A pristine, well-manicured lawn is a point of pride for any homeowner, but achieving that perfect cut shouldn’t require exhausting effort. For those with varied terrain or simply a desire to make yard work easier, a self-propelled lawn mower with a rear bag is an ideal solution. These machines do the hard work of propulsion for you, while the bagging function ensures a clean finish by collecting clippings and debris.
Navigating the options can be challenging, as features like engine power, cutting deck size, and drive systems vary significantly. To simplify your search, we have compiled a roundup of top-performing models that combine the convenience of self-propelled operation with the neat results of a rear bagger. This guide will help you find the perfect mower to keep your lawn looking its best with minimal strain.
Our Top Picks for Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
- SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled with 163cc B&S Engine
- PowerSmart 21″ B&S Engine 140cc Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc 6 Speed CVT High Wheel Lawn Mower
- Yard Force Self Propelled Lawn Mower Briggs & Stratton 150cc
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled
- PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
- SENIX 22″ Gas Lawn Mower, 163cc Self Propelled
- SENIX LSSG-M9 21-inch Gas Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- Greenworks PRO 21-Inch 80V Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled with 163cc B&S Engine
This SENIX mower is built for efficiency and ease of use. Its 22-inch steel cutting deck is designed to cover small to medium yards quickly, and the versatile 3-in-1 system allows you to mulch for lawn health, side-discharge for longer grass, or use the included 19-gallon rear bag for a clean finish. An integrated washout port makes cleaning the deck a simple task after use.
Power comes from a dependable Briggs & Stratton 163cc 4-cycle engine with a Prime n Pull start for reliable ignition. The self-propelled rear-wheel drive helps you navigate your lawn with minimal effort. For convenient storage, the handle folds down, enabling vertical storage to save significant space in your garage or shed.
PowerSmart 21″ B&S Engine 140cc Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
The PowerSmart mower offers a balanced combination of power and practicality. It is equipped with a 140cc Briggs & Stratton EX550 engine that features an auto-choke system, making starting the mower a straightforward process. The robust 21-inch alloy steel deck is built to last and provides a solid cutting path for efficient mowing.
You can choose the best cutting method for your lawn with the 3-in-1 versatility, switching between bagging, mulching, and rear discharge. This flexibility allows you to collect clippings for a tidy appearance or mulch them to naturally nourish your grass. The self-propelled mechanism ensures the mower moves forward with ease, reducing user fatigue.
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc 6 Speed CVT High Wheel Lawn Mower
For those who need superior control and traction, the YARDMAX model stands out. It features an industry-leading CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with a 6-speed shift lever, allowing you to perfectly match the mower’s pace to your walking speed. This is particularly useful on sloped or uneven terrain.
This mower is powered by a substantial 201cc engine and rides on large, 11-inch rear wheels with aggressive rubber treads for excellent grip. The high-wheel design improves maneuverability over obstacles. Like other models, it offers a 3-in-1 cutting system and includes a deck cleanout port for easy maintenance.
Yard Force Self Propelled Lawn Mower Briggs & Stratton 150cc
The Yard Force mower is built around a reliable, USA-made Briggs & Stratton 150cc engine with ReadyStart technology, which eliminates the need for a choke and promises easy starts in any condition. The 22-inch steel deck provides a wide cutting path to get the job done efficiently.
Its self-propelled system uses rear-wheel drive, which delivers great traction on both flat lawns and incline slopes. This makes it a strong option for yards with varied topography. The mower provides the standard 3-in-1 functionality, giving you the choice to mulch, side-discharge, or use the rear bag.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled
This 22-inch model from PowerSmart is designed for user-friendly operation right out of the box, with tool-free assembly. It is powered by a Briggs and Stratton EX625 150cc engine that features ReadyStart technology for simple and reliable starting every time.
The rear-wheel drive self-propelled system is engineered to provide improved traction and steady performance on uneven ground and sloped areas. You can manage your clippings effectively with the 3-in-1 system, and the 1.4-bushel capacity grass bag is designed for easy emptying, helping to streamline your lawn care routine.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
Ideal for medium to large yards, this PowerSmart mower uses a 21-inch steel cutting deck to efficiently reduce mowing time. It is equipped with a powerful 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, known for its consistent performance and durability, making it capable of handling tough mowing conditions.
The 3-in-1 functionality provides the flexibility to bag clippings with the 1.4-bushel bag, mulch to return nutrients to the soil, or use the rear-discharge for rapid mowing. The self-propelled feature ensures that you can guide the mower with ease, minimizing physical exertion during yard work.
SENIX 22″ Gas Lawn Mower, 163cc Self Propelled
This SENIX mower is engineered to make lawn care less strenuous. Its 22-inch deck allows you to tackle small-to-medium yards quickly, and the fold-down handle is a key feature for vertical storage, saving considerable space in your garage. The self-propelled rear-wheel drive helps the mower glide effortlessly, even on slopes and through thick turf.
Power is supplied by a Briggs & Stratton 163cc EXi675 motor with Prime n Pull start for reliable operation. The 3-in-1 steel deck handles mulching, side-discharge, or rear bagging, and includes a large 19-gallon bag. An ergonomic handle and a dedicated washout port add to the overall user comfort and maintenance ease.
