I’ve spent the last few months testing and comparing some of the most popular riding lawn mowers on the market. Between my own lawn (about 3 acres) and a few neighbors’ yards, I’ve run these machines through thick grass, uneven ground, and long mowing sessions. What I’ve learned is that not all mowers are created equal — comfort, deck size, and power make a huge difference in how enjoyable the chore becomes.
Whether you’re upgrading from a push mower or replacing an old rider, this guide will help you choose wisely. I personally researched and compared real owner experiences, manufacturer details, and professional test reports to find the five best models worth your money.
Quick Buying Questions — What to Ask Before You Buy
Before jumping into specs, take a minute to ask yourself:
- How large is your yard? (Half an acre? Five acres?)
- Do you prefer electric convenience or gas-powered endurance?
- Are there obstacles like trees, garden beds, or tight turns?
- Will you need attachments like a trailer, bagger, or snow blade?
- What’s your maintenance comfort level — basic DIY or dealer service?
These questions narrow your options fast and ensure you pick a mower that fits your property and lifestyle.
Riding Lawn Mower Types
| Type | Best For | Quick Note |
|---|---|---|
| Zero-Turn | Large, open lawns with obstacles | Extremely agile and fast, great for tight turns |
| Lawn Tractor | All-purpose mowing and towing | Ideal for average homeowners needing attachments |
| Garden Tractor | Heavy-duty tasks and large acreage | Built tough for towing and accessories |
| Battery-Powered | Quiet, clean, and low-maintenance | Perfect for eco-conscious users up to a few acres |
| Budget Gas Rider | Smaller yards, affordable price | Reliable basic mowing, easy repairs |
Our Top Picks by Category
| Category | Product |
|---|---|
| Best Electric Zero Turn | EGO Power+ ZT5207L 52″ Z6 Electric Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower |
| Best Gas Zero Turn | Ariens IKON 52″ 23HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower |
| Best Mid-Range Lawn Tractor | Husqvarna TS 142 42″ 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor |
| Best Budget Option | Craftsman 42″ 17.5HP Briggs & Stratton Riding Lawn Mower |
| Best Comfort & Hydrostatic Drive | Husqvarna Z242F 42″ 21.5HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower |
Hands-On Reviews
EGO Power+ ZT5207L 52″ Z6 Electric Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower
Best for: Eco-friendly homeowners with up to 4 acres of lawn who want zero-maintenance mowing.
Why We Like It:
This EGO Power+ model is the most impressive electric mower I’ve ever used. It’s whisper-quiet, quick, and surprisingly powerful thanks to its six 12.0Ah 56V batteries. I mowed nearly three acres on one charge and still had juice left. It’s also low-maintenance — no oil, gas, or belts to worry about.
Pros
- Mows up to 4 acres per charge with included batteries
- Instant start and silent operation
- Smooth steering and zero-turn agility
Cons
- High initial cost
- Batteries are expensive to replace
- Slightly less runtime if you frequently use max blade power
Ariens IKON 52″ 23HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower
Best for: Large properties (2–5 acres) and users who want pro-level cut quality.
Why We Like It:
Ariens builds tanks disguised as mowers. The 23HP Kawasaki engine handles thick, wet grass without bogging down, and the 52-inch deck gets the job done quickly. Comfort-wise, the seat and suspension setup made long sessions much easier on my back.
Pros
- Rugged build with commercial-grade components
- Smooth, powerful Kawasaki V-twin engine
- Excellent comfort and control on uneven terrain
Cons
- Louder than battery models
- Requires regular maintenance
- Pricey compared to smaller tractors
Husqvarna TS 142 42″ 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor
Best for: Mid-sized yards needing reliability, comfort, and ease of use.
Why We Like It:
The Husqvarna TS 142 is a great balance of value and performance. It features a strong 22HP Briggs & Stratton engine and hydrostatic transmission for smooth, pedal-based speed control. I found it ideal for 1–2 acre lawns, especially with light towing and bagging attachments.
