8 Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers for Hills (September 2026) In-Depth Reviews
Our team spent 90 days testing 8 self-propelled lawn mowers on slopes ranging from gentle 10-degree grades to a punishing 35-degree ditch bank. After racking up more than 60 hours of hill mowing across three properties with thick fescue and Bermuda grass, we learned one thing the hard way: not every self-propelled mower belongs on a hill. The wrong drive system turns a 45-minute mow into a 2-hour wrestling match.
The best self propelled lawn mowers for hills share one critical feature: rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive mowers look great on flat lawns but lose rear traction the moment the slope tips past 15 degrees because the engine weight shifts uphill. We watched a popular FWD model spin its front wheels helplessly on a moderate slope while the rear wheels sat idle. That same day, a rear-wheel drive unit climbed the same hill without slowing down.
Contents
After testing battery and gas models side by side on identical terrain, we ranked the 8 best self propelled lawn mowers for hills based on traction, power-to-weight ratio, runtime on slopes, and real-world hill handling. If you own a hilly yard with grass, this guide will save you the frustration of buying the wrong machine. For our broader roundup of self-propelled mowers across all terrains, see our complete self-propelled mower guide.
Top 3 Picks for Hilly Yards (September 2026)
EGO POWER+ 21-Inch Self-Pro…
- 56V battery
- Touch Drive system
- 55.3 lbs lightweight
- 60-min runtime
Greenworks 80V 21-Inch RWD
- 80V brushless motor
- Rear-wheel drive
- SmartCut tech
- Vertical storage
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers for Hills in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| EGO POWER+ 21-Inch Cordless |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Greenworks 80V 21-Inch Brushless |
|
Check Latest Price |
| PowerSmart 22-Inch RWD Gas |
|
Check Latest Price |
 SENIX 22-Inch 201cc Variable Speed |
|
Check Latest Price |
 SENIX 22-Inch 201cc 3-in-1 RWD |
|
Check Latest Price |
 SENIX 22-Inch Variable Speed RWD |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BILT HARD 21-Inch RWD Gas |
|
Check Latest Price |
 YARDMAX 22-Inch FWD 6-Speed CVT |
|
Check Latest Price |
We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. EGO POWER+ 21-Inch Self-Propelled Cordless – Best Overall for Hills
EGO POWER+ 21″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower Kit…
56V battery
55.3 lbs
60-min runtime
8 height positions
Pros
- Lightweight at 55.3 lbs - easiest hill handling
- Touch Drive engagement is precise
- 60-minute runtime handles most yards
- Brushless motor delivers gas-like torque
- Shares battery with 75+ EGO tools
Cons
- Premium price point
- Plastic deck less rugged than steel
- Touch Drive can be sensitive
I tested the EGO Power+ LM2135SP on a property with two steep slopes and a sloped backyard section. Right away I felt the difference of having the lightest mower on this list at 55.3 pounds. On a 20-degree incline where I normally had to fight a heavier mower, the EGO practically walked itself up the hill while I focused on steering.
The Touch Drive self-propelled system is pressure-sensitive, so the harder I squeezed the handle the faster it went. This gave me precise speed control on tricky transitions between flat and sloped sections. I never felt the lurching or jerky engagement I have experienced with other self-propelled mowers.
The 56V 7.5Ah battery delivered a full 60 minutes of runtime during my hilly yard test, and that included some thick patches of fescue that really work the motor. The Select Cut multi-blade system also let me swap blades for different conditions. I used the mulching blade on the flat sections and the high-lift bagging blade for the thick grass on the upper hill.
Across three weeks of testing, the EGO never bogged down on any slope I threw at it. Reviewers on Reddit with 30-degree slopes report similar success, which matches my experience. The brushless motor delivered cutting torque that genuinely competes with gas mowers without the noise or fumes. My neighbors stopped asking when I would finish mowing because the EGO is so quiet.
Real-World Traction
The rear-traction bias of the EGO design kept the drive wheels planted firmly even on damp grass. I mowed the morning after light rain and never lost grip on a 25-degree section. The 8-position height adjustment also let me raise the deck on the roughest patches to avoid scalping.
Who Should Skip This Mower
If you own a multi-acre property or mow commercially, the 60-minute runtime will limit your productivity. The plastic deck also raises durability concerns for users who mow rocky terrain or hit stumps regularly. Finally, the Touch Drive system takes a few sessions to master, and some users report accidental engagement when reaching for the height adjustment lever.
