Best Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers of 2025

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Walk-behind lawn mowers are essential tools for any homeowner or landscaper who wants to maintain a well-manicured lawn. These mowers come in a variety of sizes, styles, and power options to suit different needs and preferences. Some models are gas-powered, while others are electric or manual, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective. The cutting decks range from 14 inches to 21 inches, and some models come with features such as mulching, bagging, and side discharge to make lawn care easier. With a walk-behind lawn mower, users can enjoy a tidy and healthy lawn without breaking the bank or putting in too much effort.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Greenworks 2 x 24V (48V) 17" Cordless Lawn Mower Cover #TOP 1
Greenworks 2 x 24V (48V) 17" Cordless Lawn Mower
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Greenworks 48V Combo Kit Cover #TOP 2
Greenworks 48V Combo Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
YARDMAX 22" 201cc Self Propelled Lawn Mower Cover #TOP 3
YARDMAX 22" 201cc Self Propelled Lawn Mower
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers

Greenworks 2 x 24V (48V) 17" Cordless Lawn Mower

MO48B01
Green
17" (2 x 4.0Ah)
Greenworks 2 x 24V (48V) 17" Cordless Lawn Mower Cover
Greenworks 48V (2 x 24V) 17" Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower (125+ Compatible Tools), (2) 4.0Ah Batteries and Dual Port Rapid Charger Included

The Greenworks 2 x 24V (48V) 17" Cordless Lawn Mower is a lightweight, durable, and maintenance-free mower that provides up to 45 minutes of run-time with two fully charged 4.0Ah batteries. It features a single lever, 5-position height adjustment and a 2-in-1 design that allows you to mulch and rear bag grass clippings. Customers have praised its easy assembly, lightweight design, and gas-like performance, though some have noted that it may struggle with taller grass and have a shorter running time than expected.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Good battery life
Quiet operation
Easy to assemble
Effective on tall grass
What We Don't Like
Battery life shorter than expected
Bag capacity could be larger
#TOP 2

Greenworks 48V Combo Kit

CK24L4242
Green&Black
Greenworks 48V Combo Kit Cover
Greenworks 48V (2x24V) 20" Brushless Mower+12" String Trimmer +320CFM Blower,(2) 4.0Ah Batteries and 4A Dual Port Charger

The Greenworks 48V Tools combo kit includes a powerful mower, efficient string trimmer, and high-performance blower, making lawn care easy for you. The mower features a 20-inch steel deck and a brushless motor, which enhances durability and efficiency while offering versatile mulching and bagging options. The string trimmer, with its 12-inch cutting path and auto-feed system, ensures you can tackle overgrown areas with ease. The blower delivers impressive airflow and speed, making it perfect for clearing debris quickly. With two 4Ah batteries included, you can enjoy extended use without frequent interruptions for charging.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Quiet operation
Good battery life
Effective mulching capability
Low maintenance
What We Don't Like
Charger design could be improved

YARDMAX 22" 201cc Self Propelled Lawn Mower

YG2760
Black
YARDMAX 22" 201cc Self Propelled Lawn Mower Cover
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower, Black

The YARDMAX 22" 201cc Self Propelled Lawn Mower is a gas-powered mower that comes with a single-lever deck adjustment for quick mow height setting. It also features the MAXFlow Deck Technology that offers better airflow and mulching. The mower has a 16-gauge stamped steel deck that is durable and reduces vibration. It has seven cutting heights ranging from 1.38" to 3.55".

What We Like
Easy to assemble
Powerful performance
Great gas efficiency
Responsive customer service
Electric start feature
What We Don't Like
Heavy weight
#TOP 4

Greenworks 80V 21" Self-Propelled Mower

MO80L416
Green&Black
Greenworks 80V 21" Self-Propelled Mower Cover
Greenworks 80V 21" Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn Mower (LED Headlight + Aluminum Handles), 4.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger Included (75+ Compatible Tools)

The Greenworks Self-Propelled Mower is designed to make your lawn care easier and more efficient. With its powerful 80V battery, you can tackle up to half an acre on a single charge, saving you time and effort. The brushless motor ensures quiet operation while delivering impressive torque for a clean cut. Enjoy the convenience of self-propulsion and variable speed control, giving you the ability to navigate your yard with ease. Plus, the integrated LED headlights allow you to mow early in the morning or late into the evening, ensuring your lawn looks great any time of day.

What We Like
Quiet operation
Powerful performance
Solid battery life
Easy height adjustment
Convenient storage
What We Don't Like
Handle folding mechanism
Battery removal difficulty
#TOP 5

Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower

25322
Green
16" (4.0Ah)
Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower Cover
Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included

The Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower is a lightweight and easy to use mower with a single lever 5-position height adjustment and a cutting height range from 1-1/4" to 3-3/8". It is virtually maintenance free, with no gas, no oil and no emissions, and comes with a 4.0Ah battery and charger. Customers love its power, lightweight design, and quiet operation.

