American Lawn Mower Company 16-Inch 5-Bl vs Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Pu

Quick Verdict

For most homeowners with small, flat lawns, the Great States 204-14 Hand Reel offers the better overall value. It’s nearly half the price of the American Lawn Mower Company model and delivers reliable performance for its 14-inch cutting width. However, if you prioritize a wider cutting swath, a more robust build, and a touch of vintage aesthetics, the American Lawn Mower Company 16-Inch 5-Blade model justifies its higher cost with better coverage and a slightly smoother cut.

Side-by-Side

Where American Lawn Mower Wins

The American Lawn Mower Company 16-Inch 5-Blade mower has a clear advantage in cutting width. At 16 inches, it covers two more inches per pass than the Great States model. Over a typical lawn, this reduces the number of passes by roughly 12–15%, saving time and effort. The five-blade reel also provides a cleaner, more precise cut, especially on finer grass types like Bermuda or Zoysia. The extra blades create more cuts per rotation, resulting in a smoother finish that many lawn enthusiasts prefer.

Build quality is another strong point. This mower uses a heavier steel frame and a more substantial reel assembly, which contributes to a longer lifespan. It also handles slightly thicker grass without clogging as often, thanks to the blade design. The vintage styling—often with a red or green powder-coated finish—adds a nostalgic appeal that some buyers find attractive.

Where Great States Wins

The Great States 204-14 Hand Reel dominates on price. At $89.99, it costs about 42% less than the American Lawn Mower model. For budget-conscious buyers or those with small, simple yards, this savings is significant. The 14-inch width is adequate for narrow strips and tight corners, and the steel frame is durable enough for typical residential use.

Maintenance is also simpler. The Great States mower has fewer blades and a less complex reel mechanism, making it easier to sharpen or adjust. It’s lighter overall, which can reduce fatigue during longer mowing sessions. The lower weight also makes it easier to maneuver on uneven ground or around landscaping features. For lawns under 2,000 square feet, the smaller cutting width is rarely a hindrance.

Which Should You Buy

Choose the American Lawn Mower Company 16-Inch 5-Blade if:

• Your lawn is between 1,500 and 4,000 square feet (up to 1/4 acre)
• You want a wider cutting path to reduce mowing time
• You value a cleaner, more precise cut from a five-blade reel
• You prefer a heavier-duty build that may last longer
• You’re willing to spend extra for vintage design and better performance

Choose the Great States 204-14 Hand Reel if:

• Your lawn is under 1,500 square feet (1/8 acre or less)
• Budget is your primary concern
• You need a lighter mower for easy lifting or storage
• You have narrow pathways or many obstacles that favor a 14-inch width
• You want a simple, low-maintenance reel mower that gets the job done

For most people with a typical small