This review has been updated 5 times since it was first published in March of 2021. If you’re tired of struggling with a manual pull cord to crank the motor of your lawn mower, an electric start model can be a refreshing alternative. You can fire it up with the simple turn of a key or push of a button, which saves time and helps to prevent arm strain and frustration. We’ve listed the best choices here and highlighted some of their useful features.
8. Poulan Pro 20”
With the Poulan Pro 20” (around $399), you won’t be delayed if the battery dies, thanks to a second one that kicks in automatically when needed. It’s designed for both comfort and convenience, with a padded handle that can be folded down for storage in your garage or shed.
- Quieter than most
- No carbon emissions
- Can struggle with wet grass
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7. Husqvarna 163cc
With front-wheel-drive, the Husqvarna 163cc (about $429) proves useful when your yard requires you to make many turns and changes in direction. Its self-propelled feature lets you set the speed with a gentle pull, so all you have to do is walk behind it to control its path.
- Briggs and stratton engine
- Adjustable blade height
- Can be difficult to clean
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6. Mowox InStart Series
The Mowox InStart Series (appx. $411) is a gasoline-powered model that fires up by use of a compact lithium-ion battery. It’s designed with a single front wheel that turns 360 degrees for excellent maneuverability, and that also locks in place for cutting straight lines.
- Small footprint for easy storage
- Battery charger included
- Poorly written instruction manual
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5. Honda 3-in-1
The Honda 3-in-1 (around $699) ’s trustworthy engine starts like a champ, and can be counted on for a neat, well-manicured lawn. Its self-propelled option minimizes the manpower involved, which really comes in handy on steep, uneven, or sloped terrain.
- Efficient twin blade setup
- Can stand up to serious yard work
- On the heavy side
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4. Black & Decker 36V 19″
The Black & Decker 36V 19″ (around $487) is designed for cord-free operation by way of a 36-volt battery that’s a cinch to remove when it needs to be charged. It has a sturdy, high-impact polymer housing and allows for mulching, bagging, and discharging with the push of a button.
- Soft ergonomic hand grips
- Rust-resistant materials
- Spare parts are hard to come by
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3. Lawn-Boy 17734
From a company that has been producing mowers since 1934, the Lawn-Boy 17734 (around $340) boasts a powerful Kohler engine that starts with a simple turn of a key. It also features a convenient, two-point system that lets you quickly adjust the cutting height.
- Large bag capacity
- Backed by a 2-year warranty
- No oil changes required
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2. Remington RM220
The self-propelled Remington RM220 (appx. $329) is equipped with sizable rear wheels to improve its maneuverability, so it’s a breeze to steer around trees, shrubs, and flowerbeds. It’s wide, 21-inch cutting deck helps to make quick work of any yard
- Self-charging battery system
- A pull cord for backup
- Discharges without any clumps
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1. Snapper 3-N-1
The Snapper 3-N-1 (appx. $749) is a durable, rear-wheel-drive selection that’s designed for powerful traction, while its smooth-turn differential makes it easy to maneuver without damaging your lawn. It efficiently sucks up all the clippings to leave a clean, consistent result.
- 7 cutting height settings
- Handy cupholder
- Built for the long haul
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