Many homeowners hope to have a verdant, well-manicured lawn that makes them the envy of the neighborhood. While proper fertilization and watering are essential to growing gorgeous green turf, the right mower is critical for proper lawn maintenance. Choosing the best machine can be a rather difficult task, however. Gas-powered lawn mowers come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from small push-behind models with 20-inch decks to monster lawn tractors capable of cutting a 46-inch-wide swath.
Choosing the best gas-powered lawn mower from among the many options and brands on the market depends on several factors: yard size, type of terrain, even the physical strength of the operator.
In selecting our list of the top gas-powered lawn mowers, we looked at factors such as engine power as it relates to deck size and cutting versatility. We also scoured customer reviews to choose the most reliable models. Use this guide to explore these machines and the factors and features crucial to consider when searching for the best gas lawn mower.
- BEST OVERALL: Honda 21 in. 3-in-1 Gas Self Propelled Lawn Mower
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Troy-Bilt 21 in. Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower
- BEST MANUAL LAWN MOWER: Honda 21 in. Gas Push Walk Behind Lawn Mower
- BEST SELF-PROPELLED: Toro Recycler 21 in. Gas Self Propelled Lawn Mower
- BEST RIDING MOWER: Cub Cadet New Enduro Series XT1 LT46, 13AQA9TTA10
- BEST FOR SMALL YARD: Yard Machines 20 in. 125 cc Gas Walk Behind Mower
- BEST FOR LARGE YARDS: Toro TimeMaster 30 in. Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
Before You Buy a Gas Mower
Before purchasing a gas lawn mower, it’s a good idea to first consider electric mowers. Those with small yards can often get away with an affordably priced corded electric mower. For those with larger yards, advancements in battery technology have made battery-powered lawn mowers a great alternative to gas mowers.
Battery-powered mowers, which include both walk-behind and ride-on models, require less maintenance than gas mowers, are easier to start, and are a greener alternative to gas-powered models. While larger lawns and yards with steeper terrain may still demand the power that only comes with a gas mower, a battery-powered mower may be suitable for small to medium-size yards.
What to Consider When Choosing a Gas Lawn Mower
There are three basic types of gas mowers: manual walk-behind mowers, self-propelled mowers, and riding mowers. While selecting the right type for the yard is key, it’s also important to keep in mind the engine and deck size. Ahead, learn more about these and other important characteristics of gas lawn mowers.
Types
- Walk-behind: The most basic of lawn mowers, walk-behind gas mowers (also called a push mower) consist of a small single-cylinder engine with an output of 125cc to 190cc. The larger the cylinder size, the more powerful the engine. These mowers typically have a pull start and require the operator to physically supply all the power to push them forward.
- Self-propelled: An upgrade to the push mower, self-propelled lawn mowers look similar to push mowers but have a belt attached to the motor that powers the front or rear wheels to drive the mower forward. The operator engages the wheels by squeezing a control bar.
- Riding: This type of mower has a seat for the operator as well as an engine and mowing deck. A riding mower’s engine is considerably larger than a push mower’s engine in order to provide enough power to propel the machine forward and run its multibladed mowing deck. Riding mowers, which include zero-turn and tractor models, have larger decks than walk-behind and self-propelled lawn mowers, making them better suited to bigger yards.
Engine Size
The engine size on push-behind and self-propelled gas mowers is measured in cubic centimeters of cylinder size (cc). Most walk-behind lawn mower engines range between 125cc and 190cc. The larger the cylinder size, the more powerful the engine. The larger engines of riding mowers are measured in horsepower (hp), typically ranging from 10 to 22 hp.
No matter the type of mower, engine size is an important consideration, as it pertains to the size of the mower’s deck. Mowers with larger decks have longer blades or multiple blades and therefore require larger engines to power them.
When considering engine size, it’s also wise to factor in the turf and terrain the machine will be mowing. A yard with thick grass might require more power than one with thinner grass. Cutting through tall grass also requires more power. Likewise, a yard with a steep slope may need more power to move a self-propelled walk-behind mower as well as a riding mower up and over the terrain.
Lawn Size and Terrain
Yard size and terrain play a significant role in choosing the best gas lawn mower. A walk-behind model may be adequate for smaller lawns up to ¾ acre in size. For yards that are sloped or hilly, consider purchasing a self-propelled mower that will make it easier to handle challenging terrain.
