Being able to have a well groomed lawn is not an easy task, with the correct equipment however the burden is taken off your hands. So much so, that more and more homeowners and landscape professionals have been utilizing zero turn mowers to get the job done quickly and efficiently. The design of these mowers also gives them increased manoeuvrability, which means they can manoeuvre into and out of tight corners and obstacles much more easily than other mowers.
We put in the research and compared different models that stand out from the crowd in terms of performance, comfort and reliability.
Best Zero Turn Mowers
So, we researched and compiled a list of the best zero turn mowers on the market. Every system is crafted to be a top performer and maneuvering around the lawn is simple and efficient. See below for our curated list of the best available.
1. Greenworks 60V 42” Zero Turn Mower
- [CUTS UP TO 1.5 ACRES] – Cut all-day with “Mow, Swap, and Go”. For...
- [24 HP EQUIVALENT] – Cleaner, more even cuts versus gas with constant 17K...
- [42” DECK + BRUSHLESS MOTOR] - This electric riding mower features a...
If you’re looking to take your lawn care game to the next level, this electric zero turn mower is a strong contender.
Pros
Cons
Using the Greenworks 60V Zero Turn Mower was something new and fresh. It was very effective in cutting through dense grass with ease. The dual battery system let us keep plugging along without regular interruptions and made it ideal for larger properties.
The blade speed essentially took the cake. It had a consistent 17,000 ft/min rate, was able to handle tall, thick grass without bogging down. Also, we really liked the built in LED headlights that allowed us to do an early morning or later evening lawn care task as it is dark.
A big plus for our neighborhood was that the mower ran much quieter than gas alternatives. This helps to make it a bit more durable though not by much. In the end, the Greenworks 60V Zero Turn Mower was a solid pick for environmentally conscientious homeowners looking to power and efficiency.
2. EGO Power+ Z6 Zero Turn Mower
- Peak Power+ Technology combines the power of up to six EGO 56V ARC Lithium...
- Power of gas with 25 HP equivalent engine
- Cuts up to 4-Acres on a single charge with the included six 56V 12.0Ah ARC...
If you’re a lawn care enthusiast, the EGO Power+ 52” Z6 Zero Turn Riding Mower has an impressive power and innovative technology that makes it a standout choice.
Pros
Cons
Our experience using the EGO Power+ Z6 was surprisingly easy. Featuring the integration of Peak Power™+ technology, it ran smoothly and effectively, providing the power of a gas engine but with exceptional efficiency. Our 2-acre lot was cleaned consistently by the independent brushless motors that felt robust.
The included six batteries make charging a breeze. On a single charge, we were able to cut more than 4 acres, a game changer that let us not worry about running out of power to finish our jobs. Impressive is the fact that it takes only four hours to fully charge all six batteries through the rapid charging feature.
The comfortable adjustable seat, along with the three driving modes, help us modify our mowing experience. Overall it was commendable and we did notice some difficulty in dense grass, especially when damp. If you’re in the market for a powerful, battery-powered zero turn lawn mower, the EGO Power+ Z6 is unbeatable.
3. CRAFTSMAN 42" Gas Zero-Turn Mower
- 42" ZERO-TURN GAS RIDE ON MOWER: Provides the optimized power and...
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENGINE: Powered by a reliable stout 20 HP* Kohler 7000...
- DURABLE AND EFFICIENT: Rugged 42" stamped steel deck, robust steel frame,...
For anyone looking for efficient and comfortable yard care, this mower is an impressive option.
Pros
Cons
Only recently have we taken the CRAFTSMAN 42" Gas Zero Turn Mower for a spin and it did not disappoint. You can see the power the 20 HP Kohler engine has in the power it puts out even through thick grass. It was nice to see how it cut through wet and dry conditions with no hiccups. This cutting precision was impressive and now we had no fear of mowing our yard, because we could efficiently tackle up to 2 acres.
The mower is user friendly. The hydrostatic transmission was smooth which made maneuvering around tight corners pretty easy. The adjustable lap bars were a great feature and we easily adjusted them so we had a comfortable seating position. In addition, the high back seat made longer mowing sessions very pleasant.
Which also gives some challenges we faced. Those needing to transport the mower frequently might be concerned with the mower's weight. We also observed that new users should set aside a bit of time to become familiar with all the features and controls. However, regular maintenance is important to keep everything in top shape, which will be slightly more of a task compared to single speed machines. As someone who is serious about maintaining his or her yard, this mower delivers in terms of reliability and comfort, overall.
