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3 Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers in 2024

As you prepare to tackle your overgrown lawn, you’re likely considering which self-propelled lawn mower will make the job easier. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, you’re about to get a closer look at the top three contenders: the Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower, the EGO Power+ LM2102SP Lawn Mower, and the Makita 18V X2 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Kit. Each boasts impressive features that’ll make you wonder how you ever managed without them. But which one will come out on top?

Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower

Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a reliable and eco-friendly lawn mower that can tackle tough terrain with ease, thanks to its self-propelled rear wheel drive power and durable steel deck.

This mower is designed to make your lawn care tasks more efficient, with a 7-position height adjustment and 3-in-1 design for rear bag, side discharge, and mulching capabilities.

You’ll appreciate the vertical storage feature, which saves 70% more space.

Plus, you won’t have to worry about maintenance, as this mower is gas-free, oil-free, and emission-free.

With a 4-year tool warranty and 2-year battery warranty, you can trust that this mower will serve you well for a long time.

Best For: Landowners with small to medium-sized lawns who prioritize eco-friendliness and ease of use.

Pros:

  • Quiet operation and ease of use make it suitable for residential areas
  • 3-in-1 design offers flexibility for different lawn care needs
  • Vertical storage feature saves 70% more space

Cons:

  • Battery life may not be sufficient for larger lawns
  • Some users have reported issues with manual incompleteness and storage
  • May not be as powerful as gas-powered mowers for extremely dense or thick vegetation

EGO Power+ LM2102SP Lawn Mower

EGO Power+ LM2102SP Lawn Mower  Get it now on Amazon.com

The EGO Power+ LM2102SP lawn mower is an ideal choice for homeowners with larger lawns who need a reliable and efficient cutting experience.

With its impressive up to 60 minutes of run time on a single charge, you’ll be able to complete your lawn care tasks without interruptions.

You’ll appreciate the adjustable self-propel speed, which ranges from 0.9 to 3.1 MPH, allowing you to customize your mowing pace.

The 6-position cutting height adjustments, from 1.5 to 4 inches, guarantee a perfect cut every time.

Plus, the 3-in-1 function lets you choose between mulching, bagging, or side discharge, depending on your lawn care needs.

With its bright LED headlights and quick push-button start, you’ll be ready to tackle your lawn in no time.

Best For: Homeowners with larger lawns who need a reliable and efficient cutting experience.

Pros:

  • Up to 60 minutes of run time on a single charge for uninterrupted mowing
  • Adjustable self-propel speed and 6-position cutting height adjustments for customized mowing experience
  • 3-in-1 function for mulching, bagging, or side discharge to suit different lawn care needs

Cons:

  • No specific information available on noise level or noise reduction features
  • Battery life may vary depending on lawn thickness and other factors
  • No additional features for handling thick or tall grass

Makita 18V X2 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Kit

Makita 18V X2 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Kit  Get it now on Amazon.com

This Makita 18V X2 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Kit is the best choice for homeowners who prioritize eco-friendliness and low maintenance, as it produces zero emissions and reduces noise pollution.

You’ll appreciate the convenience of its 4-bay battery system, which provides twice the run time.

With its 3-in-1 design, you can choose to mulch, bag, or side discharge, giving you flexibility in lawn care.

The kit comes with four 5.0Ah 18V LXT batteries, allowing you to mow up to 1/2 acre without needing a recharge.

Weighing 116.8 pounds, this mower is built with alloy steel and has a cutting width of 21 inches.

With its 3-year limited warranty, you can have peace of mind in your purchase.

Best For: Homeowners who prioritize eco-friendliness and low maintenance, and have lawns up to 1/2 acre in size.

Pros:

  • Zero emissions and reduced noise pollution make it an environmentally friendly option
  • 4-bay battery system provides twice the run time, allowing for larger lawns to be mowed on a single charge
  • 3-in-1 design offers flexibility in lawn care with mulching, bagging, or side discharge options

Cons:

  • Weighs 116.8 pounds, making it heavier than some other cordless lawn mowers
  • May require multiple charges to complete larger lawns, depending on the terrain and thickness of the grass
  • No specific details are provided on the charger’s speed or efficiency

Factors to Consider When Choosing Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers

When choosing a self-propelled lawn mower, you’ll want to deliberate several key factors to guarantee you find the right one for your needs.

You’ll need to ponder the size and terrain of your lawn, as well as the power source that suits you best.

