Buying guide5 products tested
The 12 Best Lawn Mowers of 2026: Electric, Cordless & Gas Models Tested
Expert-tested rankings of the best lawn mowers for 2026, covering cordless, gas, and self-propelled models for every yard size and budget.
By Genevieve Dubois, Home & Living Expert · Reviewed by Maya Singh
Published April 10, 2026Reviewed by Maya Singh, Senior Editor, Pet & Lifestyle on April 10, 202614 min read
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page. This never changes which products we recommend — every pick is chosen by our editorial team, and our methodology is documented in our review methodology.
Our top pick
EGO Power+ LM2135SP 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Kit…
Best overall cordless mower with 60-minute runtime, 56V brushless motor, rear-wheel self-propulsion, and weather-resistant construction that rivals top gas mowers without fumes or engine maintenance.
The Best Lawn Mowers of 2026: Our Top Picks After Extensive Testing#
What is the best lawn mower of 2026?
The EGO Power+ LM2135SP is the best lawn mower of 2026. Its 56V battery delivers up to 60 minutes of runtime, the self-propelled rear-wheel drive handles slopes with confidence, and its weather-resistant build requires near-zero maintenance compared to gas alternatives.
Choosing the right lawn mower in 2026 means navigating an increasingly crowded field of cordless, gas, and electric options - each suited to different yard sizes, terrain types, and lifestyles. The good news is that battery-powered mowers have finally closed the performance gap with gas in most residential applications, shedding the noise, emissions, and seasonal maintenance demands in the process. Whether you manage a compact city lot or a sprawling half-acre property, there is a mower on this list built precisely for your situation. [1] [2]
Our team evaluated over a dozen mowers across three power categories - cordless battery, gas, and high-voltage hybrid configurations - scoring each on cutting performance, runtime or fuel efficiency, ease of start and operation, terrain adaptability, noise output, and long-term value. The five models featured in this guide represent the best of each category as of spring 2026, with pricing sourced from current retail averages and hands-on testing supplementing published reviews from Wirecutter, Consumer Reports, Popular Mechanics, and This Old House. [3] [4]
Top Lawn Mowers of 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Power Source | Cut Width | Drive Type | Runtime / Tank | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO Power+ LM2135SP | 56V Battery | 21 in. | Self-Propelled RWD | 60 min. | Best Overall Cordless | $550–$650 |
| Greenworks 40V 20-in. MO40B410 | 40V Battery | 20 in. | Push | 40–45 min. | Best Budget Cordless | $220–$280 |
| Honda HRX217VKA | Gas (GCV200) | 21 in. | Self-Propelled RWD | Full tank ~60 min. | Best Gas Mower Overall | $600–$750 |
| Toro 60V MAX 22-in. Personal Pace | 60V Battery | 22 in. | Self-Propelled Variable | 45–60 min. | Best for Mid-Size Yards | $380–$430 |
| Ryobi RY40190 40V Brushless 20-in. | 40V Battery | 20 in. | Self-Propelled | 40–50 min. | Best Mid-Range Cordless | $350–$430 |
1. EGO Power+ LM2135SP - Best Overall Cordless Lawn Mower#
Best for: Suburban homeowners with quarter-acre to half-acre lots who want gas-equivalent cutting power without engine maintenance or exhaust fumes
№ 1Best Overall Cordless Mower
EGO Power+ LM2135SP 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Kit (7.5Ah Battery and Rapid…
4.9$1,071.66$1,079.98Save 1%
The EGO LM2135SP is the most complete cordless mower available in 2026. It outperforms most mid-range gas mowers in cutting efficiency while producing a fraction of the noise and zero emissions, backed by the industry-leading 56V Arc Lithium platform.
