Best Lawn Mowers for Different Types of Lawns

Maintaining a lawn is difficult for Texas homeowners, to say the least. Because of our long summers, it’s a challenge to keep grass watered enough to thrive—and cutting it is no fun with the intense temperatures. Another factor that can make maintaining your lawn more difficult is the type of lawn mower you choose to cut it.

The shape and size of your lawn, as well as the grass it features, all dictate which type of lawn mower is best for you. As a Texas company that has sold outdoor power equipment to homeowners and commercial landscapers for years, we know a thing or two about this area and we’re happy to help.

Here are some lawn mower recommendations for different types of lawns so you can manage yours more effectively.

Small Lawns: Compact and Maneuverable Mowers

If your lawn is less than a quarter of an acre in size, it qualifies as a small lawn. These require a compact and easy-to-maneuver mower that can navigate tight corners, frequent turns and obstacles like flower beds. You want a mower with superior control. Here are two of the top lawn mower options for small lawns:

• Reel mowers: Ideal for the smallest of lawns (and homeowners who are eco-conscious), a reel mower can be a great choice. These manual mowers are quiet, require no fuel and provide a clean, scissor-like cut to the grass. They are best suited for small, flat lawns with fine grass varieties like Bermuda or Zoysia. Brands like Fiskars and Scotts offer high-quality reel mowers that are lightweight and easy to use.
• Electric push mowers: The standard mower of choice for most homeowners, electric push mowers can be corded or battery powered. They are ideal for small lawns as well due to their quiet operation, low maintenance and electric power. Corded models offer unlimited runtime while battery-powered models like the EGO Power+ LM2102SP provide the convenience of cordless operation with powerful performance.

Medium Lawns: Versatile and Efficient Mowers

If your lawn is between a quarter and half acre, it’s a medium lawn. These lawns need a mower that balances power and efficiency. Medium lawns can vary in terrain, so self-propelled models can reduce effort required in certain circumstances. Here are two of the top lawn mower options for medium lawns:

• Self-propelled gas mowers: These are ideal for lawns with uneven terrain, as they offer the power needed to handle thicker grass varieties and slopes (without exhausting the operator). Models like the Honda HRX217VKA provide variable speed control, allowing you to adjust the mower’s pace to match your walking speed and lawn condition.
• Battery-powered self-propelled mowers: For those looking to avoid the hassle of gas and oil, battery-powered options are a good alternative. The RYOBI 40V Brushless Self-Propelled Mower, for example, combines the convenience of cordless operation with impressive power and a long battery life. It’s suitable for various grass types and provides a clean, even cut.

Large Lawns: Powerful and Time-Saving Mowers

Have a lawn bigger than half an acre? It’s a large lawn, which demands more powerful equipment to keep mowing time in a reasonable area. Riding mowers and zero-turn mowers are usually the best choices here, as they’re designed for expansive spaces. Here are two of the top lawn mower options for large lawns:

• Riding lawn mowers: Designed for efficiency, comfort and, most of all, ease of use, these mowers are perfect for larger lawns. They can handle a variety of grass types and moderate slopes. The John Deere E130 is a popular model here, as it features a 42-inch deck, hydrostatic transmission and an ergonomic design, to name a few features. Riding mowers like this will keep you comfortable during long mowing sessions.
• Zero-turn mowers: For the ultimate in speed and maneuverability, a zero-turn mower is unmatched. These types of mowers can quickly pivot on the spot, allowing you to navigate around obstacles and mow large areas quickly. The Toro TimeCutter SS4225, with its 42-inch deck and powerful engine, is a top choice for homeowners with extensive lawns and numerous landscaping features.

Specialty Lawns: Unique Solutions for Specific Needs

Then there are lawns that have unique characteristics, which require specialized mowers. Whether you have a lawn with steep hills, dense grass or other specific needs, there is usually a mower to handle these challenges. Here are two of the top lawn mower options for specialized lawns:

• Robotic lawn mowers: If you’re tech-savvy, a robotic lawn mower may appeal to you. It’s a hands-free solution to lawn care and can be programmed to mow your lawn automatically. This ensures consistent and regular maintenance and is ideal for fast-growing grass, complex lawn layouts or anyone who is a busy person.
• All-wheel drive (AWD) mowers: For steep slopes and rough terrain, an all-wheel-drive mower is an excellent solution. It provides traction and stability needed for these environments and moves safely and effectively through them. The Husqvarna LC221A is an excellent example, offering powerful AWD capabilities to handle challenging landscapes with ease.

These are just a few examples of the best lawn mowers for different types of lawns, but we know every lawn (and homeowner) is unique, so your best bet is to visit an outdoor power equipment store like Classic Turf Equipment for a consultation. We’d be happy to go over your needs and give you a lawn mower recommendation that fits your budget.