Finding a reliable gas push lawn mower that gets the job done without breaking the bank can feel like a chore in itself. You want the power and convenience of gas without the high price tag of premium models. The good news is that the market is filled with capable machines designed for the budget-conscious homeowner who still demands performance and durability for their lawn care routine.
This roundup focuses on the best gas push mowers available for under $400, carefully selected to help you make an informed decision. We have evaluated engines, cutting widths, and unique features to bring you a list of mowers that offer excellent value, making your next purchase straightforward and satisfying.
The Best Gas Push Lawn Mowers Under $400
- PowerSmart Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 21-Inch 144cc Engine
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
- Greenworks 80V 21″ Cordless Battery Push Lawn Mower
- Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower
- BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower, String Trimmer & Edger
- WORX 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
- Earthwise 16-Inch 11-Amp Corded Electric Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
- SevnYoko Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute & Hinged Mulch Plug Assembly
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch with 170cc
- American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14-Inch Push Reel Mower
PowerSmart Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 21-Inch 144cc Engine
This PowerSmart mower is built for reliability and ease of use. Its high-performance 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine, paired with an auto choke, ensures a quick and easy start every time, delivering consistent power to handle your lawn. The durable 21-inch steel deck is designed to cover more ground with each pass, significantly reducing your mowing time.
For versatile lawn care, this model offers a convenient 2-in-1 function, allowing you to choose between bagging for a clean finish or mulching to return valuable nutrients to your soil. The easy-to-empty rear bag simplifies cleanup, making grass clipping disposal hassle-free. This mower combines power and practicality for a efficient mowing experience.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
Another strong contender from PowerSmart, this gas mower is equipped with a robust 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine. The recoil starter and auto choke system work together to provide a smooth and reliable start, giving you the strong power needed for a well-maintained lawn. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss machine built for performance.
The all-steel deck is constructed for long-term durability, resisting wear and tear season after season. This 2-in-1 mower efficiently handles both mulching and bagging tasks, giving you the flexibility to manage your lawn clippings as you see fit. The heavy-duty blade ensures a clean, even cut across your entire yard.
Greenworks 80V 21″ Cordless Battery Push Lawn Mower
For those seeking a gas-alternative without sacrificing power, the Greenworks 80V system is an excellent choice. Its intelligent brushless motor delivers twice the torque of conventional motors, offering extended runtime and quieter operation. The push-button start adds a layer of modern convenience, and the 21-inch deck is ready to tackle tall grass with ease.
This mower is part of a comprehensive combo kit that includes a powerful 16-inch cordless string trimmer. The mower’s 3-in-1 deck and 7-position height adjustment allow for a customized cut, while the dual battery ports with Auto Switch technology ensure you have ample power to finish the job. It’s an ideal system for maintaining up to half an acre.
Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower
The Sun Joe MJ401E is a compact and powerful electric mower perfect for smaller lawns. Its 12-amp motor provides more than enough power to cut a clean 14-inch wide path through your grass. The collapsible handle is a standout feature, making storage in a garage or shed remarkably simple and space-efficient.
You can easily tailor the cutting height with the 3-position height control to suit your lawn’s needs. The durable steel blade is designed for precision cutting, ensuring a neat and even result every time you mow. This mower is a practical, low-maintenance option for straightforward lawn care.
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower, String Trimmer & Edger
Maximize your tool investment with this versatile 3-in-1 machine from BLACK+DECKER. It combines a corded mower, trimmer, and edger into one compact and lightweight unit. Weighing under 10 pounds, it is easy to maneuver and operate, reducing fatigue during yard work.
The adjustable handle and height positions provide comfort and control for users of different heights. For trimming and edging tasks, the automatic feed spool (AFS) conveniently advances the line as needed, so you can work without interruption. This is an all-in-one solution for maintaining small lawns and achieving crisp, clean edges.
WORX 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
The WORX WG779 is a smart, cordless mower ideal for small yards. It starts quickly with the push of a button and uses two 20V 4.0Ah PowerShare batteries to deliver robust 40V power. The included dual charger allows you to charge both batteries at once, ensuring they are ready for your next mow.
A key feature is the Intellicut system, which uses patented sensor technology to automatically adjust the cutting speed based on grass density. This provides a smoother cut in thick grass while conserving battery in lighter conditions. The batteries are part of the WORX PowerShare platform, compatible with over 140 other tools and products.
Earthwise 16-Inch 11-Amp Corded Electric Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
The Earthwise corded electric mower offers gas-like power without the maintenance associated with gas engines. Its 11-amp motor is efficient and powerful, providing consistent performance for a clean cut. The 16-inch deck is equipped with a metal blade designed for excellent cutting and mulching performance.
Adjusting the cut is simple with the 5-position, single-point height adjustment, which ranges from 1.4 to 3.3 inches. The mower also features multiple handle height positions, enhancing user comfort and making it easier to push. It includes a removable mulching plug for when you want to nourish your lawn with fine clippings.
SevnYoko Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute & Hinged Mulch Plug Assembly
This is not a complete mower, but a crucial replacement part set for many popular 21-inch push mower models. If your MTD, Craftsman, or Troy-Bilt mower’s discharge chute or mulch plug is broken or lost, this assembly from SevnYoko is a direct OEM replacement. It is designed to match original specifications for a precise fit and reliable performance.
