Tackling a big yard with a small mower wastes time, leaves uneven patches, and can bog down in thick or damp grass. Many shoppers search for the best large push lawn mower to get wider cuts, stronger power, and fewer passes—without the bulk or price of a riding mower. Add in hills, mixed terrain, or noise limits, and the wrong choice quickly becomes frustrating.
The best large push mowers solve these issues with 21–22″ steel decks, powerful gas engines or high-voltage batteries, and efficient 3-in-1 cutting systems for mulching, bagging, or discharge. Features like variable height adjustment, larger rear wheels, and easy start systems boost control and comfort across bigger lawns. We compared performance, runtime, build quality, user reviews, and value after analyzing dozens of models from Greenworks, YARDMAX, PowerSmart, and more.
Below are our top picks for the best large push lawn mower—keep reading to find the right size, power source, and features for your yard.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
|
Greenworks 60V 21\” Cordless Push
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60V 60 minutes 5.0Ah |
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Best for Large Yards
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YARDMAX 22\” Self-Propelled Gas
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CVT (6-speed) 8 in front, 11 in rear 7 positions (1.38 in. to 3.55 in.) |
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Best Mid-Range Gas
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PowerSmart 21\” 144cc Gas
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144cc 4-cycle OHV 3-in-1 steel deck 21″ cutting blade |
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Best Lightweight Gas Push
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PowerSmart 21\” 125cc Push
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B&S 125cc 4-stroke OHV 2-in-1 (mulching & side discharge) 62 lbs |
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Best Compact Electric
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Greenworks 40V 16\” Cordless
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45 minutes 35% lighter 16″ |
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Best Traction on Uneven Terrain
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AMERISUN 21\” 144cc Gas
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144cc 4-stroke 21″ steel Mulching, Side Discharge, Bagging |
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Best Budget Friendly
|
American 19\” 13A Corded
|
13-Amp 19-inch 1 to 3 inches |
Best Large Push Lawn Mower Review
Greenworks 60V 21\” Cordless Push – Best Overall

The Greenworks 60V 21′ Push stands out as a compelling large push mower thanks to its 3200 RPM blade speed, dual-port auto switch, and IPX4 waterproof design. It brings confident, gas-like torque with 50% more power than 40V systems while keeping noise down by about 60%—a big win for early-morning cuts. With aluminum handles and integrated LED lights, it solves two pain points: fatigue during long sessions and visibility at dusk.
In testing, the 21-inch steel deck covers ground quickly, and the included 5.0Ah pack consistently delivers up to 60 minutes on typical lawns—enough for roughly 1/2 acre with efficient pacing. The single-battery setup works for weekly maintenance; add a second battery to auto-switch for thicker, damp spring growth. It handles flat and mildly sloped yards well; very tall, wet fescue may bog slightly on the final pass, so slower walking helps.
Compared with the corded American Lawn Mower 13A, Greenworks offers far better mobility and cut consistency on larger lots. Versus the lighter Greenworks 40V 16′, this 60V model trades compactness for wider deck and stronger suction—ideal for big suburban lawns. For buyers eyeing the YARDMAX gas self-propelled for steep slopes, Greenworks prioritizes quiet, low-maintenance operation and feature depth over raw hill-climbing power, delivering a superior features-to-convenience balance.




- Strong 60V torque
- Dual-battery ready
- IPX4 waterproof
- 21′ cutting path
- LED headlights
- No self-propel
- Heavy for push
- Thick wet grass slowdown
YARDMAX 22\” Self-Propelled Gas – Best for Large Yards

The YARDMAX 22′ RWD is a powerhouse for large yards, pairing a 201cc engine with a unique 6-speed CVT that matches your stride. The 22-inch deck, rear-wheel drive, and aggressive spike-tread rubber tires translate to confident traction on flats, slopes, and rough patches. If you’ve struggled with slipping wheels or underpowered cutters, this setup addresses those pain points decisively.
In use, Select PACE lets you fine-tune speed when mulching dense spring growth or bagging leaves. The heavy-duty 16-gauge seamless steel deck and MaxFlow volute design improve airflow for cleaner mulching and even discharge. With 7 heights (1.38–3.55 in) and deck cleanout port, it’s easy to maintain; the only drawback is higher vibration and weight compared to electric units.
Against the Greenworks 60V 21′, the YARDMAX delivers stronger hill performance and rear-wheel traction, but you trade noise and maintenance. Compared to the PowerSmart 144cc Push, YARDMAX adds self-propel and a larger deck for faster coverage. It’s ideal for owners of large, mixed-terrain lawns who prioritize pace control and traction; for overall convenience, Greenworks 60V offers a quieter, lower-upkeep alternative.




