You want your lawn neat and perfectly mown, but you are tired of lawnmowers intensively draining your strength and energy? Do you wish to have a device that would do the job itself, with only your supervision?
Well, there actually is such a device in the current market.
Self-propelled lawn mowers are the latest innovation in the gardening market. The petrol engine that drives the machine sends energy to the wheels, thus enabling the mower to move. All it is for you to do is walk behind and steer it as it passes, simple as that.
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And If you do not know anything about these tools, do not worry! We have prepared a detailed guide on how to choose the best self-propelled lawnmower!
Enjoy!
Top 3 Recommendations
If you don't have enough time to invest in the entire text, don't worry. Here's a glimpse of the top three best self-propelled lawnmowers we found!
The Best Best Self Propelled Lawn Mower For You In 2022
Stay tuned, and read our petrol lawn mower reviews.Stay tuned, and read our petrol lawn mower reviews.
When it comes to the self propelled lawn mowers, Hyundai undoubtedly rules the market. It has the most diverse product offer, and among them, Hyundai HYM510SPE is the crowned king.
You're probably wondering: "What distinguishes this product from the competition? " Well, basically everything.
From the mechanics, safety measures, compatibility to the ease of assembly, they thought of everything. But, let's see.
Firstly, at the very heart of this mower lies Hyundai 173cc 4-stroke petrol engine. This engine was specially built for low emission, low maintenance and low fuel consumption with four variable speed options. Furthermore, it was additionally upgraded with the installment of the push-button electric start and a backup recoil system enabling your mower to start in seconds.
Secondly, it features the rear-wheel drive, thus being equipped for the bumpy, uneven terrains. And it also has a central single lever height adjuster, varying between six height positions from 25mm to 75mm.
Thirdly, all the additional options that could have been included are included. It has a rear discharge, side discharge, mulching plug, collect and drop option. The collection bag measures 70l, letting you work for hours without having to empty it. And it also has a level indicator so that you can keep track of the grass within it.
Finally, this tool is effortless to assemble, and the soft grip handles fold for a space-saving effect, so it is quite convenient for storage as well. All the material used is of premium quality, while the safety is ensured with the OPC lever.
- Discharge and mulching options
- Easy to start
- High-quality, powerful engine
- Economical fuel consumption
- Single lever height adjuster
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to store
- None
In comparison to our top pick model, this tool has almost the same specifications, thus being the proud bearer of our runner up title.
This walk-behind mower gets the power from the Briggs and Stratton 575EX Series 4-stroke engine, with 140cc capacity. These engines are well known on the market as highly functional and reliable, providing enough force for the impeccable functioning of your tool. And with the natural electric start function installed, you are ready to go, right away.
When it comes to the cutting deck, it is made of high-quality, rust-resistant steel, and measures 46 cm, thus enabling you to cut the grass more efficiently while the convenient height adjusting option lets you change the cutting height effortlessly. The cutting height ranges from 28 mm to 92 mm in 6 positions which is more choice than with our top pick.
Additionally, this model has 4-in -1 functioning, having the option for rear and side discharge, bagging and mulching as well. These features are the same as the ones being on our top pick; however, as for the grass bag, it has a slightly lower capacity than the Hyundai model, 60l to be precise. But, it has a washing port, letting you connect the hose for the more natural cleaning.
If you worry about the possible malfunctioning, you are safe, since the manufacturer provided a 2-year warranty.
- Easy start
- Reliable engine
- 4-in-1 functioning
- Resistant steel deck
- Six variable heights
- Warranty
- Doesn’t move backward
Among the more affordable options, Hyundai, as one would expect, has its representative as well. This mower has all the required functions, yet customized for small to medium-sized lawns. This does not imply you can't use it on your large lawn, just that it reaches its full potential on the terrain of smaller size.
Just as our previous Hyundai model, this product incorporates a 4-stroke Hyundai engine with 139cc capacity and a recoil contactless ignition system. Like other Hyundai engines, it is composed of economical fuel consumption and low emission and maintenance, fully complying with European law.
Moreover, its deck has 41 cm cutting width, and central lever height adjustment with six settings, ranging from 25mm to 70mm, which is more than satisfying for the small model of this kind. Also, it includes a rear-wheel-drive for better cutting on more demanding surfaces.
As for the additional functions, it can cut and drop, collect, mulch, and discharge without problems due to its innovative all-encompassing design. The grass collector can take up to 45 liters and has a level indicator.
Despite its economical price, it objectively is an excellent product of high-quality and improved design, so you won't regret purchasing it.
- Easy start
- Low emission, low maintenance engine
- Affordable
- Six heights
- Rear-wheel drive suitable for medium lawn
- Might be challenging to mow a large lawn
Here we have a powerful, super-functional, self-propelled lawnmower with a forceful Briggs&Stratton motor. Its maneuverability, strength, and high quality are only some of the features that make this machine so highly rated and popular on Amazon.
