Buying Guide for the Best Makita Lawn Mowers
Choosing the right lawn mower is essential for keeping your yard looking tidy and well-maintained. When shopping for a lawn mower, it’s important to assess the size and layout of your lawn, how much effort you want to put into mowing, and any specific features that may make the task easier or more enjoyable for you. Understanding key specifications will help you match the mower's abilities to your needs.Cutting WidthCutting width refers to how wide a strip the mower can cut in a single pass. It’s important because a wider cutting width means you can finish mowing faster, especially on larger lawns. Generally, cutting widths can be divided into smaller (less than 16 inches), medium (16-21 inches), and larger (over 21 inches) categories. If you have a small, intricate lawn with tight spaces, a narrower cutting width is easier to maneuver. For bigger, open lawns, a wider cutting width will save time and effort.
Power SourceLawn mowers typically use one of three power sources: corded electric, battery (cordless), or gas. This spec affects convenience, noise, and maintenance needs. Corded mowers are best for small spaces close to an outlet. Battery (cordless) models offer freedom of movement and are quieter, making them ideal for most residential lawns but may be limited by battery life. Gas mowers are powerful and best suited for large lawns but require more upkeep and are noisier. Pick the power source that fits your lawn size, willingness to maintain, and preference for noise or eco-friendliness.
Grass Handling OptionsThis spec describes what happens to the grass clippings after mowing. Options typically include bagging (clippings collected in a bag), mulching (clippings finely chopped and spread on the lawn), or side discharge (clippings expelled to the side). Bagging is neat for formal lawns and reduces cleanup, but you’ll need to empty the bag often. Mulching is great for fertilizing the lawn naturally. Side discharge is common for rough or less-maintained areas. Choose the option that matches your preferred lawn finish and disposal effort.
Cutting Height AdjustmentCutting height adjustment allows you to set how tall the grass will be after mowing. This is important for maintaining healthy grass and adapting to seasonal changes. Mowers come with different numbers of height settings—more settings give you finer control. Lower heights create a short, neat lawn, while higher settings help keep grass healthy in dry or hot weather. Choose a mower with adjustment ranges that suit your lawn’s needs and your mowing style.
Weight and ManeuverabilityWeight and maneuverability determine how easy the mower is to push and turn, especially around obstacles or on hills. Lighter lawn mowers are easier to use for most people and are best for smaller or more intricate lawns. Heavier mowers, often self-propelled, might be easier on large, open areas but can be harder to manage in tight spots. Consider your physical strength and lawn layout when picking a mower for comfort and efficiency.
Self-Propelled vs. PushA self-propelled mower moves forward on its own once you set the pace, reducing the effort needed to mow, especially on sloped or large lawns. Push mowers require you to provide all the pushing force. If you have a flat, small lawn and don’t mind some exercise, a push mower is fine. If your yard is larger or has hills, you’ll appreciate the ease of self-propelled models.
Noise LevelNoise level is how loud the mower operates. Quieter electric or battery-powered models are ideal for residential areas where disturbing neighbors is a concern. Gas mowers tend to be louder. If you prefer peaceful mowing sessions or live close to others, a lower-noise mower may be a better fit for your needs.