Comparison: Best Manual Lawn Mower (Updated | Jan 11th)
Ever thought about swapping your noisy, gas-guzzling mower for something quieter and eco-friendly? Manual lawn mowers are making a comeback, and for good reason—they’re affordable, low-maintenance, and great for small yards. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? We’ve tested and compared the best manual mowers to help you decide. Whether you want a clean cut, easy maneuverability, or just a peaceful mowing experience, we’ve got you covered. Let’s find your perfect match!
Key Takeaways
- Top pick offers eco-friendly operation and durable alloy steel blades.
- Choose models with adjustable cutting height for versatility.
- Prioritize lightweight designs for easy maneuverability.
- Ensure the mower handles your grass type effectively.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
7-Blade Precision Cut
- Eco-friendly operation
- Cuts various grass types
- Adjustable cutting height
- BEST FOR COMPACT ENTRY CHOICE: American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR WIDE COVERAGE MOWER: LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade Read More ↓
- BEST FOR DURABLE ALLOY STEEL: Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ERGONOMIC COMFORT GRIP: American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher Read More ↓
- BEST FOR MANEUVERABLE SMALL YARD: LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade Read More ↓
- BEST FOR INCLUDES HAND SHARPENER: American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Sharpener Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BALANCED MID-SIZE CUT: LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ERGONOMIC SENIOR FRIENDLY: VEVOR Push Reel Lawn Mower 14 inch Read More ↓
- BEST FOR 7-BLADE PRECISION CUT: Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Manual Lawn Mower
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 offers a classic, eco-friendly mowing solution for small lawns. This 4-blade push reel mower features a 14-inch cutting width and durable 8.5-inch polymer wheels for easy maneuverability.
Weighing just 19 pounds, it’s lightweight and simple to operate. The adjustable blade height ranges from 0.5 to 1.75 inches, ideal for maintaining grass up to 4 inches tall.
It’s pollution-free, noise-free, and low-maintenance, using a scissor-like cutting action to preserve grass health. Perfect for those seeking a quiet, environmentally conscious lawn care option without the hassle of gas or electric mowers.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and portable
- Environmentally friendly operation
- Quiet and noise-free
- Low maintenance required
- Durable polymer wheels
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not for tall grass
- Limited cutting width
- Requires frequent mowing
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower combines efficiency with eco-conscious design, featuring an 18-inch deck and 5-blade system for a scissor-like cut. It ensures a healthier lawn by cleanly slicing grass without ripping or tearing.
The mower offers 9 cutting positions, adjustable from 1.1 to 2.5 inches, for customizable results. Its 10-inch front wheels enhance maneuverability, making it ideal for small lawns.
Built with durable steel blades, this motorless mower eliminates the need for gas or batteries, offering a sustainable, low-maintenance solution. It’s perfect for users seeking a reliable, environmentally friendly lawn care tool.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide 18-inch cutting deck
- Precise scissor-like cut
- Nine height settings
- Durable steel blades
- No gas or batteries needed
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Best for small lawns
- Manual effort required
- Not for tall grass
Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower
- Small push lawn mower with 4-blade reel and 14″ cutting width; 8.5″ polymer wheels provide optimal maneuverability
- Manual push reel mower with an adjustable blade height of 0.5”-1.75” with scissor-action cut
- 14-in lawn mower blades made of heat-treated alloy steel that stays sharp for years and can be sharpened when necessary
- Planet-friendly alternative to a gas-powered push mower that does not require extensive maintenance, oil, or gas
- Push lawnmower that is low maintenance, lightweight, and easy to use
American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher
- Wider 18-Inch Cutting Path – Cover more ground with each pass, reducing mowing time while delivering a precise, scissor-like cut with the 5-blade reel.
- Adjustable Cutting Height – Easily switch between ½ inch to 2 ¾ inches for the perfect lawn height, tailored to different grass types and seasons.
- Ergonomic U-Style Handle – Designed for comfort and control, the cushion-grip U-handle provides a secure, comfortable grip to reduce hand and wrist strain.
- Eco-Friendly & Low Maintenance – just a smooth, quiet mowing experience that’s better for your lawn and the environment.
- Convenient Grass Catcher – Keep your yard tidy with the included grass catcher, which efficiently collects clippings for easy disposal.
LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Lawn Mower offers a scissor-like cut for healthier grass without ripping or tearing. Its 14-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels provide excellent maneuverability, making it easy to navigate tight spaces.
The motorless design is eco-friendly, requiring no gas or batteries, while the hardened steel blades ensure durability. With four cutting positions (1-2 inches), you can customize your lawn’s look effortlessly.
