You rely on your lawnmower more than you think. Without a working, quality mower, your lawn would be in shambles. You’d also find yourself dreading the hours you need to spend mowing your yard.
For that reason, it’s important to choose the right lawnmower. This comparison looks at the best cheap lawn mowers and makes it easier for you to make the right choice.
Backyard Boss Top 5 Best Cheap Lawn Mowers for 2022
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Why You Can Trust Us
Recently, I was in the market for a new lawnmower. The one I had for several years finally stopped running, and I decided to take the plunge and just pony up for a new one. However, I was surprised to find out that there is a wide variety of mowers, and they all have different functionalities and are meant for different types of yards.
I was also shocked at how expensive they were. It led me on a quest to find the best affordable mower on the market. There are several budget-friendly lawn mowers available, with prices dependent on the type of mower, the features, and several other factors. Check out our top picks for the best affordable mowers.
Best Electric Mower - Greenworks Electric Corded Lawn Mower
This product is ideal for individuals who want an electric mower with all the bells and whistles.
- Four year warranty
- Has seven height adjustments
- Stores easily
- Not ideal for large lawns
- Requires separate purchase of extension cord"
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Why We Like It: If you’re in the market for an electric mower, the Greenworks 12 amp mower should be at the top of your list.
The motor is powerful enough to handle small and medium-sized yards. Additionally, it has all the features you need to make mowing your lawn convenient and easy. There are three different options for handling your cuttings, which include mulching, bagging, and side discharging.
The features of this mower make it stand out. Starting up the mower is easy with the push-button start. To give you control over your cutting height, the mower has seven different height positions. You can cut as low as one and a half inches or as tall as three and three-quarter inches. A cord lock feature prevents the product from disconnecting from the cord. As far as storage goes, this mower doesn’t need much space. You can fold up the handles to store this product in a relatively small space.
Who Should Buy it: People who don’t want to deal with all the maintenance that comes with a gas mower but still want to cut taller grass without losing power will benefit from having it.
Best Lightweight Mower - Sun Joe Electric Lawnmower/Mulcher
This electric mower is ideal for those who are looking for a lightweight mower that can handle a small yard.
- Two-year warranty
- Lightweight piece of equipment
- No questions-asked warranty
- Noisier than other electric models
- Grass catcher handle doesn’t work well"
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Why We Like it: Another electric option, the Mow Joe, is a lightweight lawnmower that makes cutting your grass easy.
At only 31.5 pounds, it takes minimal effort to push this mower. It works well on yards that measure up to half an acre. Equipped with the ability to adjust the height, the mower allows you to customize the length of your lawn. The height ranges from .98 inches to 2.87 inches and can be adjusted with a lever.
In one pass, this mower can cut an area 17 inches wide. The grass clippings go into the detachable grass collection bag, which is easy to detach and reattach. This product is equipped with a mulch/mow function. As you mow your lawn, the sturdy wheels and lightweight make maneuvering a breeze. This product is ideal for those looking for a lightweight mower that can handle a small yard.
Who Should Buy it: People who don’t want to have to push around a heavy lawnmower in the hot and don’t want to lose out on functionality and quality should consider buying it.
Best Gas Powered Mower - PowerSmart Push Lawn Mower
If you need some extra power to cut through heavier vegetation, this could be a good option.
- Relatively light weight
- Powerful 170cc motor
- Has three discharge systems
- Can be difficult to start"
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Why We Like It: The 170CC engine on this PowerSmart Push Lawn Mower is powerful enough to cut the most stubborn grass.
It has an adjustable cutting depth with five different positions so you can get the best possible length for your particular yard. It also features three discharging options for collection and mulching, so you can have a few different choices when it comes to what you can do with your clippings.
The large engine makes it a good choice if you want power but don’t want to spend a fortune. On top of this, it folds up without any tools, making it perfect for homes that don’t have a lot of shed storage space. Coming in at only 60 pounds, it’s also portable enough for almost anyone to be able to use it.
Who Should Buy it: This product is for you if you want enough power to cut tall grass and heavy vegetation but don’t want to sacrifice portability and maneuverability.
Best Push Mower - American Lawn Mower Company
For those who want a no-fuss, no maintenance lawnmower, this hand push mower is ideal.
- 90 day limited warranty
- Very low maintenance
- Requires no electricity or gas
- Cuts unevenly
- Not for large lawns"
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Why We Like it: It doesn’t get much simpler or more affordable than a traditional push mower. But don’t mistake this mower for an antiquated piece of equipment. For years, the American Lawn Mower Company has been working hard to perfect the push mower.
This mower doesn’t require any power source, so just push it to start. It mows an area of grass that measures 14 inches wide and has an adjustable cutting height. The height ranges from half an inch to 1.75 inches, and the heat-treated alloy steel blades deliver a clean cut. Because it weighs in at only 20 pounds, this product is one of the lightest on the market.
