Finding the best lawn mower for hills is quite the adventure! Just as climbing a hill demands the right shoes and a map, picking the ideal mower requires appropriate guidance and tools.
I’ve gone on this journey and found the top 12 lawn mowers for 2024 that will make mowing on hills as easy as a walk in the park. Why are these mowers so special? They’re packed with cool features that make cutting grass on slopes a breeze, making your lawn look amazing without all the sweat.
Let’s dive into what makes these mowers your best buddies for tackling those challenging hills.
Our Favorite Best Lawn for Hills Picks
- Best Overall: Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless
- Best Value for Money: Greenworks 40V 14″ Cordless
- Best Robot Mower: Worx Landroid S 20V
- Best Special Mower: DareDevil Dual Power Mower
- Best Zero Turn Mower: Husqvarna Z254
Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower (16″ Push) with Battery and Charger
Best For: Homeowners with small to medium-sized yards looking for an eco-friendly, easy-to-use lawn maintenance solution.
Pros:
- Offers up to 45 minutes of runtime on a fully charged battery, suitable for small to medium projects without the need for recharging.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it an excellent choice for users of all strengths and abilities.
- Maintenance-free with no gas, oil, or emissions, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers.
Cons:
- Battery performance may decline over time, potentially requiring additional charging or spare batteries for larger yards.
The Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower (16′ Push) with Battery and Charger is a top choice for homeowners maintaining small to medium-sized hilly terrains. Featuring a 16-inch cutting deck and 5-position height adjustment, this cordless mower is lightweight and efficient. It eliminates the hassle of gas, oil, and emissions, offering up to 45 minutes of runtime with a fully charged 4.0Ah battery.
This ample power allows for tackling tough projects without the noise and maintenance of gas-powered alternatives. The 2-in-1 mulching and bagging options provide versatility, while the single lever height adjustment makes customization to the desired grass height easy. The Greenworks 40V Lawn Mower comes with a 3-year warranty on both the tool and battery, making it a reliable and eco-friendly option for lawn maintenance.
DareDevil Dual Power All-Terrain Remote-Controlled Lawn Mower
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For individuals facing the challenge of maintaining steep slopes, the DareDevil Dual Power All-Terrain Remote-Controlled Lawn Mower, with its extreme slope capability of up to 50 degrees, emerges as an unparalleled choice. This innovative mower is powered by a hybrid system that combines gasoline with dual batteries, ensuring consistent power and performance even on the most demanding terrains. Its zero-turn capability allows for precise maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around obstacles and tight spaces.
The robust design, constructed from durable iron and weighing 320 pounds, is specifically engineered to withstand rugged conditions, ensuring longevity and reliability. Additionally, the mower offers a cutting width of 31.5 inches, allowing for efficient and effective mowing sessions. With a 1-year warranty and glowing customer reviews, the DareDevil Mower stands out as a top choice for those seeking to tackle challenging landscapes with ease.
Greenworks 40V 14″ Cordless Lawn Mower with Battery and Charger
Best For: Homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns looking for a lightweight, efficient, and environmentally friendly mowing solution.
Pros:
- 2-in-1 function for rear bagging and mulching caters to diverse lawn care needs.
- 5-position height adjustment allows for optimal cutting height customization.
- Easy to assemble and lightweight design enhances user experience and maneuverability.
Cons:
- Limited run-time of up to 45 minutes may not be sufficient for larger lawns.
Optimal for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns, the Greenworks 40V 14′ Cordless Lawn Mower combines efficiency and convenience, featuring a 14-inch deck and a battery capable of up to 45 minutes of run-time.
This mower is equipped with a 4Ah battery and charger, offering a 2-in-1 function that accommodates both rear bagging and mulching, catering to various lawn maintenance needs. With a 5-position height adjustment, users can easily customize the cutting height to achieve the perfect lawn aesthetic.
Its easy assembly, lightweight design, and 3-year warranty make it a user-friendly choice. Constructed from durable ABS plastic and aluminum, and weighing just 33.33 pounds, this mower promises maneuverability and longevity.
Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
Best For: Homeowners and professionals in need of a powerful, efficient, and comfortable mower for large and complex lawns.
