A beautiful, well-manicured lawn doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. The market is filled with affordable and efficient lawn mowers that can handle everything from small urban patches to more substantial suburban yards. Whether you’re looking to ditch the gas can, reduce noise, or simply find a reliable machine that gets the job done without breaking the bank, there is a perfect budget-friendly option for you.
Navigating the choices can be overwhelming, which is why we’ve done the research for you. This roundup focuses on the best cheap lawn mowers available right now, featuring a mix of corded electric, cordless battery-powered, and manual reel mowers. We’ve considered power, ease of use, cutting features, and overall value to help you find the ideal tool for your lawn care needs.
The Best Budget Lawn Mowers for a Perfect Cut
- BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower, String Trimmer & Edger
- LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP
- Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+ 20V Electric Lawn Mower
- Litheli 16 Inch Lawn Mower 2x20V Electric Coreless Lawn Mower
- American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower
- LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower, Ultra-Light Push Mower
- American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14″ 11-Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower
- Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower
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 functions as a corded mower, a string trimmer, and an edger, all in one compact and lightweight unit. This makes it an excellent space-saving solution for small yards where storage is limited and multiple tools are not practical.
Weighing just 9.9 pounds, it is exceptionally easy to maneuver and control. The adjustable handle and height positions allow you to find a comfortable operating stance. An automatic feed spool for the trimmer function means you can extend the line as needed without having to stop and manually bump the unit, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted workflow.
LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower
For those who need consistent power without the fuss of gas or batteries, the LawnMaster corded electric mower is a strong contender. Its 11-amp motor delivers a robust 3,300 RPM, providing the muscle to tackle various grass types with a 14-inch cutting path. You get reliable, uninterrupted power as long as you have an extension cord.
This mower is an environmentally conscious choice, producing zero emissions during operation. It also features five different cutting height positions, ranging from 1.4 to 3 inches, giving you full control over your lawn’s appearance. This combination of power, eco-friendliness, and customization makes it a practical and efficient tool for regular maintenance.
Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+
Experience the freedom of cordless mowing with the Litheli U20 Handy+. This lightweight mower is designed for medium-sized lawns, capable of covering up to 1,300 square feet on a single charge of its included 4.0Ah battery. Its 13-inch cutting width and high-performance motor make quick work of your grass.
You can easily tailor the cut to your preference with five different height adjustment settings, from 1 inch to 2.5 inches. The mower collects clippings in an 8-gallon bag, keeping your lawn tidy. The high-performance motor is not only powerful but also operates with low noise and requires minimal maintenance, offering a pleasant user experience.
Litheli 16 Inch Lawn Mower 2x20V Electric Coreless Lawn Mower
For a larger cutting swath and extended runtime, consider the Litheli 16-inch cordless mower. It uses two 20V batteries (included) to power a highly efficient motor, enabling you to mow up to 2,700 square feet on a full charge. The wider 16-inch deck means you can finish the job faster.
This model offers even more precision with six cutting height adjustments, allowing you to fine-tune your grass length from just under an inch to nearly 3 inches. The motor is built for durability and provides more torque for a consistent cut, all while maintaining quiet operation. It’s a great step-up option for those with more yard to cover.
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 Push Reel Lawn Mower
Go back to basics with this manual push reel mower from the American Lawn Mower Company. It offers a truly eco-friendly mowing experience, requiring no gas, oil, or electricity. This means zero emissions, extremely low noise, and virtually no maintenance beyond keeping the blades sharp.
The 4-blade reel provides a clean, scissor-like cut that is often considered healthier for your grass. Weighing only 19 pounds, it is very easy to push and maneuver around a small lawn. The blade height is adjustable, and the durable polymer wheels ensure a smooth roll. It’s the perfect, peaceful solution for environmentally conscious homeowners with smaller lawns.
LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower
The LawnMaster LMRM1401 is another excellent manual mower that focuses on lawn health. Its 5-blade reel is designed to cleanly slice grass blades rather than tearing them, which can lead to a greener and more robust lawn. This method prevents the browning of grass tips that can occur with power mowers.
You have control over your cut with four height positions, ranging from 1 to 2 inches. The mower features a 14-inch cutting deck and large 10-inch front wheels, which greatly enhance its maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around garden beds and other obstacles. It’s a simple, effective, and quiet tool for maintaining a pristine small lawn.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
The Greenworks 40V mower brings gas-like performance to the cordless category without the associated noise, fumes, and maintenance. It is designed for small to medium lawns up to half an acre, offering up to 35 minutes of continuous runtime from its included 4.0Ah battery, which charges fully in just two hours.
Notable for its ultra-lightweight design, it is 35% lighter than many comparable models, making it exceptionally easy to push and store. The single-lever adjustment allows you to quickly change the cutting height across five positions. The 2-in-1 function lets you choose between mulching your clippings for nutrients or collecting them in a rear bag for a clean finish.
American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower
If you prefer the constant power of a corded mower, this 14-inch model from American Lawn Mower Company is a reliable and straightforward choice. Its 11-amp motor is built for high efficiency and delivers gas-like power to cut through all types of grass without ever needing to recharge a battery.
