Does the thought of wrestling with a difficult lawn mower make you dread yard work? You are not alone! Many homeowners face the same frustration when trying to keep their lawns neat. Finding the perfect 21-inch lawn mower can feel like a huge task. Should you choose gas or electric? What about bagging versus mulching? These choices can quickly become confusing, leaving you with a mower that doesn’t quite fit your yard’s needs.
A great lawn mower saves you time and energy. A poor one causes backaches and uneven cuts. This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down the best features, compare top models, and explain what matters most for a 21-inch cut.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly which 21-inch lawn mower is your best match. Get ready to transform your mowing routine from a chore into a quick success. Let’s dive into the details and find your ideal machine!
Top 21 Lawn Mower Recommendations
- Gas Powered Engine: A 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine equipped with recoil starter and auto choke for easy start, delivers strong power.
- 2-in-1 Steel Deck: All-steel deck built to last, combine mulching and bagging capabilities in 1.
- 21" Cutting Blade: The heavy-duty blade delivers better cutting effect, allowing you to mow more in less time.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Dual-lever height adjustment with 6 cutting positions allows you to choose your cut from 1.5" to 3.9".
- Easy to Assemble: Foldable design saves 70% storage space, making it more convenient to unfold and use.
- Powerful & Efficient OHV 144cc Engine: Equipped with a robust 4-stroke OHV 144cc engine, this lawn mower delivers unmatched performance and reliability, ensuring a clean and efficient cut every time.
- Versatile 3-in-1 Cutting System: Choose between mulching and side discharge options to suit your lawn care needs. Mulching finely chops grass clippings to enrich your soil, while side discharge allows for quick and easy cleanup of larger areas.
- Lightweight & Easy Maneuverability: Weighing just 62 lbs, this lawn mower is a breeze to push and maneuver around your garden. Its compact design makes it perfect for tight spaces and small yards, ensuring no corner is left uncut.
- Customizable Cutting Height for Perfect Results: With 6-position height adjustment, you can easily customize the cutting height from 1.5 to 3.9 inches to achieve the perfect lawn finish. Whether you prefer a short, neat look or a lush, green carpet, this mower has you covered.
- Safety First with Start/Stop Control Lever: Designed with your safety in mind, the start/stop control lever allows for easy and immediate stopping of the mower in case of emergencies. This feature prevents accidents and injuries, giving you peace of mind while you work on your lawn.
- GAS-LIKE POWER WITHOUT THE HASSLE – 50% more torque than 40V mowers & 3200 RPM blade speed (matches 150cc gas mowers)—zero fumes, noise, or maintenance!**
- IPX4 WATERPROOF & STEEL DECK – Built to handle rain, damp grass, and tough conditions with a heavy-duty steel deck and rust-resistant design.
- SMARTCUT SELF-SHARPENING BLADES – Dual blades adjust power automatically for tall, wet, or thick grass—no bogging down!** Plus, 4-in-1 versatility (mulch, bag, side-discharge, turbo leaf mode).
- EASY-PUSH DESIGN & LED LIGHTS – Oversized 10” rear wheels + 8” front tires for smooth maneuvering. LED headlights let you mow early mornings or late evenings with no visibility issues.
- DUAL-PORT AUTO-SWITCH TECH – Seamlessly switches to a 2nd battery when the first drains (no stopping!**). Compatible with 75+ Greenworks 60V tools for a full yard system.
- 【Easy Yard Maintenance】21-inch Cutting width gas lawn mower, effortlessly tackling small to medium yards.
- 【Powerful Engine】Gas lawn mower is powered by a reliable Briggs & Stratton 140 cc gas powered engine that is designed to provide longer engine life, low vibration, and easy maintenance; Prime N' Pull start makes it easy to start the mower every time
- 【3-In-1 Lawn Mower】 3-in-1 steel deck with mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging provides versatile mowing options; 16-gallon bagger is included; Ergonomic handle maximizes user comfort during use
- 【Cutting Height Adjustment】The 6-position dual-lever height adjustment from 1.25-inch to 3.75-inch ensures you get the perfect cut every time; 8" front and 11" rear wheels provide great maneuverability through rough terrain and uneven surfaces
- 【What's in the Box】 Self-propelled single speed lawn mower (front wheel drive) includes engine oil, mulch plug, side discharge chute, and 16-gallon bagger. All SENIX gas lawn mowers are backed by our 2-year limited warranty for your peace of mind
- POWERFUL & EFFICIENT BRUSHLESS MOTOR – Enjoy longer runtime, quieter operation (3x quieter than gas), and superior torque with a durable 21-inch steel deck for a flawless cut every time.
