The Earthwise 1715-16EW is a push reel mower that runs on human power. That means no gas, no extension cords, and no noise complaints from neighbors. It uses a 16-inch cutting path with seven hardened steel blades that shear grass cleanly rather than tearing it. This design is particularly effective on warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine.

The metal construction gives it a reassuring heft without feeling cumbersome. You push, the reel spins, and the grass gets cut. It takes some getting used to if you have only ever used a gas or electric mower. You cannot let the grass get too tall, or the reel will struggle and skip. Regular mowing every five to seven days keeps things tidy. The cutting height adjusts in small increments, which helps dial in the right length for different grass types.

The biggest tradeoff is effort. On a flat, well-maintained lawn under a quarter acre, this mower works great. You get a quiet, emissions-free cut that leaves grass clippings behind as natural fertilizer. On uneven ground or overgrown patches, you will feel every bump and may need to take multiple passes. It is a solid tool for the right lawn, but it demands more from you than any powered alternative.