10 Best Gas Lawn Mowers 2026 in the United States

The CRAFTSMAN 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower is a solid choice for those with large yards, up to around 2 acres, who want to save time and effort compared to push mowers. Its 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine offers reliable power with easy starting, making it well-suited for maintaining medium to large lawns. The 42-inch cutting deck covers wide swaths of grass efficiently, reducing mowing time. Cutting height can be adjusted between about 1.25 inches and 4.2 inches, giving flexibility for different grass lengths.

This mower features a 7-speed manual transmission, allowing users to select a comfortable pace, though some experience with the controls is helpful since it is not self-propelled with automatic speed changes. Maneuverability is good with an 18-inch turning radius and sturdy wheels that handle typical yard obstacles well. While it doesn’t include bagging or side discharge features, an optional mulching kit is available for a cleaner finish.

Constructed from durable alloy steel and weighing 410 pounds, the mower offers stability but requires adequate storage space. Assembly is required, so some setup time should be expected. This mower is best suited for homeowners who want a dependable, no-frills riding mower for medium to large properties, focusing on power and cutting width rather than advanced features or smart connectivity.

The Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Lawn Mower is designed to make lawn care more efficient and less labor-intensive. With an 11.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine, it offers reliable starting and good performance, suitable for maintaining up to 2 acres of lawn. The 36-inch reinforced stamped steel deck is durable and can navigate through tight spaces, making it versatile for various yard sizes. The included mulching kit is a bonus for those looking to achieve a professional finish.

The mower's 18" turning radius and heavy-duty Turf Saver wheels enhance its maneuverability, allowing you to easily navigate around obstacles. Comfort is also prioritized with a contoured low-back seat and a 7-speed manual transmission, giving you control over your mowing speed and a more pleasant ride.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The mower is quite heavy at 350 pounds, which may pose challenges for storage and handling. Additionally, it lacks features like push-button start. While the mower performs well in essential tasks like cutting and mulching, it does not mention bagging or side discharge capabilities. This product is best suited for medium to large yards where maneuverability and comfort are important, and for users who prefer a manual transmission for speed control.

The Craftsman 46" Zero-Turn Gas Riding Lawn Mower is designed for users with large yards who want to save time and effort. Its 22 HP Kohler engine is strong enough to handle both dry and wet grass, delivering a smooth, consistent cut. The 46-inch cutting width is generous, letting you mow wide swaths quickly, which is great if you have big lawns. You can adjust the cutting height up to 4 inches, though it only offers three height options, which might feel a bit limited if you want more precise control.

This mower is self-propelled with dual hydrostatic transmissions, providing easy maneuverability and smooth rides, especially with the turf master tires that improve traction. The zero-turn feature helps you navigate around obstacles faster, reducing mowing time. Comfort is considered with a high-back seat and adjustable lap bars, making longer sessions less tiring.

One downside is its heavy weight (about 500 pounds) and the fact that it requires assembly, which might be challenging if you’re not handy. It doesn’t offer smart home connectivity or advanced features. If you need a reliable, powerful mower for sizable lawns and don’t mind some setup work, this model is a solid choice. However, those with smaller yards or looking for more cutting height options might want to explore other options.