Yards that are ¾ acre or more typically require a riding lawn mower. A riding mower with 12 horsepower is suitable for yards up to an acre, while mowers with at least 18 horsepower should be used for lawns larger than 2 acres.
Deck Size
The deck size of a lawn determines the width of the cut the machine can make in a single pass. As such, the deck largely determines how long it will take a mower to cut the grass. A walk-behind mower with a 20-inch deck is suitable for small yards of about ½ acre. Larger yards of up to ¾ acre require a larger 22-inch deck. Riding mowers have decks that range between 28 and 46 inches. Although a larger deck can cut more grass on a single pass, they are harder to maneuver around tight spaces.
Drive and Wheel Size
The type of drive and wheel size impact a lawn mower’s handling. Most walk-behind lawn mowers have wheels that range in size from 8 to 11 inches. Some manual push-behind gas lawn mowers have 11-inch rear wheels that make it easier to push over rougher terrain.
Self-propelled lawn mowers come in both rear-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive models, each with unique advantages. Front-wheel-drive self-propelled lawn mowers allow the operator to turn the mower more easily because they tilt the drive wheels up. Rear-wheel-drive mowers have better traction at the center of the mower, though, allowing them to climb steeper terrain more easily.
Some walk-behind mowers have all-wheel drive, which offers superior traction that makes them ideal for yards with steep slopes and rough terrain.
Cutting Options
Depending on the model, gas mowers may offer three ways to deal with clippings: side discharge, bag, and/or mulch. Side discharge propels the clippings out the side of the mower. Many gas mowers include bags or bins that collect the cut clippings, preventing them from dropping back onto the lawn. Some models may include mulch kits that trap the clippings inside the deck, allowing the blade to cut them multiple times before depositing these tiny bits back into the yard to act as fertilizer.
Additional Features
Gas mowers can come with a variety of additional features that add functionality. Some self-propelled lawn mowers have variable speeds that allow the user to adjust the speed that the mower moves with handlebar controls. Higher-end lawn tractors have hydrostatic transmissions that let the rider change speeds without having to shift gears manually.
Our Top Picks
The products described below narrow the field of gas lawn mowers to some of the best on the market in different categories. There are models suited to small yards as well as large lawn tractors capable of cutting up to 3 acres. All these lawn mowers feature powerful engines, multiple cutting options, and ample deck sizes.
Photo: homedepot.com
Whether it’s generators, automobiles, or lawn mowers, Honda has a reputation for producing durable, high-performing engines—like the one in this 21-inch gas-powered mower. The powerful 170cc engine sits atop an ample 21-inch deck, and unlike walk-behind models that have a single blade, this Honda’s deck boasts two offset blades that produce smaller clippings than other blade styles.
A simple clip system makes it easy to switch between mulching, bagging, and side discharge of grass clippings without needing to add or remove attachments. Honda goes with rear-wheel drive for its propulsion system, which gives this mower superior ability to manage tough terrain and climb slopes. Handlebar controls make it a breeze to switch between the mower’s variable speeds.
Product Specs
- Engine: 170cc
- Deck Width: 21 inches
- Functions: Mulching, bagging, side discharge
Pros
- Dual blades produce smaller clippings
- Clip system makes it simple to toggle between functions
- Smart drive allows for easy speed control
- Rear-wheel drive provides excellent traction
Cons
- Honda mowers among the most expensive on the market
- One of the heavier walk-behind mowers at nearly 80 pounds
Get the Honda self-propelled mower at The Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Photo: homedepot.com
Troy-Bilt has made a name for itself by producing mowers that offer more for less, and this push-behind model is no exception. This walk-behind mower comes equipped with a 140 cc engine that provides ample power for its 21-inch cutting deck. Despite its low price, this mower offers a full slate of cutting options thanks to its rear bag and mulch kit.
Large 11-inch rear wheels make the mower easier to maneuver up hills or over rough areas of the yard. Those who don’t like having to deal with the maintenance that some gas mowers require will appreciate the Briggs & Stratton engine that doesn’t require oil changes and the wash port on the mowing deck that allows the user to clean the deck without having to flip the mower.
