6 Best Cheap Gas Lawn Mowers of 2025

This workhorse of a budget mower punches far above its weight, delivering serious cutting power and impressive versatility for under $170. The 20-inch blade powered by a 141cc 4-stroke engine slices through thick grass and weeds like a hot knife through butter, while the 3-in-1 discharge system lets you mulch, bag, or side-discharge with tool-free swaps—perfect for homeowners tired of mid-mow cleanups. Its standout feature? The massive 50L grass tank, which means fewer stops to empty and more time conquering overgrown lawns, solving the #1 pain point of frequent bagging interruptions.

In real-world testing, this mower shines on flat to gently sloped yards up to 1/2 acre. The self-propelled drive takes the muscle out of mowing, letting you match its pace with minimal effort, though it lacks variable speed—meaning you’re locked into one forward speed. The big 12-inch rear wheels roll smoothly over uneven terrain and damp grass, but the PVC-wrapped tires can struggle on loose gravel or wet clay. At 2850 RPM, it delivers solid performance, though mulching isn’t as fine as pricier models, and the deck can clog in wet conditions without the cleanout port found on higher-end units.

Compared to the PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY, this model offers similar cutting width and engine size but skips the premium Briggs & Stratton engine and six height settings. Still, for those who want maximum value without sacrificing core performance, this mower is a no-brainer. It’s ideal for DIYers and suburban homeowners with medium-sized lawns who prioritize budget-friendly reliability over boutique features—offering more bang for the buck than nearly any other gas mower in its class.

This precision-engineered performer redefines what you can expect from a mid-range gas mower, blending 6-speed variable control with a rugged 16-gauge steel deck to dominate diverse terrains. The self-propelled rear-wheel drive adapts seamlessly to your stride—from slow edging to brisk mowing—making it a dream on sloped or bumpy yards where most budget mowers falter. Add in the tool-free 3-in-1 system and quick-clean deck port, and you’ve got a mower built for efficiency, solving the frustration of clogged decks and awkward maneuvering.

During testing, the volute-spiral deck design significantly improved mulch distribution, creating a finer cut than competitors in its range. The deep spike-tread tires (8″ front, 11″ rear) bit into wet grass and loose soil without slipping, while the double ball-bearing axles ensured smooth rolling even after repeated use. It handled a 3/4 acre yard with ease, though the 140cc engine shows slight hesitation when tackling tall, wet grass. The foldable handle saves space, but the 50L bagger fills quickly in dense growth, requiring frequent emptying.

When stacked against the YARDMAX B0B136QPNL, it lacks CVT speed control and a wider 22-inch deck, but wins on price and compact storage. For homeowners with undulating lawns or mixed terrain, this mower strikes a sweet balance between advanced features and affordability. It’s the go-to for those who want professional-grade control without the premium price tag—delivering smoother operation and better durability than basic models, all while staying firmly in the mid-tier bracket.

Don’t let its minimalist design fool you—this budget-savvy brute is engineered for raw, reliable performance where frugality meets function. The 144cc 4QL engine delivers a noticeable kick in power, effortlessly powering through thick grass and light brush, making it a standout for first-time homeowners or small-lot mowers tired of underpowered machines stalling mid-row. With a 20-inch cutting width, it covers ground faster than 16-inch models, reducing mow time by nearly 25%—a real win for efficiency-focused users.

In real-world use, the 7″/7″ wheel setup provides surprising stability on flat to moderately uneven lawns, though it lacks self-propulsion, demanding more physical effort on larger properties. The 3-position height adjustment (1.35″–3.15″) is simple but limited—fine for seasonal cuts but not ideal for precise lawn sculpting. It starts reliably with a single pull and runs smoothly, but the absence of a bagger means you’ll need to rake or mulch exclusively, which limits versatility. On damp or overgrown grass, the deck shows a tendency to clog without a cleanout port.

Next to the PowerSmart B0CYZYMTRG, it trades a few inches of cutting width and advanced features for a lower price and lighter build. While it doesn’t offer mulching or side-discharge switching, its 2-year warranty adds peace of mind rare in this segment. Best suited for small yards under 1/3 acre, it’s a no-frills solution for those who want durable, no-nonsense mowing without frills—proving that true value isn’t always about features, but function per dollar.

