Best riding lawn mowers 2024: for a quick cut with little effort

Best riding lawn mowers 2024: Jump Menu

How fast does a riding lawn mower go

(Image credit: Getty Images)

1. The list in brief ↴
2. Best overall: John Deere S180
3. Best for customization: EGO POWER ZT420L
4. Best zero-turn for power: Cub Cadet RZT-L
5. Best battery-powered: Ryobi RY48111
6. Best for tough environments: Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1
7. Best year-round: Ryobi RY48ZTR100
8. Best user-rated: Toro 75742
9. Best for large yards: Troy-Bilt Mustang Z54
10. Best zero-turn: Toro Titan MAX 76601
11. Best cheap: Troy-Bilt TB30 B
12. How to choose
13. FAQs

Owning one of the best riding lawn mowers will mean that the grass on big or hilly lawns can be conquered. All it takes to maintain your lawn is climbing into the driver’s seat and operating a few controls. 

With the first-cut-of-the-year fast approaching, make sure that you get the best lawn mower for the job. A riding lawn mower is a fantastic option to consider if you want to upgrade from your best gas lawn mower to something a little bigger, and want to retain the power that you're used to. That said; battery-powered models benefit from having zero emissions and being far quieter, something your neighbors or young kids will thank you for.

While we have used ride on lawn mowers, we haven't tested all of the ten that we have featured in this guide. We've instead identified the most reputable brands and considered factors such how fast a riding lawn mower can go along with the cutting width, engine power, and transmission type to determine the best options. Additionally we've considered user reviews to provide a comprehensive guide to you, our readers. 

Below we've summarised each product and who it might be best suited for - if you're after more information then keep scrolling more a more in-depth analogy.

The quick list

The best riding lawn mowers we recommend in 2024

Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

We're on a mission here at Top Ten Reviews to review everything that we feature in our buyer's guide. While we haven't been able to test every model in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best riding lawn mower features to help you make the right decision for your backyard, all for the best price. 

The best riding lawn mower overall

John Deere S180

(Image credit: John Deere)

1. John Deere S180

This is the best riding lawn mower you can buy

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 45.7 x 67 x 75.3 in
Cutting width: 54 in (137 cm)
Turning radius: 18 in (45.7 cm)
Power type : Gasoline
Maximum speed: 5.5 mph
Size of yard: 3 - 5 acres

Reasons to buy

+
Wide cutting path
+
Powerful V-twin engine
+
Adjustable blade height from 1 to 4 inches

Reasons to avoid

-
Bulky design
Buy it if

✅ You want a wide cutting path: at 54 inches, this is one of the biggest in this guide.

✅ You need a powerful engine: this mower comes with a powerful V-twin engine.
✅ You want an adjustable blade height: you can adjust this one from 1 to 4 inches.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this mower comes with a high price tag.

❌ You need a compact mower: this one has a bulky design.

The bottom line

🔎 The John Deere S180 combines a powerful engine and high-end features with a wide cutting path to provide superb results.

Features: The John Deere S180 has an impressively wide cutting path of 54 inches. You can adjust the blades to 11 different height positions, anywhere between 1 inch and 4 inches, and it has a turning radius of 18 inches. These features make it easy to customize the cut to your lawn so it looks just the way you want. 

The machine’s hydrostatic transmission is pedal-operated, so you don’t have to take your hands off the steering wheel while you drive. This John Deere mower also has a cruise control that lets you set the speed you want to mow at

Power: This machine makes quick and easy work of cutting any size yard, and it easily navigates terrain other mowers may struggle to traverse. It features a front-mounted V-twin engine that produces up to 26 horsepower and can reach up to 5.5 miles per hour. The fuel gauge sits in plain view as you mow, so you know exactly how much gas you have left.

Value: At over $3,500, this riding lawn mower certainly isn't cheap, but its premium features and powerful motor make it worth in our opinion. You also get a 2-year warranty with the mower for peace of mind. 

