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Fall cleanup shouldn’t mean hours of raking. The right mower turns a leaf-covered lawn into a tidy yard in a single pass, feeding your grass as it goes. This guide breaks down the best leaf-sucking, bagging, and mulching mowers so you can pick one that matches your lot, your back, and your tolerance for gas versus battery.
I’m Rikta — the founder and writer behind Lawn Gear Lab. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you have a postage-stamp yard or a rolling half-acre, these are the top lawn mower for picking up leaves options, ranked by real owner experience and hard specs.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Lawn Mower For Picking Up Leaves
Picking up leaves is a different job than just cutting grass. You need strong suction or airflow to lift leaves off the ground, a blade design that either shreds them for mulching or throws them into the bag, and a collection system that doesn’t clog every few feet. The right mower makes this chore quick and low-maintenance.
Blade Type: High-Lift vs. Mulching
A high-lift blade creates more airflow to pull leaves up and back into the bag. For purely chopping leaves into the lawn, a dedicated mulching blade with more cutting edges does a finer job. Some mowers, like the EGO Power+ Select Cut, let you swap between mulching, bagging, and extended-runtime blades to match the task.
Bag Capacity and Deck Design
Bigger bags mean fewer trips to the compost pile. The SENIX 144cc model includes a 1.7-bushel grass catcher, while the AMERISUN comes with a 1.4-bushel catcher. A well-designed deck, such as a vented “AeroDeck,” keeps clippings and leaves moving so the bag fills evenly without clogging.
Power Source: Gas vs. Battery
Gas engines offer unlimited runtime and strong suction but require oil changes, tune-ups, and dealing with fuel. Battery mowers are quieter, start instantly, and need no gas, but you’re limited by runtime. The EGO LM2134SP claims up to 100 minutes on two 6.0Ah batteries, which handles a decent-sized lot. For leaf mulching specifically, the Greenworks 60V with a turbo button gives an extra burst of power for thick leaf cover.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Power | Deck Width | Bag Capacity | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO LM2134SP-2★ Best Overall | Large yards, leaf mulching | 56V Battery | 21 inches | High-lift blade | Amazon |
| Greenworks 60VBest Long-Range | Battery users wanting power | 60V Battery | 21 inches | Turbo leaf pickup | Amazon |
| SKIL PWR CORE 40Top Performer | Quiet, self-propelled efficiency | 40V Battery | 20 inches | 3-in-1 | Amazon |
| EGO LM2114SP | Light battery self-propelled | 56V Battery | 21 inches | 3-in-1 | Amazon |
| WORX WG760 | Self-propelled 1/2 acre | 40V Battery | 20 inches | 3-in-1 | Amazon |
| GREENWORKS 48V | Turbo power pickups | 48V Battery | 21 inches | 4-in-1 Turbo | Amazon |
| WORX WG752 | Push mower 1/2 acre | 40V Battery | 20 inches | 3-in-1 | Amazon |
| SENIX 201cc | Large gas-powered lot | 201cc Gas | 22 inches | 3-in-1 | Amazon |
| SENIX 144cc | Budget gas value | 144cc Gas | 21 inches | 1.7 Bushels | Amazon |
| AMERISUN 170cc | Entry-level self-propelled | 170cc Gas | 21 inches | 1.4 Bushels | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. EGO Power+ 21″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower – LM2134SP-2
Our pick — 4.5★ from 300+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The battery-powered overachiever that leaves gas mowers in the dust, especially at leaf pickup.
The standout feature here is the Select Cut multi-blade system, which bundles a high-lift bagging blade alongside mulching and extended-runtime options. This is the mower that finally breaks gas habits.
At 96 pounds, it’s not the lightest, but the Touch Drive self-propel system with variable speed from 0.9 to 3.1 mph does the heavy lifting for you. You get up to 7.0 ft-lbs of cutting torque — enough that buyers report it “cuts better than Toro gas mower.” One-quarter acre of mulching took 50 minutes and used just 1.5 of the two included 56V 6.0Ah batteries, so you can finish a typical yard on one charge.