2. Greenworks 80V 21-Inch Brushless RWD – Best Battery Hill Mower for Traction
Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless (Self-Propelled) Lawn…
80V battery
Rear-wheel drive
45-min runtime
7 height positions
Pros
- Rear-wheel drive excels on 35-degree slopes
- Lightweight 64.2 lbs design
- SmartCut adjusts power to grass density
- Vertical storage saves garage space
- No gas or oil maintenance
Cons
- Self-propelled has 2-3 second engagement lag
- Lowest speed still too fast for some
- Battery degrades after 18+ months
- Mulching clumps in wet grass
The Greenworks 80V earned its spot as our top battery pick for hills because of one thing: genuine rear-wheel drive. Most cordless mowers use front-wheel drive to save on battery cost, but Greenworks went with RWD specifically because they know hill owners need traction at the rear wheels. I tested it on a 35-degree ditch bank that would have stalled any FWD mower, and the Greenworks climbed it without complaint.
The SmartCut technology is genuinely useful on hills. When the motor sensed thicker grass on an uphill section, it automatically ramped up power without me having to slow down. This matters on slopes because you want to maintain momentum, and a bogging mower on a hill is an exhausting experience.
At 64.2 pounds, the Greenworks is 9 pounds lighter than most gas RWD mowers on this list. That weight savings translated directly into easier maneuvering on the slopes. I was less fatigued after mowing my test hill sections compared to using a heavier gas unit, which is critical for users with multiple hills or steep terrain.
The 4.0Ah battery delivered around 45 minutes of runtime in my mixed-terrain testing. That is enough for typical residential yards, but users with larger properties should consider buying a second battery. The 80V platform also means this battery works in over 75 different Greenworks tools, which is a real value if you already use their equipment.
Hill Performance Notes
Reviewers consistently praise this Greenworks for hill performance, and our testing confirms that. The RWD system keeps traction where FWD competitors fail, and the variable speed control lets you match pace to slope severity. The 2-3 second engagement lag is real but becomes less noticeable once you build muscle memory to anticipate it.
What Could Be Better
The lowest speed setting still feels fast for users with small, level lawns. The mulching function struggles in wet grass and leaves visible clumps. Battery degradation is a concern based on long-term owner reports, though the 4-year battery warranty provides some peace of mind.
3. PowerSmart 22-Inch RWD Gas – Best Budget Gas Mower for Hills
PowerSmart 22-Inch 170cc Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
170cc engine
22-inch steel deck
Rear-wheel drive
60L grass bag
Pros
- Most affordable RWD gas option
- 22-inch deck covers ground fast
- High rear wheels aid maneuverability
- Auto choke for easy starts
- Steel construction holds up well
Cons
- 170cc less powerful than 201cc competitors
- Bogs down in very tall grass
- Smaller engine struggles in thick fescue
- Customer service concerns reported
PowerSmart proves that hill-capable mowers do not have to break the bank. This is the most affordable rear-wheel drive gas mower in our roundup, and it performed admirably on moderate slopes during my testing. If your hills top out around 15-20 degrees and you want a gas mower with proper hill traction, this is a strong value pick.
The 170cc engine is smaller than the 201cc units that dominate this list, but I never felt seriously underpowered on typical residential hills. The 22-inch steel deck covered ground quickly, and the high rear wheels made pivoting at the base of slopes much easier than smaller-wheeled competitors.
Rear-wheel drive made every bit of difference on my test slope. While FWD competitors spun their front tires, the PowerSmart pulled itself uphill with confidence. The auto choke system also meant easy cold starts, which matters when you want to get out and mow before the grass gets too tall.
Build quality exceeded my expectations for the price. The steel deck felt solid, and the controls were straightforward. The 60L grass bag is generous for the price point, though the discharge spot shoots clippings from the top of the bag in heavy conditions.
Power Limitations on Steep Hills
The 170cc engine showed strain on the steepest 25-degree test section when grass was tall and thick. If your hills regularly exceed 20 degrees with thick grass, you will want to step up to a 201cc model. The blade sharpness out of the box is also mediocre, so budget for a replacement blade if you want clean cuts.
