Best buy for riding lawn mower
The 7 Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2023
Our top pick is the RYOBI 48V Brushless 38 in. Electric Riding Lawn Mower
By
Camryn Rabideau
Camryn Rabideau
Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer specializing in decorating and design. She covers home products for The Spruce.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 01/13/23
Reviewed by
Barbara Gillette
Reviewed by Barbara Gillette
Barbara Gillette is a master gardener, herbalist, beekeeper, and journalist. She has 30 years of experience propagating and growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals.
Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board
Fact checked by
Richard Scherr
Fact checked by Richard Scherr
Rich Scherr is a seasoned technology and financial journalist who spent nearly two decades as the editor of Potomac and Bay Area Tech Wire. The Baltimore native also covered the technology scene for LocalBusiness.com and has been a regular contributor to the sports pages of The Baltimore Sun and The Washington Post.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
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The Spruce / Camryn-Rabideau
A riding lawn mower is ideal for anyone with a large yard, requiring less time and energy to operate than a traditional push mower. Over the last four years, we've spent hours researching and testing riding mowers from the top brands, evaluating maneuverability, safety features, noise level, and overall value.
Our favorite is the RYOBI 48V Brushless 38 in. Electric Riding Lawn Mower, a standout for its quiet operation, easy maintenance, and performance, especially on rough terrain. Here are the best riding lawn mowers that provide an efficient and reliable cut for your lawn.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
RYOBI 100 AH 38" Electric Riding Mower at Amazon
Best Gas:
Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 42 in. Gas Riding Lawn Tractor at Home Depot
Best Zero Turn:
Ryobi Brushless Electric Riding Zero Turn Mower at Home Depot
Best Attachment Capability:
Husqvarna V-Twin Riding Lawn Mower at Lowe's
Best Lawn Tractor:
John Deere 42 in. Gas Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor at Home Depot
Best Small:
Cub Cadet 30 in. Electric Riding Lawn Tractor at Home Depot
Best for Hills:
Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 in. Gas Riding Lawn Mower at Amazon
In This Article
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Our Picks
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What to Look For
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FAQ
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Why Trust The Spruce
Amazon
View On Amazon
What We Like
What We Don't Like
It may surprise some people, but our top pick is this battery-powered model from RYOBI. The zero-emissions model easily matches gas mowers in terms of power, cutting through thick grass with ease while demonstrating impressive maneuverability. Plus, it's fume-free and practically silent, generating only minimal noise. (Our tester put a similar model from RYOBI to work on her 10-acre farm and was blown away by the results.)
The RYOBI electric mower has a 38-inch deck, and its 48-volt batteries can run for two and a half hours per charge, allowing you to cut up to 2.5 acres in a single session. The two-blade deck has 12 different cutting heights, and the mower offers convenient features like cruise control, LED headlights, and USB charging. There are no belts, spark plugs, or filters, making it easier to maintain than a traditional riding mower.
Our only complaints? The seat gets uncomfortable if you're mowing for long periods, and it doesn't have a mulch setting. Still, if you're in the market for a reliable ride-on mower and ready to switch to a battery-powered model, this is your best bet.
Price at time of publish: $4,299
Cutting Width: 38 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 678 pounds | Cutting Options: Bag, side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres
Homedepot
View On Home Depot
What We Like
Hydrostatic transmission eliminates shifting
Adjustable seat
Tight turning radius
Compatible with a variety of attachments
What We Don't Like
For a powerful—and versatile—gas mower, you can’t go wrong with the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT Lawn Tractor. It’s powered by a 541cc engine that offers 19.5 HP, and its 42-inch deck has a twin-blade system that side-discharges grass clippings. The tractor and deck are made from heavy-duty materials, and Cub Cadet backs it with a three-year warranty with no hour limit.
This mower has a hydrostatic transmission that eliminates the need for shifting—just push the pedal and go—and there are 12 cutting height positions to choose from. It has a tight 16-inch turning radius as well as cruise control and LED headlights, and because it’s a lawn tractor, it can be outfitted with a variety of multi-season attachments.
