8 Best Gas-Powered Mulching Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2025

Punchy and precise, the YARDMAX 22-inch with its 201cc engine and Select PACE 6-speed CVT feels purpose-built for homeowners who demand control and cutting quality. The MaxFlow volute spiral deck boosts airflow for crisp mulching, while the heavy-duty 16-gauge seamless steel deck dampens vibration and resists flex. Pair that with 11-inch rear rubber tires with spike tread and you get traction and pace that match your stride on flat, sloped, or uneven lawns.

In testing, the self-propelled rear-wheel drive kept steady grip on damp turf and mild slopes, and the single-lever height adjuster (1.38–3.55 in.) made seasonal changes quick. Its deck cleanout port actually reduces clumping under the deck—key for consistent mulching performance. The 22-inch cut path covers ground fast; only caveat is the added weight from the steel build, which takes a bit more effort in tight turns.

Against the SENIX LSSG-H2’s 22-inch self-propelled design, the YARDMAX wins on speed variability and mulching airflow, while SENIX’s Briggs & Stratton engine has a slight edge in brand familiarity and vertical storage. Compared with the PowerSmart 21-inch self-propelled, the YARDMAX feels more planted and delivers a cleaner chop in thicker grass thanks to the larger engine. For buyers prioritizing traction, pace control, and mulching finesse, YARDMAX offers a stronger features-to-performance balance than the PowerSmart counterpart.

Surprisingly spry, this 20-inch self-propelled mower blends lightweight handling with an RWD 6-speed transmission that tracks your pace from 0.5–4 mph. The 16-gauge stamped deck with a cleanout port and volute-spiral airflow punches above its class in mulching, while the 8’/11′ spike-tread tires keep it moving on damp or uneven ground. It’s a compact option that solves storage constraints with a foldable handle to just 39 x 22 inches.

In real-world cuts, the 141–140cc class engine handles weekly maintenance and moderate growth without bogging, though it’s not built for neglect or heavy, wet hay. The 7-level single-lever height control helps avoid scalping on bumpy yards, and the 50L bag is adequate for small to medium spaces. The 20-inch deck trades a bit of throughput for agility—perfect near landscaping or narrow gates.

Compared to the YARDMAX 22-inch, this model is more portable and easier to maneuver but lacks the YARDMAX’s torque and premium mulching chamber. Against the PowerSmart 21-inch push mower, it gains self-propel and better traction, though loses a bit of raw swath width. Ideal for budget-focused homeowners who want true self-propel and competent mulching in a smaller footprint; it offers stronger value-per-feature than many barebones push mowers.

A mulching bruiser, the BILT HARD 21-inch pairs a 201cc OHV engine with a wide 21-inch steel deck to chew through thick growth and damp morning cuts. The single-pull easy start and no-choke/no-primer design remove cold-start frustration, while 8-position height control (1.2–3.75 in.) dials in seasonal cuts. Comfort details like foam-wrapped grips and double ball-bearing wheels make longer sessions easier on the hands and shoulders.

On dense, mid-length turf, torque delivery stays consistent, distributing clippings evenly in mulching mode without leaving windrows. The push configuration means you do the work on inclines, but the 9.5’/8′ wheels roll smoothly and maintain stability on rough patches. The 3-in-1 setup switches quickly; mulching is this mower’s strong suit, with bagging performance adequate for routine cleanup.

Versus the YARDMAX self-propelled, BILT HARD trades drive assistance for raw engine punch and slightly finer height granularity. Compared to the PowerSmart 21-inch push, it brings more torque and a cleaner mulch finish at the expense of weight. Shoppers who prioritize powerful mulching and straightforward operation over self-propel will find this a high-performance sweet spot among gas-powered mulching lawn mowers.

Sure-footed and simple, the PowerSmart 21-inch self-propelled mower uses a Briggs & Stratton 140cc engine and rear-wheel drive to stay composed on slopes. The 21-inch steel deck and 6-position single-lever height adjustment (1.5–3.9 in.) make it an easy weekly workhorse. Its 10-inch rear wheels add traction without making the mower feel unwieldy.

Performance is confident on moderate to tall grass, and it transitions well between mulching, bagging, and rear discharge. Mulching quality is strong for a 140cc class motor—keep blades sharp and the deck clean for best results on damp mornings. It’s not a hill-climber’s dream under heavy thatch, but on typical suburban lawns, the drive system keeps pace.

