Zero-turn lawn mowers make mowing large lawns easier and have become the most preferred choice for professional lawn mowers. They are equipped with an operator platform, engine or battery bank, control levers, transmitters or motors, wheels, and a seat. They vary depending on price, features, and specification. We have listed the best zero-turn mowers. These extensive zero-turn mower reviews will help choose the best mower to suit your mowing needs.
| ZERO-TURN LAWN MOWERS | PRICE | |
| JOHN DEERE Z365R | $3,399.00 | |
| ARIENS IKON X-52 | $3,099.00 | |
| HUSQVARNA MZ61 HYDROSTATIC RIDING MOWER | $5,999.00 | |
| EGO Z6 4204 | $4,999.00 | |
| RYOBI 48140 | $4,399.00 | |
| HUSQVARNA Z24BF | $3,198.00 | |
| CUB CADET RZT-SX 42 EFI | $3,563.99 | |
| TROY-BILT MUSTANG Z42 | $3,899.99 | |
| ARIENS 991151 APEX ZERO-TURN RIDING MOWER | $5,999.00 | |
| CRAFTSMAN 17ARFACQ091 50-INCH HYDROSTATIC GAS MOWER | $4,948.90 |
BUYING GUIDE FOR ZERO TURN LAWN MOWER
● LAP BAR VS STEERING WHEEL
When buying a zero-turn lawn mower, you’ll be faced with numerous options and choices and one prominent choice is between a lap bar and steering wheel. Most brands stick to either choice while some combine both to give users a healthy choice between both.
● LAP BAR
Common and highly efficient, the lap bar wheel can be found more on older zero-turn lawn mowers. Designed to control each wheel independently for more maneuverability and efficiency. The lap bar wheel is more efficient on rough terrain filled with obstacles.
]However, you may need to learn how to use the lap bar for a while before getting the hang of it. Asides from maneuverability, the lap bar has fewer serviceable parts and fewer leg injuries as it is without pedals.
● STEERING WHEEL
The steering wheel is a more common driving mechanism for everyone. If you own a car, then using a steering wheel zero-turn lawn mower would be easy. No learning is required, just start the engine and start mowing your lawn.
ZERO-TURN GRADES
Zero-turn lawn mowers are divided into three categories. These are mid-grade, semi-pro, and commercial. Your choice is solely dependent on the needs and size of your lawn. Let’s go deeper into these grades.
● MID-GRADE
The mid-range grade is popular because of its heavy duty decks for additional strength. Equipped with a twin-cylinder, 18-26 HP, and a fuel tank capacity between 2-4 gallons.
A mid-range zero-turn mower is built with better transmission and the ability to handle tougher tasks. All mid-range zero-turn mowers are equipped with the best engines and have a foot-controlled height adjustment padel.
● SEMI-PRO
Semi-pro zero-turn mowers have between 3-6 gallons fuel capacity, 23-24 HP, and twin cylinders. They are a compromise between residential and commercial use.
A semi-pro zero-turn is equipped with a powerful engine, quick transmission, and ergonomic controls to suit the needs of homeowners perfectly.
However, commercial or industrial mowers who are on a budget find semi-pro mowers to be quite efficient too. They are fast, durable, and affordable.
● COMMERCIAL
If you’re a professional lawn mower, then this fast-paced and heavy-duty zero-turn mower is the right choice. Equipped with twin cylinders, 23-31 HP, and 3-6 gallon fuel capacity, professionals are guaranteed efficient performance at a fair price.
BEST 10 ZERO-TURN MOWERS
JOHN DEERE Z365R
PRICE: $3,399.00
Powered by a 24HP twin engine from Briggs and Stratton, the John Deere Z365R lawn mower is fast and reliable. Made for residential use, it is equipped to mow mid-sized lawns efficiently.
However, it is also a great option for professional mowers who are on a tight budget. Newbies will also benefit from its ease of use and ergonomic controls.
Fitted with an 18-in seat with armrests, rubber floor mats, and foot lifts, new owners are quickly acclimatized to its operation. The advanced yet simple-to-understand controls allow for high performance with simple processes.
For example, switching the mulching deck lower for short grass and higher for higher grass is straightforward. The three-blade deck is designed to capture every strand of grass in your wake, ensuring an even and clean cut for better aesthetics.
Manufactured with high-quality materials to last for a long time, this zero-turn mower is durable and only requires minimal maintenance. The oil change on this mower is easy and fast.
