Tractor supply riding lawnmower. The 7 best places to buy lawn mowers

The 7 best places to buy lawn mowers

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A perfectly manicured lawn is the pinnacle of homeowner pride, but you’ve got to have the right lawn mower first. When it comes to picking out the best mower for your yard, the choices can seem endless and overwhelming: electric versus gas, push versus self-propelled, and how about all those extra attachments?

While Reviewed has tested a variety of lawn care tools, we have yet to specifically test lawn mowers. But you can ensure you’re getting a great one by shopping at the right place. After all, where you buy matters when you’re looking at the selection, pricing, customer experience, knowledgeable employees, and convenience. Whatever your top priorities are, we’ve researched the best places to buy lawn mowers, and below are our top picks.

Ace Hardware

A smaller selection at Ace Hardware means more condensed quality and easier choices

Return policy: 30 days Brands: Ego, Craftsman, Toro, and more Free shipping: Not all products available to ship but pickup is available Price matching: No

Ace isn’t just the place for helpful hardware folks, it’s also a great place for purchasing a new lawn mower. Not only is it ranked No. 1 in customer satisfaction among home improvement retail stores, but it makes the buying process easy with a well-curated selection of great products in a range of price points. Although its stock is considered to be small compared to other retailers on this list, you’ll find many top brands, like Ego, Craftsman, and Toro, and different types of mowers, including gas, battery, and manual.

Although not every item is available to ship directly to your home, Ace does allow you to buy online and pick up in-store or through curbside pickup. In the event you’re not totally happy with your purchase, Ace offers a full 30-day return policy with proof of purchase.

The Home Depot

The Home Depot has a great selection of top lawn mower brands

Return policy: 90 days Brands: Toro, Honda, Black Decker, and more Free shipping: Yes Price matching: Yes

The Home Depot stocks popular brands like Toro, Honda, and Black Decker and offers a lawn mower rental service, so you can rent a Toro self-propelled mower from four hours up to four weeks. The retailer has every type of mower essential from parts and accessories to commercial mowers, most with free delivery (or select to pick up in-store at a nearby location).

The Home Depot price match guarantee is a great addition to its many benefits. It includes the price of the item plus shipping cost if you find the mower at a lower price elsewhere. To be valid for a price match, items must be available from the competitor and ship to your location. Most new and unopened merchandise sold by The Home Depot can be returned within 90 days of purchase, so you’ll have plenty of time to decide if the mower is right for you.

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Lowe’s

Find all the best name brands at Lowe’s

Return policy: 90 days Brands: Craftsman, Ego, and more Free shipping: Yes Price matching: Yes

Out of the many things we love about Lowe’s, its product selection and great are top of the list. Not only do you get the option for in-store pickup or delivery, but you have your choice of 27 top-rated lawn mower brands, such as Craftsman and Ego. The retailer even carries robotic lawn mowers that are hands-off, battery-powered devices for lawns up to an acre.

Lowe’s also has a great price match guarantee available. If you find a current lower price on an identical in-stock item from another retailer, it’ll match the price. All you have to do is present the ad, printout, or photo and show it to an associate to validate who will complete the price match. Approved price match retailers include Amazon, Wayfair, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Macy’s, and more. When it comes to returns, most new and unused merchandise can be refunded or exchanged with proof of purchase within 90 days.

Tractor Supply Company

Known for commercial lawn care, Tractor Supply Co. also offers lots of residential mowers for sale

Return policy: 30 days Brands: Cub Cadet, Worx, Swisher, and more Free shipping: Yes Price matching: Yes

Although the retailer does sell lots of commercial products, Tractor Supply Company also has a good variety of residential-use lawn mowers from push mowers to zero-turn, all of which can be shipped directly to you. It is a smaller selection when compared to other retailers on this list, but the quality of products remains high with notable brands like Cub Cadet, Worx, and Swisher. If you’d prefer to buy online and pick up your mower in-store at a location near you, you’re able to filter by the products available at stores nearest to your zip code.

