6 Best Domestic Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2025

This cordless powerhouse redefines what homeowners expect from a budget-friendly electric mower. With a brushless motor spinning at 3200 RPM, the YARDCARE 36V delivers smooth, quiet cutting that slices through thick spring grass without bogging down—perfect for yards up to 1/4 acre. The dual 4.0Ah batteries provide up to 60 minutes of runtime on low, giving you real flexibility for uninterrupted mowing sessions, while the LED display is a game-changer, offering real-time feedback on battery life and system status so you’re never caught off guard mid-lawn.

In real-world testing, the 20” cutting deck paired with an 8-gallon grass bag handled damp morning clippings efficiently, though heavy wet grass required a second pass in mulch mode. The 5-position height adjustment (0.98”–2.56”) lets you fine-tune your cut seasonally, and the mower transitions smoothly over slight bumps and uneven terrain. While it lacks self-propulsion, the lightweight frame makes pushing manageable—though taller users may wish for a higher handle adjustment. It’s best suited for flat to gently rolling lawns under 5,000 sq. ft.

Compared to the Greenworks 40V self-propelled model, this YARDCARE unit trades traction and ease of push for a much lower price and solid core performance. It’s the ideal pick for homeowners seeking reliable, gas-free mowing without frills but with smart touches like the LED screen and dual batteries included. For those prioritizing value and simplicity over automation, this mower delivers exceptional bang for the buck while outperforming many in its class.

Don’t let its compact size fool you—the Litheli U20 Handy+ packs a surprising punch for small-space mowers. With a 3400 RPM motor and 13” cutting deck, it zips through tight gardens, narrow side yards, and even overgrown patches with agility that larger models can’t match. Weighing in at just under 30 lbs, it’s one of the lightest serious mowers on the market, making it a dream for elderly users or those with physical limitations who still want clean, consistent cuts without the strain.

During testing, the mower cleared about 1,300 sq. ft. on a single charge—ideal for postage-stamp lawns or urban backyards—but demanded a recharge halfway through even a modest 0.1-acre lot. The 5-height adjustment (1”–2.5”) worked smoothly, and the 8-gallon bag filled evenly without clogging. The standout feature? The foldable handle and carry handle, which make storage in closets or balconies effortless. However, the 4.0Ah battery only lasts ~15 minutes under heavy load, and while it doubles as a power bank for phones, that’s more novelty than necessity for most.

When stacked against the Greenworks 48V compact model, the Litheli falls short in runtime and deck width but wins on ultra-portability and storage smarts. It’s not built for sprawling lawns, but for apartment dwellers, townhouse owners, or anyone mowing under 1,500 sq. ft., it’s a nimble, no-fuss solution. If you value easy storage and lightweight operation over raw power, this is the most practical mini-mower in the lineup.

Step into the future of effortless lawn care with the Greenworks 40V self-propelled mower—a true game-changer for medium to large yards. Its rear-wheel drive system actively pulls you forward, eliminating the push fatigue that plagues traditional mowers, especially on slopes or thick grass. Powered by a 5.0Ah battery and brushless motor, it delivers up to 45 minutes of torque-rich runtime, maintaining consistent speed even through damp, overgrown turf. The 21” steel deck slices wide swaths, cutting mowing time in half compared to smaller models.

In real-world use, the 7-position single-lever height adjustment made switching between mulching tall fescue and bagging fine Bermuda grass a one-second task. The 3-in-1 system (bag, mulch, rear discharge) offers serious versatility—emptying the 1.4-bushel bag was quick, and mulching left an even, nourishing spread. On uneven terrain, the large front wheels rolled smoothly, though tight turns required some wrist strength. The only hiccup? The battery takes 120 minutes to fully recharge, so back-to-back mowing days mean planning ahead.

