Miniature riding lawn mower. Best Riding Lawn Mower Reviews 2023

Best Riding Lawn Mower Reviews 2023

Tired of spending the best part of your Saturday walking behind a lawn mower? You’re not alone and our team has pulled together our recommendations for the best riding lawn mower in 2023. Whether you’re a homeowner or commercial Pro, or you’re on the hunt for a lawn tractor or zero-turn mower, we have you covered. Thinking about making the switch to battery power? We have thoughts on electric riding lawnmowers as well.

Considering walk-behind mowers? Check out our Best Lawn Mower main page.

• Best Commercial Riding Mower (Find a Dealer)
• Best Residential Riding Lawn Mower (Buy at Tractor Supply)
• Best Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower (Buy at Acme Tools)
• Best Lawn Tractor (Buy at Tractor Supply)
• Best Consumer Electric Riding Lawn Mower (available at Lowes or Home Depot)
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For Small Lawns (Buy at Lowes)
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For Medium Lawns
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For Large Properties
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For Hills
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For The Money (Buy at Tractor Supply)
• What We Look For In The Best Riding Lawn Mower
• Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Best Commercial Riding Lawn Mower

Hustler Hyperdrive Series Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

Professional lawn care crews who FOCUS on residential lawns (affectionately known aa “mow and blow” crews) have to hit a lot of lawns every day during the mowing season and they’re tough on their equipment. Exmark, Hustler, and Scag all come up frequently in conversations about the best commercial mower, and our top choice is the Hustler Hyperdrive series.

While the Super Z series is likely more popular, the Hyperdrive series adds additional durability to the transmission system, keeping your downtime to a minimum.

Deck sizes range from 60 to 72 inches and there are 35 to 40 HP engine options from Kawasaki and Vanguard. For those of you who like to mow at speed, you can run up to 16 MPH on this model. No matter what your mowing style is, Hustler has a 3,000-hour warranty on the hydraulic system and a 5-year/1200-hour warranty on the full mower.

Price: Contact your local dealer

Best Residential Riding Lawn Mower

Toro Timecutter Series Zero-Turn Lawn Mowers

For residential use, we recommend Toro’s TimeCutter as the best residential riding lawn mower for a variety of reasons. What it boils down to is that you get an excellent balance of performance, comfort, and reliability for the price.

The line currently includes 17 models (including CARB-friendly options). Deck sizes start at 34 inches for small lawns and run up to 60 inches for those of you with acreage to maintain. The base-level models are an excellent value for most people, but if comfort is a high priority, step up to the MyDrive models to get an upgraded suspension and easier ride.

Best Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower

Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX6 Series Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

While Toro earns our pick as the best overall riding mower for residential use, Cub Cadet’s Ultima ZTX6 series is the creme de la creme for those of you with a bigger budget. Earning our choice as the best residential zero-turn riding lawn mower, the ZTX6 is at the top of Cub Cadet’s residential-focuses Ultima line.

These mowers bridge the gap between residential and Pro needs, giving you a ride and performance that feels more professional while keeping the overall price down from premium professional mowers. The ZTX6 comes with a 25HP Kawasaki commercial-grade engine and either a 54 or 60-inch deck size. If you prefer a steering wheel over lap bars, there’s now a ZTXS6 option that has you covered.

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

Best Lawn Tractor

Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro FAB Series Lawn Tractor

Cub Cadet lawn tractors are very popular and consistently earn high ratings from owners. If you’re looking for the best lawn tractor among them, we recommend the XT1 Enduro FAB series. They’re a bit more expensive than others in the XT1 line, but they upgrade from a 13-gauge stamped steel deck to an 11-gauge fabricated steel one, improving the long-term durability.

Available with a 50 or 54-inch deck, these mowers are suitable for covering larger lawns than lawn tractors in the 30 – 48-inch range. Thanks to a Kohler 24HP engine, they have better overall performance than most of its competition as well. While they don’t turn as tight as a zero-turn, they do have a 16-inch turning radius that gives them a tighter turn than others.

