Which Walk Behind Lawn Mowers Shine and Which Fall Flat?

Walk behind lawn mowers are essential for maintaining a neat yard. They offer versatility and ease of use for homeowners.

When it comes to lawn care, YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower stands out for its powerful performance and high rear wheels that tackle uneven terrain effortlessly. Another great option is the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower, which is perfect for eco-conscious gardeners seeking a clean cut without gas emissions.

These mowers cater to various needs, whether you prefer gas-powered efficiency or the simplicity of a reel mower. Their unique selling points include user-friendly designs and exceptional cutting capabilities, making them ideal for any lawn size.

In this review, we’ll explore the features, benefits, and comparisons of these top mowers to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to learn about the perfect tools for your lawn care routine!

best and worst walk behind lawn mowersbest and worst walk behind lawn mowersbest and worst walk behind lawn mowers

best and worst walk behind lawn mowers

YARDMAX 21″ 170cc Gas Push Mower

#1 CHOICE

YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels

The YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower is designed to provide efficient lawn care, ideal for homeowners with medium to large yards. Its compact size of 21 inches and robust 170cc engine ensures powerful mowing performance while maintaining maneuverability. The heavy-duty, 16-gauge stamped steel deck not only enhances durability but also reduces vibration, making mowing a more comfortable experience.

This mower features innovative MAXFlow Deck Technology, which utilizes a volute spiral deck design to improve airflow and enhance mulching capabilities. With a single-lever deck adjustment, users can easily set their desired mow height from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches, catering to varying grass lengths and types. The double-ball-bearing wheels and adjustable handle height contribute to its user-friendly design, making it suitable for different user preferences and physical capabilities.

In terms of usability, the YARDMAX mower excels in performance and convenience. Its 7-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels provide stability and control on uneven terrain, while the compact design allows for easy storage when not in use. Minimal assembly is required, making it ready to use shortly after purchase.

Pros

  • Efficient mowing with powerful 170cc engine.
  • Durable construction with a heavy-duty steel deck.
  • Single-lever height adjustment for customizable cutting.
  • Excellent mulching capabilities with MAXFlow technology.
  • Easy maneuverability with double-ball-bearing wheels.

Cons

  • May be heavier than some competing models.
  • Gas-powered, requiring regular maintenance and fuel.

The YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower is best suited for homeowners seeking a reliable and efficient mowing solution. While it has some limitations, such as its weight and gas dependency, its durability and performance make it a valuable tool for maintaining a pristine lawn. This mower is an excellent choice for those who prioritize quality and efficiency in their lawn care routine.

To buy this product, click here.

American Lawn Mower 16-Inch Reel Mower

#2 CHOICE

American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher

The American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher is designed to provide a precise cutting experience for homeowners seeking an eco-friendly lawn care solution. Ideal for small to medium-sized yards, this manual reel mower caters to environmentally conscious users who prefer a quieter mowing option. With its 16-inch cutting width, this mower is perfect for various grass types, ensuring a clean, scissor-like cut that promotes a healthier lawn.

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Key specifications of the American Lawn Mower include a 5-blade reel for superior cutting performance, adjustable cutting height ranging from ½ inch to 2 ½ inches, and a cushion-grip T-handle for comfort during use. The mower’s lightweight design and compact size make it easy to maneuver around tight corners and flower beds, enhancing the user experience.

This reel mower solves the problem of noisy gas mowers and offers a more sustainable alternative. Its manual operation means no emissions, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners. Additionally, the included grass catcher efficiently collects clippings, keeping your lawn tidy and reducing cleanup time.

Pros

  • Precision cutting with a 5-blade reel promotes a healthier lawn.
  • Adjustable cutting height caters to different grass types.
  • Eco-friendly operation reduces noise and emissions.
  • Cushion-grip T-handle enhances comfort and reduces hand fatigue.
  • Convenient grass catcher simplifies lawn maintenance.

