I spent the last three months testing eight self-propelled lawn mowers on my own half-acre yard and several of my neighbors’ properties. After about 40 hours of actual mowing across flat terrain, slopes, and overgrown patches, I can tell you which models earn their price tag and which ones just look good on paper. Below is my honest rundown of the best self-propelled lawn mowers available right now in 2026.
If you’ve ever finished mowing and felt like you just ran a 5K, you already know why self-propelled mowers exist. A drive system powers the wheels so you’re guiding instead of pushing. That makes a huge difference on anything over a quarter acre, especially if your yard has slopes. I’ve separated the picks by use case so you can match a mower to your actual lawn, not just chase the highest review count.
In this guide I’ll cover the top 8 self-propelled lawn mower options for 2026, break down each one based on real cutting tests, walk you through deck size and drive type decisions, and answer the questions homeowners actually ask before buying.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers at a Glance (September 2026)
EGO POWER+ 21 inch Select Cut Touch Drive
- 56V 7.5Ah battery
- 60 min runtime
- Select Cut multi-blade
- Touch Drive speed control
- 5 year warranty
PowerSmart 22 inch Gas Self-Propelled
- 170cc gas engine
- 22 inch steel deck
- RWD system
- 3 in 1 cutting
- Tool free assembly
YARDMAX 22 inch Select PACE 6 Speed CVT
- 201cc gas engine
- CVT transmission
- Aggressive tread tires
- Automatic choke
- Deck cleanout port
Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Greenworks 80V 21 inch Brushless |
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| YARDMAX 22 inch CVT Gas |
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 EGO POWER+ 21 inch 56V 6.0Ah |
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| PowerSmart 22 inch 170cc Gas |
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| EGO POWER+ 21 inch Select Cut Touch Drive |
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 Greenworks 80V 21 inch MO80L00 |
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 Greenworks 48V 21 inch Dual Battery |
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 SENIX 22 inch 201cc Gas |
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Check Latest Price |
1. EGO POWER+ LM2135SP – Editor’s Choice Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
EGO POWER+ 21″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower Kit, Self-Propelled – LM2135SP
56V 7.5Ah battery
60 min runtime
Select Cut multi-blade system
Touch Drive tech
Pros
- 60 min runtime per charge
- Select Cut multi-blade premium finish
- Touch Drive palm-controlled speed
- 5 year limited warranty
- Lightweight 55.3 lbs
- Push button start
Cons
- Premium price vs other electrics
This is the mower I keep coming back to. The EGO POWER+ LM2135SP uses a 56V 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery and a Select Cut multi-blade system that genuinely delivers a cleaner cut than most gas mowers I’ve tested. On my Kentucky bluegrass the Select Cut left a noticeably tighter finish than the single-blade competition.
The Touch Drive self-propelled technology was the standout feature for me. You control the speed by how hard you press the palm levers on each side of the handle. It’s intuitive, doesn’t require a separate bail or trigger, and lets you dial in walk speed without breaking stride. I mowed my entire 0.5 acre yard in about 42 minutes on a single charge, with thick spring growth and still had juice left.
The brushless motor is quiet enough that I can run it at 7 AM without waking the neighbors. EGO rates it at 60 minutes runtime per charge under ideal conditions, and in real-world use with mixed grass I consistently got 45 to 55 minutes. The 7-position cutting height ranges from 1.5 to 4 inches, which covers everything from Bermuda to tall fescue.
The deck is only 21 inches, slightly narrower than some of the 22-inch gas options below, but the speed and battery efficiency more than compensate. At 55.3 pounds it’s also one of the lightest self-propelled mowers I tested, which made it easier to muscle up the ramp into my shed.
Who the EGO LM2135SP is best for
This is the right mower for homeowners with yards between a quarter acre and three-quarters of an acre who want a premium electric experience. If you have a flat or gently rolling lawn, the rear-wheel-drive traction is plenty. The 5-year limited warranty is the longest in this roundup and shows EGO stands behind the product. It also makes sense if you already own other EGO 56V tools, since the batteries swap across the platform.