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesHigh-end features like cruise control★★★★★
PowerPowerful front V-twin engine ★★★★★
ValueHigh price tag, but 2-year warranty★★★★

The best riding lawn mower for customization

EGO POWER ZT4204L Rider Lawn Mower

(Image credit: Lowe's)

2. EGO POWER ZT4204L Rider Lawn Mower

Best riding lawn mower for customization

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 31.5 x 43.3 x 11.8 in
Cutting width: 42 in
Turning radius: 0
Power type : Lithium Batteries
Maximum speed: 8 MPH in travel mode
Size of yard: 2 - 3 Acres

Reasons to buy

+
Power from batteries to rival gas 
+
Zero emissions 

Reasons to avoid

-
Additional batteries sold separately
-
Pricey 
Buy it if

✅ You want a powerful mower: this battery-operated model rivals its gas competitors.

✅ You want to limit your environmental impact: this mower has zero emissions.

✅ You want comfort: an adjustable seat, LCD interface and USB charging ports are all on board.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this mower sits on the premium end of the scale.

❌ You want an all-inclusive package: additional batteries and mulch kit for the mower are sold separately.

The bottom line

🔎 The  EGO POWER ZT4204L is just as powerful as gas models, but without the environmental impact. It's a comfortable and customizable mower.

Features: The riding experience of the EGO POWER ZT4204L is unmatched thanks to its premium features and ergonomic design. There’s the adjustable seat, the super bright headlights, and an onboard USB port for charging your phone. You can enter into different modes via the LCD interface, and choose from Sport, Control, and Standard, to whizz around at whatever pace you feel is necessary. The mower has zero-turn technology (essential for ride-on mowers) and a 42-inch cutting path.

Power: You might assume battery-powered rider lawnmowers can’t compete with their gas counterparts. However, the EGO POWER ZT4204L seeks to change that. How come? With its 22 horsepower engine and maximum eight-mile-an-hour speed. It’s the best choice for anyone who wants to avoid the muckiness of refueling with oil while doing your bit for the planet too.

Value: This mower does not come cheap, and buyers may be disappointed to find out that although it can hold six lithium batteries, it only comes with four upon purchase. That’s something worth remembering if you decide this is the model for you. Mulch kits and baggers also come separately. 

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesThis mower is designed for comfort★★★★★
PowerIt can rival most gas-powered models★★★★★
ValueNo acccessories are included in the high price tag★★★

The best zero turn riding lawn mower for power

Cub Cadet RZT-L Riding Lawn Mower

(Image credit: Cub Cadet)

3. Cub Cadet RZT-L Riding Lawn Mower

Best zero turn riding lawn mower for sheer power

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 36 x 56 x 80 in
Cutting width: 34 in
Turning radius: 0
Power type : Lead acid battery
Maximum speed: 7 mph
Size of yard: 1 - 3 Acres

Reasons to buy

+
Its small form factor makes it easy to store
+
It employs zero-turn technology
+
It has a powerful engine that delivers good speeds

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
Buy it if

✅ You're low on storage space: this compact mower is easy to stow away.

✅ You want a zero-turn mower: this can navigate around any trees and shrubs.

✅ You want a powerful mower: the 725cc Koehler engine delivers 23 horsepower.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this is one of the most expensive picks in this guide.

❌ You want a grass collector: this mower isn't equipped with one. 

You want to reduce your environmental impact: this mower is gas-powered.

The bottom line

🔎 As a strong, maneuverable mower, the Cub Cadet RZT-L 42 Lap Bar Zero-Turn Rider is up to both residential and commercial applications.

Features: This machine is constructed of very durable materials. Its 12-gauge steel body enhances protection against the occasional collision with rocks, trees, and other lawn debris. The drive deck uses a Kevlar belt, which increases efficiency, performance, and lifespan. The deck also incorporates a float system that keeps your mower level as you travel across rough terrain or inclines.

One of the things we look for in this category is zero-turn technology, which this lawnmower boasts. It can navigate around trees, shrubs, and other obstacles without leaving uncut grass around them. 

Power: The engine found in this lawn mower is impressive for a machine of its size. You get a 725-cc Koehler engine that delivers 23 horsepower and reaches a speed of 7 mph. Some full-size lawnmowers can’t compete with those specs. It also has a 2.8-gallon gas tank, which is large for a compact mower.

