6 Best Gas Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2025

Revolutionary control meets brute strength in the YARDMAX 22-inch beast that transforms mowing from chore to precision sport. The industry-first CVT transmission lets you dial in your exact walking pace across six seamless speeds, while the 201cc engine chews through thick Kentucky bluegrass like it’s paper. Those aggressive spike-tread tires claw up 15-degree slopes where ordinary mowers spin helplessly, making this the ultimate weapon for challenging terrain.

During testing across varied landscapes, the Maxflow deck technology proved its worth by creating cyclonic airflow that mulches leaves into dime-sized pieces, eliminating the need for fall raking sessions. The 16-gauge stamped steel deck shrugged off hidden rocks and roots that would dent lesser mowers, while the 11-inch rear wheels float over mole hills and sprinkler heads with surprising grace. However, the 3-in-1 system works best in mulching mode – bagging wet grass occasionally clogs the chute, requiring manual clearing.

Serious lawn enthusiasts who battle hills, thick growth, or uneven terrain will find their match here, especially compared to the PowerSmart B0FDJZHWKJ’s simpler fixed-speed drive. While the PowerSmart offers similar cutting width, it lacks the CVT’s infinite adjustability that makes YARDMAX feel like an extension of your body. For properties under 1/4 acre, the YARDMAX’s premium features might feel like overkill, but anyone managing challenging terrain will appreciate the superior traction and control that justifies its position as the best overall gas mower.

Reliable workhorse defines the PowerSmart 22-inch self-propelled mower that balances Briggs & Stratton reliability with user-friendly operation. The 150cc EX625 engine fires up on first pull thanks to ReadyStart technology, while the rear-wheel drive system maintains steady traction across moderate slopes and bumpy terrain. This mower excels at the fundamentals – clean cuts, consistent power, and straightforward operation without overwhelming complexity.

Real-world testing revealed the 22-inch cutting path covers ground efficiently, reducing passes on medium-sized lawns by 10-15% compared to 21-inch models. The 6-position height adjustment (1.5″ to 3.9″) handles everything from scalped Bermuda to lush fescue with equal precision, though the fixed-speed self-propel feels either too fast on tight turns or too slow on open straights. The 1.4-bushel bag fills quickly but empties easily, making it practical for regular maintenance rather than heavy-duty cleanup.

Homeowners seeking proven reliability will appreciate this PowerSmart over the YARDMAX’s complexity, trading CVT sophistication for mechanical simplicity that any family member can operate. Compared to the PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY, this model offers larger cutting width and stronger engine for roughly similar investment. The straightforward design appeals to users who want self-propelled convenience without learning advanced controls, making it the sweet spot for reliable weekly mowing.

Engine excellence takes center stage with the PowerSmart 21-inch self-propelled mower featuring the legendary Briggs & Stratton 140cc powerhouse. This bulletproof engine starts reliably season after season, delivering consistent torque that powers through thick, wet grass without bogging down. The 21-inch steel deck strikes the perfect balance between maneuverability and coverage, making tight cornering around flower beds feel natural while still covering substantial ground.

Field testing across various grass types showed the rear-wheel drive system with 10-inch wheels handles 20-degree slopes confidently, though it works harder than the YARDMAX’s aggressive tread on loose soil. The 3-in-1 versatility switches seamlessly between mulching, bagging, and side discharge, with the mulching blade creating fine clippings that disappear into the lawn within hours. The single-lever height adjustment clicks through six positions smoothly, though taller users might wish for handle height adjustment.

Quality-focused homeowners who prioritize engine longevity over cutting-edge features will find their perfect match here. While it lacks the YARDMAX’s CVT transmission and spike tires, the proven B&S engine offers superior long-term reliability and parts availability. For properties with moderate terrain and homeowners who value mechanical simplicity, this PowerSmart delivers professional-grade engine performance in an accessible package that prioritizes durability over dazzle.

Mid-range mastery defines the AMERISUN 21-inch push mower that delivers surprising capability without premium pricing. The 144cc OHV engine with auto choke eliminates the traditional pull-and-prime dance, firing up reliably even after winter storage. While push-powered rather than self-propelled, the 10-inch rear wheels with 1.5-inch wide tread provide excellent traction that makes this feel lighter than its 75-pound frame suggests.

Testing across varied terrain revealed the 21-inch steel deck handles everything from weekly maintenance cuts to tackling 6-inch overgrowth with surprising authority. The 3-in-1 system works particularly well in side-discharge mode, throwing clippings clear and evenly without clumping issues common in budget mowers. The single-lever height adjustment spans 1.5″ to 3.9″ across six positions, though the mechanism feels slightly less precise than premium competitors.

Budget-conscious homeowners with relatively flat yards will find exceptional value here, especially compared to the PowerSmart B0F2HFVP5M’s similar push design. While both offer 21-inch cutting width and 3-in-1 versatility, the AMERISUN’s wider rear wheels provide better stability on uneven ground. For small to medium lawns where self-propelled features aren’t essential, this mower delivers professional results at a fraction of the cost of premium models.

Budget brilliance shines through the PowerSmart 21-inch push mower that proves affordable doesn’t mean cheap. The 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine with forced air-cooling runs surprisingly cool even during extended sessions, while the lightweight 59-pound frame makes this the easiest mower to maneuver around tight landscaping. This no-frills workhorse focuses on core functionality rather than premium features.

Real-world testing showed the 21-inch steel deck cuts cleanly and evenly, though it works harder in thick grass than the 201cc models. The dual-lever height adjustment actually proves more intuitive than single-lever systems, allowing precise side-to-side leveling that’s impossible with one-handed designs. The 1.4-bushel bag fills efficiently, and the foldable handle reduces storage footprint by 40% compared to fixed-handle competitors.

First-time homeowners and budget-minded buyers will appreciate this PowerSmart’s straightforward reliability over the AMERISUN’s similar price point. While both offer push operation and 21-inch cutting width, the PowerSmart’s lighter weight and trusted B&S engine provide better long-term value. For small yards under 5,000 square feet where simplicity trumps sophistication, this mower delivers professional cutting results without breaking the bank.

Raw power meets precision control in the BILT HARD 21-inch mower featuring a muscular 201cc engine that delivers 9.0 ft-lbs of torque – enough muscle to power through foot-tall weeds without hesitation. The 8-position height adjustment (1.2″ to 3.75″) offers finer granularity than competitors’ 6-position systems, perfect for golf-course enthusiasts who demand exacting standards. This beast of a push mower brings commercial-grade performance to residential lawns.

Testing revealed the 201cc engine maintains consistent blade speed even when mulching dense, wet leaves that would stall lesser machines. The four-wheel synchronized height adjustment ensures perfectly level cuts across uneven terrain, while the 9.5-inch rear wheels with double ball bearings roll smoothly over roots and sprinkler heads. However, the push-only design becomes taxing on larger properties, especially given the engine’s substantial weight.

Power users and perfectionists who prioritize cutting precision over self-propelled convenience will find their ideal match here. Compared to the YARDMAX’s CVT transmission and self-propulsion, the BILT HARD trades ease of use for superior cutting power and height precision. For quarter-acre properties where performance outweighs convenience, this mower delivers commercial-grade results that justify its premium positioning among push mowers.