Homeowners all around the world struggle to maintain their yards and lawns to keep them well-groomed and visually appealing. But this doesn’t have to be difficult if one happens to find the best riding lawn mowers in the market. Unlike the walk-behind mowers, these machines are easier to use, more efficient, and more convenient too.
Riding lawn mowers make mowing tasks a breeze making them perfect for everyone. In this article, we’ve reviewed some of the best products available now. Also, we’ve come up with a handy buying guide to help make your choice easier.
There are different products to choose from and knowing what to look for will make the task a lot simpler. Read on to learn more about riding lawn mowers and what to consider when choosing one.
Features to consider in Good Riding Lawn Mowers
Cutting blades
The cutting blades of the mower are key since they are the ones which cut the grass. If you have a big lawn with a lot of grass or you even have tough weeds growing in your yard, then it’s a good idea to select a mower which comes with more than a single cutting blade.
Some of the smaller models only have a single blade, but there are riding lawn mowers which have 2 to 3 blades. Of course, the number of blades won’t matter as much if the engine of the mower isn’t powerful enough. Let’s discuss that next.
Engine’s horsepower
The engine’s horsepower or HP is a measure of the engine’s power output. The higher the HP value, the more work the mower will be able to perform. This means that machines which have a higher horsepower will accomplish tasks faster and can also handle uneven terrain. So, if you need a powerful mower, check the HP of the engine before moving on to the other specifications.
Turning radius
This is another important feature to look out for. A mower’s turning radius would describe how tightly the mower can turn. If a mower has a small turning radius, this means that you will be able to perform sharper turns with it. This is very useful especially if you have a lawn with a lot of tight corners and obstacles.
The size of your lawn
Before choosing a mower, it’s also important to consider the size of your lawn. The various models on the market target various yard sizes as well. That’s why it’s important to make sure that you get a machine which will perform well on your own yard. Otherwise, you’d just end up wasting your money.
If your lawn is small to medium in size and has an even, flat terrain, then you can go for the standard models which have basic features. But if you have a medium to large sized lawn, you may need to consider a bigger model as well. You can find out the size of the area that the mower can handle in the product’s specifications.
Furthermore, there are various motors meant for areas of different sizes. If you have a smaller-sized area to mow, then you can choose a mower with around 16 HP or less. Medium-sized areas would require about 20 HP while larger areas would need about 25 HP or more to work well.
Your own terrain
Generally, mowers prefer flat and even surfaces with fine or thin grass. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Often, there would be slopes in the lawn, thicker patches of grass, thick weeds, and rough terrain. If you have such a lawn, you will still benefit a lot from acquiring a riding lawn mower.
If you have heavier or thicker grass on your lawn, choose a mower that has at least 4 different blades. If there is a slope in your lawn, choose a model with a smaller-sized deck as these are a lot easier to maneuver. Also, these would have a lesser likelihood of digging into the ground. So, when you choose a mower, consider the terrain of your lawn.
Top 10 Best Riding Lawn Mowers 2023
1. CUB CADET XT1
Editor’s Rating:
Powerful
Power is the standout feature of this mower, but it’s also versatile and comfortable. It’s powered by an OHV engine for superior performance. The mower also has a hydrostatic transmission drive which allows for simple and smooth operation. Because of the turning radius, you can maneuver the mower around obstructions and obstacles easily. Furthermore, the mower comes with a rear-wheel drive making it hassle-free and easy to mow the lawn in reverse.
Comfortable
This machine provides a luxurious, comfortable seating which you can adjust with ease. This way, you can find the right “sweet spot” you need for you to mow your lawn comfortably. Another cool feature is the cup holder situated beside the steering wheel so you can enjoy a cup while you mow the lawn. It has a plastic hood for improved performance without adding weight to the machine. The mower comes with headlights too which means that you can also use it in conditions with low visibility.
Affordable
With all these features, you’d expect this mower to come at a very high price, but that isn’t the case with this one. Even though it’s a powerful and reliable machine, it still comes at a reasonable price. It will provide you with the comfort, versatility, and strength you need to keep your lawn well-groomed. It comes with a reliable engine that powers the machine so that you can mow comfortably and efficiently.
Pros
- The machine is versatile, comfortable, powerful, and it comes at a reasonable price.
- It's solid, and you can even use it on rough or uneven terrain.
