The 7 Best Lawn Mowers in 2026

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Best Lawn Mowers Featured
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Choosing the right lawn mower can turn a chore into something almost enjoyable — and a bad choice can make every Saturday feel like a slog. We know lawns come in all shapes and sizes, and so do owners’ expectations: some want whisper-quiet electric models for a small city yard, others need a rugged gas-powered machine for uneven acreage. That’s why our goal is simple: help you make a confident purchase that fits your lawn, your budget, and your long-term needs.

We don’t rely on a single spec sheet or a handful of celebrity endorsements. Instead, we dug through thousands of customer reviews, cross-checked manufacturer specifications, and compared features across dozens of popular models to identify what actually matters in real-world use. Durability, cutting performance, ease of maintenance, deck design, and value for money were all weighed — and where possible, we prioritized machines with consistent, long-term positive feedback over flashier, short-lived trends. Along the way we looked for standout options for small yards, busy homeowners who want low maintenance, and anyone who needs heavy-duty performance. The result is a curated list that balances practical experience with clear, objective comparison so you get a mower that’s built to last and designed to do the job well.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

EGO Power+ 21-In. Select Cut Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower (LM2135SP)
Overall Rating
4.7
Brand
EGO Power+
Engine Type
Electric
Drive Type
Self-propelled
Deck Material
Polymer
Dimensions
66 x 39 x 17 in
Weight
55.3 lb

The EGO Power+ 21-inch Select Cut stands out because it nails the things that matter most in a mower: cutting quality, control, and cordless convenience. The Select Cut multi-blade system delivers consistently clean results that often beat comparable gas models, while the high-efficiency brushless motor gives you reliable power without the fuss of tune-ups. Touch Drive self-propelled technology is genuinely handy — you steer with a simple thumb control and can dial the pace from a slow walk to a brisk push (0.9–3.1 mph), which makes longer lawns far less tiring. The included 56V 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery typically gives about 60 minutes of runtime, and with the recommended rapid charger you’re back up quickly.

Some elements are more standard — seven height settings, the 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge, push-button start, and bright LEDs — but they all work smoothly and feel thoughtfully integrated. Overall, it’s the combination of premium cutting, user-friendly drive control, and a strong battery system that earns this mower the Best Overall nod.

Best Wire-Free Robotic

ECOVACS GOAT O1000 RTK Robot Lawn Mower
Overall Rating
4.5
Brand
Ecovacs
Engine Type
Electric
Drive Type
Robotic
Deck Material
-
Dimensions
16.9 x 27.8 x 11.2 in
Weight
44.5 lb

What stands out about the ECOVACS GOAT O1000 RTK is how confidently it removes the usual friction of robotic mowers. The wire-free AI mapping is genuinely impressive — it learns and remembers your lawn’s layout quickly, so you don’t wrestle with boundary wires. AIVI 3D obstacle avoidance and TruEdge edge mowing combine to protect pets and plants while delivering neat, edge-to-edge cuts; the slim 1.31 ft body and 2.3 ft turning capability mean it actually reaches narrow pathways, and the 45% climbing ability plus IPX6 rating keep it working on slopes and in wet weather.

The app-driven editable maps and zone-by-zone settings make customization effortless, whether you need different heights or no-go areas. A few routine aspects, like runtime between charges and basic maintenance, are in line with other premium mowers rather than revolutionary — but for anyone prioritizing a truly wire-free, hands-off experience, this model earns its spot.

Best Manual Push Reel

American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-In. 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
Overall Rating
4.4
Brand
American Lawn Mower Company
Engine Type
Manual
Drive Type
Push
Deck Material
Steel
Dimensions
42.5 x 20 x 24 in
Weight
19 lb

Lightweight and straightforward, the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 earns its place among the best manual push reels for small yards. The four-blade reel gives a clean, scissor-like cut and the 14-inch cutting width is ideal for tight spaces and quick touch-ups. At just 19 pounds and fitted with 8.5-inch polymer wheels, it’s easy to steer around flower beds and gates without feeling cumbersome.

You’ll appreciate the adjustable cutting height (0.5"–1.75") and the mower’s ability to handle grass up to about 4 inches tall, as long as you mow regularly and follow the one-third rule for best turf health. It’s quiet, emission-free, and nearly maintenance-free—great if you want a simple, eco-friendly option.

On the average side, the narrower deck means more passes on larger lawns and it isn’t the best choice for very thick or overgrown turf. Still, for small, well-kept lawns where ease and clean cuts matter, it’s a strong, practical pick.