Value: Storage space for large equipment, such as a riding lawn mower, is often limited, so you may be left with the choice of sacrificing power and utility for a machine with a smaller frame. With the Cub Cadet RZT-L, you can have all three. This riding lawn mower is compact yet delivers power, speed, and versatility. However, you’ll pay a premium: it is one of the most expensive riding lawnmowers we evaluated.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesCompact and full of nifty features★★★★
PowerPowerful for its compact size★★★★
ValueOne of the most expensive picks on this list★★

The best battery-powered riding lawn mower

Ryobi RY48111 48-Volt Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower

(Image credit: Home Depot)

4. Ryobi RY48111 48-Volt Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower

Best battery-powered riding lawn mower

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 46 x 38.5 x 63 in
Cutting width: 38 in
Turning radius: 0
Power type : Electric
Maximum speed: 8 mph
Size of yard: 1/2 - 2 Acres

Reasons to buy

+
Zero emissions, no refueling needed 
+
Low maintenance  

Reasons to avoid

-
Requires charging 
Buy it if

✅ You want to minimize your environmental impact: this mower is battery-powered.

✅ You want a fuss-free product: this model is very low maintenance.

✅ You want a quiet mower: this one emits up to 70dB, only a little louder than a regular conversation.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You have a large lawn: because this mower requires charging, you may not be able to mow it all in one go.

❌ You care about comfort: there have been some user complains about the uncomfortable seating. 

The bottom line

🔎 If you want to have a greener riding lawn mower experience, and deal with less maintenance and costs as a result, then the Ryobi RY48111 is the one for you. 

Features: The Ryobi RY48111 riding lawn mower is a rare find, as it’s both super powerful and better for the planet, with its batteries providing the riding experience you need. This mower also utilizes zero-turn technology to create a machine that’s easy to maneuver and will take less time to take care of your yard. 

The cutting path of the Ryobi RY48111 is 38 inches, which makes it ideal for larger backyards rather than wide-open spaces. This model also has a 12-position manual deck adjustment to get your lawn to its premium height. 

Power: The main draw of the Ryobi RY48111 is that it doesn’t rely on gas at all. Rather, it uses two 100Ah batteries in order to mow smoothly and manages an impressive two and a half hours run time. It has a maximum speed of 8mph, so you can get your mowing done efficiently, and a maximum reverse speed of 3mph.

One of the best features of the Ryobi RY48111 is its quiet running. With just 70 decibels of sound emitted, it runs a little louder than an average conversation, so your family and neighbors can safely inhabit the garden without being disturbed. 

Value: With all its bells and whistles, this isn't the cheapest mower on the market, far from it in fact. However, it does come with all the required tools and a 3-year warranty from the manufacturer for peace of mind.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesFrom a screen to armrests, this has it all★★★★★
Power3 brushless motors, 8mph of speed★★★★
ValuePremium, but with a 3-year warranty★★★

The best riding lawn mower for tough environments

Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1

(Image credit: Home Depot)

5. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1

Best riding lawn mower for tough environments

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 35 x 57 x 82 in
Cutting width: 50 in
Turning radius: 0
Power type : Gas
Maximum speed: 7 mph
Size of yard: 2 - 4 Acres

Reasons to buy

+
50 inch cutting path 
+
23 horsepower engine 

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive  
Buy it if

✅ You want a large cutting width: at 50 inches, this model is hard to beat.

✅ You want a powerful mower: the twin-cylinder engine delivers 23 horsepower.

✅ You need a sturdy mower: this one comes with wide tires and a fabricated deck.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this mower is one of the more expensive one on this list.

❌ You want a ready-to-use mower: this one requires some assembly before use.

The bottom line

🔎 The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 is ideally suited to larger areas thanks to its 50-inch cutting path and 23 horsepower engine.

Features: The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 attempts to ensure maximum durability with its design. That includes its fabricated deck and tubular high-strength frame. It also aims to go the extra mile with comfort with its ergonomic, fully adjustable chair, lap bars, and hand grips. 

All these things should reduce operator fatigue and make for a more enjoyable riding lawn mower experience. Dual LED headlights will also allow you to use the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 more frequently, and get about at dawn or dusk. 

