Types of Lawn Mowers
If you have a yard, mowing the lawn is a regular part of your life! But with so many different types of lawn mowers available, how do you know which one is the best for your needs?
It’s hard to say one lawn mower is the absolute best, because it all depends on grass types, budget, and your yard. Keep reading to understand the different kinds, because choosing the best lawn mower is essential for keeping a healthy, thriving, well-manicured lawn!
Different Types of Lawn Mowers Explained
Different lawn mower types suit different needs. For example, mowers without motors could be a good option for budget-conscious buyers, while more modern, technologically advanced mowers are excellent for those looking for speed and efficiency. Check out these different kinds of lawn mowers.
Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers
Push Mowers
Push lawn mowers (also called reel lawn mowers or hand mowers) are the most basic type of walk-behind mowers. They rely on your physical strength to push them across the grass; there’s no motor. These lawn mowers are great for small yards because they are usually lightweight and easy to maneuver, which makes them perfect for tight spaces.
Self-Propelled Mowers
Self-propelled lawn mowers take some of the hard work out of mowing. They use a motor to drive the wheels, so you only need to guide the mower around the lawn. This makes them ideal for larger lawns or hilly terrain. These mowers come in either front- or rear-wheel drive versions and are available in gas, electric, and battery-powered models.
Ride-On Lawn Mowers
Lawn Tractors
These powerful riding lawn mowers are designed for large lawns. They resemble small tractors and come with a variety of attachments, such as grass collectors and snow plows.
Lawn tractors are ideal for yards of an acre or more in size. They are comfortable to use and much faster than walk-behind lawn mowers. Lawn tractors are usually gas-powered and have a wide cutting deck.
Zero Turn Mowers
Zero-turn mowers are known for their maneuverability and speed. They have a unique steering system that allows them to turn on the spot, so they are highly efficient for tackling large lawns with lots of obstacles.
Zero-turn mowers can cut grass at much faster speeds than traditional lawn tractors. These mowers are available in both residential and commercial models, with varying engine sizes and cutting widths.
Robotic Lawn Mowers
Robot lawn mowers are the latest development in lawn care. These mowers work independently, using sensors and boundary wires to navigate your yard. They are perfect for people who want a hassle-free mowing experience.
Robotic mowers are typically battery-powered and can return to their charging station when the battery is low. They are ideal for maintaining a consistently neat lawn with minimal effort.
Other Types of Grass Cutters
Grass Trimmers and Brushcutters
Grass trimmers, also known as string trimmers, are used for cutting grass and weeds in areas that a lawn mower can’t reach, like along fences, around trees, and near flower beds. They use a flexible line that spins rapidly to cut grass.
Brushcutters are similar but more powerful, with a metal blade that can cut through thicker brush and even small saplings. These tools are essential for keeping your yard looking tidy and are available in gas, electric, and battery-powered models.
Power and Drive Options
Power Types
Manual Powered Mowers
Manual-powered mowers don’t need any electricity or fuel. They rely entirely on the user’s physical strength to push and cut the grass. These mowers are eco-friendly, quiet, and perfect for small lawns. They are easy to maintain and cost-effective since they have fewer moving parts. However, they might not be suitable for large lawns or areas with thick, tough grass.
Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers
Gas-powered mowers (also called petrol lawn mowers) are ideal for larger lawns and tougher mowing conditions. These mowers are more powerful than their electric counterparts and can run for longer. Gas lawn mowers can also handle thick, long grass and uneven terrain with ease.
However, gas-powered mowers need regular maintenance, such as changing the oil and replacing the air filter. They are also noisier and produce emissions, which might be a concern for environmentally conscious users.
Electric Powered Mowers
Electric-powered mowers get plugged into an electrical outlet, which provides a constant power supply. The downside is that the cord can limit how far they can move in the yard, which makes them suitable for small to medium-sized lawns. Corded lawn mowers are lightweight, easy to switch on, and require less maintenance than gas mowers.
Battery-Powered Mowers
Battery-powered lawn mowers are basically cordless electric mowers. These mowers are powered by rechargeable batteries and come with a charging station. Cordless mowers are quieter, environmentally friendly, and easy to start.
Additionally, battery-powered mowers are suitable for small to medium-sized lawns, depending on the battery life. The main drawback of a battery-powered lawn mower is the limited runtime on a single charge.
