Great States 304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push vs Sun Joe Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower with

Quick Verdict

Both mowers are manual reel push mowers with 14-inch cutting widths, but they serve different priorities. The Great States 304-14 is the stronger choice for value and reliability, backed by a much higher user rating (4.3 vs. 3.7) and nearly 10,000 reviews. The Sun Joe offers more adjustability with 9 cutting positions, but its lower rating and higher price make it a less compelling buy for most users. If you want a simple, effective mower at a low cost, go with Great States. If adjustable cutting height is critical, consider Sun Joe—but be aware of its mixed feedback.

Side-by-Side

Where Great States Wins

Value for money. At $94.99, the Great States 304-14 is $20 cheaper than the Sun Joe, yet it delivers a significantly higher satisfaction rating. The 5-blade reel design provides a cleaner cut on grass that’s not overgrown, and the mower is known for being simple to assemble and maintain. Users consistently praise its durability and ease of pushing, even on uneven ground. The fixed cutting height (adjustable only by moving a bolt) is a limitation, but for many small lawns, the single height works fine. With nearly double the number of reviews and a 0.6-point higher rating, Great States has proven itself a reliable workhorse.

Better for thicker grass. The 5-blade reel creates more cutting action per rotation, which helps handle slightly thicker grass than a standard 4-blade reel. This makes it a better choice for lawns that aren’t perfectly manicured.

Where Sun Joe Wins

Adjustability. The Sun Joe’s 9 adjustable positions (ranging from about 0.5 to 1.9 inches) let you dial in the exact cutting height you want, whether you’re doing a close trim or leaving grass a bit taller for heat stress. This is a real advantage if you like to vary your cut height throughout the season or have different grass types.

Slightly lighter weight. The Sun Joe is generally reported as a bit lighter than the Great States, making it easier to maneuver around flower beds or tight corners. For users with small, intricate lawns, this can be a meaningful benefit.

Which Should You Buy

Buy the Great States 304-14 if: You want the best combination of price, reliability, and clean cutting. It’s ideal for small to medium lawns (up to 1/4 acre) where you don’t need multiple height settings. The 5-blade reel and proven track record make it the safer, more cost-effective choice.

Buy the Sun Joe if: You absolutely need a wide range of cutting heights and are willing to pay more for that feature. It’s also a good pick if you have a very small, intricate lawn where light weight matters. But be prepared for a lower satisfaction rate—nearly 40% of reviews are 3 stars or below, compared to about 20% for Great States.

Bottom line: For most people, the Great States 304-14