Maintaining your yard’s beauty and strength necessitates regular grass cutting. Yet, the kind of mower you opt for can significantly affect your lawn’s status. While gas-powered mowers are typically the go-to choice for many, reel mowers offer a more environmentally friendly and less noisy option.
Reel mowers operate by using a series of blades that rotate against a stationary bar to cut the grass. These mowers are often lighter and easier to maneuver than gas-powered mowers, making them an excellent choice for smaller lawns. Additionally, reel mowers provide a cleaner cut, which can lead to a healthier lawn.
When purchasing a reel mower, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the size of your lawn. Reel mowers are ideal for smaller lawns, but may not be practical for larger yards. The second is the width of the cutting blades. Wider blades can cut more grass at once, making mowing faster and more efficient. Finally, consider the height adjustment options. Different grass types require different cutting heights, so having a mower with multiple height settings can be beneficial.
We spent hours researching and testing various reel mowers to identify the best options on the market. In the following sections, we will share our top picks for the best reel mowers, based on factors such as performance, ease of use, and value.
Best Reel Mowers
We believe that reel mowers are the best option for those who want to keep their lawns healthy and pristine without harming the environment. These mowers are manually operated, which means that you don’t have to worry about harmful emissions or noise pollution. They are also more affordable and easier to maintain than gas-powered mowers.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the best reel mowers available on Amazon. We have considered various factors such as cutting width, height adjustments, ease of use, and durability to bring you the top picks. Whether you have a small or large lawn, we are confident that you will find the perfect reel mower for your needs in our list.
1. Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Push Lawn Mower
Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Push Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly lawnmower that doesn’t require gas, oil, charging, or cords, the Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Push Lawn Mower is a great option. It’s easy to push, and the advanced design makes it 60% easier to push than other reel mowers.
Pros
- The InertiaDrive Reel boasts twice the cutting power of standard reel mowers, while the StaySharp Cutting System eliminates the cost and inconvenience of manual blade sharpening.
- Reversible grass chute can direct clippings away from your feet making it easier to mow tough patches while limiting messiness. One-touch handle height adjustment enhances your comfort and control.
- Ideal for eco-friendly cutting of all grass types: Can even cut tough southern varieties like St. Augustine, Zoysia, Bahia, and Bermuda.
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty in assembling the product.
- The price point is higher than other reel mowers on the market.
- The mower is not designed for large lawns.
We’ve been using the Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Push Lawn Mower for a few months now and have found it to be a great alternative to gas-powered mowers. The advanced technology means it’s easier to push and cuts through tough grass with ease. The reversible grass chute is also a great feature, making it easier to mow tough patches without worrying about clippings getting all over your feet.
One thing to note is that the assembly can be a bit tricky, so be sure to follow the instructions closely. Additionally, the price point is higher than other reel mowers on the market, but we believe the advanced technology and eco-friendly design make it worth the investment.
Overall, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly lawnmower that’s easy to use and cuts through tough grass, the Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Push Lawn Mower is a great option.
2. Great States Reel Mower
Great States Reel Mower
We highly recommend the Great States Reel Mower for anyone who wants a simple, eco-friendly way to keep their lawn looking great.
Pros
- The adjustable cutting height allows you to get the perfect length for your grass.
- The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver and store.
- No gas or oil means it’s better for the environment and your wallet.
Cons
- It may take a little more effort to push than a gas-powered mower.
- It may not be as effective on thicker or taller grass.
- The foam grip on the handle may wear down over time.
We recently tested out the Great States Reel Mower and were impressed by its performance. The adjustable cutting height allowed us to customize the length of our grass, and the lightweight design made it easy to push around our yard. Plus, we loved knowing that we weren’t contributing to air pollution by using gas or oil.
While it did take a little more effort to push than a gas-powered mower, it wasn’t too difficult to use. However, we did notice that it struggled a bit on thicker or taller grass. Additionally, the foam grip on the handle may wear down over time, but it’s a minor issue overall.
Overall, if you’re looking for a simple, eco-friendly way to keep your lawn looking great, we highly recommend the Great States Reel Mower.
3. Scotts Push Reel Lawn Mower
Scotts Push Reel Lawn Mower
We highly recommend the Scotts Push Reel Lawn Mower for those looking for an eco-friendly and low maintenance option for their lawn care needs.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver with T-style handle and cushioned grip.
- Eco-friendly with no fumes or emissions and uses a cutting action that does not damage grass blades.
- Low maintenance with only blade sharpness to be mindful of.
Cons
- Not suitable for overgrown or uneven lawns.
- Requires more effort and time than powered mowers.
- Produces uneven cuts when used on wet grass.
