Best Self-propelled Walk-behind Lawn Mower: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

After countless hours spent testing, cutting, and evaluating on lawns of all types, we’ve found that the days of noisy, fume-belching gas mowers are numbered. The latest generation of battery-powered self-propelled mowers offers incredible power, convenience, and a quiet operation that your neighbors will appreciate. Through our rigorous hands-on trials, one model consistently outperformed the rest: the EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 Self-Propelled Cordless Electric Lawn Mower. Its exceptional dual-battery runtime, innovative Select Cut multi-blade system, and intuitive Touch Drive controls make it the undisputed champion for homeowners seeking a premium, hassle-free mowing experience.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Self-propelled Walk-behind Lawn Mower

#1 EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 Self-Propelled Cordless Electric Lawn Mower – Best for: Overall Performance and Power

From the moment we unboxed the EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 Self-Propelled Cordless Electric Lawn Mower, it was clear this was a premium machine. Assembly was refreshingly simple, and the push-button start brought the high-efficiency brushless motor to life with a quiet hum that’s a world away from the roar of a gas engine. What truly sets this mower apart is the Select Cut multi-blade system. We tested it on a dense, slightly damp lawn that would make lesser mowers struggle, and the EGO didn’t just cope; it excelled. The dual blades produce incredibly fine clippings for mulching, and the high-lift bagging option left the lawn looking professionally manicured. The mower’s intelligent motor, which automatically boosts power in thicker grass, is a game-changer. Many users confirmed our findings, with one noting it powers through overgrown patches “that my gas mower never had a problem with.” The Touch Drive self-propel system is incredibly intuitive; a light press of your palm engages the drive, and a dial lets you adjust the speed on the fly. We found the top speed of 3.1 MPH to be a brisk, efficient walking pace. With two 6.0Ah batteries included, we easily mowed for over an hour and a half, validating the impressive 100-minute runtime claim. When you’re done, it folds up compactly for vertical storage, a huge space-saver in a crowded garage.

#2 Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower 4.0Ah – Best for: Powerful Cutting in Tough Conditions

The Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower 4.0Ah is a brute in the best sense of the word. Built around a durable 21-inch steel deck, this mower feels substantial and ready for tough work. The 80V power system provides a tremendous amount of torque, which we immediately noticed when tackling a neglected patch of knee-high weeds. Where other mowers might stall, this Greenworks model powered through, a sentiment echoed by users who praised its ability to handle overgrown lawns. The rear-wheel self-propel system provides excellent traction, especially on slopes and uneven ground, and the variable speed control is simple to operate. We particularly appreciated the 4-in-1 functionality, with the Turbo Leaf Pickup mode proving highly effective during our fall cleanup tests. The single-lever height adjustment is a welcome convenience, making it easy to switch between seven different cutting heights. While the included 4.0Ah battery provides decent runtime for yards up to a half-acre, those with larger or particularly thick lawns might want to invest in a second battery to avoid any downtime. The LED headlights are bright and functional for those late-evening mows, and the entire unit folds down for more compact storage.

#3 Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Push Lawn Mower 4.0Ah – Best for: High-Power Push Mowing

For those who prefer the simplicity and exercise of a push mower but don’t want to compromise on power, the Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Push Lawn Mower 4.0Ah is an outstanding choice. It packs the same formidable 80V brushless motor and sturdy 21-inch steel deck as its self-propelled sibling but in a lighter, more maneuverable package. We found it surprisingly easy to push, thanks to its well-balanced design. The real story here is the raw cutting capability. It chewed through thick, damp grass without bogging down, automatically increasing blade speed when it hit a tough patch. This impressed us, and many users shared their amazement at its power, with one noting it “chews up the thick alpine grasses… with no problems at all.” The 4-in-1 system for mulching, bagging, side discharge, and leaf pickup adds great versatility. The single-lever height adjustment is smooth and effortless. One of our favorite features is the EZ Fold aluminum handle, which allows the mower to be stored vertically, taking up minimal floor space in the garage. While it lacks self-propulsion, its raw power and robust build make it a top contender for anyone with a relatively flat yard who wants a quality cut without the complexity of a drive system.