Best Adaptive Cutting

WORX 40V 17-In. Cordless Push Lawn Mower WG779
Overall Rating
4.2
Brand
Worx
Engine Type
Electric
Drive Type
Push
Deck Material
Polymer
Dimensions
41.3 x 17.7 x 57 in
Weight
35.3 lb

WORX’s WG779 really shines for adaptive cutting thanks to its Intellicut sensor tech, which automatically ramps blade speed when it senses thicker turf and eases off on lighter grass. That makes for a smoother, more consistent finish without you constantly fiddling with settings. The twin 20V 4.0Ah batteries (40V total) deliver brisk power for small yards and snap in quickly on the included dual charger, and the PowerShare compatibility is a nice bonus if you already use other WORX tools.

At 35 pounds with a 17-inch deck and seven height positions, this mower is easy to push into tighter spots and adjust on the fly. The 2-in-1 mulching/bagging option, clear charge indicator, and relatively quiet 89 dB operation add to everyday convenience. The trade-offs are its modest deck size and runtime—it’s ideal for up to about 1/8 acre—so it’s not the best fit for large properties. For small to medium lawns that need smart, adaptive cutting, it’s a strong choice.

Best Multifunction Corded

BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM 3-in-1 Corded Mower & Trimmer Edger
Overall Rating
4.2
Brand
BLACK+DECKER
Engine Type
Electric
Drive Type
Push
Deck Material
Polymer
Dimensions
15 x 7 x 37 in
Weight
9.9 lb

The BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM stands out in the multifunction corded class because it genuinely pares down yard work into one simple, lightweight tool. Its 3-in-1 design (mower, trimmer and edger) makes transitions effortless, and at under 10 pounds with an adjustable handle it’s easy to maneuver around flower beds and tight corners. The automatic feed spool is a practical touch — you don’t have to stop and fuss with line all the time — and the built-in cord retention plus corded power mean you get uninterrupted runtime without gasoline or battery charges.

It’s clearly aimed at smaller lawns: the 12-inch cutting swath and 1.6-inch max cutting height keep it compact but limit efficiency on larger properties. The 8,000 rpm motor feels peppy for light-to-moderate jobs, though you’ll be tied to an extension cord (not included). Overall, if you want a no-fuss, space-saving tool for a small yard, this model delivers reliable, low-maintenance performance.

Best Large Deck Gas

AMERISUN 21-In. Gas Self-Propelled Lawn Mower 170cc
Overall Rating
4.2
Brand
AMERISUN
Engine Type
Gasoline
Drive Type
Self-propelled
Deck Material
Steel
Dimensions
38.4 x 59.8 x 26.7 in
Weight
66 lb

The AMERISUN 21-inch gas mower stands out for straightforward, day-to-day power. Its 170cc OHV engine with auto choke and forced air cooling means reliable starts and steady running through thick grass — exactly what you want when tackling bigger yards. The heavy-duty 21-inch blade and reinforced steel deck deliver clean, small clippings so you can finish faster with fewer passes.

On the move, the rear-wheel-drive self-propelled system gives good traction on flats and mild slopes, making longer mowing sessions feel less like work. The single-lever, six-position height adjustment is simple to use and covers a practical 1.5–3.9 inch range, which is about average for mowers in this class but plenty flexible for most lawns.

Assembly and storage are effortless: it ships fully assembled and the handle folds for compact storage. Taken together, these practical features explain why it ranks well among large-deck gas mowers — solid performance, user-friendly controls, and reliable construction.

Best Corded Electric

LawnMaster MEB1114K 15-In. Corded Electric Lawn Mower
Overall Rating
4.1
Brand
LawnMaster
Engine Type
Electric
Drive Type
Push
Deck Material
Steel
Dimensions
26.9 x 16.4 x 12.8 in
Weight
28 lb

This mower feels like a practical little workhorse for small to mid-size yards. The 3,300 RPM motor and 14-inch cutting width make quick work of overgrown patches, and the five height settings (1.4–3 inches) let you dial in the look you want. At just 28 pounds with folding handles, it’s easy to push, lift, and tuck away in a tight garage. The 7-gallon collection bag keeps clippings contained, and being corded means no fumes, no battery swaps, and consistently steady power.

There are a few average points to keep in mind: the 14-inch deck and 7.75-inch rear wheels are fine for smaller lawns but aren’t ideal for large properties or very uneven terrain, and the corded design limits range unless you use an extension. Overall, for homeowners wanting a lightweight, eco-friendly, and reliable corded mower, this model delivers solid performance and convenience without unnecessary complexity.

