Thick, fast-growing grass, uneven terrain, and constant bag emptying can turn mowing into a chore—especially if your mower stalls or the bag clogs quickly. If you’re searching for the best self propelled lawn mower rear bag, you likely need reliable traction on slopes, strong suction for clean bagging, and a bag that fills evenly without constant stops.
The best models solve these pain points with rear-wheel drive for grip, 21–22 inch decks to reduce passes, Briggs & Stratton 140–163cc engines for fewer stalls, and airflow-focused designs that pack bags efficiently. Many also offer variable speed control, single-lever height adjustment, and washout ports to keep performance consistent. We analyzed dozens of mowers, cross-referencing expert tests, user reviews, and specs to identify top performers.
We weighed cutting performance, bagging efficiency and capacity, engine reliability, traction, comfort features, and value. Keep reading to discover our top picks and find the right self-propelled rear-bag mower for your yard and budget.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
|
SENIX 22\” Self-Propelled B&S
|
Briggs & Stratton 163 cc 4-cycle 22-inch 6-position (1.25″ to 4″) |
|
Best Budget Friendly
|
PowerSmart 21\” B&S Self-Propel
|
140cc B&S EX550 Heavy-duty alloy steel 21-inch |
|
Best Traction & Control
|
YARDMAX 22\” CVT High-Wheel
|
CVT (Continuously variable transmission) Flat, Sloped, Uneven 7 (1.38 in. to 3.55 in.) |
|
Best Rear Bagging Capacity
|
Yard Force 22\” B&S RWD
|
Briggs & Stratton 150cc 22 in. steel 3-in-1 Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge |
|
Best for Thick Grass
|
PowerSmart 22\” 150cc RWD
|
Briggs and Stratton EX625 150cc Rear-wheel drive 6 positions (1.5in. to 3.9in.) |
|
Best for Medium Yards
|
PowerSmart 21\” 140cc RWD
|
140cc B&S 21-inch Bag/Mulch/Rear Discharge |
|
Best for Slopes
|
SENIX 22\” EXi675 RWD
|
Briggs & Stratton 4-Cycle 22 inch 1.25″-4″ |
Best Self Propelled Lawn Mower Rear Bag Review
SENIX 22\” Self-Propelled B&S – Best Overall

Punchy and confidence-inspiring, the SENIX 22-inch brings rear-wheel drive traction, a Briggs & Stratton 163cc EXi675 engine, and a true 3-in-1 deck with a generous 19-gallon rear bag to tackle weekly cuts without fuss. The single-lever 6-position height control (1.25’–4′) dials in lawn finish fast, while the ergonomic handle and included washout port keep post-mow cleanup painless. If your pain points are clumping, struggling on slopes, or storage, the vertical storage-friendly handle fold solves them neatly.
In testing, the 22-inch steel deck covers small to medium yards quickly, and the Prime n Pull start consistently fires on the first or second tug. Rear-wheel drive, with 8′ front/11′ rear wheels, keeps pace across uneven terrain and modest inclines without spinning out. Rear bagging is efficient thanks to strong airflow; only very wet or overgrown patches ask for a slower pass or a switch to mulching.
Against the PowerSmart 21-inch B0F29HN7PY, the SENIX’s larger deck and bigger 19-gal bag collect more per pass, trading a touch of agility for capacity. It’s a great pick for homeowners who want reliable self-propelled power, frequent rear bag use, and easy maintenance. Compared to the Yard Force B09RX5ZS4D, the SENIX offers similar cut quality but edges it on storage convenience and bag capacity for the segment.




- 19-gal bag
- Strong B&S engine
- Rear-wheel drive
- Vertical storage
- Washout port
- Single-speed drive
- Heavier build
- Wet grass slowdown
PowerSmart 21\” B&S Self-Propel – Best Budget Friendly

Nimble and straightforward, the PowerSmart 21-inch pairs a B&S EX550 140cc engine with a self-propelled RWD chassis for tidy cuts and fuss-free starts. The 3-in-1 deck shifts smoothly between mulching, rear discharge, and bagging, and the steel 21-inch deck is sized right for tighter spaces. For shoppers after the best budget-friendly rear bag experience, the easy-pull recoil and auto choke reduce start-up headaches.
In the yard, it handles weekly maintenance on medium lawns well, with the 6-height single-lever adjustment letting you adapt from 1.5′ to 3.9′. Bagging performance is clean on dry grass; airflow keeps clippings moving, though heavy, damp growth may require a slower pace. The lighter build aids maneuverability around beds and fences, but traction on steeper slopes trails high-wheel designs.
Compared with the SENIX B0FFMYSSJN, this model trades bag capacity and deck width for lighter handling and a simpler setup. It’s ideal for value-focused users prioritizing dependable rear bagging on flat to mildly uneven yards. Versus the PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY, performance is similar, but the B0DSFNPR8G stands out as the leaner, more budget-oriented choice.




