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If you’re shopping for the best reel lawn mower, you’re probably looking for a cleaner, quieter, more low-maintenance way to keep your lawn neat. Reel mowers are especially appealing for smaller yards, simple mowing routines, and anyone who wants a hands-on alternative without gas or electricity.
When choosing from this list, pay attention to the cutting width, blade count, and whether the mower includes useful extras like a grass catcher or adjustable cutting heights. It also helps to think about your lawn size, how much storage space you have, and whether you want a lighter push mower or a wider model that may cover more ground per pass.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| LawnMaster LMRM1801 | Overall value and an 18-inch cutting width | Buy |
| American Lawn Mower 1204-14 | Compact yards and budget-conscious buyers | Buy |
| Great States 815-18 | A balanced 18-inch manual mowing option | Buy |
Best Reel Lawn Mower
1. Best Overall: LawnMaster LMRM1801
- SCISSOR-LIKE CUT: No ripping or tearing of grass blades for a better and healthier lawn
- DESIGNED FOR SMALL LAWNS: CUSTOMIZE YOUR CUT: Effortlessly change the height of your cut with 9 cutting positions varying between 1.1-inches - 2.5-inches
- MAX MANEUVERABILITY: Features an 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels for easy navigation around the lawn
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 is an 18-inch push reel lawn mower with a 5-blade cutting system and a $98.99 price point. With a 4.1 rating, it stands out as a practical pick for shoppers who want a straightforward manual mower with a wider cutting path than many compact models.
Its 18-inch width can help reduce the number of passes needed on a lawn, which may be appealing if you want to keep mowing time reasonable. The push reel design also keeps the experience simple and manual, making it a familiar choice for homeowners who prefer a basic mower without gas or electricity.
If you want a well-rounded option that keeps the focus on value, size, and simplicity, this one deserves a close look. It is a strong candidate for people comparing the Best Reel Lawn Mower options and wanting a dependable all-around choice.
Pros
- 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade cutting system
- Affordable price point
- Good overall user rating
Cons
- Manual push design may not suit everyone
- No product-specific extras listed
2. Best Budget: American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14
- 4-blade reel mower with a cutting width of 14” and durable 8.5” polymer wheels for maximum maneuverability. Lightweight at only 19 pounds. Reel Lawn Mowers are great for small lawns..Deluxe hand-reel mower ideal for most turf grasses.
- This push lawn mower has an adjustable blade height of 0.5”-1.75”. Capable of cutting grass up to 4 inches tall and is less effective on taller grass.
- Manual grass cutter is environment-friendly alternative to other lawn mowers. This push mower is pollution-free, noise-free, low maintenance, lightweight and easy to use.
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a 14-inch, 4-blade push reel mower priced at $87.99 and rated 4.3. Its compact design makes it a smart option for smaller lawns or buyers who want a simple mower at a lower price.
With a narrower 14-inch cutting width, this mower is easier to manage in tight spaces and may feel more approachable for quick mowing sessions. The red finish and classic push reel setup keep the design straightforward and familiar.
For shoppers who want a lower-cost entry into reel mowing, this model offers a solid mix of simplicity and dependable ratings. It is especially appealing if you value lightweight operation and do not need a wider deck.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price
- Compact 14-inch width
- 4.3 rating
- Good fit for smaller yards
Cons
- Smaller cutting width
- Fewer blades than some alternatives
3. Best 18-Inch Option: Great States 815-18
- The Great States motor-less lawnmower with an adjustable cutting height of 0.5"-2.75" for a clean, even cut
- 18" cutting width 5-blade manual push mower with 5-blade ball-bearings, and 10" composite wheels
- Push mower blades are made of high-quality alloy steel that stay sharp longer
The Great States 815-18 offers an 18-inch, 5-blade push reel setup for $116.00 and carries a 4.3 rating. It is a strong mid-range choice for buyers who want the benefits of a wider reel mower without moving into a much higher price tier.
An 18-inch cutting width is a practical size for many yards, and the 5-blade design keeps it aligned with the needs of standard push reel mowing. The grey finish gives it a simple, no-nonsense look that matches its function-first approach.
This mower is a sensible pick for homeowners who want a familiar reel mower format with enough width to make mowing efficient. It sits nicely between the most compact models and the more feature-heavy options on the list.
Pros
- 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade design
- 4.3 rating
- Balanced size for many lawns
Cons
- Manual push operation
- No accessories listed
4. Best Wide Push Mower: EWORK 23-Inch Manual Reel
- ⚠️This push lawnmower has a maximum width of 23 inches and a working width of 16 inches.
