Comparison: Best Manual Push Lawn Mower (Updated | Jan 12th)
If you’re tired of noisy, gas-guzzling mowers and want a quieter, eco-friendly way to keep your lawn neat, a manual push mower might be just what you need. These lightweight machines are easy to maintain, great for small to medium yards, and give you a bit of a workout too. But with so many options out there, how do you choose? We’ve done the legwork for you, testing and comparing the best models to help you find the perfect match for your lawn care routine.
Key Takeaways
- The top pick excels with its eco-friendly, low-maintenance design.
- Choose a lightweight mower for easy maneuverability.
- Look for adjustable cutting heights for versatility.
- Prioritize sharp, durable steel blades for longevity.
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
Wide 20-Inch Classic
- Eco-friendly, no emissions
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Adjustable cutting height
- BEST FOR COMPACT 14-INCH REEL: American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR LIGHTWEIGHT 14-INCH: Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR 18-INCH BAG INCLUDED: LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ERGONOMIC 18-INCH CUT: American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SMALL 14-INCH DECK: LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ERGONOMIC WITH CATCHER: VEVOR Push Reel Lawn Mower 14 inch Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BALANCED 16-INCH CUT: LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade Read More ↓
- BEST FOR WARRANTY-BACKED 16-INCH: 16″ Push Reel Lawn Mower – Manual 5-Blade Hand Mower with Adjustable 3-Position Cutting Height (0.5″–1.75″) – Lightweight Read More ↓
- BEST FOR WIDE 20-INCH CLASSIC: Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Manual Push Lawn Mower
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a reliable 14-inch push reel mower designed for small lawns. Its 4-blade reel and 8.5-inch polymer wheels ensure smooth maneuverability, while the lightweight 19-pound design makes it easy to push.
Adjustable blade height (0.5”-1.75”) allows for precise cuts, and its eco-friendly operation produces no pollution or noise. Ideal for most turf grasses, this mower cuts grass cleanly without damaging blades.
Regular mowing is recommended for best results. A durable, low-maintenance choice for environmentally conscious gardeners seeking simplicity and efficiency.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and easy to push
- Environmentally friendly operation
- Adjustable cutting height
- Durable 8.5-inch polymer wheels
- Quiet and low maintenance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not ideal for tall grass
- Limited cutting width
- Less effective on wet grass
Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower
The Great States 204-14 Hand Reel Mower combines simplicity and performance with its 14-inch cutting width and 4-blade reel. Heat-treated alloy steel blades ensure sharp, long-lasting cuts, while the adjustable height (0.5”-1.75”) accommodates various grass lengths.
The 8.5-inch polymer wheels provide excellent maneuverability, and its lightweight design makes it easy to handle. A planet-friendly alternative to gas mowers, it requires no oil or gas and minimal maintenance.
Perfect for small lawns, this manual mower delivers a clean, scissor-action cut while being quiet and eco-conscious.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Sharp alloy steel blades
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Eco-friendly operation
- Adjustable blade height
- Low maintenance design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to small lawns
- Not suited for tall grass
- Requires frequent mowing
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower features an 18-inch deck with 5 steel blades, delivering a precise scissor-like cut for healthier grass. Designed for small lawns, it offers 9 cutting positions ranging from 1.1 to 2.5 inches, allowing you to customize your lawn’s look effortlessly.
The motorless design is eco-friendly, requiring no gas or batteries, while the 10-inch front wheels ensure easy maneuverability. Built with durable materials, this mower is a low-maintenance, quiet solution for maintaining your yard, combining efficiency with environmental responsibility for a neat and tidy lawn.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Clean scissor-like cut
- Eco-friendly motorless design
- Adjustable cutting heights
- Durable steel blades
- Easy to maneuver
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Best for small lawns
- Requires manual effort
American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher
The American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 offers an 18-inch cutting path with 5 blades for a precise, scissor-like cut. Its adjustable height (0.5 to 2.75 inches) suits various grass types and seasons.
The ergonomic U-style handle with cushion grip ensures comfort and control, reducing strain during use. This eco-friendly, low-maintenance mower operates quietly without gas or batteries.
The included grass catcher efficiently collects clippings for easy disposal, keeping your yard tidy. Perfect for small to medium lawns, it combines convenience with a smooth mowing experience for a healthier lawn.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide 18-inch cutting path
- Includes grass catcher
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
- Adjustable height settings
- Quiet and eco-friendly
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not ideal for tall grass
- Requires physical effort
LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower offers an eco-friendly solution for maintaining small to medium lawns. Featuring a 14-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels, it ensures easy maneuverability around garden beds and obstacles.
The 5-blade hardened steel system provides a scissor-like cut, promoting healthier grass by avoiding ripping or tearing. With four adjustable cutting positions ranging from 1 to 2 inches, you can customize your lawn’s appearance effortlessly.
This motorless design eliminates the need for gas or batteries, reducing both noise and environmental impact. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance, making it a reliable choice for eco-conscious gardeners.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Clean scissor-like cut
- Adjustable cutting heights
- Environmentally friendly
- Durable steel blades
- Easy to maneuver
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited cutting height range
- Not ideal for tall grass
- Requires physical effort
VEVOR Push Reel Lawn Mower 14 inch, 5 Blades Manual Push Mower No Motor, 0.6-1.75 in Adjustable Cutting Height, Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers with Grass Catcher Bag for Green Lawns, Driveways, Courtyards
The VEVOR Push Reel Lawn Mower combines precision and convenience for a quiet mowing experience. Its 14-inch width and 5-blade design deliver accurate, even cuts, while the adjustable height (0.6 to 1.75 inches) adapts to various grass types.
