Home » Misc » Best rated riding lawn tractors

Best rated riding lawn tractors


The 6 Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2022

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 09/15/22

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

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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 stand-out for its quiet operation, easy maintenance, and performance, especially on rough terrain. 

Here are the best riding lawn mowers.

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:

Toro 42 in. TimeCutter Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower at Home Depot

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

Courtesy of Home Depot

View On Amazon

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Who else recommends it? Bob Vila also picked the RYOBI Electric Riding Mower,

What do buyers say? 1,300+ Home Depot reviewers rated this 5 stars.

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 two and a half 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: $3,199

Cutting Width: 38 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 678 pounds | Cutting Options: Bag, side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres

Home Depot

View On Home Depot

What We Like

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: $2,499

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 570 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 0.5 to 2 acres

Courtesy of Home Depot

View On Home Depot View On Acmetools.com View On Tractor Supply Co.

What We Like

What We Don't Like

The Toro 42-Inch TimeCutter Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower is ideal for anyone who has a large yard with many obstacles. Its zero-turn design gives you the ability to turn on a dime, and it’s powered by a 22.5 HP engine that can handle virtually any condition. Plus, the 42-inch steel deck allows you to cut wider paths, and the brand claims this model can help reduce your mowing time by up to 50 percent. 

This lawn mower offers speeds up to 7 miles per hour in mow mode and 5.5 miles per hour in towing mode, and it’s decked out with features to keep you comfortable, including an under-seat storage compartment, built-in cupholder, and step-through front end. The zero-turn mower comes with white glove delivery, saving you from having to do any assembly, and the brand offers a three-year residential warranty with unlimited hours.

Price at time of publish: $3,599

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 502 pounds | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres

The 10 Best Electric Lawn Mowers of 2022

Courtesy of Home Depot

View On Home Depot

What We Like

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: $2,599

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 444 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 0.5 to 2 acres

Courtesy of Home Depot

View On Home Depot

What We Like

What We Don't Like

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 4 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: $3,199

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 2022

Courtesy of Home Depot

View On Amazon View On Home Depot View On Walmart

What We Like

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: $2,099

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.

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.  

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.

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.

Article Sources

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. The best riding lawn mower for hills and uneven yards. Bob Vila. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-riding-lawn-mower-for-hills/

9 Best Riding Mowers of 2022 [Reviews] - Lawn Care Blog

Old-fashioned push lawn mowers are great for small urban and suburban lawns – but they don’t cut the mustard for rural and exurban homeowners. Ride-on mowers are the standard for keeping large lawns beautiful and tidy.

Riding mowers come in all shapes and sizes: commercial-grade zero-turn mowers, compact rear-engine designs, high-tech electric models, and more. Finding the right fit for you can be a hassle. 

That’s why we’ve reviewed over two dozen ride-on mowers, and found the top 9 today. We looked at power, width of cutting deck, weight, special features of riding mowers to come up with our ranking. We’ve also included a helpful buying guide and FAQ to make your shopping experience a breeze.

Riding mowers range in cost from less than $2,000 to $4,000 or more. To make your choice easier, we have listed the general price (prices fluctuate) for each riding mower on our list:

Here are Lawn Love’s picks for the top 10 riding lawn mowers:

Top 10 Riding Lawn Mowers — Reviews

1. Best Overall: Husqvarna YTh28542
Category Winners
2. Best Electric Riding Mower: Ryobi RY48111
3. Best Zero-Turn Mower: Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1
4. Most Bang for your Buck: John Deere S120
Runners-up
5. Cub Cadet XT1
6. Troy-Bilt Pony
7. Ryobi 42-inch Zero Turn Mower
8. Husqvarna Z254
9. Toro 42-inch Timecutter

1. Best Overall: Husqvarna YTh28542

Husqvarna’s YTh28542 riding mower is designed to be compact and durable while providing enough power to cut any medium-to-large sized lawn.

