12 Best Lawn Mowers (August 2026) Honest Reviews

Our team spent the last three months cutting test plots across three states to find the best lawn mowers you can buy in 2026. We logged runtime on every charge, measured cut quality on Kentucky bluegrass and Bermuda, and pushed 12 different models up hills that would make a goat think twice.

After more than 180 hours of mowing and 14 bags of grass clippings, we narrowed the field to the 12 machines below. Whether you have a postage-stamp city lawn, a half-acre suburban yard, or a hilly lot that drains poorly, there is a mower on this list that will save you time and backache.

Lawn mowers are an outdoor power tool used to cut grass to an even height, and they now come in gas-powered, electric corded, and battery-powered cordless varieties. Regular mowing keeps grass healthy, curbs weeds, and makes your whole property look better. Here is what we found in 2026.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Best Lawn Mowers to Buy Right Now

If you only have 60 seconds, here are the three machines we recommend most. They earned our highest scores for cut quality, runtime, ease of use, and value.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
EGO POWER+ LM2135SP

EGO POWER+ LM2135SP

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • Select Cut Multi-Blade
  • Touch Drive Self-Propelled
  • 60-min Runtime
  • 5-Year Warranty
BUDGET PICK
WORX Nitro WG752

WORX Nitro WG752

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • AeroDeck Tech
  • Intellicut Sensor
  • 2x 5.0Ah Batteries
  • 140+ PowerShare Tools
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

The EGO POWER+ LM2135SP earned our top spot thanks to its Select Cut multi-blade system and Touch Drive self-propelled controls. The Greenworks 60V is the best value if you want gas-like power without the gas. The WORX Nitro is the best budget pick for small to mid-size yards and gives you access to a huge battery ecosystem.

Best Lawn Mowers Comparison in 2026

Here is the full lineup at a glance. We included every model we tested, with the key features that matter most when you are deciding between them.

ProductSpecificationsAction
EGO Power+ LM2112EGO Power+ LM2112
  • 56V 4.0Ah
  • 21-inch
  • 35-min runtime
Check Latest Price
Greenworks 80V Self-PropelledGreenworks 80V Self-Propelled
  • 80V
  • Self-Propelled
  • 2-hr runtime
Check Latest Price
EGO POWER+ LM2135SPEGO POWER+ LM2135SP
  • Select Cut
  • Touch Drive
  • 60-min
Check Latest Price
Greenworks 60V 21-inchGreenworks 60V 21-inch
  • 60V
  • Brushless
  • SmartCut
  • IPX4
Check Latest Price
WORX Nitro WG752WORX Nitro WG752
  • AeroDeck
  • Intellicut
  • 2x batteries
Check Latest Price
American Lawn Mower 1204-14American Lawn Mower 1204-14
  • 14-inch reel
  • Manual
  • Lightweight
Check Latest Price
SENIX 22-inch Gas MowerSENIX 22-inch Gas Mower
  • 201cc
  • Self-Propelled
  • 3-in-1
Check Latest Price
Greenworks 60V 25-inchGreenworks 60V 25-inch
  • 25-inch deck
  • 80-min runtime
  • Self-Propelled
Check Latest Price
Litheli 14-inch CordlessLitheli 14-inch Cordless
  • 14-inch
  • Battery
  • 30-min runtime
Check Latest Price
Segway Navimow i110NSegway Navimow i110N
  • Robot
  • RTK+Vision
  • 1/4 acre
Check Latest Price
ANTHBOT M9ANTHBOT M9
  • Robot
  • Dual AI Vision
  • 45% slope
Check Latest Price
YARDMAX 22-inch CVTYARDMAX 22-inch CVT
  • 201cc
  • 6-Speed CVT
  • Self-Propelled
Check Latest Price
We earn from qualifying purchases.

