The Best Gas Lawn Mowers You Can Find in 2025
Gas-powered lawn mowers are slowly becoming harder to find as battery-powered options dominate store shelves. But if you're still a fan of reliable, powerful gas mowers, you're not alone. We took a trip around Orlando, Florida, visiting big-box stores and local dealers to find the best 21-inch gas-powered lawn mowers of 2025. Whether you're shopping for value or durability, here's what we found.
What’s Happening to Gas Lawn Mowers in 2025?
Gas mowers are not disappearing entirely, but they’re harder to find in larger retail stores. Battery options are front and center, while gas mowers are often tucked away in smaller displays. The shift is driven by rising demand for quieter, lower-maintenance alternatives and increasing environmental regulations. But for many homeowners with larger lawns or specific performance needs, gas models remain unmatched for power and longevity.
We visited Lowe’s, Tractor Supply, Home Depot, Walmart, and Ace Hardware to compare their selections. Here's what we uncovered.
Gas Lawn Mowers at Lowe’s
Lowe’s carries a variety of brands, but battery-powered mowers dominate their displays, led by brands like Ego. The lineup starts at around $449 for a small battery model and climbs to nearly $1,000 for premium picks. While the convenience of battery technology is undeniable, gas mowers still hold their ground with dedicated shoppers.
In the gas category, Lowe’s predominantly stocks Toro mowers. These range from entry-level models, like the simple push mower for around $369, to self-propelled options with additional features like Smart Stow and larger engines. One standout is the Toro model with a 163cc engine, offering good power and durability at a reasonable price. Despite the shrinking selection, Lowe’s remains a reliable spot for quality gas mowers.
Tractor Supply: A Solid Selection of Gas Mowers
Tractor Supply offers a decent variety of gas-powered mowers alongside a limited number of electric options. Toro, Bad Boy, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt dominate their shelves. Prices range from $360 for basic push models to around $579 for more robust self-propelled units with Briggs & Stratton engines.
One standout is the Toro 21462, which features a 163cc engine, making it a reliable and long-lasting choice. The all-wheel-drive Toro 21472 is another solid pick for tougher terrain, priced at $579. Tractor Supply’s customer base still values gas mowers, which ensures a decent selection, even as battery mowers grow in popularity.
Home Depot: Battery Mowers Take Over
At Home Depot, Ryobi leads their battery mower display with prices starting at $299 for compact, lightweight models. Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita also cater to homeowners who already own battery-powered tools from their lineup. However, these mowers are on the pricier side, with some models costing as much as $700.
Gas mower options at Home Depot are limited. We didn’t find any Toro mowers at this location, which was surprising given their reputation for great support and availability. The store did have budget brands like Murray, known for their small, light-duty models. But if your heart’s set on a gas mower and durability is a priority, Home Depot may not have the depth you're looking for.
Walmart: Affordable but Limited
Walmart’s mower aisle is small, but they carry a few affordable gas models like Troy-Bilt and Hyper Tough. Prices start as low as $247 for a basic push mower. However, these lower-price options typically come with smaller engines and less robust builds.
Troy-Bilt’s self-propelled mower with a 163cc engine ($446) stood out as a reliable entry-level option. For smaller yards or light-duty use, Walmart's selection works, but for long-term durability, you might be better off with brands like Toro or Cub Cadet from a specialty dealer.
Ace Hardware: High-End Gas Mowers
Ace Hardware provides a unique selection with a focus on premium options. They stock Toro mowers alongside new gas-powered mowers from Steel (Stihl). The Steel RM 453 series stands out for its Kohler engines and aluminum decks. While these options are pricey (up to $699), they’re built to last and include premium features like single-lever folding handles and blade clutches.
Ace also offers the Toro 150C with Smart Stow ($469), making it easy to store vertically in tight spaces. While Ace has fewer budget-friendly options, it’s a great stop if you’re looking for top-tier performance and features.
Why Local Dealers Still Matter
Local mower shops remain crucial for buying gas mowers, especially as big-box stores trim their selections. Our shop, Main Street Mower, focuses on high-quality options, particularly from Toro. We recommend models like the Toro Super Recycler (21565), which features an aluminum deck, Personal Pace technology, Smart Stow, and a 5-year warranty. At $799, it’s a standout choice for anyone who wants a durable, top-performing mower.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Toro Recycler (21462) offers excellent value with its 163cc engine and rear-wheel drive. It’s priced well below $500 while delivering the reliability and part support Toro is known for.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Gas Mower
- Dealer Support: Always choose a mower with strong dealer support for easy access to parts, service, and warranty claims.
- Durability vs. Price: Cheap mowers may save you upfront costs but often sacrifice reliability and longevity.
- Engine Size: For larger yards or tougher grass, aim for a mower with at least a 163cc engine.
- Features: Self-propelled mowers, Smart Stow technology, and aluminum decks can make mowing easier and extend the life of your machine.
The Future of Gas Mowers
Gas mowers may be a shrinking category, but they’re far from obsolete. For homeowners seeking power, durability, and long-term reliability, brands like Toro, Steel, and Cub Cadet still offer excellent solutions. As battery mowers evolve, gas models will continue to cater to mowing enthusiasts who value performance above all else.
Final Thoughts
If you’re shopping for a 21-inch gas mower in 2025, Toro stands out as the best overall brand, offering unmatched durability, parts availability, and dealer support. Whether it’s the premium Super Recycler or the budget-friendly Recycler, Toro models deliver reliability at every price point.
Gas-powered mowers may be harder to find, but they remain the go-to choice for many. Just make sure to pick a mower that has strong dealer backing and the right features for your lawn. Happy mowing!
Products Discussed In The Video
- TORO 21 in. (53 cm) Super Recycler w/Personal Pace & SmartStow Gas Lawn Mower (21565)
- TORO 22 in. (56cm) Recycler® w/Personal Pace® Gas Lawn Mower (21462)
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