Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

What is a self-propelled lawnmower? They’re basically manual mowers that are easier to move than traditional ones. Since push mowers need to be maneuvered forward by your strength.

Self-propelled mowers come in many types such as:

  • Front-wheel: All it requires is that you lift its front wheels off the ground. Thus, making turning around smoother. These models are ideal for flat terrains.
  • Rear-wheel: They’re the best models for bigger yards and hilly terrains. Also, they’re very convenient for senior homeowners.
  • All-wheel drive (AWD): These models transfer power to all of the wheels evenly. Therefore, it’s perfect for rougher hillier yards. These also require very little effort since they come with a variety of pace levels.
  • Gas: These mowers have the advantages of lasting longer, being user-friendly, and being extremely affordable. Also, they don’t have any cords and are ideal for tackling bigger lawns.
  • Electric: Unlike the gas ones, they need to be plugged in to work. But, they’re very quiet, simple to start and cleanly do the job. They’re the best for smaller lawns. These also come in cordless versions that require charge between each use and last up to 45 minutes approximately.
  • Two-stroke engine: These models come with compression and return stroke. They’re very affordable and easy to use. They also fuel properly but require a little more maintenance than other engines.
  • Four-stroke engine: These include an exhaust stroke in addition to the compression and return strokes. They’re a bit more expensive and heavier so they may need more effort to use them. However, these are highly durable as they have combined lubrication systems.
  • Commercial: This kind of mowers are basically the ideal ones for large commercial or extensive residential areas as they have a more lasting engine.
  • Mulching: These models feature a function of re-circulating grass clippings back to the ground to redistribute essential nutrients onto the ground.

To sum up, these things seriously save effort, especially if you are doing it full time or have a big lawn. In my case, for example, I used to run toro and lawn boys all the time but they are more commercial than adapted for my yard’s needs, still, you’ll see that these references cover other needs perfectly.

On this occasion, we’re gonna show you only the best self-propelled models, instead of “walk-behinds”, since comfortable and effortless use is the key to this article. Just keep reading to find the mower that best suits your lawn type.

Best Rear Wheel Drive Self Propelled Lawn Mower

Lawn-Boy 17734 21-Inch 6.5 Gross Torque Kohler Electric Start XTX OHV, 3-in-1 Discharge Self Propelled Lawn Mower

Last update was on: March 16, 2024 8:24 pm
out of stock

As we stated before, these lawn mowers are excellent in handling hilly and irregular yards. Since on rear wheel models the traction is centered at the back, it allows a sharper mowing with back and forth motions. Therefore, they accomplish uphill and downhill cutting with such ease you may find hard to believe.

For instance, the Lawn-Boy with Kohler engine by Toro is one of the best electric-powered mowers. It not only provides strong traction for difficult terrains, but it also can handle grass in three ways: mulching, bagging, and side discharging.

This mower has a 21-inch cutting deck and a two-point height system that can be easily adjusted to different lawn heights to get the best results with an even cut.

For your added convenience, you can quickly empty the cutting bag so that you can efficiently invest your mowing time. As a plus, Lawn-Boy is so easy to start it even comes with a three-year Tru-Start Commitment in which the company offers to fix your machine for free if the mower does not start within 1 or 2 pulls for at least three years.

Finally, an important detail to clarify is that despite being ideal for shapely lawns, these rear-wheel mowers can also be used to handle flat yards. Nonetheless in this kind of terrain, they have a slightly bigger chance of cutting the grass unevenly.

Features:

  • Electric start
  • Powerful engine
  • Improved traction
  • Rear-wheel drive
  • Variable speed
  • Quickly empty
  • Smooth start-up
  • Tru-Start Commitment
  • Mulching capabilities
  • Bagging system
  • Large bag capacity
  • 2-point height of cut
  • 3-in-on cutting system
  • Adjustable handle
  • 2-position handle
  • Weight: 66 Lbs.
  • 21-inch steel deep dome deck
  • Dimensions: 40.5 x 22.3 x 37.7 inches
  • 2-year full coverage warranty

Best AWD Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Husqvarna L221A, 21 in. 160cc Honda Walk Behind Self-Propelled Mower

Last update was on: March 16, 2024 8:24 pm
out of stock

All-wheel drive mowers are just perfect for handling the roughest terrains in which a wheel or two might lose some traction power, whether it’s hills, thick grass, or muddy grounds.

