As environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternatives to conventional gas-powered rotary lawn mowers, reel mowers – also known as cylinder mowers – are making a comeback for home use. But before you decide to make the switch to one of these old-school mowers, you may be wondering: how much does a non-gas reel mower really cost these days?
In this detailed post, we’ll break down the typical price range you can expect to pay for different types and sizes of modern reel mowers. We’ll look at the various features that influence costs, like cutting width, materials, engine type and more. And we’ll provide over 20 example prices for today’s most popular reel mower models from brands like Scotts, Fiskars, Gardena and more.
Reel mowers typically cost between $100 and $300 for manual push models, while powered and gas-powered models range from $200 up to $800 or more depending on the cutting width, features, and durability. Higher end commercial reel mowers can cost $2,000 or more but are built to withstand daily professional use.
Key Takeaways: Reel Mower Costs at a Glance
- Basic manual push reel mowers start around $100, while higher-end models with wider cutting widths and ergonomic features can cost $300 or more. The average price for a manual reel mower is about $200.
- Motorized reel mowers range from $200 for electric models up to $800 for premium gas-powered options. Commercial-grade reel mowers built for landscape professionals cost between $2,000 to well over $10,000.
- The main factors impacting cost are cutting width, deck materials, engine/motor type, features, brand reputation and overall durability. Wider widths, gas power, and robust builds increase prices substantially.
- Specific reel mower prices: American/Great States ($119), Fiskars StaySharp Max ($199), Scotts 16″ ($150), Craftsman ($249), Gardena ($329), Toro Hybrid ($449), John Deere ($3,399), and more.
- Used and refurbished reel mowers typically cost 40% to 60% less than brand new models, offering major savings.
- Replacing worn reel mower blades costs anywhere from $15 to $30 for most standard models. Yearly sharpening can minimize replacement costs.
Now, let’s take a detailed look at price ranges and features for different reel mower types.
Manual Push Reel Mowers Offer a Cost-Effective Option
Manual reel mowers, also called cylinder mowers or push mowers, are powered by human force alone. The operator walks behind the mower and pushes it along the grass using a handlebar.
These non-motorized reel mowers provide the most affordable options, typically ranging from about $100 on the low end for basic models up to $300 or slightly more for higher-end versions with more features and wider cutting widths. The average cost for a standard manual push reel mower is around $200.
Here are examples of manual reel mower prices from top brands:
- American Lawn Mower Deluxe 18″ ($119)
- Fiskars StaySharp Max ($199)
- Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 16” ($150)
- Great States 204-14” ($144)
- Gardena Manual Reel Mower ($212)
- Greenworks Reel Mower ($190)
- European Garden 18” ($110)
Basic manual reel mowers like the American Lawn Mower Deluxe provide a sturdy and functional machine at the lowest price points. These models typically have cutting widths ranging from 14” on the low end up to 18” or 20” on higher end models.
More expensive manual reel mowers like the Gardena and Fiskars offer additional features like ergonomic cushioned handles, deeper grass catcher boxes, and smoothly gliding wheels. The blades on pricier models also tend to stay sharp significantly longer between sharpenings.
Overall, manual reel mowers are a great low-cost option for smaller yards up to about 1/4 acre in size. The lack of engine eliminates fuel costs and maintenance.
What Impacts the Costs of Manual Reel Mowers?
The main factors that contribute to the cost of a manual push reel mower are:
Cutting Width – Entry-level widths are typically 14” while premium models go up to 18”. Wider cutting swaths are naturally more efficient for managing larger yards, so the wider the mower deck, the higher the price tag.
Materials – Higher-end models use lightweight aluminum alloys instead of plastic and steel for the main body. Aluminum improves maneuverability but also increases the manufacturing costs.
Brand Reputation – Well-known brands like Fiskars and Gardena carry a price premium over lesser-known value brands like American Lawn Mower. But the more reputable brands do also tend to deliver enhanced quality and longevity.
Features – Convenience and ergonomic features like adjustable handle height, debris collection boxes, cushioned foam grips, and smooth-rolling composite wheels add to the overall cost. But these features greatly improve the mowing experience.
Manueverability – Models with tight turning radiuses and easier pivoting mobility allow for mowing very closely around trees, fences and other objects. But this level of agility carries a higher price tag.
Powered and Motorized Reel Mowers Cost More but Ease Mowing Burden
Once lawn sizes exceed 1/4 acre, a powered reel mower can make the mowing chore much easier. These use a gas, electric or battery-powered motor to turn the blades instead of relying solely on human pushing power.
Gasoline-engine reel mowers range from about $400 on the low end up to $800 or more for commercial-grade models. Electric and battery-powered reel mowers typically cost between $200 to $500 depending on cutting width and features.
Here are the price points for some of the most popular powered reel mower models:
- Greenworks 20” Battery-Powered ($299)
- American Lawn Mower Deluxe 20” Electric ($265)
- Sun Joe MJ401E Mow Joe 16” Electric ($179)
- Great States 21” 5-Blade Gas Reel Mower ($529)
- Brill 7-Blade Premium 22” Gas Reel Mower ($749)
- Toro 22” Hybrid Reel Mower ($449)
Cordless battery-powered reel mowers provide the convenience of no cables to drag around, but cost more upfront compared to electric models. Gasoline mowers have more engine maintenance, but the gas power enables managing very large yards of half an acre or more efficiently.
