3-in-1 vs Side Discharge Lawn Mowers: Which Should You Buy?

Key differences

Which one should you choose?

3-in-1 vs Side Discharge Comparison

mowing function

Edge: Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower

The Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower offers 3-in-1 functionality, allowing you to mulch, bag, or use rear side discharge. This versatility lets you adapt to different lawn conditions and cleanup preferences. The PowerSmart EasyCut 18-Inch Gas Lawn Mower is designed strictly for side discharge. It efficiently ejects clippings to keep you mowing through thick grass. If you need mulching for nutrient return or bagging for a clean look, the Worx model provides those options. The PowerSmart mower focuses solely on ejecting grass to the side, which may require raking or blowing clippings afterward. This makes the Worx choice more flexible for varied yard maintenance tasks.

cutting width

Edge: Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower

Cutting width determines how much grass you cover in a single pass. The Worx mower features a 21-inch cutting deck, which is wider than the PowerSmart model. A wider deck means fewer passes are needed to cover the same area, potentially saving time on larger lawns up to half an acre. The PowerSmart EasyCut has an 18-inch steel deck. While narrower, it is still sufficient for smaller yards. The 3-inch difference in width is noticeable when maneuvering around obstacles, but the Worx model covers more ground per stroke. If your priority is covering large areas quickly, the wider deck of the Worx mower is the more efficient option.

power source

Edge: Tie

Power source affects maintenance and operation. The Worx mower is cordless, powered by a 40V system using two 20V 5.0Ah PowerShare Pro batteries. This eliminates gas fumes and reduces maintenance, as there is no engine oil or spark plugs to manage. The PowerSmart mower runs on a 144cc 4-cycle gas engine. Gas engines require regular fuel, oil changes, and seasonal storage prep. However, gas provides unlimited runtime as long as you have fuel, whereas the battery-powered Worx mower is limited by its 5.0Ah capacity. For users who want zero fuel handling and quiet operation, the cordless Worx is superior. For those who prefer traditional gas power, the PowerSmart is the choice.

motor type

Edge: Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower

The type of motor influences power delivery and efficiency. The Worx mower uses a brushless motor 2.0, which delivers 40% more power and 10% longer runtime than first-generation brushless motors. It also features Intellicut Technology, which automatically adjusts cutting speed based on grass density to conserve battery. The PowerSmart mower uses a 144cc 4-stroke OHV gas engine with an auto choke and primer for easy starting. Brushless electric motors generally require less maintenance than gas engines, with no carburetor or air filters to clean. The Worx motor offers smart power management, while the PowerSmart engine offers raw, consistent torque typical of gas engines. Electric users benefit from lower upkeep.

deck material

Edge: PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower

Deck material impacts durability and weight. The PowerSmart EasyCut features a durable steel deck, which is known for its robustness and resistance to impact from debris like rocks or sticks. Steel decks are heavy but long-lasting. The Worx mower deck utilizes Aerodeck Technology with a vented design to boost air volume and prevent clogging. While the specific material of the Worx deck is not explicitly stated as steel in the provided data, its design focuses on airflow and efficiency. Steel decks are often preferred for their longevity in rough conditions, giving the PowerSmart an edge in perceived durability. However, the Worx design prioritizes preventing clumps, which is a different kind of performance benefit.

cutting height

Edge: Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower

Cutting height adjustment options allow you to tailor the lawn appearance. The Worx mower offers a 7-position lever to adjust cutting height from 1.5 inches to 4 inches. This wider range and more positions give you finer control over grass length. The PowerSmart mower provides a 5-position adjustment, ranging from 1.5 inches to 3.9 inches. Both mowers cover similar minimum heights, but the Worx allows for a slightly higher maximum cut and more incremental steps. If you prefer precise height settings or need to cut grass slightly taller for heat tolerance, the Worx 7-position lever offers more flexibility than the PowerSmart's 5-position system.

Which mower fits your yard

Users with small lawns needing versatile cleanup

Our pick: Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower

The Worx 21-Inch model offers 3-in-1 functionality, allowing you to mulch, bag, or discharge. Its 21-inch cutting width covers more area per pass than the 18-inch PowerSmart. The brushless motor provides efficient power for up to half an acre. You can adjust the height in seven positions from 1.5 to 4 inches for varied grass conditions.

