6 Best Toro Self Propelled Lawn Mowers of 2025

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Pushing a heavy mower uphill or wrestling with uneven ground can turn lawn care into a dreaded workout, especially when the grass is thick and the yard is large. Many homeowners struggle to find a mower that balances power, maneuverability, and ease-of-use without sacrificing a clean, healthy cut.

The best Toro self-propelled lawn mower lineup solves this by pairing Toro’s Personal Pace Auto-Drive with Recycler mulching and 60V brushless power, letting the mower match your speed while feeding nutrients back to the turf. After scrutinizing 50-plus user reviews, runtime tests, and Consumer Reports data across six leading models, we weighed cutting quality, battery stamina, bagging ease, and price to isolate the top performers. Below are the Toro mowers that deliver the smoothest, smartest cut for every yard size and budget.

Our Top Picks

Image Product Details Price
Best Overall

Toro 22

Toro 22″ Recycler w/Personal Pace
✓
60V Max* 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah, 7.5Ah
✓
Personal Pace®
✓
Recycler®
Best Mid Range

Toro Recycler 22-Inch Self-Propelled

Toro Recycler 22-Inch Self-Propelled
✓
Self-Propelled
✓
60 V
✓
22-Inch
Best Striping

Toro 21

Toro 21″ Stripe Self-Propel Mower
✓
60V Max* 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah and 7.5Ah
✓
Self-Propelled
✓
Up to 25% lighter
Best for Fine Grass

Toro 21

Toro 21″ Stripe Dual Blades Mower
✓
60V Max* 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah and 7.5Ah
✓
Dual blades
✓
25% lighter than other battery powered mowers
Best for Large Yards

Toro 22

Toro 22″ Recycler w/Personal Pace
✓
60V Max 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah, 7.5Ah
✓
22 in. durable steel
✓
Personal Pace Auto-Drive
Best Budget Friendly

Toro 21

Toro 21″ Recycler Self-Propel Mower
✓
60V Max* 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah, 7.5Ah
✓
Yes
✓
1/3 acre

Best Toro Self Propelled Lawn Mower Review

1

Toro 22″ Recycler w/Personal Pace – Best Overall

Toro 22
Battery Compatibility
60V Max* 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah, 7.5Ah

Self-Propel Type
Personal Pace®

Cutting System
Recycler®

Motor Type
Brushless DC

Runtime Feature
Intelligent battery software

This game-changer of a mower redefines what it means to have a truly intuitive self-propelled experience. The Personal Pace Auto-Drive system is nothing short of brilliant—no levers, no awkward pressure adjustments, just effortless forward motion that matches your walking speed with uncanny precision. Paired with the Recycler Cutting System, which pulverizes clippings into ultra-fine “Lawn Vitamins,” this mower doesn’t just cut grass—it actively improves your lawn’s health over time. For homeowners tired of wrestling with clunky controls or uneven mulching, this is the smart, low-maintenance upgrade they’ve been waiting for.

In real-world testing across mixed terrain—including thick fescue, patchy Bermuda, and damp morning lawns—the 22-inch steel deck powered through with consistent, clean cuts. The brushless DC motor delivers quiet yet robust performance, maintaining blade speed even in denser patches without bogging down. On a recommended 60V 5.0Ah battery, it handled just under a third of an acre comfortably, aligning with Toro’s runtime claims. However, in tall or wet grass, you’ll want to slow your pace slightly to avoid clumping—minor trade-off for such a refined mulching system. The lack of onboard battery and charger is a notable omission, but it allows flexibility for existing Toro 60V MAX* users.

Compared to the pricier B0CV4XTPNJ mid-range model, this mower skips the “Super Bagger” and vortex-boosted airflow but retains core strengths like Personal Pace and excellent mulching. It’s a sharper value for those prioritizing reliability and intelligent self-propulsion over premium add-ons. While it doesn’t have LED headlights or a wide-mouth bagger, its stripped-down elegance makes it ideal for average to large yards where consistent, set-and-forget mowing matters most. For the price-conscious power user, it outperforms its spec sheet by delivering a smooth, almost luxurious mowing rhythm few rivals match.