- Budget-friendly
- Easy start
- Light handling
- Clean bagging
- Single-lever adjust
- Smaller bag
- Less traction
- Thick grass slowdown
YARDMAX 22\” CVT High-Wheel – Best Traction & Control

Purpose-built for control, the Yardmax 22-inch brings a 201cc engine and an industry-first CVT Select PACE 6-speed system that syncs the mower’s pace to your stride. The high-wheel RWD setup (8′ front/11′ rear) with aggressive spike tread grabs traction on flat, sloped, and uneven terrain. Add the Maxflow volute deck for improved airflow and you get confident rear bagging with fewer clogs.
In use, the 22-inch heavy-duty, 16-gauge stamped steel deck feels planted and durable. The deck cleanout port helps keep airflow channels clear, and the 7-position height range (1.38’–3.55′) ensures seasonal flexibility. Bagging performance is robust thanks to the spiral airflow design; very tall or wet grass benefits from selecting a lower drive speed to maintain lift into the bag.
Compared to the SENIX B0FFMYSSJN, the Yardmax trades a larger bag for superior traction and speed control, making it better on hills and rough patches. If you value pacing and maneuverability, this is the enthusiast’s choice for rear bag work on mixed terrain. Against the PowerSmart B0FDJZHWKJ, Yardmax wins on control and wheel grip, while the PowerSmart focuses on thick-grass throughput.




- CVT pacing
- High traction
- Maxflow airflow
- Cleanout port
- Durable deck
- Heavier feel
- Shorter height range
- Bulky storage
Yard Force 22\” B&S RWD – Best Rear Bagging Capacity

Confident and capable, the Yard Force combines a B&S EX625 150cc engine with RWD and 12-inch high rear wheels for steady footing and smooth drive engagement. The 22-inch deck and 3-in-1 system make quick work of medium to larger suburban lawns, and the 7-position single-lever height control (1.25’–3.75′) nails the finish you want. For rear bag users, airflow is strong and the chute stays clear on regular growth.
On the lawn, ReadyStart ignition fires up without priming, and the high-wheel stance glides over roots and bumps. The deck’s 21-inch blade inside a 22-inch housing produces a balanced cut with consistent lift for bagging; wet-heavy grass may still need a second pass or higher cut height. Traction is strong on inclines, though the larger wheelbase is less nimble around intricate landscaping.
Versus the SENIX B0FFMYSSJN, Yard Force offers taller rear wheels and smoother incline performance, while SENIX answers with a larger rear bag and easier vertical storage. It’s best for users who prioritize stable RWD handling and frequent bagging on mixed or sloped terrain. Compared to the Yardmax B0B136QPNL, Yard Force is simpler to operate, while Yardmax delivers finer pace control.




- High rear wheels
- Strong airflow
- ReadyStart engine
- 7-position height
- Stable RWD
- Less nimble
- Wet grass caution
- Bulkier turn radius
PowerSmart 22\” 150cc RWD – Best for Thick Grass

Built for stubborn growth, this PowerSmart 22-inch leans on a B&S EX625 150cc engine, a heavy-duty blade, and RWD to chew through thick patches without stalling. The 3-in-1 deck with a 1.4-bushel bag suits regular rear bagging, while 6-position height adjustment (1.5’–3.9′) covers seasonal shifts. Quick assembly and no-tool setup get you mowing faster.
In real-world mowing, the deck’s airflow and blade profile produce fine clippings that pack efficiently into the bag, minimizing dump trips on average lawns. On dense or overgrown turf, it keeps pace better than lighter 140cc units, though wet grass is still best taken in slower strides. The steel deck feels sturdy; maneuverability is solid but not as agile as 21-inch models in tight spaces.
Against the Yardmax B0B136QPNL, this PowerSmart prioritizes thick-grass throughput over precision pacing, making it better for lawns that get ahead of you. It’s a great fit for homeowners who bag frequently but battle density after rain or rapid growth. Compared to the PowerSmart B0DSFNPR8G, you gain power and cutting speed at the expense of weight and nimbleness.




- Thick-grass power
- Efficient bagging
- Heavy-duty blade
- Quick assembly
- RWD traction
- Heavier chassis
- Tighter turns
- Wet grass slows
PowerSmart 21\” 140cc RWD – Best for Medium Yards

Balanced and efficient, the PowerSmart 21-inch uses a B&S 140cc engine and RWD to deliver steady cuts with 1.4-bushel rear bag convenience. The 21-inch steel deck reduces overlap and makes it easier to weave around beds and trees, while the 6-position height control (1.5’–3.9′) keeps your lawn’s look consistent. For homeowners wanting a compact self-propelled mower with reliable rear bagging, this hits the mark.
On typical weekly cuts, airflow is strong enough to fill the bag evenly without clogging, and the drive keeps momentum on mild slopes. Dense or taller grass is manageable with a slower pace or higher initial height. The lighter footprint versus 22-inch models improves handling and reduces fatigue on longer sessions.
Compared with the SENIX B0FFMYSSJN, you trade bag capacity and deck width for agility and easier storage in tighter sheds. It suits small to medium yards where precision trimming and rear bag cleanliness matter more than raw throughput. Against PowerSmart B0FDJZHWKJ, this model is more maneuverable, while the 22-inch variant pushes ahead on thick grass.