Pros:
- Powerful 26 HP Kohler engine ensures reliable performance and high ground speed.
- 54-inch reinforced steel cutting deck allows for quick and efficient mowing of large areas.
- Hydrostatic transmission provides smooth speed adjustments and superior maneuverability.
- Air induction mowing technology delivers a clean, professional-grade cut.
- Ergonomic controls and a comfortable seat reduce fatigue during long mowing sessions.
Cons:
- Higher initial investment compared to smaller or less powerful mowers.
- Larger size and weight may require additional storage space and limit maneuverability in very tight spaces.
The Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower stands out as a formidable choice for homeowners and professionals aiming to maintain large, expansive lawns efficiently. Powered by a robust 26 HP Kohler engine, this mower delivers reliable starts and high ground speeds. The 54-inch reinforced steel cutting deck ensures durability and the capacity to handle vast areas quickly, making lawn maintenance less time-consuming and more effective.
This mower is renowned for its hydrostatic, maintenance-free transmission, which offers a smooth, variable forward and reverse speed for easy maneuverability around obstacles and in tight spaces. The zero-turn radius capability significantly reduces the time required for mowing by allowing for precise turns and easy navigation across the lawn.
One of the Z254’s standout features is its air induction mowing technology, which draws air from the top and bottom of the deck, enhancing grass lift and delivering a superior cut. Additionally, the mower includes a convenient deck lift system that is easily accessible from the operator’s seat, allowing for quick adjustment of the cutting height.
Equipped with ergonomic controls and a comfortable seat, the Husqvarna Z254 offers a pleasant mowing experience, reducing operator fatigue during extended use. The inclusion of a cup holder adds a touch of convenience, making the task more enjoyable.
Worx Landroid S Robotic Lawn Mower (WR165)
Best For: Tech-savvy homeowners with smaller, intricate lawns seeking a high-tech, efficient lawn care solution.
Pros:
- Fully automated and can be controlled remotely via smart app, offering convenience and efficiency.
- Patented AIA cutting technology and floating blade disc allow for effective mowing on narrow paths and uneven terrain.
- High-efficiency brushless motor ensures extended performance and is compatible with Worx 20V, 40V, and 80V tools.
Cons:
- Some users report wheel traction issues on flat, dry grass, affecting maneuverability.
Innovative and ideally suited for the tech-savvy homeowner, the Worx Landroid S Robotic Lawn Mower (WR165) revolutionizes lawn care with its smart app integration and patented AIA cutting technology, making it a top choice for those managing smaller, intricate lawns. Boasting a sleek black and orange design, this battery-powered unit offers a cutting width of 8 inches and comes equipped with a high-efficiency brushless motor, ensuring extended performance. Its fully automated system can be controlled remotely via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, providing convenience and efficiency. The floating blade disc enhances its capability to handle uneven terrain, making it versatile.
Despite its innovative features, users should note potential limitations, such as wheel traction issues and challenges with the boundary wire system. Overall, the WR165 offers a glimpse into the future of lawn maintenance, combining technology with practicality for an exceptional lawn care experience.
EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower LM2101 with Battery and Charger
Best For: Individuals with sloped or hilly lawns looking for a powerful, battery-operated mower that combines efficiency with convenience.
Pros:
- Up to 45 minutes of run time on a single charge accommodates most small to medium-sized lawns.
- 3-in-1 function (mulching, bagging, side discharge) offers versatile lawn maintenance options.
- Quick and easy push-button start combined with weather-resistant construction enhances user experience.
Cons:
- May require the purchase of an additional battery for larger lawns to complete mowing in one go.
Ideal for individuals facing the unique challenges of maintaining sloped landscapes, the EGO Power+ LM2101 Cordless Lawn Mower combines a robust 56-volt battery system with a versatile 21-inch cutting deck, ensuring efficient and effective lawn care on hilly terrains. With up to 45 minutes of run time on a single charge, this mower is designed for convenience and performance.
It features six-position cutting height adjustments ranging from 1.5 to 4 inches, accommodating various grass lengths and types. The 3-in-1 function allows for mulching, bagging, and side discharge, providing flexibility according to the user’s needs. The weather-resistant construction and quick, easy push-button start enhance the mower’s reliability and user-friendliness.
