Best Zero Turn Mower Consumer Reports (2024 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you’re looking for the best zero turn mower, then you’ve come to the right place. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to find the perfect one that fits your needs and budget. That’s why it’s important to do your research and read consumer reports before making a purchase.

There are several factors to consider when looking for the best zero turn mower. First and foremost, think about the size of your lawn and the level of maintenance required. Consider the cutting width, horsepower, and the fuel tank capacity. You should also look at the level of comfort provided by the mower, including the seat, controls, and overall ergonomics. Additionally, think about the durability and maintenance needs of the mower before making a final decision.

If you’re searching for a new zero turn mower, ask yourself a few questions. Are you looking for the highest-rated models according to consumer reports? Why buy a zero turn mower instead of a traditional mower? How much should you expect to spend? These questions can help guide your search and ensure that you make the best decision for your lawn care needs. Ultimately, with a little research, you can find the best zero turn mower that fits your budget and is tailored to your specific needs.

10 Best Zero Turn Mower Consumer Reports

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for automating lawn care, improving efficiency and reducing manual labor.
2
Ideal for those seeking a fully autonomous, energy-efficient alternative to traditional lawn mowing.
3
Ideal for those seeking a high-performance, eco-friendly and cordless zero turn mower with long battery life and efficient operation.
4
Ideal for efficient and precise mowing of large lawns with its superior speed, maneuverability, and powerful engine.
5
It is ideal for controlling the discharge of grass clippings and preventing debris from damaging nearby objects.
6
Ideal for medium to large yards, easy self-installation, GPS-assisted navigation, and ultra-quiet smart mowing technology.
7
Ideal for fast and efficient mowing of large lawns or properties with obstacles and tight spaces.
8
Ideal for efficient and precise lawn mowing with added convenience of LED headlights.
9
The product is ideal for landscaping professionals who need a way to transport their lawn mower and trimmer.
10
Ideal for efficiently mowing large residential and commercial properties with precision and speed.
The product is ideal for automating lawn care, improving efficiency and reducing manual labor.
Ideal for those seeking a fully autonomous, energy-efficient alternative to traditional lawn mowing.
Ideal for those seeking a high-performance, eco-friendly and cordless zero turn mower with long battery life and efficient operation.
Ideal for efficient and precise mowing of large lawns with its superior speed, maneuverability, and powerful engine.
It is ideal for controlling the discharge of grass clippings and preventing debris from damaging nearby objects.
Ideal for medium to large yards, easy self-installation, GPS-assisted navigation, and ultra-quiet smart mowing technology.
Ideal for fast and efficient mowing of large lawns or properties with obstacles and tight spaces.
Ideal for efficient and precise lawn mowing with added convenience of LED headlights.
The product is ideal for landscaping professionals who need a way to transport their lawn mower and trimmer.
Ideal for efficiently mowing large residential and commercial properties with precision and speed.

1. Husqvarna Automower® 115h Robotic Lawn Mower (Bluetooth)

The Husqvarna Automower 115H Robotic Lawn Mower is the perfect solution for those who want a well-maintained lawn without the hassle of manual mowing. This mower is equipped with smart technology from the world leader in robotic mowing, ensuring that your lawn is beautifully cut 24/7 at the touch of a button.

Controlling the Automower 115H is easy with Husqvarna's smart technology. You can control scheduling, adjust settings, and start and stop your automatic lawn mower from your smartphone. This feature allows you to manage your lawn maintenance even when you're away from home.

Installation of the Husqvarna robot mower is a breeze with the self-installation kit included. You'll just need to place the charging station, bury or lay the boundary wire around the perimeter of your yard, install the guide wire, choose your settings, and start mowing. This DIY installation will save you money and time.

To reduce the risk of theft, the automatic mower comes equipped with a built-in alarm system that will sound if it is lifted and is only deactivated with your unique PIN code. This feature ensures your mower's safety and provides peace of mind.

The compact robotic mower is weatherproof and can navigate narrow passages, objects, and 17-degree slopes with a cut width of 8.7 inches and an area capacity of 720 square feet per hour, making it perfect for lawns of up to 0.4 acre. Whether it's raining or sunny, the Husqvarna Automower 115H can handle any weather conditions.

