Best Side-Discharge Lawn Mowers of 2025

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2025

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Side-discharge lawn mowers are an excellent choice for those who want a simple and efficient way to keep their lawn looking neat and tidy. These mowers are equipped with a side chute that disperses the clippings evenly across the lawn, eliminating the need for bagging or raking. They are also great for larger lawns, as they cover a wider area and can handle thicker grass. With various sizes and models available, side-discharge mowers are a versatile option for any homeowner looking to maintain their lawn with ease.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PowerSmart 21" Self Propelled Mower Cover #TOP 1
PowerSmart 21" Self Propelled Mower
ftb score rating icon 9.8
BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Cover #TOP 2
BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch Cover #TOP 3
Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Side-Discharge Lawn Mowers

#TOP 1

PowerSmart 21" Self Propelled Mower

B8621SXC
PowerSmart 21" Self Propelled Mower Cover
PowerSmart 21" 140cc Self Propelled Lawn Mower, 6-Position Adjustable Cutting Height, 3-in-1 with Mulching. Side Discharge. Rear Bagging, Easy Start

The PowerSmart Self Propelled Mower is designed to meet all your lawn care needs with its versatile 3-in-1 functionality, allowing you to mulch, side discharge, or rear bag clippings effortlessly. Its powerful 140cc engine ensures reliable performance, providing the strength you need to tackle any lawn. You can easily adjust the cutting height with six different settings, ranging from 1.5 to 3.9 inches, giving you the flexibility to achieve the perfect lawn finish. The self-propelled drive system enhances traction, making it easier to navigate inclines and uneven terrain, ensuring a smooth mowing experience.

What We Like
Great power
Efficient cutting
Robust and durable
Easy maneuverability
Fast shipping
What We Don't Like
Missing parts
Customer service difficulties

BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower

21 Inch, 201cc
BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Cover
BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 4-Cycle 201cc Engine, 3-in-1 Push Lawnmower with Bagging, Mulching & Side Discharge, Adjustable 10-Positions Cutting Height, Easy Start

The BILT HARD 21" Lawn Mower is a powerful and versatile walk-behind push lawnmower that will meet all your lawn maintenance needs. Equipped with a robust 170cc 4-stroke OHV engine, this gas-powered mower delivers efficient and reliable performance every time. Its 3-in-1 steel deck allows for mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging, providing you with a well-manicured garden. With its adjustable cutting height, you can easily customize the mowing height from 1.2" to 3.75" to match your lawn requirements. The comfortable foam-wrapped angled grip and smooth movement of the 8" rear and 7" front double ball-bearing wheels make mowing a breeze. Plus, with a 90-day warranty, you can have peace of mind knowing that any quality issues will be addressed by the support team.

What We Like
Starts easily on first pull
Powerful engine performance
Easy height adjustments
Good value for money
Quick assembly process
What We Don't Like
Some parts may vibrate
Short warranty period

Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch

YF22-3N1SP
Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch Cover
Yard Force Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, Powerful Briggs & Stratton 150cc Engine, 22” Made in America. Steel Deck, 3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge), High Rear Wheel Drive.

The Yard Force Gas Mower is a powerful and efficient walk-behind lawn mower designed to make your mowing tasks a breeze. Equipped with a Briggs & Stratton 150cc engine, this mower delivers reliable power to quickly tackle any job. The 22-inch cutting width provides a large cutting area, ensuring high durability. With the 7-position single-lever height adjustment, you can easily customize the cutting height from 1.25-inch to 3.75-inch to suit your lawn's needs. The 3-in-1 steel decking allows for mulching, side discharge, and rear discharge, giving you versatile mowing options. Additionally, the self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed makes mowing effortless, even on slopes. Experience the convenience and efficiency of the Yard Force Gas Mower for a well-maintained lawn.

