American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-I vs Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are high-quality reel mowers with identical 4.3/5 ratings, but they serve different yard sizes and user preferences. The American Lawn Mower 1204-14 wins for smaller, precise lawns and budget-conscious buyers. The Great States 815-18 wins for larger yards where cutting width and blade count matter more. Choose based on your lawn size and how much you want to push.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1204-14 | Great States 815-18 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $87.99 | $116.00 |
| Cutting Width | 14 inches | 18 inches |
| Blades | 4-blade | 5-blade |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1/4 acre | 1/4 to 1/2 acre |
| Weight | ~25 lbs | ~30 lbs |
| Handle | Standard steel | Ergonomic with foam grip |
| Grass Capacity | Small clippings, bag included | Larger clippings, bag included |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
Lower price and lighter weight. At $87.99, it costs $28 less than the Great States. The 14-inch width and 4-blade design make it easier to push and maneuver in tight spaces, around flower beds, or along fences. The lighter frame (~25 lbs) reduces fatigue on small or flat lawns.
Excellent for fine, low grass. The 4-blade reel cuts cleanly on Bermuda, fescue, and bluegrass kept under 3 inches. It’s ideal for homeowners who mow frequently and want a precise, manicured look. With over 22,000 reviews, it’s one of the most trusted reel mowers for small yards.
Better value for small properties. If your lawn is under 1/4 acre, the American mower provides all the cutting power you need without paying for extra width you won’t use. The included grass catcher is adequate for light clippings.
Where Great States Wins
Wider cut and more blades. The 18-inch cutting width and 5-blade design cover 28% more area per pass than the 14-inch model. This reduces mowing time significantly on medium-sized lawns. The extra blade also produces a finer cut on thicker grasses like St. Augustine or tall fescue.
Better for uneven terrain. The heavier frame (~30 lbs) and wider wheelbase provide more stability on slopes or bumpy ground. The ergonomic handle with foam grip reduces vibration and makes longer mowing sessions more comfortable.
Handles taller grass better. The 5-blade reel can slice through grass up to 4 inches without clogging, while the 4-blade American model struggles above 3.5 inches. If you sometimes let the lawn grow long, the Great States is more forgiving.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 if:
- Your lawn is under 1/4 acre
- You want the lowest price
- You have tight spaces or many obstacles
- You mow weekly and keep grass short
- Light weight and easy storage matter most
Buy the Great States 815-18 if:
- Your lawn is 1/4 to 1/2 acre
- You want faster mowing with fewer passes
- You have thicker or taller grass varieties
- You prefer an ergonomic handle for comfort
- You don’t mind spending $28 more for extra width and blades
For most homeowners with a typical suburban lot (1/4 acre or less), the American Lawn Mower is the smarter choice—it’s cheaper, lighter, and perfectly adequate for small, well-maintained lawns. The Great States is the better upgrade