A small yard is easier to maintain than a large one. Since you want it neat and beautiful, you will need the best lawn mower for a small yard. Running a lawnmower over your small yard will not only improve its appearance but will also reduce the frequency of maintenance.

To be the talk of your neighbors, you need to invest in the right lawnmower. However, finding the perfect choice seems to be true hard work, especially that there are different types of mowers such as gas mowers, electric mowers, and push mowers. But, worry not! Our team of experts came up with an in-depth review of the best lawn mowers for a small yard.

Considering their weights, sizes, durability, prices, and other important factors, you can make sure that you’ll find the perfect choice for you here. As you learn more about each item, be sure to click on the buttons below to get a peek at their best deals on Amazon.

Best Lawn Mowers Comparison & Rating

Lawn Mowers

Features

Greenworks 20-Inch 3-in-1 12 Amp Electric Corded Lawn Mower 25022
  • 12-amp motor
  • 7-position height adjustments
  • 3-in-1 discharge system
  • manual push system
  • alloy steel 5-blade reel
  • adjustable blades
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Lawn Mower, String Trimmer and Edger, 12-Inch (MTC220)
  • two lithium-ion rechargeable batteries
  • Automatic Feed Spool
  • 3-in-1 convertible mower, trimmer, and edger
Fiskars Stay Sharp Max Reel Mower, 18 Inch (362050-1001),Black
  • InertiaDrive system
  • StaySharp cutting system
  • adjustable cutting height
Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14 inch 13 Amp Electric Lawn Mower w/Side Discharge Chute, 14", Green
  • 14-inch cutting blades
  • 13-amp motor
  • detachable top rear bag

1. Greenworks Corded 20-Inch Mower

Greenworks 20-Inch 3-in-1 12 Amp Electric Corded Lawn Mower 25022
Specifications:
99% Overall

Brand

GreenWorks

Weight

56 pounds

Dimensions

26.9 x 16.1 x 18 inches

Power Source

Corded Electric

98%
easy to use
99%
features
99%
convenience
98%
performance
Pros:
  • The 12-amp motor delivers enough power and a noiseless smooth operation to cut even the toughest grass.
  • Features 7-position height adjustments to cut different sizes of grass.
  • Easy to start by pushing the button and pulling up the handle lever.
  • By using the levers on each side, the handle folds to ensure easy storage.
  • At 56 pounds, it is lightweight making it easy to push around your yard.
  • Works with a 3-in-1 discharge system of side discharge, mulching, and rear bag.
  • A 20-inch cutting deck is the ideal size to mow small lawns.
  • The 7-inch front wheels and 10-inch rear wheels provide clearance when cutting tall grass.
  • A combined cord lock helps inhibit unexpected cord disconnects.
Cons:
  • Occasionally clogs on thick grass
Final Take:

The Greenworks Corded 20-inch Mower is one powerful machine that completes the job quickly and efficiently. Nevertheless, its affordable price matches the impressive performance. Moreover, it is straightforward to use that even users with impaired mobility can also use it. Moreover, if you have never mowed before, the instructions are reasonably clear and understandable. It comes with an outstanding construction that you have no reason to doubt its excellent quality to last you a long time. Remarkably, it also has a little clip to lock your extension cord, so you won't need to unplug the cable while mowing.

2. American Lawnmower Company 18-inch Reel Mower

Specifications:
98% Overall

Brand

American Lawn Mower Company

Weight

27 pounds

Dimensions

25 x 14 x 11 inches

Power Source

Manual

98%
easy to use
97%
features
97%
convenience
98%
performance
Pros:
  • Environment friendly since it has no noise, spark plug, gas, and oil leaks.
  •  An effortless and easy to maintain manual push system which doesn’t use gas, cord or batteries. 
  • Alloy steel 5-blade reel provides 'cut precision' of up to 4-inch neatly.
  • The 18-inch cutting deck ensures a large grass patch mowed per rotation.
  • Adjustable blades to cut grass to the desired length from 1 - 2.5 inches.
  • Cushioned handle provides comfort and grip to easily maneuver the entire lawn.
Cons:
  • Manual control tends to be tiresome and unappealing for most users. Nonetheless, this will save you money from buying gas, oil, and even electricity.
Final Take:

This is an inexpensive lawn mower for small yards. The mold 10-inch treaded polymer wheels ensure a smooth operation. Also, the noiseless blades are environment friendly and cut the grass so that it does not disrupt the roots’ nutrients. This way, the grass will grow back more lush and healthy. Moreover, the knife-sharp tempered alloy steel blade is adjustable and durable to last you long.

3. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Lawn Mower

BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Lawn Mower, String Trimmer and Edger, 12-Inch (MTC220)
Specifications:
97% Overall

Brand

Black & Decker

Weight

14.40 pounds

Dimensions

15.25 x 40.5 x 7.38 inches

Power Source

Battery

97%
easy to use
98%
features
97%
convenience
96%
performance
Pros:
  • A 3-in-1 convertible mower, trimmer, and edger ensures you reach even the tightest spots of your lawn.
  • The 14.40 pounds ergonomic lightweight design and pivoting handle makes it easy to maneuver and convert between the 3-in-1 functions.
  • Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) allows continuous working feeding the line when necessary and no bumping.
  • Adjustable height deck and handle positions raise or lower all four wheels ensuring 1.6 - 2.4 inches of grass clearance.
  • Gear drive transmission delivers reliable power and prevents stalling.
  • Comes with two lithium-ion rechargeable batteries for a lasting run time.
  • Features a foot pedal that delivers easy release shift to trimmer or edger modes.
Cons:
  • Does not have a bag for grass clippings.
Final Take:

This is the ideal lawn tool that will take care of all your mowing, trimming, and edging needs. The mode switching ability is easy and fun; you need to step on the pedal, and you are good to go. Also, because of its lightweight, it works best on steep slopes and tight spots. It is also effortless to assemble and detach after use and takes less space of storage. Remarkably, you don't need to keep stopping when the string is out because it reloads automatically and allows you to keep working. It also comes with two fast-charging batteries to ensure you have an extended run time to finish your task. This 3-in-1 delivers value for its affordable price.

4. Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower

Fiskars Stay Sharp Max Reel Mower, 18 Inch (362050-1001),Black
Specifications:
96% Overall

Brand

Fiskars

Weight

51.7 pounds

Dimensions

24 x 23.5 x 14.25 inches

Power Source

Kinetic

97%
easy to use
96%
features
96%
convenience
96%
performance
Pros:
  • Features the InertiaDrive system which makes it easy to push on all types of terrains.
  • The StaySharp cutting system reduces wear, thus offering lasting sharpness.
  • A reversible grass chute allows you to direct clippings in any direction away from your feet.
  • Inset wheels extend to eliminate uncut strips and work on tight spots.
  • Eco-friendly with no pollution of noise, gas, fumes, and oils.
  • The 18-inch cutting width delivers more cutting power and precision.
  • Adjustable cutting height from 1 - 4 inches to ensure cutting of all grass.
  • Ergonomic design and one-touch adjustable handle for comfort and control.
Cons:
  • Only cuts in forwarding motion and not in reverse.
  • Encounters problems mowing thick and grass over 4 inches hence needing you to mow your lawn to maintain short and manageable grass frequently.
Final Take:

The Fiskars are reliable and easy to use, requiring less effort. It also comes in a pleasant and sturdy construction that lasts. The fact that it is eco-friendly gives you the freedom to mow anytime without disturbing your neighbors with noise or fumes. Moreover, it handles the hills well and safely when pushing up or going down a steep. Remarkably, you can discharge the clippings forward but even better if you tilt the shield up and let the clippings come out in the back. Apart from the adjustable handle, the blade height adjustments are comfortable with one lever to choose the desired height. Last but not least, it involves a straightforward maintenance process.

5. Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower

Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO 14 inch 13 Amp Electric Lawn Mower w/Side Discharge Chute, 14", Green
Specifications:
95% Overall

Brand

Sun Joe

Weight

30 pounds

Dimensions

48.4 x 40.6 x 40.6 inches

Power Source

Corded Electric

96%
easy to use
96%
features
95%
convenience
94%
performance
Pros:
  • The 14-inch cutting blades cut with precision even in tight spaces.
  • The 3-position manual height adjustments allow you to cut grass at all heights of growth.
  • A 13-amp motor delivers a powerful all through without bogging down.
  • A total weight of 30 pounds makes it light enough to lift and take it in and out of storage.
  • Easily detachable top rear bag for convenient offloading.
  • Rear discharge chute for discharging clippings without clogging the mower.
Cons:
  • The blade's plastic cover seems to be a bit flimsy.
Final Take:

Straight from the box, this machine looks great. Firstly, it is easy to assemble the handle and the tiny bag. Also, it is light making it easy to turn and lift for storage. It does not take much space for storage, so you can even store it in the house. Being an electric mower, it is environment friendly with no noise and worries of gas or oil usage, thus easy to maintain. The 13-amp motor and 14 inches sharp cutting blades deliver powerful and precise operations that you will hardly go over a spot twice. Besides, it saves you time since you will finish mowing your small lawn in no time. The rear bagging works correctly and changing heights is effortless, just the way you want it.

Best Lawn Mowers for Small Yards - Buyer's Guide

lawn condition

Even though you are working on a small lawn, lawns come in different terrains and shapes. Once you determine your lawn's state, it should be easy to pick a mower that gives the best approach. Usually, the inclination of the soil is what you need to consider. Flatland with ordinary soil will need any reel mower. Conversely, sloppy lawns with rocks will be ideal to use a tough and durable mower on them.

power source

Electricity lawnmowers are eco-friendly, producing no fumes, gas, and even noise. This becomes a competitive and admirable trait among all lawnmowers. However, their engines are not as powerful, especially when it comes to uneven terrains or large lawns. Conversely, with a gas-powered mower, you have long-lasting power in your hands as long as it still has fuel. Sadly, it emits carbon particles and releases fumes that are not friendly to the environment. It is more rigid than an electric one and handles the hilly terrains with much ease.

run time

Everybody wants a mower that will run as long as their project lasts. However, this much depends on the quality of the mower. Mostly, high-quality mowers offer longer run times compared to the low-quality ones. When it comes to better quality, you will need to top up your cash as well. Besides, an easy to maintain mower will run longer than that you find a hard time supporting.

disposal system

As a mower cuts grass, it produces clippings. A mower with an efficient disposal system will save you time and energy in coming back to collect the heaps of clippings after mowing. However, there are two types of disposal systems; one uses the clippings for disposal once full while the other has a mulching feature. While leaving a neat lawn is pleasant, you also need to know that mulching is healthy for the soil in maintaining the moisture to help a healthy and greener grass regrowth. So, make a decision on which would work best for you.

deck size

The cutting deck's size is directly proportional to the blade's size enclosed therein. A larger cutting blade will clear a large area in a short time. Also, it reduces the number of times you need to finish mowing. They work best in flat lawns. On the other hand, a smaller blade is ideal for navigating even in the hard-to-reach spots. They also tend to last longer because they can easily maneuver away from hitting obstacles like the rocks and sticks on the lawn.

Best Lawn Mowers for Small Yards - FAQs

What is the lifespan of a lawnmower?

Averagely, a lawnmower should last up to 10 years with proper care and maintenance and care. A lawnmower that lacks maintenance lasts half that time.

Can you use a trimmer instead of a lawnmower?

While they are slimmer than a mower, operating one is more physically taxing. More so, since you're running it by hand, it will be hard to obtain an even cut by mowing with your trimmer. Therefore, it would be best if you used a trimmer on the tricky stretches of grass that are hard for your mower

Is it safe to cut damp grass with an electric mower?

Never cut wet grass using your electric or gas lawn mower, no matter how bad you want to. This is because you risk damaging your mower.

How soon after rain can I mow?

You can mow your grass a few hours after rain, especially during summer. However, if it rained continuously over a day, you need to avoid mowing until the wetness dries up completely.

Author

Jessie is a landscape artist famous among folks in Los Angeles who are obsessed with keeping their lawns pristine and divine. He worked for BrightView Holdings, Inc. back in 2015 and now owns a brick-and-mortar business that offers all kinds of gardening tools and machines. Ask him all you need to know about your mower or your fertilizer, and he will answer you while sipping a cup of coffee.