Equipped with the 30 seconds oil system, you wouldn’t be getting your hands dirty anymore. Change between mulching, bagging, and side discharge with the lever on the mower to suit your immediate preference in a heartbeat. To cap this incredible mower off, it comes with a 2-year warranty.
Pros
● Twin Engine
● Clean 30 seconds oil change
● Durable
● Multi-purpose
● 2-year warranty
Cons
● Nil
ARIENS IKON X-52
PRICE: $3,099.00
The Ariens Ikon X offers optimal performance with consistency on various types of lawn terrains. Powered by a Kawasaki FR691 V-twin engine and displacement of 726cc, with a power of 24 HP, this Electric lawn mower is fast, durable, and sturdy.
Mow for as long as you can with the 2.8 gallons on this incredible lawn mower. It also features a lap bar drive and hydrostatic system to control each wheel independently and for better maneuverability around round terrain and obstacles, such as rocks and trees.
Breeze through your lawn at a top speed of 7 MPH. Achieve a consistently even cut with the 3 blade system and 13 cutting heights. The deck lift system is manual but operated by foot so users can make quick adjustments without taking their hands off the lap bar.
Ergonomic controls and comfortable seats with armrests offer ease-of-use and relaxed mowing. The hour meter on this mower allows you to track mowing and fuel usage, so you’re not caught off guard. Protected with a 3-year warranty for residential use and 90 days for commercial use.
This is more than enough time to figure out any dissatisfaction that you want corrected or parts that require maintenance and replacement.
Pros
● 3-year Warranty
● 13 cutting heights
● Bag/Mulch/Side Discharge
● Ergonomic controls
● Hour Meter
HUSQVARNA MZ61 HYDROSTATIC RIDING MOWER
PRICE: $5,999.00
Wondering why it is highly-priced? That’s because this sturdy zero-turn lawn mower is designed for commercial purposes. But that doesn’t make it unsuitable for residential purposes.
This manual mower is powered by a 27 HP Briggs and Stratton engine which offers fast and reliable mowing consistently across various types and sizes of lawns.
The incredible ergonomics on this lawn mower offers a comfortable ride when mowing, eliminating fatigue, injuries, and complexities with the controls. Starting this mower is also simple and fast.
The 3-in-1 capabilities on this mower allow you to choose between mulching, bagging, or discharging the clippings. The high back seat and foam-padded handles make mowing comfortable.
Since it was originally designed for commercial use, you’ll want the padded grip to eliminate injuries and blisters since you’ll be mowing for hours without break.
The zero-turn radius offers incredible maneuverability and turns when mowing rough terrain. Controlled by a comfortable steering wheel for easy understanding and more efficient mowing, users don’t have to face a new learning curve by jumping into their new mower.
Easily understandable steering wheels and ergonomic controls make on-the-go settings change simpler and incredibly fast.
While requiring only minimal maintenance, this mower is designed with an hour meter and service reminder to alert you when it’s time to maintain the mower.
Now, that’s a complete package. In addition to its longevity, this add-on reduces the risk of damage that could lead to expensive repairs.
Pros
● 9 Bushel Collection System
● Hour meter and service reminder
● Comfortable Steering
● 0 Degree Turn
Cons
● Expensive
EGO Z6 4204
PRICE: $4,999.00
The Ego Z6 4204 is one of a kind, featuring advanced mowing technology which guarantees optimal performance and consistency on both rough and smooth terrain, in all the seasons of the year.
The leading tech spec on this mower is the Peak Power+ technology that holds up to 6 Ego 56V ARC Lithium-Ion batteries for extended mowing time.
However, the EGO Z6 4204 only comes with 4 10Ah batteries, which is enough to see you through a day of mowing. To put into perspective, a single charge of this lawn mower will cut up to 2 acres.
If you add the 2 other batteries, then you’ll be cutting 3 acres at a go without any downtime. This extended runtime makes the EGO Z6 compatible for commercial and residential mowing.
But with such price, we’ll recommend the lower priced zero-turn for residential mowing. When it comes to speed, this mower is leading the pack with 2 speed levels of 3-7 MPH and 8 MPH on travel mode.
Modifiable control interface to suit user preference for better control combined with 3 different driving modes. Highly maneuverable with a lap bar drive which controls each wheel independently.
Easily swerve around obstacles and tackle all the grasses in your way without any trouble. The 3-in-1 capabilities which includes mulching, bagging, and side discharge gives users different options for handling grass clippings.
