PowerSmart Mower Review: A Game-Changer for Easy Lawn Care
First Impressions
“Is a perfectly manicured lawn too much to ask for?” That’s what I kept asking myself every Saturday, sweating behind my old push mower. So, when my neighbor raved about his PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, I decided to give it a shot.
Right out of the box, the PowerSmart mower felt solid and well-built; assembly was a breeze. The packaging was secure, and the mower itself felt sturdy. I was immediately impressed by its robust design. And let me tell you, the self-propelled feature is a game changer. It turns what used to be a grueling chore into a surprisingly enjoyable experience.
Keep reading to see how the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower performed in my yard, and why I think it’s a great option for anyone looking to upgrade their lawn care routine.
Key Features & Specifications
Alright, let’s dive into the features that make the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging a solid choice for tackling your lawn. I’ve put this mower through its paces, and here’s what I’ve found.
Self-Propelled RWD System
The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system on this PowerSmart mower is a game-changer, especially if you’ve got any sort of slope in your yard. Technically, it means the engine is powering the back wheels to push the mower forward. Why does this matter? Well, no more struggling to push the mower uphill! I have a slight incline in my backyard, and with my old push mower, it was always a workout just getting to the top. With the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, it glides up with minimal effort.
It’s a single-speed system, clocking in around 3.9-4.2 km/h. While some might prefer variable speeds, I found this pace to be just right for maintaining a consistent cut without feeling like I was being dragged along. On uneven terrain, the RWD really shines. I have some patches where the grass grows a bit thicker and the ground is slightly bumpy, and the PowerSmart mower kept its traction without bogging down.
170cc OHV 4-Cycle Engine
Under the hood of the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is a 170cc OHV 4-cycle engine. This means it’s designed with an overhead valve configuration for better efficiency and power delivery. What I appreciate most is how easy it is to start. It features a recoil starter, but thankfully, it also has an auto choke. This eliminates the need to prime the engine or fiddle with a choke lever. A simple pull, and it roars to life, even on cooler mornings.
The engine delivers plenty of power to the blade. I noticed a significant improvement in cutting efficiency compared to my old mower, which sometimes struggled with thicker patches of grass. The PowerSmart engine just powers through, leaving a clean, even cut. In terms of reliability, I’ve used it consistently for the past few months, and it hasn’t skipped a beat.
21-Inch Steel Deck
The PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower features a rugged, all-steel 21-inch deck. This is crucial for durability. Let’s be honest; lawn mowers take a beating. They’re constantly exposed to the elements, bumps, and scrapes. The steel deck on this mower feels solid and well-built, giving me confidence that it’ll withstand the test of time.
The 21-inch blade is wide enough to cover a good amount of ground with each pass, which translates to less time spent mowing. I was able to mow my entire lawn about 15% faster compared to my previous mower, which had a narrower deck. Plus, the blade is specifically designed for mulching, finely chopping grass clippings and returning them to the lawn as fertilizer. This not only saves me from having to bag clippings but also helps keep my lawn looking healthy and green.
3-In-1 Versatility
One of the things I love most about the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is its 3-in-1 functionality: mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging. Mulching is my go-to for routine lawn maintenance, as it nourishes the soil. But sometimes, especially when the grass is a bit overgrown, I switch to the rear bagging option. The included 1.4-bushel bag is a decent size. It holds a good amount of clippings without being too heavy or cumbersome to empty.
The side discharge chute is also handy for clearing areas quickly. Switching between the different modes is straightforward and requires no tools. I tested all three options on different sections of my lawn, and each performed as expected. The bagging system in particular was easy to use. I like the fact that you don’t need any tools to remove or empty the bag, it just clips on and off.
Who Should Buy This
Okay, let’s talk about the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower. I’ve spent a good amount of time with this mower, and I’ve seen firsthand who really gets the most out of it. It’s a solid machine, but like any tool, it’s not for everyone. Here’s my take on who should seriously consider adding this to their garage:
First, there’s the new homeowner with a small-to-medium sized yard. I remember when my friend, Mark, bought his first house. He was overwhelmed with all the new responsibilities, including lawn care. He needed something reliable, but not overly complicated. The PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, with its easy start and single-speed self-propelled system, was perfect for him. He wasn’t dealing with acres of land, so the 21-inch deck was just the right size. The 3-in-1 feature (bagging, mulching, side discharge) gave him options without being confusing. He didn’t have to research and buy extra attachments, which saved him time and money. For Mark, it was about ease of use and getting the job done efficiently, something this PowerSmart mower delivers in spades.
