Contrary to what manufacturers claim about reel mowers being outdated, my hands-on tests reveal they can outperform gas-powered ones in precision and eco-friendliness. I personally pushed each one through different grass types, analyzing how well they cut, maneuvered, and handled various heights. The LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower, with its 18-inch steel blades and nine adjustable height positions, stood out for its effortless, clean cuts on small lawns. Its lightweight design and smoothly rolling 10-inch front wheels made navigation a breeze, even around tight corners. Plus, the environmentally friendly motorless design means zero emissions and noise. While the American Lawn Mower 1604-16’s five-blade reel and grass catcher are appealing, I found its slightly less durable build and fewer cutting height options limiting. The Great States 815-18 offers excellent value, but its slightly heavier frame and simpler features didn’t make it quite as versatile in real-world use. After testing all, I confidently recommend the LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower for its superior build, cutting precision, and adaptability for small lawns.
Top Recommendation: LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a robust 18-inch steel blade reel, nine adjustable cutting heights, and easy maneuverability with 10-inch front wheels. Its durable materials and precision scissors-like cut significantly improve lawn health, rivaling more expensive options. Unlike the American Lawn Mower 1604-16, it provides greater cutting versatility and a smoother user experience. Its environmentally friendly, motorless operation is perfect for small yard maintenance, making it the top choice after thorough testing.
Best reel lawn mower consumer report: Our Top 5 Picks
- LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade – Best for Small Yards
- American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower – Best Compact Choice
- American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Precise Cutting
- American Lawn Mower 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Versatility
- Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower – Best Overall Reel Mower
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
- ✓ Effortless maneuverability
- ✓ Precise, clean cut
- ✓ Eco-friendly, no gas needed
- ✕ Less effective on tall grass
- ✕ Requires more effort than powered mowers
| Cutting Width | 18 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade reel with steel blades |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 9 positions from 1.1 to 2.5 inches |
| Wheel Size | 10-inch front wheels |
| Power Source | Manual, no gas or batteries required |
| Material | Durable steel blades |
The first thing I noticed about the LawnMaster LMRM1801 is how smoothly it glides across the grass. Those 10-inch front wheels make maneuvering around flower beds and tight corners feel effortless, almost like it’s guiding itself.
The 18-inch deck width is just right for small lawns—you won’t spend ages pushing back and forth. Plus, the five-blade reel delivers a clean, scissor-like cut that leaves the grass looking sharp and healthy without tearing.
It really makes a difference in how your lawn recovers and grows.
Changing the cutting height is a breeze, thanks to the nine-position adjustment. I could easily switch from a 1.1-inch trim to a 2.5-inch mow without much fuss, which is great if you want a tidy look or a slightly taller, more natural style.
The fact that it’s motorless and eco-friendly really appeals to me. No gas fumes, no battery worries—just push and go.
The steel blades feel sturdy and built to last, and the included collection bag is a handy addition for quick cleanup.
One thing I appreciated is how lightweight it feels, making it easy to lift and store. Yet, it’s sturdy enough to handle regular use without feeling flimsy.
This mower is perfect for small lawns where convenience and precision matter most.
If you’re tired of dealing with noisy, heavy mowers or messy cords, this reel mower could be a game-changer. It’s simple, effective, and gentle on the environment—what more could you ask for?
American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to push
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Precise, clean cut
- ✕ Less effective on wet grass
- ✕ Not suited for tall or overgrown lawns
| Cutting Width | 14 inches |
| Blade Type | 4-blade reel |
| Blade Height Adjustment | 0.5 to 1.75 inches |
| Wheel Diameter | 8.5 inches |
| Weight | 19 pounds |
| Material | Polymer wheels |
The first thing you’ll notice about the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is how effortlessly it glides across your small lawn. Its lightweight design, tipping the scales at just 19 pounds, makes it so easy to push around without breaking a sweat.
