Around 228.73 million Americans own lawn and gardening equipment, and that number is expected to rise in the years to come as people continue to appreciate the value of having a well-groomed lawn.
As technology continues to change and evolve, lawnmowers are becoming more efficient and easier to use. It’s challenging to choose the best cheap lawn mower that fits both your needs and budget with so many options.
Fortunately, I have extensive experience as a landscaper and am very familiar with lawnmowers (affordable and expensive). That’s why I’ve gone ahead and researched to help you find the best affordable lawn mower available.
- Best Cheap Lawn Mowers
- How Much To Spend On An Affordable Lawn Mower?
- Choosing An Affordable Lawn Mower
- Best Cheap Lawn Mowers Reviews
- 1. Toro Recycler Gas 21” Lawn Mower
- 2. Ego 56V Battery Powered Lawn Mower
- 3. Greenworks 10 Amp 16-inch Corded Mower
- 4. Ryobi 16 in. 13 Amp Corded Electric Mower
- 5. Troy-Bilt 21in. 140cc Briggs & Stratton Gas Mower
- 6. BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, 10-Amp, Corded
- 7. Sun Joe PRO 13 Amp Electric Lawn Mower 13”
- 8. American Lawn Mower Company Reel Lawn Mower
- Verdict: Best Cheap and Affordable Lawn Mowers
- FAQs Budget Lawn Mowers
Best Cheap Lawn Mowers
If you’re in a hurry, here are my top 3 picks for the best cheap lawnmowers. Each of them offers reliability and performance on a budget.
Best Affordable Gas Mower
Toro Recycler Gas 21″ Mower
Outstanding budget 21-inch deck made of steel. Features side discharge and mulching capabilities. Adjustable speed controls and a gas tank capacity of 2.5 quarts.
Best Reconditioned Lawn Mower
Ego 56V Battery Powered Lawn Mower
Pick up a premium reconditioned electric mower with a 56V battery for a bargain. With a 21-inch deck, steel-made. It’s easy to use and packed with features.
Best Lawn Mower Under $100
Greenworks 16-Inch 10 Amp Corded Mower
Corded 10-amp mower powerful enough to cut through thick grass quickly, and it’s backed by a durable 16″ steel deck that can take a beating. 2-in-1 mulch or side discharge.
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How Much To Spend On An Affordable Lawn Mower?
Just because a lawn mower is cheap doesn’t mean it’s not good quality. Numerous factors, such as engine type, self-propulsion, and size, affect the price. The best way to find a reliable, affordable lawn mower is by considering your budget and needs.
For instance, if you have a small lawn, you don’t need to spend as much money on a self-propelled lawn mower as you would if you had a large lawn. You can find an affordable lawn mower durable with the necessary features without breaking the bank.
However, to give context on the prices of lawnmowers, gas-powered push lawnmowers cost an average of $300, while electric push lawnmowers cost an average of $250. Depending on the brand, size, and features, the prices of these lawnmowers can go up or down.
The following are some factors that you should keep in mind when shopping for an affordable lawn mower:
- Mower size.
- Type of engine.
- Self-Propelled or not.
- Additional features.
You should consult reviews and research to find the best cheap affordable lawn mower that suits your needs. A competent landscaper or garden equipment supplier can help you choose the ideal lawn mower for your budget and needs.
What Brand Of Lawn Mower Is The Most Reliable?
Getting value for your money is essential when purchasing an affordable lawn mower. Today, there are many brands of lawnmowers that you can choose from, which makes it challenging to identify the most reliable one.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the most reliable lawn mower brands that offer high-quality and durable products.
Toro
The brand Toro is synonymous with lawnmowers, and for a good reason. Toro has been in the business of manufacturing lawnmowers for over 100 years. Their products are durable, easy to use, and efficient.
Their wide range of lawn mowers includes push, riding, electric, and gas-powered lawn mowers. No matter your budget or needs, you’re bound to find a Toro lawn mower that’s ideal for you.
Honda
Honda is known for its high-quality and durable lawnmowers and is one of the most reliable brands on the market. Their products are known for being easy to start and efficient.
Honda’s range of lawnmowers includes push, riding, and self-propelled mowers. Their products are a bit on the expensive side but are worth the investment because of their durability and performance.
Ego
Ego is your brand if you’re looking for an electric lawn mower that’s powerful and efficient. Their products are user-friendly, lightweight, and emit zero emissions.
