Seeing a well-manicured lawn is truly a delight, and the walk-behind mower is a crucial tool for achieving this effect. There are various styles, sizes, and designs of this mower type, each one featuring distinguishing aspects designed for different lawn needs. These mowers are perfect for owners of small to medium lawns, as they provide the ability to cut grass, generate mulch from leaves, and seamlessly shape borders.
When choosing the best walk-behind mower, there are several factors that you should consider. These include the size of your lawn, the type of terrain, and the features that you need. For instance, if you have a hilly lawn, you may need a self-propelled mower to make the job easier. On the other hand, if you have a small lawn, a push mower may be sufficient.
One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a walk-behind mower is the cutting width. The cutting width determines how much grass you can cut in a single pass, which can save you time and effort. Other factors to consider include the height adjustment, the type of blade, and the bagging capacity.
We spent countless hours researching and testing various walk-behind mowers to identify the best ones on the market. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top walk-behind mowers and highlight their unique features and benefits.
Best Walk Behind Mowers
We have researched and tested various walk behind mowers to bring you the best options available in the market. Whether you have a small or large lawn, we have included mowers that are suitable for different yard sizes. Our list includes mowers that are easy to use, efficient, and reliable. Read on to find the perfect walk behind mower for your lawn.
1. Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower
Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower
If you are looking for a walk behind mower that can handle tough weeds and dense foliage, the Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower is a great choice.
Pros
- The 160cc 4-Cycle Viper engine provides plenty of power to tackle even the most stubborn weeds and brush.
- The large diameter, extra wide wheels make it easy to maneuver over uneven terrain and through thick grass and weeds.
- The integrated clutch and hand bail system allows you to clear debris without having to stop and restart the motor.
Cons
- At 70 pounds, this mower is heavier than some other options on the market.
- Some users have reported that the nylon line can wear out quickly and needs to be replaced often.
- The mower is not self-propelled, so you will need to provide the pushing power.
We were impressed with how well the Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower handled tough weeds and brush. The 160cc 4-Cycle Viper engine provided plenty of power to chop through even the most stubborn foliage. We also appreciated the large diameter, extra wide wheels, which made it easy to maneuver over uneven terrain and through thick grass and weeds.
One feature that really stood out to us was the integrated clutch and hand bail system. This allowed us to clear debris without having to stop and restart the motor, which saved us a lot of time and hassle.
One downside to this mower is that it is heavier than some other options on the market. At 70 pounds, it can be a bit difficult to maneuver, especially if you have a large property to mow. Additionally, some users have reported that the nylon line can wear out quickly and needs to be replaced often.
Overall, we think the Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower is a great choice if you need a mower that can handle tough weeds and brush. It’s not the lightest or most convenient option out there, but it gets the job done quickly and efficiently. Plus, with a 5-year limited warranty and US-based customer service, you can feel confident in your purchase.
2. Toro 58620 Walk Behind String Mower
Toro 58620 Walk Behind String Mower
If you’re looking for a walk behind mower that can handle tough weeds and grass, the Toro 58620 may be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- Starts up easily with first pull
- Powerful and lightweight
- Large wheels make it easy to maneuver
Cons
- Cutting strings wear down quickly
- May struggle with thicker brush and saplings
- Some customers have reported mechanical issues
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Toro 58620 Walk Behind String Mower and were overall impressed with its performance. It started up easily with just one pull and was surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to maneuver around our yard.
One of the standout features of this mower are the large 14-inch wheels, which allowed us to easily navigate over rough terrain and around obstacles. However, we did find that the cutting strings wore down quickly when tackling thicker weeds and brush, so we recommend purchasing heavy-duty replacement strings.
While the Toro 58620 was able to handle most of our yard work, we did notice that it struggled a bit with thicker brush and saplings. Additionally, some customers have reported mechanical issues such as missing screws and loud clanking noises, so it may not be the most durable option on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and powerful walk behind mower for tackling tough weeds and grass, the Toro 58620 is a solid choice. Just be prepared to replace the cutting strings frequently and keep an eye out for any potential mechanical issues.
3. YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels
YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels
If you’re looking for an entry-level walk-behind mower that’s easy to use and maneuver, the YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels is a solid choice.
Pros
- Single-lever deck adjustment for quickly setting your mow height
- MAXFlow Deck Technology – volute spiral deck design for better airflow and mulching
- Heavy-duty, 16-gauge stamped steel deck
Cons
- Dipstick for oil is hard to see
- Have to pump the gas bulb every time to start it
- Left rear wheel may break after a few uses
We found the YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels to be a reliable and efficient mower for small lawns. The single-lever deck adjustment makes it easy to set your mow height, and the MAXFlow Deck Technology ensures better airflow and mulching. The heavy-duty, 16-gauge stamped steel deck is also a plus.
However, we did have some minor issues with the mower. The dipstick for oil is hard to see, which can be frustrating. Additionally, we found that we had to pump the gas bulb every time to start it, even if we had just been running it. Finally, we did experience a problem with the left rear wheel breaking after just a few uses, so we recommend checking all wheels on assembly before use.
Overall, the YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels is a solid choice for those looking for an entry-level mower that’s easy to use and maneuver.
4. PowerSmart 21 in. 144cc 3-in-1 Gas Walk-Behind Push Lawn Mower with Bag (DB2321PR)
PowerSmart 21 in. 144cc 3-in-1 Gas Walk-Behind Push Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile walk-behind lawn mower, the PowerSmart DB2321PR might be what you need.
Pros
- The 144cc OHV 4-stroke engine delivers strong power for a professional-quality cut.
- The all-steel frame deck with specialized blade is durable and long-lasting, ensuring a clean and even grass cut for years.
- The 3-in-1 versatility allows you to mulch for nutrient back with ultra-fine clipping, side-discharge for reducing clumps for quick mowing, and bagging to help clean up your lawn while mowing.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the rear bagger is a bit clumsy to remove/replace.
- The mower may emit more smoke than expected.
- The assembly instructions could be clearer.
We were impressed with the PowerSmart DB2321PR’s cutting capacity: the 21″ cutting width and adjustable cutting height (1.5″ to 3.9″ with 6 positions dual-lever setting) make it suitable for most types of grass and ideal for 1/4 acre yard lawn care. We also appreciated how easy it was to use: fully assembled in the box, just unfold the handle. The quick folding design saves space for storage and makes it easy to use.
The 2023 improvement of the steel push bar connection reinforced and quick folding design is a nice touch. We also liked that PowerSmart offers a 3-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support, parts coverage, and 24-hour online service. If you’re in the market for a walk-behind lawn mower, the PowerSmart DB2321PR is definitely worth considering.
5. TAZZ 40095 Walk-Behind String Mower/Trimmer
TAZZ 40095 Walk-Behind String Mower/Trimmer
If you’re looking for a walk-behind mower that can handle tough weeds and brush, the TAZZ 40095 Walk-Behind String Mower/Trimmer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Fast and efficient trimming
- Powerful 160cc engine
- Heavy-duty deck and line
Cons
- Can be heavy to maneuver
- Assembly can be time-consuming
- Not suitable for very large properties
We recently had the opportunity to try out the TAZZ 40095 Walk-Behind String Mower/Trimmer, and we were impressed with its performance. The 160cc engine provided plenty of power to tackle thick grass, weeds, and other foliage around our property. We were able to easily clear fence lines, tree lines, and shorelines, as well as clean up the edges of our yard in hard-to-reach corners where our regular mower can’t fit.
The one-piece steel deck provided strength and stability while reducing vibration, and the .155” diameter nylon line had a cutting swath of 22” to get the job done quickly. We also appreciated the large 14″ diameter wheels, which allowed us to float over rugged terrain and through the densest of vegetation. The handlebars fold down easily for convenient storage.
