You have made the decision to purchase a self-propelled lawn mower. Congratulations! However, that is only half the battle.

There is so much that goes into choosing the right lawn mower for you and your lawn. You want to take pride in your yard, so getting lawn mower that meets your specific needs and makes your lawn-care easier is a must.

Related: The 10 Best Push Mowers of 2019

With so many different lawn mowers on the market, you may have difficulty narrowing down your choices. We're here to help with our picks for the top self-propelled lawn mowers on the market.

The GreenWorks MO40L02 G-MAX 40V 21" Self-Propelled Dual Port Mower is a great lawnmower. The fact that it is battery powered and self-propelled makes it a great mower for those who have small to medium-sized yards. Though not ideal for larger yards, this mower does handle most terrains with ease. The various height adjustments allow you to get the cut that you desire.

This mower is very durable and long-lasting. The cutting deck is made of steel, and even then, it is still fairly lightweight. The only real drawback is that the charger and the batteries are not included. One good thing about this mower is that it is capable of holding two batteries at a time allowing you to get through your mowing on a single charge.

Overall, the GreenWorks MO40L02 G-MAX 40V 21" Self-Propelled Dual Port Mower provides you everything you need your lawnmower to do. You can mulch, bag, or discharge grass clippings according to your preferences. Furthermore, storage of this lawnmower is made easy as it folds up, providing you a space-saving feature. You will love how quiet and easy to use this mower is for anyone.

Key Features
  • Battery operated so no gas fumes or having to re-fill when mowing your lawn
  • Has a steel deck that is durable and cuts up to 21 inches
Specifications
  • Power Source: Battery
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 7
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Brand: GreenWorks
Pros
  • Folds up for easy storage
  • Easy to maneuver and handles most terrains
  • Very quiet with little to no noise
Cons
  • Battery charger and batteries aren't included
  • Not ideal for large yards

The Honda 662300 21 in. GCV200 4-in-1 Versamow System Walk Behind Mower w/Clip Director & MicroCut Twin Blades is an excellent lawn mower. With this top performer, you can enjoy the self-propulsion that allows you to choose your speed using a dial on the handle for your comfort and control. Additionally, you get twin blades that will provide you with an even cut with every pass. The 21-inch deck is made of Nexite, which is a rust-free material that will last a long time.

The Honda GCV200 engine is both powerful and reliable. Furthermore, the rear-wheel-drive will give you all the traction and maneuverability you could desire. The various cutting heights coupled with the 4 in 1 Versamow System will allow you to get the grass height you desire while either mulching, bagging, or discharging at the same time. Another noteworthy feature is the fact that this mower also has leaf shredding capabilities.

Overall, the Honda 662300 21 in. GCV200 4-in-1 Versamow System Walk Behind Mower is an excellent self-propelled lawnmower that can provide you years of service. You will love just about everything about this mower from the lightweight to the versatility. The intuitive speed control allows your mower to move with you and at your pace by detecting your walking pace. There is so much to love about this mower. The only downside, it is a corded electric mower rather than gas-powered.

Key Features
  • Various height adjustments allows you to trim your lawn to your desired height
  • The deck is 21 inches and made of Nexite that is rust free
  • Rear ball bearings and large 9-inch wheels provide great traction over any terrain
Specifications
  • Power Source: Corded Electric
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 7
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • Excellent maneuvering capabilities
  • Gives a nice even cut on first pass
  • Has bagging, mulching and side discharge capabilities
Cons
  • Lags when going up a hill, regardless of how small
  • Difficult to maneuver around yard decorations or tight corners

The PowerSmart DB2321S Lawn Mower is a great mower when you have a smaller yard. It is compact and yet still pretty powerful. Some great features include how easy this mower is to operate in tight spaces and get around corners. The three cutting systems are perfect for those who like options. You can use the side discharge or the mulching option for your clippings. Additionally, the bag option is convenient and easy to empty, although the way it attaches to the mower is not as secure as it could be.

The design of this mower is very efficient as it is lightweight and can be moved even without the self-propulsion. The blades are sharp and provide you an even cut over any terrain. The deck is dome-shaped, allowing for more flexibility in heigh adjusting and in mulching.

Overall, the PowerSmart DB2321S Lawn Mower is a great mower for anyone who doesn’t want a huge lawnmower. You can easily move around with this mower and adjust it to meet your specific needs. From the great design to the durable tires, you will be able to use this mower for many years to come.

