Last Updated on January 20, 2024 by Kimberly Crawford
Do you have a large yard that needs to be mowed? Or maybe you have a small yard with lots of obstacles in the way. No matter what your situation is, there is a lawn mower out there that will fit your needs.
In this blog post, we will discuss 23 types of lawn mowers and how they can fit into your landscaping plans. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right lawn mower for your needs!
Related: 7 Worst Lawn Mower Brands To Avoid
Ride-On Mowers.
You see them everywhere. But what are they? Why do people use them?
Ride-on mowers are a type of lawn mower that allows the operator to sit on the machine while it is running. This gives the operator more comfort and control than a traditional push mower. Ride-on mowers come in different sizes and styles to accommodate different needs.
Most ride-on mowers have a cutting deck that is located under the machine. This cuts the grass as the operator drives the mower over it. The cutting deck is usually made of metal or plastic and has blades that spin around to cut the grass.
When it comes to comfort and efficiency in ride-on mowers, Kubota lawn mowers redefine the standard. With advanced features and durable design, they make lawn maintenance a breeze, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for users.
Ride-on mowers are powered by either gasoline or electricity. Gasoline-powered mowers are typically more powerful than electric mowers and can run for a longer period of time without needing to be recharged. Electric mowers are quieter than gasoline-powered mowers and produce no emissions.
1. Articulating Lawn Mowers.
An articulated lawn mower is a self-propelled mower with a joint in the middle, allowing the front and rear wheels to move independently. This gives the machine increased maneuverability over traditional lawn mowers, making it easier to maneuver around obstacles.
Pros and cons of Articulating Lawn Mowers:
Some people love their articulated lawn mowers, while others find them to be a pain. Here are some pros and cons of these unique machines.
PROS:
-They can maneuver around obstacles easily.
-They have a very tight turning radius.
-They are great for hills and uneven terrain.
CONS:
-They can be difficult to push.
-The blades can be hard to reach.
-They are more expensive than traditional lawn mowers.
There are a few things to consider before purchasing an articulated lawn mower. The first is whether you need the extra maneuverability that an articulated mower provides. If you have a large, open lawn with few obstacles, an ordinary push mower will do the job just fine. But if your lawn has lots of trees, bushes, and other obstacles, an articulated mower will make mowing much easier.
Another thing to consider is the size of your lawn. Articulated mowers are available in both push and riding models, so if you have a very large lawn, you may want to opt for the riding model. But if your lawn is smaller, a push model will suffice.
Finally, you’ll need to decide how much you’re willing to spend on a lawn mower. Articulated mowers are generally more expensive than ordinary push mowers, so if price is a concern, you may want to stick with a basic model.
2. Lawn Tractor.
A lawn tractor is a tractor designed for use on a lawn or turf. Lawn tractors are equipped with a cutting deck and grass bagging system, and usually have rear-wheel drive to provide more power for the cutting deck. Some lawn tractors also have four-wheel drive, which is useful for hilly lawns.
Lawn tractors can be very useful for large lawns, but they can also be used for smaller yards. If you have a small yard, you may want to consider a riding mower. Riding mowers are smaller and easier to maneuver than lawn tractors, and they usually have front-wheel drive, which is better for small yards.
When choosing a lawn tractor, it is important to consider the size of your lawn and the terrain. If you have a large, hilly lawn, you will need a tractor with more power and four-wheel drive. If you have a small, flat lawn, you can get by with a less powerful tractor.
Pros and cons of lawn tractors:
Lawn tractors can be a great addition to your lawn care arsenal, but they’re not for everyone. Here are some pros and cons of lawn tractors to help you decide if one is right for you.
PROS:
-Lawn tractors are great for large lawns. If you have a lot of ground to cover, a lawn tractor can save you a lot of time and energy.
-They’re also great for hilly lawns. Lawn tractors have much more power than push mowers, so they can handle hills and rough terrain much better.
-Lawn tractors usually have a bagging system, so you can collect grass clippings as you mow. This can save you a lot of time when it comes to cleanup.
CONS:
-Lawn tractors can be expensive. If you’re on a budget, a push mower may be a better option for you.