Drive Types
Rear-Wheel Drive
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) mowers provide excellent traction and control, especially on hills and uneven terrain. The power is delivered to the back wheels, pushing the mower forward. These mowers are a good choice for larger yards with slopes or rough ground. RWD mowers are more stable and easier to handle, especially when the grass catcher is full, as the added weight helps maintain traction.
Front-Wheel Drive
Front-wheel drive (FWD) mowers are typically easier to maneuver than RWD mowers. Power is delivered to the front wheels, which makes it easier to turn and navigate around obstacles. FWD mowers are best for flat, even lawns. They are generally more affordable and can be a good choice for small to medium-sized yards with lots of flower beds or trees.
All-Wheel Drive
All-wheel drive (AWD) mowers provide power to all four wheels, which means they offer the best traction and control on all types of terrain. They are excellent for large lawns with hills, slopes, and various obstacles. AWD mowers are versatile and can handle different grass conditions, making them a great choice for challenging mowing tasks. However, they tend to be more expensive and heavier than other types of mowers.
How to Choose the Right Lawn Mower
Choosing the perfect lawn mower depends on several factors, including the size of your yard, the terrain, and how you plan to handle maintenance and energy usage. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision on the best lawn mower for your needs, so you can keep your lawn looking amazing.
Size of Your Lawn
For smaller lawns (up to 0.25 acres), a push mower or reel mower is ideal. These mowers are easy to handle and maintain. For medium-sized lawns (0.25 to 0.5 acres), a self-propelled electric or gas mower is more efficient, as not as much physical effort is needed. For larger lawn and garden areas (0.5 acres or more), consider a riding mower or a zero-turn mower to save time and effort.
Your Yard’s Terrain
If your yard is flat, a front-wheel-drive mower works well as it’s easier to maneuver. For hilly or uneven terrain, a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive mower provides better traction and control. Zero-turn mowers are excellent for yards with various obstacles like trees and flower beds because they are easy to turn on a dime.
Lawn Mower Maintenance
Gas mowers need more maintenance, like changing the oil and spark plugs, and cleaning the air filter. Electric mowers are generally easier to maintain, but you still need to make sure the battery is charged, and the power cords are in good condition. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance to prolong the life of your mower.
Energy Expenditure
Gas-powered mowers are powerful and can handle large areas but are noisier and emit fumes. Electric mowers are quieter and more eco-friendly but need access to a power outlet or charging station. Battery-powered mowers offer a balance between the two, providing mobility without the need for cords. Manual motors require energy from you to actually work!
Consider what your energy needs are. If you have easy access to a power supply, an electric lawn mower could work. If not, battery-powered may be necessary. Budget-conscious buyers might be willing to put in some elbow grease with a manual mower, but those with sizable yards might need something with power behind it.
Grass Clipping Handling
Decide how you want to handle grass clippings. Some mowers come with bagging systems that collect clippings for easy disposal. Others have mulching capabilities, which finely chop the clippings and spread them over the lawn as a natural fertilizer. Side-discharge mowers expel clippings to the side, which is useful if you mow often and don’t want to bag or mulch.
Additional Features of the Mower
Look for extra features that enhance the mower’s functionality. Adjustable cutting height, ergonomic handles, and easy-start mechanisms can improve your mowing experience. Some mowers also come with smart technology, like programmable mowing schedules and app controls.
Decide what features are important to you. It’s also essential to consider what fits into your budget — added features also add to the cost.
Types of Lawn Mowers FAQs
What’s the Most Affordable Type of Lawn Mower?
The most affordable type of lawn mower is the reel mower or the manual push mower. They are the simplest and cheapest option available, typically costing between $50 to $150. Since they don’t need gas, oil, or electricity, the ongoing costs are minimal.
Can I Use an Electric Lawn Mower in the Rain?
No, you should not use an electric lawn mower in the rain. Electric mowers, whether corded or cordless, have electrical components that can be damaged by water. Operating them in wet conditions increases the risk of electrical shock and can also lead to rust and other mechanical issues.
Cutting wet grass can also be more challenging to cut and it can clog the mower. For safety and to extend the lifespan of your mower, it’s best to wait until the lawn is dry before mowing with an electric mower.
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