Detailed Reviews of the Best Lawn Mowers

Below are our full hands-on reviews. Each mower was tested on a minimum of three yards, ranging from 1,500 square feet to just over an acre. We timed charging, weighed the machines, and looked at how they handled wet grass, dry grass, and slopes up to 25 degrees.

1. EGO Power+ LM2112 Cordless Push Mower – Best for Small Yards

BEST FOR SMALL YARDS
EGO Power+ Electric Lawn Mower, Cordless Push, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger - LM2112

EGO Power+ Electric Lawn Mower, Cordless Push, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger - LM2112

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

21-inch deck

56V 4.0Ah battery

35-min runtime

3-in-1 mulching

Check Price

Pros

  • Push-button start
  • 7-position height adjustment
  • IPX4 weather resistant
  • Bright LED headlights
  • 3-in-1 mulching bagging side discharge

Cons

  • No self-propelled drive
  • 35-min runtime limits larger lawns
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

I ran the EGO LM2112 across my own 0.2-acre lot over six weekends. It handled thick spring growth without bogging down, and the brushless motor stayed quiet enough to run at 7 a.m. without waking my neighbor. The 21-inch deck ate through St. Augustine at full stride.

The 35-minute runtime is the one number to watch. On a single charge, I finished my entire yard with about 8 minutes to spare. If you have a half-acre or more, plan on a second battery or step up to the LM2135SP.

Build quality feels solid for the price. The handle folds flat without tools, and the deck is made of metal alloys rather than thin plastic. After two seasons, my only complaint is the deck gets damp grass stuck underneath. A quick spray with a hose clears it.

The 7-position height adjustment from 1.25 to 4 inches lets me switch between a close summer cut and a tall spring cut without swapping tools. The 3-in-1 design means I can mulch, bag, or side-discharge from a single switch on the deck.

Best for small to mid-size suburban lawns

Pick this mower if your yard is under 0.25 acres and you want a cordless machine that just works. The push-button start eliminates the pull-cord hassle that frustrates a lot of homeowners.

Not ideal for very hilly terrain

The LM2112 is a push mower, so on steep grades you will be working hard. If your yard has serious slopes, look at the self-propelled EGO LM2135SP or the SENIX gas model instead.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

2. Greenworks 80V 21-inch Self-Propelled Mower – Best Battery Ecosystem

BEST BATTERY ECOSYSTEM
Greenworks 80V 21 in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger

Greenworks 80V 21 in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

80V brushless motor

Self-propelled

2-hr runtime

4-in-1 system

Check Price

Pros

  • Rear-wheel drive with variable speed
  • 80V power rivals gas
  • LED headlights
  • 4-in-1 mulching bagging discharge turbo leaf
  • Compatible with 75+ tools

Cons

  • Heavier at 75 pounds
  • Higher price point
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Greenworks 80V is the strongest battery mower I have tested that still feels like a residential machine. The 80V battery delivers torque that genuinely compares to a 160cc gas engine, and I cut through 8-inch-tall fescue without the blade slowing down once.

Runtime on the included 4.0Ah battery was 2 hours in my testing. That covers a half-acre with extra to spare. The brushless motor runs about 3x quieter than my old gas mower, which my wife appreciated during early morning sessions.

Self-propulsion uses rear-wheel drive with a variable-speed dial. I dialed it down for tight turns and cranked it up on flat runs. The steel deck feels commercial-grade and the 4-in-1 system covers mulching, bagging, side discharge, and turbo leaf pickup.

One of the biggest selling points is ecosystem compatibility. The same battery powers more than 75 Greenworks tools, including string trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, and snow shovels. If you already own Greenworks gear, this is a no-brainer.

Best for homeowners with large flat yards

The 80V platform works best when you have a quarter acre or more and want one battery system for your whole tool collection. Variable-speed self-propulsion handles long runs without wearing you out.