-They’re also difficult to maneuver. Lawn tractors are much larger and heavier than push mowers, so they can be difficult to maneuver around tight corners and obstacles.
-Lawn tractors require a lot of maintenance. You’ll need to keep up with regular oil changes, tune-ups, and blade sharpening to keep your lawn tractor running smoothly.
Related: The Top 27 Best Tractor Brands in the World
3. Rear Engine Riding Mower.
A rear engine riding mower is a lawnmower that has its engine in the back, instead of the front. This type of mower is great for people who have a lot of land to mow, as it can cover a lot of ground quickly. Additionally, rear engine riding mowers are easier to maneuver than other types of lawnmowers, making them ideal for homeowners with large yards.
Pros and cons of rear engine riding mowers:
While rear engine riding mowers have their advantages, there are also some disadvantages that you should be aware of before making a purchase.
One con is that these mowers can be more expensive than front engine models.
Another downside is that they tend to be less durable and may require more maintenance over time. Additionally, rear engine mowers can be more difficult to maneuver than front engine models.
4. Zero Turn Mower.
A zero turn mower is a riding lawn mower that has a zero-degree turning radius–which means it can rotate in place. This makes it extremely maneuverable and is ideal for cutting grass in tight spaces, like around trees or bushes.
While a zero turn mower is more expensive than a traditional riding lawn mower, the extra cost is worth it if you have a lot of landscaping features in your yard.
If you’re looking for a lawn mower that can make quick work of your lawn, without sacrificing on quality or features, then a zero turn mower is the best choice for you.
Pros and cons of zero turn mowers:
The biggest advantage to a zero turn mower is the speed and agility. They can make tight turns and maneuver in small spaces with ease. This makes them ideal for people who have large lawns with lots of obstacles like trees, flower beds, and patio furniture.
Another advantage is that they typically have larger cutting decks than traditional lawn mowers, so you can get the job done faster.
Some disadvantages of zero turn mowers include the cost. They are usually more expensive than traditional lawn mowers. Additionally, they require more maintenance and care than traditional lawn mowers.
Finally, they may not be the best choice for people who have hilly or uneven lawns. The mower can tip over if you’re not careful on slopes.
Walk Mowers.
Walk Mowers are a great alternative to riding mowers for those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of gas, oil, and tune-ups. They’re also less expensive and take up less space. But before you buy a walk mower, there are a few things you should consider.
First, think about the size of your lawn. If you have a small lawn, a push mower will do the job just fine. But if you have a large lawn, you’ll want to consider a self-propelled mower. Self-propelled mowers have wheels that help move the mower forward, making it easier to maneuver around your yard.
Second, think about the type of grass you have. If you have a lot of weeds or tall grass, you’ll want a mower with higher horsepower so it can power through the tough stuff.
Third, think about your budget. Walk mowers range in price from around $100 to $500. If you have a large lawn, you’ll obviously need to spend more. But if you have a small lawn, you can probably get away with spending less.
1. Cylinder Mower (Reel mower).
Cylinder mower is a type of lawn mower which has a cylindrical blade that rotates about a central axis. The blades are arranged in a helical pattern around the cylinder. As the cylinder rotates, the blades cut the grass in a scissor-like action.
Cylinder mowers are typically used for cutting well-manicured lawns such as golf course greens and bowling greens. They are also used in parks and gardens. Some models of cylinder mower are designed for use on rough grassland.
The first cylinder mower was invented by Edwin Budding in 1830. Budding was a British engineer who worked on the design of textile machines. He adapted his design for use on grass. The first cylinder mower was called the ‘Budding Lawn Mower’.
The cylinder mower has several advantages over the rotary lawn mower. The blades of a cylinder mower cut the grass in a clean, sharp fashion. This results in a much neater appearance than that achieved by a rotary mower. Cylinder mowers are also much quieter than rotary mowers.
Cylinder mowers require more effort to push than rotary mowers. However, this is not a major problem as most models have wheels which can be adjusted to make the mower easier to push.
