The 10 Best Push Mowers
If you have a yard that is less than an acre and you want to maintain your grass, the best option is a push mower. The choice of the best mower on the market is not as easy as it may seem. The ability of the mower to navigate through the lawn gives it a competitive edge over others-unless you have a flat terrain as apposed to uneven terrain. Push lawn mowers will engage you in little exercise but will spare your bank. You have to control its direction to maintain a clean and tidy cut. However, it has its propeller which reduces the energy it drains while pushing.
It is essential to note that gas mowers are the best for more significant chunks of lawns while electric mowers will do better on small and flat yards. The corded electric mower is a silent cutter, but it does not do a thorough job on tall and thick grass. On the other hand, a gas lawn mower is excellent on overgrown grass, but you have to put up with the noise and gas odor. Because of its heavy duties, the gas lawn mower needs more maintenance and frequent replacements of some parts. Read on further for the full buying guide.
View the Best Push Mower for the Money, Below
- GreenWorks 25022
- EGO Power+ LM2001-X 56V
- Sun Joe MJ401E
- GreenWorks 25302 G-MAX
- Husqvarna 961450021 HU800AWDH
- Poulan Pro 961120134 Hi-Wheel
- Yard Machines 140cc
- Black & Decker MM2000
- Honda HRR216K9VKA 3-in-1
- Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc
1. GreenWorks 25022
Read Customer Reviews →Not everything that comes with a small budget will give you limited services. The GreenWorks 25022 is light, and you will not have to break your bank to purchase one. It gives you the option to mulch, bag or discharge clippings. It is electric powered thus quiet and easy to maintain. The blade of the machine is 20 inches, and a 12-amp motor powers it. Its weight can be pushed with minimum effort.
Depending on your height, the mower has 7-position adjustability for varied options of grass cutting heights. The GreenWorks 25022 has foldable handles to reduce the amount of storage space occupied. The weight of the machine is slightly above 55lbs which is easy to load into a track. You will be able to navigate through your flower beds without disturbing them.
Power Source
This is an electric-corded machine that uses a 12-amperes motor. The package does not include the extension cord which gives you the option of selecting your desired length. However, you should consider a cable that supports over 12-amp to avoid damaging the motor. If you want a long cable, you should consider buying a high amperage extension cord.
Cutting Deck
The cutting deck of the machine is 20 inches long. The cutter is made of steel for maximum durability. The size makes it simple for you to maneuver through your flower bed. It does not occupy a lot of space in your storage facility.
Weight
The GreenWorks 25022 weighs 56lbs which is easy to push. The rear and front wheels are also varying in size slanting the mower forward. The positions shift the weight from the hind to the front reducing the force applied when mowing.
Purpose
This is a 3-in-1 tool that suits your yard, orchard or flower garden. Whether you want to collect or dispose of your cut grass, the machine will do it.
Check Price on Amazon ➞2. EGO Power+ LM2001-X 56V
Read Customer Reviews →This is a battery-powered mower that has a 90-minute cut time. If you don't want to use a lot of energy, but you can dig your pocket deeper, this machine suits you. It is not self-propelled, but it is easy to push. The mower occupies limited space because it is foldable and you can keep it upright. Another advantage of the EGO Power+ LM2001-X 56V is the enclosure of its parts that enable it to operate in all weathers.
The machine will also do your tall or thick grass well though you may need a few passes to make a clean cut. If you want a quiet device or you could be allergic to the smell of gas, an EGO Power will serve you. It gives you high power close to that of a gas mower, and it is also easy to maintain.
Power Source
The machine runs on an advanced arc-lithium battery and rapid charger. The battery supports 56V of power which can run the mower for one and a half hours. The fast charging aspect saves your time when you want to do your grass within minutes. The power is enough to cut your tall grass.
Cutting Deck
The mower has a 20 inches cut capacity which is ideal for small to medium sized lawns. The deck can navigate through your yard without destroying your flowers or other desirable plants. The deck minimizes the space required for storage.
