PowerSmart Mower Review: Game-Changing Mower for Homeowners
First Impressions
Tired of wrestling with a lawn mower that felt more like a stubborn mule than a helpful tool? I sure was! After my ancient mower finally sputtered its last breath this spring, I decided it was time for an upgrade. That’s when I took a chance on the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower.
My first impression? This thing felt solid right out of the box. The packaging was secure, and the mower itself had a reassuring weight that hinted at quality construction. Assembling the PowerSmart mower was a breeze, and I was immediately impressed with the high wheels, which promised easier maneuverability on my bumpy lawn.
But the real game-changer? The self-propelled feature. Finally, no more pushing! This 22-inch beast practically glides across the grass, making mowing feel less like a chore and more like a leisurely stroll. Keep reading for my full, in-depth review of the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, where I’ll cover everything from its 170cc OHV engine to its 3-in-1 functionality.
Key Features & Specifications
Okay, here’s a detailed features section for the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, written as if I’ve been using it in my own yard.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower Features
170CC OHV Engine with Auto Choke
The heart of any gas mower is its engine, and the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. comes equipped with a 170cc OHV (Overhead Valve) engine. What does that mean for you? Simply put, more power. The OHV design is more efficient, meaning you get better fuel economy and a cleaner burn. I’ve noticed this translates to the mower having plenty of grunt to tackle even thicker patches of grass without bogging down. Plus, the recoil starter with auto choke really does make starting a breeze. In my experience, it usually starts on the first or second pull, even after sitting in the garage for a couple of weeks. I remember my old mower needed a lot of attempts to get it going, so this is a welcome improvement.
The engine’s power is most noticeable when dealing with overgrown areas. I have a patch of my yard that tends to get a bit wild, and the PowerSmart mower powered right through it without hesitation. I didn’t have to go over the same spot multiple times like I used to, saving me time and effort. I’ve also tested it on slightly damp grass, and it still performed admirably, though I always prefer to mow when it’s dry for the best cut.
Self-Propelled Rear-Wheel-Drive (RWD) System
One of the biggest selling points for me was the self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system. Let’s be honest, pushing a heavy mower around a yard, especially one with any kind of slope, is exhausting. The RWD on this PowerSmart mower makes it almost effortless. It provides excellent traction, which is essential if you have any hills or uneven terrain. My backyard has a gentle slope, and the self-propelled system makes mowing it a breeze. I can walk at a comfortable pace, and the mower does all the work.
I also appreciated how the RWD system handles the turns. It’s easy to maneuver around trees and flower beds without feeling like I’m wrestling with the machine. The speed control is conveniently located on the handle, allowing me to adjust the pace to match my walking speed and the density of the grass. I’ve found that the middle setting works best for most of my yard, but it’s nice to have the option to increase the speed when I’m on flatter, less dense areas.
22-Inch Steel Cutting Deck
The 22-inch cutting deck on the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is a good size for most residential yards. It’s wide enough to cover ground quickly, but not so large that it’s difficult to maneuver. The all-steel construction feels incredibly durable, giving me confidence that it will withstand years of use. I’ve accidentally bumped it against a few rocks and tree roots, and so far, there’s no sign of damage.
The blade itself seems well-made and holds its edge nicely. I’ve mowed my yard about a dozen times since I got the PowerSmart mower, and I haven’t needed to sharpen the blade yet. The cut is clean and even, leaving my lawn looking well-manicured. I also like that the deck is designed to optimize airflow for mulching, bagging, and side discharge, which brings me to my next point.
Versatile 3-in-1 Design: Mulch, Rear Discharge, and Bagging
The ability to mulch, rear discharge, or bag clippings is a fantastic feature that adds to the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower’s versatility. Mulching is my preferred method, as it returns nutrients to the soil and helps keep my lawn healthy. The mower does a great job of finely chopping the clippings, so they decompose quickly. The rear discharge option is handy when the grass is too long or wet for mulching. It prevents the mower from clogging and allows me to continue mowing without having to stop and empty a bag constantly.