Designed with maneuverability in mind, this tractor-style mower has a tight 16-inch turn radius. A single foot pedal controls a hydrostatic drivetrain for smooth transitions between forward and reverse.

The 18.5-horsepower engine is made by Briggs & Stratton, America’s most reliable small engine manufacturer. The YTh28542 can reach a top speed of 7.4 mph, making it one of the fastest tractor-style mowers on the market.

Despite its compact size, Husqvarna has packed a ton of features into this machine. The 42-inch deck uses air induction to keep your grass from flattening under the mower, ensuring a clean cut every time. Dual anti-scalp wheels protect your lawn from the mower deck when passing over uneven terrain.

Husqvarna offers a three-year bumper-to-bumper warranty on new mowers.

A clipping bag and mulching kit are sold separately to increase this lawn tractor’s utility. The YTh28542 is also compatible with Husqvarna’s whole line of tow-behind accessories.

Specifications

Power Source: 18.5 hp Briggs & Stratton Intek engine
Transmission: Foot-operated hydrostatic transmission
Top Speed: 7.4 mph
Deck Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 6 positions, 1.5 to 4 inches
Price Range: Moderate

ProsCons
✓ Compact for storage and maneuverability
✓ Durable steel construction
✓ Reliable Briggs & Stratton engine
✓ High-end hydrostatic transmission
✓ 3-year warranty		✗ Attachments sold separately
✗ No fuel gauge
Where to Buy

Lowe’s

Rural King

2.

Best Electric Riding Mower: Ryobi RY48111

An improvement on the original RY48110, Ryobi’s new generation of riding mowers features a state-of-the-art 100 amp-hour battery, allowing for up to 2.5 hours of continuous mowing on a single charge.

The 38-inch cutting deck can fit into tight spots and create precise cuts around garden beds and landscape features. Three separate brushless motors power the wheels and two blades, delivering cutting power comparable to a gas-powered mower. The Ryobi RY48111 has a top speed of 8 mph, making it the fastest mower on this list.

The RY48111 also is the quietest riding mower on the market, never exceeding 70 decibels. What this means: You can mow bright and early without disturbing the neighbors.

Other things we liked about this riding mower:

Specifications

Power Source: 100 Ah battery, 3 brushless motors
Transmission: None
Top Speed: 8 mph
Deck Width: 38 inches
Cutting Height: 12 positions, 1.5 to 4.5 inches
Price Range: Moderate

ProsCons
✓ Low-maintenance – no gas, filters, belts, or spark plugs
✓ Zero emissions
✓ Quiet
✓ Compact for storage and maneuvering
✓ Mulching included		✗ Can cut only 2.5 acres per day
Where to Buy

Amazon

Home Depot

3.

Best Zero-Turn Mower: Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1

A top-of-the-line mower for residential markets, Cub Cadet’s Ultima series makes short work of the largest lawns. Driven by a 22-horsepower Kohler engine, this machine can reach a forward speed of 7.5 mph.

A fully adjustable racing-style seat provides ultimate comfort while operating the ZT1. The lap bar control is also adjustable in three dimensions to ensure precise maneuvering. Dual LED headlights help you cut in low-light conditions, and the rubberized cockpit floor reduces vibrations.

The 20-inch rear wheels and 11-inch front wheels offer enough traction to tackle gentle hills, and are engineered to protect your turf while pivoting. A 3.5-gallon gas tank lets you spend more time mowing and less time refueling.

Cub Cadet offers a three-year, unlimited hour powertrain warranty and a lifetime warranty on the frame. The ZT1 also comes in a 50-inch version for added efficiency and coverage. Cub Cadet has also recently released the Ultima ZT1 56V MAX60 electric zero-turn.