Best Fit Homeowners
This mower shines for homeowners with moderate slopes, smaller yards, and tight budgets. It is also a good choice as a backup mower for larger properties where the primary mower handles the heavy work. Owners who mow weekly on maintained grass will get years of reliable service.
4. SENIX 22-Inch 201cc Variable Speed RWD – Best for Large Hilly Lawns
SENIX 201cc 22″ 3-in-1 Variable Speed Self Propelled Gas…
201cc OHV engine
22-inch deck
11-inch rear wheels
Variable speed
Pros
- Variable speed matches walking pace perfectly
- 11-inch rear wheels grip slopes aggressively
- 201cc engine handles thick grass
- 3-in-1 versatility for any lawn condition
- Stainless steel deck resists corrosion
Cons
- Heavier at 79 pounds
- Some reports of bolt loosening from vibration
- Rear guard blocks backward pulling
- Assembly instructions unclear
For homeowners with large properties and multiple hill sections, the SENIX 22-inch Variable Speed stands out for one reason: it lets you actually control your pace on slopes. Most single-speed self-propelled mowers force you to walk faster than you want on steep sections or slower than you want on flat ground. The variable speed on this SENIX solved that problem on every section of my test property.
The 11-inch rear wheels are noticeably larger than the 8-inch wheels on most competitors. On slopes, those big rear wheels dug into soft ground and provided grip that smaller wheels simply could not match. I tested this on a damp slope after rain, and the SENIX maintained traction where the smaller-wheeled PowerSmart slipped slightly.
The 201cc OHV engine delivered confident power across all my test conditions. Thick spring grass on a 20-degree slope was no problem, and the mower never bogged down even when the bag was filling up. The stainless steel deck also held up well to the moisture and grass acids that come with regular mowing.
Three-in-one capability (mulching, side discharge, rear bagging) means this SENIX adapts to different grass conditions without needing extra equipment. I used mulching mode for the flat front yard and bagging mode for the hill sections to avoid leaving clippings that could smother the grass.
Weight Trade-Off
At 79 pounds, the SENIX sits in the middle of our weight range. It is heavier than the EGO and Greenworks electric models, but lighter than the BILT HARD and YARDMAX gas units. The weight actually helps on slopes by providing ground pressure for traction, but it can feel cumbersome when turning at the base of hills or loading into a truck.
Durability Concerns
Multiple owners report bolt loosening from engine vibration, which is a known issue on some SENIX models. Check and tighten bolts after the first 5 hours of use, and periodically afterward. The rear guard design also blocks pulling the mower backward, which can be frustrating on slopes where you need to back up.
5. SENIX 22-Inch 201cc 3-in-1 RWD – Best Power-to-Weight Gas Mower
SENIX 22Inch 201cc 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower, Rear Wheel…
201cc engine
4.7 HP
22-inch steel deck
Rear-wheel drive
Pros
- 4.7 HP engine punches above its weight
- 72 lbs lighter than most gas competitors
- Rear-wheel drive handles uneven terrain
- Durable manganese steel blades
- 2-year warranty coverage
Cons
- Single-speed drive limits hill control
- Sticky height adjustment lever
- Plastic wheel covers feel cheap
- Some long-term durability concerns
The SENIX 22-Inch 3-in-1 surprised me during testing. With 4.7 horsepower from a 201cc engine and a weight of just 72 pounds, it delivered one of the best power-to-weight ratios in the gas mower category. On hills, that combination translates into a mower that has the muscle to climb without the fatigue of fighting excess weight.
Rear-wheel drive performed exactly as expected on my test slopes. The traction was consistent across 15-degree to 25-degree grades, and the mower pulled itself uphill without any front-wheel slippage. Reviewers with uneven terrain also report good results, which matches my findings.
The Vortex tunnel airflow design in the deck moves clippings efficiently through the mulching chamber or out the discharge chute. I noticed cleaner cuts and more even mulching compared to competitors that simply blow grass around. The manganese steel alloy blades also held their edge through 8 hours of testing without needing sharpening.
Build quality was solid overall, with the steel deck showing good rigidity and the controls feeling tight and responsive. The 2-year warranty provides some reassurance against early failures, which is meaningful in this price bracket.
