, and it’s quite a tough endeavor, trust me.

You fight tooth and nail for every uphill inch, but when you turn to go back down? You better have grippy shoes on, or you’ll be downhill sprinting real quick.

Thanks to its large, 11-inch rear wheels and S-wave tread pattern, the 66-pound Troy-Bilt TB110 can be safely used to cut turf on slopes throughout a small- to medium-sized lawn.

With its primeless and chokeless ReadyStart™ 140cc engine with a 0.8-quart fuel capacity, this red and black push model starts with a single pull of the cord.

It cuts grass in 21-inch-wide strips at a height range of 1.25 to 3.75 inches, thanks to six different blade positions at four points of adjustment.

Catch clippings in the 17.7-gallon rear collection bag, side discharge, or mulch them to spread back onto the lawn – a mulch kit is included for the latter.

A two-year limited warranty is included with this product.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 140cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 66 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches
• Cut Height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches

Check current now at Home Depot.

Troy-Bilt TBWC28

Do you have a medium to large lawn that demands a wider cut and more overall “oomph” than the Troy-Bilt TB110?

Then you should seriously consider the Troy-Bilt TBWC28, equipped with a 28-inch mowing deck, 195cc engine, and quart-sized fuel tank.

With the same high traction, large rear wheels as its smaller relative, the Troy Bilt TBWC28 mower will handle the rolling grassy hills of your property with ease.

It comes with self-propulsion via rear-wheel drive, which makes it easy to move this 160-pound unit around.

Additionally, the lever-mediated InStep™ variable speed adjusts based on your walking pace for improved control on rough terrain.

Cutting height ranges from 1.25 to 3.75 inches via six different settings with a single-lever adjustment system.

Starting the engine is always a cinch, thanks to an automatic choke and easy-pull cord.

The clippings can be discharged out the side or into the rear 18.6-gallon bag. They can also be mulched, via the included mulch kit.

A three-year warranty is included with purchase.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 195cc
• Propulsion: Self-propelled
• Weight: 160 pounds
• Mowing Width: 28 inches
• Cut Height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches

To grab yourself a Troy-Bilt TBWC28, visit Home Depot.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Before making such a purchase, it’s important to have a general idea of your constraints and what your needs are.

Let’s consider all of the variables to optimize your grass cutting endeavors, and save you from the dreaded buyer’s remorse.

Lawn

The lawn you cut is just as important as what you cut it with. Go outside, take a look at your turf, and consider the following:

“How big is my lawn?” The larger the lawn, the more you’ll benefit from a powerful engine and a larger mowing width, i.e. how wide each “stripe” of cut grass is, like that of the Toro 21200 Timemaster.

On the other hand, a huge beast of a mower would be overkill if you just have a small strip of turf to maintain in the backyard.

“How hilly is my lawn?” A landscape with tons of ups, downs, and steeply-angled inclines demands a mower with adequate traction and the engine capacity to propel itself.

If you go with a manual push model, a lighter frame comes in handy for muscling it up those hills.

“How is my lawn shaped, and what obstacles are in the way?” A nice, geometrically-shaped lawn that’s free of trees and hardscapes is pretty easy to cut.

But if your lawn is packed with nooks and crannies, or has various bumps, plants, and miscellaneous objects in the way, then you may want to consider a speed-controlled mower with a narrow deck that’s easily maneuverable.

“What’s growing in my lawn?” Different lawns have different growth rates, shoot sizes, densities, and maintenance requirements, depending on the type of turfgrass and weed species that comprise it.

For example, a thick, weedy, and tall lawn could benefit from some specialized blades, like the ones offered by Honda’s MicroCut® system, a feature of the HRX2176HYA model.

But a gardener could make do with more basic cutting features if they have a weed-free lawn filled with slow- and short-growing turfgrass species.

Engine Size

A larger engine will have more power to handle expansive lawns and hilly terrain than smaller engines.

However, a large engine can also be louder and guzzle more gas, which may disturb the neighbors and increase your fuel overhead, respectively.

Clipping Disposal

What you do with your lawn clippings once they’re cut is well worth considering. You have several options, and each comes with notable pros and cons.

Discharging them out the side of your mower is fast and easy. Especially long or wet blades of grass won’t bog down your rotor or clog your blades like they might with mulching.

The cons? Discharged clippings can build up in unaesthetic, grass-killing, and even disease-causing clumps on your lawn. Additionally, they can go flying onto spots where you wish they wouldn’t, such as driveways, sidewalks, and patios.

Mowers that can mulch your clippings, on the other hand, are fitted with specially-shaped blades that create a swirl of air under the mowing deck, which allows them to be cut repeatedly into smaller and smaller pieces.

The mulched clippings are deposited in a line as wide as the mowing deck rather than out to the side. When they return to the turf, they nourish the grass with nitrogen.

Wet or long grasses can gum up mulching blades, and sometimes, it’s enough to stop the rotors entirely. Mulching can also lead to a suboptimal cut, and may force you to walk slower to avoid the aforementioned clogging.

And finally, bagging. Collecting the clippings in a bag can result in a clean, crisply-cut turf. You don’t have the buildup of the former two methods, which leaves your lawn looking oh-so-fine.

The downside is that disposing of the clippings takes time and resources.

Cutting the engine, removing the bag, hauling it away for disposal – it can be a lot of extra work. Work that you may not deem worthwhile.

Priming Versus Auto-Choke

“Priming” a lawn mower’s engine adds fuel to its carburetor, which helps start the engine cold, or in other words, when the engine metal is cool after it hasn’t run for a while.

