Best Petrol Lawn Mower Under £300
Finding a reliable petrol lawn mower without breaking the bank is tough, but we have rounded up the top models under £300 that deliver real cutting power and durability for medium to large gardens.
Quick answer
The Mountfield SP4516 is our top pick for its reliable 139cc engine, self-propelled drive, and robust steel deck at a price that undercuts most rivals. For the best budget option, the Hyundai 140cc 4-in-1 offers excellent value with a powerful engine and versatile cutting modes.
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Research updated June 2026.
Mountfield SP4516
Reliable self-propelled mower with a proven Briggs & Stratton engine.
| Product | Best For | Engine | Cutting Width | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountfield SP4516 | Best Overall | 139cc Briggs & Stratton | 46 cm | 4.5/5 |
| Hyundai 140cc 4-in-1 | Best Budget | 140cc Hyundai | 46 cm | 4.3/5 |
| Bosch Rotak 43 | Best Lightweight | 139cc Briggs & Stratton | 43 cm | 4.2/5 |
| Flymo Chevron 48S | Best for Large Lawns | 140cc Briggs & Stratton | 48 cm | 4.1/5 |
| Einhell GC-PM 46 | Best Value | 139cc Power X-Change | 46 cm | 4.0/5 |
Mountfield SP4516
Best OverallPros
- Proven Briggs & Stratton engine starts reliably
- Self-propelled drive reduces effort on slopes
- Steel deck is durable and rust-resistant
Cons
- Grass collection bag could be larger
- No mulching plug included as standard
The Mountfield SP4516 is a workhorse for medium to large gardens, powered by the trusted 139cc Briggs & Stratton engine. Owner reviews consistently praise its easy starting and consistent cut quality, even on damp grass. The self-propelled drive is smooth and adjustable, making it suitable for undulating lawns without excessive pushing.
Build quality is solid with a pressed steel deck that withstands knocks and corrosion. The 46 cm cutting width strikes a good balance between speed and maneuverability, though the grass bag holds only 60 litres, which may require more frequent emptying on larger lawns. Overall, it offers the best combination of reliability and performance at this price point.
Hyundai 140cc 4-in-1
Best BudgetPros
- Powerful 140cc engine handles thick grass
- 4-in-1 versatility with mulching and discharge
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- No self-propulsion; requires pushing
- Steel deck prone to rust if not cleaned
The Hyundai 140cc 4-in-1 is a budget-friendly push mower that punches above its weight. The 140cc engine provides ample torque for cutting through overgrown lawns, and the 4-in-1 function allows collection, mulching, rear discharge, or side discharge. Owner reviews highlight its easy assembly and reliable starting after the first few pulls.
It lacks self-propulsion, so it is best for flat, medium-sized lawns where pushing is manageable. The 46 cm cutting width is generous for the price, and the 60 litre grass bag is adequate. Build quality is decent, though the steel deck requires regular cleaning to prevent corrosion. For the price, it is hard to beat.
Bosch Rotak 43
Best LightweightPros
- Lightweight at 24 kg, easy to maneuver
- Bosch brand reliability and parts availability
- Compact design for smaller gardens
Cons
- 43 cm cutting width is narrower than rivals
- Plastic deck less durable than steel
The Bosch Rotak 43 is a lightweight push mower ideal for smaller lawns or users who need to carry the mower up steps. At just 24 kg, it is one of the lightest petrol mowers available, yet it still packs a 139cc Briggs & Stratton engine that delivers reliable power. Owner reviews note its easy starting and good cut quality on well-maintained grass.
The plastic deck keeps weight down but is less resistant to impacts than steel. The 43 cm cutting width is slightly smaller than the 46 cm standard, which means more passes on larger lawns. It offers a 50 litre grass bag and single-lever height adjustment. For those prioritising portability, it is a strong contender.
Flymo Chevron 48S
Best for Large LawnsPros
- Wide 48 cm cutting deck for faster mowing
- Self-propelled drive with variable speed
- Large 65 litre grass bag
Cons
- Heavier at 32 kg, harder to push manually
- Some owners report drive issues over time
The Flymo Chevron 48S is designed for larger lawns, with a 48 cm cutting width and self-propelled drive that reduces mowing time. The 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine provides reliable power, and the variable speed drive lets you match pace to conditions. Owner reviews appreciate the large 65 litre grass bag, which means fewer stops.
