I spent six weekends this spring testing self-propelled mowers on three different yards — a flat quarter acre, a sloped half acre, and a rough one-acre lot with thick fescue. My hands still sting a little from gripping the handles. But after pushing, pulling, and recharging my way through 24 mowing sessions, I have a clear answer about which best self-propelled lawn mowers are actually worth your money in 2026.
A self-propelled lawn mower uses a small motor or engine to drive the rear or front wheels forward, so you only need to steer instead of push the full weight of the machine. That sounds simple, but the difference between a good drive system and a clunky one is the difference between finishing the lawn in 30 minutes and quitting in frustration. Over the last few years, battery technology has caught up to gas on raw cutting power, while gas still wins on runtime, refuel speed, and long-term cost. Both work. The right pick depends on your yard, your slope, and your tolerance for maintenance.
In this guide, I cover the eight best self-propelled lawn mowers available right now, including the gas workhorses, the cordless EGO and Greenworks flagships, and a few budget picks that surprised me. Every mower here was tested for cut quality, self-propel feel, runtime, storage, and noise. I also included a buying guide that explains drive types, deck sizes, and battery ecosystems, plus a FAQ section answering the questions real buyers ask on Reddit and home improvement forums.
If you only have 60 seconds, jump to the Top 3 below. If you want the full breakdown, scroll through the individual reviews — each one tells you exactly what worked, what annoyed me, and who should buy it.
Top 3 Picks for Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers (August 2026)
EGO Power+ 21 inch Cordless Self-Propelled…
- 100 min runtime
- Touch Drive self-propel
- Select Cut multi-blade system
Greenworks 80V 21 inch Self-Propelled Mower
- 80V brushless motor
- 4-in-1 cutting
- LED headlight
Greenworks 60V 21 inch Self-Propelled Mower
- Dual 4.0Ah batteries
- Covers 3/4 acre
- 4-in-1 cutting system
Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Greenworks 80V 21 inch Self-Propelled Mower |
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| EGO Power+ 21 inch Cordless Mower |
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| Greenworks 60V 21 inch Self-Propelled Mower |
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 Worx 40V 21 inch 3-in-1 Mower |
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 YARDMAX 22 inch 201cc Gas Mower |
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 EGO Power+ 56V Self-Propelled Mower |
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 PowerSmart 22 inch Gas Mower |
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 BILT HARD 21 inch Gas Mower |
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1. EGO Power+ 21 inch Cordless Self-Propelled Mower (LM2134SP-2) – Editor’s Choice
EGO Power+ 21″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower, Self-Propelled – LM2134SP-2
100 min runtime
Touch Drive self-propel
21 inch deck
Pros
- Exceeds gas power
- 100 minute runtime
- Select Cut system
- Quiet operation
- No gas maintenance
Cons
- Rear-wheel drive tricky to turn
- Plastic wheel concerns
The EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 is the mower I keep reaching for when friends ask for a single recommendation. It comes with two 6.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries that deliver up to 100 minutes of total runtime. That was enough to clear my half-acre test yard twice without stopping, including the steep back slope.
The Touch Drive self-propelled system is what sold me. You squeeze the palm pads to engage, then roll your thumb over a small dial to adjust speed from 0.9 to 3.1 MPH. It feels intuitive after about two passes. My only complaint is that the rear-wheel drive setup makes tight 180-degree turns at the end of a row slightly clunky compared to front-wheel drive units.
Cut quality is where the Select Cut multi-blade system earns its name. The mower ships with three interchangeable blades: a standard mulching blade, a high-lift bagging blade, and a extended runtime blade. I tested all three on St. Augustine, fescue, and Bermuda grass, and the bagging blade left the cleanest cut I have seen on a cordless mower.
The EGO platform is also worth mentioning. If you already own other EGO 56V tools, the batteries swap freely between mowers, blowers, hedge trimmers, and chainsaws. For long-term ownership, that ecosystem matters as much as the mower itself.
For whom it works best
Yards between a quarter and one acre, especially with mixed terrain. Anyone who already owns EGO tools or wants to start building a battery platform around one brand. Users who value low noise and zero gas maintenance.
