Finding the right lawn mower that balances performance, convenience, and value can feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re working with a budget. You want a machine that makes yard work simpler, not one that adds to your weekend chores with complicated maintenance or a frustrating user experience. The good news is that the market is filled with excellent electric and cordless options that deliver impressive power without the noise, fumes, or high cost of gas models.
Whether you have a petite postage-stamp lawn or a more substantial half-acre plot, there is a perfect mower under $400 waiting for you. This roundup focuses on the best models available, highlighting everything from versatile 3-in-1 tools to lightweight cordless mowers designed for easy storage and effortless operation. We have sifted through the options to bring you a selection that prioritizes what matters most for your specific needs.
Our Top Lawn Mower Picks Under $400
- BLACK+DECKER Combination String Trimmer, Lawn Mower, and Edger
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower, Ultra-Light Push Mower
- Sun Joe iON16LM 40-Volt 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
- Greenworks 12 Amp 20″ Corded Lawn Mower
- WORX 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
- BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower with Bike Handle, 15-Inch
- WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
- Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
- Sun Joe MJ401C 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower
BLACK+DECKER Combination String Trimmer, Lawn Mower, and Edger
This innovative 3-in-1 tool is the ultimate space-saver and problem-solver for small lawns. It easily converts from a mower to a string trimmer to an edger, eliminating the need for three separate machines. The AFS automatic feed system ensures continuous work without the need to stop and bump the unit to advance the line, making your yard work more efficient.
Designed for properties up to 750 square feet, its power drive transmission prevents bogging down in thicker grass. With adjustable cutting heights of 1.6 and 2.4 inches, this cordless model offers remarkable versatility for maintaining a neatly manicured lawn, all with one compact and easy-to-store tool.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower
Experience gas-like performance without the noise, fumes, or maintenance with this Greenworks mower. It provides up to 45 minutes of continuous runtime from its included 4.0Ah battery, making it a strong candidate for small to medium lawns up to half an acre. The ultra-lightweight design is 35% lighter than many competitors, which greatly reduces user fatigue.
Operation is straightforward with a push-button start and an ergonomic handle. The smart cut adjustment system allows you to change the cutting height across five positions with a single lever. A 2-in-1 mulching and rear-bagging system gives you flexibility in how you manage your grass clippings.
Sun Joe iON16LM 40-Volt 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
Say goodbye to pull cords, gas, oil, and tune-ups with the Sun Joe iON16LM. This cordless mower offers a clean, quiet, and hassle-free mowing experience. Its powerful brushless motor is a key feature, as it increases battery efficiency, maximizes performance, and extends the overall motor life compared to traditional brushed motors.
The compact design is ideal for small to mid-sized lawns, making it easy to maneuver and store. You have the option to either bag your clippings for a clean finish or use the discharge chute for a more natural look. It’s a straightforward, reliable machine for those who value simplicity and modern electric power.
Greenworks 12 Amp 20″ Corded Lawn Mower
If you prefer the consistent, unlimited runtime of a corded electric mower, this Greenworks model is an excellent choice. Its powerful 12 Amp motor and 20-inch steel deck spinning at 3600 RPM are built to cut through tough grass with ease. You never have to worry about a battery running out mid-mow.
The mower features a versatile 3-in-1 system, allowing you to mulch, rear-bag, or side discharge clippings based on your preference. Starting is simple with the push of a button, and a single lever adjusts the cutting height across seven different positions. For easy storage, the handle folds down with a convenient cam lock mechanism.
WORX 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
This compact WORX mower is perfectly suited for small yards, offering robust 40V power from two 20V 4.0Ah batteries. Starting is fast and easy—just push a button and pull the bail handle. The included dual charger allows you to charge both batteries at the same time, ensuring you are always ready to mow.
A standout feature is the Intellicut technology, which uses a sensor to automatically adjust the cutting speed based on grass density. This provides a smoother cut in thick patches while conserving battery in thinner areas. The batteries are part of the WORX PowerShare platform, meaning they are compatible with over 140 other tools and products.
BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower with Bike Handle
This 15-inch corded electric mower from BLACK+DECKER is designed with maneuverability in mind. Its unique comfort grip bike handlebar design reduces friction and makes it exceptionally easy to navigate around flower beds, trees, and other obstacles in small lawns. The 10 Amp motor provides plenty of power for the task without the hassle of gas.
An enhanced clipping collection system is another benefit, as the winged blade is engineered to yield 30% better clipping collection than standard models. This results in a cleaner cut and less debris left on your lawn. It’s a lightweight and straightforward option for precise control in compact spaces.
WORX 40V 17″ Cordless Lawn Mower for Small Yards
With a slightly larger 17-inch cutting deck, this WORX mower covers more ground with each pass while remaining compact and lightweight. It operates on the same robust 40V system using two 20V 4.0Ah PowerShare batteries, which are interchangeable across a vast ecosystem of WORX tools.
