If you have a large or hilly lawn, or you just want to make mowing easier and more enjoyable, you might want to consider a self-propelled lawn mower. Unlike a push mower, a self-propelled mower has a drive system that propels the mower forward with minimal effort from you. All you have to do is guide the mower along your desired path and control the speed and direction. Self-propelled mowers can also handle different types of grass and terrain better than push mowers, as they have more power and traction.
However, not all self-propelled mowers are created equal. There are many factors to consider when buying one, such as the power source, the cutting width, the deck material, the noise level, the battery life, the fuel efficiency, the warranty, and of course, the price. To help you narrow down your options, we have researched and tested some of the best self-propelled lawn mowers of 2023 and ranked them based on their performance, durability, ease of use, and value for money.
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: EGO POWER+ LM2102SP 21-Inch
This cordless self-propelled mower from EGO POWER+ is our top pick for its impressive power, runtime, and versatility. It has a 56-volt lithium-ion battery that delivers up to 60 minutes of cutting time on a single charge. It also has a brushless motor that provides more torque and efficiency than a conventional motor. The mower has a 21-inch cutting width and a variable speed self-propel system that adapts to your walking pace. You can choose from six cutting heights and three discharge options: mulching, bagging, or side discharge. The mower also has LED headlights for mowing in low-light conditions and a foldable design for easy storage.
2. Best Budget: Greenworks MO40L02 40-Volt 21-Inch
If you are looking for an affordable yet reliable self-propelled mower, you can’t go wrong with this model from Greenworks. It has a 40-volt lithium-ion battery that provides up to 45 minutes of runtime on a single charge. It also has a brushless motor that delivers more power and longer life than a brushed motor. The mower has a 21-inch cutting width and a rear-wheel drive system that offers better traction and control on slopes and uneven terrain. You can adjust the cutting height from 1.38 inches to 3.75 inches and choose between mulching or bagging your grass clippings.
3. Best Gas: Honda HRR216VKA Variable Speed
Gas mowers are still popular among many homeowners for their high power and unlimited runtime. If you prefer a gas-powered self-propelled mower, we recommend this one from Honda. It has a 160 cc engine that delivers smooth and consistent performance. It also has a variable speed smart drive system that allows you to adjust the speed from 0 to 4 mph with your fingertips. The mower has a 21-inch cutting width and a twin blade system that produces finer clippings for better mulching or bagging. You can also switch between mulching, bagging, or rear discharge with a single lever.
Things to Consider
If you are looking for the best self propelled lawn mowers of 2023, you might be overwhelmed by the many options available. To help you narrow down your choices, here are some things to consider and some frequently asked questions.
- Power source: Self propelled lawn mowers can be powered by gas, electricity or battery. Gas mowers are more powerful and can run longer, but they also require more maintenance and produce more emissions. Electric mowers are quieter and more eco-friendly, but they need a power outlet and a long cord. Battery mowers are convenient and cordless, but they have limited run time and need to be recharged.
- Cutting width: The wider the cutting width, the fewer passes you need to make to mow your lawn. However, wider mowers are also heavier and harder to maneuver around obstacles. The average cutting width for self propelled lawn mowers is 21 inches, but you can find models that range from 18 to 30 inches.
- Cutting height: The cutting height determines how short or long you want your grass to be. Most self propelled lawn mowers have a range of cutting heights that you can adjust with a single lever or multiple levers. The typical range is from 1 to 4 inches, but some models offer more or less options.
- Grass handling: Self propelled lawn mowers can handle grass clippings in different ways. They can mulch them, which means they cut them into fine pieces and return them to the lawn as fertilizer. They can bag them, which means they collect them in a rear or side bag that you need to empty periodically. Or they can discharge them, which means they eject them from the side or rear of the mower onto the lawn or sidewalk.
FAQs
1. How do I choose the right speed for my self propelled lawn mower?
Most self propelled lawn mowers have variable speed settings that you can control with a lever or a dial on the handle. The speed you choose depends on your personal preference, the terrain and the grass condition. Generally, you want to go slower on hills, wet grass or thick grass, and faster on flat, dry or thin grass.
2. How do I maintain my self propelled lawn mower?
The maintenance of your self propelled lawn mower depends on its power source. For gas mowers, you need to check and change the oil, spark plug and air filter regularly, as well as clean the carburetor and drain the fuel tank at the end of the season. For electric and battery mowers, you need to keep the blades sharp, clean the deck and battery terminals, and store the mower and battery in a dry place away from extreme temperatures.
3. How do I store my self propelled lawn mower?
Before storing your self propelled lawn mower for a long period of time, you need to clean it thoroughly and remove any dirt, grass clippings or debris from the deck, blades and wheels. You also need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preparing the engine or battery for storage. Some self propelled lawn mowers have foldable handles that allow you to save space when storing them.
Conclusion
Self propelled lawn mowers are great tools for making your yard work easier and faster. They come in different sizes, styles and features to suit your needs and preferences. When choosing the best self propelled lawn mower for your lawn, you should consider factors such as power source, cutting width, cutting height and grass handling. You should also follow proper maintenance and storage procedures to extend the life of your mower.
