Finding an affordable yet effective lawn mower can be a challenge, requiring you to balance performance, durability, and ease of use.
Thankfully, modern budget-friendly models now offer impressive features, such as brushless motors for efficiency and adjustable cutting heights for a well-manicured lawn.
For those prioritizing efficiency and long-term savings, we recommend models with brushless motor technology.
Discover the ideal balance of power, affordability, and convenience by exploring our top-recommended mowers.
1. MZK 40V 13” Cordless Electric Lawn Mower – Best Overall
This compact MZK mower delivers powerhouse performance coupled with a budget-conscious design. Its dual 20V battery system provides 40V of sustained cutting power through a reliable brushless motor, rivaling gas models twice its size.
The 13-inch cutting deck balances efficiency and maneuverability, making it ideal for small to medium lawns (1/8 to 1/4 acre lots).
During real-world testing, it handled thick Kentucky bluegrass and dense fescue without bogging down, even tackling 6-inch overgrowth.
It is ultra-lightweight, weighing just 24.3 pounds. The height is adjustable in 4 positions, ranging from 1.2″ to 1.5″. This mower prioritizes easy storage and effortless maneuverability.
Key Features:
- Battery Type: 2 x 20V 4Ah, delivering 40V power.
- Motor: Brushless motor.
- Cutting Width: 13 inches.
- Adjustable Heights: 4 positions (1.2″ to 1.5″).
- Weight: 24.3 pounds.
Pros:
- Dual battery system.
- Ultra lightweight.
- Fast charger included.
- Reliable brushless motor.
Cons:
- Limited height range.
- Small grass catcher (25 liters).
2. YARDCARE 36V Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower – Best Mid-Range
The YARDCARE mower is elevated beyond basic mowing by smart technology integration. This mid-range marvel features an LED display screen that provides real-time battery monitoring and performance feedback, a feature often reserved for premium models.
It uses 36V of brushless power to deliver 3200 RPM of whisper-quiet cutting performance. Field testing showed an impressive runtime of 40 minutes on high power across mixed terrain.
The 5-position height adjustment (0.98″ to 2.56″) offers seasonal flexibility. This model is ideal for detail-oriented homeowners who manage diverse grass types across medium-sized properties, seeking professional-grade features without exceeding their budget.
Key Features:
- Battery Type: 2X4.0Ah 18V.
- Motor: Brushless, 3200 RPM.
- Runtime: Up to 60 minutes on low speed.
- Height Adjustment: 5-Position (0.98″ to 2.56″).
- Capacity: 8-gallon grass bag.
Pros:
- LED display.
- 5 height positions.
- Extended runtime.
- Safety start system.
Cons:
- Heavier build.
- Higher price tier.
3. Litheli 16 Inch Lawn Mower 2x20V – Best Budget Friendly
This Litheli model offers maximum cutting width at a minimum price point, redefining budget expectations. The 16-inch steel deck can cover 2,700 square feet on a single charge.
It provides versatility through a 6-position height adjustment (0.98″ to 2.98″), a range typically seen in premium models.
It achieves gas-like performance via dual 20V batteries (2 x 4.0Ah capacity) without the maintenance or storage challenges of traditional equipment.
The folding handle design reduces the storage footprint by 60%, allowing it to fit easily into tight spaces. This model is perfect for first-time homeowners seeking maximum coverage and minimum complexity.
Key Features:
- Battery Capacity: 2 x 4.0Ah.
- Cutting Width: 16 inches.
- Runtime: Approximately 30 minutes.
- Adjustment: 6-position height adjustment (0.98″ to 2.98″).
- Warranty: 3 years for the machine.
Pros:
- Widest cutting path (16 in).
- 6 height settings.
- Universal batteries (compatible with the Litheli ecosystem).
- 3-year warranty.
Cons:
- Shorter runtime (30 min).
- Basic construction.
4. Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower – Best Lightweight
Greenworks’ streamlined mower offers trusted brand reliability, prioritizing consistent performance over flashy features.
The 3550 RPM brushless motor delivers power comparable to gas mowers through a rust-resistant 13-inch poly deck.
While it operates on a single 4.0Ah battery, providing 30 minutes of runtime, it offers versatility with 5-position height adjustment and 2-in-1 mulching capability.
The design is maintenance-free, eliminating the need for oil changes, spark plugs, or air filters, and offering instant start. Its mulching performance rivals gas models, returning fine clippings to nourish the lawn.
This model is the conservative choice for established homeowners who prioritize long-term reliability and a strong service network.
Key Features:
- Battery Voltage: 24 V.
- Motor: 3550 RPM brushless motor.
- Deck Size: 13″ poly (rust-resistant).
- Runtime: 30 minutes.
- Features: 5-position height adjustment; 2-in-1 mulching.
Pros:
- Brand reliability.
- Maintenance-free design.
- Mulching option.
- 3-year warranty.
Cons:
- Single battery.
- Higher initial cost.
5. Scotts 18-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower – Best Manual
The Scotts manual reel mower uses pure mechanical precision to deliver professional-grade, scissor-like cuts that promote healthier grass growth compared to rotary tearing action.
This tool eliminates operating costs, noise, and emissions entirely, transforming lawn care into active meditation. It features an 18-inch cutting width and a 7-blade ball bearing reel made of heat-treated alloy steel.
The cutting height adjusts from 1″ to 3″. It requires minimal effort to push through well-maintained lawns under four inches.
This mower is ideal for fitness enthusiasts, environmental purists, and small lawn owners who seek superior cut quality and unlimited runtime.
Key Features:
- Mechanism: Push Reel Mower.
- Cutting Width: 18-inch.
- Blades: 7-blade ball bearing reel (heat-treated alloy steel).
- Cutting Height: 1″ to 3″.
- Handle: Comfortable cushioned grip.
Pros:
- Zero operating cost.
- Superior cut quality (scissor-like action).
- Silent operation.
- Eco-friendly.
Cons:
- Physical effort required.
- Struggles with tall or thick grass.
6. Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch – Best Compact
Litheli’s 13-inch cordless mower brings ultra-compact convenience to micro-lawns and urban courtyards.
Its pint-sized powerhouse design and 13-inch cutting deck target properties between 300 and 1,300 square feet with surgical precision.
The featherweight design allows for one-handed operation and exceptional maneuverability around tight flower beds and narrow gates.
The height is adjustable in 5 settings, ranging from 1″ to 2.5″, handling seasonal variations in confined spaces.
The folding handle reduces storage space to briefcase dimensions, making it the clear winner for ultimate portability and storage convenience.
Key Features:
- Cutting Width: 13 inches.
- Battery Capacity: 20,000mAh.
- Runtime: Approximately 15 minutes.
- Mowing Height: 5 settings (1 in to 2.5 In).
- Grass Bag: 8-gallon capacity.
Pros:
- Ultra compact.
- One-handed operation is possible.
- Folds tiny (briefcase dimensions).
- Perfect for small, urban lawns.
Cons:
- Very short runtime (15 minutes).
- Limited power.