Power: Power is an essential element of riding lawn mowers and the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 aims to provide with its 23 horsepower 726cc Kawasaki twin-cylinder engine. This allows you to get up to speeds of 7.5 miles per hour and cover an extensive amount of terrain.

The zero-turn technology with this riding lawn mower also aims to be faster than competing models, and combined with the 50-inch cutting path, it’s safe to say that user reviews are confident in this mower’s ability to knock the hours off your mowing time. 

The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 also aims to prevent refueling trips, with 3.5 gallons of fuel tank capacity available. It can also reach up to 7.5 miles per hour and has a 23-horsepower dual-cylinder engine for maximum power.

Value: Another excellent feature of the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 is its warranty. The three-year guarantee promises that no matter the hours you’ve racked up on your mower, you can seek help from the manufacturer. Plus, there’s a lifetime warranty on the frame and fabricated deck shell, so you know you’re protected for as long as you need it on those counts.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesErgonomic design and features★★★★★
PowerThe 23-horsepower engine goes up to 7.5mph★★★★
ValuePricey, but exceptional warranty★★★★

The best year-round riding lawn mower

Ryobi RY48ZTR100

(Image credit: Ryobi)

6. Ryobi RY48ZTR100

The best year-round riding lawn mower

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 50 x 49 x 66 in
Cutting width: 42 in
Turning radius: 0 in
Power type : Battery
Maximum speed: 7 mph
Size of yard: 2 - 4 Acres

Reasons to buy

+
Three hour battery life
+
Zero-turn controls
+
12 height positions

Reasons to avoid

-
Could be comfier
Buy it if

✅ You want something hassle-free: this is an electric option with a long battery life and easy height adjustments.

✅ You want a consistent product: this has a solid build quality and performance with 12 ride heights and LED lights for night-time mowing.

✅ You'd appreciate onboard conveniences: such as a phone charger, cup holder, and lap steering, and the ability to add a plow for snow clearing.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this has a higher price tag than other ride-on mowers.

❌ You don't want to keep recharging: there are mixed reviews on Amazon regarding battery charging capacity

 You're a professional: this might not be suitable for those who require a larger and more powerful model.

The bottom line

🔎 Ryobi RY48ZTR100 is a high-quality electric riding mower. It has 12 ride heights, a three-hour battery life, and easy height adjustments. While it has received mixed reviews on Amazon, it's a great option for homeowners with large gardens who want a hassle-free electric option.

The Ryobi RY48ZTR100 is an excellent electric riding mower that combines the benefits of battery power with the power and cutting ability of a traditional ride-on mower. Its solid build quality and consistent performance make it well worth the higher price tag, and it includes features like LED lights, a phone charger, and a cup holder.

With a three-hour battery life, easy height adjustments, and zero-point bar controls, this mower is perfect for those who want a hassle-free electric option. LED lighting is also great for night-time mowing, and while professionals may want to opt for a larger and more powerful model, this mower is perfect for most users.

Features: This mower offers 12 different ride heights to get the cut length just right, and the steering uses a zero-point system controlled by two padded lap bars for subtle turns and accurate control. The drive train has several modes, including forward, reverse, and cutting in reverse. You can also stop the cutting blades and just drive for more speed, up to 7 mph. The USB charger and LED lights are great extra features for long mowing sessions.

Power: The Ryobi RY48ZTR100 can last up to three hours on a single charge and has a useful readout display that shows the bars of battery and time left, which is accurate. It has four brushless motors that provide enough power to cut through almost any job, but if you hit a patch of wet or thick grass, you can easily slow down or raise the height to avoid potential cut-outs. The bar controls are easy to use and distribute power evenly, and the 42-inch deck offers a large cutting area, making it suitable for larger plots of land.

