Looking for a SP petrol lawn mower that won’t break the bank or your back? If you’re like most people, you just want something that gets the job done no fuss, no endless fiddling, and definitely no gym workout required. That’s why I’ve pulled together this straightforward guide on the best self propelled petrol lawn mowers you can pick up in the UK for under £300. Everything here is based on hands-on experience and real-world use, not just specs on a page or sales pitches.
Best Affordable Self Propelled Petrol Lawn Mowers
Self propelled petrol mowers strike a lovely balance: plenty of power, decent-sized decks, and crucially a drive that helps push itself along. For most of us, that means getting the lawn done faster, with less puffing and panting halfway through. Now, while £300 won’t buy you the top-of-the-range kit, it absolutely gets you a capable, genuine workhorse that makes weekend mowing a lot easier.
What to Expect for Under £300
Let’s keep it real, at this price, you won’t get luxury features like aluminium decks or ultra-quiet motors. But what you do get is solid value: a trusty petrol engine, proper self-propulsion, and enough oomph to make mowing less of a chore. Unless you’re tackling a massive estate or want that perfect bowling green finish, you don’t need to spend more.
Why Self Propelled Really Matters
If you’ve ever had to shove a heavy mower up a slope, you’ll know why self propelled is a game changer. The drive system takes the strain, making light work of hills and rough patches. Once you’ve tried one, it’s honestly hard to go back to pushing. For anyone with a bigger garden, a dodgy knee, or just a preference for an easier life, this feature is worth its weight in gold.
Stick With Brands You Recognise
A familiar name on the box doesn’t mean perfection, but it does usually mean easier spare parts, clearer instructions, and fewer surprises. If you’re choosing between a budget-friendly model from a known brand and a flashy unknown, I’d stick with the one you’ve heard of.
Who Should Consider These Mowers?
These petrol self propelled mowers are brilliant for medium to large gardens, sloping lawns, or anyone who wants less effort and more reliable power. If your patch is tiny and flat, you probably don’t need one. But if mowing leaves you knackered or dreading the job, this is the upgrade that can make all the difference.
Top 7 SP Petrol Lawnmowers Under £300
#1, Mountfield SP41 123cc Self-Propelled Petrol Lawnmower
If you’re after a straightforward, self-propelled mower that gets the job done without breaking the bank, the Mountfield SP41 is well worth a look. It’s honestly one of the best value options for small to medium UK gardens, especially if you’re moving up from a basic push mower and just want something easier to use, no complicated bells and whistles.
On paper, the 123cc STIGA engine might seem modest, but in reality, it’s spot on for lawns up to about 250m². Unless you’re regularly tackling really long or soggy grass, you won’t need anything beefier. The self-propelled drive is a real lifesaver on slopes and bumpy patches, if you usually finish mowing tired and sore, you’ll notice the difference straight away.
The 39cm cutting width is sensible; you might not fly through a massive lawn, but weaving around trees, flowerbeds, and tricky corners is a breeze. The polypropylene deck keeps things light and rust-free, though, to be fair, it doesn’t feel quite as tough as steel but for this price, that’s a reasonable trade-off.
The 40-litre grass box is simple to take off and empty, and the folding handles mean it’s easy to tuck away in the shed. I’d happily recommend this mower to anyone watching their spending, older gardeners, or anyone who just wants reliable petrol power without the hassle of lugging around a heavy machine.
Are there downsides? Sure it’s not made for heavy punishment, and it’ll struggle if you let the grass get too long. But if you mow regularly, it does exactly what most gardens need, without any fuss.
#2, Einhell 46cm 132cc Self-Propelled Petrol Lawnmower
If you’re after a mower that means business, the Einhell GC-PM 46/5 S isn’t shy about letting you know it’s a step up from the lighter, nimbler options like the Mountfield. This one feels substantial solid and ready to tackle a bigger patch of grass. I’d say it’s tailor-made for anyone with a larger garden who wants a mower that has real heft and presence.
The 132cc engine has a satisfying amount of grunt, and the self-propelled drive isn’t just a nice feature, it really comes into its own, especially when you’re dealing with thicker, wilder grass or if you’ve let things go a bit between cuts. It powers through where lighter models might struggle or stall. There’s a real sense that the mower isn’t going to back down from a challenge.
The 46cm cutting width is noticeably generous, so you can cover a lot more ground with each pass handy if you’re fed up with endless laps. Plus, the big 65-litre grass box means you’re not constantly stopping to empty it. One thing I really like is the nine-stage central height adjustment. It’s easy to tweak, whether you want a close summer cut or to leave things a bit longer in spring there’s proper flexibility here for different lawn moods.
The steel deck feels reassuringly tough and gives the mower a durable edge, though it does mean it’s a bit weighty at 26kg. You wouldn’t want to lug it up and down steps regularly, but once it’s rolling, the self-drive takes most of the strain. The folding handle is practical for storage, though this isn’t a mower for cramped sheds, it likes having a bit of space.
All in all, I’d say the Einhell is a top pick for anyone with a bigger, thicker lawn who wants solid power and flexibility under £300, and who doesn’t mind a bit of extra muscle in exchange for that performance. It’s not a delicate flower, but if you want a mower that just gets on with the job, this is one to consider.
