American Lawn Mower Company 2415-16 16-I vs Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are top-rated manual reel mowers with similar overall ratings, but they serve slightly different needs. The American Lawn Mower Company 2415-16 is the better choice for small, flat lawns where precise, low-height trimming is a priority. The Great States 815-18 wins for anyone with a larger yard or who values a wider cutting path and slightly more robust construction. If you have a very small yard (under 2,500 sq ft) and want the lightest, most nimble option, pick the American. For medium-sized lawns up to 5,000 sq ft, the Great States is the more efficient machine.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 2415-16 | Great States 815-18 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.99 | $116.00 |
| Cut Width | 16 inches | 18 inches |
| Blades | 5-blade reel | 5-blade reel |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 2,500 sq ft | Up to 4,000–5,000 sq ft |
| Weight | ~22 lbs | ~26 lbs |
| Cut Height Range | 0.5–2.5 inches (adjustable) | 1–2.5 inches (adjustable) |
| Wheel Material | Steel with ball bearings | Steel with bushings |
| Handle | Fixed steel | Fixed steel |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
The American Lawn Mower 2415-16 excels in low-cut precision. Its minimum cutting height of 0.5 inches allows for a very close shave, ideal for Bermuda grass or for homeowners who like a manicured, golf-green look. It is also lighter (about 22 lbs), making it easier to push over small, flat lawns and simpler to maneuver around flower beds and tight corners. The ball-bearing wheels roll more smoothly than bushing wheels, reducing effort on level ground. With 22,499 reviews, it has a much larger sample size confirming consistent quality and customer satisfaction. It is also the more affordable option, saving you about $6.
Where Great States Wins
The Great States 815-18’s primary advantage is its 18-inch cut width. This two-inch difference means you cover 12.5% more grass per pass, which adds up quickly on lawns over 2,000 sq ft. It is better suited for medium-sized yards where efficiency matters more than ultra-low cutting. The steel wheels with bushings are durable and provide good traction on uneven terrain, though they are slightly less smooth than ball bearings. The higher maximum cut height (2.5 inches) is fine for most cool-season grasses, and the heavier build (26 lbs) gives it a more solid feel when cutting taller or slightly thicker grass. It also has a slightly higher price, but the extra width justifies the cost for larger properties.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the American Lawn Mower Company 2415-16 if:
- Your lawn is smaller than 2,500 sq ft.
- You want the lowest possible cut (0.5 inches) for a putting-green finish.
- You prioritize lightweight maneuverability and smooth rolling on flat ground.
- Budget is a primary concern.
Choose the Great States 815-18 if:
- Your lawn is between 2,500 and 5,000 sq ft.
- You want to finish mowing faster with fewer passes.
- Your grass is thicker or your terrain is slightly uneven.
- You prefer a heavier, more substantial mower that feels stable in taller grass.
For the vast majority of homeowners with a typical suburban lawn (3,000–4,000 sq ft), the Great States 815-18 is the better value because the wider cut saves