On the reel of the mower, there are four different blades. You can choose a blade designed for your type of grass. Every three to five years, you can sharpen the blade.
Who Should Buy it: If you like to keep things simple and don’t want to deal with any mechanical issues or maintenance on a powered mower, you will be happy to have it.
Best Portable Mower - Black & Decker
If you need the portability of an unpowered mower with the ability to cut fairly high grass, this could be your best option.
- Light weight
- Compact storage
- Tool-free assembly
- Not for heavier vegetation"
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Why We Like it: This portable electric lawnmower by Black & Decker is one of the lightest and most portable mowers on the market. C
Coming in at just 13 pounds, it's light enough that almost anyone can use it without exerting themselves too much. It's designed to be used as a trimmer and edger on top of its mowing capabilities, so it’s an all-in-one lawn care tool that won’t take up much space in your garage.
Due to its small size, it’s meant for smaller yards. With a cutting width of 12 inches and a cutting height of 1.6 inches, it should be sufficient for yards without a lot of heavy vegetation. Plus, since it’s so portable, you can use it more often for a more manicured look.
Who Should Buy it: This is a great choice for anyone who wants to be saddled with a huge, cumbersome lawnmower when they are just trying to cut the grass in a small front or backyard.
15 Different Types of Lawnmowers
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1. Gas Powered Self Propelled
Gas-powered self-propelled lawn mowers are the most popular mowers on the market. Typically, gas-powered self-propelled lawn mowers have a four-stroke engine that releases an adequate amount of horsepower to the machine.
The manual pull crank is a trademark on gas-powered self-propelled lawn mowers, along with the throttle bar located right near the hands. Gas-powered self-propelled lawn mowers require regular maintenance and tend to not be environmentally friendly.
2. Walk-Behind Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Walk-behind self-propelled lawnmowers incorporate technology within the mowers that allow them to operate semi-automatically. Walk-behind mowers will only need the operator to steer the mower, and thankfully, they have a powerful engine to achieve this desired effect.
These mowers tend to be a little high on the price scale, but in comparison to other options, are significantly easier to operate.
3. Battery-Powered Self-Propelled
One of the best things about battery-powered self-propelled lawn mowers is that they are vastly quieter than the original gas models. Instead of gasoline, the operator only needs to ensure that the battery gets fully charged before every use. Proper battery care will extend the overall life of the mower, but when it comes to power, consider battery-powered models to pack less of a punch in terms of endurance.
A battery may last anyone between 1 to 2 hours depending on the model, while a gas-powered model with triple or double that hourly rate.
4. Walk-Behind Push Mower
One of the most available lawn mower types on the market is the walk-behind push mower, simply because of its simplistic construction. Typically, they are made with a reel mechanism or rotary for the blades and can be either gas or electric. Another reason push mowers are so popular is because they also happen to be the most cost-efficient in most cases.
Most of the moving power will be the responsibility of the operator, so if you plan on owning one, make sure to be ready for a workout every time!
5. Gas-Powered Push Mower
One of the heavier styles of lawn mower is the gas-powered push lawn mower that is usually equipped with a heavy-duty engine. Similar to the gas-powered, self-propelled lawnmower, a gas-powered push mower will need the operator to do all the moving work manually.
If you are not prepared to handle a machine that is unforgiving in its weight and maneuverability, then we wouldn't recommend purchasing these types of machines.
6. Battery-Powered Push Mower
Great for smaller yards with little to no inclines, the battery-powered push mowers are a balanced option for the leisurely gardener. With a lighter construction than any gasoline-powered lawnmower, the battery-powered push mowers are also designed to have a longer life if the batteries are maintained and properly charged.
7. Corded Electric Push Mower
As the name implies, corded electric push mowers have to be plugged into a wall socket or generator when being operated. The best part about corded electric push mowers is that as long as you’ve paid your electricity bill, your lawnmower is infinitely powered.
Because of the cord, however, the operator may have to be inventive with how they use them.
Image credits: Daniel Watson via Unsplash
8. Reel Lawn Mowers
Reel lawn mowers, aka “Cylinder Lawn Mowers” are the most basic lawnmowers. Reel mowers do not have a motor and do not require any charge or gasoline, so they are ideal for the environmentally friendly gardener. These lawn mowers will leave all trimmings behind since they are not equipped with any type of bag or satchel.
They also tend to not cut the grass very well, so be prepared to have to use them frequently.
9. Hover Lawn Mowers
Defying gravity one lawn at a time, hover lawnmowers produce a layer of air underneath them as they float above your lawn. Hover lawnmowers are easily handled in a 360-degree motion, which makes them better at getting into tight spots than some of the more conventional models.
