Running a lawn care business means buying reliable cutting tools, including the best commercial walk-behind mower. The only problem is that not everyone can pick apart commercial lawn mowers from residential models, leading them to mistakenly buy tools for a smaller yard.
So rather than blindly guessing which suits your mowing needs, here are several walk-behinds that I’ve tested and highly recommend.
Reviews of the Top Commercial Walk Behind Mowers
1. Greenworks 25022
For a more economical and affordable lawn care experience, I’d recommend getting an electric lawn mower like Greenworks 25022. Despite its lower price tag, this commercial lawn mower serves the 3-in-1 purpose of side discharge, mulching, and rear bagging.
It operates with an electric power source, but its runtime does not rely on one battery. As long as I have it plugged into an outlet, I can keep cutting grass without any interruptions.
Additionally, its 10-inch rear-wheel drive is quite handy. This mower makes light work of navigating through uneven grass terrain. Plus, the 12-amp motor also did wonders in providing maximum cutting performance.
What I Like
- The built-in electric cord lock keeps the cord securely attached for uninterrupted mowing
- The grip handles are compact and foldable, making storage easy
- This mower is more maneuverable than most commercial models I've tried
- One less thing to worry about - there's no need for extra batteries or charging with this mower
What I Don't Like
- It's best suited for small yards; larger lawns might pose a challenge
- The power cord can limit your movement, so plan your path carefully to avoid cord issues
2. Worx WG779
Another cordless and budget-friendly commercial lawn mower that’s worth considering is the Worx WG77. If you’re not covering a vast grass field, its 40V maximum power should be enough for commercial use.
One reason I chose to include it in my list of top commercial walk-behind mowers, despite it being cordless, is its versatility throughout the seasons. With just a single built-in lever, adjusting the mower height in six positions is easy-peasy.
I really liked the foam-padded handles on this mower. They made it comfortable to hold and easy to steer without getting tired.
What I Like
- The built-in battery level indicators help me keep track of the remaining power so I don't run out unexpectedly during mowing
- It's more affordable than other walk-behind mowers
- It's lighter and easy to maneuver on uneven and rough lawns
- The dual port charger speeds up the charging process, so I spend less time waiting and more time mowing
What I Don't Like
- It's not the best choice for larger yards, so consider your lawn size
- You'll need to take extra care when storing it to ensure it stays in good condition over time
Read more about the Worx WG779 mower here.
3. Earthquake 40314
The Earthquake 40314 might not be as widely recognized as some other commercial mowers, but from my experience, those 14-inch sturdy wheels are real workhorses when it comes to tackling tough grass and weeds. One look at it, and you can tell that the solid steel mower deck can dampen vibrations caused by the unit’s wheel motors.
Assembling this walk-behind mower was straightforward. All I had to do was unfold and secure the handles – no need for tools to tighten the knobs. These tool-free adjustments also come in handy for storage. Additionally, it comes with 4-cycle fuel and starting strings included when you purchase the unit, which is a nice extra touch.
What I Like
- It comes with a five-year limited warranty
- No external tools are needed, so it's easy to assemble
- Its compact storage design makes it convenient to store in my shed
- It's surprisingly powerful and handles tough bushes effectively
What I Don't Like
- It's not from a widely recognized brand, which might be a concern for some buyers
- While it's powerful, it may not match the performance of some other walk-behind mowers on the market
4. Snapper XD 82V
Thanks to its load-sensing technology, it’s impossible not to talk about Snapper XD 82V when it comes to walk-behind mowers in the lawn care industry. You may not know, but this exclusive feature allows the mower to deliver optimal performance through maximum efficiency and power.
What sets it apart is that, unlike some battery-operated walk-behind mowers, this self-propelled model can cut, mulch, or bag grass continuously for up to 90 minutes.
Additionally, the rear wheel on this mower measures only around 10 inches, so I doubt you’ll face any storage issues. If anything, its easy assembly should save you at least 70% of the usually needed space for a typical mower.
What I Like
- Having seven height adjustments is fantastic because it lets me customize the cut to suit my lawn's needs
- This mower's compact design makes it easy to maneuver around obstacles and tight spaces
- The long battery life means I can get more done on a single charge
What I Don't Like
- The limited operation runtime can be a drawback, especially for larger yards
- This mower is heavier compared to most walk-behind models, so keep that in mind if you prioritize portability
5. Makita XML08Z
Another familiar brand name you’ll encounter when buying push mowers is Makita XML08Z. What stood out for me with this mower is its variable speed settings, ranging from 1.5 MPH to 3 MPH, which allow me to match the pace to the specific lawns I’m tackling.
