Best 21-Inch Lawn Mowers: Top 9 Picks (November 2026)
The best 21 inch lawn mowers include the PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower for most residential lawns, the Greenworks 60V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower for cordless self-propelled mowing, and the EGO POWER+ 21" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower for long cordless runtime.
On this page (4 sections)
The best 21 inch mower for most residential lawns is the PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower because it combines a 144cc engine, steel deck, 6 cutting heights and a foldable design.
That mix suits homeowners who want one mower for regular weekly cutting.
Choose the Greenworks 60V model for self-propelled cordless mowing, or the EGO POWER+ for a full 21-inch cordless deck with up to 55 minutes of runtime.
The choice comes down to power source and how much pushing effort you want to do.
A 21-inch width is a practical middle ground for residential lawns.
It covers a useful strip on each pass and remains easier to guide around beds, trees, fences and narrow gates than a wider mower.
That balance helps in side yards and back yards where straight runs are short and turns are frequent.
A wider deck finishes open areas faster but can make trimming and gate access harder.
A narrower deck turns more easily yet needs more passes.
At 21 inches, you get solid coverage without giving up much manoeuvrability in a typical suburban layout.
The models differ in more than cutting width.
Some use gas engines and others run on batteries, which affects noise, starting, fuel storage and ongoing care.
Some are push mowers that rely fully on your effort, while others add self-propelled drive.
Height ranges vary from about 1.2 to 4 inches depending on the model.
Clipping handling also varies, from mulching and side discharge only to systems that also include bagging and turbo leaf pickup.
A mower that matches your lawn size, terrain and cleanup habit will feel easier to use each time.
If you need more coverage and have open space, compare a best 30 inch mower.
That wider option can reduce passes on large yards, but it needs room to turn and store.
For a broader look at walk-behind options, see our Best Push Mower 2026 guide.
Measure your gates and storage area before you buy, then match drive type and power source to how you mow most often.
Our picks at a glance
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1
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2
Best for cordless self-propelled mowingGreenworks 60V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for long cordless runtimeEGO POWER+ 21" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itSENIX 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower
Best for uneven residential yards - 5
Check itBILT HARD 21 Inch 201cc 4-Cycle Engine
Best for high engine output - 6
Check itBILT HARD 21" Self Propelled Gas Lawn
Best for assisted gas mowing - 7
Check itSENIX 21" 144cc Gas Push Lawn Mower
Best for a lighter gas mower - 8
Check itGreenworks 60V 21in Push Lawn Mower
Best for quiet 60V push mowing - 9
Check itKraftSense 21" Cordless Lawn Mower
Best for compact cordless yard care
The best 21 inch mowers for residential lawns
The PowerSmart is the strongest all-around pick, while the Greenworks and EGO models are better for cordless users. For more options, compare brushless battery lawn mowers.
Gas options remain useful when you want steady engine power without tracking battery charge.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. We checked cutting width, drive type, power source, height adjustment, mowing modes and practical residential use.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower: Best for most residential lawns
- 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine
- 21-inch cutting path
- Mulching and side discharge
- 6 cutting heights from 1.5 to 3.9 inches
- Foldable design
The PowerSmart combines a 21-inch cutting path with a 144cc gas engine, steel deck, 6 height positions and a foldable design. It suits homeowners who want a straightforward push mower for regular residential mowing.
Pros
- Steel deck
- 6 height positions
- Foldable storage design
Cons
- Push mower without self-propelled drive
- Gasoline engine needs fuel and oil care
PowerSmart is the best 21 inch mower for most homeowners who want a simple gas push mower. Its 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine works with a 21-inch cutting path and an all-steel deck.
The 2-in-1 deck supports mulching and side discharge. Mulching returns fine clippings to the lawn, while side discharge helps move clippings away when you are cutting longer grass.
Six single-lever height positions range from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. That range gives you room to use a lower setting for a closer cut or a higher setting when the grass needs more height.