Product Specs
- Engine: 140 cc
- Deck width: 21 inches
- Functions: Mulching, bagging, side discharge
Pros
- Mulching function cuts blades multiple times
- No oil change engine design
- Adjustable handle height
- Rear-wheel drive for better traction
Cons
- Engine is smaller than some 21-inch mowers
Get the Troy-Bilt walk-behind mower at The Home Depot.
Photo: homedepot.com
A simple design coupled with a powerful engine and features that add durability make this Honda one of the best manual models on the market. This mower boasts a 160cc engine, which provides plenty of power to turn the blade inside its 21-inch durable steel deck.
Its 8-inch wheels (with ball-bearing rear wheels) make for easier pushing over rougher terrain. This mower offers two cutting functions, a mulch kit or side discharge, and six cutting levels. When lawn labor is done for the day, the handles fold quickly and smoothly inward for compact storage.
Product Specs
- Engine: 160cc
- Deck Width: 21 inches
- Functions: Mulch, side discharge
Pros
- 8-inch wheels with make it easier to push
- Six cutting levels
- Folding handles for compact storage
Cons
- One of the more expensive walk-behind mowers
- No option for bagging grass clippings
Get the Honda push mower at Acme Tools.
Photo: homedepot.com
From its low-maintenance design to its versatile cutting options, there’s much to like about Toro’s 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower. One of the best features of Toro’s Recycler is its mulching system. The blades are designed to cut the grass then kick the clippings back into the blades, cutting them further down to size so they can serve as nutrients for the lawn. In addition to this mulching feature, the Recycler also comes equipped with bagging and side-discharge cutting options.
Those who are absentminded about lawn mower maintenance will appreciate the Briggs & Stratton engine, which requires no oil changes: Simply top off the oil as it gets low. Other notable features include rear-wheel drive that gives the Recycler better traction for climbing steeper terrain and two handle heights that can be adjusted without tools.
Product Specs
- Engine: 140 cc
- Deck width: 21 inches
- Functions: Mulching, bagging, side discharge
Pros
- Mulching function cuts blades multiple times
- No oil change engine design
- Adjustable handle height
- Rear-wheel drive for better traction
Cons
- Engine is smaller than some 21-inch mowers
Get the Toro Recycler lawn mower at The Home Depot.
Photo: tractorsupply.com
With a massive 22-horsepower engine and broad deck that spans 46 inches, Cub Cadet’s XT1 Enduro can handle football-field-size lawns. In addition to being one of the more powerful riding mowers around, it’s also one of the best handling, thanks to a responsive steering system, a small 16-inch turning radius, and hydrostatic speed control that doesn’t require shifting.
With 12 deck-height positions, the Cub Cadet provides plenty of control over lawn height. Other notable features include LED lights, nighttime mowing, and a quick-connect deck-washing system that makes it easy to perform routine maintenance.
Product Specs
- Engine: 22 horsepower
- Deck width: 46 inches
- Functions: Mulch, side discharge (bagging kit sold separately)
Pros
- One of the most powerful engines on the market
- A wide 46-inch mowing deck with 3 blades
- Excellent handling and a short turning radius
- Hydrostatic automatic transmission
Cons
- Cub Cadet brand commands a high price
- Bagging system not included
Get the Cub Cadet mower at Tractor Supply.
Photo: homedepot.com
Small yards need good grooming too, and this manual walk-behind mower is a fine choice to get the job done. It’s certainly spartan, with a 20-inch cutting deck, only three cutting heights versus the more popular six, and side discharge as the only cutting option. But its stripped-down weight of just 50 pounds (almost 30 pounds lighter than some walk-behind mowers) and small profile make it easy to maneuver around tight spaces like flower beds, trees, and lawn ornaments.
Though it lacks the features and options of some walk-behind mowers, it also costs significantly less and is easier to handle. And when the mowing is done, the handle folds in for a small, easy-to-store footprint.
Product Specs
- Engine: 125cc
- Deck Width: 20 inches
- Functions: Side discharge
Pros
- Small size, light weight make it easy to maneuver
- Affordable price compared to other push-behind mowers
- Simple design for ease of use
Cons
- No bagging or mulching feature
- Smaller engine than mowers with similar-size decks
Get the Yard Machines mower at The Home Depot and Northern Tool.
