9 Best Electric Riding Lawn Mowers and Tractors

Having a lawn mower to cut the grass on your property is a time-honored tradition. With the rise of electric vehicles has also come the rise of other forms of electric tools, namely electric riding lawnmowers.

So what is the best electric riding lawn mower and what are the benefits of purchasing one? I tested several models and will show you all the top models and give you my recommendation, so you can make an informed purchase and find the perfect lawn mower for your needs.

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mowers

If you are in a hurry, I will give you my two favorite products I tried out during testing.

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

Greenworks 60V CrossoverT 42in Riding Mower

A comfortable traditional riding mower with an electric motor, offering the best value for your money. Solid battery life and excellent 60-volt power. 

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Best Electric Zero-Turn Mower

EGO Power+ Z6 42 in 56V Zero Turn Mower

Outstanding electric zero-turn. While it is more expensive than a riding model, you get a premium 56V mower with 90 minutes of run time.

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Why a Battery-Powered Riding Mower

Though more people are purchasing electric riding mowers than ever before, this product still has a much smaller market share than traditional gas-powered models. Regardless, companies have made great strides recently in improving electric mowers and putting them on par with other models. Battery-powered mowers also have a few distinct advantages.

Low Noise

Gas-powered grass cutters are often noisy. You can suffer hearing issues from prolonged exposure to the noise from a lawn mower, and they also disturb other family members inside the house.

Electric lawnmowers are noticeably quieter than other models and provide a much calmer riding experience. There is also less risk of ear damage when riding an electric grass cutter.

Clean, Zero Emissions

Gas-powered mower engines have always been rough on the environment, and they produce greenhouse gasses and contribute to smog. Electric engines are free of these concerns, as they do not directly produce emissions.

Choosing the Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

While some options are better than others, not every lawn mower is appropriate for someone. You need to consider the type of product you’re purchasing, and what you value in your mower.

Riding Lawn Mower Options

When considering a lawn mower, you will be faced with two major choices: rear engine or zero-turn. You also need to decide between a garden or lawn tractor

Rear Engine Riding Mower

Rear engine riding mowers are the traditional designs that you likely call to mind when someone describes a grass cutter. They have a steering wheel and function similarly to cars. I recommend rear engine models to those with smaller yards or who are on a budget, as they are often cheaper than their zero-turn counterparts.

Zero-Turn Mower

A zero-turn mower has no steering wheel and instead has two handles on the left and right sides. Where rear engine mowers need to turn and have a radius, zero-turn models are capable of turning in place.

These models make trimming your yard easier and more precise. You have total control of where the mower goes, and you can get a neater and cleaner cut with a zero-turn mower. I prefer to use a zero-turn mower if possible. However, these mowers are more expensive, and they are not as safe to use on hills.

Garden or Lawn Tractor

Garden tractors are heavy-duty and are perfect for those looking to attach rear-mounted implements. Garden models not only cut grass, but you can also apply them for tilling or snow removal. 

Lawn tractors are simpler machines that you will primarily use for cutting grass. If you do not plan on using your mower for anything other than regular yard trimming, I recommend sticking with a lawn tractor.

Motor Power (V)

Bigger is better when it comes to the voltage. A higher voltage means the battery can hold more power. Another way to look for extra run time is to find models that the manufacturer ships with extra batteries.

Run Time: Battery Cell Capacity

Nothing is worse than trying to cut the grass on a beautiful Saturday afternoon and the mower runs out of juice before you finish the project. Look for mowers with run times of higher than an hour. For most lawns, I find an hour or more of runtime to be sufficient to finish the job on a single charge, though larger yards will need higher run time or extra batteries.

Amp Hours (Ah) Explained

Amperage Hours or Ah measure the amps exerted in one hour by the battery. Much like the voltage, the higher this number is, the better. You want to find a rider that has a sizable voltage and Ah, as this means it will last longer and give you the highest run time.

Cutting Deck

Of course, all the run time and smooth controls in the world do not amount to much if you cannot get the cut correct. You should always research the mower deck before purchasing an electric rider, as you need to find the style that suits you best.

Stamped Vs. Fabricated Deck

Stamped steel decks are single pieces of material the manufacturer molds into the correct shape. These options have better suction and are cheaper than fabricated decks. Of course, stamped decks come with a few drawbacks, namely their lack of durability and the fact that they are prone to clogging. Mud and grass often get stuck in stamped steel models, and it causes wear on the material.

Fabricated decks are stronger than stamped steel and hold up better to the rigors of regular yard work. Manufacturers make these decks with multiple pieces of steel and weld them to reinforce the body. Though these are of higher quality, they have a few cons, including a higher price, lower suction, and a lower maximum cutting height.

In my opinion, if you are an average homeowner or tend to an average size yard, you should stick with a stamped steel deck. They are cheaper, and you likely will not notice much of a difference in durability. Of course, if you have excess funds and want something that will stand the test of time, a fabricated deck is a nice luxury.

Deck Width

Picking the correct deck width is a matter of finding what works best for you. If you have a larger yard or field you regularly mow, you should look into a wider deck. Not only will the wider deck get the job done faster, but also preserves battery life. Of course, wider decks will work the battery harder, as it needs more energy to spin the blades.

On the flip side are thinner deck widths. These are cheaper to purchase and you might find them more applicable if you have a small yard you trim. The trick is to find a balance that works for your situation.

Deck Cutting Heights

Most mowers today have adjustable cutting heights, so you can get your grass cut to your desired length. The typical range for cutting heights is between one and five inches. If you are not sure what length you want, you should look for products with a wide range.

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower Reviews

Now that you know what to look for, I will show you some of the best electric riding lawnmowers.