The foldable design can save storage space in a garage or shed. Its 10-inch rear wheels and 7-inch front wheels are also suited to regular movement across residential terrain.
This is a push mower, not a self-propelled mower. Choose it when you are comfortable guiding the mower yourself and want a gas engine with a steel deck.
Greenworks 60V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower: Best for cordless self-propelled mowing
- 60V brushless motor
- Two 4.0Ah batteries
- Rear-wheel-drive self-propelled control
- 4-in-1 mowing
- 7 height positions
This Greenworks mower adds rear-wheel-drive self-propelled control to a 60V cordless system. Two 4.0Ah batteries, 4-in-1 mowing and 7 height positions make it a strong fit for larger residential yards.
Pros
- Self-propelled drive
- Two batteries included
- Mulch, bag, side discharge and turbo leaf pickup
Cons
- Cordless runtime depends on terrain and mowing technique
- Cutting width is 20.28 inches
The Greenworks 60V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower is the best cordless choice when reduced pushing effort matters. Its rear-wheel-drive system helps move the mower forward, and you can adjust your pace while mowing.
The mower includes two 4.0Ah batteries and uses a 60V brushless motor. Greenworks says the batteries can provide up to 3/4 acre per charge, although terrain and mowing technique affect runtime.
Its cutting width is 20.28 inches, which is close to the 21-inch class. Seven height positions range from 1 to 4 inches, and the 4-in-1 system supports mulching, bagging, side discharge and turbo leaf pickup.
LED headlights can help when you mow in lower light. The battery system also works with more than 75 Greenworks 60V tools, including trimmers, blowers and chainsaws.
Pick this mower if you want self-propelled control without a gas engine. If you prefer a gas push model, compare our best gas lawn mower push guide.
EGO POWER+ 21" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower: Best for long cordless runtime
- 56V 6.0Ah battery included
- Up to 55 minutes of runtime
- 7 cutting height positions
- Brushless motor
- LED headlights
The EGO gives you a full 21-inch cutting width, a 56V 6.0Ah battery and up to 55 minutes of runtime. It suits homeowners who want cordless mowing with a wide height range and included charger.
Pros
- 21-inch cutting width
- Included 6.0Ah battery and charger
- 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty
Cons
- 82 lb item weight
- Manual push operation
The EGO POWER+ is the best 21 inch mower for homeowners who want a cordless mower with a true 21-inch cutting width. Its included 56V 6.0Ah battery provides up to 55 minutes of runtime.
Seven cutting height positions range from 1.25 to 4 inches. The mower supports mulching, side discharge and bagging, so you can change how you handle clippings as lawn conditions change.
The brushless motor is designed for low vibration and long service life. For more models using this motor type, compare brushless lawn mowers.
LED headlights add visibility for mowing at dawn or dusk, and the included charger can charge the 6.0Ah battery in 80 minutes.
The EGO mower weighs 82 lb and uses manual push operation. Its battery works with EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries and EGO power tools, which may matter if you already use that platform.
Choose EGO when the full 21-inch deck and battery runtime are more important than self-propelled drive.
SENIX 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower: Best for uneven residential yards
- 144cc 4-cycle engine
- 21-inch cutting deck
- 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels
- Mulching and side discharge
- 6 height positions
The SENIX pairs a 144cc gas engine with large 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels. Its 21-inch deck, 2-in-1 mowing and 6 height positions fit homeowners who push across uneven ground.
Pros
- Large rear wheels
- 21-inch deck
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Push mower without self-propelled drive
- Mulching and side discharge only
The SENIX 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower is a strong fit for uneven residential yards.
Its 8-inch front wheels and 11-inch rear wheels are larger than the wheels on many standard push mowers.
That size difference helps the mower roll over roots, small bumps and uneven patches without catching as often.
A 144cc 4-cycle gas engine powers the mower, while the 21-inch deck supports mulching and side discharge.
Mulching works well for routine cuts when the grass is dry and not too tall.
Side discharge gives you another option when the grass is longer or wetter and you want clippings moved away from the deck.
