The 8 Best Zero Turn Mowers of 2023 [Reviews] - Lawn Care Blog | love of lawn (2023)

Zero-turn mowers are the most efficient lawn mowers available today - they're fast and manoeuvrable, make short work of large lawns and are trusted by professionals and homeowners alike. But what is the best zero-turn lawn mower for your yard?

We reviewed over two dozen zero-turn mowers to find our top eight picks based on performance, mower deck size, deck height, special features, and price. We've also added a handy Buyer's Guide and FAQ to make your shopping experience easier.

But first, what is a zero turn lawn mower? The engine of a zero-turn lawn mower supplies power to the two drive wheels independently of one another via hydraulic transmissions. This allows the operator to turn the machine on the fly or stop a wheel to create a seamless U-turn.

Zero turn mowers don't come cheap. Compared to other riding mowers, zero-turn mowers are generally on the higher end of the cost spectrum. If you're looking to invest in a quality zero turn mower, it's important to choose the right one.

As zero turn mower prices vary based on sales and availability, we have provided a general asking price.

• "Inexpensive"– Under $3,500
• "Moderate"– 3.500 bis 4.000 US-Dollar
• "Expensive"– $4,000 and up

We've also listed multiple purchase options where available to make price comparison easier.

Top 8 Zero Turn Mowers Reviews

1. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1

Cub Cadet's Ultima Series is a top-of-the-line zero-turn residential mower that makes short work of the largest lawns. Powered by a 22 hp Kohler engine, this machine can reach a forward speed of 7.5 miles per hour.

The ZT1 offers ultimate comfort with a fully adjustable racing seat. The lap bar controls are also adjustable to ensure precise manoeuvrability. Two LED headlights help you cut in low light and the rubberized cockpit floor reduces vibration.

The 20" rear wheels and 11" front wheels provide enough traction to tackle rolling hills and are designed to protect your lawn as you swing. A 3.5 gallon gas tank lets you spend more time mowing and less time refueling.

Cub Cadet offers a three-year drivetrain warranty and a lifetime frame warranty. The ZT1 is also available in one50 inch versionfor extra efficiency and range. Cub Cadet also recently released the Ultima ZT1 56V Max 60 with electric zero-turn.

specifications

energy source:22 hp 725 cc Kohler twin cylinder 7000 series engine
Top speed:7.5 km/h
Transmission:Hydrostatic
Deckbreite:42 inches
cutting height:15 positions, 1 to 4.5 inches
Price range:Inexpensive

Advantages

✓ Powerful 22 HP engine
✓ Fully adjustable seat and controls
✓ Best-in-Class-Garantie

Disadvantages

✗ No gas gauge
✗ Accessories sold separately

Where to buy

2. Husqvarna Z254

With the most powerful engine on this list, the Husqvarna Z254 zero-turn mower makes short work of lawns and fields. The Details: This mower has a 26 HP engine and a cutting width of 54 inches.

Other features we liked:

• A Single lever deck height adjustmentwith six digits
• Husqvarna's air intake systemto hold the grass upright for a cleaner cut
• A „ready start“-Systemfor easy operation

Worthless:Due to its focus on cutting performance, the Z254 is slightly slower than other zero-turn models on the market.

bottom line:Although this Husqvarna mower costs more than the Cub Cadet mentioned above, if you have a huge yard or dense, wild growth areas, you can still benefit from the extra power.

specifications

energy source:26 PS Kohler-Motor
Transmission:Hydrostatic
Top speed:6.5 km/h
Deckbreite:54 inches
cutting height:6 positions, 1.5 to 4 inches
Price range:Moderate

Advantages

✓ Powerful 26 HP engine
✓ Wide cutting deck
✓ Easy start

Disadvantages

✗ No gas gauge
✗ Seat not adjustable

Where to buy

3. Ryobi 42 inch zero turn mower

Ryobi's mastery of electric propulsion doesn't end with rear engine mowers. Ryobi has gone to great lengths to create an eco-friendly zero-turn mower that can hold its own against its gasoline-powered competition.

Powered by four separate motors, one for each drive wheel and one for each blade, this zero-turn mower distributes just the right amount of power to the components that need it most.

The 75Ah battery can last up to 2.5 hours of continuous mowing, quickly completing lawns of up to 3 hectares.

With a top speed of 11 km/h and fast, responsive turns, you can mow further and faster than other electric mowers. The battery charges overnight from a standard 120 volt outlet. A digital gauge tracks battery level and hours of use.

Bonus points:This zero-turn has powerful LED headlights, two cup holders and a USB charging port.

While this Ryobi electric zero-turn mower doesn't produce enough power to tackle thick brush or overgrowth, it's quite capable of tackling regular grasses. This mower has a mulching function and a collection system is sold separately.

specifications

energy source:75 Ah battery, 4 brushless motors
Transmission:none
Top speed:7 km/h
Deckbreite:42 inches
cutting height:12 positions, 1.5 to 4.5 inches
Price range:Expensive

Advantages

✓ Low maintenance - no fuel, filters, belts or spark plugs
✓ Zero emissions
✓ Fast and powerful
✓ Mulching included

Disadvantages

✗ Narrow deck
✗ Can only run 2.5 hours a day

Where to buy

4. Toro 42-Zoll-Timecutter

The Toro Timecutter 42-inch Zero Turn Ride-On Mower reduces the time it takes to mow your lawn with three different speed settings to redirect engine power for different applications and the most efficient cut.

