If you have a lawn, you need a lawn mower and there is no other way around it. Grass in your garden is bound to grow and if you don’t mow it, grass would transform into hideous looking overgrowths that are a plague to the eye.
Depending on the type of grass, the size of the lawn and the money you have, your choices for the best lawn mower might differ.
Want to purchase a lawn mower for your new garden but haven’t got a lot of money because all of it was spent on the construction of the house?
Don’t worry, we have it all covered for you. Like every other type of equipment, lawn mowers are also available in pricey and inexpensive ranges.
Whatever needs to be considered, one thing is sure that the quality of a cheaper model must not be compromised. One can buy a lawn mower with few features at a low price but can’t afford a low quality machine. Top companies cater to this issue and present inexpensive models in every regard for their customers.
We have gathered the list of best lawn mowers in this article and discussed them categorically which are listed below.
**Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Table Of Contents
Best Lawn Mowers
14″ Lawn Mowers
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16″ to 21″ Lawn Mowers
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30″-54″ Lawn Mowers
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Factors To Determine Type Of Lawn Mower You Require
1. Lawn Size
The size of the lawn will specifically define the category you need to glance in to. So you have to select the mower as per the size of the garden it’ll not only save your initial investment but also protect you from day to day maintenance.
For tiny lawns, we recommend you push/reel mower as it’s economical but for small yards up to 0.25 acre, a battery or corded mower is suitable whereas, for a 0.5-acre garden cordless or robot mowers need to be considered.
For large gardens up to 3 acres, riding mowers with cutting widths of 40 inches can be used while zero turn mowers with cuttings widths of 40-61 inches should be used for lawns larger than 3 acres.
To learn more check out this buying guide of best lawn mowers for small lawns and large gardens.
2. Nature of the terrain
The number of obstacles and slopes in your lawn will determine whether you need a push mower with front wheel drive or a riding mower with rear wheel or all-wheel drive.
Generally speaking, smaller lawns even with slopes can be handled with the help of push mowers including battery powered, gas powered or corded models but a problem arises when the lawns are larger. Tackling the angles then becomes tiring therefore you shall need riding mowers in that case.
If the lawn is bigger than ¾ acres but less than 1.5 acres and contains steep slopes, you can either choose between a rear wheel lawn tractor or a zero turn mower with 30-42 inches cutting widths. But, if the lawn is larger then the 1.5 acres and contains many inclines, you will need all-wheel riding lawn mowers with cutting widths ranging from 42 inches to 72 inches.
A robotic lawn mower is also an option but their usage largely depends on their personal features. Some are equipped to handle inclines while others offer superior functionality on plain terrains only.
To learn more about the mowers for the uneven surfaces check out this buying guide of best lawn mowers for the hills.
3. Time You have for the mowing job
Depending on the type of mower you choose, it may take anywhere between 15 minutes to 3 hours to mow a 1-acre garden. Simply, a smaller push mower will take the most time while a large, riding trailer, the lowest.
As an estimate, it takes about 1.5-2 hours for a 21 inch push mower to get the job done on 1-acre land while a riding mower with 48 inches cutting deck will do it in 40 minutes and a 60-inch zero turn mower within 20-25 minutes.
4. Purpose
One more thing which is very important to determine which lawn mower is a perfect match for you, that is, whether you need it for home use or a commercial. Because it has to work under high working conditions and can sustain its productivity without any damage while high running time if it needs to be used commercially.
If you’re looking mower for a business perspective than check these buying guides of 10 best commercial zero turn mowers and best walk behind commercial lawn mowers.
5. Budget
Yes, the money which is the actual commodity that will actually get you the model of your choice. Every homeowner has a different budget and should research extensively to get the best model within that budget. Similarly, commercial lawn mowers are also very expensive.
Therefore, we have put in the effort to minimize your toil and gathered the best lawn mowers fitting every budget range from as low as $200 to an enormous $6000.
Let’s get on with the main categories now.
Best Lawn Mowers (14″ To 21″) Buying Guide
Cutting widths of 21 inches are suitable for lawns up to the size of ¼ – less than ½ acres. You would only get walk behind push mowers in the range of 21 inches. This would include both push mowers and self-propelled mowers.
Basically, there are two types of walk behind lawn mowers available in the market and on Amazon. We’ve discussed models from each category of walk behind mowers to make your life easier.
- Push Lawn Mower
- Self Propelled Lawn Mower
If the grass in your lawn is stubborn, you should eye at the self-propelled models rather than the push mowers.
Push Mowers
As the name suggests, with the push lawn mower, you need to push from behind to mow the lawn and to cut the grass. It’s suitable for very small and tiny gardens.