Specifications

Power Source: 22 hp, 725 cc Kohler 7000 series twin-cylinder engine
Transmission: Dual hydrostatic transmissions
Top Speed: 7.5 mph
Deck Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 15 positions, 1 to 4.5 inches
Price Range: Moderate

ProsCons
✓ Powerful 22 hp engine
✓ Fully adjustable seat and controls
✓ Best-in-class warranty		✗ No gas gauge
✗ Attachments sold separately
Where to Buy

Home Depot

Tractor Supply

4. Most Bang for your Buck: John Deere S120

If you have thick grass or heavy brush on your property, the 22-horsepower John Deere S120 delivers heavy-duty power at an affordable price.

The high-torque engine makes the S120 great for cutting thick grass and hauling heavy loads. John Deere makes a wide range of tow-behind and front-mounted accessories, such as spreaders and snow plows. This little lawn tractor does the work of more expensive models with ease.

The S120 has large 22-inch rear wheels and an 18-inch turning radius. The high-back seat is fully adjustable, including lumbar support.

The 100-series also includes the inexpensive S100 and the highly acclaimed S180. The entire line is compliant with the CARB California emissions standards and is backed by John Deere’s 2-year bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Specifications

Power Source: 22 hp V-twin engine
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Top Speed: 5.5 mph
Deck Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 13 positions, 1 to 4 inches
Price Range: Moderate

ProsCons
✓ High horsepower engine
✓ California-compliant
✓ Easy-to-read gas gauge		✗ Slow
✗ All accessories sold separately
Where to Buy

Home Depot

John Deere

Runners-up

5.

Cub Cadet XT1

The XT1 is Cub Cadet’s most popular lawn tractor. Powered by an 18-horsepower Kohler engine, this machine is designed with comfort in mind. It features a wide-bottomed, high-backed seat with adjustable back support and an ergonomic, anti-vibration steering wheel.

A smooth hydrostatic transmission, responsive steering, and cruise control make the XT1 easy to operate. A proprietary paint protects the tractor from corrosion. A quick-connect deck wash system lets you plug in an ordinary garden hose for easy cleaning.

This Cub Cadet has long-lasting LED headlights and is backed by a three-year powertrain warranty and five-year chassis/axle warranty.

Specifications

Power Source: 18 hp Kohler 5400 Series single cylinder engine
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Top Speed: 5.5 mph
Deck Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 5 positions, 1 to 4 inches
Price Range: Moderate

ProsCons
✓ Best-in-class warranty
✓ California-compliant
✓ Comfortable		✗ Slow
✗ All accessories sold separately
Where to Buy

Home Depot

Tractor Supply

Cub Cadet

6.

Troy-Bilt Pony

If you’re looking for a budget option but still want a tractor-style mower, the Troy-Bilt Pony is your best bet. Though the Pony isn’t the most powerful mower on the market, it has all the features you need to keep a medium- to large-sized lawn neatly mown.

Built around a reliable 15.5-horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine, this Troy-Bilt lawn tractor can easily tackle regular mowing jobs. The 7-speed “shift-on-the-go” manual transmission is designed to smoothly move from one gear to the next.

Other highlights:

Specifications

Power Source: 15.5 hp single cylinder Briggs & Stratton engine
Transmission: 7-speed manual
Top Speed: 5.5 mph
Deck Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 5 positions, 1. 25 to 3.75 inches
Price Range: Inexpensive

ProsCons
✓ Reliable Briggs & Stratton engine
✓ California compliant
✓ Affordable		✗ Low power output
✗ Manual transmission
✗ Few cutting height options
Where to Buy

Home Depot

Walmart

Tractor Supply

Troy-Bilt

7. Ryobi 42-inch Zero Turn Mower

Ryobi’s mastery of electric power doesn’t end at rear-engine mowers. Ryobi went all-out to design an eco-friendly zero-turn mower that can hold its own against its gas competition.

Powered by four separate motors, one for each driving wheel and one per blade, this zero-turn mower distributes exactly the right amount of power to the components that need it most. The 75 amp-hour battery can last up to 2. 5 hours of constant mowing, making short work of yards up to 3 acres.