They are great options for anyone with many slopes or tons of roughage in their yards.
10. Riding Lawn Mowers
Riding lawn mowers are as convenient as they are expensive! While riding lawn mowers are the top echelon of lawnmowers in general, they are best suited for people with massive areas or in places where extreme heat is prevalent.
Riding lawn mowers help to decrease time, energy, and cleanliness and can be a rather enjoyable experience.
11. Zero-Turn Lawn Mower
A newer concept in the world of lawnmowers, the zero-turn lawn mower is engineered to take tight turns and avoid obstacles. Instead of a traditional steering wheel attached, zero-turn lawn mowers have two bars that simultaneously act like paddles on a boat.
It may take a few attempts to become acclimated to the control mechanism, but once you are used to it, zero-turn lawn mowers are one of the quickest and most effective ways to mow your lawn.
12. Tractor Lawn Mower
Renowned as the most popular type of riding lawn mower, tractor lawn mowers have paved the way for efficient lawn mowing and are manufactured with comfort in mind. While they can be very noteworthy with their mowing abilities, they lack the precision that other models can accomplish.
Even so, few models do an overall better job than the tractor lawnmowers.
13. Articulating Lawn Mower
Similar to the zero-turn lawn mowers, articulating lawn mowers come complete with a front-mounted cutting deck that gives the operator complete control of its function.
Articulating lawn mowers have the most agility out of any other type of mower and can be used with several different attachments to enhance the lawn mowing experience even further.
14. Rough-Cut Mowers
Rough-cut mowers are designed with sharp and durable blades in order to slice through dense pieces of nature, which include branches and small trees as easy targets. While the strength of rough-cut mowers is top-notch, they tend to not leave a clean finish, but that’s almost the point.
Rough-cut mowers are ideal for maintaining thick brush, and would rather you leave the easy slicings to a different lawn mower model.
15. Sickle Bar Mower
You can identify a sickle bar mower from its unique design and can be quite the show-tool in a lot of ways. Sickle bar mowers come standard with an oscillating sickle that dominates lawns with triangular blades.
Similar to the technology used in hair shavers, anything that comes in contact with the “teeth” of a sickle bar mower will be cut and leveled to a perfect consistency.
What You Should Look for in Affordable Lawnmowers
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There are many factors to consider when buying a low-cost/high-efficiency lawnmower. One of the biggest factors is a performance-to-output ratio. It means how much effort needs to be put into getting the job done. It brings us to the next point: square footage. Always consider how big is an area you are looking to maintain, and purchase a mower accordingly. The last thing you want to do is buy a model that operates tediously with your lawn and makes the task even more daunting than it already is.
Another factor to consider is durability. Some mower options (typically the electric ones) can be constructed of lightweight material that doesn’t necessarily work well under tons of stress - even more so with cheaper models. So if you are looking to tackle hilly terrain or larger areas, having a lawnmower that can take somewhat of a beating is crucial.
And lastly, make sure to check online reviews and other critical mediums that are tried and true in the landscaping and gardening world. Many qualified sites and establishments make it their sole duty to bring you the best and most crucial information in regards to shopping for a mower.
Before you start shopping, you should know what to look for in a cheap lawnmower. The right piece of equipment will leave your lawn looking well-manicured and vibrant. Consider all the following details as you shop around.
The Type of Lawnmower
There are several types of lawnmowers, and each comes with its own merits. If you have a small yard, you might want an electric mower. Instead of relying on gas, it uses a powerful battery. This type of mower is easy to start and requires minimal maintenance. However, it can only cut a small yard on one charge. If you have a yard that’s larger than one-fifth of an acre, you may not want an electric mower.
Another possibility is a self-propelled gas mower. Unlike a regular gas mower, this type of mower pulls itself along. You still need to push it and guide it, but the mower does most work. The disadvantage of a self-propelled mower is the increased weight and decreased maneuverability.
For people with large yards, there’s no better choice than a ride-on mower. You can mow your lawn from the comfort of a chair, and most ride-on mowers are easy to maneuver. However, there aren’t many cheap riding lawnmowers available. Even the cheapest ride-on mowers are hundreds of dollars more than mid-level self-propelled mowers.
Comfort
Whether you mow your lawn once a week or twice a month, you deserve a comfortable experience. If you’re getting a ride-on mower, look for one with a cushioned seat. It’s also important to consider the comfort of the steering wheel.
A self-propelled or push mower should be at a comfortable height or adjustable to a comfortable height. Additionally, the handles should be positioned so they're easy to grasp and within your reach.
Performance
What good is a lawnmower if it doesn’t work well? If you pick a mower with poor performance, you might as well cut your grass with scissors. Typically, performance depends on the size and style of the engine.
