Best Walk Behind Mower Types and Top Brands
Walk behind mowers fall into three main types: gas, electric corded, and battery powered. Gas models from Honda, Toro, and Briggs & Stratton dominate the premium segment, while battery powered units from Ego, Greenworks, and Makita lead the cordless category. Electric corded mowers from Sun Joe and Worx remain the lowest cost option for small lawns. The global walk behind mower market was valued at around $12 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow as homeowners shift toward quieter, lower maintenance options according to industry analysis.
Honda remains the top rated brand for reliability in walk behind mowers, with its HRX series featuring variable speed and Versamow mulching. Toro offers the Recycler and TimeCutter lines, both widely used by homeowners and landscaping crews. Ego has become the leading battery powered brand, with its Power+ 21-inch 56V model consistently ranking among the best sellers on major retailer sites. Greenworks and Makita also hold strong positions in the cordless segment, with Greenworks offering a 21-inch 80V model and Makita providing a 22-inch brushless option based on recent consumer testing.
Key Specs and Features to Compare
Cutting width for walk behind mowers typically ranges from 20 to 22 inches for residential models, while commercial grade units can reach 21 to 30 inches. Engine displacement for gas mowers usually falls between 140cc and 190cc, with Honda's GCV170 and Briggs & Stratton's 190cc engines common in the premium segment. Battery voltage for cordless models ranges from 40V to 80V, with higher voltage generally delivering longer runtime and more cutting power. Cutting height adjustment is available on nearly all modern walk behind mowers, with most offering a range of 1.5 to 4 inches per Energy Star guidelines.
Mulching, bagging, and side discharge are the three standard discharge options, with many models supporting all three through optional kits. Honda's Versamow system allows users to switch between mulching and bagging without tools. Toro's Personal Pace self propelled system uses an easy push lever to adjust speed between 0 and 3.5 mph. Battery runtime for cordless models typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes per charge, depending on voltage, battery capacity, and grass conditions. Weight varies from 55 pounds for lightweight electric models to over 90 pounds for commercial gas units based on LawnStarter equipment reviews.
Price Ranges and Buying Recommendations
Walk behind mower prices in 2024 range from about $150 for basic electric corded models to over $900 for premium gas and high end battery powered units. Entry level electric mowers from Sun Joe and Worx typically cost between $150 and $250, while midrange battery models from Greenworks and Ego range from $400 to $650. Premium gas mowers from Honda and Toro generally cost between $500 and $900, with commercial grade options exceeding $