Share
Best Zero Turn Mowers of 2024 — Our Top Picks
When John Regier set out to create a time-saving lawn mower, he didn't know he'd be laying the foundation for some of the best zero-turn lawn mowers of 2024. Tip of the hat, Mr. Regier. Your tinkering made the job of the professional and the homeowner much easier. These mowers truly are time savers.
Whether you are an average homeowner wanting to keep your yard looking sharp or a commercial landscaper trimming dozens of town lawns, choosing the right zero-turn mower can considerably reduce your mowing time.
Key Takeaways
|
|
|
|
|
Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50-Inch
If you want a solid combination of value, comfort, and performance in a zero-turn mower, the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50-inch is worth looking into.
A 23 HP Kawasaki engine powers this rear-engine zero-turn mower and can cut up to 4 acres — no problem. Its 50-inch AeroForce cutting deck, made of durable 11-gauge steel, allows for wider swathes of cut grass with fewer clumps.
It boasts a high-back adjustable seat and vibration-dampening grips. It's smooth and comfortable, steady and fast (7 MPH moving forward, 3.5 MPH in reverse).
Ryobi 80V 42-Inch Brushless
An electric zero-turn lawn mower? How effective can it be? Well, the Ryobi 80V 42-inch Brushless Zero-Turn Mower quells the doubts. It's powerful. It can tackle up to 2.5 acres of land on a single charge with a 42-inch deck that cuts cleanly and evenly. The 80V battery delivers smooth operation. The adjustable speeds provide even more control for users.
The system is significantly lower maintenance than a gas model, requires no oil changes or maintenance, and it’s quiet. Its batteries output the equivalent of a 31-horsepower machine. Impressive.
John Deere Z515E 60-Inch
The John Deer Z515E covers more area in one pass than most competitors. Its 24 HP engine and wide cutting deck can mow up to 4 acres on one tank. You’ll knock out a ton with its 60-inch deck width. Fewer passes and reduced cutting means less time cutting and more time tending to other tasks.
This model has a rollover protection system, which is especially useful on uneven land and hills. Its high-back seat and armrest make it comfortable even when mowing large properties. Commercial operators will appreciate its ergonomic controls as well.
RELATED: What is the best lawn mower for hills? 225 homeowners weigh in
Scag Liberty Z Zero-Turn Mower
Homeowners want balance. The Scag Liberty Z delivers the features you'd find in a commercial mower straight to the homeowner.
It provides several engine options, too:
A few of Kawasaki's series
A Kohler 7000 Series Pro
Scag's own SR Series
The Briggs PXi Series
This mower eliminated unnecessary grease points. The best zero mowers of 2024 take these details into account. Ultimately, their long-term value makes them worth the investment. With speeds up to 7 mph and a contoured, bolstered, high-back seat, the Liberty Z helps you comfortably zip around and mow.
Toro TimeCutter MyRIDE 42-Inch
A 22 HP V-twin Kohler engine drives this mower into the top spot for many homeowners. Its steel 42-inch deck is tough. The narrow design makes it perfect for smaller to medium-sized yards with a bunch of obstacles.
Many reviewers mentioned how much they enjoyed its Smart Speed Control System, which allows operators to choose from three distinct speed ranges. It gives them careful control when navigating wide-open areas or around flower beds and landscaping features. It is designed for lawns up to 4 acres and can reach a top mowing speed of 7 MPH.
But honestly, the MyRIDE suspension system sets it apart. It dampens shock and vibration for a smoother ride and reduces operator fatigue. Its 3-gallon fuel tank is enough to complete most residential jobs. An automatic parking brake is handy, too.
Husqvarna MZ61 61-Inch
The Husqvarna 61-inch Zero-Turn is a Swiss army knife. Its Kawasaki engine puts out a solid 24 HP, and its 61-inch cutting deck takes care of large properties. The hydrostatic transmission in this model provides smooth, precise control — providing a zero-turn mower with some commercial-level features.
Another prominent feature is the ergonomic high-back seat with armrests and vibration-reduction technology. Worth it. The mower also delivers a top speed of 8 MPH and has a heavy-duty build, making it suitable for homeowners and semi-professionals who want to make it their workhorse.
DeWalt Z260 60-Inch
You wake up. Your grass taunts you. It spirals up across your five-acre field, and you ... well, you don't worry. You've got a DeWalt Z260 Zero Turn Mower.
It's made to cut down 4 to acres with no issues.
Its 25 HP Kawasaki engine and 60-inch fabricated steel deck are high-performance and durable.The seat is automotive-style with ergonomic controls, and the huge back wheels provide excellent traction over uneven terrain.
