Choosing the right engine for your push lawn mower is the single most important decision for maintaining a pristine lawn. A powerful, reliable engine doesn’t just make the job easier; it ensures a clean, even cut season after season. With options ranging from robust gas-powered OHV engines to innovative cordless brushless motors, the technology available today is designed for efficiency and durability.
This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting the ten best push lawn mower engines for 2025. We’ve analyzed key features like engine displacement, starting mechanisms, and overall design to help you find the perfect match for your yard’s size and your personal preferences, whether you’re a fan of traditional gas or ready to embrace the quiet power of battery-operated models.
The Best Push Lawn Mower Engines for 2025
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
- YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower
- 21″ Steel Deck Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Push Mower
- CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower with 140cc B&S E550 Engine
- PowerSmart 21″ Push Lawn Mower with B&S 125cc Engine
- FireLeaves 6.5HP Gas Engine Horizontal Shaft
- Briggs and Stratton 725EXi Series Gas Engine
- Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
- Briggs & Stratton 1150 Series 140cc Mower Engine
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
This PowerSmart mower is built around a strong 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine, designed for reliable performance and easy starting with its auto choke system. It provides ample power for typical residential lawns, helping you complete your mowing tasks efficiently.
The 2-in-1 functionality allows you to switch between mulching and bagging with ease, supported by a durable all-steel deck. The 21-inch heavy-duty blade covers a wide path, reducing the number of passes needed and saving you time.
YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower
For those needing extra power, the YARDMAX mower features a substantial 170cc engine. This makes it a solid option for slightly thicker grass or larger properties where consistent power is essential.
Its MAXFlow deck technology enhances airflow for superior mulching and discharge. The single-lever deck adjustment and high rear wheels make changing cutting heights and maneuvering over uneven ground remarkably simple.
21″ Steel Deck Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Push Mower
This model is an excellent example of a dependable gas push mower, powered by a 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a forced air-cooling system for sustained performance. The auto choke ensures it starts with minimal effort every time.
Maneuverability is a key benefit, thanks to its large 7-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels with wide treads and ball bearings. This design allows it to handle bumps and dips in your yard with ease, providing a smooth mowing experience.
CRAFTSMAN Self-Propelled Gas Powered Lawn Mower
If you prefer to let the mower do the pushing, this CRAFTSMAN model is an ideal choice. Its self-propelled drive system allows you to select a comfortable walking speed, reducing physical strain and making large lawns much more manageable.
At its heart is a powerful 159cc OHV engine, which provides reliable power and features both recoil and auto choke for straightforward starting. The 3-in-1 capabilities give you full control over how you manage your grass clippings.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower with 140cc B&S E550 Engine
This PowerSmart mower stands out with its USA-made Briggs and Stratton E550 140cc engine. Known for its reliability, this engine includes a Prime ‘N Pull system that simplifies the starting process and operates with low noise levels.
The rugged 21-inch steel deck is built for longevity, and the 3-in-1 functionality offers mulching, rear discharge, or bagging. The 1.4-bushel grass bag is designed for easy emptying, adding to the overall convenience.
PowerSmart 21″ Push Lawn Mower with B&S 125cc Engine
For smaller lawns or users who prioritize a lightweight machine, this model is an excellent option. It uses a reliable Briggs and Stratton 125cc 4-stroke OHV engine that delivers consistent performance for maintaining a well-groomed lawn.
Weighing only 62 pounds, it is exceptionally easy to maneuver around trees, garden beds, and other obstacles. The 2-in-1 system provides the choice between mulching for soil health or side discharge for a clean finish.
FireLeaves 6.5HP Gas Engine Horizontal Shaft
This FireLeaves engine is not a complete mower but a powerful 160cc replacement motor for various equipment. With a power output of 3kW and a speed of 3600 RPM, it provides substantial force for demanding tasks.
Its industrial-grade design includes a large 6.5-liter fuel tank for extended operation and a built-in silencer for quieter performance. This is a practical solution for those needing to replace an old or failed engine on a compatible mower or other machinery.
Briggs and Stratton 725EXi Series Gas Engine
The Briggs and Stratton 725EXi series represents a step forward in user-friendly engine technology. Its “Check and Add” system means you never have to change the engine oil, significantly reducing routine maintenance.
The Ready Start system eliminates the need for a primer or choke—you simply pull the cord to start. Combined with a maintenance-free Magnetron electronic ignition, this engine is built for consistent, hassle-free operation over the long term.
