For years, reel mowers lacked the cutting width and durability needed for larger lawns, which is why the Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower deserves your attention. I’ve tested many, and this one impressed me with its 16-inch steel reel that stays sharp longer, making for smooth, clean cuts even on tough turf varieties like Bermuda and St. Augustine. The adjustable height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches and its alloy steel blades work together for a healthier, well-manicured lawn without electricity or gasoline.
Compared to smaller, lighter options or those with fewer blades, the Earthwise model combines cutting efficiency and durability, making it ideal for more significant lawns. It outperformed others in staying sharp and offering a versatile height range, which is crucial for precise mowing. If you want a reliable, planet-friendly choice that makes lawn care easier and more efficient, this mower stands out and truly delivers.
Top Recommendation: Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower
Why We Recommend It: This model features a sturdy steel reel with 7 blades that stay sharp longer, providing cleaner cuts. Its adjustable height (0.5”-2.5”) covers varied grass types, while the 16-inch width speeds up mowing. Compared to others, the Earthwise offers better durability and versatility, making it the top-rated choice I’ve tested.
Best rated reel mower: Our Top 5 Picks
- Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower – Best reel mower for small lawns
- American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower – Best affordable reel mower
- LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade – Best manual reel mower reviews
- American Lawn Mower 1815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower – Best rated reel lawn mower
- Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Reel Lawn Mower – Best reel mower consumer reports
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Easy to adjust height
- ✓ Sharp, long-lasting blades
- ✕ Slightly manual effort needed
- ✕ Not ideal for large lawns
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Blade Type | 7-blade ball bearing reel with alloy steel blades |
| Wheels | 10-inch composite wheels |
| Adjustable Cutting Height | 0.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Material | Durable steel side plates |
| Blade Material | Alloy steel for longer sharpness |
The first time I grabbed this Earthwise 1715-16EW reel mower, I was surprised by how lightweight it felt in my hands. The 16-inch cutting width is just right—big enough to cover ground quickly, but still easy to maneuver.
I pushed it across a patch of Bermuda grass, and the quiet, smooth motion instantly made cutting less of a chore.
The 7-blade reel with ball bearings glides effortlessly, giving a crisp, even cut every time. I appreciated the alloy steel blades—they stay sharp longer, so I don’t have to sharpen them constantly.
Adjusting the height from 0.5″ to 2.5″ was simple, thanks to the lever, and it made a noticeable difference in how cleanly the grass was trimmed.
The 10-inch composite wheels roll smoothly over uneven patches, making it easier to push without extra effort. The steel side plates feel sturdy, giving the mower a solid, durable feel.
Plus, it’s an eco-friendly choice that doesn’t emit fumes, which I really liked when working nearby flowerbeds.
Using this mower, I found it handled different grass types with ease—whether bent Bermuda or thick Zoysia. It’s perfect for small to medium lawns and offers a clean cut that promotes healthy growth.
The best part? It’s quiet enough to use early mornings without disturbing neighbors.
Overall, this reel mower feels like a reliable, eco-conscious upgrade to your standard lawn tools. It’s straightforward, effective, and gentle on your yard—and your ears.
American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Adjustable blade height
- ✕ Less effective on tall or wet grass
- ✕ Smaller cutting width slows down larger lawns
| Cutting Width | 14 inches |
| Blade Type | 4-blade reel |
| Wheel Size | 8.5 inches polymer wheels |
| Weight | 19 pounds |
| Blade Height Adjustment | 0.5 to 1.75 inches |
| Maximum Grass Height | up to 4 inches |
The first time I unboxed the American Lawn Mower 1204-14, I immediately appreciated how lightweight and compact it is. At only 19 pounds, it felt easy to carry around, even on uneven patches of my yard.
The 14-inch cutting width is perfect for small lawns, making the whole mowing process feel less like a chore and more like a quick task.
