6 Best Residential Lawn Mowers of 2025

This cordless powerhouse redefines what homeowners expect from electric mowers, blending gas-like cutting performance with zero emissions and whisper-quiet operation. With a 17-inch poly deck, dual 4.0Ah batteries, and 48V power, it delivers up to 45 minutes of runtime—enough to tackle small to medium yards without interruption. The single-lever 5-position height adjustment makes customizing your cut effortless, while the 2-in-1 mulching and rear bagging system gives you flexibility depending on lawn conditions.

In real-world testing, the mower glides smoothly over flat terrain and tame slopes, with lightweight maneuverability that makes edging and tight turns a breeze. The rust-resistant polymer deck keeps weight down and prevents corrosion, though it may feel less rugged than steel on rougher lawns. While it handles damp grass well, extremely tall or wet vegetation can strain the motor—best to mow before grass gets out of control. At just under 40 pounds, it’s easy to push, but the lack of self-propulsion means more effort on larger or uneven yards.

Compared to the Greenworks 40V 21” self-propelled model, this one trades cutting width and auto-drive for lower weight and cost, making it ideal for compact suburban lawns under half an acre. It’s a smarter choice than gas mowers for eco-conscious users who want instant push-button starts and zero maintenance. While it doesn’t match the reach of wider-deck models, its 48V dual-battery system offers superior runtime and power consistency compared to lower-voltage competitors.

Step into the future of lawn care with a mower that effortlessly conquers large yards thanks to its 21-inch steel deck, brushless motor, and self-propelled rear-wheel drive. This 40V workhorse delivers up to 45 minutes of runtime on a single 5.0Ah battery—perfect for properties up to ¾ acre—and the 7-position single-lever height adjustment ensures precision across changing grass types and seasons. The 3-in-1 functionality (mulch, side discharge, rear bag) gives you total control over clippings, while the vertical storage design saves 70% space—a godsend for tight garages.

On performance, the brushless motor delivers higher torque and longer lifespan than brushed equivalents, powering through thick or dry grass with minimal strain. The rear-wheel self-propulsion is smooth and responsive, reducing user fatigue on slopes and uneven terrain—ideal for yards with gentle hills or compacted soil. However, in extremely wet conditions or overgrown lawns, it may slow down, requiring slower passes. At just over 60 pounds, it’s heavier than push models but justified by its robust build and automation.

Against the Greenworks 17” push model, this one is clearly built for larger, more demanding lawns, trading portability for greater coverage and less physical effort. It outperforms gas models in ease of use and maintenance, though it can’t run indefinitely like fuel-powered units. For homeowners with medium to large yards who value long-term reliability and eco-friendly operation, this mower strikes a near-perfect balance—offering more intelligent engineering and user-centric features than its gas-powered peers.

When you need raw, uninterrupted power for thick, overgrown grass or sprawling lawns, this gas-powered beast from PowerSmart stands tall—powered by a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine known for smooth starts and long-term reliability. The 21-inch steel deck slices a wide path, drastically cutting mowing time, while the 6-position single-lever height adjustment (1.5” to 3.9”) lets you adapt to seasonal growth with ease. With 3-in-1 functionality (bagging, mulching, rear discharge), you’re never locked into one cleanup method, and the rear-wheel drive with 10-inch wheels delivers rock-solid traction on slopes and uneven terrain.

In real-world use, this mower thrives in challenging conditions—wet grass, tall weeds, and compacted soil—where electric models often stall. There’s no battery anxiety; as long as you’ve got gas, you can keep going. However, it’s noisier and heavier than cordless options, and the engine demands seasonal maintenance like oil changes and spark plug checks. Starting is generally reliable, but cold mornings may require a few extra pulls. The 1.4-bushel bag fills quickly on dense lawns, requiring frequent stops to empty.

Stacked against the Greenworks 40V self-propelled model, this one wins in runtime and raw power, but loses in convenience and environmental impact. It’s the clear pick for off-grid homes, large properties, or users who mow infrequently but face tough grass. While it lacks the quiet, clean operation of electric mowers, its unmatched endurance and rugged performance make it the go-to when battery life just won’t cut it—literally.