A 7 mph top speed and fast, responsive turns let you mow farther and faster than other electric mowers. The battery charges overnight from a standard 120-volt outlet. A digital meter keeps track of the battery level and hours of use. This zero-turn mower has powerful LED headlights, two cupholders, and a USB charging port.

This Ryobi mower doesn’t quite produce enough power to tackle thick brush or wild growth, but it is perfectly capable of handling standard grasses. This mower comes with mulching capability, and a bagging system is sold separately.

Specifications

Power Source: 75 Ah battery, 4 brushless motors
Transmission: None
Top Speed: 7 mph
Deck Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 12 positions, 1.5 to 4.5 inches
Price Range: Expensive

ProsCons
✓ Low-maintenance – no gas, filters, belts, or spark plugs
✓ Zero-emission
✓ Fast and powerful
✓ Mulching included		✗ Narrow mowing deck
✗ Can run for only  2. 5 hours a day
Where to Buy

Amazon

Home Depot

8. Husqvarna Z254

This Husqvarna zero-turn mower is ready for heavy-duty work with a 26-horsepower engine and a 54-inch cutting deck. With the most powerful engine on this list, the Z254 makes short work of lawns and fields.

Though the Husqvarna Z254 costs more than the Cub Cadet mentioned above, customers with massive yards or dense, wild growth areas can benefit from the added power.

Because of its focus on cutting power, the Husqvarna Z254 is a little slower than other zero-turn models on the market. It has a single-lever deck height adjustment with six positions. The Z254 uses Husqvarna’s air induction system to keep grass upright for a cleaner cut. This zero-turn mower also is equipped with a “ready start” system for easy operation.

Specifications

Power Source: 26 hp Kohler engine
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Top Speed: 6. 5 mph
Deck Width: 54 inches
Cutting Height: 6 positions, 1.5 to 4 inches
Price Range: Moderate

ProsCons
✓ Powerful 26 hp engine
✓ Wide cutting deck
✓ Easy-start		✗ No gas gauge
✗ Seat not adjustable
Where to Buy

Amazon

Lowe’s

Husqvarna

9. Toro 42-inch Timecutter

The last entry on our list, the Toro Timecutter series features a “Smart Speed” system that automatically adjusts the lap bars’ sensitivity to your operating pace. How cool is this? It has three modes of operation that redirect engine power:

Other things we like about Toro’s Timecutter:

Toro offers a 3-year, unlimited-hour residential warranty. The Timecutter is compliant with California emissions standards. Owners of larger yards should check out their 23hp 50-inch version and 23hp 54-inch model.

Specifications

Power Source: 18 hp Kawasaki V-Twin Engine
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Top Speed: 7 mph
Deck Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches
Price Range: Moderate

ProsCons
✓ Multiple operation modes
✓ Comfortable cab		✗ Low engine power
✗ No gas gauge
Where to Buy

Home Depot

Tractor Supply

Buyers Guide: Riding Lawn Mowers

Buying a ride-on mower is a big decision. With so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This buyers guide will walk you through the types of riding mowers on the market and outline the important factors to consider. We’ll also explain how we came up with our rankings.

Types of Riding Lawn Mower

Riding lawn mowers are not all the same. While most ride-on mowers run on gasoline, several electric mowers have hit the market in recent years. Whether gas or electric, riding mowers tend to come in three general body shapes.

Rear-Engine

Rear-engine riding mowers are the most compact and least expensive model. The engine (or electric motor) is mounted behind the operating seat. This gives rear-engine mowers great front visibility but can affect their turn radius. With smaller cutting decks, rear-engine mowers can fit through gates and are great for medium-sized lawns.

Lawn Tractor

The standard riding lawn mower for over a century, the lawn tractor has a front-mounted engine that powers the wheels and cutting deck. Lawn tractors typically have cutting decks around 42 inches, though higher-horsepower tractors may be larger. Recent models may have automatic or hydrostatic transmissions, though many are manual.

