6 Best Alternatives to the Sun Joe Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower (2026)
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You are looking for sun joe manual push reel lawn mower alternatives because your specific lawn needs may differ from the original model. The Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower excels with its 20-inch cutting width, 9-position height adjustment, and included 8.5-gallon grass catcher. These specs make it ideal for users who want precise control and clippings collection. However, you might prefer a lighter unit, a different cutting width, or a powered option for easier operation.
The 6 alternatives listed here were chosen because their core specifications overlap with the Sun Joe mower. This list includes models with similar 20-inch cutting decks, such as the LawnMaster and Scotts options, which share the manual push drive type. It also features narrower choices like the 14-inch Craftsman and 16-inch American Lawn Mower models for smaller spaces. One entry, the Walensee, offers a steel deck and cordless power for those seeking durability or reduced physical effort. Each option is selected based on published data regarding drive type, cutting width, and mowing function.
Our top pick: Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher.
How these alternatives compare to the Sun Joe
LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower
The LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower shares the 20-inch cutting width and manual push drive of the Sun Joe model. It uses a 5-blade reel system for similar cutting performance. However, the LawnMaster does not list a grass catcher in its attributes, meaning you will need to rake clippings or leave them as mulch. It is lighter and more compact when folded, which aids storage. Choose this if you want a budget-friendly manual mower and do not mind managing loose grass. The Sun Joe remains better if you want to collect clippings directly into an 8.5-gallon bag for a cleaner yard.
Scotts 20-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower
The Scotts 20-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower matches the Sun Joe in cutting width and manual operation. It also features a 5-blade reel. The Scotts model is slightly lighter at 26.9 pounds compared to the Sun Joe’s 30 pounds. It lacks a specified grass catcher, so you will not get the convenient collection system the Sun Joe provides. The Scotts is designed for small, flat lawns where quiet operation is key. Pick this alternative if you prioritize a lighter weight and simple maintenance over grass collection. The Sun Joe is the superior choice if you need the included bagger to keep your lawn tidy without extra raking.
Walensee 20-Inch Steel Deck Reel Mower
The Walensee 20-Inch Steel Deck Reel Mower differs significantly by offering cordless electric power instead of manual effort. It retains the 20-inch cutting width and includes a bagging function similar to the Sun Joe. The Walensee is lighter at 26.7 pounds and features a steel deck for durability. This model is ideal if you want the ease of electric power but still prefer a reel-style cut over rotary blades. You give up the zero-emission, zero-noise benefit of the manual Sun Joe. Choose the Walensee if you have a larger or slightly thicker lawn that requires more power than a push reel can provide, while still wanting a clean cut.
Earthwise 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower
The Earthwise 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower offers the same 20-inch cutting width and manual push drive as the Sun Joe. It uses a 5-blade reel for cutting. Unlike the Sun Joe, the Earthwise does not list a grass catcher in its data, so you will not have the included bagging capability. It weighs 26.9 pounds, making it slightly lighter than the Sun Joe. This model is best for users who want a stable, wide-cutting manual mower and do not mind leaving clippings on the lawn. Select the Earthwise if you prefer a simpler setup without a bag. The Sun Joe is better if you want the convenience of collecting grass clippings in an 8.5-gallon container.
Craftsman 14-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower
The Craftsman 14-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower has a narrower 14-inch cutting width compared to the Sun Joe’s 20-inch deck. It is a manual push mower that includes a grass catcher, similar to the Sun Joe. It is significantly lighter at 18 pounds, making it easier to maneuver and store. This model is suited for very small lawns where a 20-inch width is unnecessary. Choose the Craftsman if you have a compact yard and want a lightweight, bagging manual mower. The Sun Joe is the better option if you have a larger area to cover, as the wider deck allows you to mow faster with fewer passes.
