Finding a reliable gas lawn mower that doesn’t break the bank can feel like a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it’s hard to know which model offers the best performance and value for your specific yard. Whether you have a small, flat plot or a larger, sloped garden, the right mower can make your weekend chores significantly easier and more efficient.
This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting nine of the best gas-powered lawn mowers available for under $250. We have evaluated key features like engine power, cutting options, maneuverability, and ease of use to bring you a curated list of top performers. From lightweight push mowers to convenient self-propelled models, there is an option here to suit nearly every lawn care need.
The Best Gas Lawn Mowers for Your Budget
- PowerSmart 21″ 2-in-1 Push Lawn Mower
- Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 20 Inch
- Gas Lawn Mower, 20-Inch Push Lawn Mower
- PowerSmart Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 21-Inch
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
- Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower
- Carbhub Ignition Coil Fit for Troy Bilt TB110 TB200
- American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Push Reel Lawn Mower
PowerSmart 21″ 2-in-1 Push Lawn Mower
This PowerSmart mower is an excellent choice for smaller yards where maneuverability is key. Weighing just 62 lbs, its lightweight design makes it easy to push around tight corners and garden beds. The robust 125cc Briggs & Stratton engine provides reliable power to handle standard lawn grass with ease.
The versatile 2-in-1 function lets you choose between mulching to nourish your soil or using the side discharge for quicker cleanup of overgrown areas. An adjustable cutting height gives you control over your lawn’s final look, and the straightforward assembly means you can get to work almost immediately.
Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 20 Inch
If you have a hilly or uneven yard, this self-propelled model can make mowing feel effortless. The rear-wheel drive and six variable speeds allow you to match your natural walking pace, reducing physical strain. Its 141cc engine delivers strong, consistent power for a clean cut across various terrains.
This mower offers a 3-in-1 system for mulching, bagging, or side discharge, giving you full control over grass clippings. The single-lever 7-position height adjustment and quick-clean deck are thoughtful features that add significant convenience to your lawn care routine.
Gas Lawn Mower, 20-Inch Push Lawn Mower
This model strikes a great balance between power and user-friendly operation. The durable 4-stroke engine is designed for reliability and strong cutting performance, even when dealing with thicker grass and weeds. It operates with low noise and vibration, contributing to a more pleasant mowing experience.
You can easily switch between rear-bagging, mulching, and side discharge to manage clippings according to your preference. The 7-position height adjustment lever provides a wide range, from a short manicure to a longer trim, ensuring you can achieve the exact lawn height you want.
PowerSmart Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 21-Inch
For those seeking a bit more engine power, this PowerSmart mower features a 144cc engine with an auto choke for easy starting. The larger 21-inch cutting deck allows you to cover more ground with each pass, reducing the total time spent on mowing your lawn.
Its 2-in-1 functionality provides the choice of bagging for a clean finish or mulching to return nutrients to your soil. The inclusion of oil right in the box is a helpful touch that gets you started quickly, making it a solid, no-fuss option for medium-sized yards.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
Built with durability in mind, this PowerSmart mower features an all-steel deck designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. The 144cc 4-cycle engine is both powerful and efficient, providing the energy needed for a consistent and clean cut across your lawn.
Like its sibling models, it offers a practical 2-in-1 mulching and bagging system. The combination of a sturdy build, a wide cutting path, and reliable engine performance makes this a workhorse capable of handling typical residential mowing tasks season after season.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
For those who prefer a quieter, emission-free alternative to gas, the Greenworks cordless mower is a standout option. It delivers gas-like performance without the noise, fumes, or maintenance associated with gasoline engines. The included 4.0Ah battery offers ample runtime for maintaining a small to medium-sized lawn.
Its ultra-lightweight design is 35% lighter than many gas mowers, making it exceptionally easy to maneuver and store. The single-lever height adjustment and 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging system provide the flexibility and clean finish you expect from a quality mower.
Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower
The Sun Joe electric mower is a fantastic solution for very small lawns or courtyards where a gas mower would be overkill. Its powerful 12-amp motor provides consistent cutting power, and you never have to worry about gas, oil, or pull-starts—just plug it in and go.
A key feature is its collapsible handle, which makes storage in a shed or garage incredibly convenient. With a 3-position height adjustment and a durable steel blade, this mower offers a simple, effective, and low-maintenance approach to keeping small grassy areas tidy.
Carbhub Ignition Coil Fit for Troy Bilt TB110 TB200
This product is not a lawn mower itself but a crucial replacement part for specific Troy-Bilt models like the TB110 and TB200. If your mower is experiencing ignition problems, a faulty coil could be the cause, preventing the engine from starting.