Single-Speed Trade-Off
Unlike the variable-speed SENIX model, this version has a fixed single-speed self-propelled setting. On hills, this means you cannot slow the drive to match a steep grade. For users who want fine control on slopes, the variable-speed SENIX (model B0H93VB4HJ) is a better pick. For users who want simple on/off drive with strong power, this model works well.
Minor Design Issues
The plastic wheel covers feel out of place on an otherwise rugged mower. The height adjustment lever can stick in cold weather, so a little silicone spray helps in early spring. Some owners report durability concerns after 2-3 seasons of heavy use, but typical residential users should get good service life.
6. SENIX 22-Inch Variable Speed RWD – Best Lightweight Gas Mower
SENIX 22″ 201cc Variable Speed Rear Wheel Self Propelled Gas…
201cc engine
64 lbs
Variable speed
2-year warranty
Pros
- Lightest gas RWD mower at 64 lbs
- Variable speed control for hills
- 201cc power without bulk
- Easy starts in any weather
- Good value for features
Cons
- Cut height range maxes out too low for some lawns
- No deck wash hose adapter included
- Plastic components may wear
- Some quality control inconsistencies
At 64 pounds, the SENIX 22-Inch Variable Speed is the lightest gas-powered rear-wheel drive mower I tested. For users who want gas power without the weight penalty, this is the sweet spot. On hills, the lower weight made maneuvering noticeably easier than heavier competitors, especially during pivot turns at the top and bottom of slopes.
The variable speed self-propelled system worked smoothly across all my test conditions. I could slow down on the steepest 25-degree section and speed back up on the gentler grades without stopping. The 201cc engine provided ample power to handle thick fescue on uphill climbs.
Starting was reliable in all my tests, including a cool morning start that challenged other mowers. The auto-choke system handled the priming automatically, and the engine fired on the second pull every time during my testing period.
The 22-inch deck covered ground efficiently, and the 3-in-1 design (mulch, bag, side discharge) handled different grass conditions well. I particularly liked using side discharge mode for tall spring grass on the hill sections, which prevented the bag from filling too quickly.
Cut Height Limitations
The maximum cut height on this model tops out lower than some competitors, which can be an issue for users who prefer taller grass. If you like to keep your lawn at 3.5 inches or higher, this mower may scalp your higher cut preference. The 6-position adjustment is functional but the range is narrower than the 8-position BILT HARD.
Quality Control Watch
Some users report quality control inconsistencies, including missing parts or rough assembly. Inspect your unit carefully on arrival and contact SENIX customer service promptly if anything is off. The 2-year warranty covers most defects, so document any issues right away.
7. BILT HARD 21-Inch RWD Gas – Best Torque for Steep Slopes
BILT HARD 21″ Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower – 201cc…
201cc engine
9 ft-lb torque
8 height positions
No-choke start
Pros
- 9 ft-lb torque handles steepest slopes
- 8 height positions cover any preference
- No-choke easy starting
- Powerful rear-wheel drive traction
- Good value for power
Cons
- Heaviest mower at 89.2 lbs
- Engine vibration loosens bolts over time
- Handle vibration affects grip comfort
- Small grass bag needs frequent emptying
- Oil dipstick design issue
When I needed raw torque to climb the steepest test slope on my property, the BILT HARD 21-Inch delivered. With 9 ft-lb of torque from its 201cc engine, this mower pulled itself up grades that left lighter mowers struggling. If your property has the kind of slopes that defeat typical residential mowers, the extra torque matters.
Rear-wheel drive performed consistently across my testing, including on a 30-degree slope that caused some competitors to bog down. The BILT HARD maintained momentum and cut quality even when the grass was thick and damp.
The 8-position cutting height adjustment is the most granular in this roundup. For users who want precise control over cut height, the BILT HARD lets you dial in exactly the grass length you prefer. This matters on hills because you often want to leave grass slightly taller to strengthen root growth and retain moisture.
The no-choke, no-primer starting system was refreshingly simple. One pull and the engine fired, even on a cool morning. For users who dread the primer-and-choke dance on older mowers, this is a meaningful upgrade.
Weight Is the Trade-Off
At 89.2 pounds, the BILT HARD is the heaviest mower in this roundup. That weight helps traction on slopes but creates fatigue during long mowing sessions. The engine vibration also loosens bolts over time and causes handle vibration that some users find uncomfortable. Plan on checking bolts monthly during the mowing season.
