There are several things to consider when picking your Zero Turn Mower. Regardless of the soil that you’re mowing, your mower must have speed, power, and maneuverability. These machines get their name from their ability to pivot 180-degrees. This means there is no grass uncut in your lawn after a single pass.
The best zero turn mowers must have a proper sit for the pilot, reliable hydrostatic transmission, 12-15 HP, and deck sizes of 32″ to 60″.
We relied on customer reviews and tests to determine a list of the best mowers worthy of being recommended.
Best Zero Turn Mowers 2023
1. Simplicity 2691318 Courier
It’s exceptionally comfortable to ride because of its exclusive front and rear comfort suspension system and the ergonomic mesh seat. Courier has a fully welded frame in combination with some plastic parts like seat edges. Finally, Simplicity 2691318 doesn’t slack off in terms of power, bearing an incredible 23HP engine.
Features
- Integrated parking brake
- Briggs and Stratton 23HP 3600rpm engine
- 1.5-4.5 cut positions
- 42” deck
- 13 height-of-cut positions
- Zero-turn maneuverability
- Utility cargo bed
- 577lbs
Pros
- Comfortable and stable
- Low price
- Large deck and up to 50lbs load capacity
- Durable all-welded steel frame
- Offers numerous height adjustments
- Easy navigation
- Thick-walled front axle
Cons
- Suspension performance depends on the terrain
Price: View on Amazon
2. Snapper 560Z
It’s another commercial-grade zero turn mower that isn’t all that different from Swisher Z-MAX in size and price. However, 560Z has a slightly more powerful 25HP engine and higher speeds at up to 9mph. Also, it’s CARB compliant.
Features
- All-welded 52” 10-gauge steel deck
- 1.5 to 4.5” cutting-height adjustments
- Limited lifetime warranty
- 3600rpm engine
- Fuel-level indicator
- Wrap-around bumper
- Integrated cargo bed
- Hydro-Gear ZT-3200 hydrostatic transaxle
- 1164lbs in weight
Pros
- Commercial-grade performance
- Comfortable and easily maneuvered
- Rugged durability
- Long-lasting warranty
- Rapid speed change performance
- Fast mower
Cons
- High price
- Uncomfortable plastic seat
Price: View on Amazon
3. Simplicity 5901744 Contender XT
It’s deck is one of the largest among riding lawn mowers, and it isn’t shy of engine power either. The mower deck’s 10-gauge all-welded steel body, front edge, and reinforced top all add the ruggedness needed for great cuts. It also integrates a cyclonic air management system that protects the engine from debris and dust on harsh terrains.
Features
- 61” deck
- 25HP V-Twin engine
- Hydro-Gear transaxle
- Front and rear suspension
- 60lbs cargo bed
- 1.5 to 4.5” cut height adjustments
- 975lbs
Pros
- Ideal for all-terrain commercial use
- Easy mowing height adjustments with deck lift system
- Offers padded seat for comfort
- Heavy-duty deck
- Exceptional durability and long-life use
Cons
- Expensive
Price: View on Amazon
4. Husqvarna Z254
Husqvarna Z254 has a reputation as a beast of a mower. In power, performance, and beauty, Z254 is a work of art.
It comes equipped with an automatic choke system, Ready Start, and even air induction technology. Its cutting deck is made of reinforced steel, making it very durable.
The model is comfortable to ride and include a host of features to cement its place as the best zero turn mower out there.
Specs
- 26 horsepower
- The cutting width is 54″
- 747cc 700 Series V-Twin Engine
Pros
- Very Durable
- Large deck
- Easy control and precision steering
- Auto parking brake system
- An array of attachments
Cons
- Grass clippings build up on deck
- Zero-turn radius needs getting used to
- There have been difficulties with the warranty in the past
- Different engine variants can confuse
Price: View on Amazon
5. Snapper 360Z
Snapper 360Z is a zero turn mower famed for its durability. Not only is it padded for your maximum comfort, but it can also work on all terrains. Its powerful engine and 50lb rear carrying capacity make it one of the best zero turn mowers around.
It is a foot-operated model with adjustable height.
Specs
- 19 to 25 horsepower depending on model
- 36″ to 52″ cutting width
- Briggs and Stratton Professional series engine
- 12″ gauze steel deck
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Foot-operated
- Very durable and large
- Easy to use
Cons
- No anti-scalp wheels
- No cargo bed integrated
- Warranty is spotty
Price: View on Amazon
6. Ariens IKON-X
Ariens has a brilliant combination of power and quality that lets it mow down lawns with rocks, trees, flowerbeds, and many more as obstacles. Similar to Husqvarna, it is also constructed from steel.
This mower comes with a padded seat and armrest, to provide a very comfortable mowing. Its four-point hanging deck allows it to give a more uniform cut to uneven terrain.
Specs
- 23 horsepower
- 5″ deep fabricated deck
- Kawasaki FR V-Twin engine
- 52″ cutting width
Pros
- Fast at mowing
- Cutting height can be controlled
- Good deck stability
- Limited vibrations
- Durable
Cons
- Does not have a mulching set
- Slips on marshy ground
- Cuttings build up on deck
Price: View on Amazon
7. Ryobi Electric 42-Inch 75AH
The world is going increasingly electric, and lawnmowers are no exception. Four-AA batteries power the Ryobi. Without refilling on oil, it can run for two hours. While it is relatively new, its low noise generation makes it a favorite.
Specs
- 19 horsepower
- Electric
- 7mph top speed
- 38″ cutting width
- 75 Ah battery capacity
Pros
- Very smooth and quiet
- Durable and easy to control
- Comfortable
- Good design
Cons
- Expensive for its specs
- Cuttings build-up
Price: View on Amazon
8. Poulan Pro P46ZX
Poulan Pro is a popular mower for many reasons. It is remarkably durable and built to last. Its lap bars are padded for comfort, and it is famously comfortable to use. Its essential feature though is its in-built cupholder.
Why not have a good cup of coffee as you work after all.
Specs
- 22 horsepower
- 46″ cutting width
- Briggs and Stratton V-Twin engine
- 5mph top speed
Pros
- Cuts are even regardless of speed
- Its turning ability is unique
- It is swift and durable
Cons
- Weak on steep hills
- Not for heavy-duty work
Price: View on Amazon
9. Ariens Zoom 34
Ariens Zoom 34 is an ideal mower for users with a smaller yard, where big zero turn mowers may not be needed. It’s 34″ cutting inch, and 19Hp makes this machine one of the most powerful.
It is durable and has a large 2.0-gallon gas tank. The design of this model and its wide utility positions it in 8th place.
Specs
- 19 horsepower
- 34″ cutting width
- Briggs and Stratton professional engine series
- Stamp 12 gauze steel deck
Pros
- Has anti-scalp wheels
- Deck height adjustments
- Adjustable padded seats
- High performance
Cons
- Dampened or tall grass are difficult to handle
- Gets very hot
- Cuttings build-up
Price: View on Amazon
10. Troy-Bilt Mustang
The name mustang used to be associated with horses and muscle cars, but now it is also associated with lawnmowers. Its dual deck wash and performance makes this a favourite of many people.
Troy-Bilt Mustang is pure power and speed.
Specs
- 25 horsepower
- 54″ performance deck
- Briggs and Stratton Intek Twin Cylinder engine
Pros
- Very sturdy and high performance
- Efficient fuel tank
- Can mow huge fields
Cons
- Not good for slopes
- Expensive
- The deck can build up grass cuttings
Price: View on Amazon