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Plus, whether you made your purchase in a Tractor Supply store or online, you can return it with proof of purchase within 30 days from the purchase date. Another great benefit is that Tractor Supply will match any competitor’s online or in-store price on any identical item unless the product is shipped or sold by a third-party seller (like Amazon Marketplace or eBay).

Mowers Direct

Return policy: 30 days Brands: Toro, Honda, Cub Cadet, and more Free shipping: Yes Price matching: No

While the name may say it all, Mowers Direct has more to offer than just a huge selection of lawn mowers. Not only does it offer free shipping on thousands of products, but you’re also able to finance your order if needed and get expert advice from industry-leading professionals. They carry top brands like Toro, Honda, and Cub Cadet as well as a range of lawn care items, mower accessories, and attachments.

Mowers Direct also has a ton of deals on its products, including frequent closeouts, “scratch and dent” offerings (mowers with cosmetic imperfections but still run like new), and a paper check discount of 2%. As for returns, you’re able to return any unopened products and accessories within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Products that have been opened and unused in their original packaging can be returned within 30 days of delivery as well but will be subject to a 25% restocking fee.

Walmart

Enjoy low prices, and even a price match guarantee

Return policy: 90 days Brands PowerSmart, Yardmax, Carevas, and more Free shipping: Yes Price matching: Yes

Shop by brand or by category over at Walmart for your ideal lawn mower, including gas, cordless, electric, and riding mowers. With more than 1,000 products to choose from, it’s one of the biggest stock selections around and at some of the best available. In fact, if you find one cheaper from another online retailer, it’ll match it (although some limitations do apply, including that the product must be identical and currently in stock).

As far as shipping goes, you might be able to get your mower with next-day or 2-day delivery, depending on where you live. Otherwise, if the lawn mower is in stock at a nearby Walmart location, there is always the option to purchase online and pick it up in-store. Returns are easy, too: You’ll have 90 days after your purchase to exchange or return unless noted in Walmart’s exceptions. As with shipping, you may also return items in-store, for free by mail, or via a scheduled pickup from your home after providing your receipt or order number.

One thing to note with Walmart’s online store: It’s filled with third-party sellers (indicated by the “sold and shipped by” below the product). While some sellers are legit, others are questionable, so read reviewers thoroughly to make sure you’re not buying a fraudulent product.

Amazon

Amazon has a good selection and easy shipping

Return policy: 30 days Brands: Black Decker, Lawn Master, Greenworks, and more Free shipping: Yes with Amazon Prime membership Price matching: No

To nobody’s surprise, Amazon also sells lawn mowers—and a good number of them, at that. It carries many top-rated brands like Black Decker, Lawn Master, and Greenworks and has a good selection between price, power source, features, and cutting width that you’re able to filter by. Many of Amazon’s lawn mowers are included with Prime shipping, as well, which means you might be able to receive it within days if you have a membership. Plus, if the mower is shipped by Amazon and is over 25, you’ll automatically get free shipping.

Items shipped from Amazon can be returned within 30 days of notification of shipment. Some products do have different policies or requirements, so just be sure to read over the details for each product before purchasing. Like Walmart, Amazon is filled with third-party sellers, so double-check the reviews and the seller before purchasing.

The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on and Instagram for the latest deals, product reviews, and more.

were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

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.

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

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-Inch 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: 2,574

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-Inch 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 4 acres

Best Gas Zero-Turn

Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42-Inch 22 HP 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: 3,499

Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gasoline | Weight: 580 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 3 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: 3,600

Cutting Width: 30 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 362 pounds | Cutting Options: Mulch, side-discharge | Size of Yard: Up to 2 acres

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.

Whether you want a fast zero-turn mower, a clean electric mower, a versatile lawn tractor, or a compact rear-engine mower, find one of the best in this guide.

By Mark Wolfe | Updated Jun 6, 2023 12:08 PM

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When you have a large yard, mowing the lawn can consume an outsize portion of a weekend. Push mowers and walk behinds work fine to a point, but somewhere between 0.5 acre and 1 acre, many end up choosing a riding lawn mower. In addition to letting the operator have a seat while mowing, riding mowers offer more mowing power, a wider deck, and a faster mowing speed to get the job done faster.