First of all, this device is made by Webb, a well-established, traditional British manufacturer with a high reputation in the industry. This brand has a long tradition on the market and a large customer service based in the UK, so they managed to earn the trust of the customers the hard way.
At the core of this mower is the Briggs&Stratton 500E Series engine for incredible performance, less noise, and less emission.
The cutting swathe of 46 cm, combined with seven cutting heights that range between 25 millimeters to 75 millimeters, makes an ideal cutting device that works on all types of terrains perfectly.
Additionally, there are four ways to dispose of the cuttings. You can either collect the cuttings, side-discharge them, rear-discharge them, or mulch them into fine pieces and use them as the fertilizer that will improve the health and looks of your yard.
This fantastic mower comes with a substantial mesh bag measuring sixty liters. It can withstand more cuttings, thus saving you the time and effort you would have to spend on emptying the bag every now and then.
Finally, four durable wheels make this device incredibly maneuverable and functional, saving thus your energy.
- Powerful motor
- Reliable brand
- Seven cutting heights
- 46cm cutting swathe
- Four ways to dispose of the cuttings
- Emits harmful gases
As I mentioned in the beginning, Hyundai is a brand that has the most diverse offer of self-propelled lawnmowers on the market. Hence, here we have another model from this remarkable manufacturer.
While the Hyundai HYM510SPE features a 173cc 4-stroke petrol engine, this model has a slightly less forceful motor-the Hyundai 139cc 4-stroke motor. It is economical, functional, and still strong enough for small to medium-sized gardens, as it provides remarkable performance. Additionally, it features an innovative contactless ignition system, so it is effortless to start.
The next important feature is the cutting width. It measures 42 millimeters, and you can adjust it between six heights using a simple lever system—the cutting height range between 25mm and 75mm.
When it comes to the collecting box, it can support up to forty-five liters, and it has a special high flow design that enables fast emptying while collecting more grass. In addition to this, there is also a mulching plug you can use to create fertilizer out of grass clipping and disperse it all over your garden.
Hyundai, as a well-established manufacturer with a long history on the market, keeps your safety in mind. Therefore, they included the OPC (Operator Presence Control) technology that ensures the engine won’t start accidentally.
- Reliable brand
- Powerful motor
- Six cutting heights
- Safe
- Large collecting box
- Mulching plug
- Specifically designed for small to medium-sized yards
Another self-propelled lawnmower worthy of attention comes from Cobra, and it’s incredibly well designed. Not just that this mower is effortless to use, but its performance reaches the level of the most powerful lawnmowers on the market.
First of all, this high-rate mower comes with a self-propelled drive system that enables spotless mowing without you manually pushing the device.
At the heart of the Cobra M40SPC lies the powerful 135cc Cobra DG450 OHV engine. Due to the latest engine technology, it offers optimal torque, quiet operation, and stunning efficiency.
What distinguishes this mower from competitors is ten height settings. Usually, the best self-propelled lawn mowers have up to seven cutting heights, yet Cobra decided to go one step further and enable ten cutting heights that you can easily switch between using a single lever.
Another segment at which Cobra undeniably defeated all the competitors is the capacity of the grass bag. It incorporates a 50l grass bag made of durable, see-through fabric so that you can collect more grass in just one session, without the need to empty it every now and then.
The cutting width measures 40cm, again pretty high; hence the mowing will be done super quickly, as more grass is cut in one pass.
On top of everything, Cobra provides a 2-year warranty for this device; hence, you’re not just buying a high-quality product, but also a reliable investment that is guaranteed to deliver.
- Powerful engine
- Incredible grass bag capacity
- Excellent cutting width
- 2-years warranty
- Ten cutting heights
- Not that easy to start
Next off, Yard Force brings to our list another marvelous self-propelled lawnmower, gas-powered with a rotary system and powerful motor.
I tend to believe that by now, even if you weren’t familiar with Briggs&Stratton engine, you managed to grasp the idea behind its fame. Like many models before, this Yard Force mower includes the Briggs & Stratton 450E Series engine. This motor’s design provides maximum efficiency with minimal effort and minimal noise.
Another advantage I find important to point out is the steel deck, very durable and heavy-duty. Such a construction combined with the motor this powerful enables long life and constant efficiency.
Since YardForce aimed to create an ultra-functional device when designing this mower, it also comes with a 55 litre grass collection bag. It includes a level indicator, and it’s effortless to empty.
Like all the other premium mowers, this model from YardForce also includes a mulcher. I believe you are familiar with the benefits of this function by now, so I won’t be explaining again why it is important.
