Fiskars StaySharp Max 18" Reel Mower

If you want one straightforward pick for a typical yard, buy the EGO POWER+ LM2135SP. It’s a 21-inch, self-propelled battery mower with a 7.5 Ah battery and a multi-blade cutting system. It’s also a real mainstream purchase: it appears on Lowe’s bestseller list and has more than 31,000 customer reviews there. (lowes.com)

My buying rule: Start with the LM2135SP; step up to the LM2156SP for more battery capacity, or choose the Toro 21445 if you prefer gas. “Bestseller” placement and review counts show these are widely purchased—not that sales figures prove they’re the most reliable. Prices and availability vary by store. (lowes.com)

These picks come from 2026 review roundups. I couldn't find reliable sales-ranking data, so they show what testers recommend and what's listed as popular, not verified best-sellers.

Battery walk-behind mowers (best for most yards)

• EGO Power+ LM2135SP (21" Select Cut, self-propelled): One guide calls it the best lawn mower for most lawns, a 21-inch battery mower that drives itself and runs up to 60 minutes on its included battery by EGO's figure. It also appears on eBay's best-selling list.
• EGO Power+ LM2206SP (22" aluminum deck): It's best for bigger lawns and thick grass. It's also on eBay's best-selling list.
• Toro 21" 60V MAX Super Recycler: Bob Vila's best overall pick.
• Greenworks 80V 21" Self-Propelled MO80L410: One comparison calls it the best value in its 2026 lineup.
• DeWalt 2X20V MAX 21.5" Self-Propelled: Bob Vila lists it as best for small yards.

Budget and gas options

• Craftsman M220 21" 150cc Self-Propelled: Bob Vila's best bang for the buck.
• WORX Nitro WG753: Rated the best budget self-propelled mower, with a dual-battery system.
• Yardmax YG2760 22" gas self-propelled: It appears on eBay's best-selling list. I didn't see a professional review of it.

Riding mowers (for roughly half an acre or more)

• John Deere S130 42" lawn tractor: Bob Vila's top riding pick, thanks to its smooth ride, tight turning radius, and straightforward maintenance schedule. It has a 22 hp V-twin gas engine.
• Cub Cadet XT1 LT50 Enduro: The value pick, with a 24 hp engine and impressive maneuverability, ideal for medium-sized lawns.
• EGO Power+ ZT4214L 42" Z6 zero-turn: The best battery zero-turn in Bob Vila's testing.
• EGO Power+ T6 TR4204 42" electric riding mower: Popular Mechanics' best electric tractor after two seasons of use.

Other types

• Fiskars StaySharp Max 18" reel mower: Best push mower in Bob Vila's picks. It suits small, flat lawns and needs no fuel or battery.
• Worx WR147 Landroid M (robotic, ¼ acre): A robot option in Bob Vila's roundup. Segway's Navimow robot mowers are also popular, and Navimow has been described as Amazon's best-selling robot lawn mower. I don't have the exact model name.

How to choose

• Under ½ acre: The EGO LM2135SP or Toro 60V Super Recycler. The Craftsman M220 is cheaper and runs on gas.
• Thick grass or a larger yard: The EGO LM2206SP or a John Deere S130.
• Strict budget: The Craftsman M220 or WORX WG753.

Consumer Reports has the most rigorous testing, with more than 160 models in its ratings, but its picks are behind a paywall. Check it before buying. Prices and model years change, so confirm the current model number at the retailer. Tell me your yard size, whether you prefer gas or battery, and your budget, and I can narrow this to one or two picks.

Here are the top-rated lawn mowers on the market, categorized by yard type and power preference, featuring the exact model numbers that consistently rank highest in consumer reviews and testing labs like Consumer Reports, Wirecutter, and TechGearLab.

1. Best Cordless / Battery Mowers (Most Popular)

Battery-powered mowers have largely taken over the residential market due to zero gas/oil maintenance, push-button starting, quiet operation, and upright space-saving storage.

