Looking Beyond the Sun Joe MJ504M Manual Reel Mower? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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If you are searching for sun joe mj504m manual reel mower alternatives, you likely value its lightweight design and zero-emission operation. The Sun Joe MJ504M delivers a 16-inch cutting width and weighs under 25 pounds, making it easy to push on small lawns. Its five steel blades provide precise cuts without fuel or electricity. However, you might want a different cutting height range, a grass catcher, or a lighter frame. Some users prefer a specific brand or a different blade configuration for their turf type.
The 6 alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original model. Each option shares the 16-inch cutting width, ensuring compatibility with your existing lawn size. You will find variations in weight, blade count, and included accessories like grass bags. This guide focuses strictly on these published specs to help you compare practical features. You can evaluate each mower based on how its dimensions and power source fit your specific needs. No price or personal testing claims are included, only the factual data that matters for your decision.
Our top pick: Sun Joe MJ504M 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower.
Comparing 6 Sun Joe MJ504M Alternatives
American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade Manual
The American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade includes a grass catcher, unlike the Sun Joe MJ504M which lacks one. This model weighs 18 pounds, making it 6.9 pounds lighter than the Sun Joe. It shares the 16-inch cutting width but adds a bagging function for cleaner lawns. The handle folds to 21.5 inches in length for storage, compared to the Sun Joe’s 51.6-inch unfolded length. You get quiet, manual operation with the added benefit of clipped grass collection. Choose this if you want a lighter, bagging-capable manual mower for small, flat yards.
Craftsman 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower with Bag
The Craftsman 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower also includes a grass catcher, providing a solution the Sun Joe MJ504M does not offer. It weighs 23 pounds, slightly lighter than the Sun Joe’s 24.9 pounds. Both mowers feature a 16-inch cutting width. The Craftsman model has a handle length of 46 inches, which is shorter than the Sun Joe’s 51.6 inches. It uses five steel blades for cutting. This option suits users who prioritize included collection gear and a slightly more compact folded size over the absolute lightest weight. It is a practical choice for manual mowing with bagging needs.
American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
The American Lawn Mower 1415-16 weighs 25 pounds, nearly identical to the Sun Joe MJ504M’s 24.9 pounds. It shares the 16-inch cutting width and manual power source. However, this model does not list a grass catcher, similar to the Sun Joe. Its folded length is 45.9 inches, shorter than the Sun Joe’s 51.6 inches. It uses five blades for cutting. This mower is a solid entry-level option for small yards. You should pick this if you value simplicity and low maintenance over high-speed cutting performance. It fits users who do not need a grass catcher but want a comparable manual reel mower.
Scotts 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower
The Scotts 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower features seven steel blades, compared to the Sun Joe MJ504M’s five blades. This may provide a finer cut for fine to medium turf. It weighs 23 pounds, slightly lighter than the Sun Joe. Both have a 16-inch cutting width. The Scotts model does not include a grass catcher. Its folded length is 19.3 inches, significantly shorter than the Sun Joe’s 51.6 inches. This makes it easier to store. Choose this if you prefer more blades for a precise cut and need a compact storage profile for small lawns with Bermuda or fescue grass.
Great States 16-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower
The Great States 16-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower weighs 20.9 pounds, which is 4 pounds lighter than the Sun Joe MJ504M. It shares the 16-inch cutting width and manual power source. Like the Sun Joe, it does not list a grass catcher. Its folded dimensions are 10.6 by 13.8 inches, much more compact than the Sun Joe’s folded size. It uses five steel blades. This mower is ideal for small, flat lawns where quiet operation matters. You should pick this if you want a lighter, highly portable manual mower that stores easily in tight spaces.
Walensee 16-Inch Push Reel Mower
The Walensee 16-Inch Push Reel Mower is listed as cordless, differing from the Sun Joe MJ504M’s manual power source. It includes a grass catcher, which the Sun Joe lacks. It weighs only 15.4 pounds, making it the lightest option here and significantly lighter than the Sun Joe. It has a 16-inch cutting width. Its folded length is 22 inches, shorter than the Sun Joe’s 51.6 inches. This model suits users who want zero emissions and quiet operation. Choose this if you prefer a lightweight, bagging-capable mower with a compact design for small lawns.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Sun Joe MJ504M 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower
Best for: small lawns seeking eco-friendly mowing
- Power Source
- manual reel
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Cutting Height
- 1.1 in to 2.9 in
- Mowing Function
- Bagging
- Dimensions
- 51.6 × 22.4 × 29.5 inches
- Weight
- 24.9 pounds
This Sun Joe manual reel mower offers a 16-inch cutting width with five steel blades. It weighs under 25 lbs and features adjustable height settings from 1.1 to 2.9 inches. The unit includes rugged all-terrain wheels for easy maneuvering. It is designed for small to medium lawns and includes a grass catcher for collecting clippings.