Key Features
  • The 161 cc engine will provide you the right amount of power for cutting your lawn
  • Has side discharge, mulching and bagging capabilities
  • The pull start is easy and allows you start mowing your lawn immediately
Specifications
  • Power Source: Gas Powered
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 5
  • Warranty: 2 years limited
Pros
  • Starts very easily without any issues
  • Handles any terrain with ease
  • The mower is very lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cons
  • The bag is not held on very securely
  • The casing is not very strong
  • Only ideal for those with small yards

The Lawn-Boy 17734 Self Propelled Lawn Mower has a great electric start function that makes it super easy to get started. One of the great things about this mower is that it also comes with a pull cord in case the electric start doesn’t work. The mower itself is fairly lightweight and easy to move around your yard.

The wheels are 11 inches and provide excellent stability when you are working around your yard, especially if you have uneven terrain. The engine is powerful and functions really well, even in tall grass. One of the best things about this self propelled lawn mower is that is has a bushel bag and a mulching option.

Overall, the Lawn-Boy 17734 Self Propelled Lawn Mower is a great lawnmower, especially for small to medium-sized yards. The only real drawback is that the height adjustment levers and the casing isn’t very strong. If you aren’t careful, you can crack the sides of your mower. However, that doesn’t take away from its great mowing action and overall performance.

Key Features
  • Easy electric start with the turn of a key
  • Adjust the cut height with a 2-point height of cut system
  • A 3 in 1 discharge ability allows you to choose between mulching, bagging or side discharge
Specifications
  • Power Source: Gas-powered
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 2
  • Warranty: 2 years
Pros
  • Starts up right away with no hassle
  • Cuts the grass evenly
  • Easy to maneuver around the yard
Cons
  • Easy to break the casing if not careful
  • Only two height adjustments and the levers are brittle

The Snapper RP2185020 / 7800981 NINJA 190cc 3-N-1 Rear Wheel Drive Variable Speed Self-Propelled Lawn Mower with 21-Inch Deck and ReadyStart System is a great self-propelled mower as it has many wonderful noteworthy features. Among the many features is the fact that it gives you variable speeds and has a 3-in-1 rear-wheel drive. This mower has great traction over any type of terrain and also allows you to maneuver around your yard without destroying your lawn.

This lawnmower is always ready to get going when you are. Though it will always start up from a cold start, if you are trying a warm start, it may be pickier. You may have to wait about five minutes to start it up again if you stop for a time. However, that is the only drawback. Otherwise, this mower is excellent.

Overall, with the six cutting surfaces along with various height adjustments and the solid front axle of steel, you will love mowing your lawn again. The Snapper RP2185020 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower is designed to last you a long time and provide you excellent mowing and mulching for years to come.

Key Features
  • Powerful Briggs and Stratton engine for optimal performance
  • Rear wheel drive for easy maneuvering around your lawn and terrain
  • Powerful ninja blade for cutting and mulching
Specifications
  • Power Source: Gas-powered
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 7
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • The variable speeds allows you to work at your pace
  • There are six cutting surfaces that are very powerful
  • There are handle adjustments for your comfort
Cons
  • Difficulty re-starting after you stop for a few minutes
  • If you have uneven terrain, you may have to go over it twice

The Craftsman M310 163cc Briggs & Stratton 725 exi 21-Inch 3-in-1 RWD Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower with Bagger is the ideal lawnmower for all lawn types. You will love the various height adjustments, the thick and sturdy wheels along with the rear-wheel-drive action. You will have no trouble maneuvering around your yard regardless of the terrain. Even if your terrain is uneven, you will still get a great mow.

The drive is propelled using a dual-lever squeezebox that will allow you to accelerate as your work. The large cutting deck makes it so that you don’t have to spend a lot of time mowing your yard and can do so with fewer passes. Additionally, there are both side and rear discharge with mulching and a catch bag for easy cleaning.

Overall, the Craftsman M310 163cc Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower with Bagger is an excellent lawnmower for most yards. It is best to use in small to medium yards but can tackle larger yards as well. Despite the terrain in your yard, the wheels have zag treading that makes for excellent traction. You will find that mowing your lawn has never been easier or more comfortable, especially with the ergonomic handle that can be adjusted to suit your comfort level.

