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Best Zero-Turn Mowers of 2024: Review & Buyer's Guide By Experts

Compared with traditional models, zero-turn lawn mowers give users a wider field of view and the ability to rotate simultaneously. Therefore, this type of lawnmower is often the first choice of professional gardeners.

When you want to save time, owning the best zero-turn mower will be the right choice. If you don't know which option is best for you, refer to the list of suggestions that Garden Products offers below.

Elissa Sanci
  Mar 18, 2024 7:20 PM
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Types of Products

Non-rotary circuit breakers fall into two main categories: commercial circuit breakers and residential circuit breakers. Each type of cutter has its characteristics.

Commercial machine

Commercial circuit breakers often have higher capacity and price than residential circuit breakers. Because the cutter is heavier, has a wide cutting floor, and a powerful motor.

These models are therefore well suited for large areas and daily use. Some models like the Husqvarna MZ61 with a deck up to 60 inches are one of the best zero-turn mowers for 5 acres that you cannot miss.

Civil machine

There are no powerful engines like commercial mowers, but residential mowers score points with maneuverability and affordable price.

You may have trouble mowing the grass on the hills. However, with a civil model like Craftsman M105 or Makita XML03CM1, it is possible to handle gardens smaller than 3 acres in size.

Buying Guides

In addition to considering the type of cutter, there are many other factors you need to consider before making the final choice. If you're not sure what factors to consider, here are a few helpful suggestions:

Horsepower

Typically current models of non-rotating mowers have motors ranging from 10 to 25 HP.

10 HP is the minimum required for the machine to work well on lawns smaller than half an acre.

If you want to use a rotary mower on a three-acre lawn with a steep slope, choose 20-25 HP mowers models such as the Husqvarna Z248F 48 in or the Craftsman 17ARFACQ091.

In particular, there are models of non-rotary lawn mowers that offer 25 HP or more engines, such as the Husqvarna MZ61 61 in. 27 HP. Today, you can handle most turf fields with such a powerful engine, from flat with small areas to rough with thick grass.

A gas, electric, or battery-powered lawn mower

Batteries are a common source of power in compact lawnmowers suitable for gardens smaller than 1 acre. A commendable advantage of this type of lawnmower is the almost noiseless smoothness of operation.

Meanwhile, gas lawn mowers are much more powerful. Gas-powered lawn mowers like the Swisher Z3166CPKA can even work well on rough terrain such as hills.

Electric lawn mower models are not as superior in engine power as gas-powered models.

In return, because they run on electricity, these lawnmowers are environmentally friendly because they do not emit any exhaust fumes. However, before deciding, you should also consider the limited battery life of the device.

Dimensions of cutting deck

The model with the most extensive cutting deck is not always the best product.

If your yard is narrow and has a lot of obstacles, using a mower with a large cutting deck size will put you at a disadvantage. In this case, you should choose models with cutting floor sizes from 32 to 40 inches.

If you have a yard more significant than 3 acres, you will need mower models with decks between 40 and 61 inches.

How We Test

This best zero-turn mower review is a collection of the best models you can find today. Evaluation is based on capacity, metal floors, accompanying technologies, and, more importantly, price.

You can find in this list high-powered models specifically for medium to extensive gardens like the Husqvarna TS 348XD.

You can also find models with smaller engines that are good for weekly lawn mowing, like the Husqvarna Z248F with its 21.5hp engine.

This list also takes precedence over models with a cut deck that can deliver a maximum cutting speed of seven miles per hour.

Last but not least, in this best zero-turn mower 2021 list, you are sure to find Zero-turn mowers for sale near me at a price that suits your ability to pay.

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Last update on 2024-03-18 / Prices / Affiliate links / Images, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Reviews

Based on the above, we have selected the 10 best zero-turn mowers. Don't miss any of the information in the list below:

1. Husqvarna TS 348XD - Best for Slippery Terrain

Important Specifications

  • Material: Alloy Steel.
  • Cutting Width: 48 Inches.
  • Power output: 24.0 hp.

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Reasons to buy

  • Adjustable seat section, armrests, and ergonomic steering wheel for comfort.
  • Durable frame.
  • The deck is easy to clean.
  • Easy navigation.
  • Reliable Kawasaki V-Twin engine.

Reasons to avoid

  • The fuel gauge is hard to read.