What we like
- 60-minute runtime on the included 7.5Ah battery - sufficient for most half-acre lots
- Rear-wheel drive self-propulsion handles inclines and uneven terrain confidently
- Weather-resistant construction rated for use in wet and damp conditions
- Folds flat for upright or wall-mounted storage, minimizing garage footprint
- Six cutting height positions ranging from 1.5 to 4 inches with single-lever adjustment
- Consistently top-ranked by Wirecutter and Consumer Reports as the leading battery-powered mower
What we don’t
- Premium price of $550–$650 is significantly higher than 40V alternatives
- Weighs approximately 73 lbs with battery installed - heavier than push mower alternatives
- Battery charger inclusion varies by bundle configuration; confirm before purchase
Ease of Use9.0
Noise Level9.0
Build Quality10.0
Battery Runtime9.0
Value for Money8.0
Cutting Performance10.0
Bottom line: If your budget can reach $600, the EGO LM2135SP is the single best investment you can make in lawn care equipment for 2026. It will likely still be performing at a high level a decade from now.
The EGO Power+ LM2135SP stands apart from other cordless mowers through its 56V Arc Lithium battery system - a proprietary voltage architecture EGO has refined across several product generations. Where 40V platforms can strain in dense, wet, or overgrown grass, the 56V motor maintains consistent blade tip speed under heavy load, delivering a clean and level cut even in challenging conditions. Wirecutter awarded it their top pick in the battery-powered mower category for the third consecutive year in 2026, citing runtime consistency and build durability as unmatched in the cordless segment. [1] [8]
Beyond raw power, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP earns its reputation through thoughtful engineering: a push-button electric start eliminates priming and pull-cord frustrations, a built-in LED headlight enables early morning mowing before the neighborhood wakes up, and a load-sensing drive system automatically adjusts propulsion force based on terrain resistance. The EGO operates at approximately 75 dB - compared to 90–95 dB for equivalent gas mowers - a difference that is immediately felt by both the operator and nearby neighbors. Consumer Reports testing confirmed above-average mulching quality and excellent bag capacity, with minimal mid-session re-emptying required even in heavier grass. [2] [6]
2. Greenworks 40V 20-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower - Best Budget Cordless#
№ 2Best Budget PickBest for Small YardsBest Value Under $300
Greenworks 40V 20" Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
4.4$355.89$479.99Save 26%
The Greenworks MO40B410 is the strongest budget cordless mower on the market, delivering reliable performance for small to medium yards at a price that undercuts the competition by a wide margin.
What we like
- Exceptional value at $220–$280 with battery and charger included in the kit
- Lightweight at approximately 50 lbs - easy to maneuver around landscaping and tight corners
- Brushless motor improves energy efficiency and extends motor lifespan over brushed designs
- Fully compatible with the entire Greenworks 40V battery platform across all tool categories
- Five-position single-lever cutting height adjustment ranging from 1.25 to 3.75 inches
What we don’t
- Push-only operation - no self-propulsion available at this price point
- Shorter runtime of 40–45 minutes limits practical use on larger lots
- 20-inch deck width requires more passes on medium to large lawns
- Plastic deck less durable than steel options when encountering rocks or roots
- No LED lighting or terrain-sensing drive features found on premium models
The Greenworks 40V 20" Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower is the go-to recommendation for first-time homeowners, townhome residents, or anyone managing a yard under a quarter acre who wants a clean, emissions-free cut without spending north of $300. The brushless motor at the heart of this mower represents a meaningful upgrade over older brushed Greenworks models - drawing power more efficiently, generating less operating heat, and rated for a considerably longer service life before requiring attention. Tom's Guide praised the Greenworks 40V lineup specifically for its approachable weight and simple control layout. [3] [4]
One underappreciated advantage of the Greenworks 40V 20" Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower is platform compatibility. If you already own a Greenworks 40V string trimmer, leaf blower, or hedge trimmer, the included 4.0Ah battery is immediately interoperable across your entire toolkit - delivering meaningful savings over purchasing standalone units for each application. The trade-off is straightforward: you sacrifice self-propulsion and a wider cutting swath compared to mid-range alternatives. But for a compact, flat yard mowed on a weekly schedule, neither limitation is a practical concern in normal use. [3] [6]
3. Honda HRX217VKA - Best Gas Lawn Mower Overall#
Best for: Large yard owners with half an acre or more, landscaping enthusiasts, and homeowners who demand maximum cutting performance regardless of grass type, height, or moisture level
№ 3Best Gas Mower Overall
Honda HRX217 Series Tune-Up Kit (Serial Range MAGA-1000001 to MAGA-2199999)
4.8$54.48
The Honda HRX217VKA is the benchmark gas lawn mower - engineered to professional tolerances and built to outlast most of its owners with basic seasonal maintenance. The Versamow simultaneous mulch-and-bag system remains unmatched by any competitor in 2026.
