Finding a reliable and effective lawn mower without breaking the bank can be a challenge. Many homeowners believe that a good mower means a high price tag, but that’s not always the case. If you’re looking for a quality machine that can handle your yard work without costing over $700, you’re in the right place! We’ve scoured the market to find some of the best options available, focusing on performance, durability, and value. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a reel mower or the power of an electric model, there’s a great option out there for you.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 4 Best Lawn Mower Under 700 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. American Lawn Mower Reel Mower
The American Lawn Mower 16-inch 7-blade reel mower with grass catcher is a fantastic option for those with specific grass types. It’s designed for enthusiasts who want to maintain short, thick grass like Bermuda or Zoysia, offering a clean, scissor-like cut without tearing. This mower provides excellent maneuverability and durability for regular use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 16-inch cutting width with a 7-blade reel for precision.
- ✓ Includes a grass catcher for a tidy lawn.
- ✓ Durable 10-inch wheels for easy maneuverability.
- ✓ Ideal for specialty grass types like Bermuda and Zoysia.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this mower for its specialized cutting system that promotes healthier grass and its user-friendly design. If you have specific grass types that benefit from a reel mower’s precision, this is a top-tier choice that won’t disappoint.
Best For
Homeowners with short, thick grass types looking for a clean, precise cut and a well-maintained lawn.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Provides a superior cut for certain grass types.
- Environmentally friendly and quiet operation.
- Encourages healthier grass growth by avoiding tearing.
- Includes a grass catcher for convenience.
Cons:
- Requires more physical effort than powered mowers.
- Not ideal for very tall grass or uneven terrain.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using a traditional gas rotary mower for years and had heard good things about reel mowers. There’s a lot of options, and I tried out a Scotts 16″ Elite Reel Mower first from a local store before upgrading to this 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel American Lawn Mower, and overall, I am pleased with it.”
Customer Review: “Perfect little rotary mower, I have a strip about 100′ long and 10″ wide that my robot mowers can’t cut because it is too close to the curb. My riding mower can’t cut it low enough without scalping the ground, so this was the perfect solution. I was a little skeptical because one wheel is on the grass.”
2. LawnMaster Push Reel Mower
The LawnMaster 18-inch 5-blade push reel mower provides a superb, healthy cut for your lawn. Its manual operation makes it an eco-friendly choice, and the 18-inch deck with 10-inch front wheels ensures good maneuverability around your yard. This mower is designed for those who appreciate a clean cut and a straightforward mowing experience.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 18-inch cutting width for efficient coverage.
- ✓ 5-blade reel for a clean, scissor-like cut.
- ✓ 9 cutting height positions (1.1 to 2.5 inches).
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to push and store.
Why We Recommend It
This LawnMaster model earns our editor’s choice for its excellent balance of cutting quality, ease of use, and value. It’s perfect for maintaining smaller to medium-sized lawns and offers a greener way to mow.
Best For
Homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who want a quiet, eco-friendly, and effective way to achieve a healthy-looking yard.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Delivers a very clean cut, promoting grass health.
- Quiet operation, no emissions.
- Adjustable cutting height for versatility.
- Simple assembly and maintenance.
Cons:
- Can be challenging on very uneven terrain or with thick weeds.
- Requires manual pushing power.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I waited until I had used this mower a few times before leaving this review. This is my take on this mower. This goes in the top five greatest purchases I have made on Amazon. I read every review like this one, so I will do my best to provide helpful information.”
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 keeping, or even needing to store gas.”
3. LawnMaster 15-Inch 11AMP Electric Corded Lawn Mower
For those seeking an affordable yet powerful option, the LawnMaster 15-inch 11AMP corded electric mower is a fantastic budget-friendly choice. It offers robust performance with 3,300 RPM, making short work of your grass. Being corded, it’s also an environmentally friendly option, eliminating the need for gas or batteries, and it’s surprisingly lightweight for easy handling.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 11 AMP motor delivering 3,300 RPM for strong cutting power.
- ✓ 14-inch cutting width suitable for smaller yards.
- ✓ 5 adjustable cutting height positions (1.4 to 3 inches).
- ✓ Lightweight design for easy maneuverability and storage.
Why We Recommend It
This mower is an excellent budget pick because it doesn’t compromise on power or features. It’s a reliable workhorse that gets the job done efficiently, making it perfect for homeowners who want a great cut without overspending.
Best For
Homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who need a powerful, reliable, and economical electric mower.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful motor for its size.
- Very affordable price point.
- Environmentally friendly with no emissions.
- Easy to start and operate.
Cons:
- The cord can be a hassle to manage.
- Grass catcher can fill up quickly.
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: “I bought this to mow down grass and weeds in my backyard. The small collector makes for more stops to empty, so if you want to stop less, might need a bigger collector. But for small jobs or big jobs with more stops, this mower is great. A little louder than I thought it would be because its electric.”
