8 Best Gas Lawn Mowers Under $500 to Buy in 2025

Punchy and purposeful, the YARDMAX 22-inch brings a 201cc engine and 6-speed CVT to a segment where control often lags power. The Select PACE transmission lets you dial speed to your walking pace, making long sessions on flat, sloped, or uneven lawns far less tiring. A 16-gauge, 1-piece steel deck with Maxflow spiral design boosts airflow for stronger mulching, while the 11-inch rear wheels and spike-tread tires bite into tricky turf.

In testing, the YARDMAX maintained pace and traction on mild inclines and wet morning grass where lighter mowers spun. The 22-inch deck covers ground quickly, and the 7-position single-lever height (1.38–3.55 in.) adapts from tight trims to weekly maintenance cuts. Cleanup is painless thanks to the deck cleanout port, though the bigger engine hums louder and adds weight, making tight turns a bit more deliberate.

Against the PowerSmart 21-inch self-propelled models, the YARDMAX feels more muscular and offers finer speed control via CVT, but it’s heavier and less nimble than the lighter PowerSmart push units. Choose it if you prioritize traction, adjustable pace, and durable build for mixed terrain. Compared with the PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY, the YARDMAX offers more torque and speed variability, trading a touch of agility for stronger performance under load.

Compact yet capable, this 20-inch self-propelled mower leans on an efficient 141cc 4-cycle engine and 6-speed RWD drive to simplify yard days. The spike-tread 8’/11′ tires and double ball bearings add surprising grip on damp grass or gravel paths. A 16-gauge stamped deck and volute-spiral airflow enhance mulching in a smaller footprint.

In real use, the variable speed from 0.5–4 mph is ideal for mixed pacing around trees and narrow side yards. The 7-level single-lever height is quick to adjust, and the 50L bagger collects cleanly without clogging in typical suburban growth. Its 20-inch deck means more passes on larger lawns, and the lighter frame can chatter over very rough patches compared to heavier builds.

Versus the YARDMAX, this model prioritizes portability and garage friendliness, trading raw power for easy maneuvering and value. It’s best for small to mid-size lots where storage and lighter handling matter. Compared with PowerSmart’s 21-inch self-propelled (B0F29HN7PY), this mower is more compact with similar traction cues but less cutting width and torque.

The PowerSmart 22-inch self-propelled is a cutting-efficiency play, pairing a 150cc Briggs & Stratton EX625 with a heavy-duty blade for ultra-fine clippings. Its RWD system digs in on slopes better than many peers, and the 3-in-1 setup handles mulching, rear discharge, and bagging with a 1.4-bushel bag. Tool-free assembly gets you mowing fast.

On thick, slightly overgrown grass, it delivers a clean cut in fewer passes, aided by the 22-inch steel deck and 6-position height (1.5–3.9 in.). ReadyStart ignition helps cold starts, and the mower feels planted on uneven ground. It can feel weighty during tight maneuvers, and the bag fills quickly when mulching isn’t ideal.

Against the YARDMAX, the PowerSmart offers a lighter engine and a slightly more nimble feel while keeping a broad cut, though it lacks the YARDMAX’s CVT finesse. It’s a fit for homeowners who want time-saving cuts and consistent B&S reliability. Compared with PowerSmart’s 21-inch value model (B0F29HN7PY), this 22-inch version cuts faster per pass but is a bit heavier.

The SENIX 22-inch self-propelled mower feels confident and composed, driven by a 163cc Briggs & Stratton EXi675 with Prime n Pull start. Its 3-in-1 deck and included 19-gallon bagger support flexible yard routines, and the ergonomic handle reduces fatigue over longer sessions. A built-in washout port makes deck maintenance routine, not a chore.

In practice, the single-speed RWD keeps pace on moderate slopes without hunting for gears, and the 6-position single-lever height (1.25–4 in.) accommodates seasonal shifts. The 8’/11′ wheels roll smoothly on uneven lawns, and the 22-inch deck shortens mowing time. Single-speed propulsion may feel brisk for some users on tight paths, and it’s not as compact in storage as smaller decks.