Pros
- Five durable steel blades for precise cutting
- Adjustable cutting height from 1.1 to 2.9 inches
- Weighs 24.9 pounds for easy handling
- Includes a grass catcher for clippings
Cons
- Manual power source requires physical effort
- Limited to 16-inch cutting width
- No electric or battery assist options
Good fit if
- You have a small to medium-sized lawn
- You want to reduce your carbon footprint
- You prefer lightweight manual equipment
Skip if
- You need to mow large or hilly terrain
- You require electric or gas power
- You want a wider cutting deck
Verdict: Sun Joe MJ504M 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower suits homeowners with small lawns who want a lightweight, eco-friendly tool. It delivers precise cuts without fuel or electricity.
American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade Manual
Best for: Small, level lawns requiring manual clipping collection
- 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
This manual reel mower cuts a 16-inch width with five blades. It offers a cutting range from 1/2 to 2-1/2 inches via manual wheel and roller adjustments. The unit weighs 18 pounds and includes a grass catcher. It requires no gas or batteries. It suits users with small, level lawns who prefer quiet, engine-free operation.
Pros
- Five-blade reel provides a clean scissor-like cut
- Includes a grass catcher for clipping collection
- Adjustable cutting height from 1/2 to 2-1/2 inches
- Lightweight 18-pound design for easy maneuvering
Cons
- Manual height adjustment requires repositioning components
- Struggles with tall grass, weeds, or uneven ground
- Grass catcher collection results vary by conditions
Good fit if
- You have a small, regularly maintained lawn
- You prefer quiet, engine-free operation
- You want to collect clippings manually
Skip if
- You have a large lawn with heavy clipping volume
- Your terrain is uneven or has dips
- You need automatic height adjustment settings
Verdict: American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade with Catcher is a practical option for small, level lawns where you value quiet, manual operation and clipping collection.
Craftsman 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower with Bag
Best for: manual mowers needing a grass catcher
- Power Source
- Manual reel
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Cutting Height
- 1-3 in
- Mowing Function
- Bag
- Application
- Lawn
View on Amazon: Craftsman 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower with Bag
The Craftsman 1816-16CR is a manual push reel mower with a 16-inch cutting width. It features a 5-blade steel reel and includes a grass catcher. The cutting height adjusts from 1 to 3 inches. Weighing 23 pounds, it has 10-inch front wheels and 6-inch rear wheels. This model suits users wanting a bagging option for a manual mower.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting width
- 5-blade steel reel
- Includes grass catcher
- Adjustable 1-3 inch height
- 10-inch front wheels
Cons
- Heavier than many manual reel mowers at 23 pounds
- Limited to 5 blades compared to 7-blade competitors
- Small 6-inch rear trailing wheels
Good fit if
- You want a grass catcher included with your manual mower
- You prefer a 16-inch cutting width
- You need adjustable cutting heights up to 3 inches
Skip if
- You need more than 5 blades for cleaner cuts
- You want a lighter mower under 20 pounds
- You prefer larger rear wheels for easier pushing
Verdict: Craftsman 16" 5-Blade Reel Mower with Bag offers a practical bagging solution for manual mowing. It fits users who prioritize included collection gear over blade count or lighter weight.
American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
Best for: small, flat lawns seeking simple manual mowing
- Power Source
- Manual reel
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Deck Material
- Tempered alloy steel
- Cutting Height
- 0.5-2.5 in
- Mowing Function
- Manual reel
View on Amazon: American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
This manual reel mower features a 16-inch cutting width and a 5-blade heat-treated alloy steel reel. It offers an adjustable cutting height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches. The unit weighs 25 pounds and uses 10-inch polymer wheels for maneuverability. It suits small lawns where you prefer a quiet, pollution-free mowing experience without the need for gas or electricity.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting width with 5-blade reel
- Adjustable cutting height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches
- Heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp
- Lightweight at 25 pounds
- 10-inch durable composite wheels
Cons
- Fewer blades than the 7-blade alternatives on this list
- No included grass catcher for clippings
- Manual push operation requires physical effort
Good fit if
- You have a small, flat lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You want a quiet, zero-emission mowing option
- You prefer lightweight equipment for easy storage
Skip if
- You need to cut grass taller than 4 inches
- You have a large or uneven lawn
- You prefer a motorized drive system
Verdict: American Lawn Mower 1415-16 16-Inch 5-Blade is a solid entry-level choice for small yards. It fits users who value simplicity and low maintenance over high-speed cutting performance.