Models with an auto-choke feature restrict airflow into the carburetor, which promotes a better fuel-to-air ratio for easier cold starts.

Other than a few added seconds of priming before starting the engine, you won’t notice a huge difference in usage. It is possible to under- or over-prime the engine, though – the latter will require waiting about 10 to 15 minutes before trying again.

If you’re a priming neophyte or you don’t want to deal with the hassle, an auto-choke can make engine starting just a bit easier.

Fitness

A heavy mower that you have to push will cause you to break a bigger sweat than a self-propelled model, for straightaways as well as the turns.

Your strength, conditioning, and aversion to discomfort are all important factors to consider, especially with a potentially dangerous activity such as cutting grass in the heat of summer.

After engaging the speed control lever, the transmission powers the wheels and users can simply walk behind self-propelled mowers, guiding them gently as they clip their way around the yard.

Different models may feature front, rear, or all-wheel drive. Push mowers do not have a transmission, and they won’t move on their own.

Budget

Not everyone wants an expensive model with all the bells and whistles.

Some folks may not need a washout port, a super comprehensive warranty, or a blade-stopping system, preferring a simple, bare-bones mower to keep their grass from looking like a prairie.

Something easy to use, to keep the local HOA off their back.

For others, maintaining aesthetic turf is a serious pursuit, a point of pride, or perhaps a way of keeping up with the Joneses.

If this is you, then dropping a pretty penny on a premium mower can get you far in the lawn care game.

Maintenance and Safety

Once you’ve acquired your beautiful grass-cutting machine, there are some regular maintenance tasks that will ensure its performance for years to come.

Additionally, there are habits you should always practice to keep yourself and others around you safe.

For both, referring to your mower’s user manual will go a long way. No one knows more about a mower than its maker, after all.

But the following pointers should serve you well, regardless of model:

Maintenance Tips

Keep your mower maintained as the well-oiled machine it deserves to be.

Check the dipstick before each use, and treat your engine right with high-quality oil, as recommended by the manufacturer.

Ensure that the blades are sharpened prior to the start of each growing season.

If you’ve got a side grass-cutting business going or have a large, unruly lawn, sharpening once more mid-season is a Smart move. Service technicians are qualified to safely sharpen blades, if you lack a grinding wheel of your own.

Before and after mowing, be sure to check the unit for damage.

Worn belts and loose wheels can lead to inadvertent breakdowns, and busted engines can be royal pains in the keister, especially if they occur when your lawn is halfway mowed.

After use, clean the blades and the underside of the mowing deck. These parts can easily become gunked up with clumps of grass clippings, which can hinder the performance of your equipment.

Don’t store gas in the gas tank during the offseason. Fuel lines can clog, parts can corrode, and you could be forced to pony up for some costly repairs.

And of course, it never hurts to take your mower into the shop each year for a general tune-up and servicing.

Many local businesses offer mower repair services. User manuals also typically include checklists of maintenance tasks with a suggested timeline.

Safety Tips

Don’t leave your mower unattended while the engine is running and the blades are spinning. If you plan on taking a break, it’s best to shut it off.

Or activate the Roto-Stop® system in the case of the Honda HRX2176HYA, or the Spin-Stop™ feature with the Toro Timemaster.

Be mindful of a hot engine. You don’t want to burn your skin via dermal contact!

Wear the proper personal protective equipment: eye protection, ear protection, long pants, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. Don’t go barefoot, no matter how zen it feels to let your piggies splay in the grass.

Keep your head on a swivel and pay attention to your surroundings at all times.

Make sure to cut the engine for nearby pedestrians, as small, hard objects thrown by the blades can injure bystanders.

The You Know, the Better You Mow

This primer on some of the best gas mowers will definitely save you some headache come purchasing time. The right tool for the job will always result in better work, that’s for sure!

Make sure to be the smartest shopper you can be. Consider your needs, resources, and preferences before pulling the trigger on a purchase. And don’t lose that receipt!

Do you have additional questions about these products, or personal experiences with any of them? The Комментарии и мнения владельцев section is wide open!

Need some more outstanding outdoor equipment to keep your yard looking fine? These guides will point you in the right direction:

© Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Product photos via Black Decker, Craftsman, Home Depot, Honda, Murray, PowerSmart, Toro, Tractor Supply, and Troy-Bilt. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock.

Best Commercial Push Mower in 2023: Top Offers With Reviews

If you are looking for the best commercial push mower, you need to consider all the features that are offered on the market. Lawn mowers for commercial use are originally built to do all your hard work with ease. Unlike consumer mowers, commercial ones handle a whole day of work, and after the “night sleep” they can go on. These gardening tools are durable and more powerful.

While residential machines can barely handle several hours of work a few days a week, commercial mowers work on bigger territories and do it splendidly without the rest. Their cutting decks get along even with the highest speeds of the blade. Tall grass or short, tough or not, commercial push mowers cut through it in no time. However, to do this, you have to find the most appropriate tool for you. This is why you may need my instructions and detailed commercial push mower reviews.

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Best Commercial Push Mowers

I have gathered my top-7 list of mowers for commercial use. It does not mean that you can’t use them as consumers at your house. They are powerful and durable enough to serve you for years. To find the one you really need, check out all the commercial walk behind mower reviews here.