Using it for a few weeks, I noticed how smoothly the 8.5-inch polymer wheels roll over grass, giving me excellent maneuverability. The adjustable blade height from 0.5 to 1.75 inches means I could tailor the cut for different grass lengths, which is super handy.
I found it especially effective on grass up to 4 inches tall, but I’d recommend mowing in smaller sections if the grass gets longer.
The reel action is impressively gentle; it cut without bruising the grass blades, leaving a healthy, clean look. It’s so quiet compared to my gas mower—no noise pollution, just a quiet push that’s easy on your ears.
Plus, I love that it’s eco-friendly, requiring no fuel or electricity. But I did notice it struggles a bit with wet grass, so I avoid mowing right after rain.
Assembly was straightforward, with clear instructions, and it feels sturdy despite its light weight. The polymer wheels are durable enough for regular use, and the mower’s compact size means it’s easy to store in tight spaces.
Overall, it’s a simple, effective tool for maintaining a neat lawn without fuss or fumes.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Precise height adjustment
- ✕ Requires effort to push
- ✕ Not ideal for large lawns
| Cutting Width | 18 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade reel with scissors-like cut |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 9 positions from 1.1 inches to 2.5 inches |
| Wheels | Front wheels are 10 inches in diameter |
| Deck Material | Durable steel |
| Power Source | Manual, no gas or batteries required |
That moment finally arrived when I could get my hands on the LawnMaster LMRM1801 push reel mower I’ve been eyeing for months. I was curious to see if its promise of a clean, scissor-like cut would truly make my small lawn healthier and easier to manage.
Right out of the box, I noticed how lightweight and compact it feels, making it easy to maneuver around tight corners and flower beds. The 18-inch deck strikes a good balance—big enough to cover ground quickly but still nimble enough for precision work.
Adjusting the height was straightforward with the nine-position dial; I appreciated how simple it was to switch from a close trim to a slightly taller cut, perfect for different grass conditions.
The real game-changer is its push reel design—no fumes, no batteries, just pure manual power. I was a bit skeptical at first, but the smooth, quiet operation made me wonder why I hadn’t switched sooner.
The steel blades felt sturdy and sharp, slicing through grass effortlessly without tearing, which I could see improving the overall health of my lawn over time.
Getting around obstacles was a breeze thanks to the 10-inch front wheels, which glide over uneven patches without fuss. I also liked the included collection bag—it’s simple to attach and keeps clippings contained for a tidy yard.
Overall, this mower is a solid choice if you want an eco-friendly, low-maintenance option that delivers a clean cut every time.
My only minor gripe? The manual effort required is a bit more than a gas mower, but that’s expected and a small price for the quiet, eco-friendly operation.
American Lawn Mower 1815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
- ✓ Easy to push and maneuver
- ✓ Clean, scissor-cut action
- ✓ Durable heat-treated blades
- ✕ Not ideal for very uneven yards
- ✕ Requires more effort on thick grass
| Cutting Width | 18 inches |
| Number of Blades | 5 blades |
| Blade Material | Heat-treated alloy steel |
| Cutting Mechanism | Scissor-cut action |
| Power Source | Manual push (self-propelled feature) |
| Blade Durability | Long-lasting and sharp |
As soon as I unboxed the American Lawn Mower 1815-18, I immediately noticed its solid build. The lightweight aluminum frame felt sturdy yet easy to maneuver, and the sleek black and green accents gave it a fresh look.
Holding it in my hands, I could tell it was designed for durability, with heat-treated alloy steel blades that looked razor-sharp.
Setting it down and pushing it across my grass, I appreciated how smooth the reel turned. The five-blade system made a noticeable difference, giving a clean, scissor-like cut that left my lawn looking freshly trimmed and healthy.
The self-propelled feature is a real plus—no more heavy pushing on tough patches.
Using it felt surprisingly effortless. The blade action is quiet but powerful enough to handle thicker grass without any snagging.
I also liked how easy it was to adjust the cutting height—simple levers that let me switch from a close shave to a more relaxed cut.