Husqvarna TS 348XD - Best for Slippery Terrain

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Product's highlights

Husqvarna TS 348XD is a very suitable model for use in medium to extensive gardens. In particular, the machine can also work well on uneven gardens.

Husqvarna has equipped this TS 348XD model with a Kawasaki V-Twin engine that operates quietly and reliably. With the above two-cylinder engine, the mower has a top speed of 5.8 mph.

But the best of all is the machine's easy navigation. In particular, you can stay on the steering wheel but still adjust the speed of the machine with the pedal.

Besides, with the help of the electronic differential lock, the Husqvarna's navigability is significantly better. It can be that TS 348XD is the best zero-turn mower with a steering wheel that you can find.

Not only that, the rear wheel of the machine can rotate at the same time, providing safety when moving on slippery terrain.

Last but not least, Husqvarna also equips this best zero-turn mower under the $5000 model with cruise control, which helps stabilize the tractor's speed, even in the most unfavorable terrain.

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2. Craftsman 17ARFACT091 - Best for Engines

Important Specifications

  • Power Source: Gas Powered.
  • Material: Alloy Steel.
  • Cutting Width: 46 Inches.

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Reasons to buy

  • Solid steel frame.
  • Powerful engine.
  • Dual range hydrostatic gearbox.
  • Comfortable high back seat.
  • Blade height can be adjusted.

Reasons to avoid

  • A bit complicated to set up and use for beginners.

Craftsman 17ARFACT091 - Best for Engines

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Product's highlights

The Craftsman 17ARFACT091 is one of the most potent motorized rotary cutters available today. The product uses a Kohler 23Hp 2-cylinder engine.

The manufacturer also equips 17ARFACT091 with an easy start system, so you will rarely experience jerks or choking when opening the machine.

Outstanding comfort is also one of the reasons why this Craftsman-branded product is on the list of best zero-turn mowers.

This product is an excellent combination of a static drive system and a high-back chair that supports workers. Besides, you can also adjust the height of the blade to a maximum of 3.75 inches, a minimum of 1.25 inches.

All have created a model of the most comfortable lawnmower you will ever know. Even if you spend the whole day mowing the lawn, you will not feel uncomfortable operating Craftsman.

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3. Husqvarna Automower 115H - Best for Small Gardens

Important Specifications

  • Area capacity: 700 sq ft.
  • Cutting Height: 2" – 3.6".
  • Minimum Passageway: 24".

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Reasons to buy

  • Lawn mowing can be scheduled via smartphone.
  • High-quality brushless motor.
  • High-strength carbon steel blade.
  • Smooth engine, low noise.
  • The auto shut-off feature is safe for children and pets.

Reasons to avoid

  • The device can work for 60 minutes from a full charge.

Husqvarna Automower 115H - Best for Small Gardens

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Product's highlights

Husqvarna's Automover line is famous for its intelligent, stable, and affordable products, such as the Automower 450X and the Automower 115H.

If you are looking for an intelligent lawn mowing solution, surely Husqvarna Automower 115H will make you satisfied. This product is a lawn mowing robot with a series of great features to help give you a beautiful lawn 24/7.

The most outstanding feature of this model is controlled via Bluetooth-enabled Automower Connect. With just one smart device, you can quickly start, pause or schedule lawn mowing.

In addition, Husqvarna 115H also has Lift and Tilt sensors to avoid collisions when running automatically.

You also don't have to worry that this unmanned lawn mower could harm children or pets because the automatic shutdown sensor of this best zero-turn mower under $3000 is smart enough to avoid obstacles in the lawn mowing journey.

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4. ZTR-TR zero-turn Mower - Best for Accessories

Important Specifications

  • Package Dimensions: 29.2 x 4.4 x 4.2 inches.
  • Item Weight: 8.42 pounds.

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Reasons to buy

  • Compatible with both Mower and ROPS.
  • Save time and money,
  • Feature a lock for extra safety.
  • Fit most scroll bars.
  • Include 2 U-bolts.

Reasons to avoid

  • The installation instructions provided by the manufacturer are sketchy.

ZTR-TR zero-turn Mower - Best for Accessories

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Product's highlights

You certainly don't want to waste time forgetting the trimmer when you cut. That's why you should get a stand like the ZTR-TR to secure the trimmer to your mower.

