7 Worst Lawn Mower Brands To Avoid + 5 Reliable Ones

A lawn mower is an essential gardening machine, but it is also quite expensive.

Every brand tries to facilitate customers more conveniently, but not everyone earns perfect results.

After testing and feedback from homeowners with lawns, we can say that the lawn mower brands to avoid are Earthwise, Stihl, Sun Joe, Troy Bilt, Craftsman, Cub Cadet, and Poulan Pro.

So, in this post, I will let you know why you should avoid these brands. Now, let’s get started.

Identifying the Worst Lawn Mower Brand

The best way to tell if the lawn mower brand is the worst is by checking out reviews and feedback on different lawn mower brands.

For this, you can check the reviews section of Amazon and other e-commerce stores. You can also check the answers to related questions on forums like Quora and Reddit.

You should go through a few sites to better understand what’s happening in the market and what brands provide the best performance in your area.

Some other things to check to avoid the worst lawn mower brands include:

• Quality of motor/engine parts
• Weight and size
• Fuel consumption
• Maintenance cost
• Safety features
• Customer service
• Company policies and practices

List of 7 Lawn Mower Brands to Avoid

Therefore, we are here to help you choose a reliable lawn machine. We have done a lot of research and compiled a list of the worst lawnmowers.

So, without any ado, let’s have a look.

1. Earth wise

Earthwise did not get a good reputation for its lawnmowers. The customers have criticized their electric and cordless mowers.

The major defective machines of this company are Earthwise 60220 and Earthwise 2001-20EW. The first is a cordless machine, and the second is a push-reel mower.

The main and common drawback of this brand is its cutting quality.

They are not the option for thick grass. It stops during this type of cutting. You may have to push this many times for mowing.

Customers also reported that it does not work perfectly on uneven surfaces.

The Earthwise 60220 is battery-powered but uses a lead-acid battery instead of a lithium-ion battery, which works far better than others.

It takes a longer time to get charged and cannot last long after it’s recharged.

It might be the option for shorter lawns, but don’t go for it if you have bigger ones. This battery also affects its power.

Height settings are also an issue in this brand. It works well only for long grass. Some reviewers added that it cuts the grass too short and has no convenient blade settings.

So, if you want to invest in your gardening equipment, look for another option.

Earthwise 50614 is quite a good machine if you still want to go with this brand. It is corded and lightweight.

2. Stihl

The second lawn mower brand to avoid is Stihl. Its design is one of the main reasons for including this brand on this list. Its small size takes more time for mowing.

Stihl RMA-510 and RMA-370  are 2 main products that the customers complained about.

These are battery-powered mowers but not of good quality. It takes more time to recharge.

The size of the mowing width is also not wide enough. It takes more than 15 to 20 minutes to complete the task. Its bag is also small, and you must empty it often.

Another major downside of this brand is its price. It has a higher price tag, but its quality does not justify its worth. So it is better to invest your money in some other brands.

Some of the customers also reported its efficiency. It is lightweight and easy to use, but the quality of its body material is also an issue.

3. Sun Joe

Sun Joe is a famous brand for home equipment. It has a good selling ratio for other products but does not earn the same result as the lawnmowers.

It has quite cheap lawnmowers, but good quality comes at a price.

The major issue of this brand is its construction. The cheap deck height setting leaves uneven cut lines on the ground. The width of 14 inches of the mowing deck is rather small.

It may help you to get to small places but can waste your time in larger areas. The grass-catching bag of many mowers is small and fills within one minute.

It also has a battery issue in its cordless mowers. Some customers also reviewed that it does not turn on after some months, while the battery shows full charging. The material of the body is also not that good.

Although it is lightweight, the construction of the parts is cheap. The bag is low to the ground and has to lift its back to turn its direction.

The only positive thing about this is its lightweight and average price. But this is not all for a good lawn mower.

4. Troy Bilt

Troy Bilt makes some of the best lawnmowers but has significant flaws. So, that is why it is on the list of the worst lawn mower brands to avoid. It has a simple design and lacks some features.

The major reason to avoid this brand is bagging clippings. It does not perform well in collecting grass.

The grass starts to erupt from the bag. Bagging clipping helps to make the lawn cleaner. That’s why it was the most reported defect by the users.

