Top 5 Cheap Lawn Mowers: Your Budget Buying Guide

Does the thought of wrestling with an old, unreliable mower make your weekend dread? You’re not alone. Keeping your lawn looking neat and tidy shouldn’t cost a fortune, but finding a good, affordable lawn mower can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are so many types and brands, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and wonder if a cheap mower will even do a decent job.

But what if we told you that you can achieve a beautifully manicured lawn without breaking the bank? This guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through what to look for, what to avoid, and how to find a mower that’s both budget-friendly and effective. Get ready to discover how to make the best choice for your yard and your wallet.

Our Top 5 Cheap Lawn Mowers Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Cheap Lawn Mowers Detailed Reviews

1. Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower

Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless Lawn Mower, Ultra-Light Push Mower with 4.0Ah Battery & Charger(75+ Tool Compatibility, 45Min Runtime)

Rating: 9.4/10

Tired of wrestling with a gas mower? The Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower offers a breath of fresh air for your lawn care routine. This ultra-light push mower brings gas-like power without the noise, fumes, or constant maintenance. It’s designed for easy handling and efficient mowing, making yard work less of a chore.

What We Like:

  • It mows lawns up to half an acre smoothly. The 4.0Ah battery gives you about 35 minutes of mowing time.
  • It’s super light, about 35% lighter than other mowers. This makes it easy to push and store.
  • You can easily change the cutting height with one lever. It has five different settings.
  • It’s quiet and doesn’t use gas, so you save money and help the environment.
  • It works with over 75 other Greenworks 40V tools. This means you can use the same battery for many different yard tools.
  • It comes with a battery, charger, and grass bag. The tool and battery have a good warranty.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The battery takes about 2 hours to fully charge.
  • For very large or thick grass, you might need to mow more often.

This mower is a smart choice for anyone wanting a simpler, more enjoyable way to keep their lawn looking great. It offers great value and convenience.

2. Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch

Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+ 20V Electric Lawn Mowers for Garden, Yard and Farm, 5 Heights Adjustment, Light Weight,4.0Ah Portable Battery Included

Rating: 8.6/10

Tired of wrestling with loud, gas-guzzling mowers? The Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+ is here to make lawn care a breeze. This 20V electric mower is designed for gardens, yards, and even small farms, offering a powerful and convenient way to keep your grass looking its best. Its lightweight design and portable battery mean you can tackle your lawn without being tethered to an outlet.

What We Like:

  • **Powerful Cutting:** The 3400RPM motor and 13-inch cutting width make quick work of grass, covering up to 1300 sq. ft. on a single charge.
  • **Customizable Cut:** Easily adjust the cutting height from 1 to 2.5 inches with five different settings to get the perfect lawn look.
  • **Quiet & Efficient Motor:** The high-performance motor is low-maintenance, runs quietly, and provides longer, smoother operation.
  • **Ergonomic & Easy Storage:** The adjustable handle promotes a healthy posture, reducing back and arm strain. It also folds for compact storage in sheds or garages.
  • **Versatile Battery:** The 4.0Ah battery offers 15 minutes of continuous mowing and is part of the Litheli series, meaning it works with other cordless tools. It can also charge your phone, computer, or tablet in a pinch.
  • **Complete Kit & Warranty:** The package includes everything you need to get started, with a generous 3-year warranty on the mower and a 2-year warranty on the battery.

What Could Be Improved:

  • **Battery Run Time:** While portable, the 15-minute run time might be insufficient for larger lawns, requiring multiple charges or additional batteries.
  • **Cutting Width:** The 13-inch cutting width is ideal for smaller to medium-sized areas, but might feel slow for very large yards.

Overall, the Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower is a fantastic option for those seeking a lightweight, easy-to-use, and environmentally friendly way to maintain their lawn. Its smart features and universal battery system make it a valuable addition to any homeowner’s toolkit.

3. LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade

LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade

Rating: 8.9/10

Want a greener, healthier lawn without the noise and fumes? The LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade offers a simple, eco-friendly solution. This mower uses a unique scissor-like cutting action that cleanly slices grass blades, promoting better lawn health and preventing the yellowing that can happen with other mowers. It’s also incredibly easy to use and maintain.

