Choosing the right push lawn mower can feel like a big decision, especially with so many options available. I’ve spent a lot of time testing different models to figure out what really works in a real yard. Whether you have a small, flat patch or a larger, slightly hilly lawn, the goal is to find a machine that makes the job easier and gives you a clean cut without a lot of hassle. For 2025, the focus is on efficiency, ease of use, and durability.
This guide is here to help you sort through the noise. I’ve put together a list of the 10 best push lawn mowers based on hands-on experience and user feedback. We’ll look at everything from reliable gas-powered workhorses to quiet, low-maintenance electric models. My aim is to give you a clear picture of each mower’s strengths and weaknesses so you can pick the perfect one for your specific needs and get back to enjoying your weekend.
Our Picks for the 10 Best Push Lawn Mowers
- Craftsman M105 140cc 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower
- Honda HRN216VKA 21 Inch 3-in-1 Versamow System
- Greenworks 25022 21 Inch 80V Cordless Lawn Mower
- EGO Power+ LM2135SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Select Cut
- Toro Recycler 22 Inch Personal Pace Self-Propel
- Snapper XD 82V 21 Inch Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
Craftsman M105 140cc 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower

For a dependable, no-frills gas mower that gets the job done without breaking the bank, the Craftsman M105 is a solid pick. This is a classic push mower with a strong 140cc engine that starts easily and provides consistent power. It has a single-lever height adjustment, which is a convenient feature usually found on more expensive models, allowing you to change the cutting height from 1.25 to 3.75 inches without fiddling with each wheel individually.
It offers the standard 3-in-1 functionality, so you can mulch, bag, or side-discharge. The bag is a decent size and has an indicator to let you know when it’s getting full. This mower is all about value and simplicity. It doesn’t have the advanced features of a Honda or Toro, but it’s a workhorse that will reliably cut your grass season after season. It’s a fantastic option for someone with a flat to moderately sloped yard who wants the freedom of gas without a high price tag.
Pros
- Excellent value for a reliable gas-powered mower
- Convenient single-lever height adjustment
- Powerful enough for most residential lawns
Cons
- Can be difficult to push on hills compared to self-propelled models
- Basic functionality without advanced mulching or drive systems
Greenworks 25022 21 Inch 80V Cordless Lawn Mower
For those ready to leave gas and cords behind, the Greenworks 80V mower is a powerful contender. The first thing I noticed was how quiet it is compared to a traditional mower. You can easily have a conversation while mowing, which is a nice change. It comes with a 2.0Ah battery and a fast charger, and I found that it had enough power to handle my medium-sized lawn on a single charge, even when the grass was a bit thick. The steel deck is durable, and the single-lever height adjustment makes it simple to change the cutting height across all four wheels at once.
Performance-wise, it cuts cleanly and evenly. It offers 3-in-1 functionality (mulch, bag, or side-discharge), so you have flexibility depending on your lawn’s condition. The push-button start is as easy as it gets—just insert the battery and press the button. There’s no oil, no gas, and very little maintenance required. The only thing to keep in mind is that if you have a very large yard, you might want to invest in a second battery to ensure you can finish the job without interruption.
Pros
- Powerful and quiet 80V brushless motor
- No gas, oil, or cords to worry about
- Easy push-button start and simple height adjustment
Cons
- Battery life may be tight for lawns over half an acre
- The mower itself is on the heavier side
EGO Power+ LM2135SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Select Cut
The EGO Power+ LM2135SP stands out with its innovative Select Cut technology. This system gives you a choice between using two or three blades, allowing you to optimize for maximum mulching or a finer, cleaner bagged cut. I tested both settings and the difference in mulching quality with three blades engaged is noticeable; it really chops the clippings into a fine powder that disappears into the lawn. The weather-resistant construction is a nice touch, meaning you don’t have to panic if you get caught in a light drizzle or if the mower is stored in a damp shed.
This is a self-propelled model, which makes it fantastic for yards with hills or if you simply prefer not to push. The speed is easily adjustable with a handy dial on the handle. It folds down for compact storage, which is great for saving space in the garage. The battery technology from EGO is some of the best in the business, offering long runtimes and holding a charge well over time. It’s an investment, but for a premium, feature-rich cordless experience, it’s hard to beat.
Pros
- Versatile Select Cut system for superior mulching and bagging
- Powerful self-propelled drive with variable speed control
- Excellent battery life and weather-resistant design
Cons
- One of the more expensive cordless options available
- Can be heavier than basic push mowers
Toro Recycler 22 Inch Personal Pace Self-Propel
The Toro Recycler is a legend for a reason. Its Personal Pace system is brilliantly intuitive—the mower automatically matches your walking speed. You just push the lever forward to go faster and pull back to slow down. There’s no need to set a speed; it just feels natural. I found it especially helpful on uneven terrain where my pace naturally varied. The Recycler tagline comes from its exceptional mulching capability, which uses a unique blade design to cut grass clippings multiple times before they fall back onto the lawn.