This mower simplifies your lawn care routine by eliminating the need for fuel mixing, engine oil, or spark plug changes. Just plug it in, and you’re ready to go. It’s a no-frills, effective machine that provides dependable performance season after season, making it a great value for the cost-conscious homeowner.
Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower
The Sun Joe MJ401E is a compact and efficient electric lawn mower designed for small to medium-sized lawns. Its 14-inch cutting deck is perfectly sized for navigating tight spaces and smaller yards with ease. As a corded model, it provides unlimited runtime, so you can work at your own pace without worrying about battery life.
This mower is built to be user-friendly and low-maintenance, offering an eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers. It delivers a clean, consistent cut while operating quietly and producing no emissions. For anyone seeking a simple, effective, and affordable electric mower from a trusted brand, the Sun Joe MJ401E is a solid option to consider.
Buying Guide: How to Pick a Cheap Lawn Mower That Works
When I’m looking for a cheap lawn mower, my first thought isn’t just about the price tag. It’s about finding a machine that gets the job done without falling apart after a few uses. The key is to balance cost with the specific needs of your yard. Let’s walk through what I consider before making a purchase.
The first and biggest decision is power source. You have three main options: gas, electric corded, and electric cordless/battery. Gas mowers are traditionally powerful and offer complete freedom of movement, which is great for large or very overgrown lawns. The trade-off is they require more maintenance, like oil changes and spark plug replacements, and they are louder and produce fumes.
Electric corded mowers are typically the most affordable option upfront. They’re quiet, start with the push of a button, and require almost zero maintenance. The huge downside is the cord. You need to be constantly aware of it to avoid running it over, and you’re limited to the length of your extension cord. These are perfect for small, flat yards.
Battery-powered mowers give you the cord-free convenience of gas without the fumes and much of the noise. They’ve become much more powerful and reliable in recent years. The main thing to check is the battery’s voltage and amp-hour (Ah) rating, as this determines power and runtime. If you have a larger yard, you might need a second battery. This is a fantastic choice for most suburban lawns.
Next, think about your yard’s terrain. Is it flat, or does it have hills and bumps? For flat lawns, a simple push mower with non-powered wheels works fine. If you have any slopes or simply want to make the job easier, look for a self-propelled model. This feature drives the mower forward for you, so you just guide it. It costs more, but for a hilly yard, it’s a back-saver.
Finally, don’t forget about cutting width and deck material. A wider cutting deck means you can finish the job faster. For small yards, an 18-19 inch deck is common. For larger areas, look for 20-22 inches. The deck itself is often made of steel or polymer. Steel is durable but can rust, while polymer is rust-proof and lighter but may not be as robust in a collision. Also, check if the mower has a height adjustment lever that controls all wheels at once. This is a small feature that makes a big difference in setup time.
By focusing on your yard’s size, layout, and your own willingness to do maintenance, you can find one of the best cheap lawn mowers to buy right now that truly fits your life and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average lifespan of a budget-friendly lawn mower?
With proper care, a cheap lawn mower should last you between 5 to 10 years. Gas mowers often have a longer potential lifespan but require consistent maintenance like annual oil changes, air filter cleaning, and using a fuel stabilizer. Electric mowers, both corded and cordless, have fewer mechanical parts to worry about, but their lifespan can be tied to the battery. For battery models, the battery will likely need replacement before the mower itself wears out.
Are reel mowers a good cheap option?
Reel mowers, the old-fashioned push mowers with spinning blades, are absolutely a viable cheap option for the right person. They are the most affordable to buy and operate, requiring no gas, oil, or electricity. They are also quiet and provide a very clean cut. However, they are only suitable for small, flat lawns with fine grass. If your grass gets too tall or has thick stalks, a reel mower will struggle. It’s a great, eco-friendly choice if your yard conditions are a perfect match.
How much should I realistically expect to spend on a cheap mower?
The price for a decent cheap lawn mower can vary. For a basic, no-frills electric corded model, you can find good options starting around $150 to $250. A reliable gas-powered push mower will typically start in the $250 to $350 range. Battery-powered mowers have come down in price and can now be found starting around $300 for a model with a smaller battery. Remember, the goal is to find one of the 9 best cheap lawn mowers to buy right now that offers the best value, not necessarily the absolute lowest price.
Is it worth buying a used lawn mower to save money?
Buying used can be a fantastic way to save money, but it comes with risks. If you’re considering a used gas mower, I always recommend asking the seller to start it cold for you. Listen for any strange noises and check for excessive smoke from the exhaust. Look for signs of rust, especially on the underside of the deck, and check the air filter and oil. For a used electric mower, test it to ensure it starts and runs smoothly. If you’re not mechanically inclined, buying used can be a gamble.
What safety features are most important on a low-cost mower?
Never compromise on safety, even with a budget model. The most critical feature is a discharge chute guard or cover that prevents rocks and debris from being thrown at high speed. For electric mowers, a thermal reset button that prevents the motor from burning out is important. All mowers should have a sturdy, stable design. If you’re looking at a gas mower with a bagger, make sure the bag attaches securely. Always, always wear closed-toe shoes and safety glasses when mowing, regardless of the mower’s price.