Lawn mower listings use terms such as self-propelled, push, and cutting width. They describe how the machine moves and how much grass it covers on each pass.
Push mowers
A push mower has a motor that turns the blade only. The wheels are not driven, so you supply the force to move the machine across the lawn. This keeps the design simple, light and usually less expensive. It suits small, flat lawns and users who do not mind the effort.
Self-propelled mowers
A self-propelled mower has a drive system that turns the wheels, normally the rear ones, so the machine pulls itself forward. You steer and set the pace. The benefit is lower effort on larger lawns, slopes and when the grass box is full and heavy. Many have variable speed, so you can slow down for thick grass.
- Drive adds weight and cost, and a more complex mechanism to maintain.
- Rear-wheel drive gives good grip on slopes; front-wheel drive makes turning easier.
- On a very small or cluttered lawn with many turns, a lighter push model can be easier to manoeuvre.
Cutting width
Cutting width is the width of the strip of grass cut in one pass, stated in centimetres. A wider cut means fewer passes and less time, but a bigger and heavier machine, and it needs more space to store and turn.
- Up to about 34 cm: small gardens and tight spaces.
- About 36 to 42 cm: average suburban lawns of a few hundred square metres.
- About 46 to 53 cm and above: larger lawns, often paired with petrol engines or high-capacity batteries.
Power source
Electric corded mowers are light and low maintenance but limited by cable length. Cordless battery mowers are quiet and convenient, with run time set by battery capacity in amp-hours and voltage. Petrol mowers suit large areas and thick grass and need fuel, oil and seasonal servicing; their engine size is often given in cubic centimetres.
Other specification points
- Cutting height: the range of adjustment, commonly 20 to 70 mm. Higher settings suit rough or first cuts.
- Grass box capacity: measured in litres. A bigger box means fewer emptying stops.
- Mulching and rear discharge: some models can chop clippings finely and return them to the lawn.
- Handle height adjustment: helps comfort and folding for storage.
Keep hands and feet clear of the blade, switch off and remove the key or battery before clearing blockages, and follow the manual.