Mowing the lawn shouldn’t feel like a workout, but heavy gas mowers often make the task exhausting—especially for those with hilly yards or limited storage space. Lightweight gas lawn mowers solve this problem by balancing power with maneuverability, offering easier handling without sacrificing cutting performance. Whether you need a compact push mower for tight spaces or a self-propelled model for slopes, the right lightweight option can make yard maintenance faster and less strenuous.
We evaluated over a dozen models, focusing on engine reliability, cutting efficiency, and user-friendly features like foldable handles and adjustable speeds. Brands like Briggs & Stratton stood out for durability, while rear-wheel-drive systems proved essential for hilly terrain. Below, we break down the top performers based on real-world testing and user feedback to help you find the best fit for your lawn.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
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SENIX Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
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22-inch Briggs & Stratton 163 cc 4-cycle Mulching, side discharge, rear bagging |
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Best Budget Friendly
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Self Propelled 6-Speed Gas Mower
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140cc 4-cycle 16-gauge stamped steel 6-speed control |
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Best for Sloped Yard
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PowerSmart 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
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B&S 140cc 21-inch Bag, Mulch, Rear Discharge |
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Best for Easy Storage
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AMERISUN 21″ Gas Lawn Mower
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144cc 4-stroke 21″ steel Mulching, Side Discharge, Bagging |
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Best Lightweight
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PowerSmart 21″ Gas Push Lawn Mower
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Briggs and Stratton E550 140cc 21-inch steel Mulch, rear discharge, bagging |
Best Lightweight Gas Lawn Mower Review
SENIX Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower – Best Overall

This 22-inch powerhouse redefines what it means to mow with precision and ease. Boasting a Briggs & Stratton 163 cc 4-cycle EXi675 engine, the SENIX LSSG-H2 delivers smooth, consistent power that slices through thick or damp grass without hesitation. The self-propelled front-wheel drive takes the strain out of mowing, making it ideal for users who dread long sessions under the sun—especially across small to medium yards where speed and maneuverability matter. With its 3-in-1 versatility, you can mulch for lawn health, side discharge for speed, or bag clippings cleanly with the included 19-gallon catcher.
In real-world testing, the mower shines on flat and slightly uneven terrain, where the 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels glide effortlessly, reducing resistance and improving control. The 6-position single-lever height adjustment (1.25” to 4”) allows fine-tuned cuts for different grass types—crucial for seasonal changes. While the steel deck handles moisture well, the lack of rear-wheel drive limits traction on wet slopes, and the mower can struggle on tall, overgrown patches if not pre-trimmed. Still, the washout port is a standout feature, simplifying deck cleaning in minutes.
Compared to the PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY, the SENIX model offers a wider 22-inch deck and stronger engine, translating to faster coverage and better performance on dense grass. However, it’s slightly heavier and less nimble on inclines. It’s best suited for homeowners who prioritize cutting efficiency and engine reliability over hill-climbing prowess. For those needing a balance of power and ease, this mower outperforms budget models while offering more cutting width than compact units—a top-tier blend of speed, durability, and versatility.




- 22-inch deck
- 163cc Briggs engine
- 3-in-1 mowing
- Foldable for storage
- Washout port
- Heavier build
- Front-wheel drive
- No variable speed
Self Propelled 6-Speed Gas Mower – Best Budget Friendly

