Navigating a hilly or uneven lawn can turn a simple chore into a strenuous workout. That’s where rear-wheel drive (RWD) self-propelled lawn mowers excel. By placing the power in the larger rear wheels, these mowers provide superior traction and control, making them the ideal choice for sloped or challenging terrain. They essentially push you along, reducing fatigue and giving you the stability needed for a clean, even cut every time.
With numerous options available, from powerful gas models to quiet and efficient battery-powered machines, selecting the right RWD mower for your yard can be daunting. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting nine of the best models on the market. We have evaluated key features like engine power, cutting systems, and transmission types to help you find a mower that makes lawn care easier and more efficient.
The Best Rear-Wheel Drive Lawn Mowers for Your Yard
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD Mower
- PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine, Self-Propelled
- SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower with 163 cc Engine
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch with 170cc OHV Engine
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower with B&S E550 Engine
- SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled with 163cc B&S Engine
- Toro 60V MAX 22 in. Recycler with Personal Pace Lawn Mower
- Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Cordless Electric Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- EGO Power+ LM2135SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Self-Propelled Mower
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD Mower
The YARDMAX mower stands out with its industry-leading CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which offers superior speed control. With a 6-speed shift lever, you can easily match the mower’s pace to your natural walking speed, whether you are on flat ground, a slope, or uneven terrain. This level of control, combined with high 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels, makes for an exceptionally smooth and customizable mowing experience.
Further enhancing its performance on challenging lawns are the exclusive rubber tires with an aggressive spike tread pattern. These tires significantly increase traction and maneuverability, providing a firm grip on inclines. For easy maintenance, a dedicated deck cleanout port allows you to quickly rinse the underside of the cutting deck after use, helping to prevent grass buildup and corrosion.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
This PowerSmart mower is powered by a reliable 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, known for its smooth start-up and consistent performance. The 21-inch cutting width efficiently covers medium to large yards, reducing the total time you spend mowing. Its robust steel deck is built to handle tough mowing jobs season after season.
The 3-in-1 functionality provides versatile mowing options to suit your lawn’s needs. You can easily switch between bagging clippings into the 1.4-bushel bag, mulching to nourish your grass, or using the rear discharge for quick and efficient cutting. With six cutting height adjustments, you have the flexibility to achieve your desired lawn length.
SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The SENIX LSSG-H2 is designed for efficient yard maintenance with its 22-inch cutting deck, allowing you to cover small to medium-sized lawns quickly. It is powered by a dependable Briggs & Stratton 163cc 4-cycle engine with a Prime n Pull start system for reliable power. The self-propel feature with rear-wheel drive makes pushing the mower effortless.
This mower offers a 3-in-1 steel deck that supports mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging with an included 19-gallon bagger. An ergonomic handle maximizes comfort during use, and an integrated washout port facilitates easy cleaning. For convenient storage, the handle folds down, and the mower can be stored vertically to save space in your garage or shed.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch with 170cc OHV Engine
This PowerSmart model is equipped with a robust 170cc OHV 4-cycle engine that delivers more power for improved cutting efficiency. The engine features a recoil starter and auto choke for easy starting. The self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, making this mower well-suited for inclined slopes and uneven terrain at a single speed.
The rugged 22-inch all-steel deck is built for long-term durability. It comes with a superior mulching blade that helps you finish your mowing tasks faster by finely chopping grass clippings and returning them to the lawn as natural fertilizer. This combination of power, traction, and a durable build makes it a solid choice for tougher mowing conditions.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower with B&S E550 Engine
Reliability is at the core of this PowerSmart mower, which is powered by a USA-made Briggs and Stratton E550 140cc engine. This engine is designed for consistent performance and features a Prime ‘N Pull system for a quick and easy start every time. The self-propelled RWD system ensures great traction on hills and uneven ground.
The mower features a durable 22-inch all-steel cutting deck with a 21-inch blade, built to withstand season after season of use. This sturdy construction, combined with the trusted power of a Briggs & Stratton engine, makes it a dependable workhorse for maintaining your lawn with minimal fuss.
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled with 163cc B&S Engine
This SENIX mower offers a versatile 3-in-1 cutting system with a durable steel deck. You can choose between mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging, with a 19-gallon bagger included for collection. An ergonomic handle enhances comfort during operation, and an integrated washout port makes cleaning the deck a simple task.
It is equipped with a dependable Briggs & Stratton 163cc 4-cycle engine and a Prime n Pull start for consistent power. The rear-wheel-drive, single-speed self-propel system makes mowing effortless. For space-saving storage, the mower features a foldable handle and can be stored vertically in your garage or shed.
Toro 60V MAX 22 in. Recycler with Personal Pace Lawn Mower
The Toro Recycler offers the convenience and quiet operation of battery power without sacrificing performance. It features reliable push-button start and dual LED headlights for mowing from dawn till dusk. You can choose your runtime by selecting from recommended 60V MAX batteries (sold separately), giving you flexibility based on your yard’s size.
Its standout feature is the Personal Pace Auto-Drive self-propel system. This intuitive system automatically adjusts the mower’s speed to match your walking pace—no levers or knobs to adjust. Simply grab the easy-to-steer handle and go. This makes navigating your yard incredibly smooth and responsive.
Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Cordless Electric Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Experience the benefits of a cordless electric mower with the Greenworks 40V. This model eliminates the hassles of gas, including no more oil, fumes, or difficult pull-starts. The 21-inch steel deck provides a clean, consistent cut, and the self-propelled rear-wheel drive offers the traction needed for gentle slopes, all while operating with significantly less noise than a gas engine.
