Tired of pushing a heavy mower across your lawn? A self-propelled lawn mower can transform this tedious chore into a simple, guided walk. These machines do the hard work for you, providing the power to drive themselves forward while you simply steer. This is a game-changer for yards with hills, uneven terrain, or simply large, flat spaces where fatigue can set in.
With so many options available, from powerful gas models to quiet, eco-friendly battery-powered versions, choosing the right one is crucial. Our roundup for 2025 features ten of the best self-propelled mowers, highlighting their key features and benefits to help you find the perfect match for your lawn care needs and make an informed decision for the season ahead.
The Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers for 2025
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel Gas Mower
- BILT HARD 21 Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 201cc 4-Cycle OHV Engine
- MightyMow 40V 21 inch Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower with 2 * 8.0Ah Battery
- SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower with 163 cc 4-Cycle Engine
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower with B&S 140cc Engine
- Electric Lawn Mower, Self-propelled 40V 18.5″ Brushless Mower with 2 Batteries
- Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower – Brushless Motor, LED Lights
- AMERISUN Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21″ with 170cc 4-Cycle OHV Engine
- CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch, 3-in-1 Mulching Push Mower
- EGO Power+ LM2156SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel Gas Mower
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, whether you’re on flat ground, a slope, or uneven terrain. This makes for an exceptionally comfortable and efficient mowing experience.
Further enhancing its performance are the high, 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels fitted with aggressive rubber spike treads. This design significantly boosts traction and maneuverability, helping you navigate challenging parts of your yard with confidence. The included deck cleanout port also makes post-mow maintenance quick and simple.
BILT HARD 21 Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
For those seeking a powerful and user-friendly gas mower, the BILT HARD model is a strong contender. It is powered by a robust 201cc 4-stroke OHV engine that delivers reliable torque for efficient cutting. A significant benefit is its no-choke, no-primer design, which simplifies the starting process and gets you mowing faster.
This mower features a single-speed, rear-wheel drive self-propelled system that moves smoothly across large lawns with minimal effort from the user. The comfortable, foam-wrapped handle is angled to reduce hand and arm fatigue during longer mowing sessions. Its 3-in-1 steel deck provides the versatility to bag, mulch, or side-discharge clippings based on your preference.
MightyMow 40V 21 inch Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
Embrace the quiet, emission-free convenience of cordless mowing with the MightyMow. This model is powered by two 8.0Ah batteries, providing up to 60 minutes of runtime even with the self-propelled function engaged. Its powerful brushless motor spins the 21-inch steel deck at up to 3500 RPM for a clean, efficient cut.
One of its best features is the variable speed self-propelled system, which allows you to customize your mowing pace from 2.0 to 4.3 feet per second. This makes navigating hills and adjusting your speed for different grass conditions remarkably easy. You get all the benefits of a gas mower without the noise, fumes, or maintenance.
SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The SENIX LSSG-H2 combines a wider 22-inch cutting path with a trusted Briggs & Stratton 163cc engine, making it ideal for small to medium-sized yards. The Prime n Pull start system ensures reliable power and a quick start every time. Its front-wheel drive, single-speed self-propel function helps move the mower forward with little effort.
This mower is designed with practicality in mind. It includes a large 19-gallon bagger for collecting clippings and a washout port for easy deck cleaning. When not in use, the handle folds down, allowing for compact vertical storage to save valuable space in your garage or shed.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
PowerSmart offers a dependable and straightforward self-propelled mowing solution. It is equipped with a reliable 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine known for its dependable startup and consistent performance, even when dealing with thick or damp grass. The 21-inch durable steel deck allows you to cover more ground with each pass.
This mower provides flexible grass management with its 3-in-1 functionality, letting you choose between rear bagging, mulching, and rear discharge. With six height adjustment positions and large 10-inch rear wheels, you can achieve a clean, even cut across various lawn conditions.
Electric Lawn Mower, Self-propelled 40V 18.5″ Brushless Mower
This electric mower brings innovative technology to your lawn care routine. Its standout feature is the world’s first 6-position electric cutting height adjustment, which allows you to change the cutting height with a single touch—no bending or manual lever adjustment required. The Easysurge technology powers the blade to a maximum of 4100 RPM for effective cutting.
Powered by two 4.0Ah batteries, this mower offers up to 30 minutes of runtime, making it suitable for smaller lawns or properties up to about 1/6 of an acre. The self-propelled function adds ease of use, making it a great low-maintenance alternative to gas-powered models.
Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
For those with larger lawns who want cordless freedom, the Greenworks 80V model is an excellent choice. With a fully charged 4.0Ah battery, it can cut up to half an acre, providing substantial runtime for a battery-powered machine. The highly efficient brushless motor offers more torque, quieter operation, and a longer lifespan.
This mower features a variable speed, rear-wheel drive self-propelled system for maximum traction and control on various terrains. An added bonus is the integrated LED headlights, which allow for greater flexibility in your mowing schedule, even in early morning or evening light.
AMERISUN Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21″ with 170cc Engine
The AMERISUN mower is built for power and efficiency. Its 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine features an auto-choke system for easy starting and a forced air-cooling system to ensure smooth operation during extended use. The 21-inch wide heavy-duty blade and reinforced steel deck are designed to deliver a fine, even cut.
This model uses a rear-wheel drive (RWD) self-propelled system, which provides excellent traction and makes mowing on flat ground or inclines feel nearly effortless. It’s a robust machine designed to handle all terrains while reducing the physical strain on the user.