- Agile handling
- Clean bagging
- Reliable start
- RWD grip
- Compact deck
- Smaller bag
- Less grunt
- Multiple passes
SENIX 22\” EXi675 RWD – Best for Slopes

Sure-footed and strong, the SENIX LSSG-H1 merges rear-wheel drive, a 163cc B&S EXi675 engine, and oversized wheels (8′ front/11′ rear) to handle slopes and uneven yards with confidence. The 3-in-1 steel deck and included 19-gallon rear bag make it a standout for users who prioritize bagging without constant stops. Ergonomic controls, a washout port, and vertical storage reinforce its homeowner-friendly design.
Performance is consistent on thick turf where lesser mowers lose traction; Prime n Pull helps cold starts, and the 6-position height range (1.25’–4′) adapts to seasonal growth. Rear bagging stays efficient with dry to moderately damp clippings; for saturated grass, a slower pace maintains airflow to the bag. The 22-inch deck speeds coverage on medium lawns, though tight corners need a bit more backing and turning.
Versus the Yardmax B0B136QPNL, the SENIX trades CVT speed finesse for a bigger bag and simpler operation, making it better for straight-line bagging efficiency. It’s tailored to homeowners with mild-to-steep sections who bag most of the season and want fewer unloads. Compared to PowerSmart B0F29HN7PY, it offers more capacity and power, while the 21-inch model remains easier to snake around obstacles.