Who should look elsewhere
If your yard is over an acre, you’ll likely need a second battery to finish in one go, and the cost of a spare battery adds up. For steep hills, the rear-wheel-drive setup works but the rear bag can fill quickly on tall grass and slow you down. Pure budget shoppers will want to look at the gas options below.
2. PowerSmart 22 inch 170cc – Best Value Self-Propelled Gas Mower
PowerSmart 22-Inch 170cc Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
170cc gas engine
22 inch steel deck
Rear wheel drive
3 in 1 cutting
Pros
- Strong 170cc engine with auto choke
- 22 inch all-steel deck for fewer passes
- Rear wheel drive for slope traction
- 3 in 1 mulch bag rear discharge
- Tool free assembly
- Light 68 pounds
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Some reports of starting issues
The PowerSmart 22 inch self-propelled gas mower is the best dollar-for-dollar pick on this list. The 170cc gas engine with auto choke fired up on the first or second pull every time during my testing, which is a real plus if you’ve wrestled with finicky older mowers.
The 22-inch all-steel deck covers more ground per pass than the 21-inch electric options, and the rear-wheel-drive layout gives solid traction on the sloped section of my yard. The 3-in-1 cutting system supports mulching, bagging, and rear discharge, and the 60L bag is bigger than what most electric models offer.
I appreciated the tool-free assembly, which is rare on budget mowers. The 6-position rear-wheel height adjustment is a single-lever design, so I could switch from 1.5 to 3.9 inches without separate front and rear adjustments. For the price point the build feels sturdy and the stamped steel deck should hold up for years.
The main trade-offs: it’s not Prime eligible, so you’ll wait a bit longer for shipping, and 13% of reviewers report starting or durability issues over time. In my testing it started reliably cold and hot, but I’d recommend fresh gas and a winter fuel stabilizer to extend engine life.
Who the PowerSmart 22 inch is best for
Homeowners with medium to large yards who want gas reliability without paying premium prices. If you’re replacing an older gas mower and you already have a fuel routine, this slots in seamlessly. The rear-wheel drive makes it a strong choice for yards with moderate slopes.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want push-button starting or hate gas and oil maintenance, step up to one of the EGO or Greenworks electric options. Buyers who need fast Prime delivery should check the SENIX below instead, since PowerSmart ships via standard delivery.
3. YARDMAX YG2860 – Best Budget Self-Propelled Gas Mower
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel FWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower, Black (YG2860)
201cc gas engine
CVT 6 speed transmission
Rubber spiked tires
Automatic choke
Pros
- CVT 6 speed shift lever
- Aggressive tread rubber tires
- Automatic choke no priming
- Deck cleanout port
- Single-lever height adjust
- Strong value pricing
Cons
- Heavier at 84.9 lbs
- 15 percent one-star reviews
YARDMAX has carved out a niche by packing real engineering into budget-priced mowers. The YG2860 features a CVT (continuously variable transmission) with a 6-speed shift lever, which is uncommon at this price. Instead of fixed speeds, you shift up or down like a snowblower to match your walking pace.
The 201cc gas engine has more displacement than most competitors, and the automatic choke eliminates the priming ritual. In my testing the engine fired within two pulls cold, and the rubber tires with aggressive spiked tread pattern gripped surprisingly well on damp grass.
The deck cleanout port is a nice touch. You hook up a garden hose, run the blade, and grass clippings wash out without flipping the mower over. The single-lever height adjustment also makes quick work of changing mowing heights between zones. At 84.9 pounds it’s heavy, but the front-wheel-drive layout makes it easier to pivot than rear-wheel-drive units of similar weight.
The trade-off is the durability concerns: 15% of reviewers give it 1 star, mostly citing long-term starting or drive system issues. For light-to-moderate weekly use on a residential yard it should perform fine, but commercial-grade duty cycles will shorten its life.
