Maintaining a healthy and well-manicured lawn requires the right tools, and a good side discharge lawn mower can make all the difference. Side discharge mowers are popular because they efficiently throw grass clippings to the side, leaving your lawn clean without the need for a bag. If you’re in the market for a new mower, here are four of the best side discharge lawn mowers to consider, each catering to different needs and preferences.
Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO Electric Lawn Mower
Best Overall
For those seeking an eco-friendly, efficient, and easy-to-use mower, the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO stands out as the best overall choice. This electric mower provides powerful performance while minimizing your environmental footprint. The 14-inch cutting width is perfect for small to medium-sized lawns, and the mower’s side discharge chute ensures a neat and clean cut.
Features & Benefits
Cutting Performance: The 14-inch steel blade ensures a clean, sharp cut, with a decent cutting width for compact spaces.
Engine Power: Powered by a 13.5-amp motor, it delivers excellent cutting power without the need for gas or oil.
Ease of Use: Its lightweight design and easy-to-maneuver wheels make it a breeze to handle, even for beginners.
Additional Features: Features include a side discharge chute and a 10.6-gallon grass collection bag for easy cleanup. It also boasts a foldable handle for compact storage.
Customer Feedback
Users praise the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO for its reliable performance and quiet operation. Reviewers also appreciate its eco-friendly design, making it a great choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 20-Inch, 125 cc 4-Cycle Briggs & Stratton Engine
Best Gas-Powered Option
For those who prefer the power and reliability of a gas-powered mower, the SENIX Gas Lawn Mower offers a great balance between performance and ease of maintenance. Equipped with a 125cc 4-cycle Briggs & Stratton engine, this mower provides ample power for medium to large lawns, with minimal upkeep.
Features & Benefits
Cutting Performance: The 20-inch steel deck allows for efficient cutting, while the side discharge chute ensures even and consistent grass distribution.
Engine Power: Powered by a 125cc 4-cycle Briggs & Stratton engine, this mower is ideal for tough grass and varied terrain.
Ease of Use: The mower comes with a simple pull-start ignition system and a comfortable, ergonomic handle for improved maneuverability.
Additional Features: It includes a 3-position height adjustment lever, making it easy to change the cutting height, and a 1.9-bushel grass bag for optional collection.
Customer Feedback
Many users highlight its solid performance and low maintenance needs. The combination of power and simplicity makes it a top choice for those who need a gas-powered mower without the hassle of constant upkeep.
Murray EQ2-700X Self-Propelled Petrol Mower
Best Self-Propelled Option
The Murray EQ2-700X is an excellent choice for those who want the convenience of a self-propelled mower. Its reliable petrol engine and user-friendly design make lawn mowing a smoother task, especially for larger yards. This mower’s self-propelled feature helps reduce physical strain, making it ideal for users with larger lawns or those who prefer an easier cutting experience.
Features & Benefits
Cutting Performance: With a 21-inch cutting deck, this mower provides a wide cutting path for faster mowing. It also includes side discharge capabilities for neat and even grass distribution.
Engine Power: The 159cc petrol engine delivers consistent, reliable performance for medium to large lawns.
Ease of Use: The self-propelled feature makes it easy to navigate across large, uneven lawns with minimal effort. It also comes with adjustable cutting heights for different grass types.
Additional Features: The mower is equipped with a 3-in-1 system (mulching, bagging, and side discharge) for versatile cutting options.
Customer Feedback
Customers love the ease of use and power of the Murray EQ2-700X. The self-propelled drive and solid build quality make it a go-to option for those who have large lawns or difficult terrain to mow.
Sprint 2691794 420SP Self-Propelled Petrol Mower
Best for Larger Lawns
For large properties or challenging mowing conditions, the Sprint 2691794 420SP is an excellent choice. With a powerful engine and the added benefit of self-propulsion, this mower is designed to handle bigger jobs with ease. It’s ideal for homeowners with expansive lawns or those looking for a mower that can tackle tall, dense grass.
Features & Benefits
Cutting Performance: The 42cm (about 16.5-inch) cutting deck and side discharge ensure that grass is efficiently expelled, providing a clean and consistent cut.
Engine Power: Powered by a 140cc engine, this mower provides ample power to cut through tough, dense grass. Its powerful engine is suited for larger lawns with challenging terrain.
Ease of Use: With self-propulsion and adjustable speed, the mower makes lawn care less tiring. The handle is ergonomically designed for added comfort during longer mowing sessions.
Additional Features: It features multiple height adjustments and a foldable handle for easy storage.
Customer Feedback
Users note its power and ease of use, particularly on larger lawns. Its self-propelled mechanism and robust engine performance are especially appreciated for handling tougher grass types and varied lawn conditions.
Features and Benefits of Side Discharge Lawn Mowers
When choosing a side discharge lawn mower, there are several factors to consider:
Cutting Performance
Mowers with wider cutting decks, like the Murray EQ2-700X and Sprint 2691794, typically provide faster results for larger lawns. High-quality steel blades ensure clean, precise cuts and even grass distribution.
Engine Power
Gas-powered mowers, such as the SENIX Gas Lawn Mower and Sprint 2691794, offer more power, making them ideal for tougher grass and larger properties. Electric mowers, like the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO, provide quieter, low-maintenance operation but may be better suited for smaller lawns.
Ease of Use
Features like self-propulsion, ergonomic handles, and adjustable cutting heights (featured in the Murray EQ2-700X and Sprint 2691794) make the mowers easier to maneuver. A foldable handle, as seen in the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO, is also helpful for compact storage.
Additional Features
Side discharge chutes are standard in these mowers, but features like mulching capabilities, grass collection bags, and adjustable cutting heights enhance their versatility and convenience.
Customer Reviews and Expert Opinions
User Testimonials
Customers generally report high satisfaction with these mowers, particularly for their performance and reliability. Many users praise the ease of use and low-maintenance design of electric models, while others prefer the power and efficiency of gas-powered options for larger yards.
Expert Opinions
Lawn care experts recommend side discharge mowers for their efficiency in handling large areas quickly without the hassle of bagging grass. They often highlight the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO for its eco-friendly benefits and the Murray EQ2-700X for its self-propelled convenience.
Price Range
The price range for these mowers varies based on engine type, features, and overall performance:
Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO: Typically priced between $130 and $180, it’s an affordable option for smaller yards.
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower: Priced around $250-$350, this offers a good balance of power and affordability for medium-sized lawns.
Murray EQ2-700X: Generally falls in the $300-$400 range, providing good value for self-propelled features and larger cutting decks.
Sprint 2691794 420SP: Priced between $400 and $500, this is a premium option for larger lawns needing more power.
Maintenance and Care
To ensure your side discharge mower lasts, regular maintenance is key:
Oil Changes
For gas-powered models, ensure regular oil changes to keep the engine running smoothly.
Blade Sharpening
Regularly sharpen the mower blade for optimal cutting performance.
Air Filter
Check and replace the air filter periodically to ensure the engine is not overburdened.
Warranty
Each of these models typically comes with a 2-3 year warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.
Conclusion
Choosing the right side discharge mower depends on your lawn size, preferences, and budget. Whether you prefer the quiet efficiency of an electric mower or the power of a gas engine, these top four models offer excellent options for achieving a perfect lawn every time.
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