Best Lawn Mower For Small Yards This Year – Outdoor Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Lawn Mower For Small Yards this year are:
BEST OVERALL
Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower
- 16-inch cutting deck
- 40V lithium-ion battery
- 3-in-1 cutting options
- 5-position height adjustment
- Foldable handles for storage
Introduction
Finding the right lawn mower for a small yard can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of options available in the market. The key is to identify a mower that is efficient, easy to store, and user-friendly, ensuring that your lawn remains lush and neatly trimmed without unnecessary hassle.
In this article, we will explore some of the best lawn mowers for small yards, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or a homeowner looking to maintain a tidy lawn, this guide will help you find the perfect mower that suits your specific needs and budget.
Reviews & Comparisons
1. Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower
The Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is a versatile, battery-powered option ideal for small yards. It offers the convenience of cordless operation, ensuring you can easily navigate your lawn without the hassle of cords.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like this mower for its ease of use and eco-friendly design. The cordless feature allows for unrestricted mowing, and the battery provides ample power for small to medium-sized yards.
Features
- 16-inch cutting deck
- 40V lithium-ion battery
- 3-in-1 cutting options
- 5-position height adjustment
- Foldable handles for storage
Pros
- Cordless convenience
- Quiet operation
- Easy to maneuver
- Environmentally friendly
- Compact storage
Cons
- Limited battery life
- Not suitable for large yards
- Requires battery charging
- Higher initial cost
- May struggle with thick grass
Our Verdict
The Greenworks Cordless Mower is perfect for eco-conscious homeowners with small yards. Its cordless design and user-friendly features make mowing a breeze, although the limited battery life may require frequent charging.
2. Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower
The Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower is a compact and efficient electric mower, perfect for small yards. Its powerful motor ensures a clean cut and contributes to its low maintenance needs.
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Why we like it
This mower is favored for its affordability and reliability. It’s an excellent option for those who want an electric mower without breaking the bank, offering durability and performance in a compact package.
Features
- 13-amp motor
- 14-inch cutting deck
- 3-position height control
- Rear discharge chute
- Collapsible handle for easy storage
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight design
- Easy to store
- Low maintenance
- Good cutting performance
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Corded operation
- No mulching capability
- Plastic construction
- Short power cord
Our Verdict
The Sun Joe Electric Lawn Mower is a budget-friendly choice for small yards. While it may lack some advanced features, its performance and ease of use make it a reliable option for regular lawn maintenance.
3. Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower
The Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower is a manual push mower designed for eco-friendly mowing. It offers a clean, precise cut without the noise and emissions of gas mowers.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate its simplicity and environmental benefits. It’s ideal for small, flat yards and provides a great workout while maintaining your lawn. The StaySharp technology reduces the need for blade sharpening.
Features
- 18-inch cutting width
- StaySharp cutting system
- Adjustable cut height
- Inset wheels for closer edges
- Eco-friendly design
Pros
- No gas or electricity required
- Quiet operation
- Low maintenance
- Precise cutting
- Environmentally friendly
Cons
- Manual effort required
- Less effective on tall grass
- Not suitable for large yards
- Limited to flat terrain
- No grass collection
Our Verdict
The Fiskars Reel Mower is perfect for eco-conscious individuals with small, flat lawns. It offers a quiet, pollution-free mowing experience, though it requires more physical effort compared to powered mowers.
4. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Lawn Mower
The BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Lawn Mower is a versatile tool that functions as a mower, trimmer, and edger. It’s perfect for small yards needing multiple lawn care tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
This tool’s versatility is its standout feature, making it an excellent choice for those who require multiple functions in one device. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, simplifying yard work.
Features
- 3-in-1 functionality
- 12-inch cutting swath
- Cordless design
- Adjustable handle
- Automatic feed spool
Pros
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Cordless convenience
- Compact design
Cons
- Limited battery life
- Small cutting path
- Not suitable for large lawns
- Requires charging
- Plastic construction
Our Verdict
The BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Lawn Mower is ideal for small yards requiring versatile tools. Its 3-in-1 design offers convenience, although the battery life may necessitate frequent recharging for larger tasks.
