Looking Beyond the CRAFTSMAN 1816-18CR 18" Push Reel Lawn Mower? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How each alternative compares

Litheli 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower

The Litheli 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower replaces manual effort with electric power. It uses a brushless motor and two 5.0Ah batteries for consistent performance. You get a narrower 14-inch cutting width compared to the Craftsman’s 18-inch deck. The cordless design offers quiet operation and zero emissions, similar to the reel mower. However, you trade the simplicity of a manual push for battery management and charging. This model is ideal for small yards where compact storage is key. The vertical height of 13.3 inches makes it easier to store in tight spaces than the Craftsman’s 31-inch profile. Choose this if you want electric convenience without the noise of gas engines.

VEVOR 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower

The VEVOR 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower matches the Craftsman’s 18-inch cutting width and manual power source. Both use a reel mechanism for a scissor-like cut. The VEVOR model weighs 25.1 pounds, slightly heavier than the Craftsman’s 24 pounds. It features a steel deck and five blades, similar to the Craftsman’s construction. You do not get an included grass catcher with the VEVOR, so you must rake or leave clippings. The VEVOR is shorter at 9.65 inches in height, making it more compact for storage. This alternative suits users who want a comparable manual cut but prefer a different brand or a lower profile. It is a practical choice for flat, small lawns requiring quiet maintenance.

Goplus 18-Inch Steel Deck Push Reel Mower

The Goplus 18-Inch Steel Deck Push Reel Mower offers a similar manual, push-driven experience to the Craftsman. It shares the 18-inch cutting width and steel deck material. The Goplus weighs 21.6 pounds, making it lighter than the Craftsman’s 24 pounds. You lose the included grass catcher that comes with the Craftsman model. This mower is designed for quiet, manual cutting on small, flat lawns. The Goplus is taller at 48.8 inches, which may affect storage convenience compared to the Craftsman’s 31-inch height. It is a budget-friendly option for those who value a durable steel deck and simple mechanics. Pick this if you want a lighter, cheaper manual mower and do not need a bag for clippings.

Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher

The Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher provides a wider 20-inch cutting path than the Craftsman’s 18-inch deck. It also uses a manual, push-driven power source. This model includes a grass catcher, similar to the Craftsman. However, it weighs 30 pounds, which is 6 pounds heavier than the Craftsman. The Sun Joe is taller at 50.4 inches, making it less compact for storage. The wider cut allows you to cover more ground with each pass, which is efficient for small, flat lawns. Choose this alternative if you prioritize a wider cutting width and bagging capability but do not mind the extra weight and height. It is a solid manual option for users who want to reduce mowing passes.

Litheli 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower

The Litheli 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower offers electric power instead of manual effort. It features a 40V brushless motor and a 16-inch cutting width, narrower than the Craftsman’s 18-inch deck. This model is designed for high torque, handling resistance well in small yards. It is much more compact, with a height of only 14.2 inches compared to the Craftsman’s 31 inches. You gain quiet, emission-free operation and ease of use, but you lose the simplicity of a purely mechanical tool. The dual-battery setup provides runtime but requires charging. This mower is best for users who want electric convenience and compact storage. It suits small yards where the narrower deck is not a limitation.

LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower

The LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower offers a 20-inch cutting width, wider than the Craftsman’s 18-inch deck. It uses a manual, push-driven power source, similar to the Craftsman. This model does not include a grass catcher, so you must manage clippings manually. The LawnMaster weighs 27.1 inches in length and is relatively compact in height at 10.6 inches. It is lighter than the Sun Joe but heavier than the Craftsman. The wider cut helps cover more area per pass on small, flat lawns. Choose this if you want a manual mower with a wider deck and a low profile. It is a practical choice for users who value quiet operation and simple mechanics without the need for bagging.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Craftsman 18-Inch Reel Mower with Grass Catcher

Best for: small lawns under 4 inches tall

Power Source

manual

Cutting Width

18 in

Drive Type

push

Deck Material

steel

Cutting Height

1-3 in

Mowing Function

grass catcher included

View on Amazon: Craftsman 18-Inch Reel Mower with Grass Catcher Affiliate link

The Craftsman 1816-18CR is an 18-inch manual push reel mower. It features five steel blades and an adjustable cutting height from 1 to 3 inches. The unit includes a grass catcher, though reel mowers cut like scissors, so not all clippings are captured. Weighing 24 pounds, it offers a lightweight design with a padded grip for comfortable maneuvering on your lawn.

