A well-manicured lawn is a point of pride for any homeowner, and having the right mower makes all the difference. Craftsman has been a trusted name in lawn care for generations, offering a range of durable and reliable mowers built to handle yards of all shapes and sizes. From simple push mowers to advanced zero-turn riders, their lineup is designed to deliver a clean cut and years of dependable service.
Choosing the perfect model depends on your specific needs, including the size and terrain of your lawn, your preferred power source, and your desired features. This roundup breaks down eight of the best Craftsman lawn mowers available, highlighting their key benefits to help you find the ideal machine for your outdoor space. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, there’s a Craftsman mower ready to get the job done.
Our Top Craftsman Lawn Mower Picks
- CRAFTSMAN M215 21-Inch 3-in-1 High-Wheeled FWD Self-Propelled Gas Mower
- Craftsman 50-Inch Hydrostatic Gas Zero Turn Mower with 24HP Engine
- Craftsman M105 140cc 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower
- Craftsman M310 163cc 21-Inch 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower
- Craftsman M215 163cc 21-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- Craftsman M255 190cc 21-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- Craftsman Z5200 54-Inch 23 HP V-Twin Zero Turn Riding Mower
- Craftsman T225 547cc 25HP 46-Inch Riding Lawn Tractor
CRAFTSMAN M215 21-Inch 3-in-1 High-Wheeled FWD Self-Propelled Gas Mower
This self-propelled mower is an excellent choice for those who want a powerful and convenient cutting experience. Its 159cc OHV engine is designed for easy starting with an auto-choke system, eliminating the need to fuss with a primer. The front-wheel drive provides helpful traction on level terrain, making it easier to navigate your yard with less physical effort.
The 3-in-1 capabilities offer great flexibility for your lawn care routine. You can choose to side-discharge clippings, use the rear bag for a clean finish, or mulch the clippings to return valuable nutrients back to the soil. The high-wheel design further improves maneuverability over various lawn surfaces, making it a versatile tool for many homeowners.
Craftsman 50-Inch Hydrostatic Gas Zero Turn Mower with 24HP Engine
For owners of large properties, this zero-turn mower can significantly reduce mowing time. The powerful 24HP twin-cylinder engine provides ample power for tough grass and hills, while the zero-turn radius allows for precise maneuvering around trees, gardens, and other obstacles. This combination of power and agility makes maintaining a spacious lawn much more efficient.
Comfort is a key feature with this model. The dual hydrostatic transmission ensures smooth speed and direction control, and the high-back seat offers premium support during long mowing sessions. This mower is built for both performance and operator comfort, turning a lengthy chore into a much more pleasant task.
Craftsman M105 140cc 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower
The Craftsman M105 is a straightforward and reliable push mower, perfect for smaller, flat lawns where a simple tool is all you need. Its 140cc engine provides dependable power to get the job done without unnecessary complexity. This model emphasizes ease of use and fundamental performance, making it a great value for basic lawn care.
As a no-frills option, it focuses on delivering a clean cut with minimal maintenance. If you have a modest-sized yard and prefer the exercise and control of a push mower, the M105 offers the essential quality you expect from the Craftsman brand at an accessible level.
Craftsman M310 163cc 21-Inch 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower
This push mower adds valuable versatility to the basic formula. The M310 is equipped with a stronger 163cc engine and 3-in-1 functionality, allowing you to bag, mulch, or discharge grass clippings. This gives you the freedom to adapt your mowing technique to the current condition of your lawn.
It’s an ideal step-up for those who want the control of a push mower but desire the added options for lawn health and cleanup. The increased engine power also ensures consistent performance, even in slightly thicker grass, providing a robust and adaptable mowing solution.
Craftsman M215 163cc 21-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
This version of the M215 offers the convenience of self-propelled drive with a capable 163cc engine. The self-propelled mechanism reduces the physical effort required to mow your lawn, which is a significant advantage if your yard has gentle slopes or if you simply prefer to walk without pushing a heavy mower.
It combines the benefits of hands-free operation with dependable power, making it a very popular choice for a wide range of lawn sizes. This mower strikes an excellent balance between performance and user comfort, helping you achieve a professional-looking cut with less strain.
Craftsman M255 190cc 21-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The M255 stands out as a high-performance walk-behind mower. It features a robust 190cc engine, providing extra power for challenging mowing conditions and thicker grass. The self-propelled drive system ensures that this additional power is matched with easier handling and maneuverability.
This model is built for those who need a little more muscle from their mower without stepping up to a riding model. It’s an excellent option for larger lawns or properties with more varied terrain, offering premium power and convenience in a familiar walk-behind format.
Craftsman Z5200 54-Inch 23 HP V-Twin Zero Turn Riding Mower
This is a commercial-grade zero-turn mower designed for speed and efficiency on very large properties. With a 23 HP V-Twin engine and a wide 54-inch cutting deck, it can cover a substantial amount of ground quickly. The zero-turn capability provides unmatched agility for navigating complex landscapes.
Built for durability and high performance, the Z5200 is for the serious homeowner with acreage or anyone who values a fast, precise cut. Its heavy-duty construction and powerful engine make it a top-tier machine for demanding mowing tasks.