Price at time of publish: $2,399
Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 570 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 0.5 to 2 acres
The Home Depot
View On Home Depot
What We Like
Low maintenance
Charges through standard 120V outlet
Side discharge and mulching capable
Ergonomic control panel
What We Don't Like
This Ryobi Electric Riding Lawn Mower offers consistent cutting power for up to two and a half hours on one charge (enough time to cut as much as 3. 5 acres). You'll also appreciate the low maintenance ease of caring for this mower since it doesn't have belts, spark plugs, or filters to maintain like its gas counterparts. This mower also has a wide 54-inch cutting deck that has an adjustable height, so you can maintain the ideal cut on your lawn.
The maximum speed is 7 mph going forward and 4 mph in reverse, and it's easy to turn thanks to the long handle bars. However, some people may experience a learning curve with the handle bars compared to a traditional steering wheel. In addition to its powerful cutting options, this mower's control panel is incredibly user-friendly and includes settings for headlights, speed adjustments, battery level, and more. While we love how easy this electric mower is to use, we recognize that keeping it charged may be a chore for some users. Be sure to recharge before each use for optimum cutting time. For your convenience, this mower does plug into a traditional 120-volt outlet.
Price at time of publish: $5,999
Cutting Width: 54 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 796 pounds | Cutting Options: Adjustable cutting height, reverse mowing, mulch, side-discharge | Size of Yard: 2 to 4 acres
The 7 Best Zero-Turn Mowers of 2023
Lowes
View On Lowe's
What We Like
What We Don't Like
The Husqvarna YTh34V54 V-Twin Riding Lawn Mower is powerful enough to easily cut an average lawn, but also delicate enough to conduct tight turns and perform several other tasks thanks to its accessory compatibility. If you choose, or need to purchase, this mower's additional accessories, you'll have the capabilities of a mulcher, tow-spreader, bagger, and scoop all with one piece of equipment. Aside from its impressive and reliable Intek V-Twin motor, this mower is also impressively affordable compared to other larger deck mowers on the market.
While operating, you'll experience the ease of the ergonomic steering wheel and hydrostatic transmission, which ensure a smooth ride every time. The electric cutting deck engagement also allows you to simply flip a switch on the dashboard to engage its function while maintaining steady control of the mower. The high back seat also offers a comfortable ride, if you have a particularly large yard. Our only recommendation for this mower is to use caution when mowing on particularly uneven terrain as the wide-cutting deck is harder to navigate.
Price at time of publish: $2,999
Cutting Width: 54 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 494 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge, mulch, reverse mowing | Size of Yard: 2 to 3 acres
The Homede Pot
View On Home Depot
What We Like
Durable construction
Adjustable seat
Wide range of accessories available
“30-second oil change” system
What We Don't Like
Lawn tractors like the John Deere S120 offer more flexibility for homeowners—in addition to mowing, this gas-powered machine can be used to spread grass seed, sweep your lawn, and even snow blow in the winter. It’s compatible with a wide range of multi-season accessories, and it’s also a solid riding mower with a 22 HP engine and 42-inch deck.
This lawn tractor has a fully-welded steel frame and 13 different cutting heights. The seat can be adjusted to 10 different positions to keep you comfortable, and the tractor’s 30-second oil change system makes it easier to maintain. The mower has a new easy-read fuel gauge, and it even has cruise control for effortless mowing in large yards.
Price at time of publish: $2,699
Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 444 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 0.5 to 2 acres
The Homedepot
View On Home Depot View On Farmandfleet.com
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Expensive
For a riding mower that won’t take up too much space in your shed, this battery-powered model from Cub Cadet is small yet powerful. It has a 56-volt battery that offers up to 90 minutes of runtime, and it actually charges back up in around four hours—much faster than larger models. The mower has a 30-inch deck that can side-discharge or mulch grass clippings, and it also boasts a tight 18-inch turning radius that lets you navigate around obstacles with ease.
This compact mower is designed to easily fit through gates, and the brand claims it only takes up the space of two garbage cans. It has a high-back seat for comfort as well as cruise control and two USB charging ports, and you can’t beat its low-maintenance design.
