8 Best Walk Behind Lawn Mowers That Make Yard Work a Breeze

A great walk-behind mower makes yard work faster and less tiring.

Pick from lightweight electric models for quick starts or gas mowers for tougher grass and slopes.

Look for comfortable handles, reliable motors, and easy height adjustments.

The right mower turns a chore into a quick weekend task.

Our Top Walk Behind Lawn Mower Picks

SENIX LSSG-M9 21″ Gas Self-Propelled Lawn Mower SENIX LSSG-M9 21-inch Gas Self-Propelled Lawn Mower - 140 cc Best for Rough TerrainCutting Width: 21 inchesPower Type: Gas engine (Briggs & Stratton 140 cc)Cutting Height Adjustment: 6-position dual-lever (1.25″ to 3.75″)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower Kit Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless Lawn Mower, Ultra-Light Push Mower with Best Cordless KitCutting Width: 16 inchesPower Type: 40V brushless battery cordlessCutting Height Adjustment: Single-lever, 5-position (1.25″ to 3.375″)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Greenworks 40V 16" Brushless Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Lightweight & QuietCutting Width: 16 inchesPower Type: 40V brushless battery cordlessCutting Height Adjustment: Single-lever, 5-position (1.25″ to 3.375″)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
YARDMAX 22″ 201cc Gas Lawn Mower (YG2860) YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Most Versatile Speed ControlCutting Width: 22 inchesPower Type: Gas engine (201cc)Cutting Height Adjustment: Single-lever height adjustmentVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
American Lawn Mower 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Eco-Friendly Manual MowingCutting Width: 14 inchesPower Type: Manual push reelCutting Height Adjustment: Adjustable (0.5″ to 1.75″)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
SENIX 20″ Gas Powered Walk-Behind Lawn Mower SENIX 20" Gas Lawn Mower, 144 cc Gas Powered Lawnmower, Powerful Mid-Size Gas MowerCutting Width: 20 inchesPower Type: Gas engine (144 cc)Cutting Height Adjustment: 3-position (1.35″, 2.3″, 3.15″)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP Compact Corded OptionCutting Width: 14 inchesPower Type: Electric corded (11 AMP)Cutting Height Adjustment: 5 positions (1.4″ to 3″)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade Precision Reel CuttingCutting Width: 18 inchesPower Type: Manual push reelCutting Height Adjustment: 9 positions (1.1″ to 2.5″)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. SENIX LSSG-M9 21″ Gas Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

    SENIX LSSG-M9 21-inch Gas Self-Propelled Lawn Mower - 140 cc

    Best for Rough Terrain

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    Should you’re looking for a lawn mower that handles rough and uneven terrain with ease, the SENIX LSSG-M9 21-inch gas self-propelled mower is built just for you. It features a strong Briggs & Stratton 140 cc engine that starts easily with a Prime N Pull system, cutting your effort. You’ll appreciate the 21-inch steel deck that offers mulching, side discharge, or rear bagging, giving you options for how you manage your grass clippings. Plus, the eight front and eleven rear wheels help you glide smoothly over bumpy ground. Adjust the cutting height with six easy settings to suit your lawn perfectly.

    • Cutting Width:21 inches
    • Power Type:Gas engine (Briggs & Stratton 140 cc)
    • Cutting Height Adjustment:6-position dual-lever (1.25″ to 3.75″)
    • Grass Clippings Management:3-in-1 (mulching, side discharge, rear bagging) + 16-gal bagger included
    • Maneuverability / Wheels:8 front wheels, 11 rear wheels for rough terrain
    • Warranty:2-year limited warranty
    • Additional Feature:Prime N Pull start
    • Additional Feature:8 front, 11 rear wheels
    • Additional Feature:Includes engine oil
  2. Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower Kit

    Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless Lawn Mower, Ultra-Light Push Mower with

    Best Cordless Kit

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    Provided that you have a small to medium lawn and want a mower that combines power with ease, the Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower Kit is designed just for you. Its 40V brushless motor gives you gas-like power without the fuss of gas or oil. You get about 35 minutes of runtime on a single 4.0Ah battery charge, perfect for lawns up to half an acre. The ultra-lightweight design makes it easy to push and store, while the quiet operation keeps your neighbors happy. Plus, the Smart Cut Adjustment System lets you change cutting heights with one lever, keeping your lawn just right.

