2-in-1 or 3-in-1 Lawn Mowers? Compared by Specs
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Choosing between a 2-in-1 vs 3-in-1 lawn mower depends on how you manage clippings. Both the MZK and Worx models offer 40V brushless power and push drive types. The main difference lies in their cutting width and discharge options. The MZK provides a 16-inch deck with mulching or rear bagging. The Worx offers a 21-inch deck with mulching, bagging, or side discharge. This guide compares these specs to help you decide.
Key differences
| Aspect | MZK 16-Inch 40V Brushless Push Mower | Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 21 in |
| Mowing Function | 2-in-1 (mulch, bag) | 3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge) |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0Ah | 5.0Ah |
| Cutting Height Positions | 5 positions | 7 positions |
Which one should you choose?
Choose MZK 16-Inch 40V Brushless Push Mower if
- You have a smaller lawn and prefer a narrower 16-inch deck for easier maneuvering.
- You only need mulching or rear bagging and do not require side discharge.
- You want a lighter unit with a 4.0Ah battery capacity.
Choose Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower if
- You have a larger area up to half an acre and need a wider 21-inch cut.
- You want the flexibility to side-discharge clippings in addition to mulching or bagging.
- You prefer a higher battery capacity of 5.0Ah for potentially longer runtime.
Verdict: The MZK is suitable for small lawns where a narrower cut and simpler 2-in-1 function are sufficient. The Worx is better for larger yards due to its wider 21-inch deck and added side-discharge option. Your choice depends on lawn size and preferred clippings management.
Specs: 2-in-1 vs 3-in-1 Mowers
Cutting Width
The Worx model features a 21-inch cutting width, while the MZK mower offers a 16-inch deck. A wider deck covers more ground per pass, which can reduce mowing time on larger lawns. The MZK is better suited for smaller yards or tight spaces where maneuverability is key. You will need to make more passes with the MZK to cover the same area as the Worx. This difference is significant if you have a medium-sized lawn. The Worx 21-inch deck provides a clear advantage for efficiency in coverage.
Mowing Function
The MZK is a 2-in-1 mower, supporting only mulching and rear bagging. The Worx is a 3-in-1 mower, adding rear side-discharge to the mix. Side-discharge allows you to quickly clear tall grass without stopping to empty a bag. If you prefer to leave clippings on the lawn or bag them exclusively, the MZK is sufficient. However, the Worx offers more flexibility for different lawn conditions. The ability to switch between three modes makes the Worx more versatile for varied maintenance tasks.
Battery Capacity
Both mowers use two 20V batteries to create a 40V system. The MZK includes two 4.0Ah batteries, while the Worx includes two 5.0Ah batteries. Higher amp-hour capacity generally means longer runtime between charges. The Worx batteries store more energy, which can extend mowing time on a single charge. The MZK provides up to 45 minutes of runtime. The Worx claims longer runtime due to its motor efficiency and larger batteries. You get more stored power with the Worx configuration.
Cutting Height Adjustment
The MZK offers five cutting height positions ranging from 1.4 inches to 3 inches. The Worx provides seven positions, adjusting from 1.5 inches to 4 inches. The Worx has a wider range, allowing you to cut higher for healthier grass in hot weather or lower for a manicured look. The MZK’s maximum height is lower, which may limit options for tall grass. The Worx lever allows for quick changes with a single lever. The MZK uses a multi-position adjustment system. The Worx offers greater range and adjustability options.
Motor Technology
Both mowers feature brushless motors, which are more efficient and durable than brushed alternatives. The MZK motor runs at up to 3400 RPM. The Worx motor is described as delivering 40% more power and 10% longer runtime than first-generation brushless motors. The Worx also includes Intellicut technology, which uses sensors to automatically adjust cutting speed based on grass density. This helps conserve battery in thin grass and boosts power in thick patches. The MZK does not list this adaptive feature. The Worx offers more advanced motor management.
Which mower fits your lawn needs
Small yard owners with tight storage
The MZK mower features a 16-inch cutting width and a more compact frame. Its dimensions are 27.9 inches in length and 18.1 inches in width. This smaller footprint makes it easier to maneuver around obstacles and store in tight spaces like small sheds. The 45-minute runtime is sufficient for small to medium lawns.
Users wanting versatile clippings management
The Worx model supports 3-in-1 functionality, including mulching, bagging, and rear side-discharging. You can easily switch modes using the included mulch plug and discharge chute. This versatility allows you to handle different lawn conditions and clippings disposal preferences without needing additional attachments or changing the mower setup significantly.
