20-Inch vs 16-Inch Lawn Mowers in 2026: Key Differences
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Choosing between a 20-Inch vs 16-Inch lawn mower depends on your yard size and maintenance preferences. Both models are push mowers designed for residential lawns. The main 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. Understanding these specs helps you pick the right tool for your specific needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 20 in | 16 in |
| Power Source | Manual reel | Cordless battery, 40V |
| Cutting Height Positions | 9 positions | 5 positions |
| Mowing Function | Not listed | Mulch and rear bag |
| Weight | Not listed | 37.5 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower if
- You prefer a motorless, environmentally friendly option that requires no charging.
- You want a wider cutting deck to cover more ground with each pass.
- You need more flexibility in cutting height with nine available positions.
Choose Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower if
- You want a lighter mower that is 35% lighter than steel deck models.
- You need the ability to mulch clippings or bag them in the rear.
- You prefer a powered cut with a 40V battery system for consistent performance.
Verdict: The LawnMaster is ideal for small, flat lawns where you want a quiet, maintenance-free manual cut with a wider deck. The Greenworks suits those who prefer a powered, lighter mower with mulching or bagging capabilities. Your choice depends on whether you value manual simplicity or powered convenience.
20-Inch vs 16-Inch Mower Specs
Cutting Width
The LawnMaster offers a 20-inch cutting width, while the Greenworks provides a 16-inch deck. A wider deck covers more ground per pass, which reduces the total time needed to mow larger areas. The 20-inch model is better for efficiency on spacious lawns. The 16-inch mower is narrower, making it easier to maneuver around tight obstacles, flower beds, and narrow pathways. If your yard has many obstacles, the smaller width helps you navigate without constant repositioning. For open spaces, the wider cut saves effort and passes. You should choose based on your yard's layout and size.
Power Source
Power sources differ significantly between these two models. The LawnMaster uses a manual reel design, requiring physical effort to push and operate. It has no motor, gas, or battery. This makes it environmentally friendly and silent. The Greenworks is a 40V cordless battery mower. It uses an electric motor powered by a 4.0 Ah battery. This provides automated cutting power, reducing physical strain. The battery mower is ideal if you want a traditional mowing experience without manual labor. The manual reel suits those who prefer quiet, zero-emission operation and do not mind the physical activity. Your choice depends on your preference for effort versus convenience.
Cutting Height
Height adjustment options vary between the two mowers. The LawnMaster features 9 cutting positions, ranging from 1.3 inches to 2.6 inches. This offers fine-tuned control for different grass types and seasonal needs. The Greenworks has 5 height adjustment positions. While fewer, these positions allow for standard height changes. The LawnMaster provides more granular control for precise lawn care. The Greenworks offers simpler, quicker adjustments with fewer steps. If you need specific height settings for health or aesthetic reasons, the 9-position manual mower is superior. For general maintenance, the 5-position electric mower is sufficient. Consider how often you adjust your mower based on grass growth.
Mowing Function
Mowing functions differ in how grass clippings are handled. The Greenworks includes a 2-in-1 system that supports both mulching and rear bagging. This allows you to recycle nutrients into the lawn or collect clippings for disposal. The LawnMaster is a push reel mower with no specified bagging or mulching system in its data. It simply cuts the grass. The Greenworks offers versatility in managing clippings, which is useful for lawn health or cleanliness. The manual mower leaves clippings on the lawn, which can act as natural fertilizer. If you prefer controlled disposal or mulching, the electric model is the clear choice. The manual mower relies on natural decomposition.
Weight and Maneuverability
Weight and physical dimensions affect ease of use. The Greenworks weighs 37.5 pounds and is designed to be ultra-lightweight, being 35% lighter than steel deck mowers. Its dimensions are 50.8 inches in length and 18.9 inches in width. The LawnMaster does not list a specific weight, but as a manual reel mower, it is generally lighter than battery models. It has 10-inch front wheels for easy navigation. The Greenworks is heavier due to its battery and motor but offers powered cutting. The manual mower requires more physical pushing effort. If you have mobility issues or prefer less weight to lift, the manual reel may be easier. If you want powered assistance, the electric model is better despite its weight.
Which mower fits your yard
Users with large, flat lawns
The LawnMaster features a 20-inch cutting width, allowing you to cover more ground per pass. This wider deck reduces the total time needed for larger areas. Its manual reel design requires no batteries or charging, making it a simple, environmentally friendly choice for straightforward maintenance tasks.
Those needing mulch and bagging
The Greenworks mower offers a 2-in-1 system for mulching and rear bagging. Its 40V cordless battery provides consistent power without manual effort. This model is ideal if you prefer collecting clippings or recycling them into your lawn while benefiting from a lightweight, electric push design.