Craftsman Engine – The Best Commercial Push Lawn Mower on Gas

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This lawn mower is simple in use and incredibly compact, which makes it perfect for both big and small storages. It runs on gas and does not require much care. After you have done with the lawn, the tool contracts, and you can keep it in the shed, garage, and storage with limited space.

While the tool is not massive, trust me when I say it can handle pretty big areas with its powerful engine. As a pleasant bonus, there is an auto choke and primer. There are mulching, rear, and side discharge functions for the lawn. I advise you to use them, especially if you have trees you want to cover with mulch.

Craftsman is an American-based developer of prime tools for private and commercial use. They offer top products at affordable for nearly a century. This machine has an incredibly comfortable handle. It is ergonomic and not slippery at all. It may be nothing for half of an hour of work, but in several hours this feature will turn into a true gift.

Besides, you can adjust the height of the cut. Usually, I switch between several heights, depending on the grass I cut. There are 6 options, from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. I recommend changing the height near the trees and close to the road.

• Six types of grass height;
• Powerful 149cc engine;
• 8 inches rear wheels;
• Auto choke;
• Ergonomic grip;
• Contracts by over 70 percent of full size;
• Well-known developer.

Greenworks Electric Engine – The Best Commercial Walk Behind Mower

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The mower has a 12 AMP motor inside and does not require gas for its work. It weighs 56 pounds, but you will not feel its weight thanks to the reliable four wheels that go through any grass. There is a 20 inches steel deck that makes the mower even more durable. The product can be considered as a 3 in 1 tool because of its mulching, rear bag, and side discharge features. This mower also has a height adjustment of the grass. It offers 7 levels of height. All you need to do is to push the ON button, and you will start cutting the grass.

Greenworks was founded in Seattle in 2017. This company produces battery-powered tools for the outdoors. This time it offers a tool that does not need any charge. Handles on the mower are foldable. I recommend folding it any time you are done with your work.

This way, you may keep it even in the limited space storage. Yet, I advise you to keep it somewhere far from moisture to extend the mower’s life. Front wheels are 7 inches, and rear wheels are 10 inches. Since this is a corded mower, you have to make sure that the cord is long enough to reach the electric outlet.

• Seven height options;
• Does not require any charge;
• Four powerful wheels;
• Foldable handles;
• Affordable price;
• Well-known developer.

BlackDecker Tool – The Best Professional Lawn Mower With Cord

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The button that starts this engine is situated right under your hands, near the handle. This mower also offers bagging, mulching, and side discharge. In the middle of this machine, you will find the height adjustment controller. There are 6 settings.

The motor is 13 AMP, which allows the mower to cut even through the tough and tall grass. However, my friend had a terrible experience with it, trying to cut wood for unknown reasons. Don’t do this! The winged blade inside will quickly stick. There is a 20 inches mower deck for your convenience. The handle is foldable, so you can shrink the tool after you use it.

Black Decker is an American-based developer of electric outdoor tools. It was founded in 1910. Since that time, the company has created millions of tools for your garden and house. They offer an electric mower without the need to charge it. Make sure the cord is long enough to move this tool around.

I also recommend cleaning the blade and wheels every time you finish the work. Don’t leave the grass inside. You will significantly extend its durability.

• Powerful engine;
• Six versatile height adjustments;
• Foldable handle;
• Simple to turn on and off;
• Well-known American developers;
• Affordable price.

PowerSmart Tool – The Leader Among Professional Push Mowers on Gas

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The mower works on gas, which is great news for everyone who doesn’t like to mess around with a cord or charge batteries. It has a 196 cc engine inside. Just pull it to start the mower’s work. The handle is comfortable as well. You may adjust it up to your preferences.

The mower is great for making a mulch. If you want to spread mulched leaves or grass on your lawn, you can do it in no time with the help of side discharge. This machine has only 5 height grass cutting positions, but you may still cut it to the size you like.

There are 11.5 inches rear wheels that help you to move the machine around your lawn. PowerSmart provides you with a 2 years limited warranty. This is a US-based company, and if something goes wrong, you can always call them. Yet, their tools are one of the most reliable, as far as I can tell.

• Rear wheels are 11.5 inches big;
• Cordless machine;
• Great for mulching;
• High-quality materials;
• Well-known developers;
• Two years warranty.

Makita Kit – Popular Choice Among Self Propelled Commercial Lawn Mowers

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The kit includes all you need to start mowing the lawn in no time. There are 4 batteries of 18V LXT, and 2 come free of charge. The motor produces 3 300 RPM. But don’t worry, it works quietly, so you will not bother your neighbors if you decide to cut the grass in the morning.

To make sure you will not get in trouble, turn the quiet mode. There is a steel deck of commercial quality, mulching feature, and adjustments of cutting grass height. There is a Makita Extreme Protection Technology that protects tools from the inside so that it can work in tough conditions

Makita is a legendary tool developer. They produce power tools for the outdoors. It is a Japanese company that was founded in 1915. This mower they offer is cordless and durable. Its lithium-ion batteries keep energy a long time and charge faster than simple batteries.

There is a Smart technology inside that is called Star Protection Computer Controls. It transfers signals from the battery to the machine itself, monitoring its condition, preventing overheating and overloading. I find it extremely useful. Yet, sometimes I forget to charge batteries in advance and have to wait before starting the work.

• The kit includes all the tools you may need;
• The engine is incredibly powerful;
• Quiet mode;
• The Smart computer inside;
• Price is affordable;
• High quality.