Larger lawn owners seeking efficiency
With a 21-inch cutting width, the Worx mower covers more ground per pass than the 16-inch MZK. This wider deck reduces the number of passes needed for lawns up to half an acre. The IntelliCut technology also optimizes power based on grass density, helping to conserve battery runtime during demanding mowing tasks.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MZK 16-Inch 40V Brushless Push Mower | small lawns needing mulch or bag | Check price of MZK 16-Inch 40V Brushless Push Mower on Amazon |
| 2 | Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower | Half-acre lawns needing mulch or bag options | Check price of Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower on Amazon |
The products compared
MZK 16-Inch 40V Brushless Push Mower
Best for: small lawns needing mulch or bag
- Power Source
- Cordless battery
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Voltage
- 40V
- Drive Type
- Push
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Runtime
- Up to 45 min
View on Amazon: MZK 16-Inch 40V Brushless Push Mower Affiliate link
This MZK mower uses two 20V batteries to create a 40V system with a 16-inch cutting width. It offers 45 minutes of runtime and a brushless motor for efficient cutting. The 2-in-1 design supports mulching or bagging. You get a 40L bag and five height settings. It is a practical option for small to medium lawns where you need a lightweight push mower.
Pros
- Dual 20V batteries provide 40V power
- Brushless motor reaches 3400 RPM
- Includes 40L grass bag
- 5-position height adjustment
Cons
- 16-inch cutting width is narrower than competitors
- Push drive requires manual effort
- 2-in-1 function lacks side discharge
Good fit if
- You have a small to medium lawn
- You prefer mulching or bagging
- You want a lightweight push mower
Skip if
- You need a wider 21-inch cut
- You want a 3-in-1 mower
- You need self-propelled drive
Verdict: MZK 40V 16-Inch 2-in-1 Mower suits users with small lawns who prioritize mulching or bagging over width. It offers solid runtime for its size.
Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower
Best for: Half-acre lawns needing mulch or bag options
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Cutting Width
- 21 in
- Voltage
- 40V
- Drive Type
- Push
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Cutting Height
- 1.5-4 in, 7 positions
View on Amazon: Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower Affiliate link
This Worx mower uses two 20V 5.0Ah batteries to create a 40V system. It features a 21-inch cutting deck and a brushless motor. The 3-in-1 design lets you mulch, bag, or side-discharge grass. IntelliCut sensors adjust speed for thick or thin grass. The single-lever height adjustment offers seven settings from 1.5 to 4 inches. It suits lawns up to half an acre.
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality for mulching, bagging, and side-discharging
- IntelliCut technology automatically adjusts cutting speed
- Aerodeck vented design reduces clogs and clumping
- Single lever adjusts height in seven positions
- Compatible with 140+ WORX PowerShare tools
Cons
- Push drive requires manual effort
- Heavier build at 55.6 pounds
- No self-propelled option for hilly terrain
Good fit if
- You have a lawn up to half an acre
- You want flexible disposal options like mulching or bagging
- You already own other WORX PowerShare tools
Skip if
- You need a self-propelled mower for steep hills
- You have a lawn larger than half an acre
- You prefer a lighter mower under 50 pounds
Verdict: Worx 40V 21" 3-in-1 Cordless Mower is a solid choice for homeowners with half-acre lawns who value versatile grass disposal. The IntelliCut feature helps maintain consistent cuts in varying grass densities.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MZK 16-Inch 40V Brushless Push Mower | Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless battery | Cordless |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 21 in |
| Voltage | 40V | 40V |
| Drive Type | Push | Push |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0Ah | 5.0Ah |
| Runtime | Up to 45 min | not stated |
| Cutting Height | 1.4-3 in, 5 positions | 1.5-4 in, 7 positions |
| Mowing Function | 2-in-1 | 3-in-1 |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless |
| Application | Garden, Lawn | Lawn |
| Dimensions | 28 × 18.1 × 13 inches | 60 × 22 × 40.9 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 55.6 pounds |
| Size | 16IN | not stated |
| Color | RED | Black and Orange |
| Model | ET2602-fq14 | WG752 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 mower?
The difference lies in grass discharge options. A 2-in-1 mower offers mulching and bagging. A 3-in-1 mower adds side discharge. The MZK model is a 2-in-1 unit. The Worx model provides three disposal methods. Choose based on your preferred clippings management.
Which mower is better for small lawns?
The MZK 16-Inch model suits small lawns. Its 16-inch cutting width handles tighter spaces well. The compact frame measures 27.9 inches in length. This size is easier to store in small sheds. The Worx 21-inch deck covers more ground but requires more storage space.
Does a 3-in-1 mower cut better than a 2-in-1?
Cutting quality depends on the motor and blade design, not the number of discharge options. Both models use 40V brushless motors. The Worx includes IntelliCut to maintain consistent cuts. This feature adjusts power based on grass density. The MZK offers reliable performance for its size.
Can I mulch with a 3-in-1 mower?
Yes, you can mulch with a 3-in-1 mower. The Worx model supports mulching, bagging, and side discharge. You simply select the desired function. The MZK 2-in-1 also mulches effectively. It focuses on mulching and bagging only. Both options return nutrients to your lawn.
Is a 21-inch deck worth the extra size?
A 21-inch deck reduces mowing time on larger areas. The Worx model covers more ground per pass. It is ideal for half-acre lawns. The MZK 16-inch deck is slower but more maneuverable. Choose the wider deck if speed matters. Choose the narrower deck for precision in tight spots.
Do these mowers require gas or oil?
No, these mowers do not use gas or oil. Both are fully cordless and electric. They run on 40V battery power. The Worx includes a 5.0 Ah battery. The MZK uses a compatible 40V system. You only need to charge the battery before use.