If you've ever watched a neighbor zip around their lawn putting in what looks like zero-effort, it's highly likely that they're using a mower that has a self-propel system. A self-propel system, whether it's front wheel drive, rear wheel drive or all wheel drive, turns the wheels itself to propel the mower forwards. This can be particularly useful if your lawn is fairly large, if you have slopes in your yard or you're not particularly strong (elderly users find it very helpful!). We've put together a number of self-propelled lawn mower reviews to help you find the best fit for your specific circumstances.
Our Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Reviews
Still undecided on whether you actually need a self-propelled lawn mower? We're going to quickly run through some of the main pros and cons of this feature below.
Advantages of Self-Propelled Mowers
Saves You Lots of Energy (+ Time)
If you've only got a small, postage-stamp lawn, it likely doesn't take much effort to maintain. But if you've got an acre or two, several slopes and frequently battle with long grass, it's likely quite a workout each time you take your mower out from wherever you store it. And a significant time investment too! Self-propel can help you on both fronts. It removes that physical burden by essentially pushing the mower along for you, meaning you don't feel as tired when finished, and you finish a lot quicker.
Gives You More Options When Buying a Mower
You might have had your eye on a new gas mower for a while, but you haven't pulled the trigger because you're worried about the weight of it. Will you be able to manage it or will it be too heavy? Physical torture is not something you want to endure when mowing! Well self-propel will remove these doubts, as you're not going to have to strain yourself under the full-weight of the mower. This opens up lots of possibilities and makes buying gas or battery operated mowers a realistic option.
Will Likely Improve the Quality of Your Cut
If you're constantly fighting against your mower, how do you expect to get a clean, even cut? Self-propel means your lawn mower works with you, rather than you struggling like crazy to maneuver it around your yard. This should allow the blade to remain nice and level, boosting your chances of that perfectly even cut you've been longing to see on your own lawn.
Cons of Self-Propelled Mowers
You'll Pay More
Without a doubt, a self-propelled mower will cost you more. How much more will depend on the model you go for (whether it's front-wheel, rear wheel or all wheel drive). But providing it's going to be of real benefit, you can probably justify this added cost.
Self-Propel Mowers Do Tend to be Heavier
If you've been browsing and checking out a few models, you might have noticed that self-propelled mowers tend to be on the heavy side. Now this isn't an issue when you're out on your lawn, because it'll be moving that weight for you. But when you're getting it out of the shed, garage or wherever you store your mower, it'll be dead weight. If the distance from that place to your lawn is significant, this is something you might want to think about.