Push mowers are further classified into battery powered and cordless options while the self-propelled ones are categorized into fuel-powered, cordless and corded models.
Self Propelled Mowers
With self propelled lawn mower you don’t need to exert any kind of pressure or push from behind rather just have to walk and set the orientation only.
These mowers are more powerful than the push mowers because they are fitted with the dedicated engine to move the mower and rotate the blades.
Self-propelled mowers are employed when the size of the garden is not large. Anywhere between 0.25-0.75 acres and you are good to go with a self-propelled lawn mower.
There are 3 main types of these self propelled walk behind lawn mowers in this regard:
1. Gas powered
They run on gasoline and are effective for large sizes of lawns. The advantage of having a gas-powered push mower is their enhanced durability and ability to handle all sorts of terrains as they are more powerful.
The demerits, simultaneously include their heavyweight resulting from the engine they are fitted with the emission of fume in the environment. Although modern engines emit very few harmful gases in the air but they do emit some, after all.
2. Corded
These are electric push mowers that are operated with the help of an electric code. They can handle lawns up to the limit the length of the connecting wire allows. Elongate it as much as you can and you can handle greater areas.
These mowers are environmentally friendly, give less to no noise and lightweight.
3. Cordless
This last type eradicates the hassle of the cord and operates on rechargeable batteries. Their biggest advantage over the corded mowers is the lack of connecting wire for operation but the battery and charger raise the cost.
Some models come with a charger and even an extra battery but for others, you have to purchase the charger separately. Greenworks, Worx, and Lawn Boy are some noticeable brands in this field.
14″ to 21″ Lawn Mower Top Brands
Among many lawn mower companies that are operating around the world, Greenworks, Black & Decker and Lawn Boy are the top manufacturers of 21-inch mowers.
They come up with excellent models of walk behind push mowers that offer great functionality and long life. In addition, their prices are reasonable too.
Majority of their models especially Greenworks’s have managed to receive huge popularity amongst the customers. They provide good cutting capabilities and excellent after sale services.
Best 14 Inch Lawn Mower Reviews
1. American Company 50514 (Cheapest 14″ Walk Behind Push Mower Under 200)
A classic example of refined fabrication and intelligent usability, this model will prove quite helpful for homeowners with small to medium size lawns. This is a corded version and will require the supply of electricity for operation.
Starting with its 11 Ampere motor, it provides a highly efficient and clean grass cut. The 14- inch cutting deck can be lifted through 5 height adjustments and cut grass of heights 1-2.5 inches. The mower is easy to handle and maneuver because of the wheels and the handle.
The ergonomic handle is padded which kills any resulting vibrations from the movement of the machine and is adjustable in terms of length so that it can be conveniently used by people of all heights.
After the operation, it can be collapsed as well for storage. As for the wheels, they are 7 inches in diameter but made of easy-roll composite material which allows it to move steadily over the grass.
Fitted with 2-in-1 bagging and mulching capability, it contains a 9.25-gallon grass catcher bag. For keeping the cord in place, there is a cord retention hook while the mower is started by the simple operation of a push button.
The model is highly raved by the customers and has received such a level of recognition and appreciation which is very rare. To get such a highly functional lawn mower for under $200 is surely a treat. Models with larger cutting widths are also available but they are expensive.
Features:
- 11A motor
- 14-inch cutting deck
- 5 height adjustments
- 2-in-1 bagging and mulching capability
- Cord retention hook
- Large grass catcher bag of capacity 9.25 gallons
Not satisfied with the listings above? Don’t worry, check the top 14 best mulching mowers here.
Note: A low price is usually assigned to low quality but we have undergone the toil of research and article skimming to decipher models that are both good in quality and reasonably priced. All the models mentioned have achieved a high rating on Amazon.
Best 16″ To 21″ Lawn Mower Reviews
2. Greenworks 25022
This particular model doesn’t seem to lose its popularity since the time it entered the market. In fact, the number of reviews for this particular model is increasing day by day which translates to a high number of sales.
At this time of the writing, it is enriched with above 4000 reviews and you can imagine the success of this model by viewing at the number when this article reaches you.
Enough on the build-up. It is a corded mower which powers the cutting deck through a 12A motor. The cutting deck is 20 inches wide and perfect for people with small lawns.
With the capability to support mulching, side discharge, and bagging capability, this mower will effectively cut your grass across all curves of the lawn. Its scope of operation is enhanced by the 7 height adjustments it can be raised across. The user can cut grass of heights 1.5-3.75 inches with the cutting blades.
Additionally, the deck is made of steel and is very durable. It is started with the simple operation of a push button while the handle can be collapsed after use for storing in the garage or garden shed.
