American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 18-I vs Earthwise 1816-18EW 18-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are 18-inch, 5-blade push reel models designed for small to medium lawns. The American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 edges ahead with a slightly higher average rating and a much larger review base, suggesting consistent long-term reliability. The Earthwise 1816-18EW offers a lower upfront cost and comparable cutting performance, making it a strong budget choice. For most buyers, the American Lawn Mower is the safer bet, but the Earthwise is a solid alternative if you want to save about $12.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1815-18 | Earthwise 1816-18EW |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $141.98 | $129.89 |
| Type | Push reel (manual) | Push reel (manual) |
| Blade Count | 5 | 5 |
| Cut Width | 18 inches | 18 inches |
| Weight | ~22 lbs | ~20 lbs |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 5,000 sq ft | Up to 5,000 sq ft |
| Average Rating | 4.3 / 5 (22,498 reviews) | 4.2 / 5 (1,765 reviews) |
Both mowers are essentially identical in cut width and blade count. The American model is slightly heavier, which can help with momentum on flat ground but may be less maneuverable. The Earthwise is lighter and cheaper, but has far fewer reviews to gauge long-term durability.
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
- Build quality and durability: With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the 1815-18 has a proven track record. Many users report it lasting several seasons with minimal maintenance.
- Cutting precision: The 5-blade design on the American mower is noted for a cleaner, more consistent cut on grass up to 3 inches tall, especially on fescue and Bermuda varieties.
- Customer support: American Lawn Mower Company has a longer history and more established warranty/service network, which is reflected in user feedback regarding replacement parts and assembly support.
- Blade adjustment: The 1815-18 offers a wider range of cutting height adjustments (typically 0.5 to 2.5 inches) compared to the Earthwise, giving more control for different grass types.
Where Earthwise Wins
- Price: At $129.89, the Earthwise is about 8% cheaper than the American model. For budget-conscious buyers, this difference can be meaningful.
- Lighter weight: At roughly 20 lbs, the Earthwise is easier to push on slopes or uneven terrain. This can reduce fatigue during longer mowing sessions.
- Assembly ease: User reviews indicate the Earthwise comes mostly pre-assembled and requires less time to set up out of the box.
- Slightly quieter operation: The Earthwise’s lighter frame and blade assembly produce less vibration and noise, which some users prefer for early-morning mowing.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the American Lawn Mower 1815-18 if you prioritize long-term reliability, a proven track record, and a cleaner cut. It’s the better choice for lawns with thicker grass or for users who want a mower that will hold up over several years without needing adjustments. The higher review count and rating give it a clear edge in dependability.
Choose the Earthwise 1816-18EW if you’re on a tighter budget, have a smaller or flatter lawn, and want a lighter mower that’s easier to assemble and push. It’s a capable machine for typical residential grass, but its smaller review base means less certainty about long-term durability. For occasional mowing on a modest lawn, the Earth