2. Husqvarna Automower® 115h (1st Generation) Connect Robotic Lawn Mower

The Husqvarna Automower 115H 4G Robotic Lawn Mower is the perfect solution for those looking for a beautifully cut lawn without the hassle of manual labor. It is equipped with smart technology from the world leader in robotic mowing(1), making it a reliable and efficient choice for your lawn care needs.

Controlling the mower is made easy with Husqvarna's smart technology, allowing you to schedule, adjust settings, and start and stop the automatic lawn mower from your smartphone. This feature gives you complete control over your lawn care, even when you're away from home.

With the self-installation kit included, setting up the Husqvarna robot mower is a breeze. The kit provides you with everything you need to install the charging station, bury or lay the boundary wire around the perimeter of your yard, install the guide wire, choose your settings, and start mowing. This DIY installation saves you both time and money, making it a cost-effective option for lawn care.

Theft protection is also a key feature of the Husqvarna Automower 115H 4G Robotic Lawn Mower. The mower is equipped with a built-in alarm system that will sound if it is lifted, helping to reduce the risk of theft. The alarm is only deactivated with your unique PIN code, ensuring that your mower is safe and secure.

This compact robotic mower is weatherproof and can navigate narrow passages, objects, and 17-degree slopes with ease. With a cut width of 8.7 inches and an area capacity of 720 square feet per hour, it is perfect for lawns of up to 0.4 acre. The Husqvarna Automower 115H 4G Robotic Lawn Mower is a reliable and efficient choice for those who want a beautifully cut lawn without the hassle of manual labor.

3. Ego Z6 Zero Turn Riding Mower Kit

The riding lawn mower is a marvel of modern technology, featuring the innovative Peak Power+ Technology that harnesses the combined power of up to six EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries. This impressive technology ensures maximum runtime for the mower, allowing it to cut up to 2 acres on a single charge, thanks to the included four 56V 10.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries.

Equipped with a 22 HP equivalent engine, the mower delivers a power-packed performance that matches that of a gas-powered mower. However, it is much more eco-friendly and produces no fumes, making it a cleaner alternative.

One of the most noteworthy features of this mower is that it can hold up to six batteries, providing an unparalleled runtime. This is a significant advantage, particularly when compared to traditional mowers that require frequent battery replacements or refueling.

The riding lawn mower is the world's first platform-compatible rider, which means it is powered by all EGO 56V Arc Lithium batteries. This makes it a versatile option for those who already own other EGO products, as they can use their existing batteries without the need for additional purchases.

4. Ariens 915279 Ikon Limited 52 Inch 21.5hp Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower

The Ikon Limited Edition Zero Turn Mower is a high-performance lawn mower designed to make mowing tasks more efficient and effortless. This mower is powered by a powerful Kawasaki FR691V 726cc V-Twin engine that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. With this engine, users can expect smooth and consistent power delivery for a faster and cleaner mowing experience.

One of the standout features of this mower is its 52-inch fabricated deck. The deck is made from high-quality materials, which makes it durable and able to withstand tough mowing conditions. The deck is also designed to provide excellent cutting performance, ensuring that every blade of grass is cleanly cut for a neat and professional-looking finish.

The Ikon Limited Edition Zero Turn Mower is also equipped with a range of features that make it easy to use and maintain. For instance, it has a comfortable and adjustable seat that ensures users can mow for longer periods without experiencing any discomfort. The mower also has a simple and intuitive control system that makes it easy to maneuver around obstacles and tight spaces.

In addition, this mower has a range of safety features that ensure users are protected while mowing. For example, it has a safety switch that automatically shuts off the engine when the user leaves the seat. This prevents accidental mowing and ensures that users are safe at all times.

5. Advanced Chute System: Chute Blocker – (Acs6000uls)

The Advanced Chute System is a versatile solution that fits a variety of zero-turn mowers, including popular brands such as Ferris, Exmark, Gravely, Hustler, and Toro Mowers. With this product, you can take complete control of your mower discharge and enjoy a hassle-free mowing experience.

