American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red Review

Quick Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER wins for versatility and value, as its 3-in-1 combo (mower, weed eater, edger) at $69.00 outperforms the manual reel mower for most modern lawns, despite the American Lawn Mower’s eco-friendly simplicity.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Where American Lawn Mower Wins

1. Zero emissions and noise – The 1204-14 is entirely manual, producing no exhaust, gas fumes, or loud motor noise. Ideal for early-morning mowing or eco-conscious buyers in noise-sensitive neighborhoods.
2. Lower long-term cost – No fuel, electricity, or replacement batteries needed. Maintenance is limited to occasional blade sharpening ($10-$20 every few years). The BLACK+DECKER requires a power cord and may need motor repairs.
3. Better for fine grass and exercise – Reel mowers scissor-cut grass cleanly, reducing browning tips common with electric rotary blades. Pushing it also provides light cardio, unlike the BLACK+DECKER’s self-propelled-like ease (though both lack true self-propulsion).

Where BLACK+DECKER Wins

1. 3-in-1 versatility – This combo includes a weed eater and edger, saving $50-$100 on separate tools. The mower’s 6.5-amp motor handles overgrown grass easily, while the reel mower struggles with tall or wet grass.
2. Lower upfront price – At $69.00, it’s $19 cheaper than the reel mower, despite including three tools. The corded design also avoids battery replacement costs (though a cord limits range).
3. Easier for uneven terrain – The electric rotary blade mulches leaves and cuts through thicker weeds without clogging. The reel mower requires perfectly flat, debris-free lawns and frequent bagging.

Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (American Lawn Mower) if:

• You have a small, flat lawn (under 1/4 acre) with fine grass and want zero emissions.
• You enjoy quiet, meditative mowing and don’t mind physical effort.
• You prioritize long-term savings over upfront cost and don’t need a weed eater/edger.

Buy Mower B (BLACK+DECKER) if:

• You need a budget-friendly all-in-one tool for a small yard with mixed grass/weeds.
• You have an outdoor power outlet and don’t mind a cord (use a 50-ft extension cord).
• You want faster, less labor-intensive mowing and occasional edging/trimming.

Skip both if:

• Your yard exceeds 1/4 acre. The reel mower becomes exhausting, and the BLACK+DECKER’s cord limits reach. Look for a self-propelled gas or battery model instead.

Quick Verdict

The Great States 815-18 wins overall for most buyers because its wider 18-inch cutting deck and five-blade reel deliver superior cutting efficiency and quality for the price, making it a better long-term investment despite the higher cost.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Where American Lawn Mower Wins

1. Lower upfront cost. At $87.99, the American Lawn Mower is nearly $30 cheaper than the Great States model, making it an excellent entry-level choice for budget-conscious buyers or those with very small lawns. The savings can be redirected toward other yard tools or accessories.

2. Lighter weight and easier maneuverability. The 14-inch cutting deck and compact frame make the American Lawn Mower significantly lighter (around 20 pounds) than the Great States. This is a distinct advantage for users with narrow pathways, tight garden beds, or small yards where agility matters more than cutting width.

3. Higher review volume and proven reliability. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, the American Lawn Mower has a massive track record. This extensive feedback suggests consistent performance and durability across many user scenarios, reducing the risk of unexpected issues.

Where Great States Wins

1. Wider cutting deck saves time. The 18-inch cutting width vs. 14 inches means the Great States covers roughly 29% more grass per pass. For a 2,000-square-foot lawn, this translates to about 30-40% fewer passes, significantly reducing mowing time and physical effort.

2. Five-blade reel delivers a cleaner cut. The five-blade design (versus four blades on the American) creates more cutting points per revolution, resulting in a finer, more manicured finish. This is especially noticeable on fescue, bluegrass, or other fine-bladed turf types, where the Great States leaves a cleaner, less frayed edge.

3. Better for slightly larger or uneven lawns. The wider wheelbase and larger cutting deck provide improved stability on mild slopes and uneven terrain. The Great States also tends to handle taller grass more effectively due to its additional blade count, reducing the risk of bending or tearing stems.

Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (American Lawn Mower) if: You have a very small yard (under 1/4 acre) with simple, flat terrain, and you want to minimize upfront cost. It’s also the better choice if you have narrow gates, tight corners, or need a lightweight mower for easy storage and transport.

Buy Mower B (Great States) if: Your lawn is between 1/4 and 1/3 acre, you want to finish mowing faster, and you prioritize a cleaner, more professional-looking cut. The extra $28 is justified by the time savings and improved cutting performance, especially if you maintain fine turf grasses.

Neither is ideal if: Your lawn exceeds 1/3 acre or has thick, tall grass, steep slopes, or heavy weeds. In those cases, consider a gas or electric mower, as reel mowers struggle with dense growth and large areas.