Tackling a mid-size yard can feel like a chore when your mower bogs down in thick grass, struggles on slopes, or leaves a ragged finish. If you’re searching for the best medium sized lawn mower self propelled, you likely want reliable power, easier pacing, and cleaner cuts without the hassle of pushing or constant maintenance. Corded reach, short runtimes, and uneven traction only add to the frustration.
The right self-propelled mower solves these pain points with rear-wheel drive for hills, variable speed to match your stride, 21–22″ decks for efficient coverage, and 3-in-1 systems for mulching, bagging, or side discharge. High-voltage battery models deliver quiet, low-maintenance performance, while gas engines provide sustained power for tougher lawns. We compared performance, runtime/engine strength, cut quality, features, price, and real-world user reviews across leading brands like EGO, Greenworks, YARDMAX, PowerSmart, and SENIX. Keep reading to see our top picks and find the best fit for your yard and budget.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
|
EGO POWER+ LM2134SP-2 21-inch
|
100 minutes 56V 6.0Ah ARC Lithium 21-inch |
|
Best Budget Friendly
|
Greenworks 40V 21-inch SP
|
40V 21″ 45 minutes |
|
Best Cordless Performance
|
Greenworks 80V 21-inch SP
|
80V 21″ Brushless |
|
Best for Hilly Terrain
|
YARDMAX 22-inch 201cc RWD
|
CVT 6-speed 7 positions 16-gauge stamped steel |
|
Best Value Gas
|
PowerSmart 21-inch B&S 140cc
|
140cc B&S 21-inch 3-in-1 (Bag/Mulch/Rear Discharge) |
|
Best Wide Cut
|
SENIX 22-inch 163cc RWD
|
22-inch Briggs & Stratton 163 cc 4-cycle Mulching, side discharge, rear bagging |
|
Best Mid-Range Cordless
|
Greenworks 60V 21-inch SP
|
60V 45Min 2X 4.0Ah |
|
Best Long Runtime
|
EGO POWER+ LM2135SP 21-inch
|
56V 60 minutes 7 positions |
Best Medium Sized Lawn Mower Self Propelled Review
EGO POWER+ LM2134SP-2 21-inch – Best Overall

Explosive cutting confidence—this EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 brings Select Cut multi-blade precision and Touch Drive control to medium-size yards. The 21-inch deck and 8-position height adjustment (1–4 inches) make quick work of mixed grass types, and the dual 56V 6.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries push up to 100 minutes of runtime. The brushless motor stays quiet and low-vibration while still throwing down strong suction for mulching and bagging. If you’re tired of heavy gas mowers and uneven cuts, this solves both with a clean, controlled push.
In testing, it handled thick fescue and damp morning cuts without bogging, especially in mulch mode, and the variable self-propel (0.9–3.1 MPH) keeps pace naturally on flat and gently sloped terrain. The 3-in-1 system transitions smoothly between bagging, mulching, and side discharge; the bag fills evenly thanks to solid airflow. The LED headlights are practical for dusk trimming, and push-button start removes the fuss. It can struggle a bit in very tall, wet grass unless you slow the drive and raise the deck.
Against the Greenworks 60V 21-inch, the EGO LM2134SP-2 wins on sheer runtime and cut adjustability, while Greenworks counters with 4-in-1 versatility and ecosystem value. Compared with the EGO LM2135SP, this dual-battery kit targets users who want extended sessions without swapping packs, trading a touch of simplicity for endurance. Ideal for homeowners seeking a best overall self-propelled cordless mower for medium yards that prioritizes finish quality and controllability; it offers more runtime and refinement than the Greenworks 60V for similar capability.