- Easy to handle and hassle-free even when driving the mower in reverse.
- It comes with automotive-style turning radium to guarantee neat cutting.
Cons
- It's a bit loud, and it tends to choke before starting.
2. Troy-Bilt 540CC
Editor’s Rating:
Powerful
The power of this mower comes from its reliable engine. It’s a high-quality machine that’s built for superior performance and powerful mowing. It has a sturdy deck rider, a capacity for mowing in reverse, and a power take-off that’s manual. All these features will provide you with the efficiency you need for even the toughest mowing tasks. It also has a Step Thru frame designed for easy access to make the task easier and more comfortable.
Construction
This mower is well-constructed and provides superior performance for various mowing tasks. With its durable components and impressive features, you can enjoy mowing your land with ease. It’s one of the more popular models out there because of the features and the reasonable price. The mower even comes with a deck wash system already integrated into the machine to make clean up an easier task. With this mower, you can adjust the height of the deck to 5 positions for the cut you need.
Value for money
Although fairly new, this model has gained popularity in a short amount of time. This is because of the top-notch features and the affordable price. With this mower, you get all the power you need plus a wide cutting deck. It’s also equipped with the capacity to mow in reverse. With all these features, it even looks stylish enough for any home.
Pros
- It's powered by a dependable engine, and it comes with a foot-pedal transmission that's automatic.
- Provides superior power as well as operator comfort.
- Has a soft-touch mid-back seat and steering for superior comfort.
- Comes with a large mowing deck and reverse capabilities.
Cons
- Some feel that the CVT transmission is too simple.
3. Ariens Zoom 42
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
Superior construction is one of the features customers look for in riding lawn mowers. With this machine, you can mow your land in confidence. The stamped deck helps maximize the airflow to provide a cut that’s super precise. The deck has a compact design to make it easy for you to cut through the narrower parts of the yard. Furthermore, the mower has a professional-grade engine which provides superior efficiency.
Performance
This machine comes with seven different positions for cutting which you can adjust with ease. It has an intuitive deck lift that’s foot-operated and a 4-point deck system to provide consistent results and a more stable ride every time. It’s a zero turn mower with three spindles, a special drive system, and it can reach up to 6 mph. The agile machine manicures lawns quickly with precision while the user stays comfortable.
Easy to use
Another great feature of this mower is its ease of use. Once you’ve got the hang of the machine, you can use it to cut your lawn smoothly and accurately. The wheels have an anti-scalp feature which will keep your ground protected. You’ll be able to maneuver this mower easily even in the tighter and narrower areas. It also has armrests you can adjust in three different ways as needed. The mower even comes with a lot of leg room for additional comfort.
Pros
- You can adjust the control bar to maneuver the mower easily.
- Comes with a stamped deck that's made of durable steel.
- It has a professional-grade engine to enhance performance and comfortable seats.
- The deck port has a wash-out feature making the mower easy to clean.
Cons
- There are some issues with traction when used on wet terrain.
4. Husqvarna 960450057 GTH52XLS
Editor’s Rating:
Heavy-duty
This mower is a heavyweight machine that comes with a heavy-duty chassis. Because of its power, you can use it on flat and even land as well as on steep hills and terrains. It’s powerful enough to cut grass while climbing uphill thanks to its motor and other high-quality components. You can customize this mower by adding grass baggers, mulch kits, and other types of attachments which you may need for your mowing tasks.
Efficient
Of course, most riding lawn mowers out there will provide you with the results you desire. But this one comes with additional features to make your tasks easier. With this mower, you can adjust the cutting height to suit your needs. The mower allows you to keep your hands on the while adjusting the direction and speed using the foot pedals. Other convenient features include the deck lever mounted on the fender and the cutting blades which can be electrically engaged.
Versatile
We’ve mentioned that this mower can work even on hilly terrains. This is a huge advantage for those who have uneven, hilly or steep lawns or yards. It’s a high-quality machine which is easy to use and has some comfort-oriented features. It’s durable, and it will give you good value for your money thanks to its power and all the features it comes with. Since it also comes at a reasonable price, this makes it a very popular model.
Pros
- Has an ergonomic design and a high-back seat that's adjustable.
- The cutting blades are electrically-engaged, so all you have to do is to pull the switch.
- The deck level comes mounted on the fender for convenience and easy operation.