Weight
The machine weighs 80 pounds but easy to push. The mass should not worry you. You only need to control the direction of the tool when mowing a flat yard. It is easy to push the machine on a sloping lawn without applying a lot of force.
Purpose
The machine offers the option of bagging, mulching or disposing of your clippings. You have 5-position adjustability to determine the height of your grass. It will not be troubled by obstacles on your lawn.
Check Price on Amazon ➞3. Sun Joe MJ401E
Read Customer Reviews →Sun Joe MJ401E is an electric mower that uses a 12-amp motor to give your lawn a clean cut. It has a maximum extension of 100 meters. The machine is ideal for small yards of less than a third of an acre. It uses a button to start which is easy to press. The mower has a compact design and small wheels that makes it ideal for maneuvering in your yard. The size is perfect if you have limited storage space.
It has 3-position adjustability to give your grass the desired height. Its collection bag is fitted in the rear part, and it is easily detachable for easy disposal of clippings. The mower can be used in all terrains due to its ability to navigate through obstacles. The lightweight is also comfortable to push even in hilly yards. The machine is also a fast cutter, and it will bring your grass to size within minutes.
Power Source
This is an electric machine that uses a 12-amp motor. The extension cable should be a minimum of 14 gauges to keep the device in excellent condition. You should consider a lower gauge for a longer extension cable because gauges work in reverse, i.e., the lower the number, the thicker the wire.
Cutting Deck
The mower has a deck that measures 14 inches only. The size is ideal for small lawns and economizes on your storage space. However, the speed of the blade increases the ability of the machine to mow fast. It can also maneuver through your lawn without destroying desirable plants like flowers.
Purpose
The machine will mulch or bag the clippings after the fast cut. Whether you want to improve your soil fertility or keep your lawn tidy, this mower will work for you.
Check Price on Amazon ➞4. GreenWorks 25302 G-MAX
Read Customer Reviews →This is a dual battery mower for mowing large yards. It has an automatic power or runtime adjustability depending on the thickness of the grass. The primary battery of the machine pulls power from the secondary battery to prevent any downtime. It has two blades that help in mowing the lawn to a clean and neat table. It has wheels with varying diameters to ease the maneuverability of the tool. It has an easy push button to start off.
The machine has 5-position adjustability to level your grass to the desired height. The machine has a 1-hour runtime but the twin fast speed blades will mow a considerable size of lawn. The device is an excellent mulcher with the option of a rear bag if you want to collect the clippings. The mower has a voltage indicator that helps you estimate the runtime to prevent any unexpected power shortage.
Power Source
The mower has two batteries that have a power output of 40V to produce powerful and fast cut. The primary battery draws power from the secondary battery to give the machine a longer runtime. The power thrust is enough to give your tough lawn a clean cut within minutes.
Cutting Deck
The machine has twin 10-inch power decks that work in harmony to mow a width of 20 inches. The cutters are fast and efficient in their work. The size of the decks makes it possible to maneuver through your yard with ease.
Weight
The GreenWorks 25302 G-MAX weighs less than 45 pounds. Thus, it is light to push and move across obstacles in your lawn. The machine will meander easily across rough terrain without a lot of force.
Purpose
The machine has an excellent mulching ability. The tool has a rear collection bag that collects clippings if you want to leave your lawn neat.
Check Price on Amazon ➞5. Husqvarna 961450021 HU800AWDH
Read Customer Reviews →This is a self-propelled gas machine that gives you the option to mulch, bag or discharge your clippings. It has 3-position adjustable handle that you will set according to your height for maximum comfort while pushing. The mower has a Honda GCV190 190cc 4 cycle engine that is simple to start. The Husqvarna 961450021 HU800AWDH has a variable drive system that allows you to control the mower at your own pace. It has a lever that helps you to cut your grass to the desired height.
