Corded electric and cordless battery-powered lawnmowers are becoming increasingly popular, especially if you have a small garden. If you have a medium to large garden, petrol mowers are a good option as they are powerful, easy to use and deliver excellent cut quality and neat finishes.
Although 2-stroke lawn mowers are still available, most petrol lawn mowers have 4-stroke engines as they provide steady, consistent power, are more fuel efficient and are less noisy than 2-stroke engines.
Four-stroke machines are also more environmentally friendly than 2-stroke engines, where burnt oil is released into the air with the exhaust.
Choosing the 4-stroke petrol mower most suited to your garden’s size and layout can be difficult, considering the variety of 4-stroke lawn mowers available.
We have compiled a list of eight 4-stroke lawnmowers to guide you in choosing the mower that best suits your requirements.
Our Top 4-Stroke Lawn Mower Picks
The following are what we consider to be the top 4-stroke lawnmowers.
Best 4-Stroke Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2023
Listed below are our reviews of the top 4-stroke lawnmowers for 2023.
- HyundaiHYM510SP 4-Stroke Petrol Lawn Mower
- Honda Izy HRG 466 SK Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
- Webb Classic WER410 SP Self-Propelled Petrol Mower
- Mountfield HP41 Petrol Mower
- Cobra MX534SPH Petrol Rotary Lawn Mower
- Sprint 420SP Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
- Stihl RM 448 VC 4-Stroke Petrol Mower
- Cub Cadet LR1MR76Compact Rear-Collect Ride-On Mower
Hyundai HYM510SP 4-Stroke Petrol Lawn Mower
Features
- Power (engine size): 196 cc
- Drive System: Self-Propelled
- Cutting Width: 51cm
- Cutting height: 25mm to 75mm
- Bag Collection: 70L
- Weight: 38.7kg
The Hyundai HYM510SP has a powerful 4-stroke petrol engine that is started via a recoil pull-start. A self-propelled motor drives the larger rear wheels so there is no need to push the lawn mower. Just walk behind the it, guiding it in the direction you want to go.
A 51cm cutting width and a large 70L grass box on the HYM510 SP allow you to work on medium and large lawns. The grass box features a level indicator that makes it easy to know when it needs to be emptied and the box is easy to remove and put back on.
You can adjust the cutting height to suit your requirements and the growing season. There are six cutting height options, ranging from 25mm to 75mm, and they are quick and easy to adjust using a simple central lever.
This mower has 4-in1 cutting options; 1) cut and mulch, 2) cut and collect in the rear collection box, 3) side discharge, and 4) rear discharge.
The Hyundai HYM510SP includes a mulching plug, not the case with many other brands. With a mulching plug, the clippings are cut into tiny pieces and spread back over the lawn, adding moisture and nutrients to improve your lawn’s condition.
Foldable handles make this mower compact and easy to transport and store. A garden hose connector is included so that the underside of the deck and the blade can easily be cleaned by running the machine while the garden hose is connected.
A 3-year Platinum Hyundai warranty is a great advantage, and for safety, it includes the OPC (Operator Presence Control) lever to stop the engine as soon as it is released.
This powerful, well-made lawn mower is built for performance and durability and is an excellent choice for more extensive gardens.
Pros:
- Easy to start
- Powerful 4-stroke engine
- Low fuel consumption
- Mulching plug included
- 70L grass collection box
- Rear/side discharge
- Easy cutting height adjustment
Cons:
- Single-speed self-propelled
Honda Izy HRG 466 SK Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
Features
- Power (engine size): 160cc
- Drive System: Self-Propelled
- Cutting Width: 46cm
- Cutting height: 20mm to 74mm
- Bag Collection: 55L
- Weight: 32kg
Honda is a brand known for its hard-working, durable and reliable engines. The Honda Izy HRG 466 SK has a powerful 160cc engine that is self-propelled, making it easy to guide around your garden. It has a built-in auto choke and the recoil start is easy to use and reliable.
The cutting deck is constructed of lightweight pressed steel, is built to last and is powder coated for additional protection against corrosion and UV rays. With a cutting width of 46cm, the deck features Honda’s Intelligent blade, designed to twist rather than break when it hits a solid object.
You can choose from six cutting heights ranging from 20mm to 74mm. These are easily set by adjusting two levers, one on the front and one on the back, making your lawnmower ready for any length you need. It is ideal for medium-sized gardens of up to 1200m2.
A 55-litre high airflow grass collection bag made from ultra-fine mesh, combined with the rotating blades, creates a vacuum that ensures maximum collection without affecting the airflow. When cutting wet grass, you can remove the back and let it discharge from the rear.
