Shopping for a petrol lawnmower can be a daunting task. With so many models on the market, how do you know which one is right for your needs? Here at LMH, we’re here to help! We’ve put together this guide to walk you through the process of selecting the best petrol lawnmower in the UK. Before you even look at any models I would recommend you consider what type and size best suits your needs.
Our team have conducted comprehensive research and analysis to create the top petrol lawn mower review guide, meticulously scrutinizing assembly ease, design, power, performance, manoeuvrability, features, safety, and value for money of multiple products.
What Is The Current Best Petrol Mower to Buy in The UK?
After investing numerous hours in research and testing, we confidently endorse the Murray EQ2-500 self-propelled petrol lawnmower as the ultimate choice for a petrol lawn mower in the UK market.
Don’t have time to read everything? Click below to jump right into our mower insights and overviews or go straight to our petrol mower comparison to see they how stack up against each other .
1. Hyundai 20 ” Petrol Self Propelled (Best For Medium sized Lawns)
2. Mountfield HP41 (Value For Money)
3. Murray EQ2-500 (Best Overall Recommendation)
4. Webb WER410SP (The Gardener’s Choice)
5. Fox 20in 51cm Petrol Lawn Mower (Best for Large Gardens)
6. Murray EQ200 Petrol Push Lawn Mower (Best of the rest)
Push or Self-Propelled?
The best way to determine which type of mower is best for your needs is to think about how big your lawn is, how often you need to cut it, and what kind of terrain it has (hills, etc.). If your garden is small with no hills or other obstacles, then a manual push petrol model may be all you need. However, if your yard is larger or full of hills or other challenging terrain, then a self-propelled model might be worth investing in because it will require less effort on your part while still providing excellent results.
What Deck Size?
The first step in choosing the right petrol mower is to measure your yard and calculate its total size. This will help you determine whether you need a walk-behind or ride-on mower, as well as what cutting width would be most suitable. As a general rule of thumb I would recommend those with a small lawn of up to 5500 sq ft choose a deck size of 42cm or less. For a medium sized lawn up to 11000 sq ft a deck size of up to 45cm and a large area up to 17000 sq ft I would personally go for a model over 50cm.
Electric or Pull start?
Electric start makes it a lot easier to get the mower up and running, especially if you are not physically strong (like me). I personally prefer to use an electric starting mechanism on petrol mowers. They can be less strain on the body, especially when on colder. Pull-cord starters will be perfectly fine for most people and most modern machines will start perfectly fine, it is just not my mechanism of choice.
We have reviewed and compared our top choices below to help you decide which offers the best value. Many of the top brands like Hyundai, Honda and Webb have made the list but there are other models from manufacturers you may be less familiar with. All of them have excellent feedback from buyers so have a look to find the mower that suits your budget and your lawn.
At LMH, you can have confidence in our reviews because our team of experienced reviewers invests considerable time testing and comparing various products, enabling you to make an informed decision on what suits your needs best.
Hyundai 20 " Petrol Self Propelled (BEST CHOICE FOR MEDIUM TO LARGE LAWNS)
Our Rating
Rating based on performance, design, power, manoeuvrability and value.
First and foremost, I like how easy it is to start the mower. The 196cc engine has an auto-choke system that ensures that starting up the engine is as simple as pushing a button. Once started, you can adjust the mower’s speed using its five forward gears and two reverse gears , which makes it great for tackling large gardens or areas with uneven terrain. My assessment after using it is overwhelmingly positive, and I am enthusiastic about sharing a more detailed account of my experience.
Additionally, the six adjustable cutting heights (from 25mm to 75mm) allow you to choose exactly how short or tall you want your lawn to be. In terms of design, this mower is powered by two strong 9-inch rear wheels and one 7-inch front wheel that make maneuvering around difficult areas easier than ever before. It also has an ergonomic handlebar grip with variable height settings so that anyone can comfortably use it regardless of their height or size.
And lastly, its 70L grass bag means less frequent trips to empty out clippings while cutting – another feature that makes this mower so convenient to use! As if all those features weren’t enough already, the Hyundai 196cc Petrol Lawnmower also comes with a three year warranty – giving you extra peace of mind when purchasing this product! With such an impressive array of features and reliable performance, it’s easy to see why this mower is such a popular choice among gardeners everywhere.
What we like:
- So easy to start
- Very manoeuvrable for such a big mower
- mulching function is a game changer to those who have not used it before
- Sounds a lot quieter than other models
What we didn’t like:
- Instructions could be more informative
- Possibly too large for smaller gardens
- handle cable attachment assembly could be easier
Mountfield HP41 (BEST MOWER FOR THE MONEY)
Our Rating
Rating based on performance, design, power, manoeuvrability and value.
