Reel push mowers offer a quiet, emission-free way to keep small to medium lawns neatly trimmed. With no gas, cords, or batteries, these traditional hand-push models rely on blade geometry and manual effort to deliver a precise cut. This guide highlights five popular reel push mowers and helps you compare cutting width, blade count, maneuverability, and height adjustment. Whether you’re maintaining a tiny urban yard or a compact suburban lawn, the right reel mower can reduce noise, maintenance, and environmental impact while delivering a pristine finish.
Summary of selected products
| Brand | Name | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LawnMaster | LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade | 18″ | 5 | Excellent maneuverability for small lawns |
| American Lawn Mower Company | 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel | 14″ | 4 | Lightweight, easy to handle in tight spaces |
| Great States | 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel | 18″ | 5 | Versatile height and durable blades |
| Fiskars | Push Mower 18″ Cut Width | 18″ | Not specified (InertiaDrive) | Low effort with enhanced cutting power |
| Earthwise Power Tools by ALM | 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade | 16″ | 7 | Sharp, long-lasting blades for mixed grasses |
Each model below is chosen for accessibility, blade design, and user-friendly height adjustments. The sections provide concise specs, practical notes, and considerations to help you pick the best reel mower for your lawn size, grass type, and preferred mowing cadence.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Mower
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 features an 18-inch deck and a 5-blade reel for efficient cutting. It offers 9 cutting positions ranging from 1.1 inches to 2.5 inches, allowing precise height control for various turf conditions. Front-wheel drive contributes to maneuverability, especially around tight corners, while the 18-inch deck helps cover more ground per pass on small lawns. This model emphasizes a scissor-like cut to minimize blade tearing, supporting a healthier lawn long-term.
Key considerations: The 18-inch width balances reach and maneuverability for small yards. Blade geometry emphasizes a clean cut without raking or tearing, contributing to a neat appearance with regular maintenance.
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a compact 14-inch mower with a 4-blade reel, designed for lighter tasks and smaller lawns. It weighs approximately 19 pounds, making it easy to push for extended mowing sessions. The adjustable blade height ranges from 0.5 to 1.75 inches, and it can cut grasses up to about 4 inches tall with consistent results on flat terrain. This model is a practical entry point for users prioritizing a lightweight, low-maintenance option with simple setup.
Key considerations: Best suited for very small lawns or patch maintenance. Lower cutting height range may require closer passes for a uniform finish on uneven lawns. Environmentally friendly and quiet operation remain core benefits.
Great States 815-18 18-Inch Reel Mower
The Great States 815-18 provides an 18-inch cutting width with a 5-blade reel and 10-inch composite wheels for easy movement. It offers an adjustable cutting height from 0.5 to 2.75 inches, enabling versatility for different grass types. The blades are made from high-quality alloy steel to maintain sharpness longer, supporting a consistent, clean cut across medium-sized lawns. Its motor-less design reduces maintenance and energy use while remaining durable for regular use.
Key considerations: The 18-inch width helps cover more ground without sacrificing control. The 0.5-2.75 inch height range accommodates a variety of lawn conditions, from thin turf to slightly taller grass.
Fiskars Push Mower 18-Inch
The Fiskars 18″ push mower combines an inertia-driven cutting system with sharp StaySharp blades that don’t require frequent sharpening. It requires no gas, oil, or cords, making it a low-maintenance solution with 60% easier pushing compared with some traditional mowers. The StaySharp Cutting System extends blade life, while an ergonomic handle includes a one-touch height adjustment for personalized comfort. The mower’s design balances power with simplicity, ideal for regular lawn upkeep in moderate-sized yards.
Key considerations: InertiaDrive provides enhanced cutting force, which helps in tougher patches. The mower is particularly appealing for homeowners seeking a quiet, maintenance-light option with dependable cutting performance.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade
The Earthwise 1715-16EW offers a 16-inch cut with a 7-blade reel and 10-inch composite wheels. Its durable steel side plate design supports steady operation on various lawn textures, including Bermuda, Zoysia, and Centipede. The alloy steel blades stay sharp longer, contributing to reliable performance with less frequent sharpening. This model suits homeowners who manage mixed grass types and value longevity and predictable cutting results.
Key considerations: A narrower deck than some 18-inch models means slightly more effort on larger lawns, but the extra blade count can improve cutting precision on dense or uneven turf. The steel construction adds durability for frequent use.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Lawn size and layout: Smaller yards benefit from 14–16 inch mowers with lighter weight, while extended spaces can justify 18-inch decks for faster coverage.
- Blade configuration: More blades often translate to a smoother cut and better mulching, but ensure the mower remains easy to push on your terrain.
- Cutting height range: A wider range accommodates different grasses and seasons. Look for adjustable heights that suit your lawn’s current condition.
- Weight and maneuverability: Lighter mowers reduce user fatigue, especially on hilly or irregular lawns. Front or rear wheel designs influence steering and control.
- Durability and materials: Alloy steel blades resist dulling; composite wheels offer smoother rides on uneven patches. Steel side plates increase longevity.
- Maintenance needs: Reel mowers require blade tuning less frequently than rotary mowers, but periodic adjustments are essential for performance.
- Environmental impact: Reel mowers are emission-free and quiet, suitable for noise-sensitive neighborhoods.
- Storage and ease of use: Consider foldable handles or compact designs if space is limited.
- Grass type compatibility: Some models excel on common turf like Bermuda or St. Augustine, while others handle a broader range of grasses.
- Price-to-value balance: Higher blade counts and wider decks often justify cost by reducing mowing time on suitable lawns.