The machine has a washout port that facilitates cleaning of the cutting deck to remove dirt and stuck grass. The front wheels are 8 inches while the rear ones are 3 centimeters wider giving the tool excellent maneuverability on the lawn. The mower has enough power to cut thick and tall grass in a single or two passes. The machine is ideal for large-sized mowers.
Power Source
This model runs on gas, and it has a powerful 4-cycle engine that gives it exemplary output. The engine has 190cc cylinders that offer you enough power to cut any grass. The machine will start off with a single pull giving you an easy time.
Cutting Decks
The cutting deck is 22 inches, and it is coated with powder for a first class mowing experience. The cutter is made of steel for maximum durability and efficiency. The deck is easy to clean with the option of washout ports. The adjustment of the cutter is made on a single lever which makes the machine easy to adjust.
Weight
The machine weighs 105 pounds, but because it is self-propelled, the weight is a non-issue. You only need to control the tool, but no pushing is required. It is also sizeable which means you need an ample storage facility.
Purpose
This is a 3-in-1 machine that mulches, discharges, and bags clippings. You will select your option depending on how you want your lawn to look and the use of the cuttings. The machine has a huge bag that will carry a considerable amount of grass.
Check Price on Amazon ➞6. Poulan Pro 961120134 Hi-Wheel
Read Customer Reviews →This is a compact package that uses Briggs and Stratton 140cc engine. The machine has high rolling rear wheels that ease maneuverability across the terrain. It offers mulching and discharge capabilities to nourish your lawn with nutrients from decayed organic matter. It has a 5.00 ft-lb gross torque for easy starting and excellent power output. The mower is an economical fuel consumer which makes it ideal for savers who need high power output.
The machine is also easy to assemble, and within minutes it will be running. It will even start off with a single pull. It is one of the few gas lawn mowers that you can quickly load onto a truck. You will also part with a few dollars compared to prices of most fuel-powered mowers. It will easily navigate through your level or hilly terrain.
Power Source
The Poulan Pro 961120134 runs on gas. Therefore, you are assured of excellent power output as is the case with most petrol mowers. The engine is reliable in performing its tasks, and it does not have issues starting off.
Cutting Deck
The machine has a 21-inch cutting deck that is within limits of a size that can easily maneuver around your flowers. The cutter is designed to deliver a neat and clean cut within a record time. The deck has 4-point cutting adjustments that allow you to choose the desired size of your grass.
Purpose
The mower is designed to mulch and discharge clippings. It is ideal for lawn owners who want to keep the cuttings in the yard to nourish the grass. It does not have a collection bag like the other mowers.
Check Price on Amazon ➞7. Yard Machines 140cc
Read Customer Reviews →This is a gas machine powered by a 140CC engine. The power source guarantees you high power output. The mower has 3-position adjustability to cut your grass to the desired height. The machine has even wheels which are small to ease maneuverability in your yard. The mower is ideal for small to medium-sized lawns. The tool is lightweight for easy loading if there is need to transport it from a location to another.
Unlike most gas mowers, the Yard Machine 140cc is not noisy. The mower does not have issues starting off. It will do your thick and tall grass perfectly. However, it does not have the option of a bag. The handle is sturdy and guarantees you durability. The wheels too have a long life. The price of the mower is considerate compared to other gas mowers.
Power Source
The machine uses a 140cc gas engine for power. The engine is fast and durable in cutting any grass. The device is 4-cycled thus you will not mix your fuel and oil. The engine has low gas consumption.
Cutting Deck
The mower has a 20-inch cutting deck that is designed for side discharge. The deck allows the machine to navigate and wander around bushes or flowers when cutting your grass. The deck is also adjustable to 3 different positions to keep the desired height of your lawn.
Weight
The machine is among the lightest gas-powered mowers at 48 pounds. The size is also compact to occupy little space in your storage facility. You will easily push the mower with little effort.
Purpose
The mower is a single purpose with the option of side discharge only. Therefore, it is ideal for lawn owners who want to retain the clippings in their yard to nourish the grass.