This Honda Izy HRG 466 SK can be used to mulch, but an optional mulching kit must be purchased separately.
The powerful self-propulsion makes it perfect to use in gardens with banks or slopes. The Honda Izy HRG 466 SK is easy to use with a durable solid build that will provide you with years of reliable service and an excellent quality cut.
Pros:
- Efficient, reliable engine
- Easy to start and use
- 55L efficient collection bag
- Solid and durable steel-cutting deck
- 5-year Warranty (subject to regular services by an authorised dealer)
Cons:
- Fairly expensive
- Does not create a striped finish
Webb Classic WER410 SP Self-Propelled Petrol Mower
Features
- Power (engine size): 132cc
- Drive System: Self-Propelled
- Cutting Width: 41cm
- Cutting height: 25mm to 75mm
- Bag Collection: 45L
- Weight: 26kg
The Webb WER410SP is a self-propelled lawn mower for small to medium-sized gardens. With a compact 41cm cutting width and weighing 26 kg, it is easy to manoeuvre and performs well when moving around obstacles and cutting uphill. It copes well on rough and uneven lawns.
This mower is powered by a robust and powerful 4-stroke engine developed by Webb, a reliable British brand renowned for quality and performance. The Webb DVO 130 132cc engine is fuel efficient, with low vibrations and quiet operation.
Fitted with a rugged 41cm steel cutter deck, the WebbWER410SP has a single lever to adjust the cutting height to seven different positions ranging from 25mm to 75mm, allowing you to choose the most effective blade position to suit the grass conditions.
Grass clippings can be collected in a 45-litre capacity grass catcher, or if the grass is wet or long, the clippings can be discharged to the rear.
Pros:
- Great build quality
- Good Value for money
- Robust steel deck
- Self-propelled – easy to manoeuvre
Cons:
- No mulching or side discharge
- No grass box full indicator
Mountfield HP41 Petrol Mower
Features
- Power (engine size): 123cc
- Drive System: Push-propelled
- Cutting Width: 39cm
- Cutting height: 25mm to 70mm
- Bag Collection: 40L
- Weight: 19kg
The Mountfield HP41 is a hand-propelled petrol-driven lawnmower with a 39cm cutting width. This mower is ideal for small-sized gardens up to 250m2 and is excellent value for money.
Powered by a 4-stroke, 123cc STIGA ST 120 Autochoke engine, the HP41 is very easy to start, with a standard recoil rope system.
Constructed with a rugged, rust-resistant polypropylene chassis, the Mountfield HP41 is sturdily built and very lightweight, making the mower easy to manoeuvre even though it is not self-propelled and has to be pushed.
Each wheel is fitted with a height adjuster, offering five pre-set cutting positions ranging from 25mm to 70mm for successfully managing longer, rougher grass.
All trimmings are collected into the textile grass bag which has a capacity of 40 litres and is easy to remove and empty. The handle is easily folded down for compact storage and easy transportation.
Pros:
- Light and easy to manoeuvre
- Polypropylene chassis – no rust
- Easy to start
- Powerful motor for cutting width
- 5-year Warranty subject to annual servicing
Cons:
- Height of each wheel has to be adjusted individually
Cobra MX534SPH Petrol Rotary Lawn Mower
Features
- Power (engine size): 167cc
- Drive System: Self-Propelled
- Cutting Width: 53cm
- Cutting height: 25mm to 75mm
- Bag Collection: 65L
- Weight: 38kg
The Cobra MX534SPH self-propelled lawn mower has a 4-speed gearbox, a cutting width of 53cm and comes fitted with a reliable 167cc 4-stroke Honda GCVX170 engine that is easy to start using the cord attached to one side of the handlebar.
A four-speed self-propulsion system allows you to select your preferred walking pace. From a slow 2.5kph that will enable you to move around obstacles, to a fast walking speed of 3.9kph, this mower will take the strain off mowing more extensive lawns.
This mower comes with a 53cm cutting deck making it ideal for large lawns of more than 700m2, and it can be adjusted with a lever to select one of six cutting heights from 25mm to 75mm. The MX534SPH cuts grass effectively, irrespective of how long or wet the grass is.
This model allows you to mow in three ways: conventionally using the 65-litre grass collector, downwards mulching, and sideways mulching where the cuttings are thrown out of the side using the included chute.
