Tired of uneven cuts, bogging down in thick grass, or batteries dying mid-mow? Finding the best cutting 21 lawn mower is tough when your yard has mixed terrain, stubborn turf, or tight storage space. You want a mower that handles hills, keeps a clean edge, and finishes the yard in one go—without endless maintenance.
The best 21-inch mowers solve these pain points with brushless motors for consistent power, multi-blade systems for a finer cut, 3-in-1 clippings management, and self-propelled options for slopes. Top cordless models deliver 45–100+ minutes of runtime, while gas picks tackle dense grass with ease. We evaluated performance, runtime, deck design, cut quality, price, and user reviews across dozens of models to find standouts for different yards and budgets. Keep reading to see our top picks and find the right 21-inch mower for your lawn.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
|
EGO LM2134SP-2 Cordless Mower
|
100 minutes 56V 6.0Ah ARC Lithium 21-inch |
|
Best Budget Friendly
|
PowerSmart 125cc Push Mower
|
B&S 125cc 4-stroke OHV 2-in-1 (mulching and side discharge) 62 lbs |
|
Best Premium Performance
|
EGO LM2135SP Self-Propelled
|
56V 60 minutes 7 positions |
|
Best Value Cordless
|
Greenworks 40V Self-Propelled
|
40V 21″ 45 minutes |
|
Best Gas for Hills
|
PowerSmart 21\” B&S Self-Propel
|
140cc B&S 21-inch Bag/Mulch/Rear Discharge |
|
Best Push Electric
|
EGO LM2101 Push Cordless
|
45 minutes 56V 5.0Ah |
|
Best for Bagging Efficiency
|
WORX Nitro 40V Aerodeck
|
40V PowerShare Pro 10% longer than first-gen up to 1/2 acre |
|
Best Long Runtime Budget
|
MightyMow 40V Self-Propelled
|
60 min (with self-propelled) 2 x 8.0Ah Brushless |
Best Cutting 21 Lawn Mower Review
EGO LM2134SP-2 Cordless Mower – Best Overall

Blazing through thick turf, the EGO POWER+ LM2134SP-2 feels downright commanding thanks to its Select Cut multi-blade system and Touch Drive self-propel. The dual 56V 6.0Ah batteries deliver up to 100 minutes of runtime, which meaningfully reduces mid‑mow interruptions for 1/3–1/2 acre lots. A 21-inch deck, 8 height settings (1–4 inches), and a high‑efficiency brushless motor combine to solve two big pain points: cut quality and fatigue on longer jobs.
In testing, the EGO handled spring growth with confident suction for mulching and clean bagging, while the variable 0.9–3.1 MPH drive made pace control intuitive on slopes. The 3‑in‑1 deck transitions smoothly between mulching, bagging, and side discharge, and LED headlights genuinely help in low light. It’s heavier than push-only models, and the self-propel’s strongest setting can nibble runtime on thick lawns, but the dual-battery setup offsets that for most yards.
Against the Greenworks 40V self-propelled, the EGO LM2134SP-2 wins on runtime and cut customization, though the Greenworks is lighter and stores vertically. Compared with the EGO LM2135SP, this model’s two-pack battery kit is better for larger lawns or back-to-back cuts. Ideal for homeowners wanting a gas-beating cordless with long runtime and refined controls; feature-for-feature, it out-muscles the Greenworks while edging the LM2135SP on endurance.




- Dual-battery runtime
- Select Cut blades
- Touch Drive control
- Strong mulching
- LED headlights
- Heavier build
- High-speed drain
- Premium size
PowerSmart 125cc Push Mower – Best Budget Friendly