The cutting width measures 46cm, while a lever adjustment system enables modifications between seven cutting heights for precise results and maximum satisfaction.
As a self-propelled model, this mower moves by itself, being thus excellent for small to medium-sized gardens and less demanding tasks.
- Powerful motor
- Excellent cutting width
- Fantastic grass bag capacity
- Seven cutting heights
- Mulcher
- Not that many ratings
Next is this classic self-propelled lawnmower from AL-KO, highly rated, yet not that well-known. This mower has been designed with functionality in mind, yet power and performance do not miss either.
What powers this machine is the AL-KO Pro 125 four-stroke petrol engine. It offers superior performance, mowing, collecting grass, and at the same time powering the four heavy-duty wheels. The wheels have a single speed; still, the entire process won’t last long due to excellent cutting width.
Namely, the cutting width of 46 centimeters offers faster mowing due to the larger area that gets covered in just one pass. And due to adjustable cutting height that can be modified between 25 and 75 mm, you can choose the final outcome and either trim your grass or give it a solid, short haircut.
When it comes to the collecting box, it can withstand up to 65 liters of grass, which is the highest capacity we noticed by far. Also, the box has a level indicator, and it’s perforated for optimal airflow that considerably improves the collection of the grass.
Finally, this mower is both easy to install and store. You can fold it up to a compact size, store it away and wait for the next occasion to show off your new machine.
The price is very reasonable, in fact, pretty standard for this type of device, so you wouldn’t be wasting any extra money.
- Excellent performance
- High grassbox capacity
- Adjustable cutting height
- Foldable
- Affordable
- No mulcher
Just as previously mentioned Murray model, this petrol lawnmower deserved its place on our list with high-quality design and remarkable specifications.
Due to its unique construction and features, this model is the best petrol lawn mower for small yards. It is powered by a Briggs & Stratton 300E Series engine which is known for its reliability and sturdiness with the fast recoil start system . And having in mind that the motor is the key feature of self-propelled lawn mowers, Murray passes the test.
As many models even nowadays include only one feature, the fact that Murray E300 has a two-in-one system, enabling both collections of clippings and rear discharge is a huge plus for this item.
For upgraded comfort during the usage, an ergonomic handlebar is included, and it can be adjusted in three different heights or folded for more convenient storage.
Two levers control height settings of the mower deck which can cut on six different height levels, ranging from 28mm to even 92 mm. This is the highest cutting range on the market.
Now, the grass clipping is collected into a soft mesh grass bag that can hold up to sixty litres, while the durable steel deck measures 41 centimetres making the whole cutting process go way faster.
At last, this product comes with a two-year warranty, so be sure it will last.
Buyer's Guide for the Best Self Propelled Lawn Mower
I assume everyone who hasn't ever seen or used the self-propelled lawnmower is going to be interested in the mechanics behind its design. Hence, let's see how do they work.
Self-propelled lawn mowers are gardening devices powered by an electric or petrol engine. In the upper part of the machine, we can see a handle with a bail, while in the bottom part a rotary blade, also called a cutting deck is installed. Now, as you start the device, you squeeze the bail, and a rotating blade starts turning.
The mechanism differs from the classic push lawn mower's mechanism only in one feature. In self-propelled mower, the wheels also start moving as you start up the system, so the mower goes by itself.
Will the mower turn and stop by itself too? No. The mower can not turn by itself, you have to steer it, and it ends as you let go of the bail. So it is not entirely automatic; the only privilege this model offers is that you don't have to push it. However, If you wish for an altogether automatic lawn mower, check out the robotic models.
Useful Tips to Know Before Buying a Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
1. Pay Attention to Its Specifications
Once you decide to buy a self-driving machine, you certainly don't want it to move too slowly and perform ineffectively. Now in the core of every such device is the engine. Hence the essential feature of every lawnmower and especially self-propelled models is the engine.
The motor drives the entire machine and is responsible for your device working correctly, so you should pay special attention to its specifications.
2. Petrol Models Are More Powerful and Stronger Than Electric Lawn Mowers
Since the engine serves as a source of energy for both the cutting deck and the wheels, you need a model as forceful as possible.
It is better thus to opt for petrol motors since they provide more energy, have longer run time and generally are stronger than electrically powered counterparts.
3. Choose the Drive System You Need
The next important feature is the drive system. Drive system can either rely on front wheels, rear-drive or all wheels. Now, I can guess you're wondering:
"What is the difference between them?"
The only difference is in how they will behave in a more demanding environment. Rear-drive has proven to work pretty efficiently on uneven, bumpy surfaces and in over-the-edge mowing.
However, these models are not as convenient for manoeuvring as the model with a wheel drive system. Furthermore, rear-drive models are more expensive and harder for maintenance.
