6 Best Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mowers of 2025

If you demand precision control and unmatched adaptability across diverse terrains, the YARDMAX 22-inch mower doesn’t just meet expectations—it redefines them. Its industry-leading CVT transmission is a game-changer, allowing seamless speed modulation that syncs perfectly with your walking pace via a 6-speed shift lever. Unlike traditional fixed-gear systems, this Continuously Variable Transmission eliminates jolts and jerks, making it ideal for yards with flat stretches, slopes, or uneven ground. Paired with aggressive spike-tread tires and a heavy-duty 16-gauge steel deck, this mower delivers superior traction and airflow efficiency, solving the common pain points of stalling on inclines and clogging during mulching.

In real-world use, the YARDMAX shines on large, complex lawns where control and durability are paramount. The volute spiral Maxflow deck design enhances airflow, ensuring clean cuts and effective mulching even in thick grass. With 7 cutting heights from 1.38” to 3.55” and a single-lever adjustment system, transitioning between settings is quick and intuitive. The 201cc engine provides ample torque for dense vegetation, while the 11-inch rear wheels and double ball bearings ensure smooth propulsion over bumps and curbs. However, the slightly wider 22-inch deck may limit access in tight spaces, and the lack of front bagger compatibility could be a drawback for users prioritizing front collection.

Positioned as the best overall pick, the YARDMAX outperforms mid-range models like the CRAFTSMAN M215 by offering greater speed flexibility and superior deck engineering. While the CRAFTSMAN has a reliable engine, it lacks the adaptive CVT system and robust rear-wheel traction that make YARDMAX excel on slopes and rough terrain. This mower is ideal for homeowners with medium to large, uneven yards who value precision, longevity, and advanced transmission tech. It delivers a more refined, responsive experience than feature-rich but less dynamically engineered competitors, making it the top-tier choice for performance and innovation.

The CRAFTSMAN M215 enters the ring as a confident mid-tier contender, blending trusted brand engineering with smooth, user-friendly operation. Its 159cc OHV engine with auto choke ensures reliable cold starts—no priming, no guessing—making it a solid pick for weekend warriors who hate pull-cord frustration. The front-wheel drive system offers predictable handling, allowing for easy tipping over obstacles and tight turns around trees or flower beds. With 3-in-1 functionality (mulch, bag, side discharge) and six height settings, it covers the basics thoroughly, addressing the core needs of suburban lawns without overcomplicating the experience.

On test, the M215 handled medium-density grass with ease, though it showed signs of strain when tackling tall, wet patches—typical for its class. The cutting deck performs well on flat terrain, but limited rear wheel size and FWD layout reduce grip on slopes, leading to slight wheel spin on inclines. The dual-lever height adjustment works, but it’s less convenient than single-lever systems found on higher-end models. At 21 inches wide with a durable steel deck, it balances mowing efficiency and maneuverability, but airflow isn’t optimized for mulching like on YARDMAX’s Maxflow design. It’s a dependable daily driver, but not a trailblazer.

When compared to the budget-friendly PowerSmart or the feature-packed BILT HARD, the CRAFTSMAN sits comfortably in the middle—offering brand trust and solid build at the cost of innovation. It lacks the CVT transmission, heavy-duty wheels, or high-torque engine of premium models, but compensates with simplicity and reliability. This mower is best suited for homeowners with flat to gently rolling yards under 1/2 acre who prioritize consistent performance over cutting-edge features. It holds its ground against rivals by delivering a no-nonsense, well-rounded experience, though it doesn’t surpass them in any single category.

For those who want maximum control and customization without paying premium brand prices, the BILT HARD 21-inch mower steps up as the most feature-rich option in the lineup. Its standout trait? An 8-position height adjustment system that lets you fine-tune cuts from 1.2” to 3.75” with a single lever—more precision than nearly any other model here. Backed by a 201cc OHV engine delivering 9.0 ft·lb of torque, it powers through thick grass with authority, while the no-choke, no-primer start system eliminates frustrating pull attempts. The rear-wheel drive and foam-wrapped handle make pushing effortless, especially over long mowing sessions.

In practice, the BILT HARD excels in versatility and user comfort, making it ideal for lawns with varying grass types and seasonal height needs. The wide cutting range supports everything from close summer cuts to taller spring mows, and the 3-in-1 steel deck handles mulching and bagging reliably. However, the single-speed self-propelled system lacks the variable pacing of CVT-equipped models, forcing you to match the mower’s fixed speed. On uneven terrain, the lack of speed control can feel limiting, and the deck’s airflow isn’t as refined as YARDMAX’s Maxflow design, occasionally leading to clumping in wet conditions.