It is padded with a foam covering which prevents any sort of hand fatigue. As for the wheels, the rear and front ones are respectively 10 and 7 inches large and carry the ability to access all types of grass terrain.
This is a brilliant investment owing to its 4-year warranty and high popularity which pretty much shows the quality of this item.
Features:
- 12A motor
- 20-inch cutting deck
- 7 heights adjustments
- Push button start
- 4-year warranty
3. Lawn Boy 17732
Worthy of being highly praised, this model is equipped with 149cc Kohler engine which is integrated with smart choke feature and carries a Tru Start commitment guarantee which means the engine would start on the very first or second pull of the string.
Engine is responsible for moving the cutting blades in the 21-inch steel cutting deck and rotating the rear wheels as this is a rear wheel drive lawn mower.
Being a real wheel drive machine also aids in accessing any lawn with slopes because it gives it an extra supportive force when you are moving the mower uphill.
Blades have a cutting-edge geometry with cuts in it which ensure a very clean, highly regular and swift grass cut.
If we talk about the cutting deck, it can be raised through 6 positions to cut grass of heights 1.25-3.75 inches and contains a dedicated wash port to clean the clippings after the mowing job. Then raise the deck, you have to adjust 2 levers instead of only one. It supports 3-in-1 cutting capability.
The model is backed up by a 3-year trustart warranty along with a 2-year full warranty. The engine is CARB compliant so it is also a feasible option for all those who are overly environmental friendly.
Features:
- 149cc Kohler engine
- Tru Start guarantee
- 21-inch steel cutting deck
- Real wheel drive
- 6 height adjustments
- 3-in-1 cutting capability
- 2-year full warranty
- CARB compliant
Now the top model for you, we have this exciting gas-powered Lawn Boy machine.
4. Lawn-Boy 17734 (Best Self Propelled Lawn Mower For The Money)
Yes, you heard it right: it’s Lawn-Boy despite the names of Husqvarna and Greenworks. That’s because this particular model has won the hearts of a lot of customers because of the features for the money and the reliability in addition.
We personally like gas powered mowers because they are more powerful and less problematic. Battery powered ones need to be charged while corded ones have the issue of wire tangling alongside you all the way.
Lawn Boy 17734 is fitted with a 149cc Kohler engine which is OHV in type and gives a powerful performance and high torque of 9Nm. Moreover, it is CARB compliant so it doesn’t pollute the environment over the set accepted value.
The cutting deck is 21 inches wide which is amongst the highest amongst push mowers. It is fabricated with steel, doesn’t catch rust and is painted superbly.
There is a 3-in-1 cutting capability with a large grass catcher bag and removable side chute. It can be lifted through 2 height adjustments and provide a superior grass cut.
Much to the excitement of the user, you can control the speed of the mower with the help of the handle. It also offers an electric start which is the most convenient method of operation and a rear wheel drive ensures that it can access inclines easily.
So, whatever the type of lawn you have, this is a considerably good model to possess. Backed up by more than 600 customer reviews and a 2-year warranty, it deserves to be tested.
Features:
- 149cc Kohler engine
- CARB complaint
- The cutting deck is 21 inches wide
- Equipped with 3-in-1 cutting capability
- 2-year warranty
- Controllable speed setting
5. Husqvarna 7021P (Best 3 in 1 Push Lawn Mower For Small Yard)
Husqvarna 7021 is a particular model that has raised the standards of quality. Fitted with Honda 160cc GCV160 engine that promises longevity, it comes with auto choke feature which minimizes the risks of problems like priming and choking.
The cutting deck is 21 inches wide and blades cut the grass in smaller pieces that make a finer mulch and fills the grass catcher bag after a long time so you don’t have to dump the clippings midway the cutting operation.
It is lifted through four height adjustments with four height increments and the cutting capabilities are transited between mulching, side discharge and bagging through a simple clip director.
To assist in the handling and maneuverability, it is fitted with 12-inch double ball bearing rear wheels that are rugged and easy-to-move at the same time. Similarly, this mower can be used on uneven terrain. The handle comes with a soft grip and height adjustment so you have absolutely no problem holding it for longer periods of time while mowing.
This particular model has managed to achieve a handsome rating on Amazon and also comes with 2 Year Parts & Labor Warranty.
