Choosing the right push lawn mower can make all the difference in keeping your yard looking neat and tidy without breaking your back. With so many options available, from electric corded models to classic reel mowers, it can be tough to know where to start. We’ve scoured the market to find some of the best push lawn mowers that offer great performance, ease of use, and durability, ensuring your lawn care routine is more enjoyable.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Push Lawn Mower Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. CRAFTSMAN CMEMW213 Lawn Mower
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.1/5
The CRAFTSMAN CMEMW213 Lawn Mower is a fantastic option for those who want power and convenience without the hassle of gas. Its robust 13 Amp motor coupled with a 20-inch cutting deck makes quick work of even taller grass, and the 3-in-1 functionality means you can bag, mulch, or side-discharge with ease.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 13 Amp motor for efficient cutting
- ✓ 20-inch cutting deck covers more ground
- ✓ 3-in-1 system: bagging, mulching, and side discharge
- ✓ Single-lever height adjustment for quick changes
Why We Recommend It
This CRAFTSMAN push lawn mower is a real workhorse for its price point. The easy height adjustment and straightforward operation make it accessible for many homeowners. If you’re looking for a reliable electric mower that delivers a clean cut, this is a top contender.
Best For
Ideal for small to medium-sized yards where a corded electric mower is practical. It’s perfect for homeowners who prefer electric power over gas.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong motor tackles various grass types.
- Convenient 3-in-1 cutting options.
- Easy height adjustment system.
- Corded electric power is eco-friendly and requires less maintenance.
Cons:
- Cord length can be a limitation for larger yards.
- Requires an outdoor extension cord.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great mower for a small yard! I picked this up in early 2024 for $220, and it still looks like it’s the same price in 2025. If you don’t want to pay extra for cordless, or, like me, don’t have a good place to charge the battery, this is nice for small yard. Make sure to research the proper gauge ext”
Customer Review: “Impressed with this powerhouse of a mower. Didn’t think it could handle the jungle that was my yard. Hadn’t mowed in two years. Blackberry vines were taking over. 2-3 foot tall grass was reforming the prairie back there. Small saplings were becoming real trees, magnificent redwoods even..This prince”
2. LawnMaster ME1218X.01 Mower
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.3/5
The LawnMaster ME1218X.01 is another excellent corded electric option, offering a 19-inch cutting width and a powerful 12AMP motor. It provides the flexibility of mulching or side discharging, and features easy height adjustments from 1.5 to 4 inches with a single lever. This mower is designed for efficient and clean lawn care.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 19-inch cutting deck for wider coverage
- ✓ 12 AMP motor delivers robust power
- ✓ 2-in-1 functionality: mulch or side discharge
- ✓ Single lever for 6 cutting height positions
Why We Recommend It
We’re impressed with the LawnMaster ME1218X.01 for its balance of power, cutting width, and user-friendly features. It’s a great choice for those who need a bit more cutting capacity than smaller models and appreciate the convenience of electric power.
Best For
Homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who want a bit more cutting width and power than basic models. It’s also suitable for those who prefer not to deal with gas engines and maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wider 19-inch cutting deck saves time.
- User-friendly single-lever height adjustment.
- Quiet operation compared to gas mowers.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Cons:
- Requires a power outlet and extension cord.
- May struggle with extremely overgrown or thick grass without multiple passes.
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”
3. American Mower 1204-14 Mower
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.2/5
For an eco-friendly and quiet mowing experience, the American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Mower is an excellent choice. This classic reel mower uses sharp blades to cleanly cut grass without the noise or emissions of gas or electric mowers. It’s lightweight, requires minimal maintenance, and offers a great workout!
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Environmentally friendly, no fuel or electricity needed
- ✓ Whisper-quiet operation
- ✓ 14-inch cutting width
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height (0.5-1.75 inches)
Why We Recommend It
This American Mower reel mower is perfect for maintaining smaller lawns and for those who appreciate a simple, effective tool. It’s a fantastic budget-friendly option that provides a clean cut and a healthier lawn by avoiding grass tearing.
Best For
Ideal for small, flat lawns (up to 1/4 acre) and homeowners looking for a quiet, low-maintenance, and exercise-friendly mowing solution. It’s also a great option for those concerned about the environmental impact of traditional mowers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely quiet and eco-friendly.
- Very affordable and low maintenance.
- Lightweight and easy to push and store.
- Provides a clean, scissor-like cut.
Cons:
- Not suitable for tall or overgrown grass (best for regular mowing).
- Requires more physical effort than powered mowers.
Customer Reviews
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4. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Mower
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.1/5
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 is a step up in reel mower size, offering an 18-inch cutting deck. Its 5-blade system is designed for a clean, scissor-like cut, promoting a healthier lawn. With multiple cutting positions, you can easily customize the grass height, and its larger wheels make it more maneuverable.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 18-inch cutting deck for wider coverage
- ✓ 5-blade system for a precise cut
- ✓ 9 cutting positions for customization
- ✓ 10-inch front wheels for improved maneuverability
Why We Recommend It
This LawnMaster push reel mower offers a superior cutting experience for its type. If you’re looking for a manual mower that’s effective and makes lawn care feel less like a chore, this is a solid choice. It’s a fantastic alternative to powered mowers for those who want a precise cut and a bit of exercise.