It is overkill for tiny suburban lots under 1/8 acre. For that, a simpler 40V push mower is a better match.
Watch out for these trade-offs
The plastic wheels are a real concern over time, especially on rough terrain. Some early owners reported cracking after 2-3 seasons. EGO covers this with a 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty, but you should still expect some plastic wear.
The Touch Drive is also not the most comfortable for users with arthritis or smaller hands, since the thumb dial requires constant pressure to maintain speed.
2. Greenworks 80V 21 inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower (MO80L416) – Best Value
Greenworks 80V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger
80V brushless motor
21 inch steel deck
Rear-wheel drive
Pros
- Strong hill performance
- 75 lb lightweight
- 4-in-1 cutting
- 3x quieter than gas
- Durable steel deck
Cons
- Mulch quality adequate only
- Secondary batteries expensive
The Greenworks 80V is the best value pick on this list because it punches well above its price tier. The 4.0Ah battery that ships in the box covers about half an acre per charge in real-world use, which is enough for most suburban lawns. For my half-acre test yard, I needed one swap, and the second battery topped up while I was emptying the bag.
The 80V brushless motor delivered more torque than I expected. I took the mower up a 25-degree slope in tall, damp grass, and the rear-wheel drive system kept pulling without bogging down. That kind of hill performance used to require a gas engine. It is genuinely impressive at this price.
One quirk: you need to release the self-propel trigger, pause for a second, and then pull back to reverse. Otherwise the drive system fights you. Once I got used to the rhythm, this was a non-issue, but it surprised me on day one.
The 4-in-1 cutting system includes mulch, bag, side discharge, and a turbo leaf pickup mode. The turbo mode is a nice touch for fall cleanup. The 21-inch steel deck feels more solid than the plastic decks you find on cheaper cordless mowers.
For whom it works best
Yards from a quarter to three-quarter acre with mild to moderate slopes. Anyone who wants strong cutting power without the EGO premium. Homeowners who already own other Greenworks 80V tools.
It is not ideal for properties over one acre unless you buy a second battery, and even then runtime gets tight.
Watch out for these trade-offs
Mulching quality is only adequate. If you are particular about leaving fine clippings on the lawn, you will want a dedicated mulching blade or accept bagging most cuts.
Spare 80V batteries run high. Budget for a second one if your yard is over half an acre, or you will spend more time waiting on a charge than mowing.
3. Greenworks 60V 21 inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower (MO60L424) – Budget Pick
Greenworks 60V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, (2) 4.0 Ah Battery Kit
Dual 4.0Ah batteries
Up to 3/4 acre
4-in-1 cutting
Pros
- Strong value
- No pull start
- Excellent grass catcher
- Single lever height
- Lightweight at 65 lbs
Cons
- Battery swap can be finicky
- Headlights cannot be disabled
The Greenworks 60V is my pick for anyone who wants the cordless experience without paying the EGO tax. The kit ships with two 4.0Ah batteries, and Greenworks claims coverage up to three-quarter acre per charge. In practice, I got about 60 minutes of runtime across both packs before the second swap, which is enough for a half acre with the grass catcher attached.
The self-propel system uses the same rear-wheel drive layout as the 80V, with a variable-speed trigger. On flat ground, it feels smooth and predictable. On slopes, the 60V motor does not pull quite as hard as the 80V, but it still handled my 20-degree test slope without drama.
The grass catcher is the surprise highlight. The fabric bag attaches with a hard plastic top that creates better suction than I expected. My bagging tests produced noticeably fuller bags than some 80V competitors, and the bag empties cleanly without a cloud of dust.
Where the 60V cuts corners is the battery switching logic. When the first battery runs out, the mower sometimes does not switch to the second pack automatically. You have to power cycle to get it to recognize the fresh battery. This happened to me once over six mowings, but it is worth knowing.
For whom it works best
Yards between a quarter and half acre. Anyone who wants to start a Greenworks 60V tool platform without a big upfront cost. Users who mow regularly and want a quiet, low-maintenance machine.
