Buying a lawn mower can feel overwhelming with so many models, features, and price points on the market. The wrong choice leads to frustration, wasted money, and poor results.
These 18 must-know tips simplify the process, helping you pick the perfect mower for your lawn size, terrain, and mowing habits—so you get the job done right the first time.
1. Measure Your Yard Size First
Knowing your yard’s square footage is the starting point for any mower purchase. A small city lot under 1/4 acre works fine with a basic push mower, while larger properties demand more powerful equipment.
Mid-sized yards between 1/4 and 1/2 acre might benefit from self-propelled models. For anything over an acre, consider riding mowers or even lawn tractors to avoid spending your entire weekend pushing a tiny mower around.
2. Gas vs. Electric Power Source
Gas mowers offer unlimited runtime and greater power for tough grass, but require fuel, oil changes, and produce emissions. They typically handle wet or tall grass better than their electric counterparts.
Electric models come in corded (limited range but unlimited runtime) or battery-powered varieties (limited runtime but no cord). They start instantly, run quieter, and need less maintenance. Battery technology has improved dramatically, making electric options viable for many homeowners.
3. Consider Your Terrain Type
Flat lawns allow for almost any mower type, including robot models that can’t handle steep slopes. For hilly yards, look for mowers with large rear wheels or all-wheel drive that provide better traction and control.
Rocky or uneven terrain demands sturdy construction with metal decks rather than plastic ones. Some premium mowers feature floating decks that adjust to ground contours, preventing scalping on bumpy lawns while maintaining an even cut throughout.
4. Cutting Width Matters
Wider decks (21-22 inches) cover more ground with each pass, finishing the job faster. For large open lawns, this efficiency saves significant time. However, bigger isn’t always better.
Narrow decks (18-20 inches) offer better maneuverability around obstacles like trees, flower beds, and tight corners. They’re also lighter, easier to push, and often less expensive. Match the cutting width to your lawn’s layout rather than automatically going for the widest option.
5. Self-Propelled vs. Push Models
Push mowers require your strength to move forward, making them suitable for small, flat yards and budget-conscious shoppers. They’re lighter, have fewer parts to break, and cost less upfront.
Self-propelled models drive themselves forward with your guidance, reducing fatigue dramatically. Front-wheel drive excels on flat terrain, while rear-wheel drive provides better traction on slopes. All-wheel drive offers the best performance on varied terrain but comes with a higher price tag.
6. Mulching vs. Bagging Capabilities
Mulching mowers chop clippings into tiny pieces that decompose quickly, returning nutrients to your lawn naturally. This eliminates bagging and disposal while feeding your grass, creating a win-win situation for lazy gardeners and environmentalists alike.
Bagging systems collect clippings, creating a cleaner appearance and preventing thatch buildup in certain grass types. Many modern mowers offer 3-in-1 functionality, letting you switch between mulching, bagging, or side-discharge depending on conditions and preferences.
7. Height Adjustment Features
Look for mowers with multiple cutting height positions, typically ranging from 1-4 inches. Single-lever adjustment systems allow quick changes to all four wheels simultaneously, while individual wheel adjustments offer more precise control but take longer to modify.
Seasonal changes demand different cutting heights – taller in summer to protect roots from heat stress, shorter in spring and fall. Easy adjustment encourages proper mowing practices rather than keeping the mower at one height year-round, which can damage your lawn.
8. Storage Space Requirements
Limited garage or shed space calls for models with folding handles or vertical storage capabilities. Some newer models are specifically designed to fold up and stand on end, taking up minimal floor space when not in use.
Measure your storage area before shopping! Nothing’s worse than bringing home a mower that won’t fit in your designated space. Electric models typically have more compact designs than their gas counterparts, making them ideal for homes with tight storage situations.
9. Noise Level Considerations
Gas mowers operate at about 95-105 decibels, loud enough to damage hearing and annoy neighbors. Early morning or evening mowing might violate local noise ordinances with these louder models.
Electric mowers run much quieter at 65-75 decibels, comparable to normal conversation. Battery-powered models offer the quietest operation, allowing flexibility in when you mow without disturbing the peace. Some neighborhoods and communities have specific regulations about lawn equipment noise.
