Who doesn’t love a perfectly manicured lawn? It’s not only visually appealing, but it also adds value to your property.
However, maintaining such a lawn can be a daunting task, especially if you have a large yard.
That’s where ride-on lawn mowers come in. These powerful machines make lawn maintenance a breeze, allowing you to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
In this article, we’ll dive into the different types of ride-on lawn mowers, factors to consider before buying one, and our top five picks for the best ride-on lawn mowers.
Types of Ride-On Lawn Mowers
There are three main types of ride-on lawn mowers, each with its unique features and benefits.
Let’s take a closer look at each type.
Rear-Engine
Rear-engine mowers are the smallest and most affordable type of ride-on lawn mowers.
They are best suited for smaller lawns and gardens due to their limited power and cutting width.
However, their compact size makes them easy to maneuver and store.
Lawn Tractors
Lawn tractors are versatile machines that offer more power and larger cutting widths than rear-engine mowers.
They are ideal for medium to large lawns and can handle uneven terrain with ease.
Many lawn tractors also come with attachments that allow you to perform various tasks, such as snow plowing and towing.
Zero-Turn Mowers
Zero-turn mowers are the ultimate ride-on lawn mowers when it comes to speed, power, and maneuverability.
They can turn on a dime, allowing for precise trimming around obstacles and efficient mowing of large lawns. However, they tend to be the most expensive of the three types.
Top 5 Best Ride-On Lawn Mowers
We’ve researched and compiled a list of the top five ride-on lawn mowers currently available, based on factors such as performance, durability, and user satisfaction.
1. EGO POWER+ZT4205S 42-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion
The EGO POWER+ZT4205S is a 42-inch 56-volt lithium-ion cordless zero-turn riding mower.
This mower features a Z6 technology that provides the user with a 360-degree turning radius, allowing them to easily navigate around obstacles in their lawn.
The 56-volt lithium-ion battery provides up to 90 minutes of runtime on a single charge, making it perfect for large lawns.
The mower has a 3-position adjustable deck, allowing the user to easily adjust the cutting height, and features LED headlights for mowing in low light conditions.
Key Features:
Z6 technology for 360-degree turning radius
42-inch cutting deck
56-volt lithium-ion battery with up to 90 minutes of runtime
3-position adjustable deck
LED headlights
Pros
- Zero emissions and quiet operation
- No need for gasoline or oil changes
- Zero-turn radius for easy maneuverability
- Long battery life
- Adjustable cutting height and LED headlights for enhanced convenience
Cons
- High initial cost compared to traditional gas mowers
- Battery may not last long enough for extremely large lawns
- May not have enough power for very thick or tall grass
Overall, the EGO POWER+ZT4205S 42-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Z6 Zero Turn Riding Mower is a great choice for those who want a powerful, eco-friendly mower with easy maneuverability and convenience features.
While it may have a higher initial cost than traditional gas mowers, it offers long-term savings on fuel and maintenance costs.
However, it may not be the best choice for extremely large lawns or very thick or tall grass.
EGO POWER+ZT4205S Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Ego Power |
| Model | ZT4205S 42-Inch |
| Power | 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless – 22 HP |
| Cutting Width | 42 inches |
| Weight | 112.5 lbs |
2. Husqvarna MZ54F 54 in. 24 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
No products found.The Husqvarna MZ54F 54 in. 24 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower is a powerful and efficient riding mower that can help you maintain your lawn easily.
With a 24 horsepower Kawasaki engine and a hydrostatic transmission, this mower can tackle tough mowing jobs with ease.
Key Features:
54 inch cutting deck
24 horsepower Kawasaki engine
Hydrostatic transmission
Zero turn radius
Adjustable cutting height
Comfortable seat with armrests
No products found.Pros
- Efficient and powerful engine
- Large cutting deck for faster mowing
- Zero turn radius for better maneuverability
- Comfortable seat with armrests for reduced fatigue
- Hydrostatic transmission for smooth operation
Cons
- Expensive compared to other riding mowers
- Large size may make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
- May require more maintenance than smaller mowers
Overall, the Husqvarna MZ54F 54 in. 24 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower is a great choice for those with large lawns who want to maintain them efficiently.
While it may be more expensive than other mowers, its powerful engine, large cutting deck, and comfortable features make it a worthwhile investment.
However, those with smaller lawns or tight spaces may want to consider a smaller model for better maneuverability.
