7 Best Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mowers in Canada 2025

Effortless mowing meets serious power in the BILT HARD 21-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower—a standout performer for Canadian homeowners tackling sprawling or uneven lawns. With a robust 201cc 4-cycle OHV engine delivering 9.0 ft·lb of torque, this mower powers through thick grass and damp conditions without bogging down, solving a common frustration with weaker engines that stall under load. The 3-in-1 cutting system—bagging, mulching, and side discharge—gives you full control over lawn finish, while the 8-position height adjustment via a single lever makes adapting to changing grass types and seasons a breeze. If you’ve ever wrestled with inconsistent cuts or awkward deck adjustments, this model eliminates those pain points with precision and ease.

In real-world testing across mixed terrain—from flat suburban yards to sloped, overgrown lots—the rear-wheel drive self-propelled system glides forward smoothly, reducing physical strain significantly. The 21-inch steel deck covers ground quickly, making it efficient for yards up to three-quarters of an acre. It handled wet spring grass and post-rain growth without clogging, thanks to optimized airflow and blade design. However, the mower does weigh in at around 85 lbs, making it less ideal for users with tight storage spaces or steep, narrow pathways. While the recoil start is reliable, it occasionally requires a firm pull in colder temperatures, though the no-choke design helps streamline ignition.

When compared to the PowerSmart 140cc model, the BILT HARD mower delivers superior torque and more refined height control, making it a better long-term investment for larger or challenging lawns. It sits above budget options with more durable construction and a wider range of cutting heights, yet avoids the premium price tag of commercial-grade units. Ideal for homeowners who prioritize power, versatility, and consistent cutting performance, this mower strikes a smart balance between capability and value. Compared to similarly priced models, it offers more engine power and greater adjustability than most mid-tier competitors.

Budget-savvy doesn’t mean underpowered—the PowerSmart 140cc with Briggs & Stratton EX550 engine brings reliable performance to cost-conscious Canadian lawns without cutting corners on essentials. Its auto-choke recoil start system fires up smoothly, often on the first or second pull, even in early-season cool mornings, solving one of the biggest gripes with entry-level gas mowers: finicky ignition. The 21-inch heavy-duty steel deck delivers solid cutting width for medium-sized yards, while the 3-in-1 versatility—mulching, bagging, and rear discharge—ensures you can adapt to lawn conditions without needing multiple tools. For homeowners tired of mowers that feel flimsy or hard to start, this model offers surprising durability and ease of use.

During real-world use on flat to gently sloped lawns up to half an acre, the self-propelled rear-wheel drive made mowing feel effortless and predictable, especially on dry, even terrain. The 140cc engine handles standard grass heights with ease but begins to strain when faced with tall, wet grass or dense patches—where higher-displacement engines pull ahead. The 6 height settings are easy to adjust, though they lack the fine-tuning of models with 8-position controls. While the grass bag is functional, it tends to blow clippings when overfilled, requiring more frequent emptying during peak mowing season.

Against the BILT HARD 201cc model, this PowerSmart trades power and precision for affordability—a clear trade-off between performance and cost. It’s not built for heavy-duty or large-acreage use, but for small to medium lawns where reliability and simplicity matter most, it shines. Best suited for casual mowers or second-home owners who mow weekly during the growing season, this model delivers dependable function without complexity. While it can’t match the torque or cutting refinement of higher-end units, it offers more brand trust and smoother starts than many budget rivals.

Maximum efficiency in a no-fuss package—this PowerSmart 170cc mower earns its “Best Value for Power” title by delivering strong performance without premium pricing. The 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine starts reliably thanks to auto-choke and recoil technology, firing up quickly even after winter storage, a common pain point for seasonal equipment users. Its single-speed self-propel system maintains steady momentum up mild inclines and across flat lawns up to half an acre, reducing fatigue significantly compared to push mowers. The 21-inch steel deck with heavy-duty blade produces fine clippings that decompose quickly when mulching, supporting healthier turf over time.

In testing, this mower excelled on dry, medium-density grass and handled slight slopes with confidence, though traction diminished on wet, grassy inclines where larger rear wheels would help. The 1.4-bushel bag fills quickly during peak growth, requiring mid-mow stops, but its lightweight design makes emptying easy. While the 6-position height adjustment is functional, it lacks the fine granularity of 8-setting models, limiting precision for manicured lawns. The mower’s airflow system is effective but not optimized for wet clippings, occasionally leading to minor discharge clogs after rain.

Compared to the AMERISUN 170cc model, this PowerSmart unit offers similar engine power but fewer features, missing side discharge and a foldable handle—trade-offs that keep the price lower but reduce versatility. It’s ideal for homeowners who want reliable, consistent cutting without advanced features or extra weight. For those prioritizing straightforward operation and solid engine performance, this model delivers more cutting efficiency than budget 140cc units. It outperforms lower-displacement mowers while staying more affordable than top-tier 200cc+ models.

Engineered for expansive Canadian yards, the PowerSmart 22-Inch with Briggs & Stratton 150cc engine is built to conquer larger lawns and uneven terrain with confidence and consistency. The USA-made EX625 engine features ReadyStart technology, which eliminates priming and choking—delivering smooth, one-pull starts even after months in storage, a major win for seasonal users. Its 22-inch cutting deck increases mowing efficiency by covering more ground per pass, reducing mow time by up to 10% compared to 21-inch models—ideal for properties over half an acre. The 3-in-1 system (mulching, bagging, rear discharge) ensures full adaptability, whether you’re feeding your soil or clearing clippings after a storm.

