Finding a reliable lawn mower that doesn’t break the bank can feel like a daunting task. With so many options promising power and efficiency, it’s hard to know which one truly delivers the best value for your money. You want a machine that starts easily, cuts cleanly, and makes yard work simpler, not more complicated.
This roundup focuses on affordable gas and electric alternatives that provide excellent performance for the cost. We’ve compiled a list of ten top contenders, from lightweight cordless models perfect for small yards to robust gas-powered workhorses, to help you find the perfect match for your lawn care needs without overspending.
Our Recommended Cheap Lawn Mowers
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
- CLSR2U Lawn Mower Blade for Greenworks
- BLACK+DECKER Corded, 13-Amp, 20-Inch
- WORX 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower
- Snapper XD 82V MAX 21″ Push Lawn Mower
- LawnMaster Electric Corded Mower 15-Inch
- CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- joytrace Mulching Blades Kit for Honda
- LawnMaster No-Pull Gas Grass Trimmer
- Sun Joe 14-Inch 10 Amp Electric Mower
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
This Greenworks mower offers gas-like performance without the maintenance and fumes. Its 40V 4.0Ah battery provides up to 45 minutes of continuous runtime, making it a strong candidate for small to medium lawns up to half an acre. The push-button start ensures a hassle-free beginning to your mowing session every time.
An ultra-lightweight design, which is 35% lighter than many comparable models, makes maneuvering and storage remarkably easy. The single-lever Smart Cut adjustment system allows you to quickly change between five cutting heights. The 2-in-1 function lets you choose between mulching your clippings for lawn health or using the rear bag for a clean finish.
CLSR2U Lawn Mower Blade for Greenworks
Keep your Greenworks mower performing at its best with this replacement blade. Designed as a direct fit for the MO48L2212 14-inch brushless cordless model, this part ensures your mower continues to deliver a clean, even cut. The blade’s part number is C3203355-01 for easy identification.
Constructed from strong, durable steel, this blade is built to withstand frequent use. It combines the necessary hardness for effective cutting with the endurance to last through multiple seasons. This is an essential maintenance part for anyone looking to extend the life and performance of their mower without a significant investment.
BLACK+DECKER Corded, 13-Amp, 20-Inch
For those who prefer unlimited runtime, this BLACK+DECKER corded electric mower is an excellent choice. The powerful 13-amp motor provides consistent power to cut through thick grass and overgrowth without the need to monitor a battery charge. You can mow for as long as you need, provided you have access to an outlet.
The 20-inch cutting deck offers a good balance between maneuverability and coverage. A significant convenience feature is the tool-free, single-lever height adjustment, which allows you to change the cutting height across seven different settings quickly. This mower eliminates the hassles of gas and battery power for consistent, reliable performance.
WORX 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower
Ideal for small yards, the compact WORX mower is powered by two 20V 4.0Ah batteries that combine to deliver 40V of power. It starts with a simple button push and pull of the bail handle, making operation straightforward. The included dual charger allows you to power up both batteries efficiently.
A standout feature is the Intellicut technology, which uses a sensor to automatically adjust the cutting speed based on grass density. This provides extra power for tough patches and conserves battery in thinner grass. As part of the PowerShare platform, the batteries are interchangeable with over 140 other WORX tools and products.
Snapper XD 82V MAX 21″ Push Lawn Mower
For larger lawns, the Snapper XD offers substantial power with its 82V MAX battery system. The kit includes two 2.0Ah lithium-ion batteries and a rapid charger, providing up to 90 minutes of total runtime. This makes it capable of handling more demanding mowing tasks without a gas engine.
The 21-inch steel deck is a standard size that balances width and maneuverability. It features a 3-in-1 design, giving you the flexibility to mulch, bag, or side-discharge clippings. Intelligent load-sensing technology helps manage power output for maximum efficiency, extending battery life while maintaining cutting performance.
LawnMaster Electric Corded Mower 15-Inch
The LawnMaster mower is an environmentally friendly option that requires no gas or batteries. It draws power directly from an outlet, ensuring you never run out of charge mid-mow. The 11-amp motor generates 3,300 RPM, providing solid performance for its 14-inch cutting width.
This mower is designed for simplicity and ease of use. You can customize your cut with five different height positions, ranging from 1.4 inches to 3 inches. It’s a straightforward, reliable machine for smaller lawns where a corded electric mower is a practical and low-maintenance solution.
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
This CRAFTSMAN mower brings the traditional power of gas with the convenience of self-propelled drive. You can select your preferred speed, allowing the mower to do the work of moving forward, which is ideal for yards with hills or uneven terrain. The powerful 159cc OHV engine features both recoil and auto-choke for reliable starting.
It offers versatile 3-in-1 capabilities, enabling you to side discharge, rear bag, or mulch grass clippings based on your preference. The 21-inch deck is a common size that provides efficient coverage. With six adjustable cutting heights, you have full control over your lawn’s appearance.
joytrace Mulching Blades Kit for Honda
This is a comprehensive 8-piece tune-up kit designed for Honda HRN216 series mowers. It includes the upper and lower mulching blades, an air filter, a spark plug, and all necessary bolts and spacers. This all-in-one package simplifies the maintenance process for your mower.