Cylinder mowers are more expensive than rotary mowers. However, they are built to last and require very little maintenance.
If you are looking for a high-quality lawn mower, then a cylinder mower is the best choice.
2. Hover Mower.
A hover mower is a mower that hovers on a cushion of air. The advantage of this is that it can be used on slopes and in other difficult to mow areas.
Pros and cons of hover mowers:
Hover mowers have several advantages over traditional push or riding mowers. They are much lighter and easier to maneuver, making them ideal for small yards or gardens. They also tend to be less expensive than other types of mowers.
On the downside, hover mowers can be difficult to control on steep slopes or wet grass. They also don’t have the power or capacity of larger mowers, so they may not be suitable for large lawns.
3. Push Mower.
A push mower is a type of lawn mower that is propelled by the user, rather than by an engine. These types of mowers are typically less expensive and easier to maintain than their powered counterparts.
Push mowers have a number of advantages over their powered counterparts. They are much less expensive, and they are also easier to operate and maintain. In addition, push mowers are much better for the environment, since they do not produce emissions.
Pros and cons of push mowers:
Assuming you have a small lawn, a push mower is a great option. Push mowers are relatively inexpensive and easy to operate. They also don’t require any gas or oil, which makes them more environmentally friendly than other types of lawn mowers.
On the downside, push mowers can be difficult to maneuver if your lawn is hilly or has a lot of obstacles. They also require more physical effort than other types of lawn mowers, so they may not be the best option if you have a large lawn or physical limitations.
4. Rotary Mower.
A rotary mower is a lawn mower that uses a rotary cutting blade to cut grass. The rotary cutting blade is a horizontal spinning blade that cuts grass as it comes into contact with it. Rotary mowers are either push mowers or self-propelled mowers.
While rotary mowers are very good at cutting grass, they have some drawbacks. One drawback is that they can throw stones and other objects up into the air, which can be dangerous. Another drawback is that rotary mowers tend to scalping the lawn, which means cutting too short and taking off the top layer of grass.
5. Self Propelled Mower.
A self-propelled mower is a lawn mower with a petrol or electric engine that powers the wheels, eliminating the need to push the mower. Most self-propelled mowers also have a blade brake clutch, which allows you to disengage the blade while the engine is still running. This is a great feature if you need to empty the grass bag or move debris out of your way.
A self propelled mower is a great way to get your lawn looking its best. But, before you buy one, there are a few things you need to consider. Here are four tips to help you choose the right self propelled mower for your lawn.
First, consider the size of your lawn. If you have a large lawn, you’ll need a mower that can cover a lot of ground quickly. But, if you have a small lawn, you won’t need as much power and a smaller mower will be just fine.
Second, think about the type of terrain you have. If your lawn is hilly, you’ll need a mower that can handle the inclines. But, if your lawn is mostly flat, any mower will do.
Third, consider the type of grass you have. If you have a thick, coarse grass, you’ll need a mower with more power. But, if you have a thin, delicate grass, you won’t need as much power and a smaller mower will be just fine.
Robotic Mower.
Robotic mower is an autonomous lawn mower that uses sensors, GPS, and artificial intelligence to mow your lawn. It is the future of lawn care.
Robotic mowers are becoming more popular because they offer many benefits over traditional gas or electric powered mowers. For example, robotic mowers are much quieter than their gas counterparts. They also don’t produce emissions, so they’re more environmentally friendly. And, since they’re autonomous, you don’t have to worry about them running over your flowers or children!
Pros and cons of robotic mowers:
There are several pros and cons to robotic mowers. On the plus side, they’re extremely convenient. You can schedule them to mow your lawn while you’re at work or on vacation, and they’ll do a great job. They’re also very efficient, since they only mow the areas that need it.
On the downside, they can be expensive, and they require a lot of setup. You’ll need to install boundary wires around your lawn so the mower knows where to go. They also can’t handle very large yards or tough terrain.
Tow-behind Mower.
Tow-behind mower is one of the most versatile pieces of lawn care equipment.
It can be used to mow large areas of grass, but it can also be used to trim hedges, clear brush, and even till gardens.