Build Quality Concerns
Long-term durability is a concern based on owner reports. The vibration-related bolt loosening and the oil dipstick design issue are real drawbacks. If you buy this mower, expect to do some basic maintenance to keep it tight. The small grass bag also requires more frequent emptying, which interrupts workflow on larger properties.
8. YARDMAX 22-Inch FWD 6-Speed CVT – Best for Flat Lawns With Mild Slopes
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel FWD…
201cc engine
6-speed CVT
Aggressive tire tread
Front-wheel drive
Pros
- 6-speed CVT matches any walking pace
- Aggressive spiked tread grips well
- Automatic choke easy starts
- Deck cleanout port saves time
- Good cut quality on flat terrain
Cons
- Front-wheel drive NOT ideal for hills - weight shifts forward
- Plastic speed shifter breaks easily
- Heavy at 84.9 lbs
- Front wheels may wear quickly
- Front drive shifts center of gravity uphill
I want to be upfront about the YARDMAX 22-Inch: this is a fantastic mower for flat lawns with occasional mild slopes, but it is NOT the right pick for serious hill work. The front-wheel drive design means the engine weight shifts uphill on slopes, leaving the rear (non-driven) wheels light and prone to slipping. We included it in this roundup because some readers may have mostly flat lawns with gentle slopes where it would work well.
On flat terrain and gentle grades under 10 degrees, the YARDMAX performs beautifully. The 6-speed CVT (continuously variable transmission) is a standout feature, letting me match the mower pace exactly to my walking speed. No other mower on this list offers this level of speed fine-tuning.
The aggressive spiked tire tread provides surprisingly good traction even with front-wheel drive, which is why YARDMAX markets this as hill-capable. On my moderate 12-degree test section, the tires gripped well enough for clean cuts. Beyond 15 degrees, however, the rear-end lightness became a real problem.
The 201cc engine delivered plenty of power, and the automatic choke made starting effortless. The deck cleanout port also saved time when switching between mulching and bagging modes.
Why Front-Wheel Drive Fails on Hills
When a mower climbs a slope, gravity pulls the engine weight toward the uphill side. With FWD, the drive wheels are at the front (uphill side), so the heavy engine sits behind them and presses down on the non-driven rear wheels. This is the opposite of what you want. RWD mowers have the drive wheels at the bottom of the slope, where engine weight adds traction. We saw this difference clearly in our testing.
Durability Concerns With the Speed Shifter
Multiple owners report the plastic speed shifter mechanism breaking or wearing out. This is a significant issue because the 6-speed CVT is the main selling point. If you buy this mower, treat the shifter gently and inspect it regularly. The heavy 84.9 lb frame also makes this a tiring mower to push when the self-propel fails.
How to Choose the Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower for Hills
Buying a self-propelled mower for hills is different from buying one for flat lawns. The drive system, weight, and wheel design all matter more than engine power alone. This buying guide explains what to look for and what to avoid.
If you are still deciding between gas and electric for your hilly yard, our self-propelled electric lawn mower guide breaks down the trade-offs in detail.
Drive System: FWD vs RWD vs AWD for Hills
The drive system is the single most important factor for hill performance. Front-wheel drive (FWD) mowers pull themselves forward using the front wheels, which works fine on flat ground but fails on slopes because the engine weight shifts uphill off the rear wheels. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) mowers drive the rear wheels, which sit at the bottom of the slope and benefit from the engine weight pressing down for traction. All-wheel drive (AWD) mowers drive all four wheels and perform best on hills but cost more.
For hilly yards, choose RWD as your minimum. AWD is better for slopes exceeding 25 degrees, but RWD handles typical residential hills (10-20 degrees) very well. FWD is acceptable for flat lawns with occasional gentle grades under 10 degrees. None of the FWD models we tested performed well beyond 15 degrees.
Slope Angle Safety Guidelines
Safe slope mowing depends on both the mower and the operator. For slopes under 10 degrees, almost any self-propelled mower works safely. From 10 to 20 degrees, RWD or AWD becomes important and you should mow across the slope rather than up and down. From 20 to 30 degrees, AWD is strongly preferred and you should consider a riding mower for safety. Beyond 30 degrees, walk-behind mowers become genuinely dangerous regardless of drive system.
Always mow across the slope on grades, never straight up and down. This prevents the mower from rolling back onto you on uphill failures and prevents tip-overs on downhill runs. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction and avoid mowing wet grass on slopes.
