Is your lawn demanding more attention than you can give? Do you dream of a perfectly manicured yard without spending your entire weekend pushing a mower? Finding the right tool for the job makes all the difference. A 28-inch lawn mower sits in that sweet spot—bigger than the small push mowers that tire you out, but smaller than the huge riders that are overkill for many yards.
However, choosing the perfect 28-inch model presents its own set of headaches. You need to balance power, maneuverability, and price. Should you pick a gas engine or go electric? What features truly matter for a cleaner cut? Settling for the wrong machine means frustrating mowing sessions and a lawn that never looks quite right.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what makes a 28-inch mower a great investment for your property. By the end of this article, you will know precisely which features to look for and which models deserve your hard-earned money. Let’s dive in and find the best 28-inch lawn mower to reclaim your weekend!
Top 28 Inch Lawn Mower Recommendations
- [80V 21” SELF-PROPELLED LAWN MOWER] - Get more done, faster, with Greenworks electric lawn mowers. This 80V lawn mower cuts up to 1/2 acre with a fully charged 4.0Ah battery (varies based on grass condition and operator technique)
- [BRUSHLESS MOTOR / DURABLE STEEL DECK] - This electric mower features a durable 21" deck, and a highly efficient brushless motor that provides more torque, quiet operation, and longer life
- [SELF-PROPELLED] – Rear wheel drive and variable speed control for maximum traction, maneuverability, and control
- [LED HEADLIGHT] – High visibility LED lights allow for early morning and late evening mowing. 3x quieter than gas!
- [4-IN-1 SYSTEM] – Mulch, bag, side discharge, and turbo leaf pickup
- Gas-like Performance – Delivers 50% more power than 40V mowers with 60% less noise than gas – zero fumes, no pull cords!
- Self-Propelled & Effortless – Rear-wheel drive conquers hills easily with variable speed control (3.5-4.5 MPH).
- Long-Lasting 80-min Runtime – Cuts up to ¾ acre per charge (2 x 4.0Ah batteries + 80-min fast charger).
- Smartcut Technology – 30% better mulching & no bogging in thick/wet grass vs. single-blade mowers.
- Ecosystem Value - Battery-powered lawn mower includes battery, fast charger, grass bag & 4 year tool + 4 year battery warranty Works with 75+ Greenworks 60V tools(trimmers, blowers, chainsaws...)—expand your cordless toolkit.
- Electric Start simplifies the starting process, making your gardening tasks more efficient and stress-free
- Exclusive and industry-leading CVT (continuously variable transmission) offers superior speed variability to adjust the mower's pace to match your walking speed by simply selecting the 6-speed shift lever.
- Durable, one-piece seamless steel deck reduces vibration for a smoother owing experience.
- Easily clean the underside of the cutting deck with the deck cleanout port.
- Single-lever deck adjustment for quickly setting your mow height.
- Exclusive and industry-leading CVT (Continuously variable transmission) offers superior speed variability to adjust the mower pace to your walking speed by simply selecting the 6-speed shift lever
- Exclusive rubber tires with aggressive spiked tread pattern significantly increase overall traction and maneuverability
- Starting made easier with the automatic choke system, no need to prime or choke the engine
- Quickly clean the underside of the cutting deck with the deck cleanout port
- Single-lever deck adjustment for quickly setting your mow height
- Powerful & Efficient OHV 144cc Engine: Equipped with a robust 4-stroke OHV 144cc engine, this lawn mower delivers unmatched performance and reliability, ensuring a clean and efficient cut every time.
- Versatile 3-in-1 Cutting System: Choose between mulching and side discharge options to suit your lawn care needs. Mulching finely chops grass clippings to enrich your soil, while side discharge allows for quick and easy cleanup of larger areas.
- Lightweight & Easy Maneuverability: Weighing just 62 lbs, this lawn mower is a breeze to push and maneuver around your garden. Its compact design makes it perfect for tight spaces and small yards, ensuring no corner is left uncut.
