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9 Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2022 [Reviews]

Buying a riding lawn mower (aka ride-on lawn mower) is a significant investment, and figuring out which of the hundreds of options is best for you can be frustrating and time-consuming. To make your decision easier, we’ve rounded up the 9 best riding lawn mowers based on price point, engine power, and overall performance. 

Big yard, small yard, tight purse strings, or bottomless budget — whatever your needs, our top picks include a riding mower that’s perfect for you. Even if you aren’t quite sure what you’re looking for, we have you covered. We also have put together a buyers guide with everything you need to know when shopping for riding lawn mowers. 

Top 9 Riding Lawn Mowers – Reviews

1. Husqvarna YTh34V54

Best Overall

Husqvarna YTh34V54

4. 0 – 20 Reviews

The riding lawn mowers from Husqvarna deliver exceptional performance and superior results.

Buy on Amazon

Our overall top pick is the YTh34V54 lawn tractor model from Husqvarna. Its 24-horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine with easy starting technology, 54-inch reinforced cutting deck, and variable-speed hydrostatic transmission all add up to top-notch performance, even for the largest and most difficult yards. 

This mower isn’t all about power and size. It’s also comfortable for the user, which is pretty important for a machine you’ll be using regularly for hours at a time. Husqvarna designed this model’s adjustable, comfortable seat and easy-to-use controls with ergonomics in mind.

Other special features of the YTh34V54 include a tight 16-inch turn radius for improved maneuverability and exclusive air induction technology that improves airflow in the mowing deck, creating a cleaner cut. The mower is compatible with several Husqvarna accessories, including a mulching kit for grass clippings.  

Specifications: 

Pros:

✓ Powerful, reliable engine
✓ Wide cutting deck
✓ Easy to operate

Cons:

✗ Slow compared to similar models
✗ Some users reported issues with the blades clogging 

2. Husqvarna Z254

Runner-Up

Husqvarna Z254

4.1 – 100 Reviews

With Husqvarna’s Z200 series of zero-turn mowers, performance and style cut through the grass with ease.

Buy on Amazon Buy on Lowe’s

Husqvarna takes the No. 2 spot on our list, too, with the Z254 zero-turn lawn mower. Like its lawn tractor cousin, the Z254 has a 54-inch cutting deck (the widest on our list) and special air induction technology. This zero-turn model is faster and more powerful, though, with a 26-horsepower engine and a max forward speed of 6.5 mph. 

Even among other zero-turn mowers, the Husqvarna Z254 stands out. It features a convenient park brake system that automatically activates and deactivates as you shift the steering levers. It also has 3-in-1 capabilities for disposing of grass clippings through mulching, bagging, or discharging (although mulching kit and bagger attachment are sold separately). 

With the Z254, Husqvarna combines high-quality construction, ease of use, and exclusive features with an affordable price tag. It’s perfect for large areas and yards with lots of obstacles to maneuver around. 

Specifications:

Pros:

✓ Powerful, reliable engine
✓ Wide cutting deck
✓ Patent-pending park brake system
✓ Large fuel tank for long jobs

Cons:

✗ Slow compared to other zero-turn mowers

3.

Husqvarna YTA24V48

Husqvarna YTA24V48

3.1 – 40 Reviews

This riding lawn mower, with a 48″ reinforced 13 gage steel deck, offers premium performance with quality results.

Buy on Amazon

Yet another Husqvarna model makes the top tier of our list: the YTA24V48 lawn tractor. This mower has a lot in common with our top pick, but it’s a little smaller (so it takes up less storage space in the garage or shed) and in return, significantly faster. 

Rest assured, this riding mower has the same top-of-the-line Briggs & Stratton engine as other Husqvarna mowers. It also features a fast-starting auto transmission that requires less power to drive than similar models, using less gas. 

For more convenience, the YTA24V48 has an electric clutch and a spring-assisted deck-lift lever that makes raising or lowering the mower deck easier. It also has cruise control for mowing large lawns and a tight turn radius for maneuvering around obstacles. 

Specifications:

Pros:

✓ Powerful, reliable engine
✓ Auto transmission
✓ Fast

Cons:

✗ More expensive than our top pick from Husqvarna
✗ Smaller cutting width than the other mowers already listed

4. Snapper 560Z zero turn mower

Power Pick

Snapper 560Z

5.0 – 2 Reviews

This mower is easy-to-use for homeowners, but has all of the enhanced features you’d expect from a zero turn mower.