- Strong 201cc power
- CVT pace control
- High-traction tires
- 22′ wide deck
- RWD hill grip
- Heavier build
- Louder operation
- More maintenance
PowerSmart 21\” 144cc Gas – Best Mid-Range Gas

The PowerSmart 21′ 144cc pushes into the large push mower category with solid OHV power, a 21-inch steel deck, and true 3-in-1 versatility. Its heavy-duty blade and dual-lever height adjust (1.5’–3.9′) make quick work of weekly cuts without overcomplicating setup. Foldable handles save up to 70% storage, tackling the common pain point of tight garages.
On thicker turf, the 144cc engine maintains steady momentum with proper pacing, and mulching performance is competitive for its class. Bagging is efficient for leaf cleanup, and side discharge keeps momentum on overgrown sections. As a push mower, it’s best on flat to mildly sloped yards; prolonged use on steep grades is more demanding than with self-propelled models.
Compared to the YARDMAX 201cc self-propelled, PowerSmart trades traction and speed assist for simpler maintenance and lighter handling. Against AMERISUN’s 144cc, PowerSmart is more compact but gives up the larger rear wheels and traction benefits. For homeowners wanting a mid-range gas push mower that balances cut quality and storage convenience, it delivers stronger value than the heavier-duty YARDMAX if you don’t need self-propel.




- 3-in-1 versatility
- Compact fold
- 21′ coverage
- Steady 144cc power
- No self-propel
- Average traction
- Not for steep slopes
PowerSmart 21\” 125cc Push – Best Lightweight Gas Push

PowerSmart’s 21′ 125cc model is a lightweight workhorse for larger pushable areas, emphasizing easy maneuverability at just 62 lbs and straightforward 2-in-1 operation. The B&S 4-stroke engine offers reliable starts and clean cutting for routine weekly maintenance. If you’ve avoided gas mowers due to heft, this one addresses fatigue with a notably nimble feel.
In practice, the 21-inch deck keeps productivity high, and the six-position height range (1.5–3.9 in) covers seasonal shifts. Mulching is tidy on regular growth, while side discharge speeds through taller patches when you’re behind on mowing. It lacks a bagging option and can bog on dense, wet grass—slowing your pace resolves most stalls.
Versus the PowerSmart 144cc 3-in-1, this mower is lighter and easier to push but less versatile without rear bagging. Compared to Greenworks 40V 16′, it offers longer continuous sessions without charging but introduces fuel and maintenance trade-offs. Ideal for homeowners prioritizing light handling over add-ons, it provides a practical feature-to-weight balance the heavier 144cc model can’t match.




- Lightweight push
- Reliable starts
- Simple controls
- 21′ deck
- No bagging
- Lower torque
- Wet-grass slowdown
Greenworks 40V 16\” Cordless – Best Compact Electric

The Greenworks 40V 16′ is a compact cutter that punches above its size for larger pushable areas where agility matters. With a 4.0Ah battery delivering up to 45 minutes, it is quiet, maintenance-free, and far lighter than gas options—great for users who find heavy mowers exhausting. The single-lever 5-position height control and push-button start streamline the whole experience.
In real use, the 16-inch deck excels around beds, trees, and tight gates while offering 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging. It handles small-to-medium lawns up to about 1/2 acre with efficient routes; heavy spring growth may need a slower pace or a second pass. Noise stays under roughly 75 dB, and the lighter chassis is kinder on slopes but not ideal for very thick, wet grass.
Compared to the Greenworks 60V 21′, this model trades cutting width and power for portability and easier storage. Against the American Lawn Mower 13A corded, it removes cord hassle and maintains better mobility, albeit with battery runtime constraints. Best for buyers seeking a compact electric that’s easy to store and maneuver, it offers a more convenience-focused feature mix than the more powerful 60V.




- Ultra-light design
- Quiet operation
- Easy start
- Bag or mulch
- Narrow deck
- Limited runtime
- Struggles in thick grass
AMERISUN 21\” 144cc Gas – Best Traction on Uneven Terrain

The AMERISUN 21′ brings serious traction to push mowing with 10′ rear wheels, wide 1.5′ treads, and dual ball bearings, making it a standout for uneven terrain. Its 144cc OHV engine with auto choke starts easily, and the reinforced 21-inch steel deck is built for durability. The 3-in-1 system plus a 1.4-bushel bag solves cleanup and flexibility in one chassis.
On mixed surfaces, those large wheels make a tangible difference, gliding over ruts and roots where smaller wheels chatter. The six-position height adjustment (1.5’–3.9′) adapts to seasonal growth, and mulching performance stays consistent on typical weekly cuts. It’s still a push mower, so steeper slopes require effort, and prolonged heavy, wet grass can slow progress.
Versus PowerSmart’s 144cc 3-in-1, AMERISUN offers markedly better wheel geometry and handling over rough ground, trading a bit of compactness. Compared with YARDMAX’s self-propelled, you lose drive assistance but avoid added weight and complexity. For homeowners with uneven or bumpy yards, AMERISUN’s traction-first design provides a functional edge that the mid-range PowerSmart can’t match.




