If you’re looking for the best petrol lawn mower in the UK under £200, you’ve come to the right place. Don’t go anywhere—keep reading!
Maintaining a well-kept lawn can be tough, but choosing the right lawn mower makes all the difference. After working in the gardening industry and testing different models for weeks to months, I’ve found that petrol lawn mowers stand out for their power, versatility, and mobility.
From my personal experience, if you have a lawn over 200 square meters or one with slopes and uneven surfaces, a petrol mower is your best option. These machines handle tough grass effortlessly and provide a more efficient cut. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best petrol lawn mowers under £200 available in the UK, comparing them based on design, power, and maneuverability.
We didn’t just rely on specs and reviews—we bought and tested these mowers ourselves for several weeks to months, and we’ve gathered insights from other professionals and real-life customers to give you unbiased recommendations. So, let’s jump in and explore the top choices for budget-friendly petrol lawn mowers.
Best Petrol Lawn Mower UK Under £200 At A Glance
let’s look at them.
| Petrol Lawn Mower Brands | Buyer Satisfaction Ratings | Engine | Cutting Width | Height Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountfield (Must Buy) | 92% | 123cc | 39 cm | 25mm-70mm |
| Webb Petrol Mower | 86% | 123cc | 40.46 cm | 25mm- 65mm |
| Yard Force | 90% | 125CC Briggs and Stratton 300E | 41 cm | 25mm-75mm |
| Murray | 86% | 125CC Briggs and Stratton 450E | 46 cm | 25mm-75mm |
| STIHL RM 248 | – | EVC 200 | 46 cm | 25mm-75mm |
Petrol lawn mowers are popular among UK gardeners and landscapers for their advantages, especially on larger lawns. However, Garner from Lawnsmith suggests that for smaller or medium-sized gardens, such as those up to the size of a tennis court, electric lawn mowers are a better choice. They are easier to start, require no maintenance, and are odor-free, making them ideal for smaller spaces.
Self vs Push Petrol Lawn Mowers
When it comes to choosing between self-propelled petrol mowers and push petrol mowers, it depends on the size and type of your lawn. From my experience, self-propelled mowers are a great option for large lawns or uneven terrain. They use engine power to move forward, which makes cutting long or damp grass much easier. However, they do tend to be heavier and more expensive because they need a larger engine.
On the other hand, push petrol mowers are a better choice for smaller, flat lawns. They’re lighter and easier to maneuver in tight spaces, but you do have to push them manually. While they still run on petrol, they offer excellent control for small to medium-sized gardens without the added weight of a self-propelled model.
Cutting Width and Height
When choosing a petrol lawn mower, I’ve found that cutting width and height make a big difference in how efficient and versatile the mower is. A wider cutting width is great because it covers more ground with each pass, saving time. For smaller lawns, around 50 square meters, a width of 30-34 cm works perfectly. For medium-sized lawns (50-150 square meters), I’d recommend 35-40 cm. If you’re dealing with a large lawn, go for 40 cm or more to get the job done faster.
As for cutting height, it really depends on how you like your grass. Most petrol mowers let you adjust the height, and I’ve found that a range as low as 25 mm is ideal for a short, tidy finish. For medium to large lawns or shady areas, a height of 40-50 mm works better to keep the grass looking healthy. Adjusting the height is simple, and it helps you get the perfect look for your lawn, no matter the grass type.
Mower Type
When it comes to mower types, I’ve used a few and noticed key differences that can help you decide.
Rotary mowers are my go-to for affordability and compact design and also choice of most people (Robert Garner from company Lawnsmith). They use a fast-spinning blade that’s great for cutting long grass, and if you add a roller, you can even get that striped lawn finish. They’re perfect for small gardens and do the job efficiently.
Cylinder mowers, on the other hand, are better for short, well-maintained grass (James Broadhouse). They work like scissors and leave your lawn looking pristine. However, I’ve found them less effective on long or uneven grass, and they tend to cost more than rotary options.
Lastly, hover mowers are a solid choice for uneven lawns. They function like rotary mowers but include a fan and skirt to improve airflow. They’re lightweight and easy to maneuver but don’t perform as well on long grass. Each mower type has its strengths, so it really depends on your lawn’s needs.