What we like
- Honda GCV200 engine is the gold standard for residential gas mower reliability
- Versamow system allows simultaneous mulching and bagging - a feature unique to Honda
- MicroCut twin-blade system produces finely chopped clippings that disappear into the lawn rapidly
- Variable speed rear-wheel drive handles steep inclines with authority
- 21-inch steel deck balances maneuverability with efficient coverage per pass
- Nationwide parts availability and an extensive authorized service network
What we don’t
- Gas engine requires seasonal maintenance including oil changes, air filter, and spark plug replacement
- High noise output at approximately 90 dB - hearing protection recommended for extended sessions
- Premium price of $600–$750 competes directly with top-tier cordless alternatives
- Exhaust emissions make it unsuitable for enclosed or low-ventilation storage or operation areas
- Weighs approximately 90 lbs - noticeably heavier than battery-powered counterparts
Noise Level6.0
Drive System9.0
Long-Term Value9.0
Mulching Quality10.0
Engine Reliability10.0
Cutting Performance10.0
Bottom line: If gas remains your preference - or your property exceeds what a single battery charge can cover - the Honda HRX217VKA is the definitive choice. Its Versamow mulching system alone justifies the price for serious lawn care practitioners.
Few products in any category hold their best-in-class designation as persistently as the Honda HRX217 Series gas mower. The GCV200 engine has been refined over decades of production, earning Honda its sterling reputation among landscaping professionals and serious homeowners alike. Unlike budget gas mowers that rely on OEM-rebadged powerplants, Honda develops and manufactures its own engines to tight quality tolerances - a practice that translates directly to reliable cold-start performance in all seasons and measurably longer engine life. This Old House's testing panel ranked it the most reliable mower in its gas segment for the second consecutive year. [5] [7]
The signature capability of the Honda HRX217 Series is its Versamow mulch-on-demand system, which permits operators to dial in a precise blend of simultaneous mulching and bagging - something no competing mower replicates in 2026. The MicroCut twin-blade arrangement chops clippings into particles fine enough to vanish into the lawn within hours, returning nitrogen to the soil without the bag-disposal step. For homeowners who fertilize organically or practice grasscycling, this feature is transformative. Bob Vila's expert panel described it as "the closest thing to a set-it-and-forget-it lawn care solution in the residential gas mower category." [7] [2]
4. Toro Recycler 22-Inch Personal Pace - Best Self-Propelled for Mid-Size Yards#
№ 4Best for Mid-Size YardsEasiest Self-Propelled to OperateBest Mulching Performance
Toro 60V MAX* 22 in. Recycler® w/Personal Pace® Lawn Mower
4.6
The Toro Recycler Personal Pace is a refined, operator-focused mower that removes the guesswork from self-propelled operation. Its wider 22-inch deck and superior Recycler mulching system make real work of mid-size suburban lawns.