Value: This mower has an average rating of three out of five stars on Amazon, with some users praising its ability to cover large patches of land with ease, while negative reviews highlight issues with battery charging capacity. It's well-suited for homeowners with large gardens, thanks to its all-electric functionality, easy height adjustment, and onboard conveniences such as cup holders and LED headlights. Lap steering and the ability to add a plow for snow clearing make it a great choice for those who can afford it.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
Features12 ride heights; accurate control; LED lights★★★★★
PowerLasts up to 3 hours; four brushless motors; large cutting area★★★★
ValueMixed reviews; expensive★★★

The best user-rated riding lawn mower

Toro 75742

(Image credit: Toro)

7. Toro 75742

The best user-rated riding lawn mower

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 42 x 48 x 75 in
Cutting width: 42
Turning radius: 0
Power type : Gas
Maximum speed: 7 mph
Size of yard: 1/2 - 2 Acres

Reasons to buy

+
Cubby for holding drinks or stepping on
+
300-hour commercial engine warranty

Reasons to avoid

-
Very expensive
Buy it if

✅ You want to ride in style: this mower comes with a cubby for drinks and a step to hop on comfortably.

✅ You want a good warranty: the engine is under a 300-hour commercial warranty.

✅ You want a zero-turn mower: this is one of them!

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this model is very expensive.

❌ You have a hilly terrain: users have said this mower is harder to maneuver on hillier ground.

The bottom line

🔎 The Toro 75742 TimeCutter Commercial Riding Mower is equipped with premium features and has an ergonomic design, but it comes with a hefty price tag too.

Features: Customer reviews on the Home Depot website show that this mower is recommended by 93% of users thanks to its cutting precision, comfortable suspension, and smooth ride. 

This riding mower is designed for comfort and includes extras like a padded seat with back support, an under-seat storage cubby, and cup holders on the front. The design is practical, too, as the protective tire fenders protect you and the engine from tire spray and backsplash.

Power: The Toro 75742 is a beast of a riding lawn mower, which earns its very high price tag through solid build quality and feature-rich specs. The 42-inch cutting deck is made from 13 Gauge Steel, and the available cutting heights range from 1.5 - 45 inches, giving you a precise cut depending on your needs. 

Mowing your lawn shouldn’t take all day, and Toro promises to cut mowing time by up to half with its zero-turn feature – something that’s also present on other high-end mowers in this guide. Speaking of speed, it maxes out at a reasonable 7 mph in mow mode and 4 mph in trim mode, and to save more time you can get on and off the mower from the step-through front end, should you need to pick up any yard debris.

Value: The Toro 75742 certainly isn’t the cheapest riding mower, but it combines space-saving dimensions with commercial-grade features and puts them in the hands of residential homeowners. Plus, the engine comes with a 300-hour commercial warranty, which is an added bonus.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesThis mower comes with all the bells and whistles★★★★★
PowerCommercial-grade power and functionality★★★★★
ValueA high price tag, but a decent warranty★★★

The best riding lawn mower for large yards

Troy-Bilt Mustang Z54

(Image credit: Troy-Bilt)

8. Troy-Bilt Mustang Z54

The best riding lawn mower for large yards

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 35 x 60 x 84 in
Cutting width: 54 in
Turning radius: 0
Power type : Gas
Maximum speed: 5.5 mph
Size of yard: 4 or More Acres

Reasons to buy

+
Anti-scalp wheels to avoid grass damage
+
Lap brake for extra safety
+
Limited lifetime warranty on frame

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the fastest
-
Attachments like rear bagger sold separately
Buy it if

✅ You want to avoid spoiling your lawn: this mower has anti-scalp wheels to avoid grass damage.

✅ You're big on safety features: this mower comes with a lap brake. 

✅ You want peace of mind: there is a limited lifetime warranty on the frame of this mower.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want the fastest mower: this one is capped at 5.5mph.

❌ You want an all-inclusive package: accessories such as the rear bagger are sold separately.

The bottom line

🔎 The Troy-Bilt Mustang Z54 has a wide cutting width of 54 inches to tackle yards of 4 acres of more. It comes with good safety features and a decent warranty, too.

Features: The Troy-Bilt Mustang Z54 is a rugged and dependable riding mower with a wide 55-inch cutting width to tackle larger lawns. It’s ideal if you have 4 or more acres to mow, and the zero-turn performance should make mowing faster and more efficient – just like other models in this guide. It features anti-scalp wheels to prevent damage to your grass and a fully welded tubular frame designed to absorb impact from the engine for a smoother ride.

