Riding Mower vs. Push Mower: Which One Should You Buy?

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Are you confused about which mower to purchase, riding mower or push mower?

Well, that depends on how you want to utilize the goods and which mower is most suited for the job. Riding mowers are useful in a variety of situations, but they aren’t appropriate in others.

The distinctions between these two alternatives are more than just the operator’s choice. There are several scenarios in which one will work and the other will not.

Let’s start by understanding which mower works best in which condition and some conditions when they won’t be much of a use.

Riding Mowers

pushing lawn mower vs riding lawn mower

Riding mowers are huge lawn mowers, on which you sit on and steer, similar to a small lawn tractor. The biggest advantage of a riding mower is that it requires less effort to mulch leaves and mow the grass. Some of the more premium models even feature a cup holder for your favorite drink.

Not only this, this mower can handle thick, tall grass that is moist with dew. Also, it can be the equipment you require if you’re frequently mowing regions that have been ignored for a long time or are packed with damp grass. It is the best choice if you have rough terrains as riding lawn mowers are best for rough terrains.

Since you don’t have to walk with a riding mower, it’s a wonderful alternative if you have a mobility problem.

Another fantastic feature of riding mowers is the cutting deck size. It ranges from 30 to 60 inches in length. Your lawn will be trimmed faster on a 60-inch deck than on a 30-inch deck.

These were some conditions where riding mowers work best, but are they best? No! 

There are some shortcomings of this mower too. Let’s see what are those.

Cons of Riding Mower

Riding mowers may now appear to be superior grass-cutting devices. Let’s take a look at several situations when a riding mower isn’t appropriate.

The gradient of the slope you’re mowing on is the first and most critical limiting element. While using a riding mower on a steep incline, there is a possibility of a rollover, which can result in serious harm. 

The same may be said for lawns that are uneven. If the grass is too wet or traction is poor, you run the danger of your mower being stuck at the foot of a slope.

Another item to think about is your mower’s steering system. Regular riding mowers have a huge turning radius, so when you get to the end of the yard, you’ll have to do some manoeuvring.

As a result, ordinary riding mowers aren’t ideal for tiny yards or those with a lot of obstacles.

Here we learned all about riding mowers. Now its time to check out push mowers.

Push Mowers

best in riding and pushing lawn mowers

Push mowers can be used as self-propelled mowers with help of their own motor, or you can manually propel them. 

Push mowers are the ideal for slopes having steep gradients or uneven terrain. There’s no danger of your mower rolling over and pinning you. If you have a steep yard, a self-propelled model is the way to go.

With a push mower, you may collect your clippings as you go or mulch them back into your grass. The greatest walk-behind mowers typically have a collecting bag as well as the capacity to mulch clippings just where they fall.

Riding mowers are generally more expensive than push mowers. Self-propelled mowers are more costly than traditional push or reel mowers.

Cons of Push Mower

Push mowers are useful equipment, but they aren’t suitable for all situations. Larger lawns are the most obvious example. If you’re mowing an area of more than half an acre, you should consider other solutions.

Push mowers take far longer than riding mowers because it depends on how fast one can walk while pushing a large equipment.

Because it does not have an engine, you will have to put in a lot of effort if you select a push mower.

Another constraint is the length of grass that they can trim. It can’t handle thick, long grass, and if you try to cut it with your push mower, you risk burning out the motor.

Which Mower Should You Choose?

From the information above, it’s clear that each of these mowers has its own set of circumstances in which they thrive. So, let’s talk about how to pick the best lawn mower for your needs.

First and foremost, how sharp is the slope in your yard? If there is a steep slope, it is typically better to use a push mower rather than a riding mower to avoid being crushed. A riding mower can suffice if you have a plain yard.

Next, what is the size of your yard? The size of your lawn should play a role in your selection. Do you have a place larger than half an acre in size? Consider purchasing a riding lawnmower. Do you have a plot of land that is less than half an acre? The work may be completed using a push mower.

Finally, what is your financial plan? A push mower is a great option if you are on a low budget. Take a look at various riding mowers if you’re in position to invest in something a little more significant.

Final Words

The ideal mower for you is determined by your circumstances. You’ll be relieved to learn that no matter what your scenario is, there is a mower that is suitable for you.

When it’s time to mow the grass, think about your yard, its slope, and the degree of effort you’re prepared to put in.

About Tom Reynolds

My name is Tom Reynolds, and I like lawn mowing. When I was a kid, I used to help my dad in cutting grass using a reel mower, now, I have my own 6 different lawn mowers. Keeping my lawn healthy and beautiful gives me satisfaction, and I still enjoy working in my lawn.