For this kind of mowers, a Husqvarna is the best option if you’re looking to make a worthy inversion on an excellent performance mower. The mowers of this reference stand out for their great work in uphill and side-to-side, unlike the battery-powered mowers with plastic decks that are dangerous on hills.

These are highly powerful mowers that feature a 22-inch cutting deck made of steel and a 9-height adjustment with which you can cut to your desired height. Additionally, they allow you to cut weeds and overgrowths. And they come with a 3-in-1 cutting system that allows you to choose between bagging, mulching, or side discharging.

The Husqvarna is powered by a 190cc Honda engine that powers all wheels simultaneously for a maximum mower balance. Its wheels and rugged tread tires also ensure maximum traction without damaging your grass.

To sum up, they’re not only very easy to use but also easy to clean as they feature a deck wash that allows you to connect to a hosepipe to clean the underside of the mower deck.

Features:

  • All-wheel drive system
  • 190cc Honda GSV engine
  • Gas-powered
  • High traction power
  • Less power usage
  • Minimal noise
  • Easy smooth maneuvering
  • Time-saving
  • 3-in-on cutting system
  • Deck wash
  • Adjustable handle
  • 3 position handle height
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Straight bag through the handle
  • Water hose connection
  • Incorporated blade break
  • 22-inch blade
  • 11-inch rear wheels
  • Highly durable

Best Self-Propelled Commercial Lawn Mower

22 in. Kohler Low Wheel Variable Speed Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower

Last update was on: March 16, 2024 8:24 pm
out of stock

There’s no doubt that for covering extensive terrains the best way to go is commercial level mowers. As they have an extra-rugged design for professional performance regardless of the size of the field.

The Kohler Low Wheel Variable Speed mower from Toro is one of the best choices for these commercial levels. It has a 194cc engine with an automatic choke for power that requires no oil change. Instead, you just refill the oil as needed. This also makes it extremely easy to start and maneuver as it lets you guide it effortlessly through the whole space.

This mower comes with 9 cutting positions with a 1 – 4-inch cutting height range for you to manicure the lawn as you desire. Also, its front-wheel drive and variable pace speed features make it even easier to handle and make mowing easier, especially in tight spaces.

Nonetheless, the Kohler Low Wheel doesn’t stop at the front-drive prop. As it has 11-inch high rear wheels to assist you in tackling uneven, hilly, and almost any kind of rough terrain.

This model from Toro has a unique recycler cutting system front throw chamber and atomic blade lift. These provide suspension and re-cutting grass clippings into a fine mulch that can later guarantee a healthy and lush lawn. Besides, it counts with a classic 3-in-1 cutting system so that you can pick from mulch, side discharge or bag.

Lastly, a quick-connect bagging system seals the deal as it makes this mower the perfect one for storing enormous grass amounts leaving you with a perfectly trimmed lawn underneath.

Features:

  • 22 in. steel deck with an atomic blade
  • Kohler 6.75 ft. lb.
  • Gross torque 149cc OHV engine
  • Auto choke system
  • CARB compliant
  • Variable speed
  • Front-wheel drive provides better maneuverability and makes mowing in tight spaces easier
  • 11-inch high rear wheels
  • 3-in-1: mulch, side discharge or bag
  • Quick connect bagging system
  • Washout Port
  • 9 cutting positions with 1-4 in. cutting height range
  • 3-year guaranteed-to-start
  • 2-year full warranty
  • Gross torque of engine rated at 2,800 RPM per SAE J1940

Best Self-Propelled Mulching Lawn Mower

Snapper RP2185020 / 7800981 NINJA 190cc 3-N-1 Rear Wheel Drive Variable Speed Self-Propelled Lawn Mower with 21-Inch Deck and Ready...

Last update was on: March 16, 2024 8:24 pm
out of stock

As you may know, mulching mowers help to maintain a healthy green lawn. Although, you may not know exactly how. The way mulching mowers recycle the nutrients is by producing fine mulch out of grass clippings. Then, the machine returns them to the lawn where they rapidly decompose, allowing for the nutrients to get absorbed back into the soil. Therefore, with these fine models, you will be able to save on chemical fertilizers.