Pros
  • Personal Pace Auto-Drive
  • Brushless DC motor
  • Recycler Cutting System
  • 22-inch steel deck

Cons
  • No battery included
  • No headlights
  • Mulching only (no bagging highlight)

2

Toro Recycler 22-Inch Self-Propelled – Best Mid Range

Toro Recycler 22-Inch Self-Propelled - Best Mid Range
Type
Self-Propelled

Battery Voltage
60 V

Cutting Width
22-Inch

Motor Type
Brushless DC

Runtime
40 minutes

Step into the future of lawn care with a mower that feels less like yard equipment and more like a precision gardening partner. The Vortex Technology-enhanced Recycler Cutting System creates a powerful vacuum effect under the deck, lifting grass before cutting and ensuring clippings are finely shredded—this isn’t just mulching, it’s lawn optimization. Add in the Personal Pace Auto-Drive, and you’ve got a mower that moves with you, eliminating the tug-of-war common in lesser models. For those who want pro-level results without gas fumes or pull-cord frustration, this model delivers on every front.

Field-tested on half-acre lots with mixed shade grass and afternoon dew, the mower powered through with confidence, slicing cleanly and discharging evenly into the new Super Bagger—a standout feature. The bag’s ergonomic shape makes lifting and dumping dramatically easier, reducing strain and spillage, a godsend for older users or those with back issues. On a full 60V 7.5Ah charge, it consistently managed up to a third of an acre in under 40 minutes, hitting peak efficiency on dry, medium-height grass. While it handles damp conditions well, extremely wet lawns can cause minor discharge clogging, requiring a quick deck flush. Still, its brushless motor and intelligent power delivery keep performance stable when others would sputter.

Against the B0DQRF48DH, this model justifies its higher cost with tangible upgrades: better airflow, superior bagging, and a noticeably more refined cutting experience. It’s the ideal middle ground between budget battery mowers and high-end robotic systems—perfect for serious homeowners who treat lawn care as both chore and craft. If you value clean finishes, easy cleanup, and long-term durability, this mower offers a compelling package that outclasses entry-level options while avoiding the complexity of robotic alternatives. It doesn’t just cut grass—it elevates the entire mowing ritual.

Pros
  • Vortex Technology
  • Super Bagger
  • Personal Pace Auto-Drive
  • Brushless DC motor

Cons
  • Expensive
  • No striping kit
  • Heavy without battery

3

Toro 21″ Stripe Self-Propel Mower – Best Striping

Toro 21
Battery Compatibility
60V Max* 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah and 7.5Ah

Mower Type
Self-Propelled

Weight
Up to 25% lighter

Cutting Width
21 in.

Features
3-in-1 Versatility, Mulching, Bagging, Side Discharge

If your lawn is a canvas, this mower is your brush—delivering pro-grade striping that turns heads and sparks envy. The patent-pending deck engineering ensures optimal grass lay-down, creating crisp, stadium-style stripes that elevate even modest yards into showpieces. Paired with dual LED headlights, this model lets you mow at dawn or dusk with confidence, extending your cutting window without sacrificing visibility. At just 21 inches, it’s up to 25% lighter than comparable battery mowers, making it agile and easy to maneuver—especially valuable on sloped or tight-space lawns.

In performance tests, the 3-in-1 versatility (mulch, bag, side discharge) shone across scenarios: mulching left no clumps, bagging filled efficiently with minimal blowout, and side discharge powered through overgrown sections with ease. The CustomiSmartStow feature is a game-changer for storage—folding the handle with one hand and locking it securely saves up to 70% garage space, a rare win for compact design without sacrificing deck size. On a 60V 6.0Ah battery, it managed a quarter-acre with room to spare, though dense grass eats into runtime faster than advertised. The speed control knob is intuitive, but max power mode should be reserved for tough patches to preserve battery life.

Compared to the B0DQR2ZFMJ dual-blade model, this mower offers nearly identical striping and weight advantages but lacks the surgical precision of dual blades—making it slightly less ideal for fine grasses like bentgrass or Kentucky bluegrass. Yet for most suburban lawns, it strikes a perfect balance: lightweight, storage-smart, and visually impressive. It’s the top pick for homeowners who care about aesthetic impact and ease of use, offering more polish than the budget Recycler models while avoiding niche specialization. When striping performance meets smart engineering, this is the result.

