Sun Joe MJ403E Mow Joe 17-Inch 13-Amp El vs PowerSmart Corded Electric Lawn Mower 14
Quick Verdict
The Sun Joe MJ403E is the stronger, wider, and more capable mower overall, suited for larger lawns and tougher conditions. The PowerSmart corded mower is a budget-friendly option for small, flat yards where minimal features are acceptable. If you need reliable performance and have a yard of a quarter-acre or more, choose the Sun Joe. If your lawn is tiny and your budget is tight, the PowerSmart will get the job done.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | Sun Joe MJ403E | PowerSmart Corded |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $229.99 | $109.99 |
| Power | 13 amps | 12.5 amps |
| Cut Width | 17 inches | 14 inches |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1/3 acre | Up to 1/4 acre (small, flat) |
| Reviews | 4.0/5 (1,223 reviews) | 4.1/5 (41 reviews) |
Where Sun Joe Wins
Cutting width and efficiency. The Sun Joe’s 17-inch deck is 3 inches wider than the PowerSmart’s. This means fewer passes across your lawn, saving time on any yard larger than a postage stamp.
Power. The 13-amp motor provides a noticeable edge in dense grass or light weeds. The extra half-amp helps maintain blade speed when the grass is thick or damp.
Mulching capability. The Sun Joe is designed specifically as a mulcher, with a deep deck that recuts clippings into fine particles. The PowerSmart has adjustable settings but is not optimized for mulching performance.
Build quality and reputation. With over 1,200 reviews, the Sun Joe has a proven track record. The plastic deck is durable, and the mower is well-balanced for pushing. PowerSmart has far fewer reviews, making long-term reliability harder to assess.
Where PowerSmart Wins
Price. At $109.99, the PowerSmart costs less than half the Sun Joe. If your lawn is small and you just need to cut grass without extra features, this is the clear value leader.
Light weight and maneuverability. The PowerSmart’s smaller motor and 14-inch deck make it lighter and easier to push, especially for someone with limited strength or a yard with tight corners and narrow paths.
Adjustable cutting height. Both mowers offer height adjustment, but the PowerSmart’s system is simple and effective for basic lawn care. It’s a no-frills tool that does one thing adequately.
Lower power consumption. The 12.5-amp motor uses slightly less electricity, which matters if you mow frequently or have high energy costs.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the Sun Joe MJ403E if: your lawn is larger than 1/8 acre, you have thick or uneven grass, you want efficient mulching, or you plan to keep the mower for several years. The extra money buys a wider cut, more power, and better performance in real-world conditions.
Buy the PowerSmart if: your lawn is under 1/8 acre, your grass is thin and well-maintained, you are on a strict budget, or you need a very light mower for easy storage and handling. It is adequate for small, flat yards with minimal demands.
Bottom line: The Sun Joe is the better mower. The PowerSmart is the better bargain for the smallest lawns.