• Best Overall Battery Mower: EGO Power+ LM2135SP (21-Inch Select Cut)

  • Why people buy it: This is currently the most widely recommended lawn mower on the market. It features a multi-blade system (interchangeable for mulching, bagging, or extra runtime), a push-button self-propelled speed dial ("Touch Drive"), and comes bundled with a 7.5Ah 56V battery.
  • Best for: Up to 1/2 acre of flat or sloped turf.
  • (Upgraded version: EGO Power+ LM2156SP, which adds a higher-torque motor and a 10.0Ah battery for thick grass or larger properties).

• Best Mid-Range / High-Wheel: Ryobi RY401210 (40V HP Brushless 21-Inch)

  • Why people buy it: Extremely popular at Home Depot for its high rear wheels (which navigate bumps easily), Whisper-Series quiet operation, dual battery ports with automatic battery switching, and SMART TREK self-propelled speed control.

• Best Heavy-Duty / Commercial Electric: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2823-22 (21-Inch)

  • Why people buy it: Built like a commercial gas mower with a heavy steel deck, massive torque (higher cutting power than many 200cc gas mowers), and dual-battery power. It's the top pick for homeowners already invested in the Milwaukee tool system or managing thick, overgrown grass.

2. Best Budget & Small-Yard Mowers

• Best Budget Battery Push Mower: Greenworks MO40L2512 (40V 20-Inch)

  • Why people buy it: Lightweight, easy to push, very quiet, and costs under $300. It folds upright to fit in tiny garage corners and handles smaller suburban lawns without hassle.
  • Best for: Yards under 1/4 acre.

• Best Premium Push Mower (Non-Self-Propelled): Stihl RMA 510

  • Why people buy it: Regularly earns top scores in Consumer Reports push-mower testing for cut consistency and mulching capability. Uses Stihl's 36V AP/AK battery system with a rugged steel deck.

3. Best Gas-Powered Mowers (For Traditionalists)

Note: Honda stopped manufacturing gas lawn mowers in late 2023, making Toro the dominant brand for premium gas mowers today.

• Best Gas Mower Overall: Toro Super Recycler 21564 (21-Inch)

  • Why people buy it: Toro’s Personal Pace system automatically senses your walking speed and matches it seamlessly. The "Super Recycler" deck is cast aluminum (will never rust) and features under-deck deflectors that chop grass into microscopic clippings, eliminating the need to bag.

• Best for Cutting Time in Half: Toro TimeMaster 21199 (30-Inch)

  • Why people buy it: Features a wide 30-inch dual-blade deck on a walk-behind body. It cuts mowing time by ~40% compared to a standard 21-inch mower without forcing you to buy a bulky riding mower.

4. Best Riding & Zero-Turn Mowers (Large Yards > 0.5 Acres)

• Best Battery Zero-Turn: EGO Power+ Z6 ZT4204L (42-Inch)

  • Why people buy it: It runs on the exact same 56V batteries that power EGO’s handheld tools. It can hold up to 6 batteries at once, cut up to 2 acres per charge, and recharges inside the machine in under 2 hours.

• Best Gas Zero-Turn: Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42

  • Why people buy it: Features a heavy-duty 2x2-inch tubular steel frame, a dual hydrostatic transmission, and high-performance Kohler or Kawasaki V-twin engines. It is the benchmark entry-level residential zero-turn mower for speed and cut quality.

5. Best Robotic Lawn Mowers (Automated)

• Best Wire-Free Robot Mower: Mammotion Luba 2 AWD 1000 / 3000

  • Why people buy it: Uses 3D Vision and RTK Satellite navigation, meaning no perimeter wire installation is required. Its all-wheel-drive system easily climbs 80% (38-degree) slopes and handles rough, uneven terrain that stops other robots.

• Best Budget Wire-Free Robot: Segway Navimow i105N

  • Why people buy it: Brings satellite-guided, wire-free robot mowing under $1,000. Easy app setup, quiet operation, and systematic stripe-pattern cutting.