4. Don't Forget to Check the Change in Speed Option of Your Model
Another essential characteristic is the change in the speed option. If you are not quite a patient person, you may lose your nerves during the process if your device turns out to be sluggish and impractical. How do you prevent this?
First of all, choose the tool with a powerful engine and necessarily check for the speed options so that you can be in control of the pace at which the whole process progresses.
It is important to mention that as much as you don't want your mower to be slow, you also don't desire it to move too fast since then it may be hard for you to be in control of the directions in which the item moves.
5. Know Your Blades
We've mentioned the power source and speed mechanism, now let's talk about blades. Blades as well are a crucial part of every lawn mower. No cutting deck-no mowing. This is why you want your razor, sharp and durable.
Steel decks are pretty sturdy and sharp, yet also prone to rust and heavy. The plastic counterparts, therefore, are a better choice due to their lightweight and rust-resistance. But hold on for a second.
There is a third option too, composite decks. Composite decks are the most durable and resistant of all. They combine the excellent properties of both steel and plastic ones and provide the best service.
6. Check for the Additional Features of Your Lawn Mower
Finally, it is right for your mower to have some additional options that can increase the functionality and efficiency of your product — for example, mulching plug or a discharge function.
The model has to have a large grass bag that can take all the clippings you cut, and with a mulching option, you can get them back to the ground and make it more fertile for the next weed growth.
7. Look if There is an Option for Turning the Self-propelling Down
Some other important questions to ask before you purchase your favourite mowing tool is whether you can turn the self-propelling option down.
Some models have an installed option for setting the self-propelling off whenever you feel like pushing your mower and doing the job manually which can be of use when your device gets slow, or the terrain requires human involvement.
Also, some mowers can move backward, which can also be an extra advantage for your lawn.
It has finally come the time to ask the essential questions.
FAQs
Are self-propelled lawn mowers worth it?
I'm sure every consumer wants to know if this kind of investment is going to be a waste of money or not. The truth is, they are worth it, yet will you consider them depends on many things.
In particular, how boring and tiring you think the push mowers to be? How much you care about finishing the job quickly and precisely? How much money do you plan to spend on your device? Indeed, these devices are generally more expensive than the push mowers, yet If you choose the right model, they are worth it.
The facts tell us that mostly they are built to be sturdy and functional. The engines are way more powerful, cutting decks of premium quality, wheels of high-quality with additional functions installed.
Eventually, if you change your mind, you can always switch off the self-propelling option and have a regular model.
Is front-wheel or rear-wheel drive better for a lawnmower?
Whether a front-wheel or a rear-wheel-drive lawnmower will perform better depends on the kind of task you are to encounter, as well as the terrain you will be working on.
Flat surfaces are ideal for front-wheel-drive lawnmowers. They are way more maneuverable, thus helping you avoid the obstacles effortlessly.
On the other hand, a rear-wheel-drive lawnmower performs better on hills, valleys, and inclines. They are specifically made to move on all sorts of terrains, but they do not have the maneuverability of the front-wheel-drive lawnmowers.
Which is the best self-propelled lawn mower?
It is always very challenging to answer this kind of question since there are many factors we should take into consideration.
To my mind, Hyundai HYM510SPE is the best self-propelled lawnmower as it has the most powerful motor, excellent all-terrain wheels, heavy-duty construction, and performs impeccably. There are people who prefer machines with Briggs&Stratton motors, and that is also valid since these engines offer incredible performance.
So, it is really up to a consumer to decide which brand offers the most all-encompassing service and meets his/her demands.
What is the advantage massive rear wheels on a lawnmower?
Larger rear wheels behave better on uneven, demanding terrain. Think logically; it is way easier to push a lawnmower with massive wheels over a bump or up the hill than a device with small wheels.
Final Thoughts
With all said above, the only thing left for us to do is briefly mention the winner of our best self propelled lawn mower UK race. Among the best self-propelled lawn mowers, one model, in particular, stands out with its extraordinary performance and innovative design - Hyundai HYM510SPE.
The mower offers a special economical, Hyundai 4-stroke engine with low emission and low maintenance. It has a rear-wheel-drive system for the less approachable terrain, and centrally controlled height adjustment, ranging between six heights. It also includes a 4-in-1 functioning and a 70l collection bag for making your lawn truly perfect and neat.
- 508mm / 20" cutting width: Ideal for medium to large lawns
- 196cc Hyundai 4-stroke petrol engine: Provides easy starting and low fuel consumption
- Electric-start with recoil backup: Get started at the push of a button
- Self-propelled: No need to push - simply select from 4 walking speeds and steer
- 6 adjustable cutting heights: Get the perfect finish on your lawn
Whatever product you compare this model too, it is unbeatable, its unique features and premium design honestly make it one of the best self propelled lawn mowers.
Last Updated on February 24, 2022 by Sean
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