Differences Between Self Propelled VS Push Mower

Last Updated on April 1, 2024 by Sharaj

Purchasing a brand-new lawnmower is something many lawn owners look forward to. This does not mean that it is an easy task.

First, you have to do a lot of research about the best type and brand to buy before finally making a suitable decision while keeping other factors like your lawn terrain and budget in mind.

Anyway, despite there being so many different mower types, if you have finally decided to either go for a hand push mower or opt for the self-propelled version and are not quite sure which you should choose, then you’ll find this article very useful.

Here, we have provided enough information on each type so that you can choose rightly.

Differences Between Self Propelled VS Push Mower

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Self-Propelled Mower

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A self propelled lawn mower functions just as its name implies–propels itself. This machine type is designed with a transmission that causes the wheels of the machine to spin without any outside force pushing it. Therefore, once the machine is started it begins to move by itself.

Even though this machine is capable of mowing by itself, the machine still needs your control and direction. Once you squeeze the bail, the mower will start and anytime you let go of the bail, the mower will stop. So, you really don’t have to worry about your self-drive mower getting out of control

In terms of weight self-drive mowers have a heavier weight than push mowers. However, this is not much of a problem since you don’t have to push it across your lawn when mowing. Even if you need to transport the machine to a different location a ramp will help you transfer it easily onto your lorry.

What’s more, many of these mower types have a multiple speed setting that allows you to tweak the speed of the mower. Those that don’t have various speed options come in a normal speed that you won’t find too fast or too slow when in use.

Because of their mechanical nature, self-propelled mowers are double the price of a standard push mower. Most of their parts are nonexistent in a push mower which also means that you may need to replace or repair parts often. As powerful as it is, the mower may sometimes find it hard to go over obstructions.

Some self-drive mowers have front-wheel drive while others have rear-wheel drive. These two self-propelled types are explained below:

Front-Wheel Drive: With a front-drive mower machine, the power transfers mainly into the frontal wheels. Because these wheels are designed to rotate up to 180-degree, they are easy to manoeuvre. As such, going over obstructions or making sharp turns is quite easy with this machine. Another upside is that they are not as expensive as their rear-wheel counterpart.

Rear-Wheel Drive: The rear wheels of this machine type get all the power. Because of this, the machines are more grounded and have more adhesive friction. They are great for rough, uneven lawns. However, their cost is quite high and manoeuvring them can be quite a hassle.

Advantages of Self-Propelled Lawnmower:

• Variable speed options
• Works for large lawns
• Saves time and energy
• Different versions to fit different lawn terrain

Disadvantages of Self-Propelled Lawnmower:

• Quite weighty
• Expensive to purchase
• More need for part replacement and repair

Push Mower

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This kind of mower is pretty much a manual machine since it requires human effort to work. It does have a motor which makes the machine’s blade to spin. Compared to the self-drive mower, manual lawn mower are not so heavy and are also less costly.

One great thing about the push mower is that you get to enjoy more control since you push the mower at your own pace. The machine is also easy to turn when the need arises. Plus, in the face of obstruction, you can easily pull it backwards and then make a reverse without much ado.

If you think you’ll be transporting your mower a lot, then you might want to consider going for the push mower. It is quite lightweight and as such, easy to raise onto a lorry. Also, investing in a very expensive self-drive mower may not be wise if you’re not the type that mows often.

Besides, using a push mower can help you lose weight– that is if you’re interested in losing weight, of course. The additional physical effort is just enough to shed you of some extra calories. A push mower will do wonders on a flat, small lawn if used properly. People who like simple things will find this mower type quite useful.

On a downside, push mowers require a level of physical strain. This is what makes them somewhat dangerous and less than ideal for older or ill users.

Advantages of Push Mowers:

• Lightweight design
• Simple to Use
• Not so expensive

Disadvantages of Push Mower:

• Time and energy-consuming
• Not ideal for old and ill folks

Conclusion

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When choosing a lawnmower don’t just focus on the mowers alone. Also consider how they will function on your lawn. For instance, consider your lawn size, lawn terrain and your overall budget before making your pick.

These two lawn mower types come in electric, Petrol, and battery powered options. However, you need to first figure out whether it’s the push mower or the self-drive mower that is for you. Once this is out of the way, you can start thinking about other features.

Keep in mind that whichever one you choose, maintenance is important. Also, look for quality and durability. If you’re buying a lawnmower then it better be one that delivers and lasts. Remember that push mower performs best when the lawn is small or medium-sized. A larger lawn will benefit more from a self-driven motor.

Lawn mowing is easy, but not if you buy the wrong mower. We hope this guide leads you to the best mower.