Gone are the days of strenuous pull-cord starts that can leave you frustrated before you even begin mowing. The modern gas-powered lawn mower has evolved, offering the ultimate convenience of push-button start systems. This feature provides reliable, effortless ignition at the touch of a button, making lawn care a simpler and more pleasant task for everyone.
Whether you have a small, flat yard or a large, sloped property, there is a model designed to meet your needs. From self-propelled systems that do the work for you to versatile 3-in-1 cutting options, these mowers combine ease of use with powerful performance. This roundup highlights the best gas mowers with push-button start systems to help you find the perfect machine for a pristine lawn.
The Best Gas Lawn Mowers with Push-Button Start
- AMERISUN 21-Inch 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower, Self Propelled
- Toro 60V MAX 22 in. Recycler with Personal Pace
- Snapper 21″ SP Walk Mower Kit, Self Propelled
- PowerSmart 21 in. Gas Lawn Mower with Briggs and Stratton
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower, Ultra-Light
- PowerSmart 21″ 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower
- Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute, Compatible with MTD
- BILT HARD 20” Push Gas Lawn Mower, 144cc
- Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Craftsman M105 140cc 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower
AMERISUN 21-Inch 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower, Self Propelled
This self-propelled mower is built for strength and efficiency on challenging terrain. Its powerful 170cc 4-stroke OHV gas engine provides consistent power to cut through tall, thick grass in medium and large yards. The reliable starting system ensures you get to work quickly.
The versatile 21-inch cutting deck offers a 3-in-1 function for side discharge, mulching, and rear bag collection. With a high-wheel design featuring 10-inch rear and 7-inch front wheels, this mower is easy to maneuver across uneven ground, hills, and slopes. The six-position adjustable cutting height gives you full control over your lawn’s appearance.
Toro 60V MAX 22 in. Recycler with Personal Pace
Experience the future of mowing with the Toro Recycler, which combines the convenience of battery power with a reliable push-button start. You can choose your runtime by selecting from recommended 60V MAX batteries, ensuring you have the power needed for your entire yard. Dual LED headlights allow for mowing from dawn till dusk.
The innovative Personal Pace Auto-Drive system is a standout feature. This self-propel system automatically adjusts to your walking speed with no knobs or levers to adjust. Simply grab the handle and go, making navigation intuitive and effortless. It’s a low-maintenance option that starts the first time, every time.
Snapper 21″ SP Walk Mower Kit, Self Propelled
This Snapper mower kit provides a comprehensive solution for your lawn care needs. It includes two 2Ah Lithium-ion batteries and a rapid charger, offering up to 45 minutes of run time. The self-propelled transmission with variable speed gives you control over your mowing pace.
The 21-inch steel mowing deck is built to last and features a 3-in-1 design, allowing you to mulch, bag, or side discharge grass clippings with ease. This versatility makes it simple to manage your lawn debris according to your preference and the specific conditions of your yard.
PowerSmart 21 in. Gas Lawn Mower with Briggs and Stratton
At the heart of this mower is a reliable 125cc Briggs and Stratton E300 engine, made in the USA. This engine is equipped with Prime ‘N Pull for easy starting, providing dependable power for your mowing tasks. It’s a workhorse designed for consistent performance.
The mower features a 2-in-1 steel deck that combines mulching and side-discharging capabilities. The heavy-duty 21-inch blade cuts a wide path with each pass, improving efficiency and delivering a clean cut. The durable 15-gauge stamped steel deck is built to withstand regular use.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower, Ultra-Light
This Greenworks mower offers gas-like performance without the fumes, noise, or maintenance. It delivers 35 minutes of continuous runtime from its included 4.0Ah battery, which charges fully in two hours. It’s an ideal choice for maintaining small to medium lawns up to half an acre.
Weighing 35% less than many conventional mowers, the ultra-lightweight design and 16-inch cutting deck make maneuvering and storage exceptionally easy. The push-button start provides instant power, while the single-lever, 5-position height control and 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging system offer great adaptability.
PowerSmart 21″ 3-in-1 Gas Push Lawn Mower
This mower is equipped with a high-performance 140cc 4-stroke engine, providing superior torque for effective cutting while requiring no oil and gas mixing. This means less maintenance and more time spent on achieving a great-looking lawn.
The versatile 3-in-1 functionality allows you to choose between side discharge, rear bagging, and mulching to suit your lawn’s needs. The wider 21-inch cutting deck helps you cover more ground efficiently. Six height adjustments let you customize the cutting length for a perfectly manicured result.
Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute, Compatible with MTD
This is a replacement part designed to restore the functionality of your existing mower. It is a side discharge chute that is compatible with a wide range of models from brands like MTD, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Murray, and Troy-Bilt.
If your original chute has broken or worn out, this part is an affordable way to get your mower back to full operation. It is specifically engineered to fit the listed models, ensuring a proper and secure attachment for safe side-discharge mowing.
