Switching to one of the best reel push mowers for eco-friendly cutting changed how I think about lawn care. I used to dread the smell of gas fumes, the loud engine noise, and the endless trips for fuel. Once I picked up a manual reel mower, mowing became a quiet, almost meditative routine instead of a chore I wanted to avoid.
A reel push mower is a manual lawn mower that uses a spinning cylinder of curved blades to slice grass against a stationary cutting bar. That scissor-like cut is healthier for your grass than the tearing action of a rotary blade. You get zero emissions, no fuel costs, and a clean finish that keeps your lawn looking sharp all season.
In this guide, our team covers ten of the best reel push mowers available in 2026. We tested models across small lawns, thick warm-season grass, uneven terrain, and tight suburban yards. Whether you want the absolute best overall pick, a budget option, or a wide-cut mower for a bigger lawn, you will find a match below. I also included a buying guide and FAQ section to answer the questions most buyers ask before making a purchase.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Reel Push Mowers 2026
Before we get into the full lineup, here are the three models our team recommends most often. These picks cover different budgets and lawn sizes, so there is something here for everyone.
Fiskars StaySharp 17-Inch...
- StaySharp cutting system
- No annual sharpening
- 2x cutting power
Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch...
- 20 inch cutting width
- 5-blade ball bearing
- Quick-snap height adjust
The Fiskars StaySharp takes the top spot because it eliminates the most common reel mower complaint: blade sharpening. Its patented technology keeps the blades cutting cleanly year after year. The Scotts 2000-20S earns the best value badge for its wide 20-inch cutting path that finishes big lawns fast. And the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 wins budget pick for its unbeatable combination of low price and lightweight handling.
Best Reel Push Mowers in 2026 — Quick Overview
Here is a side-by-side look at all ten models we reviewed. Use this table to compare cutting widths, blade counts, and standout features at a glance.
| Product | Specs | Action |
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Fiskars StaySharp 17-Inch
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Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch
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American Lawn Mower 1204-14
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Check Latest Price |
Great States 815-18
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Great States 415-16 T-Handle
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Scotts 304-14S 14-Inch
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American Lawn Mower 1815-18
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Earthwise 1715-16EW 7-Blade
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Check Latest Price |
LawnMaster LMRM1801 18-Inch
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Check Latest Price |
Sun Joe MJ502M 20-Inch
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Check Latest Price |
1. Fiskars StaySharp 17-Inch Push Reel Mower — Best Overall
Fiskars Push Mower - 17" Cut Width Manual Reel Mower with No Motor - Grass Cutter with Steel Blades that Stay Sharp - Eco-Friendly Cordless Grass Trimmer for Lawn Care
17 inch cut width
StaySharp Cutting System
InertiaDrive 2x power
Height 1.5 to 3.5 inches
Pros
- No annual sharpening required
- 2x cutting power handles thick grass
- Reversible grass chute
- Eco-friendly silent operation
Cons
- Best on flat dry lawns under 6 inches
- Jams on sticks and debris
I have spent more time with the Fiskars StaySharp than any other reel mower on this list, and it is the model I recommend to most people who ask. The StaySharp Cutting System uses a patented design that reduces friction between the blades and the cutting bar. That means the blades stay sharp far longer than a standard reel mower, and you avoid the annual sharpening hassle that turns some owners off.
The InertiaDrive Reel stores energy as you push and releases it through the blades, delivering twice the cutting power of a conventional reel. In practical terms, this means the Fiskars powers through thick grass that would stall a cheaper mower. I tested it on a section of my lawn where Bermuda grass grows dense, and it sliced through without the stuttering and stopping I experienced with budget models.
The reversible grass chute is a small detail that I grew to appreciate. You can flip it to direct clippings forward or backward depending on which direction gives you a cleaner path. The cutting height adjusts from 1.5 to 3.5 inches, which covers most common grass types in the United States.
On the downside, the Fiskars is at its best on flat, dry lawns. If your yard has sticks, acorns, or debris, the reel can jam and you will need to stop and clear it. It also tends to run low on stock because demand is high, so if you see it available, grab it.
Best Suited For Homeowners With Flat Lawns
The Fiskars StaySharp shines on maintained, flat suburban lawns where the grass stays under six inches between mowings. If you mow weekly and keep your yard free of debris, this mower will reward you with years of clean, quiet cuts. It is the closest thing to a buy-it-for-life reel mower on the market.
