6 Best Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mowers Under $300 (2025)

Punchy and confidence-inspiring, the PowerSmart 21-Inch self-propelled mower leans on a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine to cut through thick spring growth without stalling. Its 21-inch steel deck covers ground quickly, while the 3-in-1 system lets you mulch for lawn health, bag with a 1.4-bushel catcher, or rear-discharge when speed matters. Rear-wheel drive with 10-inch wheels addresses the common pain point of losing traction on slopes or bumpy sections.

In testing, it handled medium to large yards efficiently, maintaining steady pace on uneven terrain where front-drive models often slip. The single-lever height adjustment (1.5–3.9 inches) makes seasonal changes simple, and the steel deck adds durability when bumping roots or edging fences. It can get a bit louder and heavier than smaller compact mowers, and turning in tight spaces takes a touch more effort.

Compared with the PowerSmart B0FCMF796Z, this model delivers similar rear-wheel traction and 3-in-1 versatility, making them near twins in performance for sloped lots. Against the compact 20-inch 141cc options, it trades a bit of nimbleness for faster coverage and a sturdier feel—ideal for owners prioritizing efficiency and slope control. For features-to-performance balance under this budget, it edges out lighter, budget picks with its engine pedigree and deck width.

Surprisingly capable for the category, this 20-inch, 141cc self-propelled mower focuses on practicality: a lightweight chassis, simple operation, and a 50L grass bag that cuts trips to the bin. The 3-in-1 configuration (rear-bagging, mulching, side discharge) adapts to different lawn conditions, while the foldable handle helps solve storage headaches in tight garages. Big 12-inch rear and 8-inch front wheels roll smoothly over rough patches.

On small to mid-size yards, the mower’s 2850 RPM blade speed and modest weight let you navigate beds and corners with ease. The 7-position height adjustment is generous, though the listed range seems exaggerated; in practice, it suits typical 1.5–4-inch turf cuts. The engine has enough punch for weekly maintenance but can feel taxed in wet, overgrown areas compared to beefier 21-inch decks.

Versus the PowerSmart 21-inch models, this mower gives up some power and deck width but wins on maneuverability and storage—a smarter pick for townhomes or smaller lawns. If you’re weighing it against the compact 20-inch self-propelled B0FFBGXLD6, this unit is simpler but lacks the refined traction and variable speed. For buyers focused on an entry-level self-propelled option, it delivers core features without frills.

The AMERISUN 21-inch push mower feels thoughtfully engineered for users who value simplicity and reliability under the budget ceiling. Its 144cc OHV engine with auto choke starts cleanly, and the reinforced steel deck plus heavy-duty blade deliver a crisp, even cut. With 3-in-1 capability and a tool-free setup that comes nearly ready out of the box, it reduces friction from unboxing to first mow.

In the yard, the 7-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels with double ball bearings roll smoothly and make pushing easier than typical push-class competitors. The single-lever 6-position height control (1.5–3.9 inches) is quick for seasonal adjustments. As a push model, it requires more effort on slopes or larger lots; it’s best kept to flat or moderate terrain where its balanced chassis shines.

Compared with the self-propelled PowerSmart options, you trade propulsion for a lighter, easier-to-manage push experience and potentially lower maintenance. Against the 20-inch budget self-propelled models, AMERISUN offers a wider 21-inch deck and more robust build, making it a smarter pick for slightly bigger yards if you don’t need drive assist. Feature-for-feature, it’s a strong push alternative under this budget when propulsion isn’t essential.

This compact 20-inch self-propelled mower stands out with rear-wheel drive and 6-speed control, letting you match pace from 0.5 to 4 mph—ideal if you struggle with fixed-speed machines. The 16-gauge steel deck is durable and includes a washout port, while the volute-spiral design boosts mulching airflow for finer clippings. Deep-tread 8″/11″ tires add traction where small mowers usually slip.

In use, the 141–140cc-class engine provides reliable power for weekly cuts, and the low-profile deck avoids scalping on uneven lawns. The 7-level height adjustment adapts quickly between seasons, and the 50L bagger is generous for this size. It’s lighter and more agile than 21-inch units, though heavy, wet grass or long neglect may push it near its limits.

Compared with the budget 20-inch self-propelled B0D9NJ9DR3, this model’s variable speed and spiked tread deliver better control on inclines and damp turf. Against the PowerSmart 21-inch self-propelled mowers, you trade cutting width for compact storage and maneuverability, making it ideal for small yards with tight landscaping. Per feature set, it offers premium drive features rarely found at this size.

Built for yard work that doesn’t flinch, the PowerSmart 21-inch RWD mower pairs a Briggs & Stratton 140cc engine with a durable steel deck, giving it confident bite in tall or damp turf. The 3-in-1 system makes it easy to switch between bagging, mulching, and rear discharge, and the 10-inch rear wheels improve grip on slopes and washboard turf. A single-lever, 6-position height adjustment keeps settings fast and consistent.

In real use, traction is a standout—rear-wheel drive maintains forward pull where front-drive units tend to spin. Cut consistency remains clean across medium to larger lawns, and the balance between deck size and chassis weight helps with line tracking. Like its sibling model, it’s heavier than 20-inch units and takes slightly more space in storage.

Compared to the compact 20-inch variable-speed mower (B0FFBGXLD6), this PowerSmart trades nimble handling for faster coverage and steadier slope control. Versus the AMERISUN push mower, propulsion makes long passes and mild hills less fatiguing, especially if you mow weekly growth. For traction-first buyers, it’s the grippiest choice in this group while retaining mainstream features.

The 22-inch PowerSmart turns up the dial with a 170cc OHV engine and a wider cutting path, ideal for cutting session times on bigger lots. A single-speed RWD system (about 3.5–4.1 km/h) moves steadily without fuss, while the fine-cut deck leaves smaller clippings for cleaner lawns. It folds to save significant storage space and includes 3-in-1 capability with a 1.4-bushel bag.

On large, relatively open lawns, the extra inch of deck width translates to fewer passes and better productivity. The single-speed drive is simple and dependable, though not as adaptable as variable-speed systems when navigating around beds or steep sections. Height adjustment spans 1.5–3.9 inches, suitable for cool- and warm-season grasses.

Compared with the 21-inch PowerSmart models, this mower offers more coverage and a stronger engine, trading some finesse in tight areas due to size and fixed speed. Against the compact 20-inch variable-speed unit, it suits owners who prioritize throughput over precision control. For those balancing yard size and performance, it delivers top-tier mowing efficiency within this lineup.