    • Cutting Width:16 inches
    • Power Type:40V brushless battery cordless
    • Cutting Height Adjustment:Single-lever, 5-position (1.25″ to 3.375″)
    • Grass Clippings Management:2-in-1 mulching and rear bagging, includes bag
    • Maneuverability / Wheels:Ultra-lightweight, ergonomic handles, easy to maneuver
    • Warranty:3-year tool and 3-year battery warranty
    • Additional Feature:Brushless motor technology
    • Additional Feature:35 min runtime, 2 hr charge
    • Additional Feature:Compatible with 75+ tools
  3. Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower

    Greenworks 40V 16" Brushless Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible

    Lightweight & Quiet

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    Should you have a small to medium yard and want a mower that’s easy to handle, the Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower fits the bill perfectly. You’ll appreciate its lightweight design and push-button start that get you mowing without hassle. The brushless motor delivers strong torque quietly while lasting longer, making your yard work smoother. Adjust the cutting height easily with a single lever, choosing from five settings between 1-1/4″ and 3-3/8″. Plus, its 2-in-1 function lets you mulch or bag clippings. The 4.0Ah battery runs up to 30 minutes, charging fully in just two hours.

    • Cutting Width:16 inches
    • Power Type:40V brushless battery cordless
    • Cutting Height Adjustment:Single-lever, 5-position (1.25″ to 3.375″)
    • Grass Clippings Management:2-in-1 mulching and rear bagging, includes bag
    • Maneuverability / Wheels:Lightweight, easy push-button start for maneuvering
    • Warranty:3-year tool and 3-year battery warranty
    • Additional Feature:Push-button start
    • Additional Feature:Lightweight design
    • Additional Feature:Included battery and charger
  4. YARDMAX 22″ 201cc Gas Lawn Mower (YG2860)

    YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High

    Most Versatile Speed Control

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    In case you want a lawn mower that moves with you, the YARDMAX 22″ 201cc Gas Lawn Mower makes yard work feel less like a chore. Its 6-speed CVT transmission lets you adjust the pace perfectly to match your walking speed, so you won’t feel rushed or slowed down. The front-wheel drive and spiked rubber tires give you excellent traction, making it easier to maneuver over uneven ground. With a 22-inch cutting deck and 3-in-1 capability, you can mulch, bag, or side-discharge grass clippings effortlessly. Plus, the single-lever height adjustment and deck cleanout port save time and effort.

    • Cutting Width:22 inches
    • Power Type:Gas engine (201cc)
    • Cutting Height Adjustment:Single-lever height adjustment
    • Grass Clippings Management:3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge)
    • Maneuverability / Wheels:High wheels with spiked tread for traction and maneuverability
    • Warranty:Not specified
    • Additional Feature:CVT 6-speed transmission
    • Additional Feature:Automatic choke system
    • Additional Feature:Rubber spiked tread tires
  5. American Lawn Mower 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower

    American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn

    Eco-Friendly Manual Mowing

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    Should you have a small lawn and want a mower that’s easy to handle, the American Lawn Mower 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower is a perfect fit. Weighing just 19 pounds, it’s light enough to push effortlessly, even around tight corners. Its 14-inch cutting width suits small yards, and the four blades offer a clean, precise cut without bruising your grass. You can adjust the cutting height from half an inch to nearly two inches, so you tailor the trim to your lawn’s needs. Just bear in mind to mow often, avoid wet grass, and you’ll keep your turf healthy and happy.