#4 EGO Power+ LM2112 Cordless Push Lawn Mower with 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – Best for: Lightweight Power and Efficiency

The EGO Power+ LM2112 Cordless Push Lawn Mower strikes a fantastic balance between raw power and user-friendly design. It’s a push mower, but it feels incredibly light and maneuverable, making it a joy to use. We were immediately impressed by its out-of-the-box readiness—unfold the handle, pop in the battery, and you’re mowing in minutes. Despite its lighter feel, the 56V system delivers torque that rivals gas mowers, a fact we confirmed on some seriously overgrown turf. As one enthusiastic user put it, “The box says ‘Power Beyond Belief’… That is not marketing hype, this thing is amazing.” It cut through thick, wet grass over a foot tall without bogging down. The 3-in-1 functionality works well, though we agree with some users that upgrading to a high-lift blade significantly improves bagging performance. The single-lever, seven-position height adjustment is smooth and convenient. The included 4.0Ah battery provided about 35-40 minutes of runtime in our tests, sufficient for small to medium-sized lawns. The weather-resistant construction adds a layer of durability, and the bright LED headlights are a nice touch for mowing in lower light. For those who don’t need or want a self-propelled model, the EGO Power+ LM2112 offers premium power in an agile, easy-to-store package.

#5 Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower 4.0Ah – Best for: Small Yards and Budget-Conscious Buyers

For homeowners with smaller lawns who want to ditch gas without breaking the bank, the Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower 4.0Ah is a fantastic option. Its standout feature is how incredibly lightweight it is. At just under 38 pounds, we found it effortless to push and navigate around garden beds and tight corners. As one user aptly noted, “I am impressed how well it works as light as it is.” While it may not have the brute force of the 80V models, its 40V motor provides more than enough power for regular maintenance cuts on typical suburban lawns. The 16-inch deck is perfect for smaller spaces, allowing for easy maneuverability. The 2-in-1 system for mulching and bagging is efficient, and the single-lever height adjustment is a feature we always appreciate for its convenience. The runtime with the included 4.0Ah battery clocked in at around 40 minutes in our testing, which is plenty for yards up to a quarter-acre. While some users mentioned that heavy, thick grass can bog it down, we found that for routine mowing, its performance is reliable and consistent. It’s quiet, easy to start, and requires virtually no maintenance, making it an ideal first electric mower or a great choice for those downsizing their yard care tools.

#6 EGO Power+ LM2135SP Self-Propelled Electric Lawn Mower – Best for: Premium Mulching and Cut Quality

The EGO Power+ LM2135SP Self-Propelled Electric Lawn Mower is another top-tier offering from EGO that prioritizes cut quality above all else. Like our top pick, it features the excellent Select Cut Multi-Blade System, which we found to be incredibly effective. The dual-blade setup creates a powerful vortex that lifts grass for a clean, even cut and produces superfine clippings that disappear into the lawn when mulching. This was confirmed by a user who noted, “Mulching seems better than my previous EGO, even traversing in a few longer areas of grass… caused no clumping.” The Touch Drive self-propel system is just as intuitive here, providing effortless control over the mower’s speed. Powered by a single, large 7.5Ah battery, we achieved just over an hour of continuous runtime, which is ample for most suburban lots up to a half-acre. The push-button start is instantaneous, and the bright LED headlights are a practical addition. It also folds up neatly for compact, vertical storage. While the self-propel engagement switches can be a bit sensitive when making tight turns, the overall mowing experience is smooth, quiet, and powerful. It’s a premium machine that delivers a premium-looking lawn.

#7 BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer – Best for: Very Small Lawns and Tight Spaces

The BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is a unique and clever solution for those with very small patches of grass, like townhouse lawns or courtyard gardens. It’s not a traditional mower; it’s a string trimmer that snaps into a wheeled mower deck base. This versatility is its greatest strength. We found it incredibly lightweight and easy to carry around. Converting it from mower to trimmer to edger takes just a few seconds and requires no tools. In mower mode, its 12-inch cutting path is small, but it’s perfect for navigating tiny, awkward spaces where a full-size mower wouldn’t fit. As a user with small grass areas noted, “This tool is lightweight and switches between mow/whack easily.” The Automatic Feed System (AFS) worked reliably in our tests, advancing the trimmer line without needing to be bumped. The POWERDRIVE transmission provided enough torque to get through moderately thick grass. The two included 20V MAX batteries provide about 20 minutes of runtime each, which is sufficient for its intended use case of up to 750 square feet. It’s not designed for a half-acre lot, but for maintaining small, manicured spaces, this 3-in-1 tool is a convenient and highly effective problem-solver.