Speaking of bagging, the included 60L collection bag is a decent size, meaning I don’t have to empty it as often. It’s also easy to remove and empty, which is a definite plus. I used the bagging option when I was cleaning up leaves in the fall, and it worked perfectly. Having these three options available makes this PowerSmart mower a true all-in-one solution for lawn care.
Who Should Buy This
Okay, here’s my take on who should buy the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower. I’ve seen a lot of folks struggle with their lawns over the years, and I think this mower could be a real game-changer for some of them.
Who Should Buy This PowerSmart Mower?
After spending a good chunk of my summer using this thing, I can confidently say it’s not for everyone, but for certain homeowners, it’s a real winner. But before diving in, I’ll just say that if you have a tiny postage stamp of a yard, or you’re looking for a battery powered, super quiet option, this might not be your first choice. But if you fit into one of these categories, keep reading!
1. The Weekend Warrior with a Medium-Sized Yard
I’ve got a neighbor, let’s call him Dave, who’s the epitome of a weekend warrior. He loves his yard, but he’s not getting any younger. He used to complain about his old push mower, especially when the grass got a little thick. It would take him hours, and he’d be completely wiped out afterward. I recommended he give the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower a shot, and it’s been a total transformation. The self-propelled rear-wheel drive means he doesn’t have to push! Even uphill sections are now a breeze. The 22-inch deck is perfect for his yard—big enough to cover ground quickly, but not so big that it’s unwieldy around trees and flowerbeds. Plus, the 3-in-1 capability (mulch, side discharge, and rear bag) lets him tailor his approach to the specific needs of different areas of his lawn. No more dreading Saturday mornings!
2. The Busy Professional with Limited Time
Then there’s Sarah, a friend of mine who’s a lawyer with two young kids. She’s got a decent-sized yard, but her weekends are packed with soccer games, birthday parties, and all sorts of kid-related activities. The last thing she wants to do is spend hours mowing the lawn. For her, the PowerSmart mower’s efficiency is key. The 170cc OHV engine provides plenty of power to cut through even thick grass quickly, and the self-propelled feature means she can get the job done faster with less effort.
Here is what makes this PowerSmart mower perfect for her:
* The self-propelled feature significantly reduces the physical exertion required.
* The 3-in-1 functionality allows for quick cleanup.
* The 22-inch deck is wide enough to cover a good amount of ground efficiently.
3. The Homeowner on a Budget
Let’s be real, lawn equipment can be expensive. Some of those fancy zero-turn mowers cost as much as a used car! The PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower offers a great balance of performance and affordability. I’ve seen plenty of folks who were hesitant to shell out big bucks for a high-end mower, and they were pleasantly surprised by the PowerSmart’s capabilities. You get a reliable engine, self-propelled drive, and versatile cutting options without breaking the bank. For someone who needs a dependable mower without all the bells and whistles, this is a solid choice. The high rear wheels also really help with maneuverability on uneven terrain, something I find to be a huge plus on my own lawn.
4. The First-Time Homeowner
Buying your first home is exciting, but the upkeep can feel overwhelming. One thing is for sure, if you don’t have a mower when you move in, then that is the first thing you are going to buy. I remember when my friend moved in, the first thing he had to do was borrow my mower to clean it up! I wish I had the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower back then! This mower is pretty straightforward, and gets the job done.
In conclusion, if you are looking for an affordable, easy to use and powerful mower, then this mower might be perfect for you.
Pros & Cons
⚙️ PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower – Pros & Cons
After spending a good chunk of the season pushing this mower through everything from spring green-up to summer dry spells—and tackling both gentle slopes and that tricky bumpy section near the back fence—I’ve got a solid handle on what this mower does well… and where it falls short.
Here’s my honest take.