Regarding handling, the controls take the form of a lap bar, with foam grip steering for extra comfort. A parking brake lets you stop the mower quickly if you notice an obstacle, which is a nice feature if you’re mowing around pets.

Cleaning excess grass clippings from the underside of a lawn mower isn’t an enjoyable job. That’s why we love to see that it’s possible to attach a standard hose to the wash port on the cutting desk of the Troy-Bilt Mustang Z54, to get it clean in no time (or effort).

Power: The Z54’s 3.5-gallon fuel tank is half the size of the 7-gallon Toro Titan MAX 76601 below, but it’s still capacious enough to allow for extended mowing times. It's worth noting however that this mower only reaches a maximum speed of 5.5mph, which is less than other mowers in this guide. 

Value: This mower definitely doesn't come cheap, and it's worth noting that additional accessories such as the rear bagger are sold separately. However, it does come with a limited lifetime warranty on the frame, which should do much to reassure buyers.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesGood safety and ergonomic features★★★★
PowerThis mower's strength is in duration rather than speed★★★★
ValueExpensive, but a decent warranty★★★

The best zero turn riding lawn mower

Toro Titan MAX 76601

(Image credit: Toro)

9. Toro Titan MAX 76601

The best zero turn riding lawn mower

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 45.7 x 62.2 x 82.2 in
Cutting width: 60 in
Turning radius: 0
Power type : Gas
Maximum speed: 9 mph
Size of yard: 4 or More Acres

Reasons to buy

+
Super-wide deck for large areas
+
Superb build quality
+
Top speed of 9mph

Reasons to avoid

-
Very expensive
-
Some users said it was loud
Buy it if

✅ You want a fast lawnmower: with a top speed of 9mph, this is the fastest model on this list.

✅ You have a large yard: with a cutting width of 60 inches, this mower is great for larger areas.

✅ You want a mower to last: the build quality is superb.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this mower is one of the most expensive in this guide.

❌ You need quiet: users report this mower is quite loud while in use. 

The bottom line

🔎 If you have a need for speed, the Toro Titan MAX 76601 can propel you around and deal with large areas of 4+ acres at 9mph. With a cup-holder and high back seat, you can mow your lawn quickly and comfortably. 

Features: Toro is proud of its build quality, and the 23-inch drive tires are suitable for slightly bumpier terrain. The 10-gauge steel deck and frame are incredibly hardy; elsewhere, there’s a 7-gallon fuel capacity for longer coverage. If you want a “big, bad, and powerful” riding mower with solid, semi-pro build quality, the Titan MAX 76601 is the right choice.

Power: The Toro Titan MAX 76601 is the fastest riding lawnmower in this guide and offers one of the widest cutting widths at 60 inches. In short, it will make light work of mowing yards over 4 acres – if you can afford it. For the hefty price, you get plenty of commercial-level features, including a rapid blade speed of 18,908 fpm, which should be more than capable of ripping through wet grass without clumping together.

Value: When you’re spending this much, it’s about the little details, too. The Toro Titan MAX 76601 has a built-in cup holder and a high-back seat with armrests to mow comfortably. It comes with a 500-hour limited warranty for extra peace of mind around your investment, valid for four years.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesThis mower has all the bells and whistles you expect★★★★★
PowerThe engine propels you at 9mph★★★★★
ValueA very high price tag, but a decent warranty★★★

The best cheap riding lawn mower

Troy-Bilt TB30 B Ride On Mower

(Image credit: Troy-Bilt)

10. Troy-Bilt TB30 B Ride On Mower

Best cheap riding lawn mower

Specifications

Height x Width x Depth: 42 in x 30 x 62 in
Cutting width: 30 in
Turning radius: 18 in
Power type : Gas
Maximum speed: 4.25 mph
Size of yard: 1 - 2 Acres

Reasons to buy

+
Minor assembly required
+
Easy to maneuver

Reasons to avoid

-
Gear shift awkwardly placed
Buy it if

✅ You want minimal hassle: there is only minor assembling required. 


