Riding lawn mowers make yard work faster, easier, and a lot more comfortable. The best ones handle every season, from weekly trims to heavy growth after a storm.
Gas models bring classic power and range, while newer battery riders cut quietly with very little upkeep. Below are eight trusted picks homeowners rely on, from compact Craftsman riders to heavy-duty Husqvarna and Ariens zero turns, plus efficient electric options from EGO and PRORUN.
| Craftsman 36″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower |
| Best Compact Tractor | Power Source: Gas, 11.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine | Cutting Deck Width: 36-inch deck | Operation Type: Gas riding lawn tractor, manual 7-speed | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Waterproof Lawn Mower Cover for 54″ Decks |
| Best Protective Cover | Power Source: N/A (protective mower cover, no power source) | Cutting Deck Width: Fits up to 54-inch decks | Operation Type: Universal lawn tractor/mower cover (accessory) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Husqvarna Riding Lawn Mower 24Hp 54 inches Deck Differential Lock |
| Best For Tough Terrain | Power Source: Gas, 24 HP engine | Cutting Deck Width: 54-inch ClearCut deck | Operation Type: Gas riding lawn mower with hydrostatic drive | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Ariens Edge (52″) 21.5HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Lawn Mower 915285 |
| Best Midrange Zero-Turn | Power Source: Gas, 21.5 HP Kawasaki FR651V engine | Cutting Deck Width: 52-inch 3-blade fabricated deck | Operation Type: Gas zero turn riding mower with hydrostatic transmission | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| EGO Power+ 42″ Cordless Electric Riding Lawn Mower |
| Best Electric Lawn Tractor | Power Source: Battery electric, (6) 56V 6.0Ah batteries, ~21 HP equivalent | Cutting Deck Width: 42-inch stamped steel deck | Operation Type: Battery electric riding mower, automatic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Craftsman 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower |
| Best Gas All-Rounder | Power Source: Gas, 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine | Cutting Deck Width: 42-inch stamped steel deck | Operation Type: Gas riding lawn tractor, manual 7-speed | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| PRORUN 60V Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower |
| Best Electric Zero-Turn | Power Source: Battery electric, PRORUN 60V system, ~20 HP equivalent | Cutting Deck Width: 42-inch stamped steel twin blade deck | Operation Type: Battery electric zero turn riding mower | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| EGO Power+ 42″ Zero-Turn Electric Riding Mower |
| Premium Electric Zero-Turn | Power Source: Battery electric, (4) 56V 10.0Ah batteries, 22 HP equivalent | Cutting Deck Width: 42-inch stamped steel deck | Operation Type: Battery electric zero turn riding mower | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Craftsman 36″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower
In case you have a medium yard and you’re tired of spending your whole weekend pushing a mower, the Craftsman 36″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower could feel like a small rescue. You get an 11.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine, so starts feel easy and power feels steady, even in thicker grass. The 36 inch reinforced steel deck lets you handle up to 2 acres without feeling stuck outside all day.
You’ll like how the 7 speed manual transmission lets you choose your pace. The 18 inch turning radius and Turf Saver wheels help you weave around trees, while the low back seat keeps you comfortable.
- Power Source:Gas, 11.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine
- Cutting Deck Width:36-inch deck
- Operation Type:Gas riding lawn tractor, manual 7-speed
- Intended Use:Residential lawn mowing up to ~2 acres
- Maneuverability Style:Standard riding tractor, 18-inch turning radius
- Weather/Outdoor Suitability:Outdoor gas mower; steel deck and turf-saver wheels for yard use
- Additional Feature:11.5 HP Briggs engine
- Additional Feature:Fits through narrow gates
- Additional Feature:Included mulching kit
Waterproof Lawn Mower Cover for 54″ Decks
You know that sinking feeling anytime dark clouds roll in and your riding mower is still sitting bare in the yard? A waterproof lawn mower cover for 54 inch decks quickly takes that stress away. This one uses tough 210D polyester oxford with an extra PVC coating, so it blocks rain, harsh sun, and UV rays before they ever touch your tractor’s finish.
