Best Lawn Mowers Under $200 In 2020 - Editors Top 10 Picks Within Affordable Budget
When it comes to mowing our lawns, it is often easy to think that we need to spend a vast amount of money to get the performance and longevity, but in fact this is no longer the case. With the rise of mowers on the market, there are now, more than ever far more affordable models that work just as well and, in some cases, better than the top of the line models. Whether you have a small paddock or large garden, there is a lawn mower under $200 that will meet your gardening needs and here are the 10 best that we have found on the market.
From environmentally friendly push reel mowers, to low cost petrol and corded options, there is a mower to suit everyone’s needs and requirements. Before you make the purchase there are things you need to consider, such as the type of lawn you currently have, how often you will be cutting it and whether it is flat or on an incline. All these factors will dictate what type of lawn mower is best for your situation and we have covered all bases to give you an array of options to suit almost all gardening needs.
Comparison - Top Lawn Mowers Under $200
Image | Product Name | Cutting Width (inch) | Power Source | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
GreenWorks 20-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower | 20 | Electric | ||
Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14 inch 13 Amp Electric Lawn Mower | 14 | Electric | ||
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 12-Inch Lawn Mower | 12 | Battery | ||
Great States 415-16 16-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower | 16 | Battery | ||
| Scotts Outdoor Power Tools Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower | 20 | - | |
American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower | 14 | Manual | ||
Fiskars 362050-1001 StaySharp Max Reel Mower | 18 | Manual | ||
Yard Machines 20-Inch Push Gas Lawn Mower | 20 | Gas Powered | ||
Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower | 16 | Manual | ||
American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14-Inch Lawn Mower | 14 | Electric |
Quick Overviews on Lawn Mowers Under $200
1. GreenWorks 20-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower
Greenworks are known for producing quality mowers at affordable rates and their 12 amp corded mower is no different. With a 20inch cutting deck it makes light work out of small to medium sized gardens, giving you multiple mowing options from mulching through to side discharge.
The greenworks is light and easily manoeuvrable, even though it isn’t self-propelled; it is light enough for most people to push it along their flat lawn with no issues. The 7-position height adjustment feature gives you a mower that is comfortable to use for almost anyone with no fear of strained muscles or pulled backs. Not only can you change the height of the mower, the arms are also collapsible to make storage far easier than traditional fixed models.
The 12amp motor gives you a powerful cut but keeps the unit light and mobile. This mower is excellent for medium length grass and will happily cut this all day. Additional features include a push start button and a rear bag to help keep your garden free from waste and debris. The wheel set up makes sure that you can push this mower through even the thickest of grass with limited effort, just watch out for the cord.
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2. Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14 inch 13 Amp Electric Lawn Mower
The Sun Joe has been designed and engineers with small gardens in mind. This innovative take on the lawn mower gives you a unit that can be used in even the smallest and most oddly shaped gardens. The 14inch wide cutting path gives you a mower that can fit in the tightest of spaces but is powerful enough to do larger areas.
The three positioned height control gives users an array of choices when it comes to cutting grass. The 14 inch steel blade will make light work of even the most stubborn of weeds, giving you a level clean cut across your lawn.
The Sun Joe gives users a light manoeuvrable unit with a long power cord that will reach across most small gardens and allotments. The 13amp motor is exceptionally powerful, even more so given the power to weight ratio as it weighs less than other models on the market, but has a more powerful motor. This, added with the hard top rear collection, gives you a premium unit that has excellent cutting capability.
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3. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 12-Inch Lawn Mower
The Black and Decker 3 in 1 is the tool for you if you have a small garden that you want to keep neat and tidy. The innovative design makes it so that you can stop mowing and with one click, have a string trimmer and edger. This product will not be for everyone, as there are no blades involved; it is purely strimmer line that cuts your grass.
The black and Decker 3 in 1 is super light and manoeuvrable. You only need one handed control to be able to push it forward across your lawn it is that light. The tool also comes with a power drive transmission, whilst this isn’t as strong as self-propelled technology. It is still good and stops it bogging down. You can even adjust the height and the cutting deck like a traditional mower.
The lithium batteries are excellent at keeping their charge and remaining consistent. It is also super easy to click this tool from a mower, to a strimmer and then back again. If you have a garden that is on a steep incline, or is rather rocky, this black and decker 3 in 1 could be the choice for you.
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4. Great States 415-16 16-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower
If you want to be more eco conscious or simply just want an additional mower that doesn’t take up a lot of space. The green states could be the mower for you. Even though it is manual push power, the height adjustments mean you get a clean, even cut every single time. It is a consistent little mower and gives you a really strong alternative to battery or corded mowers in the same price bracket.
The cutting width of the Great States is larger than some other mowers we have reviewed. However, it comes with the added benefit that you don’t need to maintain the mower in the same way as you would with powered mowers. The blades work together to snip the tops of the grass off, unlike a traditional rotary mower which can produce a healthier and fuller lawn.
