Best Zero Turn Mowers for the Money: Quality Meets Value

Zero turn mowers are the go-to equipment for anyone looking to maintain their lawn with efficiency and ease. Unlike traditional mowers, zero turn models can pivot 180 degrees, ensuring no grass blade is left uncut and eliminating the need for cumbersome backtracking. In this guide, we’ll navigate through everything from the basics of what makes these mowers unique to the best models on the market, maintenance tips, and much more.

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Top Picks Zero-Turn Mowers For 2024

• Husqvarna Z254F
• Ariens Ikon 52-in
• Ego ZT5207L
• EGO Z6 4204
• Ryobi RYRM8034
• Greenworks CRT 426

Summary of Best Zero Turn Lawn Mower

1. Husqvarna Z254F Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

$3,399.00 on HUSQVARNA

Technical Specs

• Engine: 23 HP Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin Engine
• Cutting Deck: 54-inch fabricated steel ClearCut deck with Hi-Lift blades
• Transmission: Hydrostatic, foot pedal-operated
• Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons
• Starting: Electric
• Headlights: LED
• Seat: Deluxe high-back seat

The Husqvarna Z254F is a zero-turn lawn mower that is designed for homeowners with large yards (2-3 acres). It features a 54-inch fabricated deck, a 23-horsepower Kawasaki engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. The mower also has a number of user-friendly features, such as a deluxe high-back seat, LED headlights, and an automatic park brake system.

2. Ariens Ikon 52-in 23-HP V-twin Zero-turn Lawn Mower

$4,299.00 on Amazon

Technical Specs

• Engine: 23 HP Kawasaki FR V-Twin Engine
• Cutting Deck: 52-inch, 11-gauge fabricated steel
• Transmission: Hydrostatic
• Frame: Solid tubular steel
• Seat: High-back with armrests
• Cutting Height: 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches (13 positions)
• Fuel Capacity: Around 3.5 gallons (exact info may vary)
• Engine Displacement: 726 cc (approximate)

Ariens lawn mowers and snow removal equipment have consistently stood out for their exceptional design and quality construction in our reviews. This specific lawn mower combines the reliable power of a 23-hp Kawasaki motor with the strength of a 52-inch deck made from 11-gauge steel. It’s equipped with a Hydrogear EZT transmission on each back wheel, a popular choice for home-use mowers, thanks to its sturdy one-inch axle and the ability to handle up to 900 pounds. This is essential given the mower’s weight of 635 pounds, along with the extra load of the operator and 2.8 gallons of fuel. With the Hydrogear, this mower can achieve speeds up to 7 mph. Its durability is further bolstered by key design features like a four-point deck mounting system, similar to those found in commercial-grade mowers, all built on a tubular steel frame known for its solid construction, meticulous welding, and superior paint application.

3. Ego ZT5207L Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

$5,999.00 on Amazon

Technical Specs

• Engine: Powered by six 56V ARC Lithium batteries (included)
• Cutting Deck: 52-inch fabricated steel deck
• Horsepower: Equivalent to 25 horsepower gas engine (according to Ego)
• Transmission: Electric
• Top Speed: 8 MPH
• Battery Six 56V 12.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries

We recently acquired a robust 56-volt, 52-inch lawn mower. Despite its winter arrival preventing us from grass trials, early indoor tests show promise. Ego touts it as akin to a 25-hp mower with a four-acre range per charge. At lower speeds, it runs over two hours, but at its 8 mph max, runtime dips to approximately 100 minutes.

Its notable features include a 10-gauge steel deck with three independently motorized blades, bypassing the need for gears, and dual motor-driven rear wheels within a sealed unit. An LCD interface offers varied drive modes: ‘Control’ for beginners to minimize turf damage, ‘Standard’ for routine cuts, and ‘Sport’ for speedy, precise maneuvers. This customization ensures users tailor the mower’s operation to their skill level and lawn needs, optimizing both runtime and cut quality.