#3 Hyundai 46cm Self-Propelled Petrol Lawnmower
Hyundai really sits nicely between the bargain brands and the top-end gear, and this mower is a great example of that. It’s got a solid, reassuring feel to it definitely built to last and there’s a bit of heft, which isn’t a bad thing if your lawn is more wild meadow than pristine putting green.
The 46cm cutting width and beefy 3.5HP engine mean you can get through a medium-sized lawn without breaking a sweat. The self-propelled drive is smooth too it pulls the mower along without any sudden lurches or stops, which is something you appreciate if you tend to let the grass get a little long between mows. It handles those tougher patches much better than the lighter models.
The steel deck feels like it could take a few knocks, and there’s proper rust protection, so you don’t have to baby it. Mind you, that does mean it’s a bit on the heavy side around 34kg so you’ll notice it when you’re turning or lifting it. But once it’s rolling, the self-propulsion does most of the hard work for you. I probably wouldn’t recommend it if you’ve got to lug it up steps or lift it regularly to store it.
You get a sensible range of six cutting heights, all easy to adjust, and there’s a handy mulching feature if you want to skip trips to the compost heap. The grass collector is nice and roomy, but just be aware it gets a bit bulky when it’s full.
All things considered, I’d suggest the Hyundai to anyone who wants a mower that feels sturdy and dependable, rather than something dainty or lightweight. It’s the kind of machine you buy if you want to get the job done, no fuss.
#4, Yard Force 40cm 127cc Self Propelled Petrol Lawnmower
If the Hyundai sounds a bit much, the Yard Force is a more relaxed, user-friendly choice. It doesn’t feel like it’s trying to take over your whole garden, which I reckon a lot of everyday gardeners will appreciate.
With its 127cc engine and 40cm cutting width, it lands right in the sweet spot not too powerful, not underwhelming, just enough for regular mowing without making things complicated. The self-propelled feature glides the mower along smoothly, taking the effort out of pushing, especially if your lawn is a bit bumpy or on a slope.
One thing I genuinely like is how light it feels. At a touch under 24kg, it’s a breeze compared to some of the chunkier models out there. You can turn it easily, park it up without a struggle, and storing it doesn’t feel like a workout great if you’re not keen on heavy lifting.
The five cutting heights should cover what most of us need, and the 45L grass collector hits that nice spot between holding a decent amount and not getting too heavy when it’s full. You’ll need to empty it now and then, but it’s not a constant chore. The metal deck is a solid touch too, it feels sturdy but doesn’t make the mower awkward to move around.
All told, I think the Yard Force is well suited for typical UK gardens and for people who just want something that works without any drama. It gets on with the job quietly and reliably, and if you want a mower that’s straightforward, easy to handle, and comes with a decent warranty, this one’s a sensible choice.
#5, Scheppach MS132-42 Self-Propelled Compact Petrol Lawnmower
If you’re after a mower that quietly punches above its weight, the Scheppach MS132-42 is well worth a look. For around £200, you’re getting features you’d usually expect from pricier models it doesn’t feel flimsy or like corners have been cut to hit the price.
The 42cm cutting width and 131cc engine are spot-on for small to medium gardens, especially if your grass tends to shoot up a bit between mows. Where some compact petrol mowers might struggle with longer grass, this one keeps up without a fuss, and the self-propelled drive moves things along at a comfortable pace not too fast, not too slow.
A big plus for me is how versatile it is. With seven cutting heights and a proper 3-in-1 system, you get the choice to mow, collect, or mulch depending on the season or what mood you’re in. The mulching feature is genuinely handy if you keep on top of regular cuts, and the 45L grass bag comes off easily when it’s time to empty.
Weighing in at just over 23kg, it strikes a nice middle ground solid enough to stay steady, but not a pain to steer around flower beds or tight spots. I also really appreciate the built-in hose connector for cleaning; it makes tidying up after a damp mow much less of a chore. All in all, I’d point anyone towards the Scheppach if you’re after good, reliable performance at a sensible price, and like the idea of mulching without the premium-brand price tag.
#6, Cobra M46SPCVX 18" Self-Propelled 131cc Petrol Lawnmower
If you’re after a mower that feels a cut above the basics but won’t break the bank, the Cobra M46SPCVX is definitely worth a look. It has the feel of something more upmarket, but still sits comfortably in the domestic price range. You can tell it’s been designed with UK gardens in mind, everything about it feels practical and well thought out.
The 46cm cutting width is ideal for medium or even slightly larger lawns, and the 131cc engine provides a nice, steady drive without feeling over the top. What I really noticed was how smooth and predictable the self-propelled system is. If you’ve got a bumpy or uneven lawn, you’ll appreciate not having to wrestle with it, even after a long mowing session.
One thing that genuinely stands out is the grass collection. The 60-litre bag, plus Cobra’s vortex airflow system, means you’re not constantly stopping to empty it something that’s a real bonus, especially if the grass is a bit damp (which, let’s face it, is pretty common here). It also does a better job than most when it comes to cutting right up to the edges, so you’re not always going back with the strimmer to tidy things up. With seven cutting heights, you’re able to tweak the finish to suit your mood or the season.