What We Like:

  • It gives your grass a clean, scissor-like cut, which is great for a healthier lawn.
  • You can easily adjust the cutting height to four different levels, from 1 to 2 inches.
  • The 14-inch deck and large 10-inch front wheels make it super easy to steer around your yard, even near trees and flower beds.
  • Since it doesn’t need gas or batteries, it’s good for the environment and saves you money on fuel.
  • It’s built with strong, hardened steel blades that are made to last a long time.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This type of mower works best on smaller, relatively flat lawns; it might struggle with very tall or thick grass.
  • Like any reel mower, it requires a bit more physical effort than a powered mower.

For those seeking a quiet, eco-conscious way to maintain their lawn, the LawnMaster LMRM1401 is a fantastic option. It delivers a superior cut and offers great maneuverability for a truly enjoyable mowing experience.

4. Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch

Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+ 20V Electric Lawn Mowers for Garden, Yard and Farm, 5 Heights Adjustment, Light Weight,4.0Ah Portable Battery Included

Rating: 9.3/10

Tired of wrestling with a gas-guzzling mower? The Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+ is here to simplify your lawn care routine. This 20V electric mower is designed for convenience, offering a lightweight and powerful solution for gardens, yards, and even small farms. With its 13-inch cutting width and portable battery, keeping your outdoor space tidy has never been easier.

What We Like:

  • Mows up to 1,300 sq. ft. on a single charge, making it great for medium-sized lawns.
  • Offers 5 adjustable cutting heights, from 1 to 2.5 inches, for a customized look.
  • Features a high-performance motor that’s quiet, low-maintenance, and powerful.
  • The foldable handle makes storage a breeze, saving space in your shed.
  • The lightweight design and carrying handle ensure easy transport.
  • The 20,000mAh battery is universal within the Litheli series and can also charge other devices.
  • Comes with a 3-year warranty on the machine and a 2-year warranty on the battery.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The battery provides approximately 15 minutes of continuous use, which might be short for larger areas.
  • The 13-inch cutting width might be limiting for very large lawns.

This Litheli cordless mower offers a fantastic blend of power and portability for efficient lawn maintenance. It’s a smart choice for anyone seeking a hassle-free mowing experience.

5. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower

BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower, String Trimmer & Edger, 12-Inch (BESTA512CM)

Rating: 8.9/10

Tired of juggling different tools for your lawn care? The BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower, String Trimmer & Edger, 12-Inch (BESTA512CM) is here to simplify your yard work. This handy device combines three essential functions into one easy-to-use machine, making it a great choice for smaller yards. You can mow, trim, and edge your lawn without switching tools, saving you time and effort.

What We Like:

  • It’s a 3-in-1 tool: mower, trimmer, and edger. This saves you from buying and storing multiple items.
  • It’s super lightweight, only 9.9lbs. This makes it easy to handle, even for extended periods.
  • The adjustable handle and height settings let you find a comfortable position for your body.
  • The automatic feed spool means you don’t have to stop to feed more string. It just keeps going.
  • It’s perfect for small to medium-sized yards with its 12-inch cutting width.
  • You get unlimited runtime because it’s corded. No need to worry about batteries dying.
  • The cord retention system keeps the power cord securely attached.

What Could Be Improved:

  • It’s corded, so you need to be mindful of the power cord and use an extension cord (which is not included).
  • It’s designed for smaller yards, so it might not be the best fit for very large lawns.
  • The cutting height is fixed at 1.6 inches, offering limited adjustment for grass length.

If you have a smaller yard and want a simple, all-in-one solution for lawn maintenance, this BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 is a fantastic option. It’s lightweight, easy to operate, and does a great job of keeping your yard looking neat and tidy.

Finding the Best Cheap Lawn Mower: A Smart Shopper’s Guide

You want a nice-looking lawn, but you don’t want to spend a fortune on a mower. That’s where cheap lawn mowers come in! These machines can get the job done without emptying your wallet. Let’s explore what makes a good budget mower and how to pick the right one for your yard.

1. Key Features to Look For

Even on a budget, some features make mowing easier and more effective.