10. Starting Mechanism Options
Traditional pull-cord starters require physical strength and can frustrate users with bad backs or limited arm strength. Multiple yanks in hot weather quickly become annoying, especially when the engine doesn’t catch immediately.
Electric-start gas mowers use a button or key turn, eliminating the physical strain. Battery-powered mowers start instantly with a simple switch or button press. For those with physical limitations or who simply hate pull cords, these easier starting options provide significant quality-of-life improvements.
11. Maintenance Requirements
Gas mowers need regular oil changes, air filter replacements, spark plug checks, and winterization. You’ll handle gas and oil, deal with tune-ups, and possibly face carburetor issues over time.
Electric mowers require almost no maintenance beyond blade sharpening and cleaning. Battery models need charging and eventually battery replacement after several years. If you hate mechanical maintenance or don’t want to get your hands dirty, the simpler care requirements of electric models might outweigh other considerations.
12. Budget and Long-Term Costs
Initial purchase prices vary widely, with basic push mowers starting around $150 and premium self-propelled models reaching $600+. Riding mowers can cost $1,200-$3,000 or more depending on features.
Consider long-term expenses too. Gas mowers require ongoing fuel, oil, and maintenance costs. Electric corded models have minimal operating costs, while battery-powered ones eventually need battery replacement. Calculate the total cost of ownership over 5-10 years rather than focusing solely on the purchase price.
13. Weight and Maneuverability
Heavier mowers provide better stability on slopes but require more effort to push and turn. Most gas mowers weigh 70-90 pounds, while electric models typically range from 50-70 pounds.
Consider who will operate the mower regularly. Seniors, teenagers, or those with limited strength might struggle with heavier models. Test the turning radius and handling in the store before purchasing. Some models feature special wheel designs or ball-bearing wheels that significantly improve maneuverability despite heavier weights.
14. Wheel Size and Design
Front wheels typically measure 7-8 inches, while rear wheels range from 8-12 inches. Larger rear wheels provide better handling on uneven terrain and make it easier to tilt and turn the mower.
Ball-bearing wheels roll more smoothly and last longer than bushing wheels. Premium models often feature rubber tires with actual tread patterns rather than plastic wheels, offering superior traction on slopes and wet grass. Don’t overlook this seemingly minor feature that significantly impacts the mowing experience.
15. Brand Reputation and Warranty
Established brands like Honda, Toro, and Craftsman have proven track records for reliability and parts availability. Researching customer reviews reveals common problems and expected lifespan for specific models.
Warranty length indicates manufacturer confidence in their product. Look for at least 2-3 years of coverage on the mower and at least 3 years on engine components. Some premium brands offer 5-year warranties. Check if local service centers can handle warranty repairs to avoid shipping hassles.
16. Special Features Worth Considering
Wash-out ports allow you to attach a hose and clean under the deck without tipping the mower. This prevents rust and maintains cutting efficiency. LED headlights extend mowing time into dusk for busy homeowners.
One-touch height adjustment changes all four wheels simultaneously, while blade-brake clutch systems let the engine run while the blade stops temporarily. Cup holders, phone chargers, and comfort-grip handles might seem minor but can significantly improve your mowing experience over years of use.
17. Environmental Impact
Gas mowers produce significant emissions – running one for an hour creates pollution equivalent to driving a car 45 miles! They also create noise pollution and require proper disposal of used oil and old gas.
Electric mowers produce zero direct emissions and significantly less noise. Battery models have environmental costs in manufacturing and eventual battery disposal, while corded models use minimal resources. Many municipalities offer rebates for switching to electric mowers as part of clean air initiatives.
18. Grass Type Compatibility
Thick, tough grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine demand more powerful engines and sharper blades. Underpowered mowers struggle with these resilient varieties, leaving uneven cuts or bogging down completely.
Finer grasses like fescue or Kentucky bluegrass can be maintained with less powerful equipment. Most mower specifications don’t mention grass types specifically, but engine power, blade design, and cutting deck features all impact performance on different grass varieties. Match your mower’s capabilities to what’s actually growing in your yard.