A mill bastard file is the old-school, no-power method that experienced lawn care veterans swear by for producing a superior, controlled edge. It takes more time but gives you the most tactile control over the bevel angle.
Just use a mill bastard file and call it a day.
I just use a hand file. Only takes a few minutes.
The angle grinder + flap disk combo is the go-to recommendation from experienced lawn care enthusiasts for fast, controlled blade sharpening. Harbor Freight sells a capable combo for under $15, making it the best value-to-performance sharpening setup.
A drill-powered blade sharpener is the easiest entry point for DIY mower blade maintenance, no blade removal needed and available for under $10. It won't produce a perfect edge, but it's a quick, accessible option for casual homeowners.
A bench grinder is the workshop staple for serious blade sharpening, fast material removal makes it ideal for heavily nicked or damaged blades. It's harder to control than an angle grinder but delivers consistent results once you develop technique.
A blade balancer is the often-overlooked companion to any sharpening method, an unbalanced blade causes vibration that damages your mower's spindle and bearings over time. At under $10, it's cheap insurance after every sharpening session.