Best Reel Lawn Mower
For homeowners seeking a quieter, more eco-friendly approach to lawn care, the classic reel mower is an excellent choice. The satisfying, clean cut it provides is a testament to its simple yet effective design.
However, not all models are created equal, and navigating the market to find the best reel lawn mower can be a daunting task. The difference between an effortless glide and a frustrating struggle often comes down to crucial factors like build quality, blade precision, and overall durability.
This guide is designed to help you make an informed decision, focusing on the key attributes that define superior performance and long-term value. Let us help you find the best reel lawn mower to achieve that perfectly manicured lawn with satisfying, eco-conscious ease.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 9 Best Reel Lawn Mower Compared
π BEST OVERALL American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Lightweight and easy to push and store.
- Environmentally friendly with no gas, oil, or emissions.
- Extremely quiet operation.
- Provides a clean, scissor-like cut that is healthier for grass.
4.7/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5
- Environmentally friendly with no gas, oil, or emissions.
- Clean, scissor-like cut is healthier for grass blades.
- Multiple cutting height adjustments (9 positions) for a customized cut.
- Quiet operation compared to motorized mowers.
4.4/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Wide 18-inch cutting path covers ground efficiently.
- Adjustable cutting height for a customized lawn length.
- Eco-friendly and silent operation with no gas, oil, or emissions.
- Low-maintenance design with durable alloy steel blades.
4.4/5
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Fiskars Push Mower – 18″ Cut Width Manual Reel Mow
- Eco-friendly operation with no gas, oil, or cords required.
- Low-maintenance design with a StaySharp system that reduces the need for blade sharpening.
- Wide 18-inch cutting path and adjustable height (1″-4″) for versatility.
- Ergonomic features like an adjustable handle and a reversible grass chute.
4.7/5
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Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Wide 20-inch cutting path
- Eco-friendly with no gas, oil, or emissions
- Quiet operation
- Easy, tool-less assembly
4.7/5
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Scotts 18-Inch 7-Blade Push Manual Reel Lawn Mower
- Wide 18-inch cutting path covers ground efficiently.
- 7-blade reel provides a clean, scissor-like cut.
- Adjustable cutting height (1″ to 3″) for versatility.
- Durable, heat-treated alloy steel blades.
4.6/5
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LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5
- Multiple cutting height adjustments (9 positions).
- Clean, scissor-like cut is healthier for the lawn.
- Quiet and environmentally friendly operation.
- Includes a grass collection bag.
4.5/5
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Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- 7-blade reel provides a clean, precise cut that is healthier for grass.
- Adjustable cutting height (0.5″-2.5″) allows for customization.
- Eco-friendly and quiet operation with no gas, oil, or emissions.
- Low maintenance compared to gas-powered mowers.
4.6/5
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Walensee 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Eco-friendly and quiet operation with no gas or emissions.
- Features four adjustable cutting height settings.
- Includes a detachable grass collection bag for easy cleanup.
- Lightweight design is easy to maneuver and store.
4.7/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Reel Lawn Mower
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – Lightweight and easy to push and store.
This 14-inch reel mower is a solid choice for those with small lawns seeking an eco-friendly and low-maintenance alternative to powered mowers. Weighing only 19 pounds, it’s exceptionally lightweight and easy to maneuver around the yard. The adjustable cutting height, ranging from 0.5 to 1.75 inches, offers good flexibility for most common turf types.
The scissor-like action of the blades provides a clean cut, which is healthier for the grass. Be aware that this mower is most effective on dry grass that is not overly long; it struggles with anything taller than about 4 inches and requires more frequent mowing to keep the lawn looking its best. The quiet, emission-free operation is a major plus, making lawn care a more peaceful task.
It’s a simple, effective tool for the right kind of yard and user.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to push and store.
- Environmentally friendly with no gas, oil, or emissions.
- Extremely quiet operation.
- Provides a clean, scissor-like cut that is healthier for grass.
- Adjustable cutting height for different turf types.
- Low maintenance requirements.
Cons
- Not effective on tall (over 4 inches), dense, or wet grass.
- Requires more frequent mowing and physical effort than a powered mower.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5 – Environmentally friendly with no gas, oil, or emissions.
This 18-inch push reel mower is a solid choice for those with small lawns seeking an environmentally friendly alternative to gas or electric models. Its key feature is the scissor-like cutting action, which cleanly snips grass blades rather than tearing them, promoting better lawn health. Assembly is straightforward, and the mower feels sturdy.
The nine cutting height positions, ranging from 1.1 to 2.5 inches, offer excellent customization for different grass types and seasons. Maneuverability is good thanks to the 10-inch wheels, making it easy to navigate around garden beds and tight corners. Being a manual mower, it does require some physical effort, but it’s also pleasantly quiet.
