Tackling overgrown lawns with tall grass can feel like a daunting task, but the right lawn mower can turn it into a manageable chore. Whether you’re dealing with a few weeks of neglected growth or just have a naturally vigorous yard, finding a mower that can power through thick, tall blades is crucial. We’ve scoured the market to find the best lawn mower for tall grass that offers power, durability, and ease of use.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 4 Best Lawn Mower For Tall Grass Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. American Lawn Mower 1204-14 Push Mower
★★★★☆ 4.3/5 Rating: 4.3/5
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a classic choice for those seeking an eco-friendly and quiet mowing experience. This 4-blade reel mower handles grass up to 4 inches tall, making it suitable for regular maintenance of moderately overgrown lawns. Its lightweight design and simple operation make it a breeze to use, even for those who prefer a more manual approach to yard work.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 14-inch cutting width for efficient coverage
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height (0.5”-1.75”)
- ✓ Lightweight at only 19 pounds for easy maneuverability
- ✓ Environmentally friendly, pollution-free, and noise-free operation
Why We Recommend It
This reel mower is an excellent option if you’re looking for a simple, reliable way to maintain your lawn without the hassle of gas or electricity. Its manual operation ensures a quiet experience and zero emissions, making it ideal for eco-conscious homeowners or those with noise restrictions. It’s a testament to the enduring effectiveness of well-designed manual tools.
Best For
Homeowners with smaller to medium-sized lawns who prefer a quiet, eco-friendly, and exercise-friendly mowing experience, especially for grass that isn’t excessively tall.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very quiet and environmentally friendly operation.
- Lightweight and easy to push and maneuver.
- Low maintenance requirements.
- Provides a clean cut on most lawn types.
Cons:
- May struggle with grass significantly over 4 inches tall or very thick weeds.
- Requires more physical effort compared to powered mowers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review:
“I only bought this thing because I was tired of taking a gas can to the gas station. This solved that problem, but it also solved other problems that I didn’t even think of. Before I continue, let me say that I understood when I bought this that it’s not going to leave the lawn looking as good as it does with a power mower, but it comes close . . a LOT closer than I thought! As far as it solving other problems, I used to have to worry about which direction I was pointing the mower in case I hit a rock or something that could end up flying through a window, or hurting somebody. I don’t have to worry about that anymore. That alone made this worth buying for me. If I hit something like a sprinkler head, it doesn’t destroy the head and the blade, but rather, everything just stops. It’s safe for a kid to use with no worries. I can grab the upright part of the handle and just lift it up and over stuff like I do with a vacuum cleaner, which means no more having to move stuff around in the garage so I can dig out the mower. I just lift it up and walk right out the front door if I want. The people in my neighborhood that drive electric vehicles praise me for “going green” (I didn’t tell them I only bought it because I was fed up with getting gas cans filled). Tip: If it doesn’t cut a piece of grass on the first pass , back up and go across it slowly to give the blade a chance to grab the grass. (It’s not like that is constantly happening, just once in a while) Update: I’ve had the mower for over a year now and I am extremely satisfied with it. It actually stopped working today (the blades quit spinning). It turns out it is SUPER easy to fix. All that was wrong was some dirt got inside the wheel casings and caused a pin to freeze up. The good news is there are only 4 parts. A “C” clip, a wheel, a gear, and a pin. Remove the C-clip and slide the wheel off, Then slide the gear off. Then pull the pin out with your fingers. Spray everything with WD-40 to remove the dirt. I put some 3-in-1 oil on the pin and slid it back in. Then replace the gear, the wheel, and the clip, and you are done! It only took about 10 mins and that’s with me making a mistake and having to do the first side over again. (The mistake is I put the pin in backwards. The “Ramp” side goes to the front. You’ll see what I mean. Take a picture before you pull the pin out if you are worried) The mower works perfect again! Good as new! Now I know how to do all the maintenance on it (and so do you now) Plus I bought a blade sharpener from Amazon when I bought the mower. It works perfect. AAAQQ Reel Mower Sharpening Kit SK-2 for American Lawn Mower, Lawn Mower Blade Sharpener Tool for Great States, Scotts, Earthwise Reels.”