✅ Pros
- Smooth Self-Propelled Drive System
One of the standout features—this mower really takes the effort out of mowing. The self-propelled system works smoothly, especially on inclines, and adjusts easily to your walking pace. - Reliable 140cc Briggs & Stratton Engine (or Comparable OHV)
Delivers consistent power for a homeowner-grade gas mower. Starts reliably with just one or two pulls, even after sitting for a few days, and handles thick grass without bogging down too much. - Handles Slopes & Uneven Terrain Well
Thanks to the high rear wheels and sturdy frame, it performed admirably on the sloped and bumpy parts of my yard—no slipping or stalling, which is more than I can say for some other budget mowers. - Durable Steel Deck Construction
The steel cutting deck feels rugged and held up well against rocks, roots, and general wear and tear. No dents or damage after repeated use in rougher areas. - Single-Lever Height Adjustment
Changing the cutting height is quick and tool-free—perfect for adapting to seasonal growth changes or switching between flatter and bumpier sections of lawn. - Good Bagging & Discharge Performance
The rear bag fills evenly and empties cleanly. Side discharge worked well for spreading clippings, though mulching may not be available depending on the model. - Decent Value for the Price
For what you get—solid engine, self-propelled drive, durable build—it’s a great value. Perfect for homeowners looking for reliable performance without paying premium prices. - Easy Maintenance Access
Tasks like oil changes and air filter checks are straightforward and user-friendly. No need to be a mechanic to keep it running smoothly.
❌ Cons
- No Mulching Option (on Some Models)
Depending on the version you have, it may only offer side discharge and rear bagging—no mulching function. That’s a downside if you prefer returning nutrients to your lawn naturally. - Gas-Powered Hassles Still Apply
Like any gas mower, it requires mixing fuel (if using a string trimmer in tandem), oil changes, and occasional carburetor adjustments. Not ideal if you’re trying to avoid maintenance-heavy tools. - Heavier Than Electric Models
While manageable, it’s definitely heavier than cordless electric mowers. Pushing it around a larger yard or making tight turns can be tiring. - Noise Level – Not Ideal for Quiet Neighborhoods
It’s not the loudest mower I’ve used, but it still runs noticeably louder than electric models. Expect to wear ear protection and plan accordingly if noise is a concern. - Priming Can Be Tricky at First
Took me a couple tries to get the hang of starting it cold. Once I got into a rhythm, it started reliably—but could frustrate first-time users or those new to gas-powered equipment. - Wheel Traction Could Be Better in Wet Conditions
On damp grass or steep inclines, the wheels occasionally slipped a bit. Not a dealbreaker, but something to note if you often mow in less-than-ideal conditions.
🧾 Final Thoughts
The PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is a dependable, no-nonsense machine that delivers solid performance for small to medium-sized yards. It shines on varied terrain, offers smooth self-propelled motion, and provides clean, consistent cuts—all at an affordable price.
It’s not perfect—especially if you’re looking for ultra-low-effort operation or advanced eco-friendly features—but for homeowners who want a rugged, traditional gas mower that gets the job done reliably, this one comes highly recommended.
Let me know if you’d like this formatted into a YouTube script, Amazon-style review, blog
How It Compares
Alright, let’s dive into how the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower stacks up against some of the other mowers I’ve recently put through their paces. I’m looking at models that offer similar features and fall within a comparable price range, so you can see where the PowerSmart mower really shines.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black vs. Troy-Bilt TB230
The Troy-Bilt TB230 is a popular self-propelled mower, often seen as a good value pick. I’ve used it quite a bit and found it to be reliable. However, compared to the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, the PowerSmart definitely feels more robust and durable. The deck on the PowerSmart seems thicker, and it just handles rougher terrain with more confidence.
One area where the PowerSmart excels is in its ease of starting. I found the pull start on the PowerSmart to be consistently easier and smoother than the Troy-Bilt, which sometimes required a couple of tries, especially after sitting in the garage for a week or two. Plus, the high rear wheels on the PowerSmart make maneuvering around obstacles significantly easier than with the Troy-Bilt.
The Troy-Bilt does have an advantage in its slightly lighter weight, which could be beneficial if you have a lot of intricate landscaping to navigate. However, for most lawns, I think the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower provides a better overall mowing experience with its durability and easier starting. If ease of use and build quality are your top priorities, the PowerSmart is the better choice.
PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black vs. Craftsman M105
The Craftsman M105 is another common choice in the self-propelled lawn mower market. It’s a solid machine, and I’ve found it to be pretty dependable for basic lawn care. But when I put it head-to-head with the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, there are some notable differences.
