Best Lawn Mower Reviews 2023. Name of lawn mowers

Best Lawn Mower Reviews 2023

If you’re researching lawn mowers, you know there’s a TON to choose from. While we’ve used a bunch, we haven’t walked behind or sat on every mower available. We’re bringing our picks for the best lawn mower models from our own experiences to the table. But keep in mind these are hotly debated, even in our own office, and not every yard or property is the same.

There’s also another wrench in the mix—Honda is exiting the market in September 2023, bringing to an end some of our favorite mowers along with some of the most popular in the country.

We know they aren’t the only good ones out there. So give the other folks reading this article a hand and tell us what the best lawn mower is and why in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев below.

Best Ride-On Lawn Mower

Commercial Pick: Hustler Hyperdrive Series Zero-Turn Lawn Mowers

Commercial ZTs have to have it all: durability, cut quality, speed, and comfort are at the top of the list. Fail in any one of these and you’ll be back to the drawing board.

Hustler’s Super Z Hyperdrive series earns our top recommendation in a split decision with Scag’s Turf Tiger II and eXmark’s Lazer Z X series also earning high marks.

Powered by Vanguard big block EFI 35 – 40 HP commercial engines, Hustler Hyperdrive mowers cut great and have speeds up to 16 MPH. Hustler’s I3M seats are comfortable for those long summer days while the hydraulics and transmission systems help keep the mower’s operations smoother than most.

On the durability side, the Hyperdrive’s 60 – 72-inch VX4 decks are fabricated from 7-gauge steel. Raised and lowered using foot control, they have a cutting height range of 1 – 5.5 inches.

Hustler backs the Hyperdrive series with a 2-year, unlimited hours/5-year, 1200-hour warranty with 3,000 hours for the drive system. Visit or call your local Hustler dealer for pricing.

Residential Pick: Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX6 Series Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

The Ultima ZT series is a popular entry into Cub Cadet’s zero-turn lineup but it’s worth stepping up to the Ultima ZTX series if you’re looking for the best ride-on mower for homeowners. As a whole, the line fits in the Prosumer class that bridges the gap between pure residential models and higher-priced commercial models. Dialing it in even further, the Cub Cadet ZTX6 mowers get our official recommendation.

Available with a 54 or 60-inch deck, both options get their power from Kawasaki FX801 25.5HP commercial-grade engines. Cub Cadet’s Hydro-Gear ZT-3400 hydrostatic transmission system is also commercial-grade and offers forward speeds up to 9 MPH.

Where you see the mowers come back toward a residential FOCUS is with a little less robust construction, including a 10-gauge reinforced steel deck. That said, with a 4 – 12-acre optimal property size rating, we’re not at all worried about its ability to hold up over time.

If you’re thinking you’d love a zero-turn in this class but lap bars aren’t your cup of tea, there’s now an Ultima ZTXS line that uses a steering wheel and Cub Cadet’s Synchro-Steer design.

Price: 8999.00 – 9299.00 (10299.00 for the 60-inch ZTXS6)

Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Commercial Pick: Exmark Commercial X-Series Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

As we bid adieu to Honda this year, the HRC series still gets two thumbs up from us while you can get them. From there, we turn to Exnark and its Commercial X line that complements its Lazer Z zero-turn mowers well. Some professionals will certainly turn to the higher-capacity 30-inch model, but we expect the 21-inch model will find its way onto more trailers.

Exmark wisely uses a Honda 163cc. GXV engine with a legendary reputation for reliability. It’s fed by a generous 1-gallon fuel tank and turns the blade at tip speeds up to 18,500 fpm. There’s also an option for a Kawasaki FJ180V engine if you’d like to step up to a 179cc engine.

The deck is 1/4-inch aluminum construction that keeps the weight down (112 pounds) while maintaining high durability. The deck is adjustable from 4.5 inches on the high side all the way down to 1 inch while the drive runs at speeds up to 4.2 MPH.

Residential Pick: Toro Super Recycler Series 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Toro runs deep in the residential lawn mower sector and our favorite among them is the Super Recycler series. Getting the best of all the technology Toro has to offer, our top recommendation (model 21565) includes the Personal Pace drive system and the Smart Stow design that allows you to vertically store the mower even though it’s a gas model.

It uses a 163cc Briggs Stratton engine that produces 7.25 ft-lbs of torque and just under 17,000 fpm blade tip speed.

Toro touts a commercial-grade construction on this model and includes a lighter aluminum deck rather than steel. In addition to that, you get outstanding cut quality, especially on the mulching side (you better with the name Super Recycler!). Wrapping it up, the Personal Pace drive system adjusts to your walking pace so there are no levers or dials to adjust.

Best Push Lawn Mower

Commercial Pick: Honda HRC-Series 21-Inch Push Lawn Mower

If you’re shopping for a legit push mower rather than a self-propelled one, your choices are very limited on the professional level. Our recommendation is to grab a Honda HRC216PDA while they’re still available. As part of the HRC line, you get the commercial-grade quality you need for a long service life.

The GSV160 commercial engine drives Honda’s MicroCut twin blades that create a better cut quality and handles overgrowth better than single-blade designs. The 3/4- to 4-inch height range is suitable for every lawn grass type.

The only downside is the fuel tank. It only holds 32 ounces, so you’ll need to refill it more often.

Residential Pick: Honda HRN-Series 21-Inch Push Lawn Mower

One good turn deserves another, and of all the residential push mowers available, we suggest you grab a Honda HRN216PKA while you still can. The HRN series replaced the massively popular HRR series and s a step down from the premium HRX series. Between those two residential lines, this is the only push mower Honda makes specifically for homeowners.

It uses a Honda GCV170 engine rated at 167cc, so you get more power than the 140cc class that most of the push mower options use. An auto choke makes starting easier and it comes with everything you need whether you mulch, bag, or side discharge.

Best Electric Battery-Powered Lawn Mower

Commercial Pick: Milwaukee M18 Fuel 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Ever since Milwaukee made its first efforts into the world of outdoor power equipment, people have been asking… what about a lawn mower? While it took several more years, the final product was worth the wait.

Using two M18 batteries for a power source, Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel mower produced more blade torque than any other electric competitor and matched the output of a 200cc gas engine. Excellent cut characteristics wrapped into a legit commercial-grade package made it the cream of the crop from day 1. So far, no other mower has been able to overtake it for the title of best electric lawn mower for professional use.

Price: 1099.99 with two 12.0Ah batteries and dual port simultaneous Rapid charger

Residential: EGO Select Cut XP 21-Inch Lawn Mower with Speed IQ

The evolution of EGO’s flagship mower is interesting. It started with the dual-battery Peak Power model that raised the bar of what lithium-ion is capable of. Then, we saw the first stacked-blade SelectCut options that improved cut quality and effectiveness in tall grass. The two technologies combined in the SelectCut XP. Now EGO adds Speed IQ to the mix.

Speed IQ is a self-propelled drive system that automatically adjusts to your pace. However, it’s not a spring-loaded set of handles like Toro uses on its Personal Pace models. Instead, there’s a sensor doing some serious engineering magic… and it works like a charm from our brief time with it at Equip Expo 2022 (formerly GIE).

