If you want a quiet, eco-friendly way to keep a small lawn neatly trimmed, consider a reel lawn mower. These manual mowers use a scissor-like action to cut grass and require no fuel or batteries. They’re ideal for small to medium yards, low-maintenance lawns, and gardeners who prefer simple, reliable tools. Below are five top options that balance cut quality, maneuverability, and ease of use for different yard needs. The quick comparison table helps you pick the right model at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower | Small to medium lawns; easy navigation | 18-inch deck, 9 cutting positions, great maneuverability |
| LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower | Budget-friendly small yards | Lightweight, adjustable height settings, solid cutting width |
| Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch | Versatile grass types | 7-blade reel with steel durability and 10-inch wheels |
| American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14GC | Compact spaces; reliable performance | 14-inch width, 5 blades, adjustable height |
| LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Mower – LMRM2001 | Medium to larger small yards | 20-inch cutting width, 9-position height, strong maneuverability |
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower
Best for small lawns requiring easy, precise cuts. The mower delivers a scissors-like cut with nine cutting-height positions, giving you flexible control from 1.1 to 2.5 inches. Its 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels improve maneuverability around obstacles and tight corners.
Who it’s for: homeowners with compact yards who want strong cut quality without fuel or cords. Why selected: balanced size and adjustable height make it versatile for varied grass lengths. Caution: not ideal for overgrown or tall grass needs; use on regularly mowed lawns for best results.
LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower
Best for budget-conscious buyers with small lawns. This 16-inch mower emphasizes easy handling and a lightweight design, with four cutting-position settings ranging from 1 to 2.5 inches. It also features 10-inch front wheels for stable navigation across gentle slopes and uneven patches.
Who it’s for: first-time reel mower users or those with limited storage space. Why selected: budget-friendly entry point with solid performance. Limitation: fewer height options compared to larger models; might require more passes on thicker grass.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade
Better for users who mow various grass types. This model features a 16-inch cutting width, a seven-blade ball bearing reel, and durable 10-inch composite wheels. The steel side plate design enhances longevity, and it handles bent grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia well.
Who it’s for: homeowners with diverse turf requirements that value durability and long-term sharpness. Why selected: alloy steel seven-blade system stays sharp longer. Caution: may require regular maintenance to keep alignment for optimal cuts.
American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14GC 14-Inch
Best for compact spaces requiring precise trimming. This 14-inch mower uses a five-blade reel and 10-inch polymer wheels for easy maneuverability. Height adjustment ranges from 1 to 2.25 inches with a scissor-style cut for a clean finish.
Who it’s for: users with tight layouts or narrow pathways who still want a clean cut. Why selected: small footprint combined with adjustable height offers good control in tight spaces. Caution: smaller width means more passes on larger patches of lawn.
LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Mower – LMRM2001
Best for medium-to-large small yards needing efficient coverage. This model offers a 20-inch cutting width with 9-height positions from about 1.3 to 2.6 inches. The wider deck improves efficiency while maintaining good control via 10-inch front wheels.
Who it’s for: homeowners with a slightly larger small lawn who prefer fewer passes and steady performance. Why selected: wide deck and tall adjustment options balance speed with cut quality. Caution: heavier than smaller models; storage space should accommodate its size.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Reel Mowers
- Cutting width vs. lawn size: A wider deck covers more area per pass, ideal for larger small yards; narrower decks offer better control in tight spaces.
- Height adjustability: Look for multiple height settings to tailor cuts to grass length and species. More settings provide greater versatility across seasons.
- Weight and maneuverability: Lighter models are easier to push, especially on flat surfaces; heavier decks can feel steadier on uneven ground.
- Wheel design: Larger front wheels improve navigation around obstacles; smooth-rolling wheels reduce effort on uneven patches.
- Blade system durability: Seven- or five-blade reels cut cleanly and stay sharp longer with proper maintenance.
- Maintenance: Reel alignment and blade sharpness require occasional adjustment. Choose models with accessible adjustment mechanisms.
- Storage and space: If you have limited storage, consider compact models or ones with foldable components where available.
- Grass type and height: For tall or dense grass, manual mowers may require more passes; consider adding a ride-on or gas mower for overgrowth scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are reel mowers suitable for tall grass? They work best on regularly mowed lawns. For tall or overgrown areas, use a brush cutter or larger mower first.
- Do reel mowers require electricity or fuel? No. They are manual and rely on human power for cutting action.
- Can these mowers cut damp grass? They can, but damp grass can stick to reels more than dry grass; ensure blades stay sharp for clean cuts.
- How often should the blade be sharpened? Reel blades should be checked and sharpened periodically to maintain a clean, scissor-like cut; frequency depends on usage and lawn type.
- Which model is best for small yards with irregular shapes? Models with wide wheels and a mid-range deck, such as the 18-inch or 20-inch options, offer better maneuverability around irregular features.
- Is there any maintenance required after mowing? Clean grass clippings from the deck, inspect the reel and blades for nicks, and ensure the wheel axles are free of debris for smooth operation.