One thing to keep in mind is that this mower can be heavy to maneuver, especially if you have a large property. Assembly can also be time-consuming, so be sure to set aside enough time to put it together properly. Additionally, while the TAZZ 40095 is great for smaller to medium-sized properties, it may not be suitable for very large properties.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the TAZZ 40095 Walk-Behind String Mower/Trimmer for anyone looking for a fast and efficient way to trim and mow around their yard and property.
6. PowerSmart 21 in. 170cc RWD Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
PowerSmart 21 in. 170cc RWD Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a powerful, self-propelled walk-behind mower that can handle any terrain and mow up to 1/2 acre, the PowerSmart 21 in. 170cc RWD Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is a great choice.
Pros
- The 170cc OHV 4-stroke engine delivers unbeatable power for better cutting effect. Equipped with recoil starter and auto choke, for easy starting.
- Rear-wheel drive provides more traction for slope, suits all terrain, mows quickly with less effort for yard up to 1/2 acre.
- The 21″ all-steel deck and specialized blade deliver a clean, even cut. Deck allows you to mulch, helping put nutrients back in the soil for a healthier lawn.
Cons
- The bag fills up quickly and needs to be emptied frequently.
- Some users have reported that the wheels could have better grips.
- The bag needs to be able to stay attached better when debris gets in the way as compared to other mowers.
We had the chance to test out this mower and were impressed with its power and performance. The rear-wheel drive made it easy to maneuver over uneven terrain, and the self-propelled feature meant we could mow with less effort. The 21″ cutting deck and specialized blade delivered a clean, even cut, and we appreciated the option to mulch and put nutrients back into the soil.
While the bag did fill up quickly, we found it easy to remove and empty. We did notice that the wheels could have better grips, especially on steeper slopes, but overall we were pleased with the mower’s traction. The bag could also stay attached better when debris gets in the way, but this was a minor issue.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful, self-propelled walk-behind mower that can handle any terrain and mow up to 1/2 acre, the PowerSmart 21 in. 170cc RWD Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is a great choice. Plus, with the 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support, you can feel confident in your purchase.
7. Ryobi 13 in. 11 Amp Corded Electric Walk Behind Push Mower
Ryobi 13 in. 11 Amp Corded Electric Walk Behind Push Mower
If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly and maintenance-free alternative to traditional gas-operated mowers, then the Ryobi 13 in. 11 Amp Corded Electric Walk Behind Push Mower is a great option.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Maintenance-free with no gas, oil, filters, or spark plugs
- Single point height adjustment for convenient deck height adjustment
Cons
- Collector bag fills quickly
- Blade height adjustment on the longest setting gives a pretty close shave
- Clogs up easily and needs to be cleaned out frequently
We’ve used this mower several times and it has performed well. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a great option for small lawns. The single point height adjustment is convenient, allowing you to adjust the deck height quickly and easily.
One downside is that the collector bag fills up quickly, so you may need to have a wheelbarrow standing by to empty it frequently. Additionally, the blade height adjustment on the longest setting gives a pretty close shave, which may not be ideal for some users.
Another issue we’ve experienced is that the mower clogs up easily and needs to be cleaned out frequently. However, overall we think this is a great option for those looking for an environmentally friendly and maintenance-free mower.
8. BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered
BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered
If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile walk-behind mower, the BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered is a great option.
Pros
- The powerful 170cc engine delivers reliable and efficient performance.
- The 3-in-1 steel deck with mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging provides versatility for all your lawn maintenance needs.
- The adjustable cutting height allows you to customize the mowing height to perfectly match your lawn requirements.
Cons
- The plastic parts are not very durable and may break easily.
- The grass catcher bag is small and needs to be emptied frequently.
- The mower is quite heavy and may be difficult to maneuver for some users.
We recently had the opportunity to test out this mower and were impressed with its performance. The engine started easily and ran smoothly throughout our testing. The 3-in-1 deck worked well for both mulching and bagging, and the side discharge was handy for cutting longer grass.
One downside to this mower is that some of the plastic parts, such as the grass catcher bag, are not very durable and may break easily. Additionally, the bag is quite small and needs to be emptied frequently, which can be a hassle.