  • Cutting Width: This is how wide a strip of grass the mower cuts in one pass. A wider cutting width means you’ll finish your lawn faster. For smaller yards, 18-20 inches is usually enough. For medium-sized yards, look for 21 inches or more.
  • Height Adjustment: You need to be able to change how tall your grass is cut. Look for mowers with easy-to-use height adjustment levers. Some mowers let you adjust all four wheels at once, which is super convenient.
  • Bagging, Mulching, or Side Discharge: Most cheap mowers offer at least one of these.
  • Bagging: This collects the grass clippings in a bag, leaving a clean look. You’ll need to empty the bag.
  • Mulching: This cuts grass into tiny pieces and drops them back onto the lawn. This adds nutrients to your soil.
  • Side Discharge: This shoots the clippings out the side. It’s good for taller grass.
  • Power Source: Most cheap mowers are gas-powered. Electric mowers (corded or battery-powered) are also available, but they can sometimes be more expensive upfront.

2. Important Materials

The materials used in a mower affect its durability and how it performs.

  • Deck Material: The mower’s deck is the part that covers the blade.
  • Steel Decks: These are common and strong. However, they can rust if not cared for.
  • Plastic (or Composite) Decks: These are lighter and won’t rust. They are often found on smaller, less powerful mowers.
  • Wheels: Look for wheels that are sturdy and easy to roll over uneven ground.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Several things can make a cheap mower a great buy or a disappointing one.

  • Engine Power (for gas mowers): A more powerful engine makes it easier to cut through thick or wet grass. For average lawns, a 140cc to 170cc engine is usually sufficient.
  • Ease of Starting: A mower that starts easily with one or two pulls saves you frustration.
  • Maneuverability: How easy is it to push and turn the mower? Lighter mowers and those with good wheel design are easier to handle.
  • Build Quality: Even cheap mowers should feel solid. Wobbly parts or flimsy controls can be signs of lower quality.
  • Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable mowers, even their budget models. Do a little research on brands you’re considering.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you’ll use your mower.

  • Yard Size: A small yard might only need a basic push mower. A larger yard might benefit from a wider cutting deck or even a self-propelled model (though these are often more expensive).
  • Terrain: If your lawn has hills, a self-propelled mower can make a big difference.
  • Grass Type: Thick, tough grass requires more power than fine, soft grass.
  • Maintenance: Consider how much time you’re willing to spend on maintenance. Gas mowers require oil changes and spark plug replacements. Electric mowers are generally lower maintenance.
  • Storage: Where will you store your mower? Some mowers have folding handles for easier storage.

Choosing a cheap lawn mower doesn’t mean you have to settle for poor performance. By focusing on these key features and understanding what makes a mower good, you can find a reliable machine that keeps your lawn looking great without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Lawn Mowers

Q: What is the most important feature to look for in a cheap lawn mower?

A: The most important feature is usually the cutting width for your yard size. A wider deck means less time mowing.

Q: Are cheap gas mowers reliable?

A: Many cheap gas mowers are reliable. Look for brands with good reviews and decent engine sizes.

Q: Can I get a good electric mower for cheap?

A: Yes, you can find affordable corded electric mowers. Battery-powered models are often more expensive.

Q: What does “mulching” mean for a lawn mower?

A: Mulching means the mower cuts grass into tiny pieces and puts them back on the lawn as fertilizer.

Q: How do I know if a mower is too small for my yard?

A: If you have to make many passes to cover your lawn, the cutting width might be too small.

Q: Will a cheap mower rust?

A: Mowers with steel decks can rust if they get wet and aren’t dried or stored properly.

Q: What is a good engine size for a gas mower?

A: For most yards, an engine between 140cc and 170cc is usually good.

Q: Is a self-propelled mower worth it if I’m on a budget?

A: Self-propelled mowers make mowing easier, especially on hills. However, they are often more expensive than push mowers.

Q: How often do I need to maintain a gas mower?

A: You should change the oil once a year and replace the spark plug every so often.

Q: Where can I find good deals on cheap lawn mowers?

A: Look at big box stores, online retailers, and during seasonal sales events.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.