Tow-behind mowers come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit your needs.
Whether you have a large property or a small one, there is a tow-behind mower that will fit your lawn care needs.
Pros of tow-behind mowers:
- They are very versatile and can be used on a variety of terrain types.
- They are often more powerful than push mowers, making them ideal for large lawns.
- They can be attached to a variety of vehicles, making them easy to transport.
Cons of tow-behind mowers:
- They can be difficult to maneuver, especially around obstacles.
- They are not as portable as push mowers, making them less convenient for small lawns.
- They can be more expensive than push mowers.
Rough-Cut Mowers.
A rough-cut mower is a type of lawn mower that is designed for cutting rough, overgrown grass and weeds. They are often used by farmers and landowners to keep their property clear of unwanted vegetation. Rough-cut mowers typically have large blades and engines that can handle the tough terrain and heavy vegetation.
If you have an overgrown piece of property that needs to be cleared, a rough-cut mower may be the best option for you. These mowers can save you a lot of time and effort, and they will make your property look much better.
There are a few things to consider before purchasing a rough-cut mower. One is the size of the job you plan to use it for. If you have a large area of land to maintain, a rough-cut mower can save you a lot of time and energy. However, if you only need to trim your lawn once in a while, a traditional mower might be a better option.
Another thing to think about is the terrain. If you have hilly or uneven ground, a rough-cut mower can be more difficult to maneuver. You’ll also want to consider the type of vegetation you’ll be cutting. Rough-cut mowers are great for tall grass and weeds, but they can be more difficult to use on shorter grass.
Pros of rough-cut mowers:
-They are great for cutting thick brush and tall grass.
-They can mow in any direction, making them very versatile.
-They are much less expensive than traditional lawn mowers.
Cons of rough-cut mowers:
-They can be difficult to maneuver.
-The blades can get clogged easily.
-They can be dangerous to operate.
Sickle Bar Mower.
A sickle bar mower is a great tool for anyone with a lot of land to maintain. It can be used to cut grass, weeds, and even small trees. This type of mower is very versatile and can be used in a variety of ways.
Sickle bar mowers are available in both manual and powered versions. The manual version is the most common and is typically used by homeowners. The powered version is more expensive but is better suited for large properties.
Pros and cons of sickle bar mowers:
Sickle bar mowers have a number of advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before purchasing one. On the plus side, they are very versatile machines that can handle a variety of tasks such as cutting hay, chopping down small trees, and clearing brush. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to operate.
On the downside, sickle bar mowers can be dangerous if not used properly. The blades are sharp and can cause serious injuries if you’re not careful. They also require more maintenance than other types of mowers, and they can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Flail Mower.
A flail mower is a type of powered garden tool which is used for cutting grass, weeds, and other plants in your yard. The flail mower has a rotating drum with blades attached to it. As the blades rotate, they chop up the vegetation in their path.
Flail mowers are generally more expensive than traditional rotary lawn mowers, but they offer a number of advantages. For example, flail mowers can cut through thicker vegetation and are less likely to clog than rotary lawn mowers. In addition, flail mowers typically offer a better finished cut than rotary lawn mowers.
Pros and cons of flail mowers:
There are a few things to consider before purchasing or using a flail mower. Here are some pros and cons to help you make your decision:
PROS:
-Can be used on rough, uneven terrain
-Can handle higher speeds than rotary mowers
-Cuts vegetation close to the ground
-Less likely to throw debris
CONS:
-More expensive than rotary mowers
-Requires more maintenance
-Can be difficult to control on steep slopes
Bush Hog Mower.
A bush hog mower is a lawn mower that is used to cut down bushes and other overgrown vegetation. It is a very powerful tool that can make quick work of any overgrowth.
Bush hog mowers are available in a variety of sizes and styles to suit your needs. If you have a large area of land that is overgrown, you may want to consider a commercial-grade bush hog mower.
Bush hog mowers are relatively easy to operate. However, before using one, you should always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This will help you avoid any accidents and ensure that you use the machine properly.
Pros of bush hog mowers:
-They are very versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks.