American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade Manual
The American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade Manual offers a 16-inch cutting width, which is narrower than the Sun Joe’s 20-inch deck. It is a manual push mower that includes a grass catcher, matching the Sun Joe’s collection feature. It weighs 18 pounds, making it much lighter than the 30-pound Sun Joe. This model is designed for small, level lawns where maneuverability and storage are priorities. Pick this alternative if you have a small yard and want a lightweight mower with bagging capabilities. The Sun Joe remains the better choice for larger lawns due to its wider cutting path, which reduces the number of passes needed to complete the job.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher
Best for: quiet, eco-friendly lawn maintenance with clippings
- 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
The Sun Joe MJ502M is a manual push reel mower with a 20-inch cutting width and five steel blades. It offers nine cutting height positions up to 2.44 inches. An included 8.5-gallon grass catcher collects clippings. Weighing 30 pounds, it features a dual-wheel design for maneuverability. This model suits users seeking an eco-friendly, gas-free option for maintaining a manicured lawn without noise or emissions.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting path with five durable steel blades
- 9-position height adjustment up to 2.44 inches
- Includes an 8.5-gallon grass catcher for clean-up
- Lightweight 30-pound design with dual-wheel maneuverability
Cons
- Requires physical pushing effort with no motor assist
- 30-pound weight may be heavy for some users
- Manual operation limits speed compared to powered mowers
Good fit if
- You want a quiet, emission-free mowing experience
- You need to collect clippings with the included bag
- You prefer precise height control for a manicured look
Skip if
- You have a large lawn requiring powered speed
- You struggle with pushing heavy equipment
- You need to mow thick or wet grass quickly
Verdict: Sun Joe 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower is a practical choice for small to medium lawns where quiet operation and grass collection are priorities. It fits users who value precise height settings and eco-friendly maintenance over raw speed.
LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower
Best for: Small lawns seeking eco-friendly manual mowing
- 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
The LawnMaster 20-inch push reel mower uses a five-blade scissor-like action to cut grass cleanly without ripping. It offers nine cutting height positions ranging from 1.3 to 2.6 inches, allowing you to customize the cut for your lawn's needs. With a 20-inch cutting width and 10-inch front wheels, it provides good maneuverability for standard residential yards. This manual mower requires no gas or batteries, making it an environmentally friendly option for small to medium lawns.
Pros
- Five-blade steel reel provides a clean scissor-like cut
- Nine cutting height positions from 1.3 to 2.6 inches
- 20-inch cutting width covers ground efficiently
- 10-inch front wheels aid maneuverability
- No gas or batteries required for operation
Cons
- Manual push design requires physical effort
- No grass catcher included in standard specs
- Fixed height settings limit fine-tuning between positions
Good fit if
- You want a quiet, zero-emission mowing solution
- You have a small to medium-sized lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You prefer manual exercise over motorized equipment
Skip if
- You have a large lawn exceeding 10,000 square feet
- You need to cut tall or wet grass frequently
- You prefer the ease of a self-propelled or electric mower
Verdict: LawnMaster 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower is a solid choice for homeowners seeking a durable, eco-friendly manual mower with adjustable height settings for maintaining healthy grass.
Scotts 20-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower
Best for: Small, flat lawns needing quiet operation
- Power Source
- Manual
- Cutting Width
- 20 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Cutting Height
- 1-3 in, quick-snap
- Application
- Lawn
- Dimensions
- 28 × 18 × 10 inches
The Scotts 2000-20S is a manual push reel mower with a 20-inch cutting width and five heat-treated alloy steel blades. It offers quick-snap height adjustment from 1 to 3 inches. The unit weighs 26.9 pounds and features an ergonomic handle with a cushioned grip. It requires no gas, oil, or motor, making it a simple, lightweight option for small lawns.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting width for efficient coverage
- Five-blade ball bearing reel for clean cuts
- Quick-snap height adjustment from 1 to 3 inches
- Heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp longer
Cons
- No grass catcher included in the base model
- Manual push operation requires physical effort
- Fixed 1 to 3-inch height range limits versatility
Good fit if
- You have a small, flat lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You want a quiet, zero-emission mowing experience
- You prefer simple, tool-less assembly and maintenance
Skip if
- You need to cut grass taller than 3 inches
- You have a large property requiring faster mowing
- You want to collect clippings without a bag
Verdict: Scotts 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower fits users with small, flat lawns who value quiet operation and simple maintenance over speed or grass collection capabilities.
Walensee 20-Inch Steel Deck Reel Mower
Best for: Flat lawns and quiet operation
- Power Source
- Manual reel
- Cutting Width
- 20 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Deck Material
- Steel
- Cutting Height
- 1.0-2.5 in, 9 positions
- Mowing Function
- Bagging
The Walensee 20-inch manual reel mower uses five alloy steel blades to slice grass cleanly. It features large 10-inch drive wheels for smooth movement and nine adjustable cutting heights from 1.0 to 2.5 inches. The steel deck supports bagging, and the unit weighs 26.7 pounds. This cordless, noise-free design suits homeowners seeking a quiet, eco-friendly tool for manageable lawn sizes.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting width with five precision blades
- 10-inch large drive wheels for easier pushing
- Nine height settings from 1.0 to 2.5 inches
- Alloy steel blades resist deformation
- Includes a grass catcher for bagging
Cons
- Requires manual clearing of debris to prevent jamming
- Heavier at 26.7 pounds than some competitors
- No battery or motor power source included
Good fit if
- You want a quiet, emission-free mowing experience
- You need adjustable cutting heights for different seasons
- You prefer a wider 20-inch cutting path
Skip if
- You have thick, overgrown, or wet grass
- You need motorized assistance for steep hills
- You want a lighter unit under 20 pounds
Verdict: Walensee 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower is a solid choice for flat, well-maintained lawns where you value quiet operation and a clean cut over raw speed.