The Scotts Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great option for those who want to maintain a healthy and green lawn without the use of gas or electricity. Its lightweight design and T-style handle with cushioned grip make it easy to maneuver and comfortable to use. The reel mower’s cutting action is gentle on grass blades, resulting in a clean and precise cut.
However, the reel mower is not suitable for overgrown or uneven lawns and requires more effort and time than powered mowers. It is also important to avoid using the reel mower on wet grass as it can produce uneven cuts. Despite these limitations, the Scotts Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great investment for those who prioritize eco-friendliness and low maintenance in their lawn care routine.
4. American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
If you are looking for an eco-friendly and low-maintenance lawn mower, then American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great option.
Pros
- The 5-blade reel with a cutting width of 14” and durable 10” polymer wheels make it easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces.
- The mechanical lawn mower has an adjustable blade height of 1”-2.25” with scissor action cut, ensuring a clean and precise cut every time.
- The manual grass cutter blades are made of heat-treated alloy steel that stays sharp for years, making it a durable option for your lawn.
Cons
- It may not be suitable for larger lawns or thicker grass, as it requires more effort to push.
- The cutting height adjustment may be limited for some users, as it only has a range of 1”-2.25”.
- It may not be suitable for individuals who prefer a motorized lawn mower, as it requires manual labor to operate.
We recently used the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower to cut our small lawn, and we were impressed with its performance. The reel mower’s scissor-like motion cut the grass cleanly and precisely, leaving our lawn looking neat and tidy. We also appreciated that it did not emit fumes or make noise, making it an eco-friendly option for our home.
One thing to note is that it does require some effort to push, especially on thicker grass or uneven terrain. However, the lightweight design and durable wheels make it easy to maneuver around tight corners and obstacles. Additionally, the blade height adjustment may be limited for some users, as it only has a range of 1”-2.25”.
Overall, we highly recommend the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower for individuals with smaller lawns who are looking for an eco-friendly and low-maintenance option.
5. American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red 14-Inch, 4-Blade Mower
American Lawn Mower Company 120
If you are looking for an eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered lawnmowers, then the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great option for you. This lightweight and easy-to-use manual grass cutter is perfect for youths over the age of 13 and compact yards. It provides a precise scissor-like motion that will not shred your grass to make your lawn appear better.
Pros
- The reel mower uses a cutting action that does not bruise or damage the blades of grass.
- This push lawn mower is pollution-free, noise-free, low maintenance, lightweight and easy to use.
- It is a green alternative to gas-powered lawnmowers.
Cons
- This push lawn mower is less effective on taller grass.
- It is not ideal for large lawns.
- It does not have a bag attachment.
This 4-blade reel mower has a cutting width of 14” and durable 8.5” polymer wheels for maximum maneuverability. It is capable of cutting grass up to 4 inches tall and has an adjustable blade height of 0.5”-1.75”. For best results using a reel push mower, mow no more than 1/3 of the grass blade, so that the roots stay intact. Increase the amount of overlap while using your push mower if your lawn reaches a height of 4 inches or more. It’s better to mow smaller amounts more frequently than it is to let the grass get long. Try not reel mower when the grass is wet.
Overall, the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great option for those who want an eco-friendly, low maintenance, and lightweight lawn mower for their compact yard.
6. Amazon Basics 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher
Amazon Basics 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher
If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly and low maintenance push lawn mower, the Amazon Basics 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher is a great option.
Pros
- The 5-blade push reel lawn mower with durable 10 inch rubber wheels allows for maximum maneuverability.
- The blades are made of heat-treated alloy steel that stays sharp for long service life.
- The push lawn mower with collection bag allows you to collect grass when using it to prevent grass from being strewn across the lawn.
Cons
- The manual push reel mower is not effective on taller grass over 4 inches tall, withered grass, or high density grass.
- The adjustable blade height ranges from 0.98-1.97 inches, which may not be suitable for all grass types.
- The height of the handles does not adjust, which may be uncomfortable for taller individuals.
We recently used the Amazon Basics 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher on our small lawn and were impressed with its user-friendliness. The assembly was a breeze, thanks to clear instructions and a design that was easy to put together. The 18-inch cutting width and 5 blades allowed for efficient and precise cutting. The collection bag was also a great feature that prevented grass from being strewn across the lawn.
However, we did notice that the push lawn mower struggled with taller grass and was not effective on withered or high density grass. The adjustable blade height may also not be suitable for all grass types. Additionally, the height of the handles did not adjust, which may be uncomfortable for taller individuals.
Overall, the Amazon Basics 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher is a great environmentally friendly and low maintenance option for those with smaller lawns.
7. American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a lightweight, eco-friendly, and easy-to-use lawn mower, the American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great choice.