The trade-off is the grass bag, which owners find small, and rear-wheel drive that can make turning awkward. But with 8 cutting height positions from 1 to 4 inches and a 5-year tool warranty, it’s built for the long haul.
battery flagship
- Up to 100 minutes of runtime on two 6.0Ah batteries
- High-lift bagging blade excels at sucking up leaves
- Touch Drive self-propel is easy to control
- Quiet, no gas, no oil, stores upright
heavy battery
- Grass bag is small for large leaf loads
- Rear-wheel drive makes tight turns awkward
- Heavier than a basic push mower
top seller: 309 owners have weighed in, and the overwhelming consensus is that this is a genuine gas-mower replacement that performs.
heavy lift: If your yard is all tight corners and narrow paths, the turning radius might frustrate you more than the battery ever will.
2. Greenworks 60V 21 in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, (2) 4.0 Ah Battery Kit
A serious battery bruiser that dares to claim gas-like power for up to 3/4 acre per charge.
If you want battery power without compromise, this is the one to beat. The 60V brushless motor with two 4.0Ah batteries delivers gas-like power and a turbo leaf pickup mode that adds a burst of suction when the leaves are deep.
Where it truly shines is the ecosystem. It works with 75+ Greenworks 60V tools, so the batteries you buy here also power your trimmer, blower, or chainsaw. With a 4-year tool and 4-year battery warranty, it’s a long-term investment in a cordless yard.
The honest downside is weight and leaf suction. At 65 pounds, it’s not a featherweight, and owners note weak suction for leaves without the turbo engaged. But for tackling a large yard on a single charge, few battery mowers match its staying power.
dual battery: Owners consistently report getting a half-acre done on a charge, with the turbo boost giving the extra pull needed for deep leaf piles.
plastic deck: You’re already invested in the Greenworks 60V platform and want a mower that doubles as a leaf vacuum.
3. SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 20-Inch Self-Propelled Mower Kit
A focused, no-frills self-propelled electric mower that some say handles a whole 1/3 acre on one charge.
The PWR CORE 40 is all about clean, efficient power. The digital brushless motor delivers up to 50 minutes of runtime from a single 40V 6.0Ah battery, and the Auto PWR JUMP charger gets you back going fast. It’s not the flashiest, but it works.
For leaf pickup, a 13-month owner found it handled tall, wet grass well and noted excellent leaf pickup, outperforming other battery mowers they’d tried. The 3-in-1 functionality means you can bag, mulch, or side-discharge as the season demands. The telescoping, foldable handle makes for a compact vertical storage footprint.
The catch is that leaf pickup is generally weaker than a premium gas model, and the bag can fill quickly. But with a 20-inch deck, 7 height settings from 1.5 to 4 inches, and a satisfying push-button start, it’s a polished, dependable daily driver.
brushless torque: For those who want a quiet, self-propelled mower that starts instantly and handles leaf mulching without the gas fuss, this is a smart, balanced choice.
4. EGO 21″ Self Propelled Mower With Dual Toggle Kit (6.0Ah, 320W Charger)
A featherweight EGO that feels light, cuts smoothly, and collects leaves surprisingly well on flat ground.
If you’re coming from an old gas mower, the LM2114SP is a revelation. At just 50.9 pounds, it’s dramatically lighter and more maneuverable than most gas options, with an adjustable handle height that tall users specifically praise for saving their back.
The Dual-Toggle handleset lets you engage the self-propel with either hand, and the variable speed makes it easy to set a comfortable walking pace. It runs up to 50 minutes on the included 56V 6.0Ah battery, and owners note it can cover a small lawn plus leaf pickup on a single bar of charge.
But the included battery is just enough — larger lawns will likely need a second one. It also tends to clog on grass taller than 6 inches. Still, for a small, flat yard, it’s a brilliant, quiet, zero-maintenance option that does great leaf collection work in the fall.
premium pick: Perfect for smaller properties and anyone who wants the renowned EGO build quality without the weight of a larger model.
costly add: If you have a large, hilly acreage, the battery drain and lack of raw torque for thick grass mean you’d be happier with the LM2134SP.
5. WORX Cordless Lawn Mower, 40V 21″ WG760 | Self-Propelled
A nimble self-propelled WORX that glides so smoothly it feels barely there, even in thick grass.
The WG760 takes everything owners love about the WORX push mower and adds a self-propelled drive that tops out at 3.7 MPH. This takes the physical work out of mowing and makes it a viable option for seniors or anyone who dreads the push.
