When it comes to cutting grass, homeowners have several options for the type of mower they can use. The most common types of mowers are push mowers, self-propelled mowers, riding mowers, and robotic mowers. Choosing the right type of mower depends on several factors like yard size, terrain, desired features, and budget. Understanding the pros and cons of each mower type can help homeowners decide which is the best option for their needs.
How do the different types of mowers work?
Here is a quick overview of how the various mower types operate:
- Push mowers – These basic mowers require the user to push them across the yard. The blades spin as the mower is pushed either manually or self-propelled using the motor. They are best for small, flat yards.
- Self-propelled mowers – Similar to push mowers but with a motor to help propel them forward as the user guides them. Good for medium yards with some hills.
- Riding mowers – Also called lawn tractors, these mowers allow the user to sit and ride while mowing. Best for large yards with hills or uneven terrain.
- Robotic mowers – Fully automated mowers that mow the lawn on a schedule unattended. Convenient option but require boundary wires around the yard.
How well do different mower types cut grass?
The cutting quality of a mower largely depends on the blade type, number of blades, and motor power. Here is how the various mower types compare:
- Push mowers – Basic cutting with lower power motors. Single or double blade options. Poorer performance on thick grass.
- Self-propelled mowers – Improved cutting from stronger motors. Mostly single blade but some models have two. Good for average grass.
- Riding mowers – Excellent cutting from high-powered motors. Twin or triple blade options. Handles thick grass well.
- Robotic mowers – Not as powerful but frequent mowing improves cutting. Single blades suitable for average grass.
Riding and self-propelled mowers often produce the best cut quality from their robust motors and sharpened blades. Riding mowers with twin or triple blades provide an extra smooth cut. Robotic mowers have lighter duty motors but make up for it with frequent mowing.
How fast can the different mowers cut grass?
Mowing speed is also dependent on engine power and blade efficiency. Here are the typical mowing speeds for each type:
- Push mowers – 2-3 mph pace walking behind the mower.
- Self-propelled mowers – 3-4 mph at a brisk walking pace.
- Riding mowers – 5-8 mph ride-on mowing.
- Robotic mowers – Less than 1 mph very slow methodical mowing.
Riding mowers are the fastest way to mow, followed by self-propelled. Push mowers and robotic mowers are slower options. Faster mowing speeds allow riders and self-propelled models to cover more ground in less time.
How easy are the different mowers to maneuver?
Maneuverability is a key factor, especially for navigating tight spaces and obstacles. Here is how the mowers compare:
- Push mowers – Very high maneuverability guided only by the user. Can pivot and turn quickly.
- Self-propelled mowers – Still highly maneuverable and lightweight. Wider turning radiuses.
- Riding mowers – Much larger and less nimble. Difficult around tight corners and obstacles.
- Robotic mowers – Programmed navigation on a fixed schedule. Avoid obstacles well.
Push and self-propelled mowers are the most maneuverable options, while large riding mowers are unwieldy for anything but wide open mowing. Robotic mowers are autonomous so require no active maneuvering.
How efficient are the mower types for yard size?
Mower efficiency for yard size depends on cutting width, speed, and ease of use. Here are the ideal yard sizes for each mower:
- Push mowers – Best for small yards less than 1/4 acre. Time consuming for larger areas.
- Self-propelled mowers – Well suited for medium yards up to 1/2 acre. Manageable size.
- Riding mowers – Maximum efficiency on large yards 1+ acres. Finish mowing quickly.
- Robotic mowers – Good for small to medium yards up to 1/2 acre. Provide hands-off convenience.
The larger the yard, the more advantage wider cutting widths and faster speeds provide. Small push mowers become inefficient for bigger areas. Riders and some self-propelled models offer the best scalability.
How quiet are gasoline, electric, and robotic mowers?
Noise level is another consideration when choosing a mower type. Here are the noise ranges for each:
- Gas push mowers – 95-100 dB, very loud
- Electric push mowers – 80-85 dB, quieter but still noisy
- Gas riding mowers – 95-105 dB, very loud
- Electric riding mowers – 80-90 dB, moderately loud
- Robotic mowers – 60-70 dB, quietest option
Gasoline mowers produce a high-pitched whining noise from the motor. Electric and robotic mowers operate much more quietly. Robotic mowers are the quietest since they lack a combustion engine. Electric motors provide a quiet hum by comparison.
How environmentally friendly are the different mower types?
From an environmental impact perspective, here is how the mowers compare:
- Gas mowers – Require fossil fuels and emit fumes. Less eco-friendly.
- Electric mowers – Use clean electricity and don’t directly emit pollution. Greener option.
- Robotic mowers – Also electric and fully autonomous operation. Most environmentally friendly choice.
Electric and robotic mowers are the most environmentally friendly options because they don’t burn gasoline or diesel fuels. Battery operation eliminates emissions and noise pollution. Robotic mowers go one step further with automated operation to reduce human energy usage as well.
How much maintenance is required for the different mower types?
Routine maintenance is crucial for proper mower operation and longevity. The maintenance needs vary by mower type:
- Push mowers – Air filter cleaning, blade sharpening, lubrication. Basic DIY maintenance.
- Self-propelled mowers – Same basic maintenance as push mowers but more frequent.
- Riding mowers – Oil/fluid changes, belt inspection, blade sharpening. Can be complex.
- Robotic mowers – Minimal maintenance needs other than occasional blade replacement.
In general, gas mowers require frequent maintenance like oil changes. Electric mowers need less routine maintenance. Robotic mowers need the least since they operate autonomously and don’t have gas engines.
How does mower safety compare between models?
Safety is paramount when operating heavy machinery. Mower types have varying safety considerations:
- Push mowers – Basic safety features like blade guards. Risk of injury from debris.
- Self-propelled mowers – Similar safety to push plus hand protection features.
- Riding mowers – Include rollover protection and seat belts. Higher hazards from size.
- Robotic mowers – Automated operation reduces human risks. Obstacle avoidance sensors.
Mower accidents often involve sharp blades and projectiles. Robotic mowers offer the safest operation by eliminating human control. Riders have higher risks from their bulky size and momentum.
How expensive are push, self-propelled, riding, and robotic mowers?
Lawn mower costs vary widely based on size, features, and options. Here are typical mower prices:
- Manual push mowers – $100-$300 for basic models.
- Self-propelled mowers – $300-$800 for mid-range consumer models.
- Riding lawn mowers – $1500-$4000 for residential tractor styles.
- Robotic mowers – $1000-$3000 for automated electric models.
Push mowers are the most budget friendly options. Self-propelled and robotic mowers sit in the mid-range. Riding mowers carry premium pricing for their large size, power, and durability.
Gas vs Electric Mower Cost Comparison
Looking specifically at fuel types:
- Gas mowers – Lower upfront cost but require ongoing fuel purchases.
- Electric mowers – Higher initial investment but little operating costs after.
While electric mowers are pricier, they can be cheaper long-term without the recurring gas, oil, and maintenance expenses.
Conclusion
When choosing the best mower type for your needs, consider your yard size, terrain, desired features, and budget. For small smooth yards, a push mower often fits the bill. Bigger yards benefit from the speed of self-propelled and riding mowers. Robotic mowers provide high-end convenience for a price. Gas models need more maintenance while electric options are more eco-friendly. Take all these factors into account as you select the ideal mower to keep your lawn looking pristine.