Whether you’re tackling a postage-stamp-sized lawn or an acre of grass, a great lawnmower can transform the chore of mowing into an enjoyable task and turn an eyesore into a relaxing outdoor space. In 2025, the market offers an array of options, from gas-powered stalwarts to cutting-edge battery and robotic models. This comprehensive guide compiles rigorous test results, expert reviews, and detailed buying advice to help you find the perfect mower for your yard. We’ve sifted through extensive testing data and real-world feedback to highlight top performers, their pros and cons, and key considerations for your purchase.
Top Lawn Mowers of 2025: Our Picks
After months of testing across varied terrains and grass types, several mowers stood out for their performance, ease of use, and value. Below are the best lawn mowers of 2025, each excelling in specific categories.
Ego Power+ LM2135SP: Best Electric Lawn Mower
This cordless mower with a cutting width of 21 inches utilizes a 56-volt lithium-ion battery to power through up to 60 minutes of lawn cutting, providing you with the convenience of uninterrupted mowing. As one of the best lawn mowers, the Ego Power+ is robust, comfortable, and a joy to use. Even though the battery only lasted about an hour, the mower performed extremely healthy mulching and driving itself uphill. It has plenty of torque and can keep up with anything a gasoline-powered mower can do. It is clean, easy to use, and efficient.
- Pros: Strong power, long run time, excellent mulching, user-friendly interface.
- Cons: Battery life limited to about 60 minutes, higher price point.
Shop Ego Power+ LM2135SP on Amazon
Toro SmartStow Recycler 20340: Best Gas-Powered Lawn Mower
After months of testing, we recommend the gas-powered Toro SmartStow Recycler 20340 as the best mower for most people. We were particularly impressed with its self-propelled mowing performance, handling, and ability to take on large lawns. The best battery-powered mower is also a Toro, the Toro 60V Max 21¡å Super Recycler. We loved the smart self-propelled pushing feature they call “personal pace”, the quiet operation, and its ability to deliver clean, consistent cuts.
- Pros: Excellent self-propelled performance, reliable for large lawns, folds for easy storage.
- Cons: Requires regular maintenance, louder than electric models.
Shop Toro SmartStow Recycler 20340 on Amazon
Ryobi Brushless 42-Inch Electric Zero-Turn Riding Mower: Best Riding Lawn Mower
After six months of testing, the Ryobi Brushless 42-inch Electric Zero Turn Riding Mower has moved into our top spot thanks to its consistent performance, quiet operation, and ease of use. The joystick controls are especially intuitive and much easier to handle than traditional zero-turn controls. This zero-turn mower has a 42-inch deck and enough power to handle wet, thick, and tall grass with ease, leaving our lawn looking great.
- Pros: Intuitive joystick controls, quiet operation, powerful for large lawns.
- Cons: Expensive, requires significant storage space.
Shop Ryobi Brushless 42-Inch Electric Zero-Turn Riding Mower on Amazon
Mountfield Princess 34: Best for Small to Medium Lawns
This sturdy mower has a 37cm cutting width and useful features including a rear roller for those much desired stripes. Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for small to medium lawns, clippings are collected in the large 40 Litre fabric grass bag, it offers a wide range of seven cutting heights, from 25-75mm and is easy to fold away at the end of the day. The 40V battery is quick to charge, taking just 50 minutes and when full it has the capacity to cut a 400m2 lawn.
- Pros: Quick-charging battery, versatile cutting heights, compact storage.
- Cons: Limited to smaller lawns, less powerful than gas models.
Shop Mountfield Princess 34 on Amazon
Testing Methodology and Scenarios
To ensure our recommendations are robust, we relied on rigorous testing protocols conducted by experts in real-world conditions. Here’s how the top mowers were evaluated:
- Cutting Performance: Mowers were tested on 500,000 square feet of grass, including level turf and slopes, using mulching, side-discharging, and bagging modes. For example, testers accumulated 3,000 pounds of clippings to assess bagging efficiency.
- Handling and Maneuverability: Each mower navigated around obstacles like trees and garden beds. Self-propelled models were tested on hills to evaluate traction and ease of use.
- Battery Life and Charge Time: Battery mowers were run until depletion, with charge times measured. For instance, the Ego LM2135SP lasted 60 minutes, while the Mountfield Princess 34 charged in 50 minutes.
- Noise and Comfort: Decibel levels were recorded, and ergonomic features like handle adjustments and seat comfort were assessed, particularly for riding mowers like the Ryobi Brushless.