Next to the PowerSmart gas model, this Greenworks unit matches it in deck width and self-propulsion but wins on noise, emissions, and instant start—no pull cords or fumes. It’s the premium electric alternative for eco-conscious homeowners with 1/3-acre lots or sloped landscapes. While pricier than basic cordless models, it delivers pro-level performance with zero maintenance, making it the top-tier choice for serious yard care without the gas hassle.

When the grass is high, the yard is vast, and the battery’s dead, the PowerSmart gas mower stands ready to conquer. Fueled by a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, this workhorse starts reliably with a few pulls and powers through thick, tangled growth where electric models would stall. The 21-inch steel deck covers ground fast, making it a top contender for larger lawns over 1/2 acre, while the 6-position height adjustment (1.5”–3.9”) lets you tackle seasonal transitions—from short summer trims to fall cleanup cuts.

On test runs, the self-propelled rear-wheel drive with 10” rear tires provided excellent grip on damp hills and uneven terrain, reducing operator effort significantly. The 3-in-1 system worked flawlessly: bagging filled the 1.4-bushel container evenly, mulching recycled clippings finely, and rear discharge cleared a clean path for fast mowing. However, the engine noise is noticeable—neighbors will hear you—and it requires seasonal maintenance like oil changes and fuel stabilizing. Gas fumes and cold-weather starting can also be minor hassles.

Compared to the Greenworks 40V electric, this PowerSmart model excels in raw power and unlimited runtime—just refill the tank and keep going. It’s the go-to for rural properties, sloped acreage, or areas with unreliable electricity. If you prioritize uninterrupted performance and rugged durability over quiet operation and eco-friendliness, this gas-powered beast is built to last and ready for anything.

The Greenworks 48V 17” mower is the compact king of performance, blending gas-like power with electric convenience in a nimble frame. Running on dual 24V batteries (48V total), it delivers up to 45 minutes of runtime—plenty for small to medium yards—while the brushless motor ensures quiet, vibration-free operation. Its 17” poly deck is both lightweight and rust-resistant, making it ideal for coastal areas or humid climates where steel would corrode.

In practice, the mower handled tight corners and narrow pathways with ease, and the 5-position single-lever height adjustment made quick work of varying grass lengths. The 2-in-1 system (mulch and rear bag) performed cleanly, though the smaller bag required more frequent emptying on dense lawns. The push-button start is instant and reliable, and the vertical storage design cuts footprint by 70%, perfect for cramped garages or sheds. It’s not self-propelled, but the low weight makes pushing easy for most users.

Against the Litheli U20, this Greenworks model offers double the runtime and wider cut while maintaining compact benefits. It’s the sweet spot between size and strength for homeowners with 0.25-acre lots or complex landscapes. While it lacks the 3-in-1 versatility of larger Greenworks models, it maximizes efficiency in a small package, making it the smartest choice for space-conscious mowers who still want serious cutting power.

The MightyMow 40V enters the mid-range arena with serious specs and surprising comfort. Its brushless motor hits 4200 RPM, delivering aggressive cutting power that chews through thick grass without slowing—outpacing many in its class. The 18” deck and 40L grass bag strike a perfect balance between maneuverability and capacity, ideal for yards up to 5,000 sq. ft. But the real win? The 3-level adjustable handle, which lets tall and short users alike find a comfortable, ergonomic posture, reducing back and arm strain over long mows.

Field testing showed consistent performance across dry and slightly damp grass, with up to 40 minutes of runtime on dual 4.0Ah batteries. The 6-position height adjustment (1”–3”) offered more range than most, letting you go shorter in summer or taller in spring. The mower glided smoothly on flat terrain, though the lack of self-propulsion made uphill sections tiring. Battery charging was quick thanks to the dual-port rapid charger, getting both packs ready in under 90 minutes.

Stacked against the YARDCARE 36V, the MightyMow offers wider cut, higher RPM, and better handle adjustability for just $30 more—making it the best value in the mid-tier. It doesn’t have an LED display, but it compensates with superior ergonomics and cutting precision. For homeowners who want near-premium performance without the premium price, this is the most balanced, user-friendly mid-range mower available.