Features:
- GCV160 engine with auto choke feature
- 3 in 1 lawn mower
- 21-inch cutting deck
- Cutting Height 1.5″ to 3.5″
- Cutting Height Increment: 6
- Cutting Height adjustments: 4
- 8 inch front wheels
- 12-inch double ball bearing rear wheels
- Adjustable handle for ergonomic operation
- 2 Year Parts & Labor Warranty
6. Honda 187cc (Best 3-in-1 Self Propelled Lawn Mower For 1 Acre)
Sturdiness and functionality seem to pour out of each and every feature of this self-propelled lawn mower. Having a powerful 190cc engine enables it to get the cutting job done swiftly and elegantly. The cutting deck is 21 inches wide which is ideal to handle lawns up to 1-acres.
It offers 3-in-1 bagging, side discharge and mulching abilities with a large 2.5-bushel grass catcher bag. Because of the MicroCut blades with a total of four cutting surfaces, the mower gives a very clean grass cut for heights 0.75-4 inches through seven height adjustments.
In fact, its ability to cut grass that short is one of the most unique features you get to witness in self-propelled mowers. Only a very few can cut grass below 1 inch and those that do, are not very reliable.
Moreover, it comes with a 5-year warranty, contains an ergonomic handle and equipped with rear wheel drive which enables it to move over all terrains with enhanced grip. All in all, it’s a great choice as it has been reviewed and liked by more than a hundred customers.
Features:
- 190cc engine
- 21-inch wide cutting deck
- MicroCut blades
- Cut grass as short as 0.75 inches
- 5-year warranty
7. Greenworks 25322 (Best Walk behind Push Lawn Mower Under 300)
You might have observed this model several times in the list of lawn mowers but it still doesn’t get out of style. Greenworks is a well-reputed brand especially in the range of push mowers; be it the corded electric mowers or the convenient self-propelled ones, it has always provided its customers with great options.
This particular model has fitted a 40V 4Ah battery which gives a run time of about 30-40 minutes. The battery and charger are EnergyStar certified and provides a regulated supply of voltage and current during operation which is critical for a longer life of the battery.
With the help of a 16-inch cutting deck, it provides mulching and bagging capability. Through 5 height adjustments, the user can handle grass heights of 1.25 – 3.625 inches. It’s lightweight and portable owing to the collapse-able handles.
Many of the customers have appreciated the fact that it starts on the very first or second press of the button even after being used for a year or so.
Greenworks 25322 comes with a hefty 4-year warranty and the battery is compatible with any other tools rated at 40V. The charger and battery are included within the package.
Features:
- 40V 4Ah battery
- Run time of 30-40 minutes
- EnergyStar certified
- 16-inch cutting deck
- 5 height adjustments
- 4-year warranty
8. Troy-Bilt TB330 (Best 21″ 3-in-1 Mulching Lawn Mower)
There are different types of mulching mowers like push, self-propelled and lawn tractors however we have selected a self-propelled lawn mower as the most viable option for you.
This is because it is cheaper than those large riding mowers and handle small size lawns of sizes up to 0.5 acres. Not often, you will feel the need to mulch gardens larger than this area.
Backed up by more than a hundred customer reviews and an overall rating of 4.1 stars on Amazon, this tb330 is a brilliant model to have in your garden shed.
Troy Bilt TB330 is powered by a 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine with ReadyStart technology so that it gets on the very first or second pull. This technology automatically senses the temperature of the engine and adjusts the air/fuel mixture accordingly to give the best combination for optimal operation.
Equipped with a 3-in-1 cutting capability, it has a TriAction cutting system that provides for a very fine mulch. To shift from bagging and side discharge options, you need to insert the mulching plug beside the engine area. The cutting deck is 21 inches wide and uses airflow along with the blade motion to cut the grass effectively.
In addition to it, you get four specialized speed settings to operate the mower at differing terrains and according to variable needs and a deck wash port to wipe off all the grass clippings glued to the deck after the cutting operation.
To access all types of terrains and give more traction, it has a rear-wheel drive transmission. This, together with the rugged 8-inch wheels works towards giving it more grip and power. It can cut grass of heights 1.25-3.75 inches and comes with a 3-year warranty.
Features:
- 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine
- ReadyStart technology
- 3-in-1 cutting capability
- TriAction cutting system
- Cutting deck is 21 inches wide
- Four speed settings
- Rear wheel drive
- 8-inch wheels
Buying Guide For 30″ to 54″ Lawn Mowers
If you have a medium to large size lawn which ranges above 0.6 acres, riding lawn mowers is the most viable option you have.
Using push mowers on such a large area would be tiring, require a lot of time and may not be suitable if the lawn contains inclines or slopes. Moreover, if you get a professional to get the job done for you, there is the extra money you need to give him.
In contrast, riding mowers might be expensive but very reliable. They are easy to operate, offer fast mowing action, minimizes the effort you had to invest with the use of push mowers and give an incredible grass cut.