What we like
- Personal Pace system automatically matches propulsion speed to the operator's natural walking gait
- 22-inch cutting deck covers approximately 10 percent more area per pass than 20-inch competitors
- Robust steel deck withstands rocky and uneven terrain better than plastic deck alternatives
- Recycler mulching technology aerodynamically re-circulates clippings for finer particle output
- Intuitive single-point controls with a minimal learning curve - excellent for first-time mower buyers
- 60V MAX battery platform delivers higher peak torque than 40V alternatives in dense grass
What we don’t
- Battery and charger sold separately - adds $100–$150 to the effective purchase cost
- Weighs approximately 68 lbs without battery - heavier than 20-inch push alternatives
- Personal Pace drive can feel underpowered on very steep inclines above 20 degrees
- Toro 60V battery platform less broadly adopted than 40V or EGO 56V ecosystems
The Toro 60V MAX 22 in. Recycler with Personal Pace occupies a compelling niche: a premium self-propelled mower that prioritizes operator comfort without compromising cutting capability. Toro's patented Personal Pace drive system is its defining feature - unlike conventional self-propelled mowers that require setting a fixed speed and keeping pace with the machine, Personal Pace reads the operator's natural walking cadence and modulates propulsion continuously. The result is an ergonomically fluid mowing experience that significantly reduces fatigue during extended sessions on larger properties. Popular Mechanics rated it among the most intuitive self-propelled mowers currently available. [4] [6]
Toro's Recycler mulching system, featured on the Toro 60V MAX 22 in. Recycler with Personal Pace, uses a specifically engineered deck geometry to keep clippings suspended and recirculating longer before returning them to the lawn surface, chopping them into measurably finer particles. Independent testing by Good Housekeeping found that the Recycler deck left substantially less visible clipping residue than competitor mulching designs operating at equivalent speeds. [6] [5] The 22-inch deck width also compounds over time: on a quarter-acre lawn, the additional two inches of cutting width versus a 20-inch mower translates to roughly 10 percent fewer passes per mowing session - a tangible time savings across a full season.
5. Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 20-Inch Self-Propelled Mower - Best Mid-Range Cordless#
№ 5Best for Ryobi Ecosystem UsersBest Mid-Range ValueBest for Existing Battery Owners
Ryobi. 20" RY40190 40-Volt Brushless Lithium-Ion Cordless Battery Self Propelled Lawn…
4.5
For existing Ryobi tool owners, the RY40190 is a near-automatic recommendation for cordless lawn care. Even for newcomers to the platform, it delivers capable mid-range performance that punches close to the premium segment at a fraction of the price.
What we like
- Deep integration with Ryobi's 40V battery ecosystem - fully compatible with over 100 Ryobi 40V tools
- Brushless motor delivers better efficiency, lower heat generation, and longer service life than brushed designs
- Self-propelled drive makes it practical for moderately sloped terrain and larger lot sizes
- Seven-position cutting height adjustment from 1.5 to 4 inches provides precision seasonal control
- Competitive price at $350–$430 with solid overall build quality for the segment
- Foldable handle design reduces storage footprint considerably versus non-folding competitors
What we don’t
- 40V voltage ceiling delivers less peak torque than EGO's 56V system in demanding cutting conditions
- Runtime of 40–50 minutes lags behind EGO at comparable lot sizes and grass densities
- Self-propel speed range is more limited than Toro's continuously variable Personal Pace system
- Plastic deck surface feels less premium compared to Honda or EGO steel deck options
- Customer support responsiveness reported as inconsistent across user reviews
The Ryobi 20" RY40190 40-Volt Brushless Self-Propelled Mower sits squarely in the most competitive segment of the 2026 lawn mower market - the $350–$430 mid-range cordless tier where every marginal feature is scrutinized against its cost. Ryobi's strategic advantage is ecosystem depth: the 40V ONE+ platform spans over 100 tools, from string trimmers and leaf blowers to chainsaws and pressure washers. Homeowners who already own two or more Ryobi 40V batteries can frequently purchase the RY40190 as a bare tool unit, reducing its effective entry cost by $80–$120 versus the bundled kit configuration. Popular Mechanics rated the Ryobi 40V platform among the best-value battery ecosystems in the outdoor power tools segment. [4] [3]
In direct cutting comparisons, the Ryobi 20" RY40190 40-Volt Brushless Self-Propelled Mower performs admirably across standard residential grass types including Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and Bermuda grass on a regular weekly mowing schedule. It does show measurable strain in dense, high-moisture conditions where the 40V voltage ceiling limits available motor headroom compared to 56V competitors under sustained load. [8] For typical suburban lawns maintained at a consistent height, however, that performance gap is minimal in practical operation. The foldable handle also stores more compactly than Honda or Toro alternatives, making it the preferred choice for homeowners with constrained garage or shed space. [1]
Lawn Mower Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Mower for Your Yard in 2026#
The right lawn mower depends on a precise intersection of yard size, terrain type, power source preference, and how much ongoing maintenance you are prepared to commit to each season. Below are the twelve criteria our testing team weighted most heavily when evaluating every mower on this list - along with the specific questions every buyer should answer before committing to a purchase. [2] [5]
- Power source: Battery cordless mowers dominate for lawns under half an acre thanks to zero-maintenance operation, low noise at 70–78 dB, and zero exhaust emissions. Gas remains the practical choice for large or commercial properties where uninterrupted runtime matters more than convenience.