Pros

• 18-inch cutting width for efficient coverage
• Five durable steel blades stay sharp
• Adjustable cutting height from 1 to 3 inches
• Includes a grass catcher for debris collection
• Lightweight 24-pound design with padded grip

Cons

• Requires manual pushing with no motor assistance
• Grass catcher captures only some clippings due to cutting action
• Not suitable for grass taller than 3-4 inches

Good fit if

• You want a quiet, pollution-free mowing experience
• You prefer low-maintenance equipment without batteries
• You have a small, flat lawn under 4 inches tall

Skip if

• You need to cut grass taller than 4 inches
• You want a self-propelled or electric mower
• You have a large lawn requiring frequent refills of the catcher

Verdict: Craftsman 18" Manual Reel Mower is a practical, eco-friendly choice for homeowners with small, well-maintained lawns who value quiet operation and simple mechanics over power and speed.

2 Best premium

Litheli 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower

Best for: Small yards and compact storage

Power Source

Cordless battery

Cutting Width

14 in

Drive Type

Push

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

Runtime

Up to 40 min

Cutting Height

1-2.5 in, 5 positions

View on Amazon: Litheli 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Affiliate link

This Litheli model offers a 14-inch cutting width with a brushless motor and 40-minute runtime. It includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a 9-gallon grass bag. The five-position height adjustment ranges from 1 to 2.5 inches. Its compact design fits small yards up to 1/8 acre. This push mower suits users seeking quiet, maintenance-free operation without gas or cords.

Pros

• Includes two 5.0Ah batteries for extended runtime
• Brushless motor provides zero maintenance
• 5-position height adjustment from 1 to 2.5 inches
• 9-gallon grass bag catches clippings

Cons

• 14-inch cutting width is narrower than competitors
• Charger is not included with the batteries
• Smaller 1/8 acre capacity limits larger yards

Good fit if

• You have a small yard up to 1/8 acre
• You want a lightweight, compact mower for storage
• You prefer a quiet, emission-free cutting experience

Skip if

• You need to cut large areas beyond 1/8 acre
• You require a wider 18-inch or larger deck
• You expect the charger to be included in the box

Verdict: Litheli 14" Cordless Mower with 2x5.0Ah Batteries is a practical option for small yards. It fits users who value compact storage and quiet operation over wide cutting paths.

3 Also great

VEVOR 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower

Best for: small lawns requiring quiet, manual maintenance

Power Source

Manual

Cutting Width

18 in

Drive Type

Push

Cutting Height

1.37-2.44 in

Mowing Function

Bagging

Application

Yard, Lawn

View on Amazon: VEVOR 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower Affiliate link

This VEVOR push reel mower offers an 18-inch cutting width with five UNS1566 steel blades. It features an adjustable cutting height from 1.37 to 2.44 inches. The unit weighs 25.1 pounds and includes a grass catcher bag. It requires no electricity or fuel, relying on manual pushing power. This model suits small lawns where quiet, emission-free operation is a priority.

Pros

• 18-inch cutting width for efficient coverage
• Five UNS1566 steel blades for durable performance
• Adjustable cutting height from 1.37 to 2.44 inches
• Includes a grass catcher bag for debris collection
• Tool-free assembly takes approximately 10 minutes

Cons

• Manual push operation requires physical effort
• Cutting height range is limited to 1.37-2.44 inches
• Heavier at 25.1 pounds compared to lighter alternatives

Good fit if

• You want a quiet, emission-free mowing experience
• You have a small lawn under 4 inches tall
• You prefer manual tools over battery-powered options

Skip if

• You need to cut grass taller than 4 inches
• You want motorized assistance for steep terrain
• You require cutting heights above 2.44 inches

Verdict: VEVOR 18-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower fits users with small, flat lawns who value quiet operation and do not mind manual effort. It is a practical, eco-friendly choice for maintaining short grass.

4 Best budget

Goplus 18-Inch Steel Deck Push Reel Mower

Best for: Small yards needing a quiet, manual cut

Power Source

manual

Cutting Width

18 in

Drive Type

push

Cutting Height

1.06-2 in, 4 positions

Mowing Function

bag, mulch

Deck Material

Steel Deck

View on Amazon: Goplus 18-Inch Steel Deck Push Reel Mower Affiliate link

This Goplus manual mower features an 18-inch cutting width and a manganese steel deck. It uses a 5-blade system for a clean cut and offers 4 height settings from 1.06 to 2 inches. The detachable grass catcher allows for bagging or mulching. Its 21.6-pound weight and foam-padded handle provide manageable operation for small to medium yards.

Pros

• 18-inch cutting width reduces passes
• Manganese steel deck for durability
• 4-position height adjustment
• Detachable grass catcher for bagging
• Quiet manual operation

Cons

• No self-propelled drive
• Requires physical pushing effort
• Manual height adjustment mechanism

Good fit if

• You prefer a quiet, emission-free tool
• You have a small yard under 5,000 square feet
• You want a durable steel deck

Skip if

• You need self-propelled power for slopes
• You have a large property requiring quick mowing
• You prefer electric or gas power sources

Verdict: Goplus 18-Inch Steel Deck Push Reel Mower suits those who value a quiet, manual cutting experience and a durable steel deck for small, flat lawns.

