American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-I vs Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 and Earthwise 1715-16EW are both reliable manual reel mowers, but they serve slightly different needs. The American mower wins for budget-conscious users with smaller, flat lawns who prioritize ease of use and a proven track record. The Earthwise mower is the better choice for those with slightly larger yards who want a wider cutting path and more blades for a finer cut, especially on grass that’s kept at a moderate height.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1304-14 | Earthwise 1715-16EW |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.99 | $114.06 |
| Blade Count | 5 | 7 |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 16 inches |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 3,000 sq ft | Up to 5,000 sq ft |
| Rating | 4.3/5 (22,499 reviews) | 4.2/5 (1,765 reviews) |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
Value and Proven Reliability – At $100, the American mower is about $14 cheaper, yet it holds a slightly higher rating from a massive base of over 22,000 reviews. This indicates consistent quality and user satisfaction over many seasons.
Ease of Push – With a 14-inch cut width and 5 blades, this mower requires less effort to push through grass than the 16-inch, 7-blade Earthwise. It’s ideal for smaller lawns, narrow paths, and users who want a very light, nimble mower. The narrower width also makes it easier to maneuver around flower beds and garden edges.
Better for Taller Grass – The 5-blade design, combined with the narrower cut, can handle slightly taller grass without stalling as easily as a 7-blade reel. If you occasionally let the lawn get a bit overgrown, this mower is more forgiving.
Where Earthwise Wins
Wider Cutting Swath – The 16-inch cut width covers 14% more grass per pass than the American mower. For a lawn of 4,000–5,000 square feet, this saves noticeable time and reduces passes.
Finer Cut Quality – Seven blades spin faster than five at the same walking speed, producing a cleaner, more scissor-like cut. This results in a healthier lawn with less tearing, especially on shorter, well-maintained grass. The Earthwise is the better choice if you want a manicured look.
Slightly Better for Medium Yards – The wider width and additional blades make the Earthwise more efficient on lawns between 3,000 and 5,000 square feet. It’s a step up in capability without jumping to a gas or electric mower.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the American Lawn Mower 1304-14 if:
- Your lawn is under 3,000 sq ft and mostly flat.
- You want the lowest possible price with proven reliability.
- You need a mower that’s very easy to push and maneuver in tight spaces.
- You sometimes cut grass that’s a bit taller than ideal.
Choose the Earthwise 1715-16EW if:
- Your lawn is 3,000–5,000 sq ft and you want fewer passes.
- You prioritize a finer, cleaner cut for a well-manicured appearance.
- You’re willing to pay a bit more for a wider cutting path and additional blades.
- You maintain your grass at a regular, moderate height and don’t let it get too tall.
In short: the American mower is the best value for small, simple lawns. The Earthwise is a step up in efficiency and cut quality for slightly larger, better