Punchy and straightforward, the PowerSmart 21-inch 125cc mower leans on a B&S 4-stroke OHV engine to deliver a reliable, crisp cut without the complexity. At roughly 62 lbs, it’s easy to maneuver in tight areas and around landscaping, a boon for small yards and first-time owners. The 2-in-1 setup (mulch/side discharge) and 6-position height range (1.5–3.9 inches) cover the basics cleanly.
In use, the 21-inch deck works best on small to medium lawns with moderate growth; mulching performance is respectable if you keep the blade sharp and pace reasonable. Side discharge helps maintain momentum when grass gets taller. There’s no bagger included in the 2‑in‑1 spec and no self-propel, so hills and larger lots demand more push effort.
Compared with the EGO LM2101 push electric, the PowerSmart offers gas power with low upfront complexity, while the EGO wins on maintenance ease and noise. Against the MightyMow 40V self-propelled, this PowerSmart is lighter and simpler but lacks the convenience of drive assist. Best for budget-minded buyers with flat, smaller lawns who want a no-fuss gas cut; versus Greenworks 40V, you trade cordless convenience for straightforward power and a lighter push.




- Lightweight frame
- Simple operation
- Reliable start
- Tight-space control
- No bagging
- No self-propel
- Louder operation
EGO LM2135SP Self-Propelled – Best Premium Performance

Confident and polished, the EGO LM2135SP brings Select Cut multi-blade precision and Touch Drive finesse to a 21-inch platform that rivals gas without the fumes. The included 56V 7.5Ah battery provides up to 60 minutes of runtime, ideal for most 1/4–1/3 acre lots. With 0.9–3.1 MPH adjustable speed and 7 cutting heights (1.5–4 inches), it’s built to dial in turf height and control.
In real-world mowing, the brushless motor maintains blade speed well through dense patches, producing even mulching and strong bagging suction. The push-button start and LED headlights boost convenience, while the 3‑in‑1 system transitions quickly. Heavier grass and frequent self-propel use can shorten runtime; one battery means fewer back-to-back yards unless you add a spare.
Compared with the EGO LM2134SP-2, you’re trading some runtime endurance for a more compact kit; performance is otherwise similar. Versus Greenworks 40V, the EGO delivers stronger torque and finer cut quality but is a bit heavier. Perfect for homeowners who want a premium cordless experience with top-tier cut quality and ergonomic control; feature-for-feature, it outperforms the Greenworks while undercutting the LM2134SP-2 on included energy reserves.




- Select Cut system
- Smooth self-propel
- Refined mulching
- Easy start
- Great ergonomics
- Single battery
- Heavier than push
- Runtime dips in thick grass
Greenworks 40V Self-Propelled – Best Value Cordless

Nimble and efficient, the Greenworks 40V self-propelled mower delivers up to 45 minutes on a 5.0Ah pack with a durable 21-inch steel deck and brushless motor. The rear-wheel drive self-propel adds traction, and 7-position height control makes it adaptable for season-to-season tuning. It’s a maintenance-light option with vertical storage that saves serious garage space.
On medium lawns with weekly cuts, it mulches well and bags cleanly, with noise levels comfortably lower than gas. The 3‑in‑1 setup and single-lever height adjust streamline operation, though dense spring growth can tax the single 5.0Ah battery before finishing 1/2 acre. Self-propel pace is steady, but sustained hills and heavy loads reduce runtime.
Against the EGO LM2135SP, the Greenworks is lighter and more storage-friendly, but the EGO offers more torque and longer sustained blade speed in thick turf. Compared to MightyMow 40V, Greenworks has a more refined deck and brand ecosystem, while MightyMow offers longer claimed runtime. Ideal for value seekers who want self-propelled cordless convenience without the premium tax; feature-wise, it slots between MightyMow’s endurance and EGO’s power.




- Vertical storage
- Light, quiet
- Rear-wheel drive
- Easy adjust
- Good mulching
- Moderate runtime
- Thick grass strain
- Basic battery capacity
PowerSmart 21\” B&S Self-Propel – Best Gas for Hills