Check Price on Amazon ➞8. Black & Decker MM2000
Read Customer Reviews →The Black & Decker MM2000 is an excellent 3-in-1 machine that is electric-powered. The mower has 7-position adjustability for the most precise and clean cut. It has a 13-gallon collection bag that allows you to check the level of the collected grass. The machine is suitable for cutting grass on edges of your fence or flower bed because of the EdgeMax Technology. The device starts off with a press of the power button. It navigates between your desired plants because of the small size of the deck.
If you have limited space or garage, you can fold the machine to fit in a small area. The mower comes in an easy-to-assemble package that will take you some few minutes only. The handle is long for stability and leverage reducing the force used to push the machine. The runtime is limited but should do small and medium-sized lawn comfortably.
Power Source
The machine is electric-powered with a 13 Ah motor that outputs exemplary performance. It comes with a charger that recharges the mower pretty fast.
Cutting Deck
The cutter of the Black & Decker 2000MM is 20 inches long. It can reach to the edges of your yard.
Weight
The mower weighs approximately 46 pounds. The weight is considerate but has a more significant size due to its sizeable clippings collection bag. The bag has a considerable weight which makes the machine lighter if you are not using the bagging option.
Purpose
This is a 3-in-1 device that allows you to discharge, mulch or bag. The machine will do both small and medium sized lawns and give a clean yard
Check Price on Amazon ➞9. Honda HRR216K9VKA 3-in-1
Read Customer Reviews →This mower is gas powered and has dual adjustment handle for comfort when pushing it. The deck is made of stainless steel which gives you a guarantee of durability. It has 6-position cutting height adjustment that allows you to cut your grass to the desired height. The Honda has a variable speed of 0 to 4 mph which helps you to control the tool to your pace. It has a manual fuel shut off and a sturdy handle that is foldable in case of limited storage space.
The machine can bag, discharge or mulch clippings. It requires a single pull to start off. The tool will easily navigate and maneuver around obstacles and desired plants. It does not feel the effect of steep lawns or thick and tall grass. However, do not overwork the machine or your muscles with an acre of yard grass. It will do well on small-sized and medium lawns.
Power Source
The mower is gas-powered and does a maximum speed of 4mph. The variability is essential in control of your working pace. It has a rear self-propel that reduces the amount of force you will use to push the machine.
Cutting Deck
The machine has twin cutting blades which give you a clean cut. The blades are 21 inches, and they will do your grass in perfection that is rare in most gas mowers. It is also easier to switch the deck from one option of clippings disposal to another.
Weight
The Honda weighs 84 pounds, and it is a bit large. The feature is understandable with a petrol-powered grass mower. However, you will not need the whole garage to store the machine.
Purpose
If you are after a multi-purpose mower that will do your yard within minutes, the Honda will satisfy your need. It discharges, bags, and mulches the clippings on single manual setup.
Check Price on Amazon ➞
10. Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc
Read Customer Reviews →The mower has one of the highest capacity engines at 163cc. The handle is adjustable, and the wheels are even with a reliable rear drive that makes navigation easy. The machine is TriAction and with a 21-inch cutting deck that has multiple cutting heights. The mower has 4 top speed single lever controls that allow you to setup according to your pace. The collection bag is big enough to carry close to 2 bushels of clippings.
The machine starts off is enhanced by ReadyStart technology that gives you an easy time when starting it. The wheels are small enough to maneuver around your yard without destroying your flowers or getting stuck in shrubs. The fuel tank capacity is 1.09 quarts which give you an extended runtime without having to refuel.
Power Source
The machine is gas powered with a 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine in place to give you enough power to mow tall and thick grass comfortably. The mower has a rear drive propeller that reduces the energy used to push it. You will do your hilly or uneven terrain without any struggle.
Cutting Deck
The cutter measures 21 inches, and it is integrated with a premium wash in the system. The deck is ideal for thick grass and effortlessly meanders around your desired plants not to distract them.