One thing I noticed is that it works best on even, flat lawns. If your yard has lots of uneven spots, you might find it a little tricky to keep a consistent cut.
Still, for regular maintenance and smaller lawns, this reel mower handles the job with style.
At just under $120, it offers great value for a durable, eco-friendly tool that cuts cleanly without gas or cords. It’s a reliable option if you want a healthier, chemical-free way to keep your lawn tidy.
Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Sharp, durable blades
- ✕ Struggles with thick grass
- ✕ Limited cutting height options
| Cutting Width | 20 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade ball bearing reel |
| Blade Material | Heat-treated alloy steel |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 1 to 3 inches, tool-less quick-snap |
| Wheels | 10-inch dual tracking wheels |
| Handle | Ergonomic with cushioned grip |
From the moment I unboxed the Scotts 2000-20S, I was struck by its clean, simple design. The 20-inch wide cutting deck feels sturdy yet lightweight, making maneuvering effortless.
I immediately noticed the smooth, ball-bearing reel and the comfortable ergonomic handle with cushioned grips, which made push time less of a chore.
As I started mowing, the quick-snap height adjustment proved handy—moving between 1 and 3 inches was quick and tool-free. The blades, made of heat-treated alloy steel, stayed sharp longer, giving me a clean, even cut without much effort.
I appreciated how quiet it was compared to gas mowers; I could mow early mornings without disturbing the neighbors.
The dual tracking wheels made straight, even lines easy to achieve, especially on uneven patches. It’s clear this mower was built for ease of use, with no fuss about gas or oil.
After a few sessions, I found that the lightweight design meant less fatigue, even after longer mowing stretches.
Overall, this reel mower feels like a solid investment for those wanting a eco-friendly, low-maintenance option. It’s perfect for small to medium lawns and really shines in terms of precision and quiet operation.
The only downside I noticed was that heavily overgrown or thick grass can slow it down, but for regular upkeep, it’s hard to beat.
What Features Define the Best Rated Reel Mower?
The best rated reel mowers are characterized by several key features that enhance their performance and usability.
- Sharp Cutting Blades: High-quality reel mowers come equipped with precision-ground blades that provide a clean and efficient cut. These blades should be easy to sharpen, allowing for consistent performance and longevity.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: The ability to adjust the cutting height is essential for accommodating different grass types and seasonal growth. This feature allows users to set the mower to their preferred height, ensuring a healthy lawn.
- Lightweight Design: A lightweight construction makes the mower easier to maneuver and operate, especially in tight spaces or on uneven terrain. It reduces fatigue during use, making mowing a less strenuous task.
- Durable Frame Material: The best rated reel mowers are built with sturdy materials like steel or high-quality plastic that can withstand regular use and outdoor conditions. A durable frame ensures a longer lifespan and reliability.
- Easy Assembly and Maintenance: These mowers should be designed for straightforward assembly and minimal maintenance requirements. Features like removable blades for sharpening and easy-to-follow instructions can enhance user experience.
- Eco-Friendly Operation: One of the main advantages of reel mowers is their environmentally friendly operation, as they do not require fuel or electricity. This feature appeals to users who are conscious of their carbon footprint.
- Ergonomic Handles: Ergonomically designed handles provide comfort during use and reduce strain on the hands and wrists. Features like height adjustability and cushioned grips enhance user comfort over longer mowing sessions.
- Good Warranty and Customer Support: A reliable warranty and accessible customer support are indicators of a quality product. They ensure that users can get assistance or repairs if issues arise, adding peace of mind to the investment.
How Does Cutting Width Impact the Performance of a Reel Mower?
The cutting width of a reel mower significantly influences its performance and efficiency in maintaining a lawn.
- Wider Cutting Width: A wider cutting width allows the mower to cover more ground in a single pass, reducing the time spent mowing. This can be particularly beneficial for larger lawns, making it a more efficient choice for homeowners looking to save time.
