Lawn Mower Guides: How-Tos, Comparisons and Buying Advice

Do You Need to Sharpen New Mower Blades?

No, a new rotary mower blade does not need sharpening before first use. Here is why it feels dull, how sharp it should be, and when a new blade does need attention.

How to Sharpen Reel Lawn Mower Blades

Reel mower blades are sharpened by backlapping, not filing. Check the adjustment first, lap with compound in reverse, and know when the reel needs a shop grind.

Which Way Do Lawn Mower Blades Go On?

Lawn mower blades go on sharp edge down and wings up, with any stamped wording facing the grass. Here is how to check your blade and fit it right.

Self-Propelled vs Push Lawn Mower: Which One Should You Buy?

Self-propelled mowers pull themselves forward and win on slopes and bigger lawns. Push mowers win on small flat lots, price and upkeep. Here is how to choose.

What Is a Brushless Lawn Mower?

A brushless lawn mower has an electric motor with no carbon brushes, so it runs cooler, quieter and longer per charge, changing runtime, noise, upkeep and cost.

When Should You Change a Lawn Mower Blade?

Sharpen a mower blade every 20 to 25 hours of mowing, and replace it when it is cracked, bent, gouged or has lost about an inch of width.

Garden Tractor vs Lawn Tractor: What's the Difference?

A lawn tractor mows and tows light loads; a garden tractor also drives ground-engaging attachments. Here's how to tell them apart, and the spec that decides it.

What Does Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Mean?

A self-propelled lawn mower has a drive system that turns its own wheels, so it pulls itself forward while you walk and steer. Here is what the label means.

What Is a Mulching Lawn Mower?

A mulching lawn mower recirculates grass clippings under the deck and drops them back into the turf. Here is how it works, when it wins, and when to bag instead.

Lawn Mower Dimensions: How Big Is a Lawn Mower?

Lawn mower dimensions by type: push mowers about 20 to 24 inches wide, tractors 60 to 75 inches long, zero-turns up to 72 inches wide. Check gate and shed fit.

Where Is the Best Place to Buy a Zero-Turn Mower?

The best place to buy a zero turn mower depends on your lawn, your budget and how much service you want. Compare dealers, big-box stores, online sellers and Amazon.

What Is a Reel Mower?

A reel mower cuts grass with a spinning cylinder of blades shearing against a fixed bedknife, a scissor cut rather than a chop. How it works and what it suits.

Robotic Lawn Mower Installation: How to Set Up Your Mower

Robotic lawn mower installation means either a boundary-wire loop you peg or bury, or a wire-free setup you map in an app. Here is how each one goes.

What Is the Average Cost of a Lawn Mower?

The average cost of a lawn mower spans a few hundred dollars for a walk-behind to four figures for a rider. See what each type and tier buys, plus running costs.

Frequently asked questions

Which article should I read first if I am buying my first mower?

Begin with the comparison articles that match your shortlist, such as electric vs gasoline or self-propelled vs push. Once you have a type in mind, read the price and timing articles to set a realistic budget and pick a good moment to buy.

Are these articles the same as your rankings?

No. The rankings compare specific models, while the articles here answer practical questions about technique, upkeep, types and buying decisions. They are meant to be read alongside the rankings, not instead of them.