To many of us, mowing the lawn is second nature. We grew up doing it. For others who grew up in an apartment or condo and now own their own home, it may be a brand new adventure.

Whether you're a rookie or seasoned pro, there's definitely something you can learn about choosing the right lawn mower. For example, did you know reel mowers are still a thing? For reel.

You'll find a number of different lawn mowers available, all of them designed to efficiently cut grass. To make your choice of a mower easier, it helps to divide them into three types:

• Walk-behind mowers
• Riding mowers
• Tow-behind mowers

Check out the chart below to see the basic differences, and continue reading to learn more about the benefits of each type.

Walk-Behind Mowers

These are the traditional lawn mowers that many of us picture when we imagine Saturdays spent taking care of the yard. Ideal for small to mid-sized suburban lawns of 1/2 acres or less, walk-behind mowers come in a variety of styles:

• Reel mowers
• Cordless or battery-powered electric mowers
• Gas-powered mowers

Walk-behind mowers are the most budget-friendly and environmentally-geared lawn mowers you'll find. They're easy to store due to their small size, making them a great option for many homeowners. No matter why they appeal to you, you're sure to find one to meet your needs.

 

Riding Mowers

If you own 1/2-3 acres of land, or if you need to avoid long periods of walking and standing, a riding lawnmower is a terrific choice. 

There are two different styles of riding mowers:

• Tractors (both lawn and garden tractors)
• Zero turn mowers

With cutting widths ranging from 30 inches to 66 inches, riding mowers allow you to cut a lot of grass in a little time. They're essentially small vehicles, so be prepared to perform regular maintenance throughout the year and set aside some storage space in your garage come winter. However, the power they offer can't be beat.

 

Tow-Behind Mowers

Whether you're mowing the fairways of a golf course or taming the wild brambles of an overgrown field, a tow-behind mower is the perfect companion to your ATV or tractor.

Towable mowers come in several styles:

• Gang reel mowers
• Trail mowers
• Trail cutters

Because they don't propel themselves and need to be connected to a riding mower or other vehicle, tow-behind mowers are a top choice for commercial landscapers and professional users who already own large pieces of lawn care equipment. However, anyone who has large swaths of tall grass or even small saplings to clear will get a lot of mileage out of a tow-behind mower. 

 

Learn More: How to Pick the Perfect Tow-Behind Lawn Mower

Mow Right

Choosing the right mower makes a big difference. Be sure to check out all of our buyer's guides for detailed information on the specific types of mowers. If you still have questions, contact our product experts!