Compared to the AMERISUN or PowerSmart models, the BILT HARD offers more adjustability and stronger engine specs, but trades off some refinement in propulsion and deck performance. It’s a feature-packed workhorse that outguns budget models in torque and customization, yet doesn’t match YARDMAX in intelligent speed adaptation. This mower is perfect for detail-oriented users with medium to large yards who want maximum control over cut height and engine power. It delivers more bang for the buck in specs, though not quite the same finesse in motion.

When your yard climbs hills and hides hidden ruts, the AMERISUN 170cc mower proves it’s built for sloped terrain dominance. Its forced air-cooled engine maintains optimal temperature even when crawling uphill through thick grass, preventing overheating—a common flaw in budget mowers under stress. The rear-wheel drive system delivers superior grip on inclines, while the foldable handle makes storage a breeze for garage-limited users. With six cutting heights (1.5” to 3.9”) and a 21-inch steel deck, it balances coverage and control, making it a smart choice for undulating suburban lawns where stability matters most.

During testing, this mower handled moderate slopes with confidence, thanks to its weight distribution and RWD traction, though it struggled slightly on very steep, wet inclines. The 3-in-1 system works cleanly, especially in bagging mode, where the 1.4-bushel catcher fills evenly. However, the 170cc engine, while reliable, lacks the torque of 201cc models when mowing tall, damp grass—sometimes requiring a second pass. The deck design doesn’t optimize airflow as well as YARDMAX or BILT HARD, leading to minor clogging in mulching mode. Still, for first-time mower owners or those on hilly lots, it’s an accessible, capable performer.

Against the similarly priced PowerSmart, the AMERISUN holds its own with better slope handling and a sturdier feel, but doesn’t match the PowerSmart’s B&S engine reputation for longevity. It’s less feature-rich than the BILT HARD and less refined than YARDMAX, but fills a critical niche: reliable, cool-running performance on hills. Ideal for homeowners with sloped, medium-sized yards, it offers peace of mind when gravity works against you. It may not be the fastest or most powerful, but it’s one of the most dependable climbers in its class.

The PowerSmart 21-inch mower stakes its claim as the best budget-friendly self-propelled option, proving that reliability doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Powered by a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, it inherits a legacy of smooth startups and long-term durability—few brands inspire the same trust in small engines. The rear-wheel drive and 10-inch rear wheels provide surprising grip on uneven ground, making it a stealth performer on bumpy or slightly sloped lawns. With a 21-inch steel deck and 3-in-1 functionality, it delivers wide, efficient cuts and flexible clipping management at a price that undercuts nearly every other model.

In real-world use, the PowerSmart handled standard suburban mowing with ease, though it showed limitations in dense or wet grass, where the smaller engine needed a slower pace. The single-lever height adjustment (1.5” to 3.9”) is convenient, and the 1.4-bushel bag fills evenly, reducing dump frequency. While not as feature-rich as BILT HARD or as advanced as YARDMAX, it avoids major flaws—no hard starts, no wheel slippage on mild slopes, no deck clogs in dry conditions. It’s the kind of mower that just works, day after day, with minimal fuss.

Compared to the AMERISUN at nearly the same price, the PowerSmart wins on brand engine trust and slightly better rear traction, though it lacks forced air cooling. It’s less powerful than 201cc models but more dependable than generic-branded budget mowers. This is the ideal starter mower for first-time homeowners with small to medium flat or gently rolling yards. It may not impress with specs, but it delivers consistent, no-drama performance, making it the smartest value for cost-conscious buyers.

Tailored for large-yard efficiency, the AMERISUN 170cc model with high-velocity cooling is built to cover more ground with fewer passes and less downtime. Its 21-inch steel deck and 1.4-bushel catcher allow extended mowing sessions without constant emptying, a major plus for lawns over 1/2 acre. The forced air-cooling system keeps the 170cc OHV engine running cool during long cuts, preventing the overheating that plagues lesser mowers in midday heat. With 6 height settings and large 10-inch rear wheels, it rolls smoothly over bumps and maintains consistent cut quality across expansive, uneven terrain.

In testing, this mower excelled in open, wide-area mowing, where its stable wheelbase and efficient grass collection shined. The single-lever height adjustment is quick, and the 3-in-1 system handles mulching and bagging with minimal fuss. However, like its sibling model, the engine lacks the punch of 201cc units, requiring slower speeds in tall grass. The deck airflow is functional but not exceptional, occasionally leaving clumps in wet mulching conditions. It’s a workhorse, not a racer—designed for endurance, not aggressive cutting.

Stacked against the BILT HARD, it offers less torque and fewer height options, but better ergonomic design and storage efficiency thanks to its foldable handle. It doesn’t match YARDMAX in speed control or PowerSmart in engine reputation, but it nails the balance of capacity and comfort for big lawns. This mower is perfect for homeowners with large, open yards who prioritize low maintenance, easy storage, and consistent coverage. It trades raw power for reliability and ease, making it the top pick for acreage over agility.