Comparison: Best Hand Lawn Mower (Updated | Jan 12th)
Tired of wrestling with noisy, gas-guzzling mowers or tripping over extension cords? A good hand lawn mower might be the perfect solution for your yard. It’s quiet, eco-friendly, and surprisingly effective. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? We’ve done the homework for you, testing the top models to see which ones deliver the cleanest cut with the least effort. Let’s find the best hand lawn mower to keep your lawn looking great without the hassle.
Key Takeaways
- The Editor’s Choice excels with a wide 20-inch cutting path and sharp heat-treated blades.
- Prioritize comfort with cushioned handles and easy assembly for a better mowing experience.
- Choose lightweight and maneuverable models for effortless operation and reduced fatigue.
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
Wide-Cut Classic Reel
- Wide 20-inch cutting path
- Comfortable cushioned handle
- Easy tool-less assembly
- BEST FOR LIGHTWEIGHT PUSH MOWER: American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT ECO CHOICE: Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PRECISION 5-BLADE CUT: 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 POWERFUL CORDED ELECTRIC: LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP Read More ↓
- BEST FOR WIDE 7-BLADE REEL: Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR WIDE-CUT CLASSIC REEL: Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT CORDLESS FREEDOM: Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BAG-EQUIPPED REEL MOWER: 16″ Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower – Hand Push Lawn Mower with Bag Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Hand 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 14-inch push reel mower designed for small lawns. It features a 4-blade reel with durable 8.5-inch polymer wheels for easy maneuverability.
Weighing only 19 pounds, it’s lightweight and eco-friendly, offering pollution-free and noise-free operation. The adjustable blade height ranges from 0.5” to 1.75”, making it ideal for most turf grasses.
Its scissor-like cutting action ensures grass isn’t bruised, promoting healthier growth. Best for frequent mowing, it handles grass up to 4 inches tall efficiently, though it’s less effective on overgrown lawns.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Eco-friendly and quiet operation
- Durable 8.5″ polymer wheels
- Adjustable cutting height
- Low maintenance design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Struggles with tall grass
- Not ideal for wet grass
- Limited cutting width
Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower
The Great States 204-14 Hand Reel Mower is a compact, 14-inch push mower perfect for small lawns. Its 4-blade reel uses heat-treated alloy steel blades that stay sharp for years, ensuring a clean scissor-action cut.
The 8.5-inch polymer wheels provide excellent maneuverability, while the adjustable height (0.5” to 1.75”) accommodates various grass lengths. This manual mower is an eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered models, requiring no fuel or extensive maintenance.
Lightweight and easy to use, it’s ideal for those seeking a hassle-free, planet-conscious lawn care solution without sacrificing performance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Sharp alloy steel blades
- Compact and easy to use
- Environmentally friendly operation
- Low maintenance required
- Adjustable cutting height
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrow cutting width
- Less effective on overgrown lawns
- Manual effort required
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 is an eco-friendly choice for small to mid-sized yards. Its 5-blade steel reel system ensures a clean, scissor-like cut, promoting healthier grass growth.
The 16-inch cutting width balances efficiency and maneuverability, while the 3-position adjustable height (0.5″ to 1.75″) lets you customize your lawn’s look. Durable ball bearings and large 8.5″ wheels provide smooth rolling and stability.
Lightweight and easy to store, this manual mower offers a quiet, gas-free mowing experience. Ideal for those seeking a simple, reliable tool for maintaining a neat lawn without the hassle of maintenance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Clean, scissor-like cut
- Eco-friendly operation
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Adjustable cutting height
- Durable steel construction
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not ideal for large yards
- Struggles with tall grass
- Requires physical effort
LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP
The LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower combines power and convenience for small lawns. With 3,300 RPM of motor power and a 14-inch cutting width, it handles grass efficiently.
Its 5-position height adjustment (1.4″ to 3″) allows for versatile cutting, while 7.75-inch rear wheels ensure smooth maneuverability. The 7-gallon collection bag keeps clippings contained for a tidy finish.
This mower is environmentally friendly, eliminating the need for gas or batteries. Perfect for urban yards, it offers a quiet, low-maintenance alternative to gas mowers.
Simply plug in and mow for a hassle-free lawn care experience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 3,300 RPM motor
- Environmentally friendly design
- Easy height adjustment
- Includes collection bag
- Smooth maneuverability
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Corded limits range
- Not for large areas
- Requires power outlet nearby
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey
The Earthwise 1715-16EW is a reliable hand-push reel mower with a 16-inch cutting width, featuring a durable 7-blade ball bearing reel and 10-inch composite wheels. Its adjustable cutting height ranges from 0.5 to 2.5 inches, ensuring clean, even cuts on various grass types like Bermuda and Zoysia.