-They are relatively inexpensive compared to other types of mowers.
-They are easy to operate and maintain.
Cons of bush hog mowers:
-They aren’t as powerful as some other types of mowers.
-They can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Types of Lawn Mowers By Power Types.
There are four types of lawn mowers based on their power source: electric, gas, battery, and manual. Each type has its own set of pros and cons that you should take into account before making a purchase. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of lawn mowers available on the market.
1. Manual Powered Mower.
A manual powered mower is a great way to keep your lawn looking neat and tidy without having to worry about gas or oil. You simply need to push the mower around your lawn in order to cut the grass. This type of mower is also eco-friendly since it doesn’t produce any emissions.
Pros and cons of manual powered mowers:
There are several pros to using a manual powered mower. First, they are much cheaper than their gas or electric counterparts. Second, they are much quieter and produce no emissions. Third, they require very little maintenance. Finally, they are gentle on the environment.
There are a few cons to using a manual powered mower as well. First, they can be difficult to push if the lawn is wet or uneven. Second, they can take longer to mow a lawn than gas or electric mowers. Third, they may not be able to handle large areas of grass. Finally, they may not have all of the bells and whistles that some of the more expensive mowers have.
2. Electric Powered Mower.
An electric-powered mower is a lawn mower that uses electricity as its power source. Electric mowers are powered by batteries or a corded electric power supply. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental friendliness and low noise level.
Electric mowers have a number of advantages over traditional petrol-powered mowers. They are much quieter, produce no emissions, and are easier to start. Electric mowers are also lighter and easier to push than petrol mowers, making them a good choice for smaller lawns.
3. Gas-Powered Mower.
A gas-powered mower is a lawn mower that uses gasoline as its fuel. Gas-powered mowers are popular because they are powerful and can mow large areas quickly. However, gas-powered mowers can be expensive to operate and maintain.
If you’re considering purchasing a gas-powered mower, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, gas-powered mowers are more expensive than electric mowers. You’ll also need to have access to a gas can and fill it up regularly. Additionally, gas-powered mowers produce emissions that can be harmful to the environment.
Pros and cons of gas-powered mowers:
Gas-powered mowers definitely have some pros. They’re usually more powerful than electric mowers, so they can tackle tougher jobs. They also tend to be more maneuverable, so you can get into tight spaces more easily. And most gas mowers have self-propulsion capabilities, which can make mowing the lawn a lot less work.
But there are also some cons to gas-powered mowers. They can be louder than electric mowers, so if you’re looking for a quiet option, gas may not be the way to go. They also require more maintenance than electric mowers, and they typically emit more emissions.
4. Battery-Powered Mower.
A battery-powered mower is a lawn mower that runs on a battery, instead of gas or electricity. Battery-powered mowers are becoming more popular because they are quieter and emit no emissions.
Pros and cons of battery-powered mowers:
One of the main advantages of these types of mowers is that they emit zero emissions, making them much more environmentally friendly than gas-powered models. Another plus is that they’re relatively quiet, so you won’t disturb your neighbors while mowing the lawn.
On the downside, battery-powered mowers can be more expensive than gas models, and they may not have enough power to mow a very large lawn. Additionally, the batteries need to be regularly charged, which can take some time.
Types of Lawn Mowers by Drive Types.
1. Manual.
The oldest and most basic type of lawn mower, the manual lawn mower is pushed by the user. The blades are often rotated by a simple lever or wheel. Manual lawn mowers are the lightest and cheapest type of lawn mower, making them ideal for small yards.
2. Rear Wheel Drive.
This is the most common type of lawn mower. The wheels at the back of the mower provide power to move it forward. It is easy to operate and provides good traction on uneven terrain. The rear wheels provide power to the blade, making it easy to maneuver around obstacles.
3. Front-Wheel Drive.
The wheels that are located in the front of the mower power the machine. This type is best used on level terrain with grass that isn’t too thick or long.
4. All Wheel Drive.
The all wheel drive lawn mower is one of the most popular types on the market. This type of lawn mower is able to maneuver around obstacles easily and provides a smooth ride.