4. EGO POWER+ ZT5207L 52-Inch Mower
Got a lawn that feels more like a small field? The EGO POWER+ ZT5207L is up for the challenge.
Pros
Cons
With its 52-inch cutting deck, it covers a ton of ground in no time. One of the standout features is how quiet it is—way more peaceful than the growl of a gas mower. The zero-turn steering is top-notch, making it super easy to handle.
But, let’s be honest, this mower is a bit bulky, so finding storage space might be tricky. And while it’s an amazing piece of machinery, the price is definitely in the premium range. If you’ve got the budget, though, it’s a fantastic choice.
5. Craftsman 46" Gas Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower
Craftsman 46" Gas Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower performs well in residential lawns.
Pros
Cons
This Craftsman zero-turn mower is all about getting the job done without a fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time mower, it’s designed to make tackling medium to large lawns feel straightforward. The zero-turn feature is a game-changer—it’s super smooth and lets you zip around tight corners or obstacles with ease. And let’s talk power—the engine has plenty of it, so even tougher, thicker grass doesn’t stand a chance.
That said, it’s not exactly the quietest machine in the shed, so if noise is a concern, that might give you pause. Plus, it’s not the most fuel-efficient option, so be prepared to refuel a little more often than you might with other models.
Buying Guide
So, when choosing a zero turn mower, here are some key features that we must consider when choosing what best meets our needs.
Cutting Width
- Larger cutting widths allow for more efficient mowing.
- Consider sizes ranging from 34 inches to 60 inches based on your lawn size.
Engine Power
- Look for engines with sufficient horsepower for our terrain.
- Typically, 15-30 HP is suitable for residential use.
Comfort and Ergonomics
- Comfortable seating can enhance your mowing experience.
- Adjustability and armrest features are important.
Build Quality
- A robust frame and durable materials extend the mower's lifespan.
- Check for welded vs. bolted frames.
Maintenance and Service
- Consider models with easy access for maintenance.
- Some brands offer better warranty and support than others.
Price
- Determine your budget beforehand.
- Across a variety of price ranges, you can find quality options.
Fuel Type
- Gasoline vs. electric options should be considered.
- Electric models are quieter and have lower emissions.
Reviews and Recommendations
- Reading customer reviews can provide insights into performance.
- Ask for recommendations from fellow users to gauge satisfaction.
The aim here is to find a mower that will suit your needs and preferences hence, you should always evaluate these factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should be considered when choosing the best commercial zero-turn mower?
When selecting a commercial zero turn mower, it should have enough engine power, cutting width and durability. Ease of maintenance, comfort, and maneuverability are also important features that are crucial for efficiency and effectiveness in landscaping tasks.
How does mower deck size impact the effectiveness of a zero-turn mower for larger properties?
Mower deck size affects cutting efficiency on large properties. With a wider deck we're able to cover more ground quickly, which in turn shortens mowing time. Yet, we need to balance size with maneuverability, navigating tight spaces while doing so.
What are the most reliable zero-turn mower brands according to expert reviews?
Brand reliability does vary but some of the top rated names we found in expert reviews include John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Hustler. One of these brands could be said to be a constant with their performance, durability, and excellent customer service that is guaranteed, therefore they are considered a popular choice especially in commercial and domestic use.
Which zero-turn mowers offer the best value for their price?
Depending on the features and the performance it can have value for price. Cub Cadet Ultima Series and Husqvarna Z254 are often recommended for their balance of quality and affordability. To measure value accurately, we should look at the specific features that each model provides.
What maintenance considerations are important for zero-turn mowers with high hours of use?
Regular maintenance is important for mowers with high usage. Things to include in this are changing the oil, sharpening blades, and checking filters. As well as the need to monitor tire pressure and to check belts and hoses regularly to achieve longevity as well as optimum performance in the car.
How do Kubota zero-turn mowers compare to those from Bad Boy in terms of performance and durability?
Typically, Kubota zero turn mowers are regarded as a tough and dependable machines. While being durable, Bad Boy mowers also have a focus on providing high performance with unique features. We should evaluate specific models to see which brand is best suited for us in dependability and performance and how the models last within the years.