Does the thought of a perfectly manicured lawn feel miles away? Many homeowners dream of that lush, green carpet, but the reality of keeping it that way often involves wrestling with unreliable or underpowered lawn mowers. Choosing the right machine can feel like a chore in itself, especially when the Craftsman brand offers so many different models.
Craftsman has a long history in the yard care world, but knowing which walk-behind, riding mower, or electric option fits your yard size and budget is crucial. Are you tired of pull-starts that refuse to cooperate, or mowers that just can’t handle thick grass? We understand those frustrations. Picking the wrong Craftsman mower means wasted time and a less-than-perfect cut.
This deep dive cuts through the confusion. We will break down the key features, compare popular series, and show you exactly how to match a Craftsman mower to your specific needs. By the end of this guide, you will have the confidence to select the perfect tool for the job. Let’s explore the best Craftsman Lawn Mowers available right now and transform your weekend yard work!
Top Craftsman Lawn Mower Recommendations
- Up to 45 min. of runtime – finish the job efficiently with a battery lawn mower that features a powerful motor for extended use
- Conserve storage space – store in a crowded shed or garage with a push lawn mower that's 36% more compact
- Lightweight and maneuverable – ease the stress of yardwork with a design that is 29% lighter than traditional walk-behind lawn mowers
- Efficient grass collection – help fill the grass bag to optimal capacity with the fan-assisted 15 in. cutting system
- Twist-and-switch functionality – seamlessly go from mulching to bagging with the turn of a dial (no mulch plug required)
- Powerful motor: 13 Amp motor with 20-in deck helps power through tall grass
- Mowing convenience: 3-in-1 mulching, bagging and side discharging
- Adjustable: single lever height adjusts from 1-1/2-in to 4-in
- Improved cutting performance: high efficiency blade helps to improve cutting performance
- Includes: (1) CMEMW213 Push mower (1) Collection bag (1) Side discharge chute
- Effortless Power for ½ Acre Yards- Experience gas-like performance without the hassle—35 minutes of continuous runtime from a single 4.0Ah battery (full charge in 2 hours). Perfect for small to medium lawns up to ½ acre.
- Ultra-Lightweight Design (35% Lighter)- 16" cutting deck with ergonomic handles and push-button start makes maneuvering effortless—ideal for users prioritizing comfort and ease of storage.
- Smart Cut Adjustment System- Single-lever 5-position height control (1.25"-3.375") adapts to any grass type. 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging system maximizes clippings management.
- Zero Maintenance, Maximum Savings- No gas/oil costs, emissions, or engine tune-ups. Save $200+ annually vs gas mowers with whisper-quiet operation (<75dB).
- 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.
- Powerful brushless motor: provides up to 50 minutes runtime**
- Vertical space savings: takes up 78% less space in vertical storage
- Reach small areas: low-profile design (10 in deck in height setting 1) allows for clearance for easy access under and around obstacles
- Range of cutting options: dual-lever height adjust from 1. 5 in to 3. 5 in
- Lightweight: for easy transport and maneuverability
- High-performance -the high efficiency cutting system with dual blades and a brushless motor is designed to minimize energy use which helps maximize runtime.
- Long runtime - ideal for lawns up to 1/2 acre with up to 70 minutes of runtime.
- Easy transport & storage - use the one-touch folding handle to quickly store the mower upright–takes 79% less space in vertical storage vs in operation**.
- Cutting options - the 3-in-1 steel deck allows you to mulch, bag, or side discharge clippings.
- Help conserve your energy - stop pushing, dial in your speed, and tackle yard work with the self-propelled mower that does the hard work for you.