Husqvarna MZ54F 54 in Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Husqvarna |
| Model | MZ54F 54 in |
| Power | Gasoline 24 HP |
| Cutting Width | 54 inches |
| Weight |
3. Ariens 915279 IKON Limited 52 Inch 21.5hp Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower
No products found.The Ariens 915279 IKON Limited 52 Inch 21.5hp Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower is a top-of-the-line lawn mower designed for residential use.
With its powerful 21.5 horsepower Kawasaki engine and 52-inch cutting deck, this mower is capable of cutting large lawns quickly and efficiently.
Its zero-turn maneuverability makes it easy to navigate around obstacles, and its high-back seat and adjustable armrests provide a comfortable ride.
Key Features:
21.5 horsepower Kawasaki engine
52-inch cutting deck
Zero-turn maneuverability
High-back seat with adjustable armrests
No products found.Pros
- Powerful engine for efficient cutting
- Large cutting deck for faster mowing
- Zero-turn maneuverability for easy navigation
- Comfortable high-back seat with adjustable armrests
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
Cons
- Expensive compared to other residential lawn mowers
- May be difficult to operate for those unfamiliar with zero-turn mowers
- Large size may not be suitable for smaller lawns or tight spaces
The Ariens 915279 IKON Limited 52 Inch 21.5hp Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower is a high-quality lawn mower designed for efficient and comfortable residential use.
While it may be more expensive than other residential mowers, its powerful engine, large cutting deck, and zero-turn maneuverability make it well worth the investment for those with larger lawns.
However, those who are not familiar with zero-turn mowers may find it difficult to operate, and the mower’s large size may not be suitable for smaller lawns or tight spaces.
Ariens 915279 IKON Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Ariens |
| Model | 915279 IKON |
| Power | Gas Powered V Twin Engine |
| Cutting Width | 52 inches |
| Weight |
Further information can be found on the manufacturer’s website.
4. Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
The Husqvarna Z254 is a powerful zero-turn riding mower designed for efficient mowing of large lawns and gardens.
It features a 54-inch cutting deck made of reinforced steel for durability and stability.
The mower is powered by a 26 HP Kohler engine with a hydrostatic transmission for smooth acceleration and variable speed control.
It has a maximum speed of 6.5 MPH and a cutting height range of 1.5 to 4 inches.
The Z254 also comes equipped with an electric clutch for easy blade engagement, a comfortable high-back seat, and convenient storage compartments.
Key Features:
54-inch cutting deck made of reinforced steel
26 HP Kohler engine with hydrostatic transmission
Zero-turn radius for tight turns and precise maneuverability
6.5 MPH maximum speed
Cutting height range of 1.5 to 4 inches
Electric clutch for easy blade engagement
Comfortable high-back seat
Convenient storage compartments
Pros
- Efficient and quick mowing with the 54-inch cutting deck and 26 HP engine
- Zero-turn radius for easy maneuverability and tight turns
- Smooth acceleration and variable speed control with hydrostatic transmission
- Electric clutch for easy blade engagement
- Comfortable high-back seat for long mowing sessions
- Convenient storage compartments for tools and accessories
Cons
- The mower may not be suitable for small lawns due to its large cutting deck and size
- The price point may be higher than some other riding mowers on the market
- Some users may prefer a manual transmission over the hydrostatic transmission
Overall the Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower is a powerful and efficient machine designed for larger lawns and gardens.
Its zero-turn radius, smooth acceleration, and comfortable seating make it a great choice for long mowing sessions.
However, it may not be the best option for smaller lawns, and the price point may be a consideration for some buyers.
Husqvarna Z254 Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Husqvarna |
| Model | Z254 |
| Power | Gasoline 26 HP |
| Cutting Width | 54 inches |
| Weight | 650 lbs |
5. Daredevil DDM-55 Robotic Remote Controlled Mower Kohler 9.5hp Engine
The Daredevil DDM-55 Robotic Remote Controlled Mower is a cutting-edge machine that is designed to make lawn mowing easy and efficient.
The mower is equipped with a Kohler 9.5hp engine that delivers excellent power and performance.
It comes with a remote control that enables the user to control the mower from a distance, making it more convenient and safe to use.
