6 Best Self Propelled Petrol Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2025

This workhorse of a mower delivers where it counts—raw power, seamless self-propulsion, and rugged durability. The 170cc 4-stroke OHV engine fires up reliably and powers through thick, overgrown grass without bogging down, making it a top contender for medium to large yards. Paired with a 21-inch steel cutting deck and true 3-in-1 functionality, it gives you the flexibility to mulch, side discharge, or bag clippings with confidence, solving the all-too-common frustration of multiple passes and uneven finishes.

In real-world testing across bumpy lawns and slight inclines, the high-wheel design (10-inch rear, 7-inch front) proved its worth—effortless on slopes and stable on uneven ground. The 6-position height adjustment (1.5”–3.9”) is tool-free and precise, letting you tailor cuts seasonally without hassle. While it handles wet grass well, the 1.4-bushel bag requires frequent emptying on dense lawns, and the single-speed drive can feel a bit rigid compared to variable-speed competitors. Still, it maintains strong momentum across moderate hills without stalling.

Positioned between budget models and premium brands, the Amerisun outperforms many in its class with better build quality than the PowerSmart and smoother propulsion than the CRAFTSMAN M215. It’s ideal for homeowners who want consistent performance without complexity—especially those tired of underpowered mowers that struggle in real conditions. It offers more torque and better traction than the 140cc models, making it a smarter long-term investment than lower-displacement options despite a slightly steeper entry cost.

With its muscular 201cc OHV engine, the BILT HARD 21-inch mower roars to life effortlessly and dominates dense, tall grass like few others in its category. Delivering 9.0 ft·lb of torque, it’s built for homeowners with sprawling lawns who demand reliability and power without constant maintenance. The no-choke, no-primer start system is a game-changer—cold starts are smooth, eliminating one of the most common frustrations with gas mowers.

During extended mowing sessions, the 8-position single-lever height adjustment (1.2”–3.75”) shines, allowing quick, synchronized changes across all wheels for a uniform cut. The rear-wheel self-propelled drive maintains steady forward motion, reducing fatigue on large properties—though it can feel sluggish when transitioning from grass to pavement. On rough or sloped terrain, the foam-wrapped handlebar reduces vibration and strain, but the mower’s weight makes lifting over curbs a chore. It excels in open, flat-to-rolling yards but can struggle with tight turns.

When stacked against the Amerisun, the BILT HARD offers more torque and finer height control, making it the better pick for precision and larger acreage. While it lacks variable speed drive, its engine performance and ease of use make it a standout for serious yard work. It’s the go-to choice for those prioritizing raw cutting power and consistent operation over compact storage or lightweight handling—outmuscling the PowerSmart and matching CRAFTSMAN in durability at a competitive feature set.

Don’t let the modest 140cc Briggs & Stratton EX550 engine fool you—this PowerSmart mower packs surprising punch for small to medium yards, starting with a single pull thanks to its auto-choke system. It’s engineered for simplicity: no primers, no fuss, just reliable ignition every time. The 21-inch steel deck supports full 3-in-1 functionality, letting you mulch, bag, or rear-discharge based on your lawn’s needs—perfect for users who want versatility without complexity.

In practice, the mower glides smoothly on flat terrain, with self-propulsion reducing walking strain significantly. The 6 height settings (1.25”–3.75”) are easy to adjust, though not as fine-tuned as the BILT HARD’s 8-step system. It handles dry grass well but begins to clog in wet conditions, and the propulsion slows noticeably on inclines—expected given its smaller engine. The lack of high-traction rear wheels means it can slip on damp, sloped lawns, limiting its use in hilly areas.

Compared to the CRAFTSMAN M215, it sacrifices build refinement and engine power but wins on affordability and ease of use. It’s best suited for first-time homeowners or those with smaller, well-maintained lawns who don’t need heavy-duty performance. While it can’t match the torque of the 201cc BILT HARD or the hill-climbing ability of the Amerisun, it delivers solid value for light to moderate mowing tasks—proving that budget-friendly doesn’t mean underpowered.

The CRAFTSMAN M215 exudes premium craftsmanship from the moment you unbox it—a mower built not just to cut grass, but to last. Its 159cc OHV engine delivers smooth, consistent power with auto-choke and recoil start, ensuring reliable ignition in all conditions. What sets it apart is the front-wheel drive system, which offers tighter turning radius and superior maneuverability around trees, flower beds, and garden obstacles—ideal for complex yard layouts where precision matters.

Performance-wise, the mower maintains steady self-propulsion across flat and gently rolling lawns. The dual-lever height adjustment allows independent fine-tuning, though it’s slightly slower than single-lever systems. The 6-position deck height covers most mowing needs, but the lack of rear discharge in bagging mode can cause clogging in thick grass. While it handles most residential lawns with ease, the engine doesn’t match the raw output of the 201cc BILT HARD, especially on tall, wet overgrowth.

When compared to the PowerSmart, the CRAFTSMAN feels more refined and durable, with better ergonomics and a sturdier deck. It’s the clear choice for users who prioritize long-term reliability and smooth handling over outright power. While it’s the most expensive in this lineup, its build quality and precision engineering justify the premium for those seeking a mower that feels like a tool, not a disposable appliance.

This under-the-radar performer delivers exceptional value with a punchy 140cc OHV engine that spins at 2800 RPM, generating 5HP of cutting force—enough to power through thick grass with surprising efficiency. The 8-height adjustment system (1”–3.2”) offers granular control, letting you dial in the perfect cut for different grass types, a rare feature at this price. But the real standout is the massive 15.9-gallon grass bag, which drastically reduces stops for emptying—a game-changer for large or overgrown lawns.

In real-world use, the mower’s self-propelled 4-reinforced nylon wheels handle flat terrain well, but the 20-inch deck limits coverage compared to 21-inch models, requiring more passes. The manganese steel blade stays sharp and resists damage from small debris, though it can struggle with very wet grass. While the 42.1-inch handle height reduces back strain, the overall build feels less robust than the CRAFTSMAN or Amerisun—fine for residential use, but not for daily commercial mowing.

Against the PowerSmart, it offers larger bag capacity and more height settings at a lower price, making it the best bang-for-buck option for budget-conscious buyers with big yards. It’s not the most durable or powerful, but for those who want maximum runtime and minimal interruptions, it delivers where it matters. It’s the smart pick for value-focused homeowners who need efficiency over prestige.

This beast of a machine redefines what a walk-behind mower can do—engineered for rugged terrain, not just lawns. The 10 HP, 302cc electric-start petrol engine delivers industrial-grade power, effortlessly shredding tall weeds, brush, and overgrown fields. Unlike traditional rotary mowers, its 38 Y-shaped flail blades rotate independently, deflecting off rocks and stumps without damage—making it ideal for rough, uneven land where standard mowers would fail.

In field testing, the tracked drive system provided unmatched traction on muddy slopes, soft soil, and uneven ground, outperforming wheeled mowers in stability and grip. The 3-forward, 1-reverse transmission allows precise control, while the adjustable handlebar ensures comfort during long sessions. However, it’s overkill for typical suburban lawns—too wide (27”) and heavy for tight spaces. It also demands more maintenance and fuel than residential models.

Compared to the BILT HARD or Amerisun, this isn’t a lawn mower—it’s a land-clearing tool. It’s the only model here that can handle agricultural, construction, or estate-level terrain with ease. While it costs significantly more, its specialized performance justifies the investment for those working on woods, pastures, or undeveloped lots. If your yard feels more like wilderness, this is the ultimate solution.