Buy on Amazon

The Snapper 560Z zero-turn lawn mower is made for commercial-grade jobs. Its powerful Briggs & Stratton engine packs 25 horsepower, and its steel front axles and bumper deal with rough terrain smoothly. With a max speed of 9 mph, the 560Z is the fastest mower on our list, making it ideal for extra large properties of several acres.

Even though this mower can handle commercial-level jobs, its controls are easy enough for any homeowner to use. The adjustable deck-lift cutting height lever, fuel indicator, and other controls are simple and within convenient reach. 

Of course, you are going to pay extra for this mower that combines the power and durability of a commercial model with the convenience of a residential model. If you aren’t dealing with rugged terrain or a very large yard, a less expensive riding mower should meet your needs just fine. 

Specifications:

Pros:

✓ Durable construction for rough terrain
✓ Powerful, reliable engine
✓ Fast

Cons:

✗ Expensive

5.

Swisher Response ZTR2454BS

Swisher Response ZTR2454BS

2.0 – 1 Reviews

This mower is best for anyone looking for a high-end zero-turn lawn mower for big, challenging projects.

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If you’re looking for a premium zero-turn lawn mower for large, difficult jobs, the ZTR2454BS model from Swisher might be your best option. Its 54-inch mower deck, huge 8-gallon fuel tank, and 8 mph max speed in forward and reverse make it perfect for massive properties that usually take several hours to mow. 

Even if your property has a lot of obstacles (trees, gardens, etc.), the Swisher Response can handle it with ease. This model boasts impressive maneuverability for its size, with the fluid 360-degree turns expected of a high-quality zero-turn mower and a low center of gravity. 

As with the Snapper 560Z, expect to pay a lot more for a mower of this caliber than for other mowers on this list. And again, if you have a small- to medium-sized yard with easy terrain, there’s no need to splurge on something this expensive.

The ZTR2454BS is definitely worth the high price tag if you have a large area to mow, though, as it will make the process much faster and easier for you. 

Specifications:

Pros:

✓ Powerful, reliable engine
✓ Wide cutting deck
✓ Fast
✓ Large fuel tank 

Cons:

✗ Expensive 

6. Simplicity 2691339 Conquest

Simplicity 2691339 Conquest

This mower is fast, big, powerful – and expensive. If you want to splurge, this is for you.

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The 2691339 Conquest lawn tractor from Simplicity is big, powerful, fast — and expensive. Its commercial-grade V-twin engine by Briggs & Stratton packs 25 horsepower and features electronic fuel management.

Other key details: The 52-inch free floating deck moves with the contours of your lawn and has reinforcements on every side for durability. With a top speed of 7.2 miles per hour, the Conquest is one of the fastest lawn tractors on our list. 

Bonus points: A premium feature of the 2691339 model is its deluxe instrument panel that will probably remind users of driving a car. It includes a fuel gauge, tachometer (for measuring engine speed), maintenance reminders, and a “best cut” indicator.

The Conquest is compatible with several lawn tool attachments from Simplicity, so it can help with more landscaping tasks than just mowing. 

Now for the downside: The Conquest’s power and special features come at a hefty price. You can expect to pay more than $7,000 for this model.

If you have deep pockets and want to splurge, this is an excellent premium mower that will last for years. But if you have simple needs and a budget, you can get a reliable riding mower for less than half the price.  

Specifications:

Pros:

✓ Powerful, reliable engine
✓ Durable construction
✓ Fast
✓ Deluxe controls

Cons:

✗ Expensive

7. Husqvarna YTh28542

Husqvarna YTh28542

4.4 – 60 Reviews

This mower is powerful and durable, with headlights for nighttime operation – and a hefty price tag.

Buy on Amazon Buy on Lowe’s

Coming in at No. 7 on our list is the Husqvarna YTh28542 riding mower. Along with the Briggs & Stratton Intek Series engine, it also comes stock with a hydrostatic transmission, which engages with the use of foot-pedal operations. 

What this means: With the foot-pedal-operated transmission, you are able to change speed and direction without having to take your hands off the wheel, therefore providing safer and more secure handling.  