Price: 999.00 with 12.0Ah battery and Turbo charger

Best Robotic Lawn Mower

Commercial Pick: Husqvarna CEORA Robotic Lawn Mower

Husqvarna runs deeper in the robotic lawn mower sector than any other brand and we’ve watched the technology get better and better as the years have passed. Moving into large-scale commercial mowing, we now see the Husqvarna CEORA take center stage.

The mower is capable of cutting up to 18 acres at a standard quality. However, you can also use it for sports fields where it can leave a professional cut on up to 6 acres per charge. Here’s the kicker—you don’t need wires. This model features Husqvarna’s Exact Positioning Operating System (EPOS) that combines a reference station and satellite technology to create a virtual boundary system.

Price: 32,829.94 starter kit

Residential Pick: Husqvarna Automower 435X AWD

Husqvarna consistently stays on the cutting edge of robotic lawn mower technology and they moved the bar higher (again) with the Automower 435X AWD. This futuristic-looking machine is specifically designed to be able to handle hills up to 35°.

This Automower works great for yards up to roughly 0.9 acres and the battery keeps it mowing for an hour and 40 minutes. Charging takes just 30 minutes before it’s off and running again.

Like most robotic mowers, the cut height is limited. Ranging from 1.2 to 2.8 inches, it’s not the best option for all grass species.

Smartphone connectivity and GPS assistance are built into the system. It’s not completely wire-free just yet, though Husqvarna is working on that.

Price: Starts at 5199.00 with professional installation (3999.00 without professional installation)

How We Choose – Best Lawn Mower Buying Guide

Lawn mowers at the level we’re writing on make up a vast category, and we’re not going into all the fine details about all the classes we’re recommending—that would take a really long time to write (and might be terribly boring to read)! However, there are several things common to all mowers that we look for.

Cutting Power

Some grass is easy to cut, others, not so much. The St. Augustine grass we have in central Florida grows particularly thick and we need enough power to cut through it while keeping the blade speed high enough to get the best cut quality the mower can offer.

Cut Quality

When we talk about cut quality, we’re looking at a couple of things. First, we want to see how even the mower leaves the grass. The best lawn mowers make your yard look like a green field of carpet that rolls with the small hills.

Second, we check to see how small the blades chop grass for mulching and how much grass it leaves behind when we’re bagging. No matter which one you prefer, you want the lawn to look clean when you’re done.

Engine Reliability

Do you want your mower to last a season or multiple seasons? Some engines, such as Honda, are known for their multi-year reliability. On the residential side, Honda engines can last a decade!

Even though professionals repower or buy a completely new mower every 3 – 5 years, quality engines from Kawasaki, Vanguard, and others can keep those years of service trouble-free with regular maintenance.

Build Quality

The engine isn’t the only part of the mower you need to keep an eye on. Belt pulleys, height adjustments, wheels, and much more need to stand up to the kind of hours you’re going to put on the mower. That’s very different for someone who mows once a week and a professional crew that covers 20 lawns a day.

Lawn Size Suitability

You’re not going to use an 18-inch lawn mower to maintain a 3-acre property. At least, you shouldn’t be. But those mowers are great for smaller city lawns. We always take into account the best lawn size for each mower. Part of that is the deck, and part of it is how efficiently it uses a tank of gas or a set of batteries.

Price and Value

What you get for your money is another consideration for many people. Finding the right balance of performance, quality, and price is high on our list, and what each mower offers for the price plays into our selections.

Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

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We’ve been in business since 2008 covering tools, writing reviews, and reporting on industry news in the construction, automotive, and lawn care industries. Our Pro reviewers work in the trades and have the skills and experience to know whether tools can perform well in the field.

Each year, we bring in and review more than 250 individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.

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We’ll provide more than 500 pieces of new content this year absolutely free for our readers—including objective evaluations of individual tools and products.

The end result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool.

Best lawn mowers to buy in 2023

Our round up of the best lawn mowers, as tested by our experts.

Choosing the best lawn mower can be a tricky task, with so many models on the market and such a wide range of brands. There are five main types of mower available at hugely varying and all with different features that need to be considered.

To make things easier, we FOCUS on some of the key points to look for when choosing a lawn mower and explain some of the benefits and drawbacks of the different types.

We’ve also listed our best lawn mowers across the board, as tested by our experts. There are a range of styles on the list including corded, cordless, robotic, and push mowers, all of which offer various functions and additional features.

All the models on our list have been awarded Best Buy status after being thoroughly put through their paces. Every one of them has scored a minimum of 4.5 out of 5 overall, so you can be assured that you’re looking at one of the best machines in its category. To make things as clear as possible, we’ve included a list of pros and cons for each model, so you can make an informed choice on the best lawn mower for you. For more detail, take a look at our full list of individual lawn mower reviews.

How to choose a lawn mower

There are a number of factors to take into consideration when choosing the right lawn mower for you. Firstly, you need to decide whether you want a corded electric, petrol, battery-powered cordless or push mower.

• Corded electric mowers are generally in the mid-price range and are relatively light and quiet. You will need a charging point and possibly an extension cord and the electric cable can get in the way. Take a look at our pick of the best electric lawn mowers.
• Battery-powered cordless lawn mowersare the newest type of mower and are the most lightweight and manoeuvrable. You need to remember to keep the battery charged and they can be expensive, although are starting to come down. Check out our pick of the best cordless mowers.
• Push mowers are cheap and manually powered, so they are the most eco-friendly mower you can buy but, they can be hard work for the user, particularly if strength and mobility are an issue. Read our rundown the best hand push mowers.
• Robotic mowers automatically mow your lawn. Whenever the lawn gets a little long, a robot mower will nip out and clip it, saving you the job. However, bear in mind that this is the most expensive type of mower on the market. even budget options will set you back about £500. Learn more with our tests of the best robotic mowers.
• Petrol lawn mowers are powerful but tend to be loud, heavy and are less environmentally-friendly. They need an annual maintenance check up and a supply of petrol and oil.

Once you’ve decided which type of mower is right for you, think about what extra features you might need:

• Check the size of the mower. The wider the cutting width, the more area of lawn can be covered in one go.
• The capacity of the grass collector will dictate how often you need to stop mowing to empty it and although larger bags mean fewer trips to the compost heap they will make the mower heavier to operate as they fill up, which is worth bearing in mind.
• Some models require assembly when you first get them. Cheaper models particularly, often need handles and grass bags assembled before use, which can be fiddly.
• If you are particularly tall or small, check whether the handle can adjust for different user heights and if storage space is an issue, if it can be folded down and easily tucked away.
• Other features like the range of cutting heights, whether a fast charger is included and inevitably, price will need to be taken into consideration, too.

Find out how to maintain your mower in our easy to follow, step-by-step guide, and for more advice, check out our budget lawn mowers Buyers’ Guide.

For other help with lawn care, take a look at our reviews of the best strimmers and the best aerators, or check out our guide to the best lawn edging.

Best lawn mowers to buy in 2022

Browse some of our top-rated Best Buy lawn mowers on test below.

