American Lawn Mower Company 16-Inch 5-Bl vs Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 716-18S 18-In
Quick Verdict
The Scotts 716-18S is the better choice for most homeowners with larger, flatter lawns. It offers a wider 18-inch cutting path and a 7-blade reel, which delivers a cleaner cut and reduces mowing time. The American Lawn Mower Company 16-inch 5-blade model is a solid budget-friendly option for small, well-maintained yards, but its narrower cut and fewer blades make it less efficient on larger or thicker grass.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade | Scotts 716-18S 18-Inch 7-Blade |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $154.00 | $142.89 |
| Power Source | Manual push reel | Manual push reel |
| Cut Width | 16 inches | 18 inches |
| Number of Blades | 5 | 7 |
| Best Yard Size | Small (up to 1/4 acre) | Small to medium (up to 1/3 acre) |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
The American Lawn Mower Company model has a slightly higher user rating (4.3 vs. 4.2) based on a much larger sample of over 22,000 reviews, suggesting consistent satisfaction. Its vintage design and 5-blade reel are well-suited for very small lawns where maneuverability matters more than speed. The 16-inch width makes it easier to navigate tight corners and around flower beds. It also tends to be quieter in operation due to fewer blades contacting the grass at once. For users who prioritize a classic look and have a tiny, flat yard that requires only light trimming, this mower is a reliable, low-maintenance choice.
Where Scotts Wins
The Scotts 716-18S offers several practical advantages. The 18-inch cutting width covers 12.5% more ground per pass, reducing mowing time on larger lawns. The 7-blade reel produces a finer, more precise cut, which is especially beneficial for Bermuda or Zoysia grass that benefits from a clean shear. It is also $11.11 cheaper, making it the more affordable option despite having a wider cut and more blades. The additional blades also help the reel spin more easily through thicker grass, reducing the effort required to push the mower. For homeowners with a typical suburban lawn of 1/4 to 1/3 acre, the Scotts model provides better efficiency and cut quality at a lower price.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the American Lawn Mower Company 16-inch 5-blade if:
- Your lawn is very small (under 1/4 acre) with simple, open shapes.
- You prefer a classic vintage aesthetic.
- You want the reassurance of a product with over 22,000 positive reviews.
- You mow frequently enough that grass never gets tall or thick.
Choose the Scotts 716-18S 18-inch 7-blade if:
- Your lawn is between 1/4 and 1/3 acre.
- You want to finish mowing faster with a wider cut.
- You have finer grass types that benefit from a 7-blade cut.
- You want the best value for money—lower price, wider cut, more blades.
- You occasionally deal with slightly thicker or taller grass.
For most buyers, the Scotts 716-18S is the smarter purchase: it costs less, cuts wider, and uses more blades for a cleaner result. The American Lawn Mower model is only preferable if you have a very small yard and strongly prefer its vintage styling.