Tired of pushing a heavy mower across your lawn? A self-propelled lawn mower can transform this tedious chore into a simple, guided walk around your yard. These machines do the hard work for you, providing the power to drive themselves forward, which is a game-changer for hills, uneven terrain, and larger properties. With various power sources and features available, finding the right model is key to an effortless mowing experience.
This roundup focuses on the best self-propelled mowers you can find at Menards, featuring a mix of powerful gas models and convenient, eco-friendly cordless electric options. We’ve compiled a list of nine top performers, highlighting their key benefits and unique features to help you make an informed decision for your lawn care needs. Whether you prioritize long battery life, robust gas engines, or advanced cutting systems, there’s a perfect mower here for you.
Our Top Picks for Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
- Greenworks 40V 21″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
- MightyMow 2x20V 18 inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc High Wheel RWD Lawn Mower
- MightyMow 40V 21 inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- SENIX 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
- AMERISUN Gas-Powered Lawn Mower Self-Propelled
- Electric Lawn Mower, Self-propelled 40V 18.5″
- Greenworks PRO 21-Inch 80V Cordless Self-Propelled Mower
Greenworks 40V 21″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
This Greenworks mower is an excellent entry into the world of cordless electric mowing. Powered by a 40V 5.0Ah battery, it delivers up to 45 minutes of quiet, emission-free runtime, making it ideal for small to medium-sized lawns. The highly efficient brushless motor ensures greater torque and a longer operational life compared to brushed motors.
It features a durable 21-inch steel deck and a convenient single-lever system for adjusting the cutting height across seven positions. The 3-in-1 design gives you the flexibility to mulch clippings for lawn health, discharge to the side, or collect them neatly in the rear bag. As part of the Greenworks 40V ecosystem, the battery is compatible with over 75 other tools.
MightyMow 2x20V 18 inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
The MightyMow 2x20V system offers a compact yet capable mowing solution. Using two 20V 4.0Ah batteries, this mower provides the power needed for up to 30 minutes of runtime. Its 18-inch cutting deck is well-suited for smaller yards or properties with more obstacles to navigate around.
This model features a high-efficiency brushless motor that spins at up to 4200 RPM for a clean cut. The self-propelled function is a standout feature, with a variable speed range from 2.0 to 4.3 ft/s, allowing you to set a comfortable walking pace and tackle inclines with less effort. A six-position cutting height adjustment lets you customize your lawn’s look with ease.
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc High Wheel RWD Lawn Mower
For those who prefer gas power and have challenging terrain, the YARDMAX is a formidable choice. It is equipped with a robust 201cc engine and a unique Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This industry-leading transmission allows you to seamlessly match the mower’s speed to your walking pace using a simple 6-speed shift lever.
The large 11-inch rear wheels paired with aggressive, spiked rubber tires provide exceptional traction and stability on sloped or uneven ground. The 22-inch cutting deck covers more area with each pass, and a convenient deck cleanout port makes maintenance quick and simple after mowing.
MightyMow 40V 21 inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
This MightyMow model is built for larger lawns, boasting an impressive runtime of up to 60 minutes with its self-propelled function engaged. It’s powered by two large 8.0Ah batteries, providing ample energy to get the job done without interruption. The brushless motor ensures efficient operation and a long lifespan.
The 21-inch steel deck is designed for durability and effective clipping management. Like its smaller sibling, it offers a variable speed self-propelled system, allowing you to choose a pace between 2.0 and 4.3 ft/s for a truly push-free mowing experience on any terrain, including hills.
SENIX 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The SENIX gas mower combines a reliable Briggs & Stratton 163cc engine with user-friendly features. The front-wheel drive self-propel system makes navigation straightforward and requires less effort from the user. Its 22-inch cutting width is efficient for small to medium yards, allowing you to finish the job faster.
This mower offers versatile 3-in-1 functionality, letting you mulch, side-discharge, or collect clippings in the included 19-gallon bagger. For convenient storage, the handle folds down, enabling vertical storage to save significant space in your garage or shed. A washout port is also included for easy cleaning.
Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
Step up to more power with the Greenworks 80V platform. This mower is capable of cutting up to half an acre on a single charge with the included 4.0Ah battery. The brushless motor delivers gas-like performance without the noise, fumes, or maintenance associated with gas engines.
It features a rear-wheel drive self-propelled system with variable speed control, offering maximum traction and control on various landscapes. The durable 21-inch steel deck and single-lever height adjustment ensure a consistent and customizable cut. This mower is part of a extensive 80V tool system, offering great versatility for your yard work.
AMERISUN Gas-Powered Lawn Mower Self-Propelled
The AMERISUN is a robust gas-powered option built for reliability. Its 170cc OHV engine with forced air cooling is designed to deliver consistent cutting power through thick grass and extended mowing sessions. This makes it a dependable workhorse for larger lawns.
The 3-in-1 cutting system provides the standard mulch, bag, and discharge options. It comes with a sizable 1.4-bushel grass catcher, reducing the frequency of stops to empty it. The rear-wheel self-propelled system effectively reduces operator fatigue, making it easier to manage sloped or expansive properties.
Electric Lawn Mower, Self-propelled 40V 18.5″
This cordless electric mower introduces innovative technology to the mowing experience. Its “Easysurge” technology and a maximum speed of 4100 RPM allow it to power through various grass types with ease. The SurgePanel is designed to ensure smooth and efficient operation from start to finish.