It’s also made of IPX4 weather-resistant material, so its commercial steel deck is guaranteed to have extensive machine life and withstand harsh conditions.
On top of that, it houses four bay batteries on its system, unlike other battery-operated mowers. This means I get twice the runtime compared to regular cordless models, which is a big plus for tackling larger lawns or getting multiple sessions done on a single charge.
What I Like
- I can tackle larger areas because it has twice runtime than a typical cordless mower
- The weather-resistant construction adds durability
- Its ability to run at speeds of up to 3 MPH helps me cover ground quickly
- The built-in safety features protect against overloading and overheating
What I Don't Like
- It's not the best tool for mulching, so I'd consider alternatives for that task
- This model may not be the best choice for beginners due to its advanced features
6. Honda 664100 GCV200
Commercial push lawn mowers are meant to do more than just mowing, so I was eager to try out the Honda 664100 GCV200 and put its mulching and bagging features to the test. One thing that caught my attention right away is its hydrostatic cruise control, which lets you adjust the speed smoothly from 0 to 4 MPH.
Unlike other lawn mowers, the unit features an exclusive select drive. It’s intuitive and adds a level of convenience and control to the cutting process.
Another feature that sets this commercial lawn mower apart is its seven mowing height adjustments. They offered the flexibility to cut grass anywhere from ¾-inch to 4-inch specifications, making it a versatile mower capable of adapting to various lawn requirements.
What I Like
- The smooth wheel movements are a real asset, especially in hilly terrain
- It's incredibly versatile, handling mulching, bagging, discharging, and shredding with ease
- The accurate speed control provides an excellent cut quality
- With multiple cutting surfaces, it excels at producing finer grass clippings
- The variable speed configuration gives me better control during mowing
What I Don't Like
- It's a bit heavy, which might not be ideal for those who want a really portable mower.
- The colors may not be as vibrant as some other models, but that's more of an aesthetic consideration
7. Swisher WRC10224H
While not the cheapest option out there, I found the Swisher WRC10224H to be a solid choice, especially thanks to its G6 Gator commercial cutting blade. It’s built tough and can easily slice through grass fields, no matter what condition your lawn is in.
Now, due to its large pneumatic chevron tread parker wheel, I wouldn’t recommend using this push mower on smaller yards. However, if you’re dealing with rough terrain, I have no doubt you can rely on it.
This lawn mower also has a reverse mode and four-speed transmission. These can come in really handy when you need to navigate away from tough lawn spots.
What I Like
- With a powerful motor and a wide cutting range, I've found it to be highly efficient in tackling various types of terrain
- It's well-suited for hills and swamps, outperforming typical residential mowers in challenging conditions
- The adjustable speed transmission allows for a personalized mowing experience
- The built-in safety deflectors in the front and on the sides provide added peace of mind during operation
What I Don't Like
- While it offers great features, it might not fit everyone's budget
- If you have tight spaces in your yard, this is not the best walk-behind lawn mower for maneuverability
Commercial Walk Behind Mower Buyer’s Guide
Gas vs. Electric vs. Battery-Powered Mowers
First off, let’s talk power. Gas models still reign supreme in this department. They pack a punch when it comes to sheer cutting power, which is crucial for those tough and extensive grass-cutting tasks. However, it’s worth considering that they come with a fuel tank and various components, making them heavier and potentially less maneuverable.
On the other hand, corded mowers, while unlimited in runtime as long as they’re plugged in, are hindered by their cords. This limitation can be a hassle, especially when you’re navigating around obstacles in your yard.
Meanwhile, cordless mower options rely on battery capacity [1]. If you ask me, it’s both a perk and a disadvantage.
They’re lighter and more maneuverable since they don’t have a fuel tank or a cord to worry about. However, cordless mowers are limited in runtime. Although most modern units have extensive battery life, it doesn’t compare to the convenience of just plugging into an outlet or refilling fuel tanks. Investing in extra batteries and chargers can also add to the cost.
Gear Drive vs. Hydrostatic
Next up, transmission. When you buy a mower with hydrostatic transmission, you can expect it to have a smooth and efficient torque application. It’s easy to operate and compact, so I highly suggest it for tasks like landscaping.
However, if you’ll be taking on heavy-duty and ground engagement jobs, manual transmission or gear drive is the way to go for the added strength and durability they provide.