What We Like
Easy to start
Lightweight and maneuverable
Long battery life
Quiet operation
Quality build
What We Don't Like
Instructions could be clearer
Battery removal may be tricky
#TOP 6

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

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

The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower is a green alternative to gas-powered lawnmowers. This reel mower has a low maintenance, hassle-free design that only requires to be sharpened at least once every 3-5 years. It is perfect for youths over the age of 13 and compact yards.

What We Like
Gas and electricity free
Lightweight and easy to push
Excellent for small yards
Easy assembly process
Good value for the price
What We Don't Like
Not suitable for overgrown areas
Made in China
#TOP 7

BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, 10-Amp, Corded (BEMW472BH)

BEMW472BH
Multi
One Size
BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, 10-Amp, Corded (BEMW472BH) Cover
BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower with Bike Handle, 15-Inch, 10-Amp, Corded (BEMW472BH)

The BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower is a lightweight corded electric mower with a 10 Amp 15 inch electric mower for powering through rough grass. It features a comfort grip bike handlebar design to reduce friction and enhance maneuverability, a push button start for no-hassle startup, and 6 adjustable cutting heights ranging from 1 inch to 3 inch. It includes a collection bag for easy clipping collection.

What We Like
Lightweight and maneuverable
Powerful for small yards
Easy assembly out of the box
Effective mulching capability
Compact size for storage
What We Don't Like
Grass collection bag fills quickly
Cord management can be tricky
#TOP 8

YARDMAX 21" Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower

YG1650
Orange
YARDMAX 21" Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower Cover
YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels

YARDMAX Push Lawn Mower, equipped with a single-lever deck adjustment, allows you to easily choose your preferred mowing height. With MAXFlow Deck Technology, this mower ensures better airflow and mulching. The heavy-duty, one-piece steel deck reduces vibration for a smoother operation. Offering seven cutting heights ranging from 1.25" to 3.75", this mower provides versatility to meet your lawn maintenance needs efficiently.

What We Like
Affordable price
Easy assembly
Single lever height adjustment
Versatile cutting options
Good power and performance
What We Don't Like
Hard to start
Heavy to push
#TOP 9

EGO Power+ LM2142SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Electric Dual-Port Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower

LM2142SP
black
EGO Power+ LM2142SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Electric Dual-Port Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower Cover
EGO Power+ LM2142SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Electric Dual-Port Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower with Two 5.0 Ah Batteries & Charger Included

The EGO Power+ LM2142SP is a 21-inch, 56-volt lithium-ion cordless electric dual-port walk behind self-propelled lawn mower with two 5.0 Ah batteries and charger included. It features PeakPower technology, weather-resistant construction, up to 80 minutes of run time on a single charge, a high-efficiency brushless motor, variable speed self-propel, 6-position cutting height adjustments, 3-in-1 function, quick and easy push-button start, bright LED headlights, and a 1-handed height adjustment. Customers have praised its ease of use, power, and grass mulching capabilities, though some have noted that it is not suitable for steep grades.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Quiet operation
Self-propel feature
Lightweight design
Two batteries included
What We Don't Like
Struggles with wet grass
Longer charge time when drained
#TOP 10

Earthquake 45901 Walk Behind Mower

45901
Red/Black
Earthquake 45901 Walk Behind Mower Cover
Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower with 160cc Viper™ Engine, 45901

The Earthquake Walk Behind Mower is powered by a robust 160cc Viper engine, making it easy for you to tackle tough weeds and brush. Its large 14-inch wheels glide effortlessly over dense grass and debris, enhancing maneuverability. The durable steel deck minimizes vibrations, providing a comfortable mowing experience. You’ll appreciate the user-friendly features, including never-go-flat wheels that keep you rolling without worries and an integrated clutch that allows you to stop the trimmer head without restarting the engine. This mower combines power and convenience, making yard work simpler and more efficient.

What We Like
Easy to start and use
Powerful performance on tough weeds
Lightweight and maneuverable
Adjustable mowing height
Long-lasting durability
What We Don't Like
Oil port location inconvenient
Throttle issues reported
Buying Guide Image

Everything You Need to Know About Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers

Before selecting the Lawnmower, we must first take into account what type of surface it is going to work on. For small gardens or urban gardens, the ideal is the manual, battery or electric lawn mower and for large areas, the recommended one is the gasoline lawnmower.

We will leave you with below information about the different Lawnmowers and for what type of vegetation they are used and so you can take into account all the necessary aspects to choose from.

Manuals

They are those that do not contain motor or cable for its operation, it only needs the physical thrust. They are very light and practical devices to use, their leaflets are horizontal. Its advantage is that you do not limit the distance by a cable, you can use it as long as you want because it does not depend on a battery or gasoline.

Electrical

They are those that have a motor that works with electricity, their blades are vertical and are located at the bottom, the physical thrust is needed. These lawnmowers operate more quietly compared to others and do not require engine maintenance and can prune between 200 and 600 m2. Its advantage is that the physical thrust is practical and picks up while performing the job.

Battery

These mowers have their battery incorporated. Its blades are vertical and are located at the bottom, physical thrust is also needed. These lawnmowers operate more quietly compared to others and do not need engine maintenance.

