Push vs Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a push vs self propelled lawn mower depends on your yard size and terrain. Both Greenworks models share a 40V cordless battery system and a three-year warranty. The main difference lies in the drive mechanism and cutting width. One relies on your physical effort to move, while the other propels itself. This affects how you handle the machine and how wide a path you cut in a single pass. Your choice hinges on whether you prioritize lightweight maneuverability or automated ease of use.
Key differences
| Aspect | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Type | Push | Self-Propelled |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 21 in |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0 Ah | 5.0 Ah |
| Mowing Function | 2-in-1 | 4-in-1 |
| Weight | 37.5 pounds | 73.9 pounds |
| Motor Type | not listed | Brushless |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower if
- You have a small yard under one-third acre and want a lighter machine that is easier to store.
- You prefer manual control and do not mind pushing the mower across flat terrain.
- You want a simpler 2-in-1 system for mulching or rear bagging without extra features.
Choose Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower if
- You have a larger lawn and want to cover more ground with each pass using a wider 21-inch deck.
- You have uneven terrain or slopes and need the variable speed rear-wheel drive for better traction.
- You want versatile options like side discharge, leaf pickup, and LED lights for early morning or evening mowing.
Verdict: Choose the push model if you value a lightweight, easy-to-handle mower for small, flat yards. Select the self-propelled model if you need a wider cut, variable speed drive, and additional mowing modes for larger or more complex lawns.
Push vs Self-Propelled Mower Specs
Drive Type
The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower relies entirely on your physical effort to move forward. You push it through the grass, which provides a good workout but requires more energy. The Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower features rear-wheel drive with variable speed control. This mechanism moves the mower for you, allowing you to focus on guiding rather than pushing. Self-propulsion makes a significant difference on slopes or thick grass, reducing fatigue during longer sessions. You choose based on how much assistance you need on your specific terrain.
Cutting Width
Cutting width determines how much grass you cover in a single pass. The 16-Inch Push model has a 16-inch cutting deck. This narrower width is ideal for small yards or tight spaces between garden beds. The 21-Inch Self-Propelled model offers a 21-inch steel deck. This wider cut covers more ground per pass, which is efficient for larger lawns up to 1/3 acre. A wider deck means fewer overlaps and less time spent mowing. If your yard is spacious, the wider deck saves time. For smaller areas, the narrower deck offers better maneuverability.
Battery Capacity
Both mowers run on the same 40V platform, but the battery sizes differ. The 16-Inch Push model includes a 4.0 Ah battery. This capacity is sufficient for smaller lawns and lighter mowing tasks. The 21-Inch Self-Propelled model comes with a larger 5.0 Ah battery. The extra capacity provides longer runtime, which is helpful when running the self-propelled motor and covering more area. If you have a larger yard, the 5.0 Ah battery ensures you do not run out of power mid-task. Both batteries work with over 75 other Greenworks 40V tools.
Mowing Function
How you dispose of clippings affects your lawn care routine. The 16-Inch Push model offers a 2-in-1 system with mulching and rear bagging options. This allows you to return nutrients to the soil or collect clippings for disposal. The 21-Inch Self-Propelled model provides a 4-in-1 versatile system. In addition to mulching and bagging, it includes side discharge and turbo leaf pickup. This extra flexibility lets you handle wet grass, leaves, or varied debris more easily. If you frequently deal with leaves or need to clear debris, the 4-in-1 system offers more utility.
Weight and Build
Weight impacts how easy the mower is to store and maneuver. The 16-Inch Push model weighs 37.5 pounds. It is described as ultra-lightweight, being 35% lighter than steel deck mowers. This makes it easy to lift into a car trunk or move around obstacles. The 21-Inch Self-Propelled model weighs 73.9 pounds. The heavier weight comes from the steel deck and the self-propulsion mechanism. While heavier, the steel deck offers durability. The lighter push model is better for easy handling and storage, while the heavier self-propelled unit prioritizes cutting power and terrain traction over portability.
Which Greenworks mower fits your yard
Small yard owners seeking lightweight ease
You should choose the 16-inch push model if your yard is under a third of an acre. At 37.5 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the self-propelled option. The 16-inch cutting width makes maneuvering around tight spaces easier. You get a 4.0 Ah battery that handles small to medium lawns efficiently. The single-lever height adjustment simplifies setup for consistent cuts.
Larger lawns with slopes or hills
Choose the 21-inch self-propelled mower if you have a larger yard or uneven terrain. The rear-wheel drive and variable speed control reduce physical strain while mowing. The 21-inch cutting width covers more ground per pass. You also benefit from a 5.0 Ah battery for longer runtime. The brushless motor provides superior torque for thick grass or slight inclines.
Users needing versatile debris management
Select the self-propelled model if you need multiple ways to handle grass clippings. It features a 4-in-1 system that includes mulching, rear bagging, side discharge, and turbo leaf pickup. This versatility allows you to adapt to different lawn conditions. The 21-inch steel deck ensures durability during varied use. You also get LED headlights for early morning or evening mowing sessions.