- ⚠️Manual reel mower is a trimming tool and is not suitable for mowing excessively tall lawns. Push mover is only suitable for regularly mowed lawns (grass height less than 2-4 inches) with soft, upright blades. For areas with tall grass or overgrown weeds, use a sickle, brush cutter, or large mower.
- 【65Mn Steel 5-Blade Cutting System】Push mower adopts 5 sharp, wear-resistant 65Mn steel, 16-inch cutting width blade cutting system for efficient mowing. The scissor-like cutting action produces clean, even cuts that won't scratch grass blades, keeping your lawn healthy and tidy.
The EWORK Push Reel Lawn Mower features a 23-inch cutting width, 4 adjustable cutting heights, a 5-blade cutting system, and tool-free assembly. It is priced at $149.99 and has a 4.4 rating, making it one of the more feature-rich manual options in this lineup.
The wider 23-inch design is a notable advantage if you want to cover more ground with each pass. It also includes a sponge-wrapped handle and a grass-catching approach suited to users looking for a more comfortable mowing session.
This model is a strong fit for garden and small-yard owners who want a broader manual mower with practical extras. If width and convenience matter to you, it is worth serious consideration.
Pros
- Wide 23-inch cutting width
- 4 adjustable cutting heights
- 5-blade cutting system
- Tool-free assembly
Cons
- Higher price than some basic models
- Manual push design still requires effort
5. Best Blade Count: Earthwise 1715-16EW
- Hand-push reel mower with 16" cutting width, 7-blade ball bearing reel, and 10" composite wheels; Durable steel side plate design
- Versatile Earthwise Power Tools by ALM push lawn mower for cutting bent grass- Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, St. Augustine, and Seashore Paspalum
- Alloy steel 7-blade mower stays sharp longer
The Earthwise 1715-16EW is a 16-inch push reel mower with a 7-blade cutting setup, priced at $119.99 and rated 4.2. Among the products listed, it stands out for having one of the highest blade counts.
A 16-inch width keeps it compact enough for manageable maneuvering while still offering a decent mowing path. The 7-blade design may appeal to buyers who want a mower with a more advanced cutting system within a manual format.
If you want a reel mower that emphasizes blade count and a balanced size, this is a solid candidate. It works well for shoppers comparing options that sit between compact and wide mower categories.
Pros
- 7-blade cutting system
- Compact 16-inch width
- 4.2 rating
- Good middle-ground size
Cons
- Not the widest option available
- Manual push design
6. Best 20-Inch Classic: Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S
- Classic Scotts 20 inch push no-motor manual reel rotary lawn mower features 20" cutting width, 5-blade ball bearing reel, and 10" dual tracking wheels
- Quick-snap 1"-3" cutting height adjustment for a clean, even cut every time with this Scotts classic hand push reel rotary 20 inch lawn mower
- Blades on the Scotts classic hand push reel rotary 20 inch lawn mower are made of quality, heat-treated alloy steel for staying sharp longer
The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S offers a 20-inch, 5-blade classic push reel mower design for $149.99. It has a 4.2 rating and a broader footprint than many standard compact models.
The 20-inch width is a practical choice if you want to reduce passes across your lawn. Its classic push reel format keeps the experience simple while still giving you a wider mow than 14-inch or 16-inch alternatives.
This mower is a good fit for buyers who want a traditional reel mower with a larger catch area under the blades. It is a straightforward, familiar option for regular yard care.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade classic design
- 4.2 rating
- Suitable for broader coverage
Cons
- Priced higher than some smaller models
- Manual operation requires consistent pushing
7. Best No-Fuss Everyday Use: GARDENA Classic 16″
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The GARDENA Classic 16″ Reel Lawn Mower is listed with 5 blades and a simple no-gas, no-electricity design. It is priced at $139.99 and rated 4.1.
This mower is positioned as an everyday-use tool for people who want mowing to feel straightforward and uncomplicated. Its 16-inch size keeps it in a manageable range for routine lawn care.
Buyers who value a clean manual mowing experience and a trusted, compact format may appreciate what this model offers. It is built around simplicity rather than extra bells and whistles.
Pros
- 5-blade design
- 16-inch size
- No gas or electricity needed
- Simple everyday-use concept
Cons
- Higher price for a 16-inch mower
- Only a 4.1 rating
8. Best Compact Manual: 16-Inch Cordless Push Reel Mower
- 【Maintain a Neat, Healthy Lawn with Precision Cutting】Keep your backyard looking fresh and well-groomed using this 16-inch manual reel lawn mower. The 5-blade reel cutting system delivers clean, even trims that promote healthier grass growth, making it ideal for home lawns, front yards, and small residential spaces.
