A perfectly manicured lawn is the pride of any homeowner, and the right petrol mower makes all the difference. With the power to tackle thick grass and the freedom to roam without a cord, a gas mower is a reliable workhorse for maintaining your outdoor space. But with so many options on the market, from self-propelled models for hilly yards to simple push mowers for flat terrain, selecting the best one for your needs can feel overwhelming.
This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best petrol lawn mowers available. We’ve curated a list that includes powerful engines, versatile cutting options, and user-friendly features to help you achieve a pristine lawn with less effort. Whether you have a small, flat plot or a large, sloped landscape, there’s a machine here built for the job.
The Best Petrol Lawn Mowers for a Perfect Cut
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD
- PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
- AMERISUN 21″ Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Gas Push Mowers
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
- AMERISUN 21-Inch 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower, Self Propelled
- CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
- PowerSmart 21″ 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower with 140cc Engine
- American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch Push Reel Mower
- Snapper XD 82V MAX Cordless Electric 21″ Push Lawn Mower
- Honda HRN216VKA 21-in 3-in-1 Variable Speed Gas Lawn Mower
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD
The YARDMAX mower stands out with its industry-leading CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which offers superior speed control. By simply selecting one of the six speeds, you can perfectly match the mower’s pace to your natural walking speed, making it exceptionally easy to use on various terrains, including flat, sloped, and uneven yards.
Its high-wheel design features 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels with aggressive spike tread patterns for significantly increased traction and maneuverability. The 22-inch cutting deck covers more ground with each pass, and the convenient deck cleanout port allows for easy maintenance after mowing.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
Powered by a reliable 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, this self-propelled mower is built for consistent performance and long-term durability. The engine is known for smooth start-ups and handling tough mowing jobs with ease, making it a trustworthy choice for medium to large yards.
Its robust 21-inch steel deck reduces mowing time by covering a wide path. The 3-in-1 functionality lets you easily switch between bagging clippings into the 1.4-bushel bag, mulching to nourish your lawn, or using the rear discharge for quick and efficient mowing. Rear-wheel drive provides added traction and control.
AMERISUN 21″ Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Gas Push Mowers
This AMERISUN push mower is equipped with a 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine that delivers steady performance and features an auto-choke for simplified starting. Its air-cooling system ensures lasting operation, making it a durable option for those who prefer a gas-powered push mower.
The reinforced 21-inch steel cutting deck is built to handle tough mowing jobs and deliver smooth, even cuts. It also features large 7-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels with wide treads and dual ball bearings, providing excellent traction and smooth movement over rough or uneven terrain.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
This PowerSmart model is a straightforward and efficient push mower, powered by a 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine. The engine comes with a recoil starter and auto-choke for an easy start every time, delivering strong power for its class.
The all-steel deck is built to last and combines both mulching and bagging capabilities in a 2-in-1 design. The 21-inch heavy-duty blade allows you to mow more in less time, making this a solid, no-frills option for smaller, flat lawns where a self-propelled system is not necessary.
AMERISUN 21-Inch 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower, Self Propelled
For those needing more power, this self-propelled AMERISUN mower features a robust 170cc 4-stroke OHV gas engine. It provides reliable starting and consistent power to cut through tall, thick grass in medium and large yards with ease.
The 21-inch deck offers 3-in-1 versatility with side discharge, mulching, and rear bag collection. The self-propelled drive system is complemented by a high-wheel design with 10-inch rear and 7-inch front wheels, making it easy to maneuver across uneven terrain, hills, and slopes.
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
The CRAFTSMAN M215 offers an effortless mowing experience with its self-propelled system that allows you to choose your preferred propulsion speed. This feature makes navigating your yard smooth and easy, reducing user fatigue.
It is powered by a capable 159cc OHV gas engine that includes both recoil and auto-choke features for reliable performance. The mower’s 3-in-1 capabilities provide side discharge, rear discharge, and mulching options, giving you multiple ways to manage grass clippings based on your landscaping needs.
PowerSmart 21″ 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower with 140cc Engine
This PowerSmart push mower is built around a high-performance 140cc 4-stroke engine, designed for superior torque and minimal maintenance. As a 4-stroke engine, it requires no mixing of oil and gas, simplifying the fueling process.
The versatile 3-in-1 cutting system lets you tackle any yard condition by choosing between side discharge, rear bagging, and mulching. The wider 21-inch cutting deck maximizes mowing efficiency, allowing you to cover more ground in less time with precision and ease.
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch Push Reel Mower
For an eco-friendly and quiet mowing solution, this 4-blade reel mower is an excellent choice. It is a manual push mower that is pollution-free, noise-free, and requires very low maintenance, making it ideal for small, flat lawns.
Weighing only 19 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to use and store. It features an adjustable blade height from 0.5 to 1.75 inches and is capable of cutting grass up to 4 inches tall. The 8.5-inch polymer wheels provide maximum maneuverability for a clean, scissor-like cut.