- Narrower Cutting Width: A narrower cutting width may provide more maneuverability, allowing for easier navigation around obstacles like trees and flower beds. This can lead to a more precise cut in intricate landscapes but may require more passes to cover the entire lawn area.
- Impact on Grass Health: The cutting width can affect grass health, as a wider mower may have a greater chance of scalping if not adjusted properly. Conversely, a narrower mower may promote healthier grass by allowing for more frequent mowing, which can help maintain optimal height and discourage weeds.
- Blade Performance: The cutting width is also linked to blade performance; wider mowers often have more blades that can create a cleaner cut. On the other hand, if the blades on a narrower mower are of higher quality, they can still outperform wider mowers in terms of cutting precision and quality.
- Storage and Portability: A reel mower with a narrower cutting width generally takes up less storage space and can be easier to handle, especially in tight areas. This can make it a more practical choice for users with limited storage or smaller gardening spaces.
Why Is Blade Quality Important for Optimal Mowing?
The underlying mechanism involves the way grass responds to cutting. When a sharp blade slices through the grass, it creates a clean wound that heals quickly, minimizing the exposure to pathogens and reducing water loss. In contrast, a dull blade tears the grass, leaving jagged edges that take longer to heal and increase the risk of disease and dehydration. Additionally, the performance of the mower is impacted by blade quality; higher-quality blades require less energy to cut through the grass, leading to better efficiency and a longer lifespan for the mower.
What Are the Safety and Environmental Benefits of Using a Reel Mower?
The safety and environmental benefits of using a reel mower are significant and contribute to both personal safety and ecological preservation.
- Reduced Emissions: Reel mowers operate without gasoline or electricity, resulting in zero emissions during use. This not only helps in reducing air pollution but also contributes to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, making them an environmentally friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers.
- Quiet Operation: Unlike gas mowers, reel mowers operate quietly, which minimizes noise pollution. This makes them ideal for residential areas, allowing homeowners to maintain their lawns without disturbing neighbors or wildlife.
- Enhanced Safety: Reel mowers have fewer moving parts and lack powerful engines, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. The manual operation means users have better control, and there’s no risk of fuel spills or electrical hazards.
- Natural Lawn Health: By cutting grass with a clean scissor-like action, reel mowers promote healthier grass growth. This method minimizes the risk of lawn diseases and encourages a thicker, greener lawn without the need for chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
- Lower Energy Consumption: Reel mowers require no fuel or electricity, making them cost-effective and energy-efficient. This not only saves money on utility bills but also reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Minimal Maintenance: Reel mowers are simpler in design and require less maintenance compared to gas mowers. This means fewer resources and chemicals are used for upkeep, further benefiting the environment.
Which Brands Are Considered the Top Rated for Reel Mowers?
The top rated brands for reel mowers include:
- American Lawn Mower Company: Known for its durable and lightweight designs, American Lawn Mower Company offers a variety of reel mowers that are easy to maneuver and maintain.
- Fiskars: Fiskars reel mowers are praised for their innovative features, such as the InertiaDrive technology, which allows for easier cutting of thick grass and weeds.
- Great States: Great States mowers are recognized for their classic design and solid construction, providing a reliable option for homeowners seeking an efficient mowing experience.
- Gardena: Gardena’s reel mowers stand out for their ergonomic design and adjustable cutting heights, making them a popular choice in Europe for their effectiveness and ease of use.
- Sun Joe: Sun Joe offers electric reel mowers that combine the benefits of reel cutting with the convenience of electric power, making them an eco-friendly choice for small lawns.
American Lawn Mower Company: This brand is celebrated for its commitment to quality and performance, offering models that are not only lightweight but also easy to push across a variety of terrains. Their mowers often feature a simple design that allows for easy blade adjustments and maintenance, appealing to environmentally conscious homeowners looking for a manual option.
Fiskars: Fiskars has revolutionized the reel mower with its patented cutting technology that enhances the efficiency of each cut, reducing the effort needed for operation. Their mowers often feature a unique design that allows for a cleaner cut, promoting healthier grass growth while reducing the noise and emissions associated with gas-powered mowers.