The question arises in the mind that how would one choose the best riding mower for the money?
What To Look For In A Riding Mower?
1. Price Range
As we are talking about both the economic and high priced models here, thus the first consideration should be the price of the mower. It should fit within your preset budget and not be too expensive.
Reputable brands like Husqvarna, Troy-Bilt Cub Cadel have recognized this issue and present very good models within manageable price ranges.
2. Functionality
The second meaning of “for the money” phrase corresponds to the functionality of the model. Cheaper options shouldn’t mean they don’t offer reliable and satisfactory features for the users. The only noticeable differences are among the number of features.
The basic functionality such as the performance of the cutting deck, the ruggedness of the wheels, the running of the engine and the handling tools must be high in quality.
Yes, additional features such as intelligent cutting technology, additional safety mechanism, and replaceable add-ons are not a must but these are the things which make a model more probable of being transferred from the purchasing platform to the lawns of the homeowners.
3. Warranty
A good riding mower must come with at least 2 years of warranty which covers all fabricated equipment and running components.
A long-time warranty catches the attention of the buyer and makes a product more reliable and long-lasting.
4. Versatility
It is unreasonable to expect residential users to purchase more than one riding lawn mower, therefore, the models must be incorporated with versatile features.
For example, a cutting deck that can handle all types and heights of grass or transmission that can prove worthy for every terrain. If adorned with such, the potential chances of that particular model to be purchases, increases.
After considerable research, we managed to get hold of the top model for riding lawn mowers. As we have a separate section for the zero turn mowers, thus we will strictly keep this category assigned to tractor mowers.
Qualities of a good Riding Lawn Mower
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Powerful engine: The mower must be strong enough to handle large lawns and variable lawn terrains. It should be self-sufficient in cutting any type of grass, no matter how thick or stubborn it is.
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Height adjustments: Riding mowers are a big investment and you would want it to be as versatile as it can be. The cutting deck, therefore, must allow multiple height adjustments so that grass of different heights can be cut easily and you don’t have to purchase any other mower for cutting a different-height grass.
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Wheels: The wheels must be rugged enough to sustain the wear and tear of uneven terrain and maneuverable to allow access in tight corners or across sharp curves.
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Reliable: The engine and the body should be reliable and we suggest you prefer models from reputable brands only like Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, and Ariens.
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3-in-1 cutting capability: It is better if it allows all three types of grass cutting method because, at one time, you would be needing to mulch the grass clippings while the other, you would want the clippings to be discharged into the rear bag.
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Other features: They include a comfortable and high back seat, cup holder, suspension system, and headlights.
Best 30 Inch Lawn Mower Reviews
You would have to switch to a riding lawn mower if you are looking for a 30 inch lawn mower. That means your price range increases by a big leap because riding mowers are way expensive than the walk behind mowers. We, however, have a very reasonably priced riding mower for you. It is equipped with all of the features you would see in a pricey model.
9. Troy-Bilt 382cc
Here is the automatic choice for 30-inch riding lawn mower for you. Proven to be worthy by a large number of customers and the tag of a company like Troy Bilt on the product, there is no second thought when buying this machine.
Featured by a 30-inch cutting deck and a 382cc auto choke OHV engine, it delivers enough power to be driven uphill or on the plain ground while cutting the grass effectively on course.
Its ability to deliver speeds up to 4 MPH even on slopes make it a brilliant option for your less-than-an-acre lawns.
It has a rear wheel drive which is probably the first reason for including it as our top pick and is furnished with a 6-speed transmission which delivers no running complications and errors.
The cutting deck has got 5 height adjustments so you can cut tall or short grass at any time. You can either side discharge the clippings or mulch them.
As for the wheels, they are excellent. Gripping power is maximized by the rugged treads while the 16-inch diameter of the rear wheels ensures that the mower never flips over and causes accidents.
It weighs about 330 pounds which is neither too heavy nor too light. The seat is high enough to visualize the grass upfront and padded to be highly comfortable.
In addition, the engine is shielded by the frame so you can also use it even in the drizzle. Every hand control is in easy accessibility, the steering is ergonomic in design, and the turning radius is 18 inches.
Features:
- 30-inch cutting deck
- Rear wheel drive
- 382cc auto choke OHV engine
- Speeds of 4 MPH
- 5 height adjustments
- Rear-wheel drive
- 6-speed transmission
- Cutting radius of 18 inches
- Rugged wheels
Best 38 Inch Riding Lawn Mower Reviews
Lawn mowers that have cutting decks of 38 inch are suitable for lawns of ¾ acre-1 acre. It would take around 40 minutes for it to mow all the grass of this particular sized lawns.