The Great States can be used across all types of lawns, be it up or down hill, it will always give you a consistent cut. Due to its lack of weight, it is ideal for inclines of all types without having the fear that you may drop it, or have it run away from you. If you have a small garden and a small shed, the Great States is far easier to store than a traditional lawn mower. You can simply prop it up against the wall and it won’t take up any space.
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5. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
The Scotts outdoor classic mower has been designed with the age-old rotary system, but with modern day twists to give you a user-friendly experience that won’t result in sore hands and sore arms. The ergonomic handle gives you a mower that you can use all day and won’t feel it in your limbs. It also gives you a mower that is far easier to push than the straight bar alternatives.
Utilising the horizontal blade system, the Scott outdoors push mower promotes healthy and dense lawn growth. It only removes the top tips of your grass, rather than churning it up at the root, which is something modern mowers can do. It may not be effective at cutting longer grass and weeds. But if you have looked after and regularly cut your lawn and are looking for an environmentally friendly alternative, this is a good option for you.
The 10inch tracking wheels gives you a product that is stable and easy to use. It won’t become bogged down or get stuck in thicker grass. It makes for an all-round easy cutting experience. If you are short on space, this mower is easy to store as it can lean against a wall vertically and take up little to no floor space, unlike electric or battery-operated mowers. As it is manual there is also a reduction in overheads, there is no oil, spark plugs or batteries to replace, just simply push and go.
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6. American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower
The American lawn mower company have been creating push lawn mowers since 1895 so know a thing or two about how to design the best. Their 4 blade system will cut through even the densest of scrub, giving you a smooth consistent cut that you can be proud of. The horizontal blade system results in a lawn that won’t get diseased or an increase of weeds and moss as you aren’t churning up the grass, just taking the tips off to promote healthy regrowth.
The push reel lawn mower gives you an eco-friendly answer to corded, battery and petrol mowers. There is no carbon footprint of this product and there are also no associated maintenance costs, simply push and go. The build quality is exceptional, especially for a mower.
The easy height adjustment makes this mower compete with most available on the market within this price category. You can adjust from 1 to 1.75 inches, which gives you a good range. Again, this product is for lawns that have been well cared for previously. It isn’t a product that can be used to help you create a healthy lawn, rather it is ideal for maintaining a healthy lawn.
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7. Fiskars 362050-1001 StaySharp Max Reel Mower
The Fiskars max reel mower is a 21st century takes on a design classic. The eco-friendly self-powered mower is ideal for those whose gardens are already well established and whose lawns just need maintenance and health cuts. The Fiskars is a chain driven mower that makes it easier to push along your lawn than other self-powered cutting systems. You’ll find that it won’t get bogged or stuck and makes light work of even the densest of lawns.
You can easily adjust the cutting height of the Fiskars. The simple one-handed operation means you won’t have to get yourself into any awkward position to lift or lower the blades. Simply bend down and lift the handle to adjust your cutting height. You can also easily adjust the height to give you the best pushing posture. It will turn the chore of cutting your lawn into an easily manageable and possibly even an enjoyable activity.
I particularly liked the edging capability of this push mower. It was far superior to any other push mower as the wheels on the front and the ability to set the blades height give you a professional and clean finish. The blade lift is between 1 to 4 inches, giving you more options than other mowers in this category.
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8. Yard Machines 20-Inch Push Gas Lawn Mower
If you have a larger lawn or even a paddock, the yard machine will be a great addition to your shed. The 132cc engine gives you enough power to be able to cut through even the weediest and overgrown gardens, whilst the mower remains light and manoeuvrable. The 20inch cutting deck will limit the amount of times you have to walk up and down your garden.
It is a very basic petrol lawn mower with no additional features. It provides you with basic cutting capability without any additional frills. The yard machine has a side discharge shoot, which results in cut grass landing on your lawn. If you would rather have a mower that discharges into a bag, then this product isn’t for you.
Depending on the size of your lawn depends on the fuel efficiency of the product. If you keep your lawn well maintained and manicured, you will find that the fuel lasts longer than if you don’t. However, this is an excellent product if you are prone to letting your lawn or paddock grow out of control or simply don’t have the time or inclination to mow it every week. The sturdy handle gives you a mower that is easy to push and big enough wheels that make sure you won’t get bogged down.
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9. Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
The Earthwise gives you an eco-friendly and environmentally sound mower that can be used in difficult conditions. It has been developed with difficult grass types in mind so that you are sure to get a superior cut. The snipping action of the blades give you a cut that will not only promote a healthier lawn, it reduces the chance of disease taking hold. The snipping action has also been shown to produce thicker lawns over time, taking your lawn to the next level.