This "Smart Speed" system automatically adjusts the sensitivity of the lap bars to your working pace:

• The wetnessfocuses on speed and has a top speed of 7 miles per hour.
• tow modefocuses on wheel torque with a top speed of 5.5 mph.
• Trim-Modusdirects power to the cutter deck and reduces top speed to 4 mph for plowing through thick brush.

Other features we liked:

• Comfort Features:Cup holder and storage compartment under the seat in the cab
• tire fenderthat protect the engine and operator from mud and dirt
• Shock reducing dampersthat keep the handlebar stable when you hit bumps.

Toro offers a 3-year unlimited hour residential warranty. The Timecutter meets California emissions standards. Owners of larger shipyards should look at theirs23 hp 50 inch versionAnd23 hp 54 inch model.

specifications

energy source:18 PS Kawasaki V-Twin-Motor
Transmission:Hydrostatic
Top speed:7 km/h
Deckbreite:42 inches
cutting height:1.5 to 4.5 inches
Price range:Inexpensive

Advantages

✓ Gentle steering
✓ California Compliant
✓ Multiple operating modes
✓ Comfort cabin

Disadvantages

✗ No headlights
✗ Low engine power
✗ No gas gauge

Where to buy

5. John Deere ZTrak Z375R

The John Deere ZTrak Z375R is a powerful zero-turn mower with a 25-horsepower V-twin engine and a wide 54-inch three-blade cutting deck.

The cockpit features an 18-inch center-back seat with armrests, cup holders and under-seat storage. The ZTrak Z375R stands out from the crowd with a built-in fuel gauge and integrated mulching function.

John Deere backs this mower with a 2 year/120 hour bumper-to-bumper warranty and recommends it for gardens over 2 acres. The ZTrak series also includes some more affordable options, such as42 inch Z345R, Die48 inch Z355R, and the24 PS Z365R

bottom line:John Deere mowers have been a trusted brand for over a hundred years and are known for their reliability. The ZTrak Z375R is no exception.

specifications

energy source:25 PS V-Twin-Motor
Transmission:Hydrostatic
Top speed:7 km/h
Deckbreite:54 inches
cutting height:13 digits 1 to 4 inches
Price range:Moderate

Advantages

✓ Mulching included
✓ Low fuel indicator
✓ Comfortable seat
✓ Powerful
✓ Wide deck

Disadvantages

✗ No headlights
✗ Not suitable for excavation

Where to buy

6. Ariens Ikon XD-52

Designed for commercial use, the Ariens Ikon Zero-Turn Mower is designed for all-day comfort. What do we mean? A plush high-back seat and padded armrests are all separately mounted to reduce vibration.

Other features we liked:

• A 23 hp Kawasaki engineis configured for easy starting and features cast iron cylinder liners for increased durability.
• The 52 inch mower deckis ventilated for optimal airflow, which prevents grass from flattening and ensures an even cut.

The Ikon is protected by a three year/300 hour warranty.

Note:Despite being one of the more expensive machines on the list, this zero turn mower does not come with any accessories.

specifications

energy source:23 PS V-Twin-Motor
Transmission:Hydrostatic
Top speed:7 km/h
Deckbreite:52 inches
cutting height:13 positions, 1.5 to 4.5 inches
Price range:Moderate

Advantages

✓ Easy start
✓ Durable and long lasting
✓ Comfortable anti-vibration cabin

Disadvantages

✗ Expensive
✗ No headlights
✗ Mulch/Collection Kit sold separately

Where to buy

7. EGO Power+ Z6

EGO has developed the only zero-turn plug-and-go electric mower on the market. The Z6 has room for up to six of its proprietary 56-volt Arc Lithium batteries and three speed settings.

Why this mower is unique: All six batteries combined deliver power comparable to a 22hp petrol engine and each battery can be charged in just 60 minutes, making it the only electric mower that can be fully charged and taken out again during the day.

The Z6 comes with four batteries that give around two hours of cutting time and cover 2 acres.

The Z6 has three separate speed modes:

• "Control"slows the wheels to 3 mph to focus on precision and cutting performance
• "Standard"has a maximum speed of 11 km/h for mowing long distances
• "Sport"can reach the top speed of 8 mph to go fast across the yard.

