Maintaining a small lawn requires a mower that is both maneuverable and powerful enough to handle the job without taking up precious storage space. A 22-inch cutting deck is often the ideal size, offering a perfect balance between a manageable footprint and efficient cutting swath. These mowers can navigate around garden beds and tight corners with ease, turning a chore into a simple, straightforward task.
Whether you prefer the consistent power of gas, the quiet convenience of cordless battery, or the simplicity of a corded electric model, there is a 22-inch mower designed for your needs. From self-propelled options that do the work for you to lightweight push mowers, this roundup covers the best machines to keep your small lawn looking impeccably groomed all season long.
The Best 22-Inch Lawn Mowers for a Perfect Cut
- SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT Lawn Mower
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch
- SENIX 22″ Gas Lawn Mower, 163cc Self Propelled
- Worx WG779 40V 14″ Mower + WG261.9 22″ Hedge Trimmer
- Greenworks 25022 12 Amp 20-Inch Corded Lawn Mower
- American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14-Inch Electric Mower
SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The SENIX LSSG-H2 is designed for efficient yard maintenance on small to medium properties. Its 22-inch steel cutting deck and self-propelled front-wheel drive make covering your lawn both quick and effortless. For convenient storage, the handle folds down, allowing the mower to be stored vertically, saving significant space in your garage or shed.
Power comes from a reliable Briggs & Stratton 163 cc 4-cycle engine with a Prime n Pull start system. This mower offers versatile 3-in-1 functionality, allowing you to mulch, side-discharge, or collect clippings in the included 19-gallon bagger. An ergonomic handle maximizes comfort, and a dedicated washout port makes cleaning the deck after use a simple task.
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT Lawn Mower
The YARDMAX Select PACE stands out with its industry-leading CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which offers superior speed control. With a 6-speed shift lever, you can perfectly match the mower’s pace to your natural walking speed, whether you are on flat ground, slopes, or uneven terrain. This feature provides exceptional control and comfort during operation.
This mower is built for traction and durability. It features aggressive, spiked tread pattern tires on the rear that significantly improve grip and maneuverability. The high-wheel design and robust 201cc engine ensure it can handle more challenging conditions, while a deck cleanout port allows for easy maintenance after mowing.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled
This PowerSmart mower is equipped with a USA-made Briggs and Stratton 150cc engine featuring ReadyStart technology, which allows for easy, tool-free starting in any condition. The self-propelled system uses rear-wheel drive, which provides improved traction and performance, making it particularly effective on incline slopes and uneven sections of your yard.
You have multiple options for handling grass clippings with the 3-in-1 system, which includes mulching, rear-discharging, and bagging. The 1.4-bushel capacity grass bag is easy to detach and empty, saving you time and effort. This mower assembles quickly straight out of the box, getting you to your lawn care tasks without delay.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch
Built for efficiency, this 21-inch PowerSmart mower is powered by a 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine. It features a recoil starter and an auto-choke system for a reliable and easy start every time. This engine is designed to deliver maximum power and efficiency for its class, making it a strong performer for lawns up to half an acre.
The single-speed self-propel system makes mowing effortless, helping you easily cover large yards and navigate hills. The 21-inch wide cutting system, combined with a durable steel deck and a heavy-duty blade, is engineered to provide a clean, fine cut and produce small, uniform clippings for a polished lawn appearance.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch
This model features a self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system that offers excellent traction, making it well-suited for inclined slopes and uneven terrain. The single-speed operation is straightforward to use, moving at a consistent pace so you can focus on steering. The 170cc OHV 4-cycle engine is equipped with a recoil starter and auto choke for easy starting and robust power.
The rugged 22-inch all-steel deck is built for long-term durability and can handle the rigors of regular use. It comes with a superior mulching blade that helps you finish mowing faster by efficiently processing grass clippings. This mower is a solid, dependable choice for maintaining a well-groomed lawn.
SENIX 22″ Gas Lawn Mower, 163cc Self Propelled
Tackle small-to-medium yards quickly with this self-propelled mower from SENIX. The 22-inch cutting deck covers ground efficiently, and the fold-down handle is a significant space-saver, enabling vertical storage in your garage. This design makes it an excellent option for homeowners with limited storage space for their lawn equipment.
The rear-wheel drive system provides effortless operation, especially on slopes and through thick turf. It is powered by a reliable Briggs & Stratton 163cc engine and offers 3-in-1 versatility for mulching, side-discharging, or rear bagging with the included 19-gallon bag. Ergonomically designed handles help reduce user fatigue during longer mowing sessions.
Worx WG779 40V 14″ Mower + WG261.9 22″ Hedge Trimmer
This bundle from Worx offers a cordless solution for overall lawn and garden care. The 14-inch lawn mower is lightweight and maneuverable, perfect for very small lawns. It features a single lever for six height adjustments and can cut up to 5000 square feet on a single charge of the included 40V battery, providing substantial runtime for its size.
You also receive a 22-inch cordless hedge trimmer, which is ideal for shaping hedges and bushes with its long cutting reach. Both tools are part of the Worx Power Share system, meaning they can use the same removable 20V or 40V lithium-ion batteries to power over 75 different tools, offering great value and versatility.
Greenworks 25022 12 Amp 20-Inch Corded Lawn Mower
For those who prefer the consistent power of an electric mower without worrying about battery life, the Greenworks 25022 is a compelling option. Its 12-amp motor provides ample power for a clean cut, rivaling many gas mowers in performance. Simply plug it in, and you have unlimited runtime, making it suitable for small to medium-sized lawns near a power outlet.
This mower is lightweight, quiet, and requires virtually no maintenance compared to gas models—no oil, gas, or tune-ups are needed. It offers an environmentally friendly mowing experience with zero emissions. The 20-inch deck is efficient, and the simple push-button start ensures you can begin mowing immediately.
American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14-Inch Electric Mower
The American Lawn Mower Company 50514 is a classic, lightweight reel mower that has been updated with an electric motor. This 14-inch mower is an excellent choice for very small, flat lawns where a quiet, eco-friendly cut is the priority. The 11-amp motor provides the power for a clean, scissor-like cut that promotes a healthier lawn.
As a corded electric model, it offers the convenience of instant start and unlimited runtime, eliminating the hassles of gas and oil. Its compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to maneuver and store. This mower is a simple, effective, and low-maintenance tool for precise lawn care.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a 22-Inch Lawn Mower
When you’re picking out a new mower for a smaller yard, the 22-inch deck size is a real sweet spot. It’s nimble enough to weave around garden beds and tight corners but wide enough to get the job done without taking all afternoon. I’ve found that the first big decision is choosing your power source. Each type has its own pros and cons that can make or break your mowing experience.
Gas-powered mowers are the traditional workhorses. They offer a lot of power and complete freedom from cords, which is great if you have a lot of ground to cover without outlets nearby. The trade-off is maintenance; you need to deal with oil changes, spark plugs, and stale gas. They’re also louder and produce emissions. If you go this route, look for features like easy-start technology to save your shoulder from pulling a cord.
Electric mowers are split into two camps: corded and cordless. Corded electric mowers are super lightweight, quiet, and start with the push of a button. The big limitation is the cord itself. You need to be mindful of not running it over, and your range is limited by the length of your extension cord. They’re perfect for very small, flat lawns. Cordless electric mowers, powered by lithium-ion batteries, give you the freedom of gas without the fumes and much less noise. The key thing to check is the battery life. Make sure the run-time matches the size of your lawn, and maybe consider a model that comes with a second battery.
Beyond power, think about the cutting features. A simple single-lever height adjustment makes it easy to change settings on the fly without stopping at each wheel. A metal deck is more durable than plastic, but it can be heavier and more prone to rust. Consider the mulch/bag/side-discharge options. A good mulching kit can finely chop clippings and feed your lawn, reducing the need for bagging. For storage, a folding handle is a lifesaver if you’re short on shed space. Finally, don’t just look at the price tag; think about the long-term costs of gas, oil, or replacement batteries. Finding the right 22 inch lawn mower for your small lawn is all about matching these features to your specific yard and how you like to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 22-inch mower big enough for my yard?
For most small to medium-sized urban and suburban lots, a 22-inch mower is perfectly adequate. It’s the ideal balance between maneuverability and cutting width. If your lawn is under a half-acre and has landscaping, trees, or tight passages, the smaller deck will be much easier to handle than a wider, commercial-style mower. It makes navigating around obstacles a breeze.
What is the advantage of a self-propelled 22-inch mower?
A self-propelled mower does the work of pushing for you; you just guide it. This is a huge advantage if your lawn has any kind of slope or uneven terrain. It also makes the job less physically demanding, which is great if you have mobility concerns or simply want to finish mowing without breaking a sweat. The trade-off is that self-propelled models are heavier and more expensive than their push counterparts.
How long does a battery last on a cordless electric mower?
Battery life varies significantly between models and is usually listed in minutes or based on square footage. On average, a standard battery on a single charge will last between 30 to 60 minutes. This is typically plenty for a small lawn. If your yard is on the larger side for the mower, look for a model that offers a longer run-time or comes with a second battery so you can swap them out and finish the job.
Can I mulch with a 22-inch lawn mower?
Absolutely. The vast majority of modern 22-inch mowers come with a mulching function, either built-in or as an optional kit. Mulching involves recutting the grass clippings very finely and returning them to the lawn, where they decompose and act as a natural fertilizer. It’s a fantastic way to feed your lawn and reduce yard waste, meaning you’ll spend less time bagging and disposing of clippings.
Are gas mowers being phased out?
While there is a strong and growing trend towards battery-powered electric mowers due to their ease of use and lower environmental impact, gas mowers are not being phased out entirely just yet. They still dominate in areas requiring extreme power or very long run-times. However, for the typical small lawn, a modern battery-powered mower is now more than capable and often a better fit for the average homeowner’s needs.