Great States 304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push vs Earthwise 1816-18EW 18-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
For most small to medium lawns under 5,000 square feet, the Great States 304-14 offers the better value at a lower price with a strong user reputation. The Earthwise 1816-18EW justifies its higher cost with a wider cutting swath and slightly better performance on taller grass, making it a better fit for larger or less frequently mowed lawns. Choose Great States for budget-friendly reliability; choose Earthwise if you need the extra cutting width and power.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | Great States 304-14 | Earthwise 1816-18EW |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $94.99 | $129.89 |
| Blades | 5-blade reel | 5-blade reel |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 18 inches |
| Weight | ~22 lbs | ~27 lbs |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 3,000 sq ft | Up to 5,000 sq ft |
| User Rating | 4.3/5 (9,257 reviews) | 4.2/5 (1,765 reviews) |
Where Great States Wins
Price-to-value ratio is the Great States’ strongest advantage. At $94.99, it costs 27% less than the Earthwise while still delivering a clean cut on well-maintained Bermuda, fescue, or bluegrass. Its lighter weight (~22 lbs) makes it easier to push and maneuver around flower beds, narrow paths, and small gates. The 14-inch cut width is sufficient for lawns under 3,000 square feet and allows tighter turns in tight spaces.
User trust is another clear win. With over 9,200 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the Great States has a proven track record of reliability. Owners consistently note that it arrives mostly assembled, adjusts easily via a simple lever, and requires minimal maintenance. The red steel frame is durable for its class, and replacement blades are widely available and inexpensive.
Quieter operation is a subtle but real advantage. The 14-inch reel spins with less inertia than the 18-inch model, producing a softer cutting sound that won’t disturb neighbors as much during early morning mowing.
Where Earthwise Wins
Cutting width is the Earthwise’s headline feature. The 18-inch swath cuts 29% wider per pass than the Great States, which translates to fewer passes across a lawn. For a 4,000-square-foot yard, this can save 10–15 minutes per mowing session. The wider deck also reduces the chance of overlapping or missing strips.
Better performance on taller grass is a practical advantage. The Earthwise’s heavier frame and larger reel provide more momentum to slice through grass up to 4–5 inches tall without stalling. Owners report that it handles infrequent mowing schedules better than the Great States, which may struggle with grass over 3.5 inches.
Slightly better build for longevity: the Earthwise uses a reinforced steel frame and a sealed bearing system that reduces friction on the reel axle. This can extend the life of the mower if you mow a larger lawn or face thicker grass varieties like St. Augustine or zoysia.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the Great States 304-14 if: you have a small lawn (under 3,000 sq ft), mow weekly, and want the lowest upfront cost. It’s ideal for level, obstacle-free yards where a 14-inch cut is sufficient. The strong user reputation and easy maintenance make it a safe, no-regret choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Buy the Earthwise 1816-18EW if: your lawn is 3,000–5,000 square