Cub Cadet describes the machine as a wide-area walk mower—that’s landscaper jargon for a self-propelled walk mower with front caster wheels and engines as large as 14.5 hp.

Mower decks for self-propelled mowers may range from 18-30 inches, but 20-22 inches are the most common. Expect to spend between $300-$1,200 for a self-propelled mower. Mowers with larger decks ...

Worst Budget Gas Self-Propelled Mower: Cub Cadet SC500Z 12AQC62J, $430. This model turned in solid cutting, particularly when used to mulch clippings.

The Pulsar mower is less than half the cost of the Toro and Cub Cadet models mentioned earlier, even though all three units have 21-inch cutting decks (The Pulsar unit is not a self-propelled design).

Self-propelled vs. riding lawn mowers If you dread having to mow the lawn in hot summer weather and wish the job were easier and would go faster, you might want to invest in a powered lawn mower.