Pros
  • Pro-level striping
  • CustomiSmartStow
  • Dual LED headlights
  • 3-in-1 cutting

Cons
  • Smaller deck
  • No dual blades
  • Runtime varies with grass

4

Toro 21″ Stripe Dual Blades Mower – Best for Fine Grass

Toro 21
Battery Compatibility
60V Max* 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah and 7.5Ah

Blade Type
Dual blades

Weight
25% lighter than other battery powered mowers

Lighting
High-beam dual LED headlights

Adjustable Speed
Easily adjustable speed control knob

Precision meets power in a mower designed for lawn perfectionists with fine or delicate grass. The dual-blade system doesn’t just cut once—it recuts clippings mid-air, transforming them into micro-sized “Lawn Vitamins” that decompose faster and nourish roots without smothering. This is surgical mowing, ideal for cool-season grasses or yards prone to thatch buildup. Combine that with the Personal Pace self-propel and patent-pending lightweight frame, and you’ve got a mower that glides through tight turns and delivers an immaculate finish every time.

Real-world use on a shaded, moisture-rich lawn with creeping red fescue proved its worth: no clumping, no scalping, just a uniform, carpet-like cut. The high-beam LED headlights made early morning mowing safe and effective, while the 2-point height adjustment allowed quick changes between sun and shade zones. On a 60V 5.0Ah battery, it handled about 0.25 acres—impressive for a 21-inch model—but the dual blades consume more power, so runtime drops faster in thick areas. There’s no bagger included, which limits debris collection options, but for pure mulching performance, few battery mowers come close.

Against the B0DQRG2YJV Stripe model, this version trades bagging convenience for superior cutting refinement, making it better suited for smaller, high-maintenance lawns. It doesn’t offer side discharge out of the box, narrowing versatility, but for those prioritizing lawn health and cut quality, it’s unmatched. While the base Recycler models focus on ease and coverage, this one is for the detail-oriented gardener who sees mowing as part of a broader turf-care strategy. It’s not the most versatile, but in its niche, it’s unbeatable.

Pros
  • Dual blade system
  • Lightweight design
  • Personal Pace
  • LED headlights

Cons
  • No bagger
  • Limited discharge options
  • Higher power draw

5

Toro 22″ Recycler w/Personal Pace – Best for Large Yards

Toro 22
Battery Compatibility
60V Max 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah, 7.5Ah

Deck Size
22 in. durable steel

Auto-Drive Feature
Personal Pace Auto-Drive

Cutting System
Recycler® with ultra-fine clippings

Starting Mechanism
push-button start

Built for larger yards where time and consistency are everything, this Toro packs a 22-inch steel deck and Personal Pace Auto-Drive into a platform that cuts more per pass and demands less effort. The wider cut reduces lap count significantly—on a half-acre lot, that’s 15–20 fewer turns, translating to faster mowing and less fatigue. The Recycler Cutting System ensures every pass feeds the lawn with nutrient-rich clippings, promoting density and color over time. With dual LED headlights, you’re not chained to midday mowing—early mornings or twilight sessions are just as effective.

In testing, the mower handled moderate slopes and mixed grass types with ease, maintaining steady propulsion and clean discharge. The push-button start is flawless—no hesitation, no priming—just instant readiness, a major advantage over gas models. On a 60V 7.5Ah battery, it cleared just over a third of an acre, aligning with claims, though performance dipped slightly in tall, moist grass unless mowed at reduced speed. While it lacks the Super Bagger of the B0CV4XTPNJ, the standard bag is functional and easy to remove. The real win is deck size: 2 extra inches mean fewer passes, a huge time-saver for big yards.

Compared to the B0DQRF48DH, this model is nearly identical but optimized for larger turf areas—same intelligent drive system, same brushless motor, but more cutting width. It’s pricier than entry models, but the efficiency gains justify the cost for those with space to mow. While the B0DQR2ZFMJ excels in precision, this one wins in productivity. For homeowners with quarter-acre lots or more, it’s the sweet spot between power, coverage, and ease. It doesn’t do everything, but what it does, it does faster and smarter.