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 | Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower | medium to large lawns needing less pushing effort | Check price of Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower on Amazon |
The products compared
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower
Best for: Small lawns under 1/3 acre
- Drive Type
- Push (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Voltage
- 40V
- 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 models. The unit offers five cutting height positions and supports both mulching and rear bagging. It is designed for small lawns up to 1/3 acre. You should choose this model if you prefer a lightweight, manual push mower for tight spaces.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting width for maneuverability
- 4.0 Ah battery included for cordless operation
- 37.5-pound weight for easy handling
- 5-position single-lever height adjustment
- 2-in-1 mulch and rear bag system
Cons
- Push drive requires manual effort
- 16-inch deck cuts less per pass
- 4.0 Ah battery limits runtime to 1/3 acre
Good fit if
- You have a small lawn under 1/3 acre
- You prefer a lightweight mower under 40 pounds
- You want a simple push mower without self-propulsion
Skip if
- You need to mow more than 1/3 acre
- You have steep hills and need self-propulsion
- You want a wider 21-inch cutting deck
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16in Push Mower is a lightweight option for small yards. It fits users who prioritize easy handling over cutting width or automatic drive.
Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
Best for: medium to large lawns needing less pushing effort
- Drive Type
- Self-Propelled (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 21 in
- Voltage
- 40V
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Deck Material
- steel
- Mowing Function
- 4-in-1
View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower Affiliate link
This Greenworks mower uses a self-propelled rear-wheel drive system with variable speed control to handle varied terrain. It features a 21-inch steel deck and a brushless motor for efficient cutting. The included 5.0 Ah battery powers the unit, and LED headlights allow for early morning or evening mowing. It offers a 4-in-1 mowing system for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.
Pros
- Self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
- 21-inch steel deck for durable cutting performance
- Includes 5.0 Ah battery for extended runtime
- LED headlights for visibility during low-light conditions
- Brushless motor provides superior torque and efficiency
Cons
- Heavier at 73.9 pounds compared to push models
- Larger 21-inch cutting width may be bulky for tight spaces
- No mention of app connectivity or smart features
Good fit if
- You have a medium to large lawn requiring less pushing effort
- You need a durable steel deck for consistent cutting results
- You often mow during early morning or late evening hours
Skip if
- You prefer a lightweight push mower for easy storage
- You have a very small lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You want a more compact cutting width for tight maneuverability
Verdict: Greenworks 21in Self-Propelled 40V Mower is ideal for homeowners who want to reduce physical effort on medium-sized lawns. The self-propelled drive and variable speed control make it suitable for users with uneven terrain or those who value convenience over manual pushing.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless | not stated |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 21 in |
| Voltage | 40V | 40V |
| Drive Type | Push | Self-propelled |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0 Ah | 5.0Ah |
| Deck Material | not stated | steel |
| Cutting Height | 5 position | not stated |
| Mowing Function | 2-in-1 (mulch, rear bagging) | 4-in-1 |
| Motor Type | not stated | brushless |
| Application | Lawn | Lawn |
| Dimensions | 50.8 × 18.9 × 39 inches | 65 × 25.6 × 41 inches |
| Weight | 37.5 pounds | 73.9 pounds |
| Size | 16" Cordless (4.0Ah) | 21" Self-Propelled (5.0Ah) + LED Lights |
| Color | Green | Green&Black |
| Model | 25322 | MO40L517 |
Frequently asked questions
Is a self-propelled mower worth the extra weight?
It depends on your lawn size and physical comfort. The 21-inch self-propelled model weighs 73.9 pounds, while the 16-inch push version is only 37.5 pounds. If you have a medium to large yard or uneven terrain, the drive system reduces effort significantly. For small yards under a third of an acre, the lighter push mower is easier to maneuver and store.
Do I need a wider cutting deck for a large yard?
A wider deck covers more ground per pass, which saves time on larger areas. The self-propelled Greenworks model features a 21-inch cutting width, making it better for medium to large lawns. The 16-inch push mower is designed for smaller spaces where a narrower deck offers better handling and precision. Choose the wider deck if you want to reduce the number of passes required.
Can I use the same battery for both mower types?
Yes, both models operate on the 40V cordless system, ensuring battery compatibility across the line. However, the self-propelled mower uses a 5.0 Ah battery, while the push mower comes with a 4.0 Ah battery. The higher capacity in the self-propelled unit supports the additional power needed for the drive mechanism. You can likely share chargers, but check the specific battery requirements for optimal runtime.
Which mower is easier to store in a small shed?
The 16-inch push mower is easier to store due to its compact dimensions and lighter weight. It measures 18.9 inches wide and 39 inches tall, weighing just 37.5 pounds. The self-propelled model is larger at 25.6 inches wide and 65 inches long, weighing 73.9 pounds. If storage space is limited, the smaller push model fits more easily into tight corners or narrow shelves.
Is self-propelled better for hilly or uneven terrain?
Self-propelled drives are generally better for uneven terrain because they move the mower forward automatically. The 21-inch self-propelled model helps you maintain a steady pace without pushing against the resistance of the grass or slopes. The push mower requires you to provide all the forward momentum, which can be tiring on hills. If your yard has significant slopes, the drive system reduces physical strain.
How does the cutting width affect grass clippings?
A wider cutting deck captures more clippings in a single pass, which can improve bagging efficiency. The 21-inch self-propelled mower covers more area than the 16-inch push model. This means fewer overlaps and potentially less frequent emptying of the collection bag. For small lawns, the 16-inch width is sufficient and offers better maneuverability around obstacles like flower beds or trees.
Do I need extra strength to push a cordless mower?
Push mowers require physical effort to move, regardless of the power source. The Greenworks 16-inch push mower weighs 37.5 pounds, so you must lift and push it. The self-propelled 21-inch model weighs 73.9 pounds but moves itself, reducing the pushing force needed. If you have limited upper body strength or back issues, the self-propelled option is the more practical choice for long mowing sessions.