Pros:
- 4-speed self-propulsion system
- Powerful engine
- Wide cutting deck
- Multiple mulching options
- Reliable and fuel-efficient 4-stroke engine
Cons:
- Noisy
Sprint 2691794 420SP Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
Features
- Power (engine size): 125cc
- Drive System: Self-Propelled
- Cutting Width: 42cm
- Cutting height: 28mm to 92mm
- Bag Collection: 60L
- Weight: 25.2kg
With a Briggs & Stratton 300E 125cc engine, the Sprint is a powerful, compact, lightweight self-propelled 4-stroke petrol lawn mower.
This mower has a durable steel cutting deck of 42cm, which, combined with the 60-litre grass collection bag, makes it suitable for medium-sized lawns. The clippings can either be collected in the grass bag or discharged from the back of the mower.
Six cutting heights ranging from 28mm to 92mm are easily adjustable using two levers. The handle height can be adjusted for maximum comfort and folded to reduce space when storing or transporting.
Even though it is constructed from steel, the mower only weighs 25.2kg making it easy to carry and transport. Its light weight makes it simple to use and manoeuvre. It works well in wet and dry weather and the self-propelled speed of 3.6kph is acceptable for most gardeners.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Self-propelled function is set at an acceptable speed
- Cutting height is easy to adjust
- Works well in wet weather
Cons:
- Oil must be purchased separately
Stihl RM 448 VC 4-Stroke Petrol Mower
Features
- Power (engine size): 166cc
- Drive System: Self-Propelled
- Cutting Width: 46cm
- Cutting height: 25mm to 76mm
- Bag Collection: 55L
- Weight: 28kg
The Stihl RM 448 C is a 4-stroke 166cc petrol mower with a 46cm polymer cutting deck suitable for cutting lawns up to 1200 square metres. With Ready/Start technology, the engine can be reliably started up, whether the engine is cold or warm.
A sturdy, unique, height-adjustable mono handlebar system makes emptying the grass collection box simple and quick. The handlebar can also be folded to allow for compact storage or transport.
This Stihl model features variable self-propulsion that moves the mower from a slow to a faster walking pace by pushing or pulling the lever on the handlebar. The central-cutting height adjustment is spring-loaded, making it easy to set the cutting height to one of six settings ranging from 25-76mm.
The Highlift blade on the Stihl rm 448 C gives the lawn a clean, precise finish and ensures optimal filling of the 55-litre grass collection box. The grass level indicator on the box will show you when it needs to be emptied.
The lightweight polymer housing combines robustness with protection from heat and UV radiation.
This unit weighs only 28 kg, and with easy-running wheels equipped with a traction pattern and directional stability tread pattern, it is easy to manoeuvre and comfortable for mowing for long periods.
Pros:
- Powerful engine
- Height-adjustable mono handlebar system
- Easy removal of the grass collection bag
- Spring-loaded height adjustment
- Easy to store
Cons:
- Mulching kit has to be purchased as an additional extra
Cub Cadet LR1MR76Compact Rear-Collect Ride-On Mower
Features
- Power (engine size): 382cc
- Drive System: Ride-On
- Cutting Width: 76cm
- Cutting height: 38mm to 95mm
- Bag Collection: 200L
- Weight: 145kg
If want to upgrade your walk-behind mower to a ride-on mower compact enough to fit through narrow spaces, the Cub Cadet LR1 MR76 is a practical choice with its space-saving design and ability to cover expansive areas quickly.
The LR1 MR76 is powered by a 382cc single-cylinder OHV, 4-stroke electric start engine manufactured by Club Cadet and has a 4.9-litre fuel tank that helps reduce the times you have to refuel.
Cub Cadet has equipped this model with a six-speed, foot-pedal-operated Transmatic drive, and it has a tight 46cm turning circle that ensures that obstacles and tricky corners are negotiated without any trouble.
The CUB Cadet LR1 MR76 has three mowing modes (collection, rear discharge, and mulching), enabling you to select the mode that would be most effective for the conditions, and it comes with a 200-litre grass collection bag.
A five-step cutting height ranging from 38-95mm allows you to adjust the deck to suit the length of the grass, getting the finish you desire. Turf-saver tyres provide good traction and ensure the mower’s weight does not damage the lawn surface.
Pros:
- Powerful 4-stroke engine
- Six-speed Transmatic drive
- Three mowing modes
- 200-litre grass bag
- Compact and easy to store
- Easy height adjustment using a lever
Cons:
- Best suited for more expansive gardens
How to Buy the Best 4-Stroke Petrol Lawn Mowers
There are several factors to consider when buying a 4-stroke petrol mower to ensure you get the best value for money and the mower that’s best suited to your garden.
Size and Type of Garden
Not all gardens are the same and what you need from a 4-stroke petrol lawn mower will depend on the requirements of your garden.