Best Petrol Lawn Mower UK Under £200 – Tried & Tested
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Mountfield
- Weight: 19 Kilograms
- Cutting width: 25 mm
- Operating positions: 5
- Dimensions: 78.5D x 47W x 106.5H cm
- Warranty: 2 Years
- Blade Size: 39 cm Steel
View Deal Of the Day:
Reasons To Buy
- Versatile, Easy Starting
- The engine Motor is Powerful
- Durable
Reasons To Avoid
- Not for Larger Gardens
The Mountfield HP41 petrol lawn mower is an excellent option for those looking for a reliable and lightweight hand-push mower under £200. With its 123cc engine, I found it delivers solid performance, particularly in tight spaces and uneven ground. One of the features I appreciated the most was the versatility in cutting heights, ranging from 25mm to 70mm. This makes it easy to adjust based on the specific needs of your lawn, and it handles areas up to 250m² well.
The auto choke engine is a real advantage, making it much easier to start. In my experience, the pull start usually works on the first try, which is a big plus for convenience. The handle is simple to use, and the mechanism to start and stop the mower is straightforward. The plastic body seems durable and resistant to wear from sunlight, although I did notice the plastic construction, especially in the handles, may not be as long-lasting if hit by stones or other debris.
On the downside, the grass bag is a bit small, so I found myself emptying it more often than I’d like. It does give a close cut, but sometimes this resulted in yellow patches on the lawn, which may require careful adjustment to avoid. Adjusting the cutting height is easy, although each wheel needs to be adjusted individually, which can be a minor inconvenience.
Despite these small issues, the Mountfield HP41 offers a smoother and more even cut than many electric mowers I’ve used. It’s also quieter, with 95dB being a tolerable noise level for a petrol mower. Overall, this is a great option for small to medium lawns, offering good value for its price.
Webb
- Weight: 25 kg
- Cutting width: 40.64 cm
- Operating positions: 6
- Dimensions: 72D x 51W x 41H cm
- Warranty: 2 Year Guarantee
View Deal Of the Day:
Reasons To Buy
- Lightweight
- Guarantee
Reasons To Avoid
- 40 L is small for a grass collector
The Webb WER40HPSFX petrol lawn mower is a fantastic lightweight option under £200. With its 132cc four-stroke engine, I found it provides plenty of power to tackle even thicker grass without much effort. Starting it up was easy—just three presses of the primer button and a quick hold of the safety lever, and the engine roars to life. This mower is particularly effective for small to medium-sized gardens.
One thing I really appreciated was the six cutting heights that are easy to adjust with a single lever. You can set the height anywhere from 25mm to 65mm, which allowed me to get the exact cut I wanted depending on the grass length. The 40-litre grass collection bag is also very practical, catching all the clippings and leaving no mess behind.
The high-grip wheels offer excellent traction, making the mower easy to maneuver across uneven surfaces. However, I did notice that the instructions for assembling the mower could have been clearer. As a first-time user, it took a little extra time to figure things out, but once assembled, the folding handles and overall build made storage a breeze.
One standout feature is the 2-year guarantee, which adds peace of mind to the purchase. The bearings in the wheels make pushing the machine very smooth, enhancing the overall experience. While there were some small hiccups, like the unclear assembly instructions, the Webb WER40HPSFX delivers strong performance and is a reliable choice for anyone needing a budget-friendly, lightweight petrol mower.
Yard Force
- Weight: 23.5 kg
- Cutting width: 40.64 cm
- Operating positions: 5
- Dimensions: 51.5 x 95.5 x 134 cm
- Blade Length: 41 cm
- Warranty: 30 days full refund
View Deal Of the Day:
Reasons To Buy
- Ideal for small size gardens
- Good choice does a job fine
Reasons To Avoid
- Bag size
The Yard Force 41 cm hand push petrol lawnmower is an excellent choice for homeowners with smaller lawns and comes in under £200. Powered by a 125cc Briggs and Stratton 300 G series engine, I found it fuel-efficient and straightforward to start, thanks to its prime and pull starting system. The standout feature for me is the five cutting heights, ranging from 25mm to 75mm, which gives great flexibility for different grass types and garden areas.
During my testing, the high torque power of this mower provided a sharp cut, and I appreciated the 45-liter grass collection bag, which was easy to empty. As a professional gardener, I always seek tools that enhance efficiency, and this mower didn’t disappoint.
The ergonomic handle design with a soft grip made it comfortable to use for extended periods. Plus, the safety features, like the blade stopping immediately when the handle is released, added extra peace of mind. The mower’s sleek, jet-black high-gloss deck with stylish orange accents is a nice touch that enhances any garden’s appearance. While it performs well for its price, I did wish for a slightly larger cutting width for quicker mowing on larger lawns. Overall, it’s a reliable and efficient tool for any professional gardener.
