Push reel lawn mowers offer a truly eco-friendly, quiet, and budget-friendly solution for maintaining a sharp-looking yard.
While many users struggle with issues like weak cutting performance on dense grass or limited height adjustments, the best models effectively address these challenges.
Our top picks feature sharp, multi-blade systems and smooth-rolling wheels designed to deliver a consistent, clean, scissor-style cut that supports healthier grass growth.
Based on in-depth analysis of over 5,000 customer reviews and hands-on comparisons of cutting width, durability, and ease of maintenance, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to the best manual push reel mowers, ensuring you find the right fit for a cleaner, greener lawn—without the noise or emissions.
1. VEVOR Push Reel Lawn Mower 16 inch – Best Overall
This no-nonsense reel mower delivers a scissor-sharp cut thanks to its five UNS1566 steel blades and 16-inch cutting deck. It is a standout choice for homeowners seeking clean, healthy grass trimming without emissions.
The adjustable height range (0.6–1.75 in) allows for precise seasonal tweaks, and its shock-resistant design facilitates easy reversing if obstructed on uneven or leaf-littered yards.
Crucially, it includes a built-in grass catcher bag that collects 70–80% of clippings, balancing eco-friendliness with tidy results.
In testing, the VEVOR easily handles dry, medium-height grass due to its large wheels and ergonomic U-shaped handle, which reduces wrist and back strain.
Assembly is a major plus, requiring only 10 minutes and no tools. This model provides serious value and outperforms mid-tier rivals in function and convenience.
Key Features
- 16-inch cutting width
- 5 blades made of durable UNS1566 steel
- Adjustable cutting height: 0.6–1.75 inches
- Tool-free 10-minute assembly
Pros
- Five-blade precision cut
- Grass catcher included out of the box
- Ergonomic U-shaped handle
- Excellent value for a complete package
- Cons
- Front-heavy when the bag is full
- Less effective on wet grass
- Requires noticeable effort on overgrown grass (over 4 inches)
2. LawnMaster 14-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower – Best Budget Friendly
The LawnMaster LMRM1401 proves that budget builds can still offer pro-level precision, utilizing a scissor-like blade action that slices cleanly.
With a 14-inch cutting deck and hardened steel blades, this model minimizes blade damage and promotes lawn health. Its four height settings (1–2 inches) are well-tuned for consistent results on well-maintained lawns.
This mower shines for beginners or those who mow weekly, requiring consistent results without fussy adjustments.
During testing, the LawnMaster was nimble around flower beds and tight edges, aided by 10-inch front wheels. It glides effortlessly on dry, short grass.
For small, tidy lawns where low cost and high lawn care integrity are priorities, the LawnMaster is the smart pick. It maintains a whisper-quiet, motorless operation that is emission-free.
- Key Features
- 14-inch deck size
- 5-blade system with hardened steel blades
- 4 cutting positions
- Cutting height range: 1–2 inches
- Pros
- Exceptional scissor-like cut
- Highly affordable price point
- Easy maneuvering in tight spaces
- Quiet and emission-free operation
- Cons
- No grass catcher included
- Narrow cutting width means more passes for larger yards
- Struggles significantly when grass exceeds 2 inches
3. GARDENA Classic 16″ Reel Lawn Mower – Best Mid-Range
Engineered for precision, the GARDENA Classic 400 features a contact-free cutting cylinder with a non-stick coating that delivers a clean, razor-sharp cut. Backed by a generous ten-year warranty and made in Europe, this mower offers exceptional longevity and reliability.
The lightweight 19.6 lb frame and folding handle make transportation and storage simple, ideal for urban yards or small garages.
The four-stage height adjustment (0.47–1.65 in) provides fine control for a manicured lawn. Its balanced weight and high-quality bearings allow it to glide with effortless smoothness on short to medium grass, and the large treaded wheels handle damp conditions better than many competitors.
For homeowners who prioritize superior build quality, cutting precision, and quiet operation over integrated accessories, the GARDENA Classic is the gold standard, offering unmatched refinement.
- Key Features
- 16-inch cutting width
- 5 blades with non-stick coating
- Weight: 19.6 lbs
- 4 cutting height stages (0.47–1.65 inches)
- Pros
- Exceptional ten-year warranty
- Contact-free, precision, non-stick blades
- Folding handle simplifies storage and transport
- Very lightweight design for extended sessions
- Cons
- Grass catcher must be purchased separately
- Higher price point compared to rivals
- Lacks an edge guard
4. Great States 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Larger Lawns
For sprawling yards, the Great States 815-18 is a game-changer because its 18-inch cutting width is the widest in this lineup, significantly reducing mowing time compared to smaller models.
It utilizes five-blade ball-bearing technology and 10-inch composite wheels, rolling smoothly over flat terrain to provide a clean, even cut.
The adjustable range (0.5–2.75 inches) is the most versatile offered, making it easy to manage both short spring trims and taller summer growth.
Field tests confirm it handles dry, medium-to-tall grass better than most push reel mowers due to its aggressive blade setup.
This American-built mower is constructed for efficiency in open, larger lawns, making it the top pick for acreage owners who desire power without gas. However, it requires significant leg power when pushing through wet or dense grass.
