When looking for the best zero turn lawnmower, one critical factor to consider is the size of your lawn. Zero turn lawnmowers come in a range of sizes, and choosing the right one will depend on the size of your lawn.
Another factor to consider is the type of terrain in your yard. Some zero turn lawnmowers are better suited for flat terrain, while others are designed to handle hilly or uneven terrain (here is the best lawn mower for hills).
Maintaining a well-manicured lawn is a point of pride for many homeowners. However, the task of mowing can be time-consuming and physically demanding. This is where a zero turn lawnmower comes in handy.
A zero turn lawnmower is a type of riding lawnmower that has a turning radius of zero, allowing it to pivot on its own axis. This feature makes it easier to maneuver around obstacles such as trees and flower beds.
After researching and testing various zero turn lawnmowers, we have identified the top models that offer the best combination of performance, durability, and ease of use.
In the following sections, we will provide an in-depth review of each model, highlighting its key features and benefits. Whether you have a small or large lawn, we have a zero turn lawnmower that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Best Zero Turn Lawnmowers
We’ve researched and tested various zero turn lawnmowers to bring you the best options for a clean and efficient cut. Zero turn lawnmowers are known for their speed and maneuverability, making them a great choice for large lawns or commercial use.
Our roundup includes models with various cutting widths, engine sizes, and features to fit your specific needs. Check out our top picks below.
1. Universal Zero Turn Lawn Mower Trailer Hitch
If you’re looking for a reliable and heavy-duty zero turn lawn mower hitch kit, you might want to check out the Universal Zero Turn Lawn Mower Trailer Hitch by Noa Store.
Pros
- Compatible with most mower brands.
- Made with strong steel and powder-coated for all weather conditions.
- Easy to install with slotted mounting holes.
Cons
- Aftermarket products are not affiliated with some mower brands.
- Some users had issues with the mounting nuts and bolts not fitting their mowers.
- Might require drilling for some mower models.
We recently had the chance to try out this hitch kit and were impressed with its performance. The hitch is compatible with most mower brands using the bolt center listed, and it has 5” outside hole centers and a wide inside hole with 2” to 3” centers.
We were able to attach carts and trailers with ease and haul dry leaves, cut brush, and tree limbs comfortably.
The hitch is made with strong steel and powder-coated to perform in all weather conditions. We appreciated the heavy-duty performance and reliability it provided.
The kit is also easy to install with slotted mounting holes, allowing for easier alignment and installation. It fits nicely on the support bracket and gives the hitch added overall support.
It’s important to note that this is an aftermarket product manufactured by Mission Automotive / Impresa Products, and any other brands mentioned are for illustrative purposes only and are in no way affiliated with Impresa Products, nor do they endorse Impresa Products.
Some users had issues with the mounting nuts and bolts not fitting their mowers, and some models might require drilling.
Overall, we highly recommend the Universal Zero Turn Lawn Mower Trailer Hitch by Noa Store for its compatibility, heavy-duty performance, and ease of installation.
2. 1/64 Kubota Z700 Zero Turn Lawn Mower, Pull Back Action
We recently had the opportunity to try out the 1/64 Kubota Z700 Zero Turn Lawn Mower, Pull Back Action, and have some thoughts to share.
Overall, we think this is a great product for those who are fans of Kubota or just looking for a fun collectible.
Pros
- The Kubota Z700 Zero Turn Lawn Mower is made of durable rubber, diecast, and plastic materials, ensuring that it will last for a long time.
- The pull-back action of the mower is smooth and easy to use, making it a fun toy for both kids and adults.
- The attention to detail in the design of the mower is impressive, making it a great addition to any Kubota or lawn care collection.
Cons
- The mower is much smaller than we expected, so be sure to check the dimensions before purchasing.
- Some of the smaller pieces on the mower, such as the roll bar and arms, may break easily if not handled carefully.
- While the mower is a great collectible, it is not meant to be used as a toy for small children.
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of Kubota or just looking for a fun collectible, we highly recommend the 1/64 Kubota Z700 Zero Turn Lawn Mower, Pull Back Action. It’s made of high-quality materials, has smooth pull-back action, and is impressively detailed.
However, if you’re looking for a toy for small children, this may not be the best option due to some of the smaller pieces being fragile.
3. Pro Lift T-5305 Lawn Mower Lift
If you’re looking for an easy way to perform necessary maintenance on your lawn mower, the Pro-Lift T-5305 Lawn Mower Lift is a great option.
Pros
- Provides maximum space to perform necessary maintenance.
- Built with welded solid steel construction and four steel wheels.
- Adjustable wheel span fits on most zero turn garden tractors, riding mowers, ATVs, and push mowers.
Cons
- May require two people to carry due to weight.
- Poor packaging may cause minor bending of lift arms.
- Amazon drivers may not deliver to the desired location.
This lawn mower lift has a lifting capacity of 500 lbs and a maximum lifting height of 26 inches. Its high lifting point is 26.5 inches and it has a power raise of 10 inches.
The base length is 40 inches, the base width is 15.88 inches, and the handle length is 24.5 inches with a straight handle type and mounting brackets pin.
With the Pro Lift T-5305 Lawn Mower Lift, you can easily position your mower tires securely on wheel baskets and center the load on the lift. This makes it easy to perform blade works, cleaning debris, oil changes, and more.
Assembly is a breeze with just two bolts to attach the jack to the frame base and two bolts to attach mower wheel assemblies. The mower lift is well-built and sturdy, making it a great investment for any homeowner who wants to take care of their lawn mower.