Weight
The TB330 weighs 84 pounds like our previous mower. The weight should not be an issue to push because of the rear drive propeller. The tool is also sizeable which means you need enough space for storage.
Purpose
The mower is designed to bag, mulch or discharge clippings. The bag is large enough, and the deck will do proper mulching on your lawn.
Check Price on Amazon ➞What to Look For When Buying a Push Mower
A machine is not just like any other as most clueless buyers believe when making a purchase. You need to select that which satisfies your needs without having to break your bank. Depending on the condition of your lawn, you may have to part with a few more coins to get the top mower on the market.
Therefore, a push lawn mower is a must-have if you want to keep your grass at a manageable height where you can use a light machine. Thick and long grass may push you to buy a gas lawn mower or corded electric mower which could rip your pockets. Because not everyone can afford or prefer a self-propelled grass mower, it is essential to know some factors you will consider as you make your purchase.
This article shares a step-by-step analysis of each element found helpful after reading several buyers’ reviews and watching each machine’s performance. Read through and you will make your decision with ease and get a reliable machine.
Power source
The choice of a power source depends on the size of your lawn and how fast you want to do your yard. When making a purchase, you have four options. Namely gas, electricity, battery, and push reel lawn mower tools.
Gas Mowers
Petrol propels these mowers. They are started by pulling a power cord. They are ideal for big lawns because they have bigger cutting deck than the other mowers. They will do your one or half acre yard excellently. Petrol mowers will navigate through your rough terrain lawn and give you a clean cut. You have to put up with the noise and smell of fuel when using a gas lawn mower.
Electric push mowers
These machines run on electricity, and they are quiet cutters. The will give you a tidier lawn than gas mowers with a press on the switch. However, the size of the yard they can do is limited. You will comfortably mow a third of an acre using the machine.
The length of the electric cord limits the circumference of the working area. It is not ideal for thick or tall grass because it is not a competent navigator.
Battery mowers
They have a close resemblance to electric mowers. They use a rechargeable battery as their power source. They are started off by a switch, and they do not produce a lot of noise. The voltage of the batteries limits their output. They are not the favorite for hilly or sloppy yards because they will give you a hard time to push.
Reel mowers
These machines use your energy as the source of power. They are excellent exercise power tools. They have a small cutting deck which limits the size of the field they can work on. They are ideal for your small lawns which are flat. The mower is also environmentally friendly because it does not emit fumes or produce noise. Another advantage is making clean cuts, and you have full control over its activities. However, it does not do thick or tall grass. Alternatively, you can try out string trimmers. Looking for gasoline models? See the top gas powered string trimmers for cutting grass.
Cutting deck
The size of its cutting deck (cutting width) determines the ability or output of your machine. The bigger the size, the larger the acreage of lawn it can do. The power source is an essential factor in determining the size installed on your machine. Push reel lawn mower machines have the smallest size while petrol mowers have the largest cutting decks. Your storage facility is also essential in choosing the size of a deck. If you have limited space, it is advisable to select small-sized decks not to take a lot of space.
If you have ample storage facility, you can consider big decks. What is the amount of time you want to spend cutting your grass? If you have limited time, you should choose a mower that will do your lawn in minutes. The size is a determinant of the total output of a machine in an hour. Probably you want to spend most of your time tending your grass; then a reel mower with a small deck and a clean cut will suit you.
You will part with a few bucks with such a machine. The size of the deck determines the ability of your mower to navigate through the lawn. If you have flowers or other plants which you want to retain, you should consider a small cutting deck. The cutter will cover a limited cutting width without cutting your desirable plants.
Weight
The mowers will require your strength to push. Therefore, you need a machine that is considerate to avoid excess fatigue while working. The lightest mowers are in the reel category while petrol machines are the heaviest. However, you require little energy to propel a gas mower compared to a reel mower. The wheels of lawn mowers ease the work of pushing the machine. You should exercise caution because a powerful mower has sharp and pointed parts which can injure you.
