Looking to cover more ground with every pass? A 30-inch lawn mower is the perfect solution for homeowners with medium to large yards who want to save time without sacrificing performance.
In this guide, we review the best 30-inch lawn mowers available today, including both electric and gas-powered options.
Whether you prefer the eco-friendly efficiency of the Greenworks 60V CrossoverT Riding Tractor or the raw power of the Toro 60V MAX eTimeMaster® Walk-Behind Mower, these models offer excellent cutting width, advanced features, and solid reliability.
Discover which 30-inch mower best fits your lawn care needs and budget.
1. Greenworks 60V 30″ Tractor, (4) 8.0Ah + Wall Charger
The Greenworks 60V 30” CrossoverT Riding Lawn Tractor is a powerful, battery-operated riding mower designed for efficient lawn care on properties up to 1.5 acres.
It includes four 8.0Ah batteries and a 600-watt turbo wall charger, providing up to 66 minutes of runtime and a recharge time under 4 hours.
The mower features a heavy-duty 4-in-1 stamped steel deck with seven cutting height options (1.5 to 4.5 inches) and a mulch-on-demand lever for easy switching between mulching and bagging (bagger sold separately).
It operates at a cutting speed of 4.5 MPH and offers SmartCut technology that adapts blade speed to grass conditions for optimal cutting performance.
Additional features include LED headlights, a customizable comfort seat, cup and phone holders, and USB charging ports. The package comes with a 4-year limited warranty and is compatible with over 75 Greenworks 60V tools.
Best for: Homeowners with medium-sized lawns seeking a quiet, eco-friendly, and efficient electric riding mower with long battery life and smart cutting features.
Pros:
- Four 8.0Ah batteries provide long runtime and quick recharge
- SmartCut technology optimizes blade speed for efficient mowing
- Multiple cutting height options and 4-in-1 deck functionality
- Comfortable and feature-rich design with LED lights and USB ports
- Quiet, zero-emission operation
- Compatible with a wide range of Greenworks 60V tools
Cons:
- Bagger attachment sold separately
- Runtime may vary with grass thickness and terrain
- Initial cost is higher than gas mowers but offset by low maintenance
2. Toro 60V MAX 30 in. eTimeMaster® Personal Pace® Lawn Mower
The Toro 30″ Personal Pace® TimeMaster® Mower (Model 21199) is a powerful, efficient walk-behind mower designed for homeowners with large yards who want to finish mowing quickly.
It features a wide 30-inch steel deck with a cast-aluminum frame, allowing you to cut more grass in fewer passes and reduce mowing time by up to 40%.
Powered by a Briggs & Stratton 223cc OHV engine delivering 10.00 ft-lb gross torque, it offers reliable performance and durability.
The mower includes Personal Pace® rear-wheel drive with traction assist, enabling you to control the mowing speed based on your pace for comfortable operation.
It has a 1.2-quart fuel capacity for about an hour of runtime. The cutting height is adjustable between 1.25″ and 4.25″ with a two-point height adjustment.
Additional features include Spin-Stop™ blade stop for safe blade disengagement, a washout port for easy deck cleaning, and options for mulching, bagging, or side discharge. The mower weighs 140 lbs and comes with a 3-year full warranty.
Best for: Homeowners with medium to large lawns seeking a fast, powerful, and easy-to-use self-propelled mower that adapts to their walking speed.
Pros:
- Wide 30″ cutting deck reduces mowing time
- Powerful Briggs & Stratton 223cc engine
- Personal Pace® drive adjusts speed to user’s pace
- Multiple discharge options: mulch, bag, side discharge
- Washout port for easy cleaning
- Durable steel deck with cast-aluminum frame
- 3-year full warranty
Cons:
- Recoil start only (no electric start on this model)
- Heavier than some competitors at 140 lbs
- Requires regular maintenance typical of gas mowers
What to Look for When Choosing 30 Inch Lawn Mowers
A 30-inch lawn mower offers a great balance between cutting efficiency and maneuverability, making it ideal for medium to large-sized lawns. However, not all 30-inch mowers are built the same.
Here are the key features to consider when choosing the right one for your yard:
Type of Mower: Riding vs. Walk-Behind
When deciding between a riding mower and a walk-behind mower, think about your lawn size and terrain. Riding mowers are better suited for larger, more open areas where speed and comfort are priorities.
Walk-behind mowers are more appropriate for moderately sized lawns, especially those with narrow paths, trees, or garden beds where precise control is necessary.
Power Source: Gas vs. Electric
Power source is another critical factor. Gas-powered mowers tend to deliver more raw power and longer uninterrupted operation, but they require regular maintenance and emit fumes. On the other hand, battery-powered electric mowers are environmentally friendly, run more quietly, and require less upkeep. However, they depend on battery runtime and charging intervals, which can affect efficiency during longer mowing sessions.
Cutting Deck and Blade Performance
A durable and effective cutting deck ensures the mower handles thick or tall grass with ease. Steel decks offer longevity and resistance to wear, while lighter materials may be easier to maneuver but might not last as long.
Advanced blade systems that automatically adjust speed depending on grass conditions help improve cutting performance and energy efficiency.
It’s also important to choose a mower with a wide range of cutting height adjustments so you can adapt to different seasons and turf types.
Mulching, Bagging & Discharge Options
A versatile mower that supports multiple mowing modes is a big plus. Being able to switch between mulching, bagging, and side discharge adds flexibility to your lawn care routine. Some models even include a mulch-on-demand lever, allowing you to switch modes without tools. Check whether these features are included or require additional attachments.
Ease of Use and Comfort
Comfort and usability play a big role, especially if you mow frequently or have a large area to cover. Features like self-propelled drive systems, ergonomic handles, and adjustable seats can make a noticeable difference in reducing fatigue.
Some modern models go a step further with amenities like cup holders, LED headlights for evening mowing, and USB ports for charging your devices.
Battery Runtime or Fuel Capacity
Battery-operated mowers should offer enough runtime to complete your yard on a single charge. Look for models with high-capacity batteries and fast charging capabilities to minimize downtime. If you prefer gas models, consider the fuel tank size and how often you’ll need to refill during a mowing session.
Maintenance and Durability
Maintenance requirements vary by mower type. Gas mowers typically demand more attention, including oil changes, spark plug replacements, and filter cleanings.
Electric mowers have fewer moving parts, so they generally require less maintenance, but you’ll want to ensure battery replacements are available if needed.
Features like washout ports and durable wheel construction also help with long-term reliability and cleaning.
Warranty and Support
A strong warranty offers peace of mind, especially for high-investment purchases. Choose a mower from a reputable brand with a proven track record of customer service and easy access to replacement parts or service centers.
A warranty period of three to four years is standard and gives you some assurance of long-term durability.