The 6-position adjustment covers 1.25 to 3.75 inches.
That range lets you lower the deck for a closer trim or raise it when growth is thick.
See our high-wheel mower picks for more options suited to uneven ground.
Wheel size does not replace good technique, so slow down on rough sections and keep a steady grip.
This model is still manual, so it does not provide self-propelled assistance on slopes or long runs.
You will need to supply the pushing effort throughout the job, especially when the grass is dense.
SENIX includes a 2-year warranty.
Choose this mower if wheel size and a wide height range matter more than bagging or cordless operation.
BILT HARD 21 Inch 201cc 4-Cycle Engine: Best for high engine output
- 201cc 4-cycle OHV engine
- 21-inch steel deck
- Bagging, mulching and side discharge
- 8-position height adjustment
- 9.5-inch rear wheels
The BILT HARD uses a 201cc engine and a 21-inch steel deck with 3-in-1 mowing. It suits buyers who want bagging, mulching and side discharge with a broad cutting-height choice.
Pros
- 201cc engine
- 3-in-1 mowing
- Large rear wheels
Cons
- 81.9 lb item weight
- Not designed for slopes over 15 degrees
The BILT HARD 21 Inch 201cc 4-Cycle Engine mower is the best fit for buyers who want a larger gas engine and 3-in-1 clipping control.
Its 201cc 4-cycle OHV engine powers a 21-inch steel deck.
You can choose bagging, mulching or side discharge.
That flexibility helps when you want to collect clippings in one area but leave fine clippings on the lawn in another.
Bagging can keep a tidy finish for front areas, while mulching returns nutrients during routine cuts.
Side discharge helps when grass is tall and you want to avoid filling a bag too quickly.
The height information needs care.
The bullets describe 8 positions and a range of 1.2 to 3.75 inches, while the product specifications show 10 positions and a minimum height of 1.2 centimeters.
That difference matters if you plan to use the lowest or highest setting for a specific grass type.
Confirm the range for your needs before ordering, and use the single lever to set all wheels together for an even cut.
The mower has 9.5-inch rear wheels and 8-inch front wheels.
The larger rear wheels help with pushing across residential terrain, though the mower remains a manual push model.
It is not designed for hilly terrain or slopes over 15 degrees, so choose a different model when that restriction does not fit your yard.
BILT HARD 21" Self Propelled Gas Lawn: Best for assisted gas mowing
- 201cc 4-cycle OHV engine
- Self-propelled drive
- Bagging, mulching and side discharge
- 8 height positions
- 21-inch cutting width
This BILT HARD adds self-propelled movement to a 201cc gas mower. Its 21-inch deck and 3-in-1 mowing suit homeowners who want less pushing effort during regular lawn care.
Pros
- Self-propelled drive
- 201cc engine
- Bagging, mulching and side discharge
Cons
- 89.2 lb item weight
- The description gives a different upper height of 2.8 inches
The BILT HARD 21-inch self-propelled mower is the best gas pick when you want assisted forward movement.
Its fixed walking speed reduces pushing effort and makes long straight runs feel easier than with a manual push mower.
A 201cc 4-cycle OHV engine powers the 21-inch mower.
The 3-in-1 system supports bagging, mulching and side discharge, while a single lever controls height adjustment across all 4 wheels.
Bagging collects clippings for a cleaner look, mulching leaves fine clippings on the lawn, and side discharge moves clippings aside for taller grass.
The bullets describe 8 height positions from 1.2 to 3.75 inches.
The description gives a different upper height of 2.8 inches, so confirm the range before ordering if that measurement matters to your choice.
At 89.2 lb, this is the heaviest mower in the comparison.
The added weight can make lifting into a vehicle or moving it up steps harder, even with self-propelled drive while mowing.
Pick it when self-propelled gas mowing matters more than carrying weight.
It suits homeowners with larger or longer yards who want less pushing effort during each pass.
