A well-manicured lawn is a point of pride, but achieving that perfect cut doesn’t require a massive investment. With a budget of under $400, you have access to a wide array of efficient and reliable walk-behind mowers that can handle everything from petite patches to more substantial suburban yards. The key is finding the right balance of power, convenience, and cutting style for your specific needs.
Whether you prioritize the zero-emissions quiet of an electric model, the raw power of a gas engine, or the simplicity of a classic reel mower, the market has you covered. This roundup is designed to help you navigate the options and select the perfect machine to keep your grass looking its best all season long without stretching your wallet.
Our Top Picks for Walk Behind Lawn Mowers
- LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower
- BILT HARD 20” Push Gas Lawn Mower
- American Lawn Mower Company 20-Inch Walk Behind Reel Mower
- EWORK 40V 13-Inch Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
- Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower
- American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch Push Reel Mower
- BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Mower, Trimmer & Edger
- CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower
- Snapper XD 82V Cordless Lawn Mower
LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower
For small to medium-sized lawns with easy access to an outdoor outlet, the LawnMaster corded electric mower offers a fantastic combination of power and simplicity. Its 11AMP motor delivers 3,300 RPM to slice through grass cleanly, and you never have to worry about running out of battery or refilling a gas tank. This makes it an environmentally conscious choice that’s ready to go at the push of a button.
You can easily customize your lawn’s appearance with five different cutting positions, allowing you to adjust the height between 1.4 and 3 inches. The 14-inch cutting width is manageable for navigating around garden beds and other obstacles while still covering a decent amount of ground with each pass. It’s a low-maintenance workhorse perfect for the weekend warrior.
BILT HARD 20” Push Gas Lawn Mower
If you need the untethered freedom of gas power for a larger yard, the BILT HARD mower is a strong contender. Its 144cc 4-stroke engine provides robust performance to handle tougher, overgrown grass with ease. The primer button and simplified starting system help get the machine running quickly, saving you time and effort at the beginning of your chore.
This mower is designed with user comfort in mind. The single-lever control adjusts all four wheels simultaneously across eight different height settings, giving you precise control over your turf. Combined with the large, ball-bearing wheels and ergonomic handle, this mower glides smoothly across your lawn, reducing operator fatigue during longer mowing sessions.
American Lawn Mower Company 20-Inch Walk Behind Reel Mower
Experience the classic, quiet cut of a reel mower with this 20-inch model from American Lawn Mower Company. This manual mower provides an excellent, eco-friendly workout while delivering a precision scissor-cut that is renowned for promoting healthier grass. The included grass catcher makes cleanup simple, leaving your lawn looking immaculate.
The wide cutting path allows you to cover more ground efficiently compared to smaller reel mowers. It features an adjustable cutting height to maintain your grass between 2 and 3 inches for a lush, well-manicured appearance. With no engine, gas, or cords to manage, this mower offers a peaceful mowing experience and requires very little maintenance.
EWORK 40V 13-Inch Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
The EWORK cordless mower is a great solution for those who want battery-powered convenience without the noise and fumes of a gas model. It’s powered by a high-speed brushless motor that provides efficient cutting power while operating much more quietly than traditional mowers. This makes it ideal for early morning or evening mowing without disturbing your neighbors.
This mower stands out for its compact and lightweight design, weighing only 20.5 pounds without the batteries. This makes it exceptionally easy to push and maneuver, especially on sloped terrain or in tight spaces. With two 4.0Ah batteries included, you can expect up to 45 minutes of continuous runtime, which is ample for maintaining a small to medium-sized yard.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
Greenworks is a trusted name in cordless outdoor tools, and this 40V mower lives up to the reputation. It offers gas-like performance for yards up to half an acre, powered by a 4.0Ah battery that provides around 35 minutes of runtime. The push-button start ensures it fires up instantly, without any pull cords or complicated procedures.
This model features an ultra-lightweight design that is 35% lighter than many competing models, making it easy to handle and store. The single-lever smart cut adjustment allows you to change the cutting height across five positions with minimal effort. Its 2-in-1 mulching and bagging system gives you flexibility in how you manage your grass clippings.
Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower
The Sun Joe MJ401E is a dependable and powerful corded electric mower built for efficiency. Its 12-amp motor provides more than enough power to tackle standard lawn grass, and the 14-inch steel blade ensures a clean, precise cut every time. The collapsible handle is a standout feature, making storage in a garage or shed incredibly convenient.
This mower includes a large 10.6-gallon collection bag, reducing the frequency of stops to empty clippings during your mow. With a 3-position height adjustment, you have the flexibility to maintain your grass at the optimal length for health and appearance. It’s a straightforward, effective tool for maintaining a well-kept lawn.
American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch Push Reel Mower
For those with very small lawns or who value an eco-friendly approach, this 14-inch push reel mower is an excellent choice. Weighing just 19 pounds, it is incredibly easy to push and maneuver around flower beds and tight corners. Its pollution-free and near-silent operation provides a peaceful mowing experience.
The four-blade reel design offers a clean, scissor-like cut that is gentle on your grass. The cutting height is adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect setting for your lawn. This mower requires virtually no maintenance beyond occasional blade sharpening, making it one of the most hassle-free options available.
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Mower, Trimmer & Edger
Maximize your investment and storage space with this innovative 3-in-1 tool from BLACK+DECKER. This versatile machine functions as a lawn mower, a string trimmer, and an edger, effectively replacing three separate tools. Its lightweight design, at under 10 pounds, makes it easy to use for a variety of lawn care tasks without causing fatigue.