5. WORX WG779 40V Power Share Lawn Mower
The WORX WG779 is a robust cordless lawn mower that utilizes 40V Power Share batteries for efficient mowing. It’s designed to tackle small yards with ease and precision.
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Why we like it
We like the WORX WG779 for its dual battery system, which extends the runtime and provides reliable power. Its compact design and easy-to-use features make it a favorite for small yard owners.
Features
- 14-inch cutting deck
- 40V dual battery system
- Mulching and bagging options
- 6-height adjustments
- Intellicut technology
Pros
- Extended battery life
- Compact and lightweight
- Eco-friendly
- Easy height adjustments
- Mulching capabilities
Cons
- Limited to small yards
- Battery recharging required
- Higher initial cost
- Plastic components
- May struggle with thick grass
Our Verdict
The WORX WG779 is excellent for small yards, offering a balance of power and convenience. Its dual battery system ensures longer runtime, making it a practical choice for efficient lawn care.
6. American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 Reel Mower
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 Reel Mower is a classic, environmentally-friendly option for small lawns. It’s simple, efficient, and requires no gas or electricity.
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Why we like it
We like this reel mower for its simplicity and low maintenance. It’s perfect for those who prefer a manual approach to lawn care and want a quiet, emission-free mowing experience.
Features
- 14-inch cutting width
- 4-blade reel
- Adjustable cutting height
- T-style handle
- Lightweight design
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Quiet operation
- Low maintenance
- Simple to use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Manual operation
- Limited to small lawns
- Less effective on tall grass
- No grass collection
- Requires physical effort
Our Verdict
The American Lawn Mower Company Reel Mower is ideal for eco-conscious users with small lawns. It offers a quiet, efficient mowing experience, though it requires more manual effort compared to powered models.
7. RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Lawn Mower
The RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Lawn Mower is a compact, battery-powered mower designed for small yards. Its cordless design allows for easy maneuverability and convenience.
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Why we like it
This mower is liked for its compact size and efficient performance. The RYOBI ONE+ battery system offers flexibility for other tools, making it a versatile addition to any homeowner’s toolkit.
Features
- 13-inch cutting path
- 18V ONE+ battery compatibility
- Compact design
- Adjustable handle
- Easy start button
Pros
- Cordless convenience
- Lightweight design
- Battery versatility
- Compact for storage
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Limited to small lawns
- Requires frequent charging
- Small cutting width
- Plastic components
- Not for thick grass
Our Verdict
The RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Lawn Mower is perfect for small yards and those already invested in the RYOBI ONE+ system. Its compact size and ease of use make it a practical and versatile choice.
8. EGO Power+ 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Lawn Mower
The EGO Power+ 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Lawn Mower is a high-performance mower with a powerful battery system, suitable for small to medium-sized yards.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like this mower for its powerful performance and long battery life. It offers a wide cutting path and various features that enhance the mowing experience, making it a top choice for small yards.
Features
- 21-inch cutting deck
- 56-volt lithium-ion battery
- 6-height adjustments
- Mulching, bagging, and side discharge
- Weather-resistant construction
Pros
- Powerful performance
- Long battery life
- Wide cutting path
- Versatile features
- Durable construction
Cons
- Higher cost
- Heavy for small yards
- Requires battery charging
- Not for very small lawns
- May be overpowered for small tasks
Our Verdict
The EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower is ideal for homeowners seeking powerful performance in a cordless model. While it may be more than needed for very small yards, its features and battery life make it a worthwhile investment.
9. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Inch Reel Lawn Mower
The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Inch Reel Lawn Mower offers a classic mowing experience with a wider cutting path, ideal for small to medium-sized lawns.