Quick Buying Advice Matrix

The strongest current recommendations are EGO, Ryobi, Toro, Greenworks, and Craftsman models—with battery mowers dominating expert and owner-tested lists. Here are the specific models worth buying:

Best choices for most people

1. Buy the EGO LM2236SP if you want the best all-around cordless mower and have a medium-to-large lawn. It is the most complete recommendation across current testing, though its price is premium.

2. Buy the Greenworks 40V 16-inch if your yard is small and you want a compact, affordable battery mower.

3. Buy the Ryobi RY40HPLM02K2 if you already use Ryobi 40V batteries; the shared battery system can make it substantially better value.

4. Buy the Toro SmartStow Recycler 20340 if you prefer gas and want a proven, easy-to-store mower.

5. Buy the Troy-Bilt TB110 if the priority is the lowest reasonable price and basic mowing rather than convenience features.

Bottom line: For most homeowners, the EGO LM2236SP is the safest premium recommendation, the Greenworks 40V 16-inch is the best small-yard value, and the Toro SmartStow Recycler 20340 is the best conventional gas choice. Expect exact battery kits and model suffixes to vary by retailer and region.

Assuming a U.S. residential lawn, here are specific high-volume models people actually buy — not just “Honda/Toro/EGO” generically. I can’t verify live sales-rank data, but these are widely sold, well-reviewed retail models. Prices are approximate and vary by sales/kit.

Short answer:

• Gas walk-behind: Toro Recycler 21356 for most people; Honda HRX217VKA if you want premium.
• Battery walk-behind: EGO LM2135SP.
• Riding: John Deere S130.
• Zero-turn: Toro TimeCutter 75742.
• Robot: Husqvarna Automower 115H for a simple small lawn; Segway Navimow i105N if you want wire-free.

Key caveat: exact model numbers matter. Retailers often sell near-identical “exclusive” SKUs with different engines/batteries, so match the model number, not just the marketing name.

EGO Power+ LM2135SP (or close variants like LM2156SP/LM2236SP self-propelled 21–22" models) and Greenworks 40V 16" cordless push models (with 4.0Ah battery/charger) stand out as among the most frequently recommended and purchased specific models.

These battery-powered options dominate recent expert roundups (e.g., Wirecutter, Popular Mechanics, Strategist, Spearhead Spade) and Amazon best-seller/ high-review-volume lists for their convenience, performance, and lack of gas/maintenance hassles. Gas and reel mowers still sell well for certain users, but electrics lead in popularity for typical homeowners.

Top Recommended Models People Actually Buy

Here are specific, frequently cited models based on 2025–2026 reviews, tester feedback, and sales data (Amazon rankings, review volume, and expert "best of" picks). Focus is on walk-behind mowers, as they are the most common purchases:

• EGO Power+ LM2135SP Select Cut Self-Propelled (21", 56V kit with 7.5Ah battery and charger): A top overall pick across multiple sources for yards up to ~0.4 acre. Features self-propulsion (Touch Drive or similar), strong torque (up to ~7 ft-lbs), ~60-minute runtime, mulching/bagging/side discharge, and quick charge. Praised for cut quality, ease of use, and reliability; often #1 or high in Amazon walk-behind lists with strong review counts. Variants like the LM2206SP (22" aluminum deck, longer runtime ~70 min with 10Ah) suit thicker grass or slightly larger areas.

• Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless Push Lawn Mower (kit with 4.0Ah battery and charger): One of the highest-volume sellers on Amazon (thousands of reviews, frequently top 3–5 in best-seller lists). Lightweight push model ideal for smaller/flat yards (~1/3 acre or less). Quiet, easy start, compatible with other Greenworks 40V tools, and budget-friendly. Other Greenworks hits include 60V 21" push or self-propelled versions (e.g., MO60L516 or similar) for more power/runtime.

• EGO Power+ 21–22" self-propelled models (e.g., LM2112 push or LM2125SP/LM2236SP variants): Closely related to the LM2135SP; popular for similar reasons (runtime, torque, features). Wirecutter has highlighted EGO 22" self-propelled models (like LM2236SP) as top picks for runtime and performance.