The automatic feed spool (AFS) technology automatically advances the trimming line as needed, so you never have to stop and bump the head to feed more line. With adjustable handle and height positions, you can customize the tool for comfort and control whether you’re mowing, trimming, or creating crisp edges along your walkways.
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower
For those with larger properties or who simply want to make mowing as easy as possible, the CRAFTSMAN self-propelled mower is a top-tier choice. The self-propelled drive system does the work of pushing the mower for you, allowing you to guide it with minimal effort. You can typically adjust the speed to match your walking pace.
It’s powered by a reliable 159cc engine that provides plenty of power for tough mowing conditions. The 3-in-1 versatility allows you to choose between mulching your clippings for nutrients, bagging for a clean look, or side-discharging for longer grass. This flexibility makes it adaptable to any season or mowing preference.
Snapper XD 82V Cordless Lawn Mower
Snapper brings its legacy of quality to the cordless market with the XD 82V mower. This high-voltage system is designed to deliver performance that rivals gas mowers, offering substantial power for thicker grass and larger lawn areas. You can expect a robust runtime from the included battery, making it suitable for more demanding mowing tasks.
As part of the 82V platform, this mower allows you to share batteries with other Snapper XD tools, creating a convenient and cost-effective ecosystem for your entire yard. It typically includes features like a single-lever height adjustment and a versatile discharge system, providing a premium, user-friendly mowing experience without the maintenance of a gas engine.
What to Look For in a Walk Behind Lawn Mower Under $400
When I’m shopping for a new walk behind lawn mower, especially with a budget of under $400, I know I need to be smart about the features that matter most. You won’t find all the high-end bells and whistles in this price range, but you can absolutely get a reliable, efficient machine that will keep your yard looking great for years. The key is knowing where to focus your attention.
First, I always consider the engine. For a small to medium-sized flat lawn, a simple and reliable 140cc to 160cc engine is often perfectly adequate. Brands like Briggs & Stratton and Honda make great engines in this category. I look for an engine that’s easy to start and known for its durability. Next is the cutting deck. The size and material are crucial. A 21-inch deck is the sweet spot for most suburban yards, balancing maneuverability with a decent cutting swath. I prefer a steel deck for its longevity, but a high-quality polymer deck is lighter and won’t rust, which is a nice bonus.
Then there’s the cutting height adjustment. This might seem minor, but adjusting the height on all four wheels individually is a game-changer compared to a single-lever system. It’s faster and more precise, letting you adapt to different grass types and seasons with ease. I also think hard about the grass collection system. A good rear bag is essential if you don’t want clippings all over your lawn. Check the bag’s capacity; a larger bag means fewer trips to the compost pile. For those who prefer to mulch, look for a mower with a well-designed mulching plug that finely chops clippings to feed your lawn.
Finally, don’t overlook the handle. A comfortable, ergonomic handle that folds down for storage makes a big difference in usability and convenience. By focusing on these core elements—engine, deck, adjustments, and collection—you can confidently find one of the best walk behind lawn mowers under $400 for 2025 that fits your specific yard work needs without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a push mower or a self-propelled mower a better choice under $400?
This really depends on your yard’s terrain. If you have a relatively flat and small lawn, a standard push mower is a fantastic, budget-friendly option. It’s lighter and often has fewer mechanical parts that can wear out. However, if your yard has any noticeable slopes or is on the larger side, the extra cost for a self-propelled model is worth every penny. The drive system does most of the work for you, making the job much less physically demanding. You can definitely find solid self-propelled options under $400, especially during seasonal sales.
What type of engine should I look for in this price range?
In the under $400 category, you’ll primarily find reliable overhead valve (OHV) engines. These are more fuel-efficient, run cooler, and last longer than older side-valve engine designs. I typically look for engines from reputable manufacturers like Briggs & Stratton. While you might not get a legendary Honda engine at this price for a full mower, some models do include them, which is a huge plus. Focus on engine displacement (cc); for most yards, something between 140cc and 190cc provides plenty of power.
Can I get a good gas mower, or should I consider electric?
You can get a very good gas mower for under $400, and they are still the go-to for raw power and runtime, especially for larger lawns. However, battery-powered electric mowers have become serious contenders. They are quieter, require almost no maintenance (no oil changes or spark plugs), and are better for the environment. The main limitation is runtime; you need to ensure the battery life matches your lawn’s size. For a small to medium city lot, a modern electric mower is a brilliant and convenient choice that fits this budget.
How important is the deck material?
It’s pretty important for the mower’s longevity. Steel decks are strong and durable, but they can be heavier and are susceptible to rust if you don’t clean them properly after use. Polymer (plastic) decks are much lighter, making the mower easier to push and maneuver. They are also rust-proof, which is a significant advantage. Modern polymer decks on quality mowers are quite durable and can withstand normal use and the occasional bump. For most people, a well-made polymer deck offers a great balance of weight, durability, and corrosion resistance.
Are there any specific features that make mowing easier?
Absolutely. Beyond the self-propelled feature I mentioned earlier, look for a single-lever height adjustment. This allows you to change the cutting height for all wheels at once instead of adjusting each one individually, which saves a ton of time and hassle. A wash-out port is another great feature; it lets you attach a garden hose to clean the underside of the deck without tipping the mower over, which helps prevent grass buildup and corrosion.