The top lawn mower brands include John Deere, Toro, Honda, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Husqvarna, EGO, Greenworks, and Sun Joe. These brands offer a range of mowers, from traditional gas-powered models to innovative electric and battery-operated options. Each brand has its strengths, catering to different lawn sizes, terrains, and user preferences. Whether you’re looking for power, efficiency, eco-friendliness, or budget-friendly options, these top brands have established themselves as leaders in the lawn care industry, providing quality and reliability for homeowners across the United States.
Choosing the right brand is crucial as it can significantly impact your lawn care experience. A reliable brand ensures durability, performance, and customer support, making your investment worthwhile. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top lawnmower brands in the US market, their specialties, and factors to consider when making your choice.
Best Lawn Mower Brands
Traditional Powerhouses
1. John Deere
John Deere is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the lawn care industry. Founded in 1837, this American brand has a long-standing reputation for producing robust and efficient lawnmowers.
John Deere offers a wide range of mowers, from walk-behind models to heavy-duty riding mowers. They’re particularly known for their durability and excellent after-sales service. While they may come with a higher price tag, many users find the investment worthwhile due to the longevity and performance of their machines.
2. Toro
Toro has been a prominent player in the lawn care market since 1914. The brand is recognized for its innovative designs and user-friendly features.
Toro offers a diverse lineup of mowers, including push mowers, self-propelled models, and zero-turn mowers. They’re particularly praised for their cutting precision and maneuverability. Toro also focuses on fuel efficiency in their gas-powered models and has a growing line of electric mowers.
3. Honda
While Honda is widely known for its automobiles and motorcycles, the brand has also made a significant impact in the lawnmower market. Honda lawnmowers are renowned for their powerful and reliable engines.
Honda offers mainly walk-behind mowers, both push and self-propelled models. They’re known for their excellent cut quality and fuel efficiency. Honda mowers often feature innovative technologies like their Versamow System, which allows for mulching, bagging, discharging, and leaf shredding all in one mower.
Popular Consumer Brands
1. Craftsman
Craftsman is a well-known American brand that has been producing quality tools and lawn equipment since 1927. They offer a wide range of lawnmowers to suit various needs and budgets.
Craftsman mowers are known for their affordability without compromising on quality. They offer gas-powered, electric, and battery-operated models. Their mowers are particularly popular among homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns.
2. Troy-Bilt
Troy-Bilt has been in the lawn care business since 1937 and has built a reputation for producing reliable and affordable lawnmowers.
Troy-Bilt offers a comprehensive range of mowers, including push mowers, self-propelled models, riding mowers, and zero-turn mowers. They’re known for their user-friendly designs and value for money. Troy-Bilt mowers often come with features typically found in more expensive models, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers.
3. Husqvarna
Husqvarna, a Swedish company with a history dating back to 1689, has become a significant player in the US lawnmower market. They’re known for their high-performance machines and innovative features.
Husqvarna offers a wide range of mowers, including push mowers, riding mowers, and zero-turn models. They’re particularly renowned for their robotic mowers, which have gained popularity in recent years. Husqvarna mowers often incorporate advanced technologies for improved performance and user experience.
Eco-friendly Options
1. EGO
EGO is a relatively new player in the lawnmower market, having been founded in 2013. However, they’ve quickly gained recognition for their high-performance battery-powered lawn equipment.
EGO specializes in cordless electric mowers powered by lithium-ion batteries. Their mowers are known for their power, which rivals many gas-powered models, and their quiet operation. EGO mowers are popular among environmentally conscious consumers and those looking for low-maintenance options.
2. Greenworks
Greenworks is another brand that focuses on eco-friendly lawn care solutions. Founded in 2007, they’ve become a leader in battery-powered lawn equipment.
Greenworks offers a range of electric and battery-powered mowers. They’re known for their lightweight designs and long battery life. Greenworks mowers are particularly popular among homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who prioritize environmental sustainability.
3. Sun Joe
Sun Joe, along with its sister brand Snow Joe, specializes in outdoor tools and equipment. They offer a range of affordable electric lawn care solutions.
Sun Joe primarily offers corded electric mowers, which are known for their affordability and low maintenance requirements. Their mowers are lightweight and easy to use, making them a popular choice for small lawns and first-time homeowners.
Types of Lawnmowers and Brand Specialties
Understanding the different types of lawnmowers and which brands excel in each category can help you make an informed decision.
Push Mowers
Push mowers are the most basic type of lawnmower. They’re manually operated and best suited for small, flat lawns. Brands like Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and Sun Joe offer excellent push mower options.
Self-propelled Mowers
Self-propelled mowers have a drive system that moves the mower forward, reducing the effort required from the user. They’re ideal for medium-sized lawns or those with slight inclines. Honda and Toro are particularly renowned for their self-propelled models.
Riding Mowers
Riding mowers are sit-down mowers best suited for large lawns. They offer comfort and efficiency for mowing expansive areas. John Deere and Troy-Bilt are popular choices in this category.