4. EGO Z6 4204 Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

$4,999.00 on Amazon

Technical Specs

• Engine: Powered by up to six 56V ARC Lithium batteries
• Cutting Deck: 42-inch fabricated steel deck
• Horsepower: Equivalent to 22 horsepower gas engine (according to Ego)
• Transmission: Electric
• Top Speed: 8 MPH
• Battery Four 56V 10.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries (expandable to six)
• Warranty: 5-year warranty on mower, batteries and charger

This 42-inch, 56-volt mower matches the power of a 22-hp gas mower and can handle up to two acres on a single charge. Though not tested on large lawns, it impresses with its superior cut and ease of use, making it perfect for homeowners with about an acre of land. It comes with four 10-Ah lithium-ion batteries, with space for two more, all removable. This feature is great for Ego tool users, allowing for easy battery swaps for longer mowing sessions, or it can be recharged via the included cable. The mower’s advanced features include dual motors for both the deck and propulsion, driving two 21-inch blades, and an LCD for customizing blade speed, movement, and drive modes. These options aim to improve battery life, mowing efficiency, and cut quality, making it a standout choice for precision lawn care.

5. Ryobi RYRM8034 Joy Stick Controlled Zero Turn Mower

$5,999.00 on RyobiTools

Technical Specs

• Power: 80V HP Brushless Motors (equivalent to 42 HP gas engine according to Ryobi)
• Battery: Requires seven batteries (3 x 80V 10Ah batteries and 4 x 40V 12Ah batteries) and comes with a fast charger.
• Cutting Deck: 54-inch fabricated steel deck
• Transmission: Electric
• Top Speed: Not specified
• Cutting Height: 12 positions, adjustable from 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches

The Ryobi RYRM8034 is a battery-powered zero-turn riding mower that uses a joystick for steering. It’s a good option for homeowners with medium to large yards (up to 4 acres) who are looking for a powerful and low-maintenance mower.

6. Greenworks CRZ426 42-Inch Electric Riding Mower

$4,999.00 on GreenWorks

Technical Specifications

• Engine: Powered by six 60V 8Ah lithium-ion batteries (included)
• Cutting Deck: 42-inch steel deck
• Horsepower: Equivalent to 24 HP gas engine (according to Greenworks)
• Transmission: Electric
• Top Speed: Up to 6 MPH
• Battery Six 60V 8.0Ah Lithium-Ion batteries

We’ve experimented with 60-volt tools by Greenworks and found them satisfactory, though this particular mower remains untested by us. A key feature to note is its swift charging capability, achieved through a unique setup. The mower comes equipped with six batteries and three dual chargers, allowing for simultaneous charging of two batteries per charger. Greenworks suggests that this configuration reduces the total recharge time to just 90 minutes, significantly quicker than the extended charging periods often required.

Selecting a Zero-Turn Mower?

Choosing the right zero-turn mower often involves the desire for the largest model to quickly manage large lawns. However, the decision is influenced by cost and additional features, with prices ranging from $3,200 for a basic 42-inch model to up to $8,000 for commercial-grade options. A 42-inch mower is typically adequate for two acres, but larger properties may necessitate a bigger deck. Keep in mind, more affordable models may save upfront costs but could lead to higher maintenance and earlier replacement compared to higher-end, more durable models. The decision also hinges on maintenance preferences, mowing experience quality, and other practicalities like storage space, maneuverability, and the layout of your property. When shopping for a mower, consider your budget, maintenance willingness, desired mowing speed and comfort, cut quality, mower longevity, and how it fits with your property’s space and layout.

How We Select and Test?

The true measure of a mower’s capability is in its performance on the grass, yet our evaluations extend beyond just mowing. We assess the ease of adjusting the deck height and seat, along with the accessibility of maintenance points such as the air filter, spark plug, and oil filter. Our tests include mowing about an acre, scrutinizing the quality of the cut and the mower’s ability to mulch, even on challenging terrains like slopes, uneven surfaces, and hillsides, pushing the limits to inclines of roughly 20 degrees to ensure thoroughness, despite manufacturers typically advising against slopes steeper than 10 degrees. We examine the balance between speed and the quality of the cut to determine if the mower maintains effectiveness at full speed. In moist conditions, we observe if the tires gather grass and how efficiently the mower handles wet clippings. Our testing also covers the mower’s agility (noting that these machines are usually quite adept) and the responsiveness of the controls, particularly how quickly the mower stops when the control levers are released.

