PowerSmart or Sun Joe? Lawn Mowers Compared in 2026
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When you search for PowerSmart vs sun joe lawn mower, you often find tools for different jobs. This guide compares a PowerSmart gas push mower with a Sun Joe corded dethatcher. Both brands focus on yard care, but their primary functions diverge sharply. One cuts grass, while the other removes thatch. You need to know which tool matches your specific maintenance needs before buying.
Key differences
| Aspect | PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower | Sun Joe 15-Inch Corded Dethatcher and Scarifier |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Gas, 144cc 4-cycle | 13 Amp corded |
| Primary Function | Mowing | Dethatching/Scarifying |
| Cutting Width | 18 in | 15 in |
| Deck/Tool Material | Steel deck | Not listed |
| Weight | 58.4 pounds | 27.1 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower if
- You need to cut tall or thick grass efficiently.
- You prefer a self-contained gas engine without cords.
- You want a wider 18-inch cutting path for faster mowing.
Choose Sun Joe 15-Inch Corded Dethatcher and Scarifier if
- You need to remove thatch and aerate your lawn.
- You want a lighter tool that is easy to maneuver.
- You prefer electric power with consistent torque from a cord.
Verdict: Choose the PowerSmart if your main goal is mowing a lawn with a gas-powered push mower. Select the Sun Joe if you need to dethatch and scarify your grass to improve health. These tools serve distinct purposes rather than competing directly.
PowerSmart vs Sun Joe Key Specs
Power Source
You get a 144cc 4-cycle gas engine with the PowerSmart EasyCut. This unit uses auto choke and a primer for starting. The Sun Joe model relies on a 13-amp corded motor. You must plug this device into an outlet to operate it. Gas offers freedom from cords but requires fuel management. Corded power provides consistent runtime without refueling. You choose between engine maintenance and cable management based on your yard layout and power preferences.
Cutting Width
The PowerSmart mower features an 18-inch steel deck. This wider path covers more ground with each pass. The Sun Joe dethatcher has a 15-inch working width. The extra three inches on the PowerSmart unit can reduce mowing time on larger lawns. Narrower tools like the Sun Joe are better for tight spaces. You select the width based on how much area you need to cover and the obstacles in your yard.
Deck Material
PowerSmart specifies a durable steel deck for its mower. Steel resists impacts and provides longevity for cutting grass. The Sun Joe listing does not explicitly state the material for its dethatcher body or housing. You rely on the provided specifications for the PowerSmart build quality. The Sun Joe data focuses on the motor and wheels rather than the chassis material. Steel offers a clear advantage in known durability metrics for the PowerSmart deck.
Weight and Portability
The PowerSmart mower weighs 58.4 pounds. It is a heavier machine due to the engine and steel deck. The Sun Joe dethatcher weighs only 27.1 pounds. This lighter weight makes the Sun Joe easier to lift and store. You will find the PowerSmart harder to maneuver manually over long distances. The Sun Joe is simpler to handle for quick tasks. Weight impacts how easily you can transport these tools in your vehicle.
Height Adjustment
PowerSmart offers five cutting height positions ranging from 1.5 inches to 3.9 inches. You can adjust this to suit different grass types. The Sun Joe provides five-position depth control for dethatching. This adjusts how deep the blades engage the soil. The PowerSmart settings manage grass length. The Sun Joe settings manage thatch penetration depth. You need both adjustments for different lawn care tasks. The PowerSmart offers more precise grass length control for mowing.
Choose Your Lawn Tool Wisely
Homeowners needing primary grass cutting
The PowerSmart EasyCut features an 18-inch steel deck and a 144cc 4-cycle engine. It offers side discharge to handle thick grass and five height adjustments from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. This gas-powered push mower is built for regular lawn maintenance and maneuvering around tight corners with its 8-inch rear wheels.
Users seeking lawn aeration and dethatching
The Sun Joe AJ805E is a 15-inch corded dethatcher with a 13-amp motor. It removes tough thatch and aerates soil for healthier grass. The unit includes a large collection bag for debris and five depth positions. Weighing only 27.1 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to push across your yard.
Gardeners wanting a lightweight tool
At 27.1 pounds, the Sun Joe dethatcher is significantly lighter than the 58.4-pound PowerSmart mower. Its 15-inch cutting width and corded power source simplify operation without fuel management. The easy-glide wheels reduce fatigue, making it ideal for users who prioritize manageable weight and simple corded operation for specific lawn care tasks.
The products compared
PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower
Best for: small yards with gas access
- 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 features an 18-inch steel deck and a 144cc 4-cycle engine. It operates as a push mower with side discharge, making it suitable for clearing tall grass. The cutting height adjusts across five positions from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. Weighing 58.4 pounds, it offers stable handling. You will appreciate the auto choke and primer for reliable starts. It fits small yards where gas power is preferred.