Yard Force LMG37A 40v 37cm cordless lawn mower

Our rating: 4.8 out of 5

• Rear roller
• Double folding handle for easy storage
• Quickest charge time
• Part of the Yardforce GR40 cordless range

This sturdy mower has a 37cm cutting width and useful features including a rear roller for those much desired stripes. Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for small to medium lawns, clippings are collected in the large 40 Litre fabric grass bag, it offers a wide range of seven cutting heights, from 25-75mm and is easy to fold away at the end of the day. The 40V battery is quick to charge, taking just 50 minutes and when full it has the capacity to cut a 400m2 lawn.

Buy the Yard Force LMG37A 40V 37cm cordless mower from Yard Force, Amazon and Wickes

Worx WG779E cordless lawn mower

Our rating: 4.75 out of 5

• Easy assembly and storage, long warranty
• Turbo and Eco modes
• Robust, light and easy to manoeuvre
• Battery and charger interchangeable with other Worx 20V tools

Our testers found this lawnmower easy to assemble and it handily folds away for storage when not in use. There’s a 30 litre ready-made grass bag and six cutting heights to choose from. It’s ideal for smaller lawns and we were impressed with the amount of features it packs in, considering the price. It also comes with a generous three-year warranty.

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Ego LM1701E cordless lawn mower

Our rating: 4.75 out of 5

Our testers found the Ego mower sturdy and easy to handle and manoeuvre. It has a range of seven cutting heights and comes with a 55 litre capacity grass bag. The mower charges in just 30 minutes but the run time with the included battery is relatively short at 20 minutes. Larger batteries are also available to buy separately. The battery power level is clearly visible when mowing. This mower comes with a five year warranty.

• Easy to assemble and folds for storage
• Adjustable handle height for different users
• Sturdy and easy to handle
• Clear visibility of battery power level
• Wide range of cutting heights
• Battery and charger interchangeable with other Ego Power tools

Mountfield Princess 34 electric corded lawn mower

Our rating: 4.75 out of 5

This mower is powerful yet surprisingly quiet and our testers found a number of the additional features useful. There’s a mulching option, rear roller, vision window in the grass collector to check levels and more. There’s also a choice of six cutting heights and our experts found that the mower handles well on the job.

• Light, quiet and manoeuvrable
• Cut, collect or mulch
• Rear roller and anti-scalp plate
• Easy to adjust

Webb WEER 33 electric corded mower

Our rating: 4.8 out of 5

• Comfortable and easy to use
• Cable relief clip for safety
• Great features
• Cuts efficiently
• Cuts to the edge

This mower is well thought out with excellent features. It’s easy to assemble and folds for storage with a comfortable, foam handle which can be adjusted to a variety of heights. There are five cutting heights to choose from and these are easily changed by a single lever. The grass collection bag has a generous 35L capacity and a full indicator that lets you know when it needs emptying. The mower is relatively quiet and it cuts well, right up to the edge. It’s lightweight and comfortable to manoeuvre and our only quibble is the black mower cable, which could be a brighter colour so it’s easier to see. For just £99.99, this is a great value mower.

Gardena Handymower

Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

• Small and light to carry and store
• Pivoting handle very easy to manoeuvre
• Easy to check battery charge
• Part of the Power For All Alliance
• Battery and charger are purchased separately
• Cuts out if handle pushed into upright position

This great little mower was awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for very small lawns. It’s light, compact and easy to manoeuvre around the lawn and is ideal for the regular cutting of small areas of grass. There’s minimal assembly needed, you just screw the handle into the body and once the battery is charged it’s ready to go. There are three cutting heights to choose from and rather than collecting the clippings, this mower mulches, dropping them back onto the lawn where they break down and fertilise the grass – so you don’t need to spend time emptying a grass bag and your grass gets fed. A pivoting handle helps it get into tight spots really easily and it also copes surprisingly well with bumpy ground. While you’re mowing the battery charge is clearly displayed on the mower. The battery and charger come separately, which does push the price up but this mower is part of the Power for All Alliance, which includes Gardena, Flymo and Bosch battery tools and will save you money if you invest in cordless tools in the future.

Buy the Gardena Handymower from Currys, Amazon and Tooled-Up

Best Buy review video – the Gardena Handymower

In this in-depth video review, Kay Maguire explains why the Gardena Handymower was awarded BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy status.

Name of lawn mowers

Lawn Mowers of 2022 That Are Worth Every Cent

By Ryan Pfeifer

Buying a new lawn mower is a serious investment, especially if you’re running a business. You want to be sure the product you go with is neither chintzy nor ritzy.

The ideal product for lawn mowing companies is one that’s reasonably priced and more than able of getting the job done.

Unfortunately, finding such products isn’t easy. You have to spend a lot of time researching hundreds of products to distinguish the economical mowers from the overpriced ones. Luckily, you don’t have to go through all that trouble. I have done all the research for you to compile a list of the top twenty lawn mowers of 2022 — each one is worth every cent!

Toro Recycler 20339 SmartStow

With a 22-inch blade that moves in nine different positions, a 2-year full warranty, and a reasonable price tag, the Toro Recycler 20339 truly has it all!

Seriously, you won’t find a mower better than this. I absolutely love this machine because it has a durable deck, it requires no oil changes—ever—and it has a foldable design. Furthermore, it has 11-inch rear wheels. Meaning that if you come across a bumpy or uneven road, you won’t have any trouble whatsoever.

The only con I can think of is that it runs on gas. Whenever gas is low, a refill is required. If that is something that doesn’t sound like trouble to you, then this is THE mower for you.

Ego Power LM2135SP Select Cut Electric Mower

An ideal electric mower would be one that turns on with a simple push-button and has a powerful motor, 21-inch blade, 60 minutes of runtime, and a 5-year warranty. The Ego Power LM2135SP offers all that and more! That’s why in my opinion, it is the best electric mower in the market today.

Here are some more of its pros:

• Easy to operate: The mower is really easy to use. Seriously, anyone who knows how to move a mower safely can use it without any trouble whatsoever.
• Excellent customer service: Ego has the best customer service, and it’s not even a competition. They provide 24/7 support and their team is super helpful. No matter what query you have, I can bet they will clear it up for you.
• Folds up for easy storage: Storing a mower can be a real pain. But that’s not the case with this one. You can simply fold it up and fit it anywhere you like.
• Powerful motor: This mower cuts through grass like a knife through butter. No matter how big or rough the patch is, you can rest assured the LM2135SP will power through it.
• Rapid-charging battery: As I mentioned earlier, this mower runs for one hour on a full battery. Since it only takes about 2 hours for it to be fully charged, you don’t need to plug it in for hours only for it to run out within a few minutes like most electric mowers in the market.

The only con to this mower is that some people consider its price tag of 679 to be too hefty.

Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch Electric Corded Lawn Mower

Does 500 dollar sound like an unreasonably large sum for a mower to you?

Unfortunately, that’s how much the best mowers cost. But if you’re willing to go down a little in quality for a significant reduction in price, then the Sun Joe MJ401E is the ideal product for you. At 139, this mower is only a step behind the very best high-end products in the market.

It has a 14-inch blade with three different positions, a 2-year warranty, and it runs on electricity—you don’t need to get gas refills every other day. Furthermore, it weighs only 29 pounds and can easily be carried. It is really small in size as well, so storing it is no trouble. Lastly, keeping its low price tag in mind, it is fairly durable.

