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Despite the rainy days during our tests, we discovered the zero-turn mowers easily handled damp grass.
The Spruce
We also researched the top options across several categories to round out this list.
Thanks to the joystick operation, we found it intuitive and even fun to drive.
In fact, we were able to go from stopped to full speed very quickly.
The Ryobi 42-inch Zero Turn Mower comes with a chute and battery pack.PHOTO: The Spruce
Overall, we found that feeling comfortable using the joystick required little practice.
We also found adjusting the cutting height to be an easy process.
The level allows you to select from 12 different setting heights from 1.5 to 4.5 inches.
Ryobi 42-inch Battery Electric Zero Turn Mower provided a nice even cut to our lawn.The Spruce
It also comes with a height-stopping key to quickly drop the mowing deck to the cutting height you need.
Setting up this mower was a relatively simple process (about 45 minutes).
The instructions were easy to follow, and the manufacturer included any necessary tools.
Exceptional maneuverability allowed us to mow circles around the trees in our yard.PHOTO: The Spruce
We love that all of these batteries can easily be charged onboard.
Despite this inconvenience, we think this is an excellent zero-turn mower for maintaining your yard.
Luckily, we didn’t have to worry about assembling the mower itself.
Once delivered, we could use the mower immediately, and this is when it got tricky.
The grass discharges from the right side, so the left side of the cutting deck is much shorter.
We found ourselves having to plan ahead when maneuvering around trees and edges.
We also found starting the mower to be as simple as turning a key.
The triple-blade, flat-top design delivers a clean cut even on uneven ground.
Despite its hefty weight of over 600 pounds, the John Deere Z330R is easy to control and maneuver.
It has a forward speed of up to 7 MPH and a maximum reverse speed of 3.5 MPH.
The seat and armrests are padded for a comfortable riding experience.
Shock absorbers under the seat provide a smoother ride on rougher terrain.
As with all gas-powered mowers, the ongoing fuel costs, emissions, and maintenance can be drawbacks.
It can reach speeds up to 8 MPH, allowing you to cover more ground in less time.
The Z6 Zero Turn Riding Mower offers three driving modescontrol, standard, and sportfor various terrains.
Other noteworthy features include LED lights, a USB charging port, a phone holder, and Bluetooth.
Another major advantage of thiselectric moweris that it runs quietly and is easier to maintain than a gas model.
With all these bells and whistles, its no surprise that the Z6 has a steep price tag.
However, the mower, batteries, and charger are backed by a five-year warranty to protect your investment.
It also charges fast, with a digital display showing charge time and level.
It navigated obstacles easily and saved us time compared to our old mower.
We evaluated each mower on setup, design, performance, usability, safety, and value.
Also, think about where you’ll stow the mower and whether it has to pass through any gates.
That deck size is ideal for yards that are less than 3 acres in size.
The wheels slipped in the wet grass at first, but mowed our lawn evenly leaving it lush and full.PHOTO: The Spruce
For that reason, theyre not suitable for mowing slopes that exceed 15 degrees.
Heavyweight zero-turn mowers are intended for yards larger than 4 acres or mowing multiple large yards regularly.
This jot down of mower is easier to control and better suited for rough terrain and steeper slopes.
The Toro TimeCutter handled our large yard well after we got used to the controls.The Spruce
Not surprisingly, heavier zero-turn mowers are more expensive due to their sheer power.
Theyre also less gas- and battery-efficient.
Electric-powered zero-turn mowers are priced higher but are easier to maintain and use.
After we got used to the controls, we found it easy to navigate every part of our big yard.PHOTO: The Spruce
For larger yards up to three acres, a 20 to 25 HP motor is a great mid-range option.
Why Trust The Spruce?
He currently maintains his yard with a compactTroy-Bilt battery-powered riding mower.
Our Experts:
Sources of Greenhouse Gas Emissions.
United States Environmental Protection Agency.
PHOTO: John Deere
PHOTO: EGO
PHOTO: The Home Depot
We were able to mow right up close to fences and other obstacles.The Spruce
We found that even big zero turn mowers like the Toro TimeCutter are great for mowing around trees.The Spruce