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

Try as we may, we couldn’t pick just one electric ride-on lawn mower as the best. However, we do have three that stand out from the rest.

Commercial: Greenworks Commercial 82V OptimusZ Series Zero-Turn Lawn Mowers

Greenworks was one of the first to push into the commercial electric zero-turn lawn mower market and they have learned a lot over the years. The culmination of that experience and the best of today’s technology come together in the Greenworks OptimusZ zero-turn and earns our recommendation as the best electric commercial riding lawn mower.

The line includes both ride-on and stand-on models, and we even got to see an operational prototype of a fully-autonomous version. Focusing on the ride-on models, there are 48 – 60-inch deck sizes with either 18KWh or 24KWh battery packages. On the 60-inch mower, the larger battery bank can run up to 8 hours on a charge.

The top speed is impressive, reaching up to 16 MPH with the blades on. Security is already onboard thanks to the combination of 4G and GPS connections. If all that sounds great, but you’re still not sure it can hold up, keep in mind that Greenworks backs these mowers with a 5-year/2,000-hour warranty.

Residential: EGO 56V E-Steer Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

EGO is making it easier to transition from gas to battery power and into the zero-turn market with the 56V E-Steer riding lawn mower. It takes the lap bars and exchanges them for a steering wheel, making for a much more approachable mower if you’re not used to traditional ZT steering. Beyond that, the design team shifted the controls/info screen onto the steering wheel where they’re easy to keep an eye on while you’re mowing.

The mower sports a 42-inch deck with cutting speeds between 4 and 8 MPH and matches the power of a 22HP gas engine. For the power source, EGO uses the same 556V batteries that power its other mowers and handheld tools. With a full load of six 12.0Ah batteries, expect to cut nearly four acres on a charge. With the four batteries that come with the mower, there’s enough juice to cover 2.5 acres.

Price: 5999.00 with four 12.0Ah batteries and onboard charger (scheduled for May 2023 launch)

Residential: Ryobi 80V iDrive Series Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

Ryobi’s iDrive zero-turn lawn mowers break the mold of lap bars, but not with a steering wheel. It uses joystick controls, making you feel a bit more like a lawn-cutting fighter pilot (without the missiles, of course). While it certainly breaks the norm, our crew was able to adjust to the steering quickly.

There are three deck sizes covering 30 to 54 inches and they primarily use 80V suitcase-style batteries for power. These mowers also have slots to use Ryobi’s 40V batteries if you need to extend your runtime beyond what the 80V packs offer.

The power ranges from a 28HP – 42HP gas equivalent with runtime covering 1 – 4 acres, depending on which model you go with. Plus, this mower uses the CrossCut stacked blade system to give you better cut quality than you’d get with single blades.

Price: 5999.00 – 7999.00 ready to mow

Take a look through our full list of Best Electric Lawn Mower recommendations!

Best Riding Lawn Mower For Small Lawns

John Deere S130 Lawn Tractor

Lawn tractors are great for small to medium-sized lawns and the John Deere S130 lawn tractor is our choice as the best riding lawn mower for small lawns. The S100 comes in at a lower price, but moving up to the S130 is worth it in our opinion.

Both feature a 42-inch mowing deck, but the S130 has a significantly stronger 22HP V-twin engine and it has John Deere’s super-easy 30-Second Oil Change system. The S130 also upgrades with cruise control and an electronic PTO system. Overall, it balances ease of ownership and performance well while keeping a safe distance away from the price of zero-turn mowers.

Best Riding Lawn Mower For Medium Lawns 1 Acre to 5 Acres

Husqvarna Xcite Zero-Turn Lawn Mowers

The best riding lawn mower for medium-sized lawns is the Husqvarna Xcite. There are two models available featuring a 54-inch 10-gauge deck that’s a great size for those 1 – 5–acre properties.

What’s exciting about the Xcite is a combination of innovative features and a design that feels more Pro even though these target residential users. Starting from the top, your start/stop and blade engagement controls are on the lap bar ends where you can easily reach them with your thumbs. Then there’s the suspension system. 4 bar links and 10 adjustment settings let you customize the setup based on your size, weight, and preferences to dial in a comfortable ride.