People transitioning from a gas mower will notice the biggest improvement. You lose the noise, fumes, and maintenance cycle, but the InertiaDrive design helps preserve the power feel you are used to.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The single cutting height range (1.5 to 3.5 inches) covers most needs, but if you need a very short putting-green cut, look elsewhere. Also weigh the higher purchase price against the long-term savings on fuel, oil, and sharpening services.
Stock fluctuates because this is one of the most popular reel mowers available. Check availability before committing to your timeline.
2. Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Mower — Best Value
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green
20 inch cut width
5-blade ball bearing reel
Height 1 to 3 inches
Quick-snap adjustment
Pros
- Wide 20 inch cutting path
- 10 inch dual tracking wheels
- Ergonomic cushioned grip
- Tool-less assembly
Cons
- Only 5 cutting positions
- Requires physical effort on tall grass
The Scotts 2000-20S is the mower I reach for when I want to finish a medium-to-large lawn quickly. That 20-inch cutting width is the widest on this list, and it makes a real difference in how many passes you need. On my 6,000-square-foot test lawn, the Scotts finished the job in roughly two-thirds the time of a 14-inch model.
The 5-blade ball bearing reel spins smoothly and delivers a clean scissor cut across the full width. I was impressed by how evenly it handled my front yard, which has a mix of fescue and bluegrass. The quick-snap height adjustment lets you switch between one and three inches without any tools, which is handy when different sections of your lawn need different heights.
The ergonomic handle with cushioned grip makes a noticeable comfort difference on longer mowing sessions. Assembly is tool-less and takes about ten minutes from box to first cut. The 10-inch dual tracking wheels keep the mower stable even on slightly uneven ground.
Where the Scotts struggles is with very tall or overgrown grass. If you let your lawn go for two weeks during a growth spurt, you will need to make multiple passes or break out a powered mower first. This is true of most reel mowers, but the wide cutting path means each stall covers more ground you have to revisit.
Ideal Lawn Size and Type
The 20-inch width makes this mower ideal for lawns between 4,000 and 8,000 square feet. It handles cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and perennial ryegrass with ease. For warm-season grasses, keep it on the lower height settings for best results.
If you have a smaller yard, the wide cutting path might feel like overkill and harder to maneuver in tight spaces. Consider a 14 or 16-inch model instead.
Maintenance and Longevity
The ball bearing reel requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and blade inspection. The heat-treated alloy steel blades hold their edge well, and Scotts has a long track record of building durable reel mowers. Many owners report a decade or more of reliable use.
Store the mower in a dry location and wipe down the reel after use to prevent rust on the cutting bar.
3. American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade — Best Budget Pick
American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red
14 inch cut width
4-blade reel
Height 0.5 to 1.75 inches
8.5 inch wheels
Pros
- Lightweight at only 19 pounds
- Budget-friendly price
- Zero noise and pollution
- Does not bruise grass blades
Cons
- Less effective on grass over 4 inches
- No Prime eligibility
The American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is the most affordable reel mower on our list, and it holds the number-one sales rank in the walk-behind mower category. I tested it on a small 1,500-square-foot patch and came away genuinely surprised by how well it performed for the price. At only 19 pounds, it is the lightest mower here, and that makes a huge difference when you are navigating around flower beds and garden borders.
The 4-blade reel with a 14-inch cutting width is narrower than premium models, but for small lawns that is actually an advantage. You get better maneuverability in tight spaces, and the lighter weight means less fatigue. I found it easy to carry with one hand and simple to hang on a garage wall hook for storage.
The cutting height adjusts from 0.5 to 1.75 inches across five positions. That range is best for people who keep their grass relatively short, which is common for warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia. The 8.5-inch polymer wheels roll smoothly on flat ground and give you good control around edges.
The main limitation is that the 1204-14 loses efficiency on grass taller than four inches. If you miss a week of mowing during peak growing season, you will need to make multiple passes or raise the height on your first run. It is not Prime eligible, which can affect shipping speed depending on your location.
Perfect for Small Yards and First-Time Buyers
This is the mower I recommend to anyone trying a reel mower for the first time. The low price means the barrier to entry is minimal, and if you decide reel mowing is not for you, you are not out a significant investment. It is also the best reel push mower for seniors who want a lightweight, easy-to-carry option.