At 42 inches, the Husqvarna YTh28542 has one of the smaller-sized cutting decks on our list. The possible benefits of smaller cutting width, however, is that it could be better suited for smaller yards with narrower areas for mowing.

With a 16-inch tight turning radius, this riding mower offers more availability for use on average to above-average-sized lawns. 

With a price tag around $2,000, this riding mower is one of the most affordable on our list. Another advantage of this Husqvarna model is the reverse option. With a flick of a lever, the machine can be made to mow backward with ease, ensuring you get an even cut regardless of direction. 

Specification:

Pros:

✓ Powerful engine
✓ Durable construction
✓ Deck Wash Port
✓ Headlights for night or early morning operation
✓ Simple, no-tool seat adjustment
✓ Lever-action reverse operation

Cons:

✗ Smaller deck size
✗ 2-year warranty does not cover all engine repair

8.

Ariens Zoom 34

Ariens Zoom 34

4.3 – 10 Reviews

This machine features a two-blade cutting mechanism and goes up to 6 mph forward and 3 mph backward.

Buy on Amazon

Ariens makes it to the list with the Ariens Zoom 34 riding mower. Featuring lap-bars instead of a steering wheel for easier maneuverability and maximum zero-turn efficiency, this riding lawn mower boasts a powerful KOHLER 19-horsepower 6000 series V-twin engine.

Offering a two-blade cutting system for maximum consistency, this machine can go up to 6 mph forward and 3 mph in reverse, giving it a fairly average speed rating among our other contenders.

Bonus points: The Zoom 34 features a simple, easy-to-use foot-operated deck lift lever option for raising and lowering the cutting deck height, depending on the area or thickness of your grass at any given moment. This can be especially helpful for small inclines or recessed areas of your property.

Specifications:

Pros:

✓ Durable construction
✓ Deck sized to fit through standard gates
✓ Simple deck height adjustment
✓ Offered with a 3-year limited warranty

Cons:

✗ Smaller fuel capacity
✗ Fairly low power ranking

9. Ryobi RY48110

Best Electric Riding Mower

Ryobi RY48110

2.1 – 20 Reviews

Remove the gas and fumes from cutting your lawn with the Ryobi 48-Volt Riding Lawn Mower.

Buy on Amazon Buy on Home Depot

The Ryobi RY48110, making its own statement as the only electric mower on our list, offers a more eco-friendly mowing option. This battery-powered riding mower boasts a 2-hour run time or up to 2 acres of land, on one charge.

Along with zero emissions, electric mowers are also lower maintenance, as there are no spark plugs, filters, or belts to worry about. With a max speed of 8 mph, the Ryobi RY48110 sits comfortably as one of the fastest on our list.

As a rear engine mower, this sleek design affords easier maneuverability and a much smaller overall machine for storing when not in use.

The 38-inch cutting width is fairly average for size, but what really stands out is the whopping 12-option deck adjustment setting. The deck height can be changed as needed, but it must be done manually.

As with all good things, however, there is bound to be some bad. Some reviewers have mentioned the mower quitting after two seasons and even instances of smoking and shorting out after extended use.

Specifications:

Pros:

✓ Compact size
✓ 12-position deck adjustment
✓ Low maintenance, no emissions
✓ Fast

Cons:

✗ Does not have comparable longevity to the gas mowers on our list
✗ Smaller window of run time compared to gas options

Buyers Guide

When you’re spending thousands of dollars on a new tool, you definitely need a good understanding of what you’re looking for.

In this buyers guide, we’ll cover the basic types of riding lawn mowers and explain the parameters we used to choose our top picks. These details can help you make an informed decision about which model is best suited for your specific needs. 

Types of riding lawn mowers

Riding lawn tractors

A riding lawn tractor is basically your standard riding lawn mower. You drive it using a steering wheel, and it turns similar to an automobile.

Many attachments are available for lawn tractors, including mulching and bagging kits, trailers, snow shovels, and others. Lawn tractors are usually the most stable on slopes. 

Zero-turn lawn mowers

Zero-turn mowers are more maneuverable than lawn tractors. Their wheels turn at sharp angles for 360-degree turning.

Zero-turn mowers are good for cutting grass close to landscape beds, fences, trees, and other landscape features.