What We Like
Powerful cutting performance
Easy assembly process
Self-propelled feature
Efficient fuel consumption
Effective for thick grass
What We Don't Like
Minor assembly instructions
Occasional speed adjustment needed
#TOP 4

SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch, 140 cc 4-Cycle Briggs & Stratton Engine, 3-in-1 Push Lawnmower, 6-Position Height Adjustment with 11-Inch Rear Wheels, LSPG-M7, Blue

LSPG-M7
Blue
140 cc
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch, 140 cc 4-Cycle Briggs & Stratton Engine, 3-in-1 Push Lawnmower, 6-Position Height Adjustment with 11-Inch Rear Wheels, LSPG-M7, Blue Cover
SENIX LSPG-M7 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower with 140 cc 4-Cycle Briggs & Stratton Engine, Bagging, Mulching, and Side Discharge, 6-Position Dual Lever Height Adjustment

The SENIX 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower is a powerful and versatile tool for maintaining your lawn. Equipped with a reliable Briggs & Stratton 140 cc 4-cycle E550 engine, this mower provides the power you need to quickly tackle any job. The 21-Inch cutting width and 3-in-1 steel deck allow for efficient mowing, with options for mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging. With a 6-position dual-lever height adjustment from 1.25-inch to 3.75-inch, you can easily customize the cutting height to suit your lawn's needs. The durable 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels provide excellent maneuverability, making it easy to navigate tough terrain and uneven surfaces. The ergonomic handle ensures maximum comfort during use, and the fold-down design allows for convenient storage. With a 3-year limited warranty, the SENIX 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower offers peace of mind and reliable performance.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Strong engine performance
Multiple grass catch features
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Possible shipping damage
Inconsistent starting issues
#TOP 5

PowerSmart 21" Push Lawn Mower

B8721C
Black
PowerSmart 21" Push Lawn Mower Cover
PowerSmart 21" Push Lawn Mower, B&S 125cc Engine, 2-in-1 Mulching and Side Discharge, Lightweight, Easy Assembly, Corded Push Lawn Mowers for Garden Yard

The PowerSmart Push Lawn Mower is designed for easy lawn care with its lightweight build of just 62 lbs, allowing you to maneuver effortlessly around your yard. The powerful B&S 125cc engine ensures reliable performance, making it suitable for various grass types. You can easily adjust the cutting height with six positions, allowing you to achieve the perfect finish for your lawn. Assembly and maintenance are hassle-free, thanks to the included manual that guides you through the process, ensuring you can enjoy your mower with minimal effort.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to use
Quiet operation
Long-lasting battery
Convenient height adjustment
Easy to store
What We Don't Like
Assembly may take some time
#TOP 6

PowerSmart 21-inch Gas Lawn Mower

DB8602PR-VC
Gray Bagger
PowerSmart 21-inch Gas Lawn Mower Cover
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-inch, 144cc OHV Engine 3-in-1 Rear Bag, Mulch and Side Discharge, 6-Position Height Adjustment

The PowerSmart Gas Mower features a robust 144cc 4-cycle engine that ensures easy starting with its recoil starter and auto choke, making your mowing tasks hassle-free. Its all-steel deck combines mulching, bagging, and side-discharging functions, giving you the flexibility to choose how to handle your grass clippings. With a 21-inch cutting blade, you can cover more ground quickly while achieving a clean cut. Additionally, the dual-lever height adjustment allows you to customize your mowing height, ranging from 1.5 to 3.9 inches, ensuring your lawn looks just the way you want it.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Starts easily after priming
Effective lawn cutting
Good bag for debris
What We Don't Like
Hard starting for some
#TOP 7

SENIX 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower

LSPG-M6
Blue
21 Inch
SENIX 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower Cover
SENIX 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower with 140 cc 4-Cycle Briggs & Stratton Engine, Mulching and Side Discharge, 6-Position Dual Lever Height Adjustment (LSPG-M6)

SENIX Gas Mower is a 21-inch lawn mower powered by a reliable 140 cc Briggs & Stratton engine, making it efficient for your lawn care needs. With its 2-in-1 steel deck for mulching and side discharge, you can easily maintain your lawn's appearance. The 6-position height adjustment allows you to customize the cutting height from 1.25 to 3.75 inches, catering to your lawn's specific requirements. Maneuver through tough terrain effortlessly with the 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels, while the ergonomic handle ensures comfort during use.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Simple push design
Powerful Briggs and Stratton engine
Good cut quality
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
May struggle in cold weather
Potential assembly challenges
#TOP 8

PowerSmart 21" Gas Lawn Mower

Black
125 cc
PowerSmart 21" Gas Lawn Mower Cover
PowerSmart 21 in. Gas Lawn Mower, 125cc Briggs and Stratton E300 Engine, 2-in-1 Mulching and Side Discharge