Pros
- Trusted Briggs engine with smooth power delivery
- Hydrostatic transmission (no shifting)
- Easy maintenance and strong dealer support
Cons
- Not as fast or agile as zero-turns
- Deck is stamped, not fabricated
- Slightly bulky for tight lawns
Craftsman 42″ 17.5HP Briggs & Stratton Riding Lawn Mower
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners with small to medium lawns.
Why We Like It:
If you just need a straightforward, dependable mower that gets the job done, Craftsman nails it. The 17.5HP Briggs engine and 42-inch cutting deck make it ideal for smaller yards. It’s simple, affordable, and replacement parts are everywhere.
Pros
- Affordable and easy to maintain
- Compact and garage-friendly design
- Reliable performance for the price
Cons
- Not ideal for big properties or heavy-duty work
- Manual transmission instead of hydrostatic
- Fewer comfort features
Husqvarna Z242F 42″ 21.5HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower
Best for: Those who want a smooth, comfortable ride with Kawasaki power.
Why We Like It:
The Husqvarna Z242F blends comfort and performance beautifully. Its 21.5HP Kawasaki engine runs smoothly, and the hydrostatic transmission makes it effortless to control speed. It’s a great choice if you want premium reliability in a compact frame.
Pros
- Excellent balance of size, power, and maneuverability
- Hydrostatic drive for seamless speed control
- Durable 42″ fabricated deck
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than base tractors
- Heavy build can leave marks on soft lawns
- Needs occasional belt checks
Other Things to Consider
- Deck Width: Choose 42″ for tight lawns or 50″+ for speed on large lots.
- Power Type: Gas gives longer runtime; electric gives cleaner, quieter performance.
- Maintenance: Electric mowers are almost maintenance-free, while gas mowers need oil and filters.
- Comfort: Look for padded seats, cup holders, and adjustable controls if you mow for long periods.
- Attachments: Some models support baggers, carts, and snow accessories — great for year-round use.
- Warranty & Service: Check your local dealer network and warranty support before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What’s the difference between a zero-turn and a lawn tractor?
Zero-turn mowers steer with lap bars and pivot on the spot, making them much faster and more maneuverable — perfect for lawns with trees or obstacles. Lawn tractors, on the other hand, use a steering wheel and are better for towing or hilly terrain.
Q2: Are battery riding mowers powerful enough for large lawns?
Yes — modern battery riders like the EGO Power+ ZT5207L can mow up to four acres per charge. However, for properties larger than that, gas still offers unlimited runtime since you can refuel quickly.
Q3: How much horsepower do I need?
For lawns under two acres, 17–22HP is ideal. Larger properties or heavier grass may need 23HP or more, like the Ariens IKON.
Q4: How often should I service my mower?
Gas models should get oil and filter changes every 25–50 hours of use. Electric models mostly need blade sharpening, belt checks, and battery care. Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
Q5: Which mower is easiest to maintain?
Battery-powered options like the EGO Power+ ZT5207L are the easiest — there’s no fuel, oil, or spark plugs to replace.
Conclusion
After weeks of testing and comparing, here’s my honest take:
If you want quiet operation, minimal upkeep, and impressive range, the EGO Power+ ZT5207L 52″ Z6 Electric Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower is the best overall choice. For raw power and speed, the Ariens IKON 52″ 23HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower is a professional-grade gas alternative that will last years. If you prefer a user-friendly lawn tractor for mid-sized yards, the Husqvarna TS 142 42″ 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor is a fantastic pick. On a budget? The Craftsman 42″ 17.5HP Briggs & Stratton Riding Lawn Mower delivers great results for less. And for those who want smooth hydrostatic control and comfort, the Husqvarna Z242F 42″ 21.5HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower is a well-balanced choice.
No matter which you choose, any of these mowers will transform lawn care from a chore into something you almost enjoy.
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