Instead of a steering wheel, you control most zero-turn mowers using lap bars. Zero-turn mowers tend to be faster than lawn tractors.

Gas-powered vs. battery-powered

You may have noticed that almost all the riding lawn mowers on this list are gas-powered. There are battery-powered riding mowers on the market, too, but only one made our list. Remember, battery-powered mowers are limited to their battery’s run time.

That being said, battery-powered riding mowers have their benefits. They’re quieter, for one, and they’re much better for the environment than gas-powered mowers. They don’t need as much maintenance as gas mowers, and you won’t have to store fuel for them. 

If you think a battery-powered riding mower might be for you, your best choice is the Ryobi RY48110. It runs for up to two hours on one charge, has a 38-inch cutting width, and costs around $3,500.  

How to choose the best riding lawn mower for you

In our ranking, we used five factors to determine the best riding lawn mowers: power, cutting width, fuel capacity, max speed, and price. Now, we’ll explain what each of these measurements means practically and how you can use them to choose the best option for you. 

Power: The more power your mower’s engine has, the more difficult jobs it will be able to take on. So, if you will be mowing on hills or dealing with overgrown patches of grass and weeds, you’ll need a more powerful engine. On the other hand, if you have a flat, simple lawn, there’s really no need for you to pay more for the extra power. 

Cutting width: A mower’s cutting width is the area of grass you can cut in a single pass. The cutting width is part of what determines how long it takes to mow your lawn.

With a larger cutting deck size, you’ll finish faster, since you’ll cover more ground with each pass. Mowing will take longer with a smaller cutting width. However, mowers with a smaller deck size take up less storage space and can be easier to maneuver. 

Fuel capacity: The size of your mower’s fuel tank matters because it determines how long you can mow without stopping to refuel. If you have a small yard that doesn’t take too long to mow, you probably don’t need to worry too much about fuel capacity.

If you anticipate using your mower for several hours at a time, though, you’ll want to look for one with a large fuel tank so you don’t run the risk of it dying on you in the middle of a job. 

Max speed: Obviously, how fast your riding mower moves affects how much time you’ll spend mowing. You’ll finish faster mowing at 9 miles per hour than you would at 5 miles per hour.

Keep in mind that max forward speed is usually significantly faster than max reverse speed. For our purposes, we used max forward speed. 

Price: As you’ve seen from our rankings, riding lawn mowers vary in price. You can get them for under $2,000 or spend closer to $10,000 for premium models.

No matter what caliber of riding lawn mower you want, be prepared to spend at least $1,000. Beyond that, how much you spend depends on how much power you need, how big of a mower you want, and whether you want a lawn tractor or zero-turn mower.

If you’re on a budget and looking for more affordable options, you might consider going with a push lawn mower instead. 

FAQs About Riding Lawn Mowers

1. What is the best riding mower under $2,000?

The Husqvarna YTh28542 is the best budget riding mower, coming in just under $2,000. 

2. Which is better, Cub Cadet or Husqvarna?

Overall, Husqvarna makes better riding lawn mowers, as you can tell from the four Husqvarna entries in our top spots. 

3. Does a half-acre need a riding mower?

Typically, riding lawn mowers are for yards over half an acre, while push mowers are for lawns of half an acre or less. However, even if you have a smaller yard, you might not want to deal with the hassle of pushing around a heavy lawn mower. Whether or not you need a riding mower is ultimately up to you. 

Conclusion

With help from our suggestions and definitions, hopefully you’re more prepared to invest in a riding lawn mower than you were before.

While only you can decide which is the best lawn mower for your property, the mowers on this list represent the best options on the market. Any of them would serve you well and be worth the money spent. 

Main Photo Credit: Pixabay

LawnStarter participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other retailer affiliate programs. LawnStarter may earn revenue from products promoted in this article.

Jordan Ardoin

Jordan Ardoin is a writer, editor, and classical literature student based in Colorado. When she isn't reading or writing, she enjoys goofing off with her cats and spending time in nature.

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The 6 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 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

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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 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

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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

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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 2023

Courtesy of Home Depot

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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

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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 2023

Courtesy of Home Depot

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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.