5 Also great

Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher

Best for: Small flat lawns needing wide cuts and bagging

Power Source

Manual reel

Cutting Width

20 in

Drive Type

Push

Cutting Height

9 positions, up to 2.44 in

Mowing Function

Bag (grass catcher included)

Application

Lawn

View on Amazon: Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher Affiliate link

The Sun Joe MJ502M is a 20-inch manual push reel mower designed for eco-friendly lawn care. It features five hardened steel blades and a 9-position height adjustment reaching up to 2.44 inches. The unit includes an 8.5-gallon grass catcher for clippings. Weighing 30 pounds, it offers a wide cutting path for efficient mowing. This model suits those seeking a gas-free, quiet option with precise height control and integrated bagging capabilities.

Pros

• 20-inch cutting width for wider coverage per pass
• 9-position height adjustment up to 2.44 inches
• Includes 8.5-gallon grass catcher for clean-up
• Five-blade hardened steel cutting mechanism
• Lightweight 30-pound manual design

Cons

• Requires physical pushing effort with no motor assist
• Manual height adjustment lacks quick-change lever
• No battery or electric power source available

Good fit if

• You want a gas-free, quiet mowing solution
• You prefer a wide 20-inch cutting path
• You need to collect clippings in a bag

Skip if

• You have a large or steep lawn
• You need motorized drive assistance
• You want to mow wet or thick grass

Verdict: Sun Joe MJ502M 20-Inch Manual Reel Mower fits small, flat lawns where you value a wide cut and bagging without gas or electricity.

6 Best 40v

Litheli 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower

Best for: small yards needing high torque

Power Source

Cordless battery

Cutting Width

16 in

Voltage

40V

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

Runtime

40 min

Cutting Height

0.98-2.95 in, 6 positions

View on Amazon: Litheli 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower Affiliate link

This Litheli 40V push mower uses two 20V batteries to power a 650W brushless motor. It offers a 16-inch cutting width and six height positions from 25mm to 75mm. The dual-battery system provides extra torque for thick grass. You can choose between mulching or collecting clippings in the 50L bag. The handle folds flat for compact storage against a wall.

Pros

• Brushless motor delivers 3900 RPM
• Dual 5.0Ah batteries for higher torque
• 6 height positions from 25mm to 75mm
• 50L grass bag for collection
• Folding handle for space-saving storage

Cons

• 16-inch cutting width is narrower than competitors
• No self-propelled drive system
• No grass catcher bag included in specs

Good fit if

• You have small or medium-sized lawns
• You need extra power for thick grass
• You want compact storage for tight spaces

Skip if

• You need a wider 20-inch cut
• You want self-propelled ease
• You prefer manual reel mowers

Verdict: Litheli 40V 16-Inch Brushless Mower fits users who need a compact, high-torque electric mower for smaller yards. The dual-battery setup handles resistance well, though the narrow deck limits efficiency on larger areas.

7 Also great

LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower

Best for: Small, flat lawns requiring manual effort

Power Source

manual reel

Cutting Width

20 in

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

The LawnMaster LMRM2001 is a 20-inch manual reel mower designed for eco-friendly lawn care. It features five steel blades for a scissor-like cut and offers nine height settings from 1.3 to 2.6 inches. The 10-inch front wheels aid maneuverability. This push mower requires no gas or batteries, making it a quiet, zero-emission option for small to medium lawns.

Pros

• 20-inch cutting width covers more ground per pass
• Nine adjustable cutting heights from 1.3 to 2.6 inches
• Five-blade steel reel provides a clean scissor-like cut
• No motor or batteries required for operation
• 10-inch front wheels improve navigation

Cons

• Requires significant physical effort to push through thick grass
• No grass catcher or mulching kit included in the data
• Manual operation limits use on uneven terrain

Good fit if

• You want a zero-emission, battery-free mower
• You have a small, flat lawn under 5,000 square feet
• You prefer manual exercise during yard work

Skip if

• You need a self-propelled mower for hilly terrain
• You have thick or wet grass that resists pushing
• You want to collect clippings without manual raking

Verdict: LawnMaster 20-Inch Push Reel Mower is a solid choice for users seeking a quiet, maintenance-free manual option for small, flat lawns. It suits those willing to exert physical effort for a clean cut without the noise or emissions of motorized alternatives.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best storage sheds for lawn mowers
• craftsman tool cart wheels alternatives