Earthwise 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower
Best for: stable manual mowing on small lawns
- Power Source
- manual reel
- Cutting Width
- 20 in
- Drive Type
- push
- Cutting Height
- 1 in to 3 in
- Application
- Lawn
- Dimensions
- 26 × 47 × 26 inches
The Earthwise 2001-20EW is a manual push reel mower with a 20-inch cutting width and five ball-bearing blades. It offers a 1-to-3-inch adjustable cutting height and features 10-inch composite wheels with 6-inch rear-trailing wheels for stability. The ergonomic handle has a cushioned grip. It is built from heat-treated alloy steel for durability. This model suits users seeking a planet-friendly, low-maintenance tool for small to medium lawns.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting width for efficient coverage
- Five-blade ball bearing reel for clean cuts
- 10-inch composite wheels with trailing design for stability
- 1-to-3-inch adjustable cutting height
- Cushioned ergonomic handle for comfort
Cons
- No grass catcher included unlike some competitors
- Heavier at 26.9 pounds than smaller models
- Limited to manual push operation
Good fit if
- You want a 20-inch cutting width
- You prefer a stable mower with trailing wheels
- You need a durable alloy steel reel
Skip if
- You require a grass catcher attachment
- You need a lighter mower under 20 pounds
- You prefer a wider 22-inch or larger deck
Verdict: Earthwise 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower is a stable, durable option for users who prioritize a wide cutting deck and smooth rolling stability over grass collection features.
Craftsman 14-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower
Best for: Small lawns requiring quiet, low-maintenance mowing
- Power Source
- manual
- Cutting Width
- 14 in
- Drive Type
- push
- Deck Material
- steel
- Mowing Function
- grass catcher included
- Application
- Lawn
The Craftsman 304-14CR is a 14-inch manual push reel mower designed for small lawns. It features five durable steel blades and an adjustable cutting height ranging from ½ to 1¾ inches. The unit includes a grass catcher, though reel mowers capture clippings inconsistently. Weighing 18 pounds, it offers lightweight maneuverability with a cushioned T-handle. This model suits users prioritizing low maintenance and quiet operation over wide cutting swathes.
Pros
- 14-inch cutting width with five steel blades
- Adjustable cutting height from ½ to 1¾ inches
- Includes a grass catcher for debris collection
- Lightweight 18-pound build with cushioned T-handle
- Tool-less assembly for quick setup
Cons
- 14-inch cutting width is narrower than the 18 to 20-inch options on this list
- Grass catcher captures clippings inconsistently due to low cutting force
- Requires frequent mowing and multiple passes for overgrown lawns
Good fit if
- You have a small lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You prefer a lightweight mower for easy storage and maneuverability
- You want a quiet, pollution-free mowing experience
Skip if
- You need to cover large areas quickly with a wider cut
- You have tall or overgrown grass that requires heavy-duty cutting
- You want consistent grass bagging without manual raking
Verdict: Craftsman 14-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower fits users with small, well-maintained lawns who value quiet operation and easy storage over speed. It is a practical choice for those willing to mow frequently to keep grass short.
American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade Manual
Best for: small, level lawns
- Power Source
- Manual reel
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Cutting Height
- 1/2 to 2-1/2 in
- Mowing Function
- Grass catcher
- Application
- Lawn
The American Lawn Mower 1604-16 is a 16-inch manual push reel mower with a 5-blade reel. It features a cutting range from 1/2 to 2-1/2 inches. The unit weighs 18 pounds and includes a grass catcher. It operates without gas, oil, or batteries. This model suits you if you maintain a level lawn and prefer quiet, engine-free mowing.
