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. Many garden enthusiasts and landscapers here in the UK also prefer petrol mowers over electric ones due to their many advantages.
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 | 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 |
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, the cutting width and height are key factors to consider. From my experience, a wider cutting width helps you mow more efficiently since you cover more ground with each pass. But it’s important to choose the right size for your lawn. For smaller lawns (around 50 square meters), a cutting width of 30-34 cm works best. For medium-sized lawns (50 to 150 square meters), I recommend a width of 35-40 cm, and for larger lawns, 40 cm or more is ideal.
As for the cutting height, this depends on how short you want your grass. Most petrol mowers go as low as 25 mm, which is great for those who like a short, neat lawn. For medium to large lawns, a height range of 40-50 mm is often recommended, especially if the area is shady. Keep in mind the type of grass you have, and adjust the cutting height to achieve your desired look.
Mower Type
Rotary mowers: Rotary mowers are often the most popular choice due to their affordable price and compact design. They cut the lawn with a rapidly spinning blade that can even create a striped finish if paired with a roller. They are suitable for long grass and small gardens.
Cylinder mowers: Cylinder mowers work like scissors and are great for keeping short grass and manicured lawns looking neat. However, they can be less productive with long or bumpy grass and are often more expensive than rotary mowers.
Hover mowers: Hover mowers are similar to rotary mowers but have horizontal blades that spin quickly and an additional fan and skirt to direct airflow. They work well on uneven surfaces but may not be as effective with long grass as rotary mowers.
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
- 74% of 465 buyers give this model a 5 star review
- Versatile, Easy Starting
- The engine Motor is Powerful
- Durable
Reasons To Avoid
- 3% of all buyers give this one a bad review.
- 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 as tested.
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
- 71% of 68 buyers give this model a 5 star review
- Lightweight
- Guarantee
Reasons To Avoid
- 9% of all buyers give this one a bad review.
- 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
- 71% of 168 buyers give this model a 5 star review
- Ideal for small size gardens
- Good choice does a job fine
Reasons To Avoid
- 5% of all buyers give this one a bad review.
- 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
- 67% of 678 buyers give this model a 5 star review
- Powerful and Easy Start
- Fulfill the requirement
Reasons To Avoid
- 9% of all buyers give this one a bad review.
- 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
When testing a petrol lawn mower, we consider a range of factors including power, durability, efficiency, and ease of use. We take into account the features and specifications of each mower and assess how well they perform in real-world situations.
The first step in our testing process is to evaluate the power of the mower. We measure the strength of the engine and assess its ability to cut through thick grass with ease. This is a critical factor in ensuring a smooth and efficient mowing experience.
Next, we evaluate the durability of the mower. This involves putting the mower through rigorous tests to determine its resistance to wear and tear. We also assess the quality of the build and the materials used in the construction of the mower.
Efficiency is another key factor in our testing process. We assess the fuel consumption of the mower and measure its ability to run for long periods of time without refueling. We also look at the maneuverability of the mower, assessing its ease of use and ability to navigate tight spaces and challenging terrain.
Finally, we consider the ease of use of the mower. This includes the ease of starting the engine, adjusting the height of the blades, and maintaining the mower. We take into account the user-friendly design of the mower and its ability to make mowing an enjoyable experience.
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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!