Other notable features include Bluetooth connection, USB charging port, Phone holder, and LED lights on all sides. The battery, tools, and charger are protected by a 5 year warranty.
Pros
● 5 year warranty
● Fast and Durable
● 10 Position Cutting Heights
● 4 Independent Brushless Motors
● Bluetooth Connection
● USB Charging Port
Cons
● Expensive
RYOBI 48140
PRICE: $4,399.00
Powered by 115 Ah batteries and 5 high powered brushless motors, the Ryobi Zero-turn lawn mower is capable of cutting up to 3 ½ acres on a single charge.
Quiet operation and environmentally friendly; no fumes and poisonous discharge into the air. Mow and keep a good respiratory health.
No belts, filters, and spark plug, this low maintenance lawn mower wouldn’t put a dent in your income tomorrow. The 3 precision cut blades guarantee an even cut on all lawn terrains and types with easy operation.
Fitted with 12 position manual deck adjustment ranging from 1.5“ to 4.5“ to provide an even cut in all seasons of the year. As a professional, this means you can use just one mower to handle different jobs. You don’t have to buy multiple mowers as that’ll be expensive.
Ergonomic controls and seats with control handles for easy direction. 3-in-1 capabilities include mulching, bagging, and side-discharge allows you to choose what to do with grass clippings.
An inclusive control panel includes USB charging port, LED headlights, Battery gauge, Slow speed and blade options, and reverse mow. The USB port allows you to mow and keep your phone fully charged, and headlights offer nighttime mowing.
HUSQVARNA Z24BF
PRICE: $3,198.00
The Husqvarna is actually cheap for the value it offers. Its features and incredible specifications are at par with some more expensive lawn mowers.
Manufactured from steel, the deck is sturdy and extremely durable to withstand harsh weather situations and impact. The 3-in-1 capabilities of mulching, bagging, and side-discharge gives you numerous choices to handle the grass clippings according to your preference.
The mower is also equipped with 3 anti scalp wheels and a manual, hand operated deck lifting system. The 6 cutting height steps allows users to tend to different lawns grown at different heights.
Ergonomic controls and seats for comfortable mowing. Fitted with a cup holder to keep you hydrated as you mow. The digital hour meter helps you monitor your mowing and keeps you on schedule.
Pros
● Adjustable Position Heights
● Ergonomic Controls and Seats
● Multiple Cutting Methods
● 10.5 KM/H Forward Speed
● Cup Holder
Cons
nil
CUB CADET RZT-SX 42 EFI
PRICE: $3,563.99
The Cub Cadet RZT-ST is a balance between performance and affordability. Equipped with high-tech features and a sturdy twin-cylinder engine, this zero-turn lawn mower meets all standards and tasks that you may throw at it.
The Cub Cadet engine and a displacement of 679cc make it fast and durable. It is also easy to use and comfortable to operate.
As a professional mower who values time, know that this 7 MPH (forward) and 3 MPH (backward) combined with the Hydrostatic drive system and Hydro-Gear EZT 2200 is fast and reliable.
Also features a push start and electronic choke for a quick start. Powered by a 12V 300 cca battery and a 2.8-gallon fuel tank capacity.
A cutting height range of 1.5 in-4“ with 8 deck positions to handle multiple grass heights. Equipped with cruise control and a steering wheel for easy control.
Unlike the lap bar, a steering wheel is easier to control and doesn’t require much orientation. The ergonomic controls and padded seats also make mowing on this equipment enjoyable.
Adjustable with a seat adjustment lever to suit your height and other preferences, this mower was designed to suit every of your garden needs and mowing demands.
Enjoy mowing at night? Then you’re at the right place. The CUB CADET RZT-SX 42 EFI is equipped with LED headlight(s) and a cup holder to keep you hydrated while you tend to your lawn. It is equipped with an hour meter to help you keep track of the task at hand.
Pros
● 3-year Limited Warranty
● Sturdy and Durable
● LED Headlights
● Electronic Choke
● Push Start
Cons
● Heavy gas
TROY-BILT MUSTANG Z42
PRICE: $3,899.99
The Mustang Z42 is loaded with advanced features including a tubular frame and a troy-bilt twin engine with a 678cc engine displacement for durability and strength.
The dual hydro-gear EZT 2299 and forward speed of 7 MPH powered by a heavy-duty belt transmission provides enough speed to mow a mid-sized to a large lawn in a short time.