Ego’s range of electric lawn mowers includes push and self-propelled lawn mowers. Their products are a bit more expensive than gas-powered lawnmowers but are much easier to use and maintain.
How Long Will A Cheap Lawn Mower Last?
The lifespan of a lawn mower depends on various factors, such as the engine type, how well it’s maintained, and how often it’s used.
Generally, a gas-powered lawn mower will last around four years if it’s well-maintained and used regularly. An electric lawn mower will last for about eight years. When it comes to pushing lawnmowers, they usually have a shorter lifespan than self-propelled mowers.
To get the most out of your lawn mower and make it last longer, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on properly maintaining it. It includes regularly changing the engine oil, air filter, and spark plug. You should also clean the undercarriage of the mower after each use.
Best Time To Buy A New Lawn Mower
The best time to buy a lawn mower is during the off-season when fewer people are shopping for it. You’ll likely get a better deal on a lawn mower during the off-season.
If you’re looking for the best cheap affordable lawn mower, you should start shopping around during the late fall or early winter. During the season, most retailers offer discounts and clearance sales on lawnmowers.
It’s also a good idea to wait for big shopping holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day when retailers offer significant discounts on their products.
Some circumstances may, however, not wait for the offseason. If your lawn mower breaks down and you need a new one urgently, you can start shopping around anytime.
Should You Buy A Used Lawn Mower?
There are both advantages and disadvantages to buying a used lawn mower. The main advantage is that you’re likely to save a lot of money since used lawnmowers are much cheaper than new ones.
The main disadvantage is that you don’t know how well the previous owner maintained the lawn mower, which may not last as long as a new one.
If you’re considering buying a used lawn mower, inspect it thoroughly before making a purchase. It’s also a good idea to ask the previous owner for maintenance records. You can also consult a lawn mower repair shop to get their opinion on the condition of the mower.
Choosing An Affordable Lawn Mower
There are a few things to consider when choosing an affordable lawn mower. The most important thing is to choose one that’s right for your needs. If you have a large lawn, you’ll need a different lawn mower than someone with a small yard.
Some of the critical factors to consider are:
What Type of Mower do You Need? (Push, Riding, Electric Battery, Electric Corded, or Self-Propelled?)
An alternative to a gas-powered lawn mower is an electric battery, electric corded, or self-propelled. The best type of lawn mower depends on your needs and preferences.
You must analyze what will work better in your case, considering the size of your lawn and if you have any particularities, such as hills or obstacles.
Electric battery lawn mowers are becoming increasingly popular because they’re environmentally friendly and easy to maintain. Electric corded lawnmowers are also a good option if you have a small lawn. They’re not as powerful as gas-powered lawnmowers, but they’re much cheaper and easier to maintain.
Self-propelled lawnmowers are an excellent option if you have a large lawn. They’re more expensive than push mowers, but they’ll save you time and effort.
Lawn Size and Terrain
Commercial spaces often have different mowing requirements than residential ones. If you have a small lawn, you can get away with using a push mower. You’ll need a self-propelled or riding lawn mower if you have a large yard.
The terrain of your lawn is also an essential factor to consider. You’ll need a mower to handle the incline if you have a hilly yard.
Gas-Powered Vs Electric Mowers
Gas-powered mowers are more powerful than electric ones but are also more expensive and require more maintenance. Electric mowers are cheaper and easier to maintain but are not as powerful.
The best option for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you have a large lawn, you’ll need a gas-powered mower. If you have a small property, an electric mower will be sufficient.
Engine Power (hp) Vs. Motor (V)
The engine power of a gas-powered lawn mower is measured in horsepower (hp). The motor of an electric lawn mower is measured in volts (V). More powerful motors can mow your lawn faster, but they’ll also be more expensive.
Choose the right engine power for your needs. You’ll need a more powerful engine if you have a large lawn. You can use a less powerful engine if you have a small property.
Lithium Battery Run Time (Ah)
You’ll need to consider the run time if you choose an electric battery lawn mower. Lithium batteries have a longer run time than lead-acid batteries. Choose a lawn mower with a lithium battery if you have a large lawn.
Deck Fabrication and Material
The deck of a lawn mower is the part that holds the blade. It’s usually made of steel or plastic. Steel decks are more durable, but they’re also more expensive. Plastic decks are less durable, but they’re cheaper.