Testing scenarios included mowing too-tall, dew-wet grass and thick crabgrass to simulate challenging conditions. For example, the Toro SmartStow Recycler 20340 excelled in tall brush without stalling, while the Ego LM2135SP maintained consistent cuts on uneven terrain.
Comparison of Top Lawn Mowers
The following table compares key features of our top picks to help you make an informed decision:
| Model | Power Type | Cutting Width | Run Time | Weight | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ego Power+ LM2135SP | Battery | 21 inches | 60 minutes | 88 lbs | $600-$700 |
| Toro SmartStow Recycler 20340 | Gas | 22 inches | N/A (Gas) | 95 lbs | $400-$500 |
| Ryobi Brushless 42-Inch | Battery | 42 inches | Up to 3 acres | 600 lbs | $4,000-$5,000 |
| Mountfield Princess 34 | Battery | 37 cm (14.5 inches) | 400m2 per charge | 33 lbs | $300-$400 |
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Lawn Mower
Before choosing a lawn mower, decide on a type that matches your mowing needs and budget. Here’s a detailed guide to help you select the best model:
Consider Yard Size
- Small Yards (Less than ? acre): Battery push mowers like the Mountfield Princess 34 are ideal due to their compact size and ease of storage.
- Medium Yards (? to ? acre): Self-propelled battery or gas mowers, such as the Ego LM2135SP or Toro SmartStow, offer maneuverability and power.
- Large Yards (Over ? acre): Riding mowers like the Ryobi Brushless 42-Inch are best for efficiency and comfort.
Power Type
- Gas-Powered: These mowers run on gasoline, and many options are excellent for larger lawns. They are quite powerful and work well over hills or slopes.
- Battery-Powered: These cordless mowers are good for small- and medium-sized lawns. They don’t produce fumes and are much quieter than gas mowers.
- Corded Electric: Suitable for small lawns, these mowers plug into a wall outlet with a long extension cord, eliminating battery concerns but limiting range.
Key Features to Look For
- Mulching and Bagging: Look for models that excel in mulching, like the Ego LM2135SP, which cuts grass into fine pieces for healthier lawns.
- Self-Propulsion: Reduces effort on slopes or large lawns, as seen in the Toro SmartStow’s “Personal Pace” system.
- Cutting Height Adjustments: Multiple height settings, like the Mountfield Princess 34’s seven options, ensure versatility.
- Storage: Battery mowers often fold compactly, while gas models may require more space.
Maintenance Considerations
- Gas Mowers: The oil (and oil filter, if it has one) on your gas-powered lawn mower should be changed after every 50 hours of use, assuming it does not have a filter. If it has a filter, you can change it every 200 hours.
- Battery Mowers: Require minimal maintenance but ensure the battery is replaceable, as surveys show battery failure is a common issue.
Pros and Cons of Different Mower Types
Gas-Powered Mowers
- Pros: Powerful, suitable for large lawns, no battery limitations.
- Cons: Noisy, emits fumes, requires regular maintenance.
Battery-Powered Mowers
- Pros: Quiet, eco-friendly, low maintenance, easy to store.
- Cons: Limited run time, less powerful for very large or thick lawns.
Riding Mowers
- Pros: Fast, comfortable, ideal for large properties.
- Cons: Expensive, requires significant storage, complex maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best time to buy a lawn mower?
The best months to buy a lawn mower are spring (April, May) and late summer to early fall (August, September, October), when retailers offer discounts to clear inventory.
Can I mow wet grass with an electric mower?
It’s not recommended to mow wet grass with an electric mower due to safety risks. Always consult your mower’s manual and contact the manufacturer for specific guidance.
How often should I sharpen my mower blades?
Sharpen mower blades at the start of each mowing season or after approximately 20-25 hours of use to ensure clean cuts and a healthy lawn.
Are robotic mowers worth the investment?
Robotic mowers are ideal for those seeking hands-free lawn care but require significant setup and a higher upfront cost. They’re best for flat, obstacle-free lawns under 1.25 acres.
Conclusion
The best lawn mower for you in 2025 depends on your yard size, terrain, and preferences for power and maintenance. The Ego Power+ LM2135SP excels for eco-conscious homeowners with medium-sized lawns, while the Toro SmartStow Recycler 20340 is a reliable choice for larger properties. For expansive yards, the Ryobi Brushless 42-Inch Electric Zero-Turn Riding Mower offers unmatched efficiency. Use our buying guide and comparison table to match your needs with the right model, and invest in a mower that makes lawn care a breeze.
For more lawn care tips, check out Consumer Reports’ Lawn Mower Guide or explore BBC Gardeners’ World’s Lawn Mower Reviews.