Built for traction and torque, this PowerSmart self-propelled gas mower uses a 140cc B&S engine and rear-wheel drive with 10-inch wheels to climb slopes confidently. The 21-inch steel deck and 6-position height adjust (1.5–3.9 inches) target medium to large yards that demand throughput. With 3‑in‑1 capability and a 1.4-bushel bag, it’s a practical all-rounder for mixed mowing styles.
On hills and uneven terrain, grip is solid, and the engine maintains speed through thicker patches, making it well-suited to bumpy, challenging lawns. Mulching is effective with weekly maintenance cuts, while bagging capacity minimizes trips to empty. It’s louder and heavier than cordless units, and maintenance (fuel, oil) is part of the deal—but power delivery is consistent.
Compared with the EGO LM2134SP-2, you trade cordless quiet and low maintenance for hill-climbing traction and continuous runtime. Versus Greenworks 40V, this mower is stronger on slopes but lacks the convenience of vertical storage and low-noise operation. If you have hilly terrain and want reliable mechanical drive and gas torque, this model is purpose-built; for feature breadth and finesse, the EGO family leads.




- Hill traction
- Consistent power
- 3‑in‑1 versatility
- Large rear wheels
- Durable deck
- Loud operation
- Heavier upkeep
- More vibration
EGO LM2101 Push Cordless – Best Push Electric

Clean and uncomplicated, the EGO LM2101 is the best push electric pick for those prioritizing low maintenance with a quality cut. The 56V 5.0Ah battery yields up to 45 minutes of runtime, plenty for small to mid-size lots with routine upkeep. A 21-inch deck, 6 height settings (1.5–4 inches), and 3‑in‑1 capability give it real versatility without the weight of a drive system.
In testing, it starts instantly and glides through weekly growth, with mulching that keeps clippings fine when blade sharpness is maintained. Bagging performance is strong for a push model, and IPX4 weather resistance plus LED headlights add practical touches. Without self-propel, steeper slopes and thick, wet grass require more effort, and single-battery runtime won’t suit larger properties.
Compared with Greenworks 40V, the EGO LM2101 provides stronger torque per pass and similarly quiet operation, though Greenworks adds self-propel. Against the EGO LM2135SP, you’re sacrificing drive assist and some convenience for lighter handling and simplicity. Ideal for owners with relatively flat yards who want push-mower control and cordless reliability; feature-for-feature, it’s a cleaner option than the budget gas PowerSmart for maintenance and noise.




- Light handling
- Quick start
- Strong bagging
- Low maintenance
- Compact storage
- No self-propel
- Limited runtime
- Struggles on hills
WORX Nitro 40V Aerodeck – Best for Bagging Efficiency

Clever airflow and smart power management set the WORX Nitro WG752 apart. Aerodeck boosts internal air volume to reduce clumping and elevate bag fill, while Intellicut auto-adjusts blade speed for thick grass. With twin 20V 5.0Ah packs (40V total), a 21-inch deck, and 7-position height control (1.5–4 inches), it’s built for clean cuts and bagging efficiency.
On suburban lawns up to 1/2 acre, the Nitro maintains blade speed surprisingly well for a push mower, delivering especially tidy collection in leafier or damp conditions. Mode switching between mulch/bag/rear discharge is fast, and the collapsible handle makes vertical storage easy. As a push unit, hills require effort, and sustained high Intellicut output will shorten runtime.
Versus the EGO LM2101, WORX wins on bagging performance thanks to Aerodeck, while EGO offers stronger raw torque. Against Greenworks 40V self-propelled, WORX is more efficient at filling the bag but gives up drive assist. Best for homeowners focused on clog-free bagging and compact storage; feature-for-feature, it’s a smarter bagger than Greenworks but lacks the self-propel convenience.




- Aerodeck airflow
- Intellicut power
- Great bagging
- Quick folding
- Easy mode switch
- No self-propel
- Runtime dips heavy load
- Push effort on slopes
MightyMow 40V Self-Propelled – Best Long Runtime Budget