You get a roomy 72 x 54 x 46 inch fit, so it works with most lawn tractors from Toro, Craftsman, Honda, Husqvarna, John Deere, and more. A strong rope and adjustable velcro keep it snug, while the foldable design and storage bag make cleanup and storage simple.
- Power Source:N/A (protective mower cover, no power source)
- Cutting Deck Width:Fits up to 54-inch decks
- Operation Type:Universal lawn tractor/mower cover (accessory)
- Intended Use:Protect and store riding mowers/tractors (up to 54″ deck)
- Maneuverability Style:Fits over lawn tractors/riding mowers of various types
- Weather/Outdoor Suitability:Heavy-duty waterproof, UV-resistant outdoor cover for mowers
- Additional Feature:210D oxford with PVC
- Additional Feature:Strong fastening rope
- Additional Feature:Free storage bag
Husqvarna Riding Lawn Mower 24Hp 54 inches Deck Differential Lock
Serious yard owners who battle thick grass and uneven ground will feel right at home with the Husqvarna Riding Lawn Mower 24 HP with a 54 inch ClearCut deck and electronic differential lock. You get strong power from the 24 HP engine, so you can mow fast without the mower choking in heavy growth.
The 54 inch ClearCut deck lets you cover wide areas, while multiple cutting positions help you match your yard’s changing spots. The hydrostatic transmission feels smooth, and the electronic differential lock enhances traction while protecting your lawn. With the extra high vinyl seat, solid frame, and brush guard bumper, you feel secure, supported, and in control.
- Power Source:Gas, 24 HP engine
- Cutting Deck Width:54-inch ClearCut deck
- Operation Type:Gas riding lawn mower with hydrostatic drive
- Intended Use:Residential mowing, including tough terrain and larger lawns
- Maneuverability Style:Conventional riding mower with enhanced traction (differential lock)
- Weather/Outdoor Suitability:Outdoor mower with alloy steel frame and front brush guard
- Additional Feature:24 HP engine
- Additional Feature:Electronic differential lock
- Additional Feature:Brush guard bumper
Ariens Edge (52″) 21.5HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Lawn Mower 915285
Power homeowners who want fast, clean cuts on big yards will feel right at home with the Ariens Edge (52″) 21.5HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Lawn Mower 915285. You get a strong 21.5 HP Kawasaki FR651V engine that starts smooth and keeps power steady, even in thicker grass.
Its 52 inch, 3 blade fabricated deck lets you cover a lot of ground quickly, so you spend less time mowing and more time enjoying your yard. With Hydro Gear EZT transmission and zero turn steering, you pivot easily around trees, beds, and fences, hitting up to 6 mph without feeling rushed.
- Power Source:Gas, 21.5 HP Kawasaki FR651V engine
- Cutting Deck Width:52-inch 3-blade fabricated deck
- Operation Type:Gas zero turn riding mower with hydrostatic transmission
- Intended Use:Residential mowing with focus on speed and maneuverability
- Maneuverability Style:Zero turn mower for tight, agile turning
- Weather/Outdoor Suitability:Outdoor mower with metal handle and durable deck
- Additional Feature:Kawasaki FR651V engine
- Additional Feature:3-blade fabricated deck
- Additional Feature:Hydro-Gear EZT transmission
EGO Power+ 42″ Cordless Electric Riding Lawn Mower
For homeowners who want the clean cut of a gas tractor without the smell, noise, or constant repairs, the EGO Power+ 42″ Cordless Electric Riding Lawn Mower feels like a relief. You get the punch of a 21 horsepower engine with quiet, smooth operation. With six 56V batteries, you can cut up to 1.5 acres, and you can add more batteries should your yard be bigger.
The 42 inch steel deck, 12 height settings, and dual brushless motors give you a clean, even cut. You also get cruise control, three drive speeds, bright LED lights, Bluetooth, and a rear hitch for simple towing.
