A lawn mower is a machine that cuts grass using one or more rotating blades. Lawn mowers come in different sizes, shapes, and power sources, depending on the type and size of the lawn they are designed to mow. Some of the most common types of lawn mowers are:
- Gas lawn mowers: These are powered by gasoline engines and are usually more powerful, durable, and versatile than electric or cordless lawn mowers. However, they also produce more noise, emissions, and maintenance costs.
- Electric lawn mowers: These are powered by electricity from a cord plugged into an outlet. They are quieter, cleaner, and cheaper to operate than gas lawn mowers, but they have limited mobility and run time due to the cord.
- Cordless lawn mowers: These are powered by rechargeable batteries that can be removed and replaced. They offer the convenience and environmental benefits of electric lawn mowers without the cord limitation, but they have lower power and shorter run time than gas lawn mowers.
- Robotic lawn mowers: These are autonomous machines that can mow your lawn without your supervision or intervention. They use sensors, GPS, and algorithms to navigate your yard and avoid obstacles. They are expensive, but they save you time and effort.
Our Top Picks
Here are our top picks for the best lawn mowers of 2023 based on our research and testing:
1. Best Overall Lawn Mower: Ego Power+ Select Cut Mower LM2135SP. This is a cordless self-propelled mower that can run for an hour on a single charge and has a dual-blade system that delivers a smooth and even cut. It also has a variable speed control, a mulching option, and a foldable handle for easy storage.
2. Best Value Lawn Mower: Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower. This is a cordless push mower that has a 40-volt battery system that can power multiple tools. It has a 16-inch cutting deck, a rear bagging option, and a single-lever height adjustment.
3. Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mower: Ryobi 40V Cordless Battery Walk Behind Mower. This is a cordless self-propelled mower that has a 40-volt battery that can last up to 70 minutes on a single charge. It has a 20-inch cutting deck, a brushless motor that delivers more power and torque, and a load-sensing technology that adjusts the power based on the grass condition.
4. Best Gas Lawn Mower: Honda NeXite Self-Propelled Mower. This is a gas self-propelled mower that has a powerful 200cc engine and a rear-wheel drive system that can handle hilly terrain. It also has a variable speed dial, a mulching option, and a five-year warranty.
5. Best Robotic Lawn Mower: Husqvarna Automower 430X Robotic Lawn Mower. This is a robotic mower that can cover up to 0.8 acres of lawn with minimal human intervention. It has GPS navigation, smart scheduling, anti-theft protection, and weather resistance features.
Things to Consider
If you are looking for the best lawn mowers to buy in 2023, you might be overwhelmed by the number of options available. There are different types of lawn mowers, such as corded, cordless, gas, electric, and robotic, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. To help you choose the right lawn mower for your needs and budget, we have compiled some of the most important factors to consider and some of the best lawn mowers on the market.
- The size and shape of your lawn. If you have a small or medium-sized lawn, you might prefer a corded or cordless electric lawn mower that is lightweight and easy to maneuver. If you have a large or uneven lawn, you might need a gas or self-propelled lawn mower that has more power and durability.
- The power source and run time. Corded electric lawn mowers require a power outlet and an extension cord, which can limit your mobility and pose a safety hazard. Cordless electric lawn mowers run on batteries that need to be charged regularly and may not last long enough for larger lawns. Gas lawn mowers have longer run times and more power, but they also produce more noise, emissions, and maintenance costs. Robotic lawn mowers are battery-powered and can operate autonomously, but they are expensive and require proper installation and programming.
- The cutting width and height. The cutting width determines how much grass you can cut in one pass, while the cutting height determines how short or long you can leave your grass. A wider cutting width can save you time and energy, but it can also make the mower heavier and harder to maneuver. A variable cutting height can allow you to adjust the mower to different grass types and seasons.
- The grass collection and disposal. Lawn mowers can either mulch, bag, or discharge the grass clippings. Mulching mowers cut the grass into fine pieces and return them to the soil as fertilizer. Bagging mowers collect the grass in a bag that needs to be emptied periodically. Discharging mowers eject the grass to the side or rear of the mower. Some mowers offer all three options, while others only offer one or two.
FAQs
1. What is the best type of lawn mower for my lawn?
The best type of lawn mower depends on your personal preferences and the characteristics of your lawn. Generally speaking, corded or cordless electric lawn mowers are best for small to medium-sized lawns that are flat and even. Gas or self-propelled lawn mowers are best for large or hilly lawns that have thick or tall grass. Robotic lawn mowers are best for those who want a hassle-free and eco-friendly way to maintain their lawns.
2. How often should I sharpen my lawn mower blades?
You should sharpen your lawn mower blades at least once a year or whenever they become dull or damaged. Sharp blades cut the grass cleanly and evenly, while dull blades tear the grass and cause browning and disease. You can sharpen your blades yourself with a file or a grinder, or take them to a professional service.
3. How do I store my lawn mower properly?
You should store your lawn mower in a dry and ventilated place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Before storing your mower for a long period of time, you should clean it thoroughly and remove any dirt, grass clippings, or debris from the deck, blades, wheels, and air filter. You should also drain or stabilize the fuel in gas mowers, remove or charge the battery in cordless mowers, and disconnect the spark plug in all mowers.
Conclusion
Choosing the best lawn mower for your lawn can make a big difference in how well you maintain your grass and how much you enjoy your outdoor space. There are many factors to consider when buying a lawn mower, such as the size and shape of your lawn, the power source and run time of the mower, the cutting width and height of the mower, and the grass collection and disposal options.