Built with UNS1566 steel blades, it ensures durability and sharpness over time. The ergonomic U-shaped handle and large wheels reduce strain, making it suitable for seniors.
Assembly is quick and tool-free, taking just 10 minutes. This motorless mower is emission-free and quiet, perfect for families with pets or neighbors who value peace.
It’s a practical, eco-friendly addition to any lawn care routine.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Precise even cutting
- Quick tool-free assembly
- Ergonomic handle design
- Quiet operation
- Adjustable height settings
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires frequent clearing
- Not for tall grass
- Grass catcher included
LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower offers an eco-friendly solution for maintaining a lush, healthy lawn without gas or batteries. Its 5-blade system provides a scissor-like cut, ensuring grass is trimmed cleanly rather than torn, promoting better growth.
The 16-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels allow for easy maneuverability around obstacles. With 4 adjustable cutting positions ranging from 1 to 2 inches, you can customize your lawn’s look effortlessly.
Built with durable steel blades, this motorless mower is designed for longevity, making it a reliable choice for small to medium-sized yards.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly motorless design
- Precise scissor-like cutting
- Adjustable cutting heights
- Durable steel blades
- Easy to maneuver
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited height adjustment range
- Not ideal for tall grass
16″ Push Reel Lawn Mower – Manual 5-Blade Hand Mower with Adjustable 3-Position Cutting Height (0.5″–1.75″) – Lightweight, Eco-Friendly, Steel Blades – 2-Year Warranty
The Dapper Supply 16″ Push Reel Lawn Mower combines efficiency and durability for small to mid-sized yards. Its 5 steel blades deliver a clean, scissor-like cut, promoting healthier, greener grass.
The 16-inch cutting width balances coverage and compactness, while the adjustable 3-position height settings (0.5″ to 1.75″) offer versatility for different lawn preferences. Equipped with smooth ball bearings and two large 8.5″ wheels, this mower ensures stable, even cutting on flat surfaces.
Lightweight and easy to push, it’s a practical choice for eco-conscious gardeners seeking a reliable manual mower.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Clean scissor-like cut
- Lightweight and easy to push
- Adjustable cutting heights
- Smooth ball bearings
- Compact for storage
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Best for flat lawns only
- Limited height adjustments
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green
The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S is a classic 20-inch push reel mower designed for eco-friendly lawn care. Its 5-blade ball bearing reel and 10-inch dual tracking wheels ensure a smooth, even cut, while the quick-snap height adjustment allows you to customize the cut from 1 to 3 inches.
The heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp longer, and the ergonomic handle with cushioned grip provides comfort during use. Lightweight and easy to operate, this engine-free mower requires no gas or oil, making it a low-maintenance choice for small to medium lawns.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly, no emissions
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Adjustable cutting height
- Sharp, durable steel blades
- Low maintenance costs
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not ideal for tall grass
- Requires physical effort
- Less effective on uneven terrain
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What features should I prioritize when choosing a manual push lawn mower?
Look for models with adjustable cutting heights and a wide cutting deck for efficiency. Durable materials like steel blades and sturdy frames are essential for longevity. A grass catcher or mulching capability can also be useful depending on your lawn care preferences.
How do manual push mowers compare to gas or electric mowers?
Manual push mowers are quieter, eco-friendly, and require less maintenance than gas or electric models. However, they may struggle with tall or thick grass and require more physical effort to operate. They’re best suited for small, flat lawns with regular mowing schedules.
What is the ideal lawn size for a manual push mower?
Manual push mowers work best for lawns under 1/4 acre, as larger areas can be tiring to mow manually. They excel in small, well-maintained yards where precision and quiet operation are valued. For larger or uneven lawns, consider a gas or electric mower instead.
How important is the blade quality in a manual mower?
Blade quality directly impacts cutting efficiency and mower longevity. Reel blades made of heat-treated steel stay sharper longer and provide a cleaner cut. Poor-quality blades may dull quickly, leading to uneven cuts and more frequent maintenance.
Are manual push mowers cost-effective compared to other types?
Manual push mowers are generally more affordable upfront and have lower ongoing costs since they don’t require fuel or electricity. They also have fewer moving parts, reducing the need for repairs. Over time, they can be a budget-friendly option for small lawns.
What are the pros and cons of lightweight vs. heavier manual mowers?
Lightweight mowers are easier to push and maneuver but may struggle with dense grass. Heavier models provide better cutting power and durability but require more effort to operate. Choose based on your lawn’s terrain and grass thickness.
How do I maintain a manual push mower for optimal performance?
Regularly clean the blades and deck to prevent grass buildup and rust. Sharpen or replace blades as needed to ensure clean cuts. Lubricate moving parts and check for loose screws or bolts periodically.
What is the typical warranty for manual push mowers?
Most manual push mowers come with a 1- to 2-year warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Some high-end models offer longer warranties, especially on blades and frames. Always check the warranty terms before purchasing to understand coverage details.
