A well-manicured lawn is a point of pride for any homeowner, and having the right tool for the job makes all the difference. The 21-inch mower strikes the perfect balance, offering a wide enough cutting path to cover ground efficiently while remaining nimble enough to navigate around garden beds and trees. Whether you prioritize the raw power of gas, the quiet convenience of cordless electric, or the simplicity of a corded model, there’s a 21-inch mower designed to meet your specific lawn care needs.
Choosing between different engine types, drive systems, and cutting functions can be overwhelming. To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a detailed roundup of the top-performing 21-inch lawn mowers available. This guide will help you compare key features and benefits, empowering you to select the perfect mower to keep your yard looking its best all season long.
The Best 21-Inch Lawn Mowers for a Perfect Lawn
- AMERISUN 21″ Gas Lawn Mower with 144cc Engine
- PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
- PowerSmart 80V 21in Push Cordless Lawn Mower
- 21″ Steel Deck Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Push Mower
- BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered
- Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower
- Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless 21″ Push Lawn Mower
- EGO POWER+ Electric Lawn Mower, Self-Propelled Cordless
- CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
- Greenworks 21-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower
AMERISUN 21″ Gas Lawn Mower with 144cc Engine
The AMERISUN gas mower is built for reliable and straightforward yard maintenance. Its 21-inch cutting deck is well-suited for small to medium lawns, and the 144cc engine is designed for low vibration and a long service life. The pull-start system is engineered for quick, hassle-free ignition, getting you to work without delay.
This mower offers versatile 2-in-1 functionality, allowing you to choose between mulching for lawn nourishment or side discharge for faster clearing. With a six-position height adjustment, you can easily tailor the cut to your grass type and seasonal conditions. The foldable handles are a practical feature for compact storage in your garage or shed.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
For those seeking a self-propelled solution, the PowerSmart model reduces physical strain with its rear-wheel drive system. It is powered by a reputable 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, known for its consistent performance and durability. The 21-inch steel deck ensures a clean, even cut across a wide path, making it efficient for larger yards.
This mower’s 3-in-1 design provides maximum flexibility, offering bagging, mulching, and rear-discharge options. The 1.4-bushel bag has a generous capacity for collecting clippings. You also have control over the cut with six different height settings, allowing for precise customization of your lawn’s appearance.
PowerSmart 80V 21in Push Cordless Lawn Mower
Experience the convenience of cordless freedom without sacrificing power. The PowerSmart 80V cordless mower uses a high-voltage battery system that delivers performance comparable to many gas mowers. It starts with the simple press of a button and operates with zero emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice.
This mower is built for longevity, featuring a robust all-steel deck and an efficient brushless motor that requires minimal maintenance. It is notably lightweight and easy to maneuver, offering a quiet, smooth mowing experience. It’s an excellent option for homeowners looking to transition away from gas-powered equipment.
21″ Steel Deck Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Push Mower
This gas-powered push mower is designed for dependable service and user-friendly operation. The 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine features an auto-choke system for easier starting and forced air-cooling for sustained performance. Its heavy-duty 21-inch steel deck is built to withstand regular use while providing a consistent cut.
Maneuverability is a key strength of this model, thanks to its large 7-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels with wide treads. The double ball bearings ensure smooth rolling over uneven terrain. With its 3-in-1 functionality and six height adjustments, it provides a solid and versatile mowing solution for most residential lawns.
BILT HARD 21 Inch Lawn Mower Gas Powered
The BILT HARD mower stands out with its high-torque 201cc 4-stroke engine, providing ample power for tougher grass conditions. It features a simple single-pull start mechanism with no choke or primer bulb, streamlining the startup process. This makes it a strong candidate for those who need extra muscle for their lawn care tasks.
Its versatility is highlighted by a 3-in-1 steel deck that accommodates mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging. A significant advantage is the single-lever, eight-position cutting height adjustment, which allows you to synchronize the wheel heights from 1.2 to 3.75 inches with minimal effort.
Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower
For those with smaller lawns or limited storage space, the Sun Joe electric mower is a compact and efficient choice. Its 13-amp motor provides reliable power for a clean cut, and the 14-inch cutting width is ideal for navigating tight spaces. The collapsible handle is a brilliant feature for reducing its footprint when not in use.
This mower is ready to go whenever you are—just plug it in. There is no need for gas, oil, or battery charging. It includes a durable steel blade and a 10.6-gallon collection bag. The three-position height control allows for basic adjustments to suit your lawn’s needs.
Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless 21″ Push Lawn Mower
The Snapper XD is part of a powerful 82V cordless ecosystem, offering gas-like performance with the benefits of battery operation. This model is sold as a tool-only unit, which is perfect for those who already own compatible Snapper batteries and a charger. Its 21-inch steel deck provides a full-width cut for efficient mowing.
This mower features a practical 3-in-1 design, giving you the choice to mulch, bag, or side-discharge clippings. With a fully charged 2.0Ah battery, it can deliver up to 45 minutes of run time, making it suitable for an average-sized lawn. It represents a low-maintenance, high-performance option for the modern homeowner.
EGO POWER+ Electric Lawn Mower, Self-Propelled Cordless
The EGO POWER+ LM2102SP combines the freedom of cordless operation with the ease of a self-propelled drive. The adjustable self-propel speed, ranging from 0.9 to 3.1 MPH, lets you set a comfortable walking pace for any terrain. It comes complete with a 56V 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery and rapid charger, offering up to 60 minutes of run time.
This mower is known for its quiet, powerful performance and zero emissions. The six-position cutting height adjustment offers a wide range from 1.5 to 4 inches, providing excellent control over your lawn’s finish. It’s a top-tier choice for those who want a premium, effortless mowing experience.
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
CRAFTSMAN brings its reputation for durability to this self-propelled gas mower. The powerful 159cc OHV engine includes an auto-choke feature for reliable starting. The self-propelled system allows you to select your preferred speed, reducing fatigue and making it easier to handle larger or sloped yards.
This mower offers 3-in-1 versatility with side discharge, rear bagging, and mulching capabilities. The cutting height can be adjusted across six positions to achieve your desired grass length. It’s a robust and user-friendly machine from a trusted brand in outdoor power equipment.
Greenworks 21-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower
The Greenworks 40V cordless mower is part of a popular and extensive tool ecosystem, ideal for homeowners who may already own other Greenworks 40V products. It provides a quiet, emission-free mowing experience, eliminating the need for gas and oil. The 21-inch deck is efficient for maintaining a typical residential lawn.
This mower is designed for simplicity and ease of use, with features like a single-lever height adjustment and a simple push-button start. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, making lawn care a less strenuous task. For those invested in the 40V platform, this mower is a logical and effective addition to their tool collection.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 21 Inch Lawn Mower for Your Home
When I started looking for a new mower, I quickly realized that a 21-inch model is the sweet spot for most home lawns. It’s wide enough to cover ground efficiently but still nimble enough to maneuver around trees and garden beds. But with so many options out there, from gas to electric, how do you pick the right one? Let me walk you through the main things I consider.
First, you need to decide on the power source. Gas mowers are the traditional workhorses. They offer unlimited runtime and a lot of power, which is great for larger or tougher lawns. The trade-off is they require more maintenance, like oil changes and spark plug replacements, and they’re louder and produce emissions. If you have a big yard and don’t mind the upkeep, gas is a solid choice.
Then you have electric mowers, which break down into two types: corded and cordless. Corded electric mowers are lightweight, quiet, and start with the push of a button. The big limitation is the cord itself. You need to be mindful of not running it over, and your range is limited by the length of your extension cord. These are perfect for smaller, flat lawns. Cordless (battery-powered) mowers give you the freedom of gas without the fumes and noise. The key here is the battery ecosystem. If you already own other tools from a brand like DeWalt or Ryobi, it often makes sense to stick with that brand so you can share batteries. Check the voltage and amp-hour (Ah) rating to get an idea of runtime.
Another critical feature is the mower’s deck material. Steel decks are durable and heavy, which can provide a smoother cut. Aluminum decks are rust-proof and lighter, making the mower easier to push and store. Plastic decks are the lightest and won’t rust, but they may not be as durable over the long haul.
Don’t overlook the cutting and height adjustments. A single-lever height adjustment is a huge convenience, allowing you to change the height on all four wheels at once instead of fiddling with individual levers. Also, think about what you want to do with the grass clippings. Most mowers offer mulching, bagging, and side-discharge options. Mulching finely chops the clippings and returns them to the lawn as fertilizer, which is what I usually prefer. Bagging is necessary if you get a lot of leaves, and side-discharge is useful for cutting very tall grass.
Finally, consider the extra features that make life easier. A push-button start is a game-changer compared to wrestling with a pull cord. Self-propelled drives are worth their weight in gold if you have a hilly yard, as they do the work of pushing the mower for you. When you’re evaluating the 10 best 21 inch lawn mowers for home use, keep your specific lawn size, terrain, and personal preferences in mind to find your perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of a 21-inch mower over an smaller one?
The main advantage is efficiency. A 21-inch cutting deck is wider than a standard 19 or 20-inch model, which means you can cover more ground with each pass. This significantly reduces the time it takes to mow your lawn. At the same time, a 21-inch mower remains very manageable. It’s still narrow enough to fit through most garden gates and is easy to maneuver around tight corners and obstacles, making it the ideal balance of power and practicality for a typical suburban yard.
Are battery-powered mowers really as powerful as gas mowers?
For most residential lawns, yes, modern battery mowers are plenty powerful. The technology has improved dramatically. High-voltage battery systems (like 40V, 56V, or 80V) provide enough torque to handle thick grass with ease. The main difference used to be runtime, but with newer, higher amp-hour (Ah) batteries, you can often mow a half-acre or more on a single charge. The key is to buy into a battery platform with enough power for your yard’s size and thickness. Gas mowers still have an edge for very large properties (over an acre) or extremely demanding conditions.
How important is a self-propelled feature?
This feature is more important than many people think, especially if your yard has any kind of slope. A self-propelled mower uses a drive system to move itself forward, so you’re just guiding it, not pushing it. This makes mowing hills much safer and less physically exhausting. It also makes the job quicker and more pleasant on flat terrain. If you have a small, perfectly flat lawn, you can probably save some money and go with a push model. But for anyone with a moderate to large yard or any hills, I highly recommend investing in a self-propelled mower.
What type of maintenance does a lawn mower require?
Maintenance varies by type. For gas mowers, it’s more involved. You need to change the oil once a season (or per the manufacturer’s schedule), replace the air filter, use a fuel stabilizer if storing gas over the winter, and occasionally replace the spark plug. For both gas and battery mowers, the universal maintenance tasks are keeping the deck clean of grass clippings, periodically sharpening or replacing the blade to ensure a clean cut, and checking the tire pressure. Battery mowers require virtually no engine maintenance, which is a major reason for their popularity.
Can I use a 21-inch mower on a very small lawn?
Absolutely, you can. While a 21-inch mower is efficient for medium-sized lawns, it works perfectly well on small plots too. Its maneuverability means you won’t have trouble navigating a compact space. In fact, if you ever plan to expand your garden beds or have a future landscaping project, having a slightly larger mower gives you some flexibility. The only reason to consider a smaller mower for a tiny lawn would be if storage space is extremely limited, as a 21-inch mower will take up a bit more room in your shed or garage. When reviewing the 10 best 21 inch lawn mowers for home use, you’ll find options suitable for lawns of all sizes.