Its defining feature is the AeroDeck, a vented design that boosts airflow to prevent clogs and clumping while also maximizing bag collection for leaves and clippings. The IntelliCut sensors automatically adjust blade speed — slowing down on thin grass to conserve runtime, and speeding up through thick patches. This makes mulching leaves a refined, mulching task with no clumps left behind.
Battery life with the two included 5.0Ah PowerShare batteries is solid; a quarter-acre uses about 50% of the charge. It’s compatible with 140+ WORX PowerShare tools, making the batteries a gateway to a full cordless toolkit. The only real niggles are slow initial charging and that the high-lift suction isn’t as aggressive as dedicated leaf vacuums.
lightweight push: The combination of AeroDeck airflow and IntelliCut power management makes this a top-tier, low-effort choice for leaf mulching and bagging on a half-acre lot.
6. Greenworks 48V 21 in Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, (2) 5.0 Ah Battery Kit
A self-propelled workhorse with a Turbo Button explicitly built for maximum leaf pickup.
Greenworks engineered the 48V model specifically for leaf season with a 4-in-1 system that adds a Turbo Button for leaf pickup and maximum power. Given the heavy leaf coverage that comes with fall, having that extra burst of suction makes a real difference, and owner consensus is that the mower’s cutting quality is excellent.
The self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control gives you extra traction on slopes and in thick debris. The brushless motor is efficient, quiet, and should last for years. It comes with two 24V 5.0Ah batteries that combine for 48V, and the dual-port rapid charger is included.
The most common gripe revolves around battery consistency — runtime varies from a solid 45 minutes in cool conditions down to 15-20 minutes in extreme heat. However, for a small, moderately flat lot where the turbo power is a huge asset, it’s a strong contender.
power pick: Homeowners with small to medium yards that need a powerful, self-propelled boost for autumn’s leaf carpet.
heavy set: You have a large, open yard and need consistent long runtime on a single charge — this one is best where power is needed in bursts.
7. WORX Cordless Lawn Mower, 40V 21″ WG752 | Push Mower
The lightweight, versatile push mower that proves you don’t need a gas engine to collect leaves efficiently.
The WG752 is the push-mower version of the WG760, and it offers everything except the self-propelled drive. That means you’re trading a little convenience for a lighter machine that’s perfect for flat, manageable lawns and easy to handle in tight garden beds.
It shares the AeroDeck technology and the IntelliCut sensors, so it still delivers the excellent mulching and bagging performance that WORX is known for. The push settings are simple — a single 7-position lever adjusts cutting height from 1.5 to 4 inches, and the fully collapsible handle means it stores upright in a tiny corner of the garage.
Owners consistently praise how easy it is to push on flat ground, though it’s not self-propelled, so it’s not ideal for steep hills. The included two 5.0Ah PowerShare batteries provide about 50 minutes of runtime, and they’re swappable across the WORX platform. This is a fantastic budget-friendly way to get a leaf-capable mower without paying for a gas engine.
simple push: If your yard is flat and you want a cordless mower that stores compactly and mulches leaves cleanly, this is the pick. The trade-off is that you’re doing the pushing yourself.
8. SENIX 22″ 201cc Variable Speed Rear Wheel Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
A wide-cutting 22-inch gas beast that makes short work of big lawns and deep leaf cover.
For those who want no-compromise gas power, the SENIX 201cc delivers. The 22-inch cutting width is wider than most of the electric options on this list, meaning fewer passes and faster completion times. Its 201cc four-stroke OHV engine has plenty of grunt to power through thick leaf piles without bogging down.
The variable-speed rear-wheel drive is a key feature for handling slopes and rough terrain, and the 3-in-1 system lets you switch between bagging, mulching, and side discharge. Owners mention it starts on the first pull and handles a half-acre per tank, even mowing through 18-inch overgrowth.
However, the recurring criticism is that the lowest height settings cut too short — almost golf-course level — so if you like a longer cut for hot summers, you’ll need to be careful with the 6-position adjustment. There’s also a mention of a missing hose adapter for undercarriage washing. But if you want raw power and wide coverage for a big yard, this is the gas mower to beat.
gas muscle: This mower is all about raw cut width and gas-powered endurance. It’s less about finesse and more about getting the job done quickly on a large property.