The Mountfield HP41 Petrol Lawnmower is equipped with a powerful 123cc ST120 engine that efficiently cuts through thick grass without any issues. The steel chassis construction also ensures durability and stability while you work. Having tried it out, I have nothing but positive feedback to offer. However, I am eager to elaborate on my experience and share more details about it.
The machine itself weighs just 19kg, which I found feels sturdy while making it lightweight enough to transport between jobs easily. This model is also equipped with a ‘ReadyStart’ system which makes starting the engine easy and hassle-free.
A 39cm cutting width of the blade give us plenty of space to cover in one pass without having to go over the same area multiple times or struggle with maneuvering on tight spaces or corners. It also came with an adjustable central height of cut ranging from 25mm up to 70mm so you can choose what works best for your lawn size and condition. The large 65L capacity grass collector bag also allows you to finish larger areas in fewer stops than other models might require, so you can get your job done faster!
Mountfield has long been known for creating durable machinery that can withstand tough working conditions without sacrificing performance quality, which is certainly true of this mower as well.
What we like:
- A lot of machine for the money
- One of the easiest mowers to start
- No unnecessary bells and whistles
What we didn’t like:
- Handle screws need to loosened to fold if storing or transporting
- Like most mowers, the assembly instructions are far from clear to many people
- handle cable attachment assembly could be easier
Murray EQ2-500 (Best Overall Recommendation)
Our Rating
Rating based on performance, design, power, manoeuvrability and value.
The Murray EQ2-500 features an easy to start 500E Briggs & Stratton engine, which provides plenty of power for mowing even large areas of grass with ease. It also has variable speed control, allowing you to adjust the speed of the mower as needed for different types of tasks. Upon thorough testing, I can confidently say that my experience with it has been exceptionally positive. I am eager to provide a more comprehensive review of my encounter with it.
During testing I would say that I always had enough power to get the job done quickly and efficiently while avoiding unnecessary strain on the engine. The 18”/46cm cutting width is ideal for any size yard and it can mulch, bag or side discharge clippings depending on your preference.
Several user friendly features such as an adjustable handlebar to ensure comfortable operation for users of any height as well as ball bearing wheels for smooth operation over uneven terrain. Additionally, it has single lever height adjustment which allows you to choose from 7 different cutting heights ranging from 25mm – 75mm so you can achieve the perfect finish every time.
Comes with a 2 year warranty so you can rest assured knowing that it will provide years of reliable service without having to worry about costly repairs or replacements down the line. Overall, an excellent choice for anyone looking for an efficient and reliable machine to maintain their garden all year round! Its powerful 500E Briggs & Stratton engine ensures excellent performance while its user friendly features make it comfortable and easy to use.
What we like:
- Feels solid and sturdy, just like they used to make mowers
- Not straining on the body to use
- Very quick and straight forward assembly. It took me about 15 minutes
What we didn’t like:
- Height adjustment needs to be done both front and rear
Webb WER410SP (The Gardener’s Choice)
Our Rating
Rating based on performance, design, power, manoeuvrability and value.
I call it “The Gardener’s Choice” as so many people just seem to love this machine and I can see why. With its sleek, modern design that sets it apart from other models on the market. The 16”/41cm cutting width is perfect for small to mid-sized lawns, while the 4-stroke engine provides powerful performance thanks to its 132cc power output. Additionally, this mower comes with 7 cutting heights ranging from 25mm – 70mm so you can alter your grass length as needed. And lastly, this model also features a large 45L collection bag so you don’t have to spend time emptying clippings after every use.
In terms of value for money, I would say that this is a great buy for anyone who needs an easy-to-use yet powerful petrol lawnmower. It’s fairly priced compared to similar models on the market and comes with a 2 year guarantee which gives you peace of mind should anything go wrong down the line. It’s also lightweight enough to store away once you’re done using it — an added bonus if space is limited in your garden shed or garage!
Overall, I’m impressed by how well this model performed during testing and believe it’s well worth considering if you need a new mower.
What we like:
- Well known for reliability
- Excellent value for money
- Self propulsion very smooth
What we didn’t like:
- Grass boxing opening slot a bit on the small side
Fox 20in 51cm Petrol Lawn Mower (Best Lawn Mower For Large Gardens)
Our Rating
Rating based on performance, design, power, manoeuvrability and value.
I have nicknamed this machine “The Beast” due its power. Having given it a thorough test, I am pleased to report that my experience with it has been nothing short of excellent. I am excited to delve into the details and share my thoughts on it. It is a self propelled petrol lawn mower with a 173cc engine and a 51cm cutting width. It is a 4-in-1 meaning it can collect, mulch, rear discharge and side discharge the grass cuttings. It comes with a 60 litre grass collection bag. It has a 2 years warranty.
I have used this mower for 3 weeks and I have to say I am very impressed with it. The 173cc engine provides plenty of power and the 51cm cutting width means that I can get my lawn mowed in no time at all. The 4-in-1 functionality is great as it means I can choose how to dispose of the grass cuttings depending on what I need at the time.