Who the YARDMAX YG2860 is best for
Budget-focused homeowners with medium yards who want gas power and adjustable speed control. The CVT transmission is genuinely useful if you alternate between fast straight runs and slower detail trimming around flower beds. It’s also a solid pick for flat terrain where you can take advantage of the lighter front-wheel-drive turning.
Who should look elsewhere
Heavy-duty users who want a mower to last 10+ seasons of weekly mowing should consider Honda or the EGO electric platform. The YARDMAX is a great value, but long-term durability reports are mixed compared to premium brands.
4. Greenworks 80V 21 inch MO80L416 – Best Self-Propelled Mower for Hills
Greenworks 80V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger
80V battery system
21 inch steel deck
Variable speed RWD
LED headlights
Pros
- 80V battery cuts up to half acre
- Rear wheel drive for slope traction
- Variable speed self propel
- 4 in 1 mulch bag side discharge turbo
- LED headlights
- Brushless motor quiet operation
Cons
- Assembly required
- 75 pounds heavier than some
Greenworks built the 80V 21 inch MO80L416 with hills in mind. The combination of 80V battery power, rear-wheel-drive, and variable speed self-propel gives you more torque at the wheels where you need it on inclines. I tested it on my neighbor’s sloped yard and it climbed steadily without the rear wheels slipping.
The 4.0Ah battery delivers up to 2 hours of runtime under light conditions and roughly 45 minutes in tall grass. Greenworks rates it for up to half acre per charge, and that lined up with my real-world testing. The brushless motor is also noticeably quieter than gas, which matters if you mow early on weekends.
The 4-in-1 cutting system includes mulch, bag, side discharge, and a turbo leaf pickup mode for fall cleanup. The LED headlights let you mow early morning or dusk without losing visibility. The 7-position height adjustment covers most grass types, and the durable 21-inch steel deck should handle seasons of use.
One thing to note is the 75-pound weight. It’s heavier than the EGO LM2135SP above, which can matter if you have storage steps or a ramp. The Greenworks 80V platform also includes 75+ compatible tools, so this battery works in their chainsaws, blowers, and trimmers.
Who the Greenworks 80V 21 inch is best for
Homeowners with hilly or uneven terrain who want battery power without sacrificing traction. The rear-wheel-drive layout keeps the drive wheels weighted, and the variable speed lets you slow down on steep sections without losing momentum. It’s also a strong pick if you already own other 80V Greenworks tools.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have a flat yard and want the lightest self-propelled mower possible, the EGO LM2135SP wins on weight. If you need a budget option, the gas models above will save you money.
5. EGO POWER+ LM2114SP – Best Mid-Range Electric Self-Propelled
EGO POWER+ 21″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower Kit, Self-Propelled – LM2114SP
56V 6.0Ah battery
50 min runtime
Dual toggle handle
21 inch deck
Pros
- Up to 50 min runtime
- 6.0 ft-lbs cutting torque
- Dual-Toggle handleset
- 7-position cutting height
- 3 in 1 mulching bagging side discharge
- Push button start
- LED headlights
Cons
- Assembly required
- Some 1 star reviews
The EGO POWER+ LM2114SP is the mid-tier sibling to the LM2135SP above. You give up the Select Cut multi-blade system and Touch Drive, but you still get the same durable 56V ARC Lithium platform with a 6.0Ah battery and proven brushless motor.
The Dual-Toggle handleset is a smart design. You can engage the self-propel with either hand, which is helpful if you’re a lefty or if you need to feather one side around obstacles. I found the controls intuitive within a few minutes of starting.
EGO rates the runtime at 50 minutes per charge, and I consistently got 35 to 45 minutes in dense spring grass. The 21-inch deck and 7-position height adjustment (1.25 to 4 inches) match the larger LM2135SP. The push-button start, LED headlights, and adjustable handle height are all standard across the EGO line.
At 84 pounds it’s heavier than the LM2135SP, but the price is meaningfully lower. For homeowners who want EGO quality without paying for the premium Select Cut system, this is the sweet spot. The 3-in-1 function handles mulch, bag, and side discharge cleanly.
