What is the best walk behind lawn mower?

With so many options on the market, choosing the best walk behind lawn mower can be a daunting task. However, there are a few key factors to consider that can help narrow down your search. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to pick the perfect walk behind mower for your lawn care needs.

How Do Walk Behind Mowers Work?

Walk behind lawn mowers, also sometimes called “push mowers”, are powered by either gas engines or electric motors. They have cutting blades underneath the main body that spin to cut grass as you walk behind and push the mower across your lawn.

Gas-powered walk behind mowers have small internal combustion engines similar to a gasoline generator. The engine spins the cutting blades. Gas mowers need refueling and oil changes but provide strong power for larger yards.

Electric walk behind mowers use an electric motor plugged into an outlet or battery pack to spin the blades. Cordless electric mowers provide freedom of movement without cords but battery life is limited. Corded electric mowers have unlimited runtime but cord length restricts range.

The spinning blades under the mower deck cut grass by impact as you push the mower over your lawn. Mower wheels roll along the ground while the housing protects the blades and allows grass clipping collection.

Key Features of Walk Behind Lawn Mowers

When evaluating walk behind mowers, there are several important features to consider:

• Cutting width – The width of the mowing deck/blades, usually ranges from 16-22 inches on most models. Wider decks can mow more grass in fewer passes but are harder to maneuver.
• Blade speed – Measured in feet per minute (FPM), faster blade speeds provide a cleaner cut.
• Adjustment settings – Ability to change cut height is important for various grass lengths.
• Maneuverability – Key for trimming around objects. Lighter weight and smaller decks improve maneuverability.
• Grass clippings – Bagging vs mulching vs side discharge options.
• Power source – Gas, corded electric or battery powered. Each has trade-offs.
• Safety features – Look for protection against blade contact and easy shut-off ability.
• Warranty – Ideally 3-5 years for major components.

Prioritizing these features that are most important for your needs and lawn size will help determine the ideal mower.

Gas Walk Behind Mowers

Gas powered walk behind mowers are the most powerful option and recommended for larger yards. Here are some of the top gas mowers:

Honda HRX217

The Honda HRX217 is a premium 21″ gas mower praised for its strong Honda GCV170 engine, excellent cutting, and reliable starting. Key features include:

• 21″ mowing deck with variable speed hydrostatic transmission
• Honda GCV170 engine with auto-choke and easy start
• Versamow selective clip director for bagging, mulching or side discharge
• MicroCut twin blades for fine clippings
• Adjustable handle and excellent maneuverability
• Leaf shredding blades also available

With its powerful engine, premium features and stellar reputation for durability, the Honda HRX217 is arguably the best gas walk behind mower currently available.

Toro Recycler

The Toro Recycler is a high quality gas mower known for dependable starting, clean cuts and leaf mulching ability. Key features include:

• 22” steel mowing deck with rear bag and mulch options
• Briggs & Stratton 163cc engine with Easy Start technology
• Steel deck for durability and washout ports to clean underside
• Personal Pace self-propel system on some models for easy pace matching
• Up to 7 cutting height positions from 1.25-4”
• 2 year full warranty

With its rugged construction, powerful engine and reputation for reliability, the Toro Recycler is one of the best mid-range gas mowers available.

Troy-Bilt TB220

The Troy-Bilt TB220 is a budget-friendly gas push mower known for its electric start, rear bagger and smooth operation. Key features include:

• 21” cutting deck with tri-action blades for fine mulching
• Briggs & Stratton 163cc engine with jumpstart electric start
• Dual lever 6 position height adjustment from 1.25–3.75”
• Medium sized semi-pneumatic wheels for traction
• 2-in-1 rear bagger and mulch kit included
• Operator controlled variable speed drive
• 2 year limited warranty

For homeowners seeking an affordable gas mower with electric start and reliability, the Troy-Bilt TB220 is an excellent option to consider.

Electric Walk Behind Mowers

Electric mowers provide quiet, emissions-free operation without messy gas. They are ideal for smaller yards or convenience. Top electric models include:

Greenworks MO40L02

The Greenworks MO40L02 cordless mower provides up to 45 minutes of 20” cutting on a single charge. Key features include:

• 20” steel deck powered by 40V 2Ah lithium ion battery
• Digital brushless motor provides gas-like power
• Up to 45 minutes run time on one charge
• Mulching and rear bag capability
• Single lever 5 position height adjustment from 1.5-3.5”
• Weighs only 55 lbs for easy maneuvering
• 4 year tool warranty

With its long run time, premium brushless motor and quiet operation, the Greenworks MO40L02 is one of the top cordless electric mowers available.

EGO Power+ LM2135SP

The EGO Power+ LM2135SP self-propelled mower can mow up to 2.5 acres on a single charge. Key features include:

• 21” steel deck with high efficiency brushless motor
• Dual port high capacity 7.5Ah 56V ARC lithium battery
• Up to 90 minutes of mowing per charge
• Weather resistant construction
• LED headlights built into the handlebar
• Load sensing technology for optimal power
• 5 year tool and battery warranty

With its large battery capacity, long run time and advanced technology, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP is one of the top cordless electric walk behind mowers.