Price at time of publish: $2,399
Cutting Width: 30 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 362 pounds | Cutting Options: Mulch, side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres
The 6 Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers of 2023
Amazon
View On Amazon View On Home Depot
What We Like
Automatic transmission
Good traction on hills
Tight turning radius
Compatible with a variety of accessories
What We Don't Like
You’ll be able to power up steep hills with ease on the Troy-Bilt Bronco 42-Inch Gas Riding Lawn Mower. It has an automatic transmission (just like a car!) that makes it easy to drive, and its 20-inch rear wheels offer superior traction for sloped terrain. The lawn tractor has a 42-inch deck with anti-scalp wheels to prevent turf damage, and the machine’s 19 HP 544cc engine will make quick work of overgrown grass.
The Troy-Bilt Bronco has a step-through frame that offers more leg room, and it offers a mid-seat back and rubber footpads to keep you comfortable. The machine has a rear hitch to pull garden carts, sprayers, and spreaders, and there are also bagging and mulching accessories available separately. However, the one downside is that this mower only offers five cutting heights, with the lowest setting at 1.25 inches.
Price at time of publish: $2,599
Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 520 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres
These Are the Best Lawn Mowers to Maintain Your Yard
Final Verdict
The RYOBI 48V Brushless 38 in. Electric Riding Lawn Mower is a top choice among riding lawn mowers thanks to its two-and-a-half-hour runtime, powerful performance, and ease of maintenance. If you prefer a gas mower, consider the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 42 in. 19.5 HP Gas Riding Lawn Tractor, which boasts a hydrostatic transmission and can be used with a variety of multi-season accessories.
Power Source
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to buy a gas- or electric-powered riding lawn mower. Gas mowers are generally more powerful, but they’re louder, less eco-friendly, and require more maintenance. Electric mowers, on the other hand, are typically less powerful with a shorter run time, but they’re quieter, easier to start, and better for the environment. While electric mowers may require consistent charging, they often don't require as much maintenance compared to gas models that have spark plugs, belts, and filters that must be maintained over time.
Deck Size
The deck size of a lawn mower dictates how wide a path it cuts—larger decks cut wider paths on each pass. A deck size of between 30 to 60 inches is recommended for most homeowners. Bigger decks are better for lawns with few obstacles and turns, while smaller decks will be helpful if you have to mow around trees or garden beds. Keep in mind that a mower's deck size will also impact its turning radius—except for zero-turn mowers, which can manage wider decks thanks to their overall design—and will also make it more challenging to navigate uneven terrain.
Grass Clipping
Don’t forget to consider how the lawn mower handles grass clippings. Some machines simply spit clippings back out onto your lawn, while others have options to bag or mulch the cut grass. The best option for you simply depends on how you prefer to handle your clippings. Some mowers will come with mulching accessories, and others will require a separate purchase for mulch kits.
FAQ
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The defining feature of zero-turn mowers is a zero-degree turning radius. These mowers turn more sharply and are typically faster than lawn tractors. While a zero-turn mower can go as fast as 10 mph, a slower speed allows for a cleaner cut. These mowers are also more expensive than traditional riding mowers and tractors.
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Riding lawn mowers are typically preferred for lawns that are 1 acre or larger. They are faster and more comfortable to operate than walk-behind mowers. However, if you have an especially hilly or uneven yard, you need to carefully consult a riding lawn mower's terrain capabilities before purchasing.
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The speed for standard riding lawnmowers ranges from 4 to 6 mph. Zero-turn mowers are much faster, ranging from 8 to 10 mph. While speed is a great factor to consider if you prefer to quickly complete outdoor tasks, a speedy job does not always result in a better cut.
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The easiest way to transport a riding lawn mower is with a trailer. Mowers can be driven up a ramp into a low trailer and towed behind a vehicle. You may also transport riding mowers in the bed of a pickup truck, but special ramps are required.
This article was written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance contributor for The Spruce. As someone who grew up on a 70-acre farm and owns a 5-acre parcel herself, she’s no stranger to lawn mowers, and she’s written extensively on them. She’s also personally tested the RYOBI 38 in. 75 Ah Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower and used other riding lawn mowers from RYOBI and Husqvarna.