Pros
- The 5-blade reel with a cutting width of 16” and durable 10” polymer wheels make it easy to maneuver and cut your lawn precisely.
- The mechanical lawn mower has an adjustable blade height of 0.5”-2.5” with scissor action cut, which ensures that your grass is cut cleanly and evenly.
- The manual grass cutter blades are made of heat-treated alloy steel that stays sharp for years, making it a low-maintenance option.
Cons
- It may not be suitable for cutting very tall grass.
- It requires some assembly before use.
- It may take some time to get used to pushing a manual lawn mower.
We recently tried out the American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower and were impressed with its performance. It was easy to assemble and lightweight, making it easy to push around our small yard. The 5-blade reel and adjustable blade height allowed us to cut our grass precisely and evenly, and the manual grass cutter blades stayed sharp throughout our use.
One thing to note is that the mower is best used on grasses no longer than 3 to 4 inches high, so it may not be suitable for very tall grass. Additionally, while the mower is easy to use, it may take some time to get used to pushing a manual lawn mower if you’re used to using gas-powered or electric mowers.
Overall, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and low-maintenance lawn mower that provides a precise cut, the American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great choice.
8. Sun Joe MJ503M 14-Inch Quad Wheel 9-Position Manual Reel Mower
Sun Joe MJ503M 14-Inch Quad Wheel 9-Position Manual Reel Mower
If you’re looking for a nature-friendly push reel mower, the Sun Joe MJ503M is a great option for small to medium lawns and yards. With 9-position adjustable height settings, you can easily tailor the grass cutting height from 1.1 to 2.9 inches to achieve the perfect lawn.
Pros
- No gas, oil, or electricity required
- Lightweight and maneuverable design
- All-terrain quad wheel for enhanced stability and maneuverability
Cons
- Handle is flimsy
- Not suitable for tall grass
- Blades may get stuck on thick twigs or branches
We recently tried out the Sun Joe MJ503M on our small lawn and were impressed with how easy it was to use. The mower is lightweight and maneuverable, making it easy to push around the yard. We also appreciated the quiet operation and nature-friendly design.
However, we did notice that the handle felt a bit flimsy and had some flex when turning. Additionally, we found that the mower struggled with tall grass and thick twigs or branches, which could cause the blades to get stuck.
Overall, we would recommend the Sun Joe MJ503M for those with small to medium lawns who are looking for a nature-friendly and easy-to-use push reel mower. Just be sure to keep the grass at a manageable height and avoid thick twigs and branches.
9. Earthwise Power Tools by ALM 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
Earthwise Power Tools by ALM 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and low-maintenance option for mowing your lawn, the Earthwise Power Tools by ALM 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great choice.
Pros
- The 7-blade ball bearing reel is made of alloy steel and stays sharp longer, providing a clean and precise cut.
- This mower is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for smaller lawns.
- The adjustable cutting height of 0.5″-2.5″ allows for clean and even cuts on a variety of grass types.
Cons
- This mower requires more physical effort to push than a gas or electric mower, so it may not be suitable for those with physical limitations.
- It may take longer to mow your lawn with a reel mower than with a gas or electric mower.
- The plastic gears may not be as durable as metal gears found in other mowers.
We’ve used this mower for several months and have been impressed with its performance. The 7-blade reel provides a clean and precise cut, and the adjustable cutting height allows for flexibility in mowing different types of grass. The mower is also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a great option for smaller lawns.
However, it’s important to note that using a push reel mower requires more physical effort than using a gas or electric mower. Additionally, it may take longer to mow your lawn with a reel mower, so it may not be the best option for those with larger lawns or limited time. Finally, the plastic gears may not be as durable as metal gears found in other mowers, so it’s important to take care when using and storing the mower.
Overall, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and low-maintenance option for mowing your lawn, the Earthwise Power Tools by ALM 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great choice.
10. Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower 14-Inch, 4-Blade Reel Only
Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Push Lawn Mower 14-Inch, 4-Blade Reel Only
If you’re looking for a planet-friendly alternative to gas-powered lawn mowers, the Great States 14-inch reel mower is an excellent option. It’s a low maintenance, lightweight, and easy-to-use push lawnmower that can cut grass just like a pair of scissors, maintaining your lawn’s health.
Pros
- The 14-inch lawn mower blades are made of heat-treated alloy steel that stays sharp for years and can be sharpened when necessary.
- The 8.5-inch polymer wheels provide optimal maneuverability, making it easy to push around your lawn.
- The adjustable blade height of 0.5”-1.75” with scissor-action cut allows you to customize the cut according to your lawn’s needs.
Cons
- The small cutting width of 14 inches may not be suitable for larger lawns.
- The manual push reel mower requires more effort than a gas-powered mower.