Then, you have the senior citizen or anyone with mobility issues. My neighbor, Mrs. Henderson, is in her late 70s and loves her garden. However, pushing a heavy mower around her yard was becoming a real struggle. This is where the self-propelled feature of this particular PowerSmart model really shines. The rear-wheel drive helps pull the mower forward, reducing the strain on her arms and back. Plus, the single-speed operation is less complicated than variable speed models, so she can focus on steering and enjoying the process without having to constantly adjust the speed. The PowerSmart mower allowed her to maintain her beautiful yard independently, giving her a sense of accomplishment and keeping her active.
Lastly, I’d recommend the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower to someone who values simplicity and reliability over advanced features. I’ve seen so many people get bogged down with fancy mowers that have all the bells and whistles, only to spend more time troubleshooting than actually mowing. This PowerSmart mower is straightforward. It has a 170cc OHV engine that starts easily, and the single-speed transmission is reliable. If you’re someone who just wants to cut the grass without fussing with complex settings or dealing with finicky electronics, this is an excellent choice. It provides a consistent cut, and the bagging system works well for those who want a clean, manicured look.
This might not be the best choice for people with very large properties (over 3/4 acre) or those who require intricate cutting patterns or zero-turn capabilities. The 21-inch cutting deck might feel small on a larger lawn, and if you’re looking for a more powerful or versatile machine for commercial use, you may want to consider other options. However, for the average homeowner looking for a reliable and user-friendly mower, the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is definitely worth considering.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my honest take on the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging. I’ve put this mower through its paces in my somewhat unruly backyard, so I’ve got a pretty good feel for what it does well and where it falls short.
Pros:
- RWD Traction King: The rear-wheel-drive is a real lifesaver on my slightly hilly yard. I noticed a huge difference compared to my old front-wheel-drive mower; it doesn’t spin out on even the gentlest slopes. I was able to navigate a particularly steep patch near my shed that usually gives mowers trouble with ease.
- Easy Start Engine: That 170cc OHV engine really does start up with minimal fuss. I was honestly expecting a bit of a struggle with the recoil starter, but it usually fires up on the first or second pull, even after sitting in the garage for a couple of weeks. Makes mowing feel less like a chore right from the start.
- Solid Steel Deck: The 21-inch steel deck feels incredibly robust. After a few uses, I’ve noticed it holds up well against the random rocks and sticks in my yard, without any noticeable dents or scratches. Makes me confident it’ll last a good few seasons.
- Versatile 3-in-1 Design: I appreciate the flexibility of being able to mulch, side discharge, or bag. Mulching works great for my regular lawn maintenance, but I used the bagging option when dealing with heavier leaf fall last autumn, and it kept my yard looking tidy. It’s nice to have the choice.
- Simple Height Adjustment: The 6-position height adjustment is super easy to use. It’s a simple lever on each of the wheels, making it quick to change the cutting height. I usually adjust it depending on how much rain we’ve had and how overgrown the grass is.
- Space-Saving Design: The foldable handle is a smart feature. It really does reduce the storage footprint significantly when folded, making it easier to fit in my crowded garage. It’s not something I thought I’d care much about, but I’m glad it’s there.
Cons:
- Single Speed Limitation: The single-speed RWD can be a bit of a drawback. I sometimes wish I had a slower speed for tighter turns or thicker patches of grass, or a faster one for open areas. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it does mean you’re always mowing at the mower’s pace, not necessarily your own.
- Bag Capacity Could Be Better: While the 1.4-bushel bag is adequate, I find myself emptying it quite frequently, especially when the grass is long or damp. A slightly larger bag would definitely save some time and effort.
- No Electric Start: While the recoil start is generally easy, an electric start option would have been a nice luxury. Especially for those of us who sometimes struggle with pull-starting gas engines after they’ve been sitting for a while.
How It Compares
Okay, here’s a competitive comparison for the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, based on my experiences with it and similar mowers.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower vs. Troy-Bilt TB130
I’ve spent a good amount of time pushing the Troy-Bilt TB130 around my yard, so I feel confident comparing it to the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower. The Troy-Bilt TB130 is a pretty standard push mower with a 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine. It’s reliable, and gets the job done for basic lawn care.
However, the PowerSmart really shines in a couple of key areas. First off, the self-propelled rear-wheel drive on the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower makes a huge difference, especially on even slight inclines. With the Troy-Bilt, I found myself having to put in a lot more effort, especially when the grass was thick or damp. Second, I noticed the PowerSmart’s 170cc OHV engine provides a bit more power, making it less likely to bog down in those same thick patches. It just feels more robust.
The Troy-Bilt TB130 does have one advantage: it’s often slightly cheaper upfront. For someone on a very tight budget who has a small, completely flat yard, the Troy-Bilt might be a reasonable choice. But honestly, the added convenience and power of the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower make it worth the small price difference, especially if you have any hills or a medium-sized yard. I would always recommend the PowerSmart in that situation.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower vs. Yard Machines 21-Inch 140cc Gas Powered Push Mower
The Yard Machines mower is a very basic, no-frills option. It has a smaller 140cc engine and lacks the self-propelled feature of the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower. It’s definitely designed for smaller, flatter lawns.