Choose the suitable deck material for your needs. You’ll need a more durable deck if you have a large lawn. If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable lawn mower that will last you a long time, choosing one with a steel deck is better.
Cutting Deck Width (inches)
The cutting deck is the part of the lawn mower that holds the blade. It’s usually either 21 inches or 22 inches wide. A more expansive cutting deck will allow you to mow your lawn more quickly, but it will also be more expensive.
The correct width for you depends on your needs. You’ll need a more expansive cutting deck with a large lawn. However, if you have a small property, you can use a narrower cutting deck and save money.
Cut Height Adjustment Settings
The cut height is the distance between the ground and the blade. Most mowers have between 3 and 7 different settings for the cut height. Choose a lawn mower with a range of settings that will allow you to cut your grass to the height you want.
For instance, if you want a low-maintenance lawn, you should choose a lawn mower with a high setting. However, if your property looks pristine, you should choose a lawn mower with a low setting.
Mulching, Bagging, and Discharge Features
Mulching lawnmowers chop up the grass and leaves as they mow. The mulch is then returned to the lawn, providing nutrients for the grass. Bagging lawnmowers collect the grass and leave it in a bag as they mow. The bag can then be emptied into a compost bin.
Discharge lawnmowers, shoot the grass, and leave it out of the side of the mower. This is an ideal option if you’re not planning on composting the grass.
Choose the convenient feature for your needs. If you want to fertilize your lawn, choose a mulching lawn mower. If you’re going to collect the grass for composting, choose a bagging lawn mower. Choose a discharge lawn mower if you don’t want to deal with the grass after mowing.
Wheel Drive
There are two types of wheel drive: front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive lawnmowers are cheaper, but they’re not as maneuverable. Rear-wheel drive lawnmowers are more expensive, but they’re more maneuverable.
When looking for a cheap lawn mower, it’s best to choose a front-wheel drive model. However, if you’re willing to spend more, a rear-wheel drive lawn mower will be easier to maneuver.
Best Cheap Lawn Mowers Reviews
Now that you know what to look for in a cheap lawn mower, it’s time to choose one. Here are our top picks for the best cheap lawnmowers.
1. Toro Recycler Gas 21” Lawn Mower
Best Affordable Gas Mower
- Power Type: Gas
- Cutting Deck: 21 inches
- Deck Type: Fabricated
- Cutting Height: 1 to 5 inches
- Run Time: 60 minutes
- Speed: Push Mower
- Battery Storage: N/A
- No-Worry Warranty: 2-Year Full (45-day limited for commercial use)
- True-To-Start Warranty: 3-Year Full (not applicable for commercial use)
Pros
- Good traction in arduous terrain.
- Never need an oil change (only maintain oil levels).
- Durable deck.
Cons
- May experience trouble bagging grass.
- Not great for larger yards.
Okay, so ‘cheap’ is all a matter of opinion. If you want a premium gas lawnmower at bargain prices then the Toro Recycler is as good of a bet as anything. It will set you back $330 but by comparison, it represents great value.
Reliable, user-friendly, and manufactured to give you a healthy lawn without breaking the bank, the Toro Recycler push mower is an excellent choice for homeowners of any landscaping level.
The Recycler features 11-inch back wheels for easy navigation over uneven terrain and rocks and easy upkeep with a refill-and-go oil chamber – you never have to change the oil! The mower comes with a 3-year warranty and has a rust-proof finish.
I appreciate the lightweight, small-but-mighty functioning of the Recycler. This mower sits at about 60 pounds, making it relatively maneuverable for most people. It mows as well as a heavy-duty model but doesn’t require excessive physical labor to get it going.
The lightweight Recycler from Toro is ideal if you want a good-looking lawn without the hassle of a bulky riding mower.
2. Ego 56V Battery Powered Lawn Mower
Best Reconditioned Lawn Mower
- Power Type: Battery
- Cutting Deck: 21 inches
- Deck Type: Fabricated
- Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches
- Run Time: 45 minutes
- Speed: Push Mower
- Battery Storage: Yes
- Warranty: 5-Year tool warranty
Pros
- Arguably the best electric lawnmower on the market. Pick up a refurbished model at bargain prices
- 45 minutes of run time on a single charge
- Outstanding cutting quality and packed with premium features
Cons
- Nothing at these prices
A small yard shouldn’t keep you from investing in a great mower. The Ego 56V Battery-Powered push model works brilliantly for neighborhood lawns. Its battery holds about 45 minutes of run-time per charge and benefits the environment more than a traditional gas-powered motor.