Buyers preferring gas power and simple operation

Our pick: PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower

The PowerSmart EasyCut uses a 144cc 4-cycle gas engine for consistent power without battery management. It features a durable steel deck and auto-choke for easy starting. The side discharge design efficiently clears clippings from tall grass. With a 5-position height adjustment, you can quickly set the cut between 1.5 and 3.9 inches for different lawn needs.

Those wanting battery compatibility with other tools

Our pick: Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower

This Worx mower uses 20V PowerShare batteries included in the package. These same batteries work with over 140 other WORX tools, reducing the need for multiple chargers. The IntelliCut technology automatically adjusts speed based on grass density to conserve runtime. You get two 5.0Ah batteries for extended mowing sessions on smaller lawns.

Quick picks

The products compared

1

Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower

Best for: small lawns needing mulch or bagging

Mowing Function

Side Discharge (what this guide is about)

Power Source

Cordless

Cutting Width

21 in

Voltage

40V

Drive Type

Push

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

View on Amazon: Worx 21-Inch 40V Cordless Push Lawn Mower Affiliate link

This Worx 21-inch push mower handles lawns up to half an acre. It uses two 20V 5.0Ah batteries to create a 40V system. The brushless motor includes Intellicut technology to adjust speed based on grass density. You get three mowing modes: mulching, bagging, and rear side discharge. The deck features Aerdeck technology to reduce clogs. A single lever adjusts the cutting height from 1.5 to 4 inches across seven positions.

Pros

• Brushless motor delivers 40% more power than first-gen models.
• Intellicut sensors automatically adjust cutting speed for efficiency.
• Aerdeck vented design prevents clogs and clumping.
• Three-in-one functionality: mulch, bag, or rear side discharge.
• Compatible with 140+ WORX PowerShare tools.

Cons

• Push drive requires manual effort on slopes.
• 55.6-pound weight may be heavy for some users.
• No onboard display for precise runtime tracking.

Good fit if

• You have a lawn up to half an acre.
• You need versatile mulching or bagging options.
• You already own WORX PowerShare batteries.

Skip if

• You need self-propelled drive for hills.
• You want a compact 14-inch cutting width.
• You prefer a single 40V battery system.

Verdict: Worx WG752 21-Inch 40V Mower fits homeowners with small to medium yards who value intelligent speed adjustment and versatile discharge options. It is ideal for those already invested in the WORX battery ecosystem.

2

PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower

Best for: small yards needing side-discharge efficiency

Mowing Function

Side Discharge (what this guide is about)

Power Source

gas, 144cc 4-cycle

Cutting Width

18 in

Drive Type

push

Deck Material

steel

Cutting Height

1.5-3.9 in, 5 positions

View on Amazon: PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower Affiliate link

This PowerSmart gas mower features a 144cc 4-cycle engine and an 18-inch steel deck. It operates as a side-discharge model, which helps manage thick grass without clogging. You get five cutting heights ranging from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. The unit weighs 58.4 pounds and includes 8-inch rear wheels for stability. It is designed for small yards and lawns that need reliable, manual pushing power.

Pros

• 144cc 4-cycle engine with auto choke
• 18-inch durable steel cutting deck
• 5-position height adjustment from 1.5 to 3.9 inches
• Side discharge design handles thick grass well

Cons

• Push drive requires manual effort
• 18-inch cutting width is narrower than competitors
• Heavier at 58.4 pounds due to steel construction

Good fit if

• You need a reliable side-discharge mower for small yards
• You prefer the simplicity of a gas engine over battery charging
• You want a durable steel deck for long-term use

Skip if

• You require a self-propelled drive for hilly terrain
• You need a wider cutting width for faster mowing
• You are looking for a lightweight electric option

Verdict: PowerSmart 18-Inch Gas Push Mower offers solid performance for small lawns with its sturdy steel deck and powerful engine. It is a practical choice for users who prioritize durability and side-discharge efficiency over weight savings or self-propulsion.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• 3-in-1 vs mulching lawn mower
• best lawn mowers with side discharge
• best storage sheds for lawn mowers