It also has some setting issues. For instance, proper guidance is required to start and use it.

So, if you are buying your first lawn mower, choosing another brand would be much better.

Many Troy Bilt machines, like the TB-200, are made of cheap materials. All the parts of the body are made of plastic. It lets the users be more concerned about its quality and durability.

The quality of the attached wheels is also poor. This poor construction may lead you to replace its parts often.

5. Craftsman

Craftsman is also a well-known brand for lawn mowers. It has produced some quality mowers with valuable power tools.

So here, we are not talking about all of its machines. But there are some names of these companies that are not worthy of buying. Its cons are almost the same as Troy Bilt.

Two major flaws are bagging clipping and the quality of body material. As we described earlier, bagging clippings helps to get better results. So you should compromise on this quality.

The price is also affordable for this brand, but customer reviews let this brand be on this list.

Craftsman 37420 is probably the least reliable machine of this company. It does not have any bag clippings.

It will have to walk behind this to collect the grass. It can leave your lawn rough even after cleaning. Mulching is quite good for this mower.

The plastic body parts affect its durability. It has a short life span due to its cheap body material.

Some of the users also complained about its shipping service. They found some parts missing from the package.

Some machines also have an issue with blades. They get clogged quickly and need multiple cleaning times.

6. Cub Cadet

Cub Cadet is popular for its best-riding lawnmowers. It has some durable and reliable lawn mowers in its production. But it has some issues with its other types of machines.

No doubt, this mower performs well in cutting but has mulching and bagging issues.

If you have to stop in the middle of the process to empty the garbage bag, it will take a lot of time to complete.

This is the same case with some of the push lawn mowers of Cub cadets. So, you should avoid these types of machines.

SC-500z and SC100 are the main worst lawn mowers of this brand. These are self-propelled gas mowers. Both of these have the same issue of bagging clippings.

Another reason to avoid these products is mediocre cutting performance. It has the same power as other ordinary mowers but has a high price tag.

You can look for some better options in the same price range.

Riding lawn mowers can surely be the best option for your large lawns. But its push lawn mowers are avoidable.

7. Poulan Pro

The gas lawn mowers of this brand are common in the market. The engines of these mowers are reliable and durable. But this is the only best thing about these mowers.

It has an issue with its height settings while using it. It produces more vibration that causes its performance.

The blades get down due to excess vibration. It may leave the surface of the grass uneven.

As in many brands mentioned above, this brand has poor built quality.

The quality of the attached front wheels is also cheap. They are made of plastic, which hinders their movement in the bumpy yard.

Its riding lawn has also got some issues. It does not perform well in tight spaces. The grass catcher does not come with the package; you must buy it separately.

The price is much higher for these mower types, and additional parts are an added expense. These are the main drawbacks for this lawn mower brand to avoid.

5 Most Reliable Lawn Mower Brands

That was all for the lawn mower brands to avoid on the market.

Now it is time to talk about the best lawn mower brands to help you make your lawn cleaner and more attractive.

1. Honda

Honda is a reliable brand of lawn mowers. It has some exclusive technologies that make it unique.

For instance, the twin-blade system uses two blades at a time. First, the upper blades cut the major grass, and then the other blade provides the final cuttings.

It is also time-saving, providing nice final cutting by passing only once.

The advanced technology also makes its use more convenient. The machine is simple to start and use.

The roto-stop blade system helps you pause the blades while the engine runs.

You can pause the blades to empty the bag or move it sideways. This function makes the Honda more reliable. 

Honda GC135 and HRX217VKA are the 2 best options for Honda lawn mowers.

Bagging and mulching settings are also great. There are simply two modes for that.

The handling design makes it convenient to use. You don’t need to push or pull the machine.

Speed controls are easy to adjust. It can be changed immediately.

Reasons to Buy

• Time-saving with perfect results
• Exclusive functions and technology
• Easy to move and operate

2. Ego

Ego has produced some of the best cordless and battery-powered lawn mowers.

We have seen battery issues in many of the mentioned machines, but this Ego has earned much better results.

Its battery life is enough to get the job done. It also has ideal height settings for blades.