Its lightweight design, coupled with a rapid charger and compatibility with all EGO POWER+ products, makes the EGO Power+ LM2101 an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful, yet quiet and maneuverable lawn mower for hilly landscapes.
Greenworks PRO 80V 42” Electric Lawn Tractor
Best For: Homeowners with large yards seeking a powerful, eco-friendly lawn maintenance solution.
Pros:
- Up to 2 hours of run-time, ideal for large properties.
- Wide 42-inch cutting deck for efficient mowing.
- Zero emissions for an environmentally friendly choice.
- Quiet operation for flexible mowing times.
Cons:
- Higher initial cost compared to traditional gas-powered mowers.
The Greenworks PRO 80V 42” Electric Lawn Tractor, Riding Lawn Mower stands as a revolutionary choice for homeowners seeking an eco-friendly, powerful alternative to traditional gas-powered riding mowers. With its robust 80V battery system, this electric lawn tractor delivers up to 2 hours of run-time on a single charge, making it perfect for tackling large properties with ease.
Featuring a 42-inch cutting deck, this lawn tractor offers a wide cutting path and adjustable height options, ensuring efficient and precise mowing for various grass types and conditions. Its zero-emission operation not only reduces your carbon footprint but also eliminates the need for gas, oil, or maintenance associated with combustion engines.
The Greenworks PRO 80V Lawn Tractor is equipped with user-friendly features such as a comfortable, adjustable seat, easy-to-use controls, and a bright LED headlight for mowing in low-light conditions. Its quiet operation allows for early morning or late evening mowing without disturbing the neighborhood.
WILD BADGER POWER 40V Cordless Lawn Mower with 5 Cutting Heights
Best For: Homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns looking for a versatile and efficient cordless mowing solution.
Pros:
- Powerful brushless motor with speed up to 3400RPM ensures efficient mowing.
- Quick folding design allows for easy and convenient storage within 5 seconds.
- 5 cutting height adjustments cater to various grass conditions and seasonal mowing needs.
Cons:
- Limited to 30 minutes runtime, which may not be sufficient for larger lawns.
For homeowners seeking a versatile and efficient lawn mowing solution for hilly terrains, the WILD BADGER POWER 40V Cordless Lawn Mower with 5 Cutting Heights stands out as a commendable option. Featuring a powerful brushless motor that operates at speeds up to 3400RPM and powered by 40V batteries, this lawn mower ensures up to 30 minutes of runtime, making it suitable for small to medium-sized lawns.
The mower offers five cutting height adjustments ranging from 0.98 to 3.14 inches, allowing for customization based on the grass’s condition and the desired lawn appearance. Its 11-gallon large collection bag efficiently collects waste, minimizing the need for frequent emptying. Moreover, the mower’s quick folding design facilitates easy storage within 5 seconds, and an easy start mechanism coupled with quiet operation enhances the user experience.
This lawn mower not only promises performance and convenience but also comes with a 3-year warranty, ensuring reliability for both home and commercial use.
Yard Force Self Propelled Lawn Mower with Briggs & Stratton 150cc Engine
Best For: Homeowners with hilly terrains seeking a robust and efficient lawn maintenance solution.
Pros:
- Equipped with a powerful Briggs & Stratton ex625 150cc engine featuring ReadyStart technology for easy startup.
- Offers a self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system, enhancing ease of use and efficiency on sloped landscapes.
- Versatile 3-in-1 mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging options, with a single lever 7-position deck height adjustment.
Cons:
- Some users found the self-propelled speed too fast, affecting maneuverability and control.
Equipped with a Briggs & Stratton ex625 150cc engine featuring ReadyStart technology, the Yard Force Self Propelled Lawn Mower emerges as a top contender for homeowners seeking a robust solution for maintaining hilly terrains. This gas-powered mower, with its self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system, offers ease of use and efficiency, essential for the challenges posed by sloped landscapes.
The 22-inch steel deck, coupled with a 21-inch cutting blade, ensures a wide cutting path for faster lawn maintenance. Its versatility is further enhanced by the 3-in-1 mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging options, accommodating various lawn care needs. Additionally, the single lever 7-position deck height adjustment allows for precise control over the cutting height, adapting to different grass types and conditions.