- Great traction
- Large rear wheels
- 3-in-1 setup
- Easy starting
- No self-propel
- Heavier push
- Bulky storage
American 19\” 13A Corded – Best Budget Friendly

The American Lawn Mower 51319 is a plug-in performer for larger areas where a cord is manageable, delivering steady power from a 13A motor and a 19-inch deck. It’s quiet, clean, and low-maintenance, ideal for users who want to avoid gas hassles. Mulching or rear-bagging options and 1–3 inch height settings cover typical suburban turf needs.
In the yard, the cord requires planning—best with a 100-foot outdoor-rated extension and a back-and-forth mowing pattern to avoid tangles. The 19-inch deck strikes a balance: faster than compact electrics while still nimble around obstacles. It handles weekly maintenance well; dense, wet grass may need a slower pace or partial passes.
Compared to the Greenworks 40V 16′, the 51319 offers unlimited runtime with a trade-off in cord management and mobility. Against the Greenworks 60V 21′, it’s more constrained on large yards but far simpler from a maintenance standpoint. Ideal for buyers prioritizing budget-friendly, low-upkeep mowing on accessible lawns, it trades cordless freedom for consistent power and value.




- Unlimited runtime
- Low maintenance
- Quiet cutting
- 19′ coverage
- Cord management
- Limited mobility
- Wet-grass slowdown
How to Choose the Right Large Push Lawn Mower
1) Power Source and Runtime
- Gas: Strongest for thick or tall grass and large yards; expect more noise, emissions, and maintenance (oil, filters). Models like YARDMAX 22″ and PowerSmart 144cc/125cc excel for sustained power.
- Battery (Cordless): Quieter, low-maintenance, instant start; check voltage and runtime. Greenworks 60V 21″ offers up to 60 minutes per charge and dual-port auto-switch for extended mowing. Ideal if you want gas-like performance without fumes.
- Corded Electric: Best budget and zero-maintenance pick for smaller large yards if cord management is feasible. American 19″ 13A delivers dependable power but is limited by cord length.
Benefit: Choose gas for maximum torque and endurance, cordless for convenience and low noise, and corded for lower cost and maintenance if outlets/cords are manageable.
2) Deck Size, Build, and Cutting System
- Deck width: 21–22″ cuts more per pass, reducing time on larger lawns (Greenworks 60V 21″, PowerSmart/AMERISUN 21″, YARDMAX 22″).
- Deck material: Steel decks (YARDMAX heavy-duty 16-gauge, AMERISUN reinforced steel) are durable for rough terrain; slightly heavier than plastic.
- 3-in-1/2-in-1: Mulching, bagging, and side discharge give flexibility. Ensure easy bag removal and effective mulching airflow (YARDMAX MaxFlow deck).
Benefit: Wider, steel decks speed up mowing and last longer; versatile cutting modes tailor cleanup and lawn health.
3) Drive, Traction, and Maneuverability
- Self-propelled vs push: For large or sloped yards, self-propelled saves effort. YARDMAX’s CVT with 6 speeds adapts to your walking pace.
- Wheel size and bearings: Larger rear wheels (10–11″) with ball bearings improve rolling and control on uneven ground (AMERISUN, YARDMAX). Aggressive tread boosts traction.
- Weight: Lighter mowers (Greenworks 40V 16″, PowerSmart 125cc) improve maneuverability but may trade off with deck size or power.
Benefit: Proper drive and wheel setup reduce fatigue and deliver steadier cuts on slopes and rough patches.
4) Height Adjustment and Cut Quality
- Single- or dual-lever height adjusters make quick changes across seasons (common range ~1.25″–3.9″).
- Blade speed/airflow: Higher blade tip speed (Greenworks 60V: 3200 RPM) and airflow designs enhance lift and mulching.
- Consistent height steps (5–7 positions) accommodate different grass types and weather.
Benefit: Easy, precise height control improves lawn health and appearance with less fuss.
5) Ease of Use, Maintenance, and Storage
- Start systems: Push-button (battery), auto choke (gas) ease startups.
- Cleaning: Deck wash ports (YARDMAX) simplify cleanup.
- Noise and weather: Lower dB for cordless; IPX4 weather resistance (Greenworks 60V) adds reliability.
- Folding handles and compact storage across several models help if space is tight.
Quick checks before buying:
– Lawn size and terrain (flat vs sloped, rough).
– Preferred maintenance level (gas vs electric).
– Required runtime per session and charging plan.
– Need for self-propel and traction features.
– Storage space and noise tolerance.
Large Push Lawn Mower Comparison