Depending on the model, you get either a 24HP or 26HP Kohler engine with a top speed of either 7 or 9 MPH. On the business end, Husqvarna puts stock blades that can go up to 5 years without needing to be sharpened. Husqvarna targeted a Pro feel with the convenience and ease of ownership homeowners crave with the Xcite and they nailed it.

Best Riding Lawn Mower For Large Properties

Exmark Lazer Z Series Deisel Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

When it comes to maintaining large areas where you need a cleaner cut than a bush hog leaves behind, there are a few large-deck options. Leading the pack in size and with a robust professional resume’, the Exmark Lazer Z Deisel is our choice as the best riding lawn mower for large properties.

When we say large, we mean it. The Lazer Z diesel line includes 60, 72, and 96-inch options along with a monstrous 144-inch model. Ang get this—Exmark rates the largest mower’s cutting rate at up to 11.5 acres per hour! In terms of productivity, that’s going to be tough to beat.

These mowers aren’t cheap, though. They start at just over 27,000 and the 144-inch model is over 35,000.

Price: Starting at 27,099.00

Best Riding Lawn Mower For Hills

Cub Cadet Pro Z 972 Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

If you have hills, you need both power and traction to mow effectively. In our team’s opinion, the best riding lawn mower for hills is the Cub Cadet Pro Z 972 series SD/SDL models. What sets these mowers apart is a combination of their dually rear wheel and steering wheel designs.

Four rear wheels help prevent the back end from slipping, even in wet conditions. The steering wheel makes it easier to manage on slopes and there’s an option for a pivoting seat that keeps you more upright on those hills. As part of Cub Cadet’s commercial mower lineup, you can expect a commercial-level build and high-end comfort features as part of the package.

Best Riding Lawn Mower For The Money

Toro Timecutter 42-Inch Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

What’s the best riding lawn mower for the money? For that, we return to the Toro TimeCutter series. Specifically, it’s the 42-inch 75746. This isn’t the least expensive 42-inch in the line, and it’s not the most expensive, either. By upgrading from the entry-level version (3299), you’re moving from a 15.5 HP Briggs Stratton engine to a much stronger 22HP Kohler engine. up to a more durable 10-gauge fabricated steel deck.

If your lawn is 2 acres or less, this model offers the best balance of performance, durability, comfort, and price. But what if you have more then 2 acres? Stick with the Toro TimeCutter and move up in deck size to match your lawn.

What We Look For In The Best Riding Lawn Mower

Lawn Tractor or Zero Turn?

When you’re choosing the best riding lawn mower for your lawn, the first thing to decide is which style you want.

Lawn tractors have several advantages. They tend to be a smaller overall size, are less expensive, and are easy to use with their steering wheel/pedal control systems. The downsides are that they tend to be slower and don’t reach larger deck sizes. They also aren’t as efficient in your mowing pattern because they require a larger turning radius.

Zero-turn lawn mowers make it easier to efficiently mow straight lines. While they’re more expensive, larger, and can take some time to get used to lap bar controls, you can get larger deck sizes, they have higher speeds, and they’re better for large properties. If comfort is a high priority for you, you’ll find better options with ZTs and lawn tractors.

Gas or Battery?

Now that battery-powered riding lawn mowers are at a point where they really can replace gas, the conversation is shifting away from just power and runtime.

Gas mowers tend to be less expensive and you can usually find someone to service/repair them within a reasonable drive of your home. The trade-off is the noise, emissions, managing fuel and oil, and more required maintenance.

Battery-powered mowers have a push-button start system that’s ready when you are, assuming you charged the batteries. They’re remarkably quiet compared to gas, have no emissions, and your HOA isn’t going to suddenly rewrite the rules to eliminate them. Maintenance primarily boils down to blowing off the deck and maybe rinsing under the deck. The primary downsides at this stage are that you don’t have as wide of a selection as gas, they’re more expensive, the batteries need replacing every 3 – 5 years, and there aren’t nearly as many service centers close by.