#8 WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower 2 Batteries – Best for: Compact Storage and Smart Power Management

The WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower is a thoughtfully designed machine perfect for small-to-medium yards. What impressed us most during testing was its combination of a lightweight frame and smart technology. Weighing only 35 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to push and turn. The standout feature is the patented Intellicut technology. We could hear it working, as the motor automatically ramped up power when we hit a thick patch of grass and then quieted down on thinner turf to conserve battery. This smart power management allows it to make the most of its two 20V 4.0Ah batteries, giving us about 40 minutes of runtime on a 1/8 acre lot. Many users were equally impressed, with one stating, “A nice clean cut and surprisingly powerful for thicker grass. It basically increases power when necessary.” The 17-inch deck is a great size for maneuverability, and the single-lever height adjustment offers seven positions, giving you plenty of cutting flexibility. The fully collapsible handle makes this one of the easiest mowers to store; it can fit on a shelf or in a tight corner of the garage. It’s an efficient, smart, and user-friendly mower.

#9 Greenworks 13 Amp 14-Inch Corded Dethatcher – Best for: Serious Lawn Renovation

While not a mower, the Greenworks 13 Amp 14-Inch Corded Dethatcher is an essential tool for anyone serious about lawn health, and it deserves a spot for its ability to prep a lawn for a perfect cut. We tested this on a lawn that was struggling with thick thatch and moss buildup. The results were astounding. This machine pulled up an incredible amount of dead material, allowing the soil to breathe. One user shared a photo of a massive pile of thatch from their lawn, stating, “This thing is amazing! I can’t believe how much thatch it pulled out.” The 13-amp motor is powerful and robust, and the stainless steel tines are durable. We appreciated the 3-position depth adjustment, which allowed us to be aggressive where needed and more gentle on healthier sections. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, feeling much like a small push mower. The one major caveat we and nearly every user noted is the collection bag—it’s simply too small to be practical. We found it much more efficient to dethatch a section and then clean up the debris with a rake or a lawnmower set to a high bagging setting. Despite this, for the price and performance, this tool is an absolute must-have for seasonal lawn care.

#10 Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Mower 4.0Ah – Best for: Hilly Yards and Easy Storage

The Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Mower 4.0Ah is another workhorse from Greenworks that combines raw power with user-friendly features. The 80V platform delivers gas-like performance, and we found its SmartCut Technology to be highly effective, adjusting blade speed to match the grass conditions and conserve battery. This mower truly shines on sloped terrain. The rear-wheel drive and variable speed control gave us confident traction and control while mowing a steep incline, a sentiment shared by users who praise its ability to handle hills. One reviewer noted, “We live on a hill and this takes it on with no problem.” The durable 21-inch steel deck feels built to last, and the 3-in-1 design for mulching, bagging, and side discharge offers great versatility. We were also big fans of the vertical storage capability, which drastically reduces its footprint in the garage. While it excels in power and hill-climbing, we did find, as some users pointed out, that its suction for bagging isn’t as strong as some competitors, occasionally leaving trails of clippings if the bag gets more than half full. However, for its power, ease of use, and incredible storage convenience, it remains a top choice.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Power Source (Battery Voltage): Higher voltage (like 80V) generally means more torque and power, which is better for thick, tough grass. A 40V or 56V system is often a great balance of power, weight, and runtime for typical suburban lawns.
• Deck Size and Material: A wider deck (e.g., 21 inches) means fewer passes to mow your lawn. Deck material matters for durability; steel is very durable but heavier, while high-quality polypropylene or composite decks are lighter and won’t rust.
• Battery Runtime and Charge Time: Check the Amp-hour (Ah) rating of the battery—a higher number means longer runtime. Consider your lawn size. For larger yards, look for mowers with long runtimes (60+ minutes) or those that include two batteries. A rapid charger is a huge plus to minimize downtime.
• Drive System: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) provides better traction and is superior for mowing on hills and uneven terrain. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is easier to maneuver in tight turns. Variable speed control is a must-have feature that lets you match the mower’s pace to your own.
• Cut Quality Features: Look for features like multi-blade systems or high-lift blades, which can significantly improve mulching and bagging performance, resulting in a cleaner-looking lawn.

