Maintaining a pristine lawn doesn’t have to be a strenuous chore. For those with sloped or uneven terrain, a self-propelled lawn mower is a game-changer, doing the hard work of pushing for you. The 22-inch cutting width is a popular sweet spot, offering a balance between maneuverability and efficiency, making it ideal for small to medium-sized yards.
With numerous options available, from powerful gas models to convenient cordless electric ones, selecting the right mower can be daunting. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting eight of the best 22-inch self-propelled mowers on the market, detailing their key features and benefits to help you find the perfect match for your lawn care needs.
The Best 22-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch
- SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT
- PowerSmart 22-Inch Gas Lawn Mower Self-Propelled
- Greenworks 22-Inch 80V Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- Snapper XD 82V MAX Cordless Self-Propelled 22-Inch Mower
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled
This PowerSmart mower is built for reliability and ease of use. Its heart is a USA-made Briggs and Stratton 150cc engine featuring ReadyStart technology, which is designed for easy, hassle-free starting in any condition. The rear-wheel drive self-propelled system provides excellent traction, making it a strong performer on inclines and uneven terrain where extra pushing power is needed.
You have flexible mowing options with the 3-in-1 system, allowing you to mulch, rear-discharge, or bag clippings to suit your lawn’s needs. The durable steel deck and six adjustable cutting heights give you control over your lawn’s final look. Assembly is straightforward and requires no tools, so you can get started on your yard work quickly.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch
For those seeking a bit more power, this PowerSmart model is equipped with a robust 170cc OHV 4-cycle engine. This engine is designed with an auto-choke and recoil starter for improved cutting efficiency and a simpler start. The single-speed rear-wheel-drive system offers reliable traction on slopes and uneven ground, moving at a consistent pace.
The rugged 22-inch all-steel deck is constructed for long-term durability. It features a 3-in-1 design for mulching, rear-discharging, or bagging, and the superior mulching blade is engineered to help you finish your mowing tasks faster by creating fine clippings that decompose quickly to nourish your lawn.
SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The SENIX LSSG-H2 is designed with user convenience and storage in mind. Its fold-down handle and capability for vertical storage make it an excellent choice for those with limited garage or shed space. The 22-inch cutting width efficiently covers small to medium yards, and the self-propel feature reduces user fatigue.
Powered by a dependable Briggs & Stratton 163cc 4-cycle engine with a Prime n Pull start, this mower delivers consistent performance. The 3-in-1 steel deck offers mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging versatility, supported by a large 19-gallon bagger. An added convenience is the washout port, which facilitates easy cleaning of the deck after use.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch
This 21-inch model from PowerSmart is built for efficiency on yards up to half an acre. Its 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine, equipped with an auto-choke and recoil starter, is designed for easy starting and maximum power in its class. The single-speed, rear-wheel-drive self-propel system makes navigating hills and large areas much less demanding.
While slightly narrower at 21 inches, its fine cutting system is engineered to deliver ultra-fine cuts and small clippings. The durable steel deck and heavy-duty blade work together to ensure a clean, even cut every time, contributing to a well-manicured lawn with minimal effort.
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT
The YARDMAX mower stands out with its industry-leading CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). This system offers superior speed control, allowing you to perfectly match the mower’s pace to your walking speed by simply selecting one of six speeds. This is a significant advantage for complex yards with a mix of flat, sloped, and uneven terrain.
It is powered by a substantial 201cc engine for demanding mowing conditions. The aggressive, spiked tread pattern on the rubber tires greatly increases traction and maneuverability. For easy maintenance, a deck cleanout port is included, allowing you to easily rinse away grass clippings and debris from the underside of the deck.
PowerSmart 22-Inch Gas Lawn Mower Self-Propelled
Another reliable option from PowerSmart, this mower also features the trusted USA-made Briggs and Stratton 150cc engine with ReadyStart technology for dependable power and easy starting. The rear-wheel-drive self-propelled system ensures you have the traction needed for various lawn conditions.
The focus here is on cutting performance. A heavy-duty blade provides ultra-fine cuts, and the resulting small clippings are ideal for mulching, which helps maintain a healthy lawn by returning nutrients to the soil. The 3-in-1 functionality gives you the choice to mulch, rear-discharge, or use the included 1.4-bushel bag.
Greenworks 22-Inch 80V Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
For homeowners seeking a powerful yet quiet and emission-free mowing experience, the Greenworks 80V cordless mower is a top contender. It eliminates the hassles of gas, oil, and pull cords, starting with the simple push of a button. The self-propelled feature ensures easy operation across your yard.