Lawn-Boy Mower – The Best Push Mower for Commercial Use

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Self Propelled gas-powered lawn mower is ideal for a private consumer. It is not lightweight, but 66 pounds is still transportable, especially if you have four powerful wheels. I’ve tested these wheels on hilly areas, don’t worry, they are hard to break. The height of the grass is adjustable in 6 versatile positions, from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. Keep in mind that there is a 21-inch width of the cut. There is an extended large bag that gathers the grass inside.

Lawn Boy is a well-known developer that produces power tools for the outdoors. The company was founded back in 1934. It grants you 3 years’ commitment. If anything happens with the mower, they will fix it for free. To be honest, I am not sure whether it is true, because I have never broken it.

But I suggest you call the company if anything happens. And be careful with the blade. Don’t put your fingers near it while the engine is still ON. There are safety measures on the mower, but I still believe there is no such thing as being too cautious. The Kohler XTX OHV engine is quite powerful.

• Four wheels that work on the hill;
• Engine is incredibly powerful;
• It is cordless;
• There are 6 height options;
• Extended bag for grass;
• Three years warranty.

Swisher Pro – The Best Commercial Lawn Equipment With 4 Speeds

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The gear shift in this model is located right on the handle for better convenience. You don’t have to bend, to turn it on or off. There is a 12V start engine with a G6 cutting blade. This tool is also comfortable because of 4-speed options. I don’t recommend using the whole power at the very beginning. You may not need it. Even though I have some tough areas in my yard, I still use the medium speed to make sure nothing is left. The handlebar is also adjustable. There are all controls gathered in one place, under the handle.

According to Swisher developers, this machine cuts through the woods and grass of 1.5 inches in diameter. I have not measured the diameter of the grass I cut, but I believe that this statement is true. The engine of the mower is incredibly powerful. The blade is enclosed, but I still try to be careful around it to avoid accidents. Don’t leave this tool working after you’ve done the job. There is a reverse mode, by the way, which I find extremely helpful for tough places that I need to go back to. Swisher is a US-based company.

• Cutting height adjustment from 3 inches to 4.75 inches;
• Powerful engine;
• Sharp cutting blade;
• Protective guard and safety deflectors;
• Cordless;
• American-based developer.

Commercial Push Mower Buyer’s Guide

I hope the reviews of commercial grade push lawn mowers I provided above will be helpful for you. But if you still are not sure of how to find the most suitable for you from the list, let’s talk more about the mowers. These particular tools can be used both for commercial and private purposes.

How to pick the best commercial push mower

• Engine power. It must be of high quality no matter what feeds it. If you are going for a corded tool, you need to make sure that the cord is long enough, and you can reach the entire territory. If it is gas-powered, make sure that the tank is big enough, and the machine does not consume all of it for the first several minutes. As for the battery-operated mowers, they must be lithium-ion and quick to charge.
• Blade width. I recommend you to pay attention to the mulching blade if you use mulch for the lawn. There must be an adjustable height of the grass. Besides, the blade must be sharp enough. Check out how much area you can cut at once.
• Ease of use. If you have problems with using the mower, you need to find another one. For better comfort, the handle can be ergonomic with a tight grip. Besides, it is better when all the buttons are near your hands, and you don’t have to bend, to turn the mower off.
• Durability. Pay attention to the guarantees that the company gives and the materials the mower is made of.
• Warranty. It must be at least 2-3 years. The company has to offer you free of charge fix if anything happens with the mower. Pay attention to their offers.

Main advantages:

• Commercial mowers usually provide fast results of high quality;
• Commercial mowers serve much longer than simple ones. They were created more durable, with high-quality materials and a powerful engine;
• The main difference between commercial and simple mowers is in its power.

To extend the life of your mower follows the next steps:

• Clean it after the use;
• Don’t leave it under the rain;
• Fold it after the use if it is foldable;
• Always check whether the battery is enough.

Commercial Push Mower FAQ

Here are several most popular questions I’ve found on the Internet. I provide my answers based on my experience with the mowers. I hope you find them helpful.

How often should I replace blades on commercial mower?

You don’t necessarily have to replace the blades if you feel that they are less sharpened. After 20-25 hours of use, you can simply sharpen them. On average, blades have a life of up to 200 hours of use. After that, you may replace them with a new one.

What kind of oil does a commercial push mower use?

It depends on the area you live in. You need to find out how to change the oil in advance. SAE 30- is the most common for small engines of warmer temperatures. SAE 10W-30 is for a versatile range of temperature, normally taken for the cold weather. SAE5W-30 is for multiple temperatures. SAE 5W-30 is for cold temperatures. Vanguard 15W-50 is for continuous use and varying temperatures outside. Modern mowers don’t use too much oil and cut emissions.

Can I use a commercial grade mower for residential use?

Residential mowers can’t be used in commercial goals. However, you can easily start the commercial push mower in your household. Yet, you have to consider the fact that the price for commercial mowers is higher than for residential. However, commercial mowers are made for a long period of use; they are more durable, more powerful.

The Perfect Push Mower Choice

I believe all seven commercial mowers can be your perfect tools. The choice is yours. Pick the one that you need the most, considering its peculiarities like the power, engine requirements, blades, handle. Find out whether the price is suitable for you and if the company developer offers a warranty.

If my reviews are not enough for you, check out the opinions of other buyers. If you have one of these tools, please, share your personal opinion about it in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев below. Which mower do you prefer? Which is the feature you like the most?

The Best Commercial Lawn Mowers For Your Fleet in 2023

There’s no better time than now to start adding to your fleet of commercial lawn mowers. Looking for the best zero-turn, stand on or walk behind commercial mowers in 2023? Look no further. we’re fully stocked with the top brands to help you get the job done faster and better than ever.

