A well-manicured lawn is a point of pride for any homeowner, and the right tool makes all the difference. When it comes to tackling small to medium-sized yards with precision and power, a 22-inch gas lawn mower hits the sweet spot. These machines offer a perfect balance of a manageable cutting swath and the robust, cordless performance that only a gas engine can provide.
With so many models available, selecting the best one for your needs can feel overwhelming. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the top-performing 22-inch gas mowers on the market. We’ve evaluated key features like engine power, drive systems, and cutting versatility to help you find the perfect match for your lawn care routine.
The Best 22-Inch Gas Lawn Mowers for a Perfect Cut
- SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT
- SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled Gas Powered
- PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch
- Fuel Tank Cap for Toro 22 inch Recycler Lawn Mower
- CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
- Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Honda HRN216VKA 21-Inch HRN Series Lawn Mower
SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The SENIX LSSG-H2 is designed for efficiency and ease of use. Its 22-inch cutting deck is ideal for small to medium yards, allowing you to cover ground quickly. The fold-down handle is a significant advantage for those with limited storage space, enabling vertical storage in a garage or shed.
Powered by a reliable Briggs & Stratton 163 cc 4-cycle engine, this mower starts easily and delivers consistent power. The front-wheel drive self-propel system reduces user effort, while the 3-in-1 steel deck offers mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging versatility. An included 19-gallon bagger and a convenient washout port for easy cleaning round out this capable package.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
This PowerSmart model is a strong contender for medium to large yards, thanks to its robust 21-inch steel cutting deck. The heart of this mower is its 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, known for dependable performance and long-term durability, making it ready for tough mowing conditions.
You have full control over your clippings with the 3-in-1 function, which includes bagging, mulching, and rear discharge. The self-propelled, rear-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and control, helping you navigate your lawn with minimal physical exertion. It’s a solid, no-fuss mower built to handle regular use.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch
Built for efficiency, this PowerSmart mower features a potent 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine. The engine is equipped with an auto choke and recoil starter for a quick and easy start every time. This powerplant is designed to deliver maximum performance for its class.
The rear-wheel drive, single-speed self-propel system makes mowing large areas, including gentle hills, a much easier task. The 21-inch wide cutting system, paired with a heavy-duty blade and durable steel deck, is engineered to provide a fine, even cut and reduce clippings to a small size for a cleaner lawn appearance.
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT
The YARDMAX stands out with its industry-leading CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), a feature rarely found in this category. This system allows you to seamlessly adjust the mower’s pace to your exact walking speed using a 6-speed shift lever, providing unparalleled control on flat, sloped, or uneven terrain.
With a powerful 201cc engine and a full 22-inch cutting path, this mower is built for performance. It also features aggressive, spiked rubber tires that significantly increase traction and maneuverability. The 3-in-1 cutting system and a dedicated deck cleanout port add to its versatility and ease of maintenance.
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled Gas Powered
This SENIX mower offers powerful and user-friendly performance for the homeowner. It is equipped with the same dependable Briggs & Stratton 163 cc 4-cycle engine found in other top models, ensuring reliable starts and consistent power delivery. The rear-wheel-drive, single-speed system makes operation nearly effortless.
The versatile 3-in-1 steel deck provides mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging options, complete with a 19-gallon bagger. Designed for easy yard maintenance, it features a 22-inch cutting deck for efficient coverage and a foldable handle that enables vertical storage, saving valuable space in your garage or shed.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch
This 22-inch model from PowerSmart is built around a robust 170cc OHV gas engine. Designed with a recoil starter and auto choke, this engine provides ample power for improved cutting efficiency and is engineered for easy starting, season after season.
The self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system offers great traction, making it a suitable choice for navigating inclined slopes and uneven terrain in your yard. The durability of this mower is highlighted by its all-steel 22-inch cutting deck and heavy-duty blade, ensuring it is built to last.
Fuel Tank Cap for Toro 22 inch Recycler Lawn Mower
This product is a replacement fuel tank cap designed for a wide range of popular lawn mowers. It is a crucial component for maintaining the proper function of your mower’s fuel system, preventing evaporation and keeping debris out of the tank.
This cap is compatible with many models, including the Yard Force YF22-3N1SP-SC 163cc mower, various Briggs & Stratton engines, and Toro 22-inch recycler mowers. It also fits Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and Husqvarna mowers that use the specified cap types, making it a versatile spare part to have on hand.
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21 Inch
The CRAFTSMAN M215 offers a smooth and easy lawn care experience with its self-propelled design. You can choose your preferred propulsion speed, allowing you to maneuver through your yard with minimal effort. This feature is perfect for maintaining a consistent pace across different sections of your lawn.
At its core is a powerful 159cc OHV gas engine that includes both recoil and auto choke features for reliable and hassle-free operation. The mower’s 3-in-1 capabilities provide side discharge, rear discharge, and mulching options, giving you multiple ways to manage grass clippings based on your landscaping preferences.
Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
For those seeking an eco-friendly and quiet mowing solution, the Great States push reel mower is an excellent choice. This motor-less mower provides a clean, even cut without the need for gas, oil, or electricity, making it a low-maintenance option for small, flat lawns.
