Best Zero-Turn Riding Mower To Maintain Your Yard
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Toro TITAN 60 ZTR Mower with MyRide -
Ariens IKON XD Mower -
Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX4 Mower -
RYOBI RY48ZTR75 Mower -
John Deere Z345R Zero-Turn Riding Mower -
Husqvarna Z254 Zero-Turn Riding Mower -
Swisher Z3166CPKA Mower -
Z-Beast Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Rollbar -
DeWalt Z260 Zero-Turn Lawn Mower -
Craftsman Z525 Mower
Lawn mowers are a staple piece of hardware when it comes to property maintenance. From commercial lawn care to trimming the front yard, everybody has grass that needs cut, and there’s always one tool for the job. Homeowners with substantial ground to cover and businesses with efficient mowing in mind often turn to riding lawn mowers, whose speed, power, and versatility far exceeds the push-variety. Saving users substantial amounts of time and energy means more room for other outdoor projects and leisure activities, as well as a cleaner, more consistent trim and a more perfectly manicured lawn.
Zero-turn riding mowers take this convenience to the next level by elevating the mobility of the drive wheels, letting the mower rotate practically in place and making even the toughest of properties easier to navigate.The best zero-turn mowers use this mobility and add layers of durability, luxury, or special attachments to provide operators with reliable, versatile performance across terrains of all sizes. From gas to electric, from lightweight to heavy-duty, there’s a zero-turn mower ideal for just about anybody that works on a plot of land.
Yet shopping online for sizable equipment can be daunting, and it’s hard to know if you’ve found the perfect fit for your situation when there are so many options available. So, for your shopping convenience, we’ve reviewed a number of top brands to provide a list of the best zero-turn riding mowers on the market in 2022.
Note to California residents: The State of California requires certification from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) before these mowers can be legally sold within the state. The vast majority of gas-powered zero-turn riding mowers on the market are therefore unavailable in California. We've noted CARB-compliant options where possible, though your best option may be to choose an electric mower instead.
Cut Grass Faster Than Ever Before With These ZTR Mowers
Toro TITAN 60 ZTR Mower with MyRide - Best Riding Mower Overall
Combining commercial-grade materials with the luxury of a residential mower, the TITAN 60 aims to make short work of vast amounts of property. The MyRIDE Suspension System included with the model works alongside its zero-turn design to make the ride itself smooth and consistent, while its commercial drop pin height makes cut adjustments a breeze. Built with durable steel and an IronForged deck, alongside a wide front tubular axle and triangle bullnose leading-edge, this riding lawn mower has the power and build to make itself a lawn care asset for years after purchase. This model even comes with bonus operator luxuries such as a cupholder and dual adjustable armrests. Residential or commercial users seeking a smooth ride with impressive specs and reliable performance should visit the lawn mower’s webpage to learn more.
- Heavy-duty design and MYRIDE suspension makes most terrain easily traversable, absorbing collisions with any bumps, divots, and uneven surfaces in its path
- 3 year unlimited residential service warranty/300 hour commercial warranty provides a guarantee of quality
- 60 inch cutting width covers wide swaths of grass in every pass, making quick work of open areas with lots of turf
- Operating the zero-turn controls can be a little bit tough, especially for people new to the technology
- Does not include dual LED headlights for evening or night mowing
- Not CARB compliant
Ariens IKON XD Mower - Close Runner-Up
The IKON XD 52 features a sizable cutting width with advanced airflow for an exceptional cutting performance. It weighs only 252 pounds and is equipped with a plush, adjustable seat featuring padded arm rests, making this lawn mower perfect for quick residential trimming with good maneuverability. This model features 13 cutting positions from 1½” to 4½”, with a dial that can provide adjustments in quarter-inch increments. It can even mow while in reverse! Large back tires also assist with the zero-turn mobility and provides operators with a smoother, more comfortable ride as they trim. The IKON XD 52 is an ideal machine for users with small to medium yards or standard terrain.
- Adjustable seating increases accessibility and makes for a comfortable ride
- The wide variety of cutting positions makes yard customization as simple as turning a dial
- Capable of mowing while in reverse, providing extra mobility and utility while on the job
- Lightweight design makes wet/clumpy grass occasionally difficult to cut through, and can collect under the deck
- Works better for residential settings than commercial environments
- Not CARB compliant
Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX4 Mower - Honorable Mention
The Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX4 is designed to be an all-purpose device for an assortment of lawn care needs. With a variety of tools at its disposal, such as a 9" boot to direct grassflow, smooth-tread front wheels that avoid turf damage, and a number of available external attachments, every property owner is able to customize their model to fit their specific terrain needs. Giving operators the raw strength of a 10-gauge steel fabricated AeroForce Max deck and the support of an isolated front caster suspension system provides the best of both worlds between commercial grade material and user-friendly design. Pairing these features with a selection of different deck sizes ranging from 48”-60” makes this zero-turn mower a Swiss Army Knife of outdoor utility. Padded seats and ample legroom are also included to optimize the rider’s experience. This model has a little something for everyone, so if you’re looking for a product with a few tricks up its sleeve that can pull its weight on a multitude of landscapes, then the Ultima ZTX4 may be the zero-turn mower you’re looking for.