Another issue we encountered was that the mower is quite heavy and may be difficult to maneuver for some users, especially on uneven terrain. However, the 8″ rear and 7″ front double ball-bearing wheels did make it easier to move around.
Overall, we think the BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable and versatile walk-behind mower. The adjustable cutting height, 3-in-1 deck, and powerful engine make it a great option for all your lawn maintenance needs.
9. Earthwise 16-Inch 11-Amp Corded Electric Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
Earthwise Lawn Mower
If you are looking for a lightweight, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance lawn mower, the Earthwise 16-Inch 11-Amp Corded Electric Walk-Behind Lawn Mower can be a great choice for you. It is easy to use, efficient, and powerful, and can handle even tough mowing jobs with tall grasses and weeds.
Pros
- The powerful 12-Amp electric motor provides efficient, gas-like power without the need for oil or gas.
- The 16-Inch deck with metal blade offers excellent cutting and mulching, and comes with a removable mulching plug.
- The 5-Position, single-point height adjustment (1.4-3.3 inch) and multiple handle height positions make it easy and comfortable to use.
Cons
- The mower is corded, which limits its mobility and range.
- The foldable handle and collapsible grass catcher can be flimsy and may require extra care and maintenance.
- The 45-liter hard-top grass bag with level indicator can be heavy and difficult to empty.
We have been using the Earthwise 16-Inch 11-Amp Corded Electric Walk-Behind Lawn Mower for a few months now, and we are quite satisfied with its performance. The mower is lightweight and easy to maneuver, and the electric motor provides enough power to mow our medium-sized lawn without any issues. The cutting and mulching are consistent and clean, and the height adjustment is simple and effective.
However, the corded design can be a bit inconvenient, especially if you have a large lawn or obstacles that require frequent unplugging and re-plugging. The foldable handle and collapsible grass catcher are useful for storage, but they can be prone to wobbling and bending if not handled carefully. The grass bag is spacious and easy to attach, but it can be heavy and cumbersome to carry and empty, especially if the grass is wet or dense.
Overall, we would recommend the Earthwise 16-Inch 11-Amp Corded Electric Walk-Behind Lawn Mower to anyone who wants a reliable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective lawn mower for small to medium-sized lawns. It may have some limitations and quirks, but it delivers on its promises and can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
10. GardenPal 946-05073 Cable
GardenPal 946-05073 Cable
If you’re looking for a reliable replacement cable for your Cub Cadet or MTD walk-behind mower, the GardenPal 946-05073 Cable is a great option.
Pros
- The cable is compatible with a variety of popular mower models, including Cub Cadet Walk Behind Mower Cc 760 Es, Cc 800, MTD Lawn Mower SP33HW, and Troy-Bilt Lawn Mower 2014-2019 TB WC33 XP, TBWC33XP.
- The cable is a direct replacement for OEM part number 946-05073, ensuring a perfect fit.
- GardenPal is known for their strict product quality management, which means you can trust that their parts are of the same or better quality than OEM standards.
Cons
- While the cable comes with a 100% warranty for manufacturer defects or replacement needs, it only lasts for one month.
We recently used the GardenPal 946-05073 Cable on a Cub Cadet walk-behind mower and were impressed with its quality and ease of installation. The cable was a perfect fit and worked just as well as the original part.
One thing to note is that the cable is only covered by a 100% warranty for one month. However, we didn’t experience any issues during our testing period and believe that the cable is a reliable choice for anyone in need of a replacement.
Overall, we recommend the GardenPal 946-05073 Cable for anyone looking for a reliable replacement cable for their Cub Cadet or MTD walk-behind mower.
11. Snapper 1687914 21″ SP Walk Mower Kit
Snapper 1687914 21″ SP Walk Mower Kit
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient walk behind mower, the Snapper 1687914 21″ SP Walk Mower Kit is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The self-propelled transmission with variable speed makes it easy to maneuver and control the mower.
- With up to 45 minutes of run time, you can easily mow your lawn without worrying about running out of battery.
- The 21-inch steel mowing deck with 3-in-1 design allows you to mulch, bag or side discharge grass clippings easily.