The PowerSmart Gas Mower features a powerful 125cc Briggs and Stratton E300 engine, ensuring reliable performance for your lawn care needs. With its 21-inch heavy-duty blade, you can cover more ground in less time, enhancing your mowing efficiency. The durable 15-gauge stamped steel deck offers both mulching and side-discharge options, allowing you to choose the best method for your lawn. Plus, it comes fully assembled—just unfold the handle to get started, making it easy for you to begin mowing without any hassle.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Starts on first pull
Powerful engine
Good value for price
Lightweight and maneuverable
What We Don't Like
Cheap mud flap
Minor durability concerns
#TOP 9

PowerSmart 21" Self-Propelled Mower

B8721S1
PowerSmart 21" Self-Propelled Mower Cover
PowerSmart 21in Self Propelled Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Gas Mower 140cc 4-Stroke Engine, Adjustable Cutting Height, 3-in-1 with Side Discharge, Mulching, Rear Bagging with Large Grass Catcher

The PowerSmart Self-Propelled Mower is designed to make your lawn care easier and more efficient. Its powerful 140cc engine ensures that you can tackle tough grass with ease, providing a superior cutting performance. You can customize your mowing experience with a 21-inch cutting width and six height adjustments, allowing you to cater to different grass types and conditions. The self-propelled drive feature minimizes fatigue, enabling you to cover larger areas quickly. Additionally, the mower offers versatile 3-in-1 capabilities, letting you choose between mulching, side discharge, or rear bagging to keep your yard looking neat and tidy.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Starts on first pull
Good cutting performance
Self-propelled feature
What We Don't Like
Speed adjustment issues
Durability concerns
#TOP 10

Yard Machines 20-in Push Lawn Mower

Yard Machines
11A-02BT729
Black and Red
Yard Machines 20-in Push Lawn Mower Cover
Yard Machines Gas Powered Push Lawn Mower with Engine Oil, 20 Inch Steel Cutting Deck, and Side Discharge for Outdoor Yards, Red/Black

A reliable gas powered push mower with a 125cc Briggs & Stratton engine, ideal for small yards with minimal obstacles. It features a 20-in deck with side discharge, 7-in wheels for reliable traction, and 3 cutting heights to choose from.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to use
Starts up reliably every time
Mostly assembled upon arrival
Great price for performance
Excellent cutting ability
What We Don't Like
Minor assembly required
Design flaws in height adjustment
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Side-Discharge Lawn Mowers for You

When it comes to purchasing a lawn mower, one of the first decisions you need to make is what type of cutting system to choose. Side-discharge lawn mowers are an excellent choice for those who want something that is both powerful and easy to maneuver. Here's what you should consider when selecting a side-discharge lawn mower:

  1. Cut Quality: A good side-discharge lawn mower will be able to produce clean, even cuts in grass of any length. Make sure that the model you're considering has at least one adjustable height setting so that you can customize the cut quality to your particular needs.

  2. Maneuverability: This is especially important if you have a lot of obstacles in your lawn, such as trees and flower beds. Look for a side-discharge lawn mower that has either a self-propelled or variable speed drive system, so you can adjust the speed of the mower to suit the terrain.

  3. Power: Make sure that the side-discharge lawn mower you choose is powerful enough for your needs. If you have a large yard with thick grass, look for mowers with larger engines that are capable of tackling more challenging jobs.

  4. Durability: Look for a side-discharge lawn mower made from strong, sturdy materials that will stand up to regular use without breaking down or having to be replaced soon after purchase. Pay attention to features such as rust-resistant components and anti-vibration technology, which can add years of life to your mower.

  5. Comfort: Look for a side-discharge lawn mower with ergonomic features such as adjustable handles and padded or cushioned seats. This will help ensure that you don't experience fatigue while using the mower, even after long periods of use.

Once you've considered all these factors, it's time to start comparing different models and prices so that you can make an informed decision about which side-discharge lawn mower best suits your needs. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect model for your yard!

Good luck in finding the best side-discharge lawn mower for your needs! With the right model, you can make yard work easier and enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained lawn.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should you use side discharge on lawn mower?

Using side discharge on a lawn mower can be beneficial if you mow your lawn regularly. It provides a fast and quality cut. However, there are downsides, such as throwing grass and debris everywhere.

2. What is the benefit of a side discharge mower?

A side discharge mower is ideal for large lawns as it allows for faster mowing by blowing the cut grass in various directions. This can help save time and complete the job efficiently.

