Gas powered rotary mower. 9 of the Best Gas Mowers for 2023

of the Best Gas Mowers for 2023

With the right gas mower, cutting the grass can feel less like a chore and more like a calming ritual.

Not merely an item to check off your to-do list, it can be a relaxing and satisfying way to escape the stresses of life.

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A high-quality mower slices through turf with ease, handles like a dream, and leaves your lawn looking like it belongs on the cover of a landscaping magazine.

A shoddy mower, on the other hand, can be unwieldy, strenuous to maneuver, and prone to depositing clumps of grass like a heaving hound.

Therefore, it’s essential to have the right gas mower from the get-go. But in a market that’s full of excellent lawn care equipment, how do you know which one is the right fit for you?

With this roundup of the best gas mowers, you’ll be well-equipped to select the perfect model for your unique lawn care needs.

“Best” is subjective, of course, but I’m confident in saying that any and all of these products can leave your lawn looking like a million bucks.

Here’s a preview of the lineup:

of the Best Gas Mowers

A quick note, for the sake of clarity and avoiding numerical redundancy: I’m classifying “small,” “medium,” and “large” lawns as being up to a quarter-acre, a half-acre, and a full acre in size, respectively.

But these classifications are based on the land being relatively flat. Keep in mind that a hilly acre of lawn has more surface area than a flat acre, and it will obviously have more turf to mow.

Additionally, I’d like to emphasize that we’re covering gas mowers here, which are typically more powerful and easier to repair than both corded and battery-powered electric models.

Black Decker 12A-A2SD736

Let’s begin with how this model starts: it’s got an auto-choke, folks.

Meaning that as soon as you’ve pulled it out of storage, filled it up with gas, and topped it off with four-stroke engine oil, you can give the starter cord a hearty rip. Presto, you’re off and running!

Fans of an orange and black color scheme are sure to appreciate this 78-pound, 140cc mower with a 21-inch mowing deck, which is perfect for small- to medium-sized lawns.

Treaded wheels make movement over uneven terrain efficient and effortless.

With an adjustment handle on each wheel, you can switch between six different cutting heights, which can enable a close shave, a light trim, or anything in between.

Grass clippings can be sent into the rear bag, mulched, or discharged out the side, and you can switch between these options relatively quickly. This model comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 140cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 78 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches

Ready to add the Black Decker 12A-A2SD736 to your arsenal of lawn tools? Pull the trigger and make the purchase at Amazon.

Craftsman M105

Not flashy and free of unnecessary bells and whistles, yet a rock solid worker – just as a craftsman should be.

This bright red model has a mowing width of 21 inches, along with an auto-choke for easy starting.

At a weight of 72.8 pounds, this gas push mower with 140cc engine is light enough to easily muscle and maneuver around a small lawn.

The Craftsman M105 can discharge clippings out the side, collect them in a rear bag, or mulch them back into the turf. For the latter, a mulch kit is included.

With six different height positions, you can quickly and easily switch up how low or high you cut your grass – from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches – via levers on the front wheels.

For added comfort, the handle height is adjustable and it can be folded down for easy storage.

This product comes fully assembled, and should it ever break on you, a two-year warranty has your back.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 140cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 72.8 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches
• Cut Height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches

All in all, a pretty sweet product. Reliable, efficient, a modest aesthetic… What more could you want?

To score this bad boy for yourself, head on over to Amazon.

Honda HRX2176HYA

Admittedly, “Honda HRX2176HYA” doesn’t really roll off the tongue. But it’s not like anyone will be speaking as they gaze upon this beauty. Their jaws will be too busy touching the floor.

This 21-inch, 97-pound mower looks awesome, plain and simple. Its red, black, and gray chassis gives off aesthetic efficiency, which allows the user to shave a small- to medium-sized lawn in style.

The auto-choke, throttle-mediated self-propulsion, 201cc engine, and twin-blade MicroCut® system all make mowing as easy as pie.

Plus, hydrostatic cruise control allows the user to precisely control its speed. No longer can the mower yank you along if you over-throttle!

Need to change the bag, move a toy, or take a break? With a push of a button, the Roto-Stop® system stops the blades without stopping the engine, which saves a lot of time.

The fuel tank can hold about a quart of gas, the engine is started with an easy tug of the pull cord, and the rear collection bag has a capacity of over 23 gallons!

Speaking of, Honda’s Versamow System™ can bag, discharge, or mulch clippings, as well as shred leaves.

For mulching and bagging simultaneously in a custom proportion, the Clip Director® knob comes in handy, allowing you to send some clippings into the bag while others are mulched into the turf… at the same time!

Seven different cutting positions, adjustable via a lever on each wheel, provide a height range of 0.75 to four inches.

Once you’re done, the adjustable handle folds down for convenient storage.

A five-year residential warranty (three-year commercial) covers this product, and the deck – made of dent- and rust-free NeXiteⓇ polymer – is covered for life.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 201cc
• Propulsion: Self-propelled
• Weight: 97 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches
• Cut Height: 0.75 to 4 inches

Is owning the gorgeous Honda HRX2176HYA gas mower a powerful dream? Then make it a reality by picking up one of your own via Home Depot.

Murray 152506

As someone with long legs and a lengthy stride, I can find myself kicking a mower’s rear collection bag if I’m not careful.

With its compact and bagless design, this 20-inch, 125cc model from Murray is the perfect grass-cutting tool for any gawky-legged user with a small lawn.

The Murray 152506 definitely rocks the minimalistic vibe. Petite in appearance yet powerful in performance, this jet-black mower is an economical option for the casual grass cutter with a small backyard.

Weighing a tad under 44 pounds, it can turn on a dime and, compared to heavier manual push models, practically feels self-propelled.

Starting the engine is painless – simply prime thrice and yank the cord.

This mower’s gas tank has a capacity of a little more than a fifth of a gallon, and a four-point adjustment system allows for five different height positions, enabling grass cutting as low as 1.2 inches or as high as 3.75 inches.

As far as dispersal goes, you can either eject the clippings out the side for later raking or mulch them back into the lawn.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 125cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 43.92 pounds
• Mowing Width: 20 inches
• Cut Height: 1.2 to 3.75 inches

A two-year limited warranty is icing on the cake. Have yourself a metaphorical slice and pick this guy up at Home Depot.

PowerSmart DB8621PH

Are you intrigued by the dark aesthetic and design of the Murray mower described above, but you need a few more features – like a rear collection bag and a larger engine? Give this 21-inch gas mower from PowerSmart a go!

Right off the bat, you’ll notice its sleek, black design and robust appearance.

Arriving almost fully assembled, the 75-pound frame is amply sturdy, yet light enough for easy maneuverability through a small to medium lawn.

After priming the carburetor and pulling the cord, the four-stroke 209cc engine roars to life, slicing through grass like Wesley Snipes’ Blade through vampires.

The clippings can either be mulched, fed into the 15.9-gallon rear bag, or discharged out the side.