Pros
- 16-inch 5-blade reel provides a clean scissor-like cut
- Adjustable cutting height from 1/2 to 2-1/2 inches
- Includes a grass catcher for clipping collection
- Manual operation requires no gas, oil, or charging
- Lightweight 18-pound design for easy maneuvering
Cons
- 16-inch cutting width is narrower than most competitors
- Height adjustment requires manual repositioning of components
- Grass catcher may be less practical for heavy clipping volume
Good fit if
- You have a small, regularly maintained lawn
- You prefer a quiet, manual push mower
- You want a lightweight mower under 20 pounds
Skip if
- You need a cutting width wider than 16 inches
- You have tall grass, weeds, or uneven terrain
- You prefer quick height adjustments without repositioning parts
Verdict: American Lawn Mower 1604-16 16-Inch Reel Mower fits small, level lawns where you value quiet operation and a compact 16-inch cutting width over the wider decks found in other options.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher | LawnMaster 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | Scotts 20-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower | Walensee 20-Inch Steel Deck Reel Mower | Earthwise 20-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | Craftsman 14-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower | American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade Manual |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Manual reel | manual reel | Manual | Manual reel | manual reel | manual | Manual reel |
| Cutting Width | 20 in | 20 in | 20 in | 20 in | 20 in | 14 in | 16 in |
| Drive Type | Push | push | Push | Push | push | push | Push |
| Deck Material | not specified | not specified | not specified | Steel | not specified | steel | not specified |
| Cutting Height | 9 positions, up to 2.44 in | 1.3-2.6 in, 9 positions | 1-3 in, quick-snap | 1.0-2.5 in, 9 positions | 1 in to 3 in | not specified | 1/2 to 2-1/2 in |
| Mowing Function | Bag (grass catcher included) | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | grass catcher included | Grass catcher |
| Application | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn |
| Dimensions | 48 × 26.6 × 50.4 inches | 27.1 × 18.2 × 10.6 inches | 28 × 18 × 10 inches | 26.5 × 26.4 × 46.5 inches | 26 × 47 × 26 inches | 41 × 19 × 26 inches | 21.5 × 22 × 48.8 inches |
| Weight | 30 pounds | not specified | 26.9 pounds | 26.7 pounds | 26.9 pounds | 18 pounds | 18 pounds |
| Size | 20 in | 20-Inch | 20-Inch, 5-Blade | 20-Inch With Catcher | 20", 5-blade | 14-Inch with Grass Catcher | 16" 5 Blade, Grass Catcher |
| Color | Green | Orange | Green | Orange/Black | Gray | Red | Red |
| Model | MJ502M | LMRM2001 | 2000-20S | WBLM-001-20 | 2001-20EW | 304-14CR | 1604-16 |
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Frequently asked questions
Which alternative mower is best for collecting clippings?
The Sun Joe 20-Inch model includes an 8.5-gallon grass catcher, making it ideal for bagging. The Walensee 20-Inch Steel Deck Mower also supports bagging for clean cut disposal. Additionally, the Craftsman 14-Inch and American Lawn Mower 16-Inch models come with grass catchers attached, allowing you to manage debris without raking.
Is there a lighter option for easy storage?
The Craftsman 14-Inch Manual Push Reel Mower weighs just 18 pounds, making it the lightest choice on the list. The American Lawn Mower 16-Inch model also weighs 18 pounds, offering similar portability. These compact units are easier to lift into garages or sheds compared to heavier 20-inch alternatives.
Can I find a reel mower with a steel deck?
The Walensee 20-Inch Steel Deck Reel Mower features a durable steel deck construction. This material choice may offer different longevity compared to the plastic decks found on other manual models like the LawnMaster or Scotts. It provides a sturdy base for the 5-blade reel system on flat lawns.
Which mower is best for very small or tight lawns?
The Craftsman 14-Inch model has the narrowest cutting width at 14 inches, fitting easily into tight spaces. The American Lawn Mower 16-Inch option offers a slightly wider 16-inch deck for small, level lawns. Both are manual push models designed for quick, frequent mowing in confined areas.
Do any alternatives use a battery instead of manual power?
The Walensee 20-Inch Steel Deck Reel Mower lists Cordless as its power source, distinguishing it from the purely manual options. Most other alternatives, including the Sun Joe, LawnMaster, and Scotts, rely entirely on manual push power. You should verify the specific battery requirements if you prefer cordless operation over physical effort.
Which mower offers the most height adjustment positions?
The Sun Joe 20-Inch Push Reel Mower provides 9-position height adjustment for precise cutting control. While specific cut heights for other models are not detailed in the data, the Sun Joe model allows you to tailor the grass length closely to your preference for a healthy lawn appearance.
Are there options available in colors other than green?
Yes, several models offer different color schemes. The LawnMaster 20-Inch Mower comes in Orange, and the Walensee model features an Orange and Black finish. The Craftsman 14-Inch and American Lawn Mower 16-Inch models are available in Red. The Sun Joe and Scotts models are typically listed in Green.