Tired of the fumes, noise, and hassle of gas-powered lawn mowers? You’re not alone! Many homeowners are looking for cleaner, quieter, and more convenient ways to keep their lawns looking sharp. Non-gas lawn mowers, including electric and reel mowers, offer a fantastic alternative. They’re easier to start, require less maintenance, and are kinder to the environment. In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best non-gas lawn mowers on the market to help you find the perfect fit for your yard.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 6 Best Non Gas Lawn Mower Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. LawnMaster ME1218X.01 Mower
The LawnMaster ME1218X.01 electric mower is a powerful yet eco-friendly option for keeping your yard tidy. It boasts a robust 12AMP motor and a 19-inch cutting deck, making it efficient for various lawn sizes. This mower is designed for durability and ease of use, offering a great alternative to traditional gas models.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 19-inch cutting width for efficient lawn coverage.
- ✓ Powerful 12AMP motor for robust cutting performance.
- ✓ 2-in-1 function: Mulch or side discharge options.
- ✓ 6 cutting positions (1.5″ to 4″) with one-touch height adjustment.
Why We Recommend It
We love the LawnMaster ME1218X.01 for its strong performance and user-friendly features. It provides a clean cut and handles common yard tasks with ease, making lawn care less of a chore.
Best For
Ideal for homeowners looking for a reliable electric mower that offers both power and convenience for medium-sized yards.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong cutting power for its class.
- Easy to start and maneuver.
- Adjustable cutting heights for versatility.
- Environmentally friendly operation.
Cons:
- Corded electric model requires an extension cord.
- May struggle with very thick or tall grass if not managed regularly.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love this adorable mower! Ideal for older ladies maintaining smaller yards. I mow two with it for 45 minutes and do not see any battery drop. Having retired to a smaller yard, it is ideal for both the smaller grass areas and the desire to not use a loud gas mower in the quiet neighborhood. I had w”
Customer Review: “It’s a solid unit, the battery life not what they say, it stops off a lot at around 20 minutes and $100 for 2cmore batteries.The handle not vary sturdy . I would probably have a 3.5 but I will round it up.Easy set up, but the locking part on the handle needs help.It cuts well but this Time of year b”
2. American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 Mower
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a classic push reel mower that offers a fantastic way to get a clean cut without any gas or electricity. It’s incredibly eco-friendly, quiet, and requires very little maintenance, making it a popular choice for small to medium-sized lawns.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 14-inch cutting width.
- ✓ 4-blade reel for a scissor-like cut.
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height from 0.5″ to 1.75″.
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Why We Recommend It
This reel mower provides a satisfyingly clean cut that’s healthier for your grass. It’s a zero-emission option that allows for a peaceful mowing experience, reminiscent of traditional lawn care.
Best For
Homeowners with smaller, relatively flat lawns who prefer an environmentally conscious and quiet mowing solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely quiet operation.
- No emissions or fuel required.
- Low maintenance.
- Promotes healthier grass by cleanly cutting blades.
Cons:
- Not ideal for very tall or thick grass.
- Requires more physical effort than powered mowers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using a traditional gas rotary mower for years and had heard good things about reel mowers. There’s a lot of options, and I tried out a Scotts 16″ Elite Reel Mower first from a local store before upgrading to this 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel American Lawn Mower, and overall, I am pleased with it.”
Customer Review: “Perfect little rotary mower, I have a strip about 100′ long and 10″ wide that my robot mowers can’t cut because it is too close to the curb. My riding mower can’t cut it low enough without scalping the ground, so this was the perfect solution.I was a little skeptical because one wheel is on the gras”
3. American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14GC Mower
For those on a budget, the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14GC offers excellent value. This 5-blade reel mower comes with a grass catcher, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a manual mower, so it’s great for smaller lawns and for those who appreciate a quiet, emission-free way to maintain their grass.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 14-inch cutting width with a 5-blade reel.
- ✓ Integrated grass catcher for tidy clippings.
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height from 1″ to 2.25″.
- ✓ Durable alloy steel blades that stay sharp.
Why We Recommend It
This mower is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on the core benefits of a reel mower. The included grass catcher is a significant plus, simplifying the post-mowing cleanup.