As your local zero-turn lawn mower dealer, we’re excited to bring Scag, Exmark and Wright commercial lawn mowers to Columbia and beyond. We keep the most popular zero-turn lawn mowers and parts in-stock, and offer maintenance and repairs on all small engine equipment.

Want to learn more about the benefits of these commercial-grade zero-turn lawn mowers? Stop by one of our three locations today. Our friendly staff will be glad to show you the differences and help you find the best brand to add to your fleet in 2023. You can also schedule a demo today!

Exmark Lawn Mowers

Exmark mowers deliver more of what your work demands: performance, quality, reliability, and digital diagnostic tools. Exmark has been at the top of lawn care and mowing technology for over 30 years. Exmark did the research, listened to customers like you, and designed their commercial zero-turn mowers with industry-leading ergonomics and a variety of cutting widths. Their seating keep you comfortable with less impact, less jarring, and a smoother ride.

Scag Lawn Mowers

Get the job done fast enjoyable with SCAG’s superior commercial lawn mowers. Since 1983, Scag Power Equipment has been producing heavy-duty, commercial riding, stand-on and walk-behind lawn mowers money can buy. Scag’s innovation and attention to quality are known and respected throughout the industry, and the team at Thompson’s can help you figure out what equipment from our inventory will best fit your needs.

Wright Lawn Mowers

If you’re in the market for commercial mowers for your fleet, Wright is the perfect mower to help grow your business economically. Part of what makes Wright mowers great products start with its bones. From the split steel pulleys to the hydro gear transmission, all Wright products are spec’d with 100% heavy-duty commercial components. This saves your team time and money, season after season.

The Best Lawn Mowers of 2023

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission. were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Honda HRX217VKA

The Honda HRX217VKA is powerful, heavy and ideal for larger lawns. Read

Ego Power LM2135SP

This mower is powerful, comfortable, and a joy to use. It performed extremely well mulching and driving itself uphill. Read

Honda HRN216VKA

Honda has produced superior power equipment for many years and this mower, which operates with rear-wheel drive, is no exception. Read

Kobalt KM 5080-06

The electric Kobalt KM 5080-06 was flexible and easy to operate, and can run bagged or bagless. Read

Hart HLPM061US

The Hart HLPM061US performed well across terrains and has a simple to use speed control. Read

Cons

Until just a few short years ago, gas lawn mowers were king. As more consumers are seeking eco-friendly cars, homes, and, yes, power equipment, advanced battery technology answers the call.

Today, consumers can drive an electric car, thrive in a solar-powered home and maintain their property with battery-powered equipment. But are the new electric push lawn mowers as good as the old internal combustion mowers? We decided to find out.

We tested gasoline, electric-corded, and battery-powered lawn mowers from the leading brands. We were eager to see if the battery-powered mowers could handle a large yard as well as the tried-and-true gasoline models. We weren’t disappointed. The Honda HRX217VKA (available at Amazon) came out on top as Best Overall, edging out its predecessor and our previous winner, the Honda HRN216VKA.

For the non-gasoline mowers, the Ego Power LM2135SP (available at Walmart) is our choice for Best Electric Lawn Mower. This mower set-up was quick, and it handled our testing well. The Ego Power also includes features not found on similar electric models.

The Honda HRX217VKA was a pleasure to use.

• Power source: Gas
• Self-propelled: Yes
• Cutting options: Bag, Mulch, Rear discharge or shred leaves
• Drive: Rear-wheel
• Weight: 113 lbs

Quiet and powerful, the Honda HRX217VKA 21-inch NeXite lawn mower is the one to have for larger spaces. It is not designed for small yards, and you won’t be darting in and out of flower beds and shrubbery.

It is a pleasure to use. We had tested Honda mowers before and were familiar with their operation and overall product quality. The HRX217VKA did not disappoint. Easy to assemble and set up right out of the box, it started on the first pull of the cord.

Right away you can feel the heft of this mower with its innovative NeXite deck and powerful motor. It’s heavier than most mowers, but it feels planted on the lawn and tracks perfectly. It’s a mower for large lawns, and it makes the most difficult cuts a breeze.

With its 200cc motor and Select Drive Control, this mower easily cuts, bags and mulches the heaviest grass with ease. The Select Drive Control is almost intuitive as it lets you adjust the walking speed with a variety of settings.

The controls on the mower are large and easy to use. You can set the mower to bag or mulch or anywhere in between. Its user-friendly platform is clearly marked. You will use this lawn mower for years and years to come.

Cons

The Ego Power LM2135SP is the best electric lawn mower we’ve tested.

• Power source: Electric/battery
• Self-propelled: Yes
• Cutting options: Bag, Mulch, Side discharge
• Drive: Rear-wheel
• Weight: 88 lbs

Until a few years ago, those who preferred not to buy an internal combustion mower had little choice. But advanced battery technology has finally arrived and the benefits can readily be seen in the Ego Power LM2135SP, a 21-inch self-propelled electric mower. This cordless mower with a cutting width of 21 inches utilizes a 56-volt lithium ion battery to power through up to 60 minutes of lawn cutting.

The Ego Power is powerful, comfortable, and a joy to use. Even though the battery only lasted about an hour, the mower performed extremely well mulching and driving itself uphill. It has plenty of torque and is capable of doing anything a gasoline-powered mower can do. It is clean, easy to use, and efficient.