Key Features
  • Very powerful Briggs and Stratton engine that has recoil and ready start
  • There are variable propulsion speeds that allow you to mow at your pace
  • There is a deck wash to help you clean your mower without worry of rust
Specifications
  • Power Source: Gas Powered
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 6
  • Warranty: 2 years
Pros
  • There is a bagger that holds plenty of mulch and helps save you time
  • This mower is excellent for all terrains because of the rear wheel drive
  • The handle is ergonomic and has multiple adjustment settings
Cons
  • The levers are plastic and can break easily
  • The cord winder must always be clear or you can't start the motor

The Honda 662960 160cc Gas 21 in. 3-in-1 Smart Drive Self-Propelled Lawn Mower is a very popular mower that is both powerful and easy to use. The versatility of this mower is amazing, along with the SmartDrive that is 3-in-1 in terms of clippings-removal capabilities. The engine is very powerful and provides you with high-performance cutting that will clear wider paths and handle any type of terrain you have. The MicroCut blade system will help you to achieve a fine cut with variable discharge options, including mulching and bagging.

You will be able to move this mower easily as it has various speed adjustments to allow for a comfortable speed for your tastes. Additionally, the large 8-inch wheels help to provide both traction and ease of mobility. You will have no problem moving in and around your yard regardless of size or grass thickness.

Overall, the Honda 662960 160cc Gas 21 in. 3-in-1 Smart Drive Self-Propelled Lawn Mower is an excellent mower. There is little negative to be said about it other than it is a bit heavy due to the solid steel cutting deck that just adds to its durability. The various height adjustments allow you to have the grass you desire. You will not be sorry with this mower; it is versatile and efficient.

Key Features
  • The engine is both powerful and dependable
  • The auto choke feature allows for an easy start every time
  • The deck is made of heavy steel that is durable and long-lasting
Specifications
  • Power Source: Corded-Electric
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 5
  • Warranty: 36 months
Pros
  • Comes with a safety system that kills the engine when you stop moving
  • Has five speed settings
  • Very durable and easy to use
Cons
  • It is a corded-electric mower
  • The mower itself is heavy

The Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc 21-inch 3-in-1 Rear Wheel Drive Self-Propelled Lawnmower is a very nice mower that is comfortable to use. The ergonomic handle makes it easier to use and allows you to mow your lawn with ease. The rear-wheel-drive power allows you to maneuver across any type of terrain. The engine is powerful, and the 21-inch cutting space makes mowing your lawn a quick job.

You will never need to worry about starting your mower as the ReadyStart technology that is incorporated into it allows you to start the first time. Additionally, the TriAction cutting system will allow you to get an even and clean cut every time with just one pass. Another great feature of this mower is that it has six height adjustments that allow you to get the grass you desire.

Overall, the Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc 21-inch 3-in-1 Rear Wheel Drive Self-Propelled Lawnmower is a great mower for any lawn size. The cutting deck is durable and allows you to select whether you desire to side discharge, mulch, or have the grass clippings bagged. The large wheels are perfect for every terrain, and you will find that cutting your lawn has never been easier.

Key Features
  • This mower has a TriAction cutting system that includes an integrated deck wash
  • There is a mulching feature or bag action to accompany the side discharge
  • The wheels are high performance and allows you to maneuver around your yard with ease
Specifications
  • Power Source: Gas Powered
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 6
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • Even cut with just one pass
  • The handle is ergonomic and can be adjusted to comfort
  • Starts up right away without any hassle
Cons
  • The height adjustment lever is not solidly built
  • Tends to lean towards one side

When you are choosing the best self propelled lawn mower, the Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc Gas 21 in. 4-in-1 Versamow System Lawn Mower with Clip Director and MicroCut Blades 660250 is among the best. This mower has a very powerful engine that makes cutting your grass a breeze. The self-propulsion system is very efficient, and it makes moving your mower very easy. It helps that this mower is rear-wheel drive with a decent 11-inch wheel height.

There are a couple of noteworthy features that you should keep in mind. The first is the seven cutting positions that allow you to handle any type of grass on any type of terrain. The other is the mulching and bagging options. The bag is large and can hold quite a bit of grass before it needs to be emptied. The only issue with the bag is that it can get quite heavy when you let it fill to capacity.

The Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower is among the best mowers because it has the lowest and highest cutting lengths compared to other mowers. The Honda technology provides you a uniform cut regardless of your lawn type. Furthermore, the sleek and durable design gives it beauty with power.

