Maintaining a pristine lawn can feel like an expensive endeavor between landscaping services, lawn care equipment, and maintenance costs. But it is possible to keep your grass in tip-top shape without breaking the bank. The secret lies in choosing the right lawn mower under $100 that delivers quality performance at an affordable price point.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore how to select the best budget-friendly lawn mower under $100 for your needs. Whether you have a small urban yard or sprawling suburban landscape, there is an economical mower perfect for you. Let's review the key factors to consider, top-rated picks, and frequently asked questions when shopping for an inexpensive mower.
Smart Shopping: Key Considerations for Choosing a Budget Mower
While you'll have to accept some tradeoffs versus premium models, lawn mowers under $100 can still get the mowing job done. Here are the most important factors to evaluate:
Cutting Width
Look for mowers with widths of 18-21 inches, ideal for smaller to medium-sized lawns. Wider decks mean fewer passes mowing.
Engine Power
Modest 140-160cc gas engines offer adequate power for basic mowing. Manual reel mowers require no engine but need human power.
Handling and Maneuverability
Lightweight mowers with good wheels, tight turning radii, and foldable handles allow navigating easily around landscaping and obstacles.
Cutting Height Adjustability
The ability to change cutting height from 1-4 inches enables customizing your ideal grass length.
Safety Features
Even affordable mowers should have basic safety like blade brakes, removable keys, and engine cut-off switches. Don't compromise here.
Noise Level
Inexpensive mowers tend to be louder. If noise is a concern, look for quieter electric or manual reel models.
Warranty Coverage
Most budget mowers provide 1-3 years of warranty protection. More years give you greater peace of mind.
Reviews: 5 Top-Performing Lawn Mowers Priced Under $100
After evaluating dozens of models, these five mowers consistently rise to the top for value, reliability, and performance:
1. American Lawn Mower Company Manual Reel Mower
If you want zero maintenance, the American Lawn Mower manual reel mower is a great choice. This push mower uses mechanical gears and blades to cut grass down to 1 inch without any engine. It's lightweight at just 25 pounds making it easy to push. The quiet operation and eco-friendly use case make it perfect for small urban plots. Just be prepared to get some exercise!
2. BLACK+DECKER Electric 3-in-1 Mower
For super small yards, the BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 mower is very affordable at under $100. Its 10” cutting width handles tight spots and grass patches with ease. As a 3-in-1 mower, it can mulch, bag or side discharge clippings. The adjustable handle provides compact storage between uses. While not meant for large lawns, it powers through tiny mowing tasks.
3. Greenworks MO40L410 Cordless Electric Mower
If you want robust cordless power, the Greenworks MO40L410 is a smart choice. Its 40V lithium-ion battery runtime lasts approximately 45 minutes per charge—sufficient for smaller yards. The 20” deck adjusts cutting heights from 1.5” to 3.75”. Weighing 42 pounds, it maneuvers around landscaping and obstacles with ease. For an eco-friendly, quiet mower, check out the Greenworks MO40L410.
4. Yard Machines 11A-B1M7142 Gas Push Mower
When you need gas-powered brawn on a budget, the Yard Machines 11A-B1M7142 delivers. Its 20” cutting width and 125cc OHV engine can handle medium-sized yards efficiently. It adjusts cutting height between 1.25” - 3.75” easily with its dual lever 5-position design. Large rear wheels provide great traction while 7” front wheels allow tight turning. Foldable handles also make storage convenient. For small to medium plots seeking robust cutting power, this Yard Machines model provides tremendous value.
5. PowerSmart DB2321S Gas Powered Self Propelled Mower
On the higher end of the budget spectrum, the PowerSmart DB2321S self-propelled mower packs impressive power with its PowerSmart 160cc engine and 21” steel deck. The front-wheel drive transmission helps move the mower smoothly across larger yards without pushing. And the folding handle provides upright storage capabilities. If you need sturdy gas-powered performance on a budget, the DB2321S delivers solid value.
Frequently Asked Questions About Economical Lawn Mowers
Shopping for a budget mower still warrants some key questions. Here we provide answers to some of the most common inquiries:
What's the difference between gas, electric and manual mowers?
Gas mowers offer the most cutting power but require maintenance. Electric mowers provide good power with less maintenance. And manual reel mowers are completely eco-friendly but require human force.
What cutting width do I need?
For small urban plots, 10-14” widths work well. For standard suburban yards up to 1/4 acre, look for 18-21” cutting widths. Wider decks mow more grass in fewer passes.
How much lawn can these mowers handle?
Budget models work best for small to medium lawns up to 1/3 acre. For larger properties, invest in a more powerful mower.
Do inexpensive mowers require maintenance?
Yes, all mowers need periodic maintenance like oil changes, new blades, and filter replacement for optimal performance and longevity.
Are there safety risks with cheaper mowers?
Like all mowers, budget-friendly models can cause injury if improperly used. Never disable safety features and follow usage guidelines carefully.
Get a Great Looking Lawn on a Budget
You don't need to drain your bank account to have a picture-perfect yard. With a bit of research, you can find an impressive lawn mower under $100 tailored to your grass care needs. Use this guide to identify the right economical model for your lawn size, terrain, and landscaping requirements. Soon you'll be mowing smarter, saving green, and enjoying a luscious lawn with your budget-friendly new equipment.