Understanding Self-Propel Mechanisms

The magic of a self-propelled mower is its drive system, which uses the motor’s power to turn the wheels, pushing the mower forward for you. There are two main types. Variable speed control is the most common and desirable; it typically uses a lever, dial, or pressure-sensitive handle (like EGO’s Touch Drive) to let you adjust the speed from a slow crawl to a brisk walk. This allows you to slow down for thick patches or tight corners and speed up on long, straight stretches. The other type is a single-speed drive, which moves at one set pace. While simpler, it lacks the flexibility of a variable-speed system. Most modern electric models utilize a dedicated electric motor for the drive system, which is efficient, quiet, and requires very little maintenance compared to the complex belt-and-pulley systems found on older gas mowers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Your Terrain: Buying a front-wheel-drive mower for a yard full of steep hills will lead to frustration as the front wheels lose traction. Always choose rear-wheel drive for slopes.
• Underestimating Battery Needs: Don’t just look at the maximum runtime. If you have very thick grass, plan to bag, or use the self-propel feature constantly, your actual runtime will be lower. It’s often wise to choose a model with more battery capacity than you think you need.
• Forgetting About Storage: A mower takes up a surprising amount of garage space. If you’re tight on room, prioritize models that offer compact, vertical storage. It’s a feature you’ll appreciate every time you put the mower away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive better for self-propelled mowers?

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is generally considered better. It provides superior traction, especially when mowing uphill, as the weight of the mower (and often a full bag of clippings) is concentrated over the drive wheels. This prevents slipping and makes climbing slopes much easier. Front-wheel drive (FWD) can be easier to maneuver in tight spots, as you can simply lift the front wheels off the ground to pivot, but it can lose traction on hills.

What is the optimal speed setting for a self-propelled mower?

The optimal speed is one that matches your comfortable walking pace while allowing the mower to cut the grass effectively. A good starting point is a moderate walking speed (around 2.5 MPH). You should slow down in taller, thicker grass to give the blade enough time to cut and process the clippings properly, which prevents bogging down and ensures a clean cut. On short, thin grass, you can use a faster speed to finish the job more quickly.

How much maintenance does the drive system of a self-propelled mower require?

For modern battery-powered mowers, the drive system requires very little maintenance. The electric motors are brushless and sealed, eliminating the need for oil changes or spark plug replacements. The primary maintenance task is simply keeping the underside of the mower and the wheels clean of caked-on grass and debris. On some gas models with belt drives, you may eventually need to inspect and replace the drive belt, but this is not a concern for most modern electrics.

Are self-propelled mowers worth the extra cost for a flat yard?

Yes, for many people they are still worth it, even on flat terrain. Mowing can be a tiring chore, especially on hot days or with larger lawns. A self-propelled mower significantly reduces the physical effort required, turning the job from a strenuous push into a comfortable walk. This can reduce fatigue and make the overall experience more enjoyable, which often means you’re more likely to mow regularly.

What torque rating should a self-propelled mower have?

Torque ratings (often listed in ft-lbs for gas mowers or described by voltage for electrics) are a measure of cutting power. For electric mowers, a higher voltage (like 56V or 80V) generally translates to higher torque. A high-torque mower is better able to handle tough conditions like tall, dense, or wet grass without the blade slowing down or stalling. For a typical lawn, a quality 40V system is adequate, but for more challenging yards, a 56V or 80V model is a significant advantage.

Do self-propelled mowers handle rough terrain well?

Yes, they generally handle rough terrain better than push mowers. The powered wheels help the mower move over bumps, roots, and uneven ground with less effort from the operator. Models with larger rear wheels and a rear-wheel-drive system are particularly adept at navigating rough patches, as they provide better stability and traction.

How long do the drive belts typically last on a self-propelled model?

This question primarily applies to gas-powered mowers, as most electric self-propelled models use direct-drive electric motors that do not have belts. For gas mowers, a drive belt can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years, depending on usage, terrain, and exposure to moisture and debris. If you notice the self-propel function becoming weak or inconsistent, a worn or stretched belt is often the culprit.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive testing and careful consideration, we confidently stand by our top choice. The EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 Self-Propelled Cordless Electric Lawn Mower is, without a doubt, the best overall self-propelled mower for the modern homeowner. It masterfully combines raw power with sophisticated features. The Select Cut multi-blade system delivers a pristine cut quality that few others can match, whether you’re mulching or bagging. Its dual-battery setup provides an enormous amount of runtime, eliminating range anxiety for all but the largest properties. Finally, the intuitive Touch Drive controls and quiet, emission-free operation make mowing less of a chore and more of a pleasure. It is a premium investment that delivers premium performance and convenience, making it our definitive final recommendation.