Don’t let its compact 20-inch deck fool you—this budget-friendly beast packs serious agility and smart engineering for smaller yards. The 141cc 4-cycle engine delivers strong, vibration-dampened power, starting easily and maintaining momentum across flat and gently sloped lawns. What sets it apart is the 6-speed variable transmission (0.5–4 mph), letting you match your walking pace exactly—a rare find at this price point. For homeowners tired of being dragged or left behind by rigid self-propel systems, this customizable speed control is a game-changer.
In real-world use, the rear-wheel drive and 11-inch rear tires with spike treads provide impressive grip on damp grass and light inclines. The 7-level single-lever height adjustment offers finer gradation than most competitors, enabling precision cutting from short turf to taller growth. The 50L bagger collects more than average, reducing emptying frequency, though the smaller deck means more passes on larger lawns. The volute-spiral deck enhances mulching, but side discharge can scatter clippings unevenly in windy conditions.
Compared to the PowerSmart B0F3XRZ9ZJ, it offers better speed control and larger rear wheels, but with a narrower cutting path and less brand recognition. It’s not built for expansive estates, but for small to medium yards with varied terrain, it’s a performance standout. Lightweight and packed with features usually seen in pricier units, it delivers premium functionality at a fraction of the cost—making it the smart pick for value-focused buyers who refuse to compromise on control.




- 6-speed control
- Lightweight design
- Rear-wheel drive
- 7 height settings
- 50L bagger
- 20-inch deck
- Smaller cutting width
- Basic brand support
PowerSmart 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower – Best for Sloped Yard

When sloped yards and uneven ground dominate your mowing reality, this PowerSmart model rises to the challenge with confident traction and balanced handling. Equipped with a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, it starts reliably and maintains steady power, even when climbing inclines or cutting through dense grass. The rear-wheel drive system and 10-inch rear wheels are the true stars here—delivering superior grip and stability on hills where front-wheel models often slip or wobble.
In testing, it handled angled lawns with ease, maintaining straight-line control without requiring excessive steering correction. The 21-inch steel deck ensures efficient coverage, while the 3-in-1 functionality gives flexibility: mulch for nutrients, bag for cleanup, or rear discharge for speed. The single-lever 6-position height adjustment (1.5” to 3.9”) is intuitive and durable, though the lack of variable speed means you must adjust your walking rhythm to match the mower’s pace—limiting comfort for some users.
Against the SENIX B0BX7J9H46, it trades engine power for better hill performance and lighter weight, making it more agile on slopes despite a slightly smaller engine. It’s not the most compact, but it’s far more stable than front-drive models on uneven terrain. Perfect for homeowners with undulating or hilly lawns, it combines dependable engineering with real-world adaptability. While it doesn’t offer the widest cut or fastest speed, it excels where other mowers falter—on the incline.




- Rear-wheel drive
- 10” rear wheels
- Hill-ready traction
- 3-in-1 mowing
- B&S engine
- Fixed speed
- No fold-down handle
- Moderate engine power
AMERISUN 21″ Gas Lawn Mower – Best for Easy Storage

For urban lots and tight storage spaces, the AMERISUN 21″ mower is a space-savvy warrior with full-size performance. The 144cc OHV 4-stroke engine with auto choke starts effortlessly—no priming or cord-jerking—making it ideal for users who want “start-and-go” simplicity” without sacrificing power. Its 21-inch reinforced steel deck cuts wide enough to handle medium lawns efficiently, while the 1.4-bushel grass catcher holds plenty before needing a dump. But the real win? Out-of-the-box readiness and foldable frame, allowing immediate use and compact vertical storage in garages or sheds.
In practice, the mower performs well on flat to moderately uneven lawns, with dual ball-bearing axles and 10-inch rear wheels ensuring smooth rolling and reduced strain. The 6-position single-lever height adjustment lets you tailor cuts seasonally, and the 3-in-1 system (mulch, bag, side discharge) adapts to lawn care goals. However, the 7-inch front wheels can dig in on bumpy terrain, and the side discharge chute lacks a deflector, risking uneven clipping scatter.
Versus the PowerSmart B0FCMF796Z, it offers similar engine strength and deck size but wins with auto choke and easier setup. It’s not built for steep hills, but for small to medium yards with storage constraints, it’s unmatched. Lightweight, tool-free, and ready to mow in minutes, it’s a hassle-free solution for convenience-first homeowners—delivering pro-level features in a garage-friendly package.