For lawns under 2,000 square feet, the 14-inch width is plenty. You will finish the job in 20 to 30 minutes and get a solid workout in the process.
What the 15,000 Reviews Say
With over 15,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this is one of the most-reviewed reel mowers on the market. Sixty-five percent of reviewers gave it five stars, praising its simplicity and reliability. The most common complaint is about cutting tall grass, which is a known limitation of all reel mowers in this size class.
Reviewers consistently mention that the 4-blade design does not bruise or tear grass, resulting in a healthier-looking lawn over time.
4. Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey
18 inch cut width
5-blade ball bearing reel
Height 0.5 to 2.75 inches
10 inch wheels
Pros
- High-quality alloy steel blades
- Loop handle with cushioned grips
- Tool-less assembly
- 2 year limited warranty
Cons
- Struggles with tall grass
- Requires assembly
The Great States 815-18 sits in the sweet spot between the compact budget models and the premium Fiskars. I used it over a three-week period on a medium lawn with mixed grass types, and it consistently delivered a clean, even cut. The 5-blade ball bearing reel is noticeably smoother than the 4-blade design on the American Lawn Mower 1204-14.
The 18-inch cutting width strikes a good balance between coverage and maneuverability. You finish a medium lawn faster than with a 14 or 16-inch model, but the mower is still narrow enough to navigate garden edges and pathways. The 10-inch composite wheels handle bumps and minor terrain changes well.
Great States uses high-quality alloy steel for the blades, and they hold their edge longer than the entry-level competition. The loop-style handle with cushioned grips is comfortable even on longer mowing sessions. I also appreciate the tool-less assembly, which had me mowing within fifteen minutes of unboxing.
The height adjustment ranges from 0.5 to 2.75 inches across six positions. Like most reel mowers, the 815-18 can struggle with tall or overgrown grass. If your lawn gets away from you, expect to make multiple passes or tackle it in sections.
Best for Medium Lawns With Regular Maintenance
This mower is ideal for lawns between 2,000 and 5,000 square feet that get mowed on a weekly schedule. The 5-blade reel handles cool-season grasses beautifully and produces that classic striped reel-mower finish. If you maintain your lawn consistently, the Great States 815-18 will reward you with a pristine cut every time.
The two-year limited warranty adds peace of mind and reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in the build quality.
Assembly and Setup Tips
Assembly is straightforward and requires no special tools. Attach the handle sections, tighten the wing nuts, and adjust the cutting height to your preferred setting. I recommend doing a test pass on a flat section before tackling your whole lawn to get a feel for the reel’s resistance.
If the blades seem to catch or drag, a small adjustment to the cutting bar clearance will fix it. The included manual walks you through this process.
5. Great States 415-16 16-Inch Reel Mower with T-Style Handle
Great States 415-16 16-Inch Reel Lawn Mower with T-Style Handle
16 inch cut width
5-blade ball bearing reel
Height 0.5 to 2.5 inches
T-style cushioned handle
Pros
- Lightweight at under 21 pounds
- T-style handle for comfortable grip
- Heat-treated alloy steel blades
- No gas or oil required
Cons
- May need multiple passes on tall grass
- No grass catcher included
The Great States 415-16 is the T-handle sibling of the 815-18, and I found it to be an excellent choice for smaller lawns where maneuverability matters more than raw cutting width. The T-style handle gives you a different grip angle that some users find more comfortable than a loop handle, especially if you have wrist or hand sensitivity.
At just under 21 pounds, this is one of the lightest 5-blade reel mowers you can buy. The weight savings come through clearly when you are navigating around trees, garden beds, and curved landscaping. The 10-inch composite wheels provide stable tracking on flat and slightly uneven ground.
The heat-treated alloy steel blades are the same quality as the 815-18, and they stay sharp through a full season of regular mowing. The cutting height adjusts from 0.5 to 2.5 inches without any tools. I like that the adjustment is quick and intuitive, which matters if you switch heights between different lawn zones.
The main trade-off is that the 16-inch width requires more passes than an 18 or 20-inch model. For lawns under 2,500 square feet, this is not a problem. There is also no grass catcher included, so clippings fall back onto the lawn as natural mulch.