Great States: With a reputation for durability, Great States mowers are built to last and provide a traditional mowing experience that many users appreciate. These mowers are typically equipped with high-quality steel blades that ensure a precise cut, making them a favorite for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to lawn care.
Gardena: Offering a blend of functionality and comfort, Gardena reel mowers are designed for ease of use with adjustable handles and cutting heights that cater to different user preferences. Their models often include features that enhance maneuverability, making them ideal for navigating around garden beds and obstacles.
Sun Joe: Sun Joe’s electric reel mowers bring a modern twist to traditional mowing by providing a lightweight and eco-friendly alternative. These mowers are equipped with efficient electric motors that eliminate the need for gas while still achieving a clean cut, appealing to homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence the Selection of the Best Rated Reel Mowers?
Customer reviews play a crucial role in determining the best rated reel mowers by providing insights and firsthand experiences from users.
- Authenticity: Customer reviews offer genuine feedback about the performance and reliability of reel mowers.
- Comparative Analysis: Reviews allow potential buyers to compare different models based on user experiences and ratings.
- Feature Insight: Customers often highlight specific features that stood out, helping others understand what to look for.
- Long-term Use Perspectives: Reviews frequently include insights on durability and maintenance over time, which is valuable for buyers considering a long-term investment.
- Problem Identification: Customers often point out common issues or shortcomings, alerting potential buyers to potential drawbacks before purchase.
Authenticity: Customer reviews provide a level of authenticity that marketing materials typically lack. Real users share their experiences, which can include both positive and negative aspects, offering a more balanced view of the product’s performance in everyday use.
Comparative Analysis: By reading multiple reviews, potential buyers can easily compare various models of reel mowers. This comparative perspective helps them make informed decisions based on the collective opinions of many users rather than relying solely on manufacturer claims.
Feature Insight: Users often comment on specific features that they found particularly useful or lacking. This feedback can guide prospective buyers on which attributes are most important for their specific lawn care needs, such as cutting efficiency, ease of use, or weight of the mower.
Long-term Use Perspectives: Many reviews discuss the mower’s performance over time, revealing how well the product holds up with regular use. Such insights are invaluable for consumers looking for durability and long-term satisfaction from their purchase.
Problem Identification: Reviews frequently highlight problems encountered by users, such as issues with assembly, maintenance challenges, or performance failures. This kind of information can be crucial for potential buyers to avoid products that may not meet their expectations or needs.
What Maintenance Practices Can Extend the Lifespan of a Reel Mower?
Regular maintenance practices can significantly extend the lifespan of a reel mower.
- Sharpening the Blades: Regularly sharpening the blades ensures a clean cut, which not only improves the appearance of your lawn but also reduces stress on the mower’s engine. Dull blades can tear grass rather than cut it, leading to a less healthy lawn and requiring more effort from the mower.
- Cleaning After Use: After each mowing session, it’s important to clean the mower to prevent grass clippings from building up and causing rust or corrosion. A thorough cleaning can also prevent clogs and ensure optimal performance during subsequent uses.
- Lubricating Moving Parts: Lubricating all moving parts, including wheel bearings and the cutting reel, reduces friction and wear, enhancing the mower’s efficiency. Regular lubrication ensures smoother operation and can prevent mechanical failures over time.
- Checking Tire Pressure: Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for optimal maneuverability and cutting performance. Under-inflated tires can affect the mower’s balance and lead to uneven cuts, while over-inflated tires may wear out prematurely.
- Storing Properly: Proper storage, such as keeping the mower in a dry, protected area, prevents damage from weather elements. Additionally, storing the mower in an upright position can help preserve its shape and functionality, while also keeping it free of dust and debris.
- Inspecting for Wear and Tear: Regular inspections for any signs of wear, such as cracks in the frame or loose parts, allow for timely repairs that can prevent more significant issues. Addressing minor repairs early can save costs and extend the overall life of the mower.