What Dictates Pricing for Powered Reel Mowers?
Some of the key factors that increase the price for motorized reel mowers include:
- Power Source – Battery, electric and gasoline engines all impact the price significantly. Gas mowers are the most expensive, electric are the most affordable.
- Cutting Width – Powered models range from 17” on the low end up to 22” for premium motorized models. Wider decks allow faster mowing of larger yards but also drive up costs.
- Deck Materials – Similar to manual reel mowers, lightweight aluminum deck casings are more expensive than steel or heavy plastic to produce. But aluminum improves durability and reduces overall weight.
- Brand Reputation – Commercial branded mowers like Toro, John Deere and Jacobsen command the highest prices but are trusted for their commercial-grade construction and longevity.
- Features – Convenience add-ons like cruise control handles, height adjusters, grass baskets, headlights and even cup holders can quickly raise the price, but improve the user experience.
Commercial Reel Mowers Carry Premium Costs but Unparalleled Durability
Professional landscapers and golf course greens crews require reel mowers that can withstand daily, all-day use in the harshest mowing environments. These heavy-duty models range from $2,000 up to $10,000 or more depending on the cutting width, engine power and features.
Some examples of commercial grade reel mower pricing:
- Toro Greensmaster 1018 ($2,199)
- John Deere 220E Triplex ($3,399)
- Jacobsen GK518A 18” Walk Behind ($7,000)
- Toro Flex 2100 Multi-Deck ($9,495)
These robust commercial mowers typically have wide cutting swaths ranging from 25” up to 36” and sturdy steel or aluminum constructions. They are designed to power through acreage efficiently for years of demanding professional use. Many feature hydraulic power steering and customized engine or battery power matching the cutting widths and terrain.
The ultra-premium pricing puts commercial reel mowers out of reach for typical homeowners. But for grounds crews and landscapers doing daily mowing across dozens of acres, the unparalleled durability and productivity justify the substantial five-figure costs.
Gently Used and Refurbished Models Offer Big Savings
If shopping for reel mowers on a tighter budget, there are ways to get significant savings off the prices of brand new models:
Buy Used – Gently used reel mowers typically cost 40% to 60% less than the equivalent new models. Models just a few years old are often still in very serviceable condition.
Consider Refurbished – Factory-refurbished reel mowers let buyers get “like-new” quality for hundreds less than retail pricing on new units. Refurbished models undergo extensive inspection and reconditioning.
Here are some examples of used and refurbished reel mower pricing:
- Used American 20” Standard Push Reel Mower ($59)
- Refurbished Scotts 16” Push Reel Mower ($89)
- Used Brill 22” Premium Gas Reel Mower ($329)
- Refurbished Great States 18” Push Reel Mower ($99)
Carefully inspecting condition and verifying remaining warranty coverage are smart steps when buying used or refurbished. But the cost savings of 40% to 60% off new provide compelling value.
Replacing Worn Reel Mower Blades – Typical Costs
With regular seasonal use, reel mower blades gradually wear down and require replacement every few years. New replacement blades typically cost between $15 and $30 depending on the specific mower model and number of blades.
Here are examples of standard replacement blade costs:
- Fiskars StaySharp Reel Mower Blades, 2-pack ($14.99)
- American Lawn Mower 18” Blades, 2-pack ($19.99)
- Scotts Reel Mower Blades, 5-pack ($27.88)
- Great States Spinning Blades 14”, 2-pack ($24.99)
Many reel mower owners find it most cost-effective to get blades sharpened professionally once a year for $5 to $10, and then replace them outright every two or three seasons. But once blades become too worn down to sharpen, swapping in fresh ones restores the cut.
Smart Tips for Finding Reel Mower Deals & Discounts
Here are some savvy tips for getting the lowest prices on reel mowers when budget is a concern:
- Shop end of mowing season sales in fall when retailers discount prices to clear out inventory. Late August to October are prime discount periods.
- Check manufacturer websites regularly for online specials, coupons and seasonal promotions on reel mowers and blades. Signing up for email alerts can notify you of deals.
- Look for floor models, lightly used open-box returns, and bundled packages for extra savings at local retailers. Carefully inspect condition before purchasing.
- Consider splitting costs with neighbors and sharing a reel mower. This allows purchasing a wider, more expensive model while minimizing individual spend.
- For the lowest prices, opt for used/refurbished models which can cut costs almost in half compared to new reel mowers.
Key Takeaways – What to Expect with Reel Mower Pricing
To summarize, manual push reel mowers range from about $100 to $300 depending on cutting width, features and brand reputation, with $200 being a typical average cost.
Powered and gas reel mowers run from $200 into the $500 to $800 range based on the motor/engine type, cutting deck width, materials and durability. Commercial models start at $2,000 but deliver unmatched heavy-duty construction.
Major factors impacting pricing across all reel mowers are cutting width, materials, engine/motor, features, brand and construction quality. Wider decks, gas engines and premium brands command the highest prices.
Gently used and refurbished reel mowers offer 40% to 60% savings off new models. And keeping blades sharpened yearly helps minimize replacement costs.
Now that you understand the reel mower pricing landscape, you can shop confidently and find the ideal option to suit your lawn care needs and budget. The savings and eco-friendly benefits will make the investment worthwhile.