Zero-turn Mowers
Zero-turn mowers offer exceptional maneuverability and are ideal for lawns with many obstacles. They can turn on a dime, hence the name. Husqvarna and Toro offer some of the best zero-turn models in the market.
Robotic Mowers
Robotic mowers are the latest innovation in lawn care. They operate autonomously, keeping your lawn consistently trimmed with minimal effort from you. Husqvarna is a leader in this category, while newer brands like Worx are also making waves.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lawnmower Brand
Selecting the right lawnmower brand involves considering several factors:
Lawn Size and Terrain
The size and terrain of your lawn play a crucial role in determining the type of mower you need. For small, flat lawns, a push mower from brands like Craftsman or Sun Joe might suffice. For larger or hilly lawns, you might want to consider a self-propelled model from Honda or Toro, or even a riding mower from John Deere.
Power Source (Gas, Electric, Battery)
Gas-powered mowers, offered by brands like John Deere and Toro, provide the most power but require more maintenance. Electric mowers from brands like Sun Joe are low-maintenance but limited by cord length. Battery-powered mowers from EGO or Greenworks offer a balance of power and convenience.
Budget
Lawnmower prices can vary significantly. Brands like Craftsman and Troy-Bilt offer budget-friendly options, while John Deere and Honda tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Maintenance Requirements
Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into maintaining your mower. Gas-powered mowers generally require more maintenance, while electric and battery-powered models are typically low-maintenance.
Warranty and Customer Support
Look for brands that offer comprehensive warranties and reliable customer support. John Deere and Toro are known for their excellent after-sales service.
Comparing Top Brands
| Brand | Performance | Durability | Innovation | Price Range | Customer Satisfaction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Deere | Excellent | Excellent | Good | $1000-$5000+ | High |
| Toro | Excellent | Very Good | Very Good | $300-$1000 | High |
| Honda | Excellent | Excellent | Good | $300-$1000 | Very High |
| Craftsman | Good | Good | Average | $200-$500 | Good |
| Troy-Bilt | Good | Good | Average | $200-$500 | Good |
| Husqvarna | Very Good | Very Good | Excellent | $1000-$5000+ | High |
| EGO | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | $300-$1000 | Very High |
| Greenworks | Very Good | Good | Excellent | $300-$1000 | Good |
| Sun Joe | Good | Average | Good | $200-$500 | Good |
Performance
When it comes to performance, Honda and Toro consistently receive high marks for their cutting quality and efficiency. EGO has also been praised for matching the performance of gas mowers with their battery-powered models.
Durability
John Deere and Honda are renowned for producing durable mowers that can last for many years with proper maintenance. Husqvarna also has a strong reputation for building long-lasting machines.
Innovation
EGO and Greenworks lead the pack in innovation, particularly in battery technology. Husqvarna is at the forefront of robotic mower technology. Among traditional brands, Toro is known for consistently introducing innovative features.
Price Range
Price ranges vary widely:
- Budget-friendly: Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Sun Joe ($200-$500)
- Mid-range: Toro, Honda, EGO ($300-$1000)
- Premium: John Deere, Husqvarna ($1000-$5000+)
Customer Satisfaction
Based on consumer reports and reviews, Honda, John Deere, and EGO consistently receive high customer satisfaction ratings. Toro and Craftsman also perform well in this area.
Expert Recommendations
Based on overall performance, customer satisfaction, and value for money, here are some expert recommendations:
Best Overall Brand: Honda
Honda consistently delivers excellent performance, durability, and user satisfaction across their range of mowers.
Best Budget-Friendly Brand: Craftsman
Craftsman offers a good balance of quality and affordability, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Best for Large Lawns: John Deere
John Deere’s riding mowers are unparalleled for large lawns, offering power, comfort, and durability.
Best for Small Lawns: EGO
EGO’s battery-powered mowers offer excellent performance and convenience, perfect for small to medium-sized lawns.
Most Innovative Brand: Husqvarna
Husqvarna’s range of robotic mowers and advanced features in their traditional mowers make them a leader in lawn care innovation.
Where to Buy Lawnmower Brands
Local Dealers
Many brands, especially premium ones like John Deere and Honda, have authorized local dealers. These dealers often provide expert advice, servicing, and warranties.
Home Improvement Stores
Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s carry a wide range of lawnmower brands, allowing you to compare different models in person.
Online Retailers
Websites like Amazon, Walmart, and the brands’ own online stores offer convenience and often competitive pricing. However, be sure to check warranty terms when buying online.
Conclusion
The lawnmower market offers a diverse range of brands, each with its strengths and specialties. From the traditional powerhouses like John Deere and Honda to eco-friendly innovators like EGO and Greenworks, there’s a brand and model to suit every lawn and every homeowner.
When choosing a lawnmower brand, consider your specific needs – the size of your lawn, your budget, your environmental concerns, and the level of maintenance you’re willing to undertake. Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the most cost-effective in the long run, and the most expensive isn’t necessarily the best for your needs.
Take the time to research, read reviews, and if possible, test out different models. Your perfect lawnmower is out there, ready to help you achieve that beautifully manicured lawn you’ve always dreamed of. Happy mowing!