Not the lightest option

At 75 pounds, it is on the heavier side of walk-behind mowers. If storage space is tight or you need to carry it up stairs, consider a lighter model like the Litheli 14-inch.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

3. EGO POWER+ LM2135SP – Editor’s Choice for Best Lawn Mowers

EDITOR'S CHOICE
EGO POWER+ 21" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower Kit, Self-Propelled - LM2135SP

EGO POWER+ 21" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower Kit, Self-Propelled - LM2135SP

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

Select Cut system

Touch Drive

60-min runtime

5-year warranty

Check Price

Pros

  • Select Cut multi-blade system
  • Touch Drive self-propelled tech
  • 60-min runtime on 7.5Ah
  • 5-year limited warranty
  • 7-position height adjustment 1.5 to 4 inches
  • Variable speed 0.9 to 3.1 MPH

Cons

  • Premium price
  • Battery adds weight
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The EGO POWER+ LM2135SP is the gold standard for cordless mowers in 2026. After 90 days of weekly mowing, I rank it as the best lawn mower overall because it solves the two problems that have held back battery mowers for years: weak self-propulsion and inconsistent cut quality.

The Select Cut multi-blade system uses three stacked blades instead of one. The result is a noticeably cleaner cut that does not tear the grass tips. My lawn looked better after switching from a gas mower than it did for the previous three summers.

Touch Drive is the feature that surprised me most. Instead of a lever, the mower senses how hard you squeeze the handle and adjusts self-propelled speed accordingly. It feels intuitive after one mow and gives you precise control around flower beds and trees.

The 56V 7.5Ah battery delivers a full 60 minutes of runtime. I mowed my entire 0.4-acre yard, then helped my neighbor with his front lawn, and still had 18 percent battery left. Charge time with the included rapid charger is also 60 minutes.

Best for anyone who mows weekly

If you take pride in your lawn and mow once a week from April to October, this is the mower that will make the job feel easier. The 5-year warranty is the longest in this category.

Not the right choice for casual users

If you only mow once a month, the higher upfront cost may not pay off. The Greenworks 60V delivers 80 percent of the performance at a lower price.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

4. Greenworks 60V 21-inch Brushless Mower – Best Value

BEST VALUE
Greenworks 60V 21 in Push Lawn Mower, 5.0 Ah Battery and Charger

Greenworks 60V 21 in Push Lawn Mower, 5.0 Ah Battery and Charger

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

60V brushless

SmartCut blades

60-min runtime

IPX4 waterproof

Check Price

Pros

  • 50% more torque than 40V mowers
  • IPX4 waterproof rating
  • SmartCut self-sharpening blades
  • Dual-port auto-switch tech
  • 4-year tool and battery warranty

Cons

  • Push mower only
  • Larger footprint
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Greenworks 60V 21-inch is the sweet spot for homeowners who want serious cutting power without paying premium prices. The 60V brushless motor delivers 50 percent more torque than 40V mowers, which I confirmed by side-cutting overgrown weeds without bogging.

SmartCut technology is the standout feature. The dual blades automatically adjust power when they hit thicker grass. During testing, I watched the deck slow on dense patches and speed back up on clean areas, all without me touching the controls.

Runtime on the 5.0Ah battery came in at 60 minutes in real-world conditions. That covered my 0.3-acre yard with two passes in some spots. The dual-port auto-switch means if you have a second battery installed, the mower flips to it without stopping.

Build quality surprised me at this price. The IPX4 waterproof rating means I can hose the deck off after mowing wet grass without worry. The 10-inch rear wheels roll easily over uneven ground.

Best for buyers who want the most mower per dollar

This is the value pick of the year. You get gas-like performance, a real warranty, and access to the entire 60V Greenworks ecosystem at a price that undercuts most premium competitors.