Customer Review:
“Okay first of all, I’d just like to say that I am autistic, and I absolutely LOATHE mowing the lawn. The mower is too loud, the vibrating of the handle makes my arms go numb, and I can never quite pull on the cord hard enough to get it started by myself. I always have to find someone else to turn it on for me. And not to mention the fact that the smell of gasoline gives me a headache. So I finally decided to see if any old-fashioned mowers still existed, because I would much rather deal with something slower and time-consuming if it meant I wouldn’t have to deal with using a normal lawn mower. Imagine my surprise when I found that there are /new/ manual lawnmowers, and I can just order them from Amazon! So I decided I had nothing left to lose, and I would give it a try. Best. Decision. EVER. NOTE OF ADVICE: If you have difficulty putting it together (specifically, attaching the handle to the blade part), find someone with more upper-body strength to help you. They’ll get it done in two seconds. (it took me half an hour of attempting to do so before I gave up and waited for my sister to get home so she could help me) Also: it only cuts while you’re pushing it forward, so all you have to do to move it when you’re not cutting is to pull it along behind you. As for cutting grass? I love it. It works perfectly, aside from a few snags on branches that I didn’t notice. If you move it forward and back a few times, you can cut even tall weeds! Much easier than pulling them out by hand in the areas that the normal gas mower can’t reach. It’s not silent, but it’s also not the deafening roar of a gas mower. If I had to describe the sound, I’d say it’s a whooshing sound, and much much quieter than a gas mower. Plus, you don’t have to deal with your arms vibrating or constantly having to turn the mower back on! No more buying gas, no more struggling to pull on the cord hard enough to turn the mower on, and no more complicated wire-pulling to turn it off. All I have to do is push forward, and the grass gets cut. Stop walking, and it stops cutting. It’s easy to maneuver, and it’s not so heavy that I can’t pick it up and carry it up a flight of stairs to my porch if I need to. I’m never using a gas mower again.”
2. EWORK Electric Push Mower
★★★★☆ 4.1/5 Rating: 4.1/5
The EWORK 14-Inch Corded Electric Push Lawn Mower is a powerful yet surprisingly lightweight option for maintaining your yard. With an 11-amp motor and a 14-inch cutting width, it’s designed to handle a variety of grass conditions efficiently. The 4-height adjustment settings allow for customized lawn care, making it a versatile choice for different lawn types and desired lengths.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 11-amp motor with 3600 RPM for efficient cutting
- ✓ 14-inch cutting width
- ✓ Single-lever height adjustment with 4 positions (1.2″ – 3.3″)
- ✓ Lightweight design (17.6 lbs) for easy maneuverability
- ✓ 30L grass collection bag
Why We Recommend It
This EWORK mower strikes a great balance between power and portability. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want the convenience of electric without the cord limitations of some models, offering robust performance for its class. The ability to adjust cutting height easily means you can tackle varied grass lengths with confidence.
Best For
Ideal for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who need a reliable electric mower that’s easy to handle and offers good cutting performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful motor for its size.
- Lightweight and easy to push and store.
- Good cutting performance for most lawn conditions.
- Convenient grass collection system.
Cons:
- Being a corded electric, you need to be mindful of the power cord to avoid cutting it.
- The plastic construction might feel less durable than some higher-end models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review:
“Update: Decided to keep this mower and have used it 4 times now. I am impressed at what a good job it does at cutting evenly, the bag is plenty big for my small size yard (approx 24\’x 60\’), and the batteries have plenty of power left at the end of the job. Still not thrilled about the need to use both batteries then charging them separately, but I suppose it would bother me more if I had a bigger yard and ran out of power in the middle of cutting. If one of them does die, I will need to replace, but crossing my fingers they have longevity — at least 2 or 3 seasons. Other than that, still kind of cheap feeling, but the plastic is pretty sturdy and it is very light weight to move all around the tight spaces in the yard. Original review: The mower was delivered timely and the driver was extremely cordial. The Amazon box that it came in was a bit rag tag and the product box had a hole in the top. When I opened the box, it almost looked like this item was returned and re-packaged as there were knobs and bolts scattered throughout the box. All parts appeared to be included in the box. As I assembled it, the mower was smaller than I expected and I am apprehensive about all parts except the bolts, handle, and blade being plastic of very light to light grade-especially the wheels. I charged the batteries immediately, and it’s nice that there is a way to check their charge status with the light on the batteries themselves. Not real thrilled about needing both batteries to run this as it takes over 2 hours to charge both. Once both batteries were charged, I inserted and began mowing the smallest portion of my yard (the entire yard is small at 10\’x40\’). I just bought this home that has an automatic sprinkler system, so I set the height at 3 to make sure I cleared the sprinkler heads. The mower itself seemed to cut evenly and well, but this yard is really “clumpy” (earthworms, I think). and getting through it was a little challenging with these small plastic wheels (I had to tilt the front and lift the back many times to get through it). It took 20 minutes to finish where my previous lawn took 45 minutes to complete with a self propelled walk behind (120\’x75\’). Plus the bagger was full after this small section. I charged the batteries before mowing the second half of my yard (took an hour to charge one and 40 minutes to charge the second one and both had at least 1/3 power left). Like the 1st side, this section of the yard is extremely clumpy and has more obstacles than the first section (more sprinkler heads, had to move some rocks from neighbors yard, and some downspouts to mow around). It was also a little taller than the 1st section, so I adjusted the height by 1 setting higher. It took 40 minutes to mow this section and I had to empty the bag in the middle of mowing and at the end (this section is 60\’x13\’). The batteries were strong throughout and the cut was clean and even. My biggest concern is whether this mower will last through one summer with its flimsy plastic parts especially the wheels. I will mow one more time with it to see how it holds up, but I think my skepticism about the construction is leaning toward a return especially if I end up needing to buy a new mower after one season (about 3 months of mowing) when I could spend a little more now for a gas powered with better construction and no need to stop half way through to charge the batteries !”
