9 Best Hand Reel Push Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2025

Powerful yet whisper-quiet, the Fiskars StaySharp Max reel mower brings serious muscle to manual mowing. Its 18-inch deck paired with the InertiaDrive reel delivers up to twice the cutting force, while the StaySharp system reduces blade-contact, keeping edges keen without routine sharpening. The VersaCut height range of 1–4 inches tackles everything from manicured cool-season lawns to taller warm-season varieties. If you hate yanking a pull cord or dealing with fuel, this solves that pain with a smooth, push-and-cut experience.

On test yards, Fiskars +18′ glides through St. Augustine and Bermuda that often stall other reel mowers. The reversible chute smartly directs clippings forward, keeping shoes clean when powering through dense patches. It’s heavier than bare-bones reels but still manageable, and the one-touch handle adjust makes quick comfort tweaks. On wildly overgrown grass, you’ll still need multiple passes, but its torque advantage shortens the chore.

Against the Scotts 20-inch model, Fiskars trades a slightly narrower deck for superior cutting power and higher max height, making it better for mixed or tougher grasses. Compared with the Earthwise 1715-16EW (7-blade specialist for low-cut Bermuda), Fiskars is more versatile for varied lawns and higher cuts. It’s ideal for homeowners wanting an eco-friendly, high-torque reel that handles thick turf without constant sharpening—and it feels premium compared to the budget VEVOR option.

Surprisingly capable for the price, the VEVOR 14-inch reel mower nails the essentials for small, tidy lawns. The 5-blade UNS1566 steel reel gives a crisp cut, while the 0.6–1.75 inch height range suits low-maintenance fescue and rye. Large wheels and a cushioned U-handle make it approachable for seniors or first-time reel owners. The included grass catcher is a thoughtful bonus for minimizing cleanup.

In use, it excels when the lawn is kept under about 4 inches, as recommended. On taller growth, plan two passes—start higher, then dial down—to avoid clogging. The shock-resistant design shrugs off the occasional twig, and pulling backward clears minor jams. It’s light and easy to assemble in roughly 10 minutes; however, expect the bag to capture roughly 70–80% of clippings, with some scatter typical of reel mowers.

Compared to the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14, VEVOR adds a catcher and feels a touch more forgiving for casual users, though it has a similar 14-inch width. Against the more robust Fiskars, it lacks cutting torque and height range but weighs less on the wallet and arms. Best for budget-minded owners with small, regularly maintained lawns who want a quiet, clean cut without fuss—especially if you value the included bag over premium features.

Precision-focused, the Earthwise 1715-16EW is a 7-blade specialist built for fine, dense turf like Bermuda and Zoysia. The 16-inch width balances maneuverability with productivity, while the 0.5–2.5 inch height range supports the low cuts those grasses love. The extra blades create a closer, scissor-like finish that reduces leaf bruising. Durable steel side plates and alloy blades signal a tool made for frequent, clean trims.

On low-cut Bermuda tees and Zoysia lawns, this mower shines with a noticeably tighter, cleaner shearing versus 5-blade reels. It handles gentle undulations well with its 10-inch composite wheels, but it’s not meant for overgrown turf; if you’ve let the lawn shoot past two inches, plan staged passes. The reel tracks smoothly, and consistent mowing cadence rewards you with a golf-green look.

Compared with the Fiskars StaySharp Max, Earthwise trades raw power and higher cut options for precision at low heights. Against the Scotts 18-inch 7-blade, Earthwise cuts slightly lower at 0.5 inches, appealing to lawn enthusiasts chasing that pro finish. Perfect for warm-season turf owners who mow frequently and want a manicured, low-cut aesthetic; it offers finer results than a budget 5-blade like the VEVOR in the right conditions.

The Scotts 18-inch 7-blade reel mower blends precision cutting with a more generous 18-inch deck for efficient coverage. With 1–3 inch height settings, it’s tuned for neat, mid-to-low cuts on Bermuda, Zoysia, and cool-season lawns where definition matters. Heat-treated alloy blades maintain sharpness, and the cushioned handle improves comfort for longer sessions. It’s a classic mechanical setup with the payoff of refined stripes.

In testing, the 7-blade reel delivers a noticeably smoother finish than 5-blade models, especially on dense or fine-bladed grasses. The wider deck covers more ground than the Earthwise 16-inch, yet still turns cleanly around beds. It works best when you don’t let the lawn get away; tall growth demands multiple passes and patience. The action remains quiet and predictable—ideal for early morning cuts.