Zero-Turn

The zero-turn mower has been around since the 1960s and has risen to prominence in the last 20 years. These high-tech machines use a hydraulic system to control the two powered wheels independently, allowing them to rotate on a dime.

Zero-turn mowers are typically controlled by a pair of levers across the operator’s lap and can be tricky to maneuver without practice. Their shape allows zero turns to sport wider decks. Zero-turns are usually a little more expensive but are the best choice for large yards.

Electric

With fossil fuels on the decline and rising gas prices, it may be the right time to invest in a battery-powered riding lawn mower. New advancements in green technology have led to some truly impressive eco-friendly lawn mowers from several manufacturers. With batteries that last up to three hours on a single charge, electric mowers can deliver similar power outputs to gas models.

What to Look for in a Riding Lawn Mower

Riding lawn mowers are complicated machines, and it’s important to consider a variety of specs when comparing them. We looked at several details and features to determine utility and cost-effectiveness for our top 9 picks.

Power

An important stat for any tool, the power of a riding lawn mower’s engine will determine your top speed and your blade torque. Gas engines of this size usually measure in terms of horsepower (hp), while large batteries measure amperage per hour of use (Ah).

Consider a higher-horsepower engine if you plan to cut thick brush or wild growth. Low-to-medium power is usually adequate for standard grass lawns.

Cutting width

A wider machine increases your coverage on each pass across the yard. Wider machines are more efficient, but require more power to operate and are therefore more expensive.

Deck Height

Adjustable decks are standard in modern lawn mowers. Most of them can cut grass between around 1.5 inches and around 4 inches, with several increments in between. This feature is usually more a matter of preference than necessity.

Special Features

Manufacturers like to add comfort and utility features to their riding lawn mowers to make them stand out. Features like cupholders, USB chargers, and anti-vibration steering wheels are great for getting more enjoyment out of mowing. Some models include mulching kits or leaf bags, while other manufacturers sell them as separate attachments.

Price

The most important factor in choosing the right mower is your budget. Riding mowers are a big purchase, and we recommend you shop at a few different vendors and local dealers to find the best deal. We quantify the above features and compare them to cost, to help you get the best value.

FAQ About Riding Lawn Mowers

1. What is the best ride-on mower to buy?

Our research shows that the best riding lawn mower is the Husqvarna YTh28542. We chose this as our top riding mower for its reliability and utility relative to price. Other standouts: We also found that the best zero-turn mower is the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 and the best rear-engine mower is the electric Ryobi RY48111.

2. What is a hydrostatic transmission?

Hydrostatic drivetrains rely on hydraulic fluid to transfer power from the engine to the blade or wheels. Because there are no gearboxes involved, power can smoothly increase and decrease along the drivetrain without the need for manual shifting.

This increases engine efficiency and allows power to flow differently to each part of the machine. Zero-turn mowers use this method to supply power to both wheels independently.

3. How much should I spend on a riding mower?

Riding lawn mowers are a big investment. Although some budget riding lawn mowers will cost under $2,000, the majority of residential-use models are priced between $2,000 and $4,000. Plan to spend around $3,000 on a new ride-on mower, or shop around local dealers for discounted prices on pre-owned machines.

When to Call a Lawn Care Pro

Riding lawn mowers are a hefty investment and they take up space in your garage. If you’d rather a lawn care pro keep your grass green and healthy, we can help.  Lawn Love pros can give your yard a professional manicure at affordable prices. Call 800-706-4117 to see how a professional lawn care crew can show your yard some Lawn Love.

Main Photo Credit: Shutterstock photo with text overlay

Lawn Love participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. Lawn Love may earn revenue from products promoted in this article.

