6 Best Reel Lawn Mowers for Bermuda Grass of 2025

Effortless gliding meets surgical precision in the Fiskars StaySharp Max, a game-changer for homeowners battling thick Bermuda grass. With an 18-inch cut width and the proprietary InertiaDrive Reel system, this mower delivers twice the cutting power of conventional models, slicing through dense, low-growth turf like a hot knife through butter. The StaySharp Cutting System is where it truly shines—engineered to self-sharpen over time, eliminating the need for frequent tune-ups and reducing long-term maintenance headaches. If you’re tired of ragged grass edges and uneven clippings, this is the precision instrument your lawn has been begging for.

In real-world testing across mixed Bermuda and Zoysia lawns, the Fiskars handled tight corners and slightly overgrown patches with surprising ease, thanks to its lightweight yet rigid steel deck and one-touch handle adjustment that adapts to your stride. The 1–4 inch height range gives flexibility for seasonal changes, though pushing grass taller than 4 inches risks bogging down the reel—stick to weekly mowing for best results. While the wide 18-inch deck speeds up coverage, the fixed rear roller can snag on uneven terrain, and steep slopes demand extra legwork. Still, on flat to gently rolling yards, it rolls smoothly, leaving behind a striped, salon-finished look that rivals powered mowers.

Compared to the Scotts 2000-20S, the Fiskars trades a bit of deck width for far superior ergonomics and cutting consistency—making it a smarter pick for mid-sized lawns where comfort matters. It doesn’t come with a grass bag, but that’s a small trade-off for its low-maintenance, high-precision design. Ideal for eco-conscious homeowners who want a no-fuss, high-performance cut without noise, emissions, or cords, this mower stands as the overall benchmark in manual lawn care. For those prioritizing long-term reliability and clean cuts over raw coverage, the Fiskars outperforms even pricier rivals in both refinement and results.

Engineered specifically for Bermuda grass, the Earthwise 1715-16EW isn’t just another manual mower—it’s a specialist tool tuned for Southern lawns that demand precision at low heights. With a 7-blade ball bearing reel and alloy steel construction, it delivers an ultra-fine cut down to 0.5 inches, making it ideal for manicured Bermuda that thrives when mowed short. The self-cutting mechanism keeps blades aligned and sharp over time, reducing drag and ensuring consistent performance across weekly mows. If your lawn looks more golf green than backyard, this is the scalpel you’ve been waiting for.

In practice, the Earthwise excels on short, dense turf, effortlessly gliding over even growth and leaving behind a clean, uniform finish. The 0.5–2.5 inch height range gives flexibility for seasonal adjustments, and the 10-inch composite wheels roll smoothly without gouging the soil. However, it struggles when grass exceeds 3 inches—clogging becomes frequent, and pushing effort spikes noticeably. The steel side plates add durability, but also weight, making it harder to maneuver around flower beds or tight corners. On large, uneven lawns, it’s less efficient than wider models, but for tight, well-kept Bermuda, it’s unmatched in cut quality.

Compared to the Fiskars, the Earthwise sacrifices cut width and ease of push for superior low-height precision—a trade-off that makes it the better choice for dedicated Bermuda owners. While the Fiskars wins on versatility, the Earthwise dominates in its niche, offering the finest reel count and lowest cut setting in the lineup. For homeowners who prioritize turf health and a pro-grade finish over speed, this mower is the undisputed king for Bermuda grass, delivering performance that justifies its focused design.

Compact power meets nimble control in the LawnMaster LMRM1801, a standout for small yards where maneuverability trumps raw coverage. Its 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels make tight turns around shrubs and flower beds feel effortless, while the scissor-like cutting action ensures clean slices that protect Bermuda grass from fraying. With 9 height settings from 1.1 to 2.5 inches, it adapts beautifully to seasonal changes and growth patterns, giving you granular control over your lawn’s appearance. For urban lots or postage-stamp yards, this mower is a precision instrument wrapped in simplicity.

On real-world test runs across a 1/4-acre Bermuda lawn, the LawnMaster proved lightweight and responsive, requiring minimal effort on flat terrain. The durable steel blades held their edge well, and the included collection bag kept clippings contained without adding bulk. However, the lack of rear rollers makes it less stable on slopes, and bumpy patches cause inconsistent cuts. While the 18-inch width speeds up mowing, the narrow wheelbase can wobble during aggressive turns. It’s best suited for smooth, obstacle-rich lawns where agility matters more than speed.

When stacked against the Scotts 2000-20S, the LawnMaster gives up 2 inches of cut width but gains superior handling and tighter turning radius—a fair trade for small spaces. It doesn’t match the Earthwise in low-cut performance, but it’s more versatile for mixed-height mowing. Ideal for homeowners with tidy, compact yards, this mower balances efficiency, control, and eco-friendliness without overcomplicating the experience. For those who value easy storage and nimble navigation, it outperforms bulkier rivals in daily usability.

Value isn’t just about price—it’s about performance per dollar, and the Walensee 16-inch mower nails that equation. With a curved high-hardness alloy steel blade design, it resists deformation better than flat-blade rivals, maintaining sharpness and cutting efficiency over time. The scissor-like action cleanly slices Bermuda grass down to 0.5 inches, promoting dense, healthy growth, while the 7.9-gallon quick-release grass catcher minimizes stops and maximizes mowing flow. For under $110, it includes features typically found on pricier models, making it a stealth standout in the budget segment.

Real-world use on a 3,000 sq ft Bermuda lawn showed the Walensee handling weekly mows with ease, thanks to its self-lubricating 8.5-inch wheels that reduce friction and improve rollability. The 4-position height adjustment (0.5–1.5 inches) is perfect for low-maintenance Southern lawns, though it lacks the upper range for taller grass types. The sponge-grip handle reduces vibration, but the deck can jam if twigs or stones aren’t cleared first. While it’s not built for heavy-duty terrain, on well-prepped, flat lawns, it delivers a smooth, quiet, and efficient cut that belies its price tag.

Pitted against the Goplus, the Walensee offers lower cutting height, larger bag, and sharper blades, making it the better performer despite a similar footprint. It doesn’t match the Earthwise in blade count, but it’s more affordable and includes a bag—unlike the Scotts. For homeowners seeking the best blend of price, performance, and features, this Walensee model is the smartest all-around value, delivering premium-like results without the premium cost.