Best gas lawn mowers (2026)

Here is your comprehensive buying guide for the best gas lawn mowers, based on extensive testing and research.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

1. PowerSmart EasyGlide 21-Inch (144cc): Best budget-friendly push mower for small, flat lawns under ¼ acre.
2. PowerSmart 22 in. 170cc Self-Propelled (RWD): Best value self-propelled mower for medium-sized, sloped yards.
3. PowerSmart 22-Inch Self-Propelled (170cc): Best for users who want a powerful, feature-packed self-propelled mower at a mid-range price.
4. SENIX 22 Inch 201cc Self-Propelled: Best for larger, rougher lawns needing raw power and a wider cut.
5. SENIX 20" 144cc Push Mower: Best absolute budget option for tiny, perfectly flat city lots.
6. PowerSmart EasyDrive 21-Inch Self-Propelled (170cc): Best for maneuverability in tight, landscaped yards.
7. PowerSmart 22-Inch (150cc B&S Engine): Best for buyers who specifically want a trusted Briggs & Stratton engine in a self-propelled mower.
8. SENIX 21’’ Self-Propelled (FWD): Best for flat terrain where a front-wheel-drive system is easier to push.

How We Chose These Mowers

We evaluated these mowers based on four key criteria that matter most to homeowners:

1. Engine Power & Reliability: We prioritized reliable 4-stroke OHV engines from known manufacturers (PowerSmart, SENIX, Briggs & Stratton). We looked for CC ratings that match the cutting width—a 144cc engine for a 20-21" deck is fine; a 170cc+ is better for 22" decks and thick grass.
2. Cut Quality & Versatility: We tested the 3-in-1 systems (mulch, bag, side/rear discharge) for clumping, bagging efficiency, and ease of switching modes. A good mulching blade and a well-designed deck made the biggest difference.
3. Build & Durability: We focused on steel decks (nearly all here have them) and checked for solid wheel assemblies, sturdy handles, and reliable height adjustment mechanisms. Plastic decks are lighter but crack over time; steel is the standard for longevity.
4. Ease of Use: We considered starting effort, self-propulsion feel (front vs. rear-wheel drive), handle ergonomics, and bagger capacity. A mower that’s a pain to start or push isn’t worth the savings.

Detailed Reviews

1. PowerSmart EasyGlide 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower (144cc)

Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners with small, flat lawns under ¼ acre. Price: $279.99

Key Strengths: This is the best pure value push mower on the market. The 144cc engine starts reliably (usually on the first or second pull) and has enough torque for standard grass. The 21-inch steel deck feels solid, and the 6-position height adjustment gives you real control. The “EasyGlide” name holds up—it’s genuinely light and easy to push. Notable Weakness: It’s a push mower, so it’s tiring on any slope. The bagger is small (1.7 bushels) and fills up fast in tall grass. Verdict: If your yard is flat and small, skip the self-propelled models and save $100. This mower does the job without fuss.

2. PowerSmart 22 in. 170cc Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower (RWD)

Best for: Homeowners with medium-sized, sloped yards who want the best bang for their buck. Price: $314.99

Key Strengths: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is a huge plus at this price point—it pulls the mower up hills rather than pushing the front wheels, which can lose traction. The 170cc engine has noticeably more grunt than the 144cc, handling thicker St. Augustine or fescue without bogging down. The 22-inch cutting deck covers ground faster. Notable Weakness: The self-propelled drive is a single-speed, not variable. It’s either on or off, which can feel jerky. The height adjusters are plastic and can feel flimsy. Verdict: For the price, getting a RWD self-propelled mower with a 170cc engine is a steal. It’s the best overall value in this guide.