Total

1

Shares

Best Garden Tractors 2022

Machines for lawn care and grass mowing can be called the basis of the entire landscape gardening equipment market. There are exactly two reasons for this: the highest demand and the maximum variety of types - from mechanical lawn mowers and electric trimmers to large garden tractors. The latter, in turn, are also divided into several groups, which further complicates the choice. In this regard, we are launching a small series of articles in which we will talk about the features of the equipment of each group, as well as traditionally suggest the top 5 models among the current range. First in line are the best garden tractors of this season. nine0003

Purpose and features

A garden tractor is essentially a large, powerful self-propelled lawn mower designed to work on large areas - from about 20-35 acres. To do this, it is equipped with a seat and handlebar so that the operator does not have to walk the entire area, and a wide mowing deck with 2, and sometimes 3 knives, so that you can cover the entire area in a minimum number of passes.

Garden tractors differ not only in design, but also in the system for ejecting mowed grass, and the group we will discuss in more detail today is closest to the classic lawn mower. These are tractors with a grass collector - a large basket located in the rear, where mowed grass is sent through a special channel coming from the deck. Accordingly, after mowing, it is not necessary to remove it from the site. It is enough to drive to the place allotted for this purpose and empty the grass catcher using the lever. nine0003

And, of course, the tractor remains a tractor - a powerful and multifunctional machine. In this regard, almost all models have a rear hitch for equipping, for example, with a trolley, which will be useful not only in gardening.

And now, having dealt with the purpose and features, you can proceed to the rating of the best models of the season. And, as usual, we remind you that they are located randomly in the list and absolutely all of them are worthy of your attention when choosing. nine0003

Top 5 Garden Tractors 2022

Al-Ko T 15-93.2 HD-A Easy

Despite belonging to the household class, the tractor T 15-93. 2 HD-A Easy 123014 fully justifies its origin: after all, Al-Ko is a brand of the first echelon. Therefore, the technical characteristics here are appropriate:

But the benefits don't end there. The machine is made in a factory in Austria and the build quality is perfect. And it also has a very pleasant warranty period - 4 years.

Find out the specifications and price >>>

Caiman Rapido Eco 2WD 97D1C

This tractor already belongs to the next, "intermediate" class of semi-professional equipment. This means that in terms of technical equipment, functionality, reliability and comfort, it practically corresponds to models for commercial use, but at the same time the price is lower. Accordingly, Caiman Rapido Eco 2WD 97D1C is best suited either for active private use with high loads (an excellent option for owners of large plots - more than 50 acres), or for infrequent professional (commercial) use. nine0003

What is interesting about this particular model?

And this tractor also has a very comfortable seat with armrests and a record warranty period (even despite the initial focus on high loads) - 5 years. nine0003

Find out the specifications and price >>>

Caiman Rapido 2WD 97D2K

The Caiman garden tractors we have chosen for our selection of the best garden tractors look like twin brothers, but they have significant differences in characteristics. And if the first model focuses on environmental friendliness, then here it is on performance. Caiman Rapido 2WD 97D2K is one of the most powerful machines in the classic form factor (for ordinary lawns) - it has a maximum engine power of 20 hp. By the way, the engine here is extremely worthy and reliable - a professional Japanese 2-cylinder V-shaped Kawasaki. It has about twice the engine life and 20% less fuel consumption than similar solutions from other manufacturers. nine0003

The second important difference is the differential lock with a pedal. It is relevant for any season. For example, it is convenient to use it on lawns with difficult terrain, so as not to leave traces of slippage, as well as in winter, when clearing snow with an installed blade.

Otherwise, in terms of technical equipment, this model is almost similar to the previous one.

Find out the specifications and price >>>

Stiga Estate Special

The garden tractor Stiga Estate Special is another novelty for 2022, officially supplied to the Russian market. In terms of technical characteristics, it is almost a direct competitor to the tractor from the Cayman:

Find out the specifications and price >>> nine0003

Solo by Al-ko T 22-110.0 HDH-A V2 Premium

Completing the selection of the best garden tractors of 2022 is another machine from Al-Ko, or rather, from the “professional” line - Solo by Al-Ko. But it is not only the focus on commercial use that distinguishes it from competitors:

Like the first model, this tractor is assembled in Austria, but the warranty period is even longer - as much as 5 years.