You may use it for larger gardens but that would increase the time. Any lawn smaller and you should be looking at smaller mowers.
10. Ryobi Electric Riding Lawn Mower
This is one of the most unique pieces in the market. Generally, when we talk about electric mowers, we consider walk behind or self-propelled mowers that can give run times of 40-70 minutes but this is a beast.
Ingeniously manufactured to provide a run time of almost 2.5 hours, it is large enough to handle lawns up to 1 acre.
It may lack a gas engine but provides performance equivalent to it. RY48110 runs on a 100Ah battery which can be charged through any 120V outlet.
It carries a cutting deck of 38 inches with 19-inch dual blades that are driven by two brushless motors. It operates very silently and you don’t have to use any sort of earplugs while mowing with it.
With the ability to ride at an outrageous max speed of 8 MPH, it gives a clean and nice grass cut with the added benefit of supporting all three types of grass collection methods. You will have to but a grass catcher bag separately, though.
The deck can be raised through 12 height adjustments which enable you to cut grass of all heights and even a headlight to permit use at nights too.
You can also activate the cruise control that makes the mower move at a constant speed so you can sit back relaxed and just control the direction of the machine. There are a cup holder, a phone holder and a very comfortable high back seat.
Wheels are pretty large, very rugged- closely resembling tractor wheels and can be used to access tough terrains with ease. The mower weighs less than 600 pounds and emits no fumes in the atmosphere.
Features:
- Runtime of 2.5 hours
- Operated by 100Ah battery
- 19-inch dual lades
- Max speed of 8 MPH
- 12 height adjustments
- Cruise control
Best 42 Inch Riding Lawn Mower Reviews
42-inch riding mowers are suitable and thus recommended for the lawns from 1-2 acres.
11. Cub Cadet XT1 (Best Riding Lawn Mower Review)
Regarded as one of the most trusted manufacturers of garden accessories and equipment, this model is just another exhibition of their high-quality products. Immersed with high performance and long-lasting running, it is a great option for your medium to large lawns.
Equipped with 18HP Kohler engine which is OHV in type, it can access hills and flat terrains alike although high inclines might be a problem. The efficiency is good and running problems are minimal. Transmission is hydrostatic which is key to a smooth turning and handling operation.
Owing to its 42-inch cutting deck, you can mow grass quite quickly. It offers a small turning radius of 16 inches so maneuvering is easy along with 12 height adjustment which is the greatest among any type of mower. Be it wet, long weeds or springy, short grass, it will be dealt with effectually. The deck wash port will be utilized for cleaning the grass clippings away.
The fact that it can mow in reverse direction is one of the biggest advantages of this machine. Also accessorized with a headlight for operation in dark, easy-to-access oil filter for a convenient oil change, high fuel capacity of 3 gallons and a comfortable seat, this is one the most useful trailer you will find in the market.
Features:
- 18HP Kohler engine
- 16-inch turning radius
- 42-inch cutting deck
- Reverse mowing feature
- Headlight
- 12 height adjustments
- Fuel capacity of 3 gallons
Best 48 Inch Riding Lawn Mower
Cutting widths of 48 inches are suitable and convenient for large lawns from 1.5 acres to 3 acres. Some mowers in this range are fast while others are not that much so it is up to you to decide how much time can you free up for the mowing job.
These are expensive machines and only purchased if they provide good value for the money. We got on with the research and deciphered the best model for you. It is, of course, our personal suggestion and you may differ with it.
12. Husqvarna TS348
A powerful lawn tractor that is furnished with a 24HP Kohler V-twin engine. Usually, such high-power engines are fitted in larger mowers but this is an exception and quite a useful one.
You can undergo demanding mowing job with this mower. Hydrostatic transmission ensures that acceleration is smooth and speed changes automatically. The use of fluid in this transmission makes it less prone to maintenance issues.
The deck is made of steel and integrates 3 blades that function coherently to give a superior grass cut. You can cut grass of heights 1.5-4 inches with the deck.
To improve the efficiency of the deck, patented air-induction technology which is particular to Husqvarna models, is incorporated in it. It blows air from both sides of the deck and prevents clumping of the grass clippings.
Husqvarna’s model can achieve forward speeds of 5 MPH and reverse speed of 2 MPH which is acceptable considering the fact many models don’t even provide the reverse function.
As for added convenience, the driver seat is highly cushioned with a dedicated vibration suspension under it and has headlights to allow mowing operations at night too. It comes with a 3-year warranty.