The set-up on this mower was the easiest of the bunch. The handle slides and folds across the mower with ease, making storage a snap. Adjusting it to a personal height takes seconds.

A quick 50-minute charge on the battery and you’re ready to go. The battery charger even has a cooling fan that improves charging times and keeps the battery cool.

Like some of our other mowers, the Ego Power has twin blades that improve mulching and keep the trips to empty the rear bag to a minimum. Cutting height is achieved with one easy-to-access lever.

Operation is straightforward, and the composite deck makes the mower light and easy to maneuver around yard obstacles. Simply depress the power button, pull the green handle and the blades begin to spin. Dual buttons on the handle make engaging the self-propel feature safe and comfortable.

2023 Bad Boy Mowers Push Mower

The Ego Power comes with LED headlights for convenience, and it was the only mower we tested that could propel itself when the blades were not spinning. This was a nice feature that eliminated pushing the mower back to the garage.

Other Lawn Mowers We Tested

Previously our pick for best lawn mower, the Honda HRN216VKA is a 21-inch self-propelled gas mower that’s a great choice for any yard. Honda has produced superior power equipment for many years, and this mower, which operates with rear-wheel drive, is no exception. It can handle the toughest lawns with ease and won’t take up much room in the garage.

The set-up was easy and the mower started on the first pull. Its smooth engine is quieter than the other gasoline mowers, and it has more than enough power to cut and mulch the grass even while going uphill.

The Honda has a stacked and offset blade design that produces smaller clippings, which allows for better mulching and bagging. This means more efficient cutting and fewer stops to empty the grass bag. The bagging and mulching options can be easily and safely selected, once the mower is off, by using one lever on the mowing deck.

The innovative self-propel system is comfortable on the hands, provides adequate speed control, and can even be adjusted for those who are taller or shorter. Folding the handle for storage can be done quickly. This Honda lawn mower even has a gas shut-off valve for off-season storage.

Cons

• Power source: Electric/battery
• Self-propelled: No
• Cutting options: Bag, Mulch, Side discharge
• Drive: Rear-wheel
• Weight: 66 lbs

The Kobalt 80V 21-inch electric mower is a great choice for anyone that wants an affordable, flexible, compact mower that is easy to maneuver and doesn’t require extension cords or gas cans. The mower is strong enough to chop through thick grass, and offers a highly adjustable cutting height.

At 66 pounds it is very easy to operate, with the ability to go bagged or bagless, and you can fold up the push handle for compact storage.

The main draw here is the 80V battery system, which gives you an hour of runtime in our testing, enough to cut about 7,500 square feet on a full charge. It also works in a variety of other Kobalt tools, and spares will run you right around 150. Charging the battery takes around 45 minutes when it’s dead, and it just pops into the battery slot and the mower can turn on with a press of a button if the safety key is inserted—much easier than having to use a traditional pull start.

Overall if you need a nice, basic mower to get the job done and want to go cordless, this is an excellent choice. It cuts clean lines, it’s easy to use, it can handle most lawns with ease, and the light weight makes it much easier to move up and around slopes and hills.

Especially if you’re planning to invest in a range of electric tools, this is a good system to buy into.

Cons

• Power source: Electric/battery
• Self-propelled: Yes
• Cutting options: Bag, Mulch, Side discharge
• Drive: All-wheel
• Weight: 89.5 lbs

This Hart lawnmower was a pleasant surprise.

After removing it from the box and charging the batteries, we fired it up and took it out to the thick, lush grass.

It performed beautifully; its powerful electric motor cut through the lawn with ease and even increased its revolutions when we cut thicker grass. This mower easily handles a larger lawn.

The Hart mower moved with power and confidence through the lawn, and the simple-to-use speed control was right there at your fingertips. While our winning Honda gas mower has a sophisticated Select Drive System, the Hart’s simple slide bar works as well or better.

This excellent lawnmower has the power and convenience of mowers costing much more.

Cons

The Toro is a worthy competitor to the top-ranking mowers on this list.

This Toro lawn mower has the largest cutting area at 22 inches, and it is powerful and comfortable to use, thanks to its Personal Pace self-propel system.

To engage the self-propel, simply push the lever forward a bit and the mower begins to move forward, push it a little more and the mower moves faster. After a couple of rows of cutting, you will see how easy it is to regulate speed. This system is not as intuitive as some of the others, but it still works quite well.

Another great feature: The Toro has Briggs and Stratton’s check-don’t-change oil system that never requires an oil change.

Storage is also a snap as the handle folds down and the mower can be stored vertically.

Cons

• Power source: Electric/battery
• Self-propelled: No
• Cutting options: Bag, Mulch, Rear discharge
• Drive: Rear-wheel
• Weight: 58 lbs

At just 58 pounds, this mower makes cutting small lawns a lot of fun. The rear discharge chute allows you trim close to trees, beds, and shrubbery. I found myself zipping around obstacles using only one hand.

This is a simple machine with one battery in the center. Charging time is quick, and once the battery is in you’re on your way.

This is not a lawn mower for the back 40. With a 20-inch cut and a small electric motor, it is just not capable of handling larger lawns. But for most mid to small yards, this mower can clean up the area in no time.

Light and easy to store, this is the perfect mower to keep a lawn looking great.

Cons

• Power source: Electric/battery
• Self-propelled: Yes
• Cutting options: Bag, Mulch, Side discharge
• Drive: Rear-wheel
• Weight: 78 lbs

The 21-inch Ryobi RY401150 40-volt brushless mower set up quickly and easily right out of the box. It includes double blades and cuts clean and clear.