Installing these parts restores your mower’s full functionality. The side discharge chute effectively directs grass clippings away from the mower to prevent clogging, while the mulch plug allows you to cut grass into finer pieces that can return nutrients to the soil for a healthier lawn. Always verify your mower model for compatibility before purchasing.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch with 170cc
For those with larger yards or hilly terrain, this self-propelled PowerSmart mower makes the task much easier. Its more powerful 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine delivers maximum efficiency, and the rear-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and control. The single-speed self-propel function allows you to mow effortlessly at a steady pace.
The 21-inch durable steel deck and heavy-duty blade work together to provide ultra-fine cuts and small clippings, contributing to a well-manicured lawn appearance. This mower is particularly well-suited for properties up to half an acre, reducing physical strain and cutting down on mowing time.
American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14-Inch Push Reel Mower
Experience a classic, eco-friendly approach to lawn care with this push reel mower. It requires no gas, oil, or electricity, operating solely on your push power. This makes it exceptionally quiet, emission-free, and provides a good form of exercise while you mow. It’s an excellent choice for small, flat lawns.
The 14-inch cutting width is managed by a 5-blade reel that delivers a precise, scissor-like cut which is beneficial for lawn health. The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver and store. This mower offers a simple, reliable, and sustainable way to maintain your grass.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Gas Push Lawn Mower Under $400
When I’m looking for a new gas push mower that fits a tight budget, I know I need to be smart about the features. A price tag under $400 means you’re in the value territory, and the goal is to get the most bang for your buck without ending up with a machine that gives up after one season. The first thing I always check is the engine. You’ll see brands like Briggs & Stratton, Honda, and Toro a lot in this range. A solid 140cc to 160cc engine is usually plenty for a typical suburban lawn. I don’t need a racing engine, just one that starts reliably and has enough power to handle slightly overgrown grass without stalling.
Next up is the cutting deck. This is the housing that the blade spins inside of, and its size determines your mowing efficiency. For smaller, intricate yards with lots of obstacles, a 21-inch deck is perfect. It’s maneuverable and easy to store. If you have a larger, more open area, a 22-inch deck will help you finish the job a bit faster. The deck material matters, too. I look for steel decks for their durability, but many good models now use high-impact polymer, which is rust-proof, lighter, and often just as tough.
The mower’s cutting system is another big decision point. You’ll find 2-in-1 (mulch and bag) and 3-in-1 (mulch, bag, and side-discharge) systems. A 3-in-1 system gives me the most flexibility. I can mulch the clippings to feed the lawn, bag for a super-clean look, or side-discharge if the grass is too long and wet. I also pay close attention to the height adjustment. A single-lever that adjusts all wheels at once is a massive time-saver compared to fiddling with four separate levers.
Finally, I consider the little things that make a big difference in usability. How easy is it to attach the grass bag? Is the handle comfortable and foldable for compact storage? Does it have a primer bulb for easier starting? Reading reviews from other buyers is my secret weapon here; they’ll tell you the real-world pros and cons that you won’t find in the product description. By focusing on these key areas—engine reliability, deck size and material, cutting versatility, and user-friendly features—you can confidently find one of the best gas push lawn mowers under $400 this year that will keep your lawn looking great without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are gas mowers under $400 reliable?
Yes, absolutely. While you might not get the premium features of a $600+ mower, the models in this price range are built for reliability and value. Brands compete heavily in this segment, so they use proven engine designs and focus on durability. With proper maintenance—like regular oil changes, air filter cleaning, and using fresh fuel—a gas mower under $400 can easily last you for many years.
What is the most important feature to look for?
If I had to pick one, it would be the engine. A reliable engine from a known manufacturer is the heart of the mower. Look for a reputable brand like Briggs & Stratton or Honda. A good engine means easier starts, consistent power, and a longer overall life for the machine. Everything else is a nice-to-have, but a weak engine will cause constant frustration.
Is a steel or plastic deck better?
This is a common debate. Steel decks are traditionally known for their strength and durability, but they can be heavier and are susceptible to rust if damaged. High-quality polymer (plastic) decks are rust-proof, lighter (making the mower easier to push and maneuver), and very durable against impacts. For most people, a well-made polymer deck on a gas push mower under $400 is a fantastic, low-maintenance option.
How often do I need to perform maintenance?
Basic maintenance is key to a long mower life. I check the air filter and oil level before each use during the mowing season. The oil should be changed at least once a year, or every 25 hours of operation. The spark plug and air filter should be replaced annually. Also, always either run the carburetor dry or use a fuel stabilizer if you’re storing the mower for more than 30 days.
Can these mowers handle tall or wet grass?
They can handle it, but it’s not ideal. Pushing any mower, especially a budget-friendly model, through tall or wet grass is hard on the engine and can clog the deck. It’s always best to mow when the grass is dry and to avoid cutting off more than one-third of the grass blade height at a time. For occasional overgrowth, go slow and use the side-discharge function instead of mulching or bagging.
Where can I find the best deals on these mowers?
The best prices for the 10 best gas push lawn mowers under $400 this year are often at big-box home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s, especially during seasonal sales in the spring and fall. Don’t forget to check online retailers like Amazon, and also look at local independent dealers who might offer bundle deals or superior assembly and service.