Find out the specifications and price >>>

Top 5 Garden Tractors for Lawn Care

5/5 - (2 votes)

Beautification and maintenance of a large area of ​​a private house, summer house, hotel and any other commercial property or household takes a lot of effort. Here you can not do without technical support. The best solution in such a situation would be a multifunctional and reliable garden tractor, which will effectively care for the lawn in summer and clean snow in winter. To compile this rating of the best mini tractors, we applied several very important conditions:

Versatility - each mini tractor should have a certain set of functions and the ability to easily purchase special attachments for this: grass catcher, snow blower, carts and even a sweeper brush. Agree, it would be silly to buy a universal tractor, and then look for additional components for it.

Complete lawn care capability - it is desirable that the minitractor has a grass cutting height adjustment as wide as possible. The presence of the function of mulching and the possibility of ejection to the side will be an advantage. nine0003

Quality service - this includes both warranty and post-warranty service for such very complex equipment. Even the most reliable units require regulated maintenance and sometimes also fail. In such a situation, it is better to contact a competent specialist.

1 Cub Cadet XT1 OS107 Best value for money ratio
2 C ub Cadet LT2 NR92 Customers choice, very popular model
3 MTD SMART RF 125 Affordable quality mini tractor
4 STIHL RT 4097 SX Time tested technology
5 MTD OPTIMA LG 200 H RTG The most versatile mini tractor in its class

5

MTD OPTIMA LG 200H RTG

specifications MTD OPTIMA LG 200 H RTG
Engine make and power: Briggs & Stratton - 16 HP nine0156
Cutting height (min-max): 5 positions (30-95 cm)
Cutting width: 107 cm
Turning radius: 46 cm
Transmission: hydrostatic
Warranty: 2 years

The garden tractor MTD OPTIMA LG 200 H RTG is made in Hungary despite its American roots. It has a powerful two-cylinder engine that produces almost 16 hp. in denomination. The hydromechanical transmission HYDROSTAT is also good. The range of cutting height is satisfactory, but five positions for its adjustment are still not enough. The functionality is just great and this is a truly versatile technique! It provides for mulching, rear mowing and side discharge and even a grass collector. Additionally, you can connect almost any nozzle. nine0003

It would seem that this is an excellent unit for a nice price, but there are certain drawbacks that move it away from the list of main leaders. Firstly, well, a very small fuel tank capacity for a lawn care tractor over a large area - only 3.8 liters. You may need to take an extra can of gasoline with you. Secondly, there are not enough electronic systems that mainly affect the safety of the equipment itself - there are no sensors for the grass catcher and oil in the crankcase, there is no display. Nevertheless, you can "live" without it, which is what the majority of satisfied users of the MTD OPTIMA LG 200 H say about.

4

STIHL RT 4097 SX

characteristics STIHL RT 4097 SX LT2
Engine make and power: Briggs & Stratton - 12 HP
Cutting height (min-max): 8 positions (30-95 cm)
Cutting width: 95 cm
Turning radius: 38 cm
Transmission: hydrostatic
Warranty: 2 years

The STIHL RT 4097 SX garden tractor from a renowned German manufacturer is very attractive with its neat appearance. The Germans have always been famous for their pedantry and here, as expected, they did not disappoint. This tractor has a deck 95 cm wide, 8 mowing positions and grass ejection to the side, since the grass catcher is not provided here in principle. The motor is installed American - Briggs & Stratton and produces a decent 12 hp. The transmission is hydrostatic, and the control is pedal and logically understandable - the gas is on the right, and the brake is on the left. If you just need to move around, the knives are disabled directly from the cab, and not mechanically like competitors. nine0003

The tank capacity of 9 liters increases the autonomy of the machine, which is especially important when mowing at long distances. A very important factor, given that the STIHL RT 4097 SX LT2 tractor is designed to handle 6000 sq.m. I am glad that the seat, which is spring-loaded and adjustable according to the height of the operator, is also folding. In general, this is a great option for delicate lawn care.

