Last Updated: January 16, 2025
A well-manicured lawn adds to the aesthetic appeal of a property, and choosing the right lawn mower is essential to achieving that look. But with so many brands offering different models and functionalities, how do you even decide? In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of lawn mowers and how they fit your usage model and mowing needs.
Movement
Understanding how different mowers operate is key to choosing one that suits your property size, terrain, and physical capabilities.
Push Lawn Mowers
These are the most basic and popular lawn mowers. They’re sometimes jokingly referred to as manual although they aren’t, because they rely on human power to move through the lawn. No walking and pushing? No mowing. They are best suited for small properties and those who want a low-cost, eco-friendly option. Although they are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and require minimal maintenance, they can get labour-intensive especially if you’re working on a significantly larger space.
Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
Self-propelled lawn mowers are available in gas and electric options, offering more control and maneuverability compared to push lawn mowers. These mowers have a built-in drive system that helps the mower move forward, reducing the physical effort required by the user. They are ideal for medium-sized lawns and those who want a more effortless mowing experience.
Riding Lawn Mowers
Riding lawn mowers are ideal for lawns over an acre in size and for those who want a mowing experience that is less physically demanding. These mowers are designed for large properties and provide a comfortable, convenient mowing experience. They have a seat for the operator and are driven like a small tractor, allowing the user to cover large areas quickly and efficiently.
Zero-Turn Mowers
Zero-turn mowers are available in gas and electric options, and they offer more control and precision than other mowers. These mowers are designed for commercial use and have a turning radius of zero, making them highly maneuverable and efficient. They are best suited for large, complex lawns and landscapes with obstacles, as they allow the user to maneuver around trees, flower beds and other obstacles easily.
Tractor-Pulled Mowers
These mowers are designed for large commercial properties and are attached to a small tractor, allowing the user to cover large areas much faster. They are ideal for properties with extensive lawns, such as parks and golf courses, and for those who want a mowing experience that is less physically demanding.
Robotic Lawn Mowers
Robotic lawn mowers are ideal for those who want a mowing experience that is convenient, eco-friendly and requires minimal maintenance. These are newer types of lawn mowers designed to operate autonomously. They are equipped with navigation systems and sensors that help them mow the lawn without human intervention.
Energy Source
Your choice of energy source impacts the mower’s cost, environmental impact, and performance.
Gas-Powered
Gas-powered lawn mowers use gasoline as the energy source to power the engine, which drives the blades and moves the mower through the lawn. These mowers are known for their durability and strength, but they can be more expensive to operate and maintain and emit emissions that can harm the environment.
Electric
Electric lawn mowers use electricity as the energy source, either from a corded power source or a rechargeable battery. Electric lawn mowers are quiet, eco-friendly, and easy to operate, but they may not have the same strength as gas-powered mowers and may be limited by their battery life.
Manual
Manual lawn mowers are powered by human energy and do not require any external power source. These mowers are lightweight, easy to use, and require minimal maintenance, but they can be time-consuming and physically demanding, especially for more extensive lawns.
Blade or Cutter Type
Different blades deliver different results. Understanding their strengths and limitations helps you choose the best fit for your lawn type.
Reel
Reel lawn mowers use a cylindrical blade that rotates to cut the grass. They are best suited for well-manicured lawns with fine-textured grass. Reel mowers work by using a scissor-like action to cut the grass blades cleanly and precisely. The blades on a reel mower remain sharp for longer, making them a cost-effective option. However, they are not recommended for use on thick or dense grass, as they can become clogged and difficult to push.
Rotary
Rotary lawn mowers use a horizontal blade that rotates at high speeds to cut the grass. They are ideal for lawns with thicker, coarser grass and are designed to handle tough mowing conditions. Rotary mowers can be adjusted to match the height of the grass and can easily tackle uneven terrain and obstacles. However, they can be less precise than reel mowers and may leave a more rough cut.
Robotic
Robotic lawn mowers are a relatively new option in the lawn mowing market. They use sensors to navigate the grounds and are equipped with a cutting mechanism that rotates at high speeds to cut the grass. Robotic mowers are ideal for those who want a lawn mower that requires minimal effort and can be programmed to mow on a schedule. They are eco-friendly, quiet, and efficient but can be more expensive than other lawn mowers.
Why It’s Important to Know the Difference
Choosing the right lawn mower isn’t just a practical decision—it’s an investment in your lawn’s health and your own convenience. A mower that matches your lawn size, grass type, and energy preference saves time, reduces maintenance costs, and delivers better results. Misjudging these factors could mean more work, higher costs, and uneven lawns.
By understanding these differences, you’re empowered to make an informed decision that aligns with your property’s needs and your lifestyle.
No Time for Lawn Mowing? Let Green Oasis Do It for You
Learning what type of lawn mower to buy is beneficial for many reasons. However, you may not have time to mow regularly. Instead, let Green Oasis take the hassle out of lawn care with our expert lawn mowing services. Opting for a lawn mowing service is still the more cost-effective option as it allows you time for your other tasks and gives you peace of mind. Get in touch to learn more about our lawn care packages.