SENIX 21" 144cc Gas Push Lawn Mower: Best for a lighter gas mower
- 144cc 4-cycle engine
- 21-inch deck
- 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels
- Mulching and side discharge
- 6 height positions
At 45 lb, this SENIX is the lightest gas mower in this group. It gives you a 21-inch deck, 144cc engine, high wheels and 6 height positions for routine residential mowing.
Pros
- 45 lb item weight
- 21-inch cutting width
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Push mower without self-propelled drive
- 2-in-1 mowing rather than bagging
The SENIX 21" 144cc Gas Push Lawn Mower is the best lighter gas option in this group.
Its 45 lb item weight makes it notably lighter than the other gas models listed here.
Lighter weight can make it easier to move in and out of storage and to turn at the end of each row.
The mower has a 144cc 4-cycle engine, a 21-inch deck and 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels.
The high rear wheels help it roll across uneven residential ground without self-propelled drive.
Six height positions range from 1.25 to 3.75 inches.
That range gives room for a lower cut for a neat finish or a higher cut when grass needs more length.
Its 2-in-1 design provides mulching and side discharge.
Mulching suits regular maintenance cuts, while side discharge helps when grass is wet or tall and clippings need to clear the deck quickly.
It does not provide self-propelled drive or rear bagging, so you handle all pushing effort and cannot collect clippings in a bag.
Choose it when you want a wide cutting path and a lighter mower for regular residential use.
Its 2-year manufacturer warranty adds a defined coverage period under the terms provided.
Greenworks 60V 21in Push Lawn Mower: Best for quiet 60V push mowing
- 60V battery system
- 5.0Ah battery and charger
- 4-in-1 mowing
- 7 height positions
- LED lights
This Greenworks push mower uses a 60V system with a 5.0Ah battery and charger. Its 4-in-1 mowing, LED lights and 7 height positions suit homeowners who want cordless convenience without self-propelled drive.
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- 4-in-1 mowing
- 4-year tool and battery warranty
Cons
- Cutting width is 20.28 inches
- Manual push operation
The Greenworks 60V 21in Push Lawn Mower is the best choice for quiet 60V push mowing.
It includes a 5.0Ah battery and charger, so you do not need to add those items separately for the basic cordless setup.
Its cutting width is 20.28 inches, and 7 height positions support adjustments from 1 to 4 inches.
The wide height range lets you use a lower setting for a closer cut or raise the deck for taller growth.
The 4-in-1 system includes mulching, bagging, side discharge and turbo leaf mode.
That range of modes helps you adapt to seasonal cleanup, from routine mulching during the growing season to leaf pickup in autumn.
LED lights can help with visibility in early morning or evening conditions.
Greenworks also describes an IPX4 weather-resistant design and a steel deck for this model.
Weather resistance and a steel deck suit homeowners who mow in damp conditions or want a deck built for regular use.
This is a manual push mower, not the self-propelled Greenworks model above.
You will guide the mower yourself on every pass, so consider lawn size and terrain before choosing it over an assisted model.
Pick it when you want the 60V system and 4-in-1 mowing without assisted drive.
Its 4-year tool and battery warranty also adds a longer coverage period than several gas models in this group.
KraftSense 21" Cordless Lawn Mower: Best for compact cordless yard care
- 40V dual-battery system
- Two 4.0Ah batteries and charger
- Up to 35 minutes of runtime
- 8 height positions
- 3-in-1 mowing
The KraftSense combines a 21-inch deck with a 40V dual-battery system and two 4.0Ah batteries. It suits smaller residential lawns where 35 minutes of runtime and 1/4-acre coverage are enough.
Pros
- Two batteries and charger included
- 8 height positions
- Mulching, bagging and side discharge
Cons
- Shortest stated runtime in this group
- Designed around smaller lawn coverage
The KraftSense 21" Cordless Lawn Mower is the best fit for a smaller residential lawn and a compact cordless routine.
Its 40V system includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger.
The mower provides up to 35 minutes of runtime and covers up to 1/4 acre per charge.
