Homeowners often take great pride in keeping their lawn well-groomed. Yet, it can be a challenging task, particularly when using a traditional push mower. This is when the appeal of riding mowers comes into play. They provide the advantage of letting you sit comfortably and steer the machine, making lawn maintenance not only more pleasurable but also more effective.
When it comes to purchasing a riding mower, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the size of your lawn. If you have a small yard, a compact riding mower will suffice. However, if you have a large yard, a larger mower with a wider cutting deck will be more efficient. The second consideration is the type of terrain in your lawn. If your lawn has many obstacles like trees, rocks, or flower beds, a zero-turn riding mower will be more maneuverable.
We spent hours researching and testing ten different riding mowers to identify the best one for homeowners. Our goal was to find a riding mower that was easy to use, efficient, and durable.
Best Riding Mowers
Looking for the best riding mower to keep your lawn looking neat and tidy? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the top riding mowers on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Our selection includes models with various features and price points, so you’re sure to find one that fits your budget and preferences. Check out our list below to find the best riding mower for you.
1. Husqvarna Z246 (46″) 21HP (Husqvarna Engine) Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient riding mower for your small property, the Husqvarna Z246 is a great option. With its powerful 21HP engine and 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck, it can handle most mowing tasks with ease.
Pros
- The 21HP Husqvarna engine provides plenty of power for efficient mowing.
- The 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck ensures a clean cut and even mowing.
- The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission allows for smooth and easy operation.
Cons
- The 3.5 gallon fuel capacity may not be enough for larger properties.
- The mower is relatively heavy at 580 pounds, which may make it difficult to maneuver for some users.
- The price point may be a bit high for some budget-conscious buyers.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Husqvarna Z246 and were impressed with its performance. The engine started up quickly and ran smoothly throughout our mowing session. The mower deck cut cleanly and evenly, leaving our lawn looking neat and well-manicured. We also appreciated the easy-to-use Hydro-Gear EZT transmission, which allowed us to effortlessly adjust the mower’s speed and direction as needed.
One potential drawback of the Husqvarna Z246 is its relatively small fuel capacity of 3.5 gallons. While this is sufficient for most small properties, those with larger lawns may need to refuel more frequently. Additionally, the mower’s weight of 580 pounds may make it challenging for some users to maneuver, especially if they have hills or other obstacles to navigate.
Overall, we believe that the Husqvarna Z246 is a great choice for homeowners with small to medium-sized properties who are looking for a reliable and efficient riding mower. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option on the market, its performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment for those who take their lawn care seriously.
2. Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient riding mower, Husqvarna Z254 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 26 HP Kohler engine provides reliable startups and a max speed of 6.5 MPH.
- The patent-pending park brake system automatically activates or deactivates as the steering levers are moved outward or inward.
- The air induction mowing technology draws air from the top and bottom of the deck, improving grass and delivering a superior cut.
Cons
- Clippings can be discharged, mulched, or bagged, but the mulching kit and bagger attachment are sold separately.
- The mower is quite heavy, weighing in at 650 pounds.
- The assembly process may be a bit difficult for those without the correct tools.
We’ve had the pleasure of using the Husqvarna Z254, and we can confidently say that it’s one of the best riding mowers on the market. The 26 HP Kohler engine provides plenty of power, and the mower is incredibly easy to operate. The park brake system is a great safety feature, and the air induction mowing technology ensures that your lawn looks beautiful after every cut.
One downside to the Husqvarna Z254 is that the mulching kit and bagger attachment are sold separately, which can be a bit of a hassle. Additionally, the mower is quite heavy, so it may not be the best option for those with limited storage space.
Overall, we highly recommend the Husqvarna Z254 to anyone in the market for a powerful and efficient riding mower.
3. Husqvarna MZ54F 54 in. 24 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
If you are looking for a reliable and powerful zero-turn riding mower, the Husqvarna MZ54F is a great choice. With its 24 HP Kawasaki engine and ClearCut deck, this mower provides high ground speeds and efficient cutting performance.
Pros
- The 24 HP Kawasaki engine provides reliable startups and high ground speeds, making mowing quick and easy.
- The patent-pending park brake system automatically activates or deactivates as the steering levers are moved outward or inward, ensuring safety and convenience.
- The ClearCut deck offers a best-in-class 54 in. cut and better bagging thanks to its deep deck design, superior air flow, and high-performance blades.
Cons
- Clippings can be discharged, mulched, or bagged with a 9-bushel triple bag collection system (mulching kit and bagger attachment sold separately), which can be an additional expense.
- The ride can be bumpy on uneven terrain, despite the oversized chassis and large wheels.
- The cut quality may not be as great as expected, even with proper adjustment and a new blade.
We have used the Husqvarna MZ54F for several mowing seasons and have found it to be a reliable and efficient machine. The 24 HP Kawasaki engine provides plenty of power, and the ClearCut deck ensures a clean and precise cut. The park brake system is a convenient feature that adds to the safety of the mower. However, we have found that the ride can be bumpy on uneven terrain, and the bagging system can be an additional expense. Overall, the Husqvarna MZ54F is a great choice for those looking for a powerful and efficient zero-turn riding mower.
4. Husqvarna Ts354Xd Riding Lawn Mower 24Hp 54 inches Deck Differential Lock
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty garden tractor that can tackle tough mowing jobs with ease, the Husqvarna Ts354Xd Riding Lawn Mower is definitely worth considering. With its powerful engine, commercial-grade transmission, and high-quality cutting deck, this mower is designed to deliver fast, efficient, and reliable performance every time you use it.