- 【Smooth Push Reel Mower for Daily Use】Designed for easy handling, this push reel lawn mower features a balanced walk-behind structure that minimizes resistance while mowing. It moves smoothly around garden edges, pathways, and tight areas, offering a quiet, hassle-free alternative to powered lawn mowers.
- 【Custom Cutting Heights for Year-Round Lawn Care】Featuring four adjustable cutting height settings from 0.5 to 1.5 inches, this manual lawn mower allows you to tailor grass length to seasonal needs. Easily switch between a shorter summer cut or a slightly taller trim during cooler months for a consistently polished lawn.
This 16-inch cordless push reel mower comes with a 5-blade manual grass cutter design, steel frame, adjustable cutting height, soft grip handle, and a 7.9-gallon grass catcher. It is priced at $58.49 and has a 5-star rating based on the provided data.
The combination of a compact cutting width and included grass catcher makes this an appealing option for buyers looking for a practical, tidy mowing setup. The steel frame and soft grip handle add to its everyday usability.
For shoppers focused on value and a smaller mower footprint, this model is especially attractive. Its feature set is well suited to basic lawn care in small outdoor spaces.
Pros
- Very low price
- 5-star rating
- Adjustable cutting height
- 7.9-gallon grass catcher
Cons
- Only a 16-inch cutting width
- Product name suggests cordless, but it is still a manual push reel mower listing
9. Best Premium Electric Alternative: EGO POWER+ LM2135SP
- Select Cut Multi-Blade System for premium cutting performance that exceeds gas
- Touch Drive Self Propelled Technology puts complete control in the palm of your hands
- Get 60 minutes of run time on single charge with the included 56V 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery
The EGO POWER+ LM2135SP is an electric lawn mower with self-propelled cordless operation, Select Cut, Touch Drive, a 56V 7.5Ah battery, and rapid charger included. It is priced at $599.00 and rated 4.4.
While it is not a reel mower in the traditional manual sense, it appears in the provided product set and may appeal to shoppers comparing lawn mower alternatives. Its cordless self-propelled setup makes it a very different option from the reel mowers on this list.
If you are only interested in manual reel mowing, this model won’t fit the category. However, for buyers who are also comparing powered lawn care solutions, it is a premium alternative with strong ratings.
Pros
- Self-propelled cordless operation
- Battery and rapid charger included
- 4.4 rating
- Select Cut and Touch Drive included
Cons
- Not a reel mower
- Much higher price than manual options
10. Best With Sharpener: American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2
- 5-blade reel with a cutting width of 14” and durable 10” polymer wheels for maximum maneuverability
- Hand Sharpener Included
- Mechanical lawn mower with an adjustable blade height of 1”-2.25” with scissor action cut
The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 is a 14-inch, 5-blade push reel mower that includes a sharpener. It is priced at $86.33 and has a 4.1 rating.
A 14-inch mower is a compact and manageable choice for smaller yards or tighter mowing paths. The added sharpener may be useful for buyers who want a built-in maintenance accessory in the package.
This mower is a practical option if you want a smaller reel mower with a simple tool-oriented approach. It is especially appealing for those who value convenience and basic upkeep support.
Pros
- Includes a sharpener
- Affordable price
- 5-blade design
- Compact 14-inch size
Cons
- Smaller cutting width
- Only a 4.1 rating
11. Best Gas Alternative: SENIX 22 Inch 3-in-1
- Powerful 201cc OHV Engine with Single Self-Propelled Drive – Equipped with a high-performance 201cc OHV 4-cycle engine delivering 4.7HP and 8.8 ft-lb torque for strong and reliable cutting power. Single-speed rear-wheel self-propelled function reaches up to 2.9 MPH, helping you mow large yards more easily without battery limitations or extension cords.
- 22-Inch Wide Cutting Deck for Lawns up to 11/20 Acre – The 22-inch / 56 cm heavy-duty cutting system efficiently covers large mowing areas and is recommended for lawns up to 2200m² (11/20 acre). Durable manganese steel alloy blades with 45–50 HRC hardness provide cleaner cuts and long-lasting performance in thick grass.
- Heavy-Duty Steel Deck with Efficient Grass Flow – Constructed with a rugged DC04-06 low-carbon high-strength steel deck for enhanced durability and impact resistance. The unique vortex tunnel airflow design improves grass discharge and collection efficiency for smoother and cleaner mowing results.