The only con to this product is that it’s not suitable for big lawns due to its relatively small blade.

Greenworks 25022 12-Amp Corded Lawn Mower

Jule like the Sun Joe MJ401E, this mower also has a competitive price at only 199.

The reason why I really like the Greenworks 25022 is it has several cool features that can make your mowing experience enjoyable. Some of its best features include the following:

• No charging: You don’t have to charge it ever.
• Adjustable height: You can adjust its height to your liking. So if a project requires the device to be really low, you can easily adjust its height.
• Easy maneuverability: Thanks to its small size and lightweight, this mower is really easy to move around.

The only con—which is a real nuisance—is its long cord. It can often get in the way and that ruins the experience for some people. If that doesn’t sound like something would bother you, then you will have a great time using this mower.

Honda Variable Speed Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

The Honda Variable Speed Mower is a high-end mower that comes with a hefty price tag of 999.

That’s too expensive, right? I know. But here’s the thing. This mower has literally everything you need. Unlike other mowers, this self-propelled product can mulch, bag, discharge, and shred grass on its own. Meaning you don’t need to purchase any extra tools for it to fix the grass in your lawn.

Furthermore, it has a superbly powerful 190 cc engine that allows it to mow through any area, including huge lawns, ruff patches, and bumpy lands.

Troy-Bilt 130 Gas Walk-Behind Push Mower

If I had to use one word to describe this mower, I would say affordable. At only 289, the TB-130 offers 21-inch blades that cut up to 3.75 inches of grass, a mulch kit, and a motor system that doesn’t require oil changes ever. It also has 11-inch wheels that allow it to move easily on rough and high terrains.

Furthermore, the mower is built with a high-performance steel blade that can cut through tough weeds, tall grass, and thick bushes. It also has a gas-powered engine that allows it to operate nonstop for hours. Also, it is light in weight, which makes it even easier to handle in high areas and on rough terrains.

What’s more, is that the mower comes with two spinning blades that cut grass effortlessly into fine pieces – perfect for use as compost or mulch in your lawn and garden. The overall design of the mower (with its comfortable handlebars) is built to ensure total comfort while using it at the same time making sure no accidental slips occur while doing so.

Overall, a great product for quick lawn maintenance!

Greenworks 40V Cordless Electric Lawn Mower

Want to chop up your lawn in a time and effort-saving manner with the use of a powerful high-performance product? Then allow me to introduce the Greenworks 40V Cordless Electric Lawn Mower!

It is lightweight, has exceptional performance, and has easy maneuverability. The easy maneuverability is thanks to its easy-to-shift wheels that help it move through tall areas of grass and other obstacles-like pesky weeds. What’s more, the product comes backed with a limited three-year warranty great for ensuring its durability against defects.

Toro 22” All Wheel Drive Mower

Toro 22” All Wheel Drive Mower is a good example of a heavy-duty mower that can handle different types of grasses and other types of terrain.

It is built with a steel deck, which makes it both durable and very easy to maneuver. The wheels on this machine are also made from steel, and they have ball bearing hubs for smooth turning. Another great feature of this mower is its two-blade cutting system that provides you with an even cut.

The blades on this mower are also designed in such a way that they can be sharpened easily when they become dull. The cutting height on this machine has eight different settings, so you will be able to find the right height for your lawn. There is also a handle on this mower that allows you to adjust the cutting height without having to stop and get off of the machine.

All of that makes this mower ideal for large lawns.

EGO Cordless Electric Walk-Behind Self-Propelled Mower

This is another great electric mower on the market today, and it is made by a company that has a reputation for making some of the best products available.

The EGO Cordless Electric Walk-Behind Self-Propelled Mower has an innovative design that allows you to get up to 40 minutes of running time out of it before you have to recharge it. It also has a battery charger that can be used with other EGO brand tools, including blowers and hedge trimmers.

The handle on this mower is adjustable, so you will be able to find the right height for your comfort. The handle also folds down for easier storage when you are not using the mower.

Furthermore, it is lightweight, easy to push, and it has been designed with a power drive system that makes it easier to maneuver around your yard. You will also find this mower to be very quiet when in operation, which will make your yard work more enjoyable. All in all, a solid product.

Husqvarna AUTOMOWER 430X Robotic Lawn Mower

Does mowing your lawn sound like too much of a hassle? Would you rather just hire a professional to do the job? Well, here’s the thing. You don’t have to!

The Husqvarna Automower 430X Robotic Lawn Mower—as you can guess from its name—is an AI-based mower that can mow any area without any intervention. That’s right. You don’t have to drag it around or pay any attention to this machine. It works automatically and is far more precise than a person.

So you don’t have to hire a professional lawnmower. You just need to buy the 430X Robotic Lawn Mower.

The only con of this machine, as you can guess, is that it costs significantly more than manual mowers. It comes with a hefty price tag of 2,495. If paying this price seems like worth avoiding mowing your lawn yourself or hiring a professional to do so, then this is THE mower for you!

Husqvarna Hydrostatic 46-in. Riding Lawn Mower

Mowing your lawn doesn’t have to be a hassle. In fact, with the Husqvarna Hydrostatic 46-in. Riding Lawn Mower, it can be a breeze ( pun intended ). This machine is equipped with a hydrostatic transmission that makes it easy to operate. You just need to press down on the pedals and you will be on your way.

This mower is also designed for a comfortable ride. You can adjust the seat to ensure that you are in the most comfortable position. And, if you get too hot, you can always cool off by using the built-in fan.

What’s more, the Husqvarna Hydrostatic 46-in. Riding Lawn Mower is equipped with a number of other features that make it the perfect choice for small businesses. For instance, it has a 46-inch cutting deck, so you can get the job done quickly. It also has a 10-gallon fuel tank, so you can mow for longer without having to stop to refuel.

The only con to this machine is that it comes with a hefty price tag of 2,499.

Craftsman 10.5hp Gas Rear Engine Riding Mower

The Craftsman 10.5hp Gas Rear Engine Riding Mower is a great choice for small businesses. It is equipped with a powerful 10.5hp engine and a 46-inch cutting deck, so you can get the job done quickly. And, it has a fuel tank capacity of 10 gallons. Meaning you can mow for a long time without having to stop to refuel.

Plus, the Craftsman 10.5hp Gas Rear Engine Riding Mower comes with a number of other features that make it the perfect choice for small businesses.

For example, it has a comfortable seat that can be adjusted to ensure that you are in the most comfortable position. It also has a built-in cup holder. So if you want to keep your favorite drink close by while you mow, you can do so with this machine.

Sun Joe MJ400E Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mower

The Sun Joe MJ400E Electric Walk Behind Lawn Mower is a great choice for businesses that have a small budget.

It is equipped with a powerful 13 amp motor and a 20-inch cutting deck, so you can get the job done quickly. And, it has a grass catcher capacity of 11.8 gallons, so you can mow for longer without having to stop to empty the catcher. Plus, it also comes with a number of other features that will make your life easier, including:

• A 2-in-1 mulching and bagging system
• A 7-position height adjustment,
• An ergonomic handle

All that and more for only 99!

RYOBI Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower

Small businesses that have a larger budget may want to consider the RYOBI Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower.

