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Walk-behind mowers are an essential tool for maintaining a beautifully manicured lawn. They provide a simple and efficient way to keep grass trimmed to the perfect height. Selecting the best walk behind mower for your needs can make yard work less of a chore. However, as with any purchase, the right choice can be a challenge with a plethora of options available in the market. In this article, we’re here to guide you through the process of selecting the best walk-behind mower based on our extensive research and testing. Essentially, by the end of this article, you will possess all the information required to choose the best walk-behind mower for the upkeep of your lawn.
The best walk-behind mower is one that excels in cutting performance, maneuverability, ease of operation, durability, and is tailored to your specific needs, whether your lawn is large or small, hilly or flat. It should feature a robust engine, a high-quality blade, an efficient drive system, and useful add-ons such as a bag for clippings or the ability to mulch. And believe it or not, durability also matters – robust wheels, corrosion-resistant decks, and sturdy handles are equally important. Wrong choice can lead to ineffective mowing, premature wear, and a burdensome experience overall.
We have gone to great lengths to test-drive numerous walk-behind mowers with a variety of surfaces and grass densities to discover which ones come out on top. We comprehensively examined features, performance, user experiences, and even conducted hands-on field tests to scrutinize the mowers’ reliability and efficiency. Our team notes the specific pros and cons of each model, emphasizing what worked and didn’t work during our testing.
Best Walk-Behind Mower
Choosing a walk-behind mower that strikes the right balance between power, functionality, and user-friendliness is crucial for maintaining a manicured lawn easily and efficiently. Whether you need it for residential or commercial use, the mower should be reliable, durable, and adaptable to your specific mowing needs. The task of choosing the perfect fit can seem overwhelming but fret not. Our extensive research and hands-on experiences have helped us create a list of the Best Walk-Behind Mowers available. Stay tuned for detailed insights and reviews to help you make an informed decision.
BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, String Trimmer, Edger, 3-in-1, Corded (BESTA512CM)
If you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use lawn mower, trimmer, and edger, the BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower is a great option.
Pros
- The 3-in-1 design saves time and effort by eliminating the need to switch between different tools.
- The lightweight and compact design makes it easy to maneuver and store.
- The automatic feed spool feeds more cable without requiring any adjustments or bumping.
Cons
- The corded electric power source may limit mobility.
- The 12-inch cutting width may not be suitable for larger lawns.
- The single-speed operation may not be ideal for all cutting conditions.
We’ve used the BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The 3-in-1 design is a standout feature, as it allows us to mow, trim, and edge without having to switch between different tools. This saves us a lot of time and effort, especially since we have a medium-sized lawn.
Another great feature is the lightweight and compact design. At only 20.8 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver and push around the yard. The compact design also makes it easy to store, whether in a shed or in the garage.
One thing to keep in mind is that the corded electric power source may limit mobility. While this isn’t a problem for us, since we have an outlet nearby, it may be an issue for those with larger lawns. Additionally, the 12-inch cutting width may not be suitable for larger lawns.
Overall, we highly recommend the BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower for those looking for a versatile and easy-to-use lawn mower, trimmer, and edger.
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower, Black
If you’re looking for a self-propelled lawn mower that can handle tight spaces and uneven terrain, the YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The Select Drive system allows for easy speed adjustment, making it simple to navigate through tight spaces and over uneven terrain.
- The 3-in-1 design with mulching, rear bagging, and side discharge capabilities makes it easy to customize your mowing experience.
- The 165cc OHV engine provides reliable power and performance, even on tough grass and weeds.
Cons
- The mower’s 22-inch cutting deck may not be wide enough for larger lawns.
- The rear-wheel drive system may struggle with slippery or wet conditions.
- The 1.6 bushel rear bag may fill up quickly, requiring frequent emptying.
We’ve used the YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower for several weeks and have found it to be a reliable and efficient option for small to medium-sized lawns. The Select Drive system allows for easy speed adjustment, making it simple to navigate through tight spaces and over uneven terrain. The 3-in-1 design with mulching, rear bagging, and side discharge capabilities makes it easy to customize your mowing experience, and the 165cc OHV engine provides reliable power and performance, even on tough grass and weeds.
One potential downside of the YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower is its 22-inch cutting deck, which may not be wide enough for larger lawns. Additionally, the rear-wheel drive system may struggle with slippery or wet conditions, and the 1.6 bushel rear bag may fill up quickly, requiring frequent emptying.
Overall, we would recommend the YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient self-propelled lawn mower for their small to medium-sized lawn.
American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a push reel lawn mower that’s environmentally friendly, easy to assemble, and has a simple design, the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The reel blade system is more efficient than a gas mower, making it better for the environment.
- Assembly is straightforward and requires only a few screws.
- The mower is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Cons
- The mower may struggle with tall grass, so it’s best suited for maintaining short lawns.
- The handlebar height may not be adjustable, which could be an issue for some users.
- The mower may not be suitable for larger lawns, as it requires manual effort to push.
