Zero Turn Mower Buyer's Guide
How to Pick the Perfect Zero Turn Lawn Mower
Whether you’re a homeowner or a landscaping professional, you can enjoy the speed and comfort of a zero turning radius (ZTR) lawn mower.
Unlike lawn and garden tractors, zero turn mowers have a turning radius that’s almost zero degrees. That means you can make quick, narrow turns that are perfect for navigating a yard full of obstacles. Plus, with the fastest zero turn mower able to hit speeds of 10 mph, you'll finish your yard in a snap.
Compare Zero Turn Mowers
We’ve sorted the zero turn mowers on our site into four categories:The zero turn comparison below covers the main differences between these four grades of mower to help you decide the best type for your lawn.
Entry-Level Zero Turn Mowers
If you only mow occasionally or prefer a more budget-friendly option, entry-level zero turn mowers are a great starting point.
Key details:
- Cutting Width: 42-46”
- Horsepower: 18-22 HP
- Cutting Height: 1.5"-4"
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.5 gallons
- Maximum Speed: 7.5 mph
Entry-level zero turn mowers come with smaller stamped decks, which make them easy to maneuver through narrow gates and around yard foliage. If you have a very flat lawn that's only 1/2 - 3/4 acres, then an entry-level unit is perfect.
Keep in mind that, because they are smaller, entry-level mowers have minimal comfort compared to higher grades. The belief is that you won't be on them for long stretches of time. Using them on uneven terrain is not recommended, as you'll likely feel every bump.
Mid-Grade Zero Turn Mowers
A mid-grade zero turn mower offers you heavy duty components in the areas where it really counts, so you’ll be able to handle your weekend mowing chores more easily.
Key details:
- Cutting Width: 42-54”
- Horsepower: 18-26 HP
- Engine Cylinders: Twin
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 2-4 gallons
Instead of the stamped mower decks typically found on more fragile models, mid-grade zero turn mowers are built with heavy-duty fabricated mower decks, fashioned from heavier gauge steel and then welded at all the critical joints for added strength.
A mid-grade zero turn also has a strong transmission, with larger pumps and wheel motors, increased torque ratings, and the ability to handle heavier loads.
Some other popular features that are standard to most mid-grade zero turn mowers are foot-controlled deck height adjustment and comfortable high back seating.
You also get a wide variety of powerful engine choices with a mid-grade zero turn, including some models with popular Kawasaki, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton V-Twin engines. These engines deliver better overall performance and the highest level of reliability when it comes to powering a zero turn mower.
Semi-Pro Zero Turn Mowers
Semi-pro, or prosumer, zero turn mowers are where we often see overlap between our residential and our commercial customers. They’re extremely popular with property owners who have a lot of land to mow as well as landscaping contractors who are on a budget.
Key details:
- Cutting Width: 48-60”
- Horsepower: 23-24 HP
- Engine Cylinders: Twin
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 3-6 gallons
Durable prosumer zero turn mowers are designed for daily use. They have heavy-gauge single-piece steel frames, large fuel tanks, and heavy-duty transmissions.
And don't forget comfort features: high back seat, adjustable armrests, multiple cup holders, and cruise control.
Semi-pro mowers can accelerate up to 8 miles per hour and mow 4-5 acres without having to stop for gas.
Commercial Zero Turn Mowers
Commercial-grade zero turns are built for everyday hard use, helping landscaping professionals earn their living.
Key details:
- Cutting Width: 60-66”
- Horsepower: 23-31 HP
- Engine Cylinders: Twin
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 5-8 gallons
Professional zero turns have the largest mowing decks, most powerful engines, largest fuel tanks, fastest speeds, and yes, the biggest price tags as well.
Lap Bar vs Steering Wheel Zero Turns
One of the big decisions you'll need to make when picking a zero turn mower is whether you want lap bar or wheel steering.
- Lap bar zero turn mowers are steered using two bars, each controlling a wheel independently, which allows for great maneuverability. These mowers do come with a slight learning curve if you've never used one before, though. You'll need to get the hang of moving the bars in sync.
- Steering wheel zero turn mowers are great if you want to start mowing without overcoming a learning curve. The steering wheel makes controlling these zero turns just like driving a golf cart or tractor.
Mow with Zero Worries
Agile and fast, zero turn mowers will make mowing the lawn easy and enjoyable. As with anything else, contact our experts if you have more questions about choosing the right zero turn mower..
