Finding the right push mower can make all the difference in keeping your lawn looking its best. A 21-inch push mower offers a great balance of cutting width and maneuverability, making it ideal for most suburban yards. Whether you’re looking for a classic reel mower that’s eco-friendly and quiet, or a powerful electric model with modern features, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the top 21 push mower options available today, helping you choose the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 4 Best 21 Push Mower Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Mower
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.2/5
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 18-inch 5-blade push reel lawn mower is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a simple, eco-friendly way to maintain your lawn. It’s designed for ease of use and provides a clean, scissor-like cut without ripping grass blades, which is great for lawn health. Plus, its 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels make it super maneuverable around your yard.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Scissor-like cut for healthier grass blades.
- ✓ 18-inch cutting width ideal for small to medium lawns.
- ✓ 9 cutting positions ranging from 1.1 to 2.5 inches for customized lawn height.
- ✓ Easy to assemble and requires no tools for handle bar setup.
Why We Recommend It
This push reel mower is a winner for its straightforward design and effective performance. If you prefer a quiet mowing experience and want to avoid gas and electricity, the LawnMaster LMRM1801 is an excellent choice that will help you achieve a neat and tidy lawn with minimal fuss. It’s a breath of fresh air compared to noisy, complicated mowers.
Best For
Perfect for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who value simplicity, environmental consciousness, and a quiet mowing experience. It’s also great for those who want a good workout while tending to their yard.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Environmentally friendly and quiet operation.
- Provides a clean cut that promotes grass health.
- Easy assembly and intuitive to use.
- Durable construction for long-lasting use.
Cons:
- Requires more physical effort than a powered mower.
- May struggle with very tall or dense grass.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review:
Anyone can put this together in less than 5 minutes. All’s needed is a fraction of upper body strength in order to snap on the handle bar assembly. No tools required besides your bare hands. Best Mower I have ever owned. Period. I no longer worry about an extension cord getting in the way, gas not k
Customer Review:
I’ve been using a reel mower for a few years now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made for my lawn. Initially, I was a bit intimidated – I’d only ever used rotary mowers – but it turned out to be much easier than I expected, and the results are truly impressive. The biggest advantage is the clean cut it provides.
2. Great States 815-18 Reel Mower
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.3/5
The Great States 815-18 Reel Mower is a classic choice for a reason. This 18-inch, 5-blade manual push mower is designed for effortless lawn cutting. Its ball-bearing blades are made from high-quality alloy steel that stays sharp longer, ensuring a clean cut every time. With an adjustable cutting height from 0.5″ to 2.75″, you can easily customize your lawn’s look.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 18-inch cutting width for efficient mowing.
- ✓ 5-blade system with ball bearings for smooth operation.
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height (0.5″ to 2.75″) for versatile lawn care.
- ✓ Made with high-quality alloy steel blades that maintain sharpness.
Why We Recommend It
This push reel mower is an exceptional value, offering reliable performance and a beautiful, healthy cut for your lawn. It’s a fantastic alternative to gas mowers, providing a quiet and environmentally friendly way to maintain your grass. It’s built to last and a joy to use, especially for those who appreciate traditional yard care.
Best For
Ideal for homeowners seeking a durable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective push mower. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy the physical aspect of mowing and want a precise, clean cut.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Provides an excellent, clean cut.
- Durable construction with quality materials.
- Easy to push and maneuver.
- Motor-less design is eco-friendly and quiet.
Cons:
- May require more effort on thick or uneven grass compared to powered mowers.
- Adjusting cutting height can be a bit more involved than on some powered models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review:
We have a lot of lawn to mow, but are not fussy about it being mowed every week “perfectly”. Use the gas mower for some of the big areas, but wanted to try and become more environmentally friendly and LESS NOISY! First, the assembly. Let me say that even though I am a 61 year old female, I am VERY satisfied with this mower.
Customer Review:
Do not hesitate, get this one!! This is a great lawn manual lawn mower! I am amazed at how it is just the right weight to not jump when pushing it and not feel like you are pushing a shopping cart with a broken wheel. It is very smooth and can easily be pushed with one hand with little effort. My grass looks fantastic!
3. Powerful 40V Cordless Brushless Electric Push Lawn Mower with 17″ Cut & Batteries
Rating: ★★★★★ 5.0/5
For those looking for power without the hassle of cords or gas, this 40V Cordless Brushless Electric Push Lawn Mower is a fantastic option. It offers impressive brushless motor performance and a 17-inch cutting deck, making it efficient for medium-sized yards. The included batteries provide a solid runtime, and the one-click start means you’re up and running in seconds.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 40V Brushless Motor for powerful and efficient cutting.
- ✓ 17-inch cutting deck for good coverage.
- ✓ One-click start for immediate and easy operation.
- ✓ 6-position height adjustment and 2-in-1 cutting (mulching/bagging).
Why We Recommend It
This cordless electric lawn mower offers a great blend of power, convenience, and ease of use. It’s a top-tier choice for maintaining your lawn without the noise, emissions, or maintenance associated with gas mowers. If you’re upgrading from an older mower or going electric for the first time, this model delivers excellent value.
Best For
Homeowners with medium-sized lawns who want a powerful, convenient, and eco-friendly mowing solution. It’s perfect for those who want to ditch the gas and oil.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful and quiet operation.
- Easy to start and maneuver.
- Good battery life for its class.
- Environmentally friendly.
Cons:
- Runtime might be insufficient for very large yards on a single charge.
