Rotary Mower vs Cylinder Mower: Which is Best for Your Backyard Lawn?
Maintaining a lush, green backyard lawn requires not just effort, but also the right tools for the job. When it comes to mowing your lawn, the debate between rotary mowers and cylinder mowers (also known as reel mowers) is as old as lawn care itself. Each type has its unique advantages and disadvantages, making it crucial to choose the one that best suits your lawn’s needs, your preferences and your budget.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between these two mower types, their pros and cons, tips for optimizing your mower setup and the top 5 mowers in each category. Plus, we’ll share expert advice on how to achieve the perfect lawn.
Rotary Mowers vs Cylinder Mowers: The Basics
Rotary Mowers
Rotary mowers are the most common type of lawn mower. They use a single, high-speed rotating blade that slices grass on impact. The blade spins horizontally, much like a propeller, making it effective for cutting grass at various heights.
Cylinder Mowers
Cylinder mowers, often called reel mowers, feature a series of vertically spinning blades mounted on a cylinder. As the cylinder rotates, the grass is caught and sliced cleanly against a fixed bottom blade, much like scissors. This type of mower is ideal for achieving a precise, manicured finish.
| Feature | Rotary Mower | Cylinder Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Mechanism | Horizontal spinning blade | Vertical rotating blades + bottom blade |
| Ideal Grass Height | Works well for longer grass | Best for short grass (<25 mm) |
| Terrain Handling | Handles uneven terrain easily | Requires flat, even lawns |
| Maintenance | Simple blade sharpening and cleaning | More frequent sharpening and adjustments |
| Finish | Functional cut; may tear longer blades | Precision cut with clean, scissor-like finish |
Pros and Cons of Rotary Mowers
Pros
Versatility: Handles various grass heights and lawn types, including uneven or rugged terrain.
Ease of Use: Simple design and minimal setup required.
Availability: Widely available and often more affordable than cylinder mowers.
Power Options: Available in manual, fuel-powered and electric models.
Cons
Cut Quality: May tear grass blades, leaving rough edges that can brown over time.
Not Ideal for Fine Grass: Struggles to provide the clean finish preferred for ornamental lawns.
Pros and Cons of Cylinder Mowers
Pros
Superior Cut Quality: Provides a clean, scissor-like cut that promotes healthy grass.
Perfect for Ornamental Lawns: Achieves a striped, manicured finish ideal for formal gardens.
Eco-Friendly: Manual reel mowers are quiet and don’t emit pollutants.
Cons
Limited Grass Height: Struggles with overgrown grass or weeds.
Requires Flat Terrain: Doesn’t perform well on uneven or bumpy lawns.
Maintenance Intensive: Requires regular blade sharpening and adjustments.
Most Efficient Setup for Lawn Mowers
To optimize the performance of either mower, follow these tips:
- Blade Maintenance: Keep blades sharp for clean cuts, whether using a rotary or cylinder mower.
- Cutting Height Adjustment: Adjust the mower height to suit your grass type. Rotary mowers are best for taller cuts, while cylinder mowers shine on shorter lawns.
- Mowing Frequency: For cylinder mowers, mow at least once a week during the growing season. Rotary mowers can manage less frequent cuts if needed.
- Grass Collection: Use a grass catcher to avoid clippings accumulating on the lawn, which can lead to thatch buildup.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the underside of your mower to prevent grass buildup and improve performance.
Top 5 Rotary Mowers
1. Honda HRN216VKA
- Fuel-powered, versatile and easy to use.
- Adjustable cutting heights and self-propelled for convenience.
2. Greenworks 40V Cordless Mower
- Lightweight and eco-friendly.
- Ideal for small to medium lawns.
3. Toro Recycler 22-Inch
- Mulching capabilities and powerful performance.
4. Ego Power+ LM2130SP
- Battery-powered with impressive runtime.
- Features multiple cutting options.
5. Craftsman M105
- Budget-friendly and efficient for most residential lawns.
Top 5 Cylinder Mowers
1. Scotts 2000-20 Classic Push Reel Mower
- Manual, durable and affordable.
- Ideal for small, flat lawns.
2. Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower
- Ergonomic design with superior cutting quality.
3. Webb 12-Inch Hand Push Mower
- Compact and great for precise trimming.
4. Masport Olympic 500
- Premium fuel-powered reel mower for pristine lawns.
5. American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14
- Affordable manual option for low-maintenance use.
Improving Your Lawn with the Right Mower
To get the most out of your rotary or cylinder mower, remember these expert lawn care tips:
- Aeration: Aerate your lawn annually to improve root growth and drainage.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer to keep your lawn green and healthy.
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root systems.
- Weed Control: Keep your lawn weed-free to prevent nutrient competition.
- Edge Maintenance: Use a trimmer or edger to keep lawn borders neat and tidy.
Which Mower Should You Choose?
The choice between a rotary mower and a cylinder mower depends on your lawn’s specific needs:
- Choose a Rotary Mower if: You have a larger lawn, uneven terrain, or need a versatile tool for various grass lengths.
- Choose a Cylinder Mower if: You have a small, flat lawn and prioritize a clean, professional finish.
By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each type, you can select the perfect mower for your backyard lawn and enjoy the pride of maintaining a healthy, beautiful outdoor space.
Final Thoughts
Both rotary mowers and cylinder mowers have their place in lawn care. Whether you’re aiming for a functional lawn or a perfectly manicured masterpiece, the right mower, paired with proper lawn maintenance, will help you achieve your goals.