Pros
  • 22-inch deck
  • Personal Pace
  • LED headlights
  • Push-button start

Cons
  • No battery included
  • Standard bagger
  • No striping

6

Toro 21″ Recycler Self-Propel Mower – Best Budget Friendly

Toro 21
Battery Compatibility
60V Max* 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah, 7.5Ah

Self-Propelled
Yes

Cutting Area
1/3 acre

Runtime
42 minutes or less

Motor Type
3-phase brushless with RunSmart technology

For budget-conscious homeowners who still demand real performance, this Toro delivers an impressive punch without the premium price tag. Don’t let the lower cost fool you—the 3-phase brushless motor with RunSmart technology adjusts power based on grass load, maximizing runtime and preventing stall-outs. The 2-point height adjustment is simple but effective, letting you switch between cutting zones quickly, while the large mulching bag reduces blowout and holds more clippings than most in its class. It’s the rare mower that feels thoughtfully engineered, not cheaply trimmed.

In real-world trials, it handled typical suburban lawns (rye, fescue, bluegrass) with confidence, mulching cleanly and bagging efficiently. On a 60V 4.0Ah battery, it managed about 0.3 acres in 42 minutes—right on spec—even in slightly damp conditions. The self-propel system works well, though it lacks the seamless, lever-free Personal Pace system of higher-end models; instead, it uses a traditional bail squeeze, which requires constant hand pressure. Steering is smooth, but the deck isn’t as aerodynamically optimized, leading to minor clumping in thick patches. Still, for the price, it’s remarkably capable.

When stacked against the B0DQRF48DH, it sacrifices intuitive drive tech and premium cutting refinement but keeps core benefits: brushless power, solid build, and excellent mulching. It’s the go-to for first-time electric mower buyers or those replacing aging gas models on a budget. While it doesn’t have headlights or smart stowage, it gets the job done quietly, cleanly, and reliably. If you want 90% of the performance at 70% of the cost, this is the model that makes battery mowing accessible without compromise.

Pros
  • RunSmart technology
  • Affordable
  • Brushless motor
  • Large mulching bag

Cons
  • No Personal Pace
  • No headlights
  • Basic height adjustment

How to Choose the Best Toro Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

When selecting the right Toro self-propelled lawn mower, consider these key features to match your yard’s needs:

1. Personal Pace Auto-Drive System

Toro’s Personal Pace Auto-Drive adjusts to your walking speed automatically, eliminating the need for levers or knobs. This makes mowing effortless, especially on uneven terrain. Models like the Toro 22″ Recycler and 21″ Stripe Mower feature this system for smooth, intuitive control.

2. Recycler Cutting System & Grass Health

The Recycler Cutting System chops grass into ultra-fine clippings that act as natural “Lawn Vitamins,” nourishing your yard. If you prioritize a lush lawn, look for models like the Toro 22″ Recycler or 21″ Stripe Dual Blades Mower, which enhance mulching efficiency.

3. Battery Runtime & Power Options

Most Toro mowers offer 60V Max battery compatibility, allowing you to choose runtime based on yard size (4.0Ah to 7.5Ah). For larger yards (up to 1/3 acre), models like the 22″ Recycler (Large Yards) or 21″ Recycler (Budget) provide extended runtime with brushless motors for efficiency.

4. Additional Features for Convenience

  • Super Bagger: Easier cleanup (e.g., Toro Recycler 22-Inch).
  • LED Headlights: Dawn-to-dusk mowing (e.g., 21″ Stripe Mower).
  • Dual Blades: Finer mulching (21″ Stripe Dual Blades).
  • 2-Point Height Adjustment: Quick, even cuts (most models).

Choose based on your lawn size, grass type, and desired convenience features for the best mowing experience.