9. SENIX 21″ Gas Lawn Mower 144cc, 3-in-1 Push Mower
A no-nonsense gas push mower that offers the biggest bang for the buck on leaf duty.
The SENIX 144cc gets a 21-inch steel deck, a 1.7-bushel grass catcher that reduces emptying frequency, and a 2-year warranty. It’s a push mower, so you provide the locomotion, but at just 54.2 pounds, it’s relatively easy to maneuver.
what separates it is the convenience. It comes pre-filled with oil, so you can unbox, add gas, and start mowing within minutes. The 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine delivers 3.4 HP and 5.8 ft-lb of torque, which is plenty for slicing through thick grass and sucking up leaves. The vortex tunnel design under the deck reduces grass buildup, keeping the airflow strong for better suction on leaves, so you spend less time clearing clogs.
The downside is durability — a handful of customers note broken parts upon arrival or deck height levers that slip. But considering the low price point, it’s a great-value gas option that most owners say cuts well and starts on the first pull.
small yard: Anyone who wants a capable, simple gas mower for leaf and grass pickup without spending a fortune. It gets the job done.
frequent refill: If you treat the height-adjustment mechanism gently, this will serve you well for years. It’s a budget tool, not a tank.
10. AMERISUN 21″ Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 170cc OHV Engine
An entry-level self-propelled gas mower that balances power and price for first-time owners.
The AMERISUN 170cc is all about value. It’s among the most affordable self-propelled gas mowers out there, yet it brings a heavy-duty steel deck, a 1.4-bushel grass catcher, and a foldable handle for compact storage. The 170cc OHV 4-stroke engine with auto choke makes starting simple, so you can get to work without fussing with a primer.
Reviewers point out it’s nearly pre-assembled, gets started on the first pull, and mows through tall, overgrown grass without stalling. The mulching is excellent, producing fine, even clippings, and the bagging is efficient with no clogging. That’s a strong combination for tackling leaf pickup in the fall.
The most common grumble is that the self-propelled speed is slower than some might like. It’s also note the 6-position cutting height adjusts from 1.5 to 3.9 inches, and some owners find the height lever doesn’t hold position perfectly. But it’s a lightweight, easy-to-push unit when not using the drive, making it a solid choice for smaller properties or those starting out.
power buy: You’re looking for an affordable, self-propelled gas mower that handles tall grass well and has solid bagging for leaves. It doesn’t have the premium refinement, but it has the muscle.
stubborn pull: If you’re a fast walker, the self-propelled top speed might feel a bit leisurely, and you may end up pushing it manually more often.
Understanding the Specs
Bagging Capacity and High-Lift Blades
For leaf pickup, the magic happens in the airflow. A high-lift blade creates strong suction to pull leaves up off the ground and send them back into the bag. Pay attention to the bag’s bushel capacity — a 1.7-bushel catcher holds more between emptyings than a 1.4-bushel, meaning fewer trips to the compost pile. A bigger capacity bag is the key to efficient leaf collection, letting you focus on pushing rather than stopping.
Mulching: Chopping Leaves Back Into the Lawn
Not all leaf pickup means bagging. Mulching chops leaves into tiny pieces that fall back onto the lawn, feeding it with nutrients and saving you from bag emptying. A mower with a dedicated mulching blade and a high-velocity deck design will shred leaves so finely that they disappear. This is the most efficient use of fall leaves, provided you don’t mind a little organic matter staying on the turf.
FAQ
Is it better to bag leaves or mulch them with a mower?
What is a high-lift blade and does it help with leaf pickup?
How do I know what size lawn a mower’s battery runtime can handle?
Will a self-propelled mower help with leaf pickup?
What does a 3-in-1 or 4-in-1 mower system mean?
Are battery mowers powerful enough to handle thick leaf piles?
Should I get a gas or battery mower for leaf collection?
How important is the grass bag capacity for leaf pickup?
What is a turbo button for leaf pickup?
Can I use a regular mulching mower to pick up leaves?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
Across the board, the lawn mower for picking up leaves winner is the EGO Power+ LM2134SP-2 because it offers class-leading versatility with its Select Cut blades and gas-beating performance, all while running whisper-quiet. If you want a large yard covered with serious gas power, the SENIX 201cc is the one to reach for. And for a budget-friendly battery option that still makes leaf duty a pleasure, the WORX WG752 is an excellent choice.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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