Finding the right lawn mower doesn’t have to break the bank. We’ve put together a list of the best affordable push lawn mowers that deliver great performance without a hefty price tag. Whether you’re looking for a reliable reel mower or a basic electric model, these options are perfect for maintaining a neat and tidy yard on a budget.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Affordable Push Lawn Mower Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Earthwise 1715 Push Reel Lawn Mower
★★★★☆ 4.1/5 Rating
The Earthwise 1715 is a fantastic option for those who appreciate a quiet, eco-friendly way to maintain their lawn. This manual reel mower offers a clean cut and is perfect for smaller yards. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a straightforward, no-fuss mower.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 16-inch cutting width for efficient mowing
- ✓ 7-blade ball bearing reel for a precise cut
- ✓ 10-inch composite wheels for smooth maneuverability
- ✓ Durable steel side plate design
Why We Recommend It
We love the Earthwise 1715 for its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a reel mower that’s easy to assemble and operate, providing a clean cut without the noise or fumes of gas mowers. It’s a sustainable choice for lawn care.
Best For
This mower is ideal for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who prefer a quiet, manual option and want to avoid the hassle of fuel or batteries.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Environmentally friendly and quiet operation.
- Delivers a clean, scissor-like cut.
- Low maintenance requirements.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Cons:
- May struggle with very tall or thick grass.
- Requires physical effort to push.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this to mow my new installed Bermuda turf… (It’s hard to crank though… LOL!) it was extremely easy to assemble and the blades were sharp from the factory. I found it very addictive to mow with despite having an expensive Zero Turn mower and a new rotary mower. Obviously the noise leve”
Customer Review: “this is a great lawnmower. its quiet, it was easy to build, it works great on my backyard (except for the tall grass which is why i also bought some shears) but itll be perfect now that the grass is cut down. it was super overgrown because we had just moved into this house and the lawn wasnt taken c”
2. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20-40 Hand-Push Reel Lawn Mower
★★★★☆ 4.1/5 Rating
The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000 is a classic choice for a reason. Its 20-inch cutting width means you can cover your lawn efficiently. Like other reel mowers, it’s incredibly quiet and eco-friendly, making it a favorite for many homeowners.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Wide 20-inch cutting width covers more ground
- ✓ 5-blade ball bearing reel ensures a clean cut
- ✓ Quick-snap height adjustment (1″-3″)
- ✓ Heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp longer
Why We Recommend It
This Scotts mower is a robust and reliable reel mower that offers a great cutting experience. Its larger cutting deck makes it suitable for slightly bigger yards while still maintaining the benefits of manual mowing.
Best For
Homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who need a bit more width for efficient cutting, but still want a manual reel mower.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wider cutting path for faster mowing.
- Durable construction for longevity.
- Easy height adjustment system.
- Quiet and emission-free operation.
Cons:
- Requires physical exertion.
- May not handle very uneven terrain well.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I had been wanting this style mower and had tried out a different brand that someone had, and I could hardly push it. I don’t think it was that much heavier than this one, just not geared as smoothly. The wirecutter recommendation site liked this one and then my brother bought one and I tried his an”
Customer Review: “I have a small lot (~ 50′ X 100′) that I have been mowing using a battery powered electric mower. I have a long history of problems with gas powered yard tools, so I switched to electric 10 years ago with OK results. Well, my electric mower died (motor was shorting out) and I didn’t want to put mo”
3. LawnMaster 15-Inch 11AMP Corded Electric Push Lawn Mower
★★★★☆ 4.0/5 Rating
For an incredibly budget-friendly electric option, the LawnMaster 15-Inch mower is a champion. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and provides a clean cut for smaller lawns without the need for gas or battery maintenance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 11 AMP motor with 3,300 RPM
- ✓ 14-inch cutting width
- ✓ 5 adjustable cutting positions (1.4-3 inches)
- ✓ Corded electric for continuous power
Why We Recommend It
This LawnMaster mower proves that you don’t need to spend a lot to get a functional and effective lawn mower. Its ease of use and reliable performance make it a great value for maintaining smaller yards.
Best For
Ideal for small yards and budget-conscious individuals who want a simple, reliable electric mower.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable price point.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Environmentally friendly with no emissions.
- Simple to store with foldable handles.
Cons:
- Cord management can be a minor inconvenience.
- May not be powerful enough for very thick or overgrown grass.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Once I mastered how to operate the electric lawnmower mowing the lawn was easy breezy. A powerful mower cut through thick grass worked well got the job done in no time. Overall a good purchase worked well for large yard space. Assembly was easy folding the handles down for storage space a plus.”
Customer Review: “This lawnmower is amazing and I wish we had bought it sooner! It’s fairly quiet but super easy to use and it cuts our lawn with no issues!”
4. Amazon Business American Express Card
★★★★☆ 4.4/5 Rating
While not a lawn mower itself, the Amazon Business American Express Card is a smart tool for anyone looking to save money on Amazon purchases, including lawn care equipment. It offers excellent rewards that can offset the cost of a new mower.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Earns cash back on eligible Amazon Business purchases.