4. Pro Lift Lawn Mower Jack Lift
If you are looking for a reliable and safe way to perform maintenance on your lawn mower, the Pro Lift Lawn Mower Jack Lift may be the perfect solution for you.
Pros
- The lift can hold up to 300 pounds and lift up to 22 inches, providing plenty of space to work on your mower.
- The rubber-padded platform helps prevent scratching and protects your machine during maintenance.
- The hydraulic foot pedal operation allows for effortless lifting of the load.
Cons
- The lift may not be suitable for mowers with a wheel span of less than 17-1/4 inches or greater than 41-1/4 inches.
- Some users have reported difficulty in lifting heavier mowers with the foot pedal.
- The lift may not be suitable for all types of lawnmowers.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Pro Lift Lawn Mower Jack Lift, and we were impressed with its sturdy construction and ease of use.
The welded solid steel construction and four steel wheels provide excellent stability, and the positive dual-locking safety latches ensure that your mower stays securely in place during maintenance.
The hydraulic foot pedal operation makes lifting your mower a breeze, and the non-slip foot pedal ensures that you can lift the load effortlessly. We also appreciated the rubber padded platform, which prevented scratching and protected our machine during maintenance.
One potential drawback of the Pro Lift Lawn Mower Jack Lift is that it may not be suitable for mowers with a wheel span of less than 17-1/4 inches or greater than 41-1/4 inches.
Additionally, some users have reported difficulty in lifting heavier mowers with the foot pedal. However, we did not experience any issues during our testing.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Pro Lift Lawn Mower Jack Lift to anyone in need of a safe and reliable way to perform maintenance on their lawn mower.
5. Husqvarna Z246 (46″) 21HP (Husqvarna Engine) Zero Turn Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a zero turn lawn mower for your small property, the Husqvarna Z246 is a great option. It has a powerful 21HP Husqvarna engine and a 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck.
The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission makes it easy to operate and the 3.5 gallon fuel capacity ensures you can mow for longer periods of time. It also comes with a 3-year consumer warranty.
Pros
- The 21HP Husqvarna engine provides ample power for a smooth and efficient mowing experience.
- The 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck allows for quick and easy cutting, even in tight spaces.
- The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission makes it easy to operate and maneuver.
Cons
- The 3.5-gallon fuel capacity may not be enough for larger properties.
- Some customers have reported issues with customer service.
- The mower is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for larger properties.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Husqvarna Z246 and were impressed with its performance. The 21HP Husqvarna engine provided plenty of power to easily cut through even thick and overgrown grass.
The 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck allowed us to quickly and efficiently cut our small property, even in tight spaces.
One of the standout features of the Husqvarna Z246 is the Hydro-Gear EZT transmission. It made it easy to operate and maneuver, even for those who may not be as experienced with zero turn mowers. The 3.5-gallon fuel capacity was sufficient for our needs, but may not be enough for larger properties.
While we didn’t personally have any issues with customer service, we did come across some negative reviews from customers who had difficulties with it. Additionally, the mower is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for larger properties.
Overall, we would recommend the Husqvarna Z246 for those with small properties who are looking for a powerful and efficient zero turn lawn mower.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best zero turn lawnmower, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind to ensure that you choose the right product for your needs.
Cutting Width
One of the most important features to consider when choosing a zero turn lawnmower is the cutting width. This refers to the width of the blade and determines how much grass can be cut with each pass.
A wider cutting width can be more efficient, but may also be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Engine Power
The engine power is another important factor to consider. This determines how much horsepower the lawnmower has and how well it can handle tough terrain and thick grass.
A more powerful engine can be more effective, but may also be more expensive and require more maintenance.
Comfort and Convenience
When using a zero turn lawnmower, comfort and convenience are also important factors to consider. Look for features such as adjustable seats, cup holders, and storage compartments to make the experience more comfortable.
Additionally, consider features such as electric start and easy-to-use controls to make operation more convenient (find out the best manual lawn mower).
Durability and Maintenance
Finally, consider the durability and maintenance requirements of the lawnmower.
Look for a product that is built to last and requires minimal maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Additionally, consider the availability of replacement parts and the ease of repairs if needed.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best zero turn lawnmower for your needs and ensure that you get the most out of your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which zero-turn mower is best suited for a 1-acre lawn?
For a 1-acre lawn, we recommend a zero-turn mower with a cutting deck between 42 to 48 inches. The Ariens IKON XD 42 and the Husqvarna Z142 are both excellent options for small properties.
Which zero-turn mower is recommended for mowing 3 acres?
For mowing 3 acres, we recommend a zero-turn mower with a cutting deck of at least 54 inches. The John Deere Z535M and the Cub Cadet ZT2 54 are both top-rated models that can handle larger properties.
What are the top-rated zero-turn mowers for the year 2023?
As of 2023, the top-rated zero-turn mowers include the Husqvarna Z254, the Ariens Apex 60, and the Toro TimeCutter HD.
Which brand is known for manufacturing the most reliable zero-turn mowers?
Several brands are known for manufacturing reliable zero-turn mowers, including John Deere, Husqvarna, and Toro. It’s important to research and compare models to find the one that best suits your needs.
What features should I look for in a zero-turn mower designed for rough terrain?
For rough terrain, look for a zero-turn mower with heavy-duty tires, a sturdy frame, and a high-quality suspension system. The Scag Turf Tiger II and the Exmark Lazer Z X-Series are both excellent options for rough terrain.
Which zero-turn mower offers the smoothest ride?
The Ferris ISX 800 is known for its smooth ride thanks to its independent suspension system. Other models with good suspension systems include the Hustler Super S and the Gravely Pro-Turn ZX.
You might also be interested in checking out the guide on the best hover mowers.