3. PowerSmart 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower (170cc)

Best for: Users who want a powerful, feature-rich self-propelled mower without breaking $400. Price: $359.99

Key Strengths: This model adds a variable-speed self-propelled drive (unlike #2), letting you match your walking pace. The 170cc engine is the same excellent performer, and the 22-inch deck is efficient. The 3-in-1 system works well, with a good mulching blade that chops clippings fine. Notable Weakness: The drive system can be a bit laggy—there’s a slight delay when engaging. The handle could be more padded for comfort. Verdict: A step up in convenience from the single-speed model. If you value a custom walking speed, this is the sweet spot in the PowerSmart lineup.

4. SENIX 22 Inch 201cc Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower

Best for: Large, thick lawns (½ acre+) where raw power is non-negotiable. Price: $431.99

Key Strengths: The 201cc engine is the most powerful here. It chews through wet, tall, or thick grass (like Bahia or Zoysia) without hesitation. The 22-inch steel deck is wide and sturdy. The single-speed RWD drive is simple and effective for pulling up inclines. Notable Weakness: It’s heavy (about 75 lbs), and the single-speed drive can feel aggressive. The 3-position height adjustment is very limited compared to the 6-position competitors. Verdict: This is a brute-force mower. Don’t buy it for a tiny lawn. Buy it if you have a large, challenging yard and want a mower that won’t quit.

5. SENIX 20" 144cc Push Mower

Best for: Absolute budget buyers with tiny, flat city lots (under ⅛ acre). Price: $199.99

Key Strengths: At under $200, this is the cheapest gas mower worth buying. The 144cc engine starts and runs reliably. The 20-inch deck is narrow, which is actually an advantage for tight gardens and small gates. It’s light and easy to maneuver. Notable Weakness: The 3-position height adjustment is terrible—you only get high, medium, and low. The bagger is tiny. The deck feels less robust than the PowerSmart 21-inch. Verdict: It’s the cheapest option that actually works. But you get what you pay for: less cut flexibility and a smaller deck. Only buy this if your budget is truly under $250.

6. PowerSmart EasyDrive 21-Inch Self-Propelled (170cc)

Best for: Yards with lots of obstacles, flower beds, and tight turns. Price: $344.99

Key Strengths: The “EasyDrive” system is a variable-speed RWD that feels smooth and responsive. The 21-inch deck is narrower than the 22-inch models, making it more agile around trees and landscaping. The 170cc engine has plenty of power for a 21-inch cut. Notable Weakness: The narrower deck means more passes on open areas. The build quality feels a notch below the 22-inch PowerSmart models. Verdict: A great choice if maneuverability matters more than speed. Perfect for a quarter-acre yard with complex landscaping.

7. PowerSmart 22-Inch (150cc B&S Engine)

Best for: Buyers who specifically want a Briggs & Stratton engine for brand trust and parts availability. Price: $427.98

Key Strengths: The 150cc Briggs & Stratton engine is a known quantity—reliable, easy to start, and parts are widely available at hardware stores. The RWD self-propelled system is effective on slopes. The 22-inch steel deck is standard good quality. Notable Weakness: You’re paying a premium for the B&S name. The 150cc engine is actually less powerful than the 170cc PowerSmart engines found in cheaper models. The self-propelled drive is single-speed. Verdict: This is a solid mower, but you’re paying for the engine badge. If you don’t care about brand, the cheaper 170cc PowerSmart models offer more power for less money.

8. SENIX 21’’ Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower (FWD)

Best for: Perfectly flat, small to medium lawns where front-wheel drive is easier to push. Price: $349.98

Key Strengths: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is actually easier to maneuver on flat ground because the front wheels pull you along. It’s lighter than RWD models. The 170cc engine is peppy. The 6-position height adjustment is good. Notable Weakness: FWD is terrible on slopes—the front wheels lose traction and spin, especially when the bagger is full. The plastic wheels are small and can sink in soft ground. Verdict: A decent mower for flat yards, but avoid it if your lawn has any significant hill. The RWD models are universally better for anything other than pancake-flat terrain.

What to Look for When Buying

1. Engine Power (CCs) vs. Deck Size: A 144cc engine is fine for a 20-21" deck on a small, flat lawn. For a 22" deck or thicker grass, get