- POWERFUL 144CC 4-STROKE ENGINE- Start mowing right away with this gas powered lawn mower—its 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine comes equipped with an auto choke system for fast, reliable starts. The forced air-cooling system keeps the gas lawnmower engine performing efficiently, making it ideal for steady, uninterrupted mowing, whether you're trimming your front yard or handling a full day of lawn work
- HEAVY-DUTY 21" STEEL CUTTING DECK- Get a clean cut every time with the 21-inch reinforced steel deck and tough, high-performance blade. This push gas lawn mower delivers consistent results with every pass—no need to repeat sections—making it perfect for homeowners looking for a dependable gas lawnmower that tackles tough grass effortlessly
- TRIPLE FUNCTION: BAG, MULCH & SIDE DISCHARGE- This versatile gas lawnmower rear bagging system lets you choose how to manage your clippings—switch easily between rear bagging, mulching, or side discharge. With a 1.4-bushel grass catcher included, this all-in-one lawn mower gas powered setup gives you full control over your lawn’s appearance, whether you want a clean yard or nutrient-rich mulch
- 6 HEIGHT OPTIONS WITH SINGLE LEVER ADJUSTMENT- Adjust to the season with six cutting heights ranging from 1.5" to 3.9", all controlled by a single, easy-to-use lever. This gas push lawn mower is perfect for adapting to varying grass lengths in spring, summer, or fall, giving you precision and flexibility in one rugged push lawn mower package
- LARGE WHEELS FOR EASY CONTROL- Navigate uneven terrain with confidence thanks to 7" front wheels, 10" rear wheels, 1.5" wide treads, and durable double ball bearings. Whether you're pushing through thick grass or going over bumps and slopes, this push gas lawn mower offers smooth control and reliable traction every step of the way
- 36" GAS RIDE ON MOWER: Provides the optimized power and performance that reduces the amount of time and labor needed to maintain the beauty of your yard
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENGINE: Powered by a reliable 11.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine that delivers easy starting and superior results every time
- DURABLE AND EFFICIENT: Rugged 36" reinforced stamped steel deck cuts up to 2 acres of grass and fits through most gates and tight spaces, and the included mulching kit allows you to cut and finish like a professional
- EASY MANEUVERABILITY: 18" turning radius and heavy-duty Turf Saver wheels make it easy to navigate around obstacles and get the job done efficiently
- RIDE IN COMFORT: 7-speed manual transmission allows you to choose the perfect speed for the task, and the contoured low-back seat provides a comfortable ride every time
- POWERFUL 144CC 4-STROKE ENGINE- Powered by a 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine, this gas lawn mower starts effortlessly thanks to its auto choke system, while the forced air-cooling mechanism keeps it running efficiently for long-lasting use—an excellent pick for those seeking a dependable lawn mower gas powered option
- HEAVY-DUTY 21" STEEL CUTTING DECK- A clean, even cut is delivered every time by the 21-inch heavy-duty blade and reinforced steel deck, allowing you to finish faster—exactly what you’d expect from a high-performance lawnmower or gas push mower
- EFFORTLESS MANEUVERING WITH LARGE WHEELS- Designed with 7-inch front wheels and 10-inch high rear wheels, plus 1.5" wide treads and double ball bearings, this push mower makes maneuvering simple and effective, even across uneven ground.
- 6 ADJUSTABLE CUTTING HEIGHT- You can switch between six cutting heights—from 1.5 inches to 3.9 inches high—with a single lever, giving this lawn mower gas model the flexibility to meet different yard needs in every season
- 3-IN-1 VERSATILITY- BAG, MULCH, & SIDE DISCHARGE – Easily switch between rear bagging, mulching, and side discharge. The 1.4-bushel grass catcher allows easy grass collection, keeping your lawn clean and tidy
The Craftsman Lawn Mower Buying Guide: Keeping Your Lawn Tidy
Craftsman lawn mowers have a long history of serving homeowners. They offer a variety of models for different yard sizes and needs. Choosing the right one ensures you get a machine that lasts and does a great job cutting grass. This guide will help you pick the perfect Craftsman mower for your yard work.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a Craftsman mower, several features make a big difference in how easy and effective mowing will be.
Engine Power and Type
- Engine Size (CC or HP): Bigger yards need stronger engines. Look for higher horsepower (HP) or cubic centimeters (CC) for thick grass or hills. Smaller yards can use less powerful, more fuel-efficient options.
- Fuel Type: Most Craftsman mowers use gasoline. Electric (battery-powered) models are quieter and require less maintenance.
Deck Size and Cutting Options
- Cutting Width: This is the deck size. A wider deck cuts more grass in one pass, saving you time on large lawns. Small yards do well with 21-inch decks. Large properties benefit from 42-inch decks or wider.