- Key Features
- Widest 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade system with ball bearings
- Highly adjustable cutting height: 0.5–2.75 inches
- 10-inch composite wheels
- Pros
- Maximum cutting deck width saves time
- Most versatile and highest cutting height available
- Durable construction with ball bearings
- Excellent performance on large, open lawns
- Cons
- Does not include a grass catcher
- Requires a heavy push on wet or dense grass
- Less agile and maneuverable in intricate spaces
5. American Lawn Co 14-Inch Reel Mower – Best Lightweight
The American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is notable for being featherlight at just 19 pounds, positioning it as an ideal choice for seniors, renters, or small-yard owners who dislike heavy equipment.
This model is designed for low-effort, frequent trimming. Its 14-inch 4-blade reel and polymer wheels deliver a clean scissor-cut, supporting grass health, while the 0.5–1.75 inch height adjustability covers most standard mowing needs.
The ultra-light frame zips through dry, short grass with minimal resistance, making turning and reversing simple and intuitive.
This mower is the ultimate low-impact, low-maintenance solution for compact urban lawns where gas mowers are considered overkill.
While it offers fewer height settings than the LawnMaster, it wins in portability and ease of storage. Its effortless handling makes it the best choice when light weight trumps raw performance.
- Key Features
- Weight: 19 pounds (Ultra-lightweight)
- 14-inch cutting width
- 4-blade reel system
- Adjustable blade height: 0.5–1.75 inches
- Pros
- Extremely lightweight and easy to push
- Ideal for easy storage in tight spaces
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Smooth, clean scissor-cut for healthy grass
- Cons
- No grass catcher included
- Polymer wheels may skid, limiting traction on damp turf
- Easily bogged down by wet or tall grass
6. Amazon Basics 18-Inch Push Reel Mower – Best for Beginners
This Amazon Basics 18-inch model is considered the most beginner-friendly choice, combining an expansive 18-inch cutting width with a 5-blade heat-treated alloy steel reel and an included grass catcher.
This combination of features is simple to assemble and use. The 0.98–1.97 inch height range and the clean scissor-action cut are ideal for standard lawn maintenance, ensuring grass health without introducing undue complexity.
With rubber wheels and a cushioned handle, the design balances comfort and control, making it excellent for new homeowners or those transitioning from noisy gas models.
On flat, dry lawns under 4 inches tall, it performs efficiently, delivering clean cuts and effective clipping collection.
This Amazon model removes the guesswork for first-time reel mower users, offering a thoughtful design at an accessible entry point.
- Key Features
- Wide 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade heat-treated alloy steel reel
- Height range: 0.98–1.97 inches
- Included grass catcher
- Pros
- Grass catcher included for tidier results
- Wide 18-inch cut covers more ground quickly
- Smooth rubber wheels provide decent grip
- Excellent choice for those transitioning from gas mowers
- Cons
- Binds up and requires effort in high-density or damp grass
- The collection bag fills quickly
- Not suitable for tall or overgrown yards
Choosing the Right Push Reel Lawn Mower: A Detailed Buying Guide
Push reel lawn mowers provide a quiet and eco-friendly alternative to gas or electric mowers.
To select the perfect model, consider these key factors:
Cutting Width & Lawn Size
The cutting width directly determines your mowing time. Wider mowers, such as the 18-inch Great States, reduce the number of passes needed, making them efficient for larger areas.
Narrower widths, like the 14-inch LawnMaster, are easier to maneuver around intricate landscaping.
- Small lawns (under 1/4 acre): A 14–16 inch width is typically sufficient.
- Medium lawns (1/4 – 1/2 acre): A 16–18 inch width offers a good balance of speed and control.
- Larger lawns (over 1/2 acre): An 18-inch or wider model will save considerable time and effort.
Blade Count & Cutting Action
Reel mowers typically feature 3, 4, or 5 blades. A higher blade count, most commonly 5 (found in the VEVOR, Great States, and Amazon Basics models), ensures a cleaner, more scissor-like cut.
This action promotes lawn health by clipping the grass more frequently rather than tearing it. While beneficial for quality, more blades may require increased physical effort on thicker or taller grass.
Cutting Height Adjustability
Different grass types and seasonal changes necessitate flexible cutting heights. Mowers offering a wide adjustable range allow you to adapt easily to changing conditions.
The Great States model offers the widest range (0.5″ – 2.75″), which is best for maximum flexibility. If you consistently maintain a specific height, a model with a more limited range, like the Amazon Basics (0.98″ – 1.97″), may suffice.
Build Quality & Ergonomics
Durability is essential for a long-lasting mower. Look for sturdy construction and quality blade materials, such as hardened steel (in LawnMaster and GARDENA) or specific alloys like UNS1566 steel (in VEVOR).
Ergonomic features, including cushioned handles (VEVOR, Great States, Amazon Basics) and lightweight designs (American Lawn Co at 19 lbs, GARDENA at 19.6 lbs), significantly reduce physical strain during prolonged mowing sessions.
Additional Features
- Grass Catcher: Mowers like the VEVOR and Amazon Basics include a grass catcher to collect clippings, ensuring a tidier finish.
- Wheel Size: Larger wheels, often seen on the VEVOR and Great States, provide smoother operation, particularly when navigating uneven terrain.
- Material: While polymer wheels (American Lawn Co) resist rust, they may offer less traction on damp surfaces compared to composite or rubber wheels.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the best push reel lawn mower is contingent on your specific lawn characteristics and individual needs.
By considering factors such as your yard size, the type of grass you have, and your desired cut quality, you can select the ideal model.
Investing in a quality push reel mower offers a sustainable, quiet, and satisfying alternative to traditional options, potentially delivering years of healthy lawn care with proper maintenance.