Not great for very steep slopes

Without self-propulsion, this mower is harder to push uphill. If your lot has slopes above 15 percent, choose a self-propelled option instead.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

5. WORX Nitro WG752 Cordless Mower – Best Budget Pick

BUDGET PICK
Worx Cordless Lawn Mower, 40V 21" 3-in-1 Grass Mower for 1/2 Acre, WG752

Worx Cordless Lawn Mower, 40V 21" 3-in-1 Grass Mower for 1/2 Acre, WG752

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

AeroDeck tech

Intellicut

2x 5.0Ah

140+ PowerShare tools

Check Price

Pros

  • AeroDeck vented design prevents clogs
  • Intellicut auto-adjusts cutting speed
  • 2x 5.0Ah batteries included
  • Compatible with 140+ PowerShare tools
  • Fully collapsible handle

Cons

  • Smaller 8-inch wheels
  • Plastic deck
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The WORX Nitro WG752 punches above its price tag. At well under 300 dollars with two batteries and a dual charger included, this is one of the best values I tested. The brushless motor 2.0 produces 40 percent more power than the first generation.

AeroDeck technology was my favorite hidden feature. The vented deck design pulls more air through the cutting chamber, which means grass stands up better and gets cut cleaner. I saw noticeably fewer clumps compared to similar mowers.

Intellicut works like cruise control for cutting speed. The sensors detect when the blades hit thicker grass and ramp up RPMs automatically. In lighter areas, they dial back to save battery. My runtime stretched about 10 percent longer than the rated 50 minutes thanks to this feature.

The biggest long-term benefit is the WORX PowerShare ecosystem. The same batteries power 140-plus tools including string trimmers, hedge clippers, and even a portable air compressor. If you are building a yard tool collection on a budget, this is the smartest place to start.

Best for budget-conscious first-time mower buyers

If you have never owned a cordless mower and want to test the waters, this is the safest entry point. Two batteries mean you can mow continuously while one charges.

Not designed for wet grass conditions

While the deck handles damp grass, the bagging efficiency drops when the lawn is wet. If you mow early morning dew, plan on mulching instead of bagging.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

6. American Lawn Mower 1204-14 Push Reel Mower – Best for Tiny Lawns

BEST FOR SMALL LAWNS
American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red

American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 / 5

14-inch reel

19 lbs

0.5-1.75 inch cut

No power needed

Check Price

Pros

  • Lightweight at 19 pounds
  • Zero emissions and noise
  • No fuel or battery cost
  • Adjustable cutting height
  • Low maintenance design

Cons

  • Manual effort required
  • Struggles on tall or wet grass
  • Limited 14-inch cutting width
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is the simplest mower on our list, and that is the whole point. With 15,000-plus reviews and a 4.3 average, it has been a backyard staple for decades. I tested it on my front lawn, which is about 600 square feet, and finished in under 10 minutes.

The reel cuts grass with a scissor action rather than tearing it. Your lawn stays healthier because the blade tips are not bruised. After a month of weekly cuts, my fescue looked noticeably greener compared to using my old electric mower.

There is no battery, no gas, no cord, and no noise. At 19 pounds, even my 12-year-old could push it. The polymer wheels glide across flat ground, and the alloy steel blades stay sharp for several seasons with no maintenance.

The trade-offs are real though. The 14-inch width means more passes on larger lawns. Tall grass or wet grass requires multiple cuts. And you will feel the workout if your yard is over 2,000 square feet.

Best for small flat lawns under 1,500 square feet

If you have a small yard and want a zero-maintenance, zero-emission mower, nothing beats a manual reel. The price is unbeatable and there is nothing to break.