Conclusion

In conclusion, zero turn mowers represent a significant advancement in lawn care technology, offering unparalleled efficiency, maneuverability, and comfort. Their ability to pivot on the spot allows for precise cutting, drastically reducing the time and effort required to maintain vast or complex landscapes. When selecting a zero turn mower, it’s important to consider factors such as engine power, cutting width, comfort, and ergonomics to find a model that best suits your specific needs, whether for residential or commercial use. Proper maintenance and adherence to safety guidelines ensure these machines perform optimally and last for many seasons. With the right zero turn mower, the task of lawn maintenance becomes less of a chore and more of a pleasure, freeing up time for the more enjoyable aspects of outdoor living.

FAQs

1. What makes a zero turn mower different from a traditional lawn mower?
Zero turn mowers are distinct for their exceptional maneuverability, characterized by their ability to make sharp turns and pivot 180 degrees without leaving any uncut grass. This is made possible by their independent rear-wheel steering, which allows each wheel to move independently.
2. Can zero turn mowers be used on all types of terrain?
While zero turn mowers excel on flat and moderately sloped terrains, they may not be the best choice for very steep or uneven landscapes due to their high maneuverability, which can lead to a loss of control on steep inclines.
3. How do I maintain my zero turn mower for longevity?
Regular maintenance, including cleaning the deck, sharpening the blades, checking the oil, and ensuring the tires are properly inflated, is key to extending the lifespan of your zero turn mower. Additionally, storing it in a dry, protected space can prevent rust and other wear.
4. Are there electric zero turn mowers available?
Yes, there are electric models available that offer the benefits of zero emissions, reduced noise, and lower maintenance compared to their gas-powered counterparts. These models are becoming increasingly popular as battery technology improves.
5. How do I choose the right size zero turn mower for my lawn?
The size of your lawn and the complexity of the landscaping will determine the best mower size. Larger decks cut wider paths and are best for expansive, open areas, while smaller decks offer better maneuverability around obstacles like trees and flower beds.
6. What safety precautions should I take when using a zero turn mower?
Always read the operator’s manual before use, wear appropriate protective gear (such as goggles and ear protection), and never mow on wet grass to avoid slipping. Also, be particularly cautious on slopes to prevent rollovers.
7. How does the price of zero turn mowers compare to traditional lawn mowers?
Zero turn mowers generally come with a higher price tag due to their advanced features and capabilities. However, the investment can be worthwhile for those with large or complex lawns due to the significant time and effort savings.
8. Can zero turn mowers be used for commercial landscaping?
Absolutely. Many zero turn mowers are designed with commercial use in mind, featuring more durable construction, larger fuel tanks, and more powerful engines to withstand the rigors of daily, heavy-duty use.
9. How do I store my zero turn mower during the off-season?
Clean the mower thoroughly, change the oil, and either drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer. Store the mower in a clean, dry place to prevent rust and damage from the elements.
10. Are zero turn mowers environmentally friendly?
While traditional gas-powered zero turn mowers emit pollutants, the growing availability of electric models offers an eco-friendly alternative with zero emissions, making them a more environmentally conscious choice for lawn care.

Joel Cunningham

Forestry Author

I'm Joel Cunningham, an expert in pruning and weed management with over a decade of experience. My skills are rooted in formal training and extensive practice, focusing on advanced pruning techniques and efficient weed control. I'm known for my quality work, precision, and deep understanding of plant health and soil dynamics. My contributions extend to educational initiatives where I share sustainable practices and advice, establishing myself as a reliable and authoritative figure in the gardening community.