11 Best Small Lawn Mowers of 2024

By Harry RamosLast update: 2024-04-28

A well-manicured lawn presents your personality. But how to express yourself in the most likable way? Have the best small lawn mowers help you!

Here are the best small lawn mowers you can buy in 2024:

  • Best Overall: American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower
  • Runner Up: Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01
  • 3-in-1 Mower: BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower
  • Best For Taller Grass: Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower
  • Best Overall: Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Cordless Push Lawn Mower
  • 3-in-1 Mower: BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger and Mower
  • User-friendliest: Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower 25322
  • Best Self-propelled Mower: Lawn-Boy 17734 Kohler Electric Start Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
  • Budget-friendly Option: PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower
  • 3-in-1 Mower: Craftsman M115 Push Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
  • Most Versatile: Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower 660250
Top 11 Best Small Lawn Mowers
Best Overall
American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower
    Runner Up
    Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01
      3-in-1 Mower
      BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower
        Best For Taller Grass
        Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower
          Best Overall
          Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Cordless Push Lawn Mower
            3-in-1 Mower
            BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger and Mower
              User-friendliest
              Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower 25322
                Best Self-propelled Mower
                Lawn-Boy 17734 Kohler Electric Start Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
                  Budget-friendly Option
                  PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower
                    3-in-1 Mower
                    Craftsman M115 Push Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
                      Most Versatile
                      Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower 660250

                        Best Small Electric Corded Lawn Mower

                        Best Overall: American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower

                        American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower
                        American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower
                        Pros
                        • Lightweight, compact, and easy to operate & use
                        • Able to cut any types of grasses
                        • No tools needed for assembly
                        • Foldable handles for easy storage
                        • Eco-friendly
                        Cons

                        A bit dull factory blades

                        Those wanting eco-friendly benefits of an alternative to a gas lawn mower without sacrificing the power cut will like the American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower.

                        The critical features of this unit are 5 easy-to-adjust cutting height options from 1 inch to 2.5 inches, perfect for all uses and an 11-Amp electric motor producing sufficient power to clear even the toughest grass.

                        One of the main downsides of this machine by American Lawn Mower Company, though minor, is these dull blades manufactured by the factory.

                        American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower Specifications

                        Motor

                        11 Amp

                        Cutting Width

                        14 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        From 1" to 2.5"

                        Weight

                        25.4 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        2-in-1 rear discharge and mulching system

                        Easy-empty rear bag 9.25-gallon capacity

                        7-in easy roll composite wheels

                        Hard top 16 Gal grass bag

                        Multiple handle height positions

                        Verdict

                        Those with a small garden will rave about how the dependable the American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Corded Electric Lawn Mower can be.

                        Runner Up: Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01

                        Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01
                        Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01
                        Pros
                        • Versatile and lightweight
                        • Powerful enough to clip touch grass
                        • Safe for the environment
                        • Ensure ample cutting power for most situations
                        Cons
                        • String hassle

                        The Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01 is full of contradiction. While it is light enough for elders and female gardeners as well as homeowners with less physical strength, it has 9-Amps of power to deliver such a neatly cut lawn in no time at all.

                        Long running time, no fuel replacing, no battery charging, and 5 different cutting-height-toggling settings are some of the major benefits to this corded electric lawn mower. But,what you might not happy with the Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01 is the fact that the wire cord length will restrict you. Thus, make sure that there is an electrical outlet nearby.

                        Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01 Specifications

                        Motor

                        9 Amp

                        Cutting Width

                        14 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        From 5/8-Inch to 2-5/8-Inch

                        Weight

                        33.3 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        2-in-1 feature for mulching and rear discharge capabilities

                        14'' deck

                        5 position height adjustment

                        7-inch rear wheel and 6-inch front wheels

                        Verdict

                        Wіth zеrо stinky fumes, less roaring nоіѕе, and thе regular checks & maintenance associated with any other typical lawn mowers, the Greenworks Corded Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01 efficiently helps clip grass.

