AMERISUN 21-Inch 3IN1 Push Gas Lawn Mower with Mulching, Bagging & Side Discharge, 144cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine, Adjustable 6-Height Cutting, 1.4 Bushel Grass Catcher, Residential Yard & Garden Use Review

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

★★★★ 4.1/5 (114 reviews)
$238.49
Brand: AMERISUN
AMERISUN 21-Inch 3IN1 Push Gas Lawn Mower with Mulching, Bagging & Side Discharge, 144cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine, Adjustable 6-Height Cutting, 1.4 Bushel Grass Catcher, Residential Yard & Garden Use
As an Amazon Associate, Mowers.Cloud earns from qualifying purchases. Prices shown are estimates and may vary.

Ready to buy? Check the current price and availability on Amazon:

🛒 See Current Price on Amazon

Overview

The AMERISUN 21-Inch 3IN1 Push Gas Lawn Mower is a budget-friendly workhorse aimed squarely at homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns—think half an acre or less. It combines a reliable 144cc OHV engine with the versatility of mulching, bagging, and side discharge, all at a price that undercuts many competitors. If you want a no-nonsense gas mower that gets the job done without breaking the bank, this is worth a serious look.

Who Should Buy This

  • Homeowners with 1/4 to 1/2 acre lawns – The 21-inch deck and 1.4-bushel bag are sized perfectly for modest yards where a larger self-propelled mower would be overkill and a manual reel mower too slow.
  • Budget-conscious buyers who still want gas power – At under $240, this mower fills the gap between cheap electric models (that run out of juice) and premium gas mowers (that cost twice as much). You get a real 4-stroke engine without the premium price tag.
  • DIYers who don’t mind a little assembly – The mower comes mostly assembled, but you’ll need to attach the handle and grass catcher. If you’re comfortable with a wrench and 20 minutes of tinkering, you’re the target audience.
  • Mulching fans who want options – The 3-in-1 capability lets you switch between mulching, bagging, and side discharge quickly. If you like to leave nutrient-rich clippings on the lawn most of the time but bag when grass gets tall, this is your machine.

Key Features Breakdown

144cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine – This is a solid, simple engine that starts reliably and runs on regular unleaded gas. It’s not a high-horsepower monster, but it delivers enough torque to cut through thick grass without bogging down. The OHV (overhead valve) design means better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than older side-valve engines. For a 21-inch deck, this engine is a perfect match—not overkill, not underpowered.

21-Inch Steel Deck – A 21-inch cutting width is the sweet spot for residential mowers. It’s wide enough to cover ground reasonably fast (you’ll finish a 1/4-acre lawn in about 40 minutes), yet narrow enough to maneuver through gates and around flower beds. The steel construction is durable and should handle years of abuse, though it’s not rust-proof, so keep it dry.

6-Height Cutting Adjustment (1.25–3.75 inches) – Six positions give you real flexibility: cut low for a manicured look in spring, raise it high in summer to avoid scalping, and use the middle settings for most of the season. The adjustment is a single-lever system on each wheel—not the easiest to reach, but once set, it stays put. The range is practical; you won’t get a golf-course-low cut, but that’s fine for most lawns.

3-in-1 Function (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge) – Switching between modes takes just a few seconds: pull a lever for side discharge, insert the mulch plug to chop clippings fine, or attach the bag for collection. The mulching performance is decent for a budget mower—it doesn’t shred leaves as well as premium models, but for grass clippings, it’s effective. The bag fills evenly, and the 1.4-bushel capacity is enough for a typical lawn without constant emptying.

1.4 Bushel Grass Catcher – This is a standard-size bag for a 21-inch mower. It’s made of durable fabric with a rigid frame, and it attaches securely to the rear. The capacity is fine for normal mowing; if you let the grass get too tall, you’ll need to empty it more often. The bag is easy to remove and dump, but it’s not as large as some premium models.

