Cordless vs Gas Lawn Mowers in 2026: Key Differences
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Choosing between a cordless vs gas lawn mower often comes down to your specific yard needs and maintenance preferences. Both the Greenworks 40V and PowerSmart 144cc models are push mowers designed for residential lawns. They share similar height adjustment options and manual operation. The main difference lies in their power source. One uses a rechargeable battery system, while the other relies on a gasoline engine. This choice affects weight, noise, and how you refuel or recharge your equipment.
Key differences
| Aspect | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 40V Cordless battery, 4.0 Ah | Gas, 144cc 4-cycle engine |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 18 in |
| Deck Material | Not listed | Steel |
| Mowing Function | 2-in-1, mulch and rear bag | Side discharge |
| Weight | 37.5 pounds | 58.4 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower if
- You prefer a lighter mower that is easier to maneuver.
- You want the flexibility to mulch clippings or bag them in the rear.
- You already own or plan to buy other 40V cordless tools.
Choose PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower if
- You need a wider cutting deck to cover more ground per pass.
- You prefer the simplicity of refueling with gas rather than managing batteries.
- You want a durable steel deck for long-lasting use.
Verdict: The Greenworks 40V is better if you value a lighter weight and versatile mulching or bagging options. The PowerSmart 144cc suits you if you prioritize a wider cut and the straightforward power of a gas engine.
Cordless vs Gas Mower Specs
Power source
The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower runs on a 40V cordless battery system with a 4.0 Ah capacity. This setup eliminates fumes and reduces maintenance, allowing you to start the mower instantly. The PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower uses a 144cc four-cycle gas engine. It relies on fuel and features an auto choke and primer for starting. You must manage gasoline and oil levels. The gas model offers unlimited runtime as long as you have fuel, while the cordless unit is limited by its battery charge level.
Cutting width
The PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower features an 18-inch cutting deck. This wider swath allows you to cover more ground per pass, which can reduce mowing time on larger lawns. The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower has a narrower 16-inch cutting width. This smaller deck is often easier to maneuver around tight obstacles like garden beds or trees. While the PowerSmart covers more area per stroke, the Greenworks may offer better agility in confined spaces. The difference is two inches, which adds up over multiple passes.
Deck material
The PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower is built with a durable steel deck. Steel decks are generally heavier and more resistant to impacts from rocks or debris. They also tend to last longer under heavy use. The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower uses a composite deck, which is noted to be 35% lighter than steel deck mowers. This lighter construction contributes to the overall lighter weight of the unit. Steel provides robustness, while the composite material prioritizes weight reduction for easier handling.
Mowing function
The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower offers a 2-in-1 system that supports both mulching and rear bagging. This versatility allows you to recycle clippings back into the lawn or collect them for disposal. The PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower is configured for side discharge. This method efficiently ejects grass clippings to the side, which is helpful for mowing through tall or thick grass where bagging might clog. If you prefer mulching or bagging, the Greenworks provides more options. The PowerSmart is optimized for quick discharge.
Weight
The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower weighs 37.5 pounds. This lightweight design makes it easier to push and maneuver, especially for users who may struggle with heavier equipment. The PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower weighs 58.4 pounds. The additional weight comes from the steel deck and the gas engine. While the extra weight can provide stability on slopes, it requires more effort to push. The Greenworks is significantly lighter, which benefits ease of use and storage.
Cutting height
Both mowers offer five positions for cutting height adjustment, providing similar flexibility for different grass conditions. The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower uses a single lever height adjustment system for quick changes. The PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower allows adjustments ranging from 1.5 inches to 3.9 inches. Both models enable you to customize the cut height to suit your lawn care preferences. The range on the PowerSmart is explicitly stated, while the Greenworks focuses on the ease of the single-lever mechanism.
Which mower fits your yard
Small yard owners seeking quiet operation
The Greenworks 40V model weighs 37.5 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the gas option. Its 16-inch cutting width is ideal for smaller lawns up to one-third acre. You benefit from instant starts and zero emissions. The 4.0 Ah battery provides reliable power for compact spaces without the noise of an engine.
Users with thick grass needing wide cuts
The PowerSmart gas mower features an 18-inch steel deck, offering a wider cutting path than the electric competitor. Its 144cc engine handles thick grass effectively through side discharge. This setup prevents clogging in dense turf. The robust steel construction ensures durability, while the powerful engine maintains consistent performance in challenging mowing conditions.
Gardeners wanting mulching and bagging options
You can choose between mulching or rear bagging with the Greenworks unit. This 2-in-1 system offers flexibility for different lawn care preferences. The gas model only supports side discharge, limiting your disposal options. If you prefer to recycle clippings or collect them for cleanup, the electric mower provides the necessary versatility for your yard maintenance routine.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | small lawns under 1/3 acre | Check price of Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower on Amazon |
| 2 | PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower | small yards with gas preference | Check price of PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower on Amazon |
The products compared
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower
Best for: small lawns under 1/3 acre
- Power Source
- Cordless (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Voltage
- 40V
- Drive Type
- Push
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
- Cutting Height
- 5 position
View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower Affiliate link
This Greenworks 40V push mower features a 16-inch cutting width and a 4.0 Ah battery. It weighs 37.5 pounds, making it 35% lighter than steel deck mowers. The unit offers five cutting height positions and supports both mulching and rear bagging. It is designed for small lawns up to one-third of an acre. You get a battery and charger included for immediate use.