What To Look For

Choosing the right lawn mower can save time and give you a better-looking yard. Match machine size and features to your lawn's size, terrain, and how much upkeep you want.

  • Cutting Width: Wider decks cover more ground quickly but can be awkward around obstacles; pick a width that balances speed with maneuverability and storage space.
  • Power Type: Choose between gas, corded electric, cordless battery, or manual models, as each offers different trade-offs in power, maintenance, noise, and emissions.
  • Cutting Height Adjustment: User-friendly height settings let you adapt to grass species and seasonal needs; single-lever adjustments are faster and help maintain an even cut.
  • Drive Type: Self-propelled mowers reduce effort on slopes and large yards while push mowers are lighter, cheaper, and easier to store for small areas.
  • Mulching, Bagging, and Side Discharge: Multiple discharge options give flexibility to return nutrients to the lawn, collect clippings for compost, or eject them away from beds and paths.
  • Deck Material and Durability: Steel decks are tough and resist dents, while polymer decks resist rust and weigh less; the right material depends on heavy use and weather exposure.
  • Maneuverability and Weight: Wheel size, steering design, and overall weight affect turning, transport, and operation on slopes; lighter machines are easier to handle but heavier ones may track better.
  • Battery Runtime and Charging (for cordless): Check runtime, recharge time, and whether batteries are compatible with other tools to ensure a cordless mower fits your yard size and schedule.
  • Maintenance and Serviceability: Look for easy blade access, simple filter changes, clear maintenance schedules, and available local service to reduce downtime and ownership hassle.
  • Noise and Emissions: Consider decibel ratings and exhaust emissions, especially in dense neighborhoods or if you prefer a lower-impact electric option for quieter mowing.
  • Price, Warranty, and Value: Compare upfront cost against expected lifespan, included features, and warranty coverage to ensure the mower delivers good long-term value.

Prioritize the features that match your yard's size, terrain, and maintenance preferences to pick a mower that delivers performance and value.

How We Select Our Products

We take choosing the lawn mowers featured in this post very seriously — think of it as a combination of detective work, practical testing, and listening closely to real owners. First, we cast a wide net: hundreds of models from top brands are screened using objective specs (engine or battery power, cutting width and height range, deck material, and available cutting modes). That short list is then filtered through hard data — aggregated customer ratings across retailers, long-form owner reviews, and expert test results — so we can spot patterns in reliability, common faults, and standout features.

Next comes a hands-on and comparative phase. Where possible, we test machines ourselves or rely on trusted independent lab results to evaluate cutting performance, ease of starting, maneuverability, noise, vibration, and how well each mower handles different grass types and terrain. We also compare practical concerns you care about: maintenance needs, parts availability, warranty coverage, and how simple it is to store or transport the mower.

Value for money is a key lens: a higher price only wins if performance, durability, or convenience justify it. We weight each criterion (performance, reliability, features, user satisfaction, and price) so the final rankings reflect balanced choices for small urban yards up to large properties. Throughout, we prioritize transparency — noting trade-offs and who each mower is best for — and we refresh recommendations when new models, firmware updates, or user trends emerge. The result is a carefully researched, user-focused list meant to help you choose confidently.

Final Thoughts

Picking the right lawn mower isn’t just about getting a tidy yard — it’s about solving specific problems so your outdoor chore becomes quicker, easier, and even enjoyable. The right mower saves time by matching power and cutting width to your lawn’s size: a compact electric model works great for small, flat yards, while a robust gas or riding mower handles acres and rough terrain. Choosing the right cutting system (mulch, bag, or side discharge) directly affects lawn health and cleanup — mulching returns nutrients, bagging keeps clippings tidy, and side discharge is fast for dense growth.

Comfort and safety are often overlooked but matter a lot. A machine with ergonomic handles, easy-start features, and reliable safety brakes reduces strain and the chance of accidents, especially if you mow frequently or have uneven ground. Noise levels, emissions, and maintenance needs also play into daily life — battery mowers are quieter and low-maintenance, while gas models deliver more raw power but require tune-ups. Thinking about fuel type and upkeep helps you balance convenience with long-term costs and environmental impact.

Ultimately, choosing wisely gives you better value: the right mower matches your lawn’s size, slope, and grass type, fits your budget, and respects storage and noise constraints. Before you buy, assess your yard, consider how much time and effort you want to spend on maintenance, and prioritize the features that matter most to you. Making an informed choice means fewer compromises and a lawn that looks great without the hassle.

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