- The mower may get clogged with twigs and other debris, requiring frequent cleaning.
We recently tried out the Great States reel mower on our small lawn, and we were impressed with its performance. The blades cut through the grass smoothly, leaving a clean cut. The adjustable blade height allowed us to customize the cut according to our lawn’s needs, and the polymer wheels made it easy to maneuver around obstacles.
One of the best things about this mower is that it’s planet-friendly. It doesn’t emit fumes or make noise like gas-powered mowers, and it doesn’t require extensive maintenance, oil, or gas. It’s a great option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining a beautiful lawn.
However, we did find that the small cutting width of 14 inches may not be suitable for larger lawns. It may also require more effort to push than a gas-powered mower, which may be a downside for some users. Additionally, the mower may get clogged with twigs and other debris, requiring frequent cleaning.
Overall, we would recommend the Great States reel mower for those with small lawns who are looking for a planet-friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers. It’s easy to use, low maintenance, and provides a clean cut.
11. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Volt 16-Inch Electric Cordless Reel Lawn Mower
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Volt 16-Inch Electric Cordless Reel Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use and modern reel mower that can be used with or without battery, the Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Volt 16-Inch Electric Cordless Reel Lawn Mower is worth considering.
Pros
- The powerful brushless motor makes mowing a breeze.
- The grass catcher included in the package is convenient.
- The foam grip provides comfort and ease during use.
Cons
- The battery power is not sufficient to drive blades beyond already short grass.
- The grass catcher is difficult to attach.
- The mower does not cut low enough for some users.
We tested the Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Volt 16-Inch Electric Cordless Reel Lawn Mower and found that it was easy to assemble and use. The brushless motor made mowing quick and efficient, and the foam grip kept our hands comfortable during use.
One downside we found was that the battery power was not sufficient to drive the blades beyond already short grass. Additionally, the grass catcher was difficult to attach and the mower did not cut low enough for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reel mower that is easy to use and comes with a grass catcher, the Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Volt 16-Inch Electric Cordless Reel Lawn Mower is a good option to consider. However, if you have particularly thick or long grass, this mower may not be powerful enough for your needs.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a reel mower, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Cutting Width
The cutting width of the mower determines how much grass you can cut in one pass. A wider cutting width means you can cut more grass faster, but it also means a heavier and bulkier mower. Consider the size of your lawn and how much time you want to spend mowing when choosing a cutting width.
Cutting Height
The cutting height refers to how high the blades of the mower can be set. Different grass types require different cutting heights, so make sure the mower you choose has a range of cutting height options to suit your lawn.
Blades
The blades of a reel mower are what actually cut the grass. Look for mowers with high-quality, sharp blades that can be easily sharpened or replaced when necessary.
Weight
Reel mowers can be quite heavy, especially if you choose a wider cutting width. Make sure you choose a mower that you can comfortably push and maneuver around your lawn.
Durability
A reel mower should be a long-term investment, so look for a product that is built to last. Consider the materials used, the construction of the mower, and any warranties or guarantees offered by the manufacturer.
Ease of Use
Finally, consider how easy the mower is to use. Look for features like adjustable handles, easy-to-use height adjustments, and comfortable grips to make mowing as easy and enjoyable as possible.
By considering these factors, you can choose a reel mower that will provide you with a beautiful, well-manicured lawn for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gas-powered reel mower?
As reel mowers are typically manual, there are very few gas-powered reel mowers available on the market. However, the Scotts 2000-20 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower is a popular choice for those looking for a gas-powered reel mower. It has a 20-inch cutting width and a 5-blade reel, making it easy to maneuver and cut grass evenly.
Why did people stop using reel mowers?
With the introduction of rotary mowers, which were easier to use and required less physical effort, reel mowers became less popular. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in reel mowers due to their environmental benefits and the fact that they provide a clean, precise cut.
Which brand of reel mower is the best?
There are many reputable brands of reel mowers, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Some of the most popular brands include Fiskars, Scotts, and American Lawn Mower Company. Ultimately, the best brand will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What is the best manual 7 blade reel mower?
The Great States 304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a popular choice for those looking for a manual 7 blade reel mower. It is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for smaller lawns.
What is the difference between a reel mower and a rotary mower?
Reel mowers have a series of blades that spin against a stationary bar, cutting the grass like a pair of scissors. Rotary mowers, on the other hand, have a single blade that rotates horizontally, cutting the grass like a knife. Reel mowers provide a cleaner cut and are better for the environment, while rotary mowers are faster and better for larger lawns.
Are reel mowers better for the environment?
Yes, reel mowers are better for the environment than gas-powered or electric mowers. They do not produce emissions and are powered by human energy, making them a great choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, reel mowers provide a clean, precise cut that is better for the health of your lawn.