- This machine is specifically engineered for comfort, precision, durability, and style.
Cons
- Repairs for the machine are very costly.
5. Husqvarna MZ61
Editor’s Rating:
Performance
This zero turn mower comes from a well-known brand in the industry. It’s a superior machine which performs well, is comfortable to use, and will make you more productive. It comes with a steel deck that’s rugged, fabricated, and comes with the capacity for collection and mulch. The mower has a hydraulic system that’s commercially rated too making it perfect for various maintenance needs.
Easy to use
This superb mower is easy to use, and it comes with a powerful engine for superior performance. It has a fully fabricated deck which can cut grass on different types of terrain. It also has reinforcements on the bottom for enhanced durability. The mower has spindles which you can access through 2 different locations. Its side chute is of hard plastic, and the deck comes with 12 various cutting heights which you can easily control using the foot pedal.
Durable
The steel deck of this mower has the capability to mulch clippings. It can also hold a bag if you want to eliminate all the debris from your yard. The tires can go over various terrains, and the foot pan gives you easy access to the spindles and pullets of the deck belt. This feature makes clean up a breeze after mowing. The mower has an impressive chassis along with large tires on the front and the rear.
Pros
- Has a cutting deck lift that's pedal-assisted and hydrostatic gear transmission.
- Its hydraulic system is very impressive as is the blade cutting system.
- The mower has highly-intuitive controls and a steel frame that's heavy-duty.
- The manufacturers of this product designed it with productivity, comfort, and performance in mind.
Cons
- Some customers have issues with the product's quality control.
6. Poulan Pro P46ZX
Editor’s Rating:
Easy to use
You can enjoy enhanced maneuverability with this riding lawn mower thanks to the dual-wheel hydro EZT transmission. This controls each of the wheels separately so that you can move in different directions simply by moving your arms backward and forward. With this mower, you can mow your land at a faster rate. It’s a zero turn mower which will allow you to move around your yard while avoiding any obstacles. You can even change directions effortlessly because of the mower’s features.
Durable
Since this mower will cut your mowing time down, it means that you won’t work the engine for long periods of time. This created less wear and thus, enhances the longevity of the machine. This mower will last for a long time compared to the competition. Aside from providing a faster mowing time, this product is also made of high-quality parts which make it highly durable.
Construction
This mower comes from a well-known and trusted brand in the industry which means that it’s well-constructed. With all the features of this machine, you can make your lawn the best-looking one in your neighborhood. The mower has a reinforced deck, an EZT transmission, and a seat with a high back for more comfort. It also has an electric clutch, a fuel tank, and a digital hour meter. All these parts and featured combined makes it an efficient machine that performs well.
Pros
- Has a V-Twin engine as well as a reinforced deck that's stamped and with a warranty good for 10 years.
- It has a durable frame that's welded and caster wheels too.
- The back of the seat is extra-high for superior comfort.
- Comes with a panel that's easily accessible and am electric clutch blade that's easy to engage.
Cons
- The instructions aren't complete.
7. Husqvarna YTA24V48
Editor’s Rating:
Powerful
This is one of the best riding lawn mowers because it’s a true workhorse that lives up to the name of its brand. It’s a powerful machine made with high-quality parts to ensure durability and optimum performance. This is a versatile mower which provides consistent and impressive results every time. It comes with a robust 2-cylinder engine and an auto transmission. The transmission comes with a choke-less start, and it doesn’t need much power to drive.
Easy to use
The mower may look intimidating but using it is a breeze. It has an air induction technology which enhances the airflow to the cutting deck to ensure consistency in cutting. The deck lever has a fender-mounted adjustment for the cutting height and an engagement system for the electric blade. This means that all the things you need are right at your fingertips. For comfort, the mower has a steering wheel with an ergonomic design and a seat that’s adjustable. With this mower, it feels like you’re driving a small car.
Value for money
This is the perfect choice for those who want to get good value for the money they spend. Most people consider riding lawn mowers as an investment to help keep their land well-groomed. Because of all its features and the fact that it’s built to last, this mower will impress any homeowner. It provides high-quality results and performs impressively every time. Using this mower will leave your yard looking neat and crisp for all the world to see.
Pros
- Comes with an auto transmission that's fast and doesn't require much maintenance.
- The Air Induction technology for mowing ensures cutting consistency each time.