One of the main benefits of the Advanced Chute System is that it allows you to keep debris out of flower beds and rocks out of windows, ensuring a clean and safe mowing experience. This is possible thanks to the system's intuitive design, which allows you to adjust the chute's opening and closing angle with ease.

To ensure compatibility with your mower, be sure to check the compatibility chart on the Advanced Chute System website. Once you've determined that this product is compatible with your mower's model, you can enjoy the benefits of having complete control over your mower's discharge.

The Advanced Chute System requires holes to be drilled into the deck for secure placement. This ensures that the chute stays in place and doesn't move around during use, providing you with a reliable and efficient mowing experience.

6. Husqvarna Smart Mower For Large Yards.

The Husqvarna Automower 430XH Robotic Lawn Mower is the perfect solution for those who want a beautifully cut lawn effortlessly. This state-of-the-art mower uses smart technology from the world leader in robotic mowing, ensuring that your lawn is always in top condition.

The mower comes with flawless smart integration, allowing you to control scheduling, adjust settings, track location, and check the mowing status of the automatic lawn mower from your smartphone, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home. This feature ensures that you can keep an eye on your lawn even when you're not at home.

Installation of the Husqvarna robot mower is a breeze, thanks to the self-installation kit included with the product. Simply place the charging station, bury or lay the boundary wire around the perimeter of your yard, install the guide wire, choose your settings, and start mowing. This DIY installation ensures that you can have your lawn looking its best in no time.

Theft protection is also a key feature of the Automower 430XH robot lawn mower. It comes equipped with GPS theft tracking, a built-in alarm system, and a PIN code lock, allowing you to secure and track its location at all times through the Automower Connect App. This feature brings peace of mind, ensuring that your mower is safe and secure.

The compact automatic mower is weatherproof and can navigate narrow passages, objects, and 45-degree slopes, making it suitable for all lawns and weather conditions. With a cutting width of 9.45 inches and an area capacity of 1,430 square feet per hour, the mower is perfect for lawns of up to 0.8 acres. This impressive performance ensures that your lawn is always in top condition.

7. Husqvarna Z254 54 In. 26 Hp Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower

The lawn mower boasts a 26 HP Kohler engine that guarantees dependable startups and a maximum speed of 6.5 MPH. With its patent-pending park brake system, the mower's brake is activated or deactivated automatically as the steering levers are moved outward or inward.

The air induction mowing technology is an innovative feature that draws air from both the top and bottom of the deck. This technology enhances grass cutting and delivers a superior cut. The cutting deck is made of heavy flat-stock steel which ensures maximum durability, thanks to its reinforced steel stamping.

This lawn mower is versatile and offers three options for clippings. Clippings can be discharged, mulched, or bagged, depending on the user's needs. However, it is important to note that the mulching kit and bagger attachment are sold separately.

8. Husqvarna Z254f Zero Turn Lawn Mower With Led Headlights

Introducing a high-performance lawn mower, equipped with a powerful 24HP Kawasaki engine that is designed to tackle any lawn with ease. This mower is built to last, thanks to its robust frame and durable casters, which reduce chassis flex and ensure longevity.

The deck lift system is spring assisted, making it incredibly easy to use, and conveniently located within easy reach of the operator. This allows for quick adjustments to be made on the fly, ensuring a perfect cut every time. Additionally, the ergonomic control panel has been thoughtfully designed to place everything conveniently at your fingertips, eliminating the need for excessive bending or reaching.

To further enhance its functionality, the mower comes equipped with LED headlights mounted to the front of the machine. This feature is particularly useful for those who like to mow early in the morning or late in the evening, as it provides ample lighting to ensure safe and efficient operation.

9. Ztr-Tr Zero Turn Lawn Mower Trimmer Rack For Landscaping Professionals

This product is designed to attach a trimmer to a mower (please note that the mower is not included). With adjustable settings, this trimmer mount allows for a customized fit to ensure it fits your specific mower. The quick clamp secures the trimmer in place, preventing it from spinning and causing any damage.