It is equipped with a powerful 24V battery that delivers enough power to cut through even the thickest grass. And, it has a cutting deck that measures 42 inches.

So with this bad boy, you’re sure to get the job done quickly.

The RYOBI Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower comes with a number of other features that will make your life easier, including 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side discharge capabilities, a 7-position height adjustment, and an ergonomic handle—and that’s just the tip of the iceberg! This product comes with tons of other cool features that you can read about here.

Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 in. Zero Turn Mower

This mower is equipped with a powerful 24V battery that delivers enough power to cut through even the thickest grass. Plus, it has a cutting deck that measures 50 inches. So the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 is sure to get the job done quickly.

What’s more, this mower comes with a number of other features that will make the mowing far more pleasant and easier, including 4-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side discharge capabilities, a 10-position height adjustment, and an ergonomic handle.

So, if you’re looking for a lawnmower that can handle even the most challenging jobs, the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 in. Zero Turn Mower is a great option.

Kobalt 21-in Corded Electric Lawn Mower

This corded electric lawn mower from Kobalt is a great option for those looking for an easy-to-use, lightweight mower.

It’s equipped with a powerful motor that can cut through even the thickest grass, and it has a 21-inch cutting deck that will make quick work of your lawn.

What’s more, this machine comes with a number of cool features that will make mowing your lawn easier, including a 10-position height adjustment, 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side discharge capabilities, and an ergonomic handle.

So if you’re looking for an easy-to-use lawnmower that can handle even the thickest grass, the Kobalt 21-in Corded Electric Lawn Mower is a great option.

RYOBI 20 in. Battery Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

This Ryobi lawn mower is a great option for those looking for a battery-powered lawnmower. It’s equipped with a powerful motor that can handle even the thickest grass, and it has a 20-inch cutting deck. So with this machine, you can rest assured that mowing your lawn won’t take too long.

What’s more, this machine comes with a number of awesome features that will make mowing your lawn much easier, including a fold-down handle for easy storage, a 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side discharge capabilities, a push-button start, and a self-propelled feature that will make it easier for you to move it around your yard.

So if you’re looking for an easy-to-use lawnmower that can handle even the thickest grass, the Ryobi 20 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower is an ideal machine for you.

Mountfield Princess 34 Electric Corded Lawn Mower

This lawnmower is equipped with a powerful motor that can handle even the thickest grass, and it has a 34-inch cutting deck that will make quick work of your lawn.

It comes with a number of cool features, including a fold-down handle for easy storage, 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side discharge capabilities, a push-button start, and a self-propelled feature. You get all that and more for only £164. Meaning that this machine offers several high-end features for a fraction of the cost of other electric lawn mowers on the market.

Gardena PowerMax 1200/32 Electric Corded Mower

The Garden PowerMax 1200/32 is equipped with a powerful motor that can handle the thickest and tallest grass. Plus, it has a 34-inch cutting deck. But what’s really impressive about this machine is its incredibly precise cutting—it cuts between 20 to 60mm in 5mm increments. The height is adjustable with a simple twist of a dial, which makes it ideal for people who lack strength or dexterity.

So all in all, mowing grass with this bad boy doesn’t take a lot of time or effort.

Some more features of this machine include:

• Fold-down handles for easy storage
• 3-in-1 mulching
• Bagging
• Side discharge capabilities
• Push-button start

You get all that for only £108.95!

Wolf Garten WPCM-F Hand Push Cylinder Mower

Raise your hand if your answer is yes to the following questions:

• Will your business be centered around mowing small lawns?
• Are you looking for a hand push mower?
• Do you want a mower that costs next to nothing?

If your hand is raised, then this is THE mower for you! Currently being sold just under a hundred bucks, this mower offers you the following features:

• 15-liter grass collector
• A warranty of three years
• Lightweight and easy to move
• Front-loading grass collector catches clippings well
• A low starting height of cut—which makes it ideal for small lawns

Which One Do You Like Best?

Each mower that we just discussed is worth every cent it costs. But which one is the best? Well, there isn’t one. The truth is, each mower has its own pros and cons. Each one is suitable for different purposes. The only one who can tell you which product is ideal for your business is you yourself—because you know better than anyone else what your business needs.

So which mower are you going to buy? Let me know in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев below!

The 8 Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Michelle Ullman is a home decor expert and product reviewer for home and garden products. She has been writing about home decor for over 10 years for publications like BobVila.com and Better Homes Gardens, among others.

Barbara Gillette is a Master Gardener, herbalist, beekeeper, and journalist. She has 30 years of experience propagating and growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals.

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.

For lawns that are 1 acre or more, a riding lawn mower can make turf maintenance less of a chore. Instead of sweating behind a push mower, you’ll ride in comfort while keeping your lawn in tip-top shape. Marc Mayer, Director of Technical Operations at TruGreen, says, “Commonly, homeowners choose a riding lawn mower to save time and/or energy if they have a large lawn area that is too much work to utilize a walk-behind mower. Most ride-on mowers can also be used for other chores around the yard to improve efficiency, such as pulling a trailer or aerator.”

Noah James, professional landscaper and owner of Liberty Lawn Maintenance, adds, “A riding mower gives you the precision you need to make straight lines and even cuts. Plus, with options like zero-turn technology, you’ll be able to trim around obstacles and corners like a pro. Riding mowers have the power, agility, and versatility to handle it all with ease.”

We’ve tested over a dozen lawn mowers in our own lawns across the country including six riding lawn mowers, using each for three separate mowing sessions. During each session, the mowers were evaluated for ease of operation, comfort while riding, intuitiveness of the controls, battery runtime where applicable. and of course, how well the mower cut the grass. We considered how well the mowers maneuvered around obstacles, the range of accessories available for separate purchase, and the overall value of each mower before compiling our final list of winners.

Best Overall

John Deere S100 42 Inch 17.5 HP Gas Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Tractor

• Very easy to maneuver even around tight turns
• Excellent performance cutting both wet and dry grass
• Smooth, comfortable ride
• White Glove Service

Our top-scoring riding mower performed like a Champion on all three mowing sessions at our 10-acre New Jersey yard (although the manufacturer recommends it for yards up to 1 acre in size). We were amazed at how easy it was to maneuver even around tight corners or close to trees. And it did a great job of cleanly cutting both dry and wet grass; remarkably, it did not leave any ruts on the wet grass, just small indentations. The mower provides a comfortable, smooth ride; we drove it down a 500-foot gravel path to reach the lawn without any discomfort or difficulty. This mower has 13 cutting levels ranging from 1 inch to 4 inches, and we found it very easy to set the desired cutting height. Even better, it was delivered already assembled and ready to go thanks to its “White Glove Service.”

The cutting deck is 42 inches, which is a good size for making quick work of the lawn, yet not so large that it’s bulky or hard to steer. It has a tight 18-inch turning radius. And with its 17.5-horsepower Briggs Stratton engine, this is a powerful mower that won’t struggle with slopes, tall grass, or thick weeds. It discharges the clippings to the side, and we found that it also easily cleared away fallen leaves from the grass. John Deere sells clipping bags, mulchers, and several other yard maintenance accessories separately. Like most gasoline-powered riding mowers, you will need to occasionally perform oil changes, but the process is not too difficult. And thanks to the electric start, it’s very easy to power the mower up and get right to work.