4. LawnMaster 16-Inch 12AMP Electric Lawn Mower
The LawnMaster 16-inch 12AMP electric mower is a step up in power and cutting width, ideal for tackling slightly larger yards. Its robust 12 AMP motor provides ample power for efficient yard work, while the 16-inch cutting deck means you cover more ground with each pass. Like its smaller counterpart, it’s a clean, reliable, and easy-to-manage option for electric mowing.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 12 AMP motor for demanding tasks.
- ✓ Wider 16-inch cutting deck for faster mowing.
- ✓ 5 adjustable cutting height positions (1.4 to 3 inches).
- ✓ Corded electric design means no refueling or battery charging worries.
Why We Recommend It
This model is a great choice for its enhanced power and wider cutting path, which can significantly speed up mowing for medium-sized lawns. It’s a dependable tool for consistent results, embodying the benefits of electric mowing with added performance.
Best For
Homeowners with medium-sized yards who need a bit more power and cutting width than smaller electric mowers offer.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- More powerful motor than many corded electric mowers.
- Larger cutting width for efficiency.
- Easy to start and maintain.
- Eco-friendly operation.
Cons:
- Requires managing a power cord.
- May not be suitable for very large properties.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Update 7-10-25: I still love this lawn mower! Still works perfectly! I’ve had two people borrow it and they were amazed that such a light mower with a battery performed as good as their (now broken) gas heavy-duty lawn mower. I was skeptical about buying the lawnmower, because the price was cheap but highly recommended.”
Customer Review: “Way back in 2011 I bought a Black & Decker CM1836 36-Volt Cordless Lawn Mower (not from Amazon, but I got it for a steep discount and was eager to get rid of the smelly, difficult-to-start gas lawn mower I’d been using). Unfortunately, It was awful (it’s discontinued now but strangely has good reviews). This LawnMaster has been a much better experience.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Lawn Mower Under 700
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best lawn mower under $700, we look at several key aspects. First, the cutting performance is paramount – how well does it cut grass, especially in different conditions like thick or wet grass? We also consider the power source: reel mowers offer a precise cut and are eco-friendly, while corded electric mowers provide consistent power without emissions. Maneuverability is crucial; we check deck width, wheel size, and overall weight to ensure it’s easy to push and navigate around obstacles. Durability and build quality are also vital, ensuring the mower will last through many seasons. Lastly, features like adjustable cutting heights and included grass catchers add to the overall convenience and value.
Budget Planning
Staying under $700 means you have a fantastic range of options, from high-quality manual reel mowers to capable corded electric models. Reel mowers are typically the most budget-friendly, offering excellent cutting quality for their price. Corded electric mowers provide a balance of power and affordability, often coming with more advanced features than similarly priced gas mowers. Remember to factor in potential costs like extension cords for electric models or maintenance items. This price point is perfect for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who want reliable performance without a significant investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best lawn mower under $700 is about finding the right fit for your specific needs and lawn type. Whether you prioritize the eco-friendly simplicity of a reel mower or the hassle-free power of an electric model, there are excellent options available that deliver great results. Our top picks represent a strong combination of cutting effectiveness, user-friendliness, and durability, ensuring your lawn care routine is more enjoyable and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are reel mowers good for tall grass?
A: Reel mowers are best suited for regularly maintained lawns with grass that is not excessively tall or thick. For very tall or overgrown grass, a powered mower might be more effective to avoid bogging down.
Q: How do I choose between a corded electric and a reel mower?
A: If you prioritize a quiet, eco-friendly operation and have a smaller, well-maintained lawn, a reel mower is a great choice. If you need more power for potentially thicker grass or slightly larger areas and don’t mind managing a cord, a corded electric mower offers more versatility.
Q: What is the advantage of a 7-blade reel mower over a 5-blade model?
A: A 7-blade reel mower generally provides a more precise and finer cut than a 5-blade model. This can be beneficial for certain types of grass that require a very clean cut to prevent damage, such as specialty turfgrasses.
Q: Can I use a corded electric mower on a wet lawn?
A: While electric mowers can be used on damp grass, it’s generally recommended to mow when the grass is dry for both safety and a better cutting result. Always ensure the mower and power cord are in good condition and avoid standing water.
Q: How often should I maintain my lawn mower?
A: Regular maintenance is key for any lawn mower. For reel mowers, this often involves cleaning the blades and lubricating moving parts. Electric mowers require less maintenance, primarily cleaning the deck and ensuring the cord is intact. Proper care ensures longevity and optimal performance, and we have a guide on best lawn mower maintenance practices to help.
Finding the perfect lawn mower under $700 is absolutely achievable, offering a fantastic blend of performance and value. Whether you’re drawn to the clean cut of a reel mower or the modern convenience of an electric model, these options provide the tools you need for a beautifully manicured lawn. We encourage you to consider your specific lawn needs and preferences to make the best choice. Happy mowing!