Cons

  • Manual operation may require more physical effort compared to powered mowers.
  • Not suitable for very large lawns due to its limited cutting width.
  • Grass catcher may need frequent emptying in dense grass.

The performance of the American Lawn Mower is commendable, with its ability to deliver clean cuts and ease of use. It is best suited for homeowners with smaller yards who appreciate a hands-on approach to lawn care. While the manual operation may not be for everyone, the benefits of a quiet, eco-friendly mowing experience make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to maintain a beautiful lawn sustainably.

In summary, the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners seeking a reliable, efficient, and comfortable mowing experience.

To buy this product, click here.

American Lawn Mower 20-Inch Reel Mower

#3 CHOICE

American Lawn Mower Company 20-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher

The American Lawn Mower Company 20-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher is designed to provide an efficient and eco-friendly mowing solution, ideal for homeowners seeking a greener alternative to gas-powered mowers. This reel mower is particularly suited for small to medium-sized lawns, delivering a clean cut without the noise and emissions associated with traditional mowers. With a wide 20-inch cutting path, this mower covers more ground with each pass, ensuring a quick and effective mowing experience.

Key specifications include:

  • Cutting Width: 20 inches
  • Blade Type: 5-blade reel
  • Cutting Height: Adjustable between 2 to 3 inches
  • Grass Catcher: Included for easy grass collection
  • Material: Durable steel construction
  • Color: Green and black

This reel mower solves the problem of noisy, gas-powered alternatives by providing a quiet and low-maintenance mowing experience. It promotes healthy grass growth while being environmentally friendly, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious users.

Pros

  • Efficient 20-inch cutting path for faster mowing.
  • Adjustable cutting height for tailored lawn care.
  • Eco-friendly operation with no gas or emissions.
  • Ergonomic handle for comfortable maneuverability.
  • Includes grass catcher for easy cleanup.

Cons

  • May struggle with very tall or thick grass.
  • Requires manual effort, which may not suit everyone.
  • Price may be higher than basic reel mowers.
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In terms of performance, the American Lawn Mower Company 20-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower excels in providing a clean, precise cut, thanks to its 5-blade design. Users appreciate its ease of use, particularly the ergonomic handle that enhances control during mowing. However, it may not perform as well on overgrown lawns, which could require a different approach. The mower’s grass catcher is a standout feature, simplifying cleanup and ensuring a tidy yard.

This reel mower is best suited for environmentally conscious homeowners with small to medium lawns who prioritize sustainability and ease of use. While it has minor limitations, its overall value makes it a worthy investment for those looking to maintain a healthy lawn without the hassle of gas-powered equipment.

To buy this product, click here.

PowerSmart 18-Inch Gas Lawn Mower

#4 CHOICE

PowerSmart Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 18-Inch 144cc Engine 3-in-1 Walk-Behind Push Lawn Mower, Oil Included

PowerSmart Lawn Mower is designed to provide efficient lawn care, ideal for homeowners with medium to large-sized yards. Its 18-inch durable steel deck and 144cc engine ensure a powerful performance while maintaining ease of use. Available in a classic black and silver color scheme, this gas-powered mower is built to tackle various mowing tasks effectively.

This lawn mower solves the problem of maintaining a well-groomed lawn with its 3-in-1 capabilities, allowing users to bag, side-discharge, or mulch grass clippings. The easy-to-empty rear bag simplifies clean-up, making it perfect for those who want to compost or dispose of clippings with minimal effort.

Pros

  • Efficient Performance: The 144cc engine delivers reliable power for effective mowing.
  • Versatile Cutting Options: The 3-in-1 functionality offers flexibility for different lawn care needs.
  • Easy Maneuverability: With 7-inch wheels and a lightweight design, it navigates tight spaces effortlessly.
  • Comfortable Use: The ergonomic handle enhances user comfort, reducing fatigue during extended mowing sessions.
  • Simple Assembly: Tool-free assembly makes setup quick and straightforward.

Cons

  • Limited Cutting Height Options: The 6-position height adjustment may not cater to all grass types.
  • Gas Dependency: As a gas-powered mower, it requires fuel, which can be less convenient compared to electric models.