We found the seat to be quite comfortable, and you can adjust the position to suit your height. All of the controls are easy to identify and use, although it took us a few minutes to get used to the side-by-side foot pedals for going forward or reversing. The mower’s top speed is 5.5 mph going forward, and 3.2 mph in reverse. It can cut the grass in either direction. It has headlights if you want to mow at dusk or dawn, and a cup holder to keep your favorite beverage close at hand while you work.

This riding mower is covered by John Deere’s 2-year/120-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty. And it’s quite reasonably priced for a riding mower; overall, it’s hard to go wrong with this hard-working mower.

Price at time of publish: 2,399

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 414 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 1 acre

Best Electric

RYOBI 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Battery Electric Cordless Riding Lawn Tractor

• Excellent performance
• Comfortable and fun to drive
• Long battery runtime
• LCD screen and app for tracking battery life

If you are looking for an electric riding lawn mower with all the power of a gas model, but without the fumes or bother of a gas engine, the RYOBI 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Battery Riding Lawn Tractor is our top choice. We found it fun to ride; with a maximum forward speed of 7 mph, this is a zippy mower that speeds up or slows down almost immediately when adjusting your foot on the lever, but we did find it a bit jerky at times. It also was somewhat tricky to assemble, taking us over an hour to have it ready to go. The mower has a 42-inch deck and four steel blades with 13 different cutting height positions to choose from (within 1.5 to 4.5 inches), so you can really fine-tune the look of your lawn. It did a great job cutting the grass, whether wet or dry, at our third-acre Iowa test garden, and even chopped up small sticks, leaves, and weeds very easily. It even features a warning beep when backing up; while we appreciate this safety feature, it admittedly did become tiresome to hear the beep every time we reversed.

According to the manufacturer, it has the equivalent of a 21-horsepower engine, but it runs on the included three 80-volt, 10Ah batteries which allow you to cut up to 2 acres on a single charge (about 60 minutes of runtime) and quickly recharge in less than 2.5 hours thanks to the onboard charger. In our test sessions, the batteries never dropped much below 80 percent capacity, and we appreciated the LCD touchscreen that lets you keep tabs on the battery runtime and charging speed, as well as blade speed, driving speed, and blade height. Other extra features we like include LED headlights, front and back storage compartments, two tow hitches, two cup holders, and two USB ports to charge your phone.

Of course, the most important feature of a lawn mower is how well it cuts grass, and this one left our test lawn looking great, without creating ruts, ridges, or unevenly chopped grass. The mower discharges clippings to the side, but you can purchase a bagger and mulching kit separately, as well as various lawn care attachments. This is a powerful, feature-packed riding lawn tractor so it comes at a bigger price tag than other picks. If you don’t need all of these features, you may want to choose a more budget-friendly model. However, we think if you are looking for a great electric riding mower with all of the features and power you need, this is your best bet. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty.

Price at time of publish: 4,999

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 557 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres

Best Gas

Toro TimeCutter 50 inch 24.5 HP Zero-Turn Riding Mower

• Excellent cutting performance
• Very comfortable, smooth ride
• Easy maintenance
• Zero-turn radius
• A bit of a learning curve to handle
• Bagger and mulching kit must be purchased separately
• No headlights

While we did have a bit of a learning curve with this powerful gas riding mower from Toro, once we got the hang of using the hand levers to control our speed, braking, direction, and blade engagement, we found that it was easy to maneuver between trees and other obstacles on our half-acre Iowa lawn. But if you have a larger property, you’ll be happy to know that this mower is rated for yards up to 4 acres in size. It has a hefty 50-inch cutting deck, so the zero-turn capability comes in handy when swiveling such a large mower around flowerbeds, between trees, or near retaining walls or other obstacles. We also found it very easy to set the cutting height, which ranges from a low of 1.5 inches to a high of 4.5 inches.

On our first mowing session, the grass was wet and the mower’s tires slipped a bit while moving down a slope, but on subsequent sessions, we had little problem in mowing over wet grass, thick grass, leaves, and other small lawn debris. The mower left the grass very evenly cut, with a lush, full appearance. Like many riding mowers, the clippings discharge to the side; if you want a bag or mulching kit, you’ll have to buy them separately. We definitely appreciated Toro’s MyRide suspension system, which keeps the ride smooth and pleasant even when the terrain isn’t completely level. And with a top speed of 7 mph, this mower can get the job done quickly. It has a cup holder to keep a cold beverage close at hand but does not have headlights, unlike many other riding mowers.

One great feature of this gas mower is that while it does require annual oil changes, it’s designed to make the task as easy as possible, so you won’t have to waste your afternoon on maintenance. It also has wash-out ports underneath the deck, so you can quickly blast away caked-on grass, mud, and grunge with your garden hose. And the sturdy construction, including the steel deck, means that this mower can take a beating and keep right on mowing without a pause. It comes with a 3-year residential limited warranty.

Price at time of publish: 4,299

Cutting Width: 50 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 694 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 4 acres

Best Lawn Tractor

Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 46-Inch Hydrostatic Drive Gas Riding Lawn Tractor

• Comfortable, adjustable seat
• Reasonable price
• Excellent performance in cutting grass

We put this gas-powered lawn tractor to the test on a 6-acre Iowa property that once housed horses, and so is rather bumpy, and also has many trees and other obstacles. The mower was easy to assemble, but the instructions for starting it were somewhat unclear, and it took us several tries to get it up and running. Still, once we figured it out, we were very pleased with the mower’s performance. It operated beautifully over wet grass, thick grass, and uneven spots, plus, it maneuvered easily around all obstacles. The mower has a 23-horsepower/725 cc Kohler engine with plenty of power, and the 46-inch deck is big enough for getting the job done quickly but not so large that it’s hard to slip between trees and other obstacles.

The mower has 12 cutting settings ranging from 1.5 inches to 4 inches. We found it very easy to adjust the cutting height, as well as other controls on the mower. It has a 16-inch turn radius, which is tight enough for most lawns, although we couldn’t get quite as close to some trees as we would have liked. The maximum forward speed is 5.5 mph, which is a bit slower than some other models, but more than sufficient for most users. Overall, we felt like our lawn looked great once we finished mowing, and the mower spewed the grass clippings evenly from the side chute. Like most riding mowers, if you want a bagger or mulching kit, you’ll need to purchase them separately. There are quite a few other attachments available for this mower as well.