Despite the decent size, it’s actually pretty manageable to steer at just over 23kg. The build feels sturdy, and having UK-based support gives a bit of peace of mind if anything crops up later on. Overall, I’d say the Cobra is a great shout for anyone who wants a mower that’s solid, reliable, and just feels that bit more refined. If you’re willing to pay a touch extra for better grass collection and good aftercare, it’s definitely one to consider.
#7, ParkerBrand 21” Self‑Propelled 173cc Petrol Lawnmower
If you reckon cutting width is a badge of honour, the ParkerBrand mower certainly turns up ready to impress the neighbours. Priced somewhere between £200 and £250, it serves up plenty of petrol punch and a hefty 53cm deck enough to make smaller mowers look a bit sheepish. But before you picture it as some sort of professional beast, it’s worth digging into what this mower really offers in the real world.
The 173cc four-stroke engine is the biggest among this bunch, so there’s no shortage of muscle. On medium to large lawns, you’ll find it’s more about powering through than having to coax it along. The self-propelled drive is a real help too it takes the strain out of all that power, letting you stroll behind without feeling like you’re in a wrestling match.
Another thing that stands out is the huge 70-litre grass collector. You won’t be stopping every five minutes to empty it, which is a definite time-saver. Plus, you get proper mulching, collection, and side-discharge options actual useful features, not just afterthoughts.
When it comes to build, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The steel deck is reassuringly solid, but with a weight north of 41kg, you’ll need to think a bit about storage and lifting, it’s not something you want to lug up steps in a hurry. Manoeuvring tight corners can be a bit of a workout too. Still, with bigger mowers, that extra weight often means a steadier, more stable cut.
All in all, I’d say the ParkerBrand is well-suited to bigger gardens and anyone who values a wide, confident cut over fiddly detail work. If you like your mower to feel robust and cover ground quickly rather than fuss over every inch, this is easily the boldest option you’ll find for under £300.
Conclusion - Which SP Petrol Lawn Mower Should You Actually Buy?
Let’s be honest: picking the right self-propelled petrol mower under £300 is mostly about knowing what your own garden actually needs. There’s no miracle machine here just a handful of reliable workhorses that, if you choose wisely, can make mowing feel a whole lot less of a slog.
Best For Smaller Gardens and Light Users - Mountfield SP41 (39cm). If you just want something simple and straightforward, the Mountfield SP41 is hard to beat. It’s easy to start, doesn’t weigh a ton, and is perfect for those of us who’d rather not wrestle heavy machinery around a small lawn. Great for compact spaces or if you’ve got gentle slopes to deal with.
Best For Medium to Larger Lawns on a Budget - Einhell 46cm 132cc. The Einhell is a bit of an all-rounder. It gives a tidy cut, has decent grass collection, and packs enough punch to handle thicker growth now and then. If you’re after something that balances power, capacity, and price and you actually keep on top of the mowing, this one makes sense.
Best For Durable DIY Performance - Hyundai 46cm Self Propelled. The Hyundai feels like it’s built to last, but it doesn’t go overboard on weight. The deck is solid, the features are sensible, and the mulching function is genuinely handy. Go for this if you want a sturdy, everyday machine that won’t cost the earth.
Best For Dependable Middle Ground - Yard Force 40cm 127cc. This is the no-nonsense choice. The Yard Force is steady, easy to handle, and not too heavy to push around. It’s not the most powerful, but for regular cuts it just works ideal if you want something reliable without any faff.
Best For Flexibility and Features - Scheppach MS132-42. If you like a mower that does a bit of everything, the Scheppach is worth a look. You get mulching, collection, and cutting options, plus a smooth, self-propelled feel. It’s not flashy, but at this price, it feels honest and covers all the bases.
Best For Bigger Cuts and Edge Work - Cobra M46SPCVX. The Cobra stands out because it just makes grass collection that bit easier and gets right up to the edges. The cutting width is generous too, so you’re not constantly stopping and starting. If you’ve got a slightly bigger lawn or thicker patches and want to get the job done with fewer interruptions, it’s a very solid bet.
Best For Wide, Powerful Work - ParkerBrand 21” 173cc. If you’re after sheer cutting width and plenty of petrol grunt, the ParkerBrand is the biggest, boldest mower you’ll find for under £300. Yes, it’s heavier, but that extra power and deck size can make a real difference on large plots.
Honest Conclusion
Petrol self-propelled mowers under £300 aren’t fancy, and that’s honestly their biggest strength. They’re practical, tough, and focused on getting the grass cut without any unnecessary bells and whistles.
If you want fewer stops and a smoother push, look at models like the Einhell or Cobra. If you’re after something light and easy, the Mountfield or Yard Force will be friendlier. And if you just need power and coverage above all else, the ParkerBrand won’t let you down.
The key is to match your mower to your own lawn how often you cut, what the terrain’s like, and how much effort you want to put in. Do that, and you’ll actually enjoy mowing, rather than seeing it as just another weekend chore.
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