Best Self Propelled Lawn Mowers Under $300
Getting a self-propelled lawn mower will reduce the strain of mowing your yard. Self-propelled mowers are perfect for both home and commercial lawn maintenance.
But the question is, how do you get a reasonably priced, efficient, and durable self-propelled mower under 300 dollars?
We have dug deep and done the research. And in this article, we share the top-rated self propelled lawn mowers under $300.
Top 3 Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers Under 300
- Side discharge, mulching and bagging capabilities.
- Equipped with a belt and pulley to power the mower’s front wheels.
- Easy to assemble.
- Can side discharge, mulch or bag via the 3-in-1 option.
- Auto-switch technology ensures longer runtimes.
- Foldable handles for easy and tidy storage.
- Durable 21-inch steel deck to handle large areas with ease.
- Variable speed rear wheel drive for easy maneuverability on any terrain.
- Brushless motor provides a quiet operation.
1. Troy-Bilt 12AVA2MR766
- Power source: Gas
- Cutting Width: 21 inches
- Cutting Height: 1.25-3.75 inches
- Capabilities: Side discharge, Mulching, Bagging
- Warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 90 lbs.
Pros:
- It has side discharge, bagging and mulching capabilities.
- The Troy-Bilt 12AVA2MR766 is equipped with a belt and pulley to provide power to the front wheels.
- The mower is easy to start thanks to its auto choke feature.
- The self-propelled has a versatile and efficient cutting deck for smooth and efficient mowing.
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Not the most suitable for hilly terrain.
The Troy-Bilt TB210 12AVA2MR766 is a sturdy and versatile self-propelled mowing machine suitable for small and medium-sized yards.
Design
The self-propelled mower comes with a front-wheel-drive for an improved control while mowing. The 159cc OHV engine is equipped with an auto choke feature for an easier start.
The deck wash adaptor connects with a standard garden hose to rinse clippings from the underside of the deck.
The self-propelled mower has a built-in rake bumper which is mounted to the cutting deck. It is used to lift the blades for efficient mowing.
The Troy-Bilt 12AVA2MR766 comes with a fuel tank capacity of 1.3 qt. The cutting deck is made of steel to enhance durability. The belt and pulley provide power to the mower’s front wheels.
Cutting Power & Performance
The Troy-Bilt 12AVA2MR766 comes with a 21-inch cutting deck for a nice and efficient mowing performance. The mower’s blades are extended to the edge of the frame for a clean and smooth cut.
You can adjust the cutting height to six different positions between the range of 1.25-3.75 inches. This will allow users to cut the grass to the desired height or size.
Special Features
The self-propelled mower comes with a tri-Action cutting system- side discharge, mulching and bagging. The side discharge chute spreads the grass clippings to the side.
The rake bumper blade and symmetrical deck combine to create mulched clippings. This will help to restore nitrogen to the soil. The bag collects grass clippings for easy disposal.
2. PowerSmart Self Propelled Lawn Mower DB2321SR
- Power source: Gas
- Cutting Width: 21 inches
- Cutting Height: 1.2-3.0 inches
- Capabilities: Side discharge, Mulching and Bagging
- Warranty: 3 years
- Weight: 67 lbs.
Pros:
- The PowerSmart DB2321SR runs on a powerful and reliable 170cc 4-stroke engine for efficient and smooth mowing.
- It is easy to assemble.
- The 5-position height adjustment feature adds to the flexibility of the mower to make cutting easier.
- The self-propelled lawn mower has side discharge, mulching, and bagging capabilities.
- It works well on tall and tough grasses.
Cons
- The grass bag gets filled up easily.
- Not ideal for large yards.
The PowerSmart DB2321SR is a versatile and sturdy self-propelled mower perfect for small-sized yards. It can side discharge, mulch or bag via the 3-in-1 option, and it is priced at just under 300!
Design
The gas-powered lawnmower comes with a 7-inch front wheel and an 8-inch rear wheel for easy and smooth maneuverability on lawns.
