Top riding mower brands

9 BEST Riding Lawn Mowers of 2023 [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:

“Inexpensive” – less than $2,000
“Moderate” – $2,000 to $4,000
“Expensive” – Above $4,000

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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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:

Active cruise control delivers consistency on long stretches of lawn.
Mulching capability: This mower comes equipped with mulching capability, with an optional collection bag sold separately.
Cool features: The RY48111 has LED headlights, a cupholder, and a USB charging port.
Battery charges overnight with a standard 120V power outlet. This mower is the most energy-efficient choice for yards under 2.5 acres.

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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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:

Automatic headlights that adjust to low-visibility conditions
A cupholder to help you stay hydrated on hot summer days
2-year limited warranty

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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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:

Mow mode is focused on speed, topping out at 7 mph.
Tow mode focuses on wheel torque, with a top speed of 5.5 mph.
Trim mode directs power to the cutting deck, reducing the top speed to 4 mph to plow through thick brush.

Other things we like about Toro’s Timecutter:

Cupholder and an under-seat storage cubby in the cab.
Tire fenders, which protect the engine and the operator from mud and debris.
Shock-reducing dampers that keep the steering bars steady when you hit bumps.

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

Pros	Cons
✓ 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.

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

Main Photo Credit: Shutterstock photo with text overlay

Total

Stephen Kime

Stephen Kime is a freelance writer and professional actor based in Washington, D. C. When he isn't in rehearsal, Stephen enjoys running, hiking, and experimenting with new cocktail recipes.

Posts by Stephen Kime

The 7 Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2023

Our top pick is the RYOBI 48V Brushless 38 in. Electric Riding Lawn Mower

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

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

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.

Here are the best riding lawn mowers that provide an efficient and reliable cut for your lawn.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

RYOBI 48V 38-Inch Electric Riding Mower at Amazon

Best Gas:

Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 42 in. Gas Riding Lawn Tractor at Home Depot

Best Lawn Tractor:

John Deere 42 in. Gas Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor at Home Depot

Best Zero Turn:

Ryobi 48V 54-Inch Electric Zero-Turn Riding Mower at Home Depot

Best Attachment Capability:

Husqvarna V-Twin Riding Lawn Mower at Lowe's

Best for Hills:

Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 in. Gas Riding Lawn Mower at Amazon

Best Small:

Cub Cadet 30 in. Electric Riding Lawn Tractor at Farmandfleet.com

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Home Depot

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: $3,199

_{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 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 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}

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: $2,199

_{Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 520 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres}

The 12 Best Lawn Mowers of 2023

The Homedepot

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 7 Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers of 2023

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

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.
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.
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.
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.

top-10 rating according to KP

A lawn mower is useful to any summer resident, even if his plot is only a few acres. The traditional choice is gas-powered lawn mowers. They are much easier to operate, more reliable and many will undertake to repair them. It is precisely about the choice of such garden and country gadgets that we will talk in the KP rating.

CP Top 10 Ranking

1. Husqvarna LC 140S

Husqvarna LC 140S. Photo: yandex.market.ru

This company does not do bad things. This rule also applies to lawn mowers. Good motor, all the necessary functions are on board. The reliability of this model is legendary - it will definitely last for many seasons, but do not forget about the annual maintenance. Otherwise, you can get into a major repair.

Main characteristics

Stratton petrol 4-stroke, 125cc, 2.

4hp

type	Self-propelled
Width / Speasing height	cm / 25-75 mm
30.5 kg

Pros and cons

Reliability, engine

Narrow working width, no side ejection

2. CHAMPION LM5127BS

CHAMPION LM5127BS. Photo: yandex.market.ru

An excellent lightweight and maneuverable mower for those who do not want to mess with the grass catcher and compost, but who knows how to mulch. At the same time, the model has a very solid working width and a powerful engine, and the price does not bite.

Main characteristics

type	Wheelled wheelbone
Width0016
Engine	Briggs and Stratton gasoline 4x, 125 cm³, 3 hp

Pros and downsides

Powerful engine, high performance

Sorry, which is not self -propelled

9000. Huter GLM-6.0ST Huter GLM-6.0ST. Photo: yandex.market.ru

A German brand that manufactures equipment in China. The mower has a very powerful engine, a large swath width and at the same time weighs relatively little. It also has all the basic bells and whistles on board.

The main characteristics

900 6 hp

Type	Self-propelled
Width / Speasing height	53 cm / 25-75 mm
28 kg

Pros and cons

Powerful motor, high performance

Complains about problems with spare parts

4. CHAMPION LM4627

CHAMPION LM4627. Photo: yandex.market.ru

This is a heaped up budget model that can also do everything: sideways, back, into the grass collector, mulching. The engine is unnamed Chinese, but quite solid and powerful, no complaints have been noticed about it yet. This mower can be recommended to beginner summer residents who want to try all the delights of a civilized lawn care.

Main features

Type	self-propelled
Width / Speasing height	46 cm / 25-75 mm
Weight	32 kg
Engine	Benzin 4x Tact, 139 cm, 3. 5 hp

Low cost, self-propelled

Too heavy

5. Makita PLM4628N

Makita PLM4628N. Photo: yandex.market.ru

Proven version from a well-known Japanese manufacturer. Can literally do everything. Self-propelled, has an excellent engine, has side and back ejection, soft grass catcher, can mulch. Owner reviews are great. But the price is big.