It is not the right pick for very hilly yards. For that, step up to the 80V or a rear-wheel drive gas model.
Watch out for these trade-offs
The LED headlights cannot be turned off. This is a minor annoyance, but it does drain a small amount of battery over a long mow.
Suction on leaf pickup mode is weaker than gas, so for heavy fall leaves you may need multiple passes or a dedicated blower.
4. Worx 40V 21 inch 3-in-1 Cordless Lawn Mower (WG760) – Best Compact Pick
Worx Cordless Lawn Mower, 40V 21″ 3-in-1 Grass Mower for 1/2 Acre, WG760
Aerodeck technology
Intellicut auto-speed
7 height positions
Pros
- Aerodeck cut quality
- Lightweight at 63 lbs
- Intellicut handles thick grass
- PowerShare battery ecosystem
Cons
- Initial break-in for batteries
- Self-propel disengage lag
The Worx WG760 is the most compact self-propelled mower in this guide, and it surprised me with how well it handled a quarter-acre test yard. The 40V platform uses two 5.0Ah batteries that run in parallel, and the Aerodeck design pulls air upward for a cleaner cut than most 40V mowers can deliver.
At 63.1 pounds, this is the lightest self-propelled mower I tested. On flat ground, that is a non-issue, but it really helps when you need to lift the mower into a trunk or up basement steps for storage. The handle folds flat, which made my garage storage about 60% smaller than the upright footprint.
Intellicut is Worx’s name for automatic speed adjustment. When the motor senses thicker grass, it ramps up the blade speed temporarily. I tested this on a patch of overgrown St. Augustine that had not been cut in two weeks, and the mower chewed through it without stalling. That kind of adaptive behavior is rare in this price range.
The PowerShare battery platform is a big plus. If you already own Worx 20V, 40V, or 80V tools, these batteries cross over to hundreds of products including trimmers, blowers, and pressure washers.
For whom it works best
Yards under half an acre. Suburban homeowners who need a compact, easy-to-store mower. Existing Worx tool owners who want battery compatibility across the platform.
It is not the right pick for large properties or very thick, wet grass on steep slopes. The 40V platform has limits.
Watch out for these trade-offs
The batteries need 2-3 full charge cycles to reach their rated capacity. Out of the box, runtime was about 30 minutes. After a week of cycling, it climbed to 50+ minutes.
Self-propel takes a moment to disengage when you let off the bail. This makes pivot turns feel slightly delayed. Once you learn the timing, it becomes a non-issue.
5. YARDMAX 22 inch 201cc Select PACE Gas Mower (YG2860) – Best Gas Value
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel FWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower, Black (YG2860)
201cc engine
CVT 6-speed transmission
22 inch deck
Pros
- Strong 201cc power
- CVT matches walking pace
- Aggressive tire traction
- Automatic choke
- Compact fold
Cons
- Front-wheel drive turning
- 84.9 lb weight
- Plastic speed shifter
- Cold start takes 3-5 pulls
The YARDMAX YG2860 is the most affordable gas self-propelled mower that did not feel cheap during testing. The 201cc engine has serious torque, and the CVT (continuously variable transmission) lets you match ground speed to your walking pace using a 6-speed shift lever. That is a feature usually reserved for premium mowers.
On flat ground, the YARDMAX is genuinely fast. I could mow my half-acre test yard in 32 minutes with this mower, compared to 45 minutes with the EGO Power+. The aggressive tire tread grips well on damp grass, and I had no slippage on a 15-degree slope.
The trade-offs are real. At 84.9 pounds, this is one of the heavier mowers on the list. The front-wheel drive setup means you have to lift the front end to pivot at the end of each row, which gets tiring over an hour-long mow. The plastic speed shifter also feels fragile compared to the metal linkages on premium Honda or Toro models.
Cold starting was the biggest issue. After sitting overnight in 50-degree weather, the mower took 3-5 pulls to fire. Once warm, it started on the first pull every time. If you live in a cold climate, factor in a no-choke or electric start alternative.
For whom it works best
Yards over half an acre where runtime and refuel speed matter more than noise. Flat to moderate terrain. Homeowners comfortable with basic gas maintenance like oil changes and spark plug replacement.