The outstanding advantage of this device over others is that it supports both ROPS and non-rotating circuit breakers. Besides, the kit also includes 2 U-bolts that can be compatible with most types of roll bars.

Although the product still has some disadvantages such as not including the lock, difficult to install if you are a beginner, the ZTR-TR is still one of the indispensable accessories on your non-rotating mower.

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5. LawnMaster ME1218X - Best for Eco-Friendly Materials

Important Specifications

  • Cutting Width: 19 Inches.
  • Amperage: 12 Amp.
  • Number of Positions: 6 1.5"-4".

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Reasons to buy

  • 12AMP powerful motor.
  • Wheels are 6.7 Inches easy to rotate.
  • 6 levels of adjustment of the cutting position.
  • Simple startup system.
  • No emissions.

Reasons to avoid

  • Some parts of the machine-made from plastic are not durable.

LawnMaster ME1218X - Best for Eco-Friendly Materials

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Product's highlights

If you are looking for a more eco-friendly lawn mowing solution instead of using a gas-powered mower, the LawnMaster ME1218X will be your favorite.

ME1218X is an electric lawnmower. This difference makes the product not emit emissions like traditional cutter models.

In addition to being more environmentally friendly, LawnMaster mowers are also mighty with a 12 Amp motor and a cutting width of up to 18 inches. The main product is the best zero-turn mower for 1 acre that you cannot help but consider.

This machine also provides you with 6 custom cutting positions. With just one touch, you can change the height from 1.5 inches up to 4.0. Convenient and diverse options, this feature will meet all your lawn mowing needs.

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6. ZTR66FC Swisher - Best for Large Gardens

Important Specifications

  • Material: Cast iron.
  • Cutting Width: 5 Inches.
  • Front Mount Finish Cut: 66 inches.

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Reasons to buy

  • The blade shaft is made of durable, heavy-duty cast iron.
  • 1.25-5 inch cutting range.
  • 3 blades G6 Gator can penetrate the thickest grass.
  • Easy maintenance.
  • Combined with Swisher's BIG MOW Z31KT Tractor for maximum performance.

Reasons to avoid

  • You need to extend the cutting width more.

ZTR66FC Swisher - Best for Large Gardens

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Product's highlights

If you are looking for the best zero-turn mower for 3 acres, the Swisher ZTR55FC is an excellent choice to consider for several reasons:

ZTR55FC has up to 3 G6 Gator blades capable of tackling the thickest grass. In addition, the product also has cast iron blade rotating shafts with good bearing capacity. So you can use this mower model for many more years to cut even your 3-acre fields.

Besides, the machine also has a unique design so that the cutting path is as open as possible, making it easy for you to cut grass without trouble with obstacles.

If you own a large garden with many different types of terrain, from rough to slippery, you will benefit from the ZTR66FC's wide-open design - the best zero-turn mower under $4000.

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7. Husqvarna MZ61 - Best for High Performance

Important Specifications

  • Material: Alloy Steel.
  • Cutting Width: 61 Inches.
  • Power output: 24.0 hp.

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Reasons to buy

  • Powerful Briggs & Stratton engine.
  • Cutting width up to 61 Inches.
  • Comfortable design
  • Hydrostatic transmission.
  • Heavy-duty steel frame.

Reasons to avoid

  • Mulcher and bagger are not included.

Husqvarna MZ61 - Best for High Performance

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Product's highlights

Without a doubt, Husqvarna MZ61 is one of the best commercial zero-turn mower 2021 by the following powerful features:

First, the 24 HP Kawasaki engine not only helps the MZ61 to start quickly but also accelerates the cutter significantly.

Second, the product has a 61-inch cutting deck. With such a large cutting width, along with large-capacity mower models like the Z31KT Swisher, the MZ61 is an excellent choice for trimming large lawns up to 5 acres.

Last but not least, the Husqvarna MZ61 mower is powerful and very user-friendly, and safe. The above two advantages are most evident through the roll protection system (ROPS) and the machine's ergonomic seat design.

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8. Ariens IKON XD52 - Best for Ease of Use

Important Specifications

  • Engine: Kawasaki FR691V.
  • Cutting Width: 52 Inches.
  • Power output: 24HP.

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Reasons to buy

  • Powerful Kawasaki engine.
  • 52 inch adjustable floor.
  • Limit noise.
  • Compact design.
  • The pressure lubrication system keeps the machine in good working condition.