Durability and Reliability

As you go up in price from entry-level riding lawn mowers to mid-range and high-end models, there are significant changes. A more powerful engine is only part of it. The design of the engine and its quality typically improves as you move up the line, giving you a more reliable engine to go along with the higher performance of more horsepower.

You also see the strength of the build improve. Some of it is the thickness of the metal or moving from stamped steel to fabricated steel on the deck. Other components come into play as well, with higher quality transmissions and electronics packages improving.

Generally speaking, if you’re looking at an entry-level model, see if your budget has room to move up into the middle or even high end of the line. The durability and reliability you gain are worth it in the long run.

Deck Size

The deck size you need depends on the property you’re mowing. 42-inch riding lawn mowers are a good starting point for lawns up to an acre or where you need to squeeze through a narrow gate. If you have more than an acre, go ahead and look at models up to 60 inches.

Realistically, it’s a matter of finding the right balance between how much lawn you have to cut, how much storage space you have available, and what your budget is.

Speed

Speed is primarily a concern for professional lawn crews who need to move from one property to the next quickly or on campuses with significant travel distance between the shop and where they’re mowing. They usually want a mower with a top speed over 10 MPH.

Even homeowners can make their mowing chores more efficient with some decent top-end speed, though. 7 MPH or more is a good benchmark for those models. If you tend to take your mowing more casually, 5 – 6 MPH is just fine.

Comfort

The larger your lawn, the more time you need to spend in the driver’s seat of your riding lawn mower, and the more comfort comes into play. Entry-level mowers are going to bounce you around more than mid-range and high-end models. Look for a seat with plenty of cushioning, an adjustable tension knob, and enough travel for you to sit without having to scrunch up.

Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if they actually tested anything or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers? That’s not us. We won’t recommend anything unless we’d actually use it ourselves, and we don’t really care who the primary retailer is. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.

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

Each year, we bring in and review more than 350 individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.

Pro Tool Reviews consults with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work.

We work with more than two dozen professional contractors around the United States who review products for us on real job sites. We consult with them extensively on testing methods, categories, and practical applications.

Our site will provide more than 500 pieces of new content this year absolutely free for our readers. That includes objective evaluations of individual tools and products.

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

How Much Does a Small Riding Lawn Mower Cost?

Looking for a mower to keep your lawn green? Well! You don’t need to spend a fortune as the cheapest lawn mower is available for quite a low amount.

Wondering how much does a small riding lawn mower cost?

You can get a manual push reel mower for as low as 57 while 1068 is the average for a lawn mower powered by gas. And, an intelligent robot mower with unique features can cost about 17,063.

But how much you would need to spend on your lawn mower will depend on the size of your yard, the power source you want, the grass type, and the mower’s brand.

And with several types of lawn mowers available, here’s a quick guide to choosing the right one according to your budget as well as requirements.

How Much Does a Small Riding Lawn Mower Cost?

Every lawn mower is made differently. And the cost you would incur depends on various factors like power source, type, and more.

Lawn Mower Cost by Power Source

Self-propelled and manual lawn mowers are available with two power source options – electric and gas. Irrespective of the power source, self-propelled mowers cost comparatively more.

Let’s go through different power sources for a better understanding.

Reel lawn mowers

This mower category does not have a built-in power source. It takes extra effort to push and thus, can’t be used in big spaces. That makes them more affordable than electric or gas mowers.

It is an eco-friendly variation and also compact for storage. An inexpensive and small reel mower can cost roughly while a big, costlier mower will need you to spend 402.

Gas mowers

Both self-propelled and manual gas mowers are likely to be more powerful as compared to electric mowers. They feature better mobility as they don’t need a battery or cord to run.

The price range for gas mowers usually ranges from 140 to 567. However, most mid-range choices will cost roughly 265.

Expect to spend more if you want a self-propelled one. That will cost you around 169 for the budget option and 2080 for the top-class version.

Electric mowers

Electric mowers are powered either by a battery or cord. Corded models don’t need a battery or fuel tank, and thus, are lighter and cheaper.

