Page Contents
Quick Answers
For homeowners with smaller, flatter lawns that don’t require self-propulsion, the best push lawn mower is the American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower. This manual reel mower is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and provides a clean, quiet cut without needing gas or electricity. Other top options for best push mowers include the Scotts 2000-20 Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower, the Greenworks 20-Inch Push Mower, and the BLACK+DECKER MM2000 13-Amp Corded Mower.
What to Look for in a Push Mower
When choosing the best manual push mower for your lawn, here are some key factors to consider:
Cutting Width
– The wider the cutting deck, the fewer passes you need to mow your lawn. For small or medium lawns under 1/4 acre, look for 14-21 inch cutting widths. Wider than 21 inches can be hard to maneuver.
Cutting Height
– Adjustable cutting heights from about 1-4 inches allow flexibility for different grass types and seasons. Lower heights like 1-2 inches are best for thick, lush grass. Higher heights around 3-4 inches are better for dry conditions.
Type of Mower
– Manual reel mowers, cordless electric mowers, and corded electric mowers are all options without self-propulsion. Reel mowers are the quietest, but electric mowers can be easier for thick grass.
Weight
– For true push mowing, opt for lighter weight models under 40 lbs. Heavier mowers can be challenging to maneuver and turn.
Handle Height
– Adjustable handle heights accommodate different users and make mowing less tiring. Look for handles that adjust from at least 3-4 height positions.
Grass Catcher
– A removable grass catcher or bag keeps clippings off your lawn for a cleaner cut. Not all push mowers offer this feature.
Safety Features
– Key safety features include easy-access control buttons, a hand guard or shield, and a safety key that must be inserted for electric mowers to run.
Reviews – Best Push Lawn Mowers
Here are more detailed reviews of the top options for the best push lawn mower without self-propulsion, along with pros and cons of each model:
1. American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch Manual Reel Mower
The American Lawn Mower Company 14-Inch Manual Reel Lower is our choice for the best overall push reel lawn mower. At just 25 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver and provides a clean, quiet cut without relying on gas or electricity.
Pros:
- Very lightweight at only 25 lbs
- 14-inch cutting width ideal for small to medium lawns
- Blade adjusts from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches
- 10-inch composite wheels roll smoothly over grass
- Cuts grass cleanly without tearing
- Operates very quietly
- Easy to push, steer, and turn
- Durable steel construction
- No fuel or electrical cord needed
Cons:
- Not ideal for thick, tall grass
- No electric start option
- No grass catcher available
- American steel adds cost over imported models
If you want the greenest, quietest cut without the hassles of gas or electric, the American Lawn Mower Company reel mower is the best push mower to consider. It’s substantially easier to use than heavier reel models. Just note that really tall, thick grass may be difficult with a manual reel.
2. Scotts 2000-20 Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
For another lightweight and easy-to-use manual reel mower, the Scotts 2000-20 Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower is a top choice. At just over 20 pounds, the Scotts Classic is also highly maneuverable and efficient without needing fuel.
Pros:
- Very light at only 22 lbs
- 20-inch cutting width great for medium lawns
- Heat-treated blades stay sharp
- Cutting height adjustable from 1-3 inches
- No gas or electricity required
- Easy push button height adjustment
- Quiet operation
- 10-inch wheels help smooth the ride
- Good price point for a reel mower
Cons:
- Some reports of quality control issues
- May struggle on very thick or tall grass
- Harder to maneuver than more expensive reel models
- No rear grass catcher available
- Handle does not fold for storage
For shoppers on a budget, the Scotts 2000-20 is a lightweight push reel pick under $100. It provides quiet, eco-friendly cutting for small to medium lawns. Quality control issues seem hit-or-miss, so inspect the mower upon arrival if ordering online.
3. Greenworks 20-Inch Brushless Push Lawn Mower
The Greenworks 20-Inch Brushless Push Lawn Mower is our top electric pick without self-propulsion. The convenient push-button start helps Greenworks stand out from corded electric models.
Pros:
- Powerful 12.5 amp brushless motor
- Digital push button start
- Lightweight at only 35 lbs
- 20-inch cutting deck width
- 3-in-1 design – side discharge, mulch, and rear bag
- Height adjusts from 1 3/8 – 3 3/4 inches
- 7-position adjustable handle
- Battery compatible with other Greenworks tools
- Quieter and less maintenance than gas mowers
Cons:
- Battery life maxes out around 45 mins per charge
- No electric start option
- Batteries and charger add to upfront cost
- Still cords when charging battery
- Not quite as nimble as the lightest reel mowers
For electric power on a budget, the Greenworks push mower is a great cordless pick. The push button start adds convenience over corded models, though charging time and battery life is a factor. Overall, it???s a nice hybrid alternative to choose between fully manual reel and corded electric mowers.
