Easy-start petrol lawn mowers are the perfect solution for quick, hassle-free lawn mowing. Instead of tugging on a cord to start the mower, you can press a button or turn a key to ignite the engine.
In this guide, we review six easy-start petrol lawnmowers in Australia. Beyond their starting mechanism, we assessed their cutting deck size, front or rear drive capabilities, and overall manoeuvrability.
Ready? Let's get started.
Our Top Picks
Here are our top picks of the best easy-start petrol lawnmowers in Australia:
Baumr-AG Petrol Lawn Mower
Best overall easy-start petrol mower with a push-button electric starting system, 530 mm cutting width, and a 7-stage height adjustment.
BBT 4-Speed Petrol Lawn Mower
Best easy-start mower with electric and pull start options, 530 mm cutting width, 8 height adjustments, and 4 swing blades for large lawns.
PowerBlade VS600e Petrol Mower
Best value easy-start petrol mower with 457 mm cutting width, 7-stage height adjustment, 4 swing blades, and a 55-litre grass catcher.
6 Easy-Start Petrol Lawnmowers for Aussies
After evaluating, researching, and testing a little over a dozen easy-start petrol lawnmowers in Australia, we assess the top six and where they fell short.
1. Baumr-AG Electric 248cc Start Petrol Lawn Mower
Best Overall Easy-Start Petrol Mower
Height adjustment system: Central, 7 Positions
Cutting height range: 25 - 75 mm
Number of blades: 4
Baumr-AG's Electric Start Petrol Lawnmower has a high-precision design, versatile functionality, and top-quality components. Its 248cc 4-stroke OHV engine provides optimum performance and efficiency, and its push-button electric starting system effortlessly powers the mower.
Like the others on our list, the push-start lawn mower includes a customisable cutting height system; a 7-stage central height adjustment system ensures that you have complete control over your lawn's appearance. You can adjust the cutting height to suit your specific needs, ranging from 25 to 75 mm, to achieve the perfect lawn height.
Baumr-AG also features the CrossCut 4 swing blade system for precise cutting. Whether you're looking to catch, mulch, or discharge the clippings, this lawnmower offers 4-in-1 functionality to suit your preferences. The mower runs on regular unleaded petrol (95+ RON) and includes a 12V lithium battery and charger for the electric start function.
Pros
- High-precision design
- Powerful 248cc 4-stroke OHV engine
- Customisable 7-stage height adjustment system
- Offers 4-in-1 functionality
Cons
- Not for long wet grass
- Requires regular servicing
2. BBT 4-Speed Petrol Lawn Mower
Best for Large Lawns
Cutting width: 530 mm
Cutting height: 20 - 55 mm
Number of blades: 4 swing blades
The BBT 21-inch lawn mower boasts an electric start alongside a backup recoil option. It is equipped with a reliable 161cc Briggs and Stratton engine. This easy-start mower and its 70 kg catcher allow for uninterrupted mowing on larger lawns. It offers eight height adjustment settings ranging from 20 to 55 mm and a deck wash connection for effortless cleaning. In addition, it has rear discharge, side discharge, and mulching capabilities.
Besides its effortless starting capability, the lawnmower boasts a 4-speed gearbox, allowing you to tailor your mowing speed to your liking. With a weight of 40kg, it offers substantial stability and enhances the value of the self-propelled feature. The BBT lawnmower is backed by a 2-year engine warranty and a 12-month deck warranty for added peace of mind.
Pros
- 21-inch cutting width
- 70kg catcher for large lawns
- 8 height adjustment options
- Rear discharge, side discharge, and mulching
- 2-year engine warranty
Cons
- Relatively pricier
- Limited deck warranty
3. PowerBlade VS600e Petrol Lawn Mower
Best Value Easy-Start Petrol Mower
Cutting width: 457 mm
Cutting height: 25 - 75 mm; 7 positions
Number of blades: 4 swing blades
The PowerBlade Petrol lawn mower is the best value, easy-start petrol lawn mower available in Australia. Its push-to-start electric button is powered by a 12V lithium battery and has an 18-inch cutting width with high manoeuvrability.