- Auto choke start
- Foldable design
- Easy assembly
- 1.4-bushel bag
- Compact storage
- 7” front wheels
- Side discharge scatter
- No washout port
PowerSmart 21″ Gas Push Lawn Mower – Best Lightweight

Meet the lightest contender in the 21-inch class—a mower that proves high performance doesn’t require heavy lifting. Powered by a USA-made Briggs & Stratton E550 140cc engine, it delivers quiet, reliable starts with Prime ‘N Pull technology, reducing strain on the user. Its standout trait? Lightweight construction without sacrificing durability, making it perfect for older adults or those with physical limitations who still need full-yard coverage. The foldable design enhances both setup and storage, collapsing into a footprint small enough for cramped garages.
Real-world testing confirmed its ease of use on flat, medium-sized lawns, where the 6-position rear wheel height adjustment provided consistent cut quality. The 21-inch steel deck with superior mulching blade left clippings finely chopped, while the 1.4-bushel bag was simple to attach and empty. However, the lack of large front wheels and basic handle ergonomics made it less stable on rough ground, and it showed signs of bogging down in wet, thick grass.
Compared to the SENIX B0BX7J9H46, it’s noticeably lighter and more compact, but trades engine power and cutting height range for portability. It’s not the strongest on slopes or tall grass, but for easy maneuverability and low physical demand, it’s unmatched. Ideal for small to medium flat yards where effortless operation and storage matter most, it redefines lightweight mowing—proving less weight doesn’t mean less capability.




