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This comparison covers the powersmart 21 inch 170cc self propelled gas vs 144cc 21 inch 2 in 1. Both models share a 21-inch steel deck and 4-stroke gas engines with auto-choke features for reliable starts. They also offer mulching and side-discharge options. The main difference lies in propulsion and included accessories. One model provides rear-wheel drive for easier handling on slopes, while the other includes a string trimmer and edger kit for broader yard maintenance tasks.
Drive Type
Self-propelled (rear-wheel drive)
Push
Engine Displacement
170cc
144cc
Mowing Functions
3-in-1 (mulch, side discharge, rear bagging)
2-in-1 (mulch, side discharge)
Included Equipment
Not listed
16-inch string trimmer/edger with brush cutter
Weight
59 pounds
Not listed
Choose the first if
- You need assistance mowing on slopes or uneven terrain with rear-wheel drive.
- You want the option to bag clippings in addition to mulching or side-discharging.
- You prefer a more powerful 170cc engine for thick or wet grass.
Choose the second if
- You want a complete kit that includes a string trimmer and edger for detailed yard work.
- You are maintaining a smaller area like a 1/4 acre yard and prefer manual push control.
- You need a setup that ships in two boxes for potentially easier transport or storage.
Verdict
Choose the 170cc self-propelled model if you prioritize ease of use on hills and versatile clipping management with bagging. Select the 144cc push mower kit if you value having a trimmer and edger included for comprehensive yard maintenance tasks.
Engine Power and Drive Comparison
Engine Displacement
Edge: PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower
PowerSmart offers two distinct engine sizes for you to consider. The self-propelled model features a robust 170cc 4-stroke OHV engine. This larger displacement provides more power for cutting through thick or wet grass efficiently. The push mower kit uses a smaller 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine. While still reliable, it has less raw power than the 170cc unit. Both engines include auto-choke features for easier starting. If you have a dense lawn or taller grass, the 170cc engine gives you better performance. For lighter duty tasks, the 144cc engine is sufficient. The difference in displacement matters for how the mower handles resistance.
Drive Type
Edge: PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower
The drive mechanism is a major difference between these two mowers. The first product is a self-propelled mower with rear-wheel drive. This system provides strong traction on slopes and uneven terrain, allowing for confident control with less effort from you. The second product is a standard push mower. You must physically push it across the lawn. This requires more physical exertion, especially on hills. The self-propelled drive is ideal for larger or sloped yards. The push model is best for flat, small areas where you do not mind the extra effort. The drive type significantly changes the user experience during mowing.
Mowing Functions
Edge: PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower
Both mowers offer versatile grass management options. The self-propelled model is a 3-in-1 mower. You can choose between mulching, side discharge, or rear bagging. This rear bagging option allows you to collect clippings neatly in a bag. The push mower kit is a 2-in-1 model. It supports side discharge and mulching only. It does not include a rear bagging capability. If you prefer to collect grass clippings in a bag for a cleaner look, the self-propelled model is the better choice. The push mower is suitable if you are okay with leaving clippings on the lawn or blowing them out the side. The 3-in-1 versatility adds more utility to the first product.
Included Equipment
Edge: PowerSmart 21-Inch Push Gas Mower Kit
The value proposition differs based on what is in the box. The push mower kit includes additional tools beyond the mower itself. It comes with a 16-inch string trimmer and edger. This trimmer features a 25.4cc 2-cycle engine and a 10-inch brush cutter blade. This combination is designed for a 1/4 acre yard. The self-propelled mower does not include these extra tools in its standard configuration. It is a standalone unit. If you need a trimmer for edging along sidewalks or fences, the kit offers more equipment. If you already have trimming tools, the standalone mower is sufficient. The kit provides a more complete yard care solution.
Height Adjustment
Edge: PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower
Cutting height control allows you to customize your lawn appearance. The self-propelled mower offers six position height adjustments. You can quickly adjust the cutting height from 1.5 inches to 3.9 inches using a dual-lever control system. This wide range and multiple positions give you precise control over grass length. The push mower kit data does not specify the number of height positions or the range. It mentions a steel deck and clean cut but lacks specific adjustment details. More adjustment positions generally mean you can fine-tune the cut for different seasons or grass types. The self-propelled model provides clear, flexible height settings.
Which PowerSmart mower fits your lawn
Users with slopes or uneven terrain
Our pick: PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower
The self-propelled rear-wheel drive system provides strong traction on slopes and uneven ground. You get confident control with less physical effort. The 170cc engine delivers the power needed to handle thick grass efficiently. This model reduces strain on your legs while maintaining a clean cut across challenging landscapes.
Buyers wanting a complete trimming kit
Our pick: PowerSmart 21-Inch Push Gas Mower Kit
This kit includes a 16-inch string trimmer and edger with a brush cutter blade. It is ideal for managing a quarter-acre yard with diverse edges. The 144cc push mower handles standard mowing tasks. You get both mowing and trimming tools in one purchase, saving you from buying separate equipment for your perimeter maintenance.
Those prioritizing adjustable cutting heights
Our pick: PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower
The self-propelled model offers six height adjustment positions ranging from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. You can quickly switch settings using the dual-lever control for even cuts. The push mower kit does not list specific height adjustment ranges in the provided data. If precise height control is critical, this feature gives you more flexibility for different grass types.
PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower
Best for: Sloped lawns needing traction and durability
- Cutting Width
- 21 in
- Drive Type
- Self-propelled (rear-wheel drive)
- Mowing Functions
- 3-in-1 (mulch, side discharge, bag)
- Motor Type
- 4-stroke OHV, 170 cc
- Height Adjustments
- 6 positions (1.5" – 3.9")
- Power Type
- Gas
This PowerSmart mower features a 170cc 4-stroke OHV engine and rear-wheel drive self-propulsion. The 21-inch steel deck offers three mowing functions: mulching, side discharge, and bagging. You can adjust the cutting height in six positions from 1.5 to 3.9 inches. The foldable handle aids storage. This model suits users needing traction on slopes and uneven terrain.
- 170cc OHV engine provides strong power for thick grass
- Rear-wheel drive self-propulsion helps on slopes
- Steel deck offers durable construction
- Six height positions allow precise cutting adjustments
- Foldable handle simplifies storage
- Weighs 59 pounds, which is heavier than push models
- Self-propelled system requires more maintenance than push mowers
- Rear-wheel drive may feel less agile on tight turns
- You have a sloped or uneven lawn
- You prefer self-propelled convenience over manual pushing
- You need a durable steel deck for rough terrain
- You want a lightweight push mower for easy storage
- You have a small, flat lawn with no slopes
- You prefer electric or battery-powered operation
Verdict: PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower is ideal for homeowners with sloped lawns who need reliable traction and a durable steel deck for efficient mowing.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Push Gas Mower Kit
Best for: small yards needing mower and trimmer
- Cutting Width
- 21"
- Drive Type
- push
- Mowing Functions
- 2-in-1 (side discharge, mulching)
- Motor Type
- 144cc 4-cycle OHV
- Power Type
- Gas
- Included Equipment
- Edger, Brush Cutter
This PowerSmart kit includes a 21-inch push mower with a 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine and a 16-inch string trimmer. The mower offers 2-in-1 side discharge or mulching functions. It features a steel deck and auto choke for reliable starts. The included trimmer has a 25.4cc engine. This bundle suits owners of small yards up to 1/4 acre who want versatile tools.
- Includes a 16-inch string trimmer with 10-inch brush cutter
- 21-inch steel deck for durable cutting
- 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine with auto choke
- 2-in-1 side discharge and mulching capabilities
- 144cc engine displacement is lower than the 170cc option
- Push drive requires more physical effort than self-propelled models
- Ships in two separate boxes which may arrive separately
- You need a string trimmer for yard edges
- You have a small yard up to 1/4 acre
- You prefer a manual push mower for exercise
- You require self-propelled ease for hilly terrain
- You want a higher displacement engine for heavy grass
- You prefer a single-box delivery experience
Verdict: PowerSmart 21-Inch 144cc Push Mower Kit is a practical bundle for small yards, combining a 21-inch mower with a 16-inch trimmer for versatile maintenance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | PowerSmart 21-Inch 170cc Self-Propelled Gas Mower | PowerSmart 21-Inch Push Gas Mower Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 21 in | 21" |
| Drive Type | Self-propelled (rear-wheel drive) | push |
| Mowing Functions | 3-in-1 (mulch, side discharge, bag) | 2-in-1 (side discharge, mulching) |
| Motor Type | 4-stroke OHV, 170 cc | 144cc 4-cycle OHV |
| Height Adjustments | 6 positions (1.5" – 3.9") | – |
| Power Type | Gas | Gas |
| Engine Displacement | 170cc | 144cc |
| Included Equipment | – | Edger, Brush Cutter |
| Engine Stroke | 4-Stroke | – |
| Dimensions | 56.5 × 22 × 42.5 inches | 63 × 23 × 42 inches |
| Weight | 59 pounds | – |
| Size | 21 Inch-170cc | 21-inch |
| Color | Black | Mulching Mower |
| Model | DB8621S | DB8621C+PS4532 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the 170cc self-propelled mower better for hills?
Yes, the 170cc model is ideal for sloped lawns. Its self-propelled drive system provides reliable traction on uneven terrain. This feature reduces the physical effort required to push the machine. You get confident control while navigating inclines without struggling to keep the mower moving forward.
What is the difference in engine size between these two?
The self-propelled unit has a 170cc engine, while the push model features a 144cc engine. The larger 170cc displacement offers more power for cutting thick or wet grass efficiently. This extra torque helps maintain blade speed under heavy loads compared to the smaller 144cc option.
Does the 144cc mower come with a trimmer?
Yes, the 144cc push mower is sold as a kit. It includes a 16-inch brush cutter and edger. This bundle is practical for small yards needing versatile maintenance tools. You get both a mower and additional equipment for trimming edges and clearing brush in one package.
How much heavier is the self-propelled version?
The self-propelled 170cc mower weighs 59 pounds. The push model kit is lighter, though its exact weight is not listed. The additional weight of the self-propelled unit comes from the drive mechanism. This mass helps with stability but requires more strength to lift or maneuver manually.
Can both mowers mulch grass clippings?
Yes, both models support mulching. The 170cc mower offers 3-in-1 functions, including mulching, bagging, and side discharge. The 144cc push mower provides 2-in-1 capabilities, which also include mulching and side discharge. You can choose the method that best fits your lawn care routine.
Which mower is better for small yards?
The 144cc push mower kit is better for small yards. It combines a mower with a trimmer and edger for versatile maintenance. Its compact design suits limited spaces. The self-propelled 170cc model is larger and heavier, making it less ideal for tight areas or small lawns.
Are both engines 4-stroke gas engines?
Yes, both models use 4-stroke gas engines. They feature auto-choke systems for reliable starts. This design simplifies operation by eliminating the need for manual choking. You get consistent performance from both engines, though the 170cc version provides more power for demanding tasks.
