Best Reel Lawn Mower for The Money: Ultimate Buyer’s Guide 2024

Reel lawn mowers, often revered for their simplicity and efficiency, have made a significant comeback. Known for their clean cuts and environmental friendliness, these mowers are ideal for small to medium-sized lawns. This article delves into the world of reel mowers, highlighting the benefits and guiding you through choosing the best reel lawn mower for your needs.

Top Picks Reel Lawn Mower

1. Great States 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower

This manual mower boasts a generous 18-inch cutting width and five sharp, heat-treated alloy steel blades for a precise, even cut. Adjustable cutting heights ranging from 0.5 inches to 2.75 inches allow you to customize your lawn’s look, while smooth-spinning blades and easy-maneuvering 10-inch composite wheels ensure a comfortable mowing experience.

• Eco-Friendly: No gas, oil, or emissions – perfect for environmentally conscious homeowners.
• Quiet Operation: Enjoy a peaceful mowing experience without the loud noise of a gas mower.
• Low Maintenance: Simple design requires minimal upkeep – just occasional sharpening and cleaning.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: Tailor your lawn’s appearance with ease.
• Sharp Blades: High-quality alloy steel blades stay sharp longer for a clean cut.
• Easy Assembly: Get mowing quickly with tool-free assembly.
• Lightweight Design: Effortless maneuvering around your lawn.

2. Scotts 16-Inch 20V Cordless Electric Reel Mower

The Scotts 16-Inch 20V Cordless Electric Reel Mower is a battery-powered lawn mower that is designed for small to medium-sized yards. It has a 16-inch cutting width and a single height adjustment. The mower also includes a grass catcher and a detachable handle for easy storage.

• Cordless Power: Enjoy the freedom of movement without the hassle of extension cords. A 20-volt battery and fast charger are included for a quick and easy recharge.
• Clean and Quiet Operation: No more dealing with gas fumes or ear-splitting noise. This mower is a welcome change for both you and your neighbors.
• 16-Inch Cutting Width: Tackle smaller to medium-sized lawns efficiently.
• Single Height Adjustment: Maintain a uniform cut across your entire lawn.
• Grass Catcher Included: Simplify grass clippings collection for a cleaner yard.
• Comfortable Foam Grip: Mow for longer with reduced hand fatigue.
• Detachable Handle: Store the mower compactly in your shed or garage.

3. Greenworks RM1400 14-Inch Lawn Mower

The Greenworks RM1400 is a 14-inch reel lawn mower that is ideal for small yards and townhomes. It features a 5-blade ball bearing steel reel that cuts grass like a pair of scissors, leaving your lawn looking healthy and green.

• Eco-Friendly Operation: No gas, oil, or electricity required – kind to the environment and your wallet.
• Quiet Performance: Enjoy a peaceful mowing experience without disturbing your neighbors or wildlife.
• Clean Cut: The 5-blade reel mower mimics scissor action, leaving your grass healthy and preventing tearing.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: Choose from 3 height settings to customize your lawn’s appearance.
• Lightweight Design: Easy to maneuver around your yard with minimal strain.
• Easy Assembly: Get started mowing quickly without complicated tools.
• Convenient Storage: The compact size allows for space-saving storage in your shed or garage.

4. American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch 4-Blade Mower

The American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch 4-Blade Mower is a manual, push reel mower. It is an eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers and features a 14-inch cutting width and a four-blade reel that cuts grass with a scissor-like motion.

• Eco-Friendly Operation: No gas, oil, or electricity required. You’ll be doing your part for the environment while saving money on fuel.
• Quiet Performance: Enjoy a peaceful mowing experience – a welcome change for you and your neighbors.
• Clean Cut: The 4-blade reel mower cuts grass with a scissor-like motion, promoting healthier growth and preventing tearing.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: Choose from 5 height settings to achieve your desired lawn appearance.
• Low Maintenance: This mower boasts a simple design with minimal upkeep – just occasional sharpening is needed.
• Lightweight Design: Effortlessly maneuver the mower around your yard with minimal strain.

5. Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower

The Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a manual, eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers. It features a 16-inch cutting width, a 7-blade ball bearing reel, and 10-inch composite wheels. The mower also has a durable steel side plate design and an adjustable cutting height of 0.5 to 2.5 inches.

• Sharp 7-Blade Reel: This mower is specifically designed to precisely cut bent grass varieties, promoting a clean and healthy lawn.
• Eco-Friendly Operation: No gas, oil, or electricity required. You’ll be doing your part for the environment while saving money on fuel.
• Quiet Performance: Enjoy a peaceful mowing experience – a welcome change for you and your neighbors.
• 16-Inch Cutting Width: Tackle small to medium-sized bent grass lawns efficiently.
• Durable Construction: Built with metal for long-lasting performance.

6. Scotts 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower

The Scotts 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower is a non-motorized lawn mower that uses a scissor-like cutting action to trim your grass. It is an eco-friendly option for small to medium lawns, as it doesn’t require gas or electricity and produces zero emissions.

• Eco-Friendly Operation: No gas, oil, or electricity required. You’ll be doing your part for the environment while saving money on fuel.
• Quiet Performance: Enjoy a peaceful mowing experience – a welcome change for you and your neighbors.
• Clean Cut: The 5-blade reel mower cuts grass with a scissor-like motion, promoting healthier growth and preventing tearing.
• Lightweight Design: Despite its larger cutting width, this mower remains easy to maneuver around your yard.
• Easy Assembly: Get started mowing quickly without complicated tools.
• Simple Maintenance: The manual design requires minimal upkeep – just occasional sharpening is needed.

