Navigating a hilly or uneven lawn can turn a simple chore into a strenuous workout. That’s where rear-wheel drive lawn mowers shine, offering superior traction and control on challenging terrain. By pushing the mower from behind, the rear wheels dig in for better grip, making slopes feel less daunting and ensuring a consistent, even cut across your entire yard.
Whether you prioritize raw gas-powered performance or the quiet, emission-free operation of a battery-electric model, there is a rear-propelled mower built for your needs. This roundup cuts through the noise to bring you a selection of the best models on the market, each designed to make your lawn maintenance faster, easier, and more efficient.
Our Top Picks for Rear-Propelled Lawn Mowers
- SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled
- PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch Self-Propelled
- SENIX 22″ Gas Lawn Mower, 163cc Self Propelled
- PowerSmart 21-Inch 140cc B&S Engine Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
- Sun Joe Cordless Electric Push Lawn Mower with 10.6-Gal Bag
- Greenworks PRO 21-Inch 80V Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The SENIX LSSG-H2 is built for efficiency and easy storage. Its 22-inch steel deck allows you to cover small to medium yards quickly, and when the job is done, the fold-down handle enables vertical storage to save considerable space in your garage or shed. This feature is a major benefit for those with limited storage area.
Powered by a reliable Briggs & Stratton 163 cc 4-cycle engine, this mower delivers consistent power for tough grass. The 3-in-1 functionality offers mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging with a large 19-gallon bag included. An ergonomic handle and a dedicated washout port for easy cleaning add to the user-friendly design, making lawn care a more comfortable task.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled
This 22-inch PowerSmart model is equipped with 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 other mowers might struggle.
You have flexible grass management with the 3-in-1 system that includes mulching, rear-discharging, and bagging. The 1.4-bushel capacity bag is straightforward to empty, helping you finish your lawn care routine without extra effort. This mower is also noted for its simple, tool-free assembly straight out of the box, getting you to work almost immediately.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
Ideal for medium to large yards, this PowerSmart mower uses a 21-inch robust steel deck to reduce mowing time with fewer passes. It is powered by a dependable 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, known for its smooth startup and consistent performance, ensuring it can handle demanding mowing conditions with reliability.
The 3-in-1 function gives you the choice to bag clippings, mulch them back into the lawn for nutrients, or use the rear-discharge for a quick cut. With six cutting height adjustments, you can easily customize your lawn’s appearance. This combination of power, versatility, and a wide cutting path makes it a solid, all-around choice.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch Self-Propelled
This model emphasizes dependable power with its reliable 140cc B&S engine, which is built to power through thick, tall, or damp grass without stalling. The 21-inch durable steel mowing deck is designed for efficiency, enabling you to cover larger lawn areas faster while delivering a clean and even cut.
Flexibility is central to its design, offering three distinct cutting options: rear bagging, mulching, and rear discharge. This allows you to choose the best method for your lawn’s condition and your personal preference, whether you want to collect clippings, recycle them as natural fertilizer, or simply disperse them behind the mower.
SENIX 22″ Gas Lawn Mower, 163cc Self Propelled
The SENIX LSSG-H1 is engineered for effortless operation, especially on slopes and thick turf. Its rear-wheel drive system provides the necessary traction to glide over challenging terrain with minimal effort from the user. The 22-inch cutting deck ensures you can maintain small-to-medium yards quickly and effectively.
At its heart is a robust Briggs & Stratton 163cc engine with a Prime n Pull start for reliable power. Like its sibling model, it features a versatile 3-in-1 steel deck for mulching, side-discharge, or rear bagging with a large 19-gallon bag. Added conveniences include an ergonomic handle and a washout port for simplified cleaning after use.
PowerSmart 21-Inch 140cc B&S Engine Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
This PowerSmart mower is powered by a 140cc 4-stroke OHV engine that delivers consistent and dependable performance for your lawn care tasks. A forced air-cooling system helps maintain optimal engine temperature, which can contribute to a longer operational life and sustained power during extended use.
It offers significant flexibility with three cutting methods: mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging. You have precise control over your lawn’s finish with six adjustable cutting positions, allowing you to set the grass height from 1.5 inches to 3.9 inches. This level of customization ensures a professional-looking result every time you mow.
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
The CRAFTSMAN M215 offers a smooth and easy mowing experience with its self-propelled design, allowing you to select your preferred propulsion speed. It is equipped with a powerful 159cc OHV gas engine that includes both recoil and auto choke features for reliable and hassle-free starting and operation.
This mower stands out with its comprehensive 3-in-1 capabilities, providing side discharge, rear discharge, and mulching options. This versatility lets you manage grass clippings exactly how you prefer, adapting to different seasons and lawn conditions. It’s a trusted brand known for building durable outdoor power equipment.
Sun Joe Cordless Electric Push Lawn Mower with 10.6-Gal Bag
For those seeking a quieter, emission-free alternative to gas mowers, the Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO is an excellent option for small to medium lawns. Its durable steel blade cuts a precise 14-inch path, and it is powered by a 28V 4Ah rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can provide up to a quarter acre of mowing on a single charge.
