Taming a lawn takes the right tools, whether it’s a tight front yard or acres of grass. The best self-propelled lawn mower can make all the difference. Walk-behind mowers use a built-in drive system to move forward on their own, giving landscapers, contractors, and homeowners a break from all the pushing. Our top picks for the best self-propelled lawn mowers include the Ego Power+ Select Cut and Honda HRX217VKA.
1. Ego Power+ Select Cut LM2135SP (Best battery-powered performance)
| Pros | Cons |
| – Excellent battery life and long run time – Quiet operation – Variable speed control and intuitive self-propelled system | – Higher price point than many gas options – Requires charging time between uses |
Key features
- 56V 7.5Ah Lithium Battery
- Dual-blade Select Cut™ system
- Rear-wheel drive with Variable Speed
- Touch Drive™ self-propelled technology
- 21-inch steel deck
- 6-Position Height Adjustment
Ego Power has set the bar with the Select Cut LM2135SP Self-Propelled Mower. It’s a cordless, self-propelled lawn mower powered by a brushless motor and a 7.5Ah battery, providing users with impressive cutting power and a long run time on a single charge. The rear-wheel drive and Variable Speed Touch Drive make handling easy on inclines or when tackling tall grass. Plus, the dual-blade system helps deliver a clean, even finish, whether you’re mulching or bagging. It’s a top pick for anyone who wants battery-powered performance without sacrificing cut quality.
Customers have raved about how easy this Ego Mower is to operate and maintain. One review said, “The only thing I miss is the smell of gas, but I’ll take quiet power and no oil changes any day.” That said, it’s on the higher end price-wise, and the need to recharge can be a downside if you’re cutting more than half an acre in one go. Still, for those who want a low-maintenance, battery-powered mower that feels like a commercial lawn mower in performance, this Ego Power model is an excellent choice.
For lawn pros and contractors doing multiple properties a day, the Ego Power+’s lightweight, cordless design can be a lifesaver, especially paired with a solid pair of new work boots that can handle all-day wear.
2. Honda HRX217VKA (Best gas powerered lawn mover)
| Pros | Cons |
| – Reliable Honda engine with strong cutting power – Versamow system allows mulching and bagging simultaneously – Variable Speed Personal Pace system | – Heavier than most battery-powered mowers – Requires regular maintenance (spark plug, oil changes, etc.) |
Key features
- Rear-wheel drive with Variable Speed control
- 21-inch NeXite® deck
- 4-in-1 Versamow™ system: mulch, bag, discharge, and leaf shred
- MicroCut® twin blades for finer clippings
- 6-Position Height Adjustment
The Honda HRX217VKA is a gas-powered workhorse that lives up to its reputation for toughness and precision. Powered by a Honda engine, this self-propelled push mower offers a smooth rear-wheel drive system and enough torque to handle thick or wet grass without bogging down. The 4-in-1 Versamow™ system and MicroCut® twin blades give you control over mulching, bagging, or even a combination of both; ideal for yard care that changes with the seasons.
Homeowners and landscapers consistently rate this as one of the best self-propelled gas lawn mower models on the market. One homeowner review said, “I’ve had this for a long time and it still starts on the first pull; nothing else compares.” The only drawback is its weight and maintenance needs, typical of any high-end gas mower. You’ll need to keep up with oil changes, clean the air filter, and check the spark plug to keep it in top form.
This is the best mower pick for those who want long-term durability, top-tier cut quality, and proven reliability across all grass types, especially if you’re already used to running heavy-duty outdoor tools like chainsaws on your property.
3. Toro Recycler self-propelled lawn mower (Best for mid-sized yards)
| Pros | Cons |
| – Personal Pace self-propelled system adapts to your speed – Durable steel deck and solid build quality – Rear-wheel drive improves traction on slopes | – Not ideal for very large yards or commercial use – Slightly heavier than electric mower alternatives |
Key features
- 22-inch steel cutting deck
- Briggs & Stratton® 150cc engine
- Rear-wheel drive with Personal Pace®
- Vortex technology for better airflow and mulching
- Mulch plug and bagging options included
- 9 cutting height positions with SmartStow® vertical storage
The Toro Recycler 21466 is a standout among gas mowers for homeowners looking for a reliable walk-behind lawn mower that delivers a superior cut with less cleanup. Thanks to Toro’s Vortex technology, this model uses increased airflow under the deck to finely chop clippings, making it ideal for mulch mode or leaf shredding without clogging. The rear-wheel drive system offers excellent grip on uneven lawns, and the Personal Pace drive system adjusts speed based on how fast you walk.