These machines may be used to help care for a property in other ways, too. They can pull a utility cart for hauling tools, gardening supplies, and yard debris. They can tow a fertilizer spreader, a lawn aerator, or a yard sweeper. They can even help with snow removal by pushing a snow plow or powering a snow blower. Since every yard is different, there are different sizes and types of riding lawn mowers to choose from. However, knowing which may be right for you may not be entirely intuitive. So what is the best riding lawn mower?

To help you identify the right mower for your yard, read on to learn about some key shopping considerations that we used to identify some of the best riding mowers for a variety of yards. Whether you are looking for the best riding lawn mower for the money, the best garden tractor, or the best small riding lawn mower, one of the following top picks for the best riding lawn mower for 1 acre or more may be the right lawn mower for you.

• BEST OVERALL:John Deere S130 Riding Lawn Mower
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Craftsman 46-Inch Automatic Gas Riding Mower
• BEST ELECTRIC:Ryobi 54-Inch 115Ah Electric Zero-Turn Riding Mower
• BEST LAWN TRACTOR:Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 46-Inch Riding Lawn Tractor
• BEST ZERO-TURN:Toro 42-Inch TimeCutter Zero-Turn Lawn Mower
• BEST FOR HILLS:Troy-Bilt Bronco 42-Inch Gas Riding Lawn Mower
• BEST COMPACT: Troy-Bilt 30-Inch Riding Mower With Mulch Kit
• ALSO CONSIDER:Toro 75760 60-Inch Zero-Turn Riding Mower

How We Chose the Best Riding Lawn Mowers for 1 Acre

We researched the top riding lawn mower brands and models sold through brick-and-mortar stores as well as online retailers. Through this research, we compiled more than 20 models from upwards of a dozen brands, and then we whittled the list down to include only the best sellers within the categories of lawn tractors, residential zero-turn mowers, and rear-engine riding mowers.

After comparing the measurables like deck size, engine power, travel speed, turning radius, and price, we determined the awards and named the top performers.

Our Top Picks

We’ve compiled the following list of the best riding lawn mowers for 1 acre. Read on to learn why we picked them and whether one may be right for you.

John Deere S130 Riding Lawn Mower

In any discussion of lawn equipment, John Deere is one of the top brands that immediately comes to mind, and the S130 shows the reason. This lawn tractor features a John Deere–branded 22-horsepower V-twin engine built by Briggs Stratton, a 42-inch 13-gauge stamped steel deck, smooth hydrostatic transmission, and a 2.4-gallon fuel tank that enables it to cut 2 acres before refueling.

By many measures, the S130 could be the best riding lawn mower for 1 acre. The wide tires and premium two-piece high-back seat offer a higher, clearer vantage point and a more comfortable ride. The ergonomic deck lift lever is spring assisted for easier operation. The dash-mounted fuel gauge makes it easy to see when it’s time to refuel, and the tank is conveniently located under the seat for easy filling. And when mowing season is over, the S130’s numerous available attachments can do other jobs during the offseason, like plowing snow or hauling firewood. For more on the John Deere S130, check out our in-depth review.

Product Specs

• Type: Lawn tractor
• Engine: 22-horsepower Briggs Stratton V-twin engine
• Deck: 42-inch 13-gauge stamped steel deck; 2 blades
• Powerful 22-horsepower V-twin engine drives the mower through rough terrain
• Comfortable seat with a high vantage point makes it easy to spot hazards on the ground
• Dash-mounted fuel gauge is ideal for monitoring fuel levels during a long mowing job
• Easy oil-change system helps keep up with maintenance without taking a lot of time

Get the John Deere riding lawn mower at Lowe’s or a local John Deere dealer.

Craftsman 46-Inch Automatic Gas Riding Mower

Save a few hundred bucks and get comparable quality and performance. This Craftsman automatic riding mower features an 18.5-horsepower Briggs Stratton engine, a 46-inch 12-gauge stamped deck, and easy foot-pedal operation. The simple and reliable starting system requires no priming and no choke.

