The Best Gas Lawn Mowers to Maintain a Gorgeous Lawn

Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about The Best Gas Lawn Mowers to Maintain a Gorgeous Lawn and hope the blog can help you.

Choose the right walk-behind, self-propelled, or riding mower to manage your yard.

Many homeowners hope to have a verdant, well-manicured lawn that makes them the envy of the neighborhood, and while proper fertilization and watering are essential to growing gorgeous green turf, gas lawn mowers are 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 like engine power related 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.

1. BEST OVERALL: Honda HRN216VKA 21″ Variable Speed Walk-Behind Mower
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Craftsman M220 150cc 21″ Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
3. BEST MANUAL LAWN MOWER: Honda HRN216PKC 21″ Walk-Behind Push Mower
4. BEST SELF-PROPELLED: Toro 21″ Recycler Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
5. BEST RIDING MOWER: Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 Enduro Series Riding Mower
6. BEST FOR SMALL YARD: Yard Machines 02B 20″ Gas Push Mower
7. BEST FOR LARGE YARDS: Toro 30″ TimeMaster Personal Pace Gas Lawn Mower
8. BEST FOR THICK GRASS: John Deere S130 42″ Lawn Tractor

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 residential lawns and yards with steeper or uneven terrain may still demand the power that only comes with a gas mower, a battery-powered mower may be suitable for small to medium yards.

How We Chose the Best Gas Lawn Mowers

We researched some of the best-selling gas lawn mowers from major retailers to produce our list of this gas-powered lawn equipment. Our research focused on three major attributes of this lawn equipment: 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.

Engine size was also crucial to our selection process. While a 125-cubic-centimeter (cc) engine is capable of powering a gas mower, most mowers with these smaller engines struggle to power wider cutting decks through thicker grass. Good gas lawn mowers have engines large enough to power their respective mowing decks. We selected mowers with at least 140cc 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, and 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 the brands on our list have well-established reputations for producing quality gas lawn mowers. 

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.

Best Overall

Honda HRN216VKA 21" Variable Speed Walk-Behind Mower

See It

Product Specs 

• Engine: 170cc
• Deck width: 21 inches
• Cutting height: 1 to 4 inches
• Bag capacity: 1.9 bushels
• Weight: 82 pounds
• Functions: Mulching, bagging, side discharge

Pros

• Dual blades produce smaller clippings for less cleanup after use
• Clip system makes it simple to toggle between operating functions
• Smart drive allows for easy speed control; safe and easy to use 
• Rear-wheel drive provides excellent traction for precise cutting and added safety 

Cons

• Weighing about 82 pounds, this mower is a heavier walk-behind model

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 and self-propelled lawn 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. This Honda mower uses a rear-wheel drive for its propulsion system, which gives it superior ability to manage tough and uneven terrain and climb slopes. Handlebar controls make it a breeze to switch between the mower’s variable speeds. 

Get the Honda HRN216VKA gas lawn mower at The Home Depot or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Best Bang for the Buck

Craftsman M220 150cc 21" Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

See It

Product Specs 

• Engine: 150cc
• Deck width: 21 inches
• Cutting height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches
• Bag capacity: N/A
• Weight: 73 pounds
• Functions: Mulching, bagging, side discharge

Pros

• Front-wheel drive assists the user while mowing; prevents strain while in use 
• Easy to start; no priming or choke required
• Side-discharge, mulch, or bag for ease of cleanup after mowing 

Cons

• Self-propelled feature is not adjustable; may not be suitable for some users’ preferences 
• Unpadded grip could lead to hand fatigue with extended use 

Craftsman, a well-established and highly regarded brand in the world of lawn mowers, has produced an exceptional self-propelled gas mower with this model. It showcases a powerful 150cc engine paired with a spacious 21-inch mowing deck that’s specifically designed to cater to yards up to ¾ acre in size. Its large 8-inch rear wheels, featuring heavy tread, effortlessly propel the mower forward, while the six cutting heights provide remarkable versatility. With mulch, side discharge, and bag disposal settings, this mower adapts to the user’s preferred method. 

Although lacking power assist, its significantly affordable price makes it an attractive choice for those with level yards who have no need for a self-propelled mower. Kickstarting the mower is a breeze, requiring just one pull after adding oil and gas. It showcases commendable power for handling average lawn grass and conquering uphill terrain, albeit experiencing a slight reduction in performance when dealing with tall, overgrown grass. Its front-wheel-drive feature enables seamless maneuverability and turns. 

