Reel Lawn Mower Buyers Guide

To help you choose, we cut to the chase They go by a lot of different names: push mower, reel mower, hand mower, cylinder mower. But it means the same thing: an Earth-friendly, people-pleasing way to cut grass without noise and stink. So let's call it a reel mower and find the best one for you. Is reel mowing for you? Is your yard rocky, or full of empty beer cans? Bumpy with steep hills? So sandy that wheels can't get traction? Is it larger than an acre? If that's your yard, a reel lawn mower isn't for you. Reel mowers also require that you relax a little, slow your pace, and enjoy the fresh air. If that sounds nice to you, read on. Power play: plug in, or push? To most people, the beauty of a reel mower is in its simplicity: no oil, no gas, no motor, no nuthin'. No hard starts yanking a rope that throws out your back. You push it and it goes, with nothing but a quiet, comforting whirrr to accompany the neighborhood birds.

How big is big enough?

We've sorted our electric and manual reel mowers by different widths. Narrower reels are lighter and more nimble. You can hang them on the wall with one hand. If you have a bigger yard, you might choose a wider base to shorten the job. You'll push a little harder, but get done sooner. Keep this in mind: after discovering the peaceful nature of a manual reel mower, you may not be in any hurry to finish.

Some reel mowers are heavier, thanks to meatier construction. A heavier mower is more stable on the ground and holds momentum better. Many people prefer that feel. But it takes a little more ooomph to get it going, and it's heavier to lift and store.

Does your reel mower cut it?

After considering your preferences, weigh in with your grass. People in milder climates, like the East and West Coast and most of the northern half of the U.S., have thinner grass that even the lightest reel mower can trim well. Desert grasses tend to be thicker and tougher, and may require a heavier reel mower.

ReelMowerSource helps you choose. We sort by manual or electric, regular to extra-wide, and light vs. heavy. Once you know what style and shape you like, enjoy our selection of the biggest names in reel lawn mowers, like Brill, Hudson Star and American Lawn Mower. Each has its own options and helpful amenities, and you'll learn a lot just by browsing. Soon you'll find yourself enjoying the reel thing.