It's important to always have your trimmer within reach, and this product offers locking capability with a gun lock. This ensures that the trimmer stays secure and accessible whenever you need it.

Please note that for roll bars greater than 2 inches, a separate u-bolt will need to be purchased from a local hardware store in order to properly fit the mount.

10. Husqvarna Z248f Zero Turn Lawn Mower 48 Inches 747cc 26hp V Twin

The ClearCut Fabricated Cutting Deck is designed for maximum durability. It features welded 10-gauge steel construction with additional welded reinforcement strips. This makes it strong and reliable for any cutting task. The deck is built to last and withstand any tough conditions.

The Cast Iron Spindle Housings are bold and built for durability. They are made of cast iron and feature sealed ball bearings. This ensures that the blades are always running smoothly and efficiently. The spindle housings are also designed to last, making them a reliable component of the mower.

The Maintenance-Free Transmission is integrated with zero-turn transmissions. This means there is no need to worry about maintenance, as it is designed to be worry-free. The transmissions are built to last and provide reliable performance throughout the life of the mower.

The Rugged Frame and Casters are designed to ensure durability and reduced chassis flex. The frame is robust and can withstand tough conditions. The casters are also designed to last, ensuring that the mower can easily navigate any terrain.

The Convenient Deck Lift system is spring assisted for ease of use and is conveniently located within easy reach of the operator. This makes it easy to adjust the cutting height, allowing the operator to quickly and efficiently adjust the mower to meet their needs.

Best Zero Turn Mower Consumer Reports FAQs

What are the top-rated zero turn mowers according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the top-rated zero turn mowers for 2021 include several models from well-known brands. One of the highest-rated models is the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1-54, which received high marks for its cutting performance, ease of use, and durability. Another top-rated model is the John Deere Z375R, which offers excellent maneuverability and a comfortable operator station. The Husqvarna Z254F is also a highly rated zero turn mower, with a powerful engine and a sturdy frame. Other models that received high ratings include the Toro TimeCutter and the Ariens IKON-X. All of these models offer excellent cutting performance and ease of use, making them ideal for homeowners and professionals alike. Ultimately, the best zero turn mower will depend on your individual needs and preferences, so it's important to do your research and choose a model that meets your specific requirements.

What is the best zero turn mower for a large lawn according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the best zero turn mower for a large lawn is the Toro TimeCutter MX5075. This mower has a 50-inch cutting deck and a powerful 24.5 horsepower engine, allowing it to quickly and efficiently mow large areas of grass. It also has a comfortable seat, easy-to-use controls, and a high-quality build that should last for many years of use. Consumer Reports gave the Toro TimeCutter MX5075 high marks for its cutting performance, ease of use, and overall reliability. However, it is worth noting that zero turn mowers are generally more expensive than traditional riding mowers, so buyers should be prepared to invest a bit more upfront for this type of mower. Overall, if you have a large lawn and want to get the job done quickly and efficiently, the Toro TimeCutter MX5075 is definitely worth considering.

What is the best zero turn mower for commercial use according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the best zero-turn mower for commercial use is the John Deere Z375R-62. This mower received high marks for its excellent cutting performance, ease of use, and durability. The John Deere Z375R-62 has a 62-inch deck, allowing for a wider cutting swath, and a powerful 25-horsepower engine. It also features a comfortable seat, adjustable steering levers, and easy-to-use controls, making it a favorite among commercial users. Additionally, the mower has a durable construction, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of commercial use. Overall, the John Deere Z375R-62 is a reliable and efficient choice for those in the commercial lawn care industry.

What is the best zero turn mower for hills according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the best zero turn mower for hills is the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1-54. It received high marks for its ability to handle hilly terrain, thanks to its powerful engine and excellent traction control. The Ultima ZT1-54 also features a heavy-duty frame and a comfortable seat, making it a reliable and comfortable option for mowing on inclines. Additionally, the mower's cutting deck is designed to provide a precise and even cut, which is essential when navigating hills and slopes. Overall, the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1-54 is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to mow hilly terrain with a zero turn mower.