The included collection bag is a practical addition, helping to keep the lawn tidy after mowing. It performs best on grass that is maintained regularly and not overly long or wet.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly with no gas, oil, or emissions.
- Clean, scissor-like cut is healthier for grass blades.
- Multiple cutting height adjustments (9 positions) for a customized cut.
- Quiet operation compared to motorized mowers.
- Low maintenance with no engine to service.
- Includes a grass collection bag.
Cons
- Not suitable for large lawns or very tall, thick grass.
- Requires more physical effort than a self-propelled or electric mower.
Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – Wide 18-inch cutting path covers ground efficiently.
The Great States 18-inch reel mower is a solid, straightforward tool for lawn maintenance. Assembly is simple and requires no special tools, and the cushioned loop handle provides a comfortable grip for maneuvering around the yard. The adjustable cutting height, which ranges from 0.5 to 2.75 inches, offers good flexibility for different grass types and seasonal preferences.
Its 18-inch cutting width is quite generous for a manual mower, helping reduce the number of passes needed on a small to medium-sized lawn. The alloy steel blades provide a clean, scissor-like cut, which is generally healthier for the grass. Being motor-less, it’s impressively quiet and environmentally friendly, with no ongoing costs for gas or electricity.
It performs best on relatively flat lawns without too many tough weeds or twigs, but for regular upkeep, itβs a reliable and low-maintenance option.
Pros
- Wide 18-inch cutting path covers ground efficiently.
- Adjustable cutting height for a customized lawn length.
- Eco-friendly and silent operation with no gas, oil, or emissions.
- Low-maintenance design with durable alloy steel blades.
- Simple assembly and a comfortable, cushioned handle.
Cons
- Requires more physical effort than a powered mower, especially on hills.
- Can struggle with very tall grass, tough weeds, and small twigs.
Fiskars Push Mower – 18″ Cut Width Manual Reel Mow – Eco-friendly operation with no gas, oil, or cords required.
The Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower presents a modern and robust take on the classic manual lawnmower. Its standout features are the 18-inch cutting width and the InertiaDrive system, which genuinely makes it easier to push and more effective on dense grass compared to older models. The StaySharp cutting system is a significant benefit, as it removes the hassle of regular blade sharpening.
Adjustability is excellent, with a simple handle height setting and a versatile 1-4 inch cutting height range that accommodates various turf types. While it is still a manual mower and requires physical effort, it performs reliably for routine lawn maintenance. The reversible grass chute is a thoughtful touch for directing clippings.
It’s a well-built, quiet, and eco-friendly machine that is ideal for those with small to medium-sized yards who prefer a low-maintenance, gas-free solution for keeping their lawn tidy.
Pros
- Eco-friendly operation with no gas, oil, or cords required.
- Low-maintenance design with a StaySharp system that reduces the need for blade sharpening.
- Wide 18-inch cutting path and adjustable height (1″-4″) for versatility.
- Ergonomic features like an adjustable handle and a reversible grass chute.
- Designed to be 60% easier to push than standard reel mowers.
- Quiet operation compared to gas or electric alternatives.
Cons
- Requires more physical effort than powered mowers, especially on hills or very thick grass.
- Not ideal for cutting overgrown lawns or navigating very uneven terrain.
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower – Wide 20-inch cutting path
The Scotts 20-inch manual reel mower is a practical and eco-friendly choice for maintaining smaller lawns. Assembly is straightforward and requires no tools, which is a definite plus. In use, the mower is lightweight and relatively easy to push on flat, even terrain.
The 20-inch cutting width is generous for a manual mower, reducing the number of passes needed. Its 5-blade system provides a clean, scissor-like cut, and the cutting height is simple to adjust from 1 to 3 inches. While it requires more physical effort than a gas or electric model, the quiet, emission-free operation is a significant benefit.
It performs best on grass that is not overly long or wet. It’s important to note that this model does not come with a grass catcher, so clippings are left on the lawn, which acts as a natural mulch but may not be ideal for everyone.
Pros
- Wide 20-inch cutting path
- Eco-friendly with no gas, oil, or emissions
- Quiet operation
- Easy, tool-less assembly
- Adjustable cutting height (1″-3″)
- Low maintenance requirements
Cons
- Requires significant physical effort on hills or with tall, thick grass
- Does not include a grass catcher bag
Scotts 18-Inch 7-Blade Push Manual Reel Lawn Mower – Wide 18-inch cutting path covers ground efficiently.
The Scotts 18-inch manual reel mower is a solid choice for those seeking an eco-friendly and quiet alternative for lawn care. Its 18-inch cutting width is generous for a manual model, and the 7-blade reel delivers a clean, precise cut that is gentle on the grass. The ability to adjust the cutting height between 1 and 3 inches provides good flexibility for different lawn conditions.
