Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Pu vs Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 716-18S 18-In
Quick Verdict
The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 716-18S is the better mower for most people with larger, flatter lawns, offering a wider 18-inch cutting path and a 7-blade reel for a finer cut. The Great States 204-14 is the budget-friendly choice for small, level yards where portability and low cost matter most.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | Great States 204-14 | Scotts 716-18S |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $89.99 | $142.89 |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 18 inches |
| Blades | 5-blade reel (typical) | 7-blade reel |
| Best Yard Size | Under 1,500 sq. ft. | 1,500–4,000 sq. ft. |
Where Great States Wins
Lower cost. At $89.99, the Great States is about $53 cheaper than the Scotts, making it a clear winner for tight budgets.
Lighter weight and easier handling. With a 14-inch cut width, this mower is more maneuverable in tight spaces, around flower beds, and on small lawns. It’s also easier to lift for storage or transport.
Slightly higher user rating. With a 4.3/5 from over 9,200 reviews, it has a small edge in customer satisfaction, likely due to its simplicity and value for small lawns.
Better for very small lawns. If your yard is under 1,500 square feet, the narrower cut is less of a drawback, and the lower price makes more sense.
Where Scotts Wins
Wider cutting path. The 18-inch width covers 29% more grass per pass than the 14-inch Great States, meaning fewer passes and less time mowing on medium-sized lawns.
Seven blades for a finer cut. The 7-blade reel produces a cleaner, more manicured look compared to the typical 5-blade reel on the Great States. This matters if you want a golf-green appearance.
Better for larger, flatter lawns. The wider cut and smoother reel make it more efficient on yards up to about 4,000 square feet. The Great States becomes tedious on anything larger.
Higher build quality (generally). Scotts’ 18-inch model tends to have sturdier frame components and smoother bearings, reducing maintenance over time.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the Great States 204-14 if: You have a very small lawn (under 1,500 sq. ft.), you’re on a strict budget, or you need a lightweight mower that’s easy to carry and store. It’s a solid, no-frills tool for tiny yards.
Choose the Scotts 716-18S if: Your lawn is 1,500 to 4,000 square feet, you want a finer cut, or you value time savings from a wider cut. The extra $53 buys a noticeably better mowing experience for medium-sized lawns.
For most homeowners with a typical suburban lawn, the Scotts is the better investment. The Great States is only the winner if your yard is truly small or your budget is extremely limited.