Photo: homedepot.com
This large self-propelled mower from Toro offers an alternative to a riding model for those with a bigger yard. It boasts a 30-inch deck, just as large as some riding mowers, making it capable of handling lawns measuring an acre or more. Dual blades under the deck supply admirable cutting ability with a powerful 223cc engine.
In addition to mulching, side discharge, and bagging options, this mower includes some nice extras, such as Personal Pace and Traction Assist, which improve maneuverability while providing better performance over uneven terrain.
Product Specs
- Engine: 223cc
- Deck Width: 30 inches
- Functions: Mulch, side discharge, bagging
Pros
- Wide 30-inch cutting deck speeds up the job
- Variable speed with traction control makes for easy maneuverability
- Three functions for versatility
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than other self-propelled mowers
- Large size requires more strength to maneuver
Get the Toro TimeMaster mower at Tractor Supply, The Home Depot, and Acme Tools.
Our Verdict
With its powerful and reliable 170cc Honda engine and numerous features that foster easy operation—including variable-speed self-propelled rear wheels and three cutting functions—the Honda 21 in. 3-in-1 Variable Speed Gas Self Propelled Lawn Mower is a great all-around gas mower for those with yards up to 1 acre.
For those with larger lawns of up to 3 acres, the Cub Cadet X1 Enduro LT Gas Riding Lawn Mower, with its hydrostatic transmission and powerful 22-horsepower engine, is an excellent choice.
How We Chose the Best Gas Lawn Mowers
We researched some of the best-selling gas lawn mowers from such major retailers as The Home Depot, Amazon, and Tractor Supply Co. in order to produce our list of the top gas-powered lawn mowers. Our research focused on three major attributes: deck size, engine size, and cutting functions. Gas lawn mowers are a rather broad classification, so we broke the mowers down into smaller, manual push-behind models suitable for smaller yards; self-propelled lawn mowers for medium-size yards; and riding lawn mowers for large yards in order to get a suitable comparison.
Engine size was crucial to our selection process. While a 125 cc engine is capable of powering a gas mower, mowers with these smaller engines can struggle to power broader cutting decks through thicker grass. The best gas lawn mowers have engines large enough to power their respective mowing decks. We selected mowers with at least 140 cc engines for mowers with 21-inch decks. Having the options to mulch and bag are also crucial. When possible, we leaned toward models that offer at least two out of the three cutting options (side discharge, mulching, bagging).
Our rankings also took into account the reputation of the brand. We selected well-regarded brands that have been in the business for decades such as Toro, Honda, and Cub Cadet. All of the brands represented on our list have well-established reputations for producing quality gas lawn mowers.
FAQs
For questions about lawn mower longevity, maintenance, and/or storage, read on—plus get answers to other common questions about the best gas lawn mowers.
Q. How long do gas lawn mowers last?
A gas lawn mower will last between 8 and 10 years if properly maintained. How often the mower is used, how long it takes to mow the lawn, and even how hard the mower must work to cut the grass can impact its lifespan.
Q. What is the best gas to use in a lawn mower?
Unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane is the best gas to use for a lawn mower engine. While higher-octane gas won’t hurt an engine, there is no benefit to using this more expensive gasoline.
Q. How do I maintain a gas lawn mower?
Unless the mower doesn’t require oil changes, make sure to change the oil regularly. Most lawn mower manufacturers recommend doing this at the start of the mowing season. Clean and replace air filters to prevent debris from clogging the engine, replace the spark plug annually, and use a gas stabilizer before storing the mower for the off-season. Finally, periodically flip the mower over to remove built-up grass clippings.
Q. Are gas lawn mowers safe?
When used properly, gas lawn mowers are as safe as other types of lawn mowers. All gas mowers have a safety feature, sometimes referred to as a dead man’s switch, that prevents the blade from operating unless the operator is holding a bar on the handle closed.
Q. Do all gas lawn mowers come with bags?
While most walk-behind gas mowers come with bags, not all do. Models designed for mowing smaller areas may not include bags. Riding mowers often offer an optional bagging system sold separately.
Q. How do I store a gas lawn mower for winter?
To winterize a lawn mower, leave the gas tank empty. Drain the engine oil, then refill it with fresh oil. Store the mower in a dry, well-protected place that is away from a water heater or furnace.