This cordless electric mower eliminates the hassles of gas, oil, and extension cords. It features a 10.6-gallon collection bag and a 3-position manual height adjustment to tailor your cut. It’s a low-maintenance, user-friendly machine that gets the job done without the noise and fumes of a traditional gas engine.
Greenworks PRO 21-Inch 80V Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
The Greenworks PRO 80V represents the high end of cordless electric mowing, offering substantial power that rivals many gas models. Its 21-inch cutting deck is well-suited for medium-sized lawns, and the rear-wheel drive self-propelled system ensures easy handling and superior traction on various landscapes.
As part of the 80V ecosystem, this mower benefits from a strong battery platform that delivers long runtime and consistent power output. You can enjoy a quiet mowing experience with instant starts, no emissions, and significantly reduced maintenance—no more oil changes, spark plugs, or air filters. It’s a powerful, clean, and convenient solution for the modern homeowner.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the Best Rear Propelled Lawn Mowers
When I started looking for a new mower, I quickly realized that not all rear propelled lawn mowers are created equal. Having a self-propelled machine is a game-changer for hilly or large yards, but you need to know what separates a good one from a great one. Here’s what I learned to focus on during my search for the best rear propelled lawn mowers on the market.
First, think about the engine. This is the heart of the mower. I look for a engine with enough power, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), to handle my grass type and any thick patches without stalling. For most residential lawns, something in the 140cc to 190cc range is solid. I also check whether it’s Overhead Valve (OHV) design, as these engines tend to last longer, run quieter, and are more fuel-efficient.
Next, the propulsion system itself is key. Rear-propelled mowers are excellent for traction, especially on slopes, because the drive wheels are under the heaviest part of the mower—the engine. I make sure the speed control is easy to use and offers a good range. A single-lever control that lets me adjust speed without stopping is a feature I really appreciate. The transmission type matters too; some have fixed speeds, while others are infinitely variable, giving me total control over my walking pace.
Then there’s the deck. The material—steel or aluminum—affects durability and weight. Steel is tough but can rust, while aluminum is rust-proof but can be more expensive. The deck size determines how wide a path I cut. A 21-inch deck is standard and perfect for navigating through gates and tight spaces. For larger, open areas, a 22-inch deck can save some time. I also look for a sturdy height-adjustment system. A single lever that changes the height for all wheels at once is much more convenient than adjusting each wheel individually.
Finally, I consider the extra features that make the job easier. A easy-fold handle for compact storage is a must for me. The grass bag capacity determines how often I have to stop to empty it. And for mulching and bagging capabilities, I check how easy it is to convert the mower from one mode to another. A washout port for cleaning the underside of the deck is a small feature that makes a big difference in maintenance. By weighing all these factors, I can find a mower that doesn’t just cut grass, but makes the whole job simpler.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main advantages of a rear propelled lawn mower?
The biggest advantage for me is the improved traction. Because the drive wheels are located at the back, directly under the engine’s weight, they get a much better grip on the ground. This makes a rear propelled mower fantastic for hilly or uneven terrain where a front-wheel drive model might slip or struggle to pull the mower up an incline. I also find the pushing motion feels more natural, as the mower is essentially pushing itself, and I’m just guiding it.
Are rear propelled mowers harder to turn than front-wheel drive models?
This is a common concern, and from my experience, they can require a bit more effort to make sharp turns, especially when compared to front-wheel drive mowers where the wheels are being pulled around a corner. However, it’s a trade-off for that superior traction. I’ve found that with a little practice, making wide, arcing turns becomes second nature. For most yards, it’s not a significant issue, and the benefit on slopes far outweighs this minor inconvenience.
How much maintenance does the propulsion system need?
The propulsion system is generally low-maintenance, but it’s not maintenance-free. Like any mechanical system with moving parts, it needs occasional attention. I make it a point to check the owner’s manual for specific lubrication points for the drive wheels and cables. Over time, the drive belts can wear out and may need replacement, which is a standard repair. Keeping the system clean from caked-on grass and debris also helps it run smoothly for years.
Can I use a rear propelled mower on a very flat, small lawn?
You absolutely can, but it might be overkill. If your lawn is small and completely flat, a simple push mower could be more cost-effective and easier to store. The self-propelled mechanism adds weight, complexity, and cost. However, if you simply prefer the convenience of not having to push at all, or if you have physical limitations that make pushing difficult, then a rear propelled model is still a great choice even for a flat yard.
What is a good engine size for a residential rear propelled mower?
For a typical suburban lawn, I look for an engine in the 140cc to 190cc range. This provides plenty of power to handle standard grass types and occasional thick growth without the engine bogging down. If your yard has particularly tough, dense grass or you deal with a lot of hills, opting for the higher end of that range, or even above 190cc, will give you the extra power reserve you need for a consistent cut.
Is it worth paying more for a model with a variable speed control?
In my opinion, yes, it’s often worth the extra investment. A variable speed control gives me complete command over my walking pace. I can slow down for thick patches or intricate areas around flower beds and then speed up on open stretches. This leads to a better, more even cut and makes the mowing process feel less rushed. Single-speed models can feel too fast or too slow depending on the conditions, so the flexibility is a feature I really value.