- Has a deck lever that's fender-mounted for easier operation.
- It's powerful, reliable, and comes at a reasonable price.
Cons
- The mower tends to stop when cutting while climbing up hills.
8. Poulan Pro 960420182
Editor’s Rating:
Powerful
If you have the right machine, mowing the lawn could become a much easier task. This powerful mower may be the right one for you because of all its excellent features. The mower has an Automatic Hydrostatic Transmission, and it’s perfect for those looking for a high-quality, tough machine that comes at a reasonable price. It’s powered by a single-cylinder engine to make mowing tasks faster and easier.
Construction
The mower has a wide deck, and it comes with a deck lift that’s spring-controlled so you can easily adjust the cutting height. It even comes with deck wheels on the front which have an anti-scalp feature. This feature helps protect your ground from getting scalped while mowing. The wheels serve as a cushion between the ground and the mower’s deck. In addition, the dual-blade design provides a seamless cut every time.
Easy to use
The mower has a turning radius of 16-inches which means that you can maneuver it even at the tight turns. This is a handy feature especially if your land has different obstacles such as bushes, trees, and the like. It also has a feature which allows you to mow in reverse, so you don’t have to keep on changing directions. In case of poor visibility, the mower comes with a handy headlight. You can also adjust the deck using 6 different positions for cutting, and this feature is very convenient for those who have an uneven terrain.
Pros
- Has a convenient Auto Hydrostatic Transmission which makes adjustments easier.
- The performance and durability come from the powerful engine.
- The front axle oscillates and comes with a floating deck to provide a level cut even on rough terrain.
- Comes with 6 different positions for cutting to provide flexibility.
Cons
- It's quite expensive
- It doesn't come with a foot drive.
9. Husqvarna 967271701
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
The mower comes with a twin-cylinder engine to reduce vibrations while providing the machine with more power. It has a reinforced cutting deck with heavy steel and a robust frame for superior durability. The cutting-edge construction of the mower will impress any homeowner. It has an electric clutch for easy engagement of blades, a control pad with an ergonomic design, and a foot area with an anti-slip feature.
Easy to use
This is a zero turn mower with an automatic choke system to allow for a simpler startup. It comes with a deck lift system that’s spring-assisted and placed in a location for you to see it easily. The mower also comes with an advanced technology of air induction which enhances the grass lift and provides a better cut while you mow the lawn. Furthermore, the transmission provides performance that’s both maintenance-free and worry-free.
High-quality
Just like some of the other products on our list, this one comes from the same trusted brand. It provides superior performance, and it’s made with high-quality components. With this mower, you can enjoy mowing your land with ease and efficiency. It has a v-twin engine which makes the machine reliable and powerful. Moreover, the mower has an air filtration system, a huge cooling fan, and wheels with an anti-scalping feature.
Pros
- Has a special air induction technology which improves grass lift for a more superior cut.
- Enjoy worry-free performance while requiring minimum maintenance.
- The cutting deck is of stamped-steel with reinforcements for added durability.
- The deck lift system is easy to use and conveniently located.
Cons
- Not very effective in thicker grass.
10. Troy-Bilt 382cc
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
Take one look at this mower, and you’ll know that it’s made with superior construction. Because of its size, you can easily store this machine in your shed or garage. It’s perfect for those who have a landscape that’s medium-sized and a terrain that’s relatively even. The mower has a powerful engine which will last longer and provide superior performance. It has a fuel-sight window so that you can see the gas levels while working. It also has an adjustable blade with a manual take-off for fast and easy replacement of the blade.
Design
With the design of this riding lawn mower, you can easily navigate around your land. Although this mower has a compact size, it’s still highly efficient and powerful. It comes with a mid-back seat for the user’s comfort so you can mow the lawn with ease. Aside from the design, the mower is of high-quality materials making it a tough machine.
Versatile
This mower comes with some impressive features making it perfect for homeowners with grassy yards. It’s a versatile machine that combines all the advantages of a standard riding mower with the convenient and compact size of a walk-behind mower. It has a robust motor and adjustable settings so that you can choose the cutting height you need to mow your lawn. Aside from the comfortable seat, this also has a steering wheel with a soft grip for added comfort.
Pros
- Powered by a powerful engine with a top-forward speed of 4.25 MPH.