For example, if you have a large open garden, a large cutting width is better, however, if you have intricate spaces and obstacles to cut around, a more compact and manoeuvrable mower will be more suitable.
Propulsion Type
Petrol mowers can be categorised by propulsion type and how they are used.
Push Lawn Mowers must be pushed to mow your grass. They are small and best suited to flat areas of 800m2 or less with obstacles such as flower beds as they are easier to handle.
Self-propelled Mowers have a drive system (like a car) that pushes the mower forward once engaged. All you need to do is steer. They are best for sloped lawns and gardens exceeding 700m2.
Ride-on Mowers are designed for large areas of land of over 2500m2 but can be used on smaller gardens of at least 1500m2 if you are looking for comfort and want to complete the task quickly.
Engine Power and Capacity
The power of 4-stroke petrol lawnmowers is indicated by the capacity of their engines which is measured in cc (cubic centimetres). The engine size you require will depend on the size and terrain of your garden. The higher the cc, the better it can cut long, wet grass and tackle more challenging landscapes.
Cutting Width
The cutting width of push and self-propelled 4-stroke lawnmowers can range from 40 to 56cm depending on the model. The wider the cutting width, the less time it will take to mow, especially if you have an open stretch of lawn.
If your garden has obstacles to navigate, such as trees and garden beds, a lawnmower with a narrower cutting width may be advisable.
Cutting Height
Lawnmowers can have four to eight cutting height settings ranging from 15 to 75mm. Adjustable heights allow you to set the cutting blades to suit the length and thickness of the grass. A well-trimmed lawn should be cut to a height of around 20 to 30mm.
Grass Box
Emptying the grass box less often will cut down on your mowing time. A collection bag with a minimum capacity of 50L will be adequate for a surface area of up to 1200m2. More extensive gardens would require a bag with a greater holding capacity.
Mulching
A lawnmower with a mulching option is worth considering. Mulching can make your soil richer and save time due to not having to empty the collection bag if mowing a large lawn.
Quality of Mower Deck
The deck’s strength will vary depending on the material used to make it. Lightweight decks constructed from polypropylene or aluminium may be durable for regular small to medium gardens.
Steel or die-cast aluminium decks will be more robust but heavier and are recommended for thick overgrown areas or professional use.
Lawnmower Weight
Some lawnmowers are heavy and can be challenging to move to the storage area or to transport.
Electric or Manual Ignition
Most quality lawnmower models use a manual recoil start consisting of a cord fitted with a pull handle to drive the motor and start the lawnmower. Although they work effectively, an Electric Ignition is a convenient feature, especially if you don’t have much strength in your arms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a 4-stroke lawn mower engine work?
A 4-stroke engine is an internal combustion engine that utilises four piston strokes (intake, compression, power and exhaust) to complete one operating cycle. In those 4-strokes, the piston goes around twice in the engine, so the spark plug fires every other rotation.
A complete operation in a 4-stroke engine requires two revolutions (720 deg) of the crankshaft. There are two separate valves in a 4-stroke engine, one for intake and one for exhaust.
How often should you replace the oil on a 4-stroke lawn mower?
The oil on a 4-stroke lawn mower should be changed at least once a year. Old oil must be drained completely, replace the oil filter and then re-fill with new oil. Oil levels must be checked before use and topped up if necessary.
What oil should be used for a 4-stroke lawn mower?
SAE-30 is a suitable oil for your mower, however, referring to your owner’s manual is still advisable. If you are mowing in cold winter temperatures, then it is advisable to use a multi-grade motor oil such as 5W30 or 10W30
How often do you need to change spark plugs on a 4-stroke lawn mower?
It is recommended to replace the spark plugs once a year or after 30 engine hours to ensure that your engine remains at optimum performance. Your lawn mower needs regular annual maintenance, so replacing spark plugs as part of your maintenance routine is advisable.
Conclusion
Selecting the correct mower with the wide variety of 4-stroke lawnmowers available on the market can be difficult. You must assess the property you maintain and decide what size and power level you need.
We trust that you can choose the lawnmower best suited to your requirements after considering all the recommended 4-stroke mowers and what to look for as detailed in this guide. If you have any questions or comments, please let us know in the feedback section below.
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Charl is a full-time writer with a range of passions and expertise in lawn mowers and other garden power tools. After many years in the corporate rat race, he decided to follow these passions. When not writing, Charl can be found in his garden, tending to or propagating plants, keeping the lawn near perfect, and enjoying the outdoors with his dogs. He is also fascinated by emerging technology and tries to squeeze in a round of golf as often as possible.
