Comparison: Best Hand Held Lawn Mower (Updated | Jan 11th)
Let’s face it—tackling your lawn shouldn’t feel like a workout at the gym. That’s where a handheld lawn mower comes in, offering the perfect blend of convenience and efficiency. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the one that’ll actually make your weekends easier? We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, testing and comparing the top models to find the best handheld mowers that deliver clean cuts, reliable power, and a smooth experience. Ready to find your perfect match? Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- The top pick offers versatile 3-in-1 functionality and long battery life.
- Choose a lightweight, ergonomic model for ease of use and storage.
- Look for a shared battery system to maximize value and convenience.
- Consider battery runtime as a key factor for larger lawns.
SEESII Electric String Trimmer and Leaf Blower Combo Kit
Best Versatile Combo Kit
- 3-in-1 versatile functionality
- Long battery runtime
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- BEST FOR LIGHTWEIGHT SHEAR CHOICE: WORKPRO Cordless Grass Shear & Shrubbery Trimmer – 2 in 1 Handheld 7.2V Electric Grass Trimmer Hedge Shears/Grass Cutter Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery and Type-C Cable Included Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST VERSATILE COMBO KIT: SEESII Electric String Trimmer and Leaf Blower Combo Kit Read More ↓
- BEST FOR WIDE 18-INCH REEL MOWER: American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT PUSH REEL MOWER: Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ECO-FRIENDLY REEL MOWER: American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SAFE ERGONOMIC TRIMMER: KITLUCK 8V Cordless 2-in-1 Grass Shear & Hedge Trimmer Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PRECISION CUT REEL MOWER: LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ULTRA-LIGHT CORDLESS MOWER: Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Hand Held Lawn Mower
WORKPRO Cordless Grass Shear & Shrubbery Trimmer – 2 in 1 Handheld 7.2V Electric Grass Trimmer Hedge Shears/Grass Cutter Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery and Type-C Cable Included
The WORKPRO Cordless Grass Shear & Shrubbery Trimmer is a versatile 2-in-1 tool designed for effortless lawn maintenance. Its upgraded 7.2V motor ensures efficient cutting, while the lightweight 0.82 lbs design allows for easy one-handed operation, making it ideal for beginners or elderly users.
The safety button is conveniently placed on the handle for accessibility. With USB-C charging, you can power it anywhere using a phone charger or power bank.
The sharp blades handle grass and branches up to 7.95 mm thick, and tool-free blade replacement adds convenience. Perfect for trimming edges, hedges, or small shrubs.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and portable
- 2-in-1 versatile design
- Easy USB-C charging
- User-friendly safety button
- Sharp, efficient blades
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited battery runtime
- Not for thick branches
SEESII Electric String Trimmer and Leaf Blower Combo Kit, 3 in 1 Cordless Weed Wacker Grass Eater with 1.3″/2.1″ Height, Battery 12″ Lawn Mower & Rotary Handheld Blower with 5-Speed for Yard Lawn
The SEESII Electric String Trimmer and Leaf Blower Combo Kit is a comprehensive yard maintenance solution. This 3-in-1 tool transforms into a string trimmer, wheeled edger, and leaf blower, offering versatility for various tasks.
The dual 4.0Ah batteries provide extended runtime—up to 70 minutes of mowing and 100 minutes of blowing. Its lightweight, ergonomic design reduces fatigue during extended use, and it easily disassembles for compact storage.
The shared battery system eliminates the need for multiple power sources. Perfect for achieving professional-looking results with minimal effort, this combo kit is ideal for homeowners seeking efficiency and convenience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 3-in-1 versatile functionality
- Long battery runtime
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- Easy to store
- Shared battery system
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- May struggle with heavy weeds
- Charging takes time
American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher
The American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower offers a perfect blend of efficiency and eco-friendliness for small to medium lawns. Its wider 18-inch cutting path reduces mowing time, while the 5-blade reel delivers a precise, scissor-like cut for healthier grass.
The adjustable cutting height ranges from ½ inch to 2 ¾ inches, accommodating various grass types and seasons. The ergonomic U-style handle with cushion grip ensures comfort during use, reducing strain.
Plus, the included grass catcher keeps your yard tidy by efficiently collecting clippings. Quiet and low-maintenance, it’s a great choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide cutting path
- Adjustable cutting height
- Ergonomic handle
- Eco-friendly operation
- Includes grass catcher
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than smaller models
- Not ideal for tall grass
- Requires manual effort
Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower
The Great States 204-14 Hand Reel Mower is a lightweight, maneuverable option for maintaining small lawns with ease. Its 14-inch cutting width and 4-blade reel provide a clean, scissor-action cut, while the adjustable blade height ranges from 0.5” to 1.75” for versatility.
The 8.5-inch polymer wheels ensure smooth movement, and the heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp for years. This manual mower is planet-friendly, requiring no gas, oil, or extensive maintenance.
Ideal for those seeking a simple, eco-conscious mowing solution, it’s easy to use and store, making it perfect for urban or suburban yards.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight design
- Easy maneuverability
- Sharp alloy steel blades
- Low maintenance
- No gas or oil needed
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrow cutting width
- Limited height adjustment
- Less effective on uneven terrain
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a classic 14-inch push reel mower designed for small lawns. Featuring four durable blades and 8.5-inch polymer wheels, it offers smooth maneuverability and weighs only 19 pounds.