    • Cutting Width:14 inches
    • Power Type:Manual push reel
    • Cutting Height Adjustment:Adjustable (0.5″ to 1.75″)
    • Grass Clippings Management:Manual reel, no bag; recommended frequent mowing
    • Maneuverability / Wheels:8.5-inch polymer wheels, lightweight 19 lbs
    • Warranty:Not specified
    • Additional Feature:Manual reel blade design
    • Additional Feature:Cuts up to 4″ grass
    • Additional Feature:Noise-free, pollution-free
  6. SENIX 20″ Gas Powered Walk-Behind Lawn Mower

    SENIX 20" Gas Lawn Mower, 144 cc Gas Powered Lawnmower,

    Powerful Mid-Size Gas Mower

    View Latest Price

    You’ll appreciate the SENIX 20″ Gas Powered Walk-Behind Lawn Mower provided you need a reliable tool that handles bigger lawns and tricky terrain without breaking a sweat. This mower features a powerful 144cc 4-cycle gas engine that offers plenty of muscle for large mowing jobs. Its 20-inch cutting width lets you cover more ground faster than smaller models. You can easily adjust the cutting height to tackle different grass lengths, thanks to its three-position height settings. Plus, the front and rear 7-inch wheels make traversing slopes and uneven ground feel smooth and controlled. Setup is quick, and a two-year warranty backs your purchase.

    • Cutting Width:20 inches
    • Power Type:Gas engine (144 cc)
    • Cutting Height Adjustment:3-position (1.35″, 2.3″, 3.15″)
    • Grass Clippings Management:Not specified (likely side discharge or bagging)
    • Maneuverability / Wheels:Front and rear 7-inch wheels for rugged terrain
    • Warranty:2-year warranty
    • Additional Feature:144cc 4QL engine
    • Additional Feature:Front and rear 7″ wheels
    • Additional Feature:Quick installation manual
  7. LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP

    LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP

    Compact Corded Option

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    Should you’re looking for a mower that keeps things simple and light, the LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower fits the bill perfectly. It runs on an 11 AMP motor spinning at 3,300 RPM, giving you smooth, consistent power without the fuss of gas or batteries. With a 14-inch cutting width and five height options from 1.4 to 3 inches, you can easily adjust it to suit your lawn’s needs. Coming in at only 28 pounds and featuring foldable handles, it’s easy to maneuver and store. Plus, the 7-gallon bag keeps your yard neat while catching clippings as you go.

    • Cutting Width:14 inches
    • Power Type:Electric corded (11 AMP)
    • Cutting Height Adjustment:5 positions (1.4″ to 3″)
    • Grass Clippings Management:7-gallon collection bag included
    • Maneuverability / Wheels:7.75-inch rear wheels, lightweight 28 lbs
    • Warranty:Not specified
    • Additional Feature:11 AMP motor
    • Additional Feature:Foldable push handles
    • Additional Feature:7-gallon collection bag
  8. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade

    LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade

    Precision Reel Cutting

    View Latest Price

    Should you have a small lawn and want a quiet, eco-friendly way to keep it neat, the LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower fits perfectly. Its 18-inch, 5-blade reel cuts grass like scissors, which means your lawn stays healthier without ripped or torn blades. You get nine cutting heights from 1.1 to 2.5 inches, so you can choose the perfect length for your grass. With 10-inch front wheels, maneuvering around tight spots feels easy and natural. Plus, since it has no motor, you’re saving energy and avoiding noise. It even comes with a collection bag to catch clippings, making cleanup simple.

    • Cutting Width:18 inches
    • Power Type:Manual push reel
    • Cutting Height Adjustment:9 positions (1.1″ to 2.5″)
    • Grass Clippings Management:Manual reel with collection bag included
    • Maneuverability / Wheels:10-inch front wheels for easy navigation
    • Warranty:Not specified
    • Additional Feature:5-blade steel reel
    • Additional Feature:9 cutting positions
    • Additional Feature:Includes collection bag

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Walk Behind Lawn Mower

As you’re picking a walk behind lawn mower, you’ll want to consider the engine type and how much power it offers to match your yard’s size. Cutting width and height matter too because they affect how quickly and neatly you can mow. Don’t forget to check how easy it is to move the mower around, manage grass clippings, and start it up without any hassle.

Engine Type and Power

Even though choosing the right engine type can feel tricky, comprehension your lawn’s size and terrain helps a lot. Gas engines, like 4-cycle models, offer strong power and long runtimes, making them great for big yards or hilly areas. They need fuel and regular tune-ups, but their consistent performance is worth it. Electric corded mowers deliver steady power without refueling but are limited due to cord length, so they suit smaller, flat lawns.

