Mowing a lawn is already a chore, but throw in some hills and it becomes a real workout. Slopes make it harder to push, plus you need a mower that can handle the uneven terrain without scalping your grass. I’ve tried a bunch of mowers over the years on my own ridiculously sloped yard. Now I’m sharing my top picks that will hopefully make your hilly lawn care a little less back-breaking.
Here’s a quick rundown of the mowers we’ll be looking at:
- Honda HRX217VYA: Overall best self-propelled mower for hills.
- Snapper XD 82V MAX Cordless Electric 21-Inch Lawn Mower Kit: Best cordless electric option.
- Troy-Bilt TB330: Best budget-friendly mower for hills.
- EGO Power+ LM2135SP: Another great cordless option with long run time.
- Ryobi 40V Brushless Self-Propelled Mower: Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Top 5 Best Lawn Mowers for Hills
1. Honda HRX217VYA
The Honda HRX217VYA is a beast when it comes to tackling hills. This self-propelled mower features a powerful engine and a variable speed control that makes it easy to adjust to the slope. The NeXite deck is durable and rust-resistant, meaning it’ll last for years. It’s definitely an investment, but worth it if you’re serious about your lawn.
Pros:
- ✅ Powerful engine handles steep hills with ease
- ✅ Variable speed control provides excellent maneuverability
- ✅ Durable NeXite deck is rust-resistant
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point compared to other models
- ❌ Can be a bit heavy for some users
- ❌ Some users report occasional issues with the self-propel system over time
Verdict: If you’re looking for the best of the best and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Honda HRX217VYA is the way to go. It’s perfect for larger, hilly yards.
2. Snapper XD 82V MAX Cordless Electric 21-Inch Lawn Mower Kit
Going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing power, and the Snapper XD proves it. This cordless mower boasts an 82V battery that delivers impressive performance on hills. It’s also much quieter than a gas mower, which your neighbors will appreciate. Plus, no more messing with gas and oil!
Pros:
- ✅ Powerful 82V battery provides ample power for hills
- ✅ Quiet operation compared to gas mowers
- ✅ Easy to start and maintain
Cons:
- ❌ Battery life may be limited on very large properties
- ❌ Charging time can be a bit long
- ❌ Price is higher than some gas-powered alternatives
Verdict: The Snapper XD is an excellent choice if you want a cordless, eco-friendly mower that can still handle hills. Great for medium-sized yards.
3. Troy-Bilt TB330
Don’t want to break the bank? The Troy-Bilt TB330 is a solid option that delivers good performance at a more affordable price. It’s a gas-powered, self-propelled mower with decent power for tackling moderate slopes. It’s not as feature-rich as some of the more expensive models, but it gets the job done.
Pros:
- ✅ More affordable than other self-propelled options
- ✅ Self-propelled drive makes mowing easier on hills
- ✅ Reliable engine
Cons:
- ❌ Not as powerful as higher-end models
- ❌ May struggle on very steep hills
- ❌ Build quality is not as robust as some competitors
Verdict: The Troy-Bilt TB330 is a great value for those on a budget who still need a self-propelled mower for a moderately hilly yard.
4. EGO Power+ LM2135SP
Another fantastic cordless option, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP stands out for its long run time. The 56V battery provides plenty of juice to mow even larger hilly yards on a single charge. Plus, it folds up for easy storage, which is a bonus if you’re short on space.
Pros:
- ✅ Long battery life allows for mowing larger areas
- ✅ Powerful motor performs well on hills
- ✅ Folds up for compact storage
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey
- ❌ Some users find the self-propel speed a bit fast
- ❌ Plastic deck might not be as durable as metal alternatives
Verdict: If you have a larger hilly yard and want a cordless mower with long run time, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP is a great choice. The folding feature is a bonus for those with limited storage space.
5. Ryobi 40V Brushless Self-Propelled Mower
This Ryobi mower is lightweight and easy to maneuver, which can be a lifesaver on hills. The brushless motor provides good power, and the self-propelled drive makes it easy to control. It’s a good option for smaller to medium-sized yards with moderate slopes.
Pros:
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✅ Self-propelled drive provides good control
- ✅ Brushless motor offers good power and efficiency
Cons:
- ❌ Not as powerful as some gas-powered options
- ❌ Battery life may be limited on larger properties
- ❌ Deck may not be as durable as some competitors
Verdict: The Ryobi 40V Brushless Self-Propelled Mower is a solid choice for those who prioritize ease of use and maneuverability on smaller to medium-sized hilly yards.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right lawn mower for hills can be tricky. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Self-Propelled vs. Push Mower: On hills, a self-propelled mower is almost a necessity. It takes the strain off your back and legs, allowing you to focus on steering.
- Engine Power/Battery Voltage: More power is better, especially for steep hills. Look for a mower with a powerful engine (for gas mowers) or a high voltage battery (for electric mowers).
- Drive System: Rear-wheel drive mowers generally offer better traction on hills than front-wheel drive models.
- Wheel Size: Larger rear wheels can provide better stability and traction on uneven terrain.
- Weight: While power is important, so is weight. A lighter mower will be easier to maneuver, especially on slopes.
- Deck Size: A wider deck covers more ground with each pass, but it can also make the mower harder to control on hills. Consider a smaller deck if you have a lot of obstacles or tight spaces.
- Budget: Lawn mowers can range in price from a couple hundred dollars to over a thousand. Set a budget and stick to it, but don’t skimp on features that are important for your needs.
Think about the size and steepness of your yard, your physical capabilities, and your budget. Read reviews and compare models before making a decision.
FAQs
Q: What type of mower is best for hills?
A: Self-propelled mowers with rear-wheel drive are generally best for hills, as they provide better traction and control.
Q: How much power do I need for a hilly yard?
A: For gas mowers, look for an engine with at least 160cc. For electric mowers, choose a model with a battery voltage of 40V or higher.
Q: Is a heavier or lighter mower better for hills?
A: A lighter mower is generally easier to maneuver on hills, but make sure it still has enough power to get the job done.
Q: Can I use a riding mower on hills?
A: Riding mowers can be used on gentle slopes, but they are not recommended for steep hills. Zero-turn mowers, in particular, can be unstable on slopes.
Q: How do I mow a hill safely?
A: Always mow across the slope, not up and down. This will help prevent the mower from tipping over. Wear appropriate footwear and be aware of your surroundings.
Conclusion
Mowing hills doesn’t have to be a pain. With the right lawn mower, you can make the job easier and safer. I’ve shared my top picks, covering a range of budgets and needs. Hopefully, this helps you find the perfect mower for your hilly lawn and get it looking great without breaking your back. Happy mowing!
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