The seat can be adjusted, which was a definite plus for us, along with the smooth ride. On the downside, this mower does require periodic oil changes, but the process shouldn’t be too difficult or time-intensive. And on the plus side, the mower has cruise control, so once you find a speed that you like, you can easily set the mower to continue at that pace. It also has headlights for mowing in shady spots or at dusk. While riding mowers are undeniably expensive, this one is reasonably priced for the quality and performance it provides. It’s rated for use on lawns up to 4 acres in size and comes with a 3-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 2,449

Cutting Width: 46 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 575 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 4 acres

Best Battery Zero-Turn

Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42 in. Battery Electric Cordless Zero Turn Riding Mower

• Intuitive and easy to use
• Joystick for steering and speed control
• Long battery runtime
• Very clean cut on all types of grass
• Initially received a defective mower, although customer service was excellent
• Expensive

We tested this mower on a half-acre property in Iowa. While it was fairly straightforward and quick to assemble the mower and give the batteries an initial charge, it turned out that our first test mower had an electrical problem that required several phone calls and a technician’s visit before determining that the mower was defective. However, we were quickly provided a new mower, which was already assembled and ready to go. Despite this unfortunate start to our testing sessions, we were very impressed with the manufacturer’s customer service, and we loved the performance of this zero-turn mower, which has a 42-inch deck and power that Ryobi claims is equivalent to 31 horsepower.

Unlike many other riding mowers, which have levers, pedals, or steering wheels to control the motion of the machine, this one has Ryobi’s iDrive joystick, which lets you set your speed in forward or reverse, as well as turn and maneuver the mower. Not only was this fun, but it was also very intuitive and easy to use. The mower also has an LCD screen that shows battery life and runtime. This mower comes with four batteries: two 80-volt, 10-amp hour and two 40-volt, 12-amp hour batteries, which can all be charged simultaneously. In our testing sessions, the batteries still had plenty of charge left once mowing was finished. Ryobi claims that you can mow up to 3 acres on a single full charge.

Setting the cutting height, which ranges from 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches, is easily accomplished with a single lever, and with four blades, this mower easily handled wet grass, thick grass, and tall grass, leaving our lawn looking great. The clippings discharge from the side, although you can purchase a bagger or mulching kit separately if desired. While riding the mower, we especially appreciated how quiet it is in comparison to gas mowers—we could actually talk to nearby family members while riding it—and how smooth and comfortable a ride it provides, thanks to the superior seat suspension that absorbs a lot of the bumps and vibrations. The mower also has some nice extra features, including headlights, cup holders, and USB charging ports. While this mower is undeniably a big investment, we felt that its performance, power, and ease of use make it well worth the cost for those with big yards. It has a 5-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 5,999

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 700 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 3 acres

Best Gas Zero-Turn

Cub Cadet Ultima Series ZT1 42 in. 22HP Zero-Turn Mower

• Seat can be fully adjusted for a comfortable ride
• Zero-turn
• Relatively reasonable price
• Easy to control

While all riding mowers are fairly expensive, particularly zero-turn mowers, the Cub Cadet Ultima Series ZT1 Zero-Turn Mower is relatively reasonable in price, making it even more of a great option for yards up to 4 acres in size. While testing, It took us around 30 minutes to assemble, but it did take us a little longer to figure out the choke. However, once we understood the instructions, we got started mowing a third-acre Iowa lawn that includes hills, several obstacles, and areas of very thick, tall grass. Initially, we took it easy and went slowly while we got used to the handling of the mower, which was a bit touchy. However, once we got the hang of it, we did find the mower to be easy to control, and we really liked being able to make sharp turns around obstacles. We did report some rattling from a belt that needed to be tightened, but that didn’t affect the performance.

While mowing, we found it very easy to adjust the cutting height, which has an impressive range of 1 inch to 4.5 inches. We mowed right through very tall patches of grass without a hitch and liked the way the clippings were ejected far to the side of the mower, so there was no annoying buildup of clumps. It’s easy to speed up or slow down; the more you push the handlebars, the faster you’ll go, up to a top speed of 7 mph. Plus, you can mow both forward and in reverse, which made it easier to reach some trickier spots on the lawn. The mower felt very stable and safe even while mowing on slopes. Initially, we found the ride to be somewhat bumpy, but once we had the fully adjustable seat set to our ideal position, the ride became quite smooth.

With a 22-horsepower Kohler engine, this is a powerful mower with a very sturdy build. Like other gas mowers, it does require periodic oil changes. While we liked its side-discharge function, you’ll have to purchase a bagger or mulching kit separately if that’s your preference. Cub Cadet also sells various attachments that can be added to the mower for other lawn care functions. It has a 3-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 3,299

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 580 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 4 acres

Best for Hills

Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 in. 19 HP Automatic Drive Gas Riding Lawn Mower

• Automatic transmission
• Good traction on hills
• Extra leg room
• Compatible with a variety of accessories

While we were not able to personally test the Bronco 42, we still recommend this 19-horsepower, 42-inch gas mower for yards up to 2 acres in size, especially if your yard has a lot of slopes. This sturdy mower has an automatic transmission and uses a simple foot pedal to control your speed, just like your car. That means you are likely to feel comfortable handling the mower from the start, even if you have never used a riding lawn mower before.

The mower has anti-scalp, 20-inch all-terrain wheels, making it much easier to mow smoothly over uneven terrain or up and down slopes without bogging down or damaging your turf. Note that as with all riding mowers, you should always mow from side to side across a slope, not up and down the slope, to maintain stability. There are five cutting height settings, which are easy to adjust with a single lever, and range from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. That’s a smaller cutting range than many other riding mowers, but it easily handles most common lawn grasses, and the double blades, large wheels, and sturdy construction of the mower allow it to plow right through tall or thick turf without a problem.

The Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 has a step-through frame that offers more leg room, and the mid-back seat and rubber footpads keep you comfortable while you work. Its 18-inch turn radius is tight enough to maneuver around most yard obstacles, such as trees, fences, flowerbeds, or playsets. The machine has a rear hitch to pull garden carts, sprayers, and spreaders. It comes with a side-discharge chute for clippings, but if you prefer to bag or mulch the grass clippings, you’ll need to buy those accessories separately. Like all gas mowers, you’ll need to carry out periodic oil changes, usually recommended after every 50 hours of use or annually. It comes with a 2-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 2,199

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

Best Small

Cub Cadet 30 in. 56-Volt MAX 30 Ah Battery Riding Lawn Tractor

Not everyone needs a beast of a mower that can handle yards up to 4 acres in size. If you have a lawn that’s 1 acre or less, or you have a lot of obstacles on your property that require a smaller mower to maneuver between and around them, we recommend this battery-powered mower from Cub Cadet. It has a 30-inch deck that can slip through a 36-inch gate, and which won’t take up a lot of space in your garage or garden shed. While we were unable to test this mower ourselves, it’s still our top choice for smaller yards.

The mower comes with a 56-volt MAX 30 amp-hour battery that can mow up to 1 acre, or for 1 hour, before needing a recharge, which takes roughly 4 hours. It’s supremely quiet compared to gas mowers, and the ride is smooth and comfortable. Plus, no need for oil changes, pouring gasoline into a fuel tank, or smelly fumes. You can adjust the cutting height within a range of 1.5 inches to 4 inches, and no bogging down on tall or thick grass. The 18-inch turning radius is tight enough to easily work your way around most obstacles.