The blades are precision-engineered to match OEM specifications, maintaining the 27-degree cutting angle required for superior mulching and bagging performance. All components are made to factory dimensions for a direct fit, ensuring a seamless installation that restores your mower’s cutting efficiency.
LawnMaster No-Pull Gas Grass Trimmer
This product is a grass trimmer, not a mower, but it offers a valuable gas-powered feature for lawn care: a no-pull electric start button. This system can provide up to 250 starts on a single charge, eliminating the frustration and physical effort of pulling a recoil cord repeatedly.
The 26cc 2-cycle engine delivers solid power for trimming and edging, supported by a 0.105-gallon fuel tank capacity. User comfort is enhanced by an anti-vibration assist handle with large, comfortable grips. The handle is fully adjustable, sliding forward and back with 360-degree rotation to suit any user.
Sun Joe 14-Inch 10 Amp Electric Mower
The Sun Joe MJ401E is a compact and efficient corded electric mower. Its 10-amp motor provides ample power for maintaining small lawns, and the 14-inch cutting deck makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and store in limited areas. As a corded model, it offers unlimited runtime for consistent mowing.
This mower is designed for simplicity and low maintenance, requiring no gas, oil, or battery charging. It’s an economical and eco-friendly choice for urban lawns or smaller properties where a large mower is unnecessary. It provides a straightforward solution for basic lawn care needs.
Buying Guide: How to Pick a Cheap Gas Lawn Mower
When I’m looking for a new gas lawn mower that won’t break the bank, I focus on a few key things to make sure I’m getting a machine that will last. It’s easy to just grab the cheapest one on the shelf, but a little bit of research can save you from a headache and a lawn that looks like it was cut by a goat. Here’s what I always check before I buy.
First, I think about the size and terrain of my yard. For a small, flat plot, a simple push mower with a 21-inch deck is perfect. If you’ve got a larger area or some gentle slopes, a self-propelled model is a game-changer. It does the hard work of pushing for you, so you just guide it. Trust me, your back will thank you after a long mowing session. If your yard is full of hills or you have a lot of obstacles like trees and garden beds, look for a mower with rear-wheel drive for better traction and easier maneuvering.
Next, I look at the engine. You don’t need a massive horsepower number for a typical lawn. I usually look for a reliable brand like Briggs & Stratton or Honda. A engine displacement between 140cc and 190cc is typically plenty for most residential lawns. The most important thing is that it’s an overhead valve (OHV) engine. These run cooler, last longer, and are more fuel-efficient than older side-valve designs. This is a crucial feature that separates a good cheap mower from a truly bad one.
Then, I consider the cutting deck. It’s usually made of steel or polymer. Steel is durable but can rust if you don’t clean it. Polymer decks are rust-proof and lighter, which is great if you need to lift the mower onto a curb or into a shed. I also check the height adjustment. A single-lever that adjusts all wheels at once is so much more convenient than having to adjust each wheel individually. It lets you change the grass height quickly and evenly.
Finally, I think about the extra features. A good mulching kit is high on my list because it chops the clippings finely and returns them to the lawn as fertilizer. A bagger is essential if you prefer a clean, clippings-free lawn, and a side-discharge chute is useful for cutting very tall grass. Don’t forget to check the warranty; a longer warranty period often indicates the manufacturer has confidence in their product. By focusing on these aspects, you can confidently find one of the best cheap gas lawn mowers on the market that fits your specific needs without overspending.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable brand for a budget gas mower?
From my experience, brands like Toro, Honda, and Troy-Bilt consistently offer reliable models even at the lower end of the price spectrum. They have a long track record of building durable engines and solid mower decks. While you might pay a tiny bit more upfront for one of these brands compared to a no-name mower, the reliability and availability of replacement parts make it a smarter long-term investment. I always recommend checking user reviews for the specific model you’re considering, as even great brands can have a less-popular model.
How long should I expect a cheap gas mower to last?
With proper care, a well-chosen inexpensive gas mower should last you between 7 to 10 years. The key phrase here is “proper care.” This means changing the oil and air filter regularly, using a fuel stabilizer if you’re storing it for the season, and cleaning the underside of the deck after use to prevent grass buildup and corrosion. Neglecting these basic maintenance steps will significantly shorten its lifespan, regardless of the brand.
Is it worth getting a self-propelled mower for a small yard?
For a truly small and flat yard, a push mower is probably sufficient and will save you some money. However, if your small yard has any kind of slope or if you simply want to make the job as easy as possible, a self-propelled model can be worth it. It reduces fatigue and makes the job quicker. When I’m looking at the list of the 10 best cheap gas lawn mowers on the market, I always note which self-propelled options are available, as the convenience is a major factor for many people.
What type of gas should I use in my mower?
You should always use fresh, unleaded gasoline with the lowest ethanol content you can find, ideally 10% (E10) or less. Ethanol can attract moisture and cause problems in small engines, like gumming up the carburetor. I never use gas that has been sitting in a can for more than a month or two. For long-term storage, I either drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops, or I use a fuel stabilizer additive to keep the gas from degrading.
Can I use a cheap gas mower on wet grass?
I strongly advise against it. Mowing wet grass is tough on any mower, but it’s especially hard on a budget model. The wet grass clumps together, clogs the deck, and can stain your lawn. It also makes the engine work harder and can leave an uneven cut. It’s always better to wait for the grass to dry for a cleaner cut and a healthier machine.