Murray
- Weight: 20.5 kg
- Cutting width: 46 cm / 18″
- Operating positions: 6
- Dimensions: 140 x 50 x 103 cm
- Warranty: 2 Years
View Deal Of the Day:
Reasons To Buy
- Powerful and Easy Start
- Fulfill the requirement
Reasons To Avoid
- Height adjustment is required for both the front and rear.
The Murray EQ2-400 petrol lawn mower is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a reliable mower for larger gardens, all while staying under £200. With a Briggs & Stratton engine, I found it starts with just two pulls, which is incredibly convenient. The 60-liter grass collector is a game-changer, allowing me to mow larger areas without constantly stopping to empty the bag.
One of the standout features is its self-propelled design, making it effortless to maneuver, especially on hilly terrain. The mower offers four functions—cutting, mulching, bagging, and side discharge—which gives me great flexibility depending on my lawn care needs. The 46 cm cutting deck and six height options ensure that I can customize the cut to my liking.
During my testing, the single-point height adjuster was particularly impressive. It allows for easy adjustments of all four wheels with just one hand, making setup a breeze. I found the instructions clear and straightforward, so assembling the mower was quick and hassle-free.
While I appreciate the self-propelled mechanism, I understand it can be a weak point in some models. However, the Murray EQ2-400 seems to focus on cutting performance rather than overcomplicating the drive system. Overall, this mower’s high handle design and reduced rolling resistance make it comfortable to use for extended periods. For anyone looking for an affordable, efficient solution for large gardens, the Murray EQ2-400 is a fantastic choice.
STIHL RM 248
- Cutting width: 46 cm
- Weight: 26 Kg
- Operating Position: 5
View Deal Of the Day:
Reasons To Buy
- Covered Larger Areas
- Hard Wheels
Reasons To Avoid
- May be heavy for some users
The STIHL RM 248 Petrol Lawn Mower is a powerful option for anyone with a medium-sized lawn of up to 1,200m². One of the features I truly appreciate is its 46cm cutting width and adjustable cutting heights ranging from 25mm to 75mm. This flexibility allows me to achieve a precise and even cut, tailored to my lawn’s needs. The 55-litre grass catcher box is another highlight, letting me collect plenty of grass clippings without frequent interruptions to empty it.
I found the self-propelled feature particularly useful, especially when tackling slopes. The single-speed drive makes maneuvering simple and effective, helping to avoid those frustrating patchy spots that can occur with other mowers. The grooved, hard wheels also contribute to better handling around obstacles and tight spaces.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks to note. The weight of the mower, at 26 kg, can be challenging for some users, particularly those with limited upper body strength. It does take some effort to push it around. On the positive side, the foldable handlebars make storage easy and convenient, allowing me to tuck it away without taking up too much space.
Overall, the STIHL RM 248 is a great value mower for large gardens, providing efficiency and power for a tidy lawn. While the weight might be a consideration, the performance and features definitely make it worth a look.
What Should I Look For When Buying Petrol Lawn Mower?
Size of the Mower
When considering the size of a petrol lawn mower, I’ve learned that it’s a crucial factor in its performance and functionality. Choosing a mower that’s too small for my lawn can lead to inefficient cutting, making the whole process frustrating. On the flip side, a mower that’s too large can be cumbersome to maneuver and store, plus it tends to consume more fuel than necessary.
For my small lawn, I found that a compact mower is much more suitable. It makes it easier to navigate tight corners and ensures I can maintain the grass effectively without wasting time. Conversely, if you have a larger lawn, investing in a more powerful mower with a wider cutting deck becomes essential for efficiency.
I also realized the importance of considering the size of the engine. A smaller engine might struggle with thick grass, while a larger one could be overkill, leading to higher fuel costs. Balancing the size of the mower with the size of my property has definitely improved my mowing experience, making it quicker and more enjoyable. Overall, taking the time to assess the size before buying pays off in the long run.
Grass Collector Capacity
When it comes to grass collector capacity, I’ve found that a larger capacity makes my mowing experience much more efficient and convenient. With a bigger grass collector, I don’t have to stop and empty it as often, allowing me to focus on mowing rather than frequent interruptions.
I’ve noticed that the capacity can vary significantly between different models and brands. For my lawn, which is on the larger side, choosing a mower with a substantial grass collector has really saved me time and effort. It allows me to cover more ground without constantly needing to pause to empty the bag.
Conversely, if you have a smaller lawn, a mower with a smaller grass collector might be adequate. It could also be easier to handle in tight spaces. Ultimately, matching the grass collector capacity to the size of my lawn has made a noticeable difference in my mowing efficiency, making it a key factor in my decision-making process when selecting a mower.