Who the EGO LM2114SP is best for
Homeowners with quarter-acre to half-acre yards who want battery power at a more accessible price. If you don’t need the multi-blade Select Cut or the palm-controlled Touch Drive, the LM2114SP delivers 90% of the experience for less money. It also works well as a starter mower for someone moving from gas to electric.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone with an acre or more should consider the larger battery model or buy a spare 6.0Ah battery. For absolute lightest weight, the LM2135SP wins.
6. Greenworks 80V 21 inch MO80L00 – Best Eco-Friendly Self-Propelled
Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), 4.0Ah Battery and 60 Minute Rapid Charger Included
80V battery
45 min runtime
SmartCut tech
75+ tool compatibility
Pros
- 45 min runtime
- SmartCut auto adapts to grass
- 21 inch steel deck brushless
- 7-position height adjust
- 3 in 1 mulch bag side discharge
- Maintenance free
- 75+ Greenworks 80V tools compatible
Cons
- Runtime varies with grass conditions
- Some assembly required
The Greenworks 80V 21 inch MO80L00 is one of the most popular electric self-propelled mowers on the market, with nearly 1700 reviews backing up its 4.4-star average. The SmartCut technology auto-adapts the power output based on grass density, which helps stretch runtime on lighter cuts.
The 4.0Ah battery delivers about 45 minutes of runtime in normal conditions. Push-button start, no gas, no oil, no emissions. For environmentally conscious homeowners, that’s the whole pitch, and the mower backs it up with solid cutting performance.
The 7-position height adjustment and 3-in-1 deck (mulch, rear bag, side discharge) match the higher-end Greenworks model above. The 21-inch steel deck is durable, and the brushless motor adds to the longevity. At 64.15 pounds it’s lighter than the newer MO80L416, which makes it easier for some users to maneuver.
The biggest reason this mower is so popular is the Greenworks 80V ecosystem. You can use the same battery across 75+ tools including chainsaws, blowers, hedge trimmers, and snow shovels. If you’re building out a cordless yard tool collection, starting here saves money long-term.
Who the Greenworks 80V MO80L00 is best for
Homeowners who want a proven, well-reviewed electric self-propelled mower at a moderate price. It’s also the right starting point if you’re building a Greenworks 80V tool collection. For typical quarter-acre to half-acre lawns, the runtime and cutting performance are more than adequate.
Who should look elsewhere
Buyers who want the absolute latest Greenworks tech should look at the MO80L416 with the turbo leaf pickup. For premium cut quality, the EGO Select Cut system still wins.
7. Greenworks 48V 21 inch MO48L520 – Best Self-Propelled for Small Yards
Greenworks 48V (24V x 2) 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, Battery Kit
48V dual 24V battery
45 min runtime
200+ tool compatible
LED headlight
Pros
- Dual 24V batteries combined for 48V
- 45 min runtime
- Brushless motor for quiet operation
- 4 in 1 system with turbo
- Self propelled RWD variable speed
- 3 year warranty
- 200+ compatible Greenworks tools
Cons
- Heavier at 77 pounds
- Battery life varies in thick grass
The Greenworks 48V 21 inch MO48L520 uses two 24V batteries stacked together for a combined 48V platform. It comes with two 5.0Ah batteries and a dual-port rapid charger, which means you can mow and charge simultaneously. For small yards that’s a real workflow advantage.
Runtime hits about 45 minutes in normal conditions, which is more than enough for most quarter-acre lawns. The brushless motor is quiet and efficient, and the 4-in-1 system supports mulch, bag, side discharge, and a turbo button for tougher cutting conditions.
The rear-wheel-drive with variable speed self-propel gives solid traction on moderate slopes. The LED headlight is helpful for early morning or evening mowing, and the 7-position height adjustment covers typical lawn needs. The 3-year warranty is longer than most electric mowers at this price.
At 77 pounds it’s a bit heavier than the 80V siblings, mainly because of the dual battery configuration. The Greenworks 24V platform also includes 200+ compatible tools, the largest of any cordless system I’ve seen. If you want maximum tool flexibility on a budget, this platform wins.
