Picking between a Craftsman and a Toro mower can be tough. Both brands have fans. Both offer many choices. So, which one is best?
Here’s a quick answer: Toro is great for smooth cutting and easy use. Craftsman gives you good value for the money.
I’ve used both in my own yard. Over time, the differences stand out. In thick spring grass, one shines. In dry summer spots, the other shows its limits.
In this guide, I’ll share what I’ve learned. I’ll help you find the best fit for your yard and your routine. Let’s break it down—step by step.
Table of Contents
Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower: A Simple, Side-by-Side Look
I’ve used both Craftsman and Toro mowers over the years. They both work well, but in different ways. Let’s break it down by feature.
Cutting Width: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
A wider deck means fewer passes and faster mowing.
Feature | Craftsman CMCMW220P2 | Toro Recycler 60V (21466) |
Deck Width | 20 inches | 21 inches |
Deck Material | Metal | Steel |
Best Use | Small yards | Covers more in one pass |
Craftsman is easier in tight spots. Toro cuts more at once in open areas.
Ratings:
Craftsman: 8/10
Toro: 9/10
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Cutting Height Adjustment: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
Changing height is key as grass changes with the seasons.
Feature | Craftsman CMCMW220P2 | Toro Recycler 60V (21466) |
Height Range | 1.5–3.5 inches | 1.0–4.0 inches |
Adjustment Points | 6 | 9 |
Lever Type | Dual-lever | Two-point system |
Toro offers more choices. Craftsman works fine but feels stiff.
Ratings:
Craftsman: 7.5/10
Toro: 9/10
Motor Power: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
Both are battery-powered. Here’s how they compare.
Feature | Craftsman V20 | Toro Recycler 60V |
Battery | 2x 20V (40V total) | 60V |
Run Time | About 50 minutes | 40–45 minutes |
Motor | Brushless | Brushless with RunSmart |
Craftsman runs longer. But Toro cuts thick grass better.
Ratings:
Craftsman: 8/10
Toro: 8.5/10
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Maneuverability: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
This matters most if your yard has curves, trees, or garden beds.
Feature | Craftsman | Toro |
Weight | 47.9 lbs | 58 lbs |
Turning | Tight | Medium |
Handle | Low-profile | Self-adjusting pace |
Craftsman is light and easy to turn. Toro is heavier but steady on hills.
Ratings:
Craftsman: 8.5/10
Toro: 8/10
Grass Disposal: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
Bagging, mulching, or side throw—good mowers can do all.
Feature | Craftsman | Toro |
Mulching | Yes | Yes |
Bagging | Rear bag | Advanced design |
Side Discharge | No | Yes (with sign-up) |
Toro bags better and empties cleaner. Craftsman still does the job.
Ratings:
Craftsman: 7.5/10
Toro: 9/10
Noise Level: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
Both are quiet. But there are small differences.
Feature | Craftsman | Toro |
Sound Level | Low | Low |
Vibration | Very low | Slightly higher |
Both are way quieter than gas. Craftsman feels smoother on edges.
Ratings:
Craftsman: 9/10
Toro: 8.5/10
Ease of Use: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
How easy is it to start, store, and push?
Feature | Craftsman | Toro |
Start-up | Push-button | Push-button |
Storage | Vertical fold | SmartStow (folds small) |
Handle | Fixed | Adjustable |
Toro folds better in tight spaces. Craftsman is lighter to move.
Ratings:
Craftsman: 8.5/10
Toro: 9/10
Value for Money: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
What do you get for the price?
Feature | Craftsman | Toro |
Price Range | $350–$400 | $450–$500 |
In the Box | Battery + Charger | Tool only (mostly) |
Warranty | 2 years | 2-year tool, 3-year battery |
Craftsman includes the charger. Toro has a better warranty and build.
Ratings:
Craftsman: 8.5/10
Toro: 8/10
Overall Summary: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
Each mower fits a different kind of yard and user.
Feature | Craftsman | Toro |
Best Use | Light, quick mowing | Thicker grass, faster cuts |
Yard Type | Small, flat lawns | Medium yards, small slopes |
Feel | Light and simple | Powerful and smart |
Final Ratings:
Craftsman: 8.3/10
Toro: 8.7/10
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How I Change My Mowing Routine from Spring to Fall
Mowing at my place starts early—usually in late March. Spring grass grows fast, thick, and wet. That’s when I raise the mower deck to avoid cutting too short.
In early spring, I set the deck high. Toro makes this easy. Its lever clicks fast into place, even in thick grass. Craftsman works too, but its two-lever system is slower. Not great when I’m in a hurry.
Spring clippings fill the bag fast. Craftsman’s bag is smaller, so I have to stop and empty it more often. Toro holds more and lets me mow longer between trips.
By summer, the grass grows slower. I mow every 10 to 12 days. I lower the deck a bit—but raise it again during heatwaves. Taller grass keeps moisture better. Toro cuts dry spots well, thanks to its strong motor. Craftsman sometimes slows down in thick, dry patches.
One trick that helps a lot: I clean under the deck every second mow. Toro folds up with SmartStow, so I can clean it fast. With Craftsman, I have to tilt it and work around the axle. That’s harder and messier.
In fall, grass slows down, but leaves fall fast. I switch to mulching mode. Toro chops leaves into fine mulch. Craftsman is easier to push, especially on damp ground.
Tips for Better Results
- Sharpen blades each month. Dull blades tear grass. Sharp ones give a clean cut.
- Mulch in dry weather. It feeds your lawn and saves time. I only bag in spring or when grass is too long.
- Raise the deck in hot months. Taller grass handles heat better.
- Clean under the deck often. Gunk slows the blade. Toro makes this easy with SmartStow.
- Store batteries inside in winter. It helps them last longer.
- Use ethanol-free gas for gas mowers. It’s better for the engine.
These small habits have helped me save time, money, and keep my mowers in great shape.
Read More: Ryobi vs Ego Lawn Mower
Final Thoughts on Craftsman vs Toro
So, which mower should you choose?
If you want more power, easy features, and better long-term use—Toro is the winner. Its strong motor, SmartStow, and easy height control make it great for medium or big yards.
But Craftsman is still a smart pick. It’s light, costs less, and comes with a battery and charger. That’s perfect if you have a small yard or are just starting out.
One last tip: check local repair shops before you buy. Toro often has dealer support. Craftsman is sold in big stores, but getting repairs can take longer.
Pick the mower that fits your yard and your routine—not just the name on the label.
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FAQs: Craftsman vs Toro Lawn Mower
Which lawn mower is better for small yards—Craftsman or Toro?
Craftsman is lighter and easier to push. It’s great for small yards with tight spots or narrow paths.
Does Toro cut better than Craftsman on thick grass?
Yes. Toro has a stronger motor and a wider deck. It cuts thick, wet grass faster than Craftsman.
Which mower is easier to adjust—Craftsman or Toro?
Toro. It has a single lever that’s smooth and quick. Craftsman uses two levers, which take more time.
Is the Craftsman mower quieter than the Toro?
Yes, a bit. Both are quiet, but Craftsman feels smoother and makes less noise near fences or edges.
Which one gives better value—Craftsman or Toro?
Craftsman costs less and comes with a battery and charger.
Toro costs more, but has better features and lasts longer.