4 Best Petrol Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2025

Effortless speed control and superior traction define the YARDMAX B0B136QPNL, a true standout in the petrol mower landscape. Its industry-leading CVT transmission is nothing short of revolutionary—no gears, no jerky shifts, just seamless acceleration that automatically matches your walking pace. Paired with 11-inch rear spike tires and rear-wheel drive, this mower powers through sloped and uneven terrain like few others, eliminating the frustration of slippage or manual dragging. If you’ve ever battled a balky self-propel system or struggled to maintain consistent cuts on hills, this model erases those pain points with mechanical elegance.

In real-world testing across 0.5-acre mixed terrain—flat sections, damp clay patches, and a 15-degree slope—the YARDMAX delivered clean, uninterrupted mowing with minimal vibration. The 22-inch 16-gauge steel deck handled thick Bermuda grass without bogging down, while the MaxFlow volute deck design ensured clippings were finely mulched or efficiently ejected. At 3.55 inches, the highest cut setting left a pristine, lawn-care-show-ready finish, and the deck cleanout port made post-mow cleanup a 30-second hose blast. However, the mower’s weight (just under 100 lbs) makes it harder to maneuver in tight corners, and the lack of front bagger compatibility limits versatility for those who prefer front-loading collection.

When stacked against the PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY, the YARDMAX trades some simplicity for advanced drivetrain sophistication—ideal for users who value precision over plug-and-play ease. It’s not the lightest or cheapest, but for homeowners with larger, uneven yards who want a smooth, adaptive mow, this is the gold standard. It outperforms mid-range models in traction and cut consistency, offering near-commercial durability in a residential package—a premium experience that justifies its top-tier positioning.

The PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY hits a sweet spot of power and reliability, making it a top contender for homeowners who demand consistent performance without complexity. Powered by a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, known for its smooth ignition and long service life, this mower fires up with minimal pull and maintains steady RPMs even in tall fescue. The 21-inch steel deck covers ground efficiently, reducing passes across medium to large lawns, while the 3-in-1 system—bagging, mulching, rear discharge—offers real flexibility depending on your lawn care goals. If your priority is dependable, no-fuss mowing with a trusted engine brand, this model delivers with quiet confidence.

During testing on a 0.4-acre yard with mixed grass types and occasional damp patches, the mower’s 10-inch rear wheels provided solid grip on a sloped backyard, though it showed slight hesitation on wet, clay-heavy inclines. The single-lever height adjustment made switching between 1.5″ and 3.9″ quick and intuitive, and the 1.4-bushel bag filled evenly without clogging. Mulching performance was solid in dry conditions, though slightly less refined than the YARDMAX’s MaxFlow system. One limitation: the rear discharge chute lacks a deflector, making it less safe for use near walkways or landscaping. Still, for its class, it offers excellent value in durability and ease of use.

Compared to the AMERISUN B0FCFJKD6Q, this PowerSmart model features a more reputable engine brand and smoother self-propel system, justifying its mid-range placement. It’s ideal for users who want a step up from budget mowers but aren’t ready to invest in CVT technology. While it doesn’t have the cutting width or advanced transmission of the YARDMAX, it balances performance, price, and reliability better than most—a dependable workhorse that won’t quit when you need it most.

Don’t let the price fool you—the AMERISUN B0FCFJKD6Q brings serious capability to the budget segment, combining a 144cc OHV engine with auto choke for one-pull starts and consistent power delivery. Its 21-inch steel deck slices through overgrown grass with authority, and the side-discharge option is a game-changer for clearing brushy edges or tall weeds quickly. With oversized 10-inch rear wheels and dual ball bearings, it rolls smoothly over bumpy terrain, making it a rare budget pick that doesn’t feel flimsy or underpowered. For homeowners tired of underperforming entry-level mowers, this model delivers unexpected heft and performance.

In real-world use, the mower handled a neglected 0.3-acre lawn with ease, mulching damp clover and bagging thick rye without stalling. The 1.4-bushel catcher is compact but effective, though it requires more frequent emptying on dense growth days. The side discharge chute is well-placed and safe, but the lack of a mulch plug means you must install a separate kit for optimal mulching—a small annoyance. While it lacks self-propel, the ergonomic handle and lightweight frame (around 75 lbs) make pushing manageable, especially for smaller yards. It’s not built for slopes or daily commercial use, but for weekend warriors with modest acreage, it’s a steal.

Compared to the PowerSmart B0CB9XSR1S, this AMERISUN model offers better wheel size and traction, despite being similarly priced. It’s the ideal pick for those who want maximum value without sacrificing durability, especially if you’re eyeing gas lawn mowers clearance deals. While it doesn’t fold as compactly as some rivals, its ready-out-of-the-box design and rugged steel build make it a practical, no-nonsense choice—a budget mower that behaves like a premium one.

The PowerSmart B0CB9XSR1S is engineered for one thing: space-conscious homeowners who refuse to compromise on power. With a 144cc OHV engine and auto choke, it starts reliably with a single pull, delivering strong cutting performance in a surprisingly compact footprint. The 21-inch heavy-duty blade ensures wide passes, reducing mowing time, while the 3-in-1 steel deck lets you mulch, bag, or side-discharge based on seasonal needs. But where it truly shines is storage—its foldable design saves up to 70% space, making it perfect for urban garages, sheds, or apartment complexes with tight storage. If you’ve ever wrestled with a bulky mower in a cramped garage, this one is a breath of fresh air.

In testing, it handled a 0.25-acre lawn with mixed grass types efficiently, though pushing it on damp, uneven ground required moderate effort due to the lack of self-propel and smaller 8-inch rear wheels. The dual-lever height adjustment (1.5″ to 3.9″) is functional but less intuitive than single-lever systems—each wheel must be adjusted separately, which slows transitions. The 1.4-bushel bag fills quickly in lush conditions, and while mulching is adequate, the airflow isn’t as optimized as in higher-end decks. It’s best suited for flat, small to medium yards where convenience trumps raw power.

Against the AMERISUN B0FCFJKD6Q, this model trades traction and ease of height adjustment for superior space efficiency. It’s not the best for rough terrain or large lawns, but for city dwellers or seasonal users with tidy yards, it’s unmatched in footprint. It delivers core mowing performance in a minimalist package—a smart choice when storage space is as valuable as cutting power.