• Other notables that sell well:

  • American Lawn Mower 1204-14 (14" 4-blade push reel): Consistent Amazon bestseller for tiny lawns or eco-conscious users wanting no power source at all. High review volume.
  • Gas options like certain Craftsman, PowerSmart, or Honda HRX self-propelled models appear in "best gas" or budget lists but trail electrics in recent popularity metrics.

Quick Buying Notes

• Battery electrics (EGO/Greenworks) dominate recommendations and sales for most people due to zero emissions, low noise, easy storage, and improving runtime/power. They match or beat gas in cut quality per tests.
• Match to your yard: Push for small/flat; self-propelled for slopes or larger areas; check runtime claims vs. real-world (thicker grass/hills reduce it). Many kits include batteries/chargers.
• Riding mowers (e.g., John Deere X350 or Z-series zero-turns) are popular for bigger properties but less relevant for typical "lawn mower" searches.
• Check current pricing/availability on Amazon, Home Depot, or Lowe’s, as kits and bundles vary. Look for warranties (EGO often 5 years on tools) and compatibility with existing batteries.

These models reflect what reviewers and buyers consistently favor in recent data—prioritizing real-world popularity alongside performance. Consider your lawn size, terrain, and whether you prefer push vs. self-propelled or electric vs. gas.

The Toro 21″ 60V MAX Super Recycler, Craftsman M220, John Deere S130, Worx WR147 Landroid M, and Ego Power+ 21″ are the top-tested specific models across battery, gas, riding, robotic, and walk‑behind categories.

✅ The top tested models (based on hands‑on reviews)

These models come directly from full test results and rankings.

Best Overall Battery Mower

Toro 21″ 60V MAX Super Recycler Battery Lawn Mower Crisp cutting, strong airflow, 21″ deck, and up to 50 minutes runtime. Great for most suburban yards.

Best Budget Gas Mower

Craftsman M220 21″ 150cc Self‑Propelled Lawn Mower Easy start, 21″ deck, front‑wheel drive, and strong value for the price. Good for up to ¾ acre.

Best Riding Mower

John Deere S130 42″ Lawn Tractor 22‑hp V‑twin engine, tight turning radius, comfortable seat, and excellent slope handling. Ideal for ½–2 acres or thick St. Augustine/Bermuda grass common in South Texas.

Best Robotic Mower

Worx WR147 20V Landroid M ¼‑Acre Robotic Lawn Mower Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth control, obstacle detection, rain sensor, and reliable boundary tracking. Best for small yards where automation matters.

Best Battery-Powered Alternative

Ego Power+ 21″ Self‑Propelled Lawn Mower 56V system, 60‑minute runtime, fast charging, variable speed, and excellent cut quality. A top pick for homeowners wanting gas‑like power without maintenance.

Best Corded Electric

American Lawn Mower 14″ 11‑Amp Corded Mower Lightweight, simple, and ideal for very small yards.

Best Manual Reel

Fiskars StaySharp Max 18″ Reel Mower No gas, no battery, quiet, and great for short warm‑season grasses.

Best for Small Yards (Battery)

DeWalt 2X20V MAX 21.5″ Self‑Propelled Lawn Mower Uses two 20V batteries, strong cut quality, and compact storage.

✅ Additional top gas models (from gas‑mower testing)

These models were also top picks in gas‑only testing:

Yard Machines 02B 20″ Gas Push Mower — lightweight, simple, and inexpensive. Toro 30″ TimeMaster Personal Pace Gas Lawn Mower — huge 30″ deck, great for 1+ acre yards. John Deere S130 42″ Lawn Tractor — also top pick for thick grass.

