6 Best 20 Inch Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2025

This cordless powerhouse redefines what you can expect from an electric push mower, delivering gas-like performance without the noise or fumes. At its core is a digital brushless motor paired with SKIL’s PWR CORE 40 6.0Ah battery, which wraps each lithium cell in cooling material—a rare engineering touch that extends runtime by 25% and doubles battery lifespan. The push-button start is instant and reliable, eliminating the frustration of pull cords, while the single-lever seven-position height adjustment makes customizing your cut fast and intuitive. For homeowners tired of gas maintenance and underpowered corded models, this kit offers a seamless, high-efficiency alternative.

In real-world testing across mixed terrain—thick fescue, damp Bermuda, and slightly uneven lawns—the mower handled up to half an acre on a single charge, thanks to the robust 6.0Ah battery. The 20-inch steel deck cut cleanly through 4-inch grass without bogging down, and the IPX4-rated weather resistance ensured it could be used safely in light morning dew or unexpected drizzles. Mulching performance was excellent, finely chopping clippings for quick decomposition, while rear bagging remained efficient even when nearly full. However, on slopes over 15 degrees, the lack of self-propulsion made pushing noticeably harder, revealing its main limitation: it’s built for flat, compact yards, not hilly landscapes.

Positioned against other cordless mowers like the Greenworks 48V dual-battery model, the SKIL stands out with its superior thermal management and longer battery life, though it lacks side discharge and turbo modes. It’s a more refined, durable option than budget corded models like the CRAFTSMAN CMEMW213, trading infinite runtime for zero cords and far quieter operation. Ideal for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who value long-term reliability and included accessories, this mower delivers premium features in a complete package. It matches the Greenworks 48V model in price but offers better battery tech and a more intuitive user experience.

If you’re after raw power without breaking the bank, this corded workhorse delivers relentless cutting performance with zero battery anxiety. The 13-amp motor spins a 20-inch deck with serious torque, slicing through overgrown grass and wet patches that would stall weaker mowers. Its standout feature? A winged blade design that boosts airflow and cutting efficiency—something most budget mowers skip. With three-in-one functionality (bagging, mulching, and side discharge), it offers surprising versatility for the price, making it a smart pick for those who want flexibility without complexity.

During testing on a 0.3-acre lawn with mixed grass types, the mower powered through without hesitation, though the 60-foot power cord required frequent outlet changes—about every 8–10 minutes. The easy-fold handle made garage storage simple, and the ergonomic grip reduced arm fatigue over long sessions. On dense patches, the blade stayed sharp and aggressive, though the lack of a blade brake meant the motor kept spinning after release. While the three-year warranty adds peace of mind, the cord itself was a tangle-prone weak link, occasionally tripping on roots or getting caught on sprinkler heads.

Compared to the SKIL 40V or Greenworks 48V models, this CRAFTSMAN trades portability and modern convenience for uninterrupted power and lower cost. It outperforms manual and lower-voltage cordless mowers in sustained cutting but loses points for mobility and setup time. It’s best suited for urban and suburban homeowners with small, flat lawns near accessible outlets and a need for dependable, no-fuss mowing. While it can’t match the freedom of cordless models, it offers more cutting muscle than any battery-powered mower at half the price.

This eco-conscious classic proves that sometimes, less is more—delivering a clean, quiet, and chemical-free mowing experience powered entirely by your stride. The five-blade heat-treated alloy steel reel spins with precision, creating a scissor-like cut that’s healthier for grass than rotary mowers, reducing fraying and browning. With tool-free assembly and a quick-snap height adjustment (1–3 inches), it’s ready to use in minutes and adapts easily to different grass types. For environmentally aware homeowners or those in noise-sensitive neighborhoods, this zero-emission reel mower is a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively.

On short, dry grass under 3.5 inches, the Scotts 2000-20S glided smoothly, producing a golf-course-quality finish with minimal effort. The dual 10-inch tracking wheels provided excellent stability, even on slight slopes, and the cushioned ergonomic handle made 30-minute sessions comfortable. However, in tall, wet, or tangled grass, the reel struggled, requiring multiple passes and extra leg power. It’s not designed for overgrown lawns or thick weeds—pushing becomes strenuous, and clogging is common. There’s no bag included, so you’ll need to rake or leave clippings behind.

When stacked against motorized models like the SKIL or Greenworks, the Scotts is in a different league: it’s lighter, quieter, and infinitely greener, but demands more physical effort. It’s the ideal companion for small, well-maintained lawns under 0.25 acres where precision and sustainability matter more than speed. While it can’t compete with electric models on power, it outshines them in simplicity, longevity, and environmental impact—perfect for eco-minimalists who don’t mind a little exercise with their yard work.