The lawn mower has a 175cc 4-stroke OHV engine. It features a steel bumper front that protects the front-facing part of the mower against larger obstacles, a 4-blade swing system, and a 55-litre grass catcher. The lawnmower weighs 37 kg, is self-propelled, and has a soft-grip handle.
The 2-year-warranted mower is adjustable from 25 to 75mm. It also has a 7-inch front wheel and a 10-inch rear wheel, allowing you to tailor the mower to ideal heights. PowerBlade's push-start button is a convenient feature on its 18-inch lawn mower, especially at this price point.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Powerful 175cc 4-stroke OHV engine
- Steel bumper front for protection
- 7-stage height adjustment
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Relatively heavy
- Not for very large lawns
4. Hyundai 139cc Petrol Lawn Mower
Best for Medium-Sized Lawns
Cutting width: 460 mm
Cutting height: 25 - 75 mm; 6 positions
Weight: 42.70 kg
The Hyundai HYM460SSPE is another easy-start lawn mower available in Australia. It features a 139cc OHV 4-stroke engine and a start push-button with a recoil start option as a backup. The push button is removable to prevent the use of the lawn mower in your absence.
The lawn mower features six central height adjustment positions between 25 and 75 mm and a cutting width of 460 mm. Hyundai's petrol lawn mower has cutting options, rear and side discharge, mulching, and collecting functions. Combined with its fine grass-cutting functionality, you can be confident of getting a well-mulched lawn from mowing. The lawn mower also has foldable handles, weighs 42.7 kg, and is self-propelled.
At its price point, Hyundai's 70-litre catcher volume is among the largest options on the market. Its hose connector allows you to flush underneath the mower easily after a day's work. The lawn mower is easy to assemble, pleasantly quiet, and efficient and has a 2-year warranty. We recommend it for medium-sized lawns if you want an easy-start mower.
Pros
- Recoil start backup
- Multiple cutting options
- Spacious 70-litre grass catcher
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Not for large lawns
5. Masport 400 ST S18 Petrol Lawn Mower
Best for Easy of Use
Cutting methods: Cut, Catch
Number of blades: 4
Weight: 25.5 kg
The Masport 400 ST S18 Petrol Lawn Mower features a Briggs & Stratton Series 500E OHV engine, boasting 140cc of power. The 4-stroke engine delivers good performance and ensures a smooth and efficient operation. Combined with a torque rating of 5ft/lb or 6.8Nm, the push-start lawn mower can handle various grass types and terrains.
Masport's lawn mower is built to last with a 460mm steel chassis. It offers 10 cutting heights from 10 to 70 mm and features Masport's 4 Blade Disc System, which captures grass clippings thanks to increased airflow. However, you must purchase the Mulch Plug separately.
The lawn mower's design includes front (175 mm) and rear (200 mm) adjustable mono-bearing wheels to ensure excellent manoeuvrability and control. Likewise, the upturned upper handle with a PVC grip provides a comfortable grip during operation and reduces fatigue.
Pros
- Durable steel chassis
- 10 cutting height steps
- Adjustable front and rear wheels
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Mulch plug not included
6. Victa Mustang 750 InStart Alloy
Best for Reduced Noise and Vibration
Cutting width: 483 mm
Cutting height: 13 - 72 mm; 10 positions
Weight: 36 kg
The Victa Mustang 750 InStart Alloy Lawn Mower has a lithium-ion push-button starting system, making lawn mowing as simple as possible. It has a convenient comfort grip with a lower loop and a 6-year limited warranty.
The model is powered by a Briggs & Stratton 163cc InStart engine and features a quad-blade cutting system with 4-swing back blades to deliver a clean cut no matter how rugged the terrain is.