While selecting lawn mowers for this list, she looked at factors such as their deck size, power source, special features, comfort, and warranty period. She also spoke with Caroline Skelton, Go-To-Market Manager for Riding Lawn Equipment at John Deere, for insights on choosing and maintaining a riding lawn mower.
Emma Phelps, updates writer for The Spruce, added new picks to this roundup to reflect consistency across The Spruce's lawn mower library. In addition to considering each mower's deck size and power source, Phelps also looked at their attachment, terrain, and acreage capabilities.
Best riding lawn mowers: 7 convenient buys for large lawns
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(Image credit: Future)
Investing in the best riding lawn mower this spring is a smart idea. Let's be honest: cutting the grass is one of the chores that we avoid for as long as possible, until the sight of our unkempt lawns visits us in our sleep and we can't ignore the nagging voice in the back of our head any longer.
Mowing the lawn can take up a lot of time, and can often leave us feeling flat-out exhausted. The best riding lawn mower will make a real difference not only to the state of our outdoor spaces, but to how we feel when the time comes around to trimming them.
If your land covers more than half an acre, we're sure you already agree that the best riding lawn mower is a must-have, but they can also be a real game-changer for anyone who's looking to make cutting the grass easier for themselves, whatever your garden looks like. A riding mower will save you hours of time and help you achieve an immaculate finish much quicker than a push mower alternative.
Whether you're looking to replace an old riding lawn mower that you (or your garden) has now outgrown, or you're keen to upgrade from a push mower for the first time, we're here to help you make the right choice. Investing in the best lawn mower is no small feat given that it involves parting with thousands of dollars, so we want to make sure you feel confident before you take the plunge and invest.
We've selected the best riding lawn mowers on the market. There are options with a zero turning radius meaning you cover ground more quickly, and both electric and gas engines to pick from. Browse our picks below to find the best riding lawn mower for you.
The best riding lawn mowers to buy in 2022
Why you can trust Homes & Gardens Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
(Image credit: The Home Depot)
1. RYOBI Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower
The best electric riding lawn mower
Specifications
Power: N/A
Cutting width: 38 inches
Fuel capacity: N/A (battery)
Turn radius: Not available (feels zero turn)
Speed: 8 mph
Today's Best Deals
Reasons to buy
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Eco-friendly/fume free
+
Quiet
+
Low maintenance
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Good performance
Reasons to avoid
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Batteries are expensive when they need replacing
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Run time won’t be enough for bigger lawns
Gas-powered ride-on lawnmowers might be the go-to for most due to the added power they offer, but electric is worth a look if you prefer lower maintenance, less noise, and better eco-credentials.
The Ryobi 38in is powered by 75Ah batteries and offers up to two hours of runtime. That should be enough to get around a couple of acres with ease, and it can be charged via a standard 120-volt outlet when it needs it, which is handy. It’ll take about 14 hours to charge from the flat.
It features three brushless motors and a two-blade 38-inch deck, with 12 different cutting heights. It cuts well too, plus the ride is smooth, quiet, and fume-free.
Cruise control and automatic transmission are on board for an easy ride, plus there’s a battery indicator on the control panel that’ll tell you how much juice is remaining at a quick glance.
Of course, it’s worth remembering that for all the time and hassle you’ll save in servicing your mower as often as a gas one requires, the batteries of your electric mower will need replacing every now and then. They should last a fair few years though, so it’s far from a pressing concern.
(Image credit: Amazon)
2.
Troy-Bilt Pony Riding Lawn MowerThe best riding lawn mower on a budget
Specifications
Power: 17.5HP
Cutting width: 42 inches
Fuel capacity: 1.36 gallons
Turn radius: 18in
Speed: 5.5 mph
Today's Best Deals
Reasons to buy
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Wide 42in cutting deck
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18-inch turning radius for minimal re-mowing
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Good power for the price
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Seven speeds
Reasons to avoid
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Manual transmission
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Fuel capacity on the smaller side
The Troy-Bilt Pony 42-inch riding lawn mower offers all the power and features you need to manage a few acres of lawn, as the high-end versions, but does so at a very affordable price point.