Most of the users complained about Ego LM2102SP and Ego LM2135SP. The first has six different cutting height settings, while the second comes with two blades.

Both of these get little time for charging and work for more than 60 minutes. The maintenance and use are also very convenient.

Another major gain is their mulching ability. Both of these are equipped with mulching blades.

Regarding all the multi-features and functions, EGO Lawn Mower would be the best option for your lawn.

Reasons to Buy

• Perfect battery life
• Easy to maneuver
• Quality height settings

3. Toro

Toro has a great reputation for its lawn mowers. Whether you need a heavy-rider lawn mower or a self-propelled machine, this brand produces all types of mowers you need.

The body material for many products is made of aluminum. So you don’t need to worry about rusting of material.

The self-propelled mowers are more convenient to control. The handles are easy to control, and there are no complex settings to control the speed.

It is equipped with a self-paced system and gets the same speed as your moving.

Another major gain of this brand is its mowers’ wider cutting width.

The time master series is 30 inches in width and saves plenty of your time. Battery-powered mowers of this brand also need your attention.

It works for more than 40 minutes in one go. Toro is a reliable choice. It has a decent and strong cutting ability with a powerful engine.

Master Series and Toro 21339 are recommended mowers of this brand.

Reasons to Buy

• Personal pace self-propelled
• Quality body structure
• Wider cutting width

4. Greenworks

This brand stands out for its commitment to eco-friendliness, merging power with sustainability. I used Greenworks (25223) and was impressed by its durability and efficiency.

The Greenworks range is perfect for those who seek a quieter, greener solution without sacrificing performance.

Their battery-powered models are environmentally friendly and pack enough power to handle even the toughest of lawns.

Reasons to Buy

• Powerful Performance
• Low Noise Output
• Minimal Maintenance

5. Yard Force

Finally, Yard Force is the last reliable lawn mower brand on our list. The company has carved its niche by offering robust and innovative solutions.

Their mowers are known for their long-lasting build and advanced technology.

I’ve found their user interface exceptionally intuitive, making lawn maintenance less of a chore and more of a pleasure.

Whether you’re tackling thick grass or large areas, Yard Force mowers are up to the task, with features that streamline the mowing process.

Reasons to Buy

• Eco-Friendly Choices
• User-Friendly Designs
• Durability and Reliability

Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Lawn Mower Brand

When it comes to the market of lawn mowers, you will find that they seem to be in great variety.

This is because there are so many factors that one has to consider before buying a particular product.

Here, we will provide you with some important factors that you should consider before buying a lawn mower:

1. Power source:

Electric or Gas?
Electric mowers are more efficient and easier to use than gas mowers, but gas-powered ones can run longer without refueling and last longer between major maintenance.

If you are looking for a cheap mower, electric is a better option, but if you’re buying one to replace an older model, it’s best to go with the gas-powered option.

Furthermore, if you use the mower frequently, you’ll want to buy a model that can be refueled as easily as possible.

2. Fuel Type:

Gasoline or Diesel?
Gas-powered mowers have more torque and are generally louder than their diesel counterparts, but they can run longer and have less downtime between maintenance.

However, you may not find replacement parts for diesel mowers, requiring a mechanic to perform routine maintenance.

Gas-powered mowers don’t require any maintenance and typically only need a quick oil change every few years.

3. Performance:

The next thing you should consider when buying a lawn mower is performance.

When buying a lawn mower, it’s important to consider how well it will perform.

If you want a powerful machine, you may opt for a commercial model instead of an at-home one.

If you want a quieter and more eco-friendly option, you might be better off with an at-home model. It is also important to consider the cutting style and blade you want.

On the contrary, you can buy a cheap mower, but if it has poor-quality blades, then you won’t get good results from your lawn mower.

4. Weight and Size:

You should also think about weight and size when buying a lawn mower. You don’t want to carry a heavy machine while working on your lawn.

But you also don’t want a machine that’s too light, as it will cause issues when you try to handle or maneuver it into a certain position.

Consequently, ensure you get a lawn mower that weighs just right for your needs.

On the other hand, think about the size of the machine and how it will fit on your property.

When you’re using a lawn mower, you’ll need space for it to move around on your lawn. Also, think about how big the machine is and if it will fit into your space.