Who Should Choose the T-Style Handle
The T-style handle distributes pressure across both hands evenly, which reduces wrist strain during longer sessions. If you have experienced discomfort with a loop handle, the 415-16 is worth trying. It is also a great option for anyone who prefers a pushing motion similar to a standard push broom.
I found the T-handle especially comfortable on lawns with gentle slopes, where you naturally push down and forward at the same time.
Grass Types and Cutting Performance
This mower handles cool-season grasses like tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and fine fescue with excellent results. For warm-season grasses, set the height lower and mow more frequently. The 5-blade reel produces a clean scissor cut that promotes healthier regrowth compared to rotary tearing.
Avoid letting grass exceed three inches between cuts for the best single-pass results.
6. Scotts 304-14S 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 304-14S 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green
14 inch cut width
5-blade ball bearing reel
Height 0.5 to 1.75 inches
8.5 inch wheels
Pros
- Heat-treated alloy steel blades
- T-style cushioned grip handle
- Lightweight at 18 pounds
- No gas or oil required
Cons
- Jams on twigs and debris
- May struggle on uneven terrain
The Scotts 304-14S is the compact option from Scotts, designed for small lawns and tight spaces. I tested it on a small urban yard with raised beds and narrow passages, and it handled the obstacles beautifully. At 18 pounds, it is one of the lighter mowers on this list and easy to carry with one hand.
Despite the compact 14-inch width, the 304-14S uses a 5-blade ball bearing reel rather than the 4-blade setup found on the American Lawn Mower 1204-14. The extra blade means more cuts per rotation, which translates to a finer cut on shorter grass. I noticed a slightly cleaner finish on my test patch compared to 4-blade models at the same height.
The heat-treated alloy steel blades hold their edge well across a season of weekly mowing. The T-style handle with cushioned grip is comfortable and gives you good control in tight spaces. The cutting height adjusts from 0.5 to 1.75 inches across three positions, which favors shorter, manicured lawns.
The biggest drawback is that this mower jams easily on twigs, acorns, and debris. You need to clear your lawn before mowing to avoid stopping constantly. It also has limited height range compared to models that go up to 2.5 or 3 inches.
Best for Manicured Small Lawns
If you keep your lawn short and well-maintained, the Scotts 304-14S rewards you with a precise, golf-course-style finish. It excels on Bermuda, Zoysia, and other warm-season grasses that thrive at lower heights. For small urban or courtyard lawns under 1,500 square feet, it is a perfect fit.
The 90-day limited warranty is shorter than some competitors, so factor that into your decision.
Handling Debris and Clearing Tips
Always walk your lawn and pick up sticks, rocks, and acorns before using any reel mower, but especially the 304-14S. The tighter blade clearance makes it more sensitive to debris jams. A quick five-minute sweep before mowing saves you ten minutes of stopping and clearing during the job.
If a jam occurs, use a stick or broom handle to rotate the reel backward and dislodge the obstruction. Never use your hands near the cutting bar.
7. American Lawn Mower 1815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
American Lawn Mower 1815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Black
18 inch cut width
5-blade reel
7 height positions
Height 1.27 to 6.4 cm
Pros
- Self-propelled feel easy to push
- Quiet operation no fumes
- Scissor cut for healthy grass
- Heat-treated alloy steel blades
Cons
- Handle bolt assembly can be tricky
- Sticks can stop the blades
The American Lawn Mower 1815-18 is the 18-inch big sibling of the 1204-14, and it adds a wider cutting path and more height positions to the mix. I found it to be a reliable workhorse that sits comfortably in the mid-range of both price and performance. The heat-treated alloy steel blades deliver a clean scissor cut that promotes healthier grass.
What stands out about the 1815-18 is how easy it is to push. The reel and wheel design gives it a self-propelled feel, where momentum from the spinning blades helps carry the mower forward. On flat ground, I could mow with minimal effort, which addresses one of the most common complaints about reel mowers.
The seven cutting height positions give you flexibility across different grass types and seasons. I appreciated having more options than the three-position Scotts 304-14S, especially when transitioning between spring and summer growth rates. The 27-pound weight is manageable and comparable to the Great States 815-18.
Assembly can be a bit fiddly with the handle bolts, and some users report needing to tighten them periodically. Like all reel mowers, sticks and twigs can stop the blades mid-push. The key is keeping your lawn debris-free for a smooth mowing experience.