                        3-in-1 Mower: BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower

                        BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower
                        BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower
                        Pros
                        • Lightweight design with optimal control and user comfort
                        • No worry about accidental cord disconnection
                        • Easy-to-access functions
                        • High performance
                        • Suitable for all users regardless of their height
                        Cons
                        • Extension cord not included in the package

                        A 3-in-1 unit which can simply & effortlessly convert from a lawn mower to an edger or a trimmer is such a great thing to consider when looking for the best small lawn mowers. And that’s exactly what the BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower has to offer.

                        What homeowners love most about this machine is the powerful 6.5 amp motor combined with the Power Drive transmission ensuring the greatest performance possible when cutting through the toughest grasses, weeds, or overgrowth. Expect no problem whatsoever!

                        Something not to like? You have to buy an extension cord yourself as it is not included in the package.

                        BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower Specifications

                        Motor

                        6.5Amp

                        Cutting Width

                        12 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        From 1.6-inch to 2.4-inch

                        Weight

                        13 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        BESTA512 String Trimmer

                        MTD100 Detachable Mower Deck

                        AFS automatic feed system

                        Cord retention System

                        Gear Drive transmission

                        .065-inch line diameter

                        Easy conversion wheeled edging

                        Verdict

                        BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Electric Lawn Mower which offers up to three functions in only one compact product helps significantly reduce the number of equipment needed to keep your lawn and outdoor living space perfect.

                        Best For Taller Grass: Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower

                        Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower
                        Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower
                        Pros
                        • No oil, gas, and tune-ups needed
                        • Easy-to-detach hard top rear collection bag for ease of grass disposal
                        • ETL approved
                        • Good tips included in manual
                        • Easy to start and operate
                        • Seamlessly park and fitit in your garage or shed
                        Cons
                        • Disappointing construction

                        Small, powerful, and comfortable to use? The Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower ticks all the boxes of the greatest features found in an electric unit.

                        “Precise” is what thousands of reviewers talk about this product. And it’s thanks to the durable 14-in steel blade coming with 3 manually adjustable position height options.Whether it is 2.52 inches for a tad longer look or 1.18 inches for a golf-course-like appearance, the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower works as a lifesaver.

                        The only complaint that homeowners have made about this electric unit is the cheap plastic construction of most parts makes it not as durable as other products on the market.

                        Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower Specifications

                        Motor

                        13Amp

                        Cutting Width

                        14 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        N/A

                        Weight

                        29 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        Durable14-Inch steel blade cuts with precision

                        Tailor cutting height with 3-position height control

                        Includes 10. 6-gal bag and discharge chute

                        Comes with rear discharge chute

                        Verdict

                        If you have a small or medium-sized lawn with taller grass, there is no way to go wrong with the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower.

                        Best Small Battery Lawn Mower

                        Best Overall: Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Cordless Push Lawn Mower

                        Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Cordless Push Lawn Mower
                        Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Cordless Push Lawn Mower
                        Pros
                        • Arrive fully assembled
                        • Built for small and medium gardens
                        • Delightful to operate and use
                        • Come with a 2-year warranty
                        • Rust-resistant
                        Cons
                        • Struggle with thick grass

                        With a rounded, space-age construction, somehow looking like your kid’s toy, the Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Cordless Push Lawn Mower might be the cutest outdoor garden tool out there.

                        But it has much more to offer. One thing for sure: you can’t help falling in love with this nimble lawn mower’s exceptional knack for tackling a compact area and mowing semi-wet grass without any difficulty!

                        The key to all the success of this cordless lawn mower is the sturdy rust-resistant steel blade which can cut the grass in a crispy 14-inch wide swath with precision in any passes.

                        Though the 28V system is light and swift for jobs on smaller yards, it is not powerful enough for dealing with thick grass.

                        Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Cordless Push Lawn Mower Specifications

                        Run time

                        20 to 25 minutes

                        Cutting Width

                        14 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        1.18 in. (30 mm), 1.93 in. (49 mm), and 2.52 in. (64 mm)

                        Weight

                        23.1 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        Safety lock feature

                        Peak performance 28V rechargeable yet irremovable lithium-ion battery for up to a quarter acre of continuous mowing per charge

                        Detachable 10.6 gal (40 l) grass catcher for easy disposal.