The collection bag is also very spacious so I don’t have to empty it too often. Overall, this mower has made my life much easier and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a powerful and versatile petrol lawn mower. If you are looking for a powerful and versatile petrol lawn mower then the Fox 20″/51cm Petrol Lawn Mower is the perfect choice for you.
It comes with a173cc engine, 51cm cutting width, 4-in-1 functionality and a spacious 60 litre grass collection bag. It also has a 2 year warranty so you can be sure that it is built to last.
What we like:
- It is a power horse that just makes mowing large garden so easy
- Great value at this price
- Customer service are very helpful and responsive
What we didn’t like:
- Large and heavy which resulted in the assembly taking longer than I expected.
Murray EQ200 Petrol Push Lawn Mower (Best of the rest)
Our Rating
Rating based on performance, design, power, manoeuvrability and value.
The Murray EQ200 Petrol Lawn Mower does not disappoint when it comes to performance. With its power and efficiency, you will be able to tackle any job quickly and effectively without having to worry about straining yourself or your machine. Plus, the Briggs & Stratton 300E series engine is much quieter than other comparable models on the market, so you won’t have to worry about disturbing your neighbours while mowing!
This model features a metal deck which adds durability and longevity to its overall design. The only downside is that metal decks can rust over time if they become scratched or dented. If you want something more durable, consider opting for a model with a plastic or polycarbonate deck instead.
Overall I find it a reliable and efficient machine that won’t break bank. With its powerful engine, wide cutting width of 16 inches/41 cm it is a model worth considering.
From the very first use, I was thoroughly impressed by the strength and adaptability of this machine, and after using it multiple times, it has become one of my go-to petrol mowers.
What we like:
- Solid, reliable machine
- Looks more expensive than it is
- Was easy to start with pull cable
What we didn’t like:
- Instructions and assembly are a common issue. I would recommend watching the Murray website assembly video before starting.
Petrol Lawn Mowers Compared
Assess the different features I have highlighted below each model has to offer to enable you get a better idea which one ticks the most boxes. In all honesty they are all great reliable machines.
Common Petrol Mower FAQ’s Before Buying
What size lawn mower do I need?
The size of the lawn mower you need depends on the size of your lawn. For small lawns, a push mower or small self-propelled mower may be sufficient. For larger lawns, a larger self-propelled may be necessary.
How much power do I need?
The power is determined by the size of the engine. Generally, the larger the engine, the more power the mower has. Consider the thickness of the grass and the terrain of your lawn when deciding how much power you need.
Should I choose a push or self-propelled mower?
When it comes down to it, choosing between a push or self-propelled lawnmower really depends on your needs and budget. If you have a smaller lawn and want something lightweight, then a push mower might be the way to go. However, if you have a larger yard and want something that requires less effort then consider purchasing a self-propelled model instead. Ultimately, both types offer their own unique benefits so make sure you compare both options before making your final decision!
What features should I look for?
Features to consider include adjustable cutting height, mulching capability, grass box capability, ease of use, and durability.
How much should I spend on a lawn mower?
As I have mentioned above the cost of a petrol lawn mower can vary widely depending on the size, power, and features. Determine your budget and find a lawn mower that meets your needs within that budget. The 6 machines we tested range from around £240 – £400. If price was the biggest factor there are other models you could buy for less.
Buying Guide
As promised, the second half of this extensive guide will break down everything you need to know about petrol lawn mowers. We’ll consider pros, cons, important features, and more!
First and foremost, why should you consider a petrol model? [1] While electric mowers certainly have their uses, their petrol counterparts are much more efficient for larger gardens. With no need for leads and cables, you have the freedom to mow in your own way. Especially for those with larger gardens, petrol is more likely to meet your needs (without extension leads and continually getting tangled!).
As you may notice during your research, the best petrol lawn mowers do tend to be more expensive. However, you’re paying for the convenience and additional power. Also, we find that petrol lawn mowers take greater care with design and the choice of material. With this, the mower should have a longer life and you won’t have to consider a replacement as early as you might with an electric mower.
In recent times, you may have heard suggestions that cordless models are drowning the petrol niche. On this note, we should say that these machines are definitely improving. As technology gets more extravagant, manufacturers are able to create batteries that last longer and are more efficient.
However, we don’t believe they have surpassed petrol designs for larger gardens. We believe that these still excel in three main areas;
- Running time
- Power
- Self-propelling design
At the moment, even the best cordless lawn mowers struggle to compete in these three areas, and this is why you might consider petrol even today.
Potential Drawbacks of Choosing Petrol
On the other hand, are there any reasons you might think twice about petrol lawn mowers? Of course, these drawbacks are all generally speaking, and they might not apply to all models these days. However, some will say that petrol mowers are both heavier and louder than the top electric lawn mowers. Also, they need careful maintenance in order to keep a high performance.
