American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 16-I vs Earthwise 1816-18EW 18-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
The American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 offers the better value for most homeowners, especially those with smaller, well-maintained lawns. Its lower price, strong user satisfaction based on a very large sample size, and proven 5-blade design make it a reliable choice. The Earthwise 1816-18EW is the better pick if you need a slightly wider cutting swath and have a bit more lawn to cover, but its higher price and smaller review base suggest less long-term data on reliability.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1415-16 | Earthwise 1816-18EW |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $105.00 | $129.89 |
| Cut Width | 16 inches | 18 inches |
| Blades | 5-blade reel | 5-blade reel |
| Power | Manual (push reel) | Manual (push reel) |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 5,000 sq ft | Up to 7,000 sq ft |
| User Rating | 4.3/5 (22,499 reviews) | 4.2/5 (1,765 reviews) |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
- Value for money. At $105, it costs about $25 less than the Earthwise while offering a proven 5-blade cutting system. The savings are meaningful for a manual mower.
- Proven reliability. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this mower has been tested by a massive user base. The high review count indicates consistent performance over many seasons.
- Lightweight and easy to push. The 16-inch width makes it slightly more maneuverable in tight spaces, around flower beds, and on small lawns. It is generally easier to store and handle than wider models.
- Quiet operation. Like all reel mowers, it is nearly silent, but the American model is noted for particularly smooth, quiet blade engagement due to its design.
Where Earthwise Wins
- Wider cutting path. The 18-inch width covers 2 more inches per pass, which reduces mowing time on medium-sized lawns. This is a real advantage if your yard is closer to 7,000 square feet.
- Slightly better for taller grass. The Earthwise’s design tends to handle slightly overgrown grass a bit better than the American model, though both require frequent mowing for best results.
- Modern aesthetic. The grey finish and updated handle design appeal to those who prefer a more contemporary look in their lawn tools.
- Adjustable cutting height. While both mowers offer height adjustment, the Earthwise’s system is often rated as slightly easier to change between settings without tools.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 if:
- Your lawn is under 5,000 square feet.
- You want the best proven value with a massive user base confirming its reliability.
- You are on a tighter budget and do not need the extra 2 inches of cut width.
- You prioritize light weight and easy storage.
Buy the Earthwise 1816-18EW if:
- Your lawn is between 5,000 and 7,000 square feet.
- You want to finish mowing slightly faster with a wider cutting swath.
- You prefer a modern look and are willing to pay a premium for the extra width.
- You are comfortable with a smaller review sample and less long-term data.
For most buyers, the American Lawn Mower 1415-16 is the smarter choice due to its lower cost and overwhelming user validation. The Earthwise only makes sense if the extra 2 inches genuinely saves you noticeable time on a larger lawn.