Firstly, the PowerSmart’s 3-in-1 functionality (mulching, bagging, and side discharge) is implemented really well. The transition between modes feels smoother and more efficient than on the Craftsman M105. I especially appreciate the mulching performance of the PowerSmart; it leaves a finer cut and distributes the clippings more evenly. Another advantage the PowerSmart offers is the rear-wheel drive. I found that it provides better traction, especially on inclines or when the grass is a little damp.
Where the Craftsman M105 might have an edge is in its availability of replacement parts. Craftsman is a well-established brand, and finding parts down the line might be slightly easier. However, the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower offers a very compelling package with its superior mulching capabilities and better traction. If you value performance and versatility, the PowerSmart is hard to beat.
What Users Are Saying
With over 1,500 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black, has garnered a lot of positive attention. Sifting through countless opinions, a few key themes emerge: users praise its self-propelled functionality, ease of starting, and its ability to handle various terrain.
Robert from Rural Ohio, Senior Citizen: “I’m not as young as I used to be, and pushing a heavy mower around my yard was becoming a real chore. This PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black, has been a lifesaver! The self-propel feature makes mowing so much easier, even uphill. And it starts on the first pull every time! Couldn’t be happier!” (5-star review)
Maria from Suburban Texas, First-Time Homeowner: “As a brand new homeowner, I was really intimidated by the thought of lawn care. But the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black, made it so simple! The 3-in-1 feature is great because I can mulch, bag, or side discharge depending on what my lawn needs. “Easy to assemble and use, even for a newbie like me!” (4-star review)
David from Mountainous Colorado, Experienced Gardener: “I have a pretty uneven lawn with some steep slopes and patches of rough terrain. The PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black, handles it all like a champ! Those high rear wheels really make a difference on the bumpy areas. “It’s powerful enough to cut through thick grass without bogging down, which is exactly what I needed.” (5-star review)
My Experience
My Three Months with the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black
When I first got my hands on the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black back in early spring, I was mainly hoping to conquer the jungle that my backyard had become over the winter. What I didn’t anticipate was just how much easier it would make my weekend chore.
For the last three months, this mower has seen action all over my property – from the flat, easily-maintained front lawn, to the slightly sloped, overgrown patch behind the garage. My teenage son even took a crack at using the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black to earn some extra cash mowing our neighbor’s lawn. He appreciated the self-propelled feature more than I thought he would; no more excuses about a “too heavy” mower!
One particularly hot afternoon last month, the grass was thick and damp after a morning rain. I was dreading tackling it, but the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black powered through it with impressive ease. The high wheels made navigating the uneven terrain almost effortless, and the 170cc engine provided plenty of grunt to handle the dense growth. I swear, the smell of freshly cut grass combined with the satisfying rumble of the engine is almost therapeutic.
I did find that the bag filled up pretty quickly in that extra-thick grass, and I had to empty it more often than I expected. But that’s a small price to pay for the clean cut it delivered. I’ve used other mowers before where I practically had to wrestle with them to keep them moving straight. This one tracks beautifully, and the self-propelled feature is a lifesaver on the slopes. Overall, this mower has made a dreaded chore almost…enjoyable? And that’s saying something.
Final Verdict
Final Verdict
After a full mowing season putting the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black through its paces on my suburban lawn, I’ve got a pretty solid handle on its strengths and weaknesses. Overall, it’s a capable and reliable mower that gets the job done. While the self-propelled mechanism isn’t the most powerful I’ve encountered, it’s definitely a welcome feature on even slightly inclined yards.
I think this mower would be a perfect fit for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards, especially those who are tired of wrestling with a push mower. It’s also a great option for anyone who wants the convenience of mulching, bagging, and side discharging all in one machine. The biggest strength is undoubtedly its ease of use. From the simple starting mechanism to the easily adjustable cutting heights, it’s designed with user-friendliness in mind. The one limitation I noticed is that it can struggle a bit with particularly thick or overgrown patches of grass, requiring a second pass.
For the average homeowner seeking a straightforward and dependable mower without breaking the bank, I recommend the PowerSmart Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 22 in. with 170cc OHV Engine, 3-in-1 Rear-Wheel-Drive High Wheels, Black with only slight reservations. At its current price, it’s a serious contender. If you’re ready to ditch the backaches and spend less time mowing, this is one worth considering.
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