With a solid engine onboard and 17.5 horsepower to deal with, there’s plenty of power to go around, though you’ll need to know how to use a manual transmission with seven speeds to work through.
The 42-inch deck ensures you’re cutting a good amount of grass with every pass, with five cutting positions to use when in use. There’s also an 18-inch turning radius to ensure minimal re-mowing, plus the ability to mow in reverse, which isn’t a feature you see on a lot of the competition.
Next, there are additional features: automatic headlights, a cup holder, and a comfortable low-back seat.
Lastly, you will find accessories such as bagging and mulching kits also extremely useful and included.
(Image credit: Cub Cadet)
3. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50" Mower
The best riding lawn mower for hills
Specifications
Power: 23HP
Cutting width: 50 inches
Fuel capacity: 3.5 gallons
Turning radius: 0
Speed: 3.5–7.5 mph
Today's Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Powerful commercial-grade motor
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Hydrostatic transmission
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Large 50-inch deck
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Good on hills
Reasons to avoid
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Expensive
If your lawn is on the hilly side, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got a machine that’s up to the job. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 is a superior option for situations like this, with 20-inch rear tires and a powerful commercial-grade 23HP engine to give it the extra oomph and control it needs up slopes.
With a large 50-inch cutting deck and all the precision a zero-turn mower offers, it should cut a strip of lawn in a single pass, with 15 cutting heights in quarter-inch increments to choose.
It also has a 7.5mph forward speed, with a 3.5mph reverse speed helping you to make quick work of those larger jobs, as well as a hydrostatic transmission for straightforward operation.
It’s a comfortable ride too. There is a fully adjustable lap bar and high-back seat, as well as ergonomic handgrips and electronic blade management at the touch of a finger.
(Image credit: TITAN®)
4. Toro Titan 60" 75303 Zero Turn Riding Mower
The best riding lawn mower for 2 acres
Specifications
Power: 24.5HP
Cutting width: 60 inches
Fuel capacity: 5 gallons
Turning radius: 0
Speed: 8. 5 mph
Today's Best Deals
Reasons to buy
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Commercial-grade power
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Large cutting deck for larger lawns
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Comfortable
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Reliable
Reasons to avoid
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Expensive
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The controls are sensitive
If you have the money to spend, and the space to make the most of what it’s capable of, the Toro Titan is a beast of a machine, and nothing short of a powerhouse.
Offering a commercial-grade 24.5HP engine, with a large 60-inch deck and upgraded blades, it’ll make quick work on acre after acre. You'll be fine servicing lawns of up to seven acres with this machine, be that your own or a client’s.
With a maximum speed of 8.5mph, you can cover a decent amount of ground pretty quickly with this mower, and hills are tackled without issue, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
You can choose between cutting heights of 1.5 to 4.5 inches and enjoy a number of thoughtful features that make it incredibly comfortable to operate. This includes a step-through front end for easier obstacle clearing, smooth steering, and a comfortable padded seat and armrests.
(Image credit: Ego)
5. EGO POWER+ 42" Zero-turn Lawn Mower
The best riding lawn mower for 1 acre
Specifications
Power: 22HP
Cutting width: 42 inches
Fuel capacity: n/a (battery)
Turn radius: 0
Speed: 3–7 mph
Today's Best Deals
Reasons to buy
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Battery-powered
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Can mow up to two acres in one charge
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Tech connectivity including USB port, lights and Bluetooth
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Customize blade control, speed, and cut
Reasons to avoid
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Not suited to spaces bigger than two acres
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Can hold six batteries but only comes with four so could go further
Advances in battery power motors mean there are some great riding lawn mowers that can take on the gas-powered models, running off battery alone. Ego Power has designed this model with a 22 horsepower brushless motor to tackle large yards up to two acres.
The EGO POWER+ 22-HP Brushless Motor Direct Drive 42-in Zero-turn Lawn Mower comes with four batteries but it can hold six. And to get that two acres you really need the six so factor in the cost of buying a few extras.