However, battery-powered electric mowers are costlier than even those powered by gas despite producing less power.

Typically, an electric mower’s cost ranges from 80 to 2036 with the average cost lying around 241. 328 to 831 is the cost range for self-propelled electric mowers.

Lawn Mower Cost by Type

There are standard walk-behind machines and premium ones. The latter include mulching mowers, robot mowers, and riding lawn mowers like zero-turn, rear-engine, and lawn tractors.

Mulching lawn mowers

It shreds grass clippings and leaves and distributes the mulch back into the lawn to enhance soil health. These are also available in gas and electric power models with unique features.

Electric, corded, and small mulching mowers are quite affordable, beginning at only 110 with the highest model going up to 2191. And, the average cost lies around 303.

Robot lawn mowers

This is an advanced type of mower. It needs you to install a perimeter wire to tell the robot about the work area.

Robot mowers are great for homeowners who don’t have much time to maintain the yard and can’t hire a lawn care service either.

Riding lawn mowers

It takes care of a big yard with ease as it lets you keep your feet off the ground. Riding mower styles include zero-turn lawn mowers, rear-engine lawn mowers, and lawn tractors.

And, these mowers are powered by gas engines. You can also find battery-powered mowers in the market but they cost more than those powered by gas.

Lawn tractors

A lawn tractor is like a mower connected to a tractor, controlled with a steering wheel. It is very stable on slopes and different attachments make it a versatile option.

With attachments, you can use it as a trailer, core aerator, snowplow, dethatcher, and more. Lawn tractors can cost you between 1349 and 3999 with a mid-range cost of 1985.

Rear engine riding mowers

Similar to a lawn tractor, it comes with a steering wheel for easy drive. But it is generally smaller, easier to maneuver, and less powerful.

Due to their weak engines, these mowers can’t pull heavy loading attachments that lawn tractors can easily do. And a smaller cutting width and lack of power make them cost less.

The simplest and the smallest riding mower can cost around 1299. And, the average cost falls around 2080.

Zero-turn riding mowers

It features wheels that take sharp turns and can take 360-degree turns. maneuverable than lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers are good around tight corners and obstacles.

However, they are not attachment capable which makes lawn tractors a bit better. But zero-turn mowers are good for big properties because of their faster speeds.

Troy-Bilt Riding Mower Review

These mowers are costlier with the affordable variant costing around 2399 and the top model around 15000.

Lawn Mower Cost by Cutting width

The cutting width of the mower describes how much it can cut the grass in a single pass. With an increase in the cutting width, it time to mow the yard reduces.

Walk-behind mowers for residential usage come with a width range of 14-22 inches. For riding mowers, the width lies between 30 inches and 61 inches.

Wrap Up – How Much Does a Small Riding Lawn Mower Cost?

So, are wondering how much does a small riding lawn mower cost? You can get a rear-engine riding mower for as low as 1299.

Besides, the cost changes with the type, features, power source, and cutting width among other factors.

Which is a cheap and small riding lawn mower?

The cheapest and smallest riding lawn mowers belong to the category of manual, reel mowers. However, in terms of a riding mower, one with a rear engine is the cheapest.

Do they make a 22-inch riding lawn mower?

The answer is yes. 22-inch lawn mowers are available from several brands like Cub Cadet, DeWALT, and Toro among others.

What is the highest-rated small riding lawn mower?

John Deere S180 is the highest rated as well as a small riding lawn mower. Overall, it is one of the best riding lawn mowers.

What is the smallest size riding lawn mower?

Snapper 2911525 BVE Classic RER 28-Inch with 11.5HP and 344CC power is the smallest lawn mower. It has a compact body and a 28-inch cutting deck size.

Ride on Mowers

Take the chore out of lawn maintenance with a Rover Ride-On Mower. Whether you have acres of grass to cut or a small residential lawn, Rover has safe and affordable lawn tractors and compact rider mowers for effortless precision grass cutting.