- Tubular frame with protective e-coat and 4-year, 500 hour warranty provide protection from both short term damage and long-term corrosion to the equipment
- Large back wheels and focus on traction makes this model ideal for tricky terrain such as rolling hills or uneven grass
- 48-inch cutting width makes obstacle maneuverability easier to manage
- Requires some assembly upon arrival
- Most mower attachments are sold separately from the main model
- Not CARB compliant
RYOBI RY48ZTR75 Mower - Best Electric Zero-Turn Mower
In a market filled with mostly gas-powered mowers, the RYOBI RY48ZTR75 stands out with a more sustainable, environmentally-conscious battery-electric design. A full charge lasts up to 2.5 acres of mowing, synergizing with its 42” cutting width to make for an ideal small/medium yard trimming tool. The steel blades are built and cut for precision, and its zero-turn technology helps to guarantee a clean, satisfying cut after every use. Other tools included standard in this model include a slow speed function, LED headlights for night mowing, and displays for the current battery level and run-time. If you’re looking for a pinpoint, environmentally conscious cut that doesn’t sacrifice the toughness of a reinforced steel deck, then the RYOBI RY48ZTR75 may be the zero-turn mower for you.
- Includes four high-powered brushless motors that are powered by 75 Ah Batteries
- Built-in rear access port provides convenient charging options when the job is done
- The deck is constructed with a sturdy, heavy-duty steel that increases the model’s durability
- Not designed for large acreages. Fits best in the 1.5-2.5 acre range
- Does not feature an automatic operation mode, instead featuring a manual option
John Deere Z345R Zero-Turn Riding Mower - Best Value
The Z345R is a John Deere model sporting a high-performance build that makes fast-trimming as effective as possible. Featuring a 7-MPH mowing speed and 13 different cutting height options ranging from 1”-4”, this zero-turn mower is meant to adjust to the job at hand. Foot platforms, high back seats, armrests, rubber floor mats, and other operator station luxuries come standard as well, making the ride both powerful and hassle-free. By downloading the MowerPlus app, operators can even monitor engine hours and fuel levels. For anyone just getting their start with zero-turn technology, John Deere also offers a white glove delivery service, where an expert will provide a crash course on how to operate and maintain the device. This model is ideal for residential yard maintenance with enough space to allow its 22 HP V-Twin Engine to show its full potential, but it also has the power and mobility to handle trickier environments just as well.
- The 42-in Accel Deep™ Mower Deck included in this model is effective at both trimming and mulching at high speeds
- Bumper-to-Bumper warranty lasts 2 years, or 120 active hours, with a large number of dealerships available for service
- Three-gallon fuel tank helps to get residential jobs done without having to refill
- All mulch-control attachments are sold separately
- Best used for yards .5-2 acres in size, better suited for non-commercial use
California residents: This model is available in a CARB-compliant specification at The Home Depot and at Lowe's.
Husqvarna Z254 Zero-Turn Riding Mower - Consider
For those looking for a well-rounded, universal residential riding zero-turn mower, the Husqvarna Z254 makes for a perfect fit at an attractive price. The 26 HP Kohler engine provides the model with a top speed of 6.5 MPH, and with its 54” cutting width, this mower can make quick work of standard residential terrain. A stylish orange and black color design gives the Z254’s flat stock steel deck a sleek, memorable visual design. A set of cast-iron mandrels provides the model enough power to cut and mulch its way through difficult patches of grass and greenery without trouble, and the resulting clippings can be either discharged, mulched, or bagged depending on the job at hand. Anybody looking for a reliable turf-cutting machine can count on the Z254 and its maintenance-free transmission to keep your yard manicured season after season.