It is zero-turn too so ergonomically designed for those who have got the hang of this style of driving. Plus, there are three driving modes: Control, Standard, and Sport. Where 'Control' helps users maneuver around items like trees, 'Standard' is great for clear and open yards. It is also quieter than most gas mowers and great on slopes.
Also, the added tech features may appeal. There are lights so if you want to mow in the evening, you can. Bluetooth capability and an app mean you can customize your cut from your phone to control the blade and travel speed. Plus, little things like a USB port to charge your phone while you mow do make this a great mower for the busy landowner.
(Image credit: Craftsman)
6. Craftsman 20428 46" Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Lawn Technology
The best riding lawn mower for rough terrain
Specifications
Power: 24HP
Cutting width: 46 inches
Fuel capacity: 3 gallons
Turning radius: 0
Speed: 3-7 mph
Today's Best Deals
Reasons to buy
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Zero-turn so no re-mowing
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46-inch wide deck
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Connects to the Craftsman Smart Lawn app for checking in and maintaining the mower
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Suitable for rough terrain
Reasons to avoid
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Runs on 1 gallon per hour which is on the higher side
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Expensive
If your previous mower has struggled to cut through tough grass, this 46" Zero-Turn Riding Mower from Craftsman is definitely one to consider. Powered by a 24HP 724cc Briggs & Stratton Platinum Series OHV V-Twin engine, it's able to easily maneuver difficult terrain. The Hydrostatic transmissions will also give you a ride that is smooth and comfortable, so no bumping around in your seat when you're trying to get the job done.
We also love this one because you can connect it to an app on your phone, where you'll be able to check in on the mower, troubleshoot issues, and get service notifications. All this makes maintaining the mower a lot easier than if you were relying on physically checking it for mishaps yourself.
A hand lever lets you adjust the cutting height to eight different positions, so you'll be able to achieve that immaculate finish whatever your lawn looks like. And obviously, the zero-turn radius means you don't have to worry about re-mowing, which is a huge bonus.
With the price point being on the higher side, we wish Craftsman had added some headlights to the mower, so you wouldn't be limited to mowing in daylight. But, considering the battery is 12v, you could fix your own lights on if you wanted.
(Image credit: Ariens)
7. Ariens IKON-XD 52" KAWASAKI
The best riding lawn mower: the most comfortable ride
Specifications
Power: 23HP
Cutting width: 52 inches
Fuel capacity: 2.8 gallons
Turning radius: n/a
Speed: 3-7 mph
Today's Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
13 different cutting positions
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Wide 52-inch cutting deck
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Two steering levers provide good maneuverability
+
Very comfortable seat
Reasons to avoid
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Only suitable for going downhill and on flat grass
Mowing the lawn has never been so comfortable with this IKON-XD mower from Ariens, which is fitted with a plush, high-back seat and padded armrests so you'll never associate cutting the grass with an achy back again.
We're also impressed with the width of the 52-inch cutting deck, as well as the 13 different cutting positions afforded by the dial-operated lever, which will make that neat finish all the more easy to achieve. The tubular steel frame means strength and durability are built into the mower, so it's likely to last you for years.
The mower arrives pre-assembled, and the only thing you need to attach is the seat. There is the choice to attach a powered 2-bin bagger to catch your grass clippings, which we'd recommend if you value your time and want to get the end result quicker.
It also comes with a 3-year warranty, so if you had any problems (which hopefully you won't), there's plenty of time for a replacement. The design feels fresh with the bright orange color, making a fun choice for spring.
How did we select these riding lawn mowers?
There are several things to consider when buying a ride-on mower, including engine power, deck size, transmission, and ease of use. You might also want to look into how ergonomic the seats are and how grass clippings are collected, and of course, you can choose between gas and electric.
Our picks are largely gas-powered due to the extra power and exact run-time offered. However, if you don’t need those things, there are some sensational electric options out there that will be cheaper to run, easier to start, and quieter, too.
You’ll see some of our choices split into a ride-on and zero-turn. Regular ride-on lawnmowers have a wider turn radius, which will require a little bit of going back over already-cut grass to complete the job.