With an adjustable cutting height of 0.5” to 1.75”, it’s perfect for maintaining turf grasses up to 4 inches tall. This eco-friendly mower operates without gas, oil, or cords, ensuring a pollution-free and quiet mowing experience.
Its reel cutting action preserves grass health, while low maintenance needs make it a hassle-free choice for eco-conscious homeowners seeking a reliable manual lawn care solution.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly operation
- Lightweight and portable
- Low maintenance required
- Quiet cutting action
- Adjustable blade height
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not for tall grass
- Requires frequent mowing
- Manual effort needed
KITLUCK 8V Cordless 2-in-1 Grass Shear & Hedge Trimmer,Handheld Electric Grass Trimmer Hedge Shears/Grass Cutter Rechargeable,2000mAh Battery for Yard, Garden, Lawn Care
The KITLUCK 8V Cordless 2-in-1 Grass Shear & Hedge Trammer combines versatility with power for precise lawn care. Easily switch between a 4-inch lawn mower and a 4.8-inch hedge trimmer, ideal for edging and trimming shrubs.
Powered by an 8V rechargeable 2000mAh battery, it delivers 1100rpm no-load speed with quick charging and temperature protection. Safety features include a lock-off button, blade guard, and insulated handle.
Weighing just 1.8 lbs, it offers ergonomic design with 3-angle rotation (0°-60°) and a TPR non-slip grip. Interchangeable blades and corrosion-resistant housing ensure easy maintenance, making it perfect for DIY gardening enthusiasts.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and compact
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- Quick battery charging
- Adjustable cutting angles
- Safe to operate
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited battery life
- Not for large areas
- Smaller cutting width
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower offers an eco-friendly solution for maintaining small lawns with precision. Its 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels ensure smooth navigation, while the 5-blade system provides a scissor-like cut for healthier grass.
Customize your mowing height with 9 positions ranging from 1.1 to 2.5 inches. Built with durable steel blades, this motorless design eliminates the need for gas or batteries, making it lightweight and quiet.
Ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance, environmentally conscious option without sacrificing performance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly motorless design
- Precise scissor-like cutting
- Adjustable cutting heights
- Durable steel blades
- Easy maneuverability
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not for large lawns
- Manual effort required
- Limited height range
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower, Ultra-Light Push Mower with 4.0Ah Battery & Charger(75+ Tool Compatibility, 45Min Runtime)
The Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower combines gas-like power with an ultra-lightweight design, making it perfect for small to medium yards. Its 16-inch cutting deck and ergonomic handles ensure effortless maneuvering, while the 4.0Ah battery provides 35 minutes of runtime.
The smart cut adjustment system offers 5 height positions, and the 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging system enhances versatility. With zero maintenance costs and whisper-quiet operation, this mower saves time and money.
Compatible with 75+ Greenworks 40V tools, it’s a versatile addition to any cordless toolkit.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra-lightweight design
- 35-minute battery runtime
- Zero gas or oil costs
- Smart cut adjustment
- Whisper-quiet operation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to half acre
- Longer charging time
- Smaller cutting deck
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I consider when choosing a handheld lawn mower?
Look for cutting width, battery life (if cordless), and weight for easy handling. Consider adjustable height settings to match your lawn’s needs. Also, check if it’s easy to maneuver and store.
How do corded and cordless handheld mowers compare?
Corded models offer unlimited runtime but restrict mobility with a power cord. Cordless mowers provide freedom of movement but have limited battery life. Choose corded for smaller lawns with outlets nearby, and cordless for larger or harder-to-reach areas.
What features are most important in a handheld lawn mower?
Key features include mulching capabilities, a grass catcher bag, and ergonomic handles for comfort. Some models offer telescopic shafts or pivoting heads for better reach. Look for safety switches to prevent accidental starts.
Are budget-friendly handheld mowers worth it?
Budget models often lack advanced features but can work well for small, flat lawns. They may have shorter battery life or less durable materials. Invest in a higher-end model if you need better performance or longevity.
How do I maintain a handheld lawn mower?
Regularly clean the deck and blades to prevent grass buildup. Sharpen or replace blades as needed for optimal cutting performance. Check and tighten screws or bolts to ensure safe operation.
What is the best handheld lawn mower for small yards?
For small yards, a lightweight corded or compact cordless model is ideal. Look for a cutting width of 12-14 inches for easy maneuvering. Ensure it has a decent grass catcher to minimize cleanup.
How does cutting width affect performance?
A wider cutting width reduces the number of passes needed, saving time. However, wider models may be heavier and harder to maneuver in tight spaces. Choose a width that balances efficiency with ease of use for your lawn size.
Are handheld lawn mowers suitable for tall or thick grass?
Some models handle tall grass better, especially those with higher power or adjustable cutting heights. For thick grass, look for a mower with a strong motor and sharp blades. Regular mowing prevents grass from becoming too tall or unmanageable.