- The cutting deck has a good size, and it comes with 5 different settings which you can adjust.
- It has a turning radius of 18-inches making it suitable for terrain that's relatively even.
- The power take-off that's manual allows for easy and quick blade engagement.
Cons
- Several customers had issues with the customer service.
Guide to Buying the Best Riding Lawn Mowers
These various products come with their own specifications and features. Your choice should depend on your needs, preferences, and a number of other important factors. We’ve provided you with a better idea of the best riding lawn mowers available so now it’s time to learn about the factors to keep in mind when making a choice.
You have to be wise while choosing the right lawn mower. It’s not just a necessary equipment for maintain the garden, but it has some mental and physical benefits as well.
What important factors should you consider when buying riding lawn mowers?
Durability and comfort
As you try to determine which riding lawn mower is the best one for you, durability will come to mind. These machines are quite expensive, so it’s important to choose one which will last for a long time. Choosing a durable mower made of high-quality materials will also ensure its reliability and longevity, so you don’t have to purchase another one after just a short period of time.
Comfort is also an important factor to look out for; no matter what the size of your lawn is. The good news is that the new models come with comfort-oriented features and all you have to do is choose the ones that appeal to you.
A common feature for the comfort of users is the seat. Some models have high-back seats, mid-back seats, bucket seats, and even roomier ones which are perfect for those with a larger build. The comfort level is essential if you want to use your mower for long periods of time. Since riding lawn mowers should make the task easier, comfort is key.
Transmission
Just like cars, lawn mowers have varying transmissions. With such machines, you would have a choice between three main types of transmission systems namely automatic, hydrostatic, and manual. Automatic and manual transmissions are just like those in cars. Manual transmission only needs gears to change manually while an automatic transmission only requires the gas pedal.
Conversely, hydrostatic transmissions differ slightly. They work like automatic transmissions in a sense that you won’t need to change gears. But unlike the automatic ones, they use a fluid instead of a belt to transfer the power between the wheels and the engine. Your personal preference will determine your choice of transmission.
If you need an extra movement as well as speed changes, then you should consider a mower with an automatic transmission. But if you want a smoother ride, then go for the ones with a hydrostatic transmission.
Deck size
The next factor to consider is the mower’s deck size. There is a number of choices available and the specifications of the deck size vary among brands. If you have a small lawn, then a deck size of 42-inches would be enough for you. For a medium lawn, you’d be better off with a model with a 48-inch deck size or more.
Basically, the bigger your lawn is, the bigger the deck size you would need. Check the specifications of the product because that’s where you will find out the deck size. If you don’t find this information, then you can contact the seller or manufacturer and ask for it.
What handy mechanical and operator specifications should you look out for when choosing a riding lawn mower?
Aside from these factors, it would also be important for you to consider the mechanical and operator specifications before you make a choice. These include:
Cruise control
Just like the transmission, this feature serves the same purpose for mowers as it does for cars. If you want to reduce the stress felt while driving the mower, then choose one with a superior cruise control feature. This will allow you to maintain your speed while you mow an entire stretch of land.
Anti-scalping wheels
Not all models come with anti-scalping wheels. But this is another feature to look out for because it provides better traction. Therefore, a mower with such wheels would be perfect for those with a sloped or uneven terrain.
Extra attachments
Some mowers allow for the fitting of extra attachments. Such products enable you to perform additional tasks with the machine such as ridging, edging, and mulching. Also, there are models which have the same functions as tractors. This means that you can use them to clear your driveway or attach a trailer to them.
Operator-comfort features
We’ve already discussed the basic comfort features available. But some mowers have additional features which are handy and which will make your work easier. These include extra legroom, headlights, cup holders, easy-access control panel, and more.
Warranty information
Finally, you should learn about the product’s warranty information. Just like any machine, the best riding lawn mowers should come with a warranty in case anything goes wrong.
The Verdict
Riding lawn mowers are powerful and convenient machines. They come in different sizes, and they each have their own features. Since these machines cost more than the walk-behind mowers, you need to consider a lot of things before making a decision. To help you narrow down your list, we’ve reviewed some of the best riding lawn mowers for you.
Also, we have provided relevant information to help guide you as you look through the specifications and features of each product. The buying guide contains all the information you may need, but the final decision remains with you. But if you choose any of the products on our list, you’re definitely getting a superior mower.