Key Features
  • Comes with a variable rear wheel drive that allows for various terrain types.
  • Has up to seven different cutting levels for optimal cutting performance.
  • The self propulsion system is dynamic making it easy to get your lawn cut.
Specifications
  • Power Source: gas powered
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 7
  • Warranty: 5 years
Pros
  • Delivers even grass cutting every time
  • Both the handle and the throttle are comfortable to hold
  • Maneuvering this mower is very easy and almost effortless
Cons
  • Wheel adjustment can be cumbersome
  • Tends to kick up quite a bit of dust regardless of lawn thickness

The Yard Machines 140cc 21-Inch 2-in-1 Self-Propelled FWD Gas Powered Lawn Mower is the ideal lawn mower for small to medium yards. The powerful engine and self-propulsion capabilities make this mower easy to maneuver around your yard and any decorations you may have. The mower is the front-wheel drive, which is perfect for level terrain, but if your terrain is uneven, it might be a bit difficult to move.

Multiple height adjustments allow you to get the right lawn trimming on the first pass. Additionally, there are side discharge chambers on both sides, and the mulching capabilities allows the grass to be scattered in your lawn without needing to rake it afterward.

Overall, the Yard Machines 140cc 21-Inch 2-in-1 Self-Propelled FWD Gas Powered Lawn Mower is a great lawnmower for you to get the yard you desire. The 21-inch cutting deck allows for wide cuts that help increase the speed of mowing without being a hassle. The large wheels also allow for effortless driving of this mower through any type of terrain including loose soil. You will love how easy this mower is to start, and you will be pleased with the final look of your yard.

Key Features
  • Powerful engine that allows for self propulsion using front wheel drive
  • Dual lever allows for multiple height adjustments
  • This mower has a side discharge with mulching capabilities
Specifications
  • Power Source: Gas Powered
  • Cutting Width: 21 inches
  • No. Height Settings: 6
  • Warranty: 2 years
Pros
  • Powerful and easy to maneuver around your yard
  • There is bar treading with the 8 inch wheels
  • Starts up very easily
Cons
  • The fuel tank isn't very large making this mower not ideal for large lawns
  • Grass tends to build up in the blades when your lawn is thick

When it comes to self-propelled lawn mowers, it's important to look for one that comes with all the features you are going to need to get your lawn looking perfect.

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How do you choose the right lawnmower?

With a variety of brands, types, and features that self-propelled lawnmowers come with, you want to be sure you are getting what you want. Here are some features you may want to consider.

Speed

Self-propelled lawn mowers come with a range of speed options. You can get one that is single speed, has multiple speed settings or even ones that have intuitive speed solutions. If you find the standard self-propelled lawn mower moves faster than you can, then you want to get one that will allow you to adjust your speed or that will adjust to your mowing speed.

Height Adjustments

Some of the basic lawn mowers have only one cutting height. Others come with a large range of height adjustments. If you have a lawn that has multiple terrains or multiple grass types, you want to get a mower that allows you to adjust the height as you need it. Likewise, if you have only one grass type on a plain landscape, then a single height may do the trick.

Discharge

When you cut your grass, there will be a lot of grass clippings. Choose a mower that will allow you to get rid of those clippings the way you want it to. You can get a mower with mulching, bagging, or side discharge abilities that will disperse the grass clippings the way that suits you best.

Engine

If you have a yard that has hills or difficult terrain, be sure to invest in an engine size that can handle the strain. Therefore, a larger and more powerful engine is ideal for multiple terrains. However, if your yard is plain and simple, then you don’t need a very powerful engine.

Wheels and Drive

There are various wheel sizes that you might want to consider. Larger wheels handle more difficult terrain better than smaller ones will. Furthermore, if you have a lot of obstacles you are trying to get around a rear-wheel-drive mower is easier to maneuver than a front-wheel-drive one.

What to look for in a self-propelled lawnmower?

On top of the various features, there are a few other things you are going to want to consider before making your mower choice. Here are a few key things you should look for in any lawnmower you are considering.

Durability

You want a lawnmower that is going to last you a long time. Therefore, you want to be sure that you choose one that is durable. Lawnmowers that have a steel or Nexite cutting deck at stronger than those that are made of plastic or other materials.

Storage

If you choose a lawnmower that is large and bulky, you may have trouble storing it. You need to consider where and how you are going to store your lawnmower when not in use. Therefore, you can look for a mower that folds up when you have limited storage space.