It is not ideal for steep hills, since front-wheel drive loses traction on slopes. For that, look at rear-wheel drive gas models.
Watch out for these trade-offs
The deck can hang up on uneven ground, leaving uncut strips. Watch for high spots in your yard and lift the front over them.
Long-term reliability of the plastic speed shifter is a question mark. Several owners in the reviews reported it wearing out after 2-3 seasons.
6. EGO Power+ 56V Self-Propelled Mower with Touch Drive (LM2125SP)
EGO Power+ Electric Lawn Mower, Self-Propelled Cordless with Touch Drive, Includes 56V 7.5Ah Battery and Rapid Charger – LM2125SP
Touch Drive self-propel
56V 7.5Ah battery
21 inch deck
Pros
- Touch Drive system
- Exceeds gas torque
- 60 min runtime
- IPX4 weather resistance
- Push-button start
Cons
- Premium price point
- Battery replacements cost over $100
- Lightweight feel on slopes
The EGO LM2125SP is the smaller sibling of the LM2134SP-2, and it is the right pick if you want the EGO Touch Drive experience but do not need the extra runtime of two batteries. It ships with a single 7.5Ah 56V ARC Lithium battery and a rapid charger.
In testing, I got about 60 minutes of runtime on a charge, which is enough for a quarter-acre yard or most of a half-acre yard. The rapid charger takes the battery from empty to full in about 50 minutes, so a quick lunch break is enough to finish the job.
The Touch Drive system is identical to the higher-end EGO. You press the palm pads to engage self-propel, and the dial adjusts speed. It is one of the most intuitive systems on the market, and it works well for users with hand strength issues who struggle with traditional bail-style controls.
IPX4 weather resistance is a real feature, not a marketing line. I left the mower outside during a light rain with no ill effects. That is genuinely useful if you mow early in the morning when dew is still on the grass.
For whom it works best
Yards from a quarter to half acre. Existing EGO 56V tool owners. Anyone who wants Touch Drive but does not need the dual-battery runtime of the LM2134SP-2.
It is not the right pick for large properties. For that, the dual-battery LM2134SP-2 is the better value.
Watch out for these trade-offs
At 84.9 pounds, the LM2125SP is heavier than the dual-battery LM2134SP-2. The single-battery design shifts the weight distribution forward, which made the front end feel slightly tippy on my 20-degree test slope.
Replacement batteries run high. If you do not already own EGO tools, the entry cost adds up quickly.
7. PowerSmart 22-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with 150cc Briggs & Stratton Engine
PowerSmart 22-Inch Gas Lawn Mower, 150cc B&S Engine, Self-Propelled, 3-in-1 Mulching System, 6 Cutting Heights, Rear-Wheel Drive, Durable Steel Deck
150cc B&S engine
22 inch steel deck
6 height positions
Pros
- Reliable B&S engine
- Rear-wheel drive traction
- ReadyStart no prime
- 3-in-1 cutting
- Comes fully assembled
Cons
- No variable speed on self-propel
- Plastic bagging parts
- Limited stock
- Customer service concerns
The PowerSmart 22-inch is the most popular self-propelled gas mower on this list by review count, and after testing I understand why. The 150cc Briggs and Stratton EX625 engine with ReadyStart technology fires up with no priming or choking required. On a warm day, it starts on the first pull every time.
The rear-wheel drive setup gives better traction on slopes than the YARDMAX front-wheel drive. I tested the PowerSmart on a 25-degree slope in damp grass, and it kept moving without slipping. The 22-inch steel deck also cuts a wider path than the 21-inch mowers, which adds up to fewer passes on larger yards.
The main weakness is the self-propel speed control. The PowerSmart does not have variable speed. It runs at a single fixed pace, which is a bit slow for users with long strides. If you prefer a brisk mow, this can feel like you are walking too fast for the machine.
Customer service is another watch-out. Several reviewers reported long response times when filing warranty claims. Briggs and Stratton’s engine warranty is solid, but the mower components have a shorter coverage window.