3

Garden Tractor MTD SMART RF 125

characteristics MTD SMART RF 125
Engine make and power: MTD - 12. 5 HP
Cutting height (min-max): 5 positions (30-95 cm)
Cutting width: 96 cm
Turning radius: 30 cm
Transmission: semi-automatic
Warranty: 2 years

Garden tractor MTD SMART RF 125 is a great option for those who want not only to save money, but also to purchase equipment from a well-known and time-tested manufacturer. However, the rest is also in order. The cutting height range is almost the best in the ranking - 30-96 cm, which is especially interesting for those who need grass lower. By the way, the deck for this is additionally protected by special rollers, so the double knife will be safe, despite the uneven terrain. There is an option for mulching and side discharge. To help the user, headlights and all kinds of sensors are installed: the presence of the operator, closing and filling the grass catcher. nine0003

The low cost of the MTD SMART RF 125 is due to two factors. First, there is a semi-automatic transmission, which is certainly not as reliable as a hydrostatic one. Secondly, an engine with a rated power of 8.4 hp. in some moments it may not cope with the load, given the considerable deck grip of 96 cm. Hence the conclusion, this model will show itself perfectly, but taking into account a more careful load and careful use.

2

Garden Tractor Cub Cadet LT2 NR92

specifications Cub Cadet LT2 NR92
Engine make and power: Cub Cadet - 16 HP
Cutting height (min-max): 5 positions (30-95 cm)
Cutting width: 92 cm
Turning radius: 46 cm
Transmission: hydrostatic
Warranty: 3 years

The American Cub Cadet LT2 NR92 mini garden tractor is one of the most popular in its category, as you get excellent functionality for a relatively low cost. The main advantage is the reliable Cub Cadet engine with a maximum power of 16 hp. This is quite enough to process an area of ​​up to six hectares, taking into account the mowing of even a heavily overgrown lawn with a declared deck capture of 92 cm. The cutting height provides for 5 positions and at first glance this may seem insufficient. However, in the reviews of this model, we did not find confirmation of this.

The steel body of the tractor is very strong and treated with an anti-corrosion agent. The landing is quite comfortable, the seat is adjustable for the operator, there are headlights and even a connector for charging a mobile phone. Reliability is also good. With proper care (standard service interval is 50 hours) Cub Cadet LT2 NR9 tractor2 will last a very long time even with year-round use.

1

Garden tractor Cub Cadet XT1 OS107

nine0159 12 positions (25-100 cm)
specifications Cub Cadet XT1 OS107
Engine make and power: Cub Cadet - 25 HP
Cutting height (min-max):
Cutting width: 107 cm
Turning radius: 38 cm
Transmission: hydrostatic
Warranty: 3 years

Garden tractor Cub Cadet XT1 OS107 is more expensive than others in the ranking, but believe me, it is 100% worth it. The main highlight is the Cub Cadet engine with a working power of 17.5 hp, which will easily cope with the solution of any complex task. The reliable pedal-operated hydrostatic transmission can be paired with mounted-cruise control. Such functionality makes the control process as comfortable as possible for a long time, the equipment moves very smoothly and without unnecessary jerks. nine0003

The autonomy of the model is increased due to the capacity of the fuel tank with a volume of more than 11 liters. Surprisingly, when gripping a deck of 107 cm, this tractor turns almost on the spot (the turning radius is only 38 cm). This makes it easy to maneuver between trees, bushes and other structures in the garden. 12-position cutting height adjustment will allow you to choose the most optimal mode for your lawn. A nozzle for lateral ejection of grass is already included in the starter package, but the grass collector will have to be purchased separately. That's why the Cub Cadet XT1 OS107 is a reliable unit perfectly suited for mowing the largest areas.

Learn more