When loading your device into a truck to mow a lawn that could be some distance from your home, you should be cautious. Mowers weigh less than a hundred pounds which makes it easy to maneuver it from one place to another if need be.
Purpose
Mowers have three ways to dispose of the grass clippings: rear bagging, mulching, and discharge. You should purchase your machine considering how you intend to use the cuttings. However, most manufacturers provide the three options in a single tool to allow you to use the powerful mower in different fields.
When you want to keep your lawn clean or plan to use the grass clippings elsewhere, you could opt for the bag.
Mulching is used when you want the grass clippings to decay and improve soil fertility. After looking at the factors, you should consider when purchasing a lawn mower, we can go through some of the best options.
FAQs
What is a push mower?
These are mowers that require your force to operate. They are also referred to as reel mowers. You walk behind the mower applying your energy through the handle for it to move forward and cut grass. You have full control over the activities of the powerful mower. They are excellent exercise tools.
How to clean push mower carburetor
First, check the air filter. Stuck solid particles, dust, and debris can cause the emission of excess fumes from your machine. Therefore, ensure that the input air is free from any contaminants as it gets into the carburetor. Second, ensure that linkages are clean. Dirt can cause binding and sticking of carburetor’s throttle and auto choke plate. This reduces vibration and ensures that the settings of the carburetor mixture screws are in place.
Third, use the cleaner to remove dirt from the carburetor. Each company has a specific cleaner that is suited for the machine. Therefore, it is advisable to check with your manufacturer about the best cleaner. Remove the solid deposits, and clogging particles and wipe dust stuck on the surface.
It is essential to ensure that you change your oil regularly to maintain powerful engines. If storing the machine for long, you should drain the oil. You should also ensure that your air filter is working well to avoid accumulation of excess dirt that can affect the performance of your mower.
How to change push mower blades
Turn the mower on its side to have a view of the old blade. You should inspect the old blade to assess its condition regularly to determine if you need a new one. Ensure that all fuel containers in the machine are closed to avoid spilling fuel or lubricants on your yard. If possible, you can drain the gas and fuel before turning the machine. Unplug the spark plug and remove the blade mounting bolt. Alternatively, you can opt for a zero turn mower here.
Ensure that the spark plug does not come into contact with fuel or oil to prevent any electrical mishap. When removing the mounting bolts, hold the blade to prevent it from turning. Have a container to place the bolts and nuts not lose them. Avoid hurting yourself when handling the blade and note its orientation.
Fix the new lawn mower blade ensuring it’s facing the right direction. You should make sure that the blades are mounted correctly. Then tighten the bolts and washers to ensure the blade is firmly attached. After this, put the machine upright and run a test to confirm that the blades are running correctly.
Conclusion
The compilation gives you a diversity of mowers. We have considered the most economical, efficient, and fast machines to choose from. Depending on your sensitivity to environmental conservation, you can opt for a reel, battery, or electric lawn mower. However, if you are after power, it is difficult to run away from a gas-powered mower. Nevertheless, there are electric lawn mowers which have a high power output close to that of petrol mowers.
The size of your lawn is an essential factor, and you should estimate whether the runtime of a battery mower will be enough to cut grass on a sizeable portion. The ability of the tool to support a long cord when using a corded electric lawn mower will determine how well it will do your yard. Most mowers will support 100 meters of wire which is long enough for most lawns.
Expert’s tip
If you want your mower to serve you for years, you should drain the fuel after each mowing season. Stale oil affects the start off of your machine. When the season is over, you should use new oil to keep the powerful engines in good condition for years or even decades. For lawn mower safety tips read this guide.
Did you know?
The idea of lawn mowers was inspired by cutting cylinders of a cloth mill in 1830. The idea was borrowed by Edwin Beard Budding but took ten years for actualization after being patented in 1830.