Although this Craftsman riding mower does not include a long list of comfort features, the mid-height seat does offer a good amount of cushion and lower-back support. The best features are its strong, dependable construction; consistently reliable start-up; and easy operation. For excellent basic functionality at a highly competitive price, this one is the best riding lawn mower for the money.

Product Specs

• Type: Lawn tractor
• Engine: 18.5-horsepower Briggs Stratton single cylinder
• Deck: 46-inch 12-gauge stamped steel deck; 2 blades

• Broad 46-inch cutting deck is excellent for maintaining large yards
• Heavy-duty 12-gauge stamped steel deck boasts superior durability against dents and scratches
• Reliable starting system and foot-pedal operation are ideal for inexperienced users

Get the Craftsman riding lawn mower at Ace Hardware.

Ryobi 54-Inch 115Ah Electric Zero-Turn Riding Mower

Instead of using a conventional engine and hydraulic wheel motors, this Ryobi zero-turn riding mower is completely electric. It uses five efficient brushless motors, which are powered by a 48-volt 115 amp-hour (Ah) rechargeable battery to drive the wheels and blades. No need for gasoline or oil changes, and there are no plugs or filters. On a mostly level and consistently mowed lawn, it cuts up to 3.5 acres per charge, but battery runtime varies with the conditions. The 54-inch deck is stamped from 10-gauge steel.

Battery power comes with some distinct contingencies that must be considered. The Ryobi 48-volt 115Ah battery provides 3 to 3.5 hours of runtime per charge in average mowing conditions, which is adequate for well over an acre of well-kept lawn on mostly level ground. Tall, dense, or weedy grass; uneven terrain; and inefficient mowing patterns (read: excessive maneuvering without actually mowing) drain the battery faster.

Recharge time from 30 percent charge takes about 12 hours. With proper charging and maintenance, the battery can work about 5 years before it needs to be replaced. Those looking for a quiet, powerful mower that eliminates most of the gas engine inconveniences may find what they are looking for in this electric mower.

Product Specs

• Type: Zero turn
• Engine: 5 brushless electric motors; 48-volt 115Ah rechargeable battery
• Deck: 54-inch 10-gauge stamped steel deck; 3 blades

• Electric motor for quieter operation that won’t upset the neighbors
• Does not produce noxious exhaust fumes, limiting the health risk to the user
• Rechargeable batteries can power the mower for up to 3.5 acres per charge
• Handles large yards well due to the 54-inch cutting deck and 3 cutting blades

• Battery runtime can be reduced when mowing in tougher conditions
• Currently sold as a Home Depot exclusive, so availability is not always guaranteed

Get the Ryobi riding lawn mower at The Home Depot.

Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 46-Inch Riding Lawn Tractor

For tough mowing conditions and other all-purpose lawn-tractor tasks, this may be the best choice. The Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT features a premium 23-horsepower Kohler V-twin engine and a rugged 12-gauge-steel 46-inch deck that are perfect for mowing up to 2 acres of mixed level and hilly terrain. It is also compatible with a wide range of add-on equipment, like utility carts, spreaders, a snow plow, and others to help maintain a property throughout the year.

The XT1 Enduro LT boasts thick steel in the deck, a wide cutting swath, and tight turning radius to work hard in difficult conditions. The all-purpose Cub Cadet’s added weight supports superior traction and maneuverability, making it the best garden tractor in our roundup.

Product Specs

• Type: Lawn tractor
• Engine: 23-horsepower Kohler V-twin engine
• Deck: 46-inch 12-gauge stamped steel deck; 2 blades
• Powerful 23-horsepower V-twin engine drives the 2 sharpened cutting blades for enhanced cutting power
• 46-inch cutting deck makes it easier to tackle larger lawns in less time
• Premium 15-inch high-back seat is padded and supportive for enhanced user comfort
• Relatively tight turning radius helps for maneuvering the mower in narrow spaces

Get the Cub Cadet riding lawn mower at The Home Depot or Tractor Supply Co.