A cutting height of 1.18 to three inches is made possible by five different blade settings, with each wheel sporting its own adjustment lever.

The gas tank holds about a quart of gas, and once the yard is cut, the handle folds over for convenient storage. And a three-year warranty is included with purchase.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 209cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 75 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches
• Cut Height: 1.18 to 3 inches

You can find this mower available via Amazon.

Toro Recycler 21462

A bright red, 83-pound mower with a 22-inch steel deck and a quart-sized fuel tank, the Toro 21462 Recycler® is ideal for those who want the convenience of cutting their small- to medium-sized lawns with a mower that features an intuitive propulsion system.

What does that mean? Straddling the line between push and self-propelled models, the Personal Pace Auto-Drive™ system adjusts the mower’s speed based on the user’s push.

The harder the user pushes, the faster the mower moves, adjusting quickly as the moment demands it.

You can move slowly on turns and around edges, then up the speed for straight shots through the lawn, never having to fiddle with a speed adjustment switch.

This model’s 163cc engine consistently starts with a single pull of the start cord – no priming required – and cuts grass in a height range of one to four inches, thanks to nine different cutting positions via a four-point adjustment lever system.

The cuttings can either be side-discharged, mulched to an ultra-fine consistency, or bagged, with a lever that allows for easy switching between the latter two while the bag remains attached.

This mower comes with a two-year warranty and a three-year “guaranteed-to-start” engine warranty.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 163cc
• Propulsion: Self-propelled
• Weight: 83 pounds
• Mowing Width: 22 inches
• Cut Height: 1 to 4 inches

Check current now at Home Depot.

Toro Timemaster 21200

The Toro 21200 Timemaster definitely helps you save time, thanks to its large 30-inch mowing width.

It actually has two rotors, rather than one – twin blades spin rapidly side-by-side to cut grass efficiently. Personally, these remind me of the tandem rotors of a Boeing CH-47 Chinook.

And just like that particular helicopter, the Timemaster is a big boy: it has a 223cc engine, weighs 145 pounds, holds 1.2 quarts of fuel for an hour of runtime in one go, and has a rear collection bag volume of about 26 gallons!

It’s the perfect workhorse for those who have a medium to large lawn, but don’t quite need a huge walk-behind or riding model.

For those with smaller lawns, the Toro 21200 Timemaster may be overkill – I’d recommend going with a smaller model.

Equipped with the same Personal Pace® system as the Toro Recycler® described above, this black and red beast also has a traction-assist handle, which allows for additional control over rough terrain.

Starting with the push of a button, rather than a pull cord, this model can side-discharge, mulch, or bag clippings, and the Spin-Stop™ system allows users to halt the blades without cutting the engine.

The Toro 21200 Timemaster has a cutting height range of 1.25 to 4.25 inches, which is adjustable at two points on the left wheels.

Once you’re finished cutting grass, you can attach a hose to the deck’s washout port to clean the underside of grassy gunk, and two storage positions allow for easy storage.

The first folds the handle up vertically, while the second folds the handle all the way down, allowing you to nestle the mower upright in a tight spot in the shed.

With a three-year limited warranty and a three-year guaranteed-to-start engine warranty, you’ll have some peace of mind for a hot minute.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 223cc
• Propulsion: Self-propelled
• Weight: 145 pounds
• Mowing Width: 30 inches
• Cut Height: 1.25 to 4.25 inches

Grab yourself a Toro 21200 Timemaster now from Tractor Supply Company.

Troy-Bilt TB110

I’ve used mowers with sub-par traction on hilly lawns, and it’s quite a tough endeavor, trust me.

You fight tooth and nail for every uphill inch, but when you turn to go back down? You better have grippy shoes on, or you’ll be downhill sprinting real quick.

Thanks to its large, 11-inch rear wheels and S-wave tread pattern, the 66-pound Troy-Bilt TB110 can be safely used to cut turf on slopes throughout a small- to medium-sized lawn.

With its primeless and chokeless ReadyStart™ 140cc engine with a 0.8-quart fuel capacity, this red and black push model starts with a single pull of the cord.

It cuts grass in 21-inch-wide strips at a height range of 1.25 to 3.75 inches, thanks to six different blade positions at four points of adjustment.

Catch clippings in the 17.7-gallon rear collection bag, side discharge, or mulch them to spread back onto the lawn – a mulch kit is included for the latter.

A two-year limited warranty is included with this product.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 140cc
• Propulsion: Push
• Weight: 66 pounds
• Mowing Width: 21 inches
• Cut Height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches

Check current now at Home Depot.

Troy-Bilt TBWC28

Do you have a medium to large lawn that demands a wider cut and more overall “oomph” than the Troy-Bilt TB110?

Then you should seriously consider the Troy-Bilt TBWC28, equipped with a 28-inch mowing deck, 195cc engine, and quart-sized fuel tank.

With the same high traction, large rear wheels as its smaller relative, the Troy Bilt TBWC28 mower will handle the rolling grassy hills of your property with ease.

It comes with self-propulsion via rear-wheel drive, which makes it easy to move this 160-pound unit around.

Additionally, the lever-mediated InStep™ variable speed adjusts based on your walking pace for improved control on rough terrain.

Cutting height ranges from 1.25 to 3.75 inches via six different settings with a single-lever adjustment system.

Starting the engine is always a cinch, thanks to an automatic choke and easy-pull cord.

The clippings can be discharged out the side or into the rear 18.6-gallon bag. They can also be mulched, via the included mulch kit.

A three-year warranty is included with purchase.

Quick Reference Specs

• Engine Volume: 195cc
• Propulsion: Self-propelled
• Weight: 160 pounds
• Mowing Width: 28 inches
• Cut Height: 1.25 to 3.75 inches

To grab yourself a Troy-Bilt TBWC28, visit Home Depot.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Before making such a purchase, it’s important to have a general idea of your constraints and what your needs are.

Let’s consider all of the variables to optimize your grass cutting endeavors, and save you from the dreaded buyer’s remorse.

Lawn

The lawn you cut is just as important as what you cut it with. Go outside, take a look at your turf, and consider the following:

“How big is my lawn?” The larger the lawn, the more you’ll benefit from a powerful engine and a larger mowing width, i.e. how wide each “stripe” of cut grass is, like that of the Toro 21200 Timemaster.

On the other hand, a huge beast of a mower would be overkill if you just have a small strip of turf to maintain in the backyard.

“How hilly is my lawn?” A landscape with tons of ups, downs, and steeply-angled inclines demands a mower with adequate traction and the engine capacity to propel itself.

If you go with a manual push model, a lighter frame comes in handy for muscling it up those hills.

“How is my lawn shaped, and what obstacles are in the way?” A nice, geometrically-shaped lawn that’s free of trees and hardscapes is pretty easy to cut.

But if your lawn is packed with nooks and crannies, or has various bumps, plants, and miscellaneous objects in the way, then you may want to consider a speed-controlled mower with a narrow deck that’s easily maneuverable.