A standout feature is the world’s first 6-position electric cutting height adjustment. This allows you to change the cutting height with a simple touch of a button without needing to bend over. With two 4.0Ah batteries, it provides up to 30 minutes of runtime, suitable for lawns up to 1/6 of an acre.
Greenworks PRO 21-Inch 80V Cordless Self-Propelled Mower
For the user who demands professional-grade performance from a cordless mower, the Greenworks PRO 80V model is a top contender. As part of the PRO line, it is engineered for durability and power, capable of handling tougher mowing conditions and larger properties with ease. The 80V battery system provides substantial energy for demanding tasks.
It combines all the benefits of the Greenworks ecosystem—including a brushless motor, a sturdy steel deck, and a self-propelled drive system—with the enhanced robustness expected from a PRO series tool. This mower is an excellent long-term investment for serious homeowners who want zero-hassle, emission-free power.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower at Menards
When I started looking for a new self-propelled lawn mower, I quickly realized it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Walking through the aisles at Menards, the choices can be overwhelming. To make the right pick, I focus on a few key things that directly impact how the mower will handle my yard.
First, I think about the engine. This is the heart of the mower. I look for a reputable brand like Briggs & Stratton or Honda, as they are known for reliability. More importantly, I check the engine power, which is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). For a small, flat yard, something around 140-160 cc might be fine. But if my lawn has hills, thick grass, or is over a half-acre, I aim for a more powerful engine, typically 190 cc or higher. A stronger engine won’t bog down as easily and will last longer under stress.
Next, I consider the drive system. All self-propelled mowers are not the same. The front-wheel drive models are generally more affordable and are great for flat terrain. They pull the mower, which makes it easier to turn. Rear-wheel drive gives you better traction, especially on hills and uneven ground, because the power is pushing the mower from behind. For the ultimate in maneuverability, especially on complex landscapes, I look for all-wheel drive, which powers all four wheels.
The cutting deck is another big decision. A wider deck means I can cut more grass with each pass, reducing my mowing time. A 21-inch deck is the standard and works well for most yards. If I have a very large, open area, a 22-inch or even 30-inch deck could be a huge time-saver. I also check what the deck is made from. Steel decks are durable but can rust, while aluminum decks are rust-proof and lighter, but often come at a higher price.
Finally, I look at the features that make my life easier. A single-lever height adjustment lets me change the cutting height for all wheels at once instead of fiddling with four separate levers. A mulching kit is fantastic for feeding my lawn with nutrient-rich grass clippings. If I have a lot of trees, a good bagging system or an easy-to-use side discharge chute is a must. When I’m evaluating the 9 best self-propelled lawn mowers at Menards, I keep this checklist in mind to find the perfect match for my specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of a self-propelled mower over a push mower?
The biggest advantage is the reduced physical effort. A self-propelled mower has a drive system that moves the mower forward for you. You basically just guide it and control the speed. This is a game-changer if you have a hilly yard, a large property, or simply want to make mowing less of a workout. It allows you to finish the job faster and with much less fatigue compared to pushing a heavy mower yourself.
Are gas or electric self-propelled mowers better?
This really depends on your yard and your preferences. Gas mowers offer more power and unlimited runtime, which I find ideal 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 emissions. Electric mowers, which can be corded or battery-powered, are much quieter, require almost no maintenance, and are better for the environment. Battery-powered models have come a long way, but you need to make sure the battery life is sufficient for your yard size.
How often should I perform maintenance on my self-propelled mower?
For basic upkeep, I do a few things after every use. I clean off any stuck grass clippings from under the deck and check the air filter. For a deeper service, I follow a seasonal schedule. At the start of the mowing season, I change the oil, replace the spark plug, and sharpen or replace the blade. Before storing it for the winter, I either run the gas tank dry or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from gumming up the carburetor. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure your mower starts easily and lasts for years.
Can I use a self-propelled mower on a steep hill?
You can, but you need the right type. A rear-wheel drive self-propelled mower is the best choice for hills because the powered rear wheels provide much better traction and prevent the mower from slipping backwards. I would avoid using a front-wheel drive model on a steep incline, as the front wheels can lose grip and make it difficult to control. Always mow across the slope, not straight up and down, for the safest operation.
What should I do if my self-propelled mower won’t move forward?
If the engine runs but the mower won’t propel itself, the first thing I check is the drive control bar. This is the lever you hold down to engage the self-propelled mechanism. Make sure it’s fully engaged. If that’s not the issue, the drive belt is likely the culprit. Belts can stretch, wear out, or break over time. You can often inspect the belt for visible damage, but replacing it is a common repair. Consulting the user manual for your specific model from the list of the 9 best self-propelled lawn mowers at Menards is the best first step for troubleshooting.
Is it worth paying more for a mower with all-wheel drive?
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a fantastic feature, but it’s not necessary for everyone. If your yard is perfectly flat, you probably won’t need it. However, if you have uneven terrain, wet grass frequently, or a lot of hills, AWD provides superior traction and makes the mower incredibly easy to maneuver. It prevents wheel slip and helps you power through tough spots. For me, if my yard had those challenges, the extra investment would be worth it for the ease of use and consistent performance.