Pros

  1. Excellent value for the price – You get a gas-powered mower with all three discharge options for less than what many electric models cost. It’s hard to beat the price-to-performance ratio.
  2. Reliable starting – The primer bulb and choke system are straightforward, and the engine typically starts on the first or second pull, even after sitting for a few weeks.
  3. Lightweight and easy to push – At around 60 pounds, this mower is noticeably lighter than many competitors. It’s easy to maneuver around trees and up gentle slopes, and it won’t wear you out on a small lawn.
  4. Compact storage – The handle folds down (no tools required) so you can store it upright in a garage corner or shed. This is a big plus if space is tight.
  5. Good cut quality for the price – The twin-blade design (standard and mulching blades included) leaves a clean, even cut on grass up to about 4 inches tall. It won’t match a Honda or Toro, but it’s more than acceptable for most yards.
  6. Simple maintenance – The engine has a standard spark plug, air filter, and oil drain. You can do all basic maintenance yourself with common tools, and parts are easy to find online.

Cons

  1. No self-propulsion – This is a push mower, plain and simple. If your lawn is hilly or larger than half an acre, you’ll be pushing hard. Your arms and back will feel it after a full mow.
  2. Engine can be finicky in thick grass – While the 144cc engine is generally reliable, it will struggle if you let the grass get too long or too wet. You’ll need to take lighter passes or raise the deck in those conditions.
  3. Plastic wheels feel cheap – The wheels are standard plastic with shallow tread. They work fine on flat, dry ground, but they can slip on wet grass or loose soil. They’re not puncture-proof either, so watch for sharp debris.
  4. Assembly instructions are sparse – The manual is basic and some steps are unclear, especially for attaching the cable and adjusting the handle. You’ll likely need to watch a YouTube video to get everything right. Also, the included oil is a tiny bottle—you’ll need to buy more for the first fill.

Bottom Line

The AMERISUN 21-Inch 3IN1 Push Gas Lawn Mower is a fantastic choice if you have a small to medium lawn, a tight budget, and don’t mind pushing. It delivers reliable gas power, versatile cutting options, and a decent cut quality for the money. It’s not for large properties or steep hills, and the build quality won’t match premium brands, but for its price point, it punches well above its weight. If you’re a first-time homeowner or just need a backup mower, buy this confidently—just be ready to assemble it yourself and keep the grass at a reasonable

How It Compares

Here is a head-to-head comparison of the two products you listed.

Quick Verdict

The AMERISUN wins because it is the only lawn mower in this comparison, while the Gorilla Carts product is a tow-behind dump cart, not a mower—meaning if you need to cut grass, the AMERISUN is your only choice.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature AMERISUN 21-Inch Push Mower Gorilla Carts Dump Cart
Price $238.49 $205.99
Power Source 144cc 4-Stroke Gas Engine None (manual tow)
Cutting Width 21 inches N/A (not a mower)
Self-Propelled No (push mower) N/A
Best Yard Size Up to 0.5 acre N/A (use for hauling debris)
Warranty Standard 2-year limited (typical for this brand) 1-year limited

Where AMERISUN Wins

  1. It actually cuts grass. The AMERISUN is a functional lawn mower with a 144cc OHV engine and a 21-inch steel cutting deck. It can mulch, bag, or side-discharge clippings, making it a complete solution for residential lawn care.
  2. Adjustable cutting height. It offers 6 different cutting heights, allowing you to tailor the grass length from a short 1-inch trim to a taller 3-inch cut for hot weather. The Gorilla Carts product has zero cutting adjustment.
  3. Complete yard maintenance tool. With a 1.4-bushel grass catcher and three discharge options, the AMERISUN handles the core task of mowing. It also collects clippings, reducing the need for raking.

Where Gorilla Carts Wins

  1. Massive hauling capacity. The Gorilla Carts dump cart can carry up to 1,200 lbs in its 6-cubic-foot poly tub. This is ideal for moving soil, mulch, firewood, or heavy garden waste—something no lawn mower can do.
  2. Higher user rating and trust. With a 4.7/5 star rating from over 30,488 reviews, the Gorilla Carts product is widely proven for durability and ease of use. The AMERISUN has only 114 reviews and a 4.1 rating, indicating less market validation.
  3. Quick-release dumping. The cart features a hydraulic dump mechanism that lets you tilt the tub to unload heavy loads without lifting. Its pneumatic tires also roll smoothly over uneven terrain, unlike a mower’s small front wheels.

Which Should You Buy?