Toro 42-Inch TimeCutter Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

Zero-turn mowers are grass-cutting specialists, far superior to push mowers, with the maneuverability to literally turn on a dime or even pivot in place. The Toro 42-inch TimeCutter zero-turn mower is powered by a 22-horsepower Kohler V-twin engine and is capable of mowing up to 7 miles per hour, which is nearly double the speed of a lawn tractor. It features commercial-quality hydro pumps and wheel motors, and it comes with a rugged 10-gauge fabricated deck for durability to match its speed.

This zero-turn mower is a superior choice for mowing large, relatively level, and open lawn areas dotted with obstacles. It includes a drop-pin tow hitch suitable for pulling a fertilizer spreader or a lawn aerator to help with maintenance, and it is compatible with the Toro TimeCutter twin bagger, which is sold separately.

Product Specs

• Operates at up to 7 miles per hour to cut down on mowing time
• Zero-turn design makes it easier to maneuver and control the riding mower
• 10-gauge steel-fabricated deck increases mower durability against scratches and dents
• Built-in drop-pin tow hitch for pulling fertilizer spreaders or lawn aerators

Get the Toro TimeCutter riding lawn mower at The Home Depot or Tractor Supply Co.

Troy-Bilt Bronco 42-Inch Gas Riding Lawn Mower

Lawn tractors are usually the best choice for hilly terrain thanks to their balanced-weight design and easy-to-control steering. The Troy-Bilt Bronco offers the needed stability and control for mowing slopes with the easy access of a step-through frame and easy operation of an AutoDrive transmission. It is powered by a durable pressure-lubricated 19-horsepower Briggs Stratton engine, and it features a 42-inch 13-gauge stamped steel deck.

The Bronco’s cutting deck includes anti-scalping rollers to eliminate gouging the grass on uneven terrain. The simple design, mow-in-reverse feature, and intuitive automatic operation helps operators FOCUS on navigating the terrain instead of fumbling with controls. One feature that Troy-Bilt could improve upon is the small 1.3-gallon fuel tank that could risk running low before the job is complete. Overall, this one could be a Smart choice for durable functionality in rugged terrain.

Product Specs

• Type: Lawn tractor
• Engine: 19-horsepower Briggs Stratton single-cylinder engine
• Deck: 42-inch 13-gauge stamped steel deck; 2 blades
• Beginners can take advantage of the easy-to-use AutoDrive transmission
• Anti-scalping deck wheel system prevents the deck from coming into contact with the ground
• Smooth operation with the full-pressure lubricated 19-horsepower Briggs Stratton single-cylinder engine
• Running headlights illuminate the area to wrap up jobs in the evening

Get the Troy-Bilt Bronco riding lawn mower at The Home Depot or Troy-Bilt.

Troy-Bilt 30-Inch Riding Mower With Mulch Kit

When more mowing power than a simple push mower is needed but a lawn tractor or zero-turn mower is too big, that’s where a compact rear-engine riding mower excels. Our pick for the best small riding lawn mower, the Troy-Bilt 30-inch mower, requires half the storage space of a lawn tractor, maneuvers most walk-through gates with ease, and improves mowing speed over typical walk-behind mowers. This small riding mower features a reliable 10.5-horsepower Briggs Stratton engine and a 30-inch 13-gauge steel deck capable of side discharge or mulching.

Although it is considered a lightweight mower, this Troy-Bilt’s rear engine configuration balances the weight over the drive wheels to offer good traction on sloped terrain. The manual six-speed transmission is shift-on-the-fly capable for easy speed control. This compact mower takes up only 62 inches long by 30 inches wide in storage, and it navigates passages as narrow as 3 feet. Those who want a compact mower or have learned that bigger is not always better may want to consider this small riding mower.

Product Specs

• Type: Rear engine
• Engine: 10.5-horsepower Briggs Stratton single-cylinder engine
• Deck: 30-inch 13-gauge stamped steel deck; 1 blade
• Compact design for easy storage in a shed or garage
• Small body and deck allow better access into landscape bottleneck areas
• Mow-in-reverse system for better control in tight spaces
• Tow-hitch for utility cart or lawn-care accessories

Get the Troy-Bilt 30-inch riding lawn mower at The Home Depot, Brand New Mowers, or Southern Chainsaw Mower Parts.

