Buying Guide for the Best Reel Lawn Mowers
Choosing a reel lawn mower can be a rewarding decision, especially if you want an eco-friendly and quiet way to keep your lawn neat. These manual mowers are great for small to medium-sized yards and require little maintenance. To choose the right reel mower, it's important to look at the features that directly affect ease of use, efficiency, and the quality of your lawn cut. Understanding key specs will help you find the best fit for your yard, your physical ability, and your expectations for lawn care.Cutting WidthCutting width refers to how wide a strip of grass the mower cuts with each pass. A wider cutting width allows you to finish mowing more quickly because you cover more ground with each push. Typically, reel lawn mowers range from about 14 to 20 inches in cutting width. Narrower widths are lighter and easier to maneuver, which is good for smaller or more intricate lawns, while wider mowers are better for larger, more open lawns. To decide what's best for you, consider the size of your lawn and how much time and effort you want to spend mowing.
Number of BladesReel mowers use a set of spinning blades to cut grass. The number of blades usually ranges from four to eight. Fewer blades make pushing easier but may not deliver as fine or clean a cut, while more blades provide a neater appearance but require more effort to push, especially in thick grass. If you have a regularly mowed lawn and want a very precise, golf-course-like cut, go for more blades. For basic maintenance and ease of use, fewer blades will suffice.
Adjustable Cutting HeightThe adjustable cutting height feature allows you to choose how tall or short your grass will be after mowing. This setting typically ranges from about 0.5 to 3 inches. Higher settings are good for warm climates or less frequent mowing, helping protect roots and retain moisture, while lower settings create a shorter, more manicured look. Choose a mower with a height range that matches how you like your lawn and consider ease of adjusting the height mechanism as well.
WeightThe weight of the mower impacts how easy it is to push, especially over rough or uneven ground. Lighter mowers are generally easier to maneuver and transport, making them a good choice for small lawns or if physical effort is a concern. Heavier mowers may be more stable and deliver a more consistent cut on flat ground, but can be tiring to use. Think about the terrain of your lawn and your comfort with pushing weight when making a choice.
Grass Catcher CompatibilityA grass catcher is an accessory that collects clippings as you mow, keeping your lawn tidy and saving time on post-mowing cleanup. Not all reel mowers come with a catcher, and some models may not even offer one as an option. If you prefer not to leave clippings on the lawn or want easier cleanup, look for mowers that include or offer compatible grass catchers.
Wheel Size and MaterialsWheel size and what the wheels are made of affect the mower's maneuverability and how well it moves over different surfaces. Larger wheels make it easier to push the mower over uneven or bumpy lawns, while sturdy materials like solid rubber or hard plastic provide durability. If your lawn has slopes or obstacles, choosing a mower with bigger, more rugged wheels can make your mowing experience smoother.