PowerSmart or Steelite? Lawn Mowers Compared in 2026
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This PowerSmart vs steelite lawn mower comparison looks at two very different push mowers for small yards. Both are push models with five height settings, but their power sources and cutting widths differ significantly. You must choose between a gas-powered 18-inch deck or a cordless 13-inch deck. The decision depends on your yard size and preference for gas or battery power. Here is how the specs compare.
Key differences
| Aspect | PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower | Steelite 13-Inch 20V Dual-Battery Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 144cc 4-cycle gas | 20V cordless battery (2x 4.0Ah) |
| Cutting Width | 18 inches | 13 inches |
| Deck Material | Steel | Not listed |
| Mowing Function | Side discharge | Mulching and bagging |
| Motor Type | 4-stroke OHV | Brushless |
| Weight | 58.4 pounds | 25 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower if
- You need a wider 18-inch cut to cover ground faster.
- You prefer the reliability and power of a gas engine.
- You want a durable steel deck for long-term use.
Choose Steelite 13-Inch 20V Dual-Battery Mower if
- You want a lightweight mower that is easy to maneuver.
- You prefer quiet operation and zero emissions.
- You want to collect grass clippings in a bag.
Verdict: Choose the PowerSmart if you need a wider cut and prefer gas power for tougher jobs. Pick the Steelite if you want a lightweight, quiet mower that collects clippings in a bag. The right choice depends on your yard size and power preference.
PowerSmart vs Steelite Key Specs
Power Source
The PowerSmart EasyCut uses a 144cc 4-cycle gas engine. This requires fuel mixing and regular engine maintenance. You get consistent power regardless of battery charge. The Steelite mower runs on two 20V 4.0Ah lithium batteries. This cordless system offers zero emissions and quiet operation. You do not need to store gasoline or deal with oil changes. The gas engine provides raw mechanical power, while the electric setup relies on stored energy. Your choice depends on whether you prefer fuel flexibility or clean, quiet performance.
Cutting Width
Cutting width determines how much grass you cover in a single pass. The PowerSmart features an 18-inch steel deck. This wider cut reduces the number of passes needed for larger areas. The Steelite has a 13-inch cutting width. This narrower deck is easier to maneuver in tight spaces but requires more overlapping passes. If you have a small, cluttered yard with many obstacles, the Steelite is easier to handle. For open lawns, the PowerSmart clears ground faster. The 5-inch difference is significant for efficiency.
Weight
Weight affects how easily you can push and store the mower. The PowerSmart weighs 58.4 pounds. This heavier build provides stability but makes lifting difficult. The Steelite weighs only 25 pounds. This lightweight design makes it very easy to push, lift into a car, or store in a shed. The Steelite is significantly lighter, reducing physical effort during mowing and handling. If you have mobility issues or need to move the mower frequently, the Steelite is the clear winner.
Runtime
Runtime determines how long you can mow before stopping. The Steelite offers up to 50 minutes of combined runtime using two 4.0Ah batteries. You get 25 minutes per battery. This is suitable for small to medium yards. The PowerSmart uses gas, so runtime is limited only by your fuel tank capacity. You can refuel quickly and continue mowing. The Steelite requires recharging between uses. If you have a large lawn, the gas engine allows for continuous work without waiting for batteries to charge.
Mowing Function
Mowing function refers to how grass clippings are handled. The Steelite includes an 8-gallon grass collection bag. It supports mulching and bagging, keeping your lawn clean. The PowerSmart is a side-discharge model. It throws clippings out the side chute. This is efficient for tall, thick grass but leaves clippings on the lawn. If you prefer a clean look with collected clippings, the Steelite is better. If you want to leave clippings as natural fertilizer or deal with thick grass, the side-discharge PowerSmart is more suitable.
Deck Material
Deck material impacts durability and weight. The PowerSmart uses a steel deck. Steel is highly durable and resistant to impacts from rocks or debris. It lasts longer but adds to the overall weight. The Steelite deck material is not specified in the data. However, electric mowers often use composite or aluminum materials to keep weight down. The PowerSmart steel deck offers superior protection against damage. If you mow over uneven terrain with hidden obstacles, the steel deck provides better longevity.
Which mower fits your yard size
You have a small, tight yard
The Steelite weighs just 25 pounds, making it easy to lift and store. Its 13-inch cutting width and 8-inch wheels help you navigate narrow paths and flower beds with less effort. The brushless motor offers quiet operation and lower maintenance compared to gas engines.
You prefer gas power and wider cuts
The PowerSmart features a 144cc 4-cycle gas engine for consistent power. Its 18-inch steel deck covers more ground per pass. The side discharge function handles thick grass efficiently. You can adjust the cutting height from 1.5 to 3.9 inches across five positions to suit your lawn.
You want zero emissions and no fuel
This cordless mower runs on two 20V 4.0Ah batteries, providing up to 50 minutes of combined runtime. You avoid gas fumes and oil changes. The included 8-gallon bag collects clippings for a clean finish. It is ideal for small yards where you want simple, emission-free mowing.
The products compared
PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower
Best for: Small yards needing gas power
- 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
- Mowing Function
- side discharge
View on Amazon: PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower Affiliate link
This PowerSmart model uses a 144cc 4-cycle engine for push mowing. It features an 18-inch steel deck and side discharge. You can adjust the cutting height in five positions from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. The unit weighs 58.4 pounds and includes 8-inch rear wheels with 7-inch front wheels. It suits small yards needing reliable gas power without battery charging.