One Home Depot reviewer called it a “total game changer for my sloped backyard. I barely break a sweat now.” While it isn’t built for acres of grass or daily use like a commercial lawn mower, the Recycler is a Bestseller in its class for good reason. The steel deck and smart storage design make it a great fit for smaller sheds or tight garage spaces.
4. Ryobi 40V HP Brushless self-propelled lawn mower (Best for quiet operation)
| Pros | Cons |
| – Ultra-quiet brushless motor ideal for noise-sensitive areas – Dual battery system extends runtime – Push-button start with no oil changes or gas required | – Not ideal for thick, tall grass or overgrown yards – Battery life can vary depending on terrain and mowing mode |
Key features
- Dual Battery setup for extended use
- 21-inch steel deck with EasyLift bag removal
- 7-position height adjustment
- Self-propelled rear-wheel drive
- Compatible with Ryobi’s 40V Outdoor Power Equipment lineup
The Ryobi 40V HP RY401150 is one of the best battery-powered mowers for homeowners looking for quiet, low-maintenance lawn care tools. This cordless self-propelled lawn mower features a powerful brushless motor and a dual-battery setup for solid performance and extended runtime. It’s lightweight compared to gas-powered models, and the rear-wheel drive makes it easy to navigate over uneven terrain. The 21-inch steel deck and multiple height settings make it versatile for weekly lawn care, especially in suburban settings where noise is a concern.
Customer reviews on both Home Depot and Reddit mention how easy this Ryobi is to operate and maintain. One user noted, “It’s the best mower I’ve used for early morning mowing; quiet enough not to wake the neighbors.” That said, it’s not the best self-propelled option for heavy-duty work or yards with dense, overgrown grass. Battery life can also decrease slightly with aggressive mowing settings.
5. Craftsman M215 (Best budget self-propelled lawn mower)
| Pros | Cons |
| – Affordable price with solid performance – Lightweight and maneuverable for tighter spaces | – Not as powerful as rear-wheel drive models – Requires regular maintenance (oil changes, spark plug checks) |
Key features
- 21-inch steel deck with 3-in-1 discharge: mulch, bag, side
- Front-wheel-drive self-propelled push mower
- 6-Position Height Adjustment
- Variable Speed control
- Comes fully assembled with Free shipping from major retailers
The Craftsman M215 is one of the best self-propelled gas lawn mowers for buyers on a budget who still want dependable performance. It features a front-wheel-drive system with Variable Speed control, making it easy to maneuver around landscaping, flower beds, or tight corners. Its 21-inch steel deck and 3-in-1 capability give you flexibility whether you prefer to mulch, bag, or side-discharge. While it may not have the long run time or quiet hum of a battery mower, its cutting power makes quick work of most yard sizes.
Customers on Ace Hardware and Popular Mechanics reviews praise the M215 for its value and simplicity. One senior editor even listed it as a “Best Value” pick, citing its “ease of use and quick work on mid-sized yards.” Of course, as with any gas-powered mower, you’ll need to keep up with basic maintenance, like changing the oil and spark plug, to keep it running for a long time.
6. DeWalt 2X20V MAX (Best compact self-propelled lawn mower)
| Pros | Cons |
| – Compact and foldable design for easy transport and storage – Quiet, battery-powered operation with minimal upkeep – Good cut quality for urban or small suburban yards | – Shorter battery life compared to higher-capacity models – Not built for heavy-duty mowing or larger lawns |
Key features
- 21.5-inch steel deck
- Brushless motor for improved efficiency and runtime
- Single lever 6-position height adjustment
- Vertical storage and fold-over handle
- 3-in-1 functionality: mulch, bag, and side discharge
The DeWalt 2X20V MAX Self-Propelled is a smart choice for homeowners who need a lightweight and compact cordless lawn mower for quick jobs. It runs on two standard 20V batteries, which is a major perk if you already use DeWalt tools. While it doesn’t offer the longest battery life, it’s a solid performer on smaller lawns and trims edges cleanly without a lot of noise. The brushless motor boosts efficiency, and the self-propelled system helps reduce fatigue on longer jobs.
