Ella Clark Can a quiet push mower give a golf-course finish—or just a great upper-body workout?
Stop letting noisy engines steal the weekend. A push reel mower gives a clean, quiet cut and a little outdoor exercise. It’s simple. It’s satisfying.
Top Picks by Performance
Fiskars 18" StaySharp Max Reel Mower
Delivers strong cutting performance with minimal upkeep and comfortable ergonomics. It suits well-maintained lawns and users who want a high-quality, motorless solution without frequent blade sharpening.
Purpose and overview
The Fiskars StaySharp Max is a premium manual reel mower designed for homeowners who prefer an eco-friendly, motorless option without frequent blade maintenance. It targets well-maintained, level lawns and incorporates InertiaDrive gearing to give noticeably more cutting power than many conventional reel mowers.
Key features and benefits
Users report a clean, scissor-like cut and quieter mowing compared with powered mowers. One reviewer described the experience as "extremely quiet" and praised the feeling of the blades spinning smoothly in use, highlighting the low noise and solid cut quality.
Limitations and practical insights
The mower is heavier than smaller models, which can make carrying it up steps or pushing on steep inclines more strenuous. It is optimized for level lawns with minimal rocks, sticks, or mulch; debris will cause interruptions and may require manual clearing. For best results:
Overall, this model is best for buyers who value durable construction, reduced maintenance, and high-quality cuts on maintained lawns, accepting a bit more weight in exchange for superior cutting power and longevity.
GARDENA 16" Classic Reel Lawn Mower
Balances precision cutting and portability at a competitive price point. It is a good all-round reel mower for small to medium, regularly maintained lawns when the operator prefers a lightweight tool.
Purpose and overview
The GARDENA Classic 16" (40 cm) is positioned as a straightforward, user-friendly reel mower for everyday lawn care. It emphasizes low weight, compact storage, and a contact-free cutting cylinder to deliver a clean, scissor-like cut without electricity or fuel.
Key features and benefits
Owners frequently praise how easy it is to assemble and handle; one long-term user called the mower "almost therapeutic" to operate, citing quiet operation and simplicity. The product's European manufacturing and extended warranty are attractive for buyers focused on longevity and support.
Limitations and practical insights
While excellent on level, frequently-cut lawns, the Gardena can struggle with taller or bumpy turf, where reviewers report the mower stopping or leaving missed patches. Practical tips:
In short, this model is best for budget-conscious users who want a light, precise reel mower for regular maintenance and compact storage.
Scotts 20" Classic 5-Blade Reel Mower
Offers a generous 20" cutting width that reduces mowing time and a classic, reliable reel-cut finish. It is practical for those who want a balance of width, simplicity, and precision without engine maintenance.
Purpose and overview
The Scotts 20" Classic reel mower is a workhorse aimed at homeowners who prefer larger cutting swaths and a traditional reel cutting action. Its five-blade reel is engineered to give a clean scissor-style cut that promotes a healthier-looking lawn.
Key features and benefits
Practical users note the mower's quiet operation and ease of use; many appreciate the lower maintenance compared with gas mowers and the better-looking cut compared to rotary blades. One common user impression is that it makes lawn care feel simpler and less reliant on engine maintenance.
Limitations and practical insights
This mower performs best when grass is kept within recommended heights and free of sticks or heavy debris. Typical recommendations include:
For buyers seeking a straightforward, wide-path reel mower, this Scotts model presents a strong value, especially for lawns that are maintained regularly and are relatively obstacle-free.
Earthwise 16" 7-Blade Push Reel Mower
The seven-blade reel gives a finer mulching action and often requires fewer passes. It suits users with shorter, denser grasses who want a lightweight, efficient manual mower with proven construction.
Purpose and overview
The Earthwise 1715-16EW is a 16" seven-blade push reel mower intended to deliver a detailed, golf-course-like scissor cut for smaller yards. The model emphasizes blade density and light weight to make mowing both efficient and comfortable.
Key features and benefits
Customers who compared this mower favorably to higher-priced models often cite its sharp blades straight from the factory and easy assembly. One user switched from a more expensive reel and found the Earthwise to be superior for single-pass results on their Bermuda lawn.
Limitations and practical insights
The mower's light weight can be a downside on very uneven turf as it may bounce; some users remedy that by adding weight to the roller or using soil-filled rollers. Best practice recommendations:
This model is a good choice for homeowners who prioritize finish quality and want a compact, efficient manual mower for dense, regularly-trimmed turf.
LawnMaster 18" 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
Provides a reliable scissor-cut on short, well-kept turf at a low price point. It is straightforward to operate and maintain, but lacks some premium refinements found on higher-end models.