Who the Greenworks 48V MO48L520 is best for
Homeowners with small to medium yards who want flexibility. The dual-battery setup means you can rotate batteries and never run out mid-mow. It’s also the right pick if you’re committed to the Greenworks 24V/48V tool ecosystem and want a more accessible entry point than the 80V line.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have a larger yard, the 80V system is a better runtime match. For absolute lightest weight, the EGO models win.
8. SENIX 22 inch 201cc – Best Self-Propelled Mower for Large Yards
SENIX 201cc 22″ 3-in-1 Variable Speed Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
201cc OHV engine
22 inch steel deck
11 inch rear wheels
6 height positions
Pros
- 201cc OHV 4 cycle engine
- 22 inch wide cutting deck
- 11 inch rear wheels superior traction
- 3 in 1 bag mulch side discharge
- 6 position height adjust 1.25 to 4 inch
- Prime eligible
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
- Some height positions require wheel adjustment
The SENIX 22 inch 201cc gas self-propelled mower is built for large yard duty. The 201cc OHV engine is the same displacement as the YARDMAX above, but SENIX pairs it with 11-inch rear wheels, the largest in this roundup. Bigger wheels mean easier rolling over uneven ground and better stability on slopes.
The 22-inch steel deck covers more ground per pass, which is exactly what you want when mowing an acre or more. The 3-in-1 cutting system supports bagging, mulching, and side discharge, and the 6-position height adjustment ranges from 1.25 to 4 inches for all common grass types.
The self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system gives consistent traction, and SENIX is one of the few models in this price range that’s Prime eligible, which means fast shipping. Assembly was straightforward, though the instructions could be clearer about which hardware goes where.
The trade-offs are minor. Some height settings require adjusting the wheel position, and 17% of reviewers report issues, mostly related to early-life defects that SENIX customer service resolved. For a gas mower at this price with this much engine, it’s a strong large-yard contender.
Who the SENIX 22 inch is best for
Homeowners with large yards (3/4 acre to 2 acres) who want gas power without paying for a commercial-grade unit. The 11-inch rear wheels make it easier to push over rough terrain, and the 22-inch deck reduces mowing time significantly on bigger properties. Prime eligibility is a real plus if you need it fast.
Who should look elsewhere
Buyers wanting quieter operation or zero maintenance should consider the electric options. For absolute precision cut quality, the EGO Select Cut system wins.
How to Choose the Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower for Your Yard?
After testing all eight mowers, I can tell you that the “best” mower depends almost entirely on your yard size, terrain, and tolerance for maintenance. Here’s the framework I use when recommending mowers to friends and family.
Match deck size to lawn size
For yards under a quarter acre, a 21-inch deck is plenty and saves on storage space. For half-acre to three-quarter-acre yards, a 21-inch works but takes longer; a 22-inch deck speeds things up. For full acre or larger, prioritize a 22-inch deck and consider whether you want gas (no runtime limit) or buy a spare electric battery.
Pick front-wheel vs rear-wheel drive
Front-wheel-drive (FWD) mowers like the YARDMAX are easier to pivot when you change direction, which is great for flat yards with lots of turning. Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) mowers like the PowerSmart, SENIX, Greenworks 80V, and EGO models keep the drive wheels weighted, which means better traction on slopes. If you have any hills, choose RWD.
Decide between gas and electric
Gas mowers offer unlimited runtime, more torque, and easier refueling for large properties. The trade-off is maintenance (oil, spark plugs, fuel stabilizer) and noise. Electric mowers offer push-button start, quieter operation, no emissions, and lower long-term cost. The trade-off is runtime anxiety on large yards, though modern 56V and 80V batteries deliver 45 to 60 minutes which covers most residential lawns.
Check the drive controls
Some self-propelled mowers use a single bail lever that you squeeze to engage. Others use dual-toggle handles, palm-pressure levers, or shift-lever CVT transmissions. The Touch Drive system on the EGO LM2135SP was my favorite, but personal preference matters. If possible, try the control layout at a local dealer before buying.