“What’s growing in my lawn?” Different lawns have different growth rates, shoot sizes, densities, and maintenance requirements, depending on the type of turfgrass and weed species that comprise it.

For example, a thick, weedy, and tall lawn could benefit from some specialized blades, like the ones offered by Honda’s MicroCut® system, a feature of the HRX2176HYA model.

But a gardener could make do with more basic cutting features if they have a weed-free lawn filled with slow- and short-growing turfgrass species.

Engine Size

A larger engine will have more power to handle expansive lawns and hilly terrain than smaller engines.

However, a large engine can also be louder and guzzle more gas, which may disturb the neighbors and increase your fuel overhead, respectively.

Clipping Disposal

What you do with your lawn clippings once they’re cut is well worth considering. You have several options, and each comes with notable pros and cons.

Discharging them out the side of your mower is fast and easy. Especially long or wet blades of grass won’t bog down your rotor or clog your blades like they might with mulching.

The cons? Discharged clippings can build up in unaesthetic, grass-killing, and even disease-causing clumps on your lawn. Additionally, they can go flying onto spots where you wish they wouldn’t, such as driveways, sidewalks, and patios.

Mowers that can mulch your clippings, on the other hand, are fitted with specially-shaped blades that create a swirl of air under the mowing deck, which allows them to be cut repeatedly into smaller and smaller pieces.

The mulched clippings are deposited in a line as wide as the mowing deck rather than out to the side. When they return to the turf, they nourish the grass with nitrogen.

Wet or long grasses can gum up mulching blades, and sometimes, it’s enough to stop the rotors entirely. Mulching can also lead to a suboptimal cut, and may force you to walk slower to avoid the aforementioned clogging.

And finally, bagging. Collecting the clippings in a bag can result in a clean, crisply-cut turf. You don’t have the buildup of the former two methods, which leaves your lawn looking oh-so-fine.

The downside is that disposing of the clippings takes time and resources.

Cutting the engine, removing the bag, hauling it away for disposal – it can be a lot of extra work. Work that you may not deem worthwhile.

Priming Versus Auto-Choke

“Priming” a lawn mower’s engine adds fuel to its carburetor, which helps start the engine cold, or in other words, when the engine metal is cool after it hasn’t run for a while.

Models with an auto-choke feature restrict airflow into the carburetor, which promotes a better fuel-to-air ratio for easier cold starts.

Other than a few added seconds of priming before starting the engine, you won’t notice a huge difference in usage. It is possible to under- or over-prime the engine, though – the latter will require waiting about 10 to 15 minutes before trying again.

If you’re a priming neophyte or you don’t want to deal with the hassle, an auto-choke can make engine starting just a bit easier.

Fitness

A heavy mower that you have to push will cause you to break a bigger sweat than a self-propelled model, for straightaways as well as the turns.

Your strength, conditioning, and aversion to discomfort are all important factors to consider, especially with a potentially dangerous activity such as cutting grass in the heat of summer.

After engaging the speed control lever, the transmission powers the wheels and users can simply walk behind self-propelled mowers, guiding them gently as they clip their way around the yard.

Different models may feature front, rear, or all-wheel drive. Push mowers do not have a transmission, and they won’t move on their own.

Budget

Not everyone wants an expensive model with all the bells and whistles.

Some folks may not need a washout port, a super comprehensive warranty, or a blade-stopping system, preferring a simple, bare-bones mower to keep their grass from looking like a prairie.

Something easy to use, to keep the local HOA off their back.

For others, maintaining aesthetic turf is a serious pursuit, a point of pride, or perhaps a way of keeping up with the Joneses.

If this is you, then dropping a pretty penny on a premium mower can get you far in the lawn care game.

Maintenance and Safety

Once you’ve acquired your beautiful grass-cutting machine, there are some regular maintenance tasks that will ensure its performance for years to come.

Additionally, there are habits you should always practice to keep yourself and others around you safe.

For both, referring to your mower’s user manual will go a long way. No one knows more about a mower than its maker, after all.

But the following pointers should serve you well, regardless of model:

Maintenance Tips

Keep your mower maintained as the well-oiled machine it deserves to be.

Check the dipstick before each use, and treat your engine right with high-quality oil, as recommended by the manufacturer.

Ensure that the blades are sharpened prior to the start of each growing season.

If you’ve got a side grass-cutting business going or have a large, unruly lawn, sharpening once more mid-season is a Smart move. Service technicians are qualified to safely sharpen blades, if you lack a grinding wheel of your own.

Before and after mowing, be sure to check the unit for damage.

Worn belts and loose wheels can lead to inadvertent breakdowns, and busted engines can be royal pains in the keister, especially if they occur when your lawn is halfway mowed.

After use, clean the blades and the underside of the mowing deck. These parts can easily become gunked up with clumps of grass clippings, which can hinder the performance of your equipment.

Don’t store gas in the gas tank during the offseason. Fuel lines can clog, parts can corrode, and you could be forced to pony up for some costly repairs.

And of course, it never hurts to take your mower into the shop each year for a general tune-up and servicing.

Many local businesses offer mower repair services. User manuals also typically include checklists of maintenance tasks with a suggested timeline.

Safety Tips

Don’t leave your mower unattended while the engine is running and the blades are spinning. If you plan on taking a break, it’s best to shut it off.

Or activate the Roto-Stop® system in the case of the Honda HRX2176HYA, or the Spin-Stop™ feature with the Toro Timemaster.

Be mindful of a hot engine. You don’t want to burn your skin via dermal contact!

Wear the proper personal protective equipment: eye protection, ear protection, long pants, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. Don’t go barefoot, no matter how zen it feels to let your piggies splay in the grass.

Keep your head on a swivel and pay attention to your surroundings at all times.

Make sure to cut the engine for nearby pedestrians, as small, hard objects thrown by the blades can injure bystanders.

The You Know, the Better You Mow

This primer on some of the best gas mowers will definitely save you some headache come purchasing time. The right tool for the job will always result in better work, that’s for sure!

Make sure to be the smartest shopper you can be. Consider your needs, resources, and preferences before pulling the trigger on a purchase. And don’t lose that receipt!

Do you have additional questions about these products, or personal experiences with any of them? The Комментарии и мнения владельцев section is wide open!

Need some more outstanding outdoor equipment to keep your yard looking fine? These guides will point you in the right direction:

© Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Product photos via Black Decker, Craftsman, Home Depot, Honda, Murray, PowerSmart, Toro, Tractor Supply, and Troy-Bilt. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock.

Are Reel Mowers Really Worth It? Learn Pros, Cons, Cost, and

If you have a small yard to mow and would prefer not to use a bulky, gas-guzzling mower to get the job done, a reel lawn mower might be the better option. These old-fashioned push mowers are quiet and easy to operate, and they produce zero emissions.

They also provide a clean, precise cut, which is better for the overall health of your lawn and grass. Read on to find out more about the benefits of a reel mower.

What Is a Reel Lawn Mower?