- Dual-battery runtime
- Select Cut blades
- Touch Drive control
- Quiet brushless
- Strong mulching
- Heavier deck
- Wet-grass slowdown
- Premium ecosystem
Greenworks 40V 21-inch SP – Best Budget Friendly

Punchy and practical, the Greenworks 40V 21-inch self-propelled mower focuses on simplicity and value without ditching core performance. Its brushless motor and steel 21-inch deck give sturdier cut quality than many entry cordless models. The 7-position single-lever height adjust and 3-in-1 (bag/mulch/side discharge) cover common needs for medium lawns. If you want to go cordless on a budget, this checks the boxes with minimal fuss.
Real-world mowing delivered up to around 45 minutes on a 5.0Ah battery—enough for most medium suburban lots with efficient pacing. Rear-wheel drive traction helps on light slopes, and the mower feels steady through mixed Bermuda and rye. Vertical storage is a genuine space saver; push-button starts are instant and quiet. It can taper off in dense, overgrown patches where higher-voltage systems muscle through.
Compared to the EGO LM2134SP-2, this Greenworks 40V trades runtime and torque for a friendlier buy-in and maintenance-free ownership. The Greenworks 60V 21-inch ups power and runtime if you want a mid-range step without going premium. Best for homeowners wanting the best budget friendly self-propelled cordless with a 21-inch deck and a reliable cut; it delivers fewer frills than EGO but remains compelling for everyday mowing.




- Great value
- Vertical storage
- Rear-wheel traction
- Brushless motor
- 3-in-1 versatility
- Shorter runtime
- Less torque
- Thicker grass strain
Greenworks 80V 21-inch SP – Best Cordless Performance

Built for muscle, the Greenworks 80V 21-inch self-propelled mower brings high-voltage punch to medium yards that see fast growth. The brushless motor and steel deck combine for strong lift and consistent cut in mulching and bagging. The variable-speed rear-wheel drive supplies confident traction, while LED lights extend usable hours. If you want cordless performance that feels close to gas, this is the standout.
In testing, a fully charged 4.0Ah pack reliably covers up to about 1/2 acre, though dense or wet grass will trim that figure. The 4-in-1 system (mulch, bag, side discharge, turbo leaf pickup) is useful in spring and fall when debris is heavy. It moves well on gentle slopes and keeps blade speed steady in thicker patches. The single-battery runtime is solid, but extended sessions benefit from a spare pack.
Compared with the Greenworks 40V, the 80V model delivers more torque, better lift, and stronger self-propel feel at the cost of weight and battery cost. The EGO LM2134SP-2 still wins on overall runtime with its dual-battery setup, but Greenworks 80V hits harder per pass and includes the handy turbo leaf pickup. Ideal for users prioritizing cordless performance and fast cutting in medium lawns; it offers more grunt than the Greenworks 60V without the refinement of EGO’s Touch Drive.




- High-voltage power
- 4-in-1 system
- Strong traction
- LED lighting
- Steel deck
- Heavier feel
- Single-pack runtime
- Costlier batteries
YARDMAX 22-inch 201cc RWD – Best for Hilly Terrain

Torque-first and trail-ready, the Yardmax 22-inch brings 201cc gas power with a clever Select PACE 6-speed CVT that matches your stride. The high-wheel RWD (11-inch rear) and aggressive spike tread provide serious grip for slopes and uneven lawns. A heavy-duty 16-gauge steel deck and MaxFlow volute design move clippings efficiently for mulching. If your medium yard includes hills or rough patches, this mower feels planted and purposeful.
On slopes, traction is excellent and steering stays predictable; the double ball-bearing wheels roll smoothly over ruts. The 22-inch deck covers ground quickly, while the 7 height settings (1.38–3.55 inches) dial in cut quality. Bagging airflow is robust, and the deck cleanout port simplifies maintenance. Expect more vibration and noise than cordless, and be ready for routine gas upkeep.
Compared to the PowerSmart 21-inch gas, the Yardmax offers stronger drive control and traction for hilly terrain, trading some refinement for grunt. Against the EGO cordless lineup, Yardmax wins on sustained power on steep slopes but lacks the quiet, low-maintenance benefits. Best for users needing the best for hilly terrain in a medium-sized, self-propelled format; it out-classes the PowerSmart in slope confidence.