Pros
- 18-inch steel deck for durability
- 144cc 4-cycle engine with auto choke
- 5-position height adjustment from 1.5 to 3.9 inches
- Side discharge handles thick grass
- 8-inch rear wheels for smooth handling
Cons
- Push drive requires physical effort
- No bagging or mulching attachments included
- Heavier build at 58.4 pounds
Good fit if
- You prefer gas power over batteries
- You need to mow thick or tall grass
- You want a durable steel deck
Skip if
- You want a self-propelled mower
- You need to collect grass clippings
- You prefer electric or battery power
Verdict: PowerSmart 18-Inch Gas Push Mower fits small yards where you want reliable gas power and do not mind pushing the unit. It is a practical option for users who prioritize a steel deck and side discharge over collection systems.
Steelite 13-Inch 20V Dual-Battery Mower
Best for: small yards and tight spaces
- Power Source
- Cordless battery
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Voltage
- 20V
- Drive Type
- Push
- Battery Capacity
- 2 x 4.0Ah
- Runtime
- 50 min
View on Amazon: Steelite 13-Inch 20V Dual-Battery Mower Affiliate link
This Steelite 13-inch mower uses a 20V brushless motor and includes two 4.0Ah batteries for up to 50 minutes of runtime. It weighs 20.5 lbs and offers five cutting heights from 0.98 to 2.56 inches. The 8-gallon bag handles clippings efficiently. It suits small yards and tight spaces where maneuverability matters more than wide cutting swaths.
Pros
- Includes two 4.0Ah batteries for extended 50-minute runtime
- Lightweight 20.5 lb design for easy pushing and storage
- Brushless motor for efficient and quiet operation
- One-touch height adjustment from 0.98 to 2.56 inches
Cons
- 13-inch cutting width is narrower than typical 18-inch models
- 8-gallon grass bag may require frequent emptying
- Push drive requires manual effort on slopes
Good fit if
- You have a small yard under 5,000 square feet
- You need to navigate narrow paths or tight spaces
- You prefer a lightweight mower for easy handling
Skip if
- You need to mow large areas quickly
- You prefer a wider cutting deck for efficiency
- You want self-propelled power for hilly terrain
Verdict: Steelite 13-Inch 20V Cordless Mower fits small yards and tight spaces where its lightweight design and dual batteries shine. It is a practical option for users who prioritize maneuverability over wide cutting swaths.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower | Steelite 13-Inch 20V Dual-Battery Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | gas, 144cc 4-cycle | Cordless battery |
| Cutting Width | 18 in | 13 in |
| Voltage | not stated | 20V |
| Drive Type | push | Push |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | 2 x 4.0Ah |
| Runtime | not stated | 50 min |
| Deck Material | steel | not stated |
| Cutting Height | 1.5-3.9 in, 5 positions | 5 positions, 0.98-2.56 in |
| Mowing Function | side discharge | Mulching and bagging |
| Motor Type | not stated | Brushless |
| Application | Yard, Small Yards, Lawn | Yard, Small Yards, Lawn |
| Dimensions | 27.2 × 14.3 × 20.1 inches | 1 × 1 × 1 inches |
| Weight | 58.4 pounds | 25 pounds |
| Size | 18 Inch-144cc-5 Heights | not stated |
| Color | red | Pistachio |
| Model | DB8618C | DG500-2 |
Frequently asked questions
Which mower is lighter to push?
The Steelite model is significantly lighter. It weighs 25 pounds, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The PowerSmart unit weighs 58.4 pounds. This heavier weight requires more physical effort to push across your lawn. You will notice the difference in handling immediately.
Does the Steelite mower have a mulching function?
Yes, the Steelite mower supports mulching. This feature allows you to chop grass clippings and return them to the lawn. The PowerSmart mower uses a side discharge method instead. It ejects clippings out the side chute. Choose Steelite if you prefer to leave clippings on the grass.
What is the cutting width difference?
The PowerSmart mower has an 18-inch cutting width. The Steelite mower has a 13-inch cutting width. The wider deck on the PowerSmart covers more ground per pass. The narrower Steelite deck is better for navigating around obstacles. Your choice depends on yard layout and speed preferences.
Which mower uses batteries instead of gas?
The Steelite mower uses a cordless battery system. It runs on two 20V 4.0Ah lithium batteries. The PowerSmart mower uses a 144cc gas engine. You must refuel the PowerSmart unit regularly. The Steelite offers zero emissions and no fuel mixing requirements for your mowing tasks.
Are both mowers push models?
Yes, both mowers are push models. Neither model has a self-drive mechanism. You must push the PowerSmart 18-Inch Gas Push Mower manually. You also must push the Steelite 13-Inch 20V Dual-Battery Mower manually. Both require physical effort to move across your lawn during operation.
How many height settings do these mowers have?
Both mowers offer five height settings. The PowerSmart size spec lists five heights. The Steelite mower also provides five cutting heights. You can adjust the deck to suit your grass type. This consistency allows you to choose either model without losing height adjustment options.
Which mower is better for small yards?
Both mowers are best for small yards. The Steelite is ideal for tight spaces due to its lightweight design. The PowerSmart is practical for small yards needing gas power. You should choose Steelite for maneuverability. Choose PowerSmart if you prefer the reliability of a gas engine for your small lawn area.