Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 716-18S 18-In vs Fiskars Push Mower - 17" Cut Width Manua
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are high-quality manual reel options with identical 4.2/5 ratings, but they serve slightly different needs. The Scotts 716-18S wins for budget-conscious users with larger, flatter lawns thanks to its 18-inch cut width and lower price. The Fiskars wins for those who prioritize cutting performance, ease of use, and durability on smaller, well-maintained yards, especially with uneven terrain.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | Scotts 716-18S | Fiskars Push Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $142.89 | $214.83 |
| Cut Width | 18 inches | 17 inches |
| Blades | 7-blade reel | Single-blade reel (with patented gear drive) |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1/2 acre (flat, open lawns) | Up to 1/4 acre (smaller, uneven lawns) |
| Weight | ~28 lbs | ~42 lbs |
| Wheel Size | Standard 8-inch wheels | Larger 10-inch wheels |
| Blade Technology | Standard reel | InertiaDrive with high blade speed |
Where Scotts Wins
Lower cost and wider cut. At $142.89, the Scotts is about $72 cheaper than the Fiskars. Combined with its 18-inch cut width (1 inch wider than Fiskars), it covers more ground per pass, making it a better value for larger, flat lawns. The 7-blade reel design provides a clean scissor cut on grass up to about 3 inches tall, and the lighter weight (28 lbs) makes it easier to push on level ground.
Better for budget-focused buyers. If you have a simple, rectangular lawn with no steep slopes or thick grass, the Scotts delivers reliable performance without the premium price. Its 4.2-star rating from nearly 6,000 reviews confirms consistent satisfaction among users with straightforward mowing needs.
Where Fiskars Wins
Superior cutting performance on uneven terrain. The Fiskars uses a patented InertiaDrive gear system that spins the reel three times faster than standard push mowers. This means it can cut taller, thicker grass more cleanly, and it handles slight slopes or bumpy ground better because the blade speed is less dependent on pushing force. The larger 10-inch wheels also roll more smoothly over uneven surfaces.
Easier to push and adjust. The 42-pound Fiskars is heavier, but the gear drive reduces the actual effort required—users often report it feels lighter than the Scotts when cutting. It also offers a simple, one-handed cutting height adjustment (from 1 to 3 inches) without tools, while the Scotts requires manual adjustment at each wheel. The Fiskars’ build quality and thicker steel frame typically last longer under heavy use.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the Scotts 716-18S if:
- You have a flat lawn up to 1/2 acre.
- You want to save money and maximize cutting width per pass.
- You don’t mind occasional manual height adjustments and prefer a lighter mower for storage.
Choose the Fiskars if:
- Your lawn is smaller (up to 1/4 acre) but has slopes, bumps, or thick grass.
- You want the easiest push experience and cleanest cut on uneven ground.
- You’re willing to pay more for longer durability and a tool-free height adjuster.
For most users with a typical suburban lawn, the Fiskars is the better performer, but the Scotts is the smarter buy for flat, open yards where its wider cut and lower price make the most sense.