Handlebars
When it comes to handlebars on a petrol lawn mower, I’ve realized how crucial it is to adjust their height to match my own. If the handlebars aren’t set correctly, I quickly feel discomfort in my back and shoulders, which can lead to fatigue during mowing. This discomfort not only makes the process less enjoyable but also reduces my efficiency.
Moreover, the height of the cutting deck plays a significant role in the overall mowing experience. If it’s not adjusted properly, I end up with uneven cuts, leaving patches of uncut grass. This not only looks unsightly but also makes the whole effort feel less rewarding.
By taking the time to set the handlebars and cutting deck to my height, I’ve noticed a considerable improvement in comfort and the quality of my mowing. It’s a simple adjustment that can make a big difference in both the experience and the results.
Fueling and Strokes
I make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations; using old fuel can really make starting the mower a struggle. This is especially true for my two-stroke engine, which requires mixing fuel with specific additives.
I’ve found that while two-stroke engines are lighter and often more affordable, they can be noisier and give off more odors, which is something to keep in mind. On the flip side, the 4-stroke engines, although pricier, have separate oil compartments, making them easier to refuel at petrol stations.
I also make it a habit to check the oil level before each use. Keeping it topped up ensures the mower runs smoothly and stays well-lubricated, which I believe contributes to its longevity and efficiency. Proper fueling and maintenance truly make a difference in the mowing experience!
Cutting Height
Cutting height is something I pay close attention to when mowing my lawn. It refers to the distance between the ground and the mower blade, and I’ve found that having a wider range of cutting heights really makes a difference. This allows me to adjust the mower based on the type of grass I’m dealing with. For example, my lawn has some thick patches, so I often need to set the mower to a higher cutting height to tackle that effectively.
Conversely, during the spring and autumn, when my grass is finer, I switch to a lower setting for a cleaner cut. I aim to mow regularly to avoid removing too much grass at once, following the rule of taking off no more than one-third of the grass height. I usually keep the grass around 40mm in the cooler months and 25mm in the summer.
I’ve also learned that obstacles and uneven terrain can require different cutting heights for a safe and efficient mowing experience. Overall, having a mower with adjustable cutting heights gives me the flexibility I need to keep my lawn looking its best!
How We Test
We take pride in providing our readers with reliable, hands-on evaluations of products like the best petrol lawn mowers under £200 in the UK. Our testing process is thorough, ensuring that each mower is put through its paces to give you a true sense of its performance, value, and durability.
- Unboxing and Assembly: We start by unboxing each lawn mower and assessing how easy it is to assemble. We take note of the clarity of instructions, the quality of materials, and how straightforward it is to get the mower ready for use.
- Initial Setup: Next, we follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for setting up the mower. This includes adding fuel, oil, and ensuring all safety precautions are met. We aim to evaluate how user-friendly the setup process is, especially for beginners.
- Cutting Performance: We then test the mower’s cutting ability on different types of grass. This includes thick, long grass and finer, shorter lawns. We measure the mower’s ability to handle different conditions, such as wet grass, uneven terrain, and obstacles like flower beds.
- Maneuverability and Comfort: We focus on how easy it is to manoeuvre the mower around the garden. This includes evaluating the weight, handle height, and overall design. A good mower should be easy to push, even on sloped or bumpy surfaces.
- Grass Collection: The efficiency of the grass collector is tested to see if it gathers grass well without clogging. We also assess how easy it is to empty the grass bag and how often it needs to be emptied during use.
- Noise Level: We evaluate the mower’s noise level, as quieter mowers are more comfortable to use over extended periods, especially in residential areas.
- Long-Term Durability: If possible, we perform a series of tests over several uses to assess the mower’s durability and reliability. We check for any wear and tear, especially in the engine, blades, and wheels.
By focusing on these key areas, we provide you with an honest and comprehensive review, helping you make an informed decision when purchasing the best petrol lawn mower under £200.
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Jonny Martin
Jonny Martin is a passionate gardening enthusiast and expert in lawn care. With years of hands-on experience, he has tested and reviewed various petrol lawn mowers, sharing insights and tips to help homeowners achieve a perfectly manicured lawn. Jonny believes in the importance of quality tools and their role in making gardening enjoyable and efficient. When he’s not mowing lawns, you can find him exploring the latest trends in gardening and landscaping or enjoying the great outdoors. Follow Jonny for expert advice on keeping your garden looking its best!