A reel lawn mower essentially snips your grass like a pair of scissors would. It doesn’t have a built-in power source; by pushing it, you cause the blades to spin. (Most push reel mowers are manual, although you can also find gas- or battery-powered ones.) Compact, quiet, and easy to maneuver, this type of mower is best for those with small lawns.

How Does a Reel Mower Work?

Most reel mowers have a long handle and two wheels on a single axle, with either four, five, or seven blades (keep in mind that more blades lead to a cleaner cut). They use these blades to pull grass into the mower so that the cutter bar can snip it. The blades spin vertically, rather than horizontally, using a scissoring action that cleanly slices grass.

The average cost for a new lawn mower is between 80 and 3,200, depending on its type and special features

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Reel Mower?

There are a few key pros and cons to consider when trying to decide if a reel mower is right for you. The biggest advantage of a reel mower is that it provides a cleaner cut, but if you have a massive yard, it might not make sense to use a push mower.

Carefully weigh the following pros and cons before making your decision:

Pros

There’s no denying the benefits of a reel mower. Most notably, reel mowers are better for your lawn’s health. They provide a clean, scissor-like cut, which helps your grass heal faster (and also makes for a tidier look).

In comparison, power rotary mowers rip and shred your grass, which can leave your lawn vulnerable to insect attacks and disease.

Reel mowers are also quiet in operation, resulting in a more peaceful user experience. They produce zero emissions, so they don’t degrade air quality like gas-powered mowers do. And, they’re easy to operate, easy to maintain, and affordable.

Cons

However, if your grass is too tall and/or dense before mowing, it’ll likely be impossible to cut it with a manual reel mower. In this case, a reel mower will just push the grass down and ineffectively roll over it.

You’ll also need to clean up any debris (twigs, leaves, etc.) from your yard before mowing since reel mowers can’t go over anything that’s not grass. In addition, since most reel mowers are manual, they do require some physical effort to operate, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

How Should I Care for My Reel Mower?

It’s important to know what goes into caring for and maintaining your mower, whether you’re focused on regular upkeep or trying to decide whether you should repair or replace your mower altogether.

Luckily, reel mowers require very little maintenance, especially when compared to gas mowers, which require regular upkeep in the form of oil changes, tune-ups, and more.

To ensure your push reel mower stays in tip-top shape, you should lubricate and sharpen the blades every two to three years. And of course, don’t forget to clean off your mower each time you use it. Just hose off all the grass clippings and let it dry.

A little mower maintenance will keep your grass green, short, and healthy

Is a Reel Mower Worth the Price?

Reel mowers generally range in price from 80 to 200, which is more affordable than other types of mowers. You also don’t have to pay for oil or gas like you do with gas-powered mowers.

Considering the many benefits of a reel lawn mower, if you have a small lawn and don’t mind the physical act of pushing your mower around the yard, a reel mower is very much worth the price.

That said, if you have a super-spacious lawn, it may not be worth it to purchase a reel mower since this type of mower is designed for small, flat lawns. Also, you have to put more time and effort into cutting your grass than you would with a gas-powered mower.

If you don’t have a ton of extra time to devote to your lawn, a reel mower might not be worth the price—in which case, you may want to hire a local landscaping company to take care of your lawn, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Reel Mower vs Gas: Both Options Compared

Maybe you’re in the process of buying a new mower and are not able to decide between these two options. Or perhaps you’ve got a gas mower, but your neighbor has been talking highly about their reel mower and you’re tempted to give it a try. Whatever the reason you find yourself on this page, we’re going to thoroughly compare the reel mower vs gas mower, looking at both the pros and cons you can expect from each, to help you to try and decide which is the best option for your lawn.

Reel Mower vs Gas: The Quick Summary

The differences between a reel mower vs gas mower are numerous and quite significant, but there are two main ones you need to be aware of. A reel mower is non-motorized (so is powered by you) whereas a gas mower is powered by an engine that requires fuel (gas). The blades (I say “blades” as there are usually 5 or 7) on a reel mower are arranged in a cylinder, whereas a gas mower uses a rotary blade to cut the grass.

These are the main differences, although there are many more. Reel mowers don’t produce any emissions, whereas gas mowers are known to be the worst type of mower in terms of pollution. There’s no comparison in the reel mower vs gas debate when we talk about power; gas mowers are far more powerful.

If you’re looking for a quick recommendation, here it is. If you have a small, flat city lot, are able to maintain your lawn regularly and it only takes 10-20 minutes I’d opt for a reel mower. Anything else (not flat, bigger lawn, longer grass), I’d go with a gas mower over a reel mower, although electric mowers would also be worth taking a look at in that case. Basically, something motorized with a rotary blade.

Comparing Reel Mower vs Gas Mower in Detail

If you’re in a rush, on the sales page trying to decide between a reel mower vs gas mower, the last section will likely have provided you with what you needed. But if you’re looking for more details, I’m now going to compare the reel mower vs gas mower across several different areas of usage to give you a more complete picture of what it’d be like to own and use each of these types of mower.

Mowing Power

The “power” that a mower has is something a lot of people are bothered about when looking for a new mower. It’s got to be powerful enough to do the job, otherwise, that image of the guy happily mowing the lawn in the movies is not going to be at all like your experience. You’re going to be tearing your hair out!

Whether a mower is powerful enough to do a good job depends in large part on the conditions you’re expecting it to work in, which I’ll talk about in a moment. But just comparing the reel mower vs gas mower side by side in this sense is like comparing night and day. The reel mower has no motor/engine and is the least powerful type of mower you can buy. The gas mower on the other hand uses an engine and is the most powerful type of mower you can buy (it beats an electric mower on this score too).

What does this mean in real life? Well, if you frequently need to cut long, thick grass, and maybe even weeds sometimes, the gas mower is going to be a much better choice. Providing it is kept in good condition, it’ll navigate these conditions quickly and easily. A reel mower on the other hand would struggle enormously in these same conditions. Even with the blades nice and sharp, it’s very likely that the blades will keep jamming up or you’d find that the reel mower is hard to push (which gets tiring and tedious). They’re just not designed for cutting longer grass or weeds.

A reel mower is designed for light usage and will deliver a beautiful cut providing the grass is kept to a reasonable length in between mowings, and you’re only cutting an inch or so off each time. When your lawn is in its growth period, this obviously means that you’ll need to mow far more frequently. You just have to ask yourself if you are willing and able to commit to doing this.

Bottom Line: Gas mowers provide you with the power to tame even the wildest of lawns, while the reel mower is designed for light maintenance and the lawn must be mowed regularly. If you like the idea of a reel mower but you’re concerned about the cutting power (or lack of it), you might want to read my guide on electric vs gas lawn mowers, as an electric mower could be more viable for your use case.

The Type of Blade

If you have the type of lawn that could be maintained by either a reel or gas mower, the type of blade each of these mowers has and the way it cuts may play a part in which way you end up going.

“But aren’t all lawn mower blades the same?” you might be thinking. No, is the short answer. The reel mower is fitted with a cylinder that is comprised of several blades (usually 5 or 7 – it depends on the model). This is the defining characteristic of a reel mower. As you push the mower, this cylinder rotates forward to cut the grass. A gas mower on the other hand is fitted with a rotary blade that is concealed underneath the mower deck and spins at a high speed parallel to the ground.

The manner in which these blades cut the grass differs quite significantly. With a reel mower, as the cylinder passes over the grass, the blades of grass poke through and are “sliced” down to size as the cylinder rotates forward. If you think about how it’d be if you cut a blade of grass with a pair of scissors, the cutting technique of a reel mower is rather similar. This is a very clean cut and promotes quicker recovery, so lawns often look healthier.

The rotary blade on a gas mower on the other hand will tend to “rip” the grass rather than slice it. This cut it generates is not as clean as that produced by a reel mower, and this can increase the risk of lawn diseases and exploitation by pests. I don’t want to make you think that cylinder blades are great and rotary blades are awful though. Providing the blade is kept sharp, a rotary blade will do a perfectly adequate job and won’t cause any problems for your lawn. BUT, the cut is never as clean as that of a reel/cylinder mower.

Bottom Line: Reel mowers produce a cleaner cut that promotes better lawn health than the rotary blade on a gas mower.

Maintenance Requirements

When comparing the reel mower vs gas mower, maintenance is definitely an area that you’ll want to consider, as the experience of owning each of these mowers can be quite different.

The makeup of a reel mower is so basic that there’s not much that can go wrong or that needs maintaining. The whole mower really just consists of the blade cylinder, two wheels and a handle. Very occasionally you might need to oil the wheels, but your primary concern as the owner of one of these mowers is going to be the blades. They need to be kept sharp. How often you’ll need to sharpen the blades will depend quite a lot on how often you’re mowing and how much lawn you’re taking care of. But the average use case only requires sharpening 1-2 times per season.

The gas mower is a totally different prospect when it comes to maintenance and is a lot more involved. You have the standard tasks of keeping the blade sharp and the cutting deck free of clippings (the same as with an electric mower). But on top of that you’ll need to monitor the engine oil level (adding more when necessary), check and clean/change the spark plug, add gas when necessary, periodically clean/change the air filter, keep the carburetor clean and check/clean/change the fuel filter. I’m probably missing something here, but you get the gist. There’s a lot more to do vs the reel mower, so if you don’t actually need the extra power a gas mower provides, you’re committing yourself to a lot of extra responsibility unnecessarily. And that’s not even mentioning the prep you have to do ahead of winter storage. Forgetting to winterize your lawn mower can be a real headache when you pull it out again in the spring!

Bottom Line: Reel mowers require very little maintenance to continue running smoothly, while gas mowers are the most demanding type of mower in terms of maintenance.

Storage

Another area in which owning a reel mower vs gas is quite different is storing it. They are almost opposites if truth be told.

Reel mowers are light and have a very compact profile, which makes storing them a breeze. They can either be hung up on the wall or stored on the floor and require very little space. This is another reason why they’re so popular among people with small city lots, where storage space is a prized commodity.

Gas mowers on the other hand most definitely cannot be hung up on the wall. The engine makes them heavy, plus if you store them anything other than level, you’ll likely have oil and gas leaking all over the place. Look for a model that allows you to fold the handle right over (a lot of them do) to reduce the storage footprint. That’s the best you can hope for. You just have to accept that if you go for a gas mower, you’ll need the garage space to store it.

You also have to be aware that you’ll need to store gas and oil somewhere at your home. If you don’t have outside storage space, a gas mower is probably not the best idea.

Bottom Line: Reel mowers are very flexible in terms of where they can be stored and take up very little space, while gas mowers require outside storage and are typically much bigger.

Noise Levels

Again, reel mowers and gas mowers are very much on the opposite end of the spectrum on this score too. As you’ll be coming to understand, this is a recurring theme when comparing the reel mower vs gas.

Reel mowers don’t have an engine or a motor. They’re completely powered by you pushing them forward, which causes the blade cylinder to spin. The only noise you’ll really hear is the sound of the blades cutting the grass, and that’s minimal. The only time I’ve heard a reel mower that I thought was “loud” was one that clearly needed a bit of oil adding to it to lubricate the parts.

Gas mowers can be extremely loud. It does vary from model to model, but don’t buy one if you think noise could be an issue, because it most likely will be. You’re going to be using a powerful piece of kit and you’ll know about it. I’d recommend you use some type of ear protection.

Bottom Line: If you buy a gas mower you’re going to have to put up with significantly more noise than you would with a reel mower.

Price

Do you have a budget in mind? As reel mowers are much more basic in design the cost to produce them is generally cheaper and that is reflected in their sale price. I’m not saying you can’t pay a lot for a reel mower; you can – some of Fiskars’ models aren’t cheap. But on the whole, you’ll find that reel mowers are more budget-friendly than gas mowers.

Some of the top-end reel mowers are a similar price to the entry-level gas mowers. And the thing is, I personally wouldn’t recommend “going cheap” with a gas mower. I’ve always been taught that with a lot of things, you buy poor quality, you buy twice. I’ve found that to be true with gas mowers. Budget gas mowers tend to be made with poor-quality components (it’s the only way to produce them for such prices).

Bottom Line: Expect to pay 100-200 for a decent reel mower vs 250-400 for a gas mower. You can pay less for both types of mower though.

Running Costs

The price you pay on the day that you buy your mower is not the only cost you have to consider. There’s also the ongoing cost to run the mower. And this is an area that the reel mower offers a significant advantage over the gas mower (and every other type of mower to be honest).

Reel mowers cost you NOTHING to run. A big fat zero. You can’t get better than that, huh?! There is no fuel or energy source to pay for. You are the energy source. So as long as you’re fit and able to push a reel mower, it’ll mow your lawn for free.

With a gas mower, you obviously have to take the gas into consideration. And if you’ve got a large lawn, this can actually be quite a significant running cost. You’ll also need to pay for oil, spark plug and air filter changes, among other things. So please remember that once you’ve paid for your gas mower, that’s not the end of your spending, it’s just the beginning.

Bottom Line: Reel mowers are very economical and have no ongoing running costs to power them, whereas with a gas mower you’ll need to pay for gas.

Quick Recap of Reel Mowers

I’ve tried to be as thorough as possible here in comparing the reel mower vs gas mower, but I realize that this is quite a lot of information to process.

So I’ve quickly recapped the main pros and cons of each for you below.