Bad Boy MZ Rambler 42-Inch
For homeowners with smaller lawns, the Bad Boy MZ Rambler 42-inch aims to do the job. Powering this zipping 42-inch zero-turn mower is a 19 HP Briggs engine. Small enough to fit through narrow spaces, this mower's cutting deck still slices a generous strip behind you.
Its slightly smaller proportions help you easily maneuver around obstacles. You'll appreciate its nimble build if you've got a lawn full of features or garden beds. Its low price is a pro as well.
Gravely ZT HD 48-Inch
The Gravely ZT HD 48-inch zero-turn mower is an excellent choice for homeowners who require a rugged, durable, all-around machine that can handle bigger residential properties. It comes with the option of a Kawasaki or Kohler engine — both providing more than enough power to tackle a larger lawn. Its 48-inch fabricated steel deck puts out heavy-duty performance and can take some abuse.
What distinguishes the ZT HD is its commercial‑grade construction — they've taken a lot of influence from their commercial mowers that many pros love. The ZT HD has a fully welded tubular frame and 22-inch rear traction tires to give it great grip.
Its high-back seat can be tilted and moved laterally for optimal operator comfort.
Things to Consider When Buying a Zero-Turn Lawn Mower
Buying a zero-turn lawn mower is a major investment. You want to get it right. These products are worth it for many. But they're not cheap. There are several key factors worth considering before you make your purchase. In addition the price and warranty, here are some things to be mindful of:
Lawn Size and Terrain
Start with your lawn size. You don't want to overspend if a more affordable model would do. For small properties (which, we'd say is less than 2 acres when it comes to zero turn mowers), the turning radius comes into play. You most likely need to navigate tighter spaces.
For larger acreage, sizes of 54-60 inch cutting decks will cover more ground in less time. Consider the terrain. Hilly or uneven lawns may require a mower with more horsepower and traction control. If you need extra protection, consider models with an add-on rollover protection system, or ROPS, for increased stability and safety.
Engine Power
Thick, lush lawns need brute strength to muscle through. For most residential properties, you'll want a mower with an engine output between 18-25 HP. Commercial-grade mowers with engines above 25 HP tend to make mowers more wear-resistant and help power through uneven, large properties.
Cutting Deck Size
The width of the cutting deck is the key to determining how much grass the mower will cut at a time. It's simple: larger deck, less time mowing. However, a smaller deck gives you better control.
RELATED: How many hours per week do Americans spend maintaining their lawns?
Transmission Type
Zero-turn mowers are generally equipped with either a hydrostatic or a manual transmission. The hydrostatic type allows one to control the speed easily and continuously. It rotates and controls all the wheels simultaneously, making the mower more maneuverable and easy to operate.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Mowing can be strenuous on the body. Look for features including high-back chairs, armrests, and vibration-dampening technology.
Maintenance Needs
Maintenance needs vary between gas and electric mowers. The gas-powered models require much more attention — oil changes, blade sharpening, and gas, to name a few things. Electric models aren't perfect, either. Once the batteries bite the dust, replacing them can become quite costly.
Durability and Build Quality
If needed, consider models with fabricated steel decks over those with stamped-steel decks, which are more rugged and can handle more difficult mowing conditions. You'll see similar heavy-duty materials on commercial-grade models with reinforced frames and thicker parts.
Quick Summary
Zero-turn mowers save time. There's no doubt about it. For homeowners with large yards to mow, they're often worth the investment. We took a look at some of the best zero-turn mowers in 2024. We started with the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1. It features a 23 HP Engine and a decent-sized 50-inch cutting deck.
The Ryobi 80V 42-inch Brushless electric zero-turn mower has swappable batteries and can cut 2.5 acres per charge.
Then there's the John Deere Z515E 60-inch with a 24 HP engine and 60-inch cutting width. Lots of power. If value is what you're after, consider the Husqvarna Z254F 54-inch — a balanced machine.
The Toro TimeCutter SS4225 42-inch offers Toro's Smart Speed Control and MyRIDE suspension systems. Next up is the Gravely ZT HD 48-inch. It features a 48-inch fabricated steel deck and a 23 HP Kawasaki engine. Don't forget about the Scag Liberty Z 48-Inch: a mower with heavy-duty engine options that goes fast.
The DeWalt Z260 60-inch and the Husqvarna MZ61 61-inch take top spots in efficiently handling larger pieces of land. With 24 HP responsible for ensuring fast mowing speeds, the DeWalt Z260 ensures excellent performance. Husqvarna MZ61's 61-inch cutting deck is great for tackling large lawns.