In online reviews, users love how it folds up to fit in work trucks, garages, or jobsite trailers. One contractor wrote, “The only thing better than the fold-up design is not having to deal with gas cans or oil changes anymore.” However, it’s not built for thick, tall grass or mowing several acres; it’s more of a portable, reliable go-to for regular maintenance and touch-ups.
What to consider before buying a self-propelled lawn mower
Define your primary use case
Before you grab the first bestseller off the shelf at Home Depot or Ace Hardware, think about how you’ll use your mower. A landscaping crew cutting acres of grass every day has different needs than a homeowner tackling a half acre once a week. If you’re a pro, a heavy-duty or commercial lawn mower with a long runtime might make more sense. For residential lawncare, something lighter and easier to store, like a cordless self-propelled lawn mower, can be a better experience.
Electric vs. gas: pros and cons
Gas mowers like the Honda HRX217VKA or Troy-Bilt models offer cutting power and longer sessions between refueling. But they also come with oil changes, spark plug replacements, and more noise. On the flip side, a battery-powered mower, like the Ego Mower or Ryobi 40V, is quieter, requires less maintenance, and eliminates the need for gas. If you opt for a self-propelled electric lawn mower, consider battery life and how long a single charge will last.
Terrain type and mowing area size
If your yard has hills or uneven patches, look for rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive mowers. Front-wheel-drive models like the Craftsman M215 are easy to turn and great for flat, tight spaces. The size of your lawn matters, too. Walk-behind mowers are perfect for yards under half an acre, but larger properties may need a lawn tractor or even a riding mower.
Battery life and fuel capacity
Battery mowers vary widely in Ah battery ratings, which directly affect their run time. Models with dual battery setups like the Ryobi RY401150 can tackle longer jobs without a recharge. For gas-powered mowers, check tank size; larger tanks mean fewer refills but add weight.
Drive system: front-wheel vs. rear-wheel vs. all-wheel
The drive system impacts how the mower handles. Rear-wheel drive gives better traction for hills and slippery terrain. Front-wheel drive is easier to steer on flat ground. Some high-end models even offer variable speed adjustments to match your pace, making them ideal for users of all ages and abilities.
Blade adjustment options
Look for a 6 to 9-position height adjustment system to customize your cut based on season or grass type. This gives you more control over your lawn’s appearance and health.
Grass management: mulching, bagging, side discharge
Some mowers are better suited for mulch mode, others for bagging or side discharge. Models like the Toro Recycler with Vortex technology and Super Recycler blade systems are designed for superior mulching. If you want versatility, go for a 3-in-1 mower that includes a mulching blade, mulch plug, and bagging options.
Noise level and neighborhood/family considerations
If you live in a quiet area or have young kids, a brushless motor with an electric motor like those in cordless mowers or robotic lawn mowers offers whisper-quiet operation and a better experience.
Warranty, repair support, and replacement parts
Things break. It happens. Look for brands that offer strong customer service, decent warranties, and free shipping on replacement parts when ordering online. DeWalt, Honda, and Ego Power are all known for support through major outdoor power equipment retailers. And if you’re updating your lawn tools, it’s also worth checking out the best caulking guns for sealing up decks, sheds, or garden beds while you’re at it.
Safety features
Features like blade stop systems, automatic shut-offs, and easy start mechanisms are essential, especially if you’re buying for a family home. Some battery mowers won’t start without the safety key, while others have built-in sensors to avoid overloading.
Bottom line
Self-propelled lawn mowers take the grunt work out of mowing by doing the pushing for you, and today’s models are smarter, quieter, and more efficient than ever. Whether you’re after the long battery life and quiet operation of the Ego Power+ Select Cut, the all-around gas muscle of the Honda HRX217VKA, or the budget-friendly reliability of the Craftsman M215, there’s a top pick for every kind of yard and user.
If you’re managing larger lawns, want precise mulching with minimal cleanup, or need a mower that folds up and fits in a work truck, there’s something on this list that’ll match your mowing habits and space. Just make sure to weigh your priorities: cut quality, power source, drive system, and ease of use.
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