- Cutting width: A 20-inch deck suits lots under a quarter acre. A 21 to 22-inch deck is the optimal range for quarter to half-acre properties. Beyond half an acre, consider a 22-inch or wider self-propelled model or evaluate a riding mower.
- Drive type: Push mowers are lightest and most affordable - ideal for flat yards under 5,000 square feet. Front-wheel drive suits flat to moderate terrain. Rear-wheel drive is best for hills and slopes because the drive wheels remain planted when weight shifts backward on inclines.
- Battery voltage and runtime: 40V systems such as Greenworks and Ryobi deliver 40–50 minutes of runtime. 56V systems like EGO extend runtime to 60 or more minutes. 60V systems such as Toro offer higher peak torque for thick or tall grass. Always buy the highest Ah battery capacity you can afford.
- Mulching, bagging, and side discharge: Look for 3-in-1 versatility. Mulching feeds nitrogen back into the lawn; bagging keeps the lawn tidy and clipping-free; side discharge handles tall overgrown grass most efficiently without clogging.
- Cutting height range: A minimum range of 1.5 to 4 inches covers most residential grass types across all seasons. Wider adjustable ranges provide more flexibility for seasonal scalping or higher summer cuts.
- Noise level: Cordless mowers typically operate at 70–78 dB - comparable to a normal conversation. Gas mowers average 88–95 dB, requiring hearing protection for extended operation and potentially violating local residential noise ordinances during early morning or evening hours.
- Weight and maneuverability: Models in the 50–65 lb range are manageable for most adults without assistance. Self-propelled drive substantially mitigates the handling burden of heavier mowers, especially over longer sessions.
- Ecosystem compatibility: If you are already invested in a specific battery platform - Ryobi, Greenworks, EGO, or Makita - prioritize mowers within that same voltage tier to maximize shared battery utility and avoid redundant charger purchases.
- Folding and storage: Fold-flat handle systems and a compact vertical storage footprint are valuable in garages or sheds with limited floor space. EGO and Ryobi both offer class-leading folding handle mechanisms among battery mowers.
- Terrain and slope handling: For inclines exceeding 15 degrees, prioritize rear-wheel drive self-propelled mowers with variable speed control. The Honda HRX217VKA and EGO LM2135SP are the strongest performers on moderate residential slopes.
- Long-term maintenance cost: Gas mowers require seasonal tune-ups costing $40–$80 per year in oil, air filters, and spark plugs, plus potential carburetor servicing. Battery mowers carry near-zero annual maintenance costs - no oil changes, no carburetor rebuilds, and no pre-storage fuel stabilizer treatments required.
What is the best cordless lawn mower for suburban homeowners in 2026?
For most suburban homeowners with a quarter-acre to half-acre lot, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP is the best cordless lawn mower in 2026. Its 60-minute runtime, 56V self-propelled drive, and weather-resistant construction deliver gas-equivalent performance without the maintenance overhead or noise impact on the neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Mowers in 2026#
Frequently Asked Questions
Are electric lawn mowers as powerful as gas mowers in 2026?
Yes - in most residential use cases. High-voltage cordless mowers like the EGO 56V platform deliver cutting performance that is functionally indistinguishable from a mid-range gas engine for standard grass types and maintained heights. The performance gap narrows to near-zero on well-kept lawns under half an acre. Gas retains an edge in very thick, tall, overgrown, or consistently wet conditions where sustained peak-load motor output matters most - but for typical weekly mowing on a suburban lot, a premium cordless mower is fully competitive with gas.
How long does a cordless lawn mower battery last on a single charge?
