PowerSmart EasyDrive 21-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower, 170cc OHV Engine, Rear Wheel Drive, 3-in-1 Mulch/Bag/Side Discharge, 6-Point Height of Cut Review

Overview

The PowerSmart EasyDrive 21-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is a budget-friendly, rear-wheel-drive machine built for homeowners with medium-sized, flat to gently sloping lawns. It pairs a reliable 170cc OHV engine with a simple, single-speed self-propel system, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting gas-powered cutting power without the premium price tag of Honda or Toro. This mower is best for practical buyers who prioritize value and straightforward operation over luxury features.

Who Should Buy This

Homeowners with 1/4 to 1/3 acre lots — The 21-inch deck and 2.5-bushel bag capacity are a perfect match for this yard size. You’ll finish in under an hour without constant bag-emptying stops.

First-time gas mower owners — The PowerSmart is about as simple as it gets: no complex transmissions, no electric start to troubleshoot, just pull the cord and go. The single-speed self-propel is easy to master.

Budget-conscious shoppers who still want self-propulsion — At $344.99, this undercuts most self-propelled competitors by $50–$100. If you’re tired of pushing a manual mower but can’t justify $450+, this fills the gap nicely.

Homeowners with flat or slightly sloped yards — Rear-wheel drive gives you good traction on hills, but the single-speed system means you’ll struggle on steep grades. Stick to gentle slopes and you’re golden.

Key Features Breakdown

170cc OHV Engine — This is a Chinese-made engine (typically a 170F series clone), not a Honda or Briggs & Stratton. It’s reliable enough for seasonal use but lacks the long-term refinement of premium brands. It starts well when cold, though you’ll want to use fuel stabilizer if storing for winter.

21-Inch Steel Deck — A good middle ground: narrow enough to maneuver around flower beds and fence lines, wide enough to cover a typical lawn in reasonable time. The steel deck is sturdy but will rust if you don’t clean clippings off after each use.

Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) — This matters if you have uneven terrain or a slight slope. RWD pushes the mower from behind, giving you better traction than front-wheel drive when the bag gets heavy. On flat ground, you won’t notice much difference, but on inclines, it’s a real advantage.

Single-Speed Self-Propel — The biggest trade-off for the price. You get one forward speed, period. It’s set at a brisk walking pace (about 3 mph). If you’re shorter or prefer a slower stroll, you’ll be pulling the mower back toward you constantly. There’s no variable-speed trigger, so adjust your stride, not the mower.

6-Point Height of Cut (1.5"–3.75") — A decent range for warm-season grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia, and passable for cool-season fescue or bluegrass. The lowest setting scalps a bit, so don’t drop it all the way on a bumpy lawn. Adjustment is via a single lever on each wheel — quick and tool-free.

3-in-1 Capability (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge) — The mulching plug is included (many budget mowers make you buy it separately). Mulching performance is average; the blades don’t create the fine clippings of a Honda, but they’re fine for weekly cuts. The side discharge chute works well for tall grass, but it does blow clippings sideways, so watch out for flower beds.

Pros

• Excellent value — You get self-propulsion, RWD, and a 21-inch cut for under $350. Nothing else in this price range offers this package.
• Easy starting — The primer bulb and choke are intuitive. Most users report 1–2 pulls on cold starts, even after winter storage.
• Good traction on slopes — Rear-wheel drive with large tires handles mild inclines better than front-wheel-drive mowers at this price.
• Lightweight for a gas self-propelled — At about 65 pounds, it’s easier to lift into a truck or over obstacles than many competitors that push 80+ pounds.
• Simple maintenance — No complex hydrostatic transmission to service. Oil changes and blade swaps are straightforward, and parts are cheap and available online.
• Mulching kit included — Saves you $30–$40 compared to mowers that charge extra for the mulch plug.

Cons

• Single self-propel speed is inflexible — You can’t slow down for tight turns or speed up on long straights. If your natural walking pace doesn’t match, you’ll be fighting the mower.
• Bag capacity is small (2.5 bushels) — On thick, damp grass, you’ll empty it every 15–20 minutes. Side discharge is better for tall grass, but then you’re raking.
• Engine lacks refinement — It’s louder than a Honda or Toro, and the vibration at full throttle is noticeable after 30 minutes. Not a dealbreaker, but you’ll feel it.
• Deck rust potential — The paint finish is thin. If you don’t clean and dry the deck after mowing wet grass, expect rust within 1–2 seasons. A quick spray of WD-40 on the underside helps.

Bottom Line

The PowerSmart EasyDrive is a legitimate value pick for homeowners who need self-propulsion on a budget and have a flat, medium-sized lawn. It won’t match the refinement, bagging efficiency, or long-term durability of a $500 Honda, but it’s not trying to. What it does — start easily, cut reliably, and move itself forward — it does well enough for the price. If you’re a weekend warrior mowing a 1/4-acre lot and you want to stop pushing, this is a smart buy. Just accept the single-speed quirk and plan to replace it in 3–4 seasons. For the money, that’s a fair trade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this mower work well on thick, wet grass?
It’s okay, but not great. The 170cc engine has enough torque for damp grass, but the small bag fills up fast and clogs easily with wet clippings. Use the side discharge for wet conditions, and plan to rake afterward. For dry grass, mulching works reasonably well.

Can I add a variable-speed self-propel control?
No. This model has a fixed single-speed system. There’s no aftermarket upgrade to add variable speed. If you need adjustable speed, look at the PowerSmart Pro or step up to a Toro Personal Pace.

How loud is this mower at full throttle?
It’s around 85–90 decibels at ear level — loud enough to require hearing protection for extended use. It’s noticeably louder than