Webb vs Mountfield Petrol Lawn Mower

Webb vs Mountfield: Which petrol mower is right for you?

Both Webb and Mountfield are well-known UK garden machinery brands, but they serve slightly different markets. Webb focuses on robust, steel-deck mowers with a reputation for durability, often favoured by homeowners with smaller, more intricate lawns. Mountfield, on the other hand, is part of the larger Stiga group and tends to offer more powerful engines and wider cutting widths, making them ideal for larger, open lawns.

Owner reviews consistently praise Mountfield for engine reliability and cutting speed, while Webb is noted for its build quality and value for money. Both brands offer a range of models from basic push mowers to self-propelled variants, but the key differences lie in the engine type, deck construction, and overall weight.

Specification comparison: Webb vs Mountfield

Build quality and durability

Webb is known for using pressed steel decks that resist rust and impact better than the stamped steel decks found on many Mountfield models. Owner reviews frequently mention Webb mowers lasting over a decade with proper maintenance. Mountfield decks are still durable but can be more prone to denting if struck against rocks or kerbs.

Both brands use Briggs & Stratton engines, which are reliable and easy to service. However, Mountfield often fits the slightly more powerful 500E series, while Webb uses the 450E. For most domestic lawns, both provide ample power, but the 500E offers a small edge in thick, damp grass.

Cutting performance and ease of use

Mountfield's wider cutting deck (53 cm vs 43 cm) means fewer passes on a large lawn, saving time. The larger 70-litre grass collector also reduces emptying frequency. Webb's narrower deck is better for manoeuvring around flower beds, trees, and narrow paths. Users with complex gardens often prefer Webb's lighter weight (28 kg vs 35 kg) for easier handling.

Both offer rear-wheel drive self-propulsion, which is effective on slopes. Mountfield's drive system is slightly more powerful, but Webb's is lighter and more responsive. Cutting height adjustment is similar on both, typically with a single lever for all wheels.

What to check before buying

• Lawn size: For lawns over 500 sq m, a Mountfield with a 53 cm deck is more efficient. For smaller lawns, Webb's 43 cm deck is ample.
• Terrain: If your lawn has many obstacles, Webb's lighter weight and smaller footprint are easier to handle. For open, flat lawns, Mountfield's wider cut saves time.
• Storage: Webb mowers are generally more compact and easier to store in a shed or garage.
• Engine power: Mountfield's 500E engine handles thicker grass better, but the 450E on Webb is sufficient for regular weekly cuts.

Mistakes to avoid

• Choosing a mower that is too heavy: A 35 kg Mountfield can be difficult to push up slopes if the self-propulsion fails. Check the weight before buying.
• Ignoring the grass collector size: A small collector on a large lawn means constant stops. Match the collector size to your lawn area.
• Overlooking deck material: Pressed steel decks (Webb) are more durable than stamped steel (Mountfield) for rough use.
• Not considering spare parts availability: Both brands have good parts support, but Webb parts are often slightly cheaper and more widely available online.