Toro 75760 60-Inch Zero-Turn Riding Mower

The Toro 75760 riding mower can make quick work of expansive yards with the broad 60-inch cutting deck made of 10-gauge steel. The deck also features a reinforced leading edge and 6-inch spindles to ensure the riding mower lasts for years to come. Use this lawn mower for 1- to 4-acre mowing jobs, and take advantage of the zero-turn controls to quickly change direction.

This Toro riding mower features a 24.5-horsepower Toro V-twin engine to drive the mower at up to 7 miles per hour and power the three cutting blades. It works well on hilly terrain, giving users a smooth ride due to the shock-absorbing dampeners and fully tubular front axle. When a push mower or small riding mower is not enough to handle the yard work, consider this zero-turn mower to tackle up to 4 acres of lawn.

Product Specs

• Type: Zero turn
• Engine: 24.5-horsepower Toro V-twin engine
• Deck: 60-inch 10-gauge fabricated-steel deck; 3 blades
• Powerful 24.5-horsepower Toro V-twin engine handles hills without a problem
• Expansive 60-inch cutting deck is ideal for maintaining large yards
• Built-in shock-absorbing dampeners for a smoother ride
• 3 sharpened cutting blades enhances the cutting ability

Get the Toro 75760 riding lawn mower at The Home Depot, Toro, or Power Equipment Warehouse.

What to Consider When Choosing a Riding Lawn Mower for 1 Acre

When shopping for a lawn mower, several design and comfort factors will help you narrow the search to find a mower that is right for your property. Read on to learn more about choosing an appropriate type and size as well as other features that can extend its usefulness beyond mowing.

Engine Power and Source

To quickly and efficiently mow an acre of grass, a mower needs adequate power. The most popular large lawn mowers to date are still gasoline-powered because a gas mower offers plenty of power with an extended runtime. But, they do emit exhaust and require fuel handling and storage, along with oil and filter changes and other routine maintenance.

Battery-powered electric riding mowers have become widely available over the past decade and are rapidly increasing in popularity. An electric riding lawn mower operates without emissions, and with much less noise, but an electric riding mower tends to be significantly more expensive to purchase. Additionally, the batteries in an electric riding mower typically need to be replaced every 5 years or so.

The most popular gasoline-powered riding lawn mowers for 1 acre are built with 17- to 24-horsepower engines. Compact rear-engine riding mowers may get the job done with just 10 horsepower. Battery-powered riding mowers typically require a 48- to 60-volt battery and 75-to 100Ah to mow an average acre of lawn.

Cutting Width

The mowing deck is a major point of discussion because it affects both the speed and the quality of the cut. Not only is the overall width important, but so is the number of blades and the depth of the deck. Generally, the fastest, highest-quality cut comes from a wider, deeper deck with more blades. But a larger, deeper deck with more blades requires more engine power, and it is less maneuverable.

Manufacturers of riding mowers usually pair a 42- to 46-inch-wide deck with a 17- to 24-horsepower engine. These mowers are far and away the most popular for landowners who have between 0.5 acre and 2 acres. This combination will mow an acre of average lawn grass in 30 to 45 minutes.

Fuel Capacity

On mostly flat ground, an average riding mower will use between 0.5 and 0.75 gallons of gasoline to mow for an hour, or 0.25 to 0.5 gallons per acre. All gas riding mowers have fuel tanks larger than that, but some are only slightly larger. The smallest fuel tank in our lineup is just 1.3 gallons, which could risk running out of gas before completing the job if the terrain is steep or the grass is extra tough. Running out of gas could also be an issue with heavier tasks like hauling heavy loads uphill or powering a snow blower. For tough jobs, look for a mower with a fuel capacity of at least 2 gallons.

Electric fuel capacity is measured in amp hours. Often, electric mower batteries may be upgraded to higher Ah to increase runtime. As a general rule, while shopping for a battery-powered mower it is wise to cut in half the manufacturer’s stated “mows up to [number of acres]” because real-life conditions are never the same as those in the lab where the promotional numbers were recorded.