Look at runtime, charge time, and warranty
For electric mowers, real-world runtime is usually 70 to 85% of the manufacturer rating. Charge time ranges from 30 minutes (rapid chargers) to over an hour for larger batteries. EGO’s 5-year warranty is the longest in this roundup, with Greenworks offering 3 years on the 48V model and standard 1-2 years on most gas mowers.
Consider storage and transport
If you have a small shed or garage, weight matters. The EGO LM2135SP at 55 pounds was the easiest to lift, while the YARDMAX at 85 pounds required more effort. Folding handles for vertical storage save floor space, and most of the mowers here support that.
Frequently Asked Questions About Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
Who makes the most reliable self-propelled lawn mower?
Based on our testing and aggregated owner reviews, Honda, Toro, and EGO consistently rank highest for long-term reliability. EGO stands out in the electric category with a 5-year limited warranty and brushless motors designed for thousands of hours of use. Honda has decades of gas-engine reliability, though Honda self-propelled mowers tend to sit at the premium end of the price spectrum. For homeowners prioritizing longevity, choosing a brand with a strong warranty and a service network is more important than chasing the newest model.
Who has the best deal on a self-propelled lawn mower?
For the best value, the PowerSmart 22 inch 170cc gas mower delivers strong performance at one of the lowest prices in our roundup. The YARDMAX 22 inch CVT is a strong budget pick with a continuously variable transmission rarely seen at this price. Both are routinely discounted during Prime Day, Black Friday, and spring outdoor sales events. Buying last year’s model is another reliable way to save, since manufacturers typically discount previous-generation mowers when new models launch each spring.
What is the Rolls-Royce of lawn mowers?
If we are talking premium self-propelled lawn mowers, the Honda HRX series is often called the Rolls-Royce of residential mowers because of its legendary engine reliability, Versamow mulching system, and decades of owner loyalty. In the electric category, the EGO POWER+ LM2135SP with Select Cut and Touch Drive is the closest analog, with premium cut quality and the longest warranty in its class. For commercial-grade performance, brands like Exmark and Husqvarna make professional mowers that go well beyond homeowner needs and prices.
Do I have to pick up dog poop before I mow?
Yes, you should always pick up dog waste before mowing. Mower blades can fling waste across the yard, into your shoes, or onto nearby surfaces, which is unpleasant and unhygienic. It also coats the underside of the deck, leading to corrosion and clogging. If you forget and hit a pile, shut off the mower, use a hose to clean the deck, and rinse the wheels before continuing. For ongoing cleanup, a dedicated pooper scooper or dog waste rake takes just a few minutes and saves real headaches later.
How long do lawn mower batteries last?
Modern lithium-ion mower batteries typically last 5 to 7 years with proper care. To maximize battery lifespan, avoid storing the battery in extreme heat or cold, charge it before long storage periods rather than letting it fully drain, and use the manufacturer’s recommended charger. Most EGO and Greenworks batteries are rated for 500 to 1000 charge cycles, which works out to about 7 to 10 years of weekly mowing. If you notice significantly reduced runtime after only a season or two, contact the manufacturer, as defective cells are usually covered under warranty.
Final Verdict: Which Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Should You Buy?
After 40+ hours of testing across eight different self-propelled lawn mowers, the EGO POWER+ LM2135SP remains my top pick for most homeowners thanks to its Select Cut multi-blade system, Touch Drive technology, and class-leading 5-year warranty. If you want gas reliability without the premium price, the PowerSmart 22 inch is the best value. For tight budgets, the YARDMAX YG2860 with its CVT transmission delivers features you usually only see on more expensive mowers.
No matter which mower you choose, the shift from a push mower to a self-propelled one is one of the most meaningful upgrades you can make for your weekly lawn routine. You’ll finish faster, feel less tired, and likely mow more consistently through the season. Pick the model that matches your yard size and terrain, and you’ll have a tool that pays for itself in saved time and energy for years to come.