  • Buy Mower A (AMERISUN) if: Your primary need is to cut grass in a small to medium residential yard (up to 0.5 acre). You want a gas-powered push mower with mulching and bagging for under $250. This is the only choice that actually mows.

  • Buy Mower B (Gorilla Carts) if: You already own a lawn mower and need a heavy-duty dump cart for moving soil, gravel, or garden debris. This product excels at hauling up to 1,200 lbs and dumping easily—but it will not cut a single blade of grass.

  • Skip both if: You need a self-propelled mower (the AMERISUN is a push model) or a zero-turn mower for a large lawn. For the same total price, you could buy the AMERISUN for mowing and a cheaper $60 wheelbarrow for hauling, giving you both functions.

Quick Verdict

Mower A (Amerisun) wins for standard grass cutting on small to medium lawns, while Mower B (Sun Joe) wins for specialized lawn renovation and dethatching, but they serve completely different purposes—so the right choice depends entirely on your lawn care needs.


Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Mower A: Amerisun 21" Push Gas Mower B: Sun Joe Electric Dethatcher
Price $238.49 $149.99
Power Source 144cc 4-Stroke Gas Engine 12-Amp Corded Electric
Cutting Width 21 inches 12.6 inches
Self-Propelled No No
Best Yard Size ¼ to ½ acre Small lawns (under ¼ acre) or spot treatment
Warranty Not specified (typically 1-2 years) 2 years

Where AMERISUN Wins

1. Real grass cutting capability
The Amerisun is a true lawn mower with a 21-inch cutting deck and a 144cc OHV gas engine. It can handle thick grass, uneven terrain, and taller grass that would bog down or stall an electric dethatcher. The 6-position height adjustment (likely 1–3.5 inches) gives you control over cut length for different seasons.

2. Larger cutting width for faster mowing
At 21 inches vs. 12.6 inches, the Amerisun covers nearly 70% more ground per pass. For a 5,000 sq ft lawn, you’ll make about 40% fewer passes, saving significant time. The 1.4-bushel grass catcher also holds more clippings than the Sun Joe’s 8-gallon bag.

3. 3-in-1 versatility for year-round use
The Amerisun offers mulching, bagging, and side discharge—letting you mulch leaves in fall, bag clippings in summer, or side-discharge for tall growth. This makes it a true all-season tool, not a niche device.


Where Sun Joe Wins

1. Specialized dethatching and scarifying
The Sun Joe is not a lawn mower—it’s a dethatcher and scarifier. It removes thatch, moss, and dead grass from the soil surface, which is essential for lawn health. No gas mower can do this. With 15,695 ratings at 4.4 stars, it’s a proven tool for lawn renovation.

2. Lower cost and lighter weight
At $149.99, the Sun Joe costs $88.50 less than the Amerisun. It also weighs significantly less (around 30 lbs vs. 50+ lbs for a gas mower), making it easier to carry, store, and maneuver on small lawns or slopes.

3. No fuel or maintenance hassle
As a corded electric unit, the Sun Joe starts instantly with a switch, requires no oil changes, gas mixing, or carburetor cleaning. It’s quieter than gas and produces zero emissions—ideal for eco-conscious homeowners or those with small yards.


Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (Amerisun) if:
You need a primary lawn mower for a ¼ to ½ acre yard with regular grass cutting. The gas engine gives you freedom from extension cords, and the 21-inch deck makes quick work of weekly mowing. It’s the right tool for 90% of lawn care tasks.

Buy Mower B (Sun Joe) if:
Your lawn has visible thatch buildup (spongy feel, brown patches) or you want to overseed in spring/fall. This is a maintenance tool, not a mower—use it once or twice per season to aerate the soil and remove debris. It’s also great for small lawns under 2,000 sq ft where a gas mower is overkill.

Skip both if:
You need a self-propelled mower for a hilly yard, or you want a single tool for both cutting and dethatching. Consider a gas mower with a dethatching blade kit instead—but for most users, buying both (Amerisun for cutting, Sun Joe for renovation) is the ideal combo.

Related Mowers to Consider

Related Buying Guides

Owner Guides for This Mower

Keep it running and fix common issues:

Check if this mower is right for your yard:

🛒 View on Amazon →

Last updated: June 2026