Purpose and overview
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 is a value-focused 18" reel mower intended for homeowners with small lawns who want a low-cost, motorless cutting solution. It emphasizes ease of use and a range of cutting heights suitable for routine trimming.
Key features and benefits
Owners who favor the LawnMaster praise its ease of assembly and dependable performance on short, managed lawns. One reviewer placed it among their top purchases, noting that consistent maintenance (cleaning and light lubrication) keeps the mower functioning smoothly.
Limitations and practical insights
This model is intended for routine cuts and will struggle when faced with long, thick, or weed-heavy turf. Practical guidance:
For budget-minded buyers who keep their lawns trimmed regularly, the LawnMaster offers straightforward, effective mowing without bells and whistles.
Sun Joe 18" 5-Blade Manual Reel Mower
Offers a compact, easy-to-use reel mower with a detachable catcher and multiple height positions at a budget-friendly price. It is best for small, level lawns with regular trimming schedules.
Purpose and overview
The Sun Joe MJ501M is a compact, entry-level 18" reel mower that aims to provide a lightweight, user-friendly option for homeowners with small, well-maintained lawns. Its standout features include a detachable 7-gallon catcher and multiple height settings.
Key features and benefits
Users appreciate the portability and convenience of the grass catcher, which is useful for homeowners who prefer to collect clippings rather than leave them on the lawn. The mower's light weight (about 30 lbs) makes it easier to store and carry than heavier reel alternatives.
Limitations and practical insights
Due to its more basic gearing and construction, the Sun Joe performs best when grass is regularly maintained and not overly thick or tall. Recommendations for buyers:
Overall, the Sun Joe is a practical, affordable manual mower for users who want a light, easy-to-manage tool with a built-in catcher and simple height adjustment.
Final Thoughts
Fiskars 18" StaySharp Max Reel Mower (9.4/10) is the top pick. It combines strong cutting performance, comfortable ergonomics, and very low maintenance thanks to its StaySharp system. It is the best choice for homeowners who keep their turf well-maintained and want a near-professional scissor cut without frequent sharpening or complicated upkeep.
For homeowners with larger or more open lawns who want fewer passes, the Scotts 20" Classic 5-Blade Reel Mower (8.5/10) is the runner-up. Its wider 20" cutting path noticeably reduces mowing time while still delivering the classic reel-mower finish. Choose this if they value speed across medium-to-large, level lawns but still want a purely manual, engine-free solution.
FAQ
Sharpening frequency depends on use and lawn conditions. For a typical suburban lawn mowed regularly, they will likely need a tune-up or sharpening every 1–3 years. If the mower starts tearing grass instead of slicing it cleanly, it's time to hone or adjust the blades. Light touch-ups can be done at home; a professional grind is only needed infrequently.
Yes. More blades (like a 7-blade) usually produce a finer, cleaner cut with fewer passes and better mulching action on short, dense turf. Fewer blades (5-blade) can be simpler and still deliver an excellent result, especially at slightly higher cutting heights. They should pick blade count based on grass type and the desired finish: 7 for a finer, manicured look; 5 for solid performance and easier maintenance.
Reel mowers excel on short, regularly maintained lawns. If grass is tall, wet, or very coarse, a reel mower will struggle and may clog or tear the turf. They should first reduce height with a rotary mower or wait until the grass is trimmed to the recommended range. Reel mowers perform best when used consistently—skipping many weeks makes the job harder.
Effort varies by design and lawn. Lightweight models like the Sun Joe and GARDENA are easiest to push on flat, well-kept lawns. Heavier or higher-resistance reels (and denser grass) require more force. They should expect a modest cardio workout; ergonomics and wheel size make a noticeable difference in comfort over longer cutting sessions.
Yes for many owners. Catchers reduce cleanup and give the lawn a neater appearance immediately after mowing. If they prefer natural recycling of clippings, they can skip the bag. Models with detachable catchers (like Sun Joe) offer flexibility—use the bag for tidy finishes and remove it when mulching is acceptable.
They should: rinse off grass and debris after use, dry the mower to prevent rust, lightly lubricate the reel and bearings once or twice per season, check and tighten bolts, and adjust the blade-to-bedknife clearance if cuts degrade. Store it dry and off the ground. These steps keep the mower cutting cleanly and extend its service life.
I bought the Scotts 20″ for my 1/3 acre yard and it cut my mowing time down a lot. The 5-blade reel leaves a nice finish. Downsides: a little heavier to push on thick patches and it needs occasional tuning. Overall very happy.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Lucas — that matches the expert verdict about the wider cutting path. For heavy patches try mowing more frequently or raising the cutting height slightly to reduce strain.