The all wheel drive lawn mower is equipped with four wheels that are each powered by their own individual motors. This allows the all wheel drive lawn mower to have more traction and stability than other types of lawn mowers.
Types of Lawn Mowers by Start Types.
One important factor to consider when purchasing a lawn mower is the start type. Here is a look at the most common types of lawn mowers by start type:
1. Key Start.
The most common and basic type of lawn mower is the key start. It usually has a pull cord that you need to yank in order to start the engine. If you have a smaller yard, this type of lawn mower will probably suffice. However, if you have a larger yard, you might want to consider something with a little more power.
2. Push Button Start (Electric Start).
You simply push a button to start the engine. Electric start models are available, but they’re more expensive.
3. Recoil Start (Pull Start; Manual Start).
The engine is started by a cord that is pulled, which then spins the flywheel and starts the engine.
There are two types of recoil starts: pull start and manual start. Pull start engines have a handle that you must pull in order to start the engine. Manual start engines have a knob that you must turn in order to start the engine.
The main advantage of a recoil start is that it is very simple and easy to use.
Another advantage is that it does not require any electricity, so it can be used even if there is a power outage.
The main disadvantage of a recoil start is that it can be difficult to start the engine, especially if the engine is cold.
Another disadvantage is that it can be dangerous if the cord gets wrapped around your hand or arm.
Features
1. Discharge Location.
The location of the discharge chute on the mower deck is important. Some decks place the discharge chute in the front, while others have it to the side or in the back.
Consider how much trimming you do and whether you want clippings discharged toward or away from landscaping, sidewalks, and driveways.
If you have a small yard, you might not care where the clippings are discharged as long as they end up in the grass and not on your feet or legs. If you have a lot of landscaping, you might want to choose a model that discharges clippings away from flower beds and shrubs.
Rear Discharge.
The rear discharge feature on a lawn mower is great for those who have a lot of leaves on their lawn. This feature allows you to mulch the leaves and grass clippings into a fine texture that will decompose quickly and add nutrients back into your lawn.
Side Discharge.
The side discharge feature of a lawn mower is great for people who have a lot of trees in their yard. The side discharge feature allows you to evenly distribute the clippings over a wider area, which helps to prevent clumping and grass buildup. This feature also helps to reduce the amount of time you spend emptying the bag on your lawn mower.
Another great feature of the side discharge is that it helps to reduce the amount of noise that your lawn mower makes. This is because the blades are not in direct contact with the ground, which reduces the amount of friction and noise.
Both Rear and Side.
The rear bagging system allows for easy grass clipping disposal, while the side discharge system is ideal for those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of a bag. You can also mulch your lawn with either setting, meaning you can recycle your grass clippings and nourish your lawn at the same time.
2. Cut Width.
The cutting width of a lawn mower is important to consider when purchasing a lawn mower. The wider the cutting width, the more area you can cover in a shorter amount of time. Some lawn mowers have a cutting width of up to 21 inches.
3. Adjustable Height.
The ability to adjust the height of your lawn mower is a must-have feature, whether you’re looking to maintain a perfect lawn or simply want the flexibility to tackle different types of terrain. Many lawn mowers on the market today offer this feature, so be sure to look for one that will suit your needs.
4. Bagger Capable.
This is a great feature if you have a lot of leaves or grass to collect. The bagger collects the debris as you mow, so you don’t have to worry about it blowing away or leaving a mess.
The bagger also helps to mulch your lawn as you mow, which fertilizes your lawn and helps it stay healthy.
5. Speed Control.
This is a great feature that allows you to set the speed of the mower. This is especially useful if you have a lot of lawn to mow or if you want to take your time and enjoy the process. The speed control also allows you to be more precise with your cuts, which can save you time in the long run.
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- 8 Best Lawn Mowers Under $300 Reviews On The Market and Buying Guide
Conclusion
So, there you have it! These are the most common types of lawn mowers that you’ll find on the market. Of course, there are many other variations and sub-categories, but these are the basics. Now that you know a little bit more about lawn mowers, you can make a more informed decision when it’s time to buy one for your own home. Thanks for reading!