Cons
- The charging time for the batteries is quite long, taking up to 60 minutes for a full charge.
- The mower is quite heavy, weighing in at almost 81 pounds, which can make it difficult to move around.
- The price point is higher than some other walk behind mowers on the market.
In our experience, the Snapper 1687914 21″ SP Walk Mower Kit is a reliable and efficient mower that gets the job done. The self-propelled transmission and load sensing technology make it easy to use, and the 7 different cutting heights allow you to customize the length of your grass. The mower also has a convenient push button start and a single lever height adjustment, making it easy to get started and adjust as needed.
One downside to the Snapper 1687914 21″ SP Walk Mower Kit is the long charging time for the batteries, which can be up to 60 minutes for a full charge. Additionally, the mower is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around, especially if you have a larger lawn to mow. However, the benefits of the mower outweigh these drawbacks, and we would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient walk behind mower.
Buying Guide
When it comes to purchasing a walk-behind mower, there are a few key features to consider to ensure that you choose the best product for your needs. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:
Cutting Width
The cutting width of a mower determines how wide of a path it can cut with each pass. This is an important factor to consider, as a wider cutting width will allow you to mow your lawn more quickly. However, a wider cutting width can also make the mower more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Consider the size of your lawn and the layout of your yard when choosing a cutting width.
Cutting Height
The cutting height of a mower determines how short it will cut your grass. Different mowers will have different height settings, so it’s important to choose a mower that can cut your grass to the desired length. Keep in mind that cutting your grass too short can damage it, so it’s important to choose a mower with a range of height settings.
Engine Power
The engine power of a mower determines how much torque it can generate to cut through thick grass. A more powerful engine will be able to handle tougher mowing conditions, but it will also be louder and heavier. Consider the size of your lawn and the thickness of your grass when choosing an engine size.
Drive Type
There are two main types of drive systems for walk-behind mowers: front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive mowers are generally more maneuverable, while rear-wheel drive mowers are better at handling hills and uneven terrain. Consider the terrain of your lawn when choosing a drive type.
Grass Disposal
Finally, consider how the mower disposes of grass clippings. Some mowers have a bagging system that collects clippings for easy disposal, while others have a mulching system that chops up clippings and distributes them back onto the lawn. Choose a system that works best for your lawn care needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best walk-behind mower for your lawn care needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated self-propelled gas lawn mowers for 2023?
The top-rated self-propelled gas lawn mowers for 2023 are the Honda HRX217VKA, Toro 21386, and Craftsman M310. These mowers have powerful engines, durable construction, and advanced features such as variable speed control and adjustable cutting heights.
What should I consider when choosing a wide deck walk-behind mower?
When choosing a wide deck walk-behind mower, you should consider the size of your lawn, the type of terrain, and the features you need. Look for mowers with wide cutting decks, powerful engines, and adjustable cutting heights. Also, consider the weight and maneuverability of the mower, as well as its ease of use and maintenance.
What is the best commercial self-propelled lawn mower for large lawns?
The best commercial self-propelled lawn mower for large lawns is the Exmark Lazer Z X-Series. This mower has a powerful engine, a durable construction, and advanced features such as a suspension system, a cutting height range of 1.5 to 5 inches, and a large fuel tank capacity.
What are the most reliable brands of walk-behind mowers?
The most reliable brands of walk-behind mowers are Honda, Toro, Craftsman, and Husqvarna. These brands are known for their high-quality construction, powerful engines, and advanced features such as variable speed control and adjustable cutting heights.
Are self-propelled walk-behind mowers worth the investment?
Yes, self-propelled walk-behind mowers are worth the investment if you have a large lawn or if you want to save time and energy. These mowers are easier to maneuver and require less effort on your part, allowing you to mow your lawn quickly and efficiently.
What features should I look for in a 21-inch walk-behind mower?
When looking for a 21-inch walk-behind mower, you should look for features such as a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, and easy-to-use controls. Also, consider the weight and maneuverability of the mower, as well as its ease of use and maintenance.