                        Verdict

                        Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Cordless Push Lawn Mower is among the most competent choices when it comes to the most compact and appealing lawn mowers for a smaller yard.

                        3-in-1 Mower: BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger and Mower

                        BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger and Mower
                        BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger and Mower
                        Pros
                        • Maintain constant speed while cutting/ edging/trimming
                        • Easy to maneuver and use
                        • No gas or oil needed
                        • Cordless freedom
                        • Two batteries for longer running time
                        Cons
                        • Weak mower accessory

                        A lawn mower, an edger, or a trimmer – which one to purchase? Have them all in this cordless machine by BLACK+DECKER.

                        BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger and Mower features 20-volt MAX lithium-ion batteries which can retain their full charge 5x longer than these 18-volt NiCd batteries. It means prolonged runtime, greater service, and more power for handling the toughest lawns in bounded storage space.

                        Aside from the non-existence of gas or oil, it also comes with AFS (Automatic Feed Spool) which allows constant work without any bumping and short pauses for the spool adjustment. That way, you can get your chores done with minimal fuss and hassle.

                        The only thing that needs improving is the weak mower accessory.

                        BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger and Mower Specifications

                        Run time

                        20 to 25 minutes

                        Cutting Width

                        12 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        1.6 - 2.4 inch

                        Weight

                        9.9 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        AFS automatic feed system

                        20-volt MAX lithium-ion batteries

                        Power Drive Transmission

                        Adjustable height deck & trimmer and pivoting handle.

                        Verdict

                        BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 is a versatile machine that can comfortably and impressively pass the limits of a normal cordless garden tool.

                        User-friendliest: Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower 25322

                        Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower 25322
                        Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower 25322
                        Pros
                        • Ease ofmaneuvering throughout your garden
                        • Long runtime
                        • No gas-oil messing
                        • Able to efficiently cut 400 meters square on just a single charge
                        • 50% less vibration and noise than a gas-powered lawn mower
                        Cons
                        • Not great for short grass

                        Pulling a heavy extension cord or facing the hassle of fumes and noise is a thing of the past with this cordless garden tool by Greenworks, as it starts right up with a quick button push and works with low maintenance needed.

                        The Greenworks 16-in 40V Cordless Lawn Mower offers a single-lever and 5 trimming height adjustment stages measuring from 1-¼ to 3-⅗ inch guaranteeing the best cut for your lawn regardless of the environment.

                        What seems to be an issue is that the Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower 25322 cannot get low enough for short grasses.

                        Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower 25322 Specifications

                        Run time

                        45 minutes

                        Cutting Width

                        16 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        From 1-1/4 inches to 3-3/8-inches

                        Weight

                        37.5 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        Single lever 5-position height adjustment

                        40V battery

                        2-in-1 feature offers rear bagging and mulching capability

                        6-inch front wheel and 7-inch rear wheel.

                        Verdict

                        Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower 25322 offers you the best way to efficiently trim down on your carbon footprint.

                        Best Small Gas Lawn Mower

                        Best Self-propelled Mower: Lawn-Boy 17734 Kohler Electric Start Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

                        Lawn-Boy 17734 Kohler Electric Start Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
                        Lawn-Boy 17734 Kohler Electric Start Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
                        Pros
                        • Easy to assemble
                        • No fuel change needed
                        • Large wheels for optimal maneuverability
                        • Affordable
                        • Ensure enough power for better control & traction
                        • Manufactured for intuitive convenience
                        Cons
                        • Kohler XTX OHV engine is on the small side

                        This commercial-grade juggernaut gives gardeners everything they need: maneuverability, durability, and reliability go.

                        Following the popular multi-purpose outdoor tool trend with easy-starting capability, the Lawn-Boy 17734 Kohler Electric Start Self-Propelled Lawn Mower always does a solid job, whether it is mulching, bagging, or discharging grass clippings.

                        Though the Kohler XTX 149cc / 6.5 ft.-lbs. Gross Torque OHV engine delivers enough power to mow a medium-sized yard, it might die when taking on damp grass.