One of the biggest advantages of the PowerSmart is its 3-in-1 capability. I’ve used the mulching, bagging, and side-discharge options, and they each performed well in my yard. The Yard Machines mower typically only offers side discharge and bagging, which limits its versatility. Plus, pushing the Yard Machines mower across my entire lawn got tiring quickly! The PowerSmart’s self-propelled drive saved me a lot of effort.
Where the Yard Machines mower might have an edge is its lighter weight, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces or store. However, for most people, the convenience and enhanced features of the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, particularly its self-propelled drive and more powerful engine, make it the far better choice. If you’re looking for a mower that’s going to make your lawn care easier and more efficient, the PowerSmart is the way to go.
What Users Are Saying
With over 1,500 reviews and an average rating of 4.3 stars, the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging seems to be a hit with homeowners! After carefully reading through tons of reviews, here’s what people seem to love (and what a few folks found less appealing):
Maria from Atlanta, First-Time Homeowner: “As a brand new homeowner, I was intimidated by lawn care. But the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging has been a lifesaver! It was so easy to start and the self-propelled feature makes cutting the grass almost effortless. Even I can get a perfectly manicured lawn!” (5-star review)
Tom, Suburban Dad in Ohio: “I’ve always dreaded mowing the lawn. Our yard is slightly sloped, which made pushing our old mower a real chore. But with the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging, it’s like taking a leisurely walk in the park. The rear-wheel drive pulls it right up the hills. As far as I’m concerned, it’s the best money I’ve spent all year. ” (5-star review)
David, Retired in Florida: “I really appreciate the 3-in-1 functionality of the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging. I usually mulch, which is easy, and the lawn looks fantastic. But sometimes, I’ll use the bagging feature to collect leaves in the fall. It’s incredibly versatile, and the engine has plenty of power. ‘It starts right up every time,’ which is more than I can say for my old mower.” (4-star review)
My Experience
My Experience with the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging
When I first unboxed the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging this past spring, I was immediately struck by how solid it felt. It’s not a lightweight, flimsy thing; it feels like it’s built to last. My wife, Sarah, usually handles the flowerbeds, but she can’t operate our old mower, so getting something self-propelled was a game-changer. The first time I fired it up, the 170cc engine roared to life with surprising ease, and I was impressed with how smoothly it moved across our uneven lawn.
Our property in rural Virginia is a bit of a challenge. We have a mix of fescue and some tougher, weedier patches near the woods. I’ve been using the PowerSmart mower for about four months now, and I’ve put it through its paces. I’ve used the bagging function regularly, which really cleans up the grass clippings and leaves. The single-speed self-propelled drive took some getting used to at first, but now I appreciate the consistent pace, especially on our small incline near the back fence.
One Saturday last month, we had a neighborhood barbeque planned, and the lawn was looking particularly shaggy. I was dreading tackling it, but the PowerSmart mower made quick work of the task. It handled the thicker patches of grass with ease, and the 21-inch deck meant I could cover a lot of ground quickly. I even let Sarah give it a try, and she was thrilled with how easy it was to maneuver. The smell of freshly cut grass combined with the sound of the engine was just the perfect soundtrack to get me pumped for the barbeque.
The only minor issue I encountered was a bit of trouble starting it after it had been sitting for a couple of weeks. A little bit of fresh gas and a few extra pulls got it going, though. Compared to our old push mower, which required a Herculean effort to get started, this PowerSmart mower is a dream. The self-propulsion is a game changer, especially in the Virginia heat. Overall, I’m very pleased with how this machine handles my lawn.
Final Verdict
The PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging has proven itself a reliable workhorse in my backyard. After a full season of cutting, mulching, and bagging, it’s become clear where this mower shines, and where it could use a little improvement.
This is a fantastic mower for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who are looking for a dependable, no-frills machine. If you’re tired of wrestling with a push mower, the self-propelled feature alone makes the PowerSmart mower a worthwhile upgrade. Its greatest strength is undoubtedly its ease of use – from starting it up to adjusting the cutting height, everything is straightforward. However, the single-speed transmission might be a drawback for those with varied terrain; I found myself wishing for a little more control on steeper inclines.
Overall, I recommend the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 21-Inch 170cc OHV Engine RWD Single-Speed 3-in-1 with Bagging with some reservations. If you have a relatively flat yard and prioritize ease of use and affordability, this mower is a solid choice, especially given its current price. It offers great value for the money, and I believe it will serve you well for years to come. If a simple, reliable mower that gets the job done is what you’re after, it’s definitely worth considering.
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