This dual-battery beast brings gas-rivaling torque and runtime to the cordless lawn care world, making it a top contender for homeowners who refuse to compromise. By combining two 24V 4.0Ah batteries into a 48V system, Greenworks delivers exceptional power that handles thick grass and damp conditions with ease. The brushless motor not only boosts efficiency and lifespan but also runs noticeably quieter than comparable models. Add in a built-in LED headlight and turbo button for leaf pickup, and you’ve got a mower that’s as intelligent as it is powerful—perfect for early morning or late evening mowing.

In real-world use, the dual 4.0Ah batteries delivered up to 45 minutes of continuous runtime, enough to cover three-quarters of an acre under average conditions. The 4-in-1 functionality (mulch, bag, side discharge, and turbo) gives unmatched versatility, allowing you to switch modes based on season and grass type. The steel 20-inch deck felt sturdy and resistant to dents, and the rear bag emptied cleanly without clogging. However, the mower is on the heavier side, and without self-propulsion, pushing it on uneven terrain became tiring over time. The dual-port charger is a major plus, but the batteries take about 90 minutes to fully recharge.

Compared to the SKIL 40V model, this Greenworks offers more features and longer runtime, but with a slightly bulkier design and no IPX4 weather resistance. It’s better suited for small to medium yards with varied mowing needs—think leaf-heavy fall lawns or mixed grass types. While the SKIL wins on battery longevity tech, this model offers more power and flexibility, making it the smarter pick for those who want one mower to handle mulching, bagging, and seasonal debris. It’s a feature-packed performer that justifies its premium tag.

This self-propelled game-changer eliminates the biggest pain point of electric mowing: physical strain. With rear-wheel drive and self-propulsion, it pulls itself forward with confidence, making it ideal for larger or uneven yards where pushing becomes exhausting. The 21-inch steel deck covers more ground per pass than most 20-inch models, while the brushless motor delivers smooth, quiet power that outlasts brushed alternatives. Backed by a 5.0Ah battery, it offers up to 45 minutes of runtime, and the single-lever 7-position height adjustment makes changing cut levels effortless. For anyone with knee issues, a sloped yard, or just a desire to mow with less sweat, this mower is a revelation.

Field testing on a 0.5-acre yard with rolling terrain showed the self-propel system excelled on inclines, maintaining consistent speed without bogging down. The rear bag collected clippings efficiently, and mulching left no visible residue. The vertical storage design saves 70% space, a huge plus for compact garages. However, the front wheels are only 8 inches, which occasionally caused snagging on uneven edges or garden borders. While the mower starts instantly and requires no gas or oil, the lack of side discharge in 3-in-1 mode limits versatility compared to the dual-battery Greenworks model.

When compared to the SKIL 40V push mower, this Greenworks model trades some deck precision for self-propulsion and wider coverage. It’s heavier and slightly more complex, but the effortless operation makes it worth it for larger lawns. It’s the clear choice for homeowners with medium to large yards who value ease of use and long-term durability. While it matches the SKIL in price, it delivers better ergonomics and terrain handling, making it the superior investment for those who mow frequently or struggle with physical exertion.

Don’t let its size fool you—this compact dynamo packs a surprising punch for small-space mowing, blending portability with gas-like performance. The 19-inch steel deck may be smaller than competitors, but it’s perfectly sized for tight yards, narrow gates, or apartment complexes where maneuverability matters most. Powered by a 40V 4.0Ah battery, it delivers up to 30 minutes of runtime—enough for lawns up to 0.25 acres—and the brushless motor ensures quiet, efficient operation with minimal wear. The single-lever 7-position height adjustment is smooth and intuitive, and the 2-in-1 mulch and side discharge system adds versatility without bulk.

In practice, the mower zipped through small suburban lawns with ease, fitting neatly into closets thanks to its foldable handle and compact footprint. It handled standard grass heights without strain, though thick patches reduced runtime to about 20 minutes. The push-button start was instant, and the low maintenance (no gas, no oil) made upkeep a breeze. However, the shorter runtime and smaller deck mean more passes on larger lawns, and the lack of a rear bag option limits cleanup flexibility. It’s not built for heavy-duty mowing, but for quick, quiet touch-ups, it’s ideal.

Compared to the larger Greenworks 21″ self-propelled model, this compact version sacrifices deck width and self-propulsion for lightweight agility and space-saving design. It’s a smarter fit for condos, townhomes, or secondary mowers than for full-acre properties. While it can’t match the runtime of the 48V dual-battery model, it’s more than sufficient for light, frequent mowing. For urban dwellers or those with minimal grass, this mower offers the perfect balance of power, portability, and simplicity—a no-fuss solution that gets the job done without dominating your garage.