Material Durability
Like it or not, these mowers will face different weather conditions and external elements, so the material matters.
The best mowers are typically made of tough steel, which can handle the wear and tear of regular use. If steel mowers aren’t within your budget or availability, consider ones with aluminum constructions as a durable alternative.
Always keep in mind that the material and toughness of your mower play a significant role in its longevity and how well it can handle the demands of cutting operations.
Engine
When it comes to the engine, power is paramount for commercial walk-behind mowers, much like the Greenworks 25022 I’ve mentioned, or the Greenworks 24V 13″ brushless mower and Greenworks 40V 21″ model.
Look for units with a motor power of at least 150cc or above to handle seasonal needs. Besides that, don’t forget to check if the engine includes a cooling system to prevent overheating.
Deck Width
If you want to work as fast as possible, larger decks around 22 to 24 inches are the obvious solutions. However, if maneuverability and mobility are top priorities, consider a smaller deck in the range of 20 to 21 inches. It’ll make navigating tight spots a breeze.
Deck Construction
As your mower deck will do all the work, it’s also crucial to make it durable. Opt for materials like steel, known for their toughness. If your motor engine has a cooling feature, that will help ensure the deck won’t wear out quickly due to frequent usage.
Height Adjustment Controls
As you’ll be using mowers for business, it’s important to check if it has height adjustment controls. Not all models offer this function, but it will come in handy as you’ll be dealing with different lawns.
Look for mowers with adjustments ranging from 1.75 to 3.75 inches, as this should cover most grass types and sizes you’ll encounter.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a top concern. Ensure the handlebars are long and substantial enough for a secure grip as you maneuver these cutting tools. Additionally, a sturdy deck is crucial to match the demands of the terrain you’ll be working on, helping prevent any lawn mower mishaps or accidents.
Type of Landscape
When buying, don’t forget to consider the land condition on which you’ll be using the machine. You may not know, but models with bigger and stronger tires are more suited for working on hilly slopes and rough terrain.
It’s also crucial to determine how vast the landscape is. If you’re tending to a wide piece of land, then using an electric model may not be your most effective option.
Easy to Use
When it comes to ease of use, self-propelled models are typically the way to go. These tools don’t require much effort to push into their cutting path. Additionally, units equipped with high tires are easier to maneuver on hilly terrain.
Price and Warranty
The price of these tools varies per model and size, so you’ll have many options according to your budget. However, most models with premium materials should range to at least $1000 or more.
Regarding warranty, it’s wise to go for mowers that offer at least 2 to 3 years of limited coverage. If you’re willing to invest a bit more, some models extend their warranties to 4 years, providing added peace of mind and protection for your investment.
What’s the difference between a commercial and a residential walk-behind mower?
The major difference between commercial and residential mowers is their durability. You can typically spot this difference in the materials used to build the tool. Commercial models are designed to withstand rigorous use, often featuring sturdier construction.
Additionally, the engines on commercial models tend to be more powerful and efficient, which is essential for handling the demands of professional landscaping tasks. In contrast, residential mowers are often more compact and easy to store. They come with smaller cutting decks and less powerful engines, prioritizing maneuverability, ease of use, and affordability for homeowners.
Maintenance Tips for Your Commercial Walk-Behind Mower
There are many ways to increase your mower’s lifespan. However, the easiest method is to buy a model with a cooling system to prevent quick wearing from usage. You can also buy an air cooler for your tool if it doesn’t include this feature.
The blade must be sharpened if you want its cuts to be cleaner and more precise. I recommend doing this maintenance task 2 to 3 times a year or even more frequently if possible, depending on your usage.
FAQ
How do you tighten the belt on a walk-behind lawn mower?
You can tighten the belt on push mowers when it’s loose by removing the blade and other components. On the side of the motor engine, you’ll find the belt and tighten it as you please to get it back to its original placement.
What are the steps to sharpening the blades on a commercial walk-behind mower?
You can sharpen the mower blades by removing them from the tool. If it’s heavier than you can manage, use a car track lift to hold the model up until you get the blade out. After that, get your bench grinder and start sharpening it.
My Top Pick For a Commercial Walk-Behind Mower:
Honda 664100 GCV200
After evaluating the best commercial walk-behind mowers, I’ve found one that truly stands out – the Honda 664100 GCV200. Given its height adjustments of up to 4 inches, this tool can tackle any cutting task with different grass types and sizes. Its robust motor ensures a consistently clean cut, and its durability guarantees that it will serve you reliably for years to come.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