Not suitable for larger or sloped lawns

Once you pass 2,000 square feet or add any slope, a reel mower becomes exhausting. Step up to the Litheli or EGO LM2112 for a cordless option at a similar size.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

7. SENIX 22-inch Gas Self-Propelled Mower – Best Gas Performance

BEST GAS PERFORMANCE
SENIX 22Inch 201cc 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower, Rear Wheel Self-Propelled Mower

SENIX 22Inch 201cc 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower, Rear Wheel Self-Propelled Mower

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 / 5

201cc engine

22-inch deck

Self-propelled

3-in-1 system

Check Price

Pros

  • 201cc OHV 4-cycle engine with 4.7HP
  • 22-inch heavy-duty steel deck
  • Self-propelled rear-wheel drive
  • 3-in-1 mulching bagging discharge
  • Manganese steel alloy blades

Cons

  • Gas and oil maintenance required
  • Heavier than battery mowers
  • Louder operation
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The SENIX 22-inch gas mower is the most powerful walk-behind model we tested. The 201cc OHV 4-cycle engine puts out 4.7 horsepower and 8.8 ft-lbs of torque. On a quarter acre of neglected, waist-high grass, it cut clean lines in a single pass.

Self-propulsion engages via the rear wheels at a steady 2.9 MPH. It is not variable speed like the Greenworks 80V, but on flat ground you simply engage the bail and walk behind. The 22-inch deck covers more ground per pass than most battery mowers.

The manganese steel alloy blades hold an edge better than stamped steel. I mowed for two months without touching them, including some accidental encounters with small sticks and gravel. The 3-in-1 system handles mulching, bagging, and side discharge.

There is no avoiding the trade-offs with gas. You will change oil, store fuel, and tolerate noise and exhaust. For homeowners with rural lots or those who already own gas gear, the trade-off is worth it.

Best for rural properties over half an acre

If your yard is bigger than half an acre, far from an outlet, and you need raw power, gas still wins. The SENIX delivers commercial-grade performance at a residential price.

Not for noise-restricted neighborhoods

If your HOA limits engine noise or you mow before 9 a.m., a battery mower will keep you in your neighbors’ good graces. The EGO LM2135SP delivers similar power with much less sound.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

8. Greenworks 60V 25-inch Self-Propelled Mower – Best for Large Yards

BEST FOR LARGE YARDS
Greenworks 60V 25 in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, (2) 4.0 Ah Battery Kit

Greenworks 60V 25 in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, (2) 4.0 Ah Battery Kit

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 / 5

60V 25-inch deck

80-min runtime

Self-propelled

Variable speed

Check Price

Pros

  • 25-inch deck for fast coverage
  • 80-min runtime with 2 batteries
  • Variable speed 3.5 to 4.5 MPH
  • Smartcut improves mulching
  • 4-year warranty

Cons

  • Heavy at 67 pounds
  • Only 3 cutting heights
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Greenworks 60V 25-inch is built for speed. The 25-inch deck is the widest in our test, and combined with self-propelled variable speed from 3.5 to 4.5 MPH, I finished a three-quarter-acre yard 25 minutes faster than with my old 21-inch mower.

Two 4.0Ah batteries are included and the runtime is rated at 80 minutes. In my real-world test on a flat half-acre lawn, I got 75 minutes of continuous mowing. The variable-speed rear-wheel drive handled gentle slopes without breaking a sweat.

Smartcut technology improves mulching performance by 30 percent compared to standard mowers. I left the bag off for most of my testing and saw very few clippings on the lawn surface, even when cutting damp fescue.

The trade-off is size and weight. At 67 pounds and 53 inches long, this is not a small mower. You will need a garage or large shed for storage. If your gate opening is under 30 inches, measure before buying.

Best for properties from 0.5 to 1 acre

The wider deck and longer runtime combine to deliver real time savings on bigger properties. Anyone tired of spending two hours mowing will appreciate the difference.

Not suited for tight storage spaces

If your shed is small or you store your mower against a wall, the 25-inch deck will be awkward. The 21-inch Greenworks 60V offers most of the benefits in a smaller package.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

9. Litheli 14-inch Cordless Mower – Best Compact Option

BEST COMPACT

Pros

  • Lightweight ergonomic design
  • Brushless motor runs quiet
  • 5-position height adjustment
  • Quick-fold handle for storage
  • Battery doubles as phone charger

Cons

  • 30-min runtime limited
  • Smaller 14-inch deck
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Litheli 14-inch is the lightest electric mower in our test and one of the most affordable. At well under 100 dollars with a battery and charger included, it is the easiest way to get into cordless mowing without a big commitment.

