American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-I vs Earthwise 1816-18EW 18-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
For small, flat lawns with fine grass, the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is the better value. It’s lighter, simpler, and costs significantly less while still delivering a clean cut. The Earthwise 1816-18EW is the better choice if you have a larger yard, thicker grass, or want a wider cutting path to reduce mowing time. It costs more but offers a substantial increase in cutting width and blade count.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1204-14 | Earthwise 1816-18EW |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $87.99 | $129.89 |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 18 inches |
| Blades | 4 | 5 |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1/4 acre | Up to 1/2 acre |
| Weight (approx.) | 20 lbs | 27 lbs |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
Price. At $87.99, it’s about $42 less than the Earthwise. For a simple reel mower, that difference is substantial—you’re saving over 30% of the cost.
Lighter weight. At roughly 20 pounds, the American is noticeably easier to push and maneuver, especially on slopes or uneven ground. This also makes it simpler to lift over curbs or store in tight spaces.
Proven reliability. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this model has a long track record of consistent performance. The 4-blade design is well-suited for fine Bermuda or fescue grasses, and the 14-inch width is ideal for small, rectangular lawns where tight turns are common.
Lower maintenance. Fewer blades means slightly less friction and easier sharpening. The simple construction also means fewer parts that can break over time.
Where Earthwise Wins
Wider cutting path. The 18-inch width is 4 inches wider than the American, which translates to roughly 29% more grass cut per pass. On a 5,000-square-foot lawn, this can save 10–15 minutes compared to the narrower model.
More blades. The 5-blade design provides a finer, more consistent cut, especially on thicker grass like St. Augustine or Kentucky bluegrass. More blades also help the reel spin more smoothly, reducing the chance of grass being pushed over rather than cut.
Better for taller or thicker grass. The Earthwise’s larger reel and additional blade count give it more momentum and cutting power. If your lawn tends to grow quickly or has uneven patches, this mower will handle it more effectively without stalling.
Larger wheels. The Earthwise typically comes with 10-inch wheels versus the American’s 8-inch wheels, making it easier to roll over bumps and uneven terrain without scalping.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 if:
- Your lawn is under 1/4 acre.
- You have fine, thin grass that’s mowed regularly.
- You want the lowest possible cost.
- You need a lightweight mower for easy storage or carrying.
Buy the Earthwise 1816-18EW if:
- Your lawn is between 1/4 and 1/2 acre.
- You have thick, coarse, or fast-growing grass.
- You want to finish mowing faster with fewer passes.
- You’re willing to spend more for a wider cut and extra blade.
For most homeowners with a small, well-maintained lawn, the American is the smarter buy. Its lower price and lighter weight make it a no-fuss tool that gets the job done. If your lawn is larger or more demanding, the Earthwise’s extra width and blade count justify the higher price.