Best Lawn Mowers for Small Yards: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Mower
Maintaining a small yard requires the right lawn mower to keep your garden looking neat and well-manicured. While small yards don’t need the heavy-duty equipment that large lawns require, choosing the right mower is just as essential to ensure the job gets done efficiently. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best lawn mower for small yard, providing you with options across various categories, including electric, battery-powered, and even manual mowers. If you’re in search of the best mower for your small lawn, read on to make an informed decision.
Why the Right Lawn Mower Matters for Small Yards
Small yards may seem easier to maintain, but they come with their own set of challenges. With limited space, you need equipment that is compact, easy to store, and capable of navigating tight corners. Additionally, comfort and ease of use are critical because small yards often have features like flower beds, narrow paths, or garden furniture that require precise maneuvering. In such cases, using the wrong mower can make maintenance more difficult rather than convenient.
Finding a suitable mower will not only ensure that your lawn stays beautiful but also save time, energy, and space. By carefully selecting the best lawn mower for small yards, you’ll be able to create a neat and attractive outdoor space with minimal effort.
Top 7 Best Lawn Mowers for Small Yards
In this section, we’ve reviewed some of the best lawn mowers that cater specifically to small lawns. These products range from electric corded models to battery-powered and manual options, offering versatility and excellent value for money.
1. Greenworks 25022 – Corded Lawn Mower
Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric 12 amp
- Cutting Diameter: 21-inch
- User-Friendly: Single lever, 7-position height adjustment
- Discharge Location: Bag
- Wheels: 10-inch
The Greenworks 25022 corded electric lawn mower is an excellent choice for small yards. Its 21-inch cutting deck is large enough to cover the yard quickly without being too bulky. The single-lever height adjustment makes it easy to tailor the mowing height to your preference. Additionally, the compact design and foldable handle ensure easy storage in small spaces.
One of the best features of this mower is its bagging system, which collects grass clippings and helps maintain a tidy lawn. However, the corded design may not be ideal for users who want more freedom of movement, as the cord can get tangled while mowing. It is also not suitable for thick or wet grass.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Wide cutting coverage | ❌ Corded, limits mobility |
| ✅ Powerful motor | ❌ Not ideal for thick or wet grass |
| ✅ Bag for collecting mulch | |
| ✅ Compact and easy to store |
2. American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch
Specifications:
- Power Source: Self-propelled
- Cutting Diameter: 14-inch
- User-Friendly: Eco-friendly and noiseless
- Discharge Location: NA
- Wheels: 8.5-inch
The American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is a mechanical push lawn mower, making it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious gardeners. This eco-friendly mower is free from emissions, gas, and electricity, providing a sustainable option for smaller lawns. It is lightweight, easy to push, and simple to maintain, offering an intuitive user experience.
However, one drawback is its slower cutting speed compared to powered models, which means it may take a bit longer to cover the yard. The 14-inch cutting width is narrower than some users may prefer.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Eco-friendly with no emissions | ❌ Narrow cutting area |
| ✅ Quiet operation, ideal for residential areas | ❌ Slower than powered models |
| ✅ Lightweight and easy to carry | |
| ✅ No fuel or electricity needed |
3. BLACK+DECKER MTC220 12-inch – Light Lawn Mower
Specifications:
- Power Source: Battery-Powered 20V
- Cutting Diameter: 12-inch
- User-Friendly: 3 tools in 1, easily converts from mower to trimmer to edger
- Discharge Location: NA
- Wheels: 5-inch
BLACK+DECKER’s MTC220 is a versatile 3-in-1 lawn mower that serves as a mower, trimmer, and edger all in one device. Powered by a 20V battery, it is ideal for small yards where space is limited. This mower is compact, lightweight, and easy to store, offering convenience for homeowners with minimal storage space.
The main drawback of this model is the lack of a bag to collect grass clippings, so users will need an additional tool like a vacuum or blower to clean up after mowing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 3-in-1 functionality | ❌ No bag for grass clippings |
| ✅ Cordless and lightweight | ❌ Small cutting diameter |
| ✅ Easy to store and maintain | |
| ✅ Adjustable height |
4. WORX WG779 – Lawn Mower with Mulching & Intellicut
Specifications:
- Power Source: Battery-Powered 40V
- Cutting Diameter: 14-inch
- User-Friendly: Single-lever, 6 positions
- Discharge Location: Mulch / Bag
- Wheels: 10-inch
The WORX WG779 is a battery-powered mower that offers excellent power for small to medium-sized lawns. Equipped with Intellicut technology, this mower adjusts power based on the density of the grass, ensuring an efficient mowing experience. It also features a mulching function, which adds valuable nutrients to the lawn.