- Customizable Cutting Height for Perfect Results: With 6-position height adjustment, you can easily customize the cutting height from 1.5 to 3.9 inches to achieve the perfect lawn finish. Whether you prefer a short, neat look or a lush, green carpet, this mower has you covered.
- Safety First with Start/Stop Control Lever: Designed with your safety in mind, the start/stop control lever allows for easy and immediate stopping of the mower in case of emergencies. This feature prevents accidents and injuries, giving you peace of mind while you work on your lawn.
- Effortless Power for ½ Acre Yards- Experience gas-like performance without the hassle—35 minutes of continuous runtime from a single 4.0Ah battery (full charge in 2 hours). Perfect for small to medium lawns up to ½ acre.
- Ultra-Lightweight Design (35% Lighter)- 16" cutting deck with ergonomic handles and push-button start makes maneuvering effortless—ideal for users prioritizing comfort and ease of storage.
- Smart Cut Adjustment System- Single-lever 5-position height control (1.25"-3.375") adapts to any grass type. 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging system maximizes clippings management.
- Zero Maintenance, Maximum Savings- No gas/oil costs, emissions, or engine tune-ups. Save $200+ annually vs gas mowers with whisper-quiet operation (<75dB).
- Complete Ecosystem Value- Includes battery, fast charger, grass bag & 3year tool + 3year battery warranty Works with 75+ Greenworks 40V tools(trimmers, blowers, chainsaws...)—expand your cordless toolkit.
- High-Performance Brushless Motor: The cordless lawn mower features a brushless motor that delivers 2800 RPM on Low and 3400 RPM on High for efficient cutting power and long-lasting performance.
- 4-Position Cutting Height Adjustment: This battery lawn mower offers 4 cutting height settings from 1.3 inches to 2.6 inches to match seasonal growth and your preferred cut.
- Wide Cut and Bagging: The 13-inch deck helps you cover more ground with fewer passes, and the 30L removable rear bag makes cleanup simple. A 2-step safety start helps prevent accidental start-up for added peace of mind.
- Dual-Battery Runtime: Powered by two 20V 4.0Ah lithium batteries, this electric lawn mower provides up to 30 minutes of runtime on a full charge. Swap batteries to reduce downtime and keep mowing moving. Ideal for small to medium lawns. Runtime may vary based on grass conditions, terrain, and operation.
- Complete Kit Included: Includes 1× 13-inch cordless lawn mower, 2× 20V 4.0Ah batteries, 1× single-port charger, and 1× 8-gallon grass bag. Easy to assemble and simple to use.
- POWERFUL 140CC B&S ENGINE：Equipped with the trusted B&S EX550 engine, this lawn mower delivers unmatched power and precision. With its easy-pull recoil and auto choke system, starting is effortless and stress-free.
- 3-IN-1 VERSATILITY：Switch effortlessly between EFFICIENT BAGGING, NATURAL MULCHING & REAR DISCHARGE. Bagging collects clippings neatly into a large-capacity grass bag, keeping your lawn clean and tidy. Mulching finely shreds grass clippings and redistributes them to enrich the soil, reducing the need for fertilizer. Rear discharge quickly expels clippings from the back, ideal for covering larger areas without interruption.
- ROBUST STEEL DECK：Crafted from heavy-duty alloy steel, the 21-inch cutting deck ensures long-lasting durability and efficient mowing. It covers large areas quickly, making lawn care less time-consuming and more effective.
- CONVENIENT INSTANT START：Simply pull the cord to start – no need to press a primer bulb! Quick and easy ignition gets you mowing in no time.
- ADJUSTABLE CUTTING HEIGHTS：Featuring 6 height settings, this mower adapts to your lawn's needs. Whether you prefer a clean, low trim or a lush, higher cut, it's easy to customize for every season.
The 28-Inch Lawn Mower Buying Guide: Get Your Lawn Looking Great
A 28-inch lawn mower is a fantastic choice for many homeowners. It offers a wider cutting path than smaller mowers, meaning you finish your yard work faster. But how do you pick the right one? This guide helps you find the perfect machine for your grass.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a 28-inch mower, certain features make a big difference in how well it works and how easy it is to use.