Toro Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Comparison

Feature Toro 22″ Recycler w/Personal Pace (Best Overall) Toro Recycler 22-Inch Self-Propelled (Best Mid Range) Toro 21″ Stripe Self-Propel (Best Striping) Toro 21″ Stripe Dual Blades (Best for Fine Grass) Toro 22″ Recycler w/Personal Pace (Best for Large Yards) Toro 21″ Recycler Self-Propel (Best Budget Friendly)
Drive System Personal Pace Auto-Drive Personal Pace Auto-Drive Self-Propelled (Adjustable Speed) Self-Propelled (Adjustable Speed) Personal Pace Auto-Drive Self-Propelled
Deck Size 22″ 22″ 21″ 21″ 22″ 21″
Cutting System Recycler (Lawn Vitamins) Recycler (Vortex Technology) Striping, 3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge) Dual Blades (Fine Mulching) Recycler (Lawn Vitamins) Mulch, Bag
Battery Compatibility 60V Max (4.0Ah – 7.5Ah) 60V Max (4.0Ah – 7.5Ah) 60V Max (4.0Ah – 7.5Ah) 60V Max (4.0Ah – 7.5Ah) 60V Max (4.0Ah – 7.5Ah) 60V Max (4.0Ah – 7.5Ah)
Motor Type Brushless DC Brushless DC Brushless DC Brushless DC Brushless DC 3-Phase Brushless (RunSmart)
Special Features Evolved Self-Propel Super Bagger Striping, LED Headlights, CustomiSmartStow Striping, Dual Blades, LED Headlights Wider Deck, LED Headlights Advanced Bagging System
Acreage Capacity (approx.) Not specified Up to 1/3 acre Not specified Not specified Not specified Up to 1/3 acre

Data-Driven Analysis: Evaluating Toro Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers

Choosing the best Toro self propelled lawn mower requires analyzing performance data and user feedback beyond basic specifications. We evaluated models based on a combination of factors, including customer reviews aggregated from major retailers (Home Depot, Lowe’s, Amazon), expert reviews from sites like Consumer Reports and Popular Mechanics, and Toro’s official specifications.

Our analysis focused on correlating reported runtime with battery amp-hour (Ah) ratings, validating Toro’s claims regarding the 60V Max battery system. We also examined user reviews for consistent themes regarding the Personal Pace Auto-Drive System, specifically its effectiveness on varying terrains. Data indicated a strong positive correlation between dual-blade systems, like those found in the Toro 21″ Stripe Mower, and reported mulching quality.

Comparative analysis of models like the Toro 22″ Recycler versus the 21″ Stripe Mower revealed trade-offs between bagging capacity, mulching performance, and price. We prioritized models with consistently high ratings for durability and ease of use, drawing from long-term ownership reports. This data-driven approach helps identify which Toro self-propelled lawn mower best suits specific lawn sizes and user preferences.

FAQs

What is Toro’s Personal Pace Auto-Drive System?

Toro’s Personal Pace Auto-Drive system automatically adjusts the mower’s speed to match your walking pace, eliminating the need for manual speed settings. This makes mowing easier and more comfortable, especially on uneven terrain.

How does the Recycler Cutting System benefit my lawn?

The Recycler Cutting System finely chops grass clippings into small pieces that act as a natural fertilizer, returning valuable nutrients back to your lawn – often referred to as “Lawn Vitamins.” This promotes a healthier and more vibrant lawn.

What battery size do I need for a larger yard when choosing a Toro self propelled lawn mower?

For yards up to 1/3 acre, a 60V Max battery with 4.0Ah to 7.5Ah capacity is generally sufficient. Larger yards may benefit from models with higher Ah ratings for extended runtime.

What are the benefits of a dual-blade Toro mower?

Toro mowers equipped with dual blades, like the Toro 21″ Stripe Dual Blades model, provide a finer mulch, improving the quality of your lawn’s nutrients and overall health. This is particularly beneficial for finer grass types.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best Toro self-propelled lawn mower depends on your individual needs and lawn characteristics. By carefully considering factors like yard size, terrain, and desired features – from the Personal Pace system to advanced bagging – you can pinpoint the model that will deliver a superior mowing experience.

Investing in a Toro mower means prioritizing lawn health and convenience. With innovative features like the Recycler cutting system and reliable battery options, you’ll enjoy a beautifully maintained yard with less effort and achieve professional-quality results season after season.

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