It runs on a powerful and reliable 170cc 4-stroke engine for efficient and smooth mowing. The engine is also easy to start.
The self propelled mower has a foldable handle design for easy storage. This will ensure an easy and organized space for storage. The PowerSmart DB2321SR mower is easy to assemble and has a fuel tank capacity of 0.21 gallons.
Cutting Power & Performance
The PowerSmart DB2321SR gas mower is equipped with a 21-inch cutting deck for top-notch cutting performance. It has a five-position height adjustment which can be adjusted from 1.2 to 3.0 inches for nice cut quality.
The self-propelled mower works well on flat and uneven terrains. It can cut up to ½ acre. The mower’s blades have the capacity to cut tall and tough grass.
Special Features
The gas-powered lawn mower can side discharge, mulch and bag via the 3 in 1 option. The mulching feature restores nutrients into the soil while the rear bag collects grass clippings and dead leaves for an easy clean-up.
3. Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower
- Power source: Battery
- Cutting Width: 21 inches
- Cutting Height: 1 3/8- 3 ¾ inches
- Capabilities: Side discharge, mulching and bagging
- Warranty: 4 years
- Weight: 67 lbs
Pros:
- The battery-powered lawn mower is easy to start and operate.
- It has a lightweight design.
- It requires minimal maintenance.
- The Greenworks MO40L02 can side discharge, mulch or bag via the 3-in-1 option.
Cons
- The MO40L02 mower has short battery life.
- Not ideal for large yards.
The Greenworks MO40L02 has side discharge, mulching, and bagging capabilities. It is perfect for yards that are up to half an acre.
Design
The Greenworks MO40L02 is a top-rated battery-powered lawn mower with a variable-speed rear-wheel drive which allows users to maneuver around the lawn with ease. It runs on a lithium-ion battery.
The dual battery port design works with a patented automatic switchover to enhance uninterrupted cutting. It has a lightweight design. The mower is also easy to assemble.
It comes with a brushless motor which offers more torque and quiet operation. The mower has a low-level noise emission. The lawn mower does not take up much space in the garage/shed.
Cutting Power & Performance
The lithium-ion battery-operated mower is equipped with a durable 21-inch steel deck that enables you to cover large areas with ease.
It has a 7-position adjustment feature which can be adjusted via the single lever height adjustment to suit your varying needs. Its cutting options range from 1 3/8 to 3 ¾.
Special Features
The Greenworks MO40L02 has side discharge, mulching and bagging capabilities. This self propelled mower is equipped with an extra compartment for battery use. It enables you to carry an additional battery for extended runtime.
4. Craftsman M215 Best Gas Mower Under $300
- Power source: Gas
- Cutting Width: 21 inches
- Cutting Height: 1- ¼- 3- ¾ inches
- Capabilities: Side discharge, mulching and bagging
- Warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 83 lbs
Pros:
- The Craftsman M215 mower has a lightweight design.
- It has side discharge, mulching and bagging capabilities.
- It is easy to start thanks to its recoil and auto-choke feature.
- The M215 model comes with variable speed controls to aid precise mowing on lawns.
Cons
- The mower is quite heavy
- It is quite noisy.
The Craftsman M215 is a versatile and durable self-propelled mower ideal for small to medium-sized yards. It operates efficiently on tall grass.
Design
The Craftsman M215 comes with 11-inch rear tires to enhance easy maneuverability on uneven terrain. It runs on a versatile and powerful 159cc OHV gas engine for efficient cutting.
The engine is equipped with recoil and auto-choke features for an easy start. The mower has a lightweight construction. It is also easy to assemble. It comes with standard safety hand controls to prevent personal injuries.
The self-propelled mower has a dust control system that reduces the dust and pollen that comes from the bag while in use.
Cutting Power & Performance
The gas lawn mower has a six-height adjustment feature that allows you to adjust between 1- ¼- 3- ¾ inches to give your lawn an accurate and nice cut. It works well on even and uneven terrains.
The size of the cutting deck is perfect for small to medium-sized yards. The cutting blades enhance a nice and smooth trim.