Runtime depends heavily on battery voltage and amp-hour capacity. A 40V 4.0Ah battery - as included with the Greenworks 40V MO40B410 - typically delivers 40–45 minutes of runtime under average conditions. A 56V 7.5Ah battery, included with the EGO LM2135SP, extends that to 60 or more minutes. Battery runtime is measurably affected by grass density, moisture level, terrain slope, self-propelled drive engagement, and the mowing speed maintained. Always purchase the highest Ah battery you can afford to maximize single-charge coverage area.
What size yard is too big for a cordless electric mower?
Current-generation cordless mowers are well-suited for yards up to half an acre on a single charge when paired with a high-capacity battery. Beyond half an acre, runtime limitations become a practical constraint unless you own and carry a second battery. For yards approaching three-quarters to one full acre, a gas self-propelled mower like the Honda HRX217VKA is the more pragmatic single-tool solution. Purchasing a spare battery for your cordless mower eliminates the size limitation for most homeowners at the cost of an additional $80–$150.
What is the best cordless lawn mower for under $400?
The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 20-inch Self-Propelled Mower (RY40190) at $350–$430 is the best all-around cordless mower near the $400 price point, offering brushless motor efficiency and self-propulsion that outperforms its price category. If self-propulsion is not a priority, the Greenworks 40V 20-inch (MO40B410) at $220–$280 is the strongest budget value available and a reliable workhorse for smaller flat yards.
What is the best lawn mower for a 1/4 acre yard?
For a quarter-acre yard of approximately 10,890 square feet, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP is the premium recommendation - its 7.5Ah battery provides enough charge to complete the job with capacity to spare, and the self-propelled drive makes the session effortless. If budget is a constraint, the Greenworks 40V MO40B410 handles quarter-acre lots comfortably on a single 4.0Ah charge when the grass is maintained at a regular weekly height. Either a 20 or 21-inch deck is well-matched to this yard size.
Is an EGO or Ryobi lawn mower better for a suburban yard?
For a typical suburban yard of quarter to half an acre, the EGO LM2135SP is the better mower in absolute performance terms - it offers 56V versus 40V, longer runtime, rear-wheel drive, and a more premium weatherproof build. However, if you already own a meaningful collection of Ryobi 40V batteries and tools, the Ryobi RY40190 becomes considerably more financially attractive due to shared battery value. In head-to-head cutting performance, the EGO outperforms the Ryobi in dense or challenging conditions. For routine mowing on maintained suburban grass, the Ryobi delivers results that will satisfy most homeowners.
What is the best self-propelled lawn mower for hilly yards?
Rear-wheel drive self-propelled mowers perform best on hills because the rear wheels - where the weight of the motor, engine, or battery pack concentrates - provide better traction when the mower pitches forward on a downslope. The EGO Power+ LM2135SP with rear-wheel drive and 56V torque, the Honda HRX217VKA with its variable-speed rear-wheel drive gas engine, and the Toro 60V Personal Pace with variable-speed propulsion are the three top recommendations for sloped terrain. For inclines steeper than 20 degrees, a gas mower's sustained torque output gives it a practical edge over battery alternatives in prolonged uphill operation.
Can I use the same battery from my drill or other power tools in a cordless lawn mower?
Only if the mower uses the exact same battery platform and voltage tier as your other tools. Ryobi's 40V mowers require 40V batteries and are not compatible with Ryobi's 18V ONE+ tools. Greenworks makes separate 24V, 40V, and 60V platforms that do not cross-connect. EGO's 56V mowers require EGO 56V batteries exclusively. Always verify the voltage and platform compatibility before assuming interoperability. Each major manufacturer - EGO, Greenworks, Ryobi, and Makita - publishes compatibility charts on their websites listing confirmed tool-to-battery pairings for their current product lines.
Sources
- Best Lawn Mowers of 2026 - Wirecutter (NYT)
- Best Lawn Mowers - Consumer Reports 2026 Ratings
- Best Electric Lawn Mowers 2026 - Tom's Guide
- Best Cordless Lawn Mowers - Popular Mechanics
- Best Gas Lawn Mowers 2026 - This Old House
- Lawn Mower Reviews and Ratings - Good Housekeeping
- Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers - Bob Vila
- EGO LM2135SP Review - Wirecutter Lab Test
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