                        Lawn-Boy 17734 Kohler Electric Start Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Specifications

                        Engine Type

                        Kohler XTX OHV Engine / Electric Start

                        Engine Size

                        149cc

                        Cutting Width

                        21 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        From 1.25 to 3.75 inches

                        Weight

                        72 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        2-Point Height-of-Cut System

                        Rear-wheel drive, electric start

                        11-inch wheels in front and back

                        3-in-1 Discharge Ability

                        3-year Tru-Start Commitment for the state of California

                        Verdict

                        Have less hard work involved with the Lawn-Boy 17734 Kohler Electric Start Self-Propelled Lawn Mower!

                        Budget-friendly Option: PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower

                        PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower
                        PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower
                        Pros
                        • Compact &lightweight
                        • Effortless to push
                        • Easy pull starting
                        • Dual convertible (mower/mulcher)
                        • Effectively work with much higher efficiency
                        Cons
                        • Pull start

                        Considering the 161-cc engine, the 33 x 23 x 18-in and 58 pound package of the PowerSmart lawn mower comes as a surprise.

                        But rather than its compactness, what’s more amazing is the dual convertible mulching & discharge capability helping return key nutrients and even distribute healthy, nutrient-dense, and thick grass clippings.

                        Get ready for generous swaths with its vast durable steel 21-inch deck. As a plus, for your convenience,its secure pull starting mechanism and 8-inch rear wheels require minimal effort to push and breeze through your lawn.

                        The only minor downside of the PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower is the pull start. However, the more you use it, the better you get used to it.

                        PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower Specifications

                        Engine Type

                        Two-cylinder

                        Engine Size

                        161cc

                        Cutting Width

                        21 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        From 1. 18 to 3 inches

                        Weight

                        58 pounds

                        Highlight Features

                        2-in-1 side discharge and mulching capability

                        Sharp & solid blade

                        5-position height adjustment

                        8-inch rear wheels.

                        Verdict

                        For budget-conscious homeowners, the PowerSmart DB2321C Lawn Mower is an affordable gas-powered lawn mower worth considering.

                        3-in-1 Mower: Craftsman M115 Push Walk-Behind Lawn Mower

                        Craftsman M115 Push Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
                        Craftsman M115 Push Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
                        Pros
                        • Possess enough torque inside the 140CC engine for use without any single issue

                        • Easy to purr engine to life

                        • Handle smoothly

                        • Get your lawn cut evenly without any potential hitch

                        • Good instruction for ease of assembly

                        Cons
                        • Bagging attachment

                        Performance is definitely not what drags down the overall description & impression of the Craftsman M115 Push Walk-Behind Lawn Mower - 3-in-1 mower.

                        Being the best option in the limited garden adaptability and storage capacity, this machine offers 3 types of landscaping performance even on uneven terrain through one, solid garden tool.

                        One thing needing improvement is the bagging attachment that cannot fit snug around rear discharger.

                        Craftsman M115 Push Walk-Behind Lawn Mower Specifications

                        Engine Type

                        M115 Briggs & Stratton 550e Gas Powered with a recoil start & auto choke

                        Engine Size

                        140cc

                        Cutting Width

                        21 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        6 different height settings with the tallest being 4 inches

                        Weight

                        73 pounds

                        Highlight FeaturesSide discharge
                        Rear discharge and mulching capabilities
                        Dual lever adjustment
                        6 different height settings
                        11 inches rear tires
                        Verdict

                        Craftsman M115 Push Walk-Behind Lawn Mower - 3-in-1 mower offers landowners various ways to handle the grass clippings depending on their needs.

                        Most Versatile: Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower 660250

                        Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower 660250
                        Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower 660250
                        Pros
                        • Exceptionally reliable

                        • User-friendly

                        • Ensure even and sharp grass cuttings all the time

                        • Comfortable-to-hold handle and throttle

                        Cons
                        • Cumbersome wheel adjustment

                        Last but not least, we would like to recommend this 4-in-1 Versamow Self-Propelled Mulching Lawn Mower by Honda.