The Earthwise is easy to move and use, even if you struggle with mobility issues. It is light weight enough for you to be able to use it safely across an even and level terrain. If you have good mobility, this is an excellent mower to use on verges and inclines without fear of it falling or running away with you.
The simplistic nature of the Earthwise gives you a product that will work all the time, every time. There are no associated maintenance costs and no having to run out to the shops when you have forgotten to get fuel or oil. As soon as you pick it up, it is ready to be used. Not only that, if you are short on space the storage footprint for this mower is tiny. It can be propped up against a wall and takes up no room at all, you can even carry it through your house to your back lawn without fear of damaging walls or your back.
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10. American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14-Inch Lawn Mower
If you have a larger garden or paddock and don’t want to have to think about getting fuel for a mower, the American lawn mower company’s electric lawn mower may provide you with the answer you need. Considering that this mower costs lower, the design and look of it makes you think that you have spent a lot more than that. The powerful 11amp motor makes light work of almost anything you put in front of it, ensuring that you can cut through even the least looked after lawns.
Unlike other mowers in this price range, you really get it all with this one. The added bonus of a cutting basket gives you a mower that you don’t have to empty too often as it can hold up to 16 litres of cutting. The cutting deck is smaller than other mowers we have reviewed, but this is offset by the power output and the functionality of it. It is light weight, easy to use and will make cutting your lawn easy and less of a task.
The height adjustable features ensure that you can cut a variety of terrains without fear of it becoming bogged down or stuck, again this ideal for anyone who has let their lawn get the better of them. The multilevel handle positions ensure that it is ergonomic for all users and limits injury or pain that you may face if you don’t have this adjustment option.
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Considerations To Make Before You Make A Purchase
If you are looking to upgrade your current mower, or you have never purchased one before and are deciding on what is best for you, don’t worry we can help. Prior to making your purchase you need to assess how you will be using your mower, how often you will be using it and what type of garden you have. Once you have considered all these points, choosing one that suits your needs will be far easier.
Small Sized Gardens
If you have a small garden, then a self-powered reel mower may be the option for you, especially if you are already in the habit of looking after your lawn. They are easy to use, you won’t have to spend any time getting it ready for use and you can cut at any time of day without fear of upsetting your neighbours as they are almost silent.
If you don’t want a self-powered reel mower, the sun Joe can provide you with a small mower that is excellent in small spaces whilst giving you a consistent cut. Both of these types of products would be our choice if we had small, awkwardly shaped gardens and wanted to be more environmentally conscious.
Medium Sized Gardens
Some people may want a self-powered reel mower regardless of garden size, but if you don’t want that there are plenty of options available to you. It is easy to let lawns get out of control, but if we have a good tool for the job, we will be more inclined to cut it regularly.
The yard machine is an excellent choice if you dislike cutting your lawn and want it done quickly. The 132cc engine will cut through almost all grass and make sure you are left with a lawn that is well looked after. If you are more geared to having a lawn that you like to look at and want to spend time on, the American Lawn mower companies electric corded mower will not only cut your lawn well, but will also keep all the clippings in a bag for you, keeping everything neat and tidy.
Gardens with Inclines, verges and declines
If you have a garden that has uneven terrain, the idea of cutting it can be dauting and something that you don’t want to tackle. For gardens such as these, we prefer using the self-powered reel mower. They are a lot lighter than any motor, electric or battery powered alternative, making them far easier to control and safer. Furthermore, if you were to drop the reel mower, the chances of you getting hurt are drastically reduced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Reel Mower on Thicker Grass?
Yes! You absolutely can, reel mowers will cut very thick lawns and will help keep your lawn thick and healthy. Whilst you will always cut at your own pace, they are light weight and easy to use so you won’t struggle as much as you think you might. They are good for the environment and also good for our fitness levels.
Does It Matter Which Cord I Use With My Corded Mower?
Yes, it is vital you have the right cord for your mower. Some don’t include a cord when you purchase them, but you must make sure you follow manufactures guidelines when you do. Failure to use the correct cord can not only limit the life span of your mower, it can also be dangerous. Inferior cords can cause too much or not enough current going to the mower which result in the electronics being damaged and your mower being rendered useless.
Final Thoughts
The range of lawn mowers under $200 is astounding, especially given the quality that consumers can now choose from. We have tried tested and reviewed our favourite lawn mowers that will help keep your lawns in check, even when it is a job you hate doing.
Whether you are looking for a quiet, environmentally friendly alternative, or need a mower that can provide you with superior cutting over a larger distance without the price tag, we have reviewed anitem for you. Prior to making the decision, make sure you have considered what type of garden or lawn you have, how often you will be cutting it and whether you have any difficult terrain. Once you have assessed these decisions, you will find that selecting a mower that is fit for the job will be far easier. Follow our complete buyers guide to help you reach the best decision for your lawn.