For many, having a home with a backyard where you can host gatherings, enjoy moments of peace and your kids can play in is a dream come true. However, to keep the backyard a perfect place for those things to happen, there is one thing that must be done regularly – grass mowing. And that is where a reliable, effective lawn mower comes in.
More than just cutting grass, a good lawn mower helps you save time, reduce effort, and keep your lawn looking sharp all season long. But how do you choose the right one?
When shopping for one, the most common types you’ll come across are the ride-on and the push mower. Let’s take a look at how they compare, so you can decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
Ride-On Mowers
Also known as riding mowers, these are large machines that you sit on and drive. One of their biggest advantages is how little effort they require – just hop on and steer. Some ride on mowers come with added comforts like a cup holder, so you can enjoy your coffee, beer, or wine while mowing the lawn.
That’s not to say riding mowers are completely effortless, but compared to push mowers, they significantly reduce the physical strain. This means you can cover more ground in less time.
Riding mowers are also powerful, with wider cutting decks and strong engines that make them well-suited for tackling thick grass and uneven terrain. Thanks to their speed, power, and comfort, they’re ideal for large yards with a lot of grass to cut.
Pros:
- Powerful – Strong engines and wide cutting decks handle thick grass and uneven terrain.
- Time-Saving – Cover large areas quickly and efficiently.
- Low Physical Effort – Great for people who want to avoid strenuous yard work.
- Great for Large Lawns – Ideal for properties with lots of open space to mow.
Cons:
- Expensive – Higher upfront cost compared to push mowers.
- Bulky – Requires more storage space (garage or shed).
- Not Ideal for Tight Spaces – Difficult to manoeuvre around garden beds, trees, or narrow areas.
- Fuel Usage – Most models run on gas, which means higher fuel consumption and emissions (unless electric).
Push Mowers
Push models are the mowers most of us are famliar with – the ones that require you to walk behind them and guide them across your lawn. While they do take more physical effort than riding mowers, they offer greater control and precision, especially in smaller or tighter spaces.
They’re typically more compact, easier to store, and often more affordable. Many modern push mowers are also self-propelled, meaning the motor helps move the mower forward, reducing some of the effort while still giving you hands-on control.
Push mowers usually have smaller cutting decks and less power than ride-ons, but they’re still effective for regular maintenance and can handle most average-sized lawns with ease. Because of their size and manoeuvrability, they’re best suited for small to medium yards or areas with obstacles like garden beds, trees, or narrow pathways.
Pros:
- Affordable – Generally less expensive than ride-on models.
- Compact – Easier to store, ideal for homes with limited space.
- Better Manoeuvrability – Great for navigating around trees, garden beds, and tight corners.
- Eco-Friendly Options – Manual and electric push mowers produce little to no emissions.
Cons:
- Physically Demanding – Requires more effort, especially on uneven ground or in hot weather.
- Time-Consuming for Large Yards – Slower to cover large areas compared to ride-on mowers.
- Limited Power – May struggle with tall, thick, or wet grass.
- Smaller Cutting Width – Takes more passes to mow the same area.
What to Consider When Buying a Ride-on Mower?
The first thing you’ll want to look for when buying a ride-on mower is the width of its cutting deck. Models with wider decks will allow you to cover more ground in less time, while models with smaller decks will be easier to manoeuvre around trees and tight spaces. Your terrain will also impact your decision. Steep or uneven areas may need a mower with a more powerful engine or with good traction.
For lawns with a lot of obstacles, a mower with a tight turning radius or zero-turn capabilities will make mowing much easier. Easy-to-use controls, adjustable seat, and any extras that suit your needs, like a cup holder or mulching option, could matter too.
Maintenance is another important thing to consider. Look for models with easy access to parts like blades and oil filters. This will make it easy to perform routine tasks like cleaning, oil changes, or blade sharpening without needing professional help every time.
Lastly, think about storage space. Ride on mowers can be bulky and will need a dry, secure place like a shed or garage when not in use.
What to Consider When Buying a Push Mower?
Different models of push mowers are available. Which one to choose will depend mostly on the size and terrain of your lawn. If you have a small, flat yard, a simple manual reel mower could be a quiet, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance option. If your lawn is medium-sized or has some uneven spots, a gas-powered or electric push mower (either corded or battery-operated) will give you more power and easier cutting. For larger yards or hilly terrain, consider a self-propelled push mower, which helps reduce the effort by moving forward on its own while you guide it.
When it comes to features, look for adjustable cutting heights so you can customise how short you want your grass. Check the mower’s cutting width; the wider the deck, the faster you’ll finish, but a narrower deck is easier to manoeuvre around obstacles. Other helpful features include easy start mechanisms, comfortable handle grips, and options for clipping disposal, like bagging, mulching, or side discharge.
Conclusion
Choosing between a ride-on and a push mower will depend mostly on your lawn’s size, terrain, and your personal needs. If you have a large yard with open spaces and want to save time and reduce physical effort, a ride-on mower is a powerful and efficient choice, especially if you value comfort and speed. On the other hand, for smaller to medium lawns, especially those with lots of trees, garden beds, or tight corners, a push mower offers better control, easier storage, and a more affordable option.