3. Which is better, a rear or side discharge mower?

The choice between a rear or side discharge mower depends on your priorities. A side discharge deck offers flexibility and good cut quality, while a rear discharge deck prioritizes speed, uniform trimming discharge, and safety. It is important to choose a high-quality deck regardless of your preference.

4. What is the best mowing pattern for side discharge?

The best mowing pattern for side discharge involves two laps around, discharging inwards into uncut grass, then alternating directions along the desired axis. This pattern helps distribute the clippings evenly and aids in further reduction for a cleaner finish.

5. Is bagging or mulching better for the grass?

Mulching is often considered the best method for grass. Leaving the clippings on the lawn saves time and energy while returning valuable nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, to the soil. Grass clippings act as a natural fertilizer for the lawn.

6. Is it better to leave gas in a lawn mower?

Leaving gas in a lawn mower for a long time, especially over the winter, can cause problems. Ethanol in the gasoline attracts condensation and can mix with water, corroding the carburetor. It is recommended to drain the gas to keep the lawn mower in good shape during storage.

7. What are the pros and cons of a reel mower?

Reel mowers offer a low and tight cut, providing a clean and even appearance to the lawn. They also avoid grass discoloration. However, they can easily get jammed up by sticks and rocks, which is a drawback of using reel mowers.

8. Should you mulch with a zero turn?

Using a zero-turn mower for mulching is a popular choice among many users. Mulched leaves and grass clippings can provide nourishment to the lawn throughout the year. Adding a mulch baffling kit to the zero-turn mower can enhance its mulching capabilities.

9. Why use a rear discharge mower?

Rear discharge mowers send clippings out behind the deck, under the mower, instead of through a side-discharge chute. This keeps the operator cleaner and ensures that clippings are distributed uniformly over a wider area.

10. Why do landscapers mow diagonally?

Landscapers mow diagonally to prevent grass compaction and the formation of ruts. Mowing in different patterns also helps the grass stand up tall and can hide the appearance of weeds.

11. Should you edge or mow first?

It is recommended to mow first before edging. Mowing first allows you to determine the desired grass length along the edges and reduces the likelihood of scalping the areas, which can lead to bare or weedy patches.

Editor's Notes

During our side-discharge lawn mower research, we found 24 side-discharge lawn mower products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 14,869 customer reviews through our big data system to write the side-discharge lawn mowers list. We found that most customers choose side-discharge lawn mowers with an average price of $324.53.

The side-discharge lawn mowers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of side-discharge lawn mowers, including PowerSmart, BILT HARD, Yard Force, SENIX, Yard Machines. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bryan Hicks Avatar

Bryan Hicks is a professional gardener and a writer who lives in North Texas with his family and his dog. Bryan has spent more than half of his life surrounded by garden products. He has extensive experience in garden makeovers and maintenance and lawn care. His areas of expertise include outdoor decoration, gardening and garden design.

Side-Discharge Lawn Mowers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand PowerSmart BILT HARD Yard Force SENIX PowerSmart PowerSmart SENIX PowerSmart PowerSmart Yard Machines
Power Source Gas Powered Gasoline-Powered Gasoline-Powered Gasoline-Powered Gas Powered Gasoline-Powered Gas Powered Gasoline-Powered Gas Powered Gas Powered
Material Alloy Steel Metal Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Aluminum, Plastic Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Metal
Style 21in 3-in-1 Height Adjustable 22 Inch Self-Propelled 3-in-1 11-Inch Rear Wheels 21in Gas 125CC 144cc OHV Engine 2-in-1 11-Inch Rear Wheels 125cc Briggs and Stratton Engine Self Propelled NEW Model
Item Weight 64 Pounds 57.8 Pounds 81 Pounds 54 Pounds 62 pounds 61.6 Pounds 48 Pounds 56.4 Pounds 70 Pounds 50 Pounds
Cutting Width 21 Inches 21 Inches 22 Inches 21 Inches 21 21 Inches 21 Inches 21 Inches 21 Inches 20 Inches
Number of Positions 6 10 7 6 6 6 6 6 6 3
Operation Mode Automatic Manual Automatic Automatic Manual Automatic Manual Manual Automatic Automatic
Color Red - 22" Gas Powered Steel Deck Self Propelled 3-in-1 Blue Black Gray Bagger Blue Black Red Black and Red
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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