3 Best Cheap Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2026

When choosing a budget-friendly lawn mower in 2026, it’s important to find a model that balances affordability with solid performance. You’ll want options that are easy to operate, reliable on different terrains, and suitable for your yard size. The best picks don’t compromise on quality, even at a lower price. Keep these factors in mind as we explore three top affordable models that can help you maintain your lawn effectively without overspending.

SENIX 20 Gas Lawn Mower, 144 cc, 4-Cycle Engine, Push Lawn Mower with Height Adjustment

The SENIX 20 Gas Lawn Mower is a good choice if you want a sturdy and affordable mower. It has a powerful 144cc 4-cycle engine that can handle bigger lawns and tough grass. The mower has a wide 20-inch cutting deck, so you can mow faster and cover more ground in less time. You can change the height of the cut from 1.35 to 3.15 inches, so you get the grass length just right. The front and back wheels are 7 inches wide, which helps you control the mower on uneven ground. It’s easy to use, making yard work less tiring.

Best for: Homeowners with large lawns or uneven land who know a bit about machinery and want an affordable, strong gas mower.

Pros:

• The 144cc engine is powerful and reliable.
• The 20-inch deck makes mowing faster.
• You can change the height and control the mower easily on different terrains.

Cons:

• Assembling the mower can be tricky if you are new to it.
• The manual doesn’t give clear instructions on filling fuel and oil, which can confuse beginners.
• Some users say the self-propel lever is not in a comfortable spot and may need adjustment.

Keenstone Cordless Lawn Mower, 17 Electric Lawn Mower with Brushless Motor & 2 Batteries

If you want a lawn mower that’s affordable and easy to use, the Keenstone Cordless Lawn Mower is a good choice. It has a strong motor that can spin up to 18,000 RPM. This gives it 30% more power to cut through thick grass. With two batteries, you can mow for about 35 minutes. That’s enough to cover around 1,500 square feet.

This mower is light and easy to move. You can also adjust the height of the blades to get the right cut. It includes a big bag to collect grass clippings. The handle folds down, so it’s easy to store. It doesn’t need much maintenance, making it simple to keep running smoothly. This mower works best for small to medium lawns.

Who should use it: homeowners with small or medium yards who want a quiet, easy-to-use mower that can cut thick grass well.

Pros:

• Strong motor with 30% more power for thick grass.
• Light and foldable, simple to store and move.
• Runs up to 35 minutes on two batteries, good for small or medium yards.

Cons:

• The batteries may run out quickly on larger lawns.
• It’s not best for very big or overgrown areas.
• Some users might want more options to change the height or settings.

This lawn mower is simple, quiet, and perfect for keeping your yard neat without a lot of trouble.

PowerSmart 21 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower

Looking for an affordable, reliable lawn mower? The PowerSmart 21 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower might be just what you need. It has a strong 140cc 4-stroke engine. This engine gives you enough power to cut through thick grass easily. Plus, it doesn’t need oil and gas mixed together, so it’s easier to keep up.

The mower has a 21-inch deck. That means it can cover more ground with each pass. It saves you time when you mow your yard. You can choose from three ways to cut the grass. You can side discharge, collect it in the bag, or mulch it back into the yard. This gives you options to care for your lawn your way.

It’s also easy to use. The mower is lightweight and has adjustable handles. It has self-propulsion, so pushing it is not hard. You can make it work around obstacles and on hills comfortably. Its height settings let you decide how tall or short the grass should be.

This lawn mower is best for homeowners who want a simple and affordable machine. It works well on medium and large yards. It is good if you want an easy-to-use gas mower that gets the job done.

Some users say customer service or warranty issues may come up. Also, it does not have extra features like a height indicator or handles that fold down. Since it’s gas-powered, you will need to do regular maintenance.

In short, the PowerSmart 21 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower is a good choice for those who want a reliable and flexible mower. It is powerful, easy to operate, and keeps your yard looking good.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cheap Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2026

When choosing a cheap lawn mower, you’ll want to take into account factors like how well the price fits your budget and the power source that best suits your yard, whether it’s gas, electric, or battery-powered. Pay attention to cutting width and height adjustment features, since these can affect the mower’s efficiency and how easy it is to use. Also, look for models that are simple to assemble, so you can get started quickly and without unnecessary frustration.

Budget Compatibility

Choosing a cheap lawn mower that fits your budget is an important step. First, check prices for different models. Look at stores both online and nearby. This way, you can find the best deal without paying too much. Keep in mind, cheaper mowers might have fewer features or a simpler design. Make sure basic jobs like cutting grass get done well. You don’t want to pay extra for features you don’t need.

Also, think about other costs. You might need to buy new blades, oil, or other parts later. These extra costs can add up. Look for models that come with a warranty. A warranty covers repairs and can save you money if something breaks. Setting a clear price range helps you find mowers that fit your budget. By doing this, you get a good mower that works well and saves you money.

Power Source Options

Have you thought about which power source is best for your lawn mower? There are several options, and each has its own benefits.

Electric lawn mowers are good for the environment. They don’t give off emissions, and they are quiet. These are great if you have a small lawn or want to keep noise low.

Gas-powered mowers are stronger. They can run longer and handle big or thick lawns better. But they make more noise and give off fumes.

Cordless battery mowers are easy to move around. They have rechargeable batteries that last a certain time. These are good if you don’t want to deal with cords or want some freedom to move.

Plug-in electric mowers need an outlet and extension cord. They stay powered all the time but limit your movement because of the cord.