Best For
Perfect for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who want a high-quality reel mower experience. It’s great for maintaining grass types that benefit from a precise cut.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Provides a very clean and healthy cut.
- Wider 18-inch deck covers more ground efficiently.
- Easy adjustment of cutting height.
- Quieter and more eco-friendly than powered mowers.
Cons:
- Requires more physical effort than electric or gas mowers.
- May not be as effective on very thick or uneven terrain.
Customer Reviews
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5. American Mower 1725-16GC Mower
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.2/5
The American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC is a premium reel mower designed for those with specific grass types like Bermuda or Zoysia. It features a 16-inch cutting width with a 7-blade reel for exceptional precision. This model also includes a convenient grass catcher, making cleanup a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 7-blade reel for specialized grass types
- ✓ 16-inch cutting width
- ✓ Integrated grass catcher
- ✓ Designed for short, thick grass
Why We Recommend It
This American Mower 7-blade reel mower stands out for its precision cutting and the inclusion of a grass catcher, which is a feature often missing on manual mowers. It’s built for enthusiasts who want the best possible cut for specific grass varieties.
Best For
Owners of specific grass types like Bermuda, Tiff, Bentgrass, and Zoysia who desire a highly precise cut. It’s also great for those who want the tidiness of bagged clippings without extra effort.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Provides a superior cut for certain grass types.
- Grass catcher is a valuable added convenience.
- Durable construction with good maneuverability.
- Eco-friendly and quiet operation.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to basic reel mowers.
- Specific grass type recommendation means it might not be ideal for all lawns.
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”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Push Lawn Mower
Essential Factors We Consider
When we look for the best push lawn mower, we consider a few key things. First, ease of use is paramount – you don’t want to struggle to start it or push it around. Power is also important, especially for tackling thicker grass or uneven terrain. We also think about the cutting options like mulching or bagging, and how simple it is to adjust the cutting height. For electric models, cord length and battery life (if applicable) are crucial. For reel mowers, blade sharpness and maneuverability are key. Ultimately, we aim for a mower that offers good value and makes your lawn care routine simpler and more effective.
Budget Planning
The cost of a push lawn mower can vary significantly. Basic manual reel mowers are the most budget-friendly, often costing under $150. Corded electric mowers typically range from $150 to $300, offering a good balance of power and affordability. Battery-powered mowers can be more expensive, with prices sometimes exceeding $400, especially for higher-end models with longer runtimes and better features. When setting your budget, consider the size of your yard and the type of grass you have, as this might influence the type of mower you need and its associated cost. Remember to factor in the potential cost of accessories like extension cords for electric mowers or replacement blades for reel mowers.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right push lawn mower depends heavily on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for the eco-friendly simplicity of a reel mower, the convenience of a corded electric model, or the flexibility of a battery-powered option, there’s a perfect mower out there for you. By considering factors like yard size, grass type, budget, and desired features, you can make an informed decision that will lead to a beautifully maintained lawn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a reel mower and a rotary mower?
A: A reel mower uses a cylindrical set of blades that rotate to cut grass like scissors, providing a very clean cut and requiring no fuel or electricity. A rotary mower uses a single, horizontally spinning blade to cut grass, offering more power for thicker grass and longer heights, but can sometimes tear the grass blades.
Q: How do I choose the right cutting width for my lawn mower?
A: For small yards (under 1/4 acre), a cutting width of 14-18 inches is usually sufficient. For medium yards (1/4 to 1/2 acre), consider 18-21 inches. Larger yards might benefit from wider decks, but for push mowers, focusing on maneuverability is often key.
Q: Is a corded electric mower powerful enough for thick grass?
A: Yes, most modern corded electric mowers, especially those with higher amperage (like the 13 AMP Craftsman model), are powerful enough for most residential lawn conditions, including reasonably thick grass. However, extremely overgrown or dense grass might require multiple passes or a more powerful gas mower.
Q: How often should I sharpen the blades on my push lawn mower?
A: For rotary mowers, it’s generally recommended to sharpen blades at least once a year, or more often if you mow frequently or encounter debris. For reel mowers, regular maintenance and occasional sharpening (depending on usage and grass type) are needed to maintain that scissor-like cut. You can learn more about how to sharpen push lawn mower blades here.
Q: Can I use a push mower on hills?
A: While push mowers can be used on gentle slopes, they are not ideal for steep hills. For sloped yards, you might want to explore options designed for hills, such as specific types of lawn mowers for hills or consider alternative solutions.
Finding the best push lawn mower that fits your needs involves understanding the different types and features available. Whether you prioritize power, eco-friendliness, or budget-friendliness, the options we’ve reviewed offer excellent performance for various lawn sizes and conditions. We encourage you to check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon to find the perfect mower for your yard care routine!