5. Power:

You also need to think about the power of the lawn mower. You might opt for a higher-powered mower if you have a large yard.

A lower-powered mower might suit you if your lawn is relatively small.

In addition, if you’re using a riding lawn mower, you need to think about the horsepower of the mower.

Also, you should consider buying a model with a larger engine than a smaller one.

This means that you won’t have to struggle with carrying heavy loads or working to push the mower up hills.

So, if you’re looking for a lawn mower that’s easy to use, you can opt for a smaller engine.

6. Maintenance:

Another thing to remember when buying a lawn mower is its maintenance. Lawnmowers need to be maintained.

As a result, you need to make sure that the mower will last longer. You can do this by thinking about how well it will maintain itself.

Also, you will need to think about how easy it will be to maintain the machine. For example, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly lawn mower, you might want to consider buying a model with less oil and grease.

You don’t want the lawn mower to leak any oil or fuel. Also, you want a mower that has a low maintenance cost.

If you do not use the mower for a while, you don’t want to spend too much money to maintain it.

It’s also important to think about the mower’s warranty and service plan.

7. Cuts Type of Grass?:

What type of grass do you want to cut? If you live in an area with a lot of tall grass, buying a model with a larger deck is better than living in an area with short grass.

Tall grass takes more work to cut, so if you have the time, choose a model that can accommodate the tall grass.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a lawn mower to do the heavy-duty cutting, you’ll want to go with a gas-powered one that can handle tall grass.

8. Cost:

Some lawn mowers are affordable, and some are not. Therefore, you need to consider the lawn mower’s cost before you buy it.

Also, if you’re buying a lawn mower for the first time, you may want to choose an economic model to get started.

If you want to buy a high-end machine, you might want to consider extra features such as the deck height, wheels, and blade size.

9. Warranty:

How long is your warranty? Consider how long the warranty is if you’re buying a new model.

For instance, some models only come with a 1-year warranty, while others have a lifetime warranty. The type of warranty you choose will depend on what kind of maintenance you expect to be required.

If you’re looking for a model with a long warranty, you’ll need to ensure that a reliable company backs it. 

How to Maintain Your Lawn Mower

A clean and lubricated mower ensures it runs smoothly and efficiently and makes less noise.

It also prevents the build-up of dirt and debris on the blade and motor, which can lead to wear and tear over time.

The following tips will help you maintain your lawnmower:

1. Clean your mower with a soft sponge or cloth to remove any dirt or dust on its surface.
2. Check the blades for any cracks or rusting, which may cause damage to your mower’s engine or other parts.
3. Tighten loose nuts, bolts, and screws near the drive wheel or under the seat. Loose or worn nuts can result in unnecessary noise, vibration, and poor performance.
4. Check the mower’s oil level. The oil level should not be more than half full, as this can reduce efficiency and performance.
5. Inspect the engine and its various components for signs of wear and tear. Contact a professional mechanic for advice if your mower has any problems.
6. Avoid using chemicals to clean your lawn mower unless specified on the mower’s label. This can lead to corrosion and reduced engine performance.
7. To prevent rust on the lawnmower, apply an anti-rust solution every three months.
8. Do not use gasoline-powered mowers in gas stations, parking lots, or other areas where the mower may be exposed to extreme temperatures or weather conditions.
9. Timely Oil Change: It is recommended to change the oil of your lawn mower after every 30 to 50 hours of usage.

Also read:

• Worst Leaf Blower Brands

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

We tried our best to help you choose the best lawn mower for your lawn. All the products of the worst brands are not that bad.

We just mentioned the main drawbacks based on our research and customers’ reviews.

Determine your lawn mower’s requirements and convenience and choose the product wisely.

If you are still confused, we recommend the Honda lawnmower. It has unique qualities from its competitors.

Battery life, body design, and overall performance are all good in this brand. So, you should better invest your money in it.

Steven Settles

Steven Settles is an ISCET-certified master in appliance repair. He has aced the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam, showcasing his exceptional diagnostic and repair skills. With an in-depth understanding of the latest repair technologies and a keen eye on evolving industry standards, Steven is a go-to expert for any appliance issue.