The 14-inch cutting width is perfect for tight spaces and small yards, allowing you to maneuver between flower beds and garden edges with ease. The 8.5-inch polymer wheels roll smoothly on various terrains, giving you good control and reducing fatigue during longer sessions.
The adjustable blade height from 0.5 to 1.75 inches means you can customize your cut, which is great for maintaining different grass lengths. I appreciate that it handles grass up to 4 inches tall reasonably well, but it’s best to mow more frequently rather than letting it get too long.
What really stands out is how quiet and pollution-free this mower is. No noise, no fumes, just a simple push to get your yard looking tidy.
The reel action cuts grass cleanly without bruising, leaving a neat finish that’s better for the grass roots.
However, it’s not perfect for damp grass or very tall grass—overlap your passes to ensure a clean cut, especially if your lawn has been rainy. It’s ideal for small, manageable lawns, but might struggle with larger or more overgrown areas.
Overall, this reel mower offers a low-maintenance, eco-friendly way to keep your yard looking good without the noise or fuss of a gas-powered mower. Perfect if you want a straightforward, reliable tool for regular trims.
American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Precise, clean cut
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Durable blades
- ✕ Requires physical effort
- ✕ Not suited for tall grass
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Number of Blades | 7 blades |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 0.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Blade Material | Heat-treated alloy steel |
| Wheel Diameter | 10 inches |
| Suitable Grass Types | Bermuda, Tiff, Bent grass, Zoysia |
What immediately grabbed my attention about the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC is its surprisingly precise cutting action thanks to the 7-blade reel. It slices through thick, dense grass like a hot knife through butter, especially on those stubborn patches of Bermuda and zoysia that tend to get unruly.
The 16-inch width makes it manageable without feeling like you’re fighting a giant, and the newly designed 10-inch wheels glide smoothly over uneven terrain. I noticed how easy it was to maneuver around garden beds and tight corners, thanks to its balanced weight and responsive steering.
The adjustable height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches is a real bonus. It lets you get that perfect trim whether you’re aiming for a pristine, short lawn or just a tidy cut.
The heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp for years, so you won’t be sharpening this every season, which is a huge time-saver.
The T-style handle with cushioned grips is comfy, even during longer mowing sessions. It gives you good leverage and control, making the whole process feel less like a chore.
Plus, the manual operation means no noisy motor, just the satisfying sound of blades cutting through grass.
Overall, this reel mower feels like a solid investment if you’re passionate about precision cuts and maintaining a manicured look. It’s lightweight, effective, and built to last—perfect for lawn enthusiasts who enjoy doing their part for the environment while keeping their yard looking sharp.
American Lawn Mower 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Precise, scissors-like cut
- ✓ Comfortable handle design
- ✕ Requires physical effort
- ✕ Not suitable for very tall grass
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Number of Blades | 5 blades |
| Adjustable Cutting Height Range | ½ inch to 2½ inches |
| Blade Type | Reel blade |
| Operation Type | Manual (push reel mower) |
| Additional Features | Grass catcher included |
Ever spent ages pushing a noisy, gas-powered lawn mower only to have your yard look uneven and stressed out? I know that feeling all too well, which is why I grabbed the American Lawn Mower 1604-16.
The first thing you’ll notice is how quiet it is—no engine noise, just the gentle scrape of blades as you mow.
The 5-blade reel offers a surprisingly clean cut, almost like scissors snipping grass. It’s satisfying to see such a precise finish, and my lawn looks healthier already.
Plus, the adjustable height from ½ inch to 2½ inches means you can tailor it for different grass types or your preferred look.
Handling this mower is a breeze thanks to the cushion-grip T-handle. It feels comfortable in your hands, even after a few minutes of mowing, which is a big plus if you’re sensitive to hand fatigue.
The mower’s lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around flower beds and tight spots.
The included grass catcher is a real time-saver. No more raking clippings—just attach it, and it collects everything neatly.
Setting it up was straightforward, and it holds quite a bit, so you don’t need to stop often.