Pros of Reel Mowers

• Can be purchased for a very reasonable cost
• Barebones design that is easy to understand and operate
• Cylinder blade slices through grass rather than tearing it, which promotes fast recovery
• Can be stored anywhere and takes up very little space
• Very, very quiet, producing just 55 decibels on average
• Apart from the blades, there’s nothing to maintain
• Doesn’t cost anything to run – no fuel or energy to pay for

Cons of Reel Mowers

• Doesn’t deal with long, thick grass well, nor weeds
• Regular mowing sessions are a must
• Large areas or uneven ground are not well suited to reel mowers

Pros of Gas Mowers

• Have the power to cut right through the toughest conditions (overgrown grass, weeds etc)
• Will generally help you to cut your lawn faster than a reel mower
• suitable for larger or uneven lawns
• Can bag, mulch or discharge your clippings

Cons of Gas Mowers

• Generally more expensive than reel mowers
• maintenance to do
• Ongoing cost of gas, oil etc
• Take up more storage space
• A lot noisier than a reel mower, and produces fumes

Final Thoughts on Reel Mowers vs Gas Mowers

I’ve owned reel mowers before and I own a gas mower now. Why did I change? The main reason was the size of my lawn. I had a postage stamp lawn when I had a reel mower that I could mow in 10 minutes flat. The lawn at my current place is much larger. I also have a bunch of tricky little sections to deal with and don’t like having to manage a power cord. Plus I’m sometimes a little lazy with my yard care (I go on too many trips) and it sometimes “matures” a little more than I would like (code for it gets overgrown). My gas mower allows me to get it back into shape quickly.

About Tom Greene

I’ve always had a keen interest in lawn care as long as I can remember. Friends used to call me the lawn mower guru (hence the site name), but I’m anything but. I just enjoy cutting my lawn and spending time outdoors. I also love the well-deserved doughnuts and coffee afterward!

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Reel Mower vs. Rotary Mowers

But one of the most unique distinctions between lawn mowers is whether the mower uses reel or rotary blades.

And no I’m not talking about manual push reel mowers. I’m talking about the REAL, gas-powered reel mowers like the one below:

So, which is better rotary or reel? Let’s find out!

Which is better a Rotary or Reel mower?

To determine which mower is better, we have to weigh the differences of each machine. As well as the pros and cons.

First up is the rotary mower:

What is a Rotary Mower?

A rotary mower is your standard everyday lawn mower. It’s likely what you immediately think of when you hear the word “lawn mower”. Rotary mowers use a blade that rotates parallel to the lawn they are cutting.

How do rotary mowers work?

Rotary mowers work by rotating at incredibly high speeds. This high speed creates a lift, forming a vacuum, which causes the grass to be sucked upwards. Meanwhile, the blade rotates quickly around (at about 200mph or 3000 rpm) and slices the grass at the blade height.

This suction along with the quickly spinning blade or blades is what cuts grass efficiently.

The Purpose of Rotary Mowers

Rotary mowers are all-purpose mowers that can cut just about any type of lawn. They are better for cutting grass on uneven ground, or on lawns where sticks and rocks are present. Further, rotary mowers are best for cutting grass at taller grass.

Pros of Reel Mowers: Can cut tall grass easily, and the blades are cheap and easy to sharpen. Are not easily affected by sticks or even rocks. To get your lawn ready for a reel mower, use these yard clean up tips.

Cons of Reel Mowers: Can not cut grass as low as a rotary mower, and does not cut as evenly as a reel mower can. Does not cut grass as cleanly.

What is a REAL reel mower?

Look, I was shocked when I found this one out myself. Reel mowers aren’t just rinky-dink pieces of metal that serve better as a lawn decoration than actually keeping grass cut.

No, there are also commercial grade high-end top-of-the-line reel mowers that offer some unique features that the traditional rotary mower can not. We will get to those features in a moment. But first…

How do reel mowers work?

Unlike a rotary mower which uses 1, 2, or even 3 quickly rotating blades that spin parallel to the ground, a reel mower uses 4, 5, 7 or even 11 blades on a single reel.

Get this, some top-end commercial reel mowers, like the TORO 121 Reelmaster® 7000 Mower, can have as many as 5 reels. With 11 blades on each reel. That’s 55 blades!

I would hate to be the one that has to sharpen the blades on a mower like that!

So, what the heck is so special about these “reel” mowers anyhow?

The Purpose of Reel Mowers

Here’s the deal, a reel mower isn’t for your average homeowner’s lawn. No, these precision-grade machines are for those who want a PERFECT lawn. And I mean perfect.

As far as use on residential properties, about the only people that use a high-end reel mower, are hobbyist homeowners who love perfecting their lawns.

However, when it comes to commercial properties like baseball stadiums, golf courses, soccer fields, and the like. A reel mower offers a far superior cut, with sharper stripes and a tighter cut.

Pros of Reel Mowers: Reel mowers are excellent at cutting grass low and tight to the ground, best of all they can provide a nice even cut on the lawn. They also offer a sharper, cleaner cut on the grass which avoids grass discoloration.

Cons of Reel Mowers: Easily jammed up by sticks and rocks. Further, they can not cut tall grass well either. Sharpening the blades is not a DIY project. The lower cut may lead to a lawn more likely to become brown in the summer heat. Grass needs to be cut more frequently (twice a week or more).

Which is Better Reel or Rotary Mower?

Well, to be honest. Each mower has its place.

Rotary mowers will probably always be the front-runner choice for most lawn care pros and homeowners. Simply put they are more versatile and easier for the average user to operate and troubleshoot.

However, reel mowers do seem to be growing in popularity among homeowners. The thing is while they offer a superior cut, unless you frivolously maintain your lawn, or pay top dollar to have your lawn perfectly manicured by lawn care pros. You will have more issues than it’s worth to operate a reel mower.

Should I invest in a reel mower for my lawn care company?

While in theory, a reel cutting service may appeal to some residential clients, very few are going to want to pay for 2 or 3 cuts a week.

In my experience, the only practical application for reel mowers is for lawn care companies that specifically service large commercial properties that are willing to pay top dollar to have their lawns perfectly manicured.

Or if you are specifically targeting VERY wealthy clients that want a perfectly maintained lawn and are willing to fork out

Reel Mowers are practical for cutting sports fields, and especially golf courses. So unless you have large commercial clients I would not recommend investing in a reel mower for your lawn care business. The bottom line is it’s not the type of equipment you want if you are just getting started.

In the words of one lawn care pro:

Rotary vs. Reel At the End of the Day

While there are certainly some amazing advantages to using a reel mower on certain properties, overall the rotary mower will always be a more practical solution for a lawn care company.

While they can be a fun hobby for your own lawn, the commercial use of a reel mower for a profitable lawn care company is strictly limited to VERY high-end residential clients and commercial clients that want a perfect lawn.

If you are looking for more great lawn care business tips, check out our lawn care pros section.

The Best Reel Mowers for Your Lawns in 2023 Buying Guide

Reel lawn mowers can be a wise choice for yard maintenance because they are relatively inexpensive, quiet, and easy to maintain. Plus, they only take up only a fraction of the space required by a typical mower.

But that’s not all, they are also better for the overall health of your lawn since they cut grass blades the way scissors would. This is unlike a traditional rotary mower that tends to rip and tear grass, leaving brown tips and exposing it to diseases.

If you’re wondering why else you should consider a reel mower and which ones are the best reel mowers in 2023, then this article was specifically written for a lawn owner like you!