What is the best zero turn mower for residential use according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the best zero turn mower for residential use is the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1-42. This mower received high ratings for its cutting performance, ease of use, and durability. It features a 42-inch cutting deck that can be adjusted to 12 different cutting heights, making it suitable for various lawn types. The Ultima ZT1-42 is equipped with a powerful 22-horsepower Kohler engine that provides ample power for mowing large lawns quickly. Additionally, it has a comfortable high-back seat and easy-to-use controls that make it easy to operate. Overall, the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1-42 is a great choice for homeowners who want a reliable and efficient zero turn mower that can handle their lawn care needs.

What zero turn mowers have the best cutting performance according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the top-rated zero turn mowers for cutting performance are the Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX4 and the John Deere Z375R. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX4 received a score of 97 out of 100 for its excellent cutting performance and smooth operation. It also features a durable deck and a comfortable seat for the operator. The John Deere Z375R received a score of 96 out of 100 for its precise and even cutting, as well as its ease of use. It also has a powerful engine and a comfortable seat with armrests. Other zero turn mowers that received high marks for cutting performance include the Toro TimeCutter and the Husqvarna Z400. Ultimately, the best zero turn mower for cutting performance will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget.

Which zero turn mowers are the most reliable according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the most reliable zero turn mowers are the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1, the John Deere Z375R, and the Toro TimeCutter SW4200. These mowers have consistently received high ratings for their reliability, performance, and ease of use. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 is praised for its powerful engine and smooth operation, while the John Deere Z375R is known for its superior cutting ability and comfortable seat. The Toro TimeCutter SW4200 is also highly regarded for its sturdy construction and excellent maneuverability. However, it's important to note that the reliability of a zero turn mower can also depend on factors such as maintenance, usage, and storage. Regular maintenance and proper care can help ensure that any zero turn mower will remain reliable over time.

Which zero turn mowers have the best fuel efficiency according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the zero turn mowers that have the best fuel efficiency are the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42 and the John Deere Z345R-42. Both of these mowers are equipped with a 42-inch cutting deck and a fuel-efficient engine that delivers a smooth and even cut while using less fuel than other models in their class. The Cub Cadet Ultima is powered by a 22 horsepower Kohler engine and has a fuel capacity of 3.5 gallons, while the John Deere Z345R-42 is powered by a 22 horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine and has a fuel capacity of 2.1 gallons. Both mowers are designed with hydrostatic transmissions that provide responsive and precise control, making them ideal for mowing large lawns or commercial properties. Overall, these zero turn mowers are an excellent choice for homeowners and professionals who are looking for fuel-efficient and reliable mowers that can handle tough mowing conditions with ease.

Which zero turn mowers have the best maneuverability according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, there are several zero turn mowers with excellent maneuverability. The top-rated zero turn mowers for maneuverability are the John Deere Z345R, Toro TimeCutter MX5075, and the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1. These mowers are designed with features that make them easy to turn and navigate around obstacles. The John Deere Z345R has a 42-inch cutting deck and can turn in a tight radius of 18 inches, making it perfect for maneuvering around trees and bushes. The Toro TimeCutter MX5075 has a 50-inch cutting deck and can turn on a dime, thanks to its dual hydrostatic transmission. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 has a 50-inch cutting deck and features a four-wheel steering system that allows for excellent maneuverability. Overall, these zero turn mowers are great choices for anyone who needs a mower that can navigate tight spaces with ease.

Which zero turn mowers have the best warranty according to consumer reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the zero turn mowers with the best warranty are the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 and ZT2 series. These mowers come with a three-year limited residential warranty, which covers material and workmanship defects. The warranty also includes a five-year limited deck shell and frame warranty. In addition, the company offers a limited lifetime warranty on the fabricated deck shell.

Another zero turn mower with an excellent warranty is the Toro TimeCutter MX and SWX series. These mowers come with a three-year unlimited hour residential warranty, which covers defects in material and workmanship. The company also provides a five-year warranty on the deck shell and frame.

It's important to note that warranties may vary depending on the model and manufacturer. It's always a good idea to read the warranty information carefully and ask questions before making a purchase. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in a zero turn mower.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!