As part of the Greenworks 80V ecosystem, this mower is powered by a long-lasting lithium-ion battery, offering the convenience of cordless freedom without sacrificing performance. It provides a clean, quiet, and low-maintenance alternative to gas mowers, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious users.
Snapper XD 82V MAX Cordless Self-Propelled 22-Inch Mower
The Snapper XD 82V MAX represents high-performance cordless technology. With its 82V lithium-ion battery system, it delivers gas-like power for challenging mowing conditions without the noise, fumes, or maintenance of a traditional gas engine. The self-propelled function makes handling large or hilly yards much easier.
This mower is built for durability and user convenience, featuring a robust deck and intuitive controls. It’s an ideal solution for those who want the power and runtime to tackle bigger jobs but prefer the clean, quiet, and instant start benefits of a battery-powered platform.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a 22-Inch Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Choosing the right self-propelled mower can feel like a big decision. I’ve been through it myself, and the key is to focus on a few critical features that will make your mowing life easier. A 22-inch cutting deck is a fantastic middle ground, giving you a wide enough path to cover ground quickly without being too bulky to maneuver around tight spots. Let’s break down what you should be paying attention to when you’re looking for the best 22 inch self propelled lawn mowers on the market.
First, consider the engine. This is the heart of your mower. You’ll see power measured in CCs (cubic centimeters). For a typical suburban lawn, something in the 140cc to 190cc range is usually plenty. A bigger engine can handle thicker grass and slight inclines with less strain, which can mean a longer life for the mower. Also, think about whether you prefer gas or electric. Gas mowers offer total freedom but require more maintenance. Electric models are quieter and easier to start but are either corded (limiting your range) or battery-powered (where you need to consider battery life and power).
Next, the drive system is what “self-propelled” is all about. You want a system that feels comfortable and matches your yard’s terrain. Look for a mower with a front-wheel drive (FWD) if you have a relatively flat yard; they’re great for maneuverability. If you have hills or uneven ground, a rear-wheel drive (RWD) model will give you better traction and control. Some higher-end mowers even offer all-wheel drive (AWD) for the toughest landscapes. The speed control is also important. A single-speed drive is okay, but a variable speed drive is much better, allowing you to match your walking pace to the thickness of the grass.
Don’t overlook the cutting and bagging features. A mower with a single-lever height adjustment is a huge time-saver, letting you change the height on all wheels at once instead of fiddling with four separate levers. Think about how you handle clippings. Do you bag, mulch, or side-discharge? Most mowers offer all three, but the ease of switching between them and the capacity of the grass bag matter. A large, easy-to-remove bag means less time stopping to empty it. Finally, check for user-friendly extras like an electric start button (a blessing for your shoulder), a washout port for easy cleaning, and sturdy construction that feels like it will last for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of a self-propelled mower over a push mower?
The main advantage is the reduced physical effort. The mower does the work of moving itself forward, and you’re really just there to guide it. This is a game-changer if you have a large yard, any slopes, or simply want to make the chore of mowing less of a workout. It allows you to focus on steering and getting a clean cut without getting worn out from pushing.
Are battery-powered self-propelled mowers powerful enough?
Absolutely. Battery technology has improved dramatically. Modern lithium-ion battery mowers offer plenty of power for most residential lawns and can easily rival their gas counterparts in cutting performance. The benefit is a quieter, fume-free operation with less maintenance. The key is to check the voltage (40V to 80V is common) and the battery’s amp-hour (Ah) rating, which gives you an idea of how long it will run on a single charge.
How often do I need to perform maintenance on a gas self-propelled mower?
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping a gas mower running smoothly. After every use, you should wipe it down. The big tasks involve the engine oil and the air filter, which you should change at least once a season, or more often if you use it frequently. You also need to replace the spark plug annually and keep an eye on the blade sharpness. A dull blade tears grass, leading to a brown, unhealthy lawn.
Can a 22-inch mower handle tall or thick grass?
It can, but you have to be smart about it. If the grass is very tall, you should set the mower to its highest cutting height for the first pass and then lower it for a second pass to get your desired lawn height. Trying to cut too much at once can clog the deck and strain the engine. For the toughest jobs, you might be looking at some of the more powerful options among the best 22 inch self propelled lawn mowers on the market with higher engine power.
What should I do with my mower at the end of the mowing season?
Proper off-season storage is key. For a gas mower, you have two choices for the fuel system. You can either run the engine until the tank is completely empty, or you can add a fuel stabilizer to a full tank to prevent the gas from degrading and gumming up the carburetor. Always clean the underside of the deck thoroughly to prevent rust, and store the mower in a dry, covered place. For battery mowers, consult the manual, but typically you should store the battery indoors in a cool, dry place.