Assembly is straightforward, and the mower feels maneuverable thanks to its dual 10-inch wheels and a comfortable, cushioned handle. The heat-treated alloy steel blades seem durable and designed to hold their edge. While it requires more physical effort than a powered mower, it’s a reliable machine for small to medium-sized, relatively flat lawns.
It performs best when used regularly to prevent the grass from becoming too overgrown, as it can struggle with very tall, tough weeds.
Pros
- Wide 18-inch cutting path covers ground efficiently.
- 7-blade reel provides a clean, scissor-like cut.
- Adjustable cutting height (1″ to 3″) for versatility.
- Durable, heat-treated alloy steel blades.
- Quiet, emission-free, and low-maintenance operation.
- Comfortable handle and easy maneuverability.
Cons
- Requires significant physical effort, especially on inclines.
- Not effective on very tall grass, thick weeds, or uneven terrain.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5 – Multiple cutting height adjustments (9 positions).
This 18-inch push reel mower offers a simple, eco-friendly approach to lawn care. Assembly is straightforward, and the mower feels sturdy with its steel blades. The key feature is its scissor-like cutting action, which provides a clean cut without tearing the grass blades, promoting better lawn health.
Adjusting the cutting height is easy, with nine positions ranging from 3/4 to 2 inches, offering good customization. The 10-inch front wheels make it relatively easy to maneuver around a small to medium-sized yard. As a manual mower, it requires a consistent walking pace and physical effort, especially if the grass is long or the terrain is uneven.
The included collection bag is a convenient addition, helping to keep the lawn tidy. Overall, it’s a practical tool for basic lawn maintenance, delivering on its core promises of a clean cut and motorless operation.
Pros
- Multiple cutting height adjustments (9 positions).
- Clean, scissor-like cut is healthier for the lawn.
- Quiet and environmentally friendly operation.
- Includes a grass collection bag.
- Good maneuverability for its size.
- Low maintenance with no gas, oil, or batteries.
Cons
- Requires significant physical effort, especially on inclines or with thick grass.
- Not effective for very tall grass or tough weeds.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – 7-blade reel provides a clean, precise cut that is healthier for grass.
The Earthwise 16-inch push reel mower is a practical, eco-friendly option for lawn maintenance. Its 7-blade design, made from alloy steel, is engineered to provide a clean, scissor-like cut, which is generally healthier for grass than the tearing action of rotary mowers. The adjustable cutting height, ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 inches, offers good flexibility for different lawn preferences and seasons.
It’s specifically noted as being effective for bent grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia. Being a manual mower, it is quiet and requires no gas or electricity, making it a low-maintenance and environmentally conscious choice. The 16-inch width is suitable for small to medium-sized yards.
While it requires physical effort, the 10-inch composite wheels and ball bearing reel are designed to make pushing relatively smooth on a well-maintained lawn. It’s a solid performer for its intended purpose and user.
Pros
- 7-blade reel provides a clean, precise cut that is healthier for grass.
- Adjustable cutting height (0.5″-2.5″) allows for customization.
- Eco-friendly and quiet operation with no gas, oil, or emissions.
- Low maintenance compared to gas-powered mowers.
- Specifically designed to work well on various bent grass types.
- Durable steel construction.
Cons
- Requires significant physical effort, especially on inclines or very thick grass.
- Not ideal for very tall grass, tough weeds, or lawns with sticks and debris.
Walensee 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – Eco-friendly and quiet operation with no gas or emissions.
The Walensee Push Reel Lawn Mower offers a straightforward, eco-friendly approach to lawn care. Its 16-inch cutting width and 5-blade system provide a scissor-like cut, which is generally better for grass health. The adjustable cutting height, ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 inches, is easy to change with a simple handle pull.
The mower feels relatively sturdy, thanks to its alloy steel blades and 10-inch wheels that aid maneuverability. The included collection bag is a convenient feature for cleanup, though its capacity may fill quickly on larger lawns. Assembly is minimal, and its lightweight design makes it easy to push and store.
It’s a quiet, low-maintenance machine well-suited for smaller, relatively flat yards. However, it is important to clear the lawn of debris like twigs and stones beforehand to ensure smooth operation.
Pros
- Eco-friendly and quiet operation with no gas or emissions.
- Features four adjustable cutting height settings.
- Includes a detachable grass collection bag for easy cleanup.
- Lightweight design is easy to maneuver and store.
- Scissor-like cutting action promotes a healthier lawn.
Cons
- Not effective on very tall, thick grass or uneven terrain.
- Blades can jam if the lawn is not cleared of twigs and small debris.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Reel Lawn Mower
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Frequently Asked Questions about Best Reel Lawn Mower
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Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower this is an excellent, back-to-basics mower for small, flat lawns. it is highly recommended for users who prioritize eco-friendliness and quiet operation and are committed to mowing regularly. those with large or challenging yards should look for a more powerful option.