Meet the featherweight champion of cordless mowers—35% lighter than conventional models—making it a dream for effortless maneuvering and easy storage. Despite its compact 16-inch deck, it packs a punch with 45 minutes of runtime on a single 4.0Ah battery, powered by a high-efficiency 40V system that mimics gas-like performance. The single-lever 5-position height adjustment (1.25”–3.375”) adapts to varying grass types, while the 2-in-1 mulching and rear bagging system keeps clippings under control—perfect for small to medium lawns up to ½ acre.

On the ground, this mower feels nimble and responsive, ideal for tight yards with flower beds, trees, or fences. The push-button start and whisper-quiet operation (<75dB) make early weekend mowing neighbor-friendly. It handles dry, medium-height grass with ease, but struggles with thick or wet growth, where the smaller deck and lower torque become limiting. While the lightweight design reduces strain, it also means less downward force, occasionally requiring a second pass for a clean cut.

Compared to the Greenworks 17” 48V model, this one is lighter and more compact, but sacrifices deck width and dual-battery runtime. It’s also pricier, which may give buyers pause. Still, for older adults, urban homeowners, or those with smaller yards who prioritize ease of use and quiet, clean operation, this mower delivers exceptional value. It integrates seamlessly with 75+ Greenworks 40V tools, offering a smarter, scalable ecosystem than standalone gas mowers.

Silent, sustainable, and surprisingly effective, this motorless reel mower delivers a scissor-like cut that’s far gentler on grass than spinning blades—promoting healthier lawn growth and cleaner edges. With a 14-inch 5-blade steel reel and 4 cutting heights (1”–2”), it’s tailored for small, flat yards with short to medium grass, offering a precision finish that electric and gas mowers often miss. The hardened steel blades stay sharp longer, and the 10-inch front wheels enhance maneuverability around tight spaces and garden beds.

In testing, it performs best on dry, well-maintained lawns cut weekly—pushing through long or wet grass is nearly impossible, requiring significant physical effort. It’s zero-emission and maintenance-free, with no cords, batteries, or fuel—just occasional blade cleaning and lubrication. However, the lack of self-propulsion and narrow deck means more passes and legwork, especially on uneven terrain where it may skip or bind.

Compared to powered models, this one is not for large or neglected lawns, but it’s a standout for eco-conscious city dwellers, small urban plots, or environmentally sensitive areas. While it can’t compete with electric speed or gas power, its sustainable design and superior cut quality make it ideal for those who mow frequently and value lawn health over speed. It offers far greater value and durability than basic plastic reel mowers, though it demands more user input than any cordless alternative.

Engineered for ultra-compact spaces, this 13-inch powerhouse is the most portable cordless mower in the lineup—perfect for tiny yards, patios, or raised garden beds where larger mowers can’t reach. It delivers 3400 RPM cutting speed and 5 height adjustments (1”–2.5”), allowing precise control over short turf and ornamental grasses. The 8-gallon rear bag collects clippings efficiently, and the folding handle with carry grip makes it easy to store in tight sheds or transport in a car.

Real-world use reveals it’s best suited for small, flat lawns under 1,300 sq. ft., where its 15-minute runtime on a 4.0Ah battery is sufficient. The high-performance motor is quiet and low-maintenance, but the short battery life limits usability for even medium-sized yards. While it cuts medium grass cleanly, it bogs down in thick patches. A standout feature is the battery’s dual use—it can charge phones, tablets, or other Litheli tools, adding unexpected utility beyond mowing.

Against the Greenworks 16” model, this one loses in runtime and deck size, but wins in portability and multi-function battery use. It’s not a primary mower for most homes, but an excellent secondary tool for touch-ups or small properties. For apartment dwellers with small lawns, renters, or hobby gardeners, it offers smart design and surprising versatility—though its limited runtime makes it less capable than full-sized cordless mowers.