Like its smaller sibling, it features the innovative Intellicut system that automatically adapts power to grass conditions for an efficient and even cut. It also includes a 7-position height adjustment for customizing your lawn’s length and a simple push-button start for immediate operation.
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
Another reliable entry in the Greenworks 40V lineup, this cordless mower is built for efficiency and ease of use. It leverages the proven 40V battery system, which is known for its strong performance and compatibility with a wide range of other Greenworks outdoor tools. This makes it a smart choice if you are already invested in the platform or plan to be.
The 16-inch cutting deck is well-suited for small to medium-sized yards, and the cordless freedom allows you to mow without worrying about tripping over a cord or disturbing neighbors with loud engine noise. Expect a user-friendly design that focuses on getting the job done quickly and quietly.
Sun Joe MJ401C 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower
The Sun Joe MJ401C is a compact and efficient electric mower ideal for very small lawns and tight spaces. Its 14-inch cutting deck allows for excellent maneuverability around intricate landscaping features. As a corded model, it provides consistent power for as long as you need to mow, without any decline in performance.
This mower is designed for simplicity and low maintenance, requiring no gas, oil, or tune-ups. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly machine that gets the job done with minimal fuss. The lightweight construction makes it easy to lift for storage or to carry up and down stairs if needed.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Lawn Mower Under $400
Finding a great lawn mower without spending a fortune is totally doable. I have been through the process myself, and with a budget of $400, you can get a machine that will handle your yard for years. The key is knowing what to look for before you click “add to cart.” Let us break down the main things to consider for the 9 best lawn mowers under $400 for 2025.
First, think about your yard’s size and terrain. If you have a small, flat plot, a simple push mower will be perfect. For larger areas, a self-propelled model is a game-changer; it does the hard work of pushing for you, which is a huge relief on hills or big lawns. If your yard has lots of obstacles like trees and garden beds, a mower with good maneuverability and a tight turning radius is a must.
Next, decide on the power source. Gas mowers offer the most raw power and unlimited runtime, which is great for tough, overgrown grass. The trade-off is they require more maintenance, like oil changes and spark plug replacements. Electric mowers are much quieter and easier to start—just push a button. Corded electric models are super lightweight and affordable, but you are tethered to an extension cord. Cordless electric mowers run on batteries, giving you total freedom, but you need to make sure the battery life matches your lawn’s size.
Do not overlook the mower’s deck construction and cutting width. A steel deck is durable but can rust, while a polymer deck is rust-proof and lighter. The cutting width determines how much grass you cut in one pass. A wider deck (21 or 22 inches) means you will finish the job faster. Also, look at the cutting height adjustments. Easy, single-lever adjustments that change the height for all wheels at once are a fantastic convenience feature.
Finally, consider the grass collection system. A sturdy, easy-to-attach bag is great for a clean look if you do not want clippings on the lawn. A mulching function chops clippings into fine pieces that decompose and feed your lawn. Many mowers offer a 3-in-1 system that lets you bag, mulch, or side-discharge, giving you the most flexibility. By weighing these factors—yard type, power, deck, and collection—you will be well on your way to finding a mower that fits both your lawn and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a gas or electric mower a better choice under $400?
In this price range, both are excellent options, but they serve different needs. I would lean towards a cordless electric mower if your yard is under half an acre. The technology has improved so much, and you can find powerful models with long-lasting batteries that avoid the hassle of gas and oil. If you have a very large or consistently overgrown lawn, a gas mower might be the more reliable workhorse for tackling tough jobs without worrying about battery life.
What is the most important feature to look for in a mower at this price?
For me, it is durability and a good cutting system. Look for a mower with a solid deck material (steel or high-quality polymer) and a reputable engine or motor brand. Avoid the absolute cheapest models, as they often cut corners on build quality. A consistent, clean cut is what you are after, so read reviews to see how well the mower actually performs on real grass.
Can I really get a self-propelled mower for under $400?
Absolutely! You absolutely can, and it is one of the best investments for your comfort. Several gas and electric models offer self-propelled drives in this budget. This feature is a back-saver, especially if you have any slopes or a larger lawn. It is a feature I always recommend if it fits within your budget for the 9 best lawn mowers under $400 for 2025.
How important is the battery life on a cordless electric mower?
It is crucial. Battery life determines how much you can mow on a single charge. Manufacturers usually list a rough square footage estimate. My advice is to take that number and then add a safety buffer. If your lawn is 1/4 acre, look for a mower and battery combo rated for at least 1/3 of an acre. This ensures you will not run out of power before you finish, and it is better for the battery’s long-term health.
What kind of maintenance should I expect?
Maintenance varies by type. For gas mowers, it is more involved: regular oil changes, air filter cleaning, spark plug replacement, and using a fuel stabilizer if you store it for the winter. For electric mowers, maintenance is much simpler. Basically, just keep the deck clean, occasionally sharpen or replace the blade, and properly care for the battery by storing it in a cool, dry place.