- Hill traction
- 6-speed CVT
- 22-inch deck
- Sturdy steel
- Smooth-rolling wheels
- More vibration
- Heavier maintenance
- Louder operation
PowerSmart 21-inch B&S 140cc – Best Value Gas

Dependable and straightforward, the PowerSmart 21-inch leverages a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine for reliable starts and steady cutting. The 21-inch steel deck and rear-wheel drive provide solid traction for medium yards with mild slopes. With 3-in-1 capability and a single-lever height adjust (1.5–3.9 inches), it adapts easily to seasonal growth. For buyers wanting a gas mower that just works, it delivers best value gas utility.
In use, blade speed remains consistent through standard turf, and the larger 10-inch rear wheels help over uneven areas. It bags predictably, mulches well at mid-deck heights, and transitions modes quickly. Noise and vibration are typical for its class, and the smaller engine has less headroom in dense, wet spring growth.
Versus the Yardmax 22-inch, PowerSmart is lighter and simpler but lacks the Yardmax’s CVT pacing and hill-climbing traction. Compared to the Greenworks 40V, it wins in uninterrupted session length and raw push, while sacrificing quiet operation and maintenance ease. Great for homeowners who prefer gas familiarity and need a value-focused self-propelled mower for medium lawns.




- Reliable B&S
- Value-focused
- RWD traction
- Easy adjustments
- 3-in-1 flexibility
- Higher noise
- Less torque
- Routine maintenance
SENIX 22-inch 163cc RWD – Best Wide Cut

Wide and willing, the Senix LSSG-H2 pairs a 22-inch deck with a 163cc Briggs & Stratton EXi675 for dependable cutting across medium yards. The rear-wheel drive variable speed keeps traction steady, while the ergonomic handle and included 19-gallon bagger streamline longer sessions. With 3-in-1 versatility and a washout port, it’s built for frequent use. If you crave broader coverage per pass, this brings best wide cut efficiency.
On test lawns, it handled Saint Augustine and fescue at mid-height with smooth pacing; the 6-position single-lever adjust (1.25–4 inches) gave easy control. The larger bag means fewer stops, and vertical storage helps reclaim garage space. It’s heavier than most cordless options and, like any gas unit, requires routine upkeep.
Against the PowerSmart, the Senix offers a slightly wider deck and stronger engine feel for quicker coverage, trading off a bit more weight. Compared to the Yardmax, Senix is less specialized for steep hills but more balanced for everyday flat-to-uneven yards. Ideal for homeowners who want a 22-inch self-propelled gas mower that cuts time off medium-lawn routines; it covers more area per pass than PowerSmart.




- 22-inch width
- Strong engine
- Large bagger
- Variable RWD
- Washout port
- Heavier body
- Routine upkeep
- Louder cuts
Greenworks 60V 21-inch SP – Best Mid-Range Cordless

Balanced and capable, the Greenworks 60V 21-inch nails the sweet spot of mid-range cordless power and user comfort. Dual 4.0Ah batteries with a rapid dual-port charger keep you mowing with fewer interruptions, and the brushless motor stays quiet and efficient. The 4-in-1 system plus rear-wheel drive traction adapts to seasonal needs. If you want a refined cordless without going premium, this is the comfort pick.
In real-world use, it manages medium lawns with steady pace and consistent blade speed, especially when mulching at mid-height. The LED headlights help with evening touchups, and self-propel with adjustable pace makes slopes less taxing. Runtime per pack varies with grass density, but the two-battery workflow minimizes downtime. Dense, wet growth will still demand slower passes.
Versus the Greenworks 40V, the 60V model adds torque, runtime, and a more premium feel without the heft of the 80V. Against the EGO LM2134SP-2, it cedes maximum runtime and Touch Drive finesse but counters with 4-in-1 versatility and ecosystem breadth. Best for homeowners seeking a best mid-range cordless mower for medium lawns; it offers a strong features-to-performance balance compared to the 40V unit.




- Dual-battery kit
- 4-in-1 modes
- Quiet brushless
- Rear-wheel traction
- LED headlights
- Runtime varies
- Less torque than 80V
- Heavier than 40V
EGO POWER+ LM2135SP 21-inch – Best Long Runtime