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
Backed by a trusted brand name, this CRAFTSMAN mower offers a balanced set of features for the average homeowner. It is powered by a 159cc OHV engine that includes both recoil and auto-choke features for reliable and hassle-free starting. The self-propelled system allows you to select your preferred speed for a smooth mowing experience.
This mower provides versatile clippings management with its 3-in-1 capabilities, offering side discharge, rear bagging, and mulching. With six adjustable cutting heights, you can maintain your lawn at the perfect length throughout the growing season.
EGO Power+ LM2156SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
The EGO Power+ LM2156SP is a flagship cordless mower renowned for its performance and power that rivals many gas models. Part of a large ecosystem of 56V tools, it offers the convenience of interchangeable batteries. Its brushless motor provides strong, consistent power for a clean cut, and the self-propelled feature is known for its smooth and intuitive operation.
This mower includes advanced features like one-touch height adjustment and a robust steel deck. It is consistently praised for its ability to handle tough mowing conditions and for its long battery life, making it a top-tier choice for homeowners who want to transition to battery power without sacrificing performance.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Choosing the right self propelled lawn mower can feel like a big decision. I have been through it myself, staring at a wall of options at the hardware store. The key is to break it down into a few simple factors that really matter for your specific yard. Let us walk through what you should be thinking about before you invest in one of the best self propelled lawn mowers for 2025.
First, consider your yard’s terrain. If you have a relatively flat lawn, a single-speed mower will probably do the job just fine. But if your property has hills or uneven ground, you will want to look for a model with variable speed control. This lets you slow down for tricky inclines and speed up on the straightaways, giving you much better control and making the whole job a lot safer and less tiring.
Next, think about power source. Gas mowers are the traditional choice, offering a lot of power and unlimited runtime, which is great for very large lawns. The trade-off is the noise, fumes, and the ongoing maintenance of oil changes and spark plugs. Electric mowers, both corded and battery-powered, are much quieter and require almost no maintenance. Corded models are limited by the length of your extension cord, while battery-powered mowers offer fantastic freedom, but you need to make sure the battery life is long enough to finish your lawn on a single charge.
Cutting deck size is another big one. A wider deck means you can cut more grass with each pass, reducing your mowing time. For small to medium yards, a 21-inch deck is standard and manageable. If you have a large, open area, stepping up to a 22-inch or even a 30-inch mower can save you a significant amount of time. Just remember, a wider deck can be harder to maneuver around tight corners and garden beds.
Do not forget about the cutting features. A mower with a high mulching setting will finely chop the clippings and return them to the lawn as natural fertilizer. A bagging option is perfect for keeping your lawn super tidy, especially if you do not like seeing clippings. And a side-discharge is useful for cutting very tall or wet grass. Many of the best mowers today offer all three options in one machine, which is incredibly convenient.
Finally, pay attention to the drive system. Rear-wheel drive mowers provide good traction and are excellent for flat lawns. Front-wheel drive models are easier to maneuver and pull around obstacles. For the ultimate in traction, especially on hills, look for a mower with all-wheel drive (AWD). It makes a huge difference in preventing wheel slip and making you feel secure on slopes.
FAQ
What is the main advantage of a self propelled lawn mower?
The biggest advantage is that the mower does the work of moving itself forward. You are really just steering and guiding it. This makes mowing large lawns, hills, or thick grass much less physically demanding. Instead of pushing, you are walking along with the machine, which drastically reduces fatigue and makes the whole chore feel a lot faster.
How long should a self propelled mower last?
With proper care and maintenance, a good quality self propelled mower should last you a solid 7 to 10 years, and often even longer. Gas models might require a bit more upkeep with annual oil changes and air filter cleanings, while battery-electric mowers have fewer mechanical parts to worry about. Storing it in a dry place and cleaning the underside after use will go a long way in extending its life.
Can I use a self propelled mower on a hill?
Absolutely, and that is one of the situations where they shine the most. For hills, I strongly recommend looking for a model with all-wheel drive (AWD) or at least rear-wheel drive (RWD). These provide much better traction than front-wheel drive, preventing the mower from slipping or losing grip on the incline. Always remember to mow across the slope, not up and down, for maximum safety.
Are battery-powered self propelled mowers powerful enough?
They really are. The technology has improved dramatically. For the average residential lawn, a modern battery-powered mower has more than enough power to handle standard grass and even some overgrown areas. The main consideration is battery life; you need to check the estimated runtime and make sure it can cover your entire yard on a single charge. Many brands offer larger, interchangeable batteries for bigger properties.
What type of engine is best: gas, battery, or corded electric?
This depends entirely on your lawn and your preferences. Gas mowers offer the most power and are best for very large or rugged lawns. Battery-electric mowers are the most convenient for most people—quiet, low-maintenance, and free from cords. Corded electric mowers are the most affordable and have unlimited runtime, but you are constantly managing the power cord. For a balance of power and ease-of-use, the best self propelled lawn mowers for 2025 are increasingly found in the battery-electric category.
Is it worth paying more for a mower with a metal deck?
A metal deck, usually steel, is more durable and can better withstand bumps into trees or walls without cracking. It is also heavier, which can sometimes provide a smoother cut. However, modern polymer decks are also very tough, they are rust-proof, lighter to maneuver, and often less expensive. For most users, a high-quality polymer deck is perfectly sufficient and a great value.