The alloy steel blades stay sharp longer, while the sturdy steel side plate design enhances durability. This eco-friendly mower is a great alternative to gas-powered models, offering quiet operation and zero emissions.
Perfect for small to medium-sized lawns, it combines performance with sustainability for a greener yard.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly operation
- Sharp alloy steel blades
- Adjustable cutting height
- Durable steel construction
- Quiet performance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not ideal for tall weeds
- Requires physical effort
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green
The Scotts 2000-20S is a classic 20-inch push reel mower, perfect for maintaining a pristine lawn without gas or oil. It features a 5-blade ball bearing reel and 10-inch dual tracking wheels for smooth maneuverability.
The quick-snap height adjustment (1-3 inches) ensures precise cuts, while heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp longer. Its ergonomic handle with cushioned grip adds comfort during use, and the lightweight design makes it easy to operate.
Assembly is tool-less and hassle-free. This engine-free mower is ideal for environmentally conscious homeowners seeking efficient, quiet lawn care.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide 20-inch cutting path
- Comfortable cushioned handle
- Easy tool-less assembly
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Sharp heat-treated blades
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited cutting height range
- Blades may need frequent sharpening
Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower 13 Inch, U20 Handy+ 20V Electric Lawn Mowers for Garden, Yard and Farm, 5 Heights Adjustment, Light Weight,4.0Ah Portable Battery Included
The Litheli Cordless Lawn Mower is a versatile 20V electric mower designed for small to medium lawns. With a 13-inch cutting width and 3400RPM motor speed, it efficiently mows up to 1,300 sq.
ft. per charge.
It offers five height adjustments (1-2.5 inches) and an 8-gallon grass bag for easy cleanup. The foldable handle and lightweight design ensure compact storage and portability.
Its universal 20,000mAh battery powers other Litheli tools and even charges devices. Low-noise, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly, this mower is perfect for hassle-free lawn care.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and portable
- Five height adjustments
- Universal battery compatibility
- Quiet operation
- Easy to store
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited runtime per charge
- Smaller cutting width
16″ Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower – Hand Push Lawn Mower with Bag, Steel & Aluminum 2-in-1 Grass Cutter, Adjustable Cutting Height 0.47-1.65″ for Small Yards, Gardens (Orange/Black)
The NTNOEA Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower offers a 16-inch cutting width with sharp five-edge blades for efficient mowing. Made from durable steel and aluminum, it requires no fuel or electricity, ensuring zero emissions and minimal noise.
The mower features adjustable height (0.47-1.65 inches) and a rear collection box to catch clippings. Its 8.07-inch front wheels with anti-slip patterns provide excellent maneuverability.
Easy to assemble and maintain, this eco-friendly reel mower is ideal for small yards, delivering a clean, precise cut while promoting a healthier environment.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly and quiet
- Durable steel construction
- Adjustable cutting height
- Large 16-inch width
- Includes grass bag
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Manual effort required
- Not ideal for tall grass
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 should I look for when choosing a hand lawn mower?
Consider the cutting width, which determines how much grass you can cut in one pass—larger widths are better for big lawns, while smaller ones offer more maneuverability. Look for adjustable height settings to customize the cut length for your grass type. Also, check the mower’s weight and ergonomics, as a lighter model is easier to push and store.
How do reel mowers compare to rotary mowers?
Reel mowers cut grass like scissors, providing a cleaner cut and healthier grass, while rotary mowers tear the grass, leading to potential brown tips. Reel mowers are quieter, eco-friendly, and require less maintenance than gas-powered rotary mowers. However, rotary mowers are better suited for tall or uneven terrain, whereas reel mowers work best on flat, well-maintained lawns.
What features should I prioritize for a better mowing experience?
Look for models with ball-bearing wheels for smoother movement and less effort. Some mowers come with a grass catcher, which saves time by collecting clippings as you mow. Adjustable handle lengths can also improve comfort for users of different heights.
Are hand lawn mowers worth the investment?
Hand mowers are cost-effective, with no fuel or electricity costs, and they require minimal maintenance. They’re ideal for small to medium-sized lawns and provide a quieter, eco-friendly alternative to powered mowers. However, they may not be suitable for large or overgrown lawns, where a powered mower would be more efficient.
How do I maintain a hand lawn mower?
Regularly sharpen the blades to ensure a clean cut, as dull blades can damage grass. Clean the mower after each use to prevent grass buildup, which can affect performance. Lubricate the wheels and cutting mechanism periodically to keep the mower running smoothly.
What is the best cutting height for my lawn?
The ideal cutting height depends on your grass type, but generally, 2-3 inches is recommended for most cool-season grasses. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to prevent stress to the lawn. Adjust the mower’s height setting seasonally—higher in summer to shade roots, lower in spring and fall.