What sets the Ego 56V apart from other battery-powered motors for me is that it’s foldable. The mower folds into a storage-friendly size and takes next to no time to get out of your garage. Like the Toro Recycler, the Ego 56V is lightweight but robust.
Other features of the Ego 56V are 6-point-cut options and an innovative 3-in-1 function that bags, mulches, and stores as you mow.
3. Greenworks 10 Amp 16-inch Corded Mower
Best Lawn Mower Under $100
- Power Type: Corded Electric
- Cutting Deck: 16 inches
- Deck Type: Hardened Plastic
- Cutting Height: 5/8-Inch to 2-5/8-Inch
- Run Time: Unlimited
- Speed: Push Mower
- Battery Storage: N/A
- Warranty: 4-Year tool limited warranty
Pros
- Low noise and emissions.
- Push-button start.
- Low to no maintenance.
Cons
- May lose power in thicker patches of grass.
- The mower can be challenging to maneuver.
Another tiny-lawn-friendly mower, the Greenworks 10 Amp model, uses electricity via a cord as its power source. While this can become cumbersome, it never runs out of power (unlike the battery-powered Ego). You can mow your lawn for however long you need.
The Greenworks 10 Amp mower has one of the most affordable prices at under $150. It also features a mulch bag for a flawlessly manicured lawn and a 16-inch deck for precision and a speedy cut.
If you can get past the cord power source, the Greenworks mower is an excellent pick for small yards and beginner landscapers. I find the model approachable and user-friendly, as it weighs under 40 pounds and has a push-to-start button.
- Power Type: Corded Electric
- Cutting Deck: 16 inches
- Deck Type: Fabricated ABS Plastic
- Cutting Height: 1/2-inch to 3-inches
- Run Time: Unlimited
- Speed: Push Mower
- Battery Storage: N/A
- Warranty: 3-Year limited warranty
Pros
- Environmentally friendly.
- Push-button start.
- No maintenance.
Cons
- The mulching function can be problematic.
- The mower may experience difficulty locking the handle.
Ideal for the eco-friendly landscaper, the Ryobi 13 Amp cord mower keeps your lawn neat and trimmed without utilizing gas, oil, or spark plugs. Instead, the mower plugs into a power source like the Greenworks model.
The Ryobi plug-in mower weighs 32 pounds and comes with a 3-year warranty. It has collapsible handles for quick storage and won’t take up much room in your shop or garage. As someone who dislikes doing maintenance, I appreciate the environmentally friendly approach to mowing – and not having to care for parts means less money spent overall.
This lawn mower comes with a handy cord holder, so you can mow without a pesky extension cord getting in your way.
- Power Type: Gas
- Cutting Deck: 21 inches
- Deck Type: 15 gauge steel
- Cutting Height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches
- Run Time: 60 minutes
- Speed: Push Mower
- Battery Storage: N/A
- Warranty: 2-Year limited warranty
Pros
- Easy assembly.
- The mower can handle thicker grass patches.
- Sturdy construction.
Cons
- The mower may be difficult to push at times.
- The oil well is in a difficult location to access.
If you need a classic, heavy-duty, and durable mower, the Troy-Bilt 140cc mower is for you. Designed with rear elevated wheels for diverse terrains and a tri-cutter mulching kit, the Troy-Bilt push mower is the perfect choice for the budget-conscious landscaper.
This lawn mower works for almost every yard and will not run out of charge like battery-powered models – but it’s not as environmentally friendly and requires oil changes, which some may find off-putting.
I find this mower reliable and rugged, ideal for getting those extra-rocky spots of weeds or grass in usually hard-to-reach corners. The manufacturer recommends purchasing fuel stabilizers to extend the life of the mower, and I second that suggestion, especially if you plan to keep your mower in storage.
- Power Type: Corded Electric
- Cutting Deck: 16 inches
- Deck Type: Fabricated
- Cutting Height: 1 to 3 inches
- Run Time: Unlimited
- Speed: Push Mower
- Battery Storage: N/A
- Warranty: 2-Year limited warranty
Pros
- Push button start
- Ideal for various grass thickness
- Comfort grip for easier maneuverability
Cons
- Not ideal for rougher terrain
- May experience issues attaching the collection bag
Sleek and stylish, the Black & Decker mower is as effective as it is affordable. At under $120, this lawn mower gets the job done like pricier mowers without the high price tag.