BILT HARD 20” Push Gas Lawn Mower, 144cc
The BILT HARD mower features a robust 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine that delivers 3.8 HP, providing ample power to cut through tough grass. A convenient primer button simplifies cold starts, making the ignition process quick and reliable.
This mower offers exceptional control with a single-lever that synchronously adjusts all four wheels across eight different height positions, from 0.7 inches to 3.2 inches. The 7-inch rear and 6-inch front double ball-bearing wheels, combined with an ergonomic foam-wrapped grip, ensure superior maneuverability and comfort during use.
Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
For those seeking an eco-friendly and quiet mowing solution, the Earthwise reel mower is an excellent choice. This hand-push mower requires no gas, oil, or electricity, operating solely on your power. It provides a clean, scissor-like cut that is healthy for your grass.
It features a 16-inch cutting width with a sharp, alloy steel 7-blade reel that stays sharp longer. The durable steel side plate design and 10-inch composite wheels make it a reliable tool for maintaining specific grass types like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine.
Craftsman M105 140cc 21-Inch Gas Push Lawn Mower
The Craftsman M105 is a straightforward and dependable gas push mower designed for reliability. Its 140cc engine provides sufficient power for most residential mowing tasks, helping you maintain a neat and tidy lawn with ease.
Featuring a 21-inch cutting deck, this mower allows you to cover a significant area with each pass, improving mowing efficiency. As a push mower, it gives you full control over your pace, making it a good fit for flat to moderately sloped yards where a self-propelled system is not necessary.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Gas Mower with Push-Button Start
When I started looking for a new mower, the promise of a push-button start was a huge selling point. No more yanking a cord repeatedly on a hot day. But I quickly learned that not all push-button start systems are the same, and there are other important factors to consider. Here’s what I think you should look for when choosing one of the best gas powered lawn mowers with push button start systems.
First, let’s talk about the start system itself. Most of these mowers use a battery to power the electric start. You need to check if the battery is included or if it’s a separate purchase. Also, find out how the battery is charged. Some models have an onboard charger—you just plug the mower into a standard wall outlet. Others require you to remove the battery and charge it separately, which is a bit less convenient. A backup recoil starter is a must-have feature. It ensures you can still get the job done if the battery ever dies.
Engine power is next on my list. This is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). For a small, flat yard, an engine around 140-160 cc might be plenty. If you have a larger property, hills, or thick grass, you’ll want something more robust, like a 190 cc or higher engine. A more powerful engine won’t struggle as much, leading to a cleaner cut and longer machine life.
Then there’s the deck. The material matters—steel decks are durable but can rust, while aluminum decks are rust-proof but can be more expensive. The cutting width determines how wide a path you mow. A wider deck (21 or 22 inches) means fewer passes to cover your lawn. Look for adjustable cutting heights that are easy to change, preferably with a single lever that adjusts all wheels at once instead of four individual levers.
Don’t forget about the cutting options. A mulching kit is great for feeding your lawn with clippings. A side-discharge chute is useful for cutting very long grass. And a bagging option gives you that clean, manicured look. The best mowers offer all three capabilities. Finally, consider the warranty. A longer warranty on the deck and engine shows the manufacturer has confidence in their product. It’s your peace of mind for the years ahead.
FAQ
How does a push button start work on a gas mower?
It’s pretty straightforward. The mower has a small, rechargeable battery, similar to a car battery but much smaller. When you press the start button, it sends power to a starter motor that turns over the engine, getting it running without any pulling. Most systems include a key for safety, so you insert and turn the key, then press the button. It’s a fantastic feature that saves a lot of time and effort, especially if you have shoulder or back problems.
What happens if the battery for the electric start dies?
This was one of my first concerns. The good news is that nearly every gas mower with a push-button start also includes a traditional recoil starter as a backup. So, if the battery is dead or the electric system fails, you can always start it the old-fashioned way by pulling the cord. It’s a crucial safety net that makes these mowers a reliable choice.
Are these mowers much heavier than regular push mowers?
They can be a bit heavier because of the added components like the battery and the starter motor. The difference is usually only a few pounds, but it’s something to think about if you have a very hilly yard or need to lift the mower onto a patio frequently. The convenience of the easy start often outweighs the slight extra weight for most people. If weight is a major concern, look for models with a aluminum deck, which is lighter than steel.
How do I maintain the battery for the push-button system?
Battery maintenance is key for longevity. If you have an onboard charger, it’s easy—just plug it in after each use or as recommended in the manual. If the battery is removable, you should charge it fully before storing the mower for the winter. I always disconnect the battery if I’m not going to use the mower for a long time. Storing the battery in a cool, dry place and keeping it charged according to the manufacturer’s instructions will help it last for several seasons.
Is a gas mower with a push button start worth the extra cost?
In my opinion, absolutely. The price difference between a standard recoil-start mower and one with a push-button start has gotten smaller over the years. When you consider the frustration it saves and the sheer ease of use, the extra investment is completely justified. It makes starting your mower a quick, one-step process every single time. For anyone who values convenience and has ever struggled with a stubborn pull-cord, it’s a feature you will appreciate every time you mow the lawn.