Craftsman T225 547cc 25HP 46-Inch Riding Lawn Tractor
The T225 Riding Lawn Tractor is a versatile machine for homeowners with larger yards. Its 25HP engine and 46-inch cutting deck provide a powerful and efficient mowing experience. Beyond just mowing, this tractor is designed for multiple tasks, often with the ability to tow attachments.
This model offers a comfortable riding experience and is perfect for those who need a reliable workhorse for general lawn maintenance and other yard work. It combines the functionality of a mower with the utility of a small tractor, making it a valuable addition to your tool collection.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Craftsman Lawn Mower
Choosing the right lawn mower can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve spent a lot of time comparing models, and when it comes to the 8 best Craftsman lawn mowers for your lawn, your decision really boils down to a few key factors. Let’s break down what you should be thinking about before you make your purchase.
First, consider your lawn’s size and terrain. If you have a small, flat yard, a simple push mower will probably do the trick. For larger areas, a self-propelled model is a lifesaver—it does the hard work of pushing for you, which is a huge relief on hills or during long mowing sessions. If your property is over half an acre, you should seriously think about a riding mower or a zero-turn model to save time and energy.
Next, think about power source. Gas mowers offer the most power and freedom to roam without being tethered to a cord, which is great for larger or more complex yards. Electric mowers are much quieter, require less maintenance, and are better for the environment. Craftsman offers both corded and battery-powered electric options. Corded mowers are limited by the length of your extension cord but provide unlimited runtime. Battery-powered mowers give you cord-free convenience; just make sure the battery life matches the size of your lawn.
Don’t forget about cutting deck size and height adjustments. A wider deck means you can cut more grass with each pass, reducing your mowing time. Common sizes are 21 inches for push mowers and much larger for riders. Easy-to-use height adjustment levers are also important. Being able to quickly change the cutting height lets you adapt to the season—cutting higher in the summer heat to protect your grass and lower for a neat look in the spring and fall.
Finally, look at the extra features that make your life easier. A mower with a robust bagging system is essential if you prefer a clean, clippings-free lawn. Mulching capabilities are great for returning nutrients to your soil. Other features I appreciate are electric start buttons on gas models, so you don’t have to pull a cord, and foldable handles for compact storage. By weighing your lawn’s specific needs against these features, you can find the perfect match from the lineup of 8 best Craftsman lawn mowers for your lawn.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a Briggs & Stratton and a Craftsman engine?
This is a common point of confusion. Craftsman doesn’t manufacture its own engines; instead, it brands mowers with engines from reputable manufacturers. For many years, Briggs & Stratton was the primary engine supplier for Craftsman mowers, so they became synonymous. In recent years, Craftsman has also begun using engines from other companies. The most important thing isn’t necessarily the brand on the engine casing, but the specific engine series and its features, like overhead valve (OHV) design, which offers better fuel efficiency and longer life. When comparing, look at the engine’s horsepower (HP) or torque rating and its warranty.
Are Craftsman mowers considered durable and long-lasting?
Based on my experience and widespread user reports, yes, Craftsman mowers have a solid reputation for durability. They are built with homeowners in mind, using materials like steel decks on many models that can handle occasional bumps and rough patches. Their longevity, like any piece of outdoor power equipment, heavily depends on proper maintenance. Regularly changing the oil (for gas models), cleaning the deck, sharpening the blade, and following the recommended service schedule in the manual will significantly extend the life of your mower. A well-maintained Craftsman can easily last for many years.
Can I use the same battery across different Craftsman mowers and tools?
This is one of the biggest advantages of the Craftsman V20 system. If you buy a Craftsman mower that is part of the V20 lineup, it uses the same 20V MAX battery that powers their other cordless tools, like drills, weed whackers, and leaf blowers. This is incredibly convenient and cost-effective. You can swap batteries between tools, and if you already own other Craftsman V20 tools, you likely have extra batteries and chargers ready to go. Always double-check the product specifications to confirm it’s part of the V20 system, as some larger riding mowers might use a different, dedicated battery.
How does the warranty work on a Craftsman lawn mower?
Craftsman typically offers a limited warranty on its mowers, but the exact terms can vary by model and whether you purchase from a retailer or directly. Generally, you can expect a longer warranty period on the mower’s frame and a shorter period for the engine and other components. For example, you might see a 3-year warranty on the mower itself and a 2-year warranty on the battery for cordless models. It is crucial to read the specific warranty information provided with your model and to keep your proof of purchase. Also, note that proper maintenance is often a requirement to keep the warranty valid.
What should I do if my Craftsman mower won’t start?
This is frustrating, but there are a few simple things to check first. For gas mowers, the most common culprits are old gas, a dirty air filter, or a plugged spark plug. Start by using fresh fuel and ensuring the fuel valve is on. Check the air filter and clean or replace it if it’s dirty. For battery mowers, make sure the battery is fully charged and properly seated. Also, check the safety features; many mowers have a safety lever on the handle that must be held down for the mower to start. If these quick fixes don’t work, consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting guides or contact Craftsman customer support.