For simple jobs, you might be able to get away with a 140cc engine. But a yard with tall or wet grass needs a mower with a more powerful engine. It may also require a mower with an overhead valve engine.
Durability
A cheap lawnmower isn’t affordable if you need to replace it every year. When buying a new mower, you should consider its durability. Does it use cheap lawn mower parts? If so, are any of those parts under warranty? It doesn’t make financial sense for you to make frequent repairs on your mower.
You can usually tell if a lawnmower is durable by looking at the manufacturer’s reputation. While some brands are known for creating long-lasting equipment, others have the opposite reputation.
Things to Consider When Buying a Cheap Lawn Mower
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Reviews
No lawnmower has only perfect reviews. However, you should do your research before you decide to purchase a mower. Find out what people have to say about the comfort, durability, and features of the lawnmower.
One bad review shouldn’t be enough to turn you away from a mower. That said, reviews that repeat the same complaints are a sign that you should reconsider your purchase. Take some time to find out what other people say about the product.
Mulching Ability
Some homeowners like to mulch their grass. If you’re interested in mulching, you should look for a mower that has exceptional mulching ability. Some mowers are equipped with mulching blades. Others have special decks that prevent grass from building up on the bottom of the mower.
If a bagged mower is more your style, you should consider how the bag works. Is it easy to remove and install, or is it engineered to be difficult? Some mowers give users the option to mulch and bag simultaneously, and others make it possible to flip a switch from bagging to mulching.
Added Features
You should carefully consider the added features of your mower. For instance, look at the height adjusters. What do you need to do to adjust the height of the mower? An easily adjustable mower might have a single lever that moves all four wheels.
The starting features also matter. While the most simple lawnmowers have starter ropes, a better mower may have an electric start. There’s nothing more frustrating than a mower that won’t start, so you might only want a mower with this feature. Although it will cost you more money for the electric start, it can make mowing your lawn much more enjoyable.
When purchasing a cheap lawn mower, there are a few things to consider. The first is that cheap lawn mowers can have a lifespan as low as 200 hours, which may last a couple of years depending on the size of your property. The second factor to consider is if the lawnmower can adjust its height.
Too often do people save a few bucks on their lawnmower, only to realize it doesn’t leave their lawns cut low enough to their satisfaction. And lastly, you want to make sure that the mower is powerful enough to complete the task you are faced with. This is especially true if you are working on a field or lawn that has a lot of dense shrubbery or resistant elements, like large branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
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1. When buying a lawnmower, do higher prices mean more efficiency?
As with any type of purchase, higher prices do not necessarily mean a better product. So much relies on the work you intend to do with your lawnmower that an expensive machine may be overkill for your project.
With that being said, lawnmowers with a high price tag are almost always superior to the cheaper brands or models, However, even a cheaper brand will do better than an elite one if it is used correctly.
2. How tall of grass can I cut with a lawnmower?
Most lawnmowers are produced to cut high grass and are typically adjustable for such a task. It is always optimal to invest in a lawnmower that is designed to handle your specific needs. In most cases, if the grass levels are above knee height or labyrinth-like in their layout, then tractor-type lawn mowers are the best way to go.
A pro-tip would be to always keep your property at a decent grass level so that you never have to worry about overworking yourself or your machine.
3. Are lawnmowers dangerous?
Any machine that is used improperly can cause harm to the operator or others. It is best to familiarize yourself with the codes and safety measures associated with your mower and follow them with strict due diligence.
How We Picked
For our list of the best cheap lawn mowers, we searched the marketplace and came across a wide variety of mowers that are meant for all kinds of yards and applications. We tried to find mowers that would be low maintenance and lightweight, so you don’t have to be fussing with it too much and constantly working on it to keep it going. Odds are, if you’re not looking to spend a lot of money, you’re also not looking to do a lot of maintenance.
We also picked mowers that, of course, had a low price tag. All of the mowers on our list are under $300. It makes them a good choice for anyone who doesn’t want to spend a lot of money. At the same time, they had to be high-quality and made with heavy-duty parts that can stand up to thicker grass and heavier vegetation where it’s necessary.
Our Pick of The Best Cheap Lawnmower for 2022
So which lawnmower gives you the most bang for your buck? Although the answer depends on the type of mower you want, there's one product that stands head and shoulders above the rest. The Sun Joe MJ403E Mow Joe 17-Inch 13-Amp Electric Lawnmower/Mulcher does it all. It comes with all the benefits of a cordless electric mower and more.
Most importantly, it’s lightweight and extremely easy to use. It has a powerful motor and large blades, both of which make it a top contender. While it’s not ideal for large yards, this mower is perfect for anyone with a small or medium yard who’s trying to buy a lawnmower on a budget.