Greenworks 25022

The Greenworks 25022 corded mower provides quiet, eco-friendly mowing for small yards. Key features include:

• 20” cutting deck powered by a 12 amp motor
• Durable steel frame and one-touch height adjustment
• Mulching capability with rear bag adapter option
• Weighs only 37 lbs for easy maneuvering
• 70 ft GFI protected power cord
• 4 year warranty

For small lawns without access to outdoor power outlets, the lightweight Greenworks 25022 corded electric mower is a top choice.

How to Choose the Best Walk Behind Mower

When deciding between walk behind lawn mower models, follow these tips:

• Determine cutting width – Match deck size to your lawn area for fewer passes. Smaller decks provide better maneuverability.
• Consider power type – Gas for large lawns, electric for small spaces. Battery power provides cordless freedom.
• Compare features – Favor models with ample power, solid construction and convenience features like electric start, self-propel and washout ports.
• Check warranties – Look for at least 2-3 years of coverage, longer for commercial use.
• Read reviews – Research actual customer experiences to identify the most reliable models.
• Compare prices – Weigh performance vs the initial purchase price when deciding on value.

Taking the time to evaluate the options using these criteria will help you select the ideal walk behind mower for your specific needs and budget.

General Lawn Mower Maintenance Tips

To keep your walk behind mower running smoothly for years to come, follow these key maintenance practices:

• Change oil regularly if gas powered – refer to your owner’s manual for intervals.
• Inspect/replace air filters as needed.
• Sharpen blades at least once per year, more often for heavy use.
• Check tire air pressure and condition.
• Clear debris from under the deck with regular washing.
• Lubricate linkages, cables and other moving parts.
• Check and change spark plugs/spark arresters on gas mowers.
• Frequently remove clippings from bagger.
• Swap in fresh gasoline each season.
• Check safety features like blade brakes.

Following the above maintenance guidelines will maximize performance and extend the operating life of any walk behind lawn mower.

Safety Tips for Walk Behind Mowers

While very useful tools, walk behind mowers also require caution to operate safely. Keep these safety tips in mind:

• Wear closed toe shoes and avoid loose clothing that could get caught.
• Make sure guards are in place and properly functioning before use.
• Keep hands/feet away from moving parts.
• Shut off blade when crossing gravel or uneven terrain.
• Never raise deck with blades spinning.
• Refuel with engine off and cool.
• Unplug electric mowers before maintenance/blade changes.
• Keep children/pets away from mowing area.
• Use slow speed in wet conditions to avoid slips.
• Avoid steep slopes and use caution on hills.

Exercising proper caution when operating walk behind mowers greatly improves safety for yourself and bystanders.

Top Walk Behind Mower Brands

When evaluating different lawn mower brands, these companies consistently rank among the top for walk behind models:

• Honda – Known for making the most powerful, durable gas mowers.
• Toro – Well-regarded for high quality gas and electric models.
• Troy-Bilt – Strong reputation in gas mowers at lower price points.
• EGO – Leader in cordless electric mower technology and battery life.
• Greenworks – Top seller for corded and cordless electric mowers.
• Snapper – Makes reliable gas mowers with useful features.
• Craftsman – Known for affordable gas and electric mowers.

While there are other decent brands available, purchasing walk behind mowers from the manufacturers listed above is generally a safe bet for quality and value.

Answers to Common Walk Behind Mower Questions

What is the easiest walk behind mower to push?

Electric mowers with self-propel and gas mowers with variable speed drive tend to be the easiest push mowers to operate. Lighter weight models are also easier to maneuver than heavy mowers. Smooth rolling ball bearing wheels make pushing effortless on flat terrain.

How long should a walk behind mower last?

With proper maintenance, both gas and electric walk behind mowers typically last 5-8 years for residential use, less for heavy commercial use. Higher priced models from reputable brands tend to have greater longevity. Maintaining your mower with routine service also extends lifespan.

Can you mulch with a walk behind mower?

Yes, most standard walk behind mowers have mulching capability. The clippings are circulated back into the lawn for nutrients. Some models require installing a mulch plug to block the side discharge chute when mulching is desired.

How fast should you walk with a push mower?

The optimal walking speed for walk behind mowers is around 2-3 mph on flat terrain. This allows the blades to cut grass cleanly without slowing down too much in thicker areas. On slopes or uneven ground, use slower speeds for safety and better traction.

How steep of hill can you mow with a walk behind mower?

Most walk behind mower manufacturers recommend slopes no steeper than 15 degrees or about 25%. Very steep hills can cause traction loss and tipping hazards. If unsure, use a smaller width mower, mow up and down slopes rather than sideways, and take slow controlled passes.

Conclusion

Choosing the ideal walk behind lawn mower involves evaluating key factors like deck width, power source, features, durability, and cost. Gas mowers like the Honda HRX217 and Toro Recycler deliver durability and power for large yards. Electric models like the Greenworks MO40L02 and EGO Power+ LM2135SP provide quiet, eco-friendly performance for smaller lawns. Following proper maintenance and safety tips will ensure safe, reliable grass cutting.