Hybrid models mix both electric and corded power. You can choose which one to use based on your lawn size and your needs.

Each type of mower has pros and cons. Think about your lawn size, your budget, and how much you care about the environment. Then pick the one that works best for you.

Cutting Width Significance

The width of a lawn mower’s cutting deck is important. It affects how fast you can mow your yard. A wider deck, usually 20 inches or more, cuts more grass in each pass. This helps you mow large lawns faster. But bigger mowers can be heavier and harder to steer in tight spaces.

Smaller decks, around 16 inches, are easier to control. They are a good choice for small yards or for trimming edges. When you buy a mower on a budget, think about the deck size. Wider decks usually cost more and are heavier. This can make it harder to carry or store the mower.

Look at your yard size and how you want to mow. Find a balance between deck width, how easy it is to use, and the price. This will help you pick the best mower for your yard.

Height Adjustment Features

When choosing an affordable lawn mower, look at how it adjusts the height. Pick one with several height options, usually from 1 to 4 inches. This helps you cut the grass just right for different types and your preferences. Make sure the height change is easy to do, like with a single lever or knob. This lets you switch heights quickly, so you save time and effort.

It’s also helpful if the height settings are small steps, so you can get the perfect cut each time. Big, clear marks make it easy to see which height you’ve set. Check that the mower can keep the same height even on uneven ground or slopes. This way, your cuts stay even and your lawn looks nice.

Having good height adjustment features makes mowing easier and better.

Ease of Assembly

Easy assembly helps you pick a good lawn mower that doesn’t take forever to set up. Look for a mower with clear instructions. Pictures that show how to put parts together make it much easier. It’s also helpful if the tools you need, like screwdrivers, come with the mower. That saves you a trip to buy extra tools. Some mowers have fewer parts or are designed so you can put them together quickly. If you’re new to mowing, choose a mower with step-by-step instructions or videos. These can stop you from getting confused. Reading reviews from other people can also give you a good idea. They often mention how easy or hard it is to put together the mower.

Maintenance Requirements

Taking care of a cheap lawn mower can take more effort. Many low-cost models don’t have fancy features that make maintenance easier.

For example, these mowers often need manual oil checks. You have to open the cap, check the oil level, and add oil if it’s low. They don’t usually have automatic systems to do this for you.

Battery-powered cheap mowers might need frequent charging. Sometimes, the battery wears out faster and needs replacing. This can cost more money over time.

Gas-powered cheap mowers need routine oil changes, spark plug swaps, and air filter cleaning. These parts wear out faster on cheaper models. You have to keep an eye on them and replace them when needed.

Many low-cost mowers don’t let you change the cutting height automatically. You have to manually adjust the height by hand. This can be tiring, especially if you mow often.

Cheaper mowers are made with less durable materials. Parts can break or wear out faster. You might need to fix or replace parts more often.

It’s important to think about how much work each mower needs before buying it. Picking a mower that is easy to keep in good shape can save you time and trouble later.

Durability and Materials

Picking a tough lawn mower means looking at what it’s made of. Models made from steel, aluminum, or strong plastics usually last longer. Steel decks are strong and can handle a lot of use, but they are heavier. That can make the mower harder to push around. High-quality metals like stainless steel and tough plastics resist rust, rain, and sunlight. This keeps the mower in good shape over time. Cheaper mowers often use thin metals or cheap plastics. These parts break or crack faster. Choosing a mower with better materials can save you money because you won’t need to fix or replace parts as often.

Performance in Terrain

When choosing a lawn mower for rough or hilly ground, it’s important to look for certain features. A mower with a 144cc engine or a brushless motor has enough power to cut through thick grass and rough patches. Big, sturdy wheels are also important because they help the mower roll over slopes, rocks, and bumpy ground easily.

It’s a good idea to pick a mower with a wider cutting area and adjustable height settings. This makes it easier to cut different types of terrain. Some mowers have self-propulsion or special maneuverability features. These help you move around hills and tricky spots without much effort.

Lastly, choose a mower built strong enough to handle tough ground. A steel deck or a sturdy frame keeps the mower safe from damage. With these features, you get a mower that works well on uneven terrain and lasts longer.

FAQs

How Long Do Budget Lawn Mowers Typically Last?

Budget lawn mowers generally last around 3 to 5 years with proper maintenance. You can extend their lifespan by regularly cleaning, sharpening blades, and storing them properly, ensuring they stay efficient and reliable for your yard work.

Are Cheaper Mowers Suitable for Large Yards?

Cheaper mowers aren’t usually ideal for large yards because they may lack power and durability. You might find them struggle or require frequent replacements, so investing in a slightly pricier, more robust model benefits big lawns.

Can Low-Cost Lawn Mowers Handle Thick or Tall Grass?

Low-cost lawn mowers can handle thick or tall grass if they have sufficient power and a sharp blade. However, you might need to mow more frequently and be prepared for occasional strain or clogging issues.

What Maintenance Is Required for Inexpensive Lawn Mowers?

You need to regularly clean the deck, replace or sharpen blades, check oil and fuel levels, and inspect belts and wheels. Proper maintenance guarantees your inexpensive mower runs efficiently, lasts longer, and handles grass effectively.

Are Budget Lawn Mowers Safe for Uneven Terrain?

Yes, budget lawn mowers can be safe on uneven terrain if they have sturdy wheels and adjustable height settings. You should also operate them carefully, avoid steep slopes, and maintain the mower properly for safe usage.

Last update on 2026-01-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.   Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!