Rover Warranty

Finance Solutions

500 Dealers Australia Wide

67 Years in Australia

Suburban Sized

You don’t need a huge backyard to enjoy owning a lawn tractor. Rover’s smaller domestic ride-on mowers are designed for standard suburban block sizes. With their compact size, our residential ride-on mowers take up little more space than a regular push mower and can be stored in a garage or small shed. Our micro and mini rider range can also fit through a standard width garden gate, allowing you to mow from your front to back yard without leaving your seat.

Ride on in Style

At Rover, we believe mowing should be a joy.

We have developed our ride-on lawnmower range for superior ergonomic comfort; we’ve even added a handy cup holder. Your Rover Rider is built for superior safety and ease of use, offering exceptional manoeuvrability and handling. With intuitive controls and efficient operation, you can mow around obstacles with ease and get your grass cut to perfection in a fraction of the time, and with none of the effort of regular push mowing.

For over 65 years, Rover has been building exceptional quality garden and lawn maintenance equipment. Our robust and reliable ride-on mowers deliver the ultimate in cut, comfort and control.

All Rover rider mowers are manufactured in the USA and tested in Australia, for the ultimate performance and smooth handling in Australian conditions.

The Rover Rider Mower range offers a choice of reliable Rover and Kawasaki engines, and are available in either manual or automatic transmission, with a deck size to suit your lawn maintenance needs. From small suburban backyard to sizable acreage.

Our versatile lawn tractor models come with a tow hitch and are compatible with mulch plug, catcher and other lawn care accessories for improving productivity and reducing the effort of maintaining your lawn and garden year-round.

All Rover ride on mowers powered by Rover or Kawasaki engines come with our industry-leading 5-year domestic warranty on both the motor and unit for added peace of mind.

How do I know whether I need a ride-on mower?

If you find rotary push mowing to be physically demanding or tedious, or mowing your lawns takes a long time, or if you maintain a property of 1/4 acre or larger, a ride-on lawnmower is going to save you significant time and effort.

What size riding lawn mower do I need?

The size of the grassed areas you need to mow will determine the size and the width of the mower’s cutting deck you’ll require. For residential blocks up to 4000m² (1 acre), or gardens featuring irregular edges, tight curves or obstacles you need to manoeuvre around, a compact 24-inch micro rider mower or 30-inch mini-rider mower will do the trick. However, for large lawns, gardens, and broad grassed areas over 4000m², choose one of our fast, powerful 38 or 42-inch cutting deck models to have your grass cut to perfection in next to no time.

My property is sloping. Can I use a ride-on mower if the ground isn’t flat?

The suitability of a rider mower can depend on the type of terrain are you mowing. Before selecting a model, consider the condition, fall and obstacles on your property. Most Rover rider mowers excel at manicuring large flat or gently undulating lawns, but to safely mow hilly uneven terrain, you need a riding mower with a wide stance, low centre of gravity, and impressive traction to ensure your mower doesn’t slip, slide or roll. Rover’s Lawn King 21/42 Ride-on mower is the domestic lawn rider most suited to mowing on hilly terrain, or the Rover RZT S 46 Zero Turn mower features four-wheel steering control and unbeatable stability on difficult sloping terrain, including gradients of up to 20°. Alternatively, our heavy-duty commercial Cub Cadet brand offers a range of premium ride-on mower models with a low centre of gravity, Roll Over Protection System (ROPS), seatbelts and exceptional traction and stability that can mow on slopes.

Should my engine be run at full RPM/throttle?

Yes, Rover recommends running all machinery with an air-cooled engine at its highest rpm for the following reasons: A) Due to its design, the engine’s cooling and lubrication systems operate best when the throttle control is in the highest position. Running the engine at a lower speed decreases the flow of cooling air and reduces the volume of oil circulated, shortening engine life. B) The engine’s carburettor is adjusted to ensure the machine operates most cleanly and efficiently when at full throttle. Running your machine outside or below optimum speed range reduces the engine and carburettor’s power. C) The engine’s governor maintains your optimum cutting deck speed when the throttle is in the highest position. Running the engine slower will result in lower performance, excess vibration, and increased wear and tear on drive components such as the cutting deck drive belt. D) Some models have DC electric starters and battery systems and use the engine to recharge. If the motor isn’t running at full RPM, a poor battery recharge rate may result, reducing the battery’s life. On lawn tractors and other self-propelled units, the engine should be kept at full throttle whenever possible. Regulate ground speed by shifting into a lower gear or using the ground speed control. Do not use the throttle to regulate ground speed, or you will not get sufficient electrical current to maintain battery charge.