Power

Each type of lawnmower comes with various power supplies. You can get an electric corded one, an electric battery operated one or a gas-powered lawnmower. You need to determine which is going to suit you best based on your yard size, storage space, and outlet capabilities.

Warranty

If you purchase a lawnmower, you want to check the type of warranty you are getting. You don’t want to purchase a lawnmower and have it last only one season. Therefore, you want to be sure the mower is going to last as long as you desire it too. Check the warranty for coverage of the engine, cutting deck and other parts.

Yard Size

There are various lawn mowers that are great for various yard sizes. The one thing you are going to want to look for in a lawn mower is one that will be able to handle your yard. If you have a particularly large yard, you want to be sure your mower can handle it. Likewise, you don’t need a huge powerhouse lawn mower when you have a smaller yard with no obstacles. Determine which mower will suit you best by considering the yard it is going to be used in.

The right lawn mower will help your yard look like it's been professionally landscaped. One of our picks is sure to fit the bill.

Resources — FamilyHandyMan, Snapper, MowersDirect

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between a self-propelled lawn mower and other types of lawn mowers?

All types of lawn mowers do the same job, but the end-user experience when using a self-propelled lawn mower is much better. But why? Well, self-propelled mowers can cut grass evenly. They are equipped with superb lawn mower blade sharpeners that aid in spinning or cutting the grass evenly.

The wheels in this machine not only support it but also help it move in a forward direction. The forward movement makes the machine self-propelled and makes lawn mowing quite easy.

There are a myriad of options you can go for, but they are basically either powered by gas or an electric power source. These lawn mowers come with a single switch, meaning that you can start your machine quickly

Q: Are self-propelled lawn mowers worth it?

Self-propelled lawn mowers are the newest kids on the block, and you, of course, want to know whether they are worth the investment. Well, the bottom line is that they are worth buying, but it all boils down to your needs. There are a number of factors that will influence your experience with a self-propelled lawnmower.

Self-propelled lawn mowers don't need pushing, just steering. Power is transferred to their wheels, and this propels them. Also, they are significantly faster at doing the job in comparison to other types of lawnmowers.

Q: How many CCs do I need in a self-propelled lawnmower?

CC or cubic centimeter is the unit used to measure the engine displacement. The number of ccs that you need depends on what you want to accomplish with the self-propelled lawn mower. For instance, if it's just a regular job and you will be walking behind the mower engine, go for a lawnmower that ranges between 140-190cc.

On the other hand, if your backyard is big, go for a more robust model that has more cc. Establish the kind of task you want to accomplish and buy a lawnmower that has the specific cc for the job.

Q: What are some of the safety tips to keep in mind when using a self-propelled lawn mower?

When using a self-propelled lawn mower, you'll have to walk behind the mower. Glide it to the areas you want to mow the grass. Before using it, ensure you remove all obstructions such as rocks. Stones might get stuck in the mower, fly and cause injury.

Ensure you dress appropriately. Dressing entails wearing comfortable clothes that are snug and will cover the whole body. Keep off jewelry or flowing hair as these items might get caught somewhere. Finally, use protective gear such as goggles, gloves, and slip-resistant footwear.

Self-propelled blades can cause dreadful injury. Always keep a safe distance from the leaves. Also, ask bystanders to be at a safe distance from the mower when you are mowing. Switch off the engine when someone approaches you.

Q: What to look for when buying a self-propelled lawn mower?

When buying a self-propelled lawn mower, several factors should influence your decision. Initially, you will have to pen down your requirements, come up with a budget, and the factors you'd want in the lawnmower. With that said, you should also look into different functionalities and figure out what will benefit you.

One functionality to consider is the set speed. Set speed is the actual speed that is listed on the model. The set speed dictates the pace you want the lawnmower to go. When you ignore the set speed, it may result in uneven trimming, and you may have to repeat the task.

Other functionalities include mulching blades, washing port, hydrostatic drive, safety blades, and an electric starter, among others.

Q: Are large rear wheels on a lawnmower an added advantage?

Standard self-propelling lawn mowers have wheels of 8 inches in the front and back. Other models have high wheels that range from 9 to 12 inches. These wheels give better traction as well as pivoting ability.

Large wheels make it easy to maneuver on uneven terrain. It becomes easy for you to go over imperfections on surfaces. Furthermore, when the wheel has a substantial diameter, it poses less damage to the lawn when you are mowing.

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