The 5 Best Lawn Mowers of 2026
170+ hours of hands-on testing across five properties. These are the mowers that actually cut cleanly, start reliably, and survive real backyard abuse.
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, Elite Yard Essentials earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Honda HRX-BE 21-Inch Battery Mower
Honda HRX217YXBEXA6
Honda finally entered the battery mower game, and they did not hold back. The HRX-BE delivers legendary Honda build quality with whisper-quiet battery power, dual 12Ah battery bays, and a 2.2 bushel easy-off grass bag that is the most convenient we have ever tested.
9.7
Editor
9.6
Performance
9.8
Durability
8.2
Value
Compare All 5 Mowers
Side-by-side comparison of the specs that matter most when choosing a lawn mower for your yard.
| Product | Category | Power | Cut Width | Weight | Drive | Price | Warranty | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Brushless electric | 21 inches | 78 lbs | Self-propelled, variable speed | $899 | 5 years | 9.7 | |
| Best Battery Mower | 56V ARC Lithium 7.5Ah | 21 inches | 62 lbs | Self-propelled, touch drive | $499 | 5 years | 9.3 | |
| Best Compact Electric | 13 Amp electric | 13 inches | 29 lbs | Push | $139 | 2 years | 7.8 | |
| Best Eco-Friendly | Human powered | 14 inches | 19 lbs | Manual push | $89 | 2 years | 7.5 | |
| Best Lightweight Battery | 40V 5.0Ah (dual port capable) | 21 inches | 55 lbs | Push | $379 | 4 years | 8.6 |
All Top Picks
Honda HRX-BE 21-Inch Battery Mower
Honda HRX217YXBEXA6
Honda finally entered the battery mower game, and they did not hold back. The HRX-BE delivers legendary Honda build quality with whisper-quiet battery power, dual 12Ah battery bays, and a 2.2 bushel easy-off grass bag that is the most convenient we have ever tested.
9.7
Editor
9.6
Performance
9.8
Durability
8.2
Value
EGO Power+ LM2102SP
EGO LM2102SP
The best cordless mower on Amazon. Surprising power, whisper-quiet operation, and a 45-minute runtime that handled our 1/3-acre test lot without blinking.
9.3
Editor
9.2
Performance
8.5
Durability
9
Value
Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO
Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO
The best-selling compact electric mower on Amazon for a reason. At under $140, the MJ401E-PRO is perfect for tiny lawns, townhomes, and anyone who wants a lightweight, no-fuss mower.
7.8
Editor
7
Performance
6.5
Durability
9.6
Value
American Lawn Mower 1204-14
American Lawn Mower 1204-14
The top-selling reel mower on Amazon. Zero emissions, zero noise, zero fuel — just you, the blades, and the grass. Surprisingly effective on small, flat lawns.
7.5
Editor
6.5
Performance
8
Durability
9.4
Value
Greenworks 40V 21" Brushless
Greenworks MO40L2512
A fantastic mid-range battery mower on Amazon. The 21-inch brushless motor delivers efficient power, and the dual battery slots give you options for extended runtime.
8.6
Editor
8.5
Performance
7.8
Durability
8.8
Value
Quick Buying Guide
For Most Homeowners
Battery mowers have crossed the threshold. They start instantly, require zero maintenance, and the best models cut as well as gas. Go with the Honda HRX-BE if budget allows, or the EGO LM2102SP for the best value.
EGO LM2102SP — $499On a Tight Budget
Under $150, the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO handles small lawns with ease. At $89, the American Lawn Mower reel mower is unbeatable for tiny, flat lawns and eco-conscious owners.
Worth the Splurge
The Honda HRX-BE at $899 is the best lawn mower we have ever tested. Dual battery bays, NeXite rust-proof deck, and Smart Drive self-propel justify every penny for lawns over 1/3 acre.
Honda HRX-BE — $899Want the Full Buying Guide?
Our complete lawn mower buying guide breaks down what to look for in every category — dual battery bays, deck materials, self-propel quality, grass bag design, and more. Read the full 16-minute guide for deep-dive advice.
Read Full Buying Guide
Get the Best Yard Tool Deals
Join 12,000+ homeowners. Weekly reviews, seasonal buying guides, and exclusive price drops delivered to your inbox.
No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.