That coverage suits smaller yards where a single charge can finish the job without planning around a battery swap.
Larger lawns may need extra charging time, so match the stated coverage to your actual area before buying.
Eight height positions range from 1.2 to 4 inches, giving you more adjustment points than several models in this comparison.
Its 21-inch deck supports mulching, bagging and side discharge.
Mulching returns fine clippings to the lawn, bagging collects them for a tidy finish, and side discharge moves them aside when grass is tall or wet.
KraftSense also describes edge-to-edge cutting for areas beside fences, walls, flower beds and garden borders.
That design can reduce the strips left uncut along edges and save time with a trimmer afterwards.
Choose it when the lawn fits within the stated coverage and you want a cordless mower with two batteries.
For larger lawns, the Greenworks self-propelled model offers a longer stated runtime.
How do you choose the best 21 inch mower?
The best 21 inch mower depends on your power source, lawn shape, pushing needs and preferred clipping method. Start with those four decisions before comparing smaller details such as lights or storage.
Do you want a gas or cordless 21 inch mower?
Gas mowers suit buyers who want a 144cc or 201cc engine and do not want to plan each session around battery runtime. PowerSmart and both SENIX models use 144cc engines, while both BILT HARD models use 201cc engines.
Cordless models avoid gasoline and engine oil. The Greenworks and EGO mowers use higher-voltage battery systems, while KraftSense uses a 40V system for smaller stated coverage.
Is self-propelled drive worth choosing?
Self-propelled drive is useful when you want the mower to move forward with less pushing effort. The Greenworks 60V self-propelled mower uses rear-wheel drive, and the BILT HARD self-propelled mower uses a fixed walking speed.
Manual push mowers can make sense when the lawn is manageable and you prefer a lighter or simpler machine. The 45 lb SENIX model is the lightest gas mower in this group.
For commercial or frequent professional use, compare the Best Push Mower For Lawn Care Professionals guide before choosing a residential model.
How many cutting height positions do you need?
More positions give you finer control, but the useful range matters more than the number alone. The EGO and Greenworks models reach 4 inches, while the PowerSmart adjusts from 1.5 to 3.9 inches.
Check both the minimum and maximum height. A broad range helps you use a shorter setting when appropriate and raise the deck when grass is tall or conditions call for a higher cut.
Which mowing mode fits your cleanup routine?
Mulching leaves fine clippings on the lawn, side discharge moves them away from the deck, and bagging collects them. The Greenworks cordless models and both BILT HARD mowers offer the widest selection here.
PowerSmart and the SENIX B0GXF1BK9X model provide mulching and side discharge. The SENIX B0F4RCR956 model is also a 2-in-1 mower, with product data describing mulching and side discharge rather than a 3-in-1 setup.
How should you prepare a new mower?
Read the model instructions before adding fuel, oil or a battery.
Gas models need the correct fuel and engine oil guidance, while cordless models need their battery and charger handled according to the brand's directions.
Setting up the mower correctly from the start helps you avoid mistakes with fuel type, oil level or battery charging.
Check that the blade area is clear and that the height levers are set evenly across all wheels.
Inspect the cutting area before mowing and remove objects that could damage the blade.
Stones, sticks and toys can damage the blade or be thrown by the deck, so a quick walk around the lawn is worth the time.
Set the deck height before starting, keep people away from the mowing path and stop the mower before clearing grass near the deck.
Never reach toward the blade while the engine or motor is running, even if it seems to have slowed down.
Start on a flat area and learn how the mower turns before you move to slopes or rough ground.
Our guide on How To Choose A Good Lawn Mower? covers the main buying decisions in more detail.
For basic operating steps, see How To Use Lawn Mower 2.0?.
Use both guides together to match the mower you buy with the way you will set it up, start it and store it after each session.
How do you care for a 21 inch lawn mower?
Regular care starts with clearing grass from the deck, checking the blade area and storing the mower in a dry place.
Clippings left under the deck can build up and affect cutting performance over time.