- Features patent-pending park brake system that activates in response to steering levers being pulled outward or inward
- Replacement blades for this model can be purchased at most major hardware retailers, making maintenance convenient and accessible
- Features induction mowing technology that draws air from above and below the deck for a higher quality cut
- Does not contain a fuel gauge, making gas consumption management tricky
- Some assembly is required
- Not CARB compliant
Swisher Z3166CPKA Mower - Consider
The Swisher Z3166CPKA BIG MOW lives up to its name by sporting a massive 66-inch wide chassis constructed of American-made steel. Designed around a 31 HP 999cc Kawasaki engine and a pair of four-gallon gas tanks, this model has the size and durability to tackle large, unpredictable terrain without having to stop for a refill. This zero-turn mower can even continue the job after the sun goes down by activating its two front-mounted LED headlights. The BIG MOW comes with 3 G6 Gator commercial grade mulching blades capable of trimming thick grass without issue, leaving behind a clean, evenly manicured lawn. Lawn Care enthusiasts and commercial landscaping crews that require top quality, heavy-duty equipment for their maintenance needs should look no further than this 1380 pound all-American mower.
- The large chevron tread tires work in unison with the 31 HP engine to power through tough, stubborn terrain
- An extensive 1.25”-5” cutting range makes property customization easily attainable
- Model includes a highback suspension seat that stabilizes the ride, providing the operator with a smoother, more enjoyable ride
- Mowing on slopes steeper than 15 degrees is not recommended
- Not CARB-compliant
Z-Beast Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Rollbar - Consider
Large lot owners seeking a stable, safe, reliable cut can look to the Z-Beast model to fit all of their trimming needs. Carrying a standard 20 HP Briggs and Stratton Engine and dual heavy-duty hydrostatic drive systems gives this model a strong top-speed of 10 MPH. A substantial range of cut heights ranging from 1.5”-5” makes the Z-Beast versatile when operating on flat terrain. This model features 20 x 8 inch back tires that amplify the effectiveness of the zero-turn function, making obstacles far easier to maneuver around. For safety-minded yard work, a rollbar and seatbelt come pre-installed, as well as a cup holder to keep operators refreshed and comfortable as they trim up to 4 acres per four gallon tank. Users with an interest in dependability, speed, and versatility can turn to the Z-Beast as a cost-effective, universally applicable lawn mower.
- No assembly required upon delivery
- Long-lasting belts, soft-start clutch, and spindle brakes reduce maintenance requirements
- Extra features include headlights, reverse mowing capabilities, and one-lever height adjustment
- Designed primarily for commercial use, but can be used in residential settings
- Not CARB compliant
DeWalt Z260 Zero-Turn Lawn Mower - Consider
For companies and individuals seeking professional-grade, heavy duty materials with enough torque and raw strength to handle hilly terrain, the DEWALT 7260 makes for an all-around perfect fit. This zero-turn mower is built to tackle anywhere from 4-10 acres with ease, carrying a 24 HP Kawasaki engine that powers through any tough turf that it encounters along the way. The model is constructed with a 1.5 in. x 3 in. tubular steel frame, as well as seatbelts and rollover protection, making even the harshest environmental circumstances manageable and safe for the entire ride. Standard comfort features such as sewn high back seats and armrests amplify shock absorption, providing a valuable asset to long landscaping shifts in a commercial setting. Regardless of the rigors it faces, the DEWALT 7260 is sturdy enough to face it, and powerful enough to provide a high-quality trim to whatever terrain it tackles.
- Includes an industry-leading, four year, 800 hour warranty from a longstanding American brand
- Diverse 17-position cut options are available via the deck height adjustment dial
- Powerful transmission delivers up to 500 ft./lbs. of output torque, benefitting both speed and traction
- Optimal for commercial environments, but can also be used residentially
- Some assembly is required
- Not CARB compliant
Craftsman Z525 Mower - Consider
The Craftsman Z525 is a manual operation zero-turn mower designed primarily for large-yard jobs. The 46-inch cut deck and 20 HP motor makes for an efficient ride, competently trimming around obstacles on flat terrain. The Craftsman Autochoke feature provides a quick, efficient start to your yard work as the mower is being cranked. Users looking for easy deck maintenance can utilize the deck wash feature to save time with undercarriage cleaning. Yard care enthusiasts seeking a well-rounded machine with good control, efficient airflow, and built-in maintenance should consider this model as a well-rounded mower for all kinds of residential properties.
- Comes fully assembled — all you have to do is attach some electrical wiring and add gas
- Able to continue cutting in reverse and avoids creating wheel divots
- Stylish red and black color scheme provides the model with a sharp, memorable, and visually-pleasing design
- Includes standard comforts such as a high-back seat, but does not have arm rests or other operator luxury devices
- Does not include headlights, rollbar, or other advanced safety features
California residents: This model is available in a similar CARB-compliant specification at Lowe's.