6 Best Reel Lawn Mowers for Zoysia Grass of 2025

Effortless gliding and razor-sharp precision define the Fiskars StaySharp Max, a standout among reel mowers for demanding Zoysia lawns. With its 18-inch cut width and proprietary InertiaDrive Reel, this mower delivers twice the cutting power of conventional models, slicing cleanly through dense, fibrous grass without bogging down. The StaySharp Cutting System is a game-changer—self-honing blades eliminate the need for frequent professional sharpening, solving a major pain point for eco-conscious homeowners tired of maintenance hassles.

In real-world testing, the Fiskars excels on medium to large yards with thick Zoysia or mixed southern grasses, maintaining consistent performance across uneven terrain thanks to its dual 10-inch wheels and VersaCut height adjustment (1″–4″). It handles weekly mowing with ease, especially when grass stays under 4 inches, but struggles slightly on overgrown patches where its forward momentum can stall. While the lack of a grass catcher may disappoint some, the reversible chute effectively directs clippings away from the user, enhancing usability during mulching passes.

Compared to the Scotts 2000-20S, the Fiskars offers superior ergonomics and easier blade maintenance, though it sacrifices a bit in raw cutting width. It’s not as budget-friendly as the Goplus or Walensee, but justifies its position as the best overall with best-in-class engineering and long-term value. For homeowners seeking a high-performance, low-maintenance solution that outcuts and outlasts most manual mowers on tough grass, the Fiskars strikes an ideal balance of power, precision, and polish—edging ahead of rivals in both innovation and execution.

Built like a workhorse for tough southern lawns, the Scotts 18-inch 7-blade reel mower is a precision-cutting powerhouse that thrives on Bermuda and Zoysia grass. Its 7-blade ball-bearing reel, crafted from heat-treated alloy steel, delivers an exceptionally clean cut that promotes healthier turf—critical for stress-prone Zoysia that demands consistent, sharp trimming. With an adjustable 1″–3″ height range and dual 10-inch tracking wheels, it balances agility with stability, making it a reliable performer for medium-sized yards where clean lines and lawn health are priorities.

In practice, this mower slices through dense grass with satisfying smoothness, thanks to its high blade count and solid steel construction. It handles weekly mowing with ease and resists clogging better than many competitors, though it requires more push force than the Fiskars due to its heavier build. The cushioned handle helps, but taller users may find the fixed height less comfortable over extended sessions. While it lacks a grass catcher, the rear discharge is consistent, and the mower’s durability suggests long-term reliability with minimal upkeep.

Next to the Earthwise 1715-16EW, the Scotts offers a wider cut and better height flexibility, though it’s less specialized for ultra-low Zoysia mowing. It doesn’t have the eco-branding of Fiskars, but it delivers no-nonsense performance with pro-grade components. For homeowners focused on lawn quality and willing to trade a few creature comforts for cutting excellence, this Scotts model is a silent specialist that outperforms its modest price with every pass.

Tailor-made for Zoysia’s tough, low-growing nature, the Earthwise 1715-16EW earns its title as the best dedicated Zoysia mower with a precision-tuned 7-blade reel and ultra-low cutting range down to 0.5 inches. This isn’t just another manual mower—it’s a turf-tender that delivers golf-course-level trims, thanks to its self-cutting alloy steel blades and ball-bearing reel that maintains sharpness over time. With a 0.5″–2.5″ height adjustment, it accommodates seasonal Zoysia needs, from summer height to tight winter cuts, making it the most specialized tool in this lineup for southern grass enthusiasts.

Field testing confirms its excellence on dense, short Zoysia, where it glides with minimal resistance and leaves behind a manicured finish. The 16-inch width keeps passes manageable, while the 10″ composite wheels roll smoothly over flat terrain. However, the narrow deck means more passes on larger lawns, and the mower can struggle on taller or damp grass—common limitations for ultra-low-cut models. Still, for those who treat lawn care as a craft, the Earthwise offers exceptional control and cut quality that rivals powered mowers.

Pitted against the Scotts 18-inch, it sacrifices width for lower mowing capability and finer precision. Compared to the Fiskars, it lacks advanced ergonomics but wins on cut fineness for Zoysia. For homeowners who demand lawn perfection on low-maintenance grass, the Earthwise is a specialist’s choice—delivering pro-level results with pedal-powered simplicity and unmatched attention to Zoysia’s unique needs.

The Walensee 16-inch reel mower wins on accessibility and convenience, emerging as the best option with a grass catcher for eco-minded users who hate cleanup. Its quick-release 7.9-gallon bag is the largest here, drastically reducing stops to empty clippings—ideal for weekly mowing of Zoysia lawns where mulching isn’t desired. The scissor-like 5-blade system, made from high-hardness curved alloy steel, delivers clean cuts with less effort than many budget models, while the 0.5″–1.5″ height range suits low-growing grass types perfectly.

In real-world use, the Walensee shines on small to medium lawns with consistent mowing schedules. The sponge grip reduces vibration, and the 8.5-inch self-lubricating wheels enhance maneuverability, allowing tight turns in garden edges. However, the cutting range is too limited for seasonal adjustments beyond spring and summer, and the mower can jam if grass exceeds 3 inches. While not as durable as steel-framed competitors, its semi-pre-assembled design ensures quick setup and hassle-free storage.

Compared to the Goplus, it offers a larger bag and lower cut, but less height flexibility. Against the Earthwise, it trades blade count and build quality for better debris collection. For those who prioritize clean finishes and easy disposal, the Walensee delivers practical innovation—proving that even manual mowers can offer modern conveniences without sacrificing eco-credentials.