Transmission

Riding mower transmissions may be manually geared, automatic, hydrostatic, or independent electric motors.

Manually geared transmissions require the operator to select a gear and then go, and they may or may not offer “shift-on-the-fly” capability. Shift on the fly means users don’t have to stop to select a different gear. These are the most difficult transmissions to master.

Automatic transmissions are similar to driving in an automatic automobile. Simply select the forward or reverse gear, then press the pedal to move, and the mower’s system of belts will change gears as needed.

Instead of belts and pulleys, hydrostatic transmissions use hydraulic pressure to power the wheels. This drive system is superior to both manual and automatic transmissions because it is easier to operate, delivers smooth acceleration, and requires less maintenance. Because it eliminates shifting gears, hydrostatic is a great choice for hills.

Electric mowers use direct-drive electric motors instead of transmissions. The drive wheels and blades each have their own motor, which is powered by the one battery. This system requires the lowest maintenance of all because the motors have a very long working life and require no maintenance.

Additional Features

Up to this point we have only discussed performance features. Other considerations that are equally important relate to user comfort, convenience, and multitasking. The following are some of the more important features to consider.

• Mowing height adjustment is an ergonomic, spring-assisted deck lift lever that takes some of the work out of raising and lowering the mowing deck.
• No-choke startup, also known as auto choke, is a feature that simplifies starting the lawn mower.
• An upgraded high-back seat has more cushion in the bottom and support in the back, which makes it more comfortable to operate the mower.
• A dash-mounted fuel gauge allows users to easily view the fuel level while operating the mower so they can avoid running out of gas.
• Easy oil-change systems vary among brands. The patented systems make draining the oil and changing the filter faster and easier.
• A deck washout port allows you to connect a garden hose directly to the top of the mower deck for easy cleanup of grass clippings and debris, rather than raising the entire deck to pressure-wash from below.
• A towing hitch provides the ability to tow a utility cart, a fertilizer spreader, a spike aerator, and other attachments, increasing the usefulness of a riding mower.
• A mulching deck, or a mulch-on-demand system, shreds the clippings to a finer texture for faster breakdown compared to side discharge. Many mowers require a mulching conversion kit, while others come equipped for the job.
• Compatibility with a bagger, a mulch kit, a striping kit, a sun canopy, and other attachments further extends the range of possibilities.

FAQs

If you’re searching for a new riding lawn mower, you may have lingering questions about the best mower for your property. Read on for answers to a few common questions asked by other shoppers.

Q. What should I look for when buying a riding lawn mower?

Determine the type of riding mower that best fits your needs: lawn tractor, zero-turn mower, or rear-engine riding mower. Consider the engine power, deck size, and mowing speed. For 1 acre, most users prefer the performance of 17 to 22 horsepower, 42- to 46-inch deck, and travel speed of 4 to 5 miles per hour for lawn tractors, or 7 miles per hour for zero-turn mowers.

Q. What size mower is best for 1 acre?

The most popular deck size of mower for an acre is 42 inches. However, a wider deck, up to 54 inches, could be a great choice if the space is wide open and relatively flat.

Q. How long does it take to cut 1 acre of grass?

Most lawn tractors equipped with a 42-inch deck can mow an acre in about 36 minutes. Mowing speed in acres per hour is calculated by factoring the deck size and travel speed. A mower with a 42-inch deck, averaging 4.5 miles per hour, can cut 1.7 acres per hour. Change the deck size to 46 inches and the acres per hour increases to nearly 1.9.

For the most accurate calculation, use this formula: APH = (MW/12) (MS x 5,280) / 43,560 x 0.9

43,560 square feet in an acre

Q. What is a good horsepower for a lawn mower?

For a 1-acre lawn, choose a lawn tractor with between 17 and 24 horsepower, or a zero-turn mower with between 20 and 25 horsepower.

Q. How do you transport a riding mower?

Load the mower onto the trailer or into the truck bed with the engine toward the front of the vehicle. On a trailer, position the engine in front of the trailer axles. Set the mower’s parking brake. Tie down the mower front and back with ratchet straps to anchor points in the truck bed or trailer bed.

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