This mower does a great job of making clippings virtually disappear, which saves you the work of bagging and disposing of grass. The 22-inch cutting deck is a bit wider than standard, helping you cover more ground with each pass. It’s a gas mower, so you have the unlimited runtime that comes with a full tank, making it suitable for larger properties. It’s built with quality materials and is known for its durability, making it a smart long-term purchase for serious homeowners.
Pros
- Intuitive Personal Pace self-propelled system
- Superior mulching performance that eliminates clippings
- Wider 22-inch deck for faster mowing
Cons
- Requires standard gas mower maintenance (oil, air filter, spark plug)
- Higher initial cost than basic push mowers
Snapper XD 82V 21 Inch Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
Snapper is a trusted name in gas mowers, and their foray into the battery-powered world with the XD 82V model is impressive. This mower has serious power, rivaling many gas engines. I tested it on some overgrown areas, and it powered through without bogging down. The battery charges surprisingly quickly, and the gauge on the mower itself lets you know exactly how much charge you have left, which helps with planning your mowing session.
It features a 3-in-1 design and a sturdy steel deck. What I like about Snapper is that they haven’t cut corners on build quality; it feels solid and well-made. The handling is smooth, and it’s relatively lightweight for a mower with this much power. If you already own other Snapper 82V tools, the batteries are interchangeable, which is a huge plus. This mower is a great option if you want the simplicity of battery power but need the brute strength typically associated with gas models.
Pros
- Extremely powerful 82V motor that handles tough grass
- Fast-charging battery with a clear charge-level indicator
- Part of a system with other compatible 82V tools
Cons
- Battery and charger are sold separately in some kits
- Slightly noisier than some other battery-powered mowers
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Push Lawn Mower for 2025
Choosing the right push lawn mower can feel like a big decision, but it really comes down to a few key factors. I’ve spent a lot of time comparing models, and the first thing you need to decide on is the power source. This is the biggest shift I see for 2025. Gas mowers are powerful and offer total freedom, but they require regular maintenance like oil changes and spark plug replacements. Electric mowers are split into corded and cordless. Corded models are lightweight, quiet, and have unlimited runtime, but you’re tethered to an outlet, which can be a hassle with a large yard. Cordless, battery-powered mowers are the real stars now. They offer fantastic convenience, are emission-free, and are much quieter than gas. The technology has improved so much that many can handle a decent-sized lawn on a single charge.
Next, think about your lawn itself. The size and terrain are huge factors. For a small, flat yard, a basic model with a 20-inch deck will be perfect. If your lawn is larger or has some hills, you’ll want to look for a mower with more power (higher voltage for battery models, higher CC for gas) and perhaps a self-propelled feature. Self-propelled mowers do the work of pushing for you, which is a game-changer on inclines. For the 10 best push lawn mowers | 2025, I focused on a mix that excels in different conditions.
Don’t overlook the cutting deck. It’s usually made of steel, which is durable but can rust, or aluminum, which is lighter and rust-proof. The cutting width determines how many passes you’ll need to make. A wider deck (21-22 inches) covers more ground quickly. Also, look at the cutting height adjustments. Easy, single-lever adjustments that change the height for all four wheels at once are a feature you’ll appreciate every time you mow. Finally, consider the grass disposal method. Side-discharge is simple, mulching returns nutrient-rich clippings to the soil, and bagging gives you a clean finish. Many of the best mowers today offer all three options in one.
FAQ
What is the main advantage of a battery-powered push mower over gas?
The biggest advantage is ease of use. With a battery mower, you just pop in a battery and press a button to start. There’s no pulling a cord, no dealing with gasoline or oil, and virtually no maintenance beyond cleaning the deck and sharpening the blade. They are also much quieter and produce zero emissions, which is better for the environment and your ears. For most residential lawns, a modern battery-powered model from our list of the 10 best push lawn mowers | 2025 provides more than enough power and runtime.
Is a self-propelled mower worth the extra cost?
In my opinion, if you have any significant slopes or a large lawn, a self-propelled mower is absolutely worth the investment. It takes almost all the physical effort out of mowing. Instead of pushing, you simply guide the mower. It makes the job faster and much less tiring, especially on a hot day. If your yard is small and perfectly flat, you can probably save some money and stick with a standard push model.
How often do I need to sharpen the mower blade?
You should sharpen the blade at least once per mowing season, and ideally twice if you have a large lawn or hit a lot of debris. A dull blade doesn’t cut the grass cleanly; it tears it. This gives your lawn a brown, ragged look and can make it more susceptible to disease. It’s a simple maintenance task that makes a huge difference in the health and appearance of your grass.
What does a “mulching” mower do?
A mulching mower is designed to cut the grass clippings into very fine pieces and then blow them down into the lawn. These tiny clippings decompose quickly, acting as a natural fertilizer and returning valuable nutrients and moisture to the soil. It’s a great way to feed your lawn for free and eliminates the need to bag and dispose of clippings.
Can I use a push mower on a wet lawn?
I would not recommend it. Mowing wet grass is tough on your mower and your lawn. The wet clippings clump together, clogging the deck and the discharge chute. This can strain the engine or motor. The wet soil is also softer, so the mower’s wheels can leave ruts, and you risk scalping the lawn. It’s always best to wait for the grass to dry.