Replacing the ignition coil can often restore your mower to full working order, saving you the cost of a new machine. It is essential to verify that this part is compatible with your specific mower model by comparing it with your old part before purchasing.
American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Push Reel Lawn Mower
For the most traditional and environmentally friendly mowing experience, this push reel mower is an excellent choice. It operates entirely on human power, producing zero emissions and requiring no gas, oil, or electricity. This makes it incredibly quiet and inexpensive to operate.
Its sharp, steel blades provide a clean, scissor-like cut that is healthy for your grass. This mower is ideal for small, flat lawns where the quiet, gentle, and manual approach to landscaping is preferred. It offers a peaceful mowing experience and provides good exercise.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Gas Lawn Mower Under $250
When you’re looking for the best gas lawn mowers under $250 right now, it can feel like a bit of a puzzle. I’ve been there, staring at a dozen different models online, all promising a perfect cut for a low price. The key is to know what features actually matter for your yard and which ones you can live without to stay within your budget. Let me walk you through the main things I consider.
First up is the cutting deck. This is the width of the strip of grass the mower cuts in one pass. For smaller, flat yards, a 21-inch deck is the standard and works great. If you have a larger area, you might see a 22-inch model pop up in this price range, which can help you finish the job a bit faster. The deck material is also important. Steel decks are durable but can rust, while polymer decks are rust-proof and lighter, which is a big help when you’re maneuvering around flower beds.
Next, think about the engine. You don’t need a racing engine for your lawn, but you do want something reliable. Look for a reputable brand like Briggs & Stratton or Honda. Engine power is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). For most suburban lawns, an engine between 140cc and 190cc is plenty powerful. A higher cc generally means it can handle thicker grass a little better, but don’t sacrifice build quality for a few extra ccs.
Then there’s the bagging system. Most mowers in this category are 3-in-1, meaning they can mulch, bag, or side-discharge. If you like a clean lawn without clippings, a good bag is essential. Check that it’s easy to attach and detach. For mulching, which returns nutrients to the soil, look for a mower that specifically mentions a high-quality mulching blade and deck design. The height adjustment is another feature you’ll use every time you mow. A single-lever adjustment that changes the height for all wheels at once is a massive time-saver compared to fiddling with four separate levers.
Finally, don’t forget about the little things. How easy is it to start? An auto-choke system can make cold starts much simpler. How does it feel to push? The weight and balance of the mower make a huge difference on a hot day. By focusing on these key areas—deck size and material, engine reliability, and a convenient bagging and height-adjustment system—you can confidently find a mower that will keep your lawn looking sharp without breaking the bank.
FAQ
Are gas mowers under $250 actually any good?
Yes, absolutely. While you won’t find all the bells and whistles of a $500+ model, the best gas lawn mowers under $250 right now are perfectly capable machines for an average-sized lawn. They typically feature reliable engines from known brands and solid construction. The trade-off is usually in the form of fewer convenience features, like a more basic starting system or a less durable deck material, but for basic weekly mowing, they get the job done well.
What is the most important feature to look for in a budget gas mower?
If I had to pick one, I’d say engine reliability is paramount. A mower with a cheap, no-name engine that’s hard to start or prone to failure isn’t a bargain at any price. Look for a mower equipped with an engine from a manufacturer like Briggs & Stratton. A dependable engine is the heart of the machine, and it’s the one component that, if it fails, can turn your lawn mower into a very heavy paperweight.
Is it better to mulch, bag, or side-discharge clippings?
This really depends on your personal preference and lawn care goals. Mulching chops the clippings into fine pieces and returns them to the lawn as natural fertilizer. It’s efficient and good for your grass. Bagging gives you the cleanest look and is best if you’re dealing with a lot of leaves or if you let the grass get too long between mows. Side-discharging is useful for cutting very tall or wet grass that might clog a mulcher or bagger. Most mowers in this price range offer all three options.
How difficult is it to maintain a gas mower?
Basic maintenance is straightforward and essential for a long mower life. The main tasks are changing the oil once a season (or as recommended), replacing the air filter, and using a fuel stabilizer if you’re storing the mower for more than a month. The most important thing is to never put gas with ethanol in your mower if you can avoid it, as it can gum up the carburetor. Many modern mowers come with “easy-start” features that also help reduce maintenance headaches.
Can I find a self-propelled gas mower for under $250?
It’s challenging, but not entirely impossible, especially during seasonal sales or if you find a previous year’s model on clearance. Self-propelled mowers use a drive system to move themselves, which is a huge advantage on hills or for those who find pushing a mower difficult. However, this feature usually pushes the price above the $250 mark. For this budget, you should expect to be looking at push mowers, which are lighter and simpler.