Customer Review:
“I just love this little lightweight mower. I did half my yard on Sat and the other half on Sunday. It did a really good job and took care of a lot of the weed eating also. With nothing sticking out on the sides, it cuts close against all the trees and shrubs. I hope it holds up for a long time. I love it. Would highly recommend.”
3. VEVOR Reel Mower
★★★☆☆ 3.4/5 Rating: 3.4/5
The VEVOR 14-Inch 5-Blade Manual Push Reel Mower is an excellent budget-friendly option for maintaining your lawn. Its 5-blade design ensures a clean and even cut, and the included grass catcher bag helps keep your yard tidy. This mower is built with durable steel blades and a shock-resistant design for longevity. It’s a practical choice for those who want a functional reel mower without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 14-inch cutting width with a 5-blade reel for efficient trimming
- ✓ Made with high-quality UNS1566 steel blades
- ✓ Includes a detachable grass catcher bag
- ✓ Easy, tool-free assembly
Why We Recommend It
For its price point, the VEVOR reel mower offers impressive functionality. It’s a straightforward manual mower that gets the job done effectively, especially for regular lawn maintenance. The inclusion of a grass catcher is a bonus that many budget mowers lack, adding to its value.
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals or those with smaller yards looking for a simple, effective manual reel mower. It’s a great starter mower for basic lawn upkeep.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Includes a grass catcher bag.
- Durable steel blades.
- Easy to assemble and store.
Cons:
- Can struggle with very tall or thick grass, requiring multiple passes.
- Some users reported minor issues with wheel maneuverability on uneven terrain.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review:
“Honestly really good, I don’t have the space for anything bigger and a manual mower and this one is really easy to take apart to store. It works great, I let my grass grow for about 3 weeks before since I just moved in and never own a mower before, and I was nervous about it cutting through the long grass but it did pretty good honestly. I put my bikini on and tanned while doing it and I was out there for maybe an hour or so (with a few breaks to pet my dog or throw her ball) my yard looks so good and I’m so please with this mower, it’s super light as well. The only thing is that I couldn’t use the grass catcher this first round because it kept getting stuck in the long grass but it shouldn’t be that long in the first place so I can’t even be mad about that, I did use the catcher on a patch of short grass and it worked great though!! Putting it together took maybe 10 minute and was super easy, I was confused at first thought it kinda seems upside down in a way and it didn’t roll on my hard wood but once I put it on the grass it all made sense 😆 I do have Bahia grass so the long piece that split in two didn’t quite get cut because they were too long but if you start with a flat base and do it regularly they won’t get long! I love it! Great for the price! Now my pup can play freely❤️🐶”
Customer Review:
“It’s useless, it leaves my duck long, the wheels get stuck. I didn’t like it, I already used it, that’s why I’m not returning it, it’s pure garbage pase varias veces y así quedo”
4. LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Mower
★★★★☆ 4.2/5 Rating: 4.2/5
The LawnMaster MEB1114K is a robust corded electric mower designed for ease of use and efficient lawn care. It features a powerful 11-amp motor capable of handling thicker grass, and a 15-inch cutting deck that balances coverage with maneuverability. With five cutting positions, you can easily adjust the grass height from 1.4 inches up to 3 inches, making it versatile for various lawn conditions and preferences.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 11-amp motor with 3,300 RPM
- ✓ 15-inch cutting width
- ✓ Five cutting height positions (1.4” to 3”)
- ✓ Corded electric power – no gas or batteries needed
Why We Recommend It
This LawnMaster model is a reliable workhorse for maintaining a neat yard. Its straightforward corded electric design means you don’t have to worry about battery life or refueling, and the adjustable cutting height makes it adaptable to different grass lengths. It’s a solid choice for those who want consistent power and performance.
Best For
Homeowners with medium-sized yards who need a powerful corded electric mower that can handle varied grass heights and is easy to maintain. It’s particularly good for those who prefer not to deal with gas or battery management.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful motor for its class.
- Easy to start and operate.
- Adjustable cutting heights provide versatility.