Special Features
The self-propelled comes with a 3-in-1 option. You can side discharge, mulch or bag grass clippings.
Read full Craftsman M215 Review
5. PowerSmart Self Propelled Lawn Mower, 22 inch &170CC
- Power source: Gas
- Cutting Width: 22 inches
- Cutting Height: 1.18 -3.0 inches
- Capabilities: Side discharge, Mulching and Bagging
- Warranty: 3 years
- Weight: 70 lbs.
Pros:
- The PowerSmart 22-inch &170CC is equipped with a foldable handle design for easy and tidy storage
- It runs on a powerful and versatile gas engine to enhance efficient mowing on tall and tough grasses.
- The mower has a forced air-cooling system to enhance continuous work of the engine for a smooth operation in your lawn.
Cons
- No drawback worthy of note.
The PowerSmart self -propelled lawn mower, 22 inch &170CC performs well on tall and tough grasses. It can side discharge, mulch or bag via the 3-in-1 option.
Design
The self-propelled lawn mower comes with a 170CC OHV gas engine which provides a high-power output for efficient mowing. It has a forced air-cooling system which enhances the continuous power of the engine for smooth operation.
The PowerSmart 22 inch & 170CC mower has a foldable handle design for easy storage. This will keep your space in an organized manner. The mower has a fuel tank capacity of 0.21 gallons. The 11.5-inch rear wheels enhance easy maneuvering on lawns.
Cutting Power & Performance
The 22-inch cutting deck is made of steel for durability. This will enable you to cut bigger jobs with ease. The 5-point height adjustment feature enables you to cut the grass to your desired height. Its cutting options range from 1.18-3.0 inches.
Special Features
The gas-powered mower can side discharge, mulch or bag via the 3-in-1 option. The side discharge capability enables the homeowner to spread the grass clippings to the side. The mulching system re-cuts the grass clippings into tiny pieces, this will return key nutrients to the soil. The bag collects grass clippings for easy cleanup.
6. Greenworks Pro 80V Self-Propelled Cordless Mower, MO80L00
- Power source: Battery
- Cutting Width: 21 inches
- Cutting Height: 1- 3/8- 3-3/4 inches.
- Capabilities: Side discharge, mulching or bagging
- Warranty: 4 years
- Weight: 74.1 Pounds
Pros:
- The Greenworks MO80L00 is equipped with a brushless motor for an optimal mowing performance of the engine
- It has a smart cut technology that boosts the blade speed to cut thick grasses.
- The cordless lawn mower has a lightweight design, making it is easy to maneuver on lawns
- The mower is eco-friendly
Cons
- It is a bit heavy.
The Greenworks Pro 21-Inch cordless lawn mower produces a superb performance at the touch of a button. The self propelled mower has 10-inch rear wheels for easy maneuverability on lawns.
Design
The self-propelled mower can run for 45 minutes of runtime on a fully charged 4.0 Ah battery. It can also use up to thirty minutes of run time with a 2.0 AH battery. The Greenworks 80V comes with a push-button start for an easy start.
The cutting deck is constructed with steel to extend the longevity of the mower’s life span. It is equipped with foldable handles for easy and tidy storage.It is equipped with auto-switch technology to ensure longer runtimes.
The battery-powered mower is environmentally friendly. It comes with a brushless motor for optimum mowing performance.
Cutting power & Performance
The Greenworks 80V MO80L00 lawn mower can climb hills with up to 20 degrees incline, which makes it a good option for steep hills. The mower comes with a 21-inch cutting deck for an efficient and smooth mowing experience.
The mower is capable of cutting up to one acre. The cordless mower can run through the thickest of dry grasses. Its cutting heights range from 1- 3/8- 3-3/4 inches.
Special Features
The cordless mower can side discharge, mulch or bag via the 3-in-1 option. This feature will boost work efficiency and make your lawn clean.
Final Verdict
If you are looking for a durable, versatile and efficient self-propelled lawn mower under $300, the Troy-Bilt 12AVA2MR766 is our top pick.
