When it comes to maintaining a beautiful, healthy lawn, choosing the right lawn mower can make all the difference. After all, you don’t want to spend your weekend wrestling with a mower that’s tough to start or doesn’t give you a clean cut. But with so many types and models out there, you might be wondering: what’s a good lawn mower, exactly?
Whether you’ve got a small suburban yard or a sprawling estate, there’s a mower that’s perfect for your needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of lawn mowers, what makes one stand out, and give you a list of the top 5 best lawn mowers for 2025 to help you choose the best fit for your home.
Types of Lawn Mowers
When considering a good lawn mower, it’s important to first understand the different types available. Each type has its own strengths and limitations, and you can choose based on your yard size, terrain, and personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of lawn mowers:
Reel Lawn Mowers (Manual)
Reel mowers are the most basic, no-frills option that requires no fuel or electricity. They’re perfect for small, flat yards. With no motor to power them, you push the mower manually, which makes them quieter, eco-friendly, and easier to maintain.
Push vs. Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
Modern push mowers can have gas or electric motors to power the cutting blades, but they still rely entirely on you to push them across the lawn. If you’d prefer a mower with more assistance, consider a self-propelled mower. These have a drive system that helps propel the mower forward, reducing the effort you need to exert. This makes them especially useful for slightly uneven terrain or yards with gentle slopes.
Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers
Gas mowers are powerful and ideal for medium to large lawns, especially those with thicker grass or uneven surfaces. However, they’re heavier and noisier, and you’ll need to keep an eye on fuel levels.
Electric Lawn Mowers (Corded)
Electric mowers are a quieter, more eco-friendly alternative to gas models. They’re lightweight and easy to start, making them great for small to medium lawns. However, they require a cord, which means you’ll be limited by the reach of your extension cord.
Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers (Cordless)
For a cordless experience, battery-powered mowers are an excellent option. They offer the same eco-friendly benefits as electric mowers but without the cord. They’re lightweight, easy to maneuver, and convenient for smaller to medium lawns. Just make sure the battery has enough life to cover your entire yard.
Riding Lawn Mowers
If you have a larger lawn, riding mowers can save you time and effort. These mowers allow you to sit comfortably while you mow, making them perfect for larger yards or uneven terrain. Some models even offer additional features like bagging systems or mulching attachments. While they’re an investment, they’re great for people who need to cover large areas quickly.
Zero-Turn Mowers
For ultimate speed and maneuverability, zero-turn mowers are the way to go. They can rotate 360 degrees, making them perfect for navigating around obstacles like trees, flower beds, or garden paths. These mowers are fast, efficient, and typically used for large, commercial lawns, but they come with a higher price tag.
Robotic Lawn Mowers
If you want a completely hands-off lawn care experience, robotic mowers are the future. These autonomous mowers navigate your yard using sensors and trim the grass for you. While they’re more expensive and best suited for smaller to medium lawns, they offer convenience and save you time.
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What Makes a Good Lawn Mower?
Now that you have a better idea of which type to choose, let’s dive into the question: what is a good lawn mower? Here are the key factors to look for:
Engine Power
Gas-powered mowers typically offer more power than electric ones, but if you’re going for an electric model, look for one with a higher voltage battery for better performance. A more powerful engine can make mowing easier and more efficient, particularly if your lawn has uneven terrain or thick grass.
Cutting Width
The cutting width refers to how much grass the mower can cut in one pass. A larger cutting width (typically between 20-22 inches) allows you to cover more ground quickly, making it ideal for medium to large lawns. Smaller cutting widths are suitable for smaller yards, where maneuverability and precision are more important. A wide cutting deck also allows for faster mowing, reducing the overall time spent cutting your lawn.
Adjustable Height Settings
A good lawn mower should offer adjustable cutting heights to allow flexibility depending on your lawn’s needs. Some models allow you to choose from several height options, ranging from 1.5 inches to over 4 inches. This feature is especially helpful when mowing different types of grass or adjusting for seasonal growth.
Ease of Maintenance
No one wants to spend hours tinkering with their mower, so ease of maintenance is a must-have feature. A good lawn mower should be easy to clean, with simple access to the blades for sharpening or replacement. Additionally, check that oil changes (for gas models) and battery maintenance (for electric models) are straightforward.
Noise Levels
If noise is a concern, consider an electric or battery-powered mower. These tend to be much quieter than gas models, making them a good option if you have close neighbors or prefer a quieter lawn care experience.
Durability and Build
A mower built with high-quality materials, such as steel decks and strong, reinforced wheels, can stand up to years of use. Check the construction of the frame, blades, and handle to ensure they’ll hold up against bumps and knocks. Mowers with rust-resistant parts or weatherproof features are also a good investment for long-lasting performance.
Installation
While many mowers come pre-assembled, some models may require minimal assembly—like attaching the handles or installing the grass bag. Make sure the mower you choose is easy to set up, so you’re not spending extra time figuring out how to put it together.
When it comes to robot mowers, however, you’ll need to choose between traditional robot mowers that require boundary wires to define the mowing area and newer wire-free models that use sensors to detect boundaries and obstacles, making installation much simpler.
Top 5 Best Lawn Mowers in 2025
With these key features in mind, let’s look at what is the top-rated lawn mower this year. Here are 5 best lawn mowers for 2025, carefully chosen for their performance, value, and ease of use:
Best Battery-Powered: EGO Power+ LM2102SP 21” Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
The EGO Power+ LM2102SP is a standout battery-powered mower that combines cutting-edge technology with reliable performance. Powered by a 56V ARC Lithium battery, it offers up to 60 minutes of run time on a single charge, making it perfect for medium-sized lawns. Its self-propelled system with adjustable speed ensures you can mow at your own pace, while its compact design makes storage a breeze.
