20-Inch vs 14-Inch Lawn Mowers: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a 20-Inch vs 14-Inch lawn mower depends on your yard size and maintenance preferences. Both models are push mowers designed for residential lawns. The key difference lies in their power source and cutting width. One uses a manual reel with a wider deck, while the other relies on a 40V battery system with a narrower cut. Your choice affects how you mow and maintain the equipment.
Key differences
| Aspect | LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Brushless Push Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 20 in | 14 in |
| Power Source | Manual reel | 40V battery |
| Motor Type | not listed | Brushless |
| Cutting Height Range | 1.3-2.6 in | 1-1/4-3-3/8 in |
| Runtime | Unlimited (manual) | 45 min |
Which one should you choose?
Choose LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower if
- You want a zero-emission option that requires no charging or batteries
- You prefer a wider cutting path to cover more ground per pass
- You are willing to push the mower for physical exercise
Choose Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Brushless Push Mower if
- You need electric power for easier pushing and consistent cutting
- You want the flexibility to mulch or bag clippings
- You already own Greenworks 40V batteries and tools
Verdict: The 20-Inch manual reel mower suits those seeking a simple, motorless tool for small to medium yards. The 14-Inch electric mower is better for users who prefer powered assistance and mulching capabilities. Select the manual model for zero maintenance or the electric model for ease of use.
20-Inch vs 14-Inch Mower Comparison
Cutting Width
The LawnMaster features a 20-inch cutting width, while the Greenworks offers a 14-inch deck. A wider deck covers more ground per pass. This means you can finish larger lawns faster with the LawnMaster. The Greenworks requires more overlapping passes to cover the same area. If your yard is small or has many obstacles, the narrower 14-inch deck may be easier to maneuver. For efficiency on open grass, the 20-inch width provides a clear advantage. You will spend less time pushing the mower back and forth with the wider model.
Power Source
Power sources differ significantly between these two mowers. The LawnMaster is a manual reel mower. It relies entirely on your physical effort to push it and rotate the blades. There are no batteries or motors involved. The Greenworks is a 40V cordless electric mower. It uses a brushless motor powered by a 4.0Ah battery. This provides consistent cutting power without manual cranking. You get instant starts and quiet operation. The electric option reduces physical strain. If you prefer mechanical simplicity and zero energy costs, the manual reel is distinct. For powered assistance, the Greenworks wins.
Cutting Height
Both mowers allow height adjustments, but the ranges differ. The LawnMaster offers nine positions between 1.3 inches and 2.6 inches. The Greenworks provides five positions ranging from 1.25 inches to 3.375 inches. The Greenworks reaches a higher maximum cut, which is useful for longer grass or specific lawn care needs. The LawnMaster has more fine-tuned options in the lower range. You can choose from more granular settings with the manual reel. However, the electric mower handles taller grass better due to its motor power. For versatility in height, the Greenworks has the edge.
Deck Material
Durability often starts with the deck. The LawnMaster uses durable steel blades in its reel design. The Greenworks features a steel deck. Both use steel, which is generally more durable than plastic. Steel decks resist impacts and last longer under heavy use. The LawnMaster blades are described as built to last, while the Greenworks deck supports a brushless motor. Steel construction means both mowers can handle rough terrain better than plastic alternatives. There is no significant difference in material quality here. Both offer robust construction for residential use. This round ends in a tie.
Runtime and Maintenance
Maintenance and runtime are key factors. The LawnMaster requires no charging or fuel. It is always ready to use, but you provide the power. There is no runtime limit, only your stamina. The Greenworks provides up to 45 minutes of runtime on a fully charged 4.0Ah battery. This is maintenance-free regarding gas or oil. However, you must manage battery charge levels. The Greenworks also includes a 3-year warranty. The manual mower has no motor to fail. For zero maintenance, the LawnMaster wins. For powered convenience and warranty support, the Greenworks is superior.
Which mower fits your lawn
You want zero fuel, oil, or emissions
The Greenworks 40V brushless motor delivers instant starts without gas or oil. Its steel deck and efficient motor provide quiet operation and durability. You get up to 45 minutes of runtime on a single charge. This makes it ideal for small to medium yards where you prefer a clean, maintenance-free electric tool over manual effort.
You prefer manual effort and wide cuts
The LawnMaster offers a 20-inch cutting width for covering more ground per pass. Its manual reel design uses no batteries or fuel. The scissor-like cut helps keep grass healthy. With nine height positions ranging from 1.3 to 2.6 inches, you can customize your cut. This is a practical choice for those who do not mind pushing.