- Power Source:Battery electric, (6) 56V 6.0Ah batteries, ~21 HP equivalent
- Cutting Deck Width:42-inch stamped steel deck
- Operation Type:Battery electric riding mower, automatic
- Intended Use:Residential mowing up to 1.5+ acres (expandable with more batteries)
- Maneuverability Style:Standard riding mower (non-zero-turn) up to 6 MPH
- Weather/Outdoor Suitability:Outdoor mower with steel bumper and stamped steel deck
- Additional Feature:Peak Power™ technology
- Additional Feature:Dual brushless cutting motors
- Additional Feature:Bluetooth connectivity included
Craftsman 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower
In case you want a dependable mower that can handle a good-sized yard without feeling complicated or overwhelming, the Craftsman 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower fits that sweet spot. Its 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine gives you steady power, so you can cut up to 2 acres without feeling rushed or underpowered. It starts easily and keeps a smooth, even cut.
The 42-inch stamped steel deck holds up to regular use, while the optional mulching kit helps you leave a clean, finished look. With a 7-speed manual transmission, tight 18-inch turning radius, and comfy contoured seat, you stay in control and comfortable.
- Power Source:Gas, 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine
- Cutting Deck Width:42-inch stamped steel deck
- Operation Type:Gas riding lawn tractor, manual 7-speed
- Intended Use:Residential lawn mowing up to ~2 acres
- Maneuverability Style:Standard riding tractor, 18-inch turning radius
- Weather/Outdoor Suitability:Outdoor gas lawn tractor with rugged stamped steel deck
- Additional Feature:17.5 HP Briggs engine
- Additional Feature:Optional mulching kit
- Additional Feature:Heavy-duty wheel setup
PRORUN 60V Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower
Serious yard owners who want gas-like power without the gas hassle will feel right at home on the PRORUN 60V Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower. You get a fully electric machine that feels as strong as a 20 HP gas mower, yet it runs cleaner and quieter. Four brushless motors drive a 42 inch steel twin blade deck, so you cut evenly and protect your investment.
You can mow up to 2 acres on a charge. Six battery ports, auto switchover, three 10.0 Ah batteries, mulch kit, towing kit, and a solid residential and commercial warranty help you care for your yard with confidence.
- Power Source:Battery electric, PRORUN 60V system, ~20 HP equivalent
- Cutting Deck Width:42-inch stamped steel twin blade deck
- Operation Type:Battery electric zero turn riding mower
- Intended Use:Residential mowing up to ~2 acres per charge
- Maneuverability Style:Zero turn mower design
- Weather/Outdoor Suitability:Outdoor electric mower with steel deck and washout port
- Additional Feature:Four brushless drive motors
- Additional Feature:Automatic battery switchover
- Additional Feature:Included towing kit
EGO Power+ 42″ Zero-Turn Electric Riding Mower
You want a powerful mower that feels fun to drive, and the EGO Power+ 42″ Zero-Turn Electric Riding Mower fits that dream in case you have a medium to large yard and you’re tired of gas, noise, and fumes. It gives you the punch of a 22 horsepower engine, but without the smell or constant maintenance. You can hit speeds up to 8 miles per hour, so mowing doesn’t eat your whole weekend.
With four 56V 10.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries, you can cut up to 2 acres, then recharge in about two hours. Need more range? You can add extra batteries and comfortably handle 3, 4, even 5 acres whenever your property demands it.
The 42 inch stamped steel deck feels sturdy and ready for real work. You get 10 cutting height settings from 1.5 to 4.5 inches, so you can keep your grass short, medium, or plush without fighting the controls. Because the deck offers mulching, bagging, and side discharge, you can switch between clean-up styles as your lawn changes through the season.
Steering feels smooth thanks to the true zero turn radius. You can glide around trees, beds, and tight corners without backing up over and over. The LCD display keeps things simple, so you can see your settings at a glance instead of guessing. Then, you can pick between Standard for everyday mowing, Control during you want a calmer ride, or Sport during you feel like zipping along and still cutting clean.
All of this comes in the ZT4204L package, which includes the mower, four 56V 10.0Ah batteries, and the Z6 wall charger.