Scotts 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower
Best for: small lawns with fine to medium turf
- Power Source
- Manual reel
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Application
- Lawn
- Dimensions
- 19.3 × 21.8 × 49.5 inches
- Weight
- 23 pounds
This Scotts mower uses a 16-inch, 7-blade reel for clean cuts on fine to medium turf. It weighs 23 pounds and features a padded U-handle for comfort. The manual push design suits small to medium lawns. It is ideal for grasses like Bermuda, zoysia, ryegrass, and fescue. The lightweight build ensures smooth operation without the need for batteries or gas.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting width with 7-blade reel
- Padded U-handle for improved control
- Lightweight 23-pound construction
- Suitable for Bermuda, zoysia, and fescue grasses
Cons
- No grass catcher included
- Push-only drive type requires physical effort
- Limited to manual operation without power assist
Good fit if
- You have a small to medium lawn
- You prefer manual exercise over powered tools
- You maintain fine to medium turf grasses
Skip if
- You need a battery or gas-powered drive
- You want a grass catcher for clippings
- You have large or thick overgrown areas
Verdict: Scotts 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower is a practical option for homeowners maintaining small lawns with Bermuda or fescue grass who prefer manual exercise.
Great States 16-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower
Best for: small lawns needing quiet manual cutting
- Power Source
- Manual
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Deck Material
- Alloy steel
- Cutting Height
- 1-2.5 in, adjustable
- Application
- Lawn
The Great States 415-16 is a manual reel mower with a 16-inch cutting width. It features a five-blade ball bearing reel and heat-treated alloy steel blades. The cutting height adjusts from 1 to 2.5 inches. It weighs 20.9 pounds and has a T-style cushioned handle. This model suits users seeking a quiet, gas-free option for small lawns.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting width
- Five-blade ball bearing reel
- Adjustable cutting height from 1 to 2.5 inches
- Heat-treated alloy steel blades
- Lightweight at 20.9 pounds
Cons
- No grass catcher included
- Limited cutting height range compared to motorized mowers
- Manual push operation requires physical effort
Good fit if
- You want a quiet, eco-friendly mowing experience
- You have a small lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You prefer lightweight equipment for easy storage
Skip if
- You need to cut tall or thick grass
- You want a grass catcher for debris collection
- You prefer self-propelled or electric power sources
Verdict: Great States 16-Inch 5-Blade Manual Mower is a solid choice for small, flat lawns where quiet operation and low maintenance matter. It fits users who do not mind pushing the mower for a clean, even cut.
Walensee 16-Inch Push Reel Mower
Best for: small lawns needing quiet, manual cutting
- Power Source
- Manual reel
- Cutting Width
- 16 in
- Drive Type
- Push
- Deck Material
- Alloy steel
- Cutting Height
- 0.6 to 1.5 in, 4 positions
- Mowing Function
- Grass catcher
The Walensee 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower is a manual, cordless lawn mower designed for quiet, eco-friendly cutting. It features a 16-inch cutting width and 4-position height adjustment from 0.6 to 1.5 inches. The unit weighs 15.4 pounds and includes a grass catcher. Its large 8.5-inch drive wheels and alloy steel blades aim to reduce effort on uneven terrain. This model suits small lawns where noise and emissions are concerns.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting width with 5 precision alloy steel blades
- 4-position adjustable cutting height from 0.6 to 1.5 inches
- Large 8.5-inch drive wheels for smoother pushing
- Includes grass catcher for bagging clippings
- Lightweight at 15.4 pounds for easy maneuverability
Cons
- Requires manual pushing with no motor assistance
- Limited to 4 cutting height settings
- No battery or electric power source included
Good fit if
- You want a quiet, emission-free mowing experience
- You have a small lawn under 5,000 square feet
- You prefer manual control over electric or gas power
Skip if
- You need motorized power for thick or tall grass
- You have a large lawn requiring frequent mowing
- You want variable speed control or self-propulsion
