American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 16-I vs Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 716-18S 18-In
Quick Verdict
For most homeowners with small to medium lawns, the American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 offers the best value. It costs significantly less, has excellent user ratings from a massive sample size, and its 16-inch cut width is adequate for typical yards up to a quarter acre. The Scotts 716-18S is the better choice if you need a wider cutting path and more blades for a finer cut, particularly on larger or more manicured lawns.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1415-16 | Scotts 716-18S |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $105.00 | $142.89 |
| Power Source | Manual (push reel) | Manual (push reel) |
| Cut Width | 16 inches | 18 inches |
| Number of Blades | 5 | 7 |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1/4 acre | Up to 1/3 acre |
| User Rating | 4.3/5 (22,499 reviews) | 4.2/5 (5,926 reviews) |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
Price and Value. At $105, the American Lawn Mower is nearly $38 cheaper than the Scotts. For a manual reel mower, that’s a substantial savings that can be put toward other lawn care tools.
Proven Reliability. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this mower has been tested by a very large number of users. High-volume feedback indicates consistent performance and few widespread defects.
Lighter Maneuverability. While exact weight isn’t listed in the title, 16-inch reel mowers are generally lighter than 18-inch models. This makes the American mower easier to push and turn, especially on slopes or in tight garden beds.
Simpler Maintenance. Five blades are easier to sharpen and adjust than seven. For casual users who don’t want frequent blade tuning, fewer blades mean less upkeep.
Where Scotts Wins
Wider Cutting Path. The 18-inch cut width covers two more inches per pass than the American mower. This reduces mowing time on medium lawns and requires fewer passes to finish the job.
Finer Cut Quality. Seven blades spin faster and cut more frequently per wheel rotation than five blades. This results in a cleaner, more even trim—especially on grass that’s slightly taller or thicker. The Scotts mower is better suited for Bermuda, Zoysia, or other fine-bladed grasses.
Better for Larger Lawns. While both are manual mowers, the Scotts can handle up to about 1/3 of an acre without excessive fatigue. The wider cut and more blades make it more efficient on slightly bigger properties.
Brand Recognition. Scotts is a well-known lawn care brand, and this model benefits from that reputation for durability and parts availability.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16 if:
- You have a small lawn (under 1/4 acre) or a modest yard with simple grass types.
- You want to spend under $110 and get a highly rated, no-fuss mower.
- You prefer a lighter, easier-to-push machine for uneven terrain or frequent trimming.
Choose the Scotts 716-18S if:
- Your lawn is closer to 1/3 acre and you want to cut mowing time.
- You want the cleanest possible cut for a manicured appearance.
- You’re comfortable spending more for extra width and blade count.
- You have fine-bladed grass that benefits from more frequent cutting action.
Both mowers are reliable manual reel options that avoid gas, oil, and noise. The American mower is the best budget pick for standard small lawns; the