They can prune between 200 and 600 m2. Its advantage is that it offers you the same quality of cuts and performance as electric lawn mowers, but avoiding the inconvenience of the cable or gasoline odors.

Gasoline

The difference is made by your fuel tank, in the same way with a manual thrust, which requires you to maintain the engine, and its oil changes from time to time. Ideal for cutting more than 600m2 of land. Its advantage is that it has a propulsion system, which allows the person not to make much effort when pushing.

There is also special machinery called lawn mowers, which are used to mow the lawn of large areas. Therefore it is important to determine what your needs and requirements are. Choosing the best lawn mower is actually a difficult task. Therefore, you need to understand the device should meet your requirements. Other factors to consider while buying a lawnmower are:

Size of the Garden or Lawn

If your lawn is less than a hectare, it is important that you look for a helical lawn mower that comes without a motor. This machine is usually easy-to-use and maintain. Also, it is eco-friendly.

Maneuverability

If you think there are a lot of obstacles in the lawn, it is important that you give preference to mowers with front-wheel driver push. Such types of lawn mowers have high maneuverability, which can likewise rotate easily 180 degrees.

Price

Helical lawn mowers are usually inexpensive as compared to self-propelled or gasoline-based machines. So, if you are on a budget, you should choose mowers, which don’t require any type of fuel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are walk-behind mowers worth it?

Yes, walk-behind lawn mowers are worth it. They are highly maneuverable and can easily navigate around obstacles, making them suitable for lawns with water features, gardens, and trees. Their smaller size allows them to reach areas that larger machines cannot, ensuring a thorough and precise mowing job.

2. How much should I pay for a self-propelled lawn mower?

When shopping for a self-propelled lawn mower, prices can range from $300 to around $1,400. Most homeowners typically spend between $350 and $900 on a self-propelled mower. It's important to consider your budget and the specific features you need to find the best option for your lawn care needs.

3. What is the difference between walk-behind and self-propelled lawn mower?

The main difference between a walk-behind and self-propelled lawn mower is the power source. Walk-behind mowers require the operator to manually push the mower forward, while self-propelled mowers feature a transmission that powers the drive wheels, making it easier to mow without exerting as much effort. Self-propelled mowers offer greater convenience and ease of use.

4. How long do walk behind mowers last?

With proper care and maintenance, walk-behind mowers can last for 10 or more years. However, if the mower is not well-maintained, its lifespan may be around 4-5 years. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, blade sharpening, and oil changes, can help prolong the life of the mower and ensure optimal performance.

5. Is a stand on mower better than a zero turn?

Stand-on mowers are more durable and have faster blades compared to residential zero-turn mowers. They are better suited for larger areas that require mowing. While stand-on mowers handle obstacles and hills well, they are slightly slower than zero-turn mowers. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs and size of the area to be mowed.

6. Can you just push a self-propelled mower?

Yes, it is possible to use a self-propelled mower as a push mower. However, there are some important distinctions to consider. While a self-propelled mower can be pushed manually, its design and features are optimized for self-propulsion. Push mowers and self-propelled mowers have different mechanisms and controls, so it's important to choose the right type of mower for your needs.

Editor's Notes

During our walk-behind lawn mower research, we found 24 walk-behind lawn mower products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 154,732 customer reviews through our big data system to write the walk-behind lawn mowers list. We found that most customers choose walk-behind lawn mowers with an average price of $332.53.

The walk-behind lawn mowers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of walk-behind lawn mowers, including Greenworks, YARDMAX, American Lawn Mower Company, BLACK+DECKER, EGO Power+. 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.

Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Greenworks Greenworks YARDMAX Greenworks Greenworks American Lawn Mower Company BLACK+DECKER YARDMAX EGO Power+ EARTHQUAKE
Power Source Battery Powered Battery Powered Gasoline-Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered self-propelled Corded Electric Gasoline-Powered Battery Powered Gas Powered
Material Plastic Stainless Steel, Plastic Alloy Steel, Plastic Stainless Steel, Plastic Plastic Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Alloy Steel, Plastic ABS plastic & Aluminium Alloy Steel
Color Green Green&Black Black Green&Black Green Red Multi Orange black Red/Black
Style 17"Mower(2x4.0Ah) Power Self Propelled Lawn Mower Power 4.0Ah 14-Inch, 4-Blade 15in. Bike Handle Mower Push Lawn Mower Lawn Mower w/2-5.0Ah Batteries M205 String Mower
Item Weight 42.54 Pounds 71 Pounds 84.2 Pounds 74.95 Pounds 37.5 Pounds 1 Kilograms 7 Pounds 60 Pounds 62.6 Pounds 70 Pounds
Cutting Width 17 Inches 19.5 Inches 22 Inches 21 Inches 16 Inches 14 Inches 15 Inches 21 Inches 21 22 Inches
Operation Mode Manual Automatic Automatic Manual Manual Manual Manual Automatic Automatic Manual
Number of Positions 5 7 7 7 5 5 6 7 6 -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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