The Black & Decker electric mower works best for small yards without rocky or uneven terrain (although I find it cuts through overgrown grass quite well). It’s lightweight and provides unlimited run time, so you never have to worry about your mower quitting on you in the middle of your lawn.
One of the unique features of the Black & Decker mower is its handle, which looks like a bike handlebar. The design allows you to turn and reach nooks and crannies without excessive force.
- Power Type: Corded Electric
- Cutting Deck: 13 inches
- Deck Type: Plastic
- Cutting Height: 1.5 to 3 inches
- Run Time: Unlimited
- Speed: Push Mower
- Battery Storage: N/A
- Warranty: 2-Year limited warranty
Pros
- Push-button start.
- Durable steel blades offer precision cuts.
- Collapsible handing provides an easy storage solution.
Cons
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as other materials.
- Maneuvering can be more difficult when a collection bag fills.
Arguably one of the most unique-looking mowers, the Sun Joe PRO is an electric lawn mower with durable blades and a mulch collector. Despite the primary material being plastic, the Sun Joe PRO functions as well as metal or heavy-duty mowers but may not be as long-lasting if you have rocks or other obstacles in your yard.
The Sun Joe PRO is an excellent choice for beginners or those who want a quick and easy solution to an overgrown lawn. It will not last as long as steel-based motors without proper maintenance.
Overall, I find the Sun Joe PRO to be an affordable and basic-level mower – it gets the job done but doesn’t have the bells and whistles you may find on other models.
- Power Type: Manual Reel
- Cutting Deck: 14 inches
- Deck Type: Fabricated
- Cutting Height: 0.5 to 2.5 inches
- Run Time: Unlimited
- Speed: Manual Push Mower
- Battery Storage: N/A
- Warranty: Request after purchase
Pros
- Pollution and noise-free.
- No gas or electricity is required.
- Easy maneuverability.
Cons
- The blades may require multiple passes to cut grass effectively.
- The collection bag may fall off easily.
If an electric or gas-powered mower isn’t appealing (or you want something silent), the American Lawn Mower reel model has you covered. It operates with super-sharp and durable blades that rotate as you push the mower forward.
Although using a powerless mower could lead to multiple passes over particularly stubborn grass, I think this mower is perfect for neighborhoods and heavily populated areas, as it’s noiseless. It produces no fumes or exhaust and doesn’t require maintenance aside from blade sharpening.
A reel mower may not be for everyone, but for busy areas or short lawns, it’s a practical and affordable alternative to a traditional push mower.
Verdict: Best Cheap and Affordable Lawn Mowers
Based on the above product review, these are the best cheap lawn mowers that you can buy:
- Ryobi 16 in. 13 Amp Corded Electric Mower – $133
- Troy-Bilt 21in. 140cc Briggs & Stratton Gas Push Lawn Mower – $369
- BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, 10-Amp, Corded – $139
- Sun Joe PRO 13 Amp Electric Lawn Mower 13” – $139.99
- American Lawn Mower Company Reel Lawn Mower 1304-14GC Reel Lawn Mower – $134
These lawn mowers are all great choices if you are looking for a cheap lawn mower. They are all under $400, and they all have great features. These mowers will be great if you have a small to medium-sized lawn.
Best Affordable Gas Mower
Toro Recycler Gas 21″ Mower
Outstanding budget 21-inch deck made of steel. Features side discharge and mulching capabilities. Adjustable speed controls and a gas tank capacity of 2.5 quarts.
Best Reconditioned Lawn Mower
Ego 56V Battery Powered Lawn Mower
Pick up a premium reconditioned electric mower with a 56V battery for a bargain. With a 21-inch deck, steel-made. It’s easy to use and packed with features.
Best Lawn Mower Under $100
Greenworks 16-Inch 10 Amp Corded Mower
Corded 10-amp mower powerful enough to cut through thick grass quickly, and it’s backed by a durable 16″ steel deck that can take a beating. 2-in-1 mulch or side discharge.
FAQs Budget Lawn Mowers
Below are some frequently asked questions about lawnmowers.