- Environmentally friendly operation.
Cons:
- Like all corded mowers, managing the power cord can be cumbersome.
- The cutting width might be limiting for very large lawns.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review:
“Coming up year 3 with this, a great purchase!! Fairly easy to put together, and to operate. I use it on a 1/2 acre lawn area out of about 2 acres….. works very well!”
Customer Review:
“Once I mastered how to operate the electric lawnmower mowing the lawn was easy breezy. A powerful mower cut through thick grass worked well got the job done in no time. Overall a good purchase worked well for large yard space. Assembly was easy folding the handles down for storage space a plus.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Lawn Mower For Tall Grass
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best lawn mower for tall grass, we focus on key features that ensure it can handle the challenge. Power is paramount; a motor with high amperage for electric models or a robust engine for gas-powered mowers is essential for cutting through thick, dense blades without bogging down. Cutting width also plays a role, as a wider deck can cover more ground efficiently, but it’s balanced by maneuverability. We also look for adjustable cutting heights, as you might need to start with a higher setting and then lower it for subsequent cuts on overgrown lawns. Durability is another critical factor; the mower should be built to withstand the strain of tackling tough grass. Ease of use, maintenance requirements, and safety features are also taken into account to ensure a positive user experience.
Budget Planning
The cost of a lawn mower for tall grass can vary significantly. Manual reel mowers are generally the most affordable, offering an eco-friendly and exercise-friendly option. Corded electric mowers provide a good balance of power and price, often coming in at a moderate cost. Battery-powered (cordless) electric mowers tend to be more expensive, especially higher-end models with longer runtimes and more powerful batteries. Gas-powered mowers can range from moderately priced to quite expensive, depending on engine size and features. When budgeting, consider not just the upfront cost but also ongoing expenses like fuel, oil, maintenance, and potential battery replacement for cordless models. For tackling tall grass, investing a little more in a mower with proven power and durability often pays off in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right lawn mower for tall grass depends on your specific needs, yard size, and budget. If you have a smaller yard and prioritize environmental friendliness and quiet operation, a high-quality reel mower can be surprisingly effective. For medium-sized lawns, a corded electric mower offers consistent power without the need for refueling. If you have a larger yard or frequently deal with very tall grass, you might consider a more powerful gas mower or a robust cordless electric model. Always remember that for severely overgrown areas, it’s often best to make multiple passes, gradually lowering the cutting height, rather than trying to cut it all at once to avoid overwhelming the mower and potentially damaging your lawn. For more on dealing with specific grass types, check out our guides on best lawn mower for Bermuda grass or best lawn mower for St. Augustine grass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of lawn mower is best for tall grass?
A: For tall grass, you generally need a mower with sufficient power to cut through dense blades without stalling. This often means looking for mowers with higher amperage (for electric) or larger engines (for gas). Reel mowers can work for moderately tall grass but may struggle with very thick or overgrown areas. Corded electric, battery-powered, and gas-powered mowers are all viable options depending on your yard size and power needs.
Q: Can a reel mower cut tall grass?
A: A well-maintained reel mower can cut grass that is moderately tall (e.g., a few inches over your desired mowing height). However, they are generally less effective on extremely tall, thick, or overgrown grass compared to powered mowers. For best results with a reel mower on taller grass, it’s often recommended to make multiple passes, gradually lowering the cutting height.
Q: How can I make my lawn mower cut tall grass better?
A: To improve your mower’s ability to cut tall grass, ensure the blades are sharp. For powered mowers, don’t try to cut the grass too short in a single pass; make multiple passes, raising the cutting deck for the first pass and gradually lowering it. Ensure your mower’s engine or motor is performing optimally by keeping up with maintenance. For reel mowers, a slower, deliberate push can help.
Q: Should I use a mulching or bagging mower for tall grass?
A: When cutting tall or thick grass, bagging is often preferable. Mulching very tall grass can overwhelm the mower and leave clumps of decaying material on your lawn, which can smother the grass underneath. Bagging allows you to remove the excess clippings, promoting a healthier lawn. Some mowers offer both options, giving you flexibility.
Q: How often should I sharpen my mower blades for tall grass?
A: If you frequently cut tall or thick grass, you’ll need to sharpen your mower blades more often. Dull blades can tear grass, leading to browning and increased susceptibility to disease. Aim to inspect and sharpen your blades at least once or twice during the mowing season, and more frequently if you notice a decrease in cutting performance or jagged grass edges.
Keeping your lawn looking its best, even when faced with tall grass, is entirely achievable with the right equipment. We hope this guide has helped you identify the best lawn mower for tall grass that fits your needs. If you’re looking for more specialized advice, consider checking out our article on what type of mower is best for thick grass. Happy mowing!