Comfort and cool features:

• A seat with a high backrestwith adjustable lumbar support, padded armrests and hydraulic suspension
• A digital battery indicator, drink holder, USB charging port and Bluetooth capability for digital status reports
• 360 degree LED lightingand whisper quiet sound

Owners of other EGO devices will benefit the most from the Z6, as additional batteries increase the mower's performance and longevity. EGO offers a 5-year limited warranty.

specifications

energy source:Up to 6 EGO 56V Arc Lithium Batteries, 22HP Equivalent
Transmission:none
Top speed:8 km/h
Deckbreite:42 inches
cutting height:10 positions, 1.5 to 4.5 inches
Price range:Expensive

Advantages

✓ Low maintenance - no fuel, filters, belts or spark plugs
✓ Zero emissions
✓ Interchangeable battery compatible with other tools
✓ Fastest charging battery on the market
✓ Extended comfort functions
✓ Fast

Disadvantages

✗ Very expensive

Where to buy

8. Troy-Bilt-Mustang

A solid choice for any budget, the Troy-Bilt Mustang zero-turn mower features a reliable 24hp Briggs & Stratton engine. Its soft, high-back seat is comfortable even when mowing 4 or more acres at a time.

The lap bar control has an integrated parking brake for easy stopping. A wide 50-inch cutting deck can be easily cleaned with built-in hose connections.

While the Mustang doesn't have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it's a durable, sturdy machine that gets the job done. It's backed by a lifetime frame warranty and a three-year warranty on all other components.

specifications

energy source:24 PS Briggs & Stratton V-Twin-Motor
Transmission:Hydrostatic
Top speed:7 km/h
Deckbreite:54 inches
cutting height:8 positions, 1.25 to 3.75 inches
Price range:Inexpensive

Advantages

✓ Robust 2 inch tubular frame
✓ Integrated braking system

Disadvantages

✗ No headlights
✗ No fuel gauge
✗ Fewer deck positions

Where to buy

Buying Guide: Zero Turn Mowers

The zero-turn mower is the gold standard for professional lawn care. These grass clippers are also a great investment for homeowners with large ex-urban or rural lawns. Zero turns are fast, wide, maneuver with incredible precision, and can stop and turn in the blink of an eye.

This buying guide will give you a better understanding of the types of riding lawn mowers available and the features we looked at when rating zero turn lawn mowers.

Types of riding lawn mowers

Zero-turn mowers aren't the only choice for a ride-on mower. Many options on the market meet the needs of all types of lawns. If you are unsure whether investing in an expensive zero turn mower is your best bet, here is a quick overview of the types of riding lawn mowers available.

Rear engine

Rear-engined ride-on mowers are the most compact and affordable model. The engine (or electric motor) is mounted behind the operator's seat. This gives these mowers excellent forward visibility but can affect their turning radius. With smaller mower decks, they fit through gates and are great for medium sized lawns.

Rasentraktor

The lawn tractor has been the standard riding lawn mower for over a century and features a front engine that drives the wheels and cutting deck. These mowers typically have mower decks of around 42 inches, although higher horsepower tractors may be larger. Newer models may have automatic or hydrostatic transmissions, although many are manual.

Zero-Turn

The zero turn mower has been around since the 1960's and has grown in popularity over the last 20 years. These high-tech machines use a hydraulic system to independently control the two powered wheels, allowing them to spin in a jiffy.

Zero turns are usually controlled by a pair of levers on the operator's lap and can be difficult to maneuver without practice. The shape of Zero Turns allows them to carry wider decks. Zero-turns are usually a bit more expensive, but are the best choice for large shipyards.

Electric

With the decline of fossil fuels and ever-increasing gas prices, it may be the right time to invest in a battery-powered riding lawn mower. Recent advances in green technology have resulted in some truly impressive machines from multiple manufacturers.

With batteries that last up to three hours on a single charge, electric mowers can deliver performance similar to petrol models.

What to Look for in a Zero Turn Mower

With so many zero turn mowers available, choosing the right mower can be a daunting task. We looked at several details and features to determine the usefulness and cost-effectiveness of our top 8 picks.

Performance

A lawn mower engine's horsepower is an important metric for any tool and determines your top speed and blade torque. Gas engines of this size are usually measured in horsepower (HP), while large batteries measure amperage per hour (Ah) of operation.

Consider a higher horsepower engine if you want to cut dense brush or overgrowth. A low to medium power is usually sufficient for normal lawns.

cutting deck size

A wider cutting deck increases your reach with every pass across the yard. Wider machines are more efficient but require more power to operate and are therefore more expensive.

Deckhöhe

Adjustable decks are standard on modern lawn mowers. Most adjustable decks can cut grass between about 1.5 inches and 4 inches, with multiple increments in between. This feature is usually a matter of preference rather than necessity.

Special features

Manufacturers like to add convenience and utility features to their ride-on mowers to make them stand out. Features like cup holders, USB chargers, and anti-vibration steering wheels are great for making mowing even more enjoyable.

Some models include mulching kits or leaf bags, while other manufacturers sell them as separate attachments.

Preis

The most important factor in choosing the right zero turn mower is your budget. Riding mowers are a big purchase and we recommend shopping from a few different local suppliers and retailers to find the best deal. We've quantified the features above and compared them to cost to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

When to call a lawn care professional

If you have a large or unmanageable yard and a zero turn mower seems like too much of an investment, give Lawn Love a call.Lawn love professionalscan give your garden a professional manicure at affordable prices. Call 800-706-4117 to learn how a professional lawn care team can show your yard some lawn love.

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