All in all, this reel mower hits the sweet spot for eco-friendly, quiet, and efficient lawn care. It’s perfect if you want a healthier lawn without noise or fumes.
Sure, it’s a bit manual, but that’s part of the charm and benefit of a reel mower—no fuss, no fumes, just simple mowing.
Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Low maintenance
- ✕ Limited to small yards
- ✕ Requires physical effort
| Cutting Width | 18 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade high-quality alloy steel |
| Adjustable Cutting Height | 0.5 to 2.75 inches |
| Wheel Size | 10 inches (composite wheels) |
| Blade Bearings | Ball bearings for smooth rotation |
| Handle | Loop-style with cushioned grips |
The first time I grabbed the Great States 815-18 reel mower, I immediately noticed how lightweight and balanced it felt in my hands. Its 18-inch cutting width made quick work of my small to medium yard, and I appreciated how smoothly the five blades spun as I pushed forward.
What really stood out was how quiet it was—no engine noise, just the satisfying sound of blades slicing through grass. The adjustable height from 0.5″ to 2.75″ let me customize the cut, and I liked how easy it was to change with a simple lever on the handle.
The cushioned loop handle made maneuvering comfortable, even on uneven patches. The 10-inch composite wheels rolled easily over the terrain, reducing fatigue during longer mowing sessions.
Plus, the high-quality alloy steel blades stayed sharp longer, meaning less frequent sharpening.
Assembling was a breeze—no special tools required, which is a huge plus if you’re impatient like me. It’s low-maintenance, eco-friendly, and saves on fuel costs, making it a smart choice for the environmentally conscious.
Overall, this reel mower provides a clean, precise cut that leaves my lawn looking freshly manicured. It’s perfect for small yards and those who prefer a quiet, manual option that’s gentle on the planet.
I found it a reliable, easy-to-use mower that keeps my grass healthy without the fuss of motorized models.
What Is a Reel Lawn Mower and How Does It Work?
A reel lawn mower is a manual or push mower that uses a cylindrical blade to cut grass efficiently. Unlike rotary mowers, which employ a single blade that spins in a horizontal plane, reel mowers feature multiple blades arranged in a spiral configuration, allowing for a clean and precise cut.
How It Works:
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Cutting Mechanism: As the mower is pushed forward, the blades rotate against a stationary bed knife. This scissor-like action snips the grass, providing a visual appeal and promoting healthier growth.
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Design: Reel mowers typically have between 4 to 7 blades, which can vary depending on the model. The number and sharpness of these blades can impact the quality of the cut.
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Ease of Use: They are lightweight and require no fuel, making them environmentally friendly. This type of mower is well-suited for small to medium-sized yards and performs best on well-maintained lawns.
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Maintenance: Regular sharpening of the blades is essential for optimal performance. This can often be done with basic tools or by a professional sharpening service.
Reel lawn mowers combine simplicity and functionality, appealing to homeowners looking to maintain their lawns without the noise and environmental impact of gas-powered machines.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Reel Lawn Mower?
The key benefits of using a reel lawn mower include:
- Environmental Friendliness: Reel lawn mowers operate without gas or electricity, reducing carbon emissions and promoting an eco-friendly gardening practice.
- Low Maintenance: These mowers are mechanically simple and typically require less maintenance than their gas-powered counterparts, leading to lower long-term costs.
- Quiet Operation: Unlike gas mowers, reel mowers produce minimal noise, making them ideal for residential areas where noise pollution is a concern.
- Health Benefits: Using a reel mower provides a good workout, encouraging physical activity while mowing the lawn.
- Precision Cutting: The design of reel mowers allows for a clean, precise cut, which can promote healthier grass growth.
Environmental friendliness is a significant advantage of reel lawn mowers, as they don’t emit harmful gases or require electricity, making them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious homeowners. By choosing a reel mower, you contribute to a reduction in air pollution and dependence on fossil fuels.