The gas-powered mower has a front-wheel drive to enhance ultimate control while mowing. The engine is equipped with an automatic choke for an easier start.
The built-in rake bumper lifts the blades for efficient mowing. You can make height adjustments to six different positions between the range of 1.25-3.75 inches to suit your needs. This might be a good buy if you have a small-medium-sized lawn.
- Side discharge, mulching and bagging capabilities.
- Equipped with a belt and pulley to power the mower’s front wheels.
- Easy to assemble.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
If you are in the market for an efficient and versatile self-propelled lawn mower under 300, there are some factors to consider which will help you make the right choice. Here are a few of them:
Power Source
Mowing machines are run by different power sources such as electric, gas, and battery. Gas mowers are the most powerful but come with noise pollution. Electric mowers are eco-friendly and easier to manage.
In the end, it all comes down to your personal preference and what functionalities you are looking for.
Noise Level
Excessive noise can pose a challenge for you, especially if you live in a private neighborhood. Therefore, it is important to select a self-propelled mower that has a low-level noise emission.
A quiet self-propelled mower is best suited for your mowing tasks. This allows you to work at any hour of the day without disturbing neighbors with noisy mowers. A battery-powered mower is quieter than other models. If you have a preference for gas mowers, you may need to check the noise level.
Wheel Size
Good wheels enhance smooth and easy maneuverability on lawns. Also, check if the wheels are flexible enough to handle rough terrains. If you have rough terrain, you might need to select a mower with rear-self propelled wheels with a wide diameter and additional traction.
Weight
A self-propelled mower with a lightweight design has several advantages. It is advisable to buy a self-propelled mower that is easy to store, turn, control and maneuver.
Cutting Deck
It is important to consider the cutting deck of the mower before buying it. A steel deck is sturdier and more durable. Plastic decks can also be a good alternative if you prefer lighter ones.
You should also estimate the cutting width and the size of your yard. The smaller the deck, the longer you’ll need to mow.
Engine
Most self-propelled engines range between 140cc-190cc. You can choose a large engine that can withstand tall and tough grasses.
The Terrain of the Lawn
While push mowers are effective on flat terrains, a self-propelled lawn mower is perfect for uneven surfaces. This is because the engine of a self-propelled mower is strong enough to handle such terrains.
How to Maintain Your Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Adequate maintenance elongates a mower’s life span. Here are some helpful tips to maintain your self-propelled lawn mower:
- Read and Understand the Manual
It is advisable to read and understand the manual instructions. This will help you in its assembly. In addition, the manual provides information on how you can use and take care of your lawn mower so that it will last longer.
- Check the Oil
Grass clippings might get into the oil. This can contaminate and ruin the mowing machine. Ensure that you drain the lawn mower oil after every session. In addition, make sure that you are using the right type of engine oil.
- Clean the undercarriage
The build-up clippings on the underside of the mower can cause rust. This will affect the mower’s performance. Most self-propelled lawn mowers come with a wash port for easy cleaning of the underside.
Follow the manual’s tips on how to clean the lawn mower’s deck with or without your washout port.
- Check the Peripherals
You should check the spark plugs and air filters. Worn-out air filters can affect the performance of the mower’s carburetor. Make sure that you change your spark plugs yearly to ensure top performance.
- Sharpen the mower’s blades
Check and inspect the blades to see if they are sharp. Sharp blades will enable you to achieve optimal mowing results.
Video Review
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when buying a self-propelled lawn mower?
A: It is essential to look out for the basic features of the lawn mower. You can decide if you need a battery or gas mower. Look out for other features such as design, engine power, capabilities and cutting height adjustment.
Can you go backward with a self-propelled lawn mower?
A: Although most self-propelled mowers are front-wheeled, it is possible to go in reverse in some models.
How long should a self-propelled lawn mower last?
A: If properly maintained, a self propelled mower can last up to eight to ten years.
Are self-propelled mowers any good?
A: Yes, they are solid and efficient lawn mowers. You do not need to force it to move forward with your effort, its transmission will do it for you. You just have to walk behind and steer it.