What’s Good:
- Up to 60 minutes of run time with a 56V 7.5Ah battery
- Adjustable self-propel speed (0.9 MPH – 3.1 MPH)
- easy 6-position height adjustments (1.5” to 4”)
- 3-in-1 function: mulching, bagging, side discharge
- Push-button start and bright LED headlights
- Weather-resistant construction and folds for compact storage
Best Corded: RYOBI13” 11 Amp Corded Electric Walk Behind Push Mower
Ideal for smaller yards, the RYOBI 13” 11 Amp corded mower is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and offers a cleaner, greener mowing experience. With a convenient single-point height adjustment and a collapsible handle, this mower is not only easy to use but also easy to store. It’s the perfect solution for those who prefer a hassle-free, low-maintenance mower without worrying about battery life or refueling.
What’s Good:
- 13” cutting width, perfect for small lawns
- Weighs just 23 lbs., making it highly portable
- Single-point height adjustment (1” – 2.5”)
- Easy collapsible handles for compact storage
- Environmentally friendly, no gas or oil required
Best Gas-Powered: Toro Recycler with Smart Stow 22” Gas Self-propelled Lawn Mower
The Toro Recycler 22” gas self-propelled lawn mower is a powerful machine that combines performance with space-saving convenience. Featuring a 150cc Briggs & Stratton engine, it delivers a powerful cut and is equipped with Toro’s innovative Vortex Technology to improve airflow for more efficient grass cutting. The SmartStow feature allows for easy vertical storage, making it a great choice for those with limited garage space.
What’s Good:
- 150cc Briggs & Stratton engine with front-wheel drive
- SmartStow feature for vertical storage
- Vortex Technology for enhanced cutting performance
- 9 cutting positions (1” – 4”)
- Large rear high-wheels for better control on uneven terrain
- Super Bagger for efficient clippings collection
- Ergonomic handle design for comfort
Best Zero Turn: RYOBI 80V Brushless 42” Riding Mower
The RYOBI 80V Brushless 42” riding mower offers the power and precision of a traditional gas mower, but with the quiet, eco-friendly benefits of battery operation. With its powerful 80V motors and 12-position adjustable cutting height, this riding mower delivers an outstanding performance across large lawns up to 3 acres. The premium seat suspension and adjustable speeds make it incredibly comfortable, while the iDrive system ensures easy maneuverability around trees and landscaping.
What’s Good:
- Powered by 4 brushless motors and dual lithium-ion batteries
- Equivalent to a 31-horsepower gas engine
- Cuts up to 3 acres per charge, recharges in 2.5 hours
- 42” heavy-duty steel deck and CROSS CUT multi-blade system
- iDrive system for precise steering
- Low maintenance, no belts or spark plugs
- LCD control panel with Bluetooth and USB charging ports
Best Robot: Husqvarna Automower 430X Robotic Lawn Mower
For those who want a truly hands-free mowing experience, the Husqvarna Automower 430X is a game-changer. This robotic mower utilizes smart technology for easy scheduling and control from your smartphone, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home. It’s equipped with a boundary wire for reliable performance and can navigate challenging terrain with ease. Ideal for up to 0.8 acres, this mower is weatherproof, quiet, and features GPS tracking for added security.
What’s Good:
- Smart integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and smartphone
- Reliable boundary wire solution for accurate navigation
- DIY installation with included self-installation kit
- Weatherproof, handles slopes up to 45 degrees
- GPS theft tracking, built-in alarm, and PIN code lock
- Ideal for lawns up to 0.8 acres (1,430 sq. ft. per hour)
- Quiet operation, works 24/7 for a consistently neat lawn
Conclusion
At the end of the day, what’s a good lawn mower really depends on your lawn size, terrain, and personal preferences. Whether you go for a budget-friendly electric model, a self-propelled gas mower, or a high-tech robotic mower, there are plenty of great options that ensure not only neat and uniform cuts but also efficiency and ease of use. With the 5 top-rated lawn mowers for 2025 in mind, you’re ready to find the one that’ll give you a smooth, hassle-free mowing experience all year round.
FAQs
What brand of lawn mower is the most reliable?
Some of the most reliable brands for lawn mowers include RYOBI, EGO, Toro, Husqvarna and GreenWorks. These brands are known for their durability, performance, and innovative features. Whether you’re looking for a gas-powered or electric mower, these brands consistently produce high-quality models that can stand the test of time.
How many years should a lawn mower last?
A well-maintained lawn mower should last between 7 to 10 years, though this can vary based on the model, usage, and maintenance. Gas mowers tend to last longer than electric mowers, but regular upkeep—such as oil changes, blade sharpening, and proper storage—can extend the life of any mower.
Which is better, a self-propelled or push mower?
A self-propelled mower is generally better for larger lawns or uneven terrain, as it requires less physical effort to push. On the other hand, a push mower is ideal for small, flat lawns where maneuverability and simplicity are key. It ultimately depends on your yard size and how much effort you want to put into mowing.
What time of year is it cheapest to buy a mower?
The cheapest time to buy a mower is typically in late fall or early winter, after the mowing season ends. Retailers often discount lawn mowers to clear out inventory for the next season. Additionally, you might find good deals during holiday sales like Black Friday or end-of-season clearance events.