A zero-turn mower can turn 180-degrees to leave no strip of grass uncut, saving you time and effort. You’ll pay for the privilege of this, of course, but prices are coming down, and those of you with large lawns may find it worthwhile.
Plus, most homes should aim towards a residential-grade riding mower. Though, for those with significant acreage, you can find commercial-grade mowers that are suitable.
Of course, you can expect to pay a lot more for them, but if your needs warrant it, it could be worth the investment.
How much should I spend on a riding mower? Can I negotiate the price?
While you can pick up the most budget ride-on mowers for upwards of $1,000, good riding mowers for residential use will generally start around the $1,500 mark and can go up to around $3,000-$4,000. If you step into the more commercial-grade territory, you can be looking to spend $5,000 or more, so this is no small purchase.
Negotiating the price will be dependent on where you go to buy your mower. You’ll probably find some of the best prices from online retailers, and they will be non-negotiable.
Go to your local dealer, and there may be some movement based on how old the stock is and whether you’re paying cash or credit.
Don’t expect significant savings, but there might be something to be gained by asking. A credible local dealer can be a handy contact when it comes to servicing your mower too.
Do I really need a riding lawn mower?
It depends on how big your lawned area is or how much you need to reduce the physical activity of pushing a mower around your yard. There’s also your budget to consider too.
Those with many acres of grass to cut would almost certainly benefit from the speed and ease a riding mower offers, as would those struggling to get around seamlessly. However, if you don’t have the budget to spend on one that’ll do the job well, it may be worth paying for a gardener to do it instead.
Got the money to spend? We say do it. Unless you’ve got a smaller scale lawn, a riding lawn mower takes the time and stress out of keeping your grass neat and tidy.
How do I take care of a riding mower?
Keeping your riding mower in good working order is essential to ensure it operates at its best, and one of the most essential parts of this is simply keeping it clean. Ensure the mower deck is clear of grass and leaves, take a look under the hood to brush off any debris, and do a general check of the outside, ensuring wheels are free of twigs and hazards.
You can avoid too much wear and tear on your mower’s moving parts by using a grease gun to keep them lubricated, while keeping your mower topped up with oil will ensure a good performance too.
You’ll want to carry out an annual change of your spark plugs and air filter to keep your mower running at its best, plus you should keep an eye on your riding mower belts to ensure the correct tension.
You can do all of this maintenance yourself with some know-how, but you may prefer to find an experienced local dealer who can do it instead, something which would probably save you time in the long run.
Brittany Romano wrote for Homes & Gardens as a U.S. Shopping Editor. A graduate of New England College, Brittany started her career as a freelance fashion market assistant at Marie Claire. She later joined AMI, where she designed a highly profitable commerce vertical. Noted for her award-winning content, she's covered everything from celebrity beauty hacks to the most lavish home decor.
rating top 10 according to KP version
The trimmer looks like a handle, at the end of which a cutting element is fixed. The lawn mower is a large device on wheels, the cutting element is located at the bottom of the body. It does not have to be carried around, but only pushed (or pulled), which greatly simplifies use. There are self-propelled models, where the motor simultaneously with the cutting element drives the device itself, the user can only control the direction of movement.
It is impossible to trim the grass to the same length with a trimmer: in any case, there will be drops. The lawn mower, on the other hand, allows you to level the lawn to one length (usually from 3 to 7 cm, the user chooses the desired lawn length). Most often, lawn mowers are used on large and even areas of grass, as they do worse than a trimmer when mowing grass in hard-to-reach places.
Depending on the power source, the following types of lawn mowers are distinguished: electric, battery, gasoline and mechanical. In this rating, we will consider only the first three types of device.
Top-10 rating according to KP version
1. Bosch ARM 37
Bosch ARM 37. Photo: yandex.market.ru The budget model of a well-known brand opens our rating. This model is powered by electricity, which limits its use at long distances from the outlet. However, this allows you not to worry about the presence of gasoline or the completeness of the charge.
Robust plastic housing, cutting height adjustment, 40 liter grass collector make this lawnmower one of the best options for tending a small area around the house.