Engine Power and Type
- Engine Size (CCs): Look for an engine size that matches your yard size. Larger yards need more power. For a 28-inch deck, an engine around 150cc to 190cc is usually a good starting point.
- Starting System: Electric start is a huge convenience. You just push a button to start the engine. Pull-start is traditional but requires more effort.
Deck Features
- Deck Material: The deck holds the blades. A strong deck lasts longer.
- Cutting Height Adjustment: You need to change how high or low you cut. Look for easy, one-lever adjustments rather than fiddling with four separate wheels.
Drive System
- Self-Propelled vs. Push: For a 28-inch model, which covers more ground, self-propelled is highly recommended. It moves itself forward, reducing fatigue, especially on hills.
Important Materials That Matter
The materials used determine how tough your mower will be.
Steel vs. Aluminum Decks
- Stamped Steel Decks: These are common and durable. They resist impact well.
- Cast Aluminum Decks: These decks resist rust much better than steel. If you live somewhere very rainy or near the coast, aluminum might be worth the extra cost.
Wheels and Tires
Look for wheels made of strong plastic or metal. Large rear wheels help you maneuver the mower easily, especially over bumpy grass. Good tread on the tires keeps the mower from slipping when it is self-propelled.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some design choices make a huge difference in the long run.
Quality Boosters
- Washout Ports: These small holes let you attach a garden hose to clean the underside of the deck without tipping the mower awkwardly. This keeps grass buildup from slowing the blades.
- Mulching Capability: High-quality mowers handle mulching (chopping grass very fine) efficiently. This feeds nutrients back into your lawn.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Plastic Housing: If the engine housing or handle brackets are made of very thin plastic, they might crack over time from vibration or accidental bumps.
- Flimsy Handlebar: A handlebar that wobbles a lot makes steering less precise and feels cheap.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about your yard and how you like to work.
Who Needs a 28-Inch Mower?
- Medium to Large Yards: If your yard is bigger than about a quarter acre, the 28-inch width saves significant time compared to a 21-inch model.
- Hilly Terrain: Always choose a self-propelled version if your yard has slopes. Pushing a heavy mower uphill is hard work.
Ease of Use
Test how easy it is to fold the handle for storage. If you have limited garage space, a quick-fold mechanism is essential. Also, check the bagging system—is it easy to remove and dump the grass clippings?
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 28-Inch Lawn Mowers
Q: Is a 28-inch mower too big for a small yard?
A: It might be slightly harder to turn around in very tight spaces, but the wider cut still saves time. It is generally best for medium to large residential lots.
Q: Should I choose gas or electric (battery) for this size?
A: Gas engines usually offer more consistent power for thick grass. However, modern high-voltage battery models can handle 28-inch decks well and are much quieter.
Q: How often should I sharpen the blades?
A: Sharpen the blades at least once per mowing season, or more often if you notice the grass tips looking ragged or brown after cutting.
Q: What does “self-propelled” mean?
A: It means the engine powers the wheels, so you only need to steer the mower forward. It does the hard work of pushing for you.
Q: What is the best cutting height for a typical lawn?
A: Most experts suggest cutting about one-third of the grass blade length at a time. For many lawns, setting the height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches works best during the main growing season.
Q: Are 28-inch mowers hard to store?
A: Many modern versions feature vertical storage options. Check if the handle folds down quickly so you can store it upright against a wall.
Q: What maintenance is required besides fueling?
A: You must regularly change the oil (for gas models), clean the air filter, and keep the underside of the deck clean of old grass.
Q: Will a 28-inch mower handle tall, thick weeds?
A: Yes, especially if it has a higher horsepower engine and a strong steel deck. However, no mower works well if you let the grass get extremely overgrown.
Q: What is the benefit of a washout port?
A: The washout port lets you clean caked-on grass clippings underneath the deck using water pressure from a hose. Clean decks cut grass better.
Q: How heavy are these mowers usually?
A: Self-propelled 28-inch models often weigh between 90 and 120 pounds. This weight is manageable because the wheels move the machine for you.