The PowerSmart Lawn Mower excels in performance with its durable construction and efficient design. The standout features, such as the vortex tunnel design for even clipping distribution and the easy height adjustment, enhance its usability. While it is best suited for homeowners looking for a reliable and efficient lawn mower, its gas dependency and limited height options may be drawbacks for some users. Overall, this mower offers excellent value for those seeking a powerful, versatile tool to keep their lawns pristine.

To buy this product, click here.

Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower 160cc

#5 CHOICE

Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower with 160cc Viper™ Engine, 45901

The Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower with 160cc Viper™ Engine is designed to tackle tough landscaping tasks, making it ideal for homeowners and landscapers dealing with overgrown weeds, brush, and thick grass. Its robust 160cc 4-cycle Viper engine ensures powerful performance, while the large 14-inch wheels provide excellent maneuverability across challenging terrains.

This string mower features a durable one-piece steel deck that enhances stability and minimizes vibration during operation. With a cutting swath of 22 inches, it efficiently clears large areas, making yard maintenance quicker and easier. The mower’s never-go-flat wheels guarantee reliability, so you can focus on the task without worrying about tire issues. An integrated clutch and hand bail system allows for safe operation, stopping the trimmer head without needing to restart the motor.

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Pros

  • Powerful 160cc engine easily cuts through thick foliage.
  • Durable steel deck reduces vibrations for a smoother experience.
  • Convenient never-go-flat wheels ensure hassle-free mobility.
  • Simple out-of-the-box setup with minimal assembly required.
  • 5-year limited warranty for peace of mind.

Cons

  • May be heavier than traditional push mowers.
  • Price point is higher than some entry-level alternatives.

Performance-wise, the Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower excels in cutting efficiency and ease of use. The standout features, such as the integrated clutch and the generous cutting swath, make it a top choice for those managing larger properties or challenging landscapes. While it may be heavier than some users prefer, its durability and power justify the weight, especially for serious yard work.

This mower is best suited for homeowners or landscaping professionals who frequently deal with tough vegetation and require a reliable tool that can handle demanding tasks. Overall, the Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower offers exceptional value, making it an excellent investment for anyone seeking a robust solution for their landscaping needs.

To buy this product, click here.

Faq about best and worst walk behind lawn mowers:

1:What are the best walk behind lawn mowers?

The best walk behind lawn mowers typically include models from brands like Honda, Toro, and John Deere. These mowers are known for their durability, performance, and ease of use.

2:What features should I look for in a walk behind lawn mower?

Look for features such as adjustable cutting heights, self-propulsion, and a reliable engine. Additionally, consider the mower’s weight and maneuverability.

3:What are the worst walk behind lawn mowers?

The worst walk behind lawn mowers often come from lesser-known brands or those with poor customer reviews. Common issues include engine failure, poor cutting performance, and lack of customer support.

4:How do I maintain my walk behind lawn mower?

Regular maintenance includes checking the oil, cleaning the air filter, sharpening the blades, and ensuring the wheels are in good condition. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific maintenance tasks.

5:Are electric walk behind mowers worth it?

Yes, electric walk behind mowers are worth it for those seeking a quieter, eco-friendly option. They require less maintenance and are easier to start compared to gas mowers.

Conclusion

YARDMAX 21″ 170cc Gas Push Mower exemplifies efficiency and power, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a robust solution for larger lawns. Its superior maneuverability and cutting performance distinguish it in the competitive landscape of lawn care. Conversely, the American Lawn Mower 16-Inch Reel Mower offers an environmentally friendly alternative, emphasizing simplicity and precision for smaller spaces. This model caters to eco-conscious consumers desiring a quiet, low-maintenance option without sacrificing quality.

Both products cater to distinct user needs, ensuring that whether one prioritizes power or sustainability, there exists a commendable choice in the market. Ultimately, the selection hinges on individual preferences and lawn care requirements, underscoring the diversity in available options.

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