Pros
- 40V battery powers the motor
- 16-inch cutting deck width
- 5-position height adjustment
- Mulch and rear bag options
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- 16-inch deck is narrower than the 18-inch competitors
- Push drive requires manual effort
- 4.0 Ah battery limits runtime to 1/3 acre
Good fit if
- You have a small lawn under 1/3 acre
- You prefer lightweight equipment for easy storage
- You want a mulching and bagging option
Skip if
- You need to mow large areas exceeding 1/3 acre
- You require self-propelled wheels for hilly terrain
- You want a wider cutting path for faster coverage
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Mower is a light, compact option for small yards. It suits buyers who prioritize maneuverability and low weight over wide cutting paths or self-propelled ease.
PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower
Best for: small yards with gas preference
- Power Source
- Gas (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 18 in
- Drive Type
- push
- Deck Material
- steel
- Cutting Height
- 1.5-3.9 in, 5 positions
- Mowing Function
- side discharge
View on Amazon: PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower Affiliate link
This is a push-style gas mower with an 18-inch steel deck and a 144cc four-cycle engine. It features side discharge and five cutting heights from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. The unit weighs 58.4 pounds and measures 27.2 inches long. It suits small yards where you prefer gas power over battery operation. The steel deck offers durability for regular lawn maintenance tasks.
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 for tall or thick grass
Cons
- Push drive requires manual effort
- No mulching or bagging kit included
- Heavier at 58.4 pounds than cordless alternatives
Good fit if
- You have a small yard under 0.25 acres
- You prefer gas power for longer run times
- You want a durable steel deck for rough terrain
Skip if
- You need mulching or bagging capabilities
- You want a lightweight electric mower
- You prefer self-propelled ease of use
Verdict: PowerSmart 18-Inch Gas Lawn Mower fits small yards where you want gas power and a durable steel deck. It suits those who do not need bagging or mulching options.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless | gas, 144cc 4-cycle |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 18 in |
| Voltage | 40V | not stated |
| Drive Type | Push | push |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0 Ah | not stated |
| Deck Material | not stated | steel |
| Cutting Height | 5 position | 1.5-3.9 in, 5 positions |
| Mowing Function | 2-in-1 (mulch, rear bagging) | side discharge |
| Application | Lawn | Yard, Small Yards, Lawn |
| Dimensions | 50.8 × 18.9 × 39 inches | 27.2 × 14.3 × 20.1 inches |
| Weight | 37.5 pounds | 58.4 pounds |
| Size | 16" Cordless (4.0Ah) | 18 Inch-144cc-5 Heights |
| Color | Green | red |
| Model | 25322 | DB8618C |
Frequently asked questions
Is a 16-inch or 18-inch cutting width better for small yards?
A 16-inch width is often sufficient for small yards under one-third acre. The Greenworks 40V model offers this narrower path, which aids maneuverability in tight spaces. An 18-inch width, like the PowerSmart gas model, covers more ground per pass but may feel less agile in confined areas. Choose based on your yard's layout.
How does the weight of a cordless mower compare to gas?
Cordless mowers are generally lighter than their gas counterparts. The Greenworks 40V weighs 37.5 pounds, making it easier to push and store. The PowerSmart gas mower weighs 58.4 pounds due to its engine and fuel tank. This weight difference affects how much effort you exert during manual push operation.
Do I need a self-propelled drive for a small lawn?
Self-propelled drives are not necessary for small, flat lawns. Both the Greenworks 40V and PowerSmart 144cc models are push mowers without self-propulsion. You must push them manually. If your yard is small and flat, the added weight and complexity of a self-propelled system may not provide enough benefit to justify the cost.
What is the difference between battery capacity and voltage in mowers?
Voltage indicates the power output of the motor, while battery capacity measures runtime. The Greenworks 40V mower uses a 4.0 Ah battery, which determines how long it runs on a single charge. Higher voltage often means more cutting power, while higher amp-hour capacity extends the time you can mow before recharging.
Can I use a gas mower without a bagging attachment?
Yes, you can operate a gas mower without a bag. The PowerSmart 144cc model features side discharge, allowing you to cut grass and leave the clippings on the lawn. This method, known as mulching or grasscycling, returns nutrients to the soil. It eliminates the need to empty bags or clean attachments after each use.
How do I store a cordless mower compared to a gas one?
Cordless mowers are easier to store due to their lighter weight and lack of fuel. The Greenworks 40V weighs 37.5 pounds and can be lifted into a garage or shed easily. Gas mowers like the PowerSmart weigh 58.4 pounds and require safe fuel storage. You also avoid fumes and potential fuel degradation issues with the cordless option.
Which mower is better for users who want instant starts?
Cordless mowers provide instant starts with the push of a button. The Greenworks 40V model requires no pulling of starter cords or priming. Gas mowers often require pulling a recoil starter, which can be difficult in cold weather. If you prioritize convenience and quick operation, the cordless electric system offers a simpler start-up process.