One feature that we especially approve of, and yet isn’t offered on many riding mowers, is this model’s cruise control, which allows you to set your speed up to a maximum of 5.5 mph and then let the mower keep your pace steady; no need to concentrate on maintaining an even speed by pushing pedals or gripping levers. Plus, it has a very comfortable high-back seat with armrests, LED headlights, a cup holder, and two onboard USB ports to power up your phone or music while you ride. Additionally, unlike every other mower on our list, this one includes the mulching kit—all others require you to purchase that separately—so you can turn the grass clippings into fine mulch to help feed your lawn. It comes with a 3-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 3,599

Cutting Width: 30 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 362 pounds | Cutting Options: Mulch, side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 1 acre

Our top recommendation, the gas-powered John Deere S100 42-Inch Riding Lawn Mower, is supremely easy to maneuver around obstacles while creating a very smooth cut even on thick or tall grass. It comes with “White Glove Service” delivery, so you won’t have to assemble it, and it is easy to operate and maintain. However, if you prefer an electric mower, then we recommend the Ryobi 80V 42-Inch Battery Riding Mower, which has a lot of power and excellent battery runtime; you can get up to an hour of mowing done before needing to recharge. That’s enough for most people to complete the task on just one charge.

How We Tested the Riding Lawn Mowers

After testing eight walk-behind lawn mowers across the country, we tested six riding mowers, including gas, electric, and zero-turn options, each tested on a different property with varying terrain and lawn conditions, including slopes, rough spots, tall grass, and wet areas. We started by recording how long it took to unbox and assemble the riding lawn mower, as well as the difficulty or ease of assembly. (Two of the mowers were delivered assembled and ready to go, however.)

Once the grass was long enough to require mowing, we tested the riding mower on three separate occasions. For each session, we recorded the date and weather conditions, the size of the area to be mowed, the height of grass to be cut, and the length of time it took to accomplish the mowing. At the end of the session, we noted how cleanly and evenly the lawn had been cut, as well as how well the side-discharge chute shot the clippings back onto the lawn. (Only one of our tested mowers included an option other than side-discharge of the clippings; commonly clippings bags and mulching kits are not included with a riding mower, but must be purchased separately if desired.)

As we rode the mowers, we noted how easy it was to speed up or slow down the machine in both forward and reverse, the ease of raising or lowering the cutting height, how well the mower maneuvered around obstacles, and how evenly the mower cut all types of grass, including tall or thick patches as well as wet turf. We also paid attention to the comfort of the seat and the overall comfort of the ride, noting if it was unusually rough, had excessive vibration, or was in any other way uncomfortable to use the mower. We also tried out any extra features on the mowers, including headlights, cupholders, USB charging ports, or onboard storage areas.

At the end of each mowing session, we noted how much battery charge was left on electric mowers, as well as the length of time required for a full recharge. Finally, we summed up each experience with the mower, noting whether or not we felt it was a good value for the performance delivered.

What to Look for in a Riding Lawn Mower

Power Source

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to buy a gas- or electric-powered riding lawn mower. Marc Mayer, Director of Technical Operations at TruGreen, says, “Like in the automobileworld, battery-powered equipment is popular right now. Electrical mowers on both the residential and professional/commercial side are becoming more preferred over gas powered. You have to take into account that they both require different maintenance schedules, and it’s important to ask questions like ‘How long does the battery last, and what is the cost of a replacement battery’ before making a commitment to electric.”

As a general rule, gas mowers, including our Best Overall choice, the John Deere S100, are more powerful than electric models, but they’re louder, less eco-friendly, and require more maintenance, including regular oil changes. Plus, in some locations, gas mowers have very stringent requirements for emission levels that some models can’t meet. However, Noah James, professional landscaper and owner of Liberty Lawn Maintenance notes that the power of a gas mower can be especially useful if your lawn has rough areas, thick weeds, or especially tough grass.

Electric mowers, on the other hand, like our Best Electric Riding Mower, the Ryobi 80V Brushless Electric Riding Mower, are typically less powerful and require you to keep an eye on the battery charge level, but they’re also quieter, easier to start, and better for the environment. Still, while electric mowers require consistent charging, they often don’t require as much maintenance as 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. Most residential riding mowers have decks that are around 42 inches, but if you have a very large property, you might want to consider a mower with deck that’s considerably bigger, like our Best Gas Mower pick, the Toro TimeCutter Zero-Turn Mower, which has a 50-inch deck. And of course, small properties, or lawns with many obstacles, might do best with a mower that has a smaller deck.

Keep in mind that the larger the mower, the harder it will be to maneuver through gates and other obstacles, plus the more space it will require in your garage or shed. Also, a mower’s deck size will 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. Our Best Battery Powered Zero-Turn Mower, the Ryobi 80V Electric Zero-Turn Riding Mower, turns on a dime even with its 42-inch deck.

Engine Power

While the typical push mower’s engine is just 2 to 5 horsepower or the equivalent in battery power, a riding mower requires considering more oomph, with most having engine power or equivalent battery power of 13 to 30 horsepower. Noah James says, “Make sure the riding mower you’re considering has enough horsepower to handle your specific needs. A larger engine will be able to handle thicker grass and steeper hills with ease.”

As a rough guideline, a lawn that’s less than an acre can be handled by a riding mower with at least 13 horsepower, but a 3-acre lawn needs at least 18 horsepower to get the job done, and even more if your lawn has slopes or rugged terrain.

Grass Clippings

Don’t forget to consider how the lawn mower handles grass clippings. Just about every riding mower has a side-discharge chute to spit the clippings back out onto your lawn. But many brands also offer mulching kits or clipping bags for their riding mowers; note that you’ll generally have to purchase these separately. However, our Best Small Mower, the Cub Cadet 30-Inch Battery Mower, does include a mulching kit. If you want to mulch or bag your clippings, be sure that any riding mower you are considering offers these options, and remember to add the price of the accessories to the cost of the mower itself.

The defining feature of zero-turn mowers is a zero-degree turning radius, but these mowers are generally also much faster than regular riding mowers. However, keep in mind that it’s easier to maintain control around obstacles at lower speeds, so unless you have a very large, flat lawn, you’re unlikely to be running your mower at top speed very often. Plus, zero-turn mowers are much more expensive than regular riding mowers.

According to Marc Mayer, a riding lawn mower is suited to any type of turf, but because these machines are heavy, they can cause soil compaction, which can affect the health of your grass. You can help prevent this by not mowing when the ground is wet, and by trying to avoid mowing over the same area more than once.

The top speed for standard riding lawnmowers ranges from 4 to 6 mph. Zero-turn mowers are much faster, with some going 8 to 10 mph at full speed. 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, so don’t automatically assume that you need the fastest mower available.

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. Of course, if you are merely loaning the mower to a neighbor or somewhere very close by, you may be able to ride the mower to the location, as long as the terrain permits this and you keep the blade turned off and elevated.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Michelle Ullman is the home improvement/tool expert for The Spruce. She has extensive experience not only in writing about all things related to the home, but also in carrying out various DIY projects, including landscaping, painting, flooring, wallpapering, furniture makeovers, and simple repairs around the house and yard.

For this roundup, she relied on input from our team of testers, but also considered dozens of other riding lawn mowers of various types, evaluating each for features, power, effectiveness, ease of use, and overall value. She also considered feedback from customers, both positive and negative, as well as reviews and information on landscaping websites. Noah James, professional landscaper and owner of Liberty Lawn Maintenance, and Marc Mayer, Director of Technical Operations at TruGreen, also provided additional expert input.

What Is The Spruce Approved?

Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally, we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut.