AMERISUN 21" Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Gas Push Mowers, 144cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine, 6 Height Adjustments 1.4 Bushel Grass Catcher, Lawnmower with Bagging, Mulching & Side Discharge, Efficient Steel Deck Review

By the Mowers.Cloud editorial team · How we research & rate · Updated June 2026

★★★★½ 3.6/5 (49 reviews)
$213.19
Brand: AMERISUN
AMERISUN 21" Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Gas Push Mowers, 144cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine, 6 Height Adjustments 1.4 Bushel Grass Catcher, Lawnmower with Bagging, Mulching & Side Discharge, Efficient Steel Deck
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Overview

The AMERISUN 21" Gas Lawn Mower is a budget-friendly push mower designed for owners of small to medium-sized lawns (up to 1/3 acre) who want a capable 3-in-1 machine without breaking the bank. With a 144cc OHV engine, steel deck, and bagging/mulching/side discharge options, this mower aims to deliver solid performance for the price-conscious homeowner who doesn’t need premium features but still expects reliable grass cutting.

Who Should Buy This

  1. First-time gas mower buyers on a tight budget – If you’re moving up from a corded electric or manual reel mower and want a gas-powered step up without spending over $300, this is your entry point.

  2. Owners of flat, 1/4-acre suburban lawns – This mower handles straightforward, relatively flat terrain well. It’s not built for steep hills or large properties.

  3. DIY homeowners who don’t mind basic assembly – The AMERISUN comes partially disassembled. If you’re comfortable with a wrench and screwdriver for 30 minutes, you’ll save significant money versus pre-assembled models.

  4. Buyers who want mulching and bagging in one machine – The 3-in-1 capability (bag, mulch, side discharge) is genuinely useful for varying grass conditions and personal preferences.

Key Features Breakdown

144cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine – This is a 4.5-5.5 horsepower class engine, comparable to entry-level Briggs & Stratton or Honda clones. For a 21" deck, it provides adequate power for normal grass cutting. It’s not a powerhouse for thick, wet grass, but it’ll handle weekly cuts without bogging down. The overhead valve design offers slightly better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than older side-valve engines.

21" Steel Deck – A stamped steel deck is standard at this price point. It’s durable enough for several seasons of normal use but won’t resist rust as well as aluminum or fabricated steel. The 21" width is a sweet spot – wide enough to cut efficiently, narrow enough to maneuver around flower beds and fences.

6 Height Adjustments (1-3 inches) – Six positions give you decent range, from a low 1" scalp to a taller 3" cut. The adjustment is a single-lever system (per wheel), not the more convenient single-point adjuster found on pricier mowers. You’ll need to adjust each wheel individually, which takes about 2 minutes.

1.4 Bushel Grass Catcher – This is a small-to-medium bag capacity. For a 1/4-acre lawn, you’ll likely empty it 2-3 times per mowing session. The bag is fabric with a plastic frame – functional but not as durable as hard plastic bags.

3-in-1 Capability – Bagging, mulching, and side discharge are all included. The mulching plug is easy to install, and side discharge works well for tall grass. Most budget mowers offer this, but it’s good to see it included rather than as an add-on.

Efficient Steel Deck – “Efficient” is marketing speak, but the deck design does channel clippings reasonably well. The side discharge chute is included and attaches with a simple clip.

Pros

  1. Exceptional value for the price – At $213, this is one of the cheapest gas mowers with a steel deck and 3-in-1 capability. Comparable models from big brands cost $50-100 more.

  2. Lightweight and easy to push – At roughly 55-60 pounds, it’s lighter than many competitors. Good for smaller users or those who need to navigate tight spots.

  3. Surprisingly quiet for a gas mower – The OHV engine runs smoother and quieter than many side-valve engines at this price point. Your neighbors won’t hate you.

  4. Simple maintenance – No complicated carburetor adjustments needed. Oil change and air filter cleaning are straightforward. Parts are available online.

  5. Mulching performance is decent – With the mulching plug installed, it chops clippings fine enough for most lawns, provided you don’t let the grass get too tall.

  6. Compact storage footprint – The handle folds (though not with a quick-release lever – you’ll need a wrench). Still, it fits in smaller sheds or garage corners.

Cons

  1. Build quality is budget-tier – Plastic wheel hubs, thin gauge steel, and cheaper fasteners. This mower won’t last 10 years with heavy use. Expect 3-5 seasons before major repairs are needed.

  2. Height adjustment is per-wheel – Unlike many competitors that offer a single-lever system for all four wheels, you must adjust each wheel individually. It’s a minor annoyance every time you change cutting height.

  3. Bag attachment is finicky – The grass catcher hooks onto the rear of the mower, but the connection isn’t as secure as higher-end models. It can pop off if you hit a bump or turn sharply. The bag itself is small (1.4 bushels) for anything larger than a postage-stamp lawn.

  4. No washout port – Cleaning under the deck requires tipping the mower (carefully, fuel-side up) or using a hose from the side. A washout port would make this much easier.

  5. Engine can struggle in tall, wet grass – The 144cc engine is adequate, not powerful. If you let grass get above 6 inches or mow after rain, expect to slow down and possibly stall.

Bottom Line

The AMERISUN 21" Gas Lawn Mower is a solid entry-level choice for homeowners with small, flat lawns who prioritize price over longevity. It cuts grass, offers all three discharge options, and won’t strain your budget. However, it’s not built for rugged use, steep slopes, or owners who want premium features like single-point height adjustment or a washout port. If you’re okay with a 3-5 year lifespan and some minor assembly frustration, this mower delivers excellent bang for the buck. For larger lawns or heavy-duty use, spend more on a Honda or Toro. But for a starter gas mower under $220, the AMERISUN is a reasonable bet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How difficult is assembly? Do I need special tools? A: Assembly takes about 30-45 minutes. You’ll need a socket wrench (10mm and 13mm), a Phillips screwdriver, and possibly a pair of pliers. The handle, wheels, bag, and cables need attaching. The manual is basic but adequate. No special tools are required.

Q: Can I use this mower on a sloped lawn? A: It’s okay on gentle slopes (under 15 degrees). The engine doesn’t have a pressurized oil system, so on steep hills, oil starvation can occur. The wheels also lack traction on wet slopes. For hills, consider a self-propelled model.

**Q: What type

How It Compares

Here is a head-to-head comparison of the two products you listed. Please note: Mower B (the DEWALT product) is not a lawn mower—it is a battery pack. This creates a fundamental mismatch. The comparison below will address this directly.


Quick Verdict

The AMERISUN wins this comparison by default because it is an actual lawn mower, while the DEWALT product is a battery pack that cannot cut grass on its own.


Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature AMERISUN 21" Gas Mower DEWALT 20V MAX 5 Ah Battery 2-Pack
Price $213.19 $149.00
Power Source Gasoline (144cc 4-Stroke OHV) 20V Lithium-Ion (requires mower)
Cutting Width 21 inches N/A (no deck)
Self-Propelled No (push mower) N/A
Best Yard Size ¼ to ½ acre (gas power) N/A (battery only)
Warranty Not specified (likely 1–2 years) 3-year limited (DEWALT standard)

Where AMERISUN Wins

  1. It is a complete, functional mower. The AMERISUN includes a steel deck, a 144cc engine, a grass catcher, and three discharge options (bagging, mulching, side discharge). It can cut grass immediately after assembly and fueling.
  2. Unlimited runtime. With a gas engine, you can mow a large lawn without stopping to recharge. A 144cc engine is sufficient for thick, damp grass and can handle overgrown yards better than most cordless electric mowers.
  3. Low upfront cost for a complete solution. At $213, this is one of the most affordable gas mowers on the market. It includes everything you need to start mowing (except fuel and oil).

Where DEWALT Wins

  1. Extremely high user satisfaction. With 22,669 reviews and a 4.7/5 rating, this battery pack is widely trusted by DEWALT tool owners. It is reliable, holds charge well, and works with over 200 DEWALT tools.
  2. Excellent value for a battery system. Two 5 Ah batteries for $149 is a strong price per amp-hour. These batteries are compatible with DEWALT’s 20V MAX mowers (like the DCMW220 or DCMW225), but you must buy the mower separately.
  3. Low maintenance and quiet operation. Batteries require no oil changes, no fuel mixing, and no spark plug replacements. They are also much quieter than a gas engine, which is a benefit for early-morning or noise-sensitive neighborhoods.

Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (AMERISUN) if:

  • You need a complete, ready-to-use mower right now. This is the only product in this comparison that can cut grass. It is ideal for a budget-conscious homeowner with a small to medium yard who wants a simple gas mower with no additional purchases required.
  • You have a yard larger than ¼ acre and don’t want to be limited by battery runtime. Gas gives you the freedom to mow until the tank is empty, then refill and keep going.
  • You don’t already own DEWALT 20V tools. Buying this mower avoids the need to invest in a battery system.

Buy Mower B (DEWALT batteries) if:

  • You already own a DEWALT 20V MAX mower (or plan to buy one). These batteries are an excellent upgrade for longer runtime. For example, the DEWALT DCMW225 mower requires batteries, and this 2-pack is a perfect match.
  • You need spare batteries for a DEWALT mower you already have. If your mower came with a single 5 Ah battery, this 2-pack doubles (or triples) your runtime for large yards.
  • You are building a DEWALT 20V tool ecosystem. These batteries work with drills, saws, blowers, and trimmers, so they are a versatile investment—just not a mower by themselves.

Final note: If you clicked on this comparison expecting two mowers, buy the AMERISUN if you want a mower now. Buy the DEWALT batteries only if you already own or are buying a compatible DEWALT mower. Do not buy the DEWALT batteries expecting them to cut grass on their own.

Here is a head-to-head comparison of the AMERISUN 21" Gas Mower vs. the American Lawn Mower Company 16" Reel Mower.

Quick Verdict

The American Lawn Mower Company 16-Inch Reel Mower wins for overall reliability and user satisfaction, but the AMERISUN gas mower wins for raw power and handling overgrown or large lawns.


Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature AMERISUN 21" Gas Mower American Lawn Mower 16" Reel Mower
Price $213.19 $154.00
Power Source Gas (144cc 4-Stroke OHV) Manual (Push / Muscle Power)
Cutting Width 21 inches 16 inches
Self-Propelled No (Push) No (Push)
Best Yard Size ¼ acre to ½ acre Small lawns under ¼ acre
Warranty Standard 1-2 year (varies by seller) 5 years (frame/gears)

Where AMERISUN Wins

1. Power and Cutting Versatility The 144cc OHV gas engine provides enough torque to cut through tall, wet, or thick grass that would stall a reel mower. The 3-in-1 system (bagging, mulching, side discharge) lets you handle any grass condition without stopping to clear clogs.

2. Larger Cutting Width (21 inches) A 21-inch steel deck covers significantly more ground per pass than the 16-inch reel. On a 5,000 sq. ft. lawn, you will save roughly 25% more time and steps compared to the narrower reel mower.

3. Handles Uneven Terrain The gas mower’s steel deck and powered blade can handle bumps, sticks, and minor debris without jamming. It also offers 6 height adjustments (likely 1–3 inches), allowing you to scalp a lawn in spring or leave it longer in summer heat.


Where American Lawn Mower Wins

1. Overwhelming Customer Satisfaction With 22,499 reviews and a 4.3-star rating (vs. 49 reviews and 3.6 stars), the American Lawn Mower has a proven track record. Users consistently report it arrives ready to use, requires no gas or oil, and lasts for decades with basic maintenance.

2. Zero Operating Costs & Maintenance This mower runs on human power. You will never buy gas, oil, spark plugs, air filters, or pay for carburetor repairs. The 5-blade reel is designed to never need sharpening under normal use—simply mow often to keep grass short.

3. Safer, Quieter, and Healthier It produces zero emissions and is whisper-quiet at 60–70 dB (vs. 90+ dB for a gas mower). There is no risk of fuel spills, no pull-start frustration, and no exhaust fumes. The reel action cuts grass like scissors, which is healthier for the turf and prevents the shredded, brown tips caused by gas rotary blades.


Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (AMERISUN) if:

  • You have a medium-to-large lawn (¼ acre or more). The 21-inch cut and gas engine will finish the job in a reasonable time.
  • Your grass often gets tall or wet. If you skip a week of mowing or live in a rainy climate, the gas mower will power through without stalling.
  • You need to bag or side-discharge leaves/debris. The 1.4-bushel catcher and discharge chute make cleanup easier than a reel mower, which cannot bag effectively.

Buy Mower B (American Lawn Mower) if:

  • You have a small, flat lawn (under ¼ acre). The 16-inch cut is perfect for tiny yards, and you will finish in 20 minutes without noise or fumes.
  • You value simplicity and zero maintenance. If you hate dealing with gas, oil changes, or carburetor issues, this reel mower will last for years with just a hose-down and occasional bolt tightening.
  • You want a safe mower for kids/pets. No hot engine, no sharp spinning blade exposed, and no toxic exhaust. It is the quietest and safest option for family-friendly yards.

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Last updated: June 2026