Characteristics
Engine | 1400 W |
Power | from the network cable |
Width | 37 cm |
200020 height 20200021 | |
Grass outbreak | in a hard grass collector (40 l), back |
weight | 12 kg |
Noise level | 900 91 dB
9000 ° C.
S. mowing, easy to handle, large grass container, lightPowered by mains cable, blades dull quickly, non-repairable motor
2. Karcher LMO 18-33 Battery Set
Karcher LMO 18-33 Battery Set. Photo: yandex.market.ru Lightweight and compact lawnmower ideal for small areas. One of the main advantages can be called maneuverability, it can effectively mow the lawn of any shape. This model is equipped with a battery, which means that it does not require a constant connection to the network.
An additional advantage is the mulching function: the cut grass can be chopped immediately inside the device and spread over the lawn as a natural fertiliser. The combs on the edges allow you to grab the grass from the edges of the lawn and mow it efficiently. 9Ol000
Pros and cons
Mulching function, easy operation, manoeuvrability, safety key as child lock, compact, fully charged in 2. 4 hours, very quiet compared to many other models
Maximum operating time from a charge of only 24 minutes, quite a strong vibration during operation
3. Champion LM5127
Champion LM5127. Photo: yandex.market.ru Gasoline lawn mower with a wide grip from the Champion brand. A powerful and efficient option for cutting grass in medium-sized areas. Does not require access to electricity.
Thanks to its power, this lawnmower effectively copes with rough grass and uneven surfaces. It can remove an anthill from its path and will not break when touching the ground and stones. The mulching function will help to process the grass into natural fertilizer and distribute it over the area. However, there is no additional container for the cut grass.
Characteristics
Engine | Petrol four-stroke 139 cm³, 3.5 hp |
Power supply | gasoline |
Speasing width | 51 cm |
Speasing height | 28-75 mm | 9002 9002 9002 9002 9002 9002 |
Noise level | 94 dB |
Pros and cons
Mulching function, power, wide cutting width, compact area, wet and thick grass can clog the discharge
4.
Gardena PowerMax Li-18/32 Gardena PowerMax Li-18/32. Photo: yandex.market.ruA handy battery lawnmower suitable for small areas. When used over a large area, the battery charge may not be enough - the declared mowing area is 250 square meters, but in practice it depends on the length of the grass, its juiciness, as well as the state of the battery at a particular point in time.
Very light model with a solid grass bag, good for small areas. Easy replacement and low cost of batteries allows you to alternate them if necessary during mowing.
Characteristics
Engine | Electric 18 V / 2.60 A · h | |
Food | ||
Speakers | Romination heights iga | |
Grass discharge | to the rigid grass bag, rear | |
Weight | 8.4 kg | |
Noise level | 96 dB |
Pros and cons
Lightweight, mulch head and grass catcher, compact, ten levels of grass height adjustment, inexpensive batteries
Noisy, plastic body and wheels, comes without battery and charger
Carver LMG-2651DMS. Photo: yandex.market.ru
This model is well suited for uneven areas. Self-propelled, with a sufficiently powerful motor and wheels, it goes over any bumps. However, working on soft ground can be problematic: due to its weight, it can leave wheel marks on the grass.
This model is easy to assemble and start, the initial assembly will not take more than 20 minutes. However, it is difficult to maneuver due to its weight, which means it is not suitable for owners of complex-shaped plots.
Characteristics
Engine | petrol four-stroke 139 cm³, 3.5 hp |
Power | petrol |
Cutting width | 51 cm |
Cutting height | 25-75 mm |
Grass outbreak | in soft grass collector, sideways, back |
weight | 37.3 kg |
900 98 dB |
Pros and cons
Large mowing grip, light, compact, low price
Difficult to find accessories, not suitable for uneven areas, small grass bag
7. AL-KO 112858 Comfort AL
-KO 112858 Comfort. Photo: yandex.market.ru
A stylish looking model powered by a network cable. The lawn mower is equipped with a capacious rigid tank for mowed grass, nozzles for mulching are also supplied.
This is a manoeuvrable machine that can be handled by anyone, but is too heavy for use on bumpy ground. If stones or hard branches hit, the knife becomes dull very quickly, the elements of the plastic case may crack.