- Power Source:Battery electric, (4) 56V 10.0Ah batteries, 22 HP equivalent
- Cutting Deck Width:42-inch stamped steel deck
- Operation Type:Battery electric zero turn riding mower
- Intended Use:Residential mowing up to ~2+ acres (expandable with more batteries)
- Maneuverability Style:Zero turn mower design with tight turning radius
- Weather/Outdoor Suitability:Outdoor electric mower with steel deck, built for yard conditions
- Additional Feature:Three driving modes
- Additional Feature:3-in-1 cutting system
- Additional Feature:Two-hour fast recharge
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Riding Lawn Mower
Now that you’ve seen a top mower in action, I want to help you figure out what will actually work best in your own yard. I’ll walk you through how your lawn size and terrain, power source, cutting deck, and the way the mower steers and handles all affect your day-to-day mowing. I’ll also show you how comfort, controls, and extra features can make mowing feel less like a chore and more like a task you’re truly in control of.
Lawn Size and Terrain
How do you know whether a riding mower is actually the right match for your yard, not just a nice machine in a brochure? I always start with lawn size. A small yard needs less, but once you get close to 2 acres, a 36 to 42 inch deck usually feels just right. It covers ground quickly while still fitting through gates and around trees.
Then I look at terrain. In case your yard is hilly or bumpy, you’ll want strong performance and good traction so the ride feels steady, not scary. Rough areas call for tough tires and a heavy-duty frame that can handle ruts and roots. Should you’ve got lots of trees, beds, or tight corners, features like zero-turn and tight steering really help.
Power Source and Output
Once the yard size and terrain feel clear, the next big question becomes what kind of power will actually move that mower through your grass without bogging down or quitting prematurely. I like to consider how tough the job really is. For light weekly cuts, around 11.5 horsepower can feel just right. For bigger yards or hills, I look closer to 18 to 24 horsepower or more.
Gas engines usually bring the most muscle, but they need fuel, oil changes, and tune ups. Electric riders rely on battery packs. Bigger or multiple batteries give longer runtimes and stronger performance. Brushless electric motors also run quieter and need less care. I always match power output to how hard my lawn really works the machine.
Deck Width and Height
Choosing the right deck width and cutting height can feel confusing initially, but this is where your mower really has to match your yard and your routine. I like to start with deck width, because it controls how many passes you make. For big, open lawns, a 42 to 54 inch deck saves serious time. For smaller yards, or fences with narrow gates, a 36 inch deck slips through tight spots and feels less bulky.
Next, I look at cutting height. A good mower lets you adjust from about 1.5 to 4.5 inches, with several positions. This way, you can cut higher in heat, lower in cool seasons, and match your grass type. I also pay attention to deck construction, since sturdy stamped or fabricated steel gives a cleaner, longer lasting cut.
Transmission and Maneuverability
Before you fall in love with a mower’s engine or shiny paint, it really helps to understand how it moves and turns, because that’s what decides whether mowing feels easy or exhausting. At the time I help someone choose, I start with the transmission. Manual works, but you’ll shift gears a lot. Hydrostatic feels smoother, because you press a pedal and the speed changes without clicking through gears. That really helps on hills or uneven ground.
Next, I look at maneuverability. A zero-turn mower can pivot almost in place, so it glides around trees and flower beds. For regular riders, I aim for a turning radius around 18 inches or less. Then I check tire size and tread, because good traction means better control and less stress on you.
Comfort, Controls, and Features
How much easier would mowing feel provided your mower actually fit you, instead of you fighting it the whole time? Whenever I choose a riding mower, I envision myself in that seat for an hour or more. A contoured low-back or extra-high vinyl seat keeps my back supported and reduces soreness, so I’m not worn out halfway through.
From there, comfort flows into controls. A deluxe steering wheel and clear LCD screen make the mower feel natural, not stressful. I like adjustable cutting heights with many settings, so I can match my lawn’s season and grass type.
Then I look at features that simplify work: cruise control, driving modes, Bluetooth, and smooth hydrostatic or manual gear options that let me fine-tune speed and turns.