How does it perform on slightly uneven lawns? Mine has a few dips.
Good tip about raising height. Also try sharpening every season and lubricating the reel — it makes pushing easier.
Minor typo in the article? It says ‘Best Yard Tools You can own.’ with an unusual capitalization. Not a big deal but caught my eye. 😅
On topic: for folks with uneven yards, is the Scotts 20″ too wide? I worry about scalping dips.
Also try filling major dips with soil or adjusting mowing patterns. That helped me reduce scalping.
Thanks, Daniel — good catch on the capitalization; we’ll tidy that up. Regarding the Scotts: a wider deck can increase scalping risk on uneven terrain. If you have dips, consider a narrower mower or raise the cutting height and go slower over uneven areas.
I avoid wide mowers on my bumpy yard for that reason. The Gardena 16″ is lighter and easier to handle around uneven spots.
Quick question: between the Earthwise 7-blade and the Gardena 5-blade, which gives a noticeably finer cut? I’m picky about the stripe/finish on my lawn.
I read the Earthwise has 7 blades for finer mulching, but is that difference dramatic in everyday use?
I have the Earthwise — the finish is noticeably smoother on my fescue lawn. But it’s a tiny bit heavier than my neighbor’s Gardena.
The Earthwise’s 7-blade design generally provides a finer cut and can reduce the number of passes needed, especially on short, dense grasses. Gardena’s 5-blade is still precise and lighter. If the finish is your top priority, Earthwise will likely edge out Gardena, but weigh that against weight and handle comfort.
I love the eco angle here. Switching to a manual reel felt weird at first but my lawn looks better and it’s actually a nice little workout. Also saves money on maintenance and gas. Highly recommend Fiskars if you’re going all-in on manual.
Small nitpick: Sun Joe’s catcher capacity listed as 7-gallon seems small for bigger lots, plan accordingly.
Workout bonus = sold. 😂 Also, cheaper mowers mean more time picking petunias in the garden, right?
Totally — the Fiskars is the top pick for many who want performance with minimal maintenance. And good point about the Sun Joe catcher; for larger lawns frequent emptying is needed.
Great roundup — thanks! I’ve been eyeing the Fiskars 18″ since it got such a high expert rating. I like the idea of no motor and low maintenance, but how hard is the blade sharpening compared to, say, the Scotts 20″? Anyone done both?
Also, is the Fiskars comfortable for taller folks? I’m 5’9″ and hate hunching over when mowing.
I tried the Scotts for a season at my rental — the wider cut is nice but the handle felt a smidge low. Might be adjustable though. If height/comfort matters, check handle height specs or try in-store if possible.
I own the Fiskars and a small electric mower — the Fiskars needs sharpening less often than I expected. There are plenty of DIY guides and a quick touch-up takes 15–20 minutes. I’m 6’0″ and it’s fine for me too.
Thanks for reading, Emma. The Fiskars is designed with comfortable ergonomics in mind and many users around your height report it’s fine without excessive stooping. Regarding sharpening: Fiskars’ blades tend to hold an edge longer and the design reduces the frequency needed. The Scotts 20″ is wider (so fewer passes) but some users find getting the perfect reel-to-bedknife adjustment a bit more fiddly.
I’m torn between Sun Joe and Gardena. I like the idea of the Sun Joe’s detachable catcher and height options, but worried about durability. Has anyone had long-term experience with Sun Joe’s build quality? Any cheap plastic parts that break after a season?
If you want durability, spend up. If you want light use and easy handling, Sun Joe’s great. It’s a buy-what-you-need situation.
Sun Joe is generally lightweight and budget-friendly; users love the detachable catcher and adjustability. Durability-wise, it’s fine for light, regular use on small lawns, but it isn’t as rugged as higher-end metal-bodied mowers. If you need something for heavy, frequent mowing, Gardena or Fiskars might be better long-term.
I had the Sun Joe for two seasons and the catcher clips wore out where they snap into place. I reinforced them with zip ties and it’s been okay. So yeah — depends on how rough you are with it.
Has anyone here tried sharpening the blades on the 7-blade Earthwise? I’m a bit intimidated by the extra blades — seems like more work. Any tips or videos to recommend?
If you’re nervous, local small engine shops will do it for a modest fee. Or swap blades less often if your lawn is well kept.
Sharpening a 7-blade reel is a bit more involved but not dramatically harder. Many users use a cordless drill with a sharpening bit or take it to a local mower shop. There are good step-by-step videos online — search for ‘sharpen reel mower blades’ and look for videos showing a 7-blade model specifically.
I bought a simple honing kit and it took me about 40 minutes the first time. After that it’s quicker. Worth it for the better finish.