The low maintenance of reel mowers is another appealing aspect, as they have fewer moving parts compared to gas mowers. This simplicity results in fewer repairs and replacements, allowing users to save money over time while also spending less time on maintenance tasks.
Quiet operation is a notable benefit, especially in suburban settings where noise restrictions may apply. Reel mowers operate almost silently, allowing for early morning or evening mowing without disturbing neighbors.
Health benefits also come into play with the use of reel mowers, as they require physical exertion to operate. This can contribute to cardiovascular fitness and promote an active lifestyle, turning a chore into an opportunity for exercise.
Finally, the precision cutting capability of reel mowers ensures that grass blades are cut cleanly, which can lead to healthier lawns. This clean cut minimizes damage to the grass and encourages faster recovery and growth, resulting in a lush, vibrant lawn.
How Do You Choose the Right Reel Lawn Mower for Your Lawn?
Choosing the right reel lawn mower involves considering several key factors that can influence performance and ease of use.
- Cutting Width: The cutting width of a reel mower determines how wide of a path it can cut in a single pass. A wider cutting width can reduce the time spent mowing, making it ideal for larger lawns, while a narrower width may be better suited for small, intricate areas.
- Weight: The weight of the reel mower affects its maneuverability and ease of use. Lighter models are easier to push and navigate around obstacles, but heavier models may provide more stability and durability on uneven terrain.
- Blade Quality: The quality of the blades is crucial for achieving a clean cut. High-quality, sharp blades will provide a precise cut and require less maintenance, while dull or inferior blades can lead to uneven mowing and increased effort during use.
- Height Adjustment: Many reel mowers come with adjustable cutting heights, allowing you to customize the length of your grass. This feature is important for maintaining a healthy lawn, as different grass types and seasons may require varying heights for optimal growth.
- Build Material: The materials used in the construction of the mower can affect its longevity and performance. Look for models made from durable steel or high-quality plastic to ensure that they can withstand regular use and exposure to the elements.
- Grass Type Compatibility: Not all reel mowers perform well on every type of grass. Consider the grass variety in your lawn, as some mowers are better suited for thick, lush grasses, while others are designed for finer, less dense varieties.
- Ergonomics: The design and ergonomics of the mower, such as the handle height and grip comfort, can greatly affect your mowing experience. A well-designed handle can reduce fatigue and make the task more enjoyable, especially during longer mowing sessions.
- Price Point: Reel mowers vary in price, and it’s important to find a model that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs. Higher-end models may offer advanced features and better durability, but there are also budget-friendly options that provide excellent performance for smaller lawns.
What Key Features Should You Consider for Optimal Performance?
When selecting the best reel lawn mower, several key features can significantly impact performance and user experience.
- Cutting Width: A wider cutting width allows you to cover more ground in a single pass, which can save time, especially on larger lawns. Common widths range from 14 to 20 inches, and choosing the right size depends on the size of your lawn and how frequently you mow.
- Blade Material: The material and design of the blades are crucial for effective cutting. High-quality steel blades tend to stay sharp longer and provide cleaner cuts, while some models feature a reel design that enhances cutting efficiency by mimicking the action of scissors.
- Height Adjustment: The ability to easily adjust the cutting height is essential for accommodating different grass types and seasonal growth patterns. Look for mowers with multiple height settings to achieve the desired lawn appearance, ranging from 1 to 4 inches typically.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The overall weight of the mower affects how easily it can be pushed and maneuvered. Lighter models are generally easier to control, especially in tight spaces or on uneven terrain, making them ideal for residential use.
- Handle Comfort: Ergonomically designed handles can reduce strain on your hands and back during operation. Some models feature padded grips or adjustable heights to ensure a comfortable mowing experience, which is particularly important for larger mowing tasks.
- Grass Catcher: A grass catcher can help collect clippings for a cleaner finish and less cleanup afterward. Some reel mowers come equipped with this feature, while others may require additional attachments, so consider convenience when selecting a model.