Constructed from durable alloy steel and finished in a striking orange, this mower combines functionality with aesthetics, making it a valuable addition to any lawn care arsenal.
BILT HARD Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 170cc (21 Inch)
Best For: Homeowners seeking a versatile and efficient lawn mower for varied terrain and lawn care needs.
Pros:
- Robust 4-cycle 170cc engine offers powerful and efficient cutting.
- 3-in-1 steel deck design allows for mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging, catering to different lawn maintenance needs.
- Adjustable cutting height with 10 positions and comfortable maneuverability features ensure ease of use on diverse terrains.
Cons:
- Some users reported the mower shutting off intermittently, indicating potential reliability issues.
Featuring a robust 4-cycle 170cc engine and a versatile 3-in-1 steel deck, the BILT HARD 21-inch gas-powered lawn mower stands out as a top choice for homeowners seeking efficient hillside lawn maintenance. Its design allows for mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging, catering to various lawn care needs. The mower offers an adjustable cutting height with 10 positions, ensuring a precise cut on diverse terrains.
Comfort is prioritized with rear and front ball-bearing wheels and a foam-wrapped angled grip, making it easier to maneuver on slopes. Despite its 90-day warranty, customer reviews highlight its performance and lightweight design. However, potential buyers should note mixed feedback regarding customer service, product quality, and occasional operational issues.
BLACK+DECKER Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer, Lawn Mower, and Edger (MTC220)
Best For: Small lawn owners looking for a lightweight and versatile lawn maintenance tool.
Pros:
- Quiet operation, making it neighborhood-friendly
- Minimal grass clippings for easy cleanup
- Includes two batteries for extended run time
Cons:
- Manual line adjustment may be required, adding to maintenance
The BLACK+DECKER Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer, Lawn Mower, and Edger (MTC220) emerges as a versatile choice for homeowners seeking a multifunctional tool to maintain small and challenging terrains. Engineered by BLACK+DECKER with a lightweight design of just 9.9 pounds and a compact 12-inch cutting width, this battery-powered device integrates the convenience of a mower, trimmer, and edger in one.
It’s crafted from durable alloy steel, featuring an automatic operation mode that enhances its efficiency. The inclusion of the AFS automatic feed system ensures continuous work without interruptions, while its adjustable height deck and pivoting handle cater to various user preferences.
Moreover, the power drive transmission is designed to prevent bogging down, ensuring a smooth operation even in less than ideal conditions. With an average customer rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, its performance on small lawns has been notably appreciated, highlighting its ease of use and storage capability.
American Lawn Mower Company Push Reel Lawn Mower (1204-14)
Best For: Eco-conscious homeowners with small, level lawns looking for a quiet, pollution-free mowing option.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and operates without emitting pollution or noise.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it suitable for small yards.
- Low maintenance with blade sharpening needed only once every 3-5 years.
Cons:
- Not ideal for large lawns or thick, tall grass.
For homeowners with compact yards on hilly terrain, the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower presents an ideal, eco-friendly mowing solution. Weighing just 19 pounds and equipped with 8.5” polymer wheels, this mower offers unmatched maneuverability and ease of use. Its precise scissor-like cutting motion ensures a clean cut every time, without damaging the grass blades.
This manual mower isn’t only pollution and noise-free but also requires minimal maintenance, with blade sharpening needed only once every 3-5 years. Its adjustable blade height caters to a variety of grass types, making it a versatile choice for eco-conscious gardeners looking to maintain their lawns with minimal environmental impact.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Mower for Hills
Choosing the right lawn mower for hills involves understanding several crucial factors.
I’ll explore the importance of:
- Slope handling capability
- Mower weight and balance
- Traction and maneuverability
- Power source
- Cutting deck size
These aspects ensure safety, efficiency, and a beautifully maintained lawn, even on challenging terrains.
Slope Handling Capability
When selecting a lawn mower for hills, it’s crucial to consider one with impressive slope handling capability, ensuring it can navigate steep inclines with ease. I’ve found that looking for a mower rated highly in degrees of slope it can manage is key to tackling those challenging hills effectively.