Buyers wanting tool system expansion
This Greenworks model works with over 75 other 40V tools, including trimmers and blowers. If you already own or plan to buy other Greenworks equipment, sharing the 4.0 Ah battery is convenient. The included charger and 3-year warranty add long-term value for toolkit expansion.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | Small, flat lawns seeking a quiet, eco-friendly cut | Check price of LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower on Amazon |
| 2 | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower | small lawns under 1/3 acre | Check price of Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower on Amazon |
The products compared
LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower
Best for: Small, flat lawns seeking a quiet, eco-friendly cut
- 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 manual reel with five steel blades. It requires no batteries or gas, relying entirely on your pushing power. You can adjust the cut height across nine positions, ranging from 1.3 to 2.6 inches. The 10-inch front wheels help you navigate around your lawn. It is a quiet, eco-friendly option for small, flat yards where you prefer a scissor-like cut without the noise or maintenance of a motor.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting width for efficient coverage
- Nine height settings from 1.3 to 2.6 inches
- No batteries or gas needed for operation
- Five-blade reel provides a scissor-like cut
Cons
- Requires significant physical effort to push
- Struggles with tall or thick grass
- Not suitable for uneven terrain
Good fit if
- You have a small, flat lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You want a quiet, zero-emission mowing experience
- You prefer low maintenance and no fuel costs
Skip if
- You have a large property with steep slopes
- You need to mow wet or tall grass quickly
- You prefer a self-propelled or electric mower
Verdict: LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Reel Mower is ideal for small, flat lawns where you want a quiet, eco-friendly cut without the hassle of batteries or gas. It suits those who do not mind the physical effort required to push the mower.
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower
Best for: small lawns under 1/3 acre
- Cutting Width
- 16-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- 40V
- Drive Type
- Push
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
- Cutting Height
- 5 position
View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower Affiliate link
This Greenworks 40V push mower features a 16-inch cutting deck, ideal for smaller lawns up to 1/3 acre. It includes a 4.0 Ah battery and charger. The unit weighs 37.5 pounds, making it 35% lighter than steel deck alternatives. You get five height positions and a 2-in-1 mulch or rear bag system. It works with over 75 other Greenworks 40V tools.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting width for manageable lawn coverage
- 4.0 Ah battery included for cordless operation
- Lightweight 37.5-pound design for easy handling
- 5-position single lever height adjustment
- 3-year limited warranty on tool and battery
Cons
- 16-inch deck is narrower than the 20-inch option
- Push drive requires manual effort
- 4.0 Ah battery capacity limits runtime on larger areas
Good fit if
- You have a small lawn under 1/3 acre
- You prefer a lightweight mower for easy storage
- You already own other Greenworks 40V tools
Skip if
- You need a wider 20-inch cutting deck
- You want self-propelled drive for hills
- You have a large lawn exceeding 1/3 acre
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Mower is a practical pick for small yards where maneuverability matters more than width. It suits users who value lightweight handling and battery ecosystem compatibility.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Push Lawn Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | manual reel | Cordless |
| Cutting Width | 20 in | 16 in |
| Voltage | not stated | 40V |
| Drive Type | push | Push |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | 4.0 Ah |
| Cutting Height | 1.3-2.6 in, 9 positions | 5 position |
| Mowing Function | not stated | 2-in-1 (mulch, rear bagging) |
| Application | Lawn | Lawn |
| Dimensions | 27.1 × 18.2 × 10.6 inches | 50.8 × 18.9 × 39 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 37.5 pounds |
| Size | 20-Inch | 16" Cordless (4.0Ah) |
| Color | Orange | Green |
| Model | LMRM2001 | 25322 |
Frequently asked questions
Is a 20-inch mower better than a 16-inch for small yards?
A 20-inch mower is often wider than necessary for small yards under a third of an acre. The Greenworks 16-inch model is lighter at 37.5 pounds, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Its compact 16-inch deck allows for sharper turns around obstacles. You save effort by not pushing a heavier, wider machine through confined areas.
Does a wider cutting deck mean faster mowing?
Yes, a wider deck covers more ground per pass. The LawnMaster’s 20-inch width reduces the total time needed for larger, flat areas. You make fewer overlapping passes compared to a 16-inch deck. This efficiency is most noticeable on open lawns where you can maintain a steady pace without frequent direction changes.
Which mower is quieter, the 20-inch or 16-inch?
The LawnMaster 20-inch manual reel mower is significantly quieter. It operates without a motor or battery, producing only the sound of blades cutting grass. The Greenworks 16-inch cordless mower uses a 40V motor, which generates operational noise. If quiet operation is a priority, the manual push option is the clear choice.
Do I need batteries for a 16-inch mower?
Yes, the Greenworks 16-inch model requires a battery pack. It is compatible with 40V batteries, such as the included 4.0 Ah unit. You must charge the battery before use and monitor its capacity during mowing. The LawnMaster 20-inch model requires no batteries, as it relies entirely on manual pushing power.
Is a 20-inch manual mower hard to push?
It requires physical effort, but the LawnMaster is designed for manageable resistance. You push the mower to engage the reel blades. The unit weighs less than the electric alternative, at roughly 18 inches wide and 27 inches long. On flat, small lawns, most users find the effort acceptable for the benefit of zero maintenance.
Which mower is better for eco-friendly gardening?
The LawnMaster 20-inch manual mower is the most eco-friendly option. It uses no electricity, batteries, or gasoline, eliminating emissions and energy consumption. The Greenworks 16-inch mower runs on a rechargeable battery, which is cleaner than gas but still requires charging. For a zero-emission approach, the manual reel mower is superior.
Can I use a 16-inch mower on uneven terrain?
The Greenworks 16-inch mower’s lightweight design at 37.5 pounds makes it easier to handle on slight inclines. Its compact size helps navigate uneven ground without getting stuck. The LawnMaster 20-inch manual mower requires consistent pushing force, which can be challenging on slopes. Both are push mowers, so manual effort is always needed.