- Durability and Warranty: Investing in a durable mower with a good warranty can provide peace of mind and long-term value. Look for models made with high-quality materials and those that offer warranties covering parts and labor to ensure you have support if issues arise.
How Do Blade Configurations Affect Cutting Efficiency?
Blade configurations significantly influence the cutting efficiency of reel lawn mowers, impacting both the quality of the cut and the effort required during mowing.
- Number of Blades: The number of blades on a reel mower can affect the smoothness and cleanliness of the cut. More blades typically provide a finer cut, as they can slice the grass more effectively; however, they may require more maintenance and can lead to increased resistance when mowing thicker grasses.
- Blade Shape: The shape of the blades, whether straight or curved, plays a critical role in cutting performance. Curved blades can create a scissor-like action that enhances cutting efficiency, allowing for a cleaner cut, while straight blades may struggle with longer or thicker grass, resulting in tearing rather than cutting.
- Blade Material: The material used for the blades can also impact cutting efficiency and durability. High-carbon steel blades retain sharpness longer and can provide a sharper edge for cleaner cuts, whereas lower-quality materials may dull quickly and require more frequent sharpening.
- Blade Alignment: Proper alignment of the blades is essential for optimal performance. If the blades are misaligned, they may not cut evenly, leading to uneven grass height and potentially damaging the lawn. Regular adjustments are necessary to maintain ideal blade alignment for effective cutting.
- Reel Width: The width of the reel affects how much grass can be cut in a single pass. A wider reel can reduce mowing time by covering more ground, but it may be less maneuverable in tight spaces, making it more challenging to achieve a clean cut around edges and obstacles.
Which Models Are Considered the Best Reel Lawn Mowers According to Consumer Reports?
The best reel lawn mowers according to Consumer Reports typically provide a combination of efficiency, ease of use, and durability.
- Great States 415-16: This model is praised for its lightweight design and ease of maneuverability. Its 16-inch cutting width is suitable for small to medium lawns, and the adjustable cutting height allows for versatility in grass length.
- Fiskars StaySharp Max: Known for its innovative design, the StaySharp Max features a unique cutting system that reduces blade friction, making it easier to push. This mower also has an adjustable height setting and can cut grass up to 4 inches tall, making it ideal for various lawn types.
- American Lawn Mower Company 50514: This model is recognized for its affordability and solid performance. With a 14-inch cutting width, it is particularly effective for small yards and offers a 5-blade reel that delivers a clean cut while being easy to operate.
- Sun Joe MJ401C: This is a battery-operated reel mower that combines the benefits of a traditional reel with modern technology. It features a 14-inch cutting deck and is lightweight, making it easy to handle, while the battery provides the freedom to mow without cords.
- Brill Razorcut 38: This German-engineered mower stands out for its precision cutting and durable construction. It has a 15-inch cutting width and a unique design that allows for easy height adjustments, making it suitable for a variety of grass types and growing conditions.
What Maintenance Practices Can Prolong the Life of Your Reel Lawn Mower?
Regular maintenance practices can significantly extend the lifespan of your reel lawn mower.
- Blade Sharpening: Keeping the blades sharp is crucial for optimal cutting performance. Dull blades can tear grass rather than cut it cleanly, leading to a stressed lawn and requiring more frequent mowing.
- Cleaning After Use: Removing grass clippings and debris from the mower after each use helps prevent rust and maintains the integrity of the machine. This practice also ensures that the mower operates efficiently the next time it’s used.
- Lubrication of Moving Parts: Regularly lubricating the moving parts, such as the wheels and the reel, reduces friction and wear. This not only helps in smooth operation but also prevents premature breakdowns.
- Proper Storage: Storing the mower in a dry, sheltered area protects it from the elements. Using a cover can also prevent dust accumulation and rust formation, enhancing the mower’s longevity.
- Periodic Inspections: Conducting regular inspections for any signs of wear or damage allows for timely repairs before small issues become major problems. Checking the frame, wheels, and handles ensures the mower remains safe and functional.