Relative to the Earthwise 1715-16EW, the Scotts offers a wider swath but a higher minimum height, making it better for users who want precision without ultra-low greens-like cuts. Compared to the Fiskars, it lacks high-cut range and torque but wins on fine finish for enthusiasts. Best for homeowners who value a crisp, detailed cut across moderate-sized lawns; it positions between Earthwise precision and Scotts 20-inch coverage.

For those who want less mess, the LawnMaster LMRM1801 stands out with its included collection bag and 18-inch deck. The 5-blade reel provides a clean, scissor-like cut without tearing, promoting healthier turf. With nine height positions from 3/4 to 2 inches, it’s easy to dial in a neat, consistent look. The 10-inch wheels help with maneuvering around garden edges and narrow paths.

On well-maintained lawns, the bag captures a solid portion of clippings—useful for patios or poolside areas where debris control matters. The mower feels nimble for its width, and the height adjustments are straightforward. As with most reels, it’s happiest when grass is kept at a reasonable length; heavy growth will require staged passes, and the bag will fill quickly during spring flushes.

Compared to the VEVOR, the LawnMaster’s bag system is more integrated and the height steps are finer, appealing to tidy-yard owners. Against the Scotts 20-inch, you trade a bit of coverage for cleaner collection and easier handling. Ideal for small to mid-sized lawns where clipping control is a priority—offering better cleanliness than catcher-less classics without jumping to the premium Fiskars realm.

The American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is a lightweight 19-pound reel built for simplicity and quick weekend touch-ups. Its 14-inch width and 4-blade design make it extremely easy to push and store, ideal for townhouses or small yards. With 0.5–1.75 inch height adjustment, it favors shorter cuts and frequent maintenance. For users switching from noisy gas, the quiet operation is instantly refreshing.

In practical use, it excels on small, flat lawns with regular mowing cadence. The polymer wheels roll smoothly, and the lighter 4-blade reel demands less effort but isn’t suited for thick, neglected turf. If the lawn reaches 4 inches, increase overlap or plan multiple passes to avoid missed strands. Avoid wet grass to maintain the clean, shear-like cut quality.

Compared to the VEVOR 14-inch, the American Lawn Mower is lighter and simpler but lacks a catcher and can feel less forgiving in taller or denser grass. Versus the Earthwise 7-blade, it’s easier to push but less precise at low heights. Perfect for buyers prioritizing minimal weight and zero-fuss storage over advanced features—an excellent starter reel for tight spaces.

Agile and straightforward, the LawnMaster LMRM1602 hits a sweet spot for maneuverability with its 16-inch deck. The 5-blade reel slices cleanly, and four height settings (1–2 inches) let you keep a tidy, uniform lawn. The 10-inch wheels help it pivot around trees and beds, making it feel spry in tight spaces. It’s a motorless, low-maintenance tool that favors weekly mowing.

In the yard, it threads easily along borders where 18–20 inch decks can feel cumbersome. Keep grass within routine length for the smoothest push and cleanest results; overgrown patches will need staged passes. The steel blades feel durable, and setup is fuss-free. It’s an easy recommendation for smaller lawns where control matters more than maximum coverage.

Compared to the LawnMaster 18-inch with bag, this model sacrifices clipping collection for even better handling and a lighter feel. Against the Scotts 20-inch, you lose width but gain tight turning and less user fatigue over time. Best for owners who prioritize nimble control and quick trims over bagging and maximal swath.

The Great States 204-14 focuses on simplicity and low maintenance, delivering a clean cut with a 14-inch 4-blade reel. Its 0.5–1.75 inch height range and 8.5-inch polymer wheels make it easy to push for users who want a quick, quiet mow. Heat-treated alloy blades stay sharp for years and can be honed when needed. For compact yards, its light footprint and easy storage are standout perks.

In testing, it performs best on small lawns kept at routine height, producing a tidy, scissor-like finish. Because there’s no catcher, clippings mulch back into the lawn—handy for nutrients, though you’ll want to mow more frequently to avoid visible residue. It’s forgiving on flat areas but, like most reels, struggles with tall, dense growth and wet conditions.

Versus the American Lawn Mower 1204-14, the Great States offers similar size and cut feel, with a slight edge in blade longevity thanks to the heat-treated alloy. Compared to the VEVOR, you lose the catcher but gain a simpler, maintenance-light experience. Ideal for homeowners seeking a no-fuss reel that just works for small, well-kept lawns.