Product | Power Source | Cutting Width (in) | Runtime/Capacity | Drive Type | Mulching/Bagging/Side Discharge | Adjustable Cutting Height | Weight (lbs) | Special Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Greenworks 60V 21″ Cordless | Battery (60V) | 21 | Up to 60 min / 1/2 acre | Push | Mulching/Bagging | Yes | Not Listed | Dual Battery Port, Waterproof, 50% More Power than 40V |
YARDMAX 22″ Self-Propelled Gas | Gas | 22 | N/A | Self-Propelled (6-speed CVT) | Mulching/Bagging/Side Discharge | 7 positions (1.38-3.55″) | Not Listed | CVT Transmission, Aggressive Tread Tires, Deck Cleanout Port |
PowerSmart 21″ 144cc Gas | Gas | 21 | N/A | Push | Mulching/Bagging/Side Discharge | 6 positions (1.5-3.9″) | Not Listed | 3-in-1 Functionality, Foldable Design |
PowerSmart 21″ 125cc Push | Gas | 21 | N/A | Push | Mulching/Side Discharge | 6 positions (1.5-3.9″) | 62 | Lightweight, B&S Engine, Safety Stop Lever |
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless | Battery (40V) | 16 | 45 min | Push | Mulching/Rear Bagging | 5 positions (1.25-3.375″) | Not Listed | Ultra-Lightweight, 2-in-1, Quiet Operation |
AMERISUN 21″ 144cc Gas | Gas | 21 | N/A | Push | Mulching/Bagging/Side Discharge | 6 positions (1.5-3.9″) | Not Listed | Large Wheels, 3 Mowing Modes, Foldable Design |
American 19″ 13A Corded | Corded Electric | 19 | N/A | Push | Mulching/Bagging | 3 positions (1-3″) | Not Listed | Lightweight, Eco-Friendly, Low Maintenance |
Data-Driven Evaluation of Large Push Lawn Mowers
Choosing the best large push lawn mower requires moving beyond feature lists and leveraging available data. We analyzed performance reviews from sources like Consumer Reports and Popular Mechanics, focusing on cut quality scores, reliability ratings, and user satisfaction for models like Greenworks, YARDMAX, and PowerSmart. Comparative analyses of deck size (21-22 inches is optimal for large lawns) and engine/battery capacity were central to our evaluation.
Specifically, we examined the correlation between battery voltage (for cordless models) and reported runtime, noting that 60V systems consistently outperform lower voltage options for extended mowing sessions, as evidenced by Greenworks user feedback. For gas-powered mowers, we prioritized models with robust engine displacement (140cc+) and positive reviews regarding consistent power delivery on thicker grass. Data on self-propel systems highlights the benefit of variable speed control (YARDMAX CVT) for user comfort and efficiency on varied terrain. Furthermore, we assessed the frequency of reported maintenance issues for gas models versus the lower maintenance needs of electric lawn mowers, weighing these factors against initial cost and performance. The entity of lawn mower performance is heavily influenced by these core features.
FAQs
What size lawn is a large push lawn mower best suited for?
A large push lawn mower is ideal for lawns ½ acre or larger. These mowers, particularly those with 21-22 inch decks, significantly reduce mowing time compared to smaller models on expansive properties.
What’s the difference between a self-propelled and a push mower?
Self-propelled mowers drive themselves, reducing physical exertion, especially on hills or uneven terrain. A push mower requires you to provide all the force, making it better suited for flatter, smaller large lawns.
Are battery-powered (cordless) lawn mowers as powerful as gas mowers?
Modern cordless electric lawn mowers, especially those with 60V batteries, can deliver power comparable to many gas mowers. However, gas mowers generally offer more sustained power for very thick or tall grass, and don’t require charging.
What is the 3-in-1 cutting system on some mowers?
The 3-in-1 system refers to the ability to mulch, bag, and side-discharge grass clippings. Mulching returns nutrients to the lawn, bagging provides a clean look, and side discharge is best for tall grass. This versatility makes the mower suited for many lawn care needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, selecting the best large push lawn mower hinges on your specific needs and priorities. Consider your lawn size, terrain, desired convenience, and maintenance preferences when evaluating options like the Greenworks 60V, YARDMAX 22″, and PowerSmart models – each offering a unique blend of power, features, and value.
Investing in a mower that aligns with your lifestyle will save you time and effort, resulting in a healthier, more attractive lawn. Don’t hesitate to leverage the detailed comparison data and FAQs provided to make an informed decision and enjoy years of efficient mowing.