We go over not only what the best reel mowers are, but also what exactly you should look for, and how they work to help you make the best decision for your lawn.

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What is a Reel Mower?

A reel mower has vertically spinning blades. This differs from the majority of lawnmowers, known as rotary mowers, in which the blade spins horizontally.

Historically, reel mowers are mechanically powered, necessitating the use of muscle to cut grass. However, today you can also find reel mowers powered by gas, which are particularly useful for cutting larger turf areas.

How Does a Reel Mower Work?

Most motorized push mowers use rotary blades. The cutting edge is parallel to the ground and goes around and around in a clockwise motion (or maybe it’s counter-clockwise, but you get the point).

By contrast, a reel mower’s five to eight spiral steel blades spin at an angle perpendicular to the ground. As you push the mower, the reel turns and snips the grass in a scissor-like motion. It provides a finer cut than a rotary mower — no ripping or tearing — and seals the grass blade, which keeps moisture in and lawn diseases out.

People purchase reel mowers primarily due to their clean, short cut. The truth is that only reel mowers can achieve a cutting height of half an inch or less. If you’ve ever wondered how golf courses maintain such short grass, the answer is a gas-powered reel mower.

Also, unlike power mowers, which create a vacuum that pulls up the blades of grass as it cuts, the snipping action of a reel mower causes minimal disturbance to the natural growth pattern of turf.

This interwoven network of leaves (blades of grass) just above the soil level is a key element of turf’s natural ability to retain moisture and crowd out weeds. Reel mowers cut the grass in place, reducing the vertical height but leaving the grass with blades of varying lengths.

Professional groundskeepers prefer the cutting action of a reel mower because it allows them to cut at the lowest recommended height and still maintain a beautiful healthy look.

It also produces a natural mulch by dispersing clippings in a fine spray (no clumping) that decompose quickly. Left on the lawn, these clippings release nutrients into the soil. Over the course of a growing season, that mulch is equivalent to a free application of organic fertilizer.

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Why Consider Using a Reel Lawn Mower?

There are multiple reasons why you should consider using a reel lawn mower. Let’s look at some of our top reasons:

• First of all, they start every time.
• They’re much quieter than gas-powered mowers, so quiet that you can mow early Sunday morning without waking the neighbors.
• They’re fuel-free unless you count those bowls of cereal or peanut butter sandwiches that power your engine.
• They don’t degrade air quality (lawn mower engines are terribly inefficient and emit more than 10 times the hydrocarbons per amount of gas burned than auto engines).
• Not only are reel mowers great for the environment, but they also require little maintenance and are a great means of exercise.
• They’re cheaper than gas-powered mowers, both in initial outlay and operating costs.

Are Reel Lawn Mowers Better Than Gas Mowers?

Reel lawn mowers are definitely better than gas-powered, rotary mowers.

Rotary lawn mowers tend to tear off the tops of grass blades, leaving them exposed to disease. Ever notice how the tops of each grass blade turn brown after mowing with a gas machine?

A reel mower snips the grass, like scissors, leaving finer trimmings to mulch in your yard. This mulch not only nourishes your lawn but also prevents weed seeds from germinating.

Rotary mowers also create a vacuum as they pass (that’s why they’re great for cutting tall, droopy weeds). They literally vacuum the mulch layer off the ground, providing an opportunity for weeds to find space to take root.

On the other hand, reel mowers will cut shorter (approximately 1-3/4 to 2-1/2 inches depending on the model) without disturbing the soil surface.

What About the Disadvantages of Using a Reel Mower?

No doubt you’ve heard of the drawback associated with reel push mowers from some disgruntled neighbor or relative.

They’re just too much work.

They’re hard to keep sharp and don’t cut evenly.

They leave the dandelion crowns standing.

These concerns are mostly a thing of the past. New materials and technology have made reel mowers lighter and more efficient. And a few changes in your lawn care strategy will not only make life with a reel mower easier but will result in benefits to your yard — and your health — as well.

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Easy to store whether you park it in the garage or hang it up on a wall.

When was Reel Mowers Invented?

Push mowers, invented in 1830 by Edwin Budding near Stroud, England (you can see one of the originals in the London Science Museum), have improved since I discovered that old reel back in the woodshed.

Today, they’re lighter, smoother rolling, and made of stronger alloys. Blades stay sharper longer — about twice as long as a power mower’s spark plug lasts — and some machines are designed for specialized uses such as cutting thick, low-growing Bermuda and Zoysia grass.

With a little care and planning, a push reel mower will not only give you years of quiet, fuel and pollution-free service. It will help you keep a better lawn.

Things to Consider When Buying a Reel Mower

Size and Terrain

Reel lawn mowers are best used in smaller, level yards. The wider a mower is, the harder it will be to push.

Steep hills can make mowing difficult (as they do with power lawn mowers) but maneuverability with a reel mower, especially those with rear wheels, is better than with most power mowers.

Still, a reel mower may require pulling the mower back and pushing it in the new direction. This assures a clean cut as it trims any grass missed while rotating the reel.

Weed Control

Push reel mowers tend to run over tall weeds, like dandelion flowers, rather than cut them. But a reel lawn mower makes weed control easier. You’ll want to inspect your lawn for obstructions as you mow. A rock can chip mower blades. I always cleared twigs and fallen fruit from beneath my trees before making a pass with the mower.

Type of Grass

It’s best to consider the type of grass you’ll be mowing and the height you prefer as this will affect the cutting width and number of reel blades to look for in your reel mower.

Most mower reels contain five blades and are fine for cutting Kentucky bluegrass, perennial rye, fescue, and other common grasses. Thicker grasses found in the South and areas prone to droughts, like Zoysia, Bent, and Bermuda grasses, are best handled by seven-blade mowers.

Models with seven blades and an 18-inch cutting width are good for medium-sized lawns. If they are consistently maintained, most small to medium-sized lawns can be successfully cut by reel mowers with four or five blades and smaller cutting widths.

Cutting Height

In warmer, wetter climates where grass grows quickly, an adjustable blade height feature found on some more expensive reel models can be a lifesaver. Most of the time, these settings range anywhere from 0.5 to 4 inches.

Consider the amount of moisture your lawn receives and the kinds of use it gets so that you’ll know just how short to cut.

Other Features

To increase comfort when mowing medium-sized lawns, some reel lawn mower models feature ergonomic, cushioned handles, attached grass collection bins, and other features.

An InertiaDrive reel is another feature to look for in a reel mower; it provides a more precise cut and is especially helpful for cutting tall and thick grasses.

Planet Natural’s Picks for Best Reel Mowers in 2023

Here are our top picks for the best reel mowers you can buy in 2023:

Best Overall Reel Mower: Great States 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower

The Great States 415-16 push reel lawn mower is the first on our list and is well-known for its cutting power. This mower does an excellent job of trimming and shaping your lawn thanks to its blade height adjustment range of 0.5 to 2.5 inches.