- Lightweight build
- Easy folding
- Quiet engine
- Simple assembly
- 1.4-bushel bag
- Basic wheel size
- Limited on slopes
- No height front adjust
How to Choose the Right Lightweight Gas Lawn Mower
Choosing the right lightweight gas lawn mower depends on your yard size, terrain, and personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:
Engine Power & Reliability
The engine is the heart of your mower. Look for Briggs & Stratton engines, as they consistently appear in top-rated models (like the PowerSmart and SENIX options). CCs (cubic centimeters) indicate engine power – higher CCs generally mean more power for tackling thicker grass or larger areas. For most residential lawns, 140cc to 163cc is sufficient. A reliable engine translates to easier starting, consistent performance, and a longer lifespan, saving you money and frustration in the long run.
Cutting Deck Size & Versatility
A wider cutting deck (21-inch is common) means fewer passes to mow your lawn, saving you time. However, a wider deck can make the mower less maneuverable in tight spaces. Consider a 3-in-1 mower offering mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging. Mulching returns grass clippings to the lawn as fertilizer, benefiting your lawn’s health. Side discharge is quick for large areas, while rear bagging provides the cleanest finish. The AMERISUN and PowerSmart models offer this flexibility.
Drive System & Terrain
Self-propelled mowers significantly reduce physical effort, especially on hills or larger yards. There are two main types:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Good for generally flat yards, offering good maneuverability. (SENIX)
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Provides superior traction on slopes and uneven terrain. (PowerSmart, Self Propelled 6-Speed)
Consider the wheels size. Larger rear wheels (10-11 inches) improve traction and handling on various surfaces.
Weight & Storage
“Lightweight” is key, but balance it with durability. A lighter mower (like the PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower) is easier to maneuver and store. Foldable handles (AMERISUN, PowerSmart 21-Inch) are a huge plus for compact storage in garages or sheds.
Other features to consider:
- Height Adjustment: Single-lever adjustment (most models) is convenient.
- Bagger Capacity: Larger baggers (19-gallon SENIX) mean fewer stops to empty.
- Warranty: A longer warranty (like the 2-year limited warranty on SENIX) offers peace of mind.
- Washout Port: Makes cleaning the deck easier and prevents rust. (SENIX)
Lightweight Gas Lawn Mower Comparison
Feature | SENIX Self Propelled | PowerSmart (Large Yard) | 6-Speed Self Propelled | PowerSmart (Sloped Yard) | AMERISUN 21″ | PowerSmart 21″ (Lightweight) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Engine | Briggs & Stratton 163cc | 140cc Briggs & Stratton | 140cc | 140cc Briggs & Stratton | 144cc | Briggs & Stratton 140cc |
Cutting Width | 22 inch | 21 inch | 21 inch | 21 inch | 21 inch | 21 inch |
Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | Push | Push |
Cutting Options | 3-in-1 (Mulch, Side Discharge, Bag) | 3-in-1 (Bag, Mulch, Discharge) | 3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag) | 3-in-1 (Bag, Mulch, Discharge) | 3-in-1 (Mulch, Side Discharge, Bag) | 3-in-1 (Mulch, Discharge, Bag) |
Height Adjustment | 6-Position (1.25-4 inch) | 6-Position (1.5-3.9 inch) | 7-Level | 6-Position (1.5-3.9 inch) | 6-Position (1.5-3.9 inch) | 6-Position |
Bag Capacity | 19 Gallon | N/A | 50L | 1.4 Bushel | 1.4 Bushel | 1.4 Bushel |
Wheel Size | 8/11 inch | 10 inch | 8/11 inch | 10 inch | 7/10 inch | N/A |
Special Features | Self-Propelled, Fold-Down Handle | Rear-Wheel Drive, Large Wheels | 6-Speed, Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive, Large Wheels | Easy Storage, Auto Choke | Foldable Design |
Data-Driven Analysis: Evaluating Lightweight Gas Lawn Mowers
Choosing the best lightweight gas lawn mower requires moving beyond feature lists. Our analysis prioritizes data from user reviews, expert rankings (Consumer Reports, Popular Mechanics), and manufacturer specifications. We examined performance data focusing on engine CCs versus reported cutting power, cross-referencing this with user feedback on handling thicker grass.
Comparative analysis of models like PowerSmart, SENIX, and AMERISUN reveals a correlation between engine brand (Briggs & Stratton) and long-term reliability, as evidenced by fewer reported repair issues. We assessed the practicality of features like 3-in-1 capabilities, analyzing user reviews to determine real-world mulch quality and bagger efficiency.
Drive system effectiveness was evaluated by examining customer reports related to hill-climbing ability and maneuverability for both front-wheel and rear-wheel drive lightweight gas lawn mowers. Weight was quantified and compared alongside user feedback on ease of use and storage, with emphasis on models offering foldable handles. Warranty length was also factored in as an indicator of manufacturer confidence and potential longevity of the lawn mower. Ultimately, our recommendations are based on synthesizing these data points to identify the highest-performing options for varied lawn care needs.
FAQs
What size engine (CCs) is best for a lightweight gas lawn mower?
For most residential lawns, a lightweight gas lawn mower with 140cc to 163cc engine is sufficient. Higher CCs offer more power for thicker grass, but aren’t always necessary. Look for reliable brands like Briggs & Stratton to ensure performance.
What does “3-in-1” mean in a lawn mower?
A “3-in-1” mower offers three cutting options: mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging. Mulching returns clippings to the lawn as fertilizer, side discharge is quick for large areas, and rear bagging provides a clean finish.
Are self-propelled mowers worth the extra cost?
Yes, especially if you have a larger yard or hills. Lightweight gas lawn mowers with self-propel reduce physical effort. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) models provide better traction on slopes than front-wheel drive (FWD) options.
How important is the weight of a gas lawn mower?
Weight is a key factor in maneuverability and storage. A lightweight gas lawn mower is easier to push, turn, and store, especially if it has foldable handles. However, don’t sacrifice durability for extreme lightness.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best lightweight gas lawn mower for you depends on your specific lawn and needs. Prioritize engine reliability – Briggs & Stratton consistently stands out – and consider features like a 3-in-1 cutting system and self-propulsion for added convenience and versatility.
Don’t overlook practical aspects like foldable handles for easy storage and a sufficient bagger capacity to minimize interruptions. By carefully weighing these factors and referencing the detailed comparison provided, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a lightweight gas mower that delivers years of efficient and satisfying lawn care.