4. BLACK+DECKER MM2000 13-Amp Corded Mower
The BLACK+DECKER MM2000 13-Amp Corded Mower is our top corded electric pick for residential use. This powerful and lightweight mower is easy to maneuver without fumes or prep.
Pros:
- Powerful 13 amp motor
- Very lightweight at only 36 lbs
- 20-inch metal cutting deck
- Instant start with variable speed trigger
- Adjustable handle and height settings
- Tall rear wheels help navigate uneven terrain
- Good collection bag capacity
- 2-year limited warranty
- Trusted BLACK+DECKER brand name
Cons:
- Corded design requires outdoor power source
- Cord length may require extension
- Not as nimble as lightest reel mowers
- Some quality concerns noted
- No electric start option
With easy start-up and ample power, the BLACK+DECKER MM2000 is ideal for small to medium lawns. The rear bag gives it an advantage over some push reel models. Just be aware corded use limits mobility and requires an outdoor outlet. Overall, it provides a nice mid-range option between fully manual and battery-powered mowers.
Push Mower Buying Considerations
Here are some other factors and components to look for when selecting the best non self-propelled push lawn mower:
Cutting Mechanism
Reel mowers use a cylinder with angled blades that rotates against a stationary bar to slice grass blades like scissors. They require less power and maintenance than other mower types.
Rotary mowers utilize a horizontal spinning blade. Electric and gas rotary mowers are more powerful for thicker grass, but louder than reel mowers.
Maneuverability
Push mowers should be easy to turn, steer, and control. Look for models with lighter weights under 40 lbs and wheel sizes over 8 inches. Sturdy front casters help navigate turns.
Ergonomic Handle
The handle should match the operator’s ideal pushing height and offer adjustable positions. Padded grips reduce hand fatigue and vibration. Folding handles save storage space.
Noise Level
Reel mowers are very quiet, below 70 dB. Electric motors run around 80 dB while gas mowers are louder at 95+ dB. Compare mower noise ratings if concerned about disturbance.
Safety Features
Key safety considerations are hand guards, easy control access, a safety start key on electric models, and a dead man clutch that stops the mower if released. Avoid any pinch points.
Maintenance
Manual reel mowers require the least maintenance with no engine upkeep. Corded electric models need minimal care. Brushless motors on cordless mowers last longer than models with brushes.
Comparison Table
Here is a summary comparison of the main specs for our picks for best non self-propelled push lawn mowers:
| Mower | Type | Cutting Width | Weight | Motor Power | Cutting Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Lawn Mower 14-Inch Reel | Manual Push Reel | 14-Inch | 25 lbs | N/A | 1/2″ – 1 1/2″ |
| Scotts 2000-20 Reel Mower | Manual Push Reel | 20-Inch | 22 lbs | N/A | 1″ – 3″ |
| Greenworks Electric Mower | Cordless Electric | 20-Inch | 35 lbs | 12.5-Amp Brushless | 1 3/8″ – 3 3/4″ |
| BLACK+DECKER MM2000 | Corded Electric | 20-Inch | 36 lbs | 13-Amp | 1.5″ – 3.5″ |
Key Takeaways – Best Push Lawn Mower Picks
– For light manual cutting, the American Lawn Mower 14-Inch Reel is our top recommendation with 5 blades and quiet, clean cutting.
– The Scotts 2000-20 Classic Reel is also very lightweight and efficient for smaller lawns, but quality varies more.
– Go cordless with the convenient Greenworks 20-Inch Brushless for electric power without outlets or cords.
– The BLACK+DECKER MM2000 Corded Mower is best for a bit more power and thicker grass with easy electric start.
– Focus on lighter weights under 40 lbs, larger wheels, and adjustable handles when choosing the best push mower for your needs.
– Reel mowers like the American Lawn Mower and Scotts models are the quietest but electric mowers can handle thicker grass more easily.
Conclusion
For homes looking for the top lawn mower without self-propulsion, our pick for the best overall push mower is the American Lawn Mower 14-Inch Reel. With extremely easy maneuvering and an eco-friendly, quiet reel cutting system, it’s built to last years of mowing small to medium lawns. The Scotts Classic Push Reel Mower is another solid manual option at a lower price point.
To go electric, we recommend the Greenworks 20-Inch Brushless Mower for convenient cordless power. Just keep the battery charged. The BLACK+DECKER MM2000 corded mower is also solid for consistent, simple start-ups. Compare your lawn size, terrain, and thickness of grass to determine if a manual reel or electric rotary mower will work best as the top push lawn mower without self-propelled features.