This reel mower is our top pick because of the high quality of its blades; they are made of heat-treated alloy steel and stay sharp for a very long time. The blades are sharp enough to use for trimming precise lawn borders. And the mower’s cushioned handle makes it simple to push through even the thickest grass with a solid grip.

It requires only one push to start, making it a hassle-free manual lawn mower. Plus, the lightweight design of the Great States reel lawn mower makes it easy to maneuver throughout the yard.

The reels cut the grass cleanly and efficiently, leaving behind a neat and even lawn without any ripping or tearing. In addition, the lawn mower is simple and easy to store. It can be hung on a wall or tucked away in a garage nook and so requires minimal storage space.

Best Wide Cutting Width Reel Mower: Scotts Outdoor Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower

The Scotts 2000-20 is our top pick for a reel mower with a wide cutting width for healthy, precise cutting.

The mower’s 20-inch cutting swath allows it to quickly and cleanly remove grass in a single motion, without tearing or ripping the blades. With the Scotts 2000-20 mower, you’ll never have to go over your lawn more than once.

The blades are made of heat-treated alloy steel, which maintains its edge for a longer period of time and allows for exceptionally precise grass cutting. The blade adjustment range is from 1 to 3 inches.

The enhanced maneuverability on the lawn is a result of the dual-tracking wheels, which allow for a more even cut when moving around your lawn.

Mowing is a breeze with the Scotts 2000-20 Outdoor Power Tools mower. Ergonomic padding on the mower’s handles promotes healthful posture as you cut the grass.

It can be quickly and easily assembled with no extra hardware and tools required. It’s one of the most user-friendly and space-efficient manual lawn mowers on the market, making this model a top pick at its price point.

Best Lightweight Reel Mower: American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch 4-Blade Mower

With being the lightest reel mower on the list, the 14-inch American Lawn Mower weighs just 20 pounds overall. It has four cutting blades made of a steel alloy that has been heated to prevent them from becoming dull. It also has 8.5-inch polymer wheels and rear rollers to make it more stable.

This smaller American Lawn Mower is ideal for mowing a small lawn, and its light weight makes it easier to operate for smaller individuals. It has both a T-handle and a padded handle to make mowing more comfortable.

Plus, this compact, low-maintenance reel mower has a fold-down handle for storage and is light enough to hang in the garage if preferred. The cutting height can be adjusted from 0.5 to 2.75 inches.

Since there are only four 14-inch blades cutting against the bedknife, this mower provides the least resistance out of all the models on the list, making it a good one if you’re a beginner or worried about manual mowers being too difficult to push.

Overall, this four-blade reel mower is sturdy and simple to operate, though it might need a second pass to finish cleaning up tougher patches due to having fewer blades.

You could use it to maintain the paths in your vegetable garden or other low-traffic grassy areas effectively with this manual mower.

Best High-Quality Reel Mower: Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower, 18 Inch

This Fiskars reel mower might be pricey, but you certainly get high quality in return for the price. This model has two small front rollers for better balance and stability, and its high-quality StaySharp blades require less frequent sharpening.

In addition to that, it has a design called InertiaDrive that enables the mower to cut through grass that is denser.

Even though the Fiskars Stay Sharp Max mower costs roughly twice as much as the others on the list, it easily outperforms them in every way. The construction, which weighs a hefty 52 pounds, has a heavy-duty feel but operates efficiently.

Even on the roughest terrain, the machine can be maneuvered with relative ease thanks to the ergonomically designed handle.

The wheels on this reel mower are offset in a way that prevents them from flattening the grass before mowing, allowing you to get closer to the edge of your lawn (only an inch away) than you would with most other reel mowers (typically 3.5 inches).

The lever’s height can be altered quickly and easily with one hand and the cutting height can be adjusted anywhere from one to four inches, and the chute can be moved in either direction, allowing the clippings to fall either in front of or behind the mower as desired.

This Fiskars mower has a cutting width of 18 inches, which makes it an excellent choice for maintaining lawns in both smaller and larger sizes. Plus, you can buy a grass catcher on its own if you want to.

If you’re looking for unbeatable quality, you can’t go wrong with this reel mower.

Best Reel Mower for Tall Grass: American Lawn Mower Company 16-inch Reel Mower

Unlike most reel lawn mowers, this 16-inch push reel lawn mower from American Lawn Mower Company has blades and a bed knife made of tempered steel, as well as an unbreakable steel side plate.

This built quality is incredible and definitely worth checking out. The blades slice through grass blades up to 4 inches tall, just like a pair of scissors would without ripping them like rotary mowers would.

One of the things that we love the most about this particular mower is how easy it is to use! If you’re concerned that a manual reel mower will be a lot of physical work, then consider trying this one by American Lawn Mower Company; it makes mowing a breeze and is easy to move through tall grass even with one hand.

How To Use a Manual Push Mower

Single Pass

Back when your grandpa was using a reel mower, the common grass-cutting technique was to saw–pass the mower back and forth in a sawing-like motion. That’s because the blades weren’t all that sharp. Today that’s unnecessary. Just walk at a normal pace and a single pass (or sometimes two) will suffice.

Cut to Shortest Recommend Length

Always cut to the shortest recommended height. That makes it an easier job for both you, the pusher, as well as for the reel push mower.

You’ll want to keep your grass at a proper mowing height (no more than three to four inches) and try to mow no more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. This helps feed the soil and ensures that your lawn will have deeper roots, which makes the grass healthier and discourages weeds.

Stay Regular

That is, it’s better to mow a little bit and frequently instead of waiting for the grass to be too high. Usually once a week will do the trick.

Avoid long gaps and tall grass between mowings. Tall grass means too much work and it will be harder on you and the mower

Overlap Your Mowing Lines

Overlapping wheels while bicycle racing causes accidents. In the case of your lawn, overlapping the mowing pattern is a good thing. It makes it easier to mow and helps catch any errant grass blades that the push mower missed the first time around. (One good hint: if you get sloppy and wait until your grass is too tall to cut, try increasing the amount of overlap between passes.)

Add Variety

Variety adds spice to life and to mowing, so experiment. Try mowing in different patterns and seeing what makes your lawn look best. Heck, if you’ve really got a lot of time on your hands, you could work on becoming the next Picasso of the playing field.

Change Method Depending on Season

To every season, there is a method of cutting. You may find that you need to change your mowing technique as conditions change.

For example, grass grows fast in the spring and is brimming with moisture. You may need to set your push mower at a higher cutting height and mow more frequently than in the fall when the growing season is coming to an end.

Similarly, during the peak of summer and summer heat grass has less moisture and is thinner. You may need to reduce the mowing height to get your lawn to look its best.

Weed Control Tips

If dandelions or other “willowy” weeds take up residence, you’ll find that mowing isn’t the best solution.

This is because they are so tall that when the mower pushes over them, they do not spring back up to be cut by the blade. You’ll be pushing and the mower will be cutting, but the weeds will escape.

Instead of futile mowing, either start attacking weeds with the mower while they are still short enough to be easily cut or explore other forms of weed control.

How to Maintain Push Reel Mowers:

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