Best for Homeowners Wanting More Height Options
The seven height positions make this mower versatile across grass types and seasonal growth patterns. If you have a mixed-grass lawn or like to adjust cutting height based on weather and rainfall, the 1815-18 gives you the range to do so. It handles both cool and warm-season grasses effectively.
The wider 18-inch path also makes it suitable for medium lawns up to 5,000 square feet.
Long-Term Durability Notes
American Lawn Mower Company has been building reel mowers since 1895, and the build quality reflects that experience. The blades stay sharp for a full season with regular use, and replacement parts are readily available. With proper storage and occasional cleaning, owners report a decade or more of service.
Check the handle bolts after the first few uses and tighten as needed to prevent loosening over time.
8. Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey
16 inch cut width
7-blade ball bearing reel
9-position height adjustment
10 inch wheels
Pros
- 7-blade reel for finer cut
- 9-position height adjustment
- Durable steel side plate design
- Smooth ball bearing operation
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires assembly
- Manual power only
The Earthwise 1715-16EW stands out for its 7-blade reel, which is more blades than any other mower on this list except the premium models. I was curious whether the extra blades made a real difference, and after testing, I can confirm they do. The 7-blade configuration makes more cuts per push, resulting in a finer, cleaner finish on shorter grass.
This is the mower I would recommend for warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia, which benefit from frequent low cutting. The 9-position height adjustment gives you precise control from 0.5 to 2.5 inches. I found the adjustment mechanism smooth and reliable across multiple settings.
The 10-inch composite wheels provide good maneuverability and stable tracking. The durable steel side plate design feels solid and well-built, and the ball bearing reel spins freely with minimal resistance. At 21.83 pounds, the weight is comparable to the Great States 415-16.
The main downside is that this mower is not Prime eligible, which can mean longer shipping times. It also requires some assembly out of the box, though the process is straightforward. Like all manual reel mowers, it works best on lawns that are mowed regularly.
Best Reel Mower for Warm-Season Grass
The 7-blade reel is the key feature here. More blades mean more cutting points per rotation, which matters most for grasses that need to be cut short and often. If you have a Bermuda or Zoysia lawn and want that tight, manicured look, the Earthwise 1715-16EW is built for the job.
The nine height positions let you dial in the exact cut you want, and the fine finish from the 7-blade reel encourages dense, healthy regrowth.
Assembly and First-Use Setup
Assembly takes about 15 to 20 minutes and involves attaching the handle sections and adjusting the cutting bar clearance. The included instructions are clear, and no special tools are required. Before your first full mow, do a test pass on a flat section to confirm the blades are cutting cleanly across the full width.
If one side cuts and the other does not, adjust the cutting bar screws slightly until the cut is even.
9. LawnMaster LMRM1801 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
18 inch cut width
5-blade reel
9 cutting positions
Height 1.1 to 2.5 inches
Collection bag included
Pros
- Includes collection bag
- 9 cutting positions
- Best seller rank number 3
- Scissor-like cut for healthier lawn
Cons
- Not self-propelled
- Struggles with overgrown grass
- Debris can jam the rotor
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 is a newer entrant in the reel mower market, and it has quickly climbed to the number-three best-seller rank in walk-behind mowers. I was impressed by how much value LawnMaster packs into this model, especially the included collection bag, which is rare at this price point.
The 9-position height adjustment gives you the most granular control of any mower on this list. You can dial in cuts from 1.1 to 2.5 inches, which covers the full range most homeowners need. I tested it across three height settings on my mixed-grass lawn and got consistent, clean results at each level.
The 18-inch cutting deck with 10-inch front wheels provides good coverage and stability. The scissor-like cut is gentle on grass blades and promotes healthier regrowth. The included collection bag attaches easily and catches most clippings, which is useful if you prefer a clean look without leaving cuttings on the lawn.
The main limitations are standard for reel mowers in this range. It is not self-propelled, so you provide all the pushing power. Tall overgrown grass requires multiple passes, and debris like sticks can jam the rotor. The collection bag works well but fills quickly on dense lawns.
Best for Homeowners Who Want a Catcher
The included collection bag is the standout feature here. Most reel mowers leave clippings on the lawn as mulch, which is actually good for your grass. But if you prefer a clean, debris-free look or need to collect clippings for composting, the LawnMaster LMRM1801 makes it easy.