From there, you can explore other essential features, such as cutting width options, speed and control, and height adjustment ease.

Lawn Size and Terrain

Determine your lawn’s unique characteristics, including its size and terrain, to guarantee you choose a self-propelled lawn mower that can efficiently tackle its challenges.

If you have a larger lawn (over 1/4 acre) or one with hilly or uneven terrain, a self-propelled mower is ideal. It can handle tough terrain with ease, making it a great choice.

However, if your lawn is smaller (less than 1/4 acre), a push mower or electric mower might be sufficient, but a self-propelled mower can still provide extra power and ease of use.

Consider the slope and incline of your lawn as well. If you have a hilly lawn, look for a self-propelled mower with rear-wheel drive, which is better suited for handling inclines.

For flat lawns, a front-wheel drive mower is a better choice. Additionally, think about the obstacles in your lawn, such as trees or gardens.

A self-propelled mower with a tighter turning radius can help you navigate around them more easily. Finally, consider the weight and size of the mower, as heavier mowers can be difficult to maneuver on uneven terrain or smaller lawns.

Mower Power Source

The power source of your self-propelled lawn mower substantially impacts your mowing experience and the environment.

The choice between gas-powered, battery-powered, and electric options depends on your specific needs and priorities.

If you’re concerned about the environment, battery-powered mowers are a great option, producing zero emissions and reducing noise pollution. However, they may have limited run times and require recharging.

Gas-powered mowers, on the other hand, provide more power and longer run times, but they require regular maintenance, emit pollutants, and are generally heavier and noisier.

Electric mowers are a cost-effective option, but they’re limited by their cord length, making them less suitable for larger lawns.

When choosing a power source, consider the size of your lawn, your desired level of power, and your personal preferences regarding environmental impact and maintenance requirements.

Consider how much power you need to tackle your lawn’s terrain and whether you’re willing to trade off power for a more eco-friendly option.

Cutting Width Options

Selecting the right cutting width for your self-propelled lawn mower is essential, as it directly impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of your mowing experience.

A common cutting width option for self-propelled lawn mowers is 21 inches, as seen in models like the Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower and the EGO Power+ LM2102SP Lawn Mower.

However, you should consider the size of your lawn and the obstacles it may have. A wider cutting width can reduce the number of passes needed to mow, but it may also increase the weight and size of the mower, making it less maneuverable.

If you have a smaller lawn or one with many obstacles, a narrower cutting width might be more suitable. Some mowers, like the Makita 18V X2 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Kit, have a fixed cutting width, while others offer adjustable cutting widths to accommodate different lawn sizes and types.

When choosing a self-propelled lawn mower, consider the size of your lawn and the desired cutting width to facilitate efficient mowing and minimize the number of passes required.

Speed and Control

As you navigate your lawn’s unique terrain, think about the speed and control features that’ll help you tackle obstacles and maintain a consistent cut.

Adjustable self-propel speed, like the EGO Power+ LM2102SP’s 0.9-3.1 MPH range, allows you to customize your mowing experience to suit your lawn and pace.

You’ll appreciate the added traction and control provided by rear-wheel drive power, as seen in the Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower, when tackling tough terrain.

You’ll also want to factor in the weight and design of the mower, as lighter models like the Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower (21.7 pounds) are easier to handle and control.

Look for models that enable you to adjust the mower’s speed and control on the fly, like the EGO Power+ LM2102SP, to adapt to changing lawn conditions and maintain a consistent cut.

With the right speed and control features, you’ll be able to tackle obstacles with confidence and achieve a professional-looking lawn.

Height Adjustment Ease

When it comes to customizing your mowing experience, a convenient height adjustment feature in a self-propelled lawn mower is key, allowing you to effortlessly adapt to different lawn types and user preferences.

You’ll want a mower that can easily adjust to varying heights, and some models offer up to 7-position height adjustment for ultimate flexibility.

Look for a mower with a single-handle height adjustment, which enables quick and effortless changes to the cutting height.

A mower with a wide range of height adjustment options, such as 1.5-4 inches, can effectively handle various lawn heights and types.

Consider a model with a push-button start and single-handed height adjustment for added convenience and ease of use.

When selecting a self-propelled lawn mower, think about your specific lawn care needs and choose a model with a height adjustment feature that’s easy to use and offers a range of options.

With the right mower, you’ll be able to customize your mowing experience and achieve a perfectly manicured lawn.