Lightweight and easy to use, this mower is perfect for small to medium-sized lawns. A quiet, low-maintenance choice for eco-conscious gardeners seeking a clean, precise cut.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Scissor-like cut for healthier grass
- Eco-friendly motorless design
- Durable hardened steel blades
- Easy height adjustment
- Great maneuverability
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not ideal for large lawns
- Struggles with tall weeds
American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Sharpener
The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 features a 5-blade reel and 14-inch cutting width, delivering a precise scissor-action cut. Its adjustable blade height (1-2.25 inches) accommodates various grass types, while the 10-inch polymer wheels ensure smooth movement.
The included hand sharpener keeps blades in top condition. This manual mower is pollution-free, noise-free, and lightweight, making it an eco-friendly alternative.
Best for small to medium lawns, it requires frequent mowing for optimal performance. A simple, low-maintenance option for those seeking a quiet, efficient way to maintain their lawn without gas or electricity.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Hand sharpener included
- Adjustable blade height
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Quiet and pollution-free
- Smooth polymer wheels
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires frequent mowing
- Not for wet grass
LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower offers a 16-inch cutting deck with 5 durable steel blades, ensuring a scissor-like cut that promotes healthier grass without ripping. It features 4 adjustable cutting heights ranging from 1 to 2 inches, allowing customization for different lawn conditions.
The 10-inch front wheels provide excellent maneuverability around obstacles, while the motorless design makes it eco-friendly and quiet. Ideal for small to medium lawns, this lightweight mower requires no gas or batteries, reducing maintenance and operational costs.
Its sturdy build and ease of use make it a reliable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly motorless design
- Easy height adjustment
- Durable steel blades
- Maneuverable 10-inch wheels
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited cutting height
- Not for tall grass
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 features a 14-inch width and 5-blade design for precise, even trimming. Its adjustable cutting height (0.6 to 1.75 inches) suits various grass types, while high-quality UNS1566 steel blades ensure lasting sharpness.
The shock-resistant build handles minor obstacles, and large wheels with a cushioned U-shaped handle reduce physical strain, making it senior-friendly. Tool-free assembly takes just 10 minutes, and the included grass catcher bag simplifies debris collection.
Quiet and emission-free, this mower is perfect for families with pets or neighbors who prefer noise-free maintenance. A great blend of efficiency and convenience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Easy tool-free assembly
- Adjustable cutting height
- Quiet and emission-free
- Includes grass catcher bag
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not for large lawns
- Requires frequent clearing
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey
The Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower is an eco-friendly and efficient choice for maintaining small to medium-sized lawns. Featuring a durable 7-blade ball bearing reel and a 16-inch cutting width, this mower delivers clean, even cuts on various grass types, including Bermuda and Zoysia.
Its adjustable cutting height ranges from 0.5 to 2.5 inches, offering versatility for your lawn’s needs. The 10-inch composite wheels ensure smooth maneuverability, while the alloy steel blades stay sharp longer.
This lightweight, noise-free mower is an excellent alternative to gas-powered models, promoting a greener environment without sacrificing performance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly operation
- Cuts various grass types
- Adjustable cutting height
- Durable alloy steel blades
- Lightweight and maneuverable
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not ideal for tall grass
- Requires frequent pushing effort
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 in a manual lawn mower?
Focus on the cutting width, which determines efficiency—wider decks cover more ground but are harder to maneuver. Look for adjustable height settings to match your grass type and a lightweight design for easy handling.
How do reel mowers compare to rotary mowers?
Reel mowers cut grass like scissors, providing a cleaner cut that’s healthier for your lawn, while rotary mowers tear the grass. They’re quieter and eco-friendly but struggle with tall or wet grass compared to gas or electric models.
What are the key features to consider?
Look for ball-bearing wheels for smoother operation and durability, as well as a grass catcher if you prefer a tidy lawn. A cushioned handle can reduce fatigue during use, and a quick-release handle makes storage easier.
Are manual mowers good for small lawns?
Yes, they’re ideal for small, flat lawns under 5,000 square feet, as they’re lightweight and require minimal maintenance. They’re also cost-effective and produce no emissions, making them a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
How do I maintain a manual lawn mower?
Regularly clean the blades and keep them sharp for optimal performance, as dull blades can tear grass. Lubricate the wheels and check for debris buildup in the cutting mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
What’s the difference between push and self-propelled manual mowers?
Push mowers rely entirely on your effort to move and cut, while self-propelled models have a drive system to assist movement. Self-propelled mowers are easier on large or hilly lawns but are heavier and more expensive.
Are there any downsides to manual mowers?
They require more physical effort, especially on uneven terrain or tall grass, which can be tiring. They also struggle with weeds or thick vegetation, making them less versatile than powered mowers.
How do I choose the right cutting height?
Adjust the height based on your grass type—cool-season grasses prefer taller cuts (2.5–3.5 inches), while warm-season grasses thrive shorter (1–2 inches). Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to avoid stress.