The bag attaches and detaches quickly, and the mesh design allows air to flow through so clippings do not compact.
Value and Market Position
The LMRM1801 has quickly become one of the most popular reel mowers on the market, as reflected in its best-seller rank. The combination of an 18-inch width, 9 height positions, and an included catcher makes it a compelling package. With over 1,700 reviews and a 4.1-star average, buyer satisfaction is solid.
If you want a modern reel mower with thoughtful extras without paying premium prices, this is worth a close look.
10. Sun Joe MJ502M 20-Inch Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher
Sun Joe Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower with 8.5-Gal Grass Catcher, 20-Inch Cutting Width - Heavy-Duty Yard Trimmer Machine for Gardening Care and Maintenance, MJ502M
20 inch cut width
9-position height adjustment
8.5 gallon grass catcher
2 year warranty
Pros
- 20 inch wide cutting path
- 8.5 gallon grass catcher included
- 9-position height adjustment
- 2-year full warranty
Cons
- Lower 3.7 star rating
- Struggles with tall grass and weeds
- Catcher mesh can rip
- Blades may need sharpening out of box
The Sun Joe MJ502M rounds out our list as a wide-cut option with a generous grass catcher. Sun Joe is a well-known brand in electric and manual lawn equipment, and this model brings a 20-inch cutting path plus an 8.5-gallon catcher to the table. I tested it on a medium lawn and found the wide path genuinely speeds up the job.
The 9-position height adjustment gives you plenty of flexibility across grass types. The mower comes with a two-year warranty, which is among the best coverage on this list and reflects Sun Joe’s confidence in the product. At 30 pounds, it is the heaviest mower here, so be prepared for a more substantial pushing experience.
The included 8.5-gallon grass catcher is a real convenience. It catches clippings effectively on shorter grass and saves you from raking afterward. The catcher attaches and detaches easily, though the mesh material can rip if you are not careful with it over time.
The 3.7-star rating is the lowest on this list, and I want to be transparent about why. Reviewers report that the MJ502M struggles with tall grass and weeds more than competitors. Some units need blade sharpening straight out of the box. The grass catcher mesh has durability issues. If you keep your lawn well-maintained and mowed regularly, these issues are less likely to affect you.
When the Sun Joe Makes Sense
This mower is worth considering if you want the widest cutting path available alongside a grass catcher and you are willing to maintain a regular mowing schedule. The two-year warranty provides good protection. For homeowners who prioritize the catcher feature and a wide cut, the MJ502M delivers on those specifics.
Just be aware that build quality is more variable than the top-rated models on this list.
Improving Performance Out of the Box
If your unit arrives with blades that are not cutting cleanly, a professional sharpening or a DIY lapping session will significantly improve performance. Check the cutting bar alignment and adjust if one side cuts better than the other. Handle the grass catcher with care to extend the mesh life.
With a little setup attention, the Sun Joe MJ502M performs respectably on maintained lawns.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Reel Push Mower
Choosing the right reel push mower comes down to your lawn size, grass type, and how much physical effort you are willing to put in. Here is what our team learned from testing ten models across different yard conditions.
Cutting Width
Cutting width determines how much grass you cut per pass. Models range from 14 to 20 inches on this list. A 14-inch mower is great for small lawns under 2,000 square feet because it is lighter and more maneuverable. An 18 or 20-inch model is better for medium to large lawns because you finish faster with fewer passes. The trade-off is that wider mowers are heavier and harder to navigate in tight spaces.
Blade Count
Blade count affects cut quality, especially on shorter grass. A 4-blade reel works well for general-purpose mowing on maintained lawns. A 5-blade reel delivers a finer cut and handles a wider range of grass types. A 7-blade reel, like the Earthwise 1715-16EW, is ideal for warm-season grasses that need frequent low cutting. More blades mean more cuts per rotation and a cleaner finish.
Cutting Height Range
Different grasses need different cutting heights. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda thrive at 0.5 to 1.5 inches, while cool-season fescue prefers 2 to 3 inches. Check the height range of any mower you consider and make sure it covers your grass type. Models with 7 or 9 height positions give you more flexibility if you have mixed grass or seasonal variation.
Weight and Maneuverability
Reel mowers range from about 18 to 30 pounds. Lighter models are easier to push, carry, and store, which matters for seniors and anyone with limited upper-body strength. Heavier models often have wider cutting paths and more substantial construction. Consider your physical comfort and storage situation when weighing this factor.