- SELF-PROPELLED WITH VARIABLE SPEED – Effortless mowing with rear-wheel drive and adjustable speed control for maximum traction and maneuverability on any terrain.
- LED HEADLIGHT FOR NIGHT & EARLY MOWING – Tackle your lawn anytime with bright LED lights—perfect for early mornings or late evenings without disturbing neighbors.
- 4-IN-1 VERSATILE MOWING SYSTEM – Mulch, bag, side discharge, or turbo leaf pickup—customize your lawn care to match your needs
- COMPLETE ECOSYSTEM VALUE - Includes battery, fast charger, grass bag & 3year tool + 3year battery warranty Works with 75+ Greenworks 40V tools(trimmers, blowers, chainsaws...)—expand your cordless toolkit.
- EASY YARD MAINTENANCE: The 21-inch cutting width and durability make this gas lawn mower a breeze to use, effortlessly tackling small to medium yards and giving you a flawless cut every time
- POWERFUL ENGINE: The lawn mower is powered by a reliable Briggs & Stratton 140 cc gas powered engine that is designed to provide longer engine life, low vibration, and easy maintenance; Prime N' Pull start makes it easy to start the mower every time
- 3-IN-1 LAWN MOWER: The 3-in-1 steel deck with mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging provides versatile mowing options; 16-gallon bagger is included; Ergonomic handle maximizes user comfort during use
- EASY HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT: The 6-position dual-lever height adjustment from 1.25-inch to 3.75-inch ensures you get the perfect cut every time; 8" front and 11" rear wheels provide great maneuverability through rough terrain and uneven surfaces
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: The push lawn mower includes engine oil, mulch plug, side discharge chute, and 16-gallon bagger; All SENIX gas lawn mowers are backed by our 2-year limited warranty for your peace of mind
- Efficient & Versatile Mowing Solution - Our 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower features a 3-in-1 steel deck with mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging capabilities, providing an extensive mowing path for maximum efficiency. The no-choke, no-primer design ensures easy starting without the hassle of manual adjustments.
- Self-Propelled Functionality - Equipped with rear-wheel drive and a single-speed self-propelled feature, this mower moves smoothly and effortlessly, making it ideal for large cutting areas. The comfortable, foam-wrapped, angled handle reduces hand fatigue, making lawn maintenance a breeze.
- Reliable Performance - Powered by a robust 201cc 4-stroke OHV engine that delivers 9.0 ft·lb of torque, this gas-powered lawn mower ensures efficient and reliable performance every time.
- 8-Position Cutting Height Adjustment - This gas powered lawn mower offers a single lever that synchronizes the height adjustment of all four wheels, allowing you to customize the cutting height from 1.2" to 3.75" to perfectly match your lawn's requirements.
- Warranty - BILT HARD is committed to providing our customers with high-quality products and exceptional customer service. We stand behind our lawn mower. If you have any questions or are not satisfied, please feel free to contact us. Our support team is ready to assist you.
- High Efficiency: Equipped with a high-performance 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine and a auto choke for easy starter, delivers reliable power and efficiency.
- 2-IN-1 Steel Deck: All-steel deck built to last, combine mulch and side-discharge capabilities.
- 21" Blade: The 21" heavy-duty cutting blade delivers better cutting effect, allowing you to mow more in less time.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: 6-positions dual-lever height adjustment allows you to choose your cut from 1.5" to 3.9".
- Easy to Store: Compact design saves 70% storage space, making it more convenient to unfold and use.
The Essential 2021 Lawn Mower Buying Guide
Buying a new lawn mower in 2021 means choosing from many great options. This guide helps you find the perfect machine for your yard. We look at what matters most so you can cut grass easily.
Key Features to Look For
Modern mowers offer exciting features. Think about what makes mowing easier for you.
Power Source Matters
- Gas Engines: These offer the most power. They are great for big yards or thick grass. They need regular oil changes and fuel.