- Battery longevity may vary over time.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review:
Used it for the first time today and it had just enough battery power to get through the smallish front yard. Back yard will take a battery change, but it was easy to use and its handsome.
Customer Review:
This is a really nice mower. It’s lightweight, easy to push and it mows well. The battery lasted longer than I expected. It cut my grass cleanly and I love that it’s quiet. A great purchase.
4. Lightweight Cordless Electric Lawn Mower with Brushless Motor, Dual 21V 4.0Ah Batteries
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.3/5
This Lightweight Cordless Electric Lawn Mower is designed for ultimate ease of use. Weighing in at only 12 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to maneuver and handle, even for extended periods. The dual 21V batteries provide ample power for smaller yards, and the 6500 RPM brushless motor ensures it cuts through grass without bogging down. It’s also significantly quieter than traditional gas mowers.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extremely lightweight design (12 lbs) for effortless handling.
- ✓ Dual 21V 4.0Ah batteries for sufficient power and runtime.
- ✓ Quiet 6500 RPM brushless motor for efficient cutting.
- ✓ Includes two replacement blades and a grass-clipping shovel.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re looking for the lightest and easiest-to-handle cordless electric lawn mower, this is a top contender. It’s perfect for those who find heavier mowers difficult to manage or simply want a quick and efficient way to maintain a smaller lawn. The quiet operation is a definite plus for suburban living.
Best For
Ideal for individuals with smaller yards, limited strength, or those who prioritize lightweight design and quiet operation in their lawn care tools.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Quiet operation.
- Simple to assemble and use.
- Good value for smaller lawns.
Cons:
- Narrow cutting path requires more passes.
- May not be suitable for very large or overgrown lawns.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review:
Easy to put together, quick battery charge, lightweight and easy to use. It cut my grass well. I really like it.
Customer Review:
It’s small, which is not bad, but you have to adapt with it. The first mowing of the season is in and this performed decently despite its small size. It does have some flaws, in that the cutting path is so narrow, that trying to use it like a traditional lawn mower is not good. I tried out a few methods and it worked better.
Complete Buying Guide for Best 21 Push Mower
Essential Factors We Consider
When we look for the best 21 push mower, we don’t just glance at the price tag. We dig into what makes a mower truly great for your yard. We consider the cutting system – whether it’s a sharp reel or a robust electric blade – and how well it handles different grass types and heights. Maneuverability is key; a mower that’s easy to push and steer around obstacles like trees and flower beds is a lifesaver. We also look at the build quality, ensuring it’s durable enough to last through many seasons. For powered mowers, battery life, charging time, and ease of starting are crucial. And of course, we always keep an eye on user reviews to see what real people are saying about their experience.
Budget Planning
Your budget plays a big role in what kind of 21-inch push mower you’ll end up with. Reel mowers tend to be the most budget-friendly upfront, offering a fantastic value for their simple yet effective design. Electric mowers can range in price depending on battery capacity and features, with more advanced models costing more. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a slightly higher investment in a quality mower can save you money and frustration in the long run. Think about the longevity and performance you expect from your machine. For instance, investing in a good cordless electric lawn mower can reduce long-term fuel and maintenance costs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 21 push mower comes down to understanding your specific lawn needs and personal preferences. Whether you prioritize the quiet, eco-friendly nature of a reel mower or the convenience of a battery-powered electric model, there’s a perfect mower out there for you. Don’t overlook the importance of reading reviews and considering factors like maneuverability and durability. A well-chosen push mower can transform your lawn care routine from a chore into a satisfying part of maintaining your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a reel mower and a rotary mower?
A: A reel mower uses a spinning cylinder with blades that cuts grass like scissors against a stationary blade. This provides a very clean cut. A rotary mower has a single blade that spins horizontally at high speed, cutting grass by impact. Rotary mowers are generally better for taller or tougher grass, while reel mowers offer a healthier cut for lawns.
Q: Are electric push mowers powerful enough for thick grass?
A: Modern cordless electric lawn mowers with brushless motors, like the ones we’ve reviewed, are quite powerful and can handle thick grass effectively. The key is to choose a model with sufficient voltage and a robust motor. For extremely tough conditions, a gas mower or a higher-end electric model might be necessary. For information on tackling challenging grass types, check out our guide on what type of mower is best for thick grass.
Q: How often should I sharpen my push mower blades?
A: For reel mowers, regular sharpening is crucial for a clean cut. This can be done with sharpening kits. For rotary mowers, it’s generally recommended to sharpen the blade at least once or twice a season, or more often if you notice a decrease in cutting performance. You can learn more about this in our article on how to sharpen push lawn mower blades.
Q: What are the benefits of a 21-inch cutting width?
A: A 21-inch push mower offers a great compromise. It’s wide enough to cut a significant portion of your lawn in fewer passes compared to smaller mowers, saving you time. However, it’s still narrow enough to be easily maneuvered around obstacles, making it versatile for various yard sizes and layouts.
Q: Is a push mower suitable for hilly yards?
A: While any push mower can be used on hills, it requires more physical effort. For very steep or challenging terrain, a self-propelled mower or a specialized mower designed for slopes might be a better option. You can explore some recommendations in our guide on what is the best lawn mower for hills.
We hope this guide has helped you navigate the world of 21-inch push mowers. Whether you’re leaning towards the quiet efficiency of a reel mower or the convenience of electric power, remember to consider your lawn’s specific needs. Happy mowing!