While a fully loaded push mower with bagger may potentially impact rear traction, we did not encounter such an issue. With an adequately sized fuel tank, this mower ensures half-acre coverage per fill-up. For budget-conscious shoppers seeking durability and a self-propelled solution, this Craftsman mower stands as an exceptional value proposition.

What our tester says: Mark Wolfe, Bob Vila product tester and writer, notes in The Best Lawn Mowers that “we liked the Craftsman mower’s affordability and simplicity. It only required about 20 minutes of easy assembly. The completed handle configuration was a bit less refined in appearance, the grip area is unpadded metal, and the blade and drive control cables are retained on the handle by heavy-duty cable ties.” 

Get the Craftsman gas lawn mower at Ace Hardware or Lowe’s.

Best Manual Lawn Mower

Honda HRN216PKA 21" Walk-Behind Push Mower

See It

Product Specs 

• Engine: 170cc
• Deck width: 21 inches
• Cutting height: 1 to 4 inches
• Bag capacity: 1.9 bushels
• Weight: 76 pounds
• Functions: Mulching, bagging, side discharge

Pros

• 8-inch wheels make it easier to push and maneuver through thick grass 
• 7 cutting levels so users can get the perfect height for the health of their grass  
• Handles fold for compact storage in the garage or shed 

Cons

• At 76 pounds, this manual mower could be a lot to push for large lawns

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 170cc 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 this one of the easiest gas push lawn mowers to maneuver over rough terrain. This gas mower offers seven cutting levels and mulching, bagging, or side discharge. When lawn labor is done for the day, the handles fold quickly and smoothly inward for compact storage. 

Get the Honda HRN216PKA gas lawn mower at Acme Tools.

Best Self-Propelled

Toro 21" Recycler Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower

See It

Product Specs 

• Engine: 140cc
• Deck width: 21 inches
• Cutting height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches
• Bag capacity: 2.0 bushels
• Weight: 67 pounds
• Functions: Mulching, bagging, side discharge

Pros

• Mulching function cuts blades of grass multiple times; suitable for tough grass varieties 
• No oil-change engine design; mower is very low maintenance 
• Adjustable handle height accommodates most users for comfort and safety 
• Rear-wheel drive for better traction while cutting thin and thick grass types 

Cons

• Engine is smaller than those of some 21-inch mowers; may not have the power some users require

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 and 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 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. 

Get the Toro Recycler gas lawn mower at F & F Power Equipment, AE Outdoor Power, or Arco Lawn Equipment.

Best Riding Mower

Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 Enduro Series Riding Mower

See It

Product Specs 

• Engine: 725cc 
• Deck width: 46 inches
• Cutting height: 1 to 4 inches
• Bag capacity: N/A
• Weight: 420 pounds
• Functions: Mulching, side discharge (bagging kit sold separately)

Pros

• Incredibly powerful engine is capable of handling very heavy-duty tasks 
• Wide 46-inch mowing deck with 2 blades is perfect for large lawns 
• Excellent handling and a short turning radius for precise cutting
• Hydrostatic automatic transmission eliminates the need for shifting; just push the pedal 

Cons

• Bagging push mower system not included; does not do any of the cleanup

With a massive 23-horsepower (725cc) 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 for nighttime mowing and a quick-connect deck-washing system that makes it easy to perform routine maintenance. 

Get the Cub Cadet gas lawn mower at Tractor Supply Co. or Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Best for Small Yard

Yard Machines 02B 20" Gas Push Mower

See It

Product Specs 

• Engine: 125cc
• Deck width: 20 inches
• Cutting height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches
• Bag capacity: N/A
• Weight: 50 pounds
• Functions: Side discharge

Pros

• Small size and light weight make it easy to maneuver
• 3 cutting heights; can cut grass blades at 1.25 to 3.75 inches 
• Simple design for ease of use; not as many bells and whistles as other models 

Cons

• No bagging or mulching feature; does not help with any cleanup 
• Comes with a smaller engine than mowers with similar-size decks

Small yards need good grooming too, and this gas push lawn mower is a fine choice to get the job done. It’s somewhat 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 use. And when the mowing is done, the handle folds in for a small, easy-to-store footprint.

Get the Yard Machines gas lawn mower at