                        This unit’s overall high-efficiency rate stems from its broad deck and rear-wheel drive allowing for a uniform cut in the moderately hilly terrain of ¼ to ¾ acre.

                        Though the rear-wheel-drive mechanism with a decent 11-inch wheel height makes the Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower 660250 among the best self-propelled units, troubles come evident when you have to adjust the wheels.

                        Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower 660250 Specifications

                        Engine Type

                        Four-stroke GCV 190 engine

                        Engine Size

                        187cc

                        Cutting Width

                        21 inches

                        Cutting Height Adjustments

                        7 different height settings

                        Weight

                        73 pounds

                        Highlight FeaturesQuick & Super Easy Start
                        Great Mulching
                        4-in-1 design
                        Wide bagging system
                        5-year long warranty
                        Rear-wheel-drive mechanism
                        Dynamic self-propulsion speed control mechanism and smart drive
                        Verdict

                        Whether it is on flat or sloped terrain, the Honda HRX217K5VKA Lawn Mower 660250 glides smoothly over your lawn and around obstacles with minimal effort on your part.

                        How To Choose The Best Small Lawn Mower?

                        Electric Corded Vs. Battery Vs. Gas-powered

                        • Electric corded:safe (automatic power breakers which can kick in when homeowners accidentally run over the cable)

                        • Battery-powered: eco-friendly, light, and compact with no pollutant emission and no fuel requirement.

                        • Gas-powered:higher efficiency & effective performance but with regular maintenance required.

                        Power

                        • Power shows you the voltage of batteries. The higher it is,the sharper & cleaner cut your machine will make.

                        Deck Size & Cutting Width

                        • Both cutting width & deck size are typically expressed in inches. The narrower the deck are, the higher the pass number made to finish mowing your lawn is. It means that less electricity/fuel &less time spent on the chore at hand.
                        • A good lawn mower should have a 20-in wide cutting width or larger.

                        Which Brands Make The Best Small Lawn Mower?

                        Craftsman

                        • This superior brand of tools, storage, lawn & garden equipment founded in 1927 by Sears Holdings is proud to bring craftsmanship back to America.
                        • For almost a century, their products from tool storage, power tools, hand tools, and lawn & garden products have been continuously evolved to satisfy all kinds of landowners from amateurs to professional gardeners.

                        Snow Joe + Sun Joe

                        • With 85 years’ experience in the turf maintenance industry, Snow Joe + Sun Joe has been developing and providing innovative smart outdoor tools to keep your property gorgeous all year round. Their expansive collection of cordless, manual, and electric outdoor power tools including snow blowers, trimmers, tillers, and lawn mowers simplifies the yard routine and have the outdoor chores done smoothly.

                        BLACK+DECKER

                        • Despite the enlargement and new technology development, BLACK+DECKER tools have been famous for its standard bearers of quality. Go with them to work less and enjoy more!

                        FAQs

                        Can you push a self-propelled lawn mower?

                        Whether the self-propelled mower is rear-, front-, or all-wheel drive, you don’t have to push it. Just simply walk behind and guide it around your gardens.

                        Are electric lawn mowers any good?

                        Despite its limited range, electric lawn mowers work well on small lawns no larger than 8,000 sq. feet.

                        Can you put unleaded petrol in a lawn mower?

                        Fresh unleaded gasoline with the octane ratings of at least 87 can be put in a four-cycle lawn mower.

                        Is it better to use premium gas in small engines?

                        As smaller engines with a low compression ratio do not benefit from the high octane rating. It may be even more difficult to start when you put premium fuels in your machine. Thus, instead of investing in premium gas, you should spend good money on regular fuel.

                        Conclusion

                        Are you having difficulty narrowing down your go-to list of the best power tool for your garden maintenance? Take a closer look at our top picks for the best small lawn mowers on the market.

                        I’m Harry Ramos, who's crazy about all things green. I’m here to share some experience in my gardening adventure and how to choose the best products for your garden. Let's dig in, get our hands dirty, and celebrate the simple, earthy pleasures of the garden together!


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