It features an 18-inch cutting width with five high-quality alloy steel blades that are designed to stay sharp for a long time. The cutting height is adjustable from 0.5 inches to 2.75 inches, and the 10-inch composite wheels ensure a smooth roll. It’s a simple, effective tool for a healthy, scissor-like cut.
Honda HRN216VKA 21-Inch HRN Series Lawn Mower
Honda is a renowned name in small engine reliability, and the HRN216VKA lives up to that reputation. While specific details for this model are not provided, Honda mowers are generally celebrated for their durable engines, consistent performance, and innovative features like the MicroCut twin-blade system.
Known for their smooth operation and long service life, Honda mowers are a premium choice for homeowners who value reliability and a superior cut. They often include versatile cutting options and user-friendly controls, making lawn maintenance a more pleasant task. The brand’s commitment to quality is a key selling point.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a 22-Inch Gas Lawn Mower
When I’m looking for a new 22-inch gas lawn mower, I focus on a few key things that make a real difference in my yard work. The first decision is usually about the engine. I look for a reputable brand like Briggs & Stratton or Honda. A bigger engine, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), generally means more power, which is great for thicker grass or slight inclines. For most lawns, something in the 140cc to 190cc range is plenty powerful. I also check if it’s an overhead valve (OHV) engine, as these tend to be more fuel-efficient, run quieter, and last longer than older side-valve designs.
Next, I think about the cutting deck. The 22-inch width is a sweet spot for me—it’s narrow enough to maneuver around tight corners and through garden gates but wide enough to get the job done reasonably quickly. I always check what material the deck is made from. Steel decks are durable and can handle bumps, but they can rust. Aluminum decks are lighter and rust-proof, which is a huge plus, but they often come with a higher price tag. Polymer decks are also rust-proof and usually the lightest option, and modern ones are surprisingly tough.
The mower’s drive system is another big one. If my yard is completely flat, a simple push mower might be fine. But if there’s any slope or if I just want to make the job easier, a self-propelled model is a game-changer. I look at the speed settings; having multiple forward speeds gives me better control. I also check whether it’s a front-wheel drive (better for flat ground and pulling), rear-wheel drive (better for traction on hills), or all-wheel drive (for maximum traction on uneven terrain).
Finally, I pay close attention to the cutting and handling features. A single-lever height adjustment is a must-have for me; it lets me change the cutting height for all wheels at once instead of fiddling with four separate levers. The grass bag capacity matters too—a larger bag means less stopping to empty it. I also look for a mower that can mulch, bag, and side-discharge. Mulching returns nutrients to the soil, bagging gives a clean finish, and side-discharge is handy for cutting very tall, wet grass. Considering all these factors helps me find one of the best 22 inch gas lawn mowers on the market that fits my specific needs and makes mowing the lawn a much more straightforward task.
FAQ
What are the main advantages of a 22-inch cutting width?
The 22-inch width is what I consider a fantastic balance. It’s narrow enough to easily maneuver through standard garden gates and around tight landscaping features like trees and shrubs. At the same time, it’s wide enough to cover a decent amount of ground with each pass, so you’re not spending all day on a medium-sized lawn. It’s a very versatile size that works well for most typical residential yards.
How often should I change the oil in my gas mower?
I make it a habit to change the oil at least once per mowing season. If I use the mower very frequently, I might do it twice. The best practice is to check the owner’s manual for your specific model, as recommendations can vary. I always run the engine for a few minutes first to warm up the oil, which makes it drain more completely. Then, I tip the mower on its side (with the air filter facing up to prevent oil leaks into it) to drain the old oil and refill with the type recommended by the manufacturer.
Are gas mowers louder than electric ones?
Yes, generally speaking, gas mowers are significantly louder than most battery-electric mowers. The internal combustion engine produces more noise, so wearing hearing protection is a good idea. The noise level is usually measured in decibels (dB), and you can often find this spec in the product details. While newer gas models are designed to be quieter than older ones, they still can’t match the relatively quiet hum of an electric motor.
What is the benefit of a self-propelled drive?
The benefit is all about reducing physical effort. Instead of you pushing the mower’s weight, the mower moves itself forward. You just guide it and control the speed. This is a huge advantage if you have a hilly yard or a large lawn, as it prevents a lot of fatigue. It makes the job much less strenuous on your back, legs, and arms. For me, it’s a feature that turns a chore into a much more manageable task.
Can I use ethanol-free gas in my mower?
I highly recommend using ethanol-free gas, often sold as “recreational fuel” at some gas stations and hardware stores. Ethanol in standard gasoline can attract moisture and cause issues with the fuel system, like gumming up the carburetor, especially if the mower is stored for a while. This is a common reason for hard starting. If ethanol-free gas isn’t available, I use a fuel stabilizer additive in every tank of regular gas to help prevent these problems and keep the engine running smoothly. When you are looking for the best 22 inch gas lawn mowers on the market, checking the manufacturer’s fuel recommendation is always a smart move.