The main characteristics

Stratton petrol 4-stroke, 140cc, 2.6hp

type	Self-propelled
Width / Speasing height	46 cm / 25-75 mm

Pros and cons

Reliability, engine

Heavy, difficult to buy, quickly dismantled, there are complaints about a fragile side ejection nozzle

6. PATRIOT PT 42 LS

PATRIOT PT 42 LS.

Photo: yandex.market.ru

Inexpensive self-propelled mower for beginners. Despite the cost, it has many useful features. Able to mulch, has a rear ejection and a grass collector. Find!

Main characteristics

type	Self-propelled
Width / Speasing height	42 cm / 30-75 mm
27 kg
Engine	Basin 4x, 123 cm³, 3.5 hp

Plus and minuses

Low cost, self-propelled

NO EXTECTION

. Photo: yandex.market.ru

Cheap and cheerful. This mower has only the essentials: a powerful engine, rear ejection, grass catcher, but reliable and inexpensive! But be prepared for the fact that this model is very noisy in operation, even by the standards of a gasoline lawnmower. 9Ol000 stroke, 4 hp

Pros and cons

Cheap, powerful engine

It is a pity that it is not self-propelled, there is no side discharge and mulching

8.

McCULLOCH M46-110R Classic Engine Basin 4x, 110 cm³, 2.7 hp

Pros and disadvantages

Reliable, productive

There is no mulching and release of

9. BS

Patriot RT RT 52 BS. Photo: yandex.market.ru

Another "Mercedes" among lawn mowers, competitor Makita PLM4628N from our review. Big, powerful, productive, can throw the grass back, can into the grass collector, can sideways, can mulch - full stuffing!

Expensive, bulky

10. Hyundai L 4310S

Hyundai L 4310S. Photo: yandex.market.ru

A motorist here would joke that this is the only case when Hyundai drives ahead of him. But, in fact, we have a very inexpensive reliable mower here, from a company that can definitely be trusted in matters of gasoline technology. Everything you need with it: throwing the grass back into the grass collector, mulching.

Main features

LAVION 4X, 3

Type	Self-propelled
Width / Speasing height	42 cm / 25-75 mm
Weight	28 kg

Pros and cons

Reliability

No side ejection of grass

How to choose a petrol lawn mower

Practical advice on choosing a petrol lawn mower will be given by Alexey Kharlamov , who works as a mechanic at the MTD service center.

How much it eats, how much it rushes

The engine is the heart of absolutely any mower. The success of the entire operation depends on how well it is made and combined with its tasks. Today, the topic of engine design can no longer be touched upon, since four-stroke engines have almost completely ousted their two-stroke counterparts from the market. They work more stable, consume less fuel, rumble quieter. For a small suburban area, a light mower with a 1-3 hp engine should be suitable; for large areas, it is worth considering more serious models with a power of 3-5 hp.

Major manufacturers of sophisticated equipment such as Honda, Hyundai, Husqvarna, Stihl produce excellent engines for their mowers themselves. The rest put third-party products, the coolest and most popular are American Briggs & Stratton motors.

For eight years I have used a mower with such an engine, it is so unpretentious that even without sensible preservation for the winter, it starts the first time at the beginning of the season, and all maintenance consisted only in cleaning the filter and changing the oil. My mower fell to the death of the brave - in the ninth year of use, I ran into a sledgehammer in tall grass, otherwise it would still serve.

Top tip: do not be too lazy to inquire about the engine of your future lawnmower, well-known names such as Kawasaki are familiar to everyone, but there are no less worthy ones, such as Kohler.

Drive

Self-propelled mowers are now very common. This is a very convenient feature, because the lawn mower weighs an average of 30 kg and not every summer resident will be happy to push such a colossus in front of him. It is only important to consider that in this case, some of the engine power will be spent in order to set the wheels in motion. A mower without a drive will be more maneuverable, but choose one that weighs less, no more than 25kg.

Working width

This parameter affects the performance of your mower and varies between 40-50 cm, but can be more or less. A wide mower will not fit everywhere. Well, and one more important factor: the larger the working width, the larger the body of the mower, the more powerful the motor should be, the heavier and more expensive it is.

Where to put the grass?

Generally mowers have two types of grass ejection: rear and side. Side throw is optimal when mulching, that is, if you prefer not to collect grass, but to chop it up to a state of organic matter for fertilizer. The rear ejection is optimal for working with the grass catcher. It is best when the mower has both types of ejection, if there is only a rear ejection, then make sure that the mower has a cover that closes the ejection, otherwise everything will fly at you without a grass catcher.

Cutting height

Lots vary, so height adjustment is a must. If the lawn is even and well-groomed, then we set the height lower, if there are potholes or tall grass has grown, we make it higher, otherwise the knives will touch the ground or mow in tufts, or the engine will not cope. An adjustment of 25-75mm will suffice.

Autostart

Starting the engine from the button is a very nice bonus, although not the most necessary one.