American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-I vs Great States 304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are high-quality, manual reel options for small to medium lawns. The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 edges ahead for budget-conscious buyers seeking a proven, widely-tested reel mower with a slightly lighter price. The Great States 304-14 offers an extra blade for potentially finer cutting, but at a higher cost with fewer user reviews. For most users with flat, small lawns, the American Lawn Mower Company model is the better value pick.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1204-14 | Great States 304-14 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $87.99 | $94.99 |
| Power | Manual (push reel) | Manual (push reel) |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 14 inches |
| Blades | 4-blade reel | 5-blade reel |
| Best Yard Size | Small (under 5,000 sq ft) | Small (under 5,000 sq ft) |
| User Rating | 4.3/5 (22,498 reviews) | 4.3/5 (9,257 reviews) |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
Price and Value – At $87.99, the American Lawn Mower is $7 less than the Great States model. For a manual reel mower, this difference is meaningful relative to the overall cost. The lower price does not compromise build quality, as evidenced by its strong rating across over 22,000 reviews.
Proven Track Record – With more than double the number of user reviews, the 1204-14 has been tested by a much larger group of homeowners. This volume of feedback suggests consistent performance and reliability over time. The 4.3-star rating is maintained across a broad user base, indicating dependable cutting for typical grass types.
Lightweight Maneuverability – The 4-blade design typically results in slightly less resistance when pushing, making it easier to use on flat terrain. This can reduce fatigue during longer sessions, especially on lawns with gentle slopes.
Where Great States Wins
Finer Cut Potential – The 5-blade reel on the Great States 304-14 allows for a smaller cutting interval per revolution. This can produce a cleaner, more manicured appearance on grass that is kept consistently short. For users who prioritize a golf-green finish, the extra blade provides a slight advantage.
Durable Construction – Great States has a reputation for using robust steel frames and sealed bearings in their reel mowers. The 304-14 is built to withstand frequent use and may require less maintenance over the long term, though both mowers are comparable in basic construction.
Slightly Higher User Rating Consistency – Despite fewer reviews, the 4.3 rating for the Great States is backed by a higher proportion of 5-star feedback relative to total reviews, suggesting that buyers who choose it are very satisfied with the cutting performance.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 if you want the best value for a 14-inch reel mower. It costs less, has overwhelming user validation, and handles typical small lawns effectively. It is ideal for budget-minded homeowners with flat, well-maintained grass who do not require an ultra-fine cut.
Choose the Great States 304-14 if you are willing to pay a premium for the extra blade and prefer a mower with a reputation for precise cutting. It is a better fit for those who mow frequently and want the cleanest possible appearance, or who value the slightly more robust build from a brand known for long-lasting reel mowers.
For most buyers, the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is the smarter purchase due to its lower price and proven reliability. The Great States