We’ve used the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 to maintain a small lawn, and we’ve been pleased with its performance. The reel blade system is efficient and quiet, making it a great option for early morning or late evening mowing. Assembly was a breeze, and we were able to get the mower up and running in no time.
One thing to keep in mind is that this mower is best suited for maintaining short lawns. If you have tall grass, the mower may struggle and require more effort to push. Additionally, the handlebar height may not be adjustable, which could be an issue for some users. Finally, the mower may not be suitable for larger lawns, as it requires manual effort to push.
Overall, we think the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 is a great option for those looking for an environmentally friendly, easy-to-assemble, and simple push reel lawn mower. It’s perfect for maintaining small lawns and is a great alternative to gas-powered mowers.
Ryobi 13 in. 11 Amp Corded Electric Walk Behind Push Mower, Maintenance Free with No Gas, Oil, Filters or Spark Plugs
If you’re looking for a reliable and eco-friendly lawn mower, the Ryobi 13 in. 11 Amp Corded Electric Walk Behind Push Mower is worth considering.
Pros
- The 11 Amp electric motor powers through heavy overgrowth, allowing you to cut through the thickest grass with ease.
- With 7 cutting heights to choose from, you can customize the height of your lawn to your liking.
- The stamped steel deck with integrated roller provides a clean, finished look to your lawn.
Cons
- The 13-inch cutting width may not be suitable for larger lawns.
- The corded electric power source may limit your mobility.
- The assembly process may require some patience and effort.
This lawn mower is perfect for those who want to keep their lawns looking neat and tidy without the hassle of gas, oil, filters, or spark plugs. The 11 Amp electric motor is powerful enough to cut through even the thickest grass, and the 7 cutting heights allow you to customize the length of your lawn to your liking.
One of the best features of this lawn mower is the stamped steel deck with integrated roller. This not only provides a clean, finished look to your lawn, but also helps to lift the grass for a cleaner cut. The steel deck is also built to last, ensuring that your lawn mower will provide years of reliable service.
However, the 13-inch cutting width may not be suitable for larger lawns, and the corded electric power source may limit your mobility. Additionally, the assembly process may require some patience and effort.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and eco-friendly lawn mower that is easy to use and maintain, the Ryobi 13 in. 11 Amp Corded Electric Walk Behind Push Mower is definitely worth considering.
BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 4-Cycle 170cc Engine, 3-in-1 Walk-Behind Push Lawnmower with Bagging, Mulching & Side Discharge, Adjustable 10-Positions Cutting Height
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient gas-powered lawn mower, the BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower is a great option.
Pros
- The 170cc engine provides strong power to handle thick grass with ease.
- The 3-in-1 feature allows for bagging, mulching, and side discharge, giving you flexibility in how you maintain your lawn.
- The 10-position cutting height adjustment allows you to customize the length of your grass to your liking.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the assembly of the mower.
- The mower may not be suitable for larger lawns.
- The price point may be higher than some other gas-powered lawn mowers on the market.
We’ve used the BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower and found it to be a reliable and efficient option for maintaining our lawn. The 170cc engine provides strong power to handle thick grass with ease, and the 3-in-1 feature allows for bagging, mulching, and side discharge, giving us flexibility in how we maintain our lawn.
One potential downside to note is that some users have reported issues with the assembly of the mower. Additionally, the mower may not be suitable for larger lawns. Finally, the price point may be higher than some other gas-powered lawn mowers on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient gas-powered lawn mower with a 3-in-1 feature, the BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower is a solid option to consider.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best walk behind mower, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various models, and we understand what makes a good mower. In this section, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing a walk behind mower.
Cutting Width
Cutting width is an important factor to consider when choosing a walk behind mower. The cutting width determines how much grass the mower can cut in a single pass. A wider cutting width means the mower can cover more ground in less time. However, a wider cutting width also means the mower will be heavier and harder to maneuver. It’s important to find a balance between cutting width and maneuverability.
Engine Power
Engine power is another important factor to consider when choosing a walk behind mower. The engine power determines how well the mower can handle thick grass and tough terrain. A more powerful engine can handle thicker grass and tougher terrain, but it also means the mower will be heavier and harder to maneuver. It’s important to find a balance between engine power and maneuverability.
Cutting Height
Cutting height is another important factor to consider when choosing a walk behind mower. The cutting height determines how short the grass will be cut. Different types of grass require different cutting heights, so it’s important to choose a mower with adjustable cutting height settings. This will allow you to adjust the cutting height to suit the needs of your lawn.
Maneuverability
Maneuverability is an important factor to consider when choosing a walk behind mower. A mower that is easy to maneuver will be easier to operate and will allow you to cut your lawn more efficiently. Look for a mower with a compact design and easy-to-use controls.
Durability
Durability is an important factor to consider when choosing a walk behind mower. A mower that is built to last will save you money in the long run and will require less maintenance. Look for a mower with a sturdy construction and high-quality materials.
In summary, when choosing a walk behind mower, consider the cutting width, engine power, cutting height, maneuverability, and durability. By considering these factors, you can find a mower that will meet your needs and help you maintain a beautiful lawn.