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Why we like it
We appreciate its wider cutting width and eco-friendly design. This reel mower is perfect for those who prefer a manual mowing experience and seek a reliable, no-fuss option.
Features
- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade ball bearing reel
- Adjustable cutting height
- Dual tracking wheels
- Ergonomic handle
Pros
- Wide cutting path
- Eco-friendly
- Quiet operation
- Low maintenance
- Durable construction
Cons
- Manual effort needed
- Less effective on thick grass
- No grass collection
- Limited to flat terrain
- Requires regular blade maintenance
Our Verdict
The Scotts Reel Lawn Mower is a great choice for those who want a manual, eco-friendly mowing solution. Its wide cutting path and durable design make it effective for small to medium lawns.
10. Honda HRX217VLA Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
The Honda HRX217VLA Self-Propelled Lawn Mower is a premium gas mower designed for those who value performance and durability. It’s suitable for small to medium-sized yards needing a powerful tool.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
This mower is liked for its powerful engine and self-propelled drive, making mowing easier on sloped or uneven terrain. Its advanced features ensure efficient and satisfying lawn care.
Features
- 21-inch cutting deck
- Self-propelled drive
- Versamow System for mulching
- Electric start
- Adjustable speed control
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Self-propelled convenience
- Durable construction
- Versatile cutting options
- Reliable performance
Cons
- Higher price
- Requires gas and maintenance
- Heavier than electric models
- Not ideal for very small yards
- Louder operation
Our Verdict
The Honda HRX217VLA is perfect for those who need a reliable, powerful mower for small to medium yards. Its self-propelled feature and advanced cutting options make it a top choice, despite its higher price point.
Buying Guide
- Size and Maneuverability: Look for a compact mower that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces. A lightweight design allows for ease of movement and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. Consider mowers with adjustable handle heights for comfortable operation. Learn more.
- Power Source: Decide between electric, gas, or manual push mowers. Electric mowers are quieter and environmentally friendly, while gas mowers offer more power for tougher grass. Manual mowers are ideal for small, flat lawns. Read more.
- Cutting Width: For small yards, a cutting width between 14 to 21 inches is typically sufficient. A smaller width provides more control and precision, while a larger width can reduce mowing time.
- Storage and Maintenance: Consider foldable or compact models for easy storage. Look for mowers with easy-to-clean decks and accessible parts for maintenance.
- Additional Features: Features like mulching capabilities, bagging options, and height adjustment can enhance your mowing experience. Ensure the mower offers the functions you need for your specific lawn care.
FAQs
What type of lawn mower is best for a small yard?
For small yards, electric or manual push mowers are often recommended. Electric mowers are easy to start, eco-friendly, and require minimal maintenance. Manual push mowers are ideal for flat, small lawns and offer a quiet, workout-friendly option.
How often should I mow a small lawn?
During the growing season, it’s best to mow your lawn once a week. This frequency ensures that your grass stays healthy and your yard looks neat. Adjust the frequency based on growth rate and weather conditions.
Are cordless electric mowers good for small yards?
Yes, cordless electric mowers are an excellent choice for small yards. They offer the convenience of mobility without the hassle of cords, making them ideal for maneuvering around obstacles. Plus, they are quieter and require less maintenance than gas mowers.
What is the average lifespan of a lawn mower?
A well-maintained lawn mower can last between 8 to 10 years. Regular maintenance, such as blade sharpening, oil changes, and cleaning, can extend the lifespan of your mower, ensuring it runs efficiently for many seasons.
How do I maintain a lawn mower for a small yard?
To maintain your mower, clean the deck after each use to prevent grass buildup. Check the air filter, spark plug, and blade condition regularly. For gas mowers, change the oil annually. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific maintenance tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lawn mower for a small yard involves considering factors like size, power source, and additional features. By understanding your specific needs, you can select a mower that makes lawn care efficient and enjoyable. The right mower will help you maintain a pristine yard, enhancing your home’s curb appeal.