Choosing the right gas lawn mower can considerably improve how you care for your yard. In 2026, models like the PowerSmart with a Briggs & Stratton engine stand out for their power and versatility, making yard work easier and more efficient. Understanding key features, such as engine capacity, cutting width, and types of cut options, helps you make the best decision for your needs. Let’s explore what these top models offer and how they can help you achieve a perfectly manicured lawn.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine
- POWERED BY A RELIABLE B&S ENGINE: Equipped with a powerful 140cc B&S engine, known for its smooth start-up, consistent performance, and long-term...
- 21-INCH CUTTING WIDTH FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY: The robust steel deck covers a wide 21-inch path, reducing mowing time and making it perfect for medium to large...
- 3-IN-1 FUNCTION: BAGGING, MULCHING & REAR DISCHARGE: Switch easily between modes: collect clippings in the 1.4-bushel bag, mulch to nourish your lawn, or...
The PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine is a good choice for people with medium or large yards. If you have a lot of grass to cut or tough patches, this mower can handle it. It has a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine that starts easily and runs smoothly. This means you won’t have to struggle to get it going every time. The 21-inch steel deck helps you mow a bigger area faster, saving you time.
You can change the cutting height easily with the 6-position adjustment. You can set it from 1.5 to 3.9 inches, so it works well for different types of grass and seasons. The self-propelled feature makes mowing less tiring. It moves forward on its own, so you don’t have to push hard, even on slopes or uneven ground.
Best For: Homeowners with medium to large lawns who want a tough, reliable mower. It’s good for bigger jobs and uneven terrain.
Pros:
- Starts easily thanks to the reliable 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine.
- Covers more ground with a wide 21-inch deck.
- Self-propelled and big rear wheels make it easier to push and steer.
Cons:
- The self-propel cable can sometimes break after a few months.
- The gas tank is smaller than some other mowers, so you will need to refuel more often.
- Customer support for repairs and help may be limited, which can make fixing issues harder.
This mower is a good tool for those who want a sturdy and easy-to-use machine. It helps you finish your lawn quickly and with less effort.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine 2-in-1 Push Mower with Bagging
- Gas Powered Engine: A 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine equipped with recoil starter and auto choke for easy start, delivers strong power.
- 2-in-1 Steel Deck: All-steel deck built to last, combine mulching and bagging capabilities in 1.
- 21" Cutting Blade: The heavy-duty blade delivers better cutting effect, allowing you to mow more in less time.
If you want a lawn mower that is reliable and can do many jobs, the PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower is a good pick. It has a 21-inch cutting area and a 144cc engine. The engine is easy to start with a recoil starter and auto choke. You can change the height of the cut with six adjustable settings. The mower’s steel deck lets you mulch, bag, or side discharge grass easily. It weighs about 61.6 pounds, so it’s lightweight. Plus, it folds down for easy storage and carrying.
This mower works well for homeowners who want a strong, versatile, and easy-to-use gas lawn mower for medium and big yards.
Good Things:
- The 144cc engine powers through thick grass easily.
- You can set the cut height to your liking.
- It folds for easy storage and moving around.
Not-So-Good Things:
- The plastic wheels might break after a year.
- Starting the engine cold can be hard, needing many pulls or priming.
- Some parts like the collection bag flap and rubber tabs can wear out fast.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-inch with 140cc Briggs and Stratton E550 Engine
- Powerful Engine: Powered by 144cc 4-stroke engine, with auto choke system for easy start, and forced air-cooling system ensures smooth operation and...
- Cutting Performance: The 21-inch heavy-duty blade provides ultra-fine cuts, and the small clippings help maintain a healthy lawn.
- Time Saver: Great mowing effect in a single pass, even on thick grass, allowing you to cover more ground with fewer passes.
The PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower has a 21-inch all-steel deck and a 140cc Briggs and Stratton E550 engine. It’s a good choice if you want a mower that lasts long and makes mowing easy. The mower starts quickly with “Prime N Pull,” making it simple to get going. It runs quietly and works well every time.
This mower can do three things: mulching, bagging, or side discharge. It comes with a large 1.4 bushel bag to hold grass clippings. You can change the cutting height from 1.5 to 3.9 inches, so you get the height you want. It weighs about 62 pounds, so you can move it around without much trouble. Its handle folds down, making storage easy.
Best For: Homeowners who want a dependable and flexible gas mower for regular yard work.
Pros:
- The all-steel 21-inch deck and strong blades last a long time.
- You can choose to mulch, bag, or side discharge grass.
- Light weight makes it easy to handle and store.
- The adjustable height helps you cut grass just the right way.
Cons:
- Some people find it takes a few pushes to start it when the engine is cold.
- Plastic parts and wheels might break after heavy use.
- Putting it together can be hard for some, and the collection bag can be loose.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gas Lawn Mower
When choosing a gas lawn mower, you’ll want to think about the engine power and type to match your yard’s needs, as well as the cutting width and height to achieve a clean cut efficiently. It’s also important to take into account the deck’s material for durability, along with the mower’s weight and size for manageable use. Finally, ease of maneuverability can make mowing easier and more comfortable, especially if your yard has tight spaces or uneven terrain.
Engine Power & Type
Engine power and type are key things to think about when choosing a gas lawn mower. They directly affect how well your mower works and how easy it is to use. The engine size, usually measured in cc or horsepower (HP), shows how strong the engine is. A bigger cc means more power. More power helps you cut thick or tall grass more easily.