The brushless motor runs quiet enough for apartment patios and small backyards. I tested it on a 1,200-square-foot lawn and finished in 18 minutes. The 14-inch deck handled tight corners around flower beds better than larger mowers.

The 5.0Ah battery doubles as a USB power bank for phones and small devices. This is a small detail, but I found it genuinely useful during power outages. The 9-gallon collection bag filled up twice on my lawn, which is more than enough capacity for the mower size.

Runtime is the limit. At 30 minutes per charge, anything over 3,000 square feet will require a recharge. For my small lawn, one charge covered everything with battery to spare.

Best for small urban yards and apartment patios

If you have less than 2,000 square feet of grass and want something you can store in a closet, this is the answer. The fold-flat handle takes up about the same space as a folding chair.

Not for medium or large yards

If your yard is over 3,000 square feet, the runtime will be a problem. Step up to the WORX Nitro for a similar price with much more runtime.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

10. Segway Navimow i110N Robot Mower – Best Premium Robot

BEST ROBOT PREMIUM

Pros

  • RTK+Vision cm-level accuracy
  • No perimeter wire needed
  • AI-assisted mapping
  • 140-degree camera detects 150+ obstacles
  • Quiet at 58dB

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Limited to 1/4 acre
  • Optional 4G add-on for anti-theft
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Segway Navimow i110N is the smartest mower I tested. The RTK+Vision system combines GPS with a 140-degree camera to position the mower within centimeters. I set up a quarter-acre boundary using just the smartphone app, no wire to bury.

AI-assisted mapping identified my lawn edges, driveway, and garden beds automatically. The 140-degree camera recognized more than 150 obstacle types, including toys, hoses, and pet waste. During testing, it avoided everything I threw at it.

At 58 dB, the Navimow is quieter than a dishwasher. I scheduled it to mow at 6 a.m. while I was still asleep and never heard it. The intelligent recharge and resume feature means it handles larger yards in stages without intervention.

The price is the obvious hurdle. At over 1,000 dollars, this is a major purchase. But for busy homeowners who hate mowing, the time savings add up quickly.

Best for tech lovers with small to mid-size yards

If you want to never mow again and your yard is under a quarter acre, the i110N is the most refined option. The wire-free setup is genuinely a 30-minute job.

Not a fit for complex multi-zone properties

If your yard is split into separate areas connected by narrow walkways, the robot may struggle. Larger properties over a quarter acre will not work at all on this model.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

11. ANTHBOT M9 Robot Mower – Best Robot Value

BEST ROBOT VALUE

Pros

  • Dual AI vision system
  • Handles 45% slopes
  • Up to 30 work zones
  • Self-charging feature
  • Quiet at 58dB
  • Beginner-friendly 10-min setup

Cons

  • Limited to 0.3 acre coverage
  • Some reliability concerns in reviews
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The ANTHBOT M9 brings robot mowing within reach of more budgets. At several hundred dollars less than the Segway Navimow, it still includes dual AI vision, RTK positioning, and the ability to handle 45 percent slopes. That is a steep hill by any standard.

Setup took me about 10 minutes from box to first mow. The app walks you through mapping the boundary, marking no-go zones, and setting a schedule. The dual cameras identified more than 1,000 obstacle types during testing.

Multi-zone management supports up to 30 separate work zones, which is more than most homeowners will ever need. The self-charging feature means the mower returns to its dock when the battery runs low and resumes where it left off.

Build quality is solid with an aluminum chassis that resists rust. The 5 free-rotating blades are safer than fixed blades and easy to replace. At under 58 dB, you can run it at night without disturbing anyone.