Greenworks 80V 21″ Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower
For a gas-free mowing experience, the Greenworks 80V mower is a top contender. Its brushless motor provides high torque and efficiency, resulting in a longer motor life and significantly quieter operation—it’s up to three times quieter than a gas mower.
Included with the mower is a 4.0Ah battery and rapid charger, providing enough power to cut up to half an acre on a single charge. The LED headlight is a useful feature for mowing in low-light conditions, adding to its versatility.
Briggs & Stratton 1150 Series 140cc Mower Engine
This Briggs & Stratton 1150 Series engine is a reliable and widely used 140cc power plant designed for push mowers. It is known for its durable construction and consistent performance, making it a common choice for many lawn mower manufacturers.
As a replacement engine, it offers a direct solution for reviving an older mower. Its design focuses on simplicity and dependability, ensuring that your equipment gets back to work with a motor from a trusted brand in outdoor power equipment.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Push Lawn Mower Engine
When I’m looking for a new push mower, the engine is the first thing I check. It’s the heart of the machine, and picking the right one makes all the difference between a frustrating chore and a smooth, easy job. For the 10 best push lawn mower engines for 2025, you need to know what separates the good from the great.
First, consider engine displacement, which is usually measured in cubic centimeters (cc). Think of this as the engine’s size. A larger engine, say 190cc or more, has more power to tackle thick, wet grass or hilly terrain without bogging down. For a smaller, flat lawn, a 140cc to 170cc engine is often plenty. Don’t just go for the biggest number; match the power to your property’s needs to avoid paying for more than you’ll use.
Next, look at the engine type. Most modern mowers use Overhead Valve (OHV) engines. I always recommend these because they are more fuel-efficient, run cooler, last longer, and are quieter than their older side-valve counterparts. Many of the best engines for 2025 will also be Briggs & Stratton ReadyStart or Honda GCV170 models, which feature no-pull electric start systems. Trust me, not having to yank a cord on a cold morning is a game-changer.
The construction material is another key factor. I prefer engines with a cast-iron sleeve in the cylinder. This isn’t just a fancy term; it’s a sign of durability. This sleeve reduces wear and tear on the engine’s core components, significantly extending its life, especially if you use your mower frequently or for commercial purposes.
Finally, pay attention to the brand’s reputation and warranty. Brands like Honda, Briggs & Stratton, and Kawasaki have built their names on reliability. A longer warranty period, often 3 to 5 years for residential use, is a strong indicator that the manufacturer stands behind its product. It gives me peace of mind knowing that the engine is built to last through many mowing seasons. By focusing on these key areas—power, engine type, durability, and warranty—you can confidently choose an engine that will keep your lawn looking perfect for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable brand of push mower engine?
Based on my experience and widespread user reports, Honda and Briggs & Stratton are consistently at the top for reliability. Honda engines are renowned for their smooth operation, quiet performance, and incredible longevity. Briggs & Stratton engines are workhorses, known for their durability and excellent parts availability, making them easy to service for decades. When researching the 10 best push lawn mower engines for 2025, you will see these two names repeatedly for a very good reason.
Is a higher CC engine always better for a push mower?
Not necessarily. A higher cc (cubic centimeter) engine provides more power, which is fantastic for tough conditions like tall, damp grass or steep hills. However, if you have a small, flat lawn, a more powerful engine is overkill. It will be heavier, potentially use more fuel, and cost more upfront. I suggest matching the engine power to your specific lawn’s challenges for the best balance of performance and efficiency.
How important is an electric start feature?
I consider it a major quality-of-life improvement. While a traditional recoil pull-start is perfectly functional, an electric start (often powered by a small battery) eliminates the physical strain of pulling a cord. This is especially helpful if you have shoulder or back issues, or if you simply appreciate the convenience of starting your mower with the push of a button. Many of the newer engine models are making this a standard feature.
What maintenance does a push mower engine need?
Regular maintenance is the secret to a long engine life. The most critical task is changing the oil at least once per mowing season, or more often if you use it frequently. You should also replace the air filter annually to prevent dirt from damaging the engine, and use a fuel stabilizer if you store the mower with gas in the tank for more than 30 days. A fresh spark plug every season or two also ensures easy starting.
Can I replace the engine on my old push mower?
Yes, it is often possible to replace the engine on a push mower if the deck and wheels are still in good condition. However, it’s not always the most cost-effective choice. You need to make sure the new engine has the same shaft size and orientation (vertical or horizontal) and that the mounting pattern matches your mower’s deck. For an older mower, the cost of a new engine plus labor might be close to the price of a brand-new mower.