No delay and fatigue when starting this mower as the ignition key is highly efficient and eliminates delay. While there is no fuel gauge, a fuel tank of 3.5 gallons holds enough gas to mow without unnecessary downtime.
The high gas capacity and 12V 2300 can battery capacity are sufficient to keep mowing going until you’re exhausted or done with the task.
A cutting deck of 42 inches and 8 deck positions, adjustable between 1.25 in-3.75 inches provides enough range to handle all heights of grass. This is very important for mowing all year round.
Simply increase the deck height during summer when the grass is higher and reduce it for winter. The deck wash on this mower means you don’t have to remove the deck to remove debris and grass stuck inside the deck.
Simply plug in a hose or blower, turn it on, and all the unwanted particles inside are eliminated. A clean deck helps to ensure optimal performance and reduces the risk of damage to any of the components.
Additional features include rubber floor mats, knob seat adjustments, cup holder, parking brake, and separate mulch kit. The Troy-Bilt Mustang Z42 is protected with a 4-year limited residential warranty.
Pros
● Ergonomic Controls
● 4-year Limited Warranty
● Adjustable Deck Positions
● Deck Wash
Cons
● No Armrests
ARIENS 991151 APEX ZERO-TURN RIDING MOWER
PRICE: $5,999.00
The Ariens 991151 apex zero-turn mower was designed for the roughest terrain with an incredible maneuverability mechanism.
It is both consistent for residential and commercial purposes, so as a professional, this is a lawn mower you can buy to save money.
Expensive but packs amazing features including intuitive controls to meet the daily needs of both professional and residential mowing.
The full tubular frame supports any load placed on the mower to extend longevity and keep it in optimal condition as you mow as well as the commercial-grade deck for impact resistance, durability, and superior strength.
The advanced belt technology minimizes wear and tear and improves on a quality cut. What makes this mower incredibly unique is its extended features. For example, it has 15 cutting heights, the highest on this list so far.
This provides a lasting solution to any height of grass on any type of lawn. It also means you’ll be able to maneuver any type and material of obstacles.
The deck lift system and pin selection allow you to switch between these heights easily. Easy on-the-go modifications whilst mowing makes the task easier, so you don’t have to be a professional mower to operate this high-grade zero-turn lawn mower.
Designed with a padded seat with armrests for comfortable mowing. Ergonomic controls improve on comfort for hours of mowing without fatigue and complaint.
Simply step into your lawnmower and now away. The 24 HP/726cc V-twin means it is fast, sturdy, and durable. While it doesn’t require extensive maintenance to function at an optimal level, the easily removable deck access panel makes it easy to clean the blade and belts.
Pros
● Adjustable Heights
● Deck Lift System
● Padded Seat and Armrests
● Ergonomic Controls
● Durable And Sturdy
● Low Maintenance
Cons
● Expensive
CRAFTSMAN 17ARFACQ091 50-INCH HYDROSTATIC GAS MOWER
PRICE: $4,948.90
This Gas-powered zero-turn lawn mower is designed to deliver efficient mowing at a high cost. But by the end of this review, you’ll get to see the justification for its high price.
First, the 24 HP Kohler twin-cylinder engine is fast, durable, and delivers all-around optimal performance. The engine is trusted to mow rough terrain and deliver consistent performance on various lawn sizes.
It is also environmentally friendly as it minimizes emissions when compared to other gas-powered zero-turn lawn mowers in its price range.
Easy to start and use. While many homeowners are switching to an electric start, Craftsman has maintained a pull start without prime and choke that starts the engine in less than 2 attempts.
Equipped with zero turn radius for quick maneuverability and directional change for better mowing flexibility and range to facilitate efficiency around bends, corners, and sides.
This feature is also beneficial for lawns filled with obstacles such as rocks, trees, and other natural obstacles that cannot be removed or adjusted.
The dual hydrostatic transmission combined with ergonomic seats offers the best riding and mowing experience. Most users have confessed to mowing for hours simply because it is very comfortable and easy on the body, causing less fatigue.
Talking about comfort, you can change from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches depending on the grass height and your comfort level. Manufactured with alloy steel to ensure longevity.
Pros
● Strong and Durable
● Ergonomic controls and seats
● Adjustable cutting heights
● Exceptional Maneuverability
● Powerful Engine
Cons
● Expensive
Conclusion
The above-listed zero-turn lawn mowers are designed for either commercial and residential purposes, with some advanced mentions capable of providing consistent performance for both uses.