This mower comes with two batteries that can be installed in the top of the machine. One notable drawback is that only one battery powers the mower at a time—cut your grass for approximately 30 minutes and when the first battery is depleted, you stop and move a switch to engage the second battery. Ryobi says that the batteries will last for 70 minutes, but stopping to change batteries seems counterproductive.

Otherwise, the mower performed well and completed all of the tests. It has a one-lever height adjustment and is light enough to maneuver around obstacles. It has plenty of power and handled the hill with little strain.

While both the Ego Power and Ryobi were solid performers on the electric front, the Ryobi was let down by its self-propel controls. The controls are located under the bar, but the lever is vague and unresponsive. Because the lever is designed for thumbs only, you need to push the lever in an awkward manner to get the mower up to speed.

Cons

• Power source: Electric/corded
• Self-propelled: No
• Cutting options: Bag, Mulch, Side discharge
• Drive: Rear-wheel
• Weight: 65 lbs

For a corded mower, the Greenworks 25022 lawn mower performed quite well. The set-up was easy, and once it was plugged in, it started right up.

Of course, before you use the mower there is the time-consuming task of unearthing your extension cord, unraveling it, and finding a suitable outdoor plug. Once plugged in, the mower embraces its purpose with ease.

It has a powerful 12-amp electric motor that may not conquer larger lawns, but is perfect for smaller yards and trimming duties. Not to mention it offers clean and even mowing.

Not being self-propelled, it takes some effort to push the lawn mower and cord uphill and then navigate a path back so as to not cut your cord.

Its small size makes storage a breeze.

Cons

The 14-inch Sun Joe MJ401E lawn mower is the easiest to store. Its diminutive size makes it the perfect lawn mower for small yards and trimming duties. It’s light enough to pick up and move, and it comes with an easy-to-use bagging system.

Still, this is not a lawn mower for cutting the typical suburban lawn, as its lightweight, short wheel base and small wheels make it a little unstable over roots and ruts.

Of all of the lawnmowers tested, the Sun Joe provided the most difficulty when it came time to adjust the height of the blades. The mower utilizes solid axles, front and rear, and the axles are located in a three-notch system under the mower. To change the height of the cut, you need to pull the spring-loaded axles from their positions and move them up or down. It’s a challenging exercise.

The Sun Joe is corded, so cutting area is limited. To its credit, it’s powerful enough when running, but the limited scope means you will have a hard time tackling an entire yard.

Cons

The Craftsman M220 is one of the more cumbersome mowers we’ve tested. Set up was more involved—to adjust it to my height I had to first kneel on the floor and remove two fasteners from the bottom of the handle and then pull the handle out of the body. Another two fasteners at the base of the handle allowed me to set the handle angle. The better mowers have release buttons and adjusting levers that allow the operator to make these adjustments quickly and safely while standing.

The mower started on the first pull and seemed to have enough power to tackle any lawn. However, the two levers on top of the handle—one to start and one for speed of self-propulsion—are difficult to operate. Both are difficult to grab if your hands are small to medium, and the levers are too far from the handle for comfortable operation. They’re also not intuitively placed; you have to look each time you make a pass.

The biggest disadvantage of this mower is that it is equipped with front-wheel drive. When self-propelled mowers first came out many years ago, a front-drive system was easy for manufacturers to design and implement and the homeowner didn’t have to push dead weight. The design worked for many years because there was nothing else. But over the years rear-drive systems were developed and it produced a more balanced, more comfortable cutting experience.

When cutting a lawn, the operator naturally has some weight on the handle. Add to this the weight of the grass in the bag off the back of the mower and you have a very light front end. Because the weight of the mower is not over the wheels, the front wheels tend to spin and grasp through each pass. This results in uneven lines, a hard to control mower (especially on a bumpy terrain), premature wearing out of the plastic front wheels, and difficulty trying to trim around obstacles. This antiquated front drive system really lets this mower down.

Cons

• Controls are cumbersome
• Front Drive System limits control and comfort
• Not nimble around obstacles

How We Tested Lawn Mowers

The Testers

We spent the summer mowing a half-acre New England lawn, over and over again.

Kevin Kavanaugh is a retired public school teacher and a product tester for Reviewed. Kevin has been cutting lawns for just about 50 years. He has always been intrigued by all things mechanical, be it watches, power equipment, vintage bicycles, or classic cars.

Ray Lane is a retired supermarket store manager, avid golfer, and product tester for Reviewed. His lawn is the envy of Cumberland, Rhode Island, and he has used several push mowers over the years. At 83 years of age, his input on the mowers was critical, specifically when evaluating ease of starting, maneuverability, and safety.

The Tests

We tested lawn mowers on both flat land and hills to test maneuverability and power.

After ordering from retailers like Lowe’s and The Home Depot, we assembled each mower and took note of the ease of the set up and how quickly we could adjust the handle to our preference. We then added gasoline, a battery, or an electrical cord to get the mower ready. We evaluated at the ease of setting the cutting height, first testing a high cutting height and then a lower one.

We took each mower on a few passes of an uncut half-acre lawn, measuring approximately 22,000 square feet, noting how it cut at a high height and a lower height while we monitored both the bagging and mulching features. Then we took each mower up and down a grassy hill to see how they performed. Our final test was testing storage capability.

What You Should Know About Lawn Mowers

Self-propelled lawn mowers can take some of the effort out of walk-behind mowing.