This premium powerhouse redefines performance for large-property owners, where CVT speed control and a 201cc engine combine to deliver effortless, adaptive mowing across sprawling, uneven landscapes. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a game-changer—smoothly adjusting to your walking pace without gears, eliminating jerky starts and stops, especially on hills. Pair that with the 22-inch MaxFlow deck and heavy-duty 16-gauge steel, and you’ve got a mower built to conquer 1+ acre lawns with fewer passes and superior mulching results.

Field testing revealed exceptional traction on wet slopes and soft soil, thanks to aggressive spike-tread tires and rear-wheel drive. The single-lever 7-height adjustment makes changing cut levels a breeze, while the deck cleanout port simplifies maintenance after mowing wet grass. At full throttle, the 201cc engine powers through tall, dense growth without bogging down—something smaller engines struggle with. However, its bulkier footprint makes storage tighter, and the folding mechanism, while space-saving, feels less stable than rigid frames.

Compared to the PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY, it offers wider cuts, more power, and smoother speed control, but at nearly double the cost. For homeowners with large, challenging yards, this mower is worth the investment. It’s the ultimate high-efficiency machine for those who prioritize long-term durability and professional-grade performance—making it the clear leader in power, precision, and terrain mastery, even if it demands more garage space.

This mulching maestro earns its title with a Briggs & Stratton 140cc engine and 21-inch MaxFlow deck, delivering consistently fine clippings that decompose faster and nourish your lawn like a pro-grade treatment. The 3-in-1 system works flawlessly—switching between bagging, mulching, and rear discharge is tool-free and intuitive—making it ideal for seasonal changes and varying grass conditions. Add in the 6-position single-lever height adjustment, and you’ve got precision control that adapts to everything from spring growth to summer trim.

On test runs, the rear-wheel drive and 10-inch rear wheels provided excellent grip on sloped lawns, reducing slippage even in morning dew. The 1.4-bushel bagger holds more than most in its class, reducing emptying frequency, though it’s not as large as the 50L tanks on other models. The B&S engine starts reliably with minimal pull resistance and runs smoother than generic engines, showing less vibration over long mows. However, the deck can clog in wet conditions without a cleanout port, and the lack of variable speed limits pacing flexibility.

Stacked against the YARDMAX B0B136QPNL, it gives up engine power and CVT control but delivers superior mulching performance at a lower price. For eco-conscious homeowners who mulch regularly and want dependable engine quality, this mower is unmatched. It’s the go-to for medium to large yards where lawn health and long-term reliability matter more than raw speed—offering better mulching and brand trust than budget alternatives, without the premium markup.

This ultra-sleek operator is a masterclass in lightweight efficiency, where a 144cc OHV engine and compact 21-inch deck deliver strong, smooth cuts with minimal effort—perfect for urban yards and older users who value ease over excess power. The auto-choke system ensures one-pull starts every time, eliminating frustrating tugs, while the dual-lever 6-position height adjustment offers surprising precision for a push mower. Its standout feature? The space-saving foldable design, which shrinks storage footprint by 70%—a godsend for garages or sheds with tight clearance.

In real-world use, the 10-inch rear wheels roll smoothly over flat terrain and short grass, though they can dig in on soft soil without self-propel assistance. The 2-in-1 mulch and side-discharge system works well for regular mowing, but lacks rear bagging—limiting use for those who prefer clippings collection. The steel deck resists rust and dampens vibration, but without a cleanout port, wet grass cleanup requires flipping the mower. It excels in small to medium yards under 1/2 acre, where maneuverability and storage trump raw power.

Compared to the SENIX B0F32NCSPX, it offers more height settings, better engine tech, and superior build—but at a higher price. For users who prioritize easy storage, light weight, and consistent starts, this mower is unmatched. It’s the top pick for apartment complexes, townhomes, or second homes where convenience and reliability matter most—delivering better ergonomics and long-term ease than heavier, bulkier models.