- Corded Electric: These are light and easy to start. You must stay close to an outlet, which limits your range.
- Cordless (Battery): Battery power is getting much better. Look for lithium-ion batteries. Higher voltage (like 40V or 80V) usually means longer run times.
Deck Size and Drive System
The deck is where the blades spin. A wider deck cuts more grass in one pass.
- Deck Size: For small lawns (under 1/4 acre), a 17-20 inch deck works well. For large yards, look for 21 inches or more.
- Self-Propelled vs. Push: Self-propelled mowers drive themselves forward. This is a huge help on hills or large areas. Push mowers require you to do all the work.
Cutting Options
How do you want to handle the clippings?
- Bagging: Catches clippings in a bag for easy cleanup.
- Mulching: Finely chops grass and drops it back onto the lawn as natural fertilizer.
- Side Discharge: Shoots clippings out the side. This is best for very tall grass that you don’t want to mulch finely.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used decide how long your mower lasts. Stronger parts mean less trouble later.
Deck Material
The deck holds the engine and blades. Steel decks are strong and common. Aluminum decks resist rust better but cost more.
Wheels
Big wheels make turning easier, especially on bumpy ground. Plastic wheels can crack over time. Look for durable, high-quality plastic or rubber wheels.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is seen in the details. Some features boost performance, while others cause headaches.
Quality Boosters
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Easily change how short you cut the grass. Good mowers let you adjust all four wheels or use a single-lever system.
- Washout Ports: A small port on the deck lets you attach a hose to clean the underside easily. This prevents rust buildup.
- Quiet Operation: Electric mowers are generally quieter than gas models.
Quality Reducers
- Flimsy Handles: Thin, wobbly handles break easily and make steering annoying.
- Hard-to-Start Engines: If you buy gas, check reviews about how easily the engine starts after storage.
- Short Battery Life: For cordless mowers, a battery that dies quickly is a major quality reducer.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about your yard shape and your own strength. A great mower fits your life.
Small City Yards (Flat)
You need something light and simple. A standard electric push mower or a smaller battery model works perfectly. Storage space is usually important here.
Medium to Large Yards (Some Hills)
A self-propelled gas or high-power battery mower is best. Self-propel saves your energy when pushing uphill.
Tough Terrain (Thick Grass/Debris)
Gas power usually wins here. Look for a mower with a strong, commercial-grade engine and durable metal housing. Mulching capability is helpful for heavy loads of grass.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 2021 Lawn Mowers
Q: What is the main difference between 40V and 80V battery mowers?
A: The voltage (V) tells you how much power the battery holds. 80V batteries typically run longer and cut thicker grass better than 40V batteries. Think of it like a bigger gas tank.
Q: Should I choose mulching or bagging?
A: Mulching returns nutrients to your lawn, making the grass healthier. Bagging is better if you have allergies or want a perfectly clean look right away.
Q: Are gas mowers still worth buying in 2021?
A: Yes, gas mowers offer unmatched power for very large or very tough jobs. However, electric models are catching up fast for typical suburban lawns.
Q: How often must I sharpen the blades?
A: Most experts suggest sharpening blades at least once per season. Dull blades tear the grass, making the lawn look brown and unhealthy.
Q: What does “self-propelled” really mean?
A: It means the engine powers the wheels. You only need to steer. This saves a lot of walking effort, especially on slopes.
Q: Do I need a wash port?
A: While not required, a wash port makes cleanup very simple. You connect a hose, turn on the water, and run the mower briefly to clean the stuck grass underneath.
Q: How do I store my mower correctly for winter?
A: For gas mowers, run the tank almost empty or use a fuel stabilizer. For battery mowers, store batteries indoors at a partial charge, not fully drained or fully charged.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a good mower?
A: A well-maintained gas mower can last 10 to 15 years. Quality battery mowers usually last 5 to 10 years, depending on how often the battery pack is replaced.
Q: Is a wider deck always better?
A: A wider deck cuts faster, but it makes the mower harder to maneuver around trees or flower beds. Match the deck size to the complexity of your yard layout.
Q: What should I check first when buying a used 2021 model?
A: Check the condition of the deck for rust or major dents. For gas models, pull the starter cord to feel if the engine compresses well. For electric models, test the battery charge level.