Why are grass clippings discharging in clumps, not mulching properly or clogging the chute when I use the grass catcher?

We have put together this 7 points of consideration troubleshooting list to help improve cutting performance and disposal of grass clippings: 1. CLEAN YOUR DECK. With your machine TURNED OFF, inspect the underside of your cutting deck, ensuring it is free of debris or clippings. A clean cutting deck is necessary for maintaining adequate airflow to discharge clippings properly and for mulching the clippings. 2. RUN ENGINE AT FULL THROTTLE. It is necessary always to run your unit at full throttle. Low engine RPM slows the blades rotational speed and reduces airflow through the cutting deck. 3. WET GRASS. When grass is excessively wet, clumping can occur. Ideally, try to mow only when your lawn is dry. Recent rain, fog or damp conditions may result in grass that may appear to be dry but is actually very wet. If your mower‘s wheels become damp or wet when travelling across the lawn, the lawn is too wet, and your machine may struggle to move the clippings properly. 4. LONG GRASS. If the grass is excessively long poor clipping movement can occur. Only bag clippings or mulch when cutting off 2 of the overall grass blades with the mower; otherwise, you may be trying to force too much material through the discharge opening in the cutting deck, causing overloading or clogging to occur. If the lawn is overgrown or beyond regular cutting length, it may be necessary to make repeat passes with the mower. Starting at a higher cutting height and incrementally lowering the cutting deck with each pass until the grass returns to the desired length. 5. TRAVELLING SPEED. If operating at fast ground speed, the mower may struggle to discharge the increased volume of grass clippings through the collector chute properly. Travel at a steady medium to slow pace with the engine throttled up; it is best to keep a slower tractor speed when bagging or mulching. 6. DULL BLADES. An equipment issue that can cause clumping or clogging to occur is blades that have become dull or imbalanced. To maintain optimum performance and maximum airflow., inspect, sharpen and balance blades periodically. 7. HIGH LIFT BLADES. If you have done all of the above and still have clipping discharge issues, you may wish to try fitting High-Lift cutting blades. These blades produce maximum ejection airflow out of the deck discharge opening. Generally, larger cutting decks manage more clippings and higher clippings volume because more exit airflow moves the clippings out from beneath the cutting deck without clumping.

Where are your dealers located?

Rover Ride-on lawnmowers are for sale through out network of over 500 dealers Australia-wide, covering all major metro and regional areas. Below are just a few places you’ll find a trusted Rover sales and service partner, but to find one nearest to you, we recommend popping your postcode into our handy Dealer Locator facility. Australian Capital Territory – Canberra, Mitchell, Queanbeyan New South Wales – Bathurst, Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Broken Hill, Byron Bay, Campbelltown, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Goulburn, Newcastle, Parramatta, Penrith, Port Macquarie, Sydney, Wagga Wagga, Wollongong Northern Territory. Alice Springs, Darwin, Tennant Creek Queensland –Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast, Mackay, Rockhampton, Toowoomba, Townsville South Australia – Adelaide, Mount Gambier, Murray Bridge, Renmark, Victor Harbor Tasmania –Devonport, Hobart, Launceston Victoria – Ballarat, Bendigo, Burwood, Chadstone, Dandenong, Echuca, Frankston, Geelong, Gippsland, Melbourne, Pakenham, Ringwood, Warburton, Werribee Western Australia – Albany, Broome, Bunbury, Fremantle, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Mandurah, Perth Port Hedland

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

Top 5 Best Riding Lawn Mowers 2023 | Best Riding Lawn Mower 2023

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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