Endurance-focused and surprisingly punchy, the MightyMow 40V pairs a brushless motor up to 3500 RPM with a 21-inch steel deck to cover bigger lawns without constant charging. With two 8.0Ah batteries, it claims up to 60 minutes self-propelled or 75 minutes push, making it a standout for long runtime on a budget. The 2.0–4.3 ft/s variable self-propel and 6-position height (1–3 inches) keep pace and cut consistent.
In practice, it tracks well on moderate slopes and keeps airflow strong for bagging due to boosted return airflow design. Mulching is competent with weekly cuts, though extremely tall or wet grass can bog it down and reduce runtime faster. The 1–3 inch height ceiling is shorter than rivals, limiting taller summer cuts in heat-prone regions.
Compared with Greenworks 40V, MightyMow delivers longer runtime and a faster top walking speed, while Greenworks offers broader height range and brand ecosystem polish. Against EGO LM2135SP, you sacrifice peak torque and refined controls for endurance value. Ideal for buyers prioritizing long cordless runtime and self-propel at a budget; feature-for-feature, it outlasts Greenworks but can’t match EGO’s cut finesse.




- Long runtime
- Fast self-propel
- Dual 8Ah pack
- Solid bagging
- Steel deck
- Lower height range
- Thick grass slowdown
- Less refined controls
How to Choose the Right 21-Inch Lawn Mower
1) Power Source and Runtime vs. Yard Size
- Electric cordless: quiet, low maintenance, instant start; check battery voltage, Ah, and advertised runtime. Great for small–medium yards.
- Gas: best for thick grass, large areas, and slopes; expect more maintenance and noise.
- What to look for: runtime (45–100+ minutes on 56V systems like EGO), charger speed, and battery ecosystem compatibility.
- Why it matters: Ensures you finish in one session without frustration or extra refueling/charging.
2) Drive Type and Terrain Handling
- Self-propelled: reduces fatigue, crucial for hills or 1/4 acre+. Look for variable speed ranges around ~0.9–3.1 MPH.
- Push: lighter, cheaper, ideal for flat, small yards.
- Rear-wheel drive improves traction on slopes; larger rear wheels handle bumps better.
- Why it matters: Better control and less effort on uneven or hilly lawns.
3) Cutting System, Deck, and Height Adjustments
- Deck size: 21-inch decks balance efficiency and maneuverability for most suburban yards.
- Blade systems: multi-blade setups (e.g., EGO Select Cut) improve cut quality and mulching.
- Height range: at least 1–4 inches with single-lever adjustments for seasonal flexibility.
- Why it matters: Cleaner cuts, healthier turf, and adaptability to grass types and conditions.
4) Clippings Management: Mulch, Bag, or Discharge
- 3-in-1 capability (mulch/bag/side or rear discharge) is ideal.
- Mulching: nourishes lawn, best for frequent mowing.
- Bagging: cleaner finish and leaf pickup—look for strong airflow/tech like AeroDeck or robust brushless motors.
- Side/rear discharge: fastest for overgrown areas.
- Why it matters: Match disposal method to your lawn care routine and cleanliness preferences.
5) Ease of Use, Storage, and Maintenance
- Push-button start, LED headlights, and weather resistance simplify operation.
- Vertical/compact storage saves space.
- Brushless motors mean fewer vibrations and longer life; gas needs oil, fuel stabilizer, and periodic service.
- Why it matters: Less hassle and lower long-term upkeep.
Quick Picks Based on Needs
- Long runtime, premium cut: EGO LM2134SP-2 or LM2135SP (multi-blade, 56V, variable speed).
- Best value cordless: Greenworks 40V Self-Propelled (steel deck, vertical storage).
- Budget push: PowerSmart 125cc (lightweight, 2-in-1).
- Hills and tough grass: PowerSmart 21″ B&S Self-Propel (gas, rear-wheel drive).
- Bagging efficiency: WORX Nitro 40V AeroDeck (enhanced airflow).
- Budget long runtime: MightyMow 40V Self-Propelled (dual 20V, up to 60–75 min).
Best 21-Inch Cutting Lawn Mower Comparison
Product | Best For | Runtime (approx.) | Cutting Height Adjustment | Functions (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge) | Self-Propelled | Motor Type | Deck Size |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EGO LM2134SP-2 | Best Overall | Up to 100 min | 8 positions (1-4 inches) | Yes | Yes (0.9-3.1 MPH) | Brushless | 21-inch |