Features:
- 24HP Kohler V-twin engine
- Hydrostatic transmission
- 3 cutting blades
- Cut grass of heights 1.5-4 inches
- Forward speed of 5MPH and reverse speed of 2MPH
- 3-year warranty
Best 52″, 54″ Riding Lawn Mower
For large lawns, you need large lawn mowers. You can choose between lawn tractors or zero turn mowers depending on your needs and the budget. But how are these two machines different from each other.
Differences between a zero turn mower and riding tractor
1. Pattern of mowing
Zero turn mowers have a turning radius of zero and can turn 180 degrees at their pivot point but such is not the case with the lawn tractor. They act like cars and when they turn, there are some uncut patches of grass left in between.
You have to forward and reverse the tractor several times during the mowing operation especially while turning whereas the turning is really smooth with zero turn mowers.
2. Handling control
The second difference is that of the controls. Tractors operate simply through a steering wheel and brake while a zero turn lawn mower is operated via two handles that have to be moved in the opposite direction for turning, and forward or backward for moving in a straight line.
To apply brakes, both of them need to be placed in a neutral position. People may find it a bit unconventional but it can be learned easily.
The handle of the side on which you want to turn the mower towards will be moved backward, for example, if you want to turn left, the left handle is pulled back while the right handle is pushed forward.
This steers the mower in the left direction. Lawn tractors cannot cut very close to the flower beds, trees and driveways but zero turn mowers can.
So, for those who are very particular about a manicured lawn, must look for a good zero turn mower.
3. Geometry
Both machines have different geometries. While the lawn tractors closely resemble tractors with the engine on the front bonnet and a steering wheel but zero turn lawn mowers are nothing close to any other vehicle.
Engine is located on the backside and there are two control handles on the front which the user can hold by sitting on the seat.
Why should you choose a zero turn mower?
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It saves time. Because zero turn lawn mowers can traverse on speeds faster than walk behind mowers and lawn tractors, it can get the mowing job done within less amount of time.
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They give a cleaner grass cut. Because of their ability of a zero turning radius, they don’t leave any uncut patches of grass behind which translates to a highly manicured and clean grass cut. Lawn tractors have to be moved in forward and reverse direction several times on turns and near curves so you are bound to have so uncut patches.
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You can see the grass in front of you. Because there is no hindrance to a front-engine like in lawn tractors, you know exactly what is in front of you. You see the patch in front and adjust the height of the deck accordingly.
Best Zero Turn Lawn Mower For The Money
Zero turn mowers get their name from the ability to achieve a zero turning radius. It can be regarded as a huge innovation in the field of lawn mowing because you can turn such a heavy machine on a pivot while not covering any area. It is controlled through two handles that need to be pushed and pulled in opposite directions to turn the mower left or right.
13. Ariens IKON-X 52’’ (Best ZTR Mower)
As we suggested earlier, zero turn mowers are expensive options and only convenient for people with large lawns. This 52-inch lawn mower from Ariens is suitable for 0.75-acre and larger gardens.
It might be a little heavier than its competitors but that doesn’t mean it cannot access hills. In fact, it is very effective for hilly terrains. Supported by a 23HP Kawasaki engine, it delivers enough power and speed to cut your grass before you realize it is actually a task.
The 52-inch cutting deck is made of steel and 4.5-inches in depth which means it can cut short grass effectually. It operates at high cutting speed and gives a fine, equal grass cut.
IKON-X 52’’ is equipped with large wheels that grip well to the ground and a high, padded seat with armrests and a cup holder so you are never dehydrated during your grass cutting job. All the parts including the deck, wheels, and transmission and bolted together with each other sturdily and only after extensive vibrational testing, was this model open for purchase in the market. This model has received wholesome appreciation from the customers and even if you come across any problem, the Customer Care team is very helpful and their service is responsive.
Features:
- 52-inch cutting deck
- 23HP Kawasaki engine
- Large wheels
- Padded seat with a cup holder
- Sturdily built
14. Husqvarna Z254 (Best 54″ Zero Turn Riding Mower)
Husqvarna specializes in lawn mowers and produces one of the finest pieces that can effectively remove grass, be safe and equipped with great features. This model is part of the Z200 series and is a comprehensive combination of usability and reliability.
It is equipped with a 26 HP Kohler engine and is V-twin type. Kohler is one of the top engine manufacturers in the field of lawn mowers and the V-twin gives fewer vibrations than a single cylinder engine. It can reach a max speed of 6.5 MPH and has an automatic choke system to provide a quick start.
The trademark air induction mowing technology enables the air to be drawn from the bottom and top of the deck which ensures better grass movement and a better grass cut.
Husqvarna’s cutting deck is steel-built, is durable and is adjusted through 4 heights. It includes a well-built, plastic discharger that throws away the grass and also supports mulching and bagging capability but the kits have to be purchased separately.
