8 Best Walk Behind Lawn Mowers Under $400 (2025 Guide)

The YARDMAX 22-inch Select PACE lands with a confident punch thanks to its 201cc engine and 6-speed CVT drive that tracks your walking pace. The high-wheel RWD layout (8-inch front, 11-inch rear) grips slopes and uneven lawns with its aggressive spike tread, solving the classic traction slip many mowers face. A heavy-duty 16-gauge, 1-piece steel deck with MaxFlow spiral design keeps airflow strong for mulching while the single-lever height adjuster (1.38–3.55 inches) dials in the finish.

In testing across flat, sloped, and patchy turf, the Select PACE maintained steady propulsion and didn’t bog on thick spring growth. The 22-inch deck covers ground quickly, while double ball-bearing wheels roll smoothly when turning around obstacles. Cleanup is faster than average using the deck cleanout port, and the frame folds for storage. It’s heavier than push-only models, and the CVT’s top speeds may feel brisk for small yards, but control remains predictable.

Against the Greenworks 40V (smaller 16-inch deck) and PowerSmart 21-inch push gas unit, YARDMAX’s self-propelled RWD + CVT combo is the standout for mixed terrain and time savings. You trade a bit of weight and complexity for stronger traction and cutting throughput. Ideal for medium to large yards, mulching-first users, and those who want pace control without fuss. Compared with the budget YARDMAX 170cc push model, this delivers more capability per feature for homeowners prioritizing power, traction, and speed variability.

This YARDMAX 21-inch push mower feels punchy and straightforward, built around a 170cc engine and a sturdy 16-gauge steel deck. For under-400 shoppers, it hits the essentials: seven height settings (1.25–3.75 inches), double ball-bearing wheels, and high rear wheels (11-inch) for stability. The MAXFlow deck keeps air moving for cleaner mulching and bagging in a 2-in-1 package.

On small to medium lawns, it tracks neatly around landscaping and maintains pace without a drive system thanks to its smooth-rolling wheels. The 21-inch blade offers efficient coverage, and the adjustable 3-position handle improves comfort for different users. Assembly is minimal and it folds for storage. It lacks self-propel and a side-discharge mode, and the 2-in-1 setup can fill the bag quickly in heavy spring growth.

Compared with the YARDMAX 22-inch CVT model, this is lighter and simpler but gives up self-propel and a 3-in-1 deck. Against the PowerSmart 21-inch 3-in-1, you gain a more robust-feeling deck and wheel bearings but lose side discharge versatility. Best for homeowners who want a budget-friendly, durable push mower for routine weekly cuts and tidy maneuvering. It undercuts the self-propel YARDMAX in complexity while staying competitive on build quality.

The PowerSmart 21-inch brings 3-in-1 versatility and a practical 144cc OHV engine for buyers who want functionality without overspending. The steel deck and heavy-duty blade deliver a clean cut, while dual-lever height adjustment offers six positions from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. Its foldable design claims up to 70% storage savings, making it friendly for garages and sheds with limited space.

In real use, the mower handles weekly cuts well and benefits from side discharge when tackling overgrown patches. Mulching performance is respectable for a push unit, and bagging is straightforward for tidy finishes. The engine starts reliably with auto choke, though thick, wet grass may require a slower pace. As a push mower, it’s best suited to flat or gently sloped yards.

Compared to the YARDMAX 170cc push, PowerSmart adds side discharge and broader height range but gives up some deck rigidity feel and wheel bearings. Against the YARDMAX CVT self-propel, it’s lighter and simpler but lacks drive assistance and the 22-inch coverage. Ideal for value seekers who want true 3-in-1 cutting and compact storage. It strikes a smart balance of features over the budget YARDMAX without stepping into self-propel pricing territory.

The Greenworks 40V 16-inch cordless mower feels refreshingly quiet and nimble, thanks to a brushless motor and a compact deck. You get up to 45 minutes of runtime on the included 4.0Ah battery, plus a push-button start that eliminates recoil hassles. For small to medium yards, its 2-in-1 mulching and bagging setup and single-lever height control (1.25–3.375 inches) cover most needs.

In practice, the 16-inch deck weaves around beds and tight corners where larger mowers stall. It’s light enough for easy lifting and slopes, and noise stays neighbor-friendly. Performance dips in wet, tall grass—plan for two passes or bagging to maintain airflow. The 120-minute full charge is reasonable, and Greenworks’ ecosystem compatibility is a future-proof perk.