Pros
- 18-inch steel deck for durable cutting
- 144cc 4-cycle engine with auto choke
- 5-position height adjustment from 1.5 to 3.9 inches
- Side discharge handles thick grass effectively
Cons
- Push drive requires physical effort
- No bagging or mulching capability included
- Heavier build at 58.4 pounds
Good fit if
- You have a small yard with gas access
- You prefer manual push operation over self-propulsion
- You need side discharge for tall grass
Skip if
- You want a self-propelled or electric mower
- You need mulching or bagging functions
- You have a large lawn requiring less effort
Verdict: PowerSmart 18-Inch Gas Push Mower fits users with small yards who want reliable gas power and do not need bagging. It is a solid choice for those comfortable with push mowing and side discharge.
Sun Joe 15-Inch Corded Dethatcher and Scarifier
Best for: Small lawn aeration and thatch removal
- Power Source
- 13-Amp Corded
- Cutting Width
- 15-Inch
- Application
- Yard, Lawn
- Dimensions
- 24.4 × 19.3 × 12.2 inches
- Weight
- 27.1 pounds
View on Amazon: Sun Joe 15-Inch Corded Dethatcher and Scarifier Affiliate link
This Sun Joe AJ805E is a 13-amp corded lawn dethatcher with a 15-inch working width. It uses a scarifier blade reel to remove thatch and aerate soil. The unit weighs 27.1 pounds and includes a large collection bag for debris. It features five depth settings and easy-glide wheels. This tool suits users who want consistent power from a corded outlet for small to medium lawns.
Pros
- 13-amp motor provides steady power
- 15-inch cutting width covers moderate areas
- Five-position depth control for precision
- Large collection bag simplifies cleanup
Cons
- Corded design limits range of motion
- 15-inch width is narrower than standard mowers
- Heavier build at 27.1 pounds
Good fit if
- You have access to outdoor power outlets
- You need to aerate and dethatch small lawns
- You prefer corded reliability over battery runtime
Skip if
- You require a full lawn mowing solution
- You have a large property without nearby outlets
- You want to cut grass rather than just dethatch
Verdict: Sun Joe 15-Inch Corded Dethatcher is a specialized tool for lawn aeration and thatch removal. It fits users who need a dedicated dethatcher for small yards with easy outlet access.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | PowerSmart 18-Inch 144cc Gas Push Mower | Sun Joe 15-Inch Corded Dethatcher and Scarifier |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | gas, 144cc 4-cycle | 13-Amp Corded |
| Cutting Width | 18 in | 15-Inch |
| Drive Type | push | not stated |
| Deck Material | steel | not stated |
| Cutting Height | 1.5-3.9 in, 5 positions | not stated |
| Mowing Function | side discharge | not stated |
| Application | Yard, Small Yards, Lawn | Yard, Lawn |
| Dimensions | 27.2 × 14.3 × 20.1 inches | 24.4 × 19.3 × 12.2 inches |
| Weight | 58.4 pounds | 27.1 pounds |
| Size | 18 Inch-144cc-5 Heights | Corded; 15.0-Inch |
| Color | red | GREEN |
| Model | DB8618C | AJ805E |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Sun Joe to cut grass?
No. The Sun Joe AJ805E is a corded dethatcher and scarifier. It is designed for lawn aeration and thatch removal, not primary grass cutting. You need a dedicated mower for trimming grass. The PowerSmart DB8618C is the gas-powered option built for mowing your yard.
Is the PowerSmart mower self-propelled?
No. The PowerSmart 18-Inch model features a push drive type. You must physically push the unit across your lawn. It does not have a self-propulsion system. This design suits users who prefer manual control and do not need motorized assistance for movement.
What is the cutting width of the Sun Joe tool?
The Sun Joe AJ805E has a 15-inch cutting width. This size fits small yards where you need a dedicated tool for aeration. It is narrower than the PowerSmart mower. The narrower deck allows for easier maneuvering in tight spaces around obstacles.
Does the PowerSmart mower include a grass bag?
No. The PowerSmart DB8618C uses a side discharge mowing function. It does not include a bagging system for collecting clippings. You must manage the discharged grass manually. This setup is ideal for users who prefer to leave clippings on the lawn or rake them later.
How heavy is the Sun Joe dethatcher?
The Sun Joe AJ805E weighs 27.1 pounds. This is significantly lighter than the PowerSmart mower. The lower weight makes it easier to handle for dethatching tasks. You can move it around your yard with less effort compared to the heavier gas-powered unit.
Can I use the PowerSmart mower on slopes?
Use caution. The PowerSmart DB8618C weighs 58.4 pounds and is a push mower. Its weight provides stability, but you must push it manually. There is no self-propulsion to help on inclines. Ensure the slope is safe for manual pushing to avoid strain or accidents.