Sun Joe Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower with vs Fiskars Push Mower - 17" Cut Width Manua
Quick Verdict
The Fiskars Push Mower is the better mower for most homeowners who want a premium, low-effort manual cutting experience. Its wider 17-inch cut width and higher customer satisfaction (4.2/5 from over 3,000 reviews) justify the higher price. The Sun Joe is a solid budget choice for small, flat lawns, but its narrower 14-inch cut and lower overall rating mean more passes and more effort for comparable results.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | Sun Joe 14-In | Fiskars 17-In |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $114.99 | $214.83 |
| Power | Manual (push reel) | Manual (push reel) |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 17 inches |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1/4 acre | Up to 1/3 acre |
Where Sun Joe Wins
- Lower upfront cost. At nearly $100 less, the Sun Joe is the clear winner for tight budgets. If you only need to mow a small strip of grass or a tiny city lawn, this mower gets the job done without breaking the bank.
- 9 adjustable cutting positions. The Sun Joe offers more height options, giving you finer control over cut length—from very short to fairly tall. This is useful if you frequently change your mowing height or have grass that needs gradual trimming.
- Lighter weight. The 14-inch design is generally easier to lift and maneuver in tight spaces, like around flower beds or garden edges. For someone with limited strength or a yard with many obstacles, the lighter feel can reduce fatigue.
Where Fiskars Wins
- Wider 17-inch cut. This is the biggest practical advantage. The Fiskars covers 21% more grass per pass, meaning fewer trips up and down the yard. For a lawn of even modest size, this saves noticeable time and physical effort.
- Higher customer rating (4.2 vs. 3.7). With over 3,000 reviews, the Fiskars consistently earns praise for cutting performance, ease of pushing, and durability. The Sun Joe’s lower rating suggests more users encountered issues with blade sharpness, wheel alignment, or build quality over time.
- Better cutting performance on thicker grass. The Fiskars uses an in-line wheel design that allows the blades to spin faster relative to ground speed. This gives it a cleaner cut on taller or denser grass, reducing the need for multiple passes.
- Longer lifespan. Build quality and materials on the Fiskars are generally superior, with stronger composite parts and a blade system that stays sharp longer. Owners report using it for several seasons without major issues.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the Sun Joe if your lawn is very small (under 1/8 acre), perfectly flat, and you mow frequently enough that grass never gets tall. It’s also a good choice if you’re on a strict budget and don’t mind making more passes. The 9 height settings give you flexibility, but be prepared for a less refined cutting experience.
Buy the Fiskars if you have a lawn up to 1/3 acre, especially if it’s slightly uneven or has thicker grass. The wider cut, better blade design, and higher reliability make it worth the extra money for anyone who values time and a cleaner finish. It’s the long-term value pick for manual reel mowing.