The SENIX 22 Inch 3-in-1 is a gas lawn mower with a 201cc rear wheel single speed self-propelled setup, 4-cycle engine, steel deck, and 6-position cutting height adjustment. It is priced at $479.99 and rated 4.3.
This model is clearly outside the reel mower category, but it is included in the provided data set and may be relevant for shoppers weighing manual mowing against powered yard equipment. Its size and self-propelled design make it a different kind of lawn-care investment.
If you are focused squarely on reel mowing, this is not the right fit. But if you’re broadening your search to other mower types, it offers multiple cutting modes and a strong powered mowing setup.
Pros
- Self-propelled
- 3-in-1 mowing functionality
- 6-position cutting height adjustment
- 4.3 rating
Cons
- Not a reel mower
- Highest price tier on the list
12. Best Bundle: Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade + Grass Catcher Bundle
- Versatile 16" cutting width Earthwise push reel mower for cutting bent grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, St. Augustine, and Seashore Paspalum.
- Durable steel side plate design with a 7-blade reel that stays sharp longer and adjustable cutting height from 0.5"-2.5".
- Specialty grass catcher bag fits 14" and 16" American Lawn Mower reel models 1204-14, 1304-14, and 1415-16.
This Earthwise bundle pairs a 16-inch 7-blade push reel mower with a 14-16 inch American Lawn Mower grass catcher. It is priced at $151.98 and has a 4.8 rating, which is one of the strongest ratings in the list.
The bundle format may appeal to buyers who want a mower and catcher together without having to source accessories separately. The 7-blade mower and included catcher make it feel like a more complete lawn-care package.
If you want a highly rated reel mower setup with an added collection accessory, this bundle is worth attention. It is a practical choice for shoppers who like a ready-to-go solution.
Pros
- Strong 4.8 rating
- Includes grass catcher bundle
- 7-blade mower
- Complete package approach
Cons
- Higher price than standalone compact models
- 16-inch width may be limiting for larger lawns
13. Best 18-Inch with Catcher: 18-Inch Manual Mower
- 5-Blade Precise Cutting: This push reel lawn mower adopts 5 durable steel blades and 18-inch cutting width. The scissor-like cutting delivers even trim without tearing grass, ideal for daily lawn care with this manual lawn mower
- Durable Steel Blades: This push mower has heavy-duty curved alloy steel blades that resist bending and rust. Precision sharpened for clean, smooth cuts, this low-maintenance manual push mower stays durable for years of lawn care
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Our walk-behind lawn mower features 5 adjustable height levels from 0.6" to 1.75". Easily fit various grass types and seasons with this push lawn mower for a well-groomed lawn
This 18-inch manual lawn mower features 5 blades, an adjustable cutting height, and a grass catcher bag. It is priced at $129.99 and has a 5-star rating based on the provided data.
The 18-inch cutting width gives it a nice balance of coverage and control, while the grass catcher bag adds convenience for users who want cleanup support during mowing. The adjustable height feature adds flexibility to the setup.
For buyers seeking a manual reel mower with a broader cut and included catcher, this is a compelling option. It combines a useful feature set with a strong rating and straightforward design.
Pros
- 18-inch cutting width
- Grass catcher bag included
- Adjustable cutting height
- 5-star rating
Cons
- Manual push operation
- Less established branding in the provided data
14. Best with Grass Catcher: American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18
- 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.
The American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 is an 18-inch, 5-blade walk-behind reel mower with a grass catcher. It is priced at $128.66 and has a 3.8 rating.
The included grass catcher makes it appealing for users who want a tidier mowing experience and less cleanup afterward. The 18-inch width also provides solid coverage for a manual mower.
Although its rating is lower than several other options here, it still offers a recognizable layout and useful catcher feature. It may suit buyers who prioritize the accessory package over top-tier review performance.
Pros
- Includes grass catcher
- 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade setup
- Recognizable walk-behind format
Cons
- Lower 3.8 rating
- Manual mowing still requires effort
15. Best Simple Grass-Catching Option: Walensee 16-Inch Manual Reel
- Scissor-Like Cutting High Efficiency:The Walensee Push Reel Lawn Mower features 5 precision blades and a 16-inch cutting width for clean, efficient cuts. Its scissor-like action slices grass instead of tearing it, helping maintain a healthier, more vibrant lawn. Walensee Mower cuts faster and with less effort than many others. For best results,we recommend clearing large twigs, stones, and debris from the lawn before mowing to prevent jamming or interrupted cutting.