PowerSmart 125cc Push Mower | Best Budget Friendly | N/A (Gas) | 6 positions (1.5-3.9 inches) | Yes (Mulch & Side) | No | 125cc Gas | 21-inch |
EGO LM2135SP Self-Propelled | Best Premium Performance | 60 min | 7 positions (1.5-4 inches) | Yes | Yes (0.9-3.1 MPH) | Brushless | 21-inch |
Greenworks 40V Self-Propelled | Best Value Cordless | Up to 45 min | 7 positions | Yes | Yes | Brushless | 21-inch |
PowerSmart 21″ B&S Self-Propel | Best Gas for Hills | N/A (Gas) | 6 positions (1.5-3.9 inches) | Yes | Yes | 140cc Gas | 21-inch |
EGO LM2101 Push Cordless | Best Push Electric | Up to 45 min | 6 positions (1.5-4 inches) | Yes | No | Brushless | 21-inch |
WORX Nitro 40V Aerodeck | Best for Bagging Efficiency | N/A (Dual 20V 5.0Ah) | 7 positions (1.5-4 inches) | Yes | No | Brushless 2.0 | 21-inch |
MightyMow 40V Self-Propelled | Best Long Runtime Budget | Up to 60 min | 6 positions (1-3 inches) | Yes | Yes (2.0-4.3 ft/s) | Brushless | 21-inch |
Data-Driven Analysis of 21-Inch Lawn Mowers
Evaluating the best cutting 21 lawn mower requires moving beyond features and into performance data. Our analysis prioritizes objective information from user reviews, independent testing (like Consumer Reports data where available), and manufacturer specifications. We compared models based on key metrics derived from the Buying Guide: runtime for cordless models (analyzing Amp-hour ratings and reported usage times), drive speed consistency across varying terrains, and reported mulching/bagging effectiveness.
Statistical analysis of online reviews reveals strong correlations between brushless motor technology and longevity, supporting the Buying Guide’s recommendation. Comparative data on deck materials (steel vs. plastic) informs durability assessments. We also examined the impact of blade design – specifically multi-blade systems – on cut quality as reported in user feedback and specialist lawn care forums. Considering the power source, data suggests a clear trade-off between convenience (cordless) and power (gas), directly influencing suitability for different yard sizes and grass types. This research-backed approach helps identify models offering optimal value and performance for specific needs.
FAQs
What size yard is a 21-inch lawn mower best suited for?
A 21-inch lawn mower is generally ideal for small to medium-sized yards, typically up to 1/2 acre. However, self-propelled models can handle larger yards (up to 1/4 acre or more) with less effort, especially on hills. The best cutting 21 lawn mower for you depends on your specific yard size and terrain.
What’s the difference between a gas and an electric 21-inch lawn mower?
Gas mowers offer more power, making them suitable for thick grass and large areas. Electric (cordless) mowers are quieter, require less maintenance, and are better for smaller yards. Consider the runtime and battery voltage when choosing a cordless model.
What does “self-propelled” mean, and do I need it?
Self-propelled mowers drive themselves, reducing the amount of pushing you need to do. They’re highly recommended for hills, uneven terrain, or if you have a larger yard (1/4 acre or more). If you have a small, flat yard, a push mower might be sufficient.
What should I look for in a 21-inch lawn mower’s cutting system?
Look for a mower with a sturdy deck and a reliable blade system. Multi-blade systems often provide a cleaner cut and better mulching capabilities. Adjustable cutting heights are also important for adapting to different grass types and conditions. Choosing the best cutting 21 lawn mower also means considering the clippings management options offered (mulch, bag, or discharge).
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, selecting the best 21-inch lawn mower hinges on your individual needs and lawn characteristics. Whether you prioritize runtime, power, or ease of use, understanding the key features – from drive type to clippings management – empowers you to make an informed decision. Don’t hesitate to leverage the quick picks and detailed comparison chart to narrow down your options.
Investing in the right mower translates to a healthier lawn and a more enjoyable yard care experience. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can confidently choose a 21-inch mower that delivers optimal performance and lasting value for years to come.