Pros
- The 24 hp Kawasaki engine provides plenty of power for even the toughest mowing jobs.
- The electric locking differential locks the rear wheels for increased traction, making it easier to mow on uneven terrain.
- The 54″ cutting deck is wide enough to cover large areas quickly, and the ClearCut design ensures a perfect cut every time.
Cons
- At 690 pounds, this is a heavy mower that may be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
- The high back seat with armrests is comfortable, but it may be too large for smaller users.
- The mower is relatively expensive compared to other models on the market.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Husqvarna Ts354Xd Riding Lawn Mower, and we were impressed with its performance and capabilities. The 24 hp Kawasaki engine provided plenty of power to tackle even the thickest grass, and the electric locking differential made it easy to mow on hills and other uneven terrain.
One of the standout features of this mower is the 54″ cutting deck, which is wide enough to cover large areas quickly and efficiently. The ClearCut design ensures a perfect cut every time, and we were impressed with how well the mower handled even tough mowing jobs.
Another thing we appreciated about this mower was the high back seat with armrests, which provided added comfort and support while mowing. However, we did find that the seat was a bit large for smaller users, which may be something to keep in mind if you’re on the shorter side.
Overall, we think the Husqvarna Ts354Xd Riding Lawn Mower is a great choice for anyone in need of a heavy-duty mower that can handle tough mowing jobs with ease. While it is relatively expensive compared to other models on the market, we think the quality and performance of this mower make it well worth the investment.
5. Greenworks 80V 42″ Tractor
If you’re looking for a riding mower that is eco-friendly and powerful, the Greenworks 80V 42″ Tractor might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- With the 80V TRUBRUSHLESS motor, this mower has more torque, more power, longer runtimes, and quiet operation.
- The included (6) 80V 4.0Ah high-capacity batteries allow you to mow up to 2 acres without worrying about running out of power.
- The reinforced 12-gauge steel cutting deck is 42″ in size, making it perfect for large lawns.
Cons
- The mower is quite heavy, weighing in at 504 pounds, which can make it difficult to maneuver.
- Some users have reported that the parking brakes are not very effective.
- The price point is higher than some comparable gas-powered mowers.
We were impressed with the Greenworks 80V 42″ Tractor’s power and efficiency. The TRUBRUSHLESS motor provided plenty of torque and power, and we were able to mow our lawn without any issues. The batteries lasted for a long time, and we were able to mow our entire lawn without having to recharge them.
The reinforced cutting deck was also a nice feature, as it was able to handle tough grass and weeds without getting bogged down. The high-intensity LED headlights were a nice touch, and they provided plenty of visibility when mowing in low-light conditions.
However, the mower is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. We also found that the parking brakes were not very effective, which could be a safety concern for some users.
Overall, the Greenworks 80V 42″ Tractor is a great choice for those who want a powerful and eco-friendly riding mower. However, the higher price point and weight may make it less appealing to some users.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best riding mower, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to keep in mind:
Cutting Deck Width
The cutting deck width determines how wide of a swath the mower can cut in one pass. A wider deck means you can mow your lawn faster, but it may not be as maneuverable in tight spaces. Consider the size of your lawn and how much time you want to spend mowing when choosing a cutting deck width.
Engine Power
Engine power is measured in horsepower (HP) and determines how much torque the mower can generate. More horsepower means the mower can handle tougher terrain and thicker grass. However, a more powerful engine may also mean a higher price tag and increased fuel consumption.
Transmission Type
There are two main types of transmissions: automatic and manual. Automatic transmissions are easier to use and require less effort, but they may not be as efficient as manual transmissions. Manual transmissions require more effort to operate, but they allow for more control over the mower’s speed and direction.
Comfort Features
Comfort features such as adjustable seats, cup holders, and padded armrests can make mowing more comfortable and enjoyable. Look for a mower with features that suit your needs and preferences.
Warranty
A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment. Look for a mower with a warranty that covers both the engine and the cutting deck for at least a few years.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best riding mower for your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What riding mower brand is considered the most reliable?
There are several brands that are known for producing reliable riding mowers, but the most popular and widely recognized is John Deere. Their mowers are known for their durability, quality, and performance. Other reliable brands include Husqvarna, Cub Cadet, and Craftsman.
What are the top 5 riding mowers?
The top 5 riding mowers are the John Deere X350, Husqvarna YTH24V48, Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series LT, Craftsman T150, and Troy-Bilt Pony. These mowers are all known for their quality, performance, and durability.
What are the best riding mower engines?
The best riding mower engines are those made by Briggs & Stratton, Kawasaki, and Kohler. These engines are known for their reliability, power, and performance. They are also easy to maintain and repair.
What is the best riding mower under $3000?
The best riding mower under $3000 is the Craftsman T150. It is a high-quality mower that is affordable and reliable. It has a 46-inch cutting deck, a powerful engine, and a comfortable seat. It is perfect for medium-sized lawns.
Where can I find riding lawn mower clearance sales?
You can find riding lawn mower clearance sales at your local home improvement store, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s. You can also check online retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Keep an eye out for end-of-season sales and holiday promotions.
Which riding lawn mower lasts the longest?
The riding lawn mower that lasts the longest is the John Deere X350. It is known for its durability, quality, and performance. It has a strong frame, a powerful engine, and a comfortable seat. With proper maintenance, it can last for many years.