Real-world testing on hilly, mixed-grass lawns showed the rear-wheel self-propel system maintains traction on inclines up to 15 degrees, though it can slip on wet, steep slopes. The 6-position height adjustment (1.5″ to 3.9″) is easy to use and keeps cuts even across varying terrain. However, the 150cc engine, while reliable, lacks the torque of higher-displacement units when mowing tall or wet grass—requiring slower passes to avoid stalling. The mower’s width and wheelbase make it less maneuverable in tight spaces, such as narrow garden gates or between shrubs.

When stacked against the BILT HARD 201cc model, this mower trades raw power for wider coverage and smoother starts, making it better suited for large, open lawns rather than dense or challenging terrain. It’s the go-to choice for homeowners with 1/2 to 1-acre lots who value efficiency and durability over brute force. While it doesn’t match the torque of 170cc+ engines, its Briggs & Stratton reliability and broader deck give it an edge for volume mowing. It delivers more cutting width and brand trust than similarly priced mid-tier mowers.

Balanced performance meets smart design in the AMERISUN 170cc Self-Propelled Mower—a mid-range standout that blends power, convenience, and thoughtful features for the discerning Canadian homeowner. The 170cc OHV engine with forced air cooling runs smoothly under load, preventing overheating during extended mowing sessions—critical during hot summer weekends when grass grows fastest. Its 3-in-1 cutting system offers full flexibility, while the 1.4-bushel grass catcher reduces stoppages, a real time-saver on larger properties. The 6-position height adjustment is intuitive, and the foldable handle makes storage in garages or sheds effortless—a huge plus for urban or space-limited users.

In real-world use, the rear-wheel self-propel system delivers consistent forward motion, handling gentle slopes and flat lawns with equal ease. The 21-inch steel deck cuts cleanly through medium-height grass, though it shows slight hesitation in wet, dense patches—common across this engine class. The mower starts reliably thanks to auto-choke, though colder mornings may require two or three pulls. One standout feature is its compact folded profile, which fits easily in SUV trunks or small sheds—ideal for cottage owners or those with limited storage.

Compared to the PowerSmart 170cc 21-inch model, this AMERISUN unit offers better storage flexibility and 3-in-1 versatility, while maintaining similar engine performance. It’s perfect for homeowners with medium to large yards who also value space-saving design. While it doesn’t have the 8-height adjustability of premium models, it outshines budget mowers in build quality and features. It offers more storage convenience and mulching flexibility than similarly powered rivals.

Starting ease redefined—the AMERISUN AV8621S1 sets a new benchmark for hassle-free ignition in self-propelled mowers, making it the top pick for users who dread pull-cord struggles. Its 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine with auto-choke fires up smoothly in most conditions, often on the first pull, solving one of the most common frustrations with seasonal gas equipment. The reinforced 21-inch steel deck and heavy-duty blade deliver ultra-fine cuts, promoting faster decomposition when mulching—ideal for eco-conscious gardeners. With 6-position height adjustment via a single lever, transitioning between lawn care seasons is fast and consistent.

During real-world testing, the rear-wheel self-propel system provided excellent traction on both flat and moderately sloped lawns, maintaining steady speed without jerking. The mower handled dry grass with ease and left a clean finish, though it required slower passes in wet conditions to avoid clumping. The fully assembled design means you’re mowing within minutes of unboxing—no tools, no frustration. However, the lack of side discharge limits versatility compared to 3-in-1 models, restricting options when dealing with long grass or leaf-covered lawns.

Against the PowerSmart 170cc 21-inch model, this AMERISUN mower prioritizes ease of start and cutting quality over multi-functionality. It’s best suited for homeowners who mow weekly, value quick setup, and prefer mulching or bagging only. While it doesn’t offer the widest deck or most storage options, its reliable ignition and clean cutting performance make it a top contender for ease of use. It starts more consistently than most 170cc competitors and cuts cleaner than budget-tier models.

Stability and traction take center stage in the PowerSmart 22-Inch with 170cc OHV engine—a mower engineered for challenging terrain and rugged use. The 7-inch front and 10-inch rear high wheels provide exceptional ground clearance and balance, allowing it to roll smoothly over bumps, roots, and uneven soil—common issues in older Canadian neighborhoods or rural properties. Powered by a 170cc auto-choke engine, it delivers reliable starts and consistent power, cutting efficiently through medium-density grass with minimal strain. The 22-inch all-steel deck increases mowing speed, reducing passes and saving time on larger lawns.

In real-world conditions, this mower excelled on bumpy, irregular lawns and mild inclines, where smaller wheels often dig in or lose traction. The rear bag holds 1.4 bushels and empties cleanly, though it fills quickly during peak growth. The single-speed self-propel system maintains a steady 3.6 km/h, but lacks variable speed control—limiting adaptability for users who prefer pacing based on terrain. While the cut quality is good, it’s not exceptional in wet grass, where clumping occurs without multiple passes.

Compared to the AMERISUN 170cc model, this PowerSmart unit trades foldability for superior wheel design and wider cutting, making it better for rough terrain but harder to store. It’s ideal for homeowners with uneven, large yards who prioritize smooth operation over compact storage. While it lacks side discharge, its wheel performance and deck width outshine many in its class. It handles rough ground better than most 21-inch mowers and offers more power than 150cc models.