- Discharge Options: Good mowers let you choose how to handle the clippings. You can bag them, mulch them (chop them finely to feed your lawn), or side discharge them.
Maneuverability and Drive System
- Self-Propelled vs. Push: Self-propelled mowers move themselves forward. This is crucial for large yards or sloped terrain. Push mowers require you to do all the work, which is fine for small, flat yards.
- Wheel Size: Larger rear wheels help the mower move easily over bumpy ground.
Important Materials and Construction Quality
The materials used determine how long your mower will last. Durability is key when dealing with tough yard work.
Deck Construction
The deck holds the blades and is the main body of the mower. Look for decks made from heavy-gauge steel. This material resists rust and damage from hitting sticks or rocks. Plastic decks are lighter but generally less durable over many seasons.
Engine Components
Reliable brands often use quality engine components. Check reviews to see if the engine starts easily, even after sitting through winter. A sturdy metal housing around the engine protects it well.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some features boost quality, while others might lead to frustration later.
Quality Enhancers
- Washout Ports: Many Craftsman decks have a port where you connect a hose to clean grass clippings from underneath. This simple feature keeps the deck clean, which improves cutting performance.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: A lever that lets you change the height quickly is much better than fiddling with individual wheels.
- Reputation for Parts Availability: Craftsman is a known brand, meaning spare parts are usually easy to find when you need repairs.
Quality Reducers
- Flimsy Plastic Components: If the handles or height adjusters feel thin or cheap, they might break quickly under normal use.
- Poor Wheel Bearings: Cheap wheels wear out fast, making the mower hard to push or steer.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about your actual yard when making a choice.
For the Small City Lot
If you have a small, flat yard (under a quarter acre), a standard push mower or a smaller electric model works great. You need something light that stores easily in a garage or shed.
For the Suburban Landscape
Most suburban homes benefit from a self-propelled, gas-powered mower. This cuts mowing time significantly and handles small slopes without causing strain on your back.
For the Large or Hilly Property
For acreage or very steep hills, you should consider a riding mower or a powerful rear-wheel-drive self-propelled model. These offer the necessary traction and engine power to manage the workload efficiently.
Craftsman Lawn Mower: 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are Craftsman mowers reliable?
A: Yes, Craftsman mowers are generally reliable, especially their gas models. They are built for home use and often last many years with basic maintenance like oil changes and blade sharpening.
Q: How often should I change the oil in my gas Craftsman mower?
A: You should change the oil at least once per mowing season, or after every 25 to 50 hours of use, whichever comes first.
Q: What is the difference between a push mower and a self-propelled mower?
A: A push mower requires you to push and power it entirely. A self-propelled mower uses the engine to drive the wheels, making it much easier for you, especially on hills.
Q: Can I use my Craftsman mower in wet grass?
A: It is best to avoid mowing very wet grass. Wet grass clumps up, clogs the deck, and results in an uneven, messy cut. Wait until the grass dries.
Q: How do I mulch grass clippings effectively?
A: To mulch, ensure your mower has a mulching attachment or plug installed. Mulching works best when you only cut off the top third of the grass blade.
Q: Are Craftsman electric mowers powerful enough?
A: Modern Craftsman battery-powered mowers are surprisingly strong. They are perfect for small to medium yards but might struggle with very thick, overgrown grass compared to large gas engines.
Q: What size deck do I need for a half-acre yard?
A: For a half-acre yard, a deck size between 21 inches (for a push) and 30 inches (for a rear-bagger) is usually efficient. If you are looking at riding mowers, 30 to 42 inches is a good starting point.
Q: Where can I find a user manual for my Craftsman mower?
A: Most manuals are available online. You can usually find them on the official Craftsman website by searching the model number found on the mower’s engine housing.
Q: How do I sharpen the blades?
A: Disconnect the spark plug wire for safety. Remove the blade, clean off any dirt, and use a metal file or grinder to sharpen the cutting edges. Make sure to balance the blade afterward so it doesn’t vibrate too much.
Q: Do Craftsman mowers require special gasoline?
A: Most Craftsman gas engines run well on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). Always check your specific engine manual, but avoid using fuel that has sat for more than 30 days without a fuel stabilizer.