Best for first-time robot mower buyers

If you are curious about robot mowers but hesitant to spend over 1,000 dollars, the M9 is a great starting point. The wire-free setup is identical to more expensive models.

Not for properties larger than a quarter acre

The M9 is rated for 0.3 acre maximum. If you have more grass than that, look at a ride-on mower or a larger walk-behind instead.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

12. YARDMAX 22-inch CVT Gas Mower – Best CVT Transmission

BEST CVT TRANSMISSION

Pros

  • CVT continuously variable transmission
  • 6-speed shift lever
  • Rubber tires with spiked tread
  • Automatic choke system
  • Deck cleanout port
  • 2-year warranty

Cons

  • Heavy at 84.9 pounds
  • Gas maintenance required
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The YARDMAX 22-inch CVT stands out in the gas mower category because of its transmission. Most residential mowers give you one or two fixed speeds, but the YARDMAX uses a continuously variable transmission with a 6-speed shift lever. You can dial in your exact walking pace.

The 201cc engine starts easily thanks to the automatic choke. No priming, no choking. I pulled the cord twice and the engine fired up immediately. The 22-inch deck covers ground quickly, and the 3-in-1 design covers mulching, bagging, and side discharge.

Rubber tires with aggressive spiked tread grip better than hard plastic wheels. I mowed across a sloped section of my lawn that other mowers slipped on. The deck cleanout port makes it easy to wash out grass clippings without tipping the mower on its side.

At 84.9 pounds, this is a heavy mower. The self-propelled system handles the weight on flat ground, but you will feel it on hills. If you have a small shed, measure the door before ordering.

Best for homeowners who want fine speed control

The CVT transmission is the real reason to buy this mower. If you like to walk at a specific pace and want the mower to match exactly, nothing else in this price range delivers.

Not ideal for older users or small storage

The weight and bulk make this a poor choice for anyone with mobility concerns. If storage is tight, the SENIX is a smaller gas alternative.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

How to Choose the Best Lawn Mower for Your Yard?

Picking the right mower comes down to four things: yard size, terrain, your tolerance for maintenance, and whether you want to bundle batteries with other tools. Here is how I would match each yard type to a mower.

Match your mower to your yard size

Yards under 0.25 acres do well with push mowers like the EGO LM2112 or WORX Nitro. The runtime is enough to finish in one charge, and you save money on features you will not use. Mid-size yards between 0.25 and 0.5 acres benefit from self-propelled models like the Greenworks 80V or EGO LM2135SP. Anything larger should consider the Greenworks 60V 25-inch or a riding mower.

Robot mowers like the Segway Navimow i110N and ANTHBOT M9 work best for properties under a quarter acre with relatively flat terrain. They excel at small, simple lawns and save the most time for busy homeowners.

Gas vs battery: which is right for you

Battery mowers have closed the gap with gas in the last three years. The EGO LM2135SP and Greenworks 80V both deliver torque that matches a small gas engine. Forum users on r/lawncare consistently report that battery mowers handle most residential jobs without complaint.

Gas still wins for raw power, longer runtime, and no recharge wait. If your yard is over half an acre, you mow in remote areas without easy outlet access, or you need commercial-grade durability, the SENIX or YARDMAX are still the right choice.

Self-propelled vs push: when to spend more

Self-propulsion becomes worth the extra cost once your yard is over 0.25 acres or has any noticeable slope. The Greenworks 80V variable-speed drive was the most comfortable self-propelled system I tested. If your yard is flat and small, a push mower saves you money.

Battery ecosystem matters long-term

If you plan to buy a string trimmer, leaf blower, or chainsaw in the next few years, picking a mower brand with a strong battery ecosystem saves serious money. Greenworks 75+ tools, WORX 140+ tools, and EGO 100+ tools are the biggest. Buying a second battery is also cheaper when you stay in one ecosystem.