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals with small to medium-sized yards who want a clean cut and easy clippings disposal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Includes a convenient grass catcher.
- Quiet and eco-friendly operation.
- Simple assembly and maintenance.
Cons:
- Requires manual effort to push.
- May not be as effective on uneven terrain or very thick grass.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using a traditional gas rotary mower for years and had heard good things about reel mowers. There’s a lot of options, and I tried out a Scotts 16″ Elite Reel Mower first from a local store before upgrading to this 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel American Lawn Mower, and overall, I am pleased with it.”
Customer Review: “Perfect little rotary mower, I have a strip about 100′ long and 10″ wide that my robot mowers can’t cut because it is too close to the curb. My riding mower can’t cut it low enough without scalping the ground, so this was the perfect solution.I was a little skeptical because one wheel is on the gras”
4. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Mower
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 reel mower is designed for efficient and healthy grass cutting. With its 5-blade system and 18-inch deck, it provides a wider cutting path, reducing the time you spend on lawn care. This manual mower is a great choice for those seeking an environmentally friendly and quiet solution.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 18-inch cutting width for broader coverage.
- ✓ 5-blade system for precise cutting.
- ✓ 9 cutting positions for customized lawn height (1.1″ – 2.5″).
- ✓ 10-inch front wheels for easy maneuverability.
Why We Recommend It
This mower offers a wider cut than many other manual reel mowers, making it more efficient for slightly larger areas. The variety of cutting positions ensures you can achieve the desired lawn height.
Best For
Homeowners with medium-sized lawns who want a manual mower that cuts efficiently and promotes grass health.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wider cutting path than many competitors.
- Precise scissor-like cut.
- Easy height adjustment.
- No fuel or electricity needed.
Cons:
- Can be challenging on very uneven ground.
- Requires physical exertion for pushing.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I waited until I had used this mower a few times before leaving this review. This is my take on this mower. This goes in the top five greatest purchases I have made on Amazon. I never buy an important item online without a lot of research. I read every review like this one, so I will do my best to p”
Customer Review: “Anyone can put this together in less than 5 minutes. All’s needed is a fraction of upper body strength in order to snap on the handle bar assembly. No tools required besides your bare hands. Best Mower I have ever owned. Period. I no longer worry about an extension cord getting in the way, gas not k”
5. Push Lawn Mower Reel
This 16-inch manual push reel mower is designed for effortless cutting and easy maneuverability, especially in tighter spaces. Its 5-blade system ensures a clean cut, promoting a healthier lawn without the noise or fumes of gas engines.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 16-inch cutting width.
- ✓ Precision 5-blade system for clean cuts.
- ✓ Ergonomic U-shaped handle with cushioned grips.
- ✓ Lightweight design (approx. 16.75 lbs).
Why We Recommend It
It’s an excellent option for its compact size and ease of use, making it perfect for smaller yards or for individuals who may find larger mowers difficult to handle. The clean cut is a definite plus for grass health.
Best For
Small lawns, gardeners who prefer a quiet and eco-friendly approach, and those who value lightweight, easy-to-handle equipment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very lightweight and easy to push.
- Clean, precise cut.
- Quiet operation and no emissions.
- Compact size is great for storage.
Cons:
- Smaller cutting width means more passes for larger lawns.
- Can struggle with very thick or overgrown grass.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Pensé que no me iba a servir cuando lo compre, pero fue todo lo contrario para mi sorpresa. Exelente producto, pueden comprarlo con confianza.”
Customer Review: “Pensé que no me iba a servir cuando lo compre, pero fue todo lo contrario para mi sorpresa. Exelente producto, pueden comprarlo con confianza.Read more”
6. LawnMaster LMRM1602 Mower
The LawnMaster LMRM1602 is a compact and efficient 16-inch reel mower designed for hassle-free yard maintenance. Its 5-blade reel provides a clean, scissor-like cut, promoting a healthier lawn. This non-gas mower is perfect for smaller yards and for those who prefer a quiet, environmentally sound way to mow.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 16-inch cutting width.
- ✓ 5-blade reel for precise cutting.
- ✓ 4 cutting positions for height adjustment (1″ to 2″).
