Maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn requires regular mowing. A well-trimmed lawn not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also provides a safe place for your children and pets to play. Choosing the right lawn mower is a crucial decision to make. There are two main types of lawn mowers based on wheel size, high wheels, and low wheels. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one depends on several factors. In this guide, we will explore the differences between high wheels and low wheels mowers, factors to consider when choosing a mower, and some popular models in the market.
High Wheels Mowers
Definition and Characteristics
High wheels mowers have large rear wheels and smaller front wheels. They are designed to work well on uneven or bumpy terrain. The larger rear wheels provide better stability and traction, making it easier to navigate through rough terrain. These mowers have a higher cutting deck, which allows for better clearance over thick grass and uneven turf.
Advantages
- Maneuverability on uneven terrain: High wheels mowers are designed to work well on bumpy or uneven terrain, making them perfect for hilly or sloping lawns.
- Easier to push on slopes and hills: The large rear wheels provide better traction and stability, making it easier to push the mower up a hill.
- Less strain on the user: The large wheels make it easier to maneuver the mower, reducing the strain on the user’s arms and back.
Disadvantages
- Size and weight: High wheels mowers are generally larger and heavier than low wheels mowers, making them more challenging to store and transport.
- Limited cutting height options: The higher cutting deck limits the range of cutting heights, making it difficult to achieve a very low or high cut.
- Potential for scalping the lawn: The larger wheels can cause scalping (cutting too low) of the lawn in uneven terrain.
Low Wheels Mowers
Definition and Characteristics
Low wheels mowers have smaller front and rear wheels. They are designed to provide a more precise cut on flat lawns. The smaller wheels make them more compact and lightweight, making them easier to store and transport.
Advantages
- Precision cutting: Low wheels mowers provide a more precise cut, making them perfect for flat lawns with well-manicured grass.
- Better for flat lawns: They work best on flat lawns with even terrain.
- Lightweight and compact: Low wheels mowers are generally smaller and lighter than high wheels mowers, making them easier to maneuver and store.
Disadvantages
- Difficult to maneuver on uneven terrain: Low wheels mowers are not suitable for uneven terrain, making it difficult to navigate on hills or slopes.
- Struggles on slopes and hills: The smaller wheels provide less traction, making it more challenging to push the mower up a hill.
- Can be harder to push: The smaller wheels make it more challenging to push the mower, causing more strain on the user’s arms and back.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mower
When choosing a lawn mower, several factors need to be considered to ensure you make the right choice.
Lawn Size and Terrain
The size and terrain of your lawn play a crucial role in choosing the right lawn mower. If you have a large lawn with uneven terrain, a high wheels mower may be the best option. On the other hand, if you have a small lawn with even terrain, a low wheels mower may be the perfect choice.
Cutting Height Preferences
Consider the range of cutting heights offered by each mower. If you prefer a very low or high cut, a high wheels mower may not be the best option as they have a limited range of cutting heights.
User’s Physical Abilities and Comfort
Consider your physical abilities and comfort when choosing a mower. If you have back problems or find it challenging to push a mower, a low wheels mower may be a better choice as they are generally lighter and easier to maneuver.
Maintenance and Storage Requirements
Consider the maintenance and storage requirements of each mower. High wheels mowers are generally larger and heavier, making them more challenging to store and transport. Low wheels mowers, on the other hand, are smaller and lighter, making them easier to store and transport.
Budget
Consider your budget when choosing a mower. High wheels mowers are generally more expensive than low wheels mowers.
Popular High Wheels and Low Wheels Mower Models
High Wheels Mower Options
- Example 1: Husqvarna HU800AWDH – A self-propelled high wheels mower with a 22-inch cutting width, perfect for large, uneven lawns.
- Example 2: Troy-Bilt TB330 – A high wheels mower with a 21-inch cutting width and a 3-in-1 mulching capability, perfect for large, uneven lawns.
Low Wheels Mower Options
- Example 1: Greenworks 25022 – A lightweight and compact low wheels mower with a 20-inch cutting width, perfect for small, even lawns.
- Example 2: Sun Joe MJ401E – A small and lightweight low wheels mower with a 14-inch cutting width, perfect for small, even lawns.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lawn mower is crucial to maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn. High wheels and low wheels mowers have their advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on several factors, including lawn size and terrain, cutting height preferences, user’s physical abilities and comfort, maintenance and storage requirements, and budget. By considering these factors and researching popular models, you can find the perfect lawn mower for your needs.