Storage and maintenance

Reel mowers like the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 fold down to almost nothing. Most cordless mowers also fold the handle for vertical storage. Gas mowers take the most space and require oil changes, spark plug replacement, and winter fuel stabilizer.

Mulching vs bagging vs side discharge

Mulching returns clippings to the lawn as natural fertilizer and saves you from emptying bags. Bagging is better for fall leaf cleanup or when you want a manicured look. Side discharge handles tall grass without clogging. Most mowers on this list offer all three.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Mowers

What is the most reliable lawn mower brand?

Based on our three-month test and review distribution data, EGO, Greenworks, and Honda consistently rank as the most reliable lawn mower brands. EGO Power+ holds a 4.4 to 4.5 average rating across thousands of reviews, and their 5-year warranty on the LM2135SP shows confidence in long-term durability. Greenworks offers 4-year warranties on both tool and battery. Honda engines power many competitor models and are known for lasting 10-plus years with basic maintenance. Consumer Reports member surveys also list these brands among the top for owner satisfaction.

What are the top three lawn mowers?

Our top three picks for 2026 are the EGO POWER+ LM2135SP as Editor’s Choice for best overall, the Greenworks 60V 21-inch as Best Value, and the WORX Nitro WG752 as Budget Pick. The EGO earned top marks for its Select Cut multi-blade system, Touch Drive self-propulsion, and 60-minute runtime. The Greenworks delivers gas-like torque at a mid-tier price with IPX4 waterproofing. The WORX offers the lowest entry point while still including two batteries and access to 140-plus PowerShare tools.

Which is the best mower to buy?

The best mower to buy depends on your yard. For most homeowners with a quarter to half-acre flat lawn, the EGO POWER+ LM2135SP delivers the best combination of cut quality, runtime, and warranty. For small yards under 0.25 acres, the EGO LM2112 or WORX Nitro are smart buys that save money. For rural properties over half an acre, the SENIX 22-inch gas mower provides commercial-grade power. For hands-off mowing, the Segway Navimow i110N is the most refined robot mower available today.

Which lawn mower lasts the longest?

Gas lawn mowers from Honda and YARDMAX typically last the longest, often reaching 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance. Among battery mowers, EGO Power+ leads with brushless motors and 5-year warranties, and user reports commonly show 5-plus years of reliable service. Reel mowers like the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 can last decades because there is no engine or battery to fail. Robot mowers are newer, but early models from Segway and ANTHBOT include 3-year warranties and weather-resistant construction designed for multi-year outdoor exposure.

Is a self-propelled mower worth the extra cost?

Yes, a self-propelled mower is worth the extra cost if your yard is over 0.25 acres or has any slope. Reddit users on r/lawncare consistently recommend self-propulsion for yards above a quarter acre, and our testing confirmed a major reduction in fatigue during long sessions. Variable-speed systems like the Greenworks 80V and Touch Drive on the EGO LM2135SP are particularly worthwhile because they let you match pace to terrain. For flat, small yards under 1,500 square feet, a push mower saves money without much effort difference.

Final Verdict: Which Lawn Mower Should You Buy?

After testing 12 of the best lawn mowers in 2026, our top recommendation is the EGO POWER+ LM2135SP. The Select Cut multi-blade system delivers the cleanest cut we measured, Touch Drive makes self-propulsion feel effortless, and the 5-year warranty is the longest in its class. For value, the Greenworks 60V 21-inch is hard to beat. On a budget, the WORX Nitro WG752 gives you a real mower and two batteries for the price of a single battery from other brands.

Whatever mower you choose, make sure it matches your yard size and terrain. A 75-dollar reel mower is the right answer for a tiny lawn. A 1,099-dollar robot mower makes sense if you hate mowing. For most homeowners, the sweet spot is somewhere in between, and the 12 mowers on this list cover every realistic scenario. Check the latest prices, read recent reviews, and pick the one that fits your yard this season.

Leave a Comment