Battery Life Expectancy

Considering your specific lawn care needs and the size of your yard, you’ll want to choose a self-propelled lawn mower with a battery life expectancy that can keep up with your mowing tasks.

The battery life expectancy of self-propelled lawn mowers can vary greatly, with some models offering up to 60 minutes of run time on a single charge, like the EGO Power+ LM2102SP.

The number of batteries included with the mower can also impact battery life, with some models like the Makita XML08PT1 coming with four 5.0Ah 18V LXT batteries for extended run time.

The type of battery used, such as lithium-ion, can also affect battery life, with some lithium-ion batteries providing longer run times and faster recharge times.

The capacity of the battery, measured in ampere-hours (Ah), also plays a significant role in determining battery life, with higher Ah ratings generally indicating longer run times.

Additionally, factors such as terrain, grass thickness, and mower speed can also impact battery life, making it essential to take into account these factors when choosing a self-propelled lawn mower that meets your specific needs.

Storage and Portability

You’ll also want to think about the storage and portability of your self-propelled lawn mower, especially if you have limited space in your garage or shed, since a mower that’s easy to store and transport can make a big difference in your overall mowing experience.

When evaluating storage and portability, look for mowers with compact designs, such as the EGO Power+ LM2102SP, which has a product dimension of 46.46D x 22.92W x 61.61H.

The Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is another great option, featuring vertical storage that saves 70% more space. You’ll also want to bear in mind the weight of the mower, with lighter options like the Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower, weighing 21.7 pounds, being easier to transport and store.

Additionally, adjustable handlebars like those found on the EGO Power+ LM2102SP can be folded up for more compact storage and easier transport.

When selecting a storage location, make sure to factor in the mower’s overall dimensions and weight, ensuring it fits comfortably and can be easily accessed for use. By taking these factors into account, you can find a self-propelled lawn mower that’s easy to store and transport, making your mowing experience more convenient and enjoyable.

Noise Level Reduction

Reduce disturbance to your neighbors and enjoy a more peaceful mowing experience by opting for a self-propelled lawn mower that prioritizes noise level reduction. You’ll appreciate the quieter operation, especially if you live in a residential area or prefer to mow during early morning or evening hours.

Many cordless lawn mowers, like the Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower, are designed to minimize noise pollution, making them ideal for noise-restricted areas.

The EGO Power+ LM2102SP Lawn Mower, for instance, features a quieter operation compared to traditional gas-powered mowers, providing a more pleasant mowing experience.

Some self-propelled lawn mowers, like the Makita XML08PT1, boast a lower decibel rating thanks to their brushless motor technology, which reduces noise and vibration.

When choosing a self-propelled lawn mower, consider the noise level reduction feature, especially if you live in a noise-restricted area or prefer a more peaceful mowing experience. By doing so, you’ll be able to maintain your lawn without disturbing those around you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Self-Propelled Mowers Handle Thick or Tall Grass?

When tackling thick or tall grass, you’ll find that most self-propelled mowers can handle it, but be prepared for slower progress and potential stalling if the grass is extremely dense or overgrown.

Are Self-Propelled Mowers Suitable for Small Lawns?

You’re wondering if self-propelled mowers are suitable for small lawns. Yes, they’re perfect for smaller areas, as they’re lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it simple for you to cut and edge your compact lawn with ease.

Do Self-Propelled Mowers Require More Maintenance?

When you’re in the driver’s seat, you’ll find that self-propelled mowers don’t break a sweat when it comes to maintenance, but you’ll still need to keep them well-oiled and clean to avoid a hitch in your lawn-care routine.

Can I Adjust the Mowing Speed on Self-Propelled Mowers?

You can adjust the mowing speed on self-propelled mowers to suit your pace and lawn type. Most models come with a variable speed control, allowing you to set a comfortable speed that works for you.

Are Self-Propelled Mowers More Expensive Than Push Mowers?

You’ll typically pay more for a self-propelled mower versus a push mower, but it’s worth considering the convenience and time-saving benefits they offer, especially for larger lawns or those with thick grass.

Conclusion

As you stand in your newly manicured lawn, the sweet scent of fresh-cut grass wafting through the air, you can’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

The hum of your self-propelled mower fades into the distance, leaving behind a trail of perfectly trimmed blades, like a brush stroke on a canvas of green.

With the right mower by your side, the art of lawn care becomes a masterpiece of simplicity and ease.