Opting for models with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive systems has proven to be a game-changer for me, offering better traction and control on uneven terrain. Moreover, features like variable speed settings or self-propelled options make managing the mower’s pace on inclines simpler, enhancing safety and efficiency.
I also prioritize finding a mower with a stable design and durable construction, which are essential for preventing accidents and ensuring longevity despite the rigorous demands of hill mowing.
Mower Weight & Balance
After discussing slope handling capabilities, it’s also essential to consider how a lawn mower’s weight and balance impact its performance on hills. Heavier models, while they might seem more robust, can be a struggle to maneuver on slopes, making the mowing task more challenging and less safe.
On the flip side, opting for a lightweight mower can significantly ease this burden, allowing for more effortless control and reducing the risk of accidents or losing control. Moreover, a mower with a low center of gravity not only boosts stability on inclines but also minimizes the chance of tipping or rolling over.
It’s clear then that a mower’s weight and balance are crucial for ensuring both efficient and safe operation on hilly terrain.
Traction and Maneuverability
One often overlooks the importance of traction and maneuverability when selecting a lawn mower for hills, yet these factors are vital for ensuring stability and ease of handling on challenging terrains.
Traction is crucial to prevent slippage and maintain mower stability on inclines. I’ve learned that mowers equipped with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive systems offer superior traction on hills. Additionally, larger rear wheels enhance both traction and stability, making it easier to navigate slopes. Adjustable speed settings also play a critical role, allowing me to control the mower’s pace on steep hills effectively.
For maneuverability, features like a zero-turn radius or swivel front wheels have been game-changers, enabling me to navigate tight spaces and corners with ease.
Power Source Consideration
Having discussed the importance of traction and maneuverability, it’s crucial to also consider the power source, which plays a significant role in the performance of lawn mowers on hills.
Gas-powered mowers are known for their consistent power, yet they’re heavier and demand more upkeep. On the flip side, battery-powered options offer the freedom to move and operate quietly, though their run time might limit you.
Then there’s the corded electric mowers, providing endless power but tethered by the cord’s reach, making them less ideal for navigating hilly terrains. Choosing the right power source is about balancing your needs with the mower’s capabilities, ensuring you can tackle those slopes efficiently.
It’s all about finding that perfect match for your specific situation and preferences.
Cutting Deck Size
In choosing a lawn mower for hilly terrains, the size of the cutting deck demands careful consideration, as it significantly impacts maneuverability and safety. A smaller cutting deck size is preferable for its ease of navigation on slopes and uneven ground. Larger decks, while great for flat areas, can be tough to maneuver on hills, often leading to uneven cuts.
Opting for a narrower cutting width not only ensures better control and precision, especially when mowing uphill or downhill, but also results in a lighter mower. This lightness is crucial, it makes the mower easier to handle and reduces the risk of tipping over on hilly areas. Given the terrain of my lawn, a mower with a narrower cutting deck is definitely my recommended choice for better performance and safety.
FAQ Best Lawn Mower for Hills
Is a zero-turn mower suitable for mowing steep hills?
Yes, a zero-turn mower is ideal for mowing steep hills. In particular, the best zero-turn mowers have a small turn radius making them effective for rough terrain.
Is a lawn tractor a good option for hills?
Yes, a lawn tractor can be a great choice for hills, especially for large yards. It has a hydrostatic transmission which allows for smooth and easy maneuvering on hilly terrains.
Can I mow hills with a push mower?
Yes, you can mow hills with a push mower. However, remember that even the best push mowers require more physical effort compared to ride-on mowers. If your yard is too hilly, it might be a better choice to look for the best lawn tractor or a zero-turn mower.
Are electric mowers suitable for hilly terrains?
Yes, electric mowers, including self-propelled mowers, can be used on hilly terrains. However, their capability might be less than a gas mower or a zero turn mower.
What is the best lawn mower with a 16-inch deck for hills?
For the 16-inch category, the best lawn mowers for hilly terrain would be a walk behind mower. They are easy to maneuver and provide a perfect cut. Plus, many models now offer features such as adjustable cutting heights and bagging options.
Which is your favorite of our best lawn mower for hills? What lawn mower do you use? Check also our Best Lawn Mower for Small Yards.