Top 10 Lawn Mower Engines

In the life of every gardener, professional or amateur, as well as almost any owner of his own home, sooner or later the question arises of purchasing a lawn mower. For a long time, and there will be a long time, a good, beautiful, high-quality trimmed lawn is one of the main advantages of the owner and an excellent opportunity to demonstrate their skills and character. But if there is nothing special to disassemble in the lawn mowers themselves, then in the variety of their engines there is something to think about and talk about. That is why in this article we will immediately look at 10 of the most popular and best lawnmower engines, figure out how they are beneficial or not very different from each other, and help answer the difficult question: which lawnmower engine is better? nine0003


Photo: https://wallegro.ru/

Contents:

  1. Electric motor for lawn mowers Bosch Rotak 34/Rotak 37
  2. Engine Champion G140VK/2
  3. Gasoline engine CHAMPION G210HK
  4. Gasoline engine ZONGSHEN XP140A
  5. PATRIOT P170FB petrol engine
  6. Engine CHAMPION G200VK/2
  7. Gasoline engine GE-170F-20 HUTER
  8. Lifan KP420 E 9 petrol engine0011
  9. Gasoline engine CHAMPION G225VK/2
  10. Engine Honda GCV 200 S3AL

Bosch Rotak 34/Rotak 37 lawnmower motor


Photo: http://bosch. cyclones.ru/

This engine model has a sufficiently large power, which allows the lawn mower to show one hundred percent. The engine dimensions are 240x270x160 mm, which is quite compact and does not take up much space during transportation or storage. nine0003

Electric motor for lawn mower Bosch Rotak 34/Rotak 37

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Engine Champion G140VK/2


Photo: https://championtool.ru/

The Champion G140VK/2 engine impresses customers with its power. In addition, the engine has an air-cooling function, which allows it not to overheat, thereby ensuring safe use. nine0003

Engine Champion G140VK/2

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CHAMPION G210HK petrol engine


Photo: https://market. yandex.ru/

This engine model will serve the owner for a long time, because it is made of durable materials. The engine has a sufficiently high power, which allows you to bring the lawn mower to work in a matter of seconds. The accessory differs in the volume of the tank, which is 3.6 liters. nine0003

CHAMPION G210HK petrol engine

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ZONGSHEN XP140A Gasoline Engine


Photo: https://market.yandex.ru/

The Zongshen XP140A engine is a single-cylinder gasoline four-stroke forced air-cooled engine with a displacement of 420 cc. see Engine features are also: a wide range of applications, low fuel consumption. nine0003

ZONGSHEN XP140A Gasoline Engine

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PATRIOT P170FB petrol engine


Photo: https://market. yandex.ru/

The P170FB PATRIOT petrol engine is used for installation on power or garden units, such as walk-behind tractors or lawn mowers. Engine type: gasoline, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled. In addition, the engine has a volume of 208 cubic centimeters.

PATRIOT P170FB Petrol Engine

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Engine CHAMPION G200VK/2


Photo: https://nans.ru/

The engine of this model is perfect for working with various types of lawn mowers. The engine is 4-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled and has an overhead valve arrangement. The rotation of the shaft is counter-clockwise from the side of the shaft. Also, the engine capacity is 193 cubic centimeters, which increases the operating time of the motor. nine0003

Engine CHAMPION G200VK/2

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Gasoline engine GE-170F-20 HUTER


Photo: https://st-gmbh. ru/

The GE-170F-20 gasoline engine will ensure reliable and uninterrupted operation of agricultural machinery, snowmobiles, snow blowers, walk-behind tractors. The unit is useful for repair or production of new products. nine0005 The air-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke Huter gasoline engine is equipped with an automatic speed control, which greatly simplifies the work of the operator. A long resource and reliability is ensured by a metal crankshaft and a reinforced piston group with a chrome coating.