Battery-powered mowers run quietly and emission-free, perfect for quick jobs, though their 30–35 minute runtime means you could need extra batteries for bigger tasks. Also, consider how easy it is to start your mower—gas models might need a prime-and-pull, while electric ones often start with a push-button. Matching power and convenience to your needs makes mowing less of a chore.

Cutting Width and Height

Picking the right engine power is just the start of finding your perfect walk behind lawn mower. Next, consider cutting width. A wider deck, like 20 to 22 inches, lets you cover more ground fast, which is great if your lawn is big. But in case your yard has tight spots, a narrower deck between 12 and 18 inches helps you maneuver easily.

Then, focus on cutting height. Most mowers let you adjust from about 1.25 to 3.75 inches, with several positions to match your grass type and season. This flexibility keeps your turf healthy since you shouldn’t cut more than one-third of the blade length at once. Also, should your yard’s uneven, look for mowers with fine height adjustments and higher max settings to avoid scalping and damage.

Maneuverability and Wheels

Get a grip on maneuverability and wheels, and you’ll find mowing feels less like a chore and more like a smooth ride. Larger wheels, around 8 to 11 inches, help you roll over bumps and uneven ground without extra effort. Should your yard has slopes or thick grass, look for rear-wheel or high-wheel mowers—they offer better traction and easier steering.

Front-wheel drive or self-propelled models take some work off your hands, moving at a steady pace so you don’t wear out. For tight spaces, swivel or multidirectional front wheels let you turn close around flower beds with ease. Don’t forget the wheel tread—rubber grips better on slippery grass, while plastic can damage your lawn. Picking the right wheels means less strain and more control.

Grass Clipping Management

Managing grass clippings wisely can make your mowing routine much more enjoyable and less messy. Whenever choosing a walk behind mower, consider whether you want 3-in-1 flexibility, allowing you to mulch, side discharge, or bag clippings depending on your lawn’s needs. Mulching returns nutrients to the soil but works best when grass isn’t too tall—keep clippings short for quick decomposition.

Side discharge or bagging helps with wet or thick grass, preventing clumps and thatch buildup. Check the bagger’s capacity so you know how often you’ll need to stop and empty it. Should you compost, aim for coarser clippings from bagging or side discharge and keep an eye on moisture to avoid unpleasant smells. Matching your mower’s clipping system to your yard’s conditions keeps your lawn healthy and your work hassle-free.

Starting Mechanism Ease

Once you fire up a walk behind lawn mower, the starting mechanism can either make your day easier or add unnecessary frustration. In case you’re tired of yanking a recoil cord, consider electric start models that let you push a button and go. Gas mowers with automatic choke or primer bulbs also simplify cold starts, so you don’t have to pull multiple times.

Should strength or mobility be a concern, look for easy-to-reach starter cords or battery-powered options that reduce strain. Also, check how many steps it takes to start the mower. Fewer, clearly labeled controls help you avoid confusion and get going faster. Choosing a mower with a smooth, simple starting system means you’ll spend less time fussing and more time enjoying your freshly cut lawn.

Maintenance and Warranty

You’ll often find that keeping your walk behind lawn mower in good shape depends a lot on how well you maintain it and understand its warranty. Start by checking the warranty length and coverage—it’s smart to choose one with at least a two to three-year limited warranty that protects the engine, drive system, and deck from defects. Then, follow the maintenance schedule in the manual.

Change the oil every 25 to 50 hours, replace the air filter, and inspect the spark plug regularly to keep the engine running smoothly. Don’t forget to sharpen or replace the blade once a season to make sure clean cuts and ease the engine’s work. Clean the deck after each use to prevent grass buildup and corrosion. For gas models, use fresh fuel and add stabilizer when storing over 30 days, and care for the battery on electric mowers properly to prolong its life.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right walk-behind mower is like picking the perfect tool to paint your lawn’s story. Whether you prefer the quiet hum of a cordless or the steady power of gas, each mower helps you sculpt your yard with care and ease. Trust your choice to match your lawn’s unique rhythm, and watch your outdoor space bloom like a well-tended canvas, where every cut brings you closer to a magnum opus you can enjoy all season long.

Gardening Editorial Team
Gardening Editorial Team

Founded to help gardeners grow healthy, thriving plants, our team of experienced horticulturists and gardening experts carefully researches and produces content grounded in practical knowledge and proven techniques.