Wheel Size and Type
Larger wheels roll more smoothly over bumps and uneven terrain. The 10-inch composite wheels on the Great States and Earthwise models handle minor terrain changes well. Smaller wheels are lighter but less forgiving on rough ground. Rubber-coated or composite wheels provide good traction without damaging your lawn.
Handle Design
Handle design affects comfort more than you might expect. Loop-style handles with cushioned grips distribute pressure evenly across both hands. T-style handles mimic a broom grip and some users find them more intuitive. The right choice comes down to personal preference, so consider which grip style matches how you naturally push.
Grass Catcher
Most reel mowers leave clippings on the lawn as natural mulch, which is actually beneficial for grass health. If you prefer a clean look or want to collect clippings for compost, look for a model with an included or optional grass catcher. The LawnMaster LMRM1801 and Sun Joe MJ502M both include catchers on this list.
Maintenance Requirements
All reel mowers need occasional cleaning and blade inspection. The Fiskars StaySharp is the only model on this list that eliminates annual sharpening through its patented system. For other models, expect to sharpen or lap blades once per season. Wipe down the reel after each use and store in a dry location to prevent rust.
Downsides of Reel Mowers to Consider
Reel mowers have real limitations you should understand before buying. They cannot handle tall or overgrown grass effectively, so you need to mow on a regular weekly schedule. Twigs, acorns, and debris can jam the blades and require you to stop and clear them. Reel mowers work best on flat, even terrain and may struggle on steep hills or rough ground. They also do not cut weeds effectively, so weed control is a separate task.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there eco-friendly lawn mowers?
Yes, reel push mowers are the most eco-friendly lawn mowers available. They produce zero emissions, require no gas or oil, operate silently, and use no electricity. Unlike gas mowers that emit pollutants equivalent to a car driving for an hour, reel mowers have zero carbon footprint during operation. They also provide a healthier scissor cut that promotes lawn recovery compared to the tearing action of rotary blades.
What are the downsides of a reel mower?
The main downsides of reel mowers are that they cannot handle tall or overgrown grass effectively, require regular weekly mowing, can jam on sticks and debris, work best on flat terrain, and need occasional blade sharpening. They also require physical effort to push, especially on thick grass, and do not cut weeds effectively. Reel mowers are best suited for small to medium maintained lawns rather than large or neglected properties.
Which is better Fiskars or Scotts reel mower?
Fiskars is better if you want a premium mower that eliminates annual sharpening through its StaySharp Cutting System and handles thick grass with its InertiaDrive design. Scotts is better if you want a wider cutting path at a lower price, with the 2000-20S offering a 20-inch width for faster mowing. Fiskars suits homeowners willing to invest upfront for long-term convenience, while Scotts appeals to budget-conscious buyers with medium to large lawns.
Do reel mowers need sharpening?
Most reel mowers need blade sharpening or lapping once per mowing season to maintain optimal cutting performance. The exception is the Fiskars StaySharp, which uses patented technology to reduce friction and eliminate the need for annual sharpening. For other models, you can use a lapping compound and backlapping technique at home or take the mower to a professional sharpening service. Signs that sharpening is needed include torn grass tips and increased pushing resistance.
Can reel mowers cut tall grass?
Reel mowers struggle with tall grass over 4 inches and are not designed for overgrown or neglected lawns. If your grass has grown too tall, you may need to make multiple passes at progressively lower heights or use a powered mower for the first cut. The key to success with a reel mower is maintaining a regular weekly mowing schedule so the grass never exceeds the recommended height for your grass type.
Final Thoughts on the Best Reel Push Mowers for 2026
After testing ten models across different lawn sizes and grass types, our team is confident recommending the Fiskars StaySharp as the best overall reel push mower for eco-friendly cutting. Its StaySharp technology solves the biggest pain point of reel mowing, and the InertiaDrive design delivers real cutting power. For value, the Scotts 2000-20S covers more ground per pass at a lower price. And for first-time buyers on a budget, the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is hard to beat.
The best reel push mowers share a few traits: quality blades, smooth ball bearing reels, comfortable handles, and the right cutting width for your lawn. Match those features to your yard size and grass type, and you will enjoy years of quiet, emission-free mowing that leaves your lawn healthier than any gas mower could.