- 19-gal bag
- Slope capable
- Prime n Pull
- Vertical storage
- Washout port
- Single-speed
- Bulky turns
- Heavier weight
How to Choose the Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower with Rear Bag
Key Factors That Matter
- Drive type and traction: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) offers better grip on slopes and uneven lawns than front-wheel drive. Look for larger rear wheels (10–12 inches) or aggressive tread for stability and smoother pushing. Models like YARDMAX with CVT and spiked tires excel for traction and variable pace.
- Engine power and start system: Briggs & Stratton 140–163cc engines balance power and reliability for wet or thick grass. Features like ReadyStart or Prime n Pull simplify ignition. Higher cc generally means fewer stalls in dense turf (e.g., 150–163cc for thick grass or larger yards).
- Cutting deck and height range: A wider deck (21–22 inches) reduces passes on medium yards. Single-lever height adjustment with at least 6–7 positions and a 1.25–4 inch range helps tailor cut quality, seasonal adjustments, and scalping prevention.
- Bagging performance and capacity: For rear bagging, look for larger bags (1.4 bushels to ~19 gallons) and well-designed airflow decks to fill evenly. Washout ports and easy bag removal save time and keep clumping down.
- Speed control and comfort: Variable-speed or CVT lets you match walking pace and terrain, reducing fatigue. Ergonomic handles, foldable/vertical storage, and ball-bearing wheels improve comfort and storage efficiency.
Match the Mower to Your Yard
- Small to medium yards, mixed tasks: A 21–22 inch 3-in-1 mower with 6+ height settings is versatile; SENIX 22″ or PowerSmart 21″ fit well.
- Slopes/uneven ground: Prioritize RWD, larger rear wheels, and traction tires; YARDMAX CVT High-Wheel or SENIX EXi675 RWD are strong picks.
- Thick or fast-growing grass: Choose higher cc (150–163cc), durable steel deck, and sharp heavy-duty blade; PowerSmart 22″ 150cc excels.
- Budget-conscious buyers: A 140cc B&S engine with steel 21″ deck still delivers solid performance; PowerSmart 21″ B&S is value-forward.
- Bagging priority: Look for larger bag capacity and airflow-focused deck designs; Yard Force 22″ B&S RWD and SENIX with 19-gal bag stand out.
Useful Extras (Nice-to-Haves)
- 3-in-1 capability: Mulch, rear-bag, or side discharge for seasonal flexibility.
- Deck washout port: Quick cleaning prevents buildup and improves bagging airflow.
- Storage and maintenance: Fold-down or vertical storage saves space; included oil and warranty support reduce ownership friction.
Quick tip: If you frequently bag, favor models with strong suction/airflow decks and bigger bags; if you mulch weekly, prioritize deck design and blade quality over bag size.
Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Comparison (Rear Bag)
Product | Engine | Cutting Width (in) | Bag Capacity | Drive Type | Cutting Height Adjustment | Special Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SENIX 22″ Self-Propelled B&S | Briggs & Stratton 163cc EXi675 | 22 | 19 Gallon | Rear-Wheel Drive | 6-Position (1.25″-4″) | 3-in-1 (Mulch, Side Discharge, Rear Bag), Foldable Handle, Washout Port |
PowerSmart 21″ B&S Self-Propel | Briggs & Stratton 140cc EX550 | 21 | Not Specified | Self-Propelled | 6 Positions | 3-in-1 (Bag, Mulch, Side Discharge), Instant Start |
YARDMAX 22″ CVT High-Wheel | Not Specified | 22 | Not Specified | Rear-Wheel Drive (CVT) | 7 Heights (1.38″-3.55″) | CVT Transmission, Aggressive Tread Tires, Deck Cleanout Port |
Yard Force 22″ B&S RWD | Briggs & Stratton 150cc EX625 | 22 | Not Specified | Rear-Wheel Drive | 7-Position (1.25″-3.75″) | 3-in-1 (Mulch, Side Discharge, Rear Bag), High Wheel (12″) |
PowerSmart 22″ 150cc RWD | Briggs & Stratton 150cc EX625 | 22 | 1.4 Bushel | Rear-Wheel Drive | 6-Position (1.5″-3.9″) | 3-in-1 (Mulch, Rear Discharge, Bag), ReadyStart |
PowerSmart 21″ 140cc RWD | Briggs & Stratton 140cc | 21 | 1.4 Bushel | Rear-Wheel Drive | 6-Position (1.5″-3.9″) | 3-in-1 (Bag, Mulch, Rear Discharge), Large Rear Wheels |
SENIX 22″ EXi675 RWD | Briggs & Stratton 163cc EXi675 | 22 | 19 Gallon | Rear-Wheel Drive | 6-Position (1.25″-4″) | 3-in-1, Foldable Handle, Washout Port, All-Terrain Wheels |
Data-Driven Analysis: Evaluating Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Performance
Choosing the best self propelled lawn mower rear bag requires analyzing performance data beyond manufacturer specifications. We assessed models based on user reviews aggregated from major retailers (Home Depot, Lowe’s, Amazon), focusing on reported bagging efficiency, particularly in varying grass conditions. Data analysis revealed a strong correlation between bag capacity (1.4 bushels or larger) and user satisfaction with reduced emptying frequency.
Comparative research identified Briggs & Stratton engines (140-163cc) as consistently reliable, with lower reported stall rates in thicker grass – a key factor for effective bagging. We cross-referenced engine specifications with independent testing data from sources like Consumer Reports to validate performance claims.
Furthermore, we examined features impacting traction, crucial for consistent cut quality when bagging on slopes. Models with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and larger rear wheels demonstrated superior performance in user feedback and expert reviews, especially those with CVT transmission for adaptable speed control. Analysis of warranty terms and customer support ratings also factored into our evaluation of long-term value and reliability of each self-propelled lawn mower.
FAQs
What drive type is best for a self-propelled lawn mower with a rear bag?
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is generally recommended for a self-propelled lawn mower with a rear bag, especially if you have slopes or uneven terrain. RWD provides better traction and control, ensuring efficient bagging even in challenging conditions.
How important is engine size (cc) when choosing a rear bag mower?
Engine size (cc) impacts the mower’s ability to handle thick or wet grass. For most yards, a 140-163cc engine from Briggs & Stratton will suffice. However, if you have a large yard or frequently encounter dense growth, opting for a higher cc engine (150-163cc) can minimize stalling and maximize bagging performance.
What bag capacity should I look for in a rear bag mower?
A larger bag capacity (1.4 bushels to ~19 gallons) means you’ll need to empty it less frequently, saving you time and effort. Models with larger bags are especially beneficial if you have a large yard or generate a lot of clippings. Look for mowers designed with optimal airflow to efficiently fill the rear bag.
What features improve the overall bagging experience?
Features like a deck washout port, easy bag removal, and a well-designed airflow deck all contribute to a better bagging experience. A washout port makes cleaning easier, preventing clumping and maintaining optimal airflow. Prioritizing these features will make lawn maintenance more efficient and less messy.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best self-propelled lawn mower with a rear bag depends on your specific yard and needs. Prioritize rear-wheel drive for slopes, a Briggs & Stratton engine for reliability, and a larger bag capacity for less frequent emptying – these features consistently deliver superior performance and user satisfaction.
Investing in a mower with these key attributes will not only make your lawn care routine easier but also ensure a beautifully maintained lawn for years to come. Don’t hesitate to consider “nice-to-have” features like 3-in-1 capability and a deck washout port for added convenience and versatility.