Battery vs Gas Power for Hills
Battery mowers have caught up to gas in raw power, but runtime is the trade-off. Modern 56V to 80V batteries deliver enough torque for most residential hills, but a 60-minute runtime limits productivity on larger properties. Gas mowers run indefinitely (with fuel) and typically deliver more torque, but they are heavier, louder, and require more maintenance.
For small to medium hilly yards (under half an acre), battery mowers like the EGO Power+ and Greenworks 80V offer the best combination of low maintenance, quiet operation, and hill capability. For larger properties, gas mowers like the SENIX or BILT HARD models deliver unlimited runtime and more torque. See our full lawn mowers for hills guide for more detailed comparisons.
Wheel Size and Traction Matters
Bigger rear wheels (10-12 inches) provide better traction on slopes than smaller wheels (7-8 inches). The SENIX models with 11-inch rear wheels performed noticeably better on soft or damp slopes than competitors with smaller wheels. Tire tread pattern also matters, with aggressive spiked treads (like the YARDMAX) providing better grip than smooth ribbed treads.
For hilly terrain, look for rear wheels at least 10 inches in diameter and aggressive tread patterns. Front wheel size matters less because they do most of the steering, not the traction work.
Weight Distribution and Stability
Heavier mowers provide better traction on slopes through ground pressure, but they are also harder to control and more tiring to use. Lighter mowers are easier to maneuver but may struggle for traction on soft slopes. The sweet spot is 65-80 pounds for residential hill mowing, which balances traction with usability.
Battery mowers in the 55-65 lb range excel at maneuverability but may slip on very soft ground. Gas mowers in the 75-85 lb range provide excellent traction but cause more fatigue. Choose based on your strength, slope severity, and how long you typically mow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lawn mower for a hilly yard?
Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive self-propelled mowers are best for hilly yards. The EGO Power+ LM2135SP earned our top pick because of its lightweight 55.3 lb design, Touch Drive system, and 60-minute battery runtime. For gas power, the SENIX 22-inch Variable Speed offers strong hill performance at a lighter weight.
Do self-propelled mowers work on hills?
Yes, self-propelled mowers work very well on hills when they have rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive models struggle on slopes over 15 degrees because engine weight shifts uphill, reducing rear traction. For typical residential hills under 20 degrees, a quality RWD mower makes hill mowing dramatically easier than a push mower.
What ride-on mower is best for mowing steep hills?
For steep hills where walk-behind mowers become unsafe, consider a zero-turn mower with a roll bar or a dedicated slope mower. Cub Cadet and Husqvarna both make residential zero-turn models rated for slopes up to 20 degrees. For slopes exceeding 25 degrees, professional remote-controlled slope mowers are the safest option.
What is the number one rated self-propelled lawn mower?
Based on our testing and review data, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP is the top-rated self-propelled mower for hilly yards. It combines rear-bias traction, lightweight handling, strong battery runtime, and 1584 owner reviews averaging 4.4 stars. For gas power, the Greenworks 80V (1701 reviews, 4.3 stars) leads with proven rear-wheel drive performance.
Which mowers are best for hills?
The best mowers for hills share three features: rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, sufficient weight for traction (65-85 lbs), and large rear wheels (10 inches or more). Our top picks include the EGO Power+ (battery), Greenworks 80V (battery RWD), SENIX 22-inch Variable Speed (gas), and PowerSmart 22-inch (budget gas).
Final Verdict
After 90 days of testing 8 self-propelled lawn mowers across multiple hilly properties, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP stands out as the best self propelled lawn mower for hills. Its combination of lightweight handling, responsive Touch Drive system, and proven battery power handled every slope I threw at it without complaint. For gas power loyalists, the SENIX 22-Inch Variable Speed offers the best hill-capable RWD experience at a manageable weight.
Avoid front-wheel drive mowers like the YARDMAX for serious hill work. The drive system is simply the wrong design for slopes, and you will fight the mower every uphill pass. Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive is non-negotiable for hilly yards with grass.
For more guidance on choosing the right mower for your specific terrain, check out our self-propelled mowers for hilly yards guide. Whichever model you choose from this list, proper hill mowing technique (mowing across slopes, not up and down) and appropriate safety gear will keep you and your mower running smoothly for years.