Compared with the PowerSmart 22-inch (B0FDJZHWKJ), the SENIX brings a slightly stronger engine and a more comfort-focused design, but lacks variable speed. It’s ideal for small to medium yards where straightforward power and tidy deck care matter. Against the YARDMAX, the SENIX is simpler to operate but less customizable in pace.

Balanced and efficient, this PowerSmart 21-inch self-propelled leverages a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine and RWD to deliver trustworthy performance on mixed yards. The 3-in-1 functionality and 1.4-bushel bag streamline cleanup, while 6-position single-lever height (1.5–3.9 in.) keeps the cut consistent. Large 10-inch rear wheels aid traction without adding bulk.

On medium lawns, the 21-inch deck strikes a sweet spot: wide enough to reduce passes, compact enough to snake around landscaping. It starts reliably and holds pace on mild inclines, though very thick, wet grass can slow it compared with 22-inch models. The steel deck feels solid, and transitions between bag/mulch/discharge are quick.

Versus the YARDMAX’s CVT-driven 22-inch, this model is easier to maneuver and store, but a touch less powerful. It’s a strong value self-propelled pick for homeowners who want RWD traction without overkill. Compared to PowerSmart’s 22-inch (B0FDJZHWKJ), it trades raw cutting width for nimbleness and easier handling.

For those who prefer simplicity over drive systems, the AMERISUN 21-inch push mower delivers robust build quality with a 144cc OHV engine and reinforced steel deck. The 3-in-1 setup with a 1.4-bushel catcher keeps clippings under control, and the large 10-inch rear wheels glide over ruts better than typical push mowers. Auto-choke ignition reduces fiddling on start-up days.

In the yard, the 21-inch deck and 6-position height (1.5–3.9 in.) produce clean, even passes on typical weekly growth. The wide 1.5-inch tread and dual ball bearings provide smoother rolling than budget push options, though dense, tall grass will demand more user effort without self-propel. Foldable handles make storage straightforward.

Stacked against PowerSmart’s lightweight push (B0FCFK76X3), AMERISUN feels sturdier and steadier on uneven ground, albeit heavier. It’s a fit for buyers who want a durable push mower that still handles rougher lawns. Compared with the PowerSmart self-propelled (B0F29HN7PY), you trade propulsion for a tougher-feeling chassis.

This PowerSmart 21-inch push mower is light on its feet at about 62 lbs, driven by a 125cc Briggs & Stratton for reliable, fuss-free cuts. The 2-in-1 deck focuses on mulching and side discharge to keep maintenance simple. Safety touches like a start/stop lever and shields are welcome for new homeowners.

In small yards with obstacles, its lightweight frame makes quick pivots and fence-line trimming far easier than heavier competitors. The 6-position height (1.5–3.9 in.) keeps the cut dialed, though very thick or wet grass can bog the smaller engine and require slower pace. Assembly is quick, and storage is painless in tight garages.

Compared with AMERISUN’s push model, this PowerSmart prioritizes maneuverability and ease over brute stability. It’s best for compact lots, townhomes, and anyone seeking a lightweight push mower that’s easy to handle. Versus the PowerSmart self-propelled (B0F29HN7PY), you give up RWD traction but gain simpler control and less weight.

Practical and approachable, this PowerSmart 21-inch push mower uses a 144cc OHV engine with auto choke for straightforward starts and steady cutting. The 3-in-1 system (bag, side discharge, mulch) offers flexibility as lawns change through the season. A 21-inch steel deck and heavy blade help maintain cut quality in weekly growth.

In testing, dual-lever height control (1.5–3.9 in.) is easy to operate, and the foldable design simplifies storage. It pushes well on flat lawns; on slopes, expect more effort versus self-propelled options. The engine copes with thicker patches, but wet, dense grass may require a second pass to maintain finish quality.

Compared with the AMERISUN push mower, this PowerSmart emphasizes easy starts and convenience over oversized wheels and rugged chassis feel. It’s a great choice for small to medium flat yards where simplicity wins. Versus the PowerSmart self-propelled (B0F29HN7PY), you trade traction assistance for a lighter, simpler package.