Verdict: Walensee 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower is a solid choice for small, flat lawns where quiet operation and zero emissions matter most. It fits users who do not mind manual effort for a clean, scissor-like cut.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sun Joe MJ504M 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower | American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade Manual | Craftsman 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower with Bag | American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower | Scotts 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower | Great States 16-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower | Walensee 16-Inch Push Reel Mower |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Source | manual reel | Manual reel | Manual reel | Manual reel | Manual reel | Manual | Manual reel |
| Cutting Width | 16 in | 16 in | 16 in | 16 in | 16 in | 16 in | 16 in |
| Drive Type | not specified | Push | Push | Push | Push | Push | Push |
| Deck Material | not specified | not specified | not specified | Tempered alloy steel | not specified | Alloy steel | Alloy steel |
| Cutting Height | 1.1 in to 2.9 in | 1/2 to 2-1/2 in | 1-3 in | 0.5-2.5 in | not specified | 1-2.5 in, adjustable | 0.6 to 1.5 in, 4 positions |
| Mowing Function | not specified | Grass catcher | Bag | Manual reel | not specified | not specified | Grass catcher |
| Application | not specified | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn | Lawn |
| Dimensions | 51.6 × 22.4 × 29.5 inches | 21.5 × 22 × 48.8 inches | 46 × 22 × 28 inches | 45.9 × 21.9 × 27.8 inches | 19.3 × 21.8 × 49.5 inches | 23.1 × 10.6 × 13.8 inches | 22 × 21 × 46 inches |
| Weight | 24.9 pounds | 18 pounds | 23 pounds | 25 pounds | 23 pounds | 20.9 pounds | 15.4 pounds |
| Size | 16-Inch Manual | 16" 5 Blade, Grass Catcher | 16-Inch with Grass Catcher | 16" 5 blade | 16-Inch, 7-Blade | 16-Inch, 5-Blade | 16-Inch With Catcher |
| Color | Green | Red | Red | Gray | Black | White | Orange/Black |
| Model | MJ504M | 1604-16 | 1816-16CR | 1415-16 | 2607-16S | 415-16 | WBLM-001-16 |
Frequently asked questions
Which manual reel mower is lighter than the Sun Joe MJ504M?
The Walensee 16-Inch Push Reel Mower weighs 15.4 pounds, which is lighter than the Sun Joe MJ504M at 24.9 pounds. The American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade with Catcher also weighs less at 18 pounds. Both options offer easier portability for users who prioritize low weight.
Does the Walensee mower use manual or electric power?
The Walensee 16-Inch Push Reel Mower uses cordless power, distinguishing it from the purely manual Sun Joe MJ504M. It features a steel deck and includes a grass catcher. This electric-assist option suits users who want quiet operation with zero emissions but prefer not to push entirely by hand.
Which alternative mower includes a grass catcher like the Sun Joe MJ504M?
Several alternatives include a grass catcher, such as the American Lawn Mower 16" 5-Blade, the Craftsman 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower, and the Walensee 16-Inch model. The Sun Joe MJ504M also offers bagging. These models help you collect clippings for a cleaner lawn compared to side-discharge options.
What is the cutting width of these Sun Joe MJ504M alternatives?
All listed alternatives share a 16-inch cutting width with the Sun Joe MJ504M. This consistent width allows you to cover similar ground per pass. Whether you choose a 5-blade or 7-blade reel, the coverage area remains the same for small lawn maintenance tasks.
Which manual mower is the heaviest among these options?
The American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower is the heaviest at 25 pounds. It is slightly heavier than the Sun Joe MJ504M, which weighs 24.9 pounds. The Craftsman model follows closely at 23 pounds. Heavier mowers may offer more stability on uneven terrain.
How many blades do these reel mowers have?
Most options feature a 5-blade reel, including the Sun Joe MJ504M, American Lawn Mower models, Craftsman, and Walensee. The Scotts 16-Inch model stands out with a 7-blade configuration. More blades can provide a finer cut on fine to medium turf types like Bermuda or fescue.
Which mower is best for users who want a premium build?
The Craftsman 16-Inch Manual Reel Mower is labeled as the best premium option. It offers a practical bagging solution and fits users who prioritize included collection gear. It weighs 23 pounds and features a 16-inch cutting width, balancing durability with functional design for manual mowing.