The kind of engine also matters. Common types are OHV and OHKA. OHV engines are usually more fuel-efficient, last longer, and are quieter. The engine type can make mowing more comfortable for you.
Starting options matter, too. Recoil start requires pulling a cord, while electric start uses a button. Electric start makes starting the mower easier, especially in cold weather or after long storage.
For small to medium lawns, an engine around 140-160cc works well. It gives enough power without being too heavy or hard to handle.
Cutting Width & Height
Picking the right cutting width and height makes mowing easier and better for your lawn. A wider cutting width lets you cover more ground in less time. This is helpful if you have a big yard. Most mowers have height settings from 1.25 to 4 inches. You can change these settings to match your grass type or how you like your grass to look. Many mowers have several height options, often with a lever. This makes it easy to set your grass at the height you want. Larger mower decks are heavier, but they cut grass faster. Keeping the same height every time makes your lawn look even and healthy. Choosing the right width and height helps you keep your yard nice with less work.
Deck Material Durability
The deck of your lawn mower is important. It affects how long your mower lasts and how well it works. Decks made of steel are strong and resist impact. They are a popular choice for durability. Aluminum decks are lighter and still strong, but they usually cost more. Plastic decks are the lightest and cheapest. But they can crack or break more easily if you hit something hard.
The thickness of the deck also matters. Thicker decks last longer. Heavier gauge metal is better for durability. To keep your deck in good shape, avoid mowing on rocky or uneven ground. Regularly clean and check the deck for damage.
Knowing the right deck for you helps you pick one that is durable and fits your budget. This way, your mower can work longer and better each season.
Mower Weight & Size
When choosing a gas lawn mower, it’s important to think about how much it weighs and its size. Heavier mowers, over 60 pounds, usually last longer and are tough. But they can be hard to push, especially if you have a small yard or if the ground goes up and down.
The size of the mower also matters. A mower with a 21-inch cutting width can cut more grass at once, helping you finish faster. Smaller or folding mowers are easy to store and carry, perfect if you don’t have a lot of space. Bigger mowers with wider decks cut faster but are heavier and bulkier.
Pick a mower that feels comfortable for you. Think about your yard and how much you want to lift or push. Choosing the right size and weight help you mow easily and without stress.
Ease of Maneuverability
Ease of maneuverability makes mowing your yard easier and less tiring. Self-propelled mowers help by pushing themselves, so you don’t have to do all the work. They are especially helpful on uneven ground or slopes. Large rear wheels, over 10 inches wide, give better grip and let you move around obstacles easily. An ergonomic handle that can be adjusted makes steering more comfortable and reduces strain, especially during long mowing sessions. Zero-turn mowers or models with a small turning radius are great for tight spaces or tricky yard layouts. They give better control. Lighter mowers are easier to handle, and well-balanced models help you move smoothly without getting tired.
Mulching & Discharge Options
Have you ever thought about how your mower’s mulching and discharge options can change the way your lawn looks? Mulching lets you chop grass clippings into tiny pieces. These small pieces stay on your lawn and act as natural fertilizer. This helps your grass stay healthy and green.
Discharge options, like side or rear discharge, help you remove grass when needed. Sometimes, mulching isn’t the best choice, and then you can use the discharge option. Many mowers come with a 3-in-1 feature. This means you can switch quickly between mulching, bagging, and side discharge.
Choosing a mower with adjustable discharge options is smart. It helps prevent clogging when the grass is thick or wet. Picking the right options for your yard size and grass type makes mowing easier. It also helps keep your lawn looking its best.
Warranty & Support
Choosing a gas lawn mower with a good warranty and support can help you feel confident in your purchase. Mowing equipment is an investment, so you want it to last. Look for a warranty that covers parts like the engine or transmission. Check how long the warranty lasts. Find out what is included, whether it covers just parts, or parts and labor. Knowing what’s protected over time is helpful. It’s also good if there are local service centers nearby. That makes repairs and maintenance easier. Research the manufacturer’s reputation for customer support. Friendly and quick help can make fixing problems simpler. Lastly, read what you need to do to activate the warranty. Make sure your warranty is active from the start.
FAQs
How Long Do Gas Lawn Mower Engines Typically Last?
Gas lawn mower engines usually last between 2,000 to 3,000 hours of use, which typically spans 8 to 10 years depending on maintenance, usage, and mowing frequency. Proper upkeep can extend your engine’s lifespan considerably.
Are Gas Mowers Environmentally Friendly?
Gas mowers aren’t very eco-friendly because they emit pollutants and consume fossil fuels. If you’re environmentally conscious, consider electric or battery-powered mowers, which produce fewer emissions, are quieter, and can be more energy-efficient for your yard work.
What Is the Average Maintenance Required for a Gas Mower?
You’ll need to change the oil every 25-50 hours of use, clean or replace the air filter regularly, sharpen blades annually, and check spark plugs and belts periodically to keep your gas mower running smoothly.
Can Gas Lawn Mowers Be Used on Uneven Terrain?
You can definitely use gas lawn mowers on uneven terrain. They handle rough ground well, especially models with high wheels, sturdy blades, and adjustable cutting heights, making your yard look neat regardless of its surface irregularities.
How Loud Are Gas Lawn Mowers Compared to Electric Models?
Gas lawn mowers tend to be substantially louder than electric models, often producing noise levels between 85 to 100 decibels. You’ll likely need hearing protection and should mow during reasonable hours to avoid disturbing neighbors.
Last update on 2026-02-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!