American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-I vs Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 304-14S 14-In
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are 14-inch, 5-blade push reel mowers designed for small, flat lawns. The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 offers similar cutting capability at a significantly lower price and is backed by a much larger review base, making it the better value for most homeowners. The Scotts 304-14S costs $40 more but may appeal to users who prefer a brand with a broader retail presence and slightly higher average rating.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1304-14 | Scotts 304-14S |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.99 | $139.99 |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 14 inches |
| Blades | 5 | 5 |
| Power | Manual push reel | Manual push reel |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1/4 acre | Up to 1/4 acre |
| Customer Rating | 4.3/5 (22,499 reviews) | 4.2/5 (5,925 reviews) |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
Price-to-performance ratio. At $99.99, the American Lawn Mower 1304-14 is $40 cheaper than the Scotts model while offering the same cut width and blade count. This makes it the clear choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Proven reliability. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the American mower has a much larger sample size of user feedback. This suggests consistent quality and performance across many units over time.
Lighter weight. The American Lawn Mower typically weighs around 20 pounds, making it easier to maneuver and lift over obstacles or into storage. The Scotts model is slightly heavier at about 25 pounds.
Simple assembly. Most users report that the American mower requires minimal assembly—often just attaching the handle—and comes with clear instructions. The Scotts mower sometimes requires more complex adjustments out of the box.
Where Scotts Wins
Build quality perception. The Scotts 304-14S uses a slightly heavier-duty steel frame and a thicker handlebar, which may feel more substantial during use. Some users report it holds up better on uneven ground or with thicker grass.
Easier blade adjustment. The Scotts mower includes a tool-free blade height adjustment system that allows you to change cutting height without wrenches. The American model typically requires a tool for adjustment.
Brand availability. Scotts products are widely stocked at major home improvement and garden retailers, making it easier to see the mower in person before buying or to find replacement parts locally.
Slightly higher initial sharpness. Out of the box, some users note that the Scotts blades cut cleaner on the first few uses compared to the American mower, which may require a brief break-in period.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the American Lawn Mower 1304-14 if: you want the best value for a small, flat lawn. It costs $40 less, is lighter, and has a proven track record from thousands of reviews. It’s ideal for budget-focused homeowners with lawns up to 1/4 acre who don’t mind using a tool for height adjustments.
Choose the Scotts 304-14S if: you prioritize tool-free height adjustment and a slightly sturdier feel. It’s a better fit if you plan to mow slightly thicker grass or want the convenience of a widely available brand for potential service or parts. The extra $40 buys you a more robust frame and easier adjustability.
For most buyers, the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 delivers the same essential cutting performance at a significantly lower price, making it the winner in this head-to-head.