SENIX LSSG-M9 21-inch Gas Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
The SENIX LSSG-M9 is a capable and compact option for maintaining small to medium lawns. Its 21-inch cutting width strikes a balance between maneuverability and coverage. The mower is powered by a reliable Briggs & Stratton 140 cc 4-cycle engine, which is designed for longer engine life, low vibration, and easy maintenance.
Starting is simplified with the Prime N’ Pull system. The 3-in-1 steel deck provides versatile mowing options, including mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging with an included 16-gallon bagger. An ergonomic handle is incorporated to maximize user comfort during operation, reducing hand and arm fatigue.
Greenworks PRO 21-Inch 80V Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
For homeowners seeking a powerful, gas-like performance without the fumes, noise, and maintenance of a gas engine, the Greenworks PRO is an excellent choice. This cordless mower is part of the 80V ecosystem, offering substantial cutting power that rivals many gas models. It comes with a 5.0Ah battery and charger to get you started.
The self-propelled feature ensures easy operation across your yard, and the 21-inch steel deck provides a clean, consistent cut. It also includes a versatile cutting system, typically allowing for mulching, bagging, or side discharge. This mower provides a quiet, zero-emission mowing experience, making it an environmentally friendly option for maintaining a beautiful lawn.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Self-Propelled Lawn Mower with Rear Bag
Choosing the right self-propelled lawn mower with a rear bag can feel like a big decision, and I get it. You want something that makes the job easier, not more complicated. Having used more than my fair share of mowers, I’ve learned that a few key factors make all the difference between a chore and a simple, satisfying task.
First, let’s talk about power source. You have two main choices: gas and electric. Gas mowers are the traditional workhorses. They offer unlimited runtime, which is fantastic for large properties over an acre. The trade-off is they require more maintenance; you need to deal with oil changes, spark plugs, and stale gas. Electric mowers break down into corded and cordless (battery-powered) models. Corded mowers are lightweight and have consistent power, but you are tethered to an outlet and the cord can be a real hassle. Cordless mowers give you the freedom to move without a cord, but you’re limited by battery life. For a typical suburban yard, a good battery-powered model is often a perfect fit.
Next, consider the mower’s drive system. This is what “self-propelled” is all about. There are two main types: front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive is great for flat lawns. The mower pulls itself along, which makes it easier to maneuver around obstacles. Rear-wheel drive is my go-to for yards with any kind of slope or uneven terrain. The pushing power from the rear wheels provides much better traction and stability on hills, preventing the mower from slipping.
Don’t overlook the cutting deck. The material—usually steel or aluminum—affects durability and weight. Steel is robust but can rust, while aluminum is lightweight and rust-proof. The deck’s size determines your mowing width. A wider deck, say 21 or 22 inches, means you can cover more ground with each pass, reducing your mowing time. For smaller, more intricate yards with lots of turns, a narrower deck might be easier to handle.
Finally, think about the bag itself. Look for a bag with a high volume capacity, measured in bushels. A larger bag means you can mow for longer before you have to stop and empty it. A “easy-empty” or “hard-top” design is a huge quality-of-life feature, making the process of dumping clippings much cleaner and less messy. When you’re looking for the 9 best self-propelled lawn mowers with rear bag, paying attention to these details will help you find the perfect match for your grass and your back.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 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’re essentially just guiding it, not pushing it. This is a game-changer for larger lawns, hilly terrain, or if you simply want to make mowing less of a workout. It turns a strenuous push into a manageable walk.
How often do I need to empty the rear bag on a self-propelled mower?
This depends entirely on your lawn. If your grass is short and dry, you might get through the whole yard on one bag. If the grass is long, damp, or very thick, you might need to stop and empty it multiple times. A good rule of thumb is to empty the bag once it’s about two-thirds to three-quarters full to maintain optimal airflow and cutting performance. An overfilled bag can lead to clumping and an uneven cut.
Are battery-powered self-propelled mowers powerful enough for my yard?
Modern battery-powered mowers are surprisingly powerful. For the average suburban yard (up to half an acre), a model with a 40V to 80V battery system is more than capable. The key is to check the estimated runtime and the battery’s amp-hour (Ah) rating. A higher Ah means a longer runtime. If you have a very large yard, you might want to invest in a second battery to swap in, ensuring you can finish the job without waiting for a recharge.
What type of maintenance does a self-propelled gas mower require?
Gas mowers require a bit more hands-on care than their electric counterparts. The essential annual maintenance includes changing the oil, replacing the air filter, and putting in a new spark plug. The most critical thing, in my experience, is managing the fuel. At the end of the season, you should either run the engine until the carburetor is completely dry or use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from going stale and clogging the fuel system.
Can I mulch or side-discharge with a mower that has a rear bag?
Almost always, yes! The vast majority of self-propelled lawn mowers designed with a rear bag are actually 3-in-1 machines. This means they come with a plug that you can insert to close off the bagging chute. With the bag removed and the plug in place, the mower will recirculate the clippings, chopping them finely and depositing them back onto the lawn as mulch. You can also typically remove the bag and the plug to allow for side-discharging, which is useful for cutting very tall grass. When reviewing the 9 best self-propelled lawn mowers with rear bag, I always check for this multi-function capability because it offers so much versatility.