A quick wipe or scrape after mowing, once the mower is stopped and safe to handle, keeps the deck cleaner.
Follow the manual for blade service, fuel handling, oil changes and battery storage.
The manual gives the correct intervals and steps for your specific model, so use it rather than guessing.
Gas mowers need fresh fuel and the correct oil routine.
Old fuel and low or dirty oil can make starting harder and wear the engine faster.
Store fuel safely away from living spaces and follow local rules for handling and disposal.
Cordless mowers need batteries stored according to the brand instructions, with the charger kept dry and the battery removed before cleaning.
Removing the battery before cleaning reduces the risk of an accidental start while you work around the deck.
Keep the cutting height consistent from one session to the next.
If grass becomes tall, raise the deck and avoid forcing the mower through more growth than it can cut cleanly.
Making gradual cuts protects the blade and leaves a more even finish than forcing a single deep cut.
Store the mower where it stays dry and where the handle and deck are less likely to be knocked or damaged.
A simple routine of cleaning, checking and storing keeps the mower ready and helps it last longer.
Which best 21 inch mower should you buy?
Choose the PowerSmart if you want the strongest all-around gas push mower with a steel deck and foldable storage.
Its 144cc engine, 21-inch cutting path and 6 height positions cover the needs of most residential lawns.
The foldable design helps when garage or shed space is limited.
Choose the Greenworks self-propelled model if you want cordless power, two batteries and assisted forward movement.
Rear-wheel drive helps on slopes and thick grass, while the two 4.0Ah batteries support longer sessions than a single battery setup.
Pick the EGO for a true 21-inch cordless deck and up to 55 minutes of stated runtime.
Seven height positions, bagging, mulching and side discharge give you flexibility for different lawn conditions.
Choose the lighter SENIX 144cc if a 45 lb gas mower fits your yard and you do not need bagging.
Its high wheels help on uneven ground, and the 2-year warranty adds a defined coverage period.
Consider the SENIX high-wheel model if uneven terrain is your main concern and you prefer a gas push mower.
Consider a BILT HARD model if you want a 201cc engine with bagging, mulching and side discharge.
Check the slope limit and height range carefully before choosing a BILT HARD, as the product data differs between models.
A 21-inch mower is a practical choice for many residential lawns, but the best match depends on access, terrain, power source and cleanup preferences.
Measure gates and storage space, then compare drive type and mowing modes before you buy.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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1
-
2
Best for cordless self-propelled mowing
Greenworks 60V 21in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for long cordless runtime
EGO POWER+ 21" Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best 21 inch mower for most homes?
The PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower is the best 21 inch mower for most homes in this comparison. Its 144cc engine, steel deck, 6 cutting heights, mulching and side discharge cover common residential needs.
Choose a cordless model if you want to avoid gasoline and engine oil.
Is a 21-inch mower wide enough for a residential lawn?
Yes, a 21-inch mower is wide enough for many residential lawns. It covers more ground per pass than narrower walk-behind mowers while remaining easier to fit around beds, trees and gates than wider models.
Measure tight access points before choosing a mower with a wider body.
Should you choose a gas or cordless 21-inch mower?
Choose a gas 21-inch mower when you want a familiar fuel-powered setup and do not want to plan around battery runtime. Choose cordless when quiet operation, no gasoline and easier starting matter more.
Battery models differ in voltage, battery capacity, runtime and whether the battery is included.
Are all 21-inch lawn mowers self-propelled?
No. A 21-inch cutting width does not tell you how the mower moves.
The Greenworks 60V self-propelled model and BILT HARD self-propelled model provide assisted forward movement, while the other picks here are push mowers.
Check the drive type if pushing effort is a concern.
What cutting height should you use with a 21-inch mower?
Use a height that matches your grass and current growth, then avoid removing too much grass in one pass. The mowers here offer different ranges, from about 1.2 inches to 4 inches.
Raise the deck when grass is tall or conditions are dry, and use the mower's height positions to make repeatable adjustments.
