M230 vs TB130
M230 vs TB130 compared side by side: specs, ratings, price and owner feedback from our independent reviews.
| M230 | TB130 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 3.8 | 3.8 |
| Performance | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Build quality | 3.5 | 3.5 |
| Reliability | 3.5 | 3.5 |
| Value for money | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Comfort & ergonomics | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Features | 4.0 | 3.5 |
| Price | $459 | $249 |
| Specifications | ||
| Power type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Horsepower | 0 HP | 0 HP |
| Engine | Briggs & Stratton 163 cc, single-cylinder OHV | Troy-Bilt 159 cc OHV, single-cylinder (older units: Honda 160 cc) |
| Displacement | 163 cc, 1 cylinder | 159 cc, 1 cylinder |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Variable-speed self-propelled | None (push) |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive | Push, manual propulsion |
| Deck size | 21 in | 21 in |
| Deck construction | Steel, 3-in-1 convertible, deck wash port | Steel, TriAction, 3-in-1 |
| Cutting height | 1.25 to 3.75 in, 6 positions | 1.25 to 3.75 in, 6 positions |
| Blades | Single blade | Single TriAction blade |
| Discharge | Side discharge, rear bag (1.9 bu Dust Blocker, included) or mulch | Side discharge, rear bag (1.9 bu, included) or mulch (kit included) |
| Top speed | Variable walking pace | Walking pace (push) |
| Turning radius | N/A (walk-behind) | N/A (walk-behind) |
| Front tires | 7 to 8 in | 7 in |
| Rear tires | 11 in | 11 in |
| Weight | 87 lb | About 60 to 65 lb |
| Dimensions | 21-in. deck; see Craftsman spec sheet for overall size | About 36.6 in D x 23.9 in W x 17.5 in H (assembled, retailer spec) |
| Fuel capacity | Not published by Craftsman | Not published by Troy-Bilt |
| Recommended property size | About 1/4 to 1/2 acre | Small to medium yards |
| Bag capacity | 1.9 bushel Dust Blocker | 1.9 bushel |
| Starting | ReadyStart, no prime or choke | — |
| Oil system | Just Check and Add | Check, Don't Change |
| Deck wash port | Yes | — |
| Blade stop system | No | — |
| Handle | — | Adjustable |
| Start type | — | Recoil |
| Built in | — | United States with global parts |
| Verdict | The M230 adds variable-speed drive, 11-in. rear wheels and a larger 163 cc engine to the Craftsman 21-in. line. It suits yards up to about half an acre. Read the full review |
The TB130 adds a larger 159 cc engine with Check, Don't Change oil maintenance to the 21-in. TriAction push mower. It suits small to medium lawns. Read the full review |