Reasons to avoid

  • Accessories are not included.

Ariens IKON XD52 - Best for Ease of Use

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Product's highlights

Ariens is famous for its high-capacity and affordable models like the Ariens Edge 52 in, Ariens APEX 52 inches, and Ariens Ikon XD52.

For an amateur gardener or a beginner gardener, there is no better lawn mower model for you than the Ariens IKON XD52. The product is straightforward to get used to and can well serve the basic needs of gardening enthusiasts.

Specifically, Ariens has equipped the IKON XD 51 lawn mower model with two EZT glass gears. Simply put, these two gears will shorten the reaction time of the machine, thereby making lawn trimming more accessible and faster.

Besides, the machine also has a 4-point system to help the lawnmower blades cut evenly. If you are a beginner, you are the first to experience the advantages of this feature.

In addition, Ariens also pays great attention to comfort during use. Therefore, the manufacturer has made significant improvements to minimize vibration during operation.

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9. Ariens IKON XD - Best for Versatility

Important Specifications

  • Material: Alloy Steel.
  • Cutting Width: 4 Inches.
  • Power output: 23 hp

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Reasons to buy

  • Luxurious and comfortable high back seats.
  • The machine can be easily adjusted even when you are in the operating position.
  • 13 cutting positions can be adjusted.
  • Flexible to most yard sizes.
  • Solid frame.

Reasons to avoid

  • Springs under the saddle make driving a little uncomfortable.

Ariens IKON XD - Best for Versatility

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Product's highlights

The Ariens IKON XD is very easy to control, even for beginners. The torque is still impressive because the machine has an excellent motor, even when handling the device at a low speed.

This version has an optimal design for cutting grass on types of terrain, including at the edge of the road. You can also climb very well with this easy to maneuver model.

In short, the Ariens Ikon is the best zero-turn mower under $5000 with a powerful engine, competitive price.

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10. Husqvarna Z248F - Best for Durability

Important Specifications

  • Max speed of 6.5 MPH.
  • Cutting Width: 48 Inches.
  • Power output: 21.5 hp

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Reasons to buy

  • Maximum speed 6.5 MPH.
  • Not require regular maintenance.
  • Non-slip feet make it safer when mowing.
  • Ergonomic control panel.
  • Deliver a superior lawn mowing experience.

Reasons to avoid

  • The machine tends to miss the central grass stripe.

Husqvarna Z248F - Best for Durability

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Product's highlights

Reliability and durability are the reasons why Husqvarna Z248F becomes an option you cannot ignore.

With a hydrostatic non-rotating actuator, you can save much time and effort on equipment maintenance and repair. Besides, you cannot doubt the power and smooth operation of the 21.5 HP Kawasaki engine that Husqvarna Z248F owns.

Objectively assessed, the Husqvarna Z248F non-rotary lawn mower model meets your basic lawn mowing needs well.

And similar to other famous models of the Husqvarna brand, like the Z142 42, the Z248F has fantastic durability. Investing in this lawn mower model is a product that can be used for many years to come.

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FAQs

Are non-rotating lawnmowers worth the money?

Ease of control and fast cutting speed are the two main advantages of a rotary lawnmower. If you appreciate these two features, the rotary lawnmower is excellent value for money.

How to operate a non-rotating mower?

Operating a non-rotating lawn mower is very simple. Even if you are used to using the steering wheel to drive before, with time and practice space, you can operate a non-rotating mower well.

You just need to push the two levers forward to move the mower to the road ahead. If you want the mower to move in reverse, push the lever backward. You can rotate the machine by pushing one lever and pulling the other.

Will the non-rotating lawn mower work on sloping lawns?

Any rotary mower with a 24 HP motor and robust wheels can cut even on slopes. However, if the terrain is too rough, bumpy, or even muddy, the mower may not have the same traction and stability as when running on flat terrain.

Final Words

If you want to tackle a large area of ​​grass quickly, or if you want the ideal lawn mower for use in rugged terrain, the non-rotating lawn mower is the product you are looking for.

If the difficulty of choosing to buy a mower is a barrier to you from owning these great products, the list of best zero-turn mowers will help you solve the problem. Your remaining task is to consider your intended use to make the most reasonable choice.

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