American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch vs WORX Nitro 21" Cordless Lawn Mower, Electric Mower
Updated July 2026 — WORX Nitro 21" Cordless Lawn Mower, Electric Mower leads on price and runtime.
The WORX Nitro 21 offers advanced features and ease of use, making it the better choice for most users, while the American Lawn Mower is a budget-friendly option.
Why American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch is better
Price
American Lawn Mower is significantly cheaper at $115.94.
Maintenance
Manual design requires less maintenance.
Environmental Impact
Produces no emissions and operates quietly.
Why WORX Nitro 21" Cordless Lawn Mower, Electric Mower is better
Cutting Performance
WORX Nitro has Aerodeck technology for better cut quality.
Ease of Use
Self-propelled feature makes mowing easier.
Versatility
WORX Nitro offers 3-in-1 functionality for different mowing needs.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch | WORX Nitro 21" Cordless Lawn Mower, Electric Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | American Lawn Mower Company | WORX |
| Model | 1604-16 | WG760 |
| Power Source | Manual | Cordless |
| Cutting Width | 16 inches | 21 inches |
| Grass Catcher | Yes | Yes |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
The American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 is significantly cheaper, priced at $115.94, compared to the WORX Nitro 21, which costs $359.99. This makes the American Lawn Mower about 68% less expensive than its counterpart. This price difference is notable for consumers who may be budget-conscious or looking for a more economical option for lawn care. While the American model offers a manual reel design that is eco-friendly, the WORX model justifies its higher price with advanced technology and features.
Cutting Performance
When it comes to cutting performance, the WORX Nitro 21 excels with its Aerodeck technology, which boosts air volume in the cutting deck, enhancing cut quality and efficiency. The American Lawn Mower, on the other hand, features a 5-blade reel that delivers a clean, scissor-like cut, promoting a healthier lawn. While the American model offers adjustable cutting heights between ½ inch and 2 ½ inches, the WORX Nitro provides a broader range of 1.5 to 4 inches with a single-lever height adjustment. This gives the WORX mower an edge in versatility for different grass types and mowing conditions.
Ease of Use
The WORX Nitro 21 is designed for user comfort with its self-propelled feature and variable speed control, allowing users to set their preferred speed up to 3.7 MPH. This makes mowing easier, especially on inclines. Conversely, the American Lawn Mower requires manual effort but compensates with its cushioned grip T-handle, which enhances comfort and control during use. While both mowers aim to make the mowing experience pleasant, the self-propelled functionality of the WORX model offers a more effortless mowing experience.
Runtime and Power Source
The WORX Nitro operates on two included 20V 5.0Ah PowerShare Pro batteries, providing a runtime of up to 50 minutes, making it suitable for lawns up to ½ acre. This battery power is a significant advantage for those seeking a cordless solution without the hassle of fuel. In contrast, the American Lawn Mower is a manual mower, requiring no battery or fuel, making it an eco-friendly choice for those who prefer a traditional approach to lawn care. However, it lacks the convenience of electric power and runtime associated with the WORX Nitro.
Versatility and Features
The WORX Nitro 21 offers a 3-in-1 functionality, enabling users to mulch, bag, or side-discharge grass clippings, which enhances its versatility for different mowing needs. It also features Intellicut technology, which adjusts the cutting speed based on grass density, optimizing battery life. The American Lawn Mower, while simpler, includes a grass catcher to keep lawns tidy, but it does not offer the same level of functionality. If versatility is a priority, the WORX model clearly stands out.
Maintenance and Storage
Maintenance is generally simpler with the American Lawn Mower due to its manual design, which requires no battery care or fuel maintenance. This makes it a straightforward option for those looking to avoid the complexities of electric mowers. The WORX Nitro, while more technologically advanced, does require some battery management and maintenance for its electric components. In terms of storage, the WORX features a fully collapsible handle for space-saving vertical storage, which is an advantage for those with limited storage space.
Environmental Impact
The American Lawn Mower is a clear winner in terms of environmental impact, being a manual reel mower that produces no emissions and operates quietly. This eco-friendly design appeals to consumers who prioritize sustainability. The WORX Nitro, while cordless and eliminating gas emissions, still relies on battery power, which has its own environmental considerations. Consumers looking for a greener option may prefer the simplicity and eco-friendliness of the American Lawn Mower.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 and the WORX Nitro 21 ultimately depends on your lawn care needs and preferences. If budget is a primary concern, the American Lawn Mower offers an economical choice at $115.94, while still providing effective cutting performance with its 5-blade reel. However, if you seek advanced features, ease of use, and versatility, the WORX Nitro, priced at $359.99, may be worth the investment. It provides a self-propelled experience, effective cutting technologies, and multiple mowing options, making it suitable for larger lawns.

