American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 18-I vs Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Pu

Quick Verdict

For most homeowners with small to medium lawns, the American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 is the better choice. It offers a wider cutting path, more blades for a cleaner cut, and stronger build quality, justifying its higher price. The Great States 204-14 is a budget-friendly option that works well for tiny yards or occasional trimming, but its narrower width and fewer blades make it less efficient for regular mowing.

Side-by-Side

Where American Lawn Mower Wins

The American Lawn Mower 1815-18 offers three key advantages. First, its 18-inch cutting width is 29% wider than the Great States’ 14-inch deck, meaning you’ll cover more ground per pass and finish mowing faster. Second, the 5-blade reel cuts grass more cleanly than a 4-blade reel, reducing the chance of torn or ragged grass tips. Third, it uses ball bearings in the wheel hubs rather than bushings, which reduces rolling resistance and extends the mower’s lifespan under frequent use. The steel frame is also thicker, better suited for uneven terrain or slightly taller grass. With over 22,000 reviews maintaining a 4.3-star average, this mower has proven reliable for a broad user base.

Where Great States Wins

The Great States 204-14’s main advantage is price. At $89.99, it costs 37% less than the American Lawn Mower, making it an entry-level option for those on a tight budget or with very small lawns. Its lighter weight (about 15 lbs) makes it easier to carry up stairs or store in a tight shed. The narrower 14-inch cutting width also works well for detail work around flower beds or narrow strips of grass. If your yard is under 1,000 square feet and you mow infrequently, the Great States will do the job without overspending. Its 9,257 reviews also show strong customer satisfaction for its price point.

Which Should You Buy

Choose the American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 if:

• Your lawn is between 1,000 and 4,000 square feet (up to 1/4 acre)
• You want to finish mowing in fewer passes
• You prefer a cleaner cut (5 blades vs. 4)
• You plan to use the mower for several years

Choose the Great States 204-14 if:

• Your lawn is under 1,000 square feet
• You need the lowest possible cost
• You want a lighter mower for carrying or storage
• You only mow occasionally and don’t mind extra passes

For most buyers, the American Lawn Mower is worth the extra $52 for the wider cut, better cut quality, and more durable construction. The Great States is a capable secondary mower or a solid choice for very small spaces.