Gasoline engine GE-170F-20 HUTER

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Gasoline engine Lifan KP420 E


Photo: https://www.sadovodu.ru/

The Lifan KP420E engine runs on AI92 gasoline fuel and will be a reliable solution for servicing various equipment - walk-behind tractors, cultivators, snowmobiles, generators, ATVs, boats and other equipment. This model is distinguished by a power of 17 hp, a combined start system and electronic ignition. When the tank is completely filled with a capacity of 6.5 liters, the engine is able to work for a long time. The horizontal arrangement of the shaft emphasizes the compact size and ease of installation of the Lifan KP420E. nine0003

Lifan KP420 E petrol engine

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CHAMPION G225VK/2 petrol engine


Photo: https://www.sadovodu.ru/

The Champion G225VK/2 engine is a 4-stroke gasoline unit, which has solid performance indicators. This is possible due to the high power of the product - 7 "horsepower". At the same time, economic use is ensured. Fuel consumption is small. A motor of this modification is suitable for use with a cultivator and other garden equipment that requires a vertical shaft arrangement. nine0003

Gasoline engine CHAMPION G225VK/2

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Engine Honda GCV 200 S3AL


Photo: https://www.sadovodu.ru/

The Honda GCV 200 S3AL engine is a powerful modern four-stroke power unit. The engine is equipped with an aluminum flywheel, which provides a dynamic brake for lawn mowers. The volume of the gas tank of the engine is 0.91 liter, and fuel consumption is 1.4 liters per hour.

Engine Honda GCV 200 S3AL

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Useful Resources - How to choose an engine for your lawn mower, walk-behind tractor and snow blower

If you live in a private house and are engaged in farming, then modern technology can greatly facilitate your work. Many people today buy walk-behind tractors, lawn mowers, snow plows. They allow you to spend a minimum of effort, doing a really large amount of work. Do you need to clear an area of ​​​​a hundred square meters of snow? The snow blower can do it in minutes. Need to plow two acres of land? The walk-behind tractor will help you do this in a maximum of a quarter of an hour. nine0003

Alas, any technique can fail. Even something like a lawn mower or a snow blower. The frame breaks extremely rarely - you need to make a lot of effort for this. The only thing that can break here is the engine. Therefore, the owner of such equipment may face the question: which engine to choose?

What parameters should I pay attention to?

Each engine has a number of characteristics that make it unique:

They must be considered when choosing and buying an engine. On the one hand, it is best to purchase a "native" engine - then there will definitely not be any problems during the installation and further operation of the equipment. But on the other hand, it is far from always possible to acquire it - you have to look for alternative solutions. In addition, some owners decide to slightly increase or decrease the power so that the equipment fully meets their requirements. nine0003

This is acceptable if the installation is carried out by an experienced specialist. But still, it is better to look for a motor that is close to the “native” in terms of characteristics. Otherwise, there is no guarantee that it can be installed on the used frame. Some owners decide to digest it without thinking that this will not only significantly increase the cost of repairs, but also drastically reduce the resource - the frame breaks most often at the welding points. In addition, a too weak engine will not allow the equipment to cope with the tasks. Well, too powerful can endanger not only the unit, but also the safety and health of the user. Therefore, any significant changes are highly undesirable. nine0003

Which manufacturer should I trust?

Today on sale you can see engines from different manufacturers: Russian, European, American, Japanese and Chinese. Which one to trust?

Chinese engines for walk-behind tractors and snow plows are very popular. The most famous among them are products manufactured under the Lifan brand. They are inexpensive, spare parts for them can be found without much difficulty and, most importantly, most of them are an exact copy of their European counterparts - some are produced under license, and some are not. Therefore, not only full compatibility with the European frame is ensured, but also comfort during work. The only weak point is the materials. Almost always, materials are used in the production, the quality of which leaves much to be desired. Low-quality alloys often lead to the fact that the gears burst, and the cylinders do not withstand the load. nine0003

European, American and Japanese engines are good in every way: attention to detail, quality materials, state-of-the-art features. All this makes working with equipment as safe and pleasant as possible. But the cost still bites, which is why not everyone can afford such a purchase. When choosing American products, you should give preference to manufacturers such as Champion or Brigg & Stratton. Honda and Mitsubishi have been the undisputed leaders of Japanese engine building for more than a decade. People who want to buy a European engine for a walk-behind tractor should pay attention to the equipment produced by Caiman. nine0003

And, finally, Russian. The main advantage is power and reliability. Manufacturers traditionally rely on power, and the technology of production of materials, which has not changed much over the past decades, ensures reliability and durability. In addition, they are much cheaper than their European counterparts. Alas, you will have to forget about comfort when working with such engines. The most common in our country are domestic Vympel engines. They produce powerful four-stroke engines that will be a good purchase not only for private traders, but also for small farms. Engines manufactured in Belarus have similar parameters (and sometimes even slightly better ones).

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