📊 Comparison Table: The Most Recommended Models

Model | Type | Deck Size | Power | Best For Toro 21″ 60V Super Recycler1 | Battery self‑propelled | 21″ | 60V | Most yards, quiet operation Craftsman M2202 | Gas self‑propelled | 21″ | 150cc | Budget buyers, up to ¾ acre John Deere S1302 | Riding tractor | 42″ | 22‑hp gas | ½–2 acres, thick grass Worx WR147 Landroid M1 | Robotic | 8″ | 20V | Hands‑off mowing, ≤¼ acre Ego Power+ 21″1 | Battery self‑propelled | 21″ | 56V | Battery power with long runtime Toro TimeMaster 30″1 | Gas self‑propelled | 30″ | 223cc | Large yards without a tractor Yard Machines 02B1 | Gas push | 20″ | 125cc | Small yards, low cost Fiskars StaySharp Max1 | Manual reel | 18″ | Manual | Eco‑friendly small yards 2 Sources2

✅ How to choose for McAllen, Texas yards

Warm‑season grasses (St. Augustine, Bermuda, Zoysia) and larger lot sizes mean:

Battery mowers work well for most suburban yards. Gas or riding mowers are better for thick grass or ½ acre+. Robotic mowers work only if your yard is relatively flat and unobstructed.

✅ One clarifying question

How large is your yard (in acres or square feet)? That determines whether you need a walk‑behind, a wide‑deck mower, or a riding tractor.

Here are the top-rated, specific lawn mower models that people are actually buying and relying on, categorized by yard type and power source.

Battery-Powered (Cordless Electric)

• Best for: Most yards / Top overall pick.
• Why buy: Features a dual-blade cutting system for exceptional mulching and power, variable speed self-propelling, about a 1-hour run time/charge time, and folds completely upright for compact storage. Recommended heavily by Wirecutter and TechGearLab.

• Best for: Premium cut quality and maneuverability.
• Why buy: Matches the absolute best gas mowers in cut performance and mulching finesse, using Toro's Personal Pace auto-drive system that matches your exact walking speed.

• Best for: Average-sized yards looking for a great value in battery ecosystems.
• Why buy: Highly rated by TechGearLab for dependable power, light handling, and quick battery recharge times.

Ego Power+ 1000 Series 56-Volt 22" Self-Propelled (LM2236SP)

Best for: Most yards / Top overall pick. Why buy: Features a dual-blade cutting system for exceptional mulching and power, variable speed self-propelling, about a 1-hour run time/charge time, and folds completely upright for compact storage. Recommended heavily by Wirecutter and TechGearLab.

Toro 60V Max 21″ Super Recycler

Best for: Premium cut quality and maneuverability. Why buy: Matches the absolute best gas mowers in cut performance and mulching finesse, using Toro's Personal Pace auto-drive system that matches your exact walking speed.

Greenworks 60V 21" or 17" Self-Propelled

Best for: Average-sized yards looking for a great value in battery ecosystems. Why buy: Highly rated by TechGearLab for dependable power, light handling, and quick battery recharge times.

Gas-Powered

Toro Recycler SmartStow 21" (Model 20340)Best for: Traditional gas power with space-saving storage. Why buy: Allows you to store the mower upright against a garage wall (saving up to 70% of floor space) without leaking oil or gas. It features an aggressive cutting deck and reliable Briggs & Stratton or Toro engine options. Best for: Traditional gas power with space-saving storage. Why buy: Allows you to store the mower upright against a garage wall (saving up to 70% of floor space) without leaking oil or gas. It features an aggressive cutting deck and reliable Briggs & Stratton or Toro engine options. Troy-Bilt TB110 21" 159ccBest for: Budget-conscious gas mower buyers. Why buy: A classic, no-nonsense push mower that handles taller grass easily without breaking the bank, earning consistent high marks for value from testing sites like TechGearLab. Best for: Budget-conscious gas mower buyers. Why buy: A classic, no-nonsense push mower that handles taller grass easily without breaking the bank, earning consistent high marks for value from testing sites like TechGearLab. TechGearLab

If you tell me the size of your yard (in square feet or acreage), your budget, and whether you prefer gas or battery, I can help you pick the exact model that fits your property.