✅ You want an easy ride: this mower is great to maneuver.

✅ You're on a budget: riding mowers are never cheap, but this one is as close as it gets. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're all about ergonomics: the gear shift is awkwardly placed.

❌ You want a large cutting deck: this one is 30 inches, about half of the biggest mowers in this guide.

❌ Speed is of the essence: the engine taps out at 4.25mph. 

The bottom line

🔎 The Troy-Bilt TB30 B is one of the more accessible riding lawn mowers, but that doesn't mean it compromises on quality. It's compact but the 10.5hp engine and 30-in deck can handle lawns up to 2 acres.

A cheap riding lawn mower doesn’t exist, but if you're conscious of how much you can spend, the Troy-Bilt TB30 B is worth considering. With a lower price than many rider lawnmowers, it’s more accessible to an average homeowner. It’s good for lawns of around 1 - 2 acres and has many, but not all, features we look for.

Features: With a compact design, the Troy-Bilt TB30 B combines the convenience of a riding mower with the storage size of the best electric lawnmowers so that you can keep it safely stowed away in a shed or garage. Its 30-inch cutting deck is the ideal width for smaller yards, especially if you need to fit through gates too.

Thanks to the soft touch steering wheel, which minimizes vibrations, the Troy-Bilt TB30 B should be comfortable to use. Its cup holder even keeps you hydrated or caffeinated during the ride.

Power: The 10.5 horsepower engine delivers a maximum speed of 4.25 mph in a forward and backward direction. You can fully operate the reverse system and even mow the grass while reversing – saving more time when tidying those lawns. 

Value: A cheap riding lawn mower doesn’t exist, but if you're conscious of how much you can spend, the Troy-Bilt TB30 B is worth considering. With a lower price than many rider lawnmowers, it’s more accessible to an average homeowner. It’s good for lawns of around 1 - 2 acres and has many, but not all, features we look for.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesDesign includes some ergonomic features★★★
PowerDecent performance for its compact size★★★
ValueNot "cheap", but affordable★★★★★

How to choose the best riding lawn mower

There’s a lot to keep in mind when you’re selecting a great rider lawn mower. One place to begin is with its power, which will determine how fast your ride is. You can tell how powerful the engine is by checking out its horsepower first and foremost, but it’s also key to look at how long the battery lasts. Most electric mowers will give an estimate as to how many minutes they can last without a recharge. Just be sure to choose a model with an easy-to-access charging port too.

Feeling calm and collected in the driver’s seat is always key with riding lawnmowers, where digital or manual user controls come into play. Usually, this boils down to personal preference, but digital user controls can feel more intuitive. Ergonomic chairs that properly support your spine are another handy design feature, as are grip bars if you expect a bumpy ride. 

Regarding the cut quality, cutting width is the number one thing. The higher the number, the more grass you can work through in one go.

Best riding lawn mowers FAQ

How much do the best riding lawn mowers cost?

The best riding lawnmowers don’t necessarily come cheap. However, with premium horsepower, minimum effort, and a design comparable to a small tractor, that’s to be expected. If you’re trying to keep your spending as low as possible, getting your hands on a riding lawn mower for as little as $1,200 is possible. 

The more features and the greater the horsepower, the more pennies you’ll part with. The same goes for esthetics, as snazzier designs will also add to the overall cost of your riding lawn mower. For instance, models from Cub Cadet and other top brands have a price tag of up to $3,000. Considering that most riding lawnmowers last between 10 and 20 years, this is a mower that will stick with you for a good chunk of your life. Plus, it’s a very valuable tool for lawns that are too hilly or large for a classic push mower to handle.

Caroline Preece
Deputy Editor

Caroline is the Deputy Editor of Top Ten Reviews. Joining Future at the start of 2021, she has since served her time across all of the company’s home titles, including Real Homes, Ideal Home, Livingetc, and Homes & Gardens. Caroline has spent years testing out products for the home, which she trials in her cozy one-bedroom basement apartment in Suffolk, UK. She’s passionate about helping people choose the very best appliances, tech, and anything else that might make their lives easier, more cost-efficient, or just more fun.

With contributions from