As part of the Greenworks 40V ecosystem, this mower is compatible with a range of batteries (sold separately), allowing you to power other tools in the lineup with the same battery platform. It’s an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, quiet, and powerful alternative to traditional gas mowers.
EGO Power+ LM2135SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Self-Propelled Mower
The EGO Power+ LM2135SP is a top-tier cordless mower known for its power that rivals gas. The 56-Volt ARC Lithium battery platform delivers strong, consistent performance for the entire runtime. It features a 21-inch steel deck and a self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system that provides excellent control and ease of use on various terrains.
This mower includes innovative features like a one-button push start and LED headlights for early morning or evening mowing. It also offers a 3-in-1 function for bagging, mulching, or side discharge. With its combination of power, convenience, and advanced features, the EGO mower is a leading choice for those transitioning to battery-powered outdoor equipment.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best RWD Self Propelled Lawn Mower
When I started looking for a new mower, I quickly learned that a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) self-propelled model is a game-changer for hilly or uneven terrain. The drive wheels are in the back, where most of your weight is, which gives you way better traction when going uphill. You’re not just pushing; you’re walking with the mower as it pulls itself along. It makes a tough job feel surprisingly manageable. But with so many options out there, you need to know what separates the good from the great.
First, think about your engine. I always look for a solid engine size, measured in cubic centimeters (cc). For a typical suburban lawn with some slopes, something in the 160cc to 190cc range is a great sweet spot. It provides enough power to get through thick grass without bogging down. Bigger engines, like 200cc and above, are fantastic if you have a very large property or frequently let your grass get a bit too long between mows.
Next up is the cutting deck. This is the housing that covers the blade and determines your mower’s swath. A 21-inch deck is the standard and works perfectly for most people, navigating through gates and around trees with ease. If you have a very large, open area, a 22-inch deck can help you finish the job a bit faster. The material matters, too. I prefer a steel deck for its durability, but many modern polymer decks are incredibly tough, rust-proof, and lighter, which is a nice bonus.
Don’t overlook the cutting and height adjustments. A single-lever height adjustment is a feature I now consider essential. It lets you change the height on all four wheels at once instead of fiddling with individual levers. It saves so much time and hassle. Also, look at the range of cutting heights. If you like to keep your lawn a bit longer in the summer heat or scalp it down in the spring, make sure the mower can accommodate that.
Finally, consider the extra features that make life easier. A washout port is brilliant for hooking up a hose and cleaning the underside of the deck without tipping the mower over. A good mulching kit that includes a plug to close off the side-discharge can turn your clippings into fine fertilizer for your lawn. And of course, the feel of the handle and the simplicity of the controls are things you’ll appreciate every single time you mow. Taking the time to think about these factors will help you find one of the best RWD self propelled lawn mowers available for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main advantages of a RWD self propelled mower over a front-wheel-drive model?
The biggest advantage is traction, especially on hills. With a RWD model, the powered wheels are directly under you, where most of your body weight is. This pushes the wheels down onto the grass, giving them a much better grip when climbing slopes. A front-wheel-drive model can sometimes struggle and spin out on steep inclines because the drive wheels aren’t as weighted. For anyone with a sloped or uneven yard, the RWD system provides superior control and makes the whole job feel less strenuous.
Are RWD mowers harder to turn or maneuver?
This is a common concern, but in my experience, it’s not a significant issue. It’s true that a front-wheel-drive mower can feel a bit like it’s “pulling” you around a turn. A RWD mower has a different feel; you’re more guiding it from behind. It might take a few minutes to get used to, but the maneuverability is excellent. For tight turns around trees or garden beds, you simply tip the mower back onto its rear wheels (like a wheelie) and pivot it. It becomes second nature very quickly.
How important is engine power (CCs) for a residential mower?
Engine power is crucial for consistent performance. Think of it as the mower’s muscle. A lower-powered engine might be fine for a flat, small lawn that you mow frequently. However, if your grass is damp, a bit overgrown, or you have thick St. Augustine or Fescue, a more powerful engine (higher CCs) will power through without slowing down or stalling. It reduces the chance of leaving behind uncut patches and puts less strain on the engine over its lifetime. For most people, I recommend not going below 160cc.
Can I mulch, bag, and side-discharge with these mowers?
Absolutely. The vast majority of the best RWD self propelled lawn mowers available are designed as 3-in-1 machines. They allow you to mulch your clippings back into the lawn for nutrients, collect them in a rear bag for a clean look, or side-discharge if you’re cutting very long grass. Usually, converting between these functions is as simple as attaching a bagger or inserting a mulch plug. This versatility is a key reason these mowers are so popular.
What kind of maintenance should I expect to perform regularly?
Regular maintenance is key to a long mower life. After every use, I make sure to clean off any stuck grass from the deck underside. The most important recurring tasks are changing the engine oil once a season (or as recommended), replacing the air filter, and putting in a new spark plug each spring. Also, you must keep the blade sharp. A dull blade tears the grass, leaving a brown, ragged tip that makes your lawn look bad and can invite disease. I sharpen my blade a couple of times per season.
Is a steel or a polymer deck better?
Both have their merits. A steel deck is classic, very durable, and has good weight to help with traction. The main downside is it can rust if you don’t keep it clean and dry. A polymer deck is rust-proof, lighter (making the mower easier to lift for cleaning or storage), and often resists grass buildup better. Modern polymer decks are not the flimsy plastic of the past; they are engineered to be very tough. For most users, it comes down to personal preference, but a high-quality polymer deck is a fantastic, low-maintenance option.