Difference Between Self-Propelled and Power Lawnmowers

Power Lawnmowers

• Power lawnmowers, also called push mowers, require users to push them to mow the grass. These gas or electric lawnmowers require some physical strength on the part of the user. After starting the lawnmower, you must push on the hand rest to start the wheels moving and continue pushing until you stop the lawnmower.

Self-Propelled Lawnmowers

• Self-propelled lawnmowers have drive systems that power them so they don't need to be pushed. Front-wheel drive mowers have the power from the engine driving the front wheels and pulling the mower forward. Mowers with rear-wheel drive have the power from the engine driving the back wheels and propelling the mower forward. After starting the lawnmower, the operator grasps the control bar and pulls it up to meet the hand rest and engage the drive system. Upon releasing the control bar, the lawnmower stops moving. Older lawnmowers have a lever on the control panel that the user pushes into drive to start the lawnmower then shifts it to idle to stop moving.

Uses

• Self-propelled lawnmowers are ideal for yards that have slopes, hills or large acreage. Power mowers are good for small yards with no slopes or hills. Push lawnmowers are easier to use in yards that have a lot of curves and obstacles to cut around. Self-propelled mowers move fast, as much as three to five miles per hour, which may cause you to run into things or not make good cuts on the grass around curves.

Cost

• Self-propelled lawnmowers cost about $150 to $200 more than power lawnmowers. However, the cost varies between the different models in terms of the type and size of the engine and whether or not the lawnmower is a mulching mower or has a bag catcher for clippings.