Amongst these mower types, the Snapper NINJA is the best option for you. It has variable speed paces and a rear-wheel drive. The way to start it is very easy with no need for priming or choking, so it’ll be ready when you are.

This one is actually one of the smoothest mowers to maneuver. It has a highly effective traction technology that allows power transfer to the wheels while maintaining your lawn safe from damage. Besides, it has a long-lasting performance that lets you work on larger areas, by the inclusion of a rugged solid steel front axle.

The Snapper NINJA has the best control with its improved wheel torque and speed adjustment. It handles hilly rough terrains perfectly.

Finally, as for the mulching function, it’s included and enhanced as the main feature in its 3-in-1 cutting system. Additionally, it has six powerful cutting surfaces and a deck design that mulch the grass and simultaneously blow it back onto the lawn.

Features:

  • 3-in-1 cutting system
  • Rear-wheel drive
  • Disc drive transmission
  • Higher wheel torque
  • Variable speed control
  • Smooth turn technology
  • Six powerful cutting surfaces
  • Rugged solid steel front axle
  • 6 cutting surfaces
  • Easy mulching
  • Deck design
  • Seven handle adjustments
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Cupholder
  • Easy to reach operator zone
  • Dependable power
  • OHV engine
  • Strong
  • Quiet
  • Durable
  • Long-lasting performance
  • Pull and go-to technology
  • 10-inch rear wheels
  • Cutting height adjustment
  • RP2185020 reference model

Best Self-Propelled Electric Lawn Mower

Ryobi. 20" RY40190 40-Volt Brushless Lithium-Ion Cordless Battery Self Propelled Lawn Mower with 5.0 Ah Battery and Charger Included

Last update was on: March 16, 2024 8:24 pm
in stock
$499.95

If you’re still debating whether to get an electric start mower or a gas-powered one, this brief explanation may solve your doubt. Electric mowers resemble gas ones in terms of configuration. Both of them include a rotary steel blade that spins inside the deck that’s either made of steel or plastic. Both, also have height adjustment lever and they can come with front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive.

The main differences involve noise production, fuel, and price. Despite gas models being cheaper, in the long run, electric ones cost less in the end as gas mowers need constant fuel recharge. Also, since gas mowers involve burning fossil fuel to work, electric models turn to be a more environmentally friendly choice, while also being less noisy.

Nonetheless, some electric mowers are considered less powerful and last less than gas-powered machines. But this depends on the brand, model, and of course the size of the terrain you’re working on.

So, to introduce a durable and effective brand, we present to you Ryobi in the 40V Brushless version. This is an effective cordless mower that can cut up to half an acre per battery change. Thus, making it extremely convenient, as it also has a compartment onboard to carry an extra battery.

It features a rear-wheel-drive that offers excellent uphill traction. Also counts with a 3-in-1 system that always comes in handy. And its height of cut adjustment varies from 1 – 4-inch high, giving you the chance to pick exactly how you want your yard to look.

Lastly, the seven height adjustment for the handle provides you a more comfortable and ergonomic mowing experience.

Features:

  • Electric start
  • Brushless motor
  • Gas-like power
  • Rear-wheel drive
  • 5 Ah high-capacity battery
  • Long-lasting performance
  • 21-inch steel deck
  • Durable
  • Collapsible handles
  • Compact storage
  • Push button for hassle-free starting
  • 7-position, single-point height adjustment
  • High-intensity LED headlights
  • 3-in-1 cutting system
  • On-board battery storage compartment
  • 40-volt Ah lithium-ion battery
  • Compatible with RYOBI 40-volt lithium tools
  • Deck size: 21 inches
  • Weight: 72 Lbs.
  • 5-year limited tool warranty
  • 3-year limited battery warranty

Best Brand of Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

The variety of brands is so enormous it’s easy to get overwhelmed. So far as we’ve checked several tests and reviews of the products, we cannot just recommend one brand. Yet, the best ones we found were the ones we just talked about and now the choice it’s up to you to pick the best one that suits your needs, your expectations, your budget, and your lawn type.

Featured image credit: “Lawn mower up close” by Ivan Radic is licensed under CC BY 2.0

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