Marathon-ready, the EGO LM2135SP prioritizes long runtime with a single 56V 7.5Ah ARC Lithium pack that delivers up to about 60 minutes per charge. The Select Cut multi-blade design sharpens mulching and bagging performance, and Touch Drive lets you modulate self-propel with fingertip control. LED headlights, 0.9–3.1 MPH variable speed, and a 21-inch deck round out a premium cordless experience. It’s built for medium yards that demand finish quality and fewer battery swaps.
In practice, it maintains blade speed reliably through weekly cuts and damp morning grass when you raise the deck a notch. The 3-in-1 system works seamlessly; mulching is particularly clean at mid-height. Push-button start, low vibration, and a high-efficiency brushless motor reduce fatigue over longer sessions. Like most cordless units, very tall, wet grass requires patience and slower pace.
Compared with the EGO LM2134SP-2, the LM2135SP is simpler to manage with one large battery but offers less total session time than the dual-pack kit. Against the Greenworks 60V, EGO offers more polished control and runtime per charge, trading away 4-in-1 leaf turbo. Ideal for homeowners wanting a long-runtime self-propelled cordless mower that keeps performance high with minimal interruptions; it delivers more single-pack endurance than the Greenworks 60V.




- Long runtime
- Select Cut blades
- Touch Drive feel
- Quiet, low-vibe
- Strong mulching
- Tall-wet slowdown
- Heavier chassis
- Single-pack kit
How to Choose a Medium-Sized Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Match Power Source to Yard Size and Terrain
- Battery (40V–80V): Quieter, low maintenance, instant start. Ideal for small–medium yards; higher voltage (60V–80V) handles thicker grass and up to 1/2 acre per charge (e.g., Greenworks 80V, EGO 56V).
- Gas (140cc–201cc): Strong sustained power for tough, overgrown lawns and slopes; expect more noise and maintenance (e.g., YARDMAX 201cc, PowerSmart 140cc, SENIX 163cc).
- What it means for you: Choose high-voltage battery or gas for hilly/rough terrain and larger areas; 40V/60V suits flatter, modest lawns.
Self-Propel Drive and Speed Control
- Rear-wheel drive improves traction on slopes and uneven ground (Greenworks SP models, PowerSmart, YARDMAX).
- Front-wheel drive is easier to pivot and maneuver on flat yards (SENIX).
- Variable-speed or CVT lets you pace the mower to your stride (.9–3.1 MPH on EGO; 6-speed CVT on YARDMAX).
- Benefit: Better control reduces fatigue and produces a more even cut, especially on hills.
Cutting Deck, Height Range, and Cut System
- Deck width 21″–22″ is the sweet spot for medium lawns—balances coverage and maneuverability.
- Height settings: Look for at least 6–8 positions from ~1″ to ~4″ to adjust for season and grass type (EGO 1″–4″, YARDMAX 1.38″–3.55″).
- Multi-blade or airflow tech enhances cut quality and mulching (EGO Select Cut, YARDMAX Maxflow).
- 3-in-1 or 4-in-1: Mulch, bag, side discharge; some add turbo leaf pickup (Greenworks 80V/60V).
- Why it matters: More range and better blade systems improve lawn health and finish.
Runtime, Battery Ecosystem, and Storage
- Battery runtime: 45–100 minutes depending on voltage, Ah, and grass conditions (EGO up to 100 min with dual batteries; 60 min with 7.5Ah).
- Charger speed and included batteries can change real-world productivity (rapid chargers save downtime).
- Ecosystem value: Batteries compatible with other tools add long-term savings (Greenworks 60V/80V, EGO 56V).
- Storage: Vertical-folding designs save garage space (Greenworks vertical storage; several foldable handles).
- Bottom line: Ensure a single charge covers your yard; consider total kit value and storage needs.
Other Useful Features
- Brushless motors for durability and efficiency.
- Steel decks for longevity; aluminum/composite for corrosion resistance and lighter weight.
- LED headlights for dawn/dusk mowing.
- Easy single-lever height adjustment and deck wash ports.
- Larger rear wheels (10″–11″) for smoother rolling on rough ground.
Lawn Mower Comparison: Self-Propelled, Medium Size
Product | Drive Type | Runtime/Power Source | Cutting Width (in.) | Height Adjustment | Mulching/Bagging/Discharge | Special Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EGO POWER+ LM2134SP-2 | Self-Propelled | Up to 100 min (2x 6.0Ah batteries) | 21 | 8 positions (1-4″) | 3-in-1 | Select Cut, Touch Drive, Brushless Motor, LED Headlights |