Versus the EWORK 40V 13-inch, Greenworks offers a wider deck and more mature system support, though the EWORK includes two batteries for extended sessions. Compared to gas push options like PowerSmart, you trade raw torque for low maintenance, low noise, and zero emissions. Best for homeowners prioritizing convenience and a smaller footprint. It delivers stronger refinement and cut quality than the EWORK while remaining compact.

The LawnMaster 11A corded mower is lean and reliable, built for no-fuss mowing with 3,300 RPM and a nimble 15-inch deck. It’s genuinely maintenance-light—no gas, no charging—and weighs only 28 pounds, making it easy to carry and store. A 5-position height range (1.4–3 inches) and a 7-gallon bag keep the finish consistent and tidy.

In use, it excels on small, flat lawns where outlet access is simple. The 7.75-inch rear wheels help it pivot around trees and edging while keeping cord management manageable. The narrow deck means more passes, and dense or wet grass can slow it down; however, consistent weekly cuts keep performance snappy.

Stacked against the Greenworks 40V, LawnMaster trades cordless freedom for unlimited runtime and a lighter frame. Compared with gas push mowers, it’s quieter and cleaner but lacks the torque for unruly growth. Perfect for small yards, first-time owners, or those who want plug-and-mow simplicity. It’s the better choice over cordless when you value continuous power and ultra-low upkeep.

BILT HARD’s 20-inch push mower is surprisingly spry, powered by a 144cc OHV engine rated at 3.8 HP, 5.8 ft-lb torque, and 3600 RPM. The primer button simplifies cold starts, while an 8-position, single-lever height system (0.7–3.2 inches) gives precise control over cut. A reinforced deck and double ball-bearing wheels keep it rolling smoothly and cutting evenly.

During testing, it feels light on its feet, making quick work of tight spaces and smaller yards where agility matters. Side discharge is helpful for tall or fast-growing areas, and the ergonomic foam-wrapped handle reduces fatigue on longer sessions. It’s strictly side-discharge out of the box, so bagging or mulching fans will miss that flexibility.

Compared to the PowerSmart 3-in-1, BILT HARD is simpler but lighter and more agile, with a lower minimum cut for tight turf. Against the YARDMAX 170cc push, it offers more granular height control but gives up 2-in-1 capability. Best for small to mid-size yards needing a light gas mower that starts easily and navigates effortlessly. It’s the nimble alternative to heavier 21–22-inch decks in this lineup.

This American Lawn Mower reel model is quiet, clean-cutting, and refreshingly simple with a 20-inch 5-blade cylinder and included grass catcher. The height adjusts from 2 to 3 inches, ideal for cool-season lawns that prefer a slightly higher cut. With no engine, it’s eco-friendly, low maintenance, and offers that scissor-like finish reel enthusiasts love.

On well-kept turf, it glides smoothly and leaves a crisp stripe that rotary blades struggle to match. It’s best for frequent mowing—every 3–5 days in peak season—to prevent clogging in tall or wet grass. The catcher helps keep clippings off hardscapes, though capacity is modest.

Against the LawnMaster corded and Greenworks cordless, the reel mower wins on noise, maintenance, and grass health, but demands more effort and frequent sessions. Compared to gas push units, it’s lighter and neater but not suited for overgrown lawns. Perfect for homeowners chasing a manicured, chemical-free lawn on smaller plots. It delivers a premium finish that electric rotaries can’t replicate at this size.

EWORK’s 40V cordless mower is compact and efficient, pairing a 4500 RPM brushless motor with a 13-inch deck for tight spaces and small yards. Two 20V 4.0Ah batteries provide over 45 minutes of combined runtime, and noise stays around 90 dB, making early-morning cuts more neighbor-friendly. Height adjustment spans 0.98–2.6 inches across five positions, and the 9-gallon bag supports 2-in-1 bagging/mulching.

In the yard, its 20.5 lb bare weight makes uphill pushing and quick turns a breeze. It’s ideal for narrow gates, townhomes, and courtyard lawns where larger decks feel clumsy. Expect to slow down in dense or damp grass; bagging maintains airflow, while mulching works best on dry, weekly cuts.

Compared to the Greenworks 40V 16-inch, EWORK is more portable but sacrifices deck width and height range. Versus corded options like LawnMaster, you gain freedom of movement and quieter operation, though total runtime is capped by batteries. Best for small-yard owners who want cordless convenience in the most maneuverable form factor. It competes on portability while the Greenworks pulls ahead on refinement and cut width.