7. Great States 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower

Great States 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower offers a convenient and eco-friendly solution for maintaining smaller lawns. This manual mower is a great choice for those who want a healthy lawn without the hassle of gas or oil.

• Eco-Friendly Operation: No gas, oil, or electricity required. You’ll be doing your part for the environment while saving money on fuel.
• Quiet Performance: Enjoy a peaceful mowing experience – a welcome change for you and your neighbors.
• Clean Cut: The 5-blade reel mower cuts grass with a scissor-like motion, promoting healthier growth and preventing tearing.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: Choose from 3 height settings to achieve your desired lawn appearance.
• Smooth-Spinning Blades and Easy-Roll Wheels: Ensures a comfortable and efficient mowing experience.

8. Great States 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower

The Great States 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a manual, eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered lawnmowers. It features a 16-inch cutting width and a 5-blade reel that cuts grass with a scissor-like action, which is said to promote healthier lawns. The mower is also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a good option for small to medium-sized yards.

• Eco-Friendly Operation: No gas, oil, or electricity required. You’ll be doing your part for the environment while saving money on fuel costs.
• Quiet Performance: Enjoy a peaceful mowing experience – a welcome change for you and your neighbors.
• Clean Cut: The 5-blade reel mower mimics scissor action, leaving your grass healthy and preventing tearing that can lead to disease and insect infestation.
• Easy Assembly: Get started mowing quickly without complicated tools.
• Comfortable Design: Specially designed handles ensure a comfortable mowing experience, reducing hand fatigue.

9. Craftsman 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower

The Craftsman 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a manual, eco-friendly option for keeping your lawn trimmed. It features a five-blade reel that cuts a path 18 inches wide, and the cutting height can be adjusted from 1 inch to 3 inches. The mower also includes a grass catcher, so you don’t have to worry about raking up clippings afterwards.

• Eco-Friendly Operation: Zero emissions and quiet operation make this mower a breath of fresh air (literally) for you and the environment.
• Healthy Lawn Care: The scissor-like cutting action of the 5-blade reel mower promotes healthy grass growth by preventing tearing and damage.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: Tailor your lawn’s appearance with ease, with options ranging from 1 inch to 3 inches.
• Durable Construction: Heat-treated alloy steel blades ensure long-lasting performance.
• Easy Maneuvering: Composite wheels provide smooth rolling and easy navigation around your yard.
• Low Maintenance: Besides occasional sharpening, this mower requires minimal upkeep.
• Grass Catcher Included: Simplify grass clippings collection for a cleaner yard.

10. Fiskars StaySharp 18-Inch Max Reel Mower

The Fiskars StaySharp 18-Inch Max Reel Mower is a popular option for those who are looking for an eco-friendly and quiet way to mow their lawn. It features a number of innovative technologies that make it easier to use and maintain than traditional reel mowers.

• Effortless Pushing: Fiskars boasts a 60% reduction in pushing force compared to traditional reel mowers, making it easier to mow for extended periods.
• Twice the Cutting Power: The innovative InertiaDrive Reel delivers exceptional performance, tackling even tough grass with ease.
• StaySharp Cutting System: Say goodbye to sharpening! This mower boasts a self-sharpening mechanism that maintains blade integrity over time.
• Eco-Friendly Operation: No gas, oil, electricity, or cords required – enjoy a clean and quiet mowing experience.
• 18-Inch Cutting Width: Efficiently tackle small to medium-sized lawns.
• Ergonomic Design: Fiskars is known for its user-centric design, promising a comfortable mowing experience.

The Advantages of Using a Reel Mower

1. Healthy Lawns: The scissor-like cutting action of reel mowers ensures a clean cut, helping to prevent lawn diseases such as brown patch. This clean cut promotes healthier, more resilient grass.
2. Cost-Effective: Reel mowers generally cost about half as much as their powered counterparts, making them an affordable option for maintaining your lawn.
3. Low Maintenance: Unlike gas-powered mowers, manual reel mowers require minimal upkeep—just occasional blade sharpening and cleaning. This simplicity extends their lifespan and reduces ongoing maintenance costs.
4. Compact and Lightweight: Weighing between 20 to 30 pounds, reel mowers are easy to maneuver and store. Many models feature fold-down handles, further enhancing their storage convenience.
5. Eco-Friendly: With no engine, reel mowers produce zero exhaust or fumes, offering a greener mowing option. This not only benefits the environment but also allows you to enjoy the fresh scent of cut grass without the pollution.

Conclusion

In summary, reel mowers offer an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and low-maintenance solution for lawn care. Their fuel-free operation not only benefits the environment but also ensures a healthier lawn. With their affordability, ease of use, and compact design, reel mowers are a practical choice for gardeners looking to combine sustainability with the joy of outdoor activities.

FAQs

1. How often do reel mower blades need to be sharpened?
Reel mower blades typically need sharpening once per season, depending on usage and lawn size. Regular sharpening ensures a clean cut and efficient performance.
2. Can reel mowers handle tall or thick grass?
Reel mowers are best suited for maintaining lawns regularly. They may struggle with very tall or thick grass, so it’s advisable to mow more frequently to prevent grass from getting too long.
3. Are reel mowers suitable for all lawn types?
Reel mowers excel on flat, even lawns with fine to medium-blade grass. They might not be the best choice for very uneven terrain or lawns with a lot of twigs and debris.
4. How do I adjust the cutting height on a reel mower?
Most reel mowers have adjustment mechanisms near the wheels or the roller. Consult your mower’s manual for specific instructions, as mechanisms can vary by model.
5. Is a reel mower a good choice for a large lawn?
While reel mowers are ideal for smaller or medium-sized lawns, using one on a large lawn can be physically demanding. For very large areas, consider a powered mower or a reel mower with a wider cutting path to reduce the workload.