Key Features:
Robotic remote control for convenient operation
Kohler 9.5hp engine for excellent power and performance
Compact size for easy maneuverability
55-inch cutting width for faster mowing
Adjustable cutting height for precise trimming
Durable construction for long-lasting use
Pros
- Remote control feature allows for safer and more convenient operation
- Kohler engine provides reliable and powerful performance
- Large cutting width and adjustable cutting height make mowing faster and more precise
- Compact size and durable construction make it easy to maneuver and long-lasting
Cons
- Higher price point compared to traditional mowers
- May not be suitable for extremely large lawns
The Daredevil DDM-55 Robotic Remote Controlled Mower is a top-of-the-line machine that offers excellent performance and convenience.
Its robotic remote control feature, powerful Kohler engine, and adjustable cutting height make it a great choice for those who want a fast and precise mowing experience.
While it may be more expensive than traditional mowers, the added convenience and performance make it a worthwhile investment for those who want to maintain a beautiful lawn.
Daredevil DDM-55 Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Daredevil |
| Model | DDM-55 Robotic Remote Controlled Mower |
| Power | Hybrid Battery & Gas 9.5 HP |
| Cutting Width | 21.5 inches |
| Weight | 280 lbs |
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Ride-On Lawn Mower
Before you invest in a ride-on lawn mower, it’s essential to take a few factors into consideration to ensure you make the right choice.
Lawn Size
The size of your lawn is a crucial factor in determining the type of ride-on lawn mower you need.
Smaller lawns can be easily maintained with a rear-engine mower, while medium to large lawns require the power and cutting width provided by lawn tractors or zero-turn mowers.
Terrain
Consider the terrain of your lawn when choosing a ride-on lawn mower.
Uneven terrain with slopes and obstacles requires a mower with good maneuverability and traction, such as a lawn tractor or zero-turn mower.
Engine Power and Cutting Width
The engine power and cutting width of a ride-on lawn mower impact the efficiency and speed with which you can mow your lawn.
A more powerful engine and wider cutting width allow you to cover more ground quickly, reducing the time spent mowing. This is especially important for larger lawns.
Fuel Type
Ride-on lawn mowers are available in gas, electric, and battery-powered models.
Gas models offer more power, but they also produce emissions and require regular maintenance.
Electric and battery-powered mowers are more eco-friendly and require less maintenance, but they may not have the same power output as gas models.
Budget
Ride-on lawn mowers can range significantly in price, depending on the type, brand, and features.
Set a budget and weigh the available options within that price range to find the best mower for your needs.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a ride-on lawn mower on a sloped lawn?
A: Yes, you can use a ride-on lawn mower on a sloped lawn.
However, it’s essential to choose a mower with good traction and stability, such as a lawn tractor or zero-turn mower, to ensure safety and efficiency.
Q2: How often should I service my ride-on lawn mower?
A: It’s recommended to service your ride-on lawn mower at least once a year, or according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Regular maintenance includes changing the oil, replacing the air filter, sharpening the blades, and checking the belts and tires for wear.
Q3: Are electric ride-on lawn mowers as powerful as gas-powered mowers?
A: Electric ride-on lawn mowers have come a long way in recent years, and many models offer performance comparable to gas-powered mowers.
However, some electric mowers may still lack the same power output as their gas counterparts, especially when it comes to tackling large lawns or tough terrain.
Q4: How do I choose the right cutting width for my ride-on lawn mower?
A: The right cutting width for your ride-on lawn mower depends on the size of your lawn and the amount of time you’re willing to spend mowing.
A wider cutting width allows you to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time, reducing the overall time spent mowing.
For smaller lawns, a cutting width of 30 to 42 inches should suffice, while medium to large lawns may require a cutting width of 42 to 54 inches or more.
Q5: Can I use my ride-on lawn mower for tasks other than mowing?
A: Many ride-on lawn mowers, particularly lawn tractors, offer the option to attach additional accessories for tasks such as snow plowing, towing, and even tilling.
If you’re interested in a versatile machine that can handle various tasks, look for a ride-on lawn mower with compatible attachments.
Conclusion and final thoughts 💭
Ride-on lawn mowers are a game-changer when it comes to maintaining a beautiful lawn.
By considering factors such as lawn size, terrain, engine power, cutting width, fuel type, and budget, you can find the perfect mower for your needs.
Our top five picks for the best ride-on lawn mowers offer options for every type of lawn and budget, ensuring you can achieve a well-manicured lawn with ease