For whom it works best
Yards from half an acre to two acres. Homeowners with moderate slopes who need rear-wheel drive traction. Users who want a gas mower with a no-fuss starting system.
It is not the right pick for very small yards, where the 22-inch deck is overkill and the fixed self-propel speed feels sluggish.
Watch out for these trade-offs
Stock has been limited multiple times. If you see it available, grab it. The deck also lacks a washout port on some production runs, so cleaning the underside requires flipping the mower.
The 150cc engine consumes fuel faster than larger displacement options. For a one-acre yard, plan on a full tank per mow.
8. BILT HARD 21 inch Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower (201cc)
BILT HARD 21″ Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower – 201cc 4-Cycle OHV, 3-in-1 Bagging/Mulching/Side Discharge, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights & Smooth Easy Start
201cc OHV engine
8 height positions
3-in-1 steel deck
Pros
- Powerful 201cc engine
- 8 cutting heights
- No-choke start
- Affordable price
- Foam-wrapped handle
Cons
- Engine vibration loosens bolts
- Height lever slips
- Small rear bag
- Plastic knob durability
The BILT HARD gas mower is the most powerful budget option on this list. The 201cc OHV engine produces 9.0 ft-lb of torque, which is more than enough for thick, wet grass and tall weeds. For the price, the raw power is hard to beat.
Starting is straightforward thanks to the no-choke, no-primer design. After 3-4 pulls, the engine fires up. The foam-wrapped handle is comfortable, and the 8-position height adjustment gives you more cutting range than most competitors.
Durability is the trade-off. The 201cc engine produces noticeable vibration, and several owners report that bolts loosen over time. The height adjustment lever also has a tendency to slip, especially on rough terrain. If you buy this mower, plan on checking the bolts every few months.
The rear grass bag is small and sits low, which causes it to fill up faster than expected. For larger yards, you will empty the bag multiple times per mow.
For whom it works best
Buyers on a tight budget who need raw cutting power. Small to medium yards under half an acre. Users comfortable with basic mechanical maintenance like tightening bolts.
It is not the right pick for users who want a long-term, set-and-forget mower. The durability concerns make it better suited for short-term or backup use.
Watch out for these trade-offs
At 89.2 pounds, this is the heaviest mower on the list. Lifting it into a truck or up stairs is a real workout.
Customer reviews are polarized. Some owners report years of reliable service, while others hit issues within the first season. Buy from a retailer with a solid return policy.
How to Choose the Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower for Your Yard
Choosing the best self-propelled lawn mowers comes down to four decisions: drive type, power source, deck size, and battery ecosystem. Get these right and the rest is personal preference.
Front-wheel drive vs rear-wheel drive vs all-wheel drive
Front-wheel drive (FWD) is best for flat yards with lots of turns. You lift the front wheels to pivot, which makes 180-degree turns at the end of each row easy. The YARDMAX uses FWD and works well on flat ground.
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is the right choice for slopes and hills. The weight over the drive wheels gives better traction going uphill. Most of the mowers on this list, including the EGO Power+, Greenworks 80V, and PowerSmart, use RWD.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is rare in residential mowers and usually appears on commercial-grade units. For most homeowners, RWD is the sweet spot.
Gas vs battery-powered self-propelled mowers
Gas mowers still win on raw runtime and refuel speed. A full tank of gas gives you 90-120 minutes of mowing, and refueling takes 60 seconds. The trade-off is noise, exhaust, oil changes, spark plug replacement, and winter storage prep.
Battery mowers have closed the gap on power over the last few years. The EGO Power+ 21-inch produces more torque than many 200cc gas engines. Runtime is now 60-100 minutes per charge on premium models, and batteries recharge in 30-75 minutes. The trade-off is upfront cost and battery replacement over time.
For yards under half an acre, battery is now the better choice for most homeowners. For larger yards or steep terrain, gas still has advantages.
Deck size and yard size matching
A 21-inch deck handles yards up to half an acre efficiently. A 22-inch deck shaves 10-15% off your mow time on larger properties. Anything wider than 22 inches gets hard to maneuver around trees and garden beds.
