American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-I vs Earthwise 1314-14EW 14" 5-Blade Economy
Quick Verdict
For most buyers, the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 is the better choice. It costs $10 less, has a significantly higher review count (22,499 reviews vs. 1,765), and a slightly better average rating (4.3 vs. 4.2). The Earthwise 1314-14EW is a close alternative but doesn’t offer enough advantages to justify the higher price for typical home use. Choose the Earthwise only if you specifically need its slightly different build or prefer a brand with fewer but still positive reviews.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1304-14 | Earthwise 1314-14EW |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.99 | $109.99 |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 14 inches |
| Blades | 5-blade reel | 5-blade reel |
| Power Source | Manual (push reel) | Manual (push reel) |
| Best Yard Size | Small to medium (up to 1/4 acre) | Small to medium (up to 1/4 acre) |
| Review Count | 22,499 | 1,765 |
| Average Rating | 4.3 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 |
Both mowers share identical core specs: 14-inch cutting width, 5-blade reel, and manual push operation. The key differences are price and market presence.
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
Price and Value – At $99.99, the American Lawn Mower is $10 cheaper. For a manual reel mower, that’s a meaningful saving, especially since performance is nearly identical.
Proven Track Record – With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3 rating, this mower has been tested by an enormous number of users. High review counts reduce the chance of biased or unrepresentative feedback. You can be confident that most buyers have had a positive experience.
Availability and Support – The American Lawn Mower Company has been in business for decades and is widely known for reel mowers. Replacement parts (blades, wheels, adjustment hardware) are easy to find and generally inexpensive. The brand’s long history suggests reliable customer support.
Ease of Adjustment – Many users report that the cutting height adjustment on the 1304-14 is straightforward and durable. The mower is designed for simple maintenance, which is important for a manual mower that requires occasional blade sharpening and alignment.
Where Earthwise Wins
Slightly Higher Build Quality Perception – Some users note that the Earthwise feels a bit more solidly constructed, with slightly thicker metal components. This is subjective but could matter if you plan to mow a bumpy or uneven lawn.
Lower Review Volume (Potential Advantage) – While fewer reviews (1,765) means less data, it also means the product is newer to the market. Earthwise may have incorporated small design improvements over the American Lawn Mower’s long-running model. For example, the handle ergonomics or wheel bushings might be slightly refined.
Brand Warranty – Earthwise typically offers a 2-year warranty on its reel mowers. American Lawn Mower’s warranty is often 1 year. If warranty length is a priority, Earthwise has a small edge.
Aesthetic and Handle Design – A minority of users prefer the look or handle shape of the Earthwise. This is purely personal preference, but it’s worth noting if you have a specific ergonomic need.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the American Lawn Mower 1304-14 if:
- You want the most proven, widely-reviewed manual mower available.
- Saving $10 matters