You need mulching or bagging versatility
The Greenworks includes a 2-in-1 feature that allows you to mulch clippings or bag them. This versatility helps manage lawn debris based on your preference. The single-lever height adjustment ranges from 1.25 to 3.375 inches, offering five positions. This setup ensures you can adapt to different lawn conditions without changing tools or attachments.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | Small, flat lawns seeking quiet operation | Check price of LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower on Amazon |
| 2 | Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Brushless Push Mower | small lawns and tight spaces | Check price of Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Brushless Push Mower on Amazon |
The products compared
LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower
Best for: Small, flat lawns seeking quiet operation
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- manual reel
- Drive Type
- push
- Cutting Height
- 1.3-2.6 in, 9 positions
- Application
- Lawn
- Dimensions
- 27.1 × 18.2 × 10.6 inches
View on Amazon: LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower Affiliate link
This LawnMaster mower uses a 20-inch cutting width and a manual reel design. It features nine cutting positions ranging from 1.3 to 2.6 inches. The steel blades operate with a scissor-like action to avoid tearing grass. You do not need gas or batteries to run it. The 10-inch front wheels help with maneuverability. It suits small lawns where quiet operation and zero emissions matter to you.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting width covers more ground per pass
- Nine height settings from 1.3 to 2.6 inches
- Manual reel requires no gas or batteries
- Steel blades provide a clean scissor-like cut
Cons
- Push design requires physical effort from you
- No electric motor to assist with thick grass
- Manual operation limits speed on larger areas
Good fit if
- You have a small, flat lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You want a quiet, emission-free mower
- You prefer mechanical reliability over electronic components
Skip if
- You have a steep or uneven lawn
- You need to mow large areas quickly
- You want battery-powered convenience
Verdict: LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Reel Mower is a practical choice for small, flat yards where you value quiet, zero-emission operation over speed and power assistance.
Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Brushless Push Mower
Best for: small lawns and tight spaces
- Cutting Width
- 14-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- 40V battery
- Voltage
- 40V
- Drive Type
- push
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Runtime
- 45 min
View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Brushless Push Mower Affiliate link
This Greenworks 40V push mower features a 14-inch steel deck and a brushless motor. It runs for 45 minutes on a 4.0Ah battery. The unit weighs 36.4 pounds and offers five cutting heights from 1-1/4 to 3-3/8 inches. It supports mulching and bagging. This model suits small yards where maneuverability matters more than wide coverage.
Pros
- 14-inch cutting width for tight spaces
- Brushless motor for efficient torque
- 45-minute runtime on 4.0Ah battery
- Lightweight 36.4-pound steel deck
Cons
- 14-inch deck cuts slower than 20-inch models
- Push drive requires more physical effort
- No self-propelled mechanism included
Good fit if
- You have a small lawn under 1,000 square feet
- You need a lightweight mower for easy storage
- You prefer quiet operation with a brushless motor
Skip if
- You need to cover large areas quickly
- You want self-propelled power for hills
- You prefer a wider 20-inch cutting path
Verdict: Greenworks 14-Inch 40V Brushless Mower is a compact, lightweight option for small lawns. It fits buyers who prioritize easy handling and quiet operation over wide cutting speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Brushless Push Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | manual reel | 40V battery |
| Cutting Width | 20 in | 14 in |
| Voltage | not stated | 40V |
| Drive Type | push | push |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | 4.0Ah |
| Runtime | not stated | 45 min |
| Deck Material | not stated | steel |
| Cutting Height | 1.3-2.6 in, 9 positions | 1-1/4-3-3/8 in, 5 positions |
| Mowing Function | not stated | 2-in-1 mulch and bag |
| Motor Type | not stated | brushless |
| Application | Lawn | Lawn |
| Dimensions | 27.1 × 18.2 × 10.6 inches | 50.4 × 15.8 × 38.6 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 36.4 pounds |
| Size | 20-Inch | 14" Brushless Cordless (4.0Ah) |
| Color | Orange | Green |
| Model | LMRM2001 | MO40L411-00 |
Frequently asked questions
Can a 14-inch mower handle thick or tall grass?
A 14-inch mower may struggle with dense or tall grass. The Greenworks 14-Inch Brushless model is designed for small lawns and tight spaces. Its narrower deck requires more overlapping passes. This increases the chance of clogging in heavy growth. You should mow more frequently to keep grass short for the best results.
Is a 20-inch mower harder to store?
Storage dimensions vary by model. The LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Reel Mower measures 27.1 inches in length and 18.2 inches in width. It is relatively compact for its cutting width. The Greenworks 14-Inch model is longer at 50.4 inches but narrower in width. Consider your garage or shed space when choosing between these physical footprints.
Which mower is better for maneuvering around obstacles?
The 14-inch mower offers better maneuverability in tight areas. The Greenworks 14-Inch Brushless Mower is specifically best for small lawns and tight spaces. Its 14-inch deck allows for tighter turns and easier navigation around garden beds. The 20-inch deck covers more ground but requires wider turning radii.
Do I need a battery for the 20-inch mower?
No, you do not need a battery for the LawnMaster 20-Inch mower. It uses a manual power source. This reel mower operates without electricity or fuel. It relies entirely on your physical pushing effort. This makes it a zero-emission option that requires no charging or fuel storage.
How does the motor type affect performance?
The Greenworks 14-Inch mower features a brushless motor. This type of motor is generally more efficient and durable than brushed alternatives. It provides instant starts and consistent power delivery. The LawnMaster 20-Inch mower has no motor, as it is a manual reel design. Your choice depends on whether you prefer electric assistance or manual effort.
Which mower is lighter to push?
The Greenworks 14-Inch mower weighs 36.4 pounds. This weight includes the battery and motor components. The LawnMaster 20-Inch mower is a manual reel design. Its weight is not listed, but it lacks the heavy motor and battery pack. Manual mowers often feel lighter to push on flat ground but require more effort on inclines.