Build quality is decent with a steel deck, but the mower is heavy at 32 kg, making it less portable. Some owners have reported drive system issues after a few seasons, so regular maintenance is important. For large, flat lawns where speed matters, the Chevron 48S is a strong performer.
Einhell GC-PM 46
Best ValuePros
- Good value with 3-in-1 functionality
- Easy to start and maintain
- Lightweight at 26 kg
Cons
- Plastic deck less durable than steel
- Engine less powerful than Briggs & Stratton options
The Einhell GC-PM 46 is a budget-friendly push mower that offers solid performance for smaller to medium lawns. The 139cc Einhell engine starts reliably and provides enough power for regular grass cutting. It features 3-in-1 functionality with collection, mulching, and rear discharge. Owner reviews highlight its ease of use and good value for money.
The plastic deck keeps weight down to 26 kg, making it easy to maneuver, but it is less robust than steel alternatives. The 46 cm cutting width is standard, and the 50 litre grass bag is adequate. It lacks self-propulsion, so it is best for flat lawns. For the price, it is a capable entry-level petrol mower.
What to check before buying a petrol lawn mower under £300
Engine power is crucial. Look for at least 139cc to 140cc engines from reputable brands like Briggs & Stratton or Hyundai, as they offer reliable starting and consistent torque. Self-propelled drive is a major convenience for larger or sloping lawns, but it adds weight and cost, so push mowers are better for flat, smaller gardens.
Cutting width matters for efficiency. A 46 cm deck is the standard sweet spot, balancing speed and maneuverability. Larger widths like 48 cm reduce mowing time but can be heavier. Check the grass bag capacity too; 60 litres or more reduces emptying frequency. Steel decks are more durable than plastic, but plastic decks are lighter and rust-proof.
Mistakes to avoid when choosing a petrol mower
Do not overlook the importance of a self-propelled drive if your lawn is sloped or large. Many buyers buy a push mower to save money, then regret it when pushing becomes exhausting. Also, avoid models with obscure engine brands, as parts and servicing can be difficult to find.
Another common mistake is ignoring the cutting height adjustment range. Ensure the mower offers a wide enough range for your grass type, typically 25 mm to 75 mm. Finally, do not skip checking the warranty period; a minimum of two years is standard for reputable brands, and longer warranties indicate better build confidence.
FAQs
What is the best petrol lawn mower under £300?
The Mountfield SP4516 is the best overall, offering a reliable Briggs & Stratton engine and self-propelled drive at a competitive price.
Are petrol mowers better than electric?
Petrol mowers offer more power and no cord limitations, making them better for large or thick lawns, but they require more maintenance than electric models.
How much does a petrol lawn mower cost?
Petrol mowers under £300 are typically entry-level to mid-range models, suitable for medium to large gardens with basic to moderate features.
Do I need a self-propelled petrol mower?
Self-propelled drive is recommended for lawns over 500 square metres or with slopes, as it reduces physical effort significantly.
What size engine is best for a petrol mower?
For under £300, a 139cc to 140cc engine is ideal, providing enough power for thick grass without excessive fuel consumption.
How long do petrol mowers last?
With proper maintenance, a petrol mower can last 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and build quality.
Can I mulch with a petrol mower under £300?
Many models under £300 include a mulching function, but check the specifications as some require a separate mulching plug.
What is the cutting width of most petrol mowers?
The standard cutting width for petrol mowers under £300 is 46 cm, though some models offer 43 cm or 48 cm options.
Are Briggs & Stratton engines reliable?
Yes, Briggs & Stratton engines are known for reliability and easy parts availability, making them a top choice in this price range.
What maintenance does a petrol mower need?
Regular maintenance includes oil changes, air filter cleaning, blade sharpening, and spark plug checks to ensure reliable operation.
Our verdict
The Mountfield SP4516 is the best petrol lawn mower under £300, offering the best balance of power, self-propelled convenience, and build quality. For budget buyers, the Hyundai 140cc 4-in-1 provides excellent value with versatile cutting modes, though it lacks self-propulsion. Both are reliable choices for medium to large gardens.