- Adjustable Mowing Height: This mower features 4 cutting height levels from 0.5 to 1.5 inches, allowing you to easily tailor your lawn to seasonal and personal preferences. Simply pull the adjustment handle to switch settings—quick and hassle-free. For best results, trim tall grass in stages, as the mower performs best within its designed height range.
- Strong and Durable: Unlike many traditional straight blades, our Push Reel Lawn Mower features a curved blade design, making it more robust and resistant to deformation. The blades are crafted from high-hardness alloy steel for added strength and durability. Precision ground by advanced machinery, they are exceptionally sharp, ensuring a smoother and more efficient mowing experience. For long-term storage, be sure to rust-proof the blades to maintain their performance and longevity.
The Walensee Manual Reel Lawn Mower features a 16-inch cutting width, a grass catcher, and a 7.9-gallon grass collection bag. It is priced at $99.89 and rated 3.6.
This mower focuses on straightforward yard care with a compact cutting width and built-in collection support. The 7.9-gallon bag is a practical detail for users who want to gather clippings while mowing.
While its rating is lower than some other models in the list, it still offers a clear and simple manual mowing setup. It may appeal to buyers who want a basic reel mower with grass-catcher convenience at a modest price.
Pros
- Includes grass catcher
- 7.9-gallon grass collection bag
- 16-inch cutting width
- Simple manual design
Cons
- Lower 3.6 rating
- Not as wide as larger models
Buying Guide
Key Cutting Width Considerations
Cutting width affects how many passes you need to make across the lawn. Smaller mowers are easier to maneuver, while wider models can help speed up mowing. If your yard is compact, a 14-inch or 16-inch mower may be enough. If you want broader coverage, an 18-inch, 20-inch, or 23-inch model may be more efficient.
Blade Count Matters
Blade count is one of the core features in a reel mower. The products in this list include 4-blade, 5-blade, and 7-blade options. A higher blade count may appeal to buyers who want a more refined cutting system, but the right choice still depends on your yard size and mowing comfort.
Grass Catcher or No Grass Catcher
Some manual mowers in the list include a grass catcher or grass collection bag, while others do not mention one. If you prefer a cleaner mowing experience with less cleanup afterward, a catcher can be a helpful feature. If you do not mind leaving clippings behind, you may be fine without one.
Adjustable Cutting Heights
Adjustable cutting height can make a mower more flexible, especially if your lawn conditions change through the season. Several products listed here include height adjustment, which gives you more control over the cut. If that matters to you, compare those models closely before deciding.
Manual Push Effort
Reel mowers are manual, so they require physical pushing. That makes weight, wheel feel, and overall handling important. If you want simpler operation, choose a model that matches your comfort level and yard size rather than just the widest option available.
Price and Value
Price ranges in this list vary widely, from budget-friendly compact options to premium powered alternatives included in the data. The best value is not always the cheapest mower; it’s the one that gives you the right mix of width, features, and usability for your lawn. Focus on what you need most before paying for extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best reel lawn mower for a small yard?
A compact mower like the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 or another 14-inch model is often a good fit for smaller yards. These are easier to maneuver and can be more convenient for quick mowing sessions.
Do all reel mowers come with grass catchers?
No, not all of them do. Some models in this list include a grass catcher or grass collection bag, while others do not mention one. If that feature matters to you, check the product details carefully before buying.
Is a higher blade count always better?
Not necessarily. A higher blade count can be a useful feature, but it is only one part of the overall design. Cutting width, handling, and whether the mower suits your lawn size are just as important.
Are reel mowers hard to use?
They do require pushing, so they are more hands-on than powered mowers. That said, many people like them because they are simple, quiet, and straightforward to maintain in comparison to gas or electric alternatives.
Which reel mower in this list has the best rating?
Based on the provided data, the Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower and Grass Catcher Bundle has a 4.8 rating. It stands out as one of the highest-rated options in the list.
Conclusion
The Best Reel Lawn Mower for you depends on your yard size, preferred cutting width, and whether you want extras like a grass catcher or adjustable height settings. If you want a balanced all-around choice, the LawnMaster LMRM1801 is a strong place to start. If you need a smaller and more affordable option, the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a solid pick.
For shoppers who want more coverage, wider models like the EWORK 23-Inch Manual Reel or the Scotts 2000-20S may be more appealing. And if you want a more complete package, the Earthwise bundle with a grass catcher is worth a look. Compare the features that matter most to you, and choose the mower that best fits your lawn care routine.