There are two basic types of walk-behind mowers: push and self-propelled.

The push type of mower is usually smaller, lighter, and easier to store. They are used primarily for smaller, level lawns. They are perfect for cleaning up areas that larger riding lawn mowers may miss. They can be run by gasoline, cords, or battery.

Self-propelled lawn mowers usually have a larger cutting diameter and can move on their own through operator controls. These mowers can also be powered by gasoline, cords, or battery. Since they take the brunt of the pushing away, self-propelled mowers are perfect for larger lawns up to a half-acre, and they can easily handle hills and sloped lawns. These self-propelled mowers aren’t fully robotic lawn mowers so you still have to do some work guiding them around your yard.

What Is A Self-propelled Lawn Mower?

The first self-propelled lawn mowers started to appear in the late-1960s. As suburbia grew and lawns got larger, pushing a heavy steel mower around on a summer afternoon wasn’t what most people wanted to be doing.

The first self-propelled mowers had primitive front-wheel drive systems that worked well enough, but the mowers often moved along too slowly. Sure, you weren’t pushing but you were caught in a slow-moving lawn-cutting procession. Early mowers either moved too slowly or too fast to match a natural walking speed.

Today’s mowers offer a much better propulsion system. The Honda NeXite Variable Speed 4-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self-propelled Mower with Select Drive Control, for example, allows a variety of walking speed settings. Owners can literally dial in their preferred walking speed so that they become one with the mower, not being pulled and not having to push.

The Ego Power Select Cut 56-Volt Brushless 21-in Self-propelled Cordless Electric Lawn Mower even allows the operator to drive out to the lawn without the blades turning. That is a great feature.

Today’s self-propelled mowers reduce operator fatigue and make cutting the grass easier than years ago. Self-propelled mowers make cutting on hills safer and more efficient. And with modern speed options they make a summertime chore a little more enjoyable.

Gasoline, Corded Electric, or Battery—Which Lawn Mower is Right for You?

Battery-powered lawn mowers can be powerful and efficient.

Gasoline

Gasoline-powered lawnmowers have kept lawns manicured for decades. They are powerful, reliable, and affordable, and come with features such as self-propelled movement, mulching features, and self-cleaning availability. They are powerful enough for large lawn care jobs and can tackle any lawn from a quarter- to half-acre acre. Any lawn bigger than that would necessitate a riding mower.

But gas-powered mowers emit dangerous carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, require yearly maintenance, and require the storage of gasoline and oil. This may not be suitable for some consumers.

Corded Electric

Corded electric mowers have been around for years and were historically the choice of consumers who had smaller lawns and didn’t need the more powerful gasoline mower. While powerful enough to get most cutting or trimming jobs done, the one obvious drawback to a corded mower is the electrical cord.

For any yard worthy of mowing, a long electrical extension cord is required to power the mower. This can be a minor annoyance, such as having to keep the cord free from getting tangled in trees and bushes, to a major annoyance when you drive over it and cut it into small pieces.

However, corded electric mowers require no gas, oil, or maintenance and, other than a blade sharpening from time to time, can perform reliably for years.

Battery

Battery-powered cars, power equipment, and tools have been around for a long time. The electric motors were strong and reliable enough, but the battery was not. Just a few years ago, an electric car could expect to go only 100 miles on a charge, and power tools and equipment didn’t last long either. In the past few years, battery technology has improved by leaps and bounds.

Electric cars can expect hundreds of miles on a charge and power tools and equipment can last a full day. This lithium battery technology found its way to lawnmowers and it has created a viable option for those consumers who don’t want gas and don’t want a cord. These battery-powered mowers are powerful, efficient, lightweight, and green. Many now use brushless electric motors, which are more efficient, produce more torque, and are longer lasting than the older electric motors with brushes.

How often should I mow my lawn?

Cutting the lawn too often and only cutting it when it gets overgrown are both unhealthy for a lush, beautiful lawn. The rule of thumb in the lawn-care industry is to keep the grass between 3 inches and 3.5 inches in length. This allows the grass to be long enough to thrive in hot, summer weather.

When cutting grass, never take more than a third of the blade at once. In other words, never cut more than an inch or so. Not only does this cause clumping of grass on the lawn or in the mower bag, but it takes too many nutrients and moisture from the grass itself.

After the late winter fertilizer treatments and the often heavy rains, lawns start to come to life. You’ll find that the grass will need cutting every 4 to 5 days in order to remove just enough length. As the summer wanes on and the temperature rises, the grass will grow a bit slower and a once week cutting is adequate.

It is also important to keep the blades of your lawnmower good and sharp. Since the lawnmower blades are often made of steel, they will develop a dull edge after a season of cutting. A dull edge on a blade will tear the grass and not cut it. This may result in browning of the tips of the grass and put more stress on the mower as well.

While you are under the deck checking those blades—and always disconnect the spark plug wire before going under the mower—be sure there is no old clumped up grass clinging to the mower deck.

Meet the testers

Director, Content Development

TJ is the Director of Content Development at Reviewed. He is a Massachusetts native and has covered electronics, cameras, TVs, smartphones, parenting, and more for Reviewed. He is from the self-styled Cranberry Capitol of the World, which is, in fact, a real thing.

Kevin Kavanaugh is a retired public school teacher and a product tester for Reviewed. Kevin has been cutting lawns for just about 50 years. He has always been intrigued by all things mechanical, be it watches, power equipment, vintage bicycles, or classic cars.

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