It includes QPT engine technology for reduced noise and vibration and excellent mulching performance, thanks to a unique blade-disc design that creates circulation within the grass and fertilises it while you mow.
Pros
- Comfortable grip
- Quad-blade cutting system
- QPT engine technology
- 6-year limited warranty
Cons
- Relatively pricier
How to Choose an Easy-Start Petrol Lawn Mower?
Easy-start petrol lawnmowers stand out for their reliability and power among the various options available. In this section, we explore the key features to consider when choosing one of these essential tools:
#1 - Engine Type
Easy-start petrol lawnmowers are favoured for their robust petrol engines and, as the name suggests, easy-start technology. These engines provide the power to tackle even the toughest grass, making them ideal for more extensive lawns. The easy-start technology ensures a hassle-free start, eliminating the need for multiple pulls on a recoil cord.
#2 - Cutting Width and Height Adjustment
Consider the size of your lawn when choosing your mower's cutting width. A wider width is more efficient for larger areas, while a narrower one suits smaller lawns. Adjustable cutting height is also crucial for maintaining your lawn at the desired length.
#3 - Grass Collection and Disposal
Decide how you want to deal with grass clippings. Most petrol mowers offer options like bagging, mulching, or side discharge. Ensure that the grass bag can minimise emptying stops during mowing.
#4 - Maneuverability and Ergonomics
Evaluate whether you prefer a self-propelled or push mower. Self-propelled mowers are easier on your muscles, especially for larger yards. Additionally, look for comfortable handle designs that reduce strain during operation.
5 Maintenance and Care Tips
Maintaining the peak performance of your easy-start petrol mower is essential for ensuring a pristine lawn and extending the life of your equipment. Below, we provide a comprehensive set of maintenance and care tips that will keep your mower running smoothly season after season:
Tip #1 - Routine Engine Maintenance
Like your car, your petrol mower's engine needs clean, fresh oil to operate efficiently. Check the recommended oil change intervals in your mower's owner's manual and use the correct type of oil.
We also recommend cleaning or replacing the air filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations. A clean air filter ensures optimal combustion and prevents debris from entering the engine.
Tip #2 - Blade Care
Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, leading to an unhealthy lawn. Sharpen your mower blades at the beginning of each mowing season or as needed. Balanced blades reduce vibration and stress on the engine.
Likewise, ensure that the blades are balanced after sharpening or replacement to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the engine and reduce vibration, resulting in a smoother cut.
Tip #3 - Cleaning and Storage
After each mowing session, clean your mower thoroughly. Remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the deck, blades, and undercarriage. A clean mower is less prone to rust and corrosion.
If you live in an area with cold winters, properly preparing your mower for storage is vital. This includes draining the fuel tank or using a fuel stabiliser to prevent deterioration. Also, store your mower in a dry, sheltered area to protect it from the elements, and consider covering it to keep dust and moisture at bay.
Lastly, check fuel lines for cracks or damage and replace them if necessary, as they can lead to fuel leaks or engine issues.
Tip #4 - Regular Inspections
Periodically inspect and replace the spark plug as recommended by the manufacturer. A worn-out spark plug can lead to starting problems and reduced performance. Inspect belts and cables for wear and tear signs and replace damaged components to ensure smooth operation.
Also, monitor the tyre pressure and ensure they are correctly inflated. Under-inflated tyres can affect the quality of your cut and strain the engine.
#5 - Safety First
Read and follow the safety instructions provided in your mower's manual. This includes wearing appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and hearing protection when operating the mower.
Mark Thompson
Summary
Easy-start petrol mowers combine the ease of starting battery-powered mowers with the power of petrol mowers. However, they are not the same as battery-powered electric mowers. These mowers have an electric starter that uses solenoids and flywheels to start the engine.
All things being equal, having the option to start your lawn mower with a button is a nifty feature that saves time and energy. We hope you find an option in our list that suits your lawn needs. You'll appreciate the convenience of starting your lawn mower quickly and efficiently.
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}