Although many petrol models now have an easy-start system, some of the older designs have a pull-start cord which can be difficult for older users or those with back or shoulder pain. Finally, anything that uses petrol to operate will emit some emissions into the atmosphere. Fortunately, manufacturers are now doing more to limit the impact of your mower, so you don’t have to feel quite as bad as many years ago.
Important Features
Next, what are the main features on a petrol lawn mower in the UK? When making a decision, look out for these key features and choose one that matches your needs both now and in the future.
Cutting Width
As the name suggests, this term describes the area cut with every sweep of the mower. Therefore, larger cutting widths are suited to larger gardens. Rather than having to do lots of mowing and lots of sweeps, you take on more grass with each journey up and down the garden and you reduce the duration of each cut significantly.
However, don’t think that wider is always better. If you don’t have a trimmer for the edges, it might be hard to go around corners and edges with a large cutting width, so this is important to remember.
Cutting Height
With this in mind, you can probably work out how the cutting height works. Rather than pulling the mower from the shed and cutting the same way every time, you should be looking to adjust the height depending on weather conditions, time of year, lawn type, and more.
If it has been a few months since the last cut, one of the worst things you can do is cut it right back immediately. Instead, you should start high and keep cutting it back gradually. The more height settings and control over this feature, the more flexibility you have (there’s an opportunity to keep your grass healthy throughout the calendar year!).
Grass Collection Box
As the next important feature, you need to pay attention to the size of the grass collection bag. With a larger box, you don’t have to stop as frequently, and this can cut down the time of your mowing. With a smaller box, you’ll have to keep stopping and this can quickly get frustrating.
As a top tip, pay attention to the power of a lawn mower because this will affect the size of the collection box. When a mower has lots of power, it can cope with additional weight and this means a larger collection collector. Of course, you need to think about your own lawn before spending your money. If you only have a small lawn, a model with a huge box isn’t really a necessity for you.
Side Discharge
In fact, it’s important to consider all the cutting options that a mower offers. While rear discharge and collection are two common options, you might want a mower that offers mulching or side discharge.
The reason we chose to add side discharge to this list is because it’s the preferred choice for many. Especially when dealing with moist or thick grass, getting this grass away from the underside of the deck quickly is important. If the grass doesn’t have an escape, it will only sit on top of the cutting area and there’s also a risk of clogging the blades. As soon as you add water to the equation, you get clumps of grass and the whole process becomes one large headache.
Self Propelled
As our penultimate feature, are you happy to push the mower around your garden? For some, especially with smaller gardens, this isn’t really a concern. When considering a larger garden or health problems in an individual, this is where self propelled petrol models get their value. As we’ve discovered, petrol lawn mowers are heavier than electric models and manual push mowers. Therefore, being able to guide the mower rather than struggle heavy weight is an incredibly useful feature.
When a mower is self propelled, it takes the work out of mowing and it actually allows you to relax and have a little fun. As long as you’re aware and don’t let the mower go off on its own, you’ll still get the same great cut (it can actually prevent you from pushing down too hard into the turf!).
Key Start or Electric Start
Finally, we mentioned in the potential drawbacks that a pull-start cord is one of the main reasons why people avoid petrol lawn mowers. Fortunately, this isn’t the only option and you will also find mowers that offer a key start. Rather than potentially causing damage to yourself, simply turn the key and get started with the lawn.
Just in case you wanted any more features to keep an eye on while researching the market, here’s a few more;
- Rear roller
- 4-stroke vs 2-stroke
- Power
- Noise
- Fuel consumption
- Handle comfort
- Storage
Additionally, you can’t forget your budget. When buying a lawn mower in the UK, you’re investing quite a bit of money because it’s something that will hopefully become a reliable partner in the years ahead. For this reason, you don’t need to go for the cheapest option. Instead, we recommend thinking about the quality of the material and the durability that comes with the examples presented above, for example. Why buy twice when you can buy correctly and get years of fantastic service from the right model?
Summary
There we have it, some great products and then a buying guide to petrol lawn mowers. Before we go, we want to make a quick note on choosing the right mower. Getting advice and recommendations from friends and neighbours is great because we trust their word, but you should never let this be the deciding factor. After getting recommendations, think about your own needs. Only you know what will work for your lawn; think about what we’ve said about smaller gardens and larger gardens.
Furthermore, think about the amount of storage space you have available. If you don’t have much, you need a model that folds up nicely and won’t cause too many problems. Also, do you have any health concerns? With a bad wrist, arthritis, or anything like this, a self-propelled model will always be the best option. You can simply guide the mower around the garden, and you can actually maintain independence rather than relying on somebody else to help.
Last update on 2023-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API