Greenworks 40V 21-inch SP | Self-Propelled (Rear Wheel) | Up to 45 min (5.0Ah battery) | 21 | 7 positions | 3-in-1 | Brushless Motor, Vertical Storage |
Greenworks 80V 21-inch SP | Self-Propelled (Rear Wheel) | Up to 1/2 acre (4.0Ah battery) | 21 | N/A | 4-in-1 | Brushless Motor, LED Headlight, Turbo Leaf Pickup |
YARDMAX 22-inch 201cc RWD | Self-Propelled (Rear Wheel) | Gas – 201cc | 22 | 7 positions (1.38-3.55″) | N/A | CVT Transmission, Aggressive Tread Tires, Deck Cleanout Port |
PowerSmart 21-inch B&S 140cc | Self-Propelled (Rear Wheel) | Gas – 140cc B&S | 21 | 6 positions (1.5-3.9″) | 3-in-1 | BS Engine, Large Rear Wheels |
SENIX 22-inch 163cc RWD | Self-Propelled (Front Wheel) | Gas – 163cc B&S | 22 | 6 positions (1.25-4″) | 3-in-1 | Fold-Down Handle, Washout Port |
Greenworks 60V 21-inch SP | Self-Propelled (Rear Wheel) | N/A | 21 | N/A | 4-in-1 | LED Headlight, Quiet Operation |
EGO POWER+ LM2135SP 21-inch | Self-Propelled | 60 min (7.5Ah battery) | 21 | 7 positions (1.5-4″) | 3-in-1 | Select Cut, Touch Drive, Brushless Motor, LED Headlights |
Data-Driven Analysis: Evaluating Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
Choosing the best medium sized lawn mower self propelled requires moving beyond marketing claims. Our analysis focuses on comparative data derived from user reviews, expert testing (Consumer Reports, Wirecutter), and manufacturer specifications. We prioritized models aligning with the “medium yard” profile (typically ¼ to ½ acre) as defined in the buying guide.
Key performance indicators (KPIs) included runtime (for battery models), engine displacement (for gas), deck size consistency across stated cutting widths, and user-reported reliability scores. Data from online retailers and forums (Reddit’s r/lawncare) were analyzed for common failure points and long-term ownership costs.
We observed a strong correlation between higher voltage batteries (60V+) and positive user experiences with thicker grass types. Gas-powered lawn mowers consistently outperformed battery options in continuous runtime for larger properties, but with noted increases in maintenance requirements. The buying guide’s recommendations regarding drive type (rear-wheel vs. front-wheel) were validated by terrain-specific user feedback, highlighting rear-wheel drive’s superiority on slopes. We also evaluated the value proposition of multi-tool battery ecosystems (Greenworks, EGO) based on tool availability and battery compatibility data.
FAQs
What size yard is a medium-sized lawn mower best suited for?
A medium-sized lawn mower, particularly a self-propelled model, is ideal for yards ranging from ¼ to ½ acre. The best medium sized lawn mower will depend on the terrain, but this size range balances maneuverability with coverage.
What are the advantages of a self-propelled lawn mower?
Self-propelled lawn mowers reduce operator fatigue, especially on hills or uneven terrain. They provide more consistent cutting speed and can result in a more even finish compared to push mowers.
Should I choose a gas or battery-powered self-propelled mower?
Gas mowers offer more sustained power for tough grass and larger yards, but require more maintenance. Battery mowers are quieter, easier to start, and better for smaller to medium yards with flatter terrain. Consider the size of your yard and your tolerance for maintenance when selecting a lawn mower.
What does “3-in-1” or “4-in-1” mean in relation to lawn mower features?
These refer to the mower’s discharge options: mulching, bagging, side discharge, and sometimes turbo leaf pickup. A 3-in-1 mower offers mulching, bagging, and side discharge, while a 4-in-1 adds the leaf pickup function for enhanced versatility.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, selecting the best medium-sized self-propelled lawn mower hinges on your specific needs and yard conditions. Considering factors like terrain, grass type, and desired features—along with our data-driven comparison—will empower you to make an informed decision and achieve a beautifully maintained lawn.
Investing in a quality mower with the right features not only simplifies yard work but also contributes to a healthier, more vibrant lawn over time. Don’t hesitate to prioritize features like drive type, cutting deck size, and battery ecosystem compatibility to maximize your mowing experience and long-term value.