- ✓ 10-inch wheels for smooth operation.
Why We Recommend It
This mower is a solid choice for its balance of cutting width and maneuverability. It’s easy to assemble and operate, making lawn care a simple task.
Best For
Ideal for small to medium-sized yards, urban dwellers, or anyone seeking a lightweight, easy-to-use, and eco-friendly mowing solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Quiet and emission-free.
- Provides a clean cut for grass health.
- Simple to assemble and maintain.
Cons:
- Requires more effort than powered mowers.
- May not perform well on very rough or uneven terrain.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I waited until I had used this mower a few times before leaving this review. This is my take on this mower. This goes in the top five greatest purchases I have made on Amazon. I never buy an important item online without a lot of research. I read every review like this one, so I will do my best to p”
Customer Review: “Anyone can put this together in less than 5 minutes. All’s needed is a fraction of upper body strength in order to snap on the handle bar assembly. No tools required besides your bare hands. Best Mower I have ever owned. Period. I no longer worry about an extension cord getting in the way, gas not k”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Non Gas Lawn Mower
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best non-gas lawn mowers, we look at several key factors to ensure you get a reliable and effective tool for your yard. This includes cutting performance, ease of use, maneuverability, durability, and maintenance requirements. For electric mowers, battery life or cord length is crucial, while for reel mowers, the quality of the blades and the ease of pushing are paramount. We also consider the mower’s design for safety and comfort during operation. For those looking to understand more about different mower types, exploring guides on how to choose the best lawn mower for your yard can be very helpful.
Budget Planning
Non-gas lawn mowers generally offer a wide range of prices, from very affordable manual reel mowers to more feature-rich electric models. Simple reel mowers can be found for under $100, making them an excellent budget-friendly option. Corded electric mowers are typically in the $150-$300 range, while battery-powered models can cost from $300 to $600 or more, depending on the battery system and features. Consider your lawn size and desired features when setting your budget. If you’re considering gas mowers for comparison, understanding their cost range is also beneficial, but for non-gas options, the value proposition often lies in lower running and maintenance costs over time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a non-gas lawn mower is a smart move for many homeowners. Whether you opt for the simplicity of a reel mower or the convenience of an electric model, you’ll likely enjoy a quieter, cleaner, and more effortless lawn care experience. Remember to consider your lawn’s size, terrain, and your personal preferences to make the best choice. For maintenance tips to keep any mower in top shape, check out our guide on best lawn mower maintenance practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are non-gas lawn mowers good for thick grass?
A: Manual reel mowers are best for regular lawn maintenance and thinner grass. For thicker or taller grass, electric mowers with more power or gas-powered options might be more suitable. However, regular mowing with a reel mower can help prevent grass from getting too thick in the first place.
Q: How much maintenance do non-gas lawn mowers require?
A: Non-gas lawn mowers, especially reel mowers, require significantly less maintenance than gas mowers. Reel mowers typically only need blade sharpening and occasional cleaning. Electric mowers need battery care (if applicable) and general cleaning, but there are no oil changes, spark plugs, or fuel systems to worry about.
Q: What is the cutting width of typical non-gas lawn mowers?
A: Non-gas mowers, particularly reel mowers, often have cutting widths ranging from 14 to 20 inches. Electric mowers can have wider decks, sometimes up to 21 inches or more, depending on the model.
Q: Are non-gas lawn mowers more environmentally friendly?
A: Yes, non-gas lawn mowers are generally much more environmentally friendly. Reel mowers produce zero emissions and run silently. Electric mowers produce zero direct emissions during operation, though their environmental impact depends on how the electricity is generated.
Q: Can I use a reel mower on hills?
A: Reel mowers can be used on gentle slopes, but they require more effort to push uphill. For steep hills, other types of mowers, like those specifically designed for inclines or even riding mowers, might be a better choice. You can learn more about what is the best lawn mower for hills in our dedicated guide.
Making the switch to a non-gas lawn mower can revolutionize your lawn care routine, offering a quieter, cleaner, and often simpler way to maintain your yard. We hope this guide has helped you explore the best options available and find the perfect non-gas mower for your needs. Happy mowing!