Although this mower is slightly heavier for small yards, it is still manageable for most users. The dual 40V batteries offer extended run time, making it ideal for larger small lawns.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Intellicut technology for power efficiency | ❌ Heavier than some small yard mowers |
| ✅ Dual batteries for extended run time | ❌ Bulky for very small lawns |
| ✅ Mulching and bagging options | |
| ✅ Adjustable height settings |
5. Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14-inch – Electric Lawn Mower
Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric 13 amp
- Cutting Diameter: 14-inch
- User-Friendly: 3-position height control
- Discharge Location: Bag
- Wheels: 10-inch
Sun Joe’s MJ401E-PRO electric lawn mower is perfect for small to medium-sized yards. It is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and the 13-amp motor ensures efficient cutting. The 10.6-gallon grass bag holds a good amount of clippings, reducing the need for frequent emptying.
One downside is the plastic exterior, which may not be as durable as metal alternatives. However, the mower’s excellent performance and reasonable price make it an excellent option for those with limited storage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Lightweight and easy to store | ❌ Plastic exterior may affect longevity |
| ✅ Durable grass bag | ❌ Corded, limits movement |
| ✅ Height-adjustable for versatile mowing | |
| ✅ Affordable price point |
6. EGO Power+ LM2100 – Cordless Lawn Mower
Specifications:
- Power Source: Battery-Powered 56V
- Cutting Diameter: 21-inch
- User-Friendly: 6-position height control
- Discharge Location: Bag
- Wheels: 7-9 inch
The EGO Power+ LM2100 cordless mower offers a reliable battery-powered solution for small yards. With a 21-inch cutting deck, it efficiently covers a larger area while still being compact. The mower includes three functions: mulching, bagging, and side discharge, giving you flexibility depending on your yard’s needs.
While it operates quietly, some users find it underpowered when compared to corded models, and the charger is not included in the package.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Cordless for easy mobility | ❌ Not as powerful as corded models |
| ✅ Versatile with mulching and bagging | ❌ Charger not included |
| ✅ Quiet operation | |
| ✅ Adjustable handle height |
7. BLACK+DECKER MM2000 – Mower for Small Lawn
Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric 13 amp
- Cutting Diameter: 20-inch
- User-Friendly: 7-position height control
- Discharge Location: Bag
- Wheels: 10-inch
BLACK+DECKER MM2000 is a corded electric lawn mower that provides powerful performance for small lawns. Its 20-inch cutting width covers more ground quickly, and the 13-gallon bag reduces the frequency of emptying. The adjustable height settings allow you to customize the grass length based on your preference.
Though a bit heavier than other small yard mowers, the MM2000 is still compact enough for easy storage and offers great value for the price.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Wide cutting path for faster mowing | ❌ Heavy for some users |
| ✅ Adjustable height for precision | ❌ Plastic build may affect durability |
| ✅ Convenient bagging system | |
| ✅ Foldable for easy storage |
How to Choose the Best Mower for Small Yards
When selecting the best mower for your small yard, consider the following factors:
- Power Source: Electric, battery, and manual mowers each have their benefits. Electric mowers are ideal for small yards with consistent power, while battery-powered mowers offer more flexibility without the constraint of cords. Manual mowers are eco-friendly but require physical effort.
- Cutting Width and Deck Size: A wider cutting width can save time, but it may be too bulky for very small yards. For tight spaces, choose a mower with a smaller cutting width that can easily maneuver.
- Storage Space: For small yards with limited storage, a foldable or compact design will make storing the mower easier.
- Eco-Friendliness: Battery and manual mowers are typically more eco-friendly than gas-powered models, as they produce no emissions.
FAQs
What type of lawnmower is the best for small yards? For small yards, a battery-powered or corded electric mower is usually the best option. These mowers are lightweight, efficient, and easy to store.
How often should I mow my grass? Grass should be mowed once a week during the growing season. This helps maintain healthy grass and prevents the lawn from becoming overgrown.
What horsepower do I need for a lawnmower? For small yards, a 3-4 horsepower mower is sufficient. Higher horsepower is needed for larger, more demanding lawns.
How long does it take to cut an acre of grass with a lawnmower? Typically, it would take around 2-2.5 hours to cut an acre of grass with a 16-inch mower.
What is better for small yards, electric or gas lawn mowers? Electric mowers are better for small yards due to their lightweight, quiet operation, and eco-friendliness. Gas mowers are better suited for larger yards.
Conclusion
Choosing the best lawn mower for small yards doesn’t have to be a difficult decision. Whether you opt for a corded electric model, a battery-powered mower, or a manual push reel, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and the size of your yard. The mowers reviewed in this guide are some of the top options for small yards, each offering unique features and benefits that make them suitable for compact outdoor spaces.
By selecting the right mower, you can keep your yard looking great with minimal effort, and enjoy a tidy, well-maintained outdoor area year-round. Make sure to assess your needs carefully, and pick the mower that fits your lifestyle best.