- ✓ Useful for business expenses.
- ✓ Simplifies tracking expenses.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re planning to buy a lawn mower or other supplies from Amazon, using this card can help you earn rewards that effectively lower the overall cost. It’s a practical financial tool for savvy shoppers.
Best For
Small business owners or individuals who frequently purchase supplies from Amazon and want to maximize their rewards.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great rewards on Amazon purchases.
- Helps manage and track business spending.
- Potentially earns cash back to reduce future tool costs.
Cons:
- Requires good credit to qualify.
- Benefits are primarily tied to Amazon spending.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a great card with lot of benefits. The cash back is always saving me a lot of money. I love my Amazon prime American express card .I highly recommend this card it’s great for my business.”
Customer Review: “Love it! We do the majority of our shopping on Amazon. So, the 5% cash back is amazing! The card itself is made of a hard metal, a premium feature that surprises many waiters & cashiers.”
5. Amazon Gift Card Balance Reload
★★★★☆ 4.7/5 Rating
Similar to the Amazon Business card, the Amazon Gift Card Balance Reload isn’t a mower, but it’s a clever way to manage your spending. By loading money onto your gift card balance, you can better control your budget for larger purchases like a lawn mower, ensuring you stick to your affordable goals.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Easy way to add funds for purchases.
- ✓ Can set up auto-reloads to manage budget.
- ✓ Helps in tracking spending by consolidating funds.
Why We Recommend It
For those who like to budget meticulously, this feature allows you to allocate funds specifically for your lawn care needs. It’s a simple yet effective way to prevent overspending on your next mower purchase.
Best For
Anyone who prefers a strict budget for their purchases and wants a simple way to manage their funds for online shopping.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Simple and convenient way to manage funds.
- Helps in sticking to a budget.
- Funds can be used for various Amazon purchases.
Cons:
- It’s not a direct discount on a mower.
- Requires planning to load funds in advance.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I use the Amazon Gift Card Balance Reload to keep funds available for everyday purchases without having to enter payment details each time. It’s straightforward and works exactly as expected. The reload goes through quickly, and the balance updates without any issues. I like being able to add smaller”
Customer Review: “In the quiet contemplation of our modern lives, where the complexity of desire meets the simplicity of provision, the Amazon Gift Card Balance Reload emerges as a tool of both practicality and subtle freedom. With a few deliberate clicks, one replenishes not merely a monetary sum, but the capacity t”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Affordable Push Lawn Mower
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best affordable push lawn mower, we look at a few key things. First, the cutting performance is crucial – does it leave a clean cut without tearing the grass? We also consider ease of use, including how simple it is to start, maneuver, and adjust the cutting height. Durability is another big factor; even on a budget, you want a mower that will last. Finally, weight and storage are important, especially for those with limited space.
Budget Planning
Setting a budget is the first step to finding an affordable lawn mower. While “affordable” can mean different things to different people, most budget-friendly push mowers fall into the $100-$300 range. Keep in mind that sometimes spending a little more upfront can save you money in the long run due to better durability and fewer repairs. Always check for sales and discounts, especially around holidays.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an affordable push lawn mower is about balancing cost with performance and features. Don’t be afraid of manual reel mowers if you have a smaller yard; they offer a quiet, eco-friendly cut. For slightly larger areas, a basic corded electric mower can be a great value. Whichever you choose, ensure it fits your lawn size and your physical capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a reel mower and a rotary mower?
A: A reel mower uses a spinning cylinder of blades that cut grass like scissors, offering a very clean cut. A rotary mower uses a single blade that spins horizontally, chopping the grass. Reel mowers are generally quieter and more eco-friendly but work best on shorter grass, while rotary mowers are more versatile for different grass types and lengths.
Q: Are manual push mowers still effective?
A: Yes, manual push reel mowers are very effective for smaller to medium-sized lawns. They provide an excellent, clean cut and are incredibly quiet and environmentally friendly. They require physical effort but are a great option for those who want to avoid the noise, emissions, and maintenance of gas or electric mowers.
Q: How do I choose the right cutting width?
A: The cutting width determines how much grass the mower cuts in a single pass. For smaller lawns, a 14-16 inch cutting width is usually sufficient. For larger lawns, a wider cutting width (18-20 inches or more) can significantly speed up the mowing process.
Q: What maintenance is required for affordable push mowers?
A: Manual reel mowers typically require minimal maintenance, mainly blade sharpening and occasional cleaning. Corded electric mowers also need basic cleaning and checking of the blade. Avoid storing them in damp conditions to prevent rust.
Q: Can I use an affordable mower on uneven terrain?
A: Reel mowers can sometimes struggle with very uneven terrain or thick, tall grass. Basic electric rotary mowers might handle some unevenness better, but it’s always best to clear large debris and try to maintain a relatively level lawn for optimal mowing performance, regardless of the mower type.
Finding the best affordable push lawn mower means looking for value, performance, and suitability for your specific yard. The options we’ve highlighted offer excellent features without demanding a huge investment, making lawn care accessible and manageable. Happy mowing!