The cool feature is the introduction of a parking brake that allows the mower to be parked easily even at slopes. It is easily applied by pulling the steering levers outwards. The wheels are wide, and the tread gives a good grip.
The anti-slip foot pad on the front increases the utility of the mower and a cup holder gives you the freedom to carry your energy drink along with you.
Features:
- 26HP Kohler engine
- Max speed of 6.5 MPH
- Integrated with air induction technology
- 4 height adjustments
- Parking brake
- Large and rugged wheels
Interested in learning more about z turn mowers? check this buying guide of 14 best Zero turn lawn mowers.
FAQs
1. What is a mulching lawn mower?
Mulching mower is not a different type of mowers but is just a cutting capability whereby the blades cut the grass in smaller pieces and spread them to create a mulch on the garden. This capability is integrated into most of the mowers and is executed generally by fitting the mulching plug.
1. Does a mower comes assembled?
Although the assembling process is different for each type of mower however generally, out of the box assembly is five steps: unfolding the handle, installing the Recoil-starter Rope in the Rope Guide, filling the engine with oil, charging the battery, and assembling the grass bag.
2. Are there any safety precautions while using lawn mower?
Walk the lawn before beginning to mow and relocate any stones, debris, small toys or wooden sticks because it can be propelled back to you with speed.
Also, check the blade for any damage or bends and get it fixed. Keep the children and pets inside when you are mowing the lawn.
3. Are lawn mowers safe?
Lawn mowers are equipped with safety measures such as the handle levers which need to be pressed to engage the blades and vice versa, parking brakes on riding lawn mowers and anti-slip foot pad to prevent the slipping of the foot. Even then, experts recommend that they shouldn’t be used on wet grass.
4. Which lawn mowers are best; push or self-propelled?
Push mowers are ideal for plain gardens under ¼ acres and if you are in good physical condition to pull it all the way, it is a much cheaper option than self-propelled mowers.
As for self-propelled lawn mowers, they are suitable for yards up to ¾ acres and get propelled themselves to reduce fatigue that is a given in the case of push mowers. Depending on your choice, you can choose either.
5. Why are zero turn lawn mowers more expensive?
This is due to the fact that they have two transmissions instead of only one in the case of a lawn tractor. They also have larger cutting decks and engines, stronger frame because of the presence of more steel, hence pricier than other lawn mowing machines.
6. How to make sure that a lawn mower runs for a long time?
Here are some tips on increasing the life of a lawn mower.
- Change oil after every 2 seasons or 50-60 hours of operation.
- Replace air cleaner after every season.
- Replace fuel filter after every season.
- Clean the cutting deck (especially underside) after the mowing job otherwise it may catch rust sooner or later.
- Replace spark plug when the engine begins to fail to start on the first or second pull/push.
- Clean the cooling system every season.
7. How to maintain a lawn mower?
The first thing is to read and implement the maintenance manual that comes with the product. Other practices also vary according to the type of the mower but here are some generalized tips.
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Clean the deck by either using the deck wash port or blowing it with an air blower.
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Replace the air filter after 6-8 months of use. A dirty air filter burns fuel less effectively and emits more harmful, unconverted gases in the environment.
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Change the oil when required. This depends on the probability of your usage. If you are using a mower twice a week, it is better to change the oil twice a season.
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Change the spark plug when you observe that the mower is taking more time to start.
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Apart from washing and rain, try to keep the mower as far as possible from the water. Although they are coated with weatherproof paint, but rust is a stubborn enemy and has the ability to catch any surface.
8. Does Lawn Size Affect Size of the mower?
Yes, definitely. You would never mow a 3-acre yard with a 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower. Not only will it take “ages” to mow the yard but would cramp up your entire body as well. You should certainly know the size of your lawn and then look up to see which deck size is suitable for that size.
9. What should a good lawn mower contain?
- Good cut quality
That’s the most important capability of a mower; it should cut grass cleanly and effectively. If it leaves patches of grass uncut or gives an unequal cut, that is not the model you need.
- Powerful
A good lawn mower can mow even as well as hilly terrains and hills cannot be accessed until the mower is not powerful enough to travel uphill.
- Reliable
What good is a mower if it only performs 2 out of 5 times? You should only purchase lawn mowers from reputable brands like Husqvarna, Troy-Bilt, Greenworks, and Ariens. There are many others as well. The model you select should have at least 2 years of warranty on the machine.
- Not very expensive
What good is a mower if it is not in your price range? Therefore, a good mower must have decent value for the money. With the increasing competition, manufacturers have come up with inexpensive models that provide great utility.
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