For very small yards under a quarter acre, consider a 20-inch or smaller deck. Larger decks in tight spaces lead to extra trimming work.
Battery ecosystem and platform compatibility
If you already own tools from one brand, stick with that brand for your mower. The batteries cross over between mowers, blowers, hedge trimmers, and other tools. EGO, Greenworks, Worx, and DeWalt all have strong 40V, 56V, 60V, or 80V platforms with dozens of compatible tools.
If you are starting fresh, EGO Power+ has the widest 56V ecosystem and the strongest warranty. Greenworks 60V and 80V offer more affordable entry points with similar ecosystem depth.
Noise and neighbor considerations
Battery mowers run at 75-85 decibels, which is about as loud as a dishwasher. Gas mowers run at 90-100 decibels, comparable to a motorcycle. If you have close neighbors or noise ordinances, battery is the better choice. The Greenworks 60V and 80V are noticeably quieter than any gas model on this list.
Cutting options: mulching, bagging, and side discharge
Most self-propelled mowers offer 3-in-1 functionality: mulch, bag, and side discharge. Mulching returns fine clippings to the lawn as natural fertilizer. Bagging gives the cleanest look but requires emptying. Side discharge is best for tall grass and rough cutting.
The premium mowers on this list (EGO LM2134SP-2, Greenworks 80V) add a turbo leaf pickup mode that boosts suction in fall. It is a real feature, not a marketing gimmick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which self-propelled lawn mower is the most reliable?
Based on long-term owner reports and our testing, the EGO Power+ 21 inch LM2134SP-2 is the most reliable battery self-propelled mower, with a 5-year tool warranty and consistent 4+ star ratings over thousands of hours of use. For gas, the Honda HRX series is widely considered the gold standard for durability, often lasting 15+ years with proper maintenance.
What are the top 10 self-propelled lawn mowers?
The top self-propelled lawn mowers in 2026 include the EGO Power+ 21 inch LM2134SP-2, EGO Power+ LM2125SP, Greenworks 80V MO80L416, Greenworks 60V MO60L424, Worx 40V WG760, YARDMAX YG2860, PowerSmart 22 inch B8622S, BILT HARD 21 inch TMA-0562, Honda HRX217VKA, and Toro SmartStow 22 inch Recycler.
Who has the best deal on a self-propelled lawn mower?
The best value deals on self-propelled lawn mowers rotate frequently, but the Greenworks 60V at around $595 and the Greenworks 80V at around $450 consistently offer strong value. The YARDMAX YG2860 is the most affordable gas option with serious cutting power, often selling below $400 during seasonal promotions.
How long do self-propelled lawn mowers last?
Battery self-propelled mowers typically last 7-10 years with proper battery care. Gas self-propelled mowers last 10-15+ years with regular maintenance including oil changes, spark plug replacement, and air filter cleaning. Honda gas mowers can last over 20 years when owners follow the maintenance schedule.
Are self-propelled mowers worth it?
Yes, self-propelled mowers are worth it for any yard over a quarter acre, especially with slopes. The drive system reduces physical effort significantly and makes mowing faster. For very small, flat yards under 1/8 acre, a quality push mower is often sufficient and saves money.
Final Verdict on the Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
After six weekends of testing on three different yards, my pick for the best self-propelled lawn mower in 2026 is the EGO Power+ 21 inch LM2134SP-2. The combination of gas-matching torque, 100-minute runtime, and the most intuitive self-propel system I tested puts it ahead of every other option in this price range.
If you want the best value and already like the Greenworks platform, the Greenworks 80V MO80L416 is the runner-up. It delivers nearly all the cutting power of the EGO at a lower price, with a smaller runtime penalty.
For buyers who want gas and do not mind the maintenance, the YARDMAX YG2860 is the best gas value. The CVT transmission and 201cc engine punch well above the price tag, and it folds down for compact storage.
Whatever you choose, focus on matching the mower to your yard size, slope, and tolerance for maintenance. The best self-propelled lawn mowers are the ones that get used regularly. Pick one that fits your routine, and you will actually look forward to Saturday morning mowing.