Snapper XD 82V MAX Cordless Electric 21″ Push Lawn Mower
While not a petrol model, the Snapper XD offers a powerful cordless alternative for those seeking a quieter, emission-free option without sacrificing performance. The kit includes two 82V MAX 2.0 Ah lithium-ion batteries and a rapid charger, providing up to 90 minutes of run time.
It features a 21-inch steel mowing deck with a 3-in-1 design to mulch, bag, or side-discharge clippings. Intelligent load-sensing technology allows for optimum power levels while you mow, ensuring maximum efficiency and battery life.
Honda HRN216VKA 21-in 3-in-1 Variable Speed Gas Lawn Mower
Honda is renowned for its reliable and high-performance small engines, and the HRN216VKA is a prime example. This self-propelled mower features a variable speed drive, allowing you to seamlessly adjust your mowing pace to match your walking speed for a comfortable experience.
Its 21-inch deck offers 3-in-1 functionality for mulching, bagging, or discharging. Known for its durability and clean-cutting ability, this Honda mower is a top-tier choice for homeowners who value long-term reliability and superior cutting performance from a trusted brand.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Petrol Lawn Mower
Choosing the right petrol lawn mower can feel like a big decision. I have been through it myself, standing in the store or scrolling online, wondering which machine is the right one for my garden. It is not just about power; it is about finding the perfect partner for your weekend chores. Let me walk you through the main things I consider, so you can find one of the 10 best petrol lawn mowers to buy now with confidence.
First up, think about your lawn’s size and terrain. For a small, flat lawn, a basic push mower with a 140cc engine might be all you need. But if you have a larger area, maybe half an acre or more, you will want more power—look for something in the 160cc to 190cc range. If your garden has hills or uneven ground, a self-propelled model is a game-changer. It does the hard work of pushing for you, so you just guide it. This feature saves your back and makes the job much faster.
Next, let us talk about the mower deck. This is the housing that contains the blade, and its size determines how wide a path you cut. A wider deck means fewer passes to cover your lawn. Common sizes are 19, 20, or 21 inches. A 21-inch deck will get the job done quicker than a 19-inch one on a big lawn. Also, check what the deck is made from. Steel is durable but can rust, while polymer is rust-proof and lighter, which is a nice bonus.
Then there are the cutting features. The two big ones are mulching and bagging. A good mulching kit finely chops the grass clippings and returns them to the lawn as natural fertilizer. If you prefer a super-clean look, a rear bagger is essential for collecting clippings. Many of the best models offer a 3-in-1 system, letting you mulch, bag, or side-discharge clippings depending on your mood and the condition of the grass. Also, look for a mower with a single lever that lets you adjust the cutting height for all four wheels at once. It is a small detail that makes a huge difference in convenience.
Finally, do not forget about practicality. How easy is it to start? I always look for a mower with a primer bulb and a reliable starting system. Check the warranty, as a longer warranty period often reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. And think about storage—does it fold down for compact storage? By weighing up your lawn’s specific needs against these features, you will be well on your way to making a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of a petrol mower over an electric one?
The biggest advantage is complete freedom from a power cord and the unlimited runtime compared to a battery. You are not limited by the length of an extension lead or the life of a battery pack. This makes petrol mowers the go-to choice for larger lawns, especially those over a third of an acre. They also tend to have more raw power, which helps them power through thicker, overgrown grass without slowing down.
How often does a petrol lawn mower need maintenance?
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your mower running smoothly for years. The most important task is an oil change; I do this once a season or after every 25 hours of use. You will also need to replace the air filter and spark plug at least once a year. Always remember to use fresh, ethanol-free fuel if possible, or a fuel stabilizer if you are storing the mower for more than a month, as old petrol can gum up the carburetor.
Are petrol mowers difficult to start?
Modern petrol mowers are much easier to start than older models. Most come with a primer bulb that you press a few times to send fuel to the carburetor, and a recoil start pull cord. The technique is simple: set the throttle to choke, press the primer bulb 3 times, pull the cord firmly. Once it sputters, move the throttle to run and pull again. Following these steps usually gets mine going on the first or second pull when the engine is cold.
What safety gear should I wear when using a petrol mower?
Safety should always come first. I never operate my mower without sturdy closed-toe shoes (preferably steel-toe cap boots) and protective safety glasses or goggles. The mower can throw out stones or debris at high speed. It is also a very good idea to wear hearing protection, as petrol mowers are quite loud and prolonged exposure can damage your hearing. Long, heavy-duty trousers are also recommended.
Is it worth paying more for a self-propelled model?
In my opinion, if you have any kind of slope or a large lawn, it is absolutely worth the extra investment. A self-propelled mower has a drive system that pushes the mower forward for you. You just guide it. This makes mowing hilly or uneven ground much less physically demanding and drastically cuts down on fatigue. It turns a strenuous chore into a simple walk around the garden.
Can I use a petrol mower on wet grass?
It is best to avoid it if you can. Mowing wet grass is not ideal for any mower, but it is particularly troublesome for petrol models. The wet clippings clump together, clogging the deck and the discharge chute, which can stall the engine. It also leads to an uneven cut and can mat down the lawn, which is unhealthy for the grass. I always wait for the grass to dry before I get my machine out for the best results and to keep it in top condition.