Compared with the YARDMAX’s CVT and 201cc muscle, PowerSmart prioritizes slope-friendly traction and a lighter feel over brute force. Against the AMERISUN 170cc self-propelled, it’s more manageable in small yards but less dominant in thick spring growth. Best for homeowners who want reliable self-propel on inclines and balanced mulching without chasing maximum power; its feature-to-performance mix is more practical than the heavier hitters.

Broad and brisk, the SENIX LSSG-H2 pairs a 22-inch deck with a 163cc Briggs & Stratton EXi675 for a quick, even cut across medium yards. The RWD with variable speed provides steady traction, and the included 19-gallon bagger makes cleanup straightforward. A washout port plus fold-down handle with vertical storage solve the post-mow mess and space constraints.

On mixed terrain, the 8’/11′ wheels and single-lever height control (1.25–4 in.) help maintain cut quality. Mulching performance is solid thanks to the wide deck, though like many 22-inch mowers, it benefits from controlled ground speed to keep clippings finely recirculating. The engine’s dependable startup and smooth tone make it approachable for first-time gas users.

Versus the YARDMAX 22-inch, SENIX counters with brand-name engine assurance and vertical storage, while YARDMAX’s CVT and mulching airflow feel more refined. Compared to AMERISUN’s 170cc unit, SENIX is more user-friendly but slightly less forceful in dense grass. It’s ideal for homeowners wanting a wide cut, easy maintenance, and variable speed without chasing maximum power; feature balance is competitive with YARDMAX but skews more convenience-first.

Straightforward and serviceable, this PowerSmart 21-inch push mower runs a 144cc OHV engine with auto choke for no-fuss starts. The 21-inch steel deck and dual-lever 6-position height adjust (1.5–3.9 in.) provide the essentials for weekly mowing. The foldable design saving up to 70% storage space is a handy perk for tight garages.

In the yard, it handles normal growth confidently and will mulch neatly if you keep a reasonable walking pace and sharp blade. It’s less at home on thick, wet turf, where slower passes help avoid clumping. Being push-only, it’s best on flat lawns or gentle grades.

Compared with the BILT HARD 201cc push, this PowerSmart is lighter and easier to maneuver, but it lacks the torque and mulching punch of the bigger engine. Against the budget self-propelled 20-inch, it trades drive assist for a wider cut and simpler maintenance. Ideal for buyers needing a no-frills, space-saving push mower that still supports decent mulching.

Light and nimble, the SENIX LSPG-M4 delivers 21-inch coverage in a compact push package powered by a 125cc Briggs & Stratton E450. It focuses on mulch and side discharge, skipping the bag to reduce weight and complexity. The dual-lever 6-position height range (1.25–3.75 in.) and 11’/8′ wheels make it easy to tailor the cut and maneuver through tight spaces.

Mulching is consistent on maintained lawns; the lighter engine prefers weekly trims to tackling neglected patches. Startups are reliable with the Prime n Pull system, and noise levels are pleasantly restrained for a gas unit. Without self-propel, it excels on smaller, flatter yards where agility matters more than raw power.

Stacked against the PowerSmart push mower, SENIX is lighter and quieter but gives up bagging versatility. Compared to the BILT HARD, it’s the opposite philosophy—portability and ease over torque and brute-force mulching. Best for homeowners seeking a lightweight push mower that’s simple, clean-cutting, and easy to store.

Confident and capable, the AMERISUN 21-inch uses a 170cc OHV engine with forced-air cooling to maintain power through thick spring growth. The self-propelled drive reduces fatigue, while the 21-inch steel deck and 6-position height range (1.5–3.9 in.) make it versatile across seasons. A 1.4-bushel catcher and 3-in-1 design provide flexible cleanup or nutrient-rich mulching.

In heavy grass, the engine’s cooling design keeps performance consistent across longer sessions. Mulching quality is strong when you manage pace; on soaked turf, a second pass yields a finer finish. Handling is stable, and the foldable handle streamlines storage for those tight on space.

Compared with PowerSmart’s 140cc self-propelled, AMERISUN brings more headroom for thick lawns and a more assertive mulching profile. Against YARDMAX’s CVT-equipped 201cc unit, it’s powerful but lacks the same traction nuance and airflow optimization. It’s a smart pick for users who frequently face dense or tall grass and want robust, self-propelled performance without stepping into premium-tier extras.