1. Greenworks 60V CrossoverT 42in Riding Mower

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

• Type: Lawn (Rear Engine)
• Cutting Deck: 42 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 60
• Run Time: 60 minutes
• Battery Power: 8 Ah
• Speed: 8 MPH
• Warranty: 4-year limited tool warranty

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Pros

• Excellent value
• Fast cutting

Cons

• The battery is good, but not great

If you are looking for the best electric riding mower on the market, this model from Greenworks is the best you can find. The 42-inch deck is a nice happy medium, and this is one of the fastest models on the list with a top speed of 8 MPH.

In my tests, I found the battery slightly lacking, but it got the job done and successfully mowed my medium-sized yard in one charge.

Aside from the technical specifications, I also appreciated the built-in cargo bed and the heads-up display that allows you to check the status of the mower as you work. If you are not ready for a zero-turn investment, this model from Greenworks is hard to beat.

2. EGO Power+ Z6 42 in 56V Zero-Turn Mower

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

• Type: Lawn (Zero-Turn)
• Cutting Deck: 42 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 56
• Run Time: 90 minutes
• Battery Power: 10 Ah
• Speed: 7 MPH
• Warranty: 5-year limited

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Pros

• Long-lasting battery
• Responsive controls

Cons

• Expensive

For the best electric zero-turn mower, you should turn to the EGO Power+ Z6. I love using a zero-turn mower, and I feel like this one was perfect for getting that neat and effortless cut. It is slightly slower than the CrossoverT, but my tests showed me the batteries last longer on the Z6. You get four batteries with this product, and you can add two more if you are cutting the grass in a large enough area.

While it has a slightly lower voltage than the CrossoverT, it makes up for it with 10 Ah. The biggest difference is the price, with this model costing around $1,500 more than Greenworks’ product.

If you can stomach the higher asking price, there is not a better zero-turn electric mower in my estimation.

 3. Greenworks 60V CrossoverZ 42in Zero Turn Mower

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

• Type: Lawn (Zero-Turn)
• Cutting Deck: 42 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 60
• Run Time: 60 minutes
• Battery Power: 8 Ah
• Speed: 8 MPH
• Warranty: 4-year limited

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Pros

• Fast
• More affordable than other zero-turn options

Cons

• Less run time than EGO’s model

Packing many of the same features I loved about the CrossoverT, the CrossoverZ is the zero-turn variation of its brother the CrossoverT. The price is closer to the more affordable side for a zero-turn mower, though you will be paying much more for the CrossoverZ than its brother the CrossoverT.

The lower run time is one of the only aspects I did not like about this product. I give it a recommendation for someone looking for a slightly cheaper zero-turn model.

4. RYOBI 48V Electric Rear Engine Mower 30-in

• Type: Lawn (Rear Engine)
• Cutting Deck: 30 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 48
• Run Time: 60 minutes
• Battery Power: 50 Ah
• Speed: 5 MPH
• Warranty: 3-year warranty for the mower, 1-year warranty for batteries

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Pros

• Perfect for small yards
• High amp hours

Cons

• Slow speeds
• Deck too small for large yards

The 48V model from RYOBI is lighter in power and size than some other models on my list, but I think it will serve you well if you have a smaller yard. The smaller cutting deck did leave me feeling like yard work took longer, but your mileage may vary on that sensation.

The lower voltage is buoyed by an impressive 50 Ah, but it is still a slow-moving machine with a top speed of 5 MPH. Regardless, if you’re looking for a small riding lawn mower, you should look into this electric option from RYOBI.

5. RYOBI 80V Electric Zero Turn Riding Mower 42-Inch

• Type: Lawn (Zero-Turn)
• Cutting Deck: 42 Inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 80
• Run Time: 90 minutes
• Battery Power: 10 Ah
• Speed: 8 MPH
• Warranty: 5-year limited tool warranty, 3-year battery warranty

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Pros

• 90 minutes of battery life
• High-speed

Cons

• Expensive

For a zero-turn mower with a lot of power, I found the RYOBI 80V one of the best during my tests. You will have to pay for that power, as this is one of the most expensive mowers on my list. The deck is a nice middle ground in size, and with a top speed of 8 MPH, it felt easy and quick to cut the grass.

The 90 minutes of battery life also assured me I had plenty of time to finish any tasks on one charge. The biggest issue with this model is the price, but if you want a high-powered zero-turn mower, there are a few better options.

6. CRAFTSMAN E150 30-in Electric Riding Lawn Mower

• Type: Lawn (Rear Engine)
• Cutting Deck: 30 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 3.5 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 56
• Run Time: 60 minutes
• Battery Power: 30 Ah
• Speed: 5 MPH
• Warranty: 3-year limited

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Pros

• Fast-charging battery
• Ideal for small yards

Cons

• Lower powered battery
• Too small and slow for larger jobs

If you have a smaller yard, I recommend checking out the E150 from CRAFTSMAN. I have had good experiences with CRAFTSMAN mowers in the past, and the E150 is no exception. It has a smooth ride, and I can imagine it fitting perfectly with a smaller yard. It was a bit small for my medium-sized yard, so those with ample acreage to cover may want to look elsewhere.

The battery may not have the highest voltage on the planet, but it is quick to charge. This fast charging means you will not have to wait long to get back to mowing if one charge doesn’t finish the job.

7. HART 80-Volt 30-Inch Deck Riding Lawn Mower

• Type: Lawn (Rear Engine)
• Cutting Deck: 30 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 80
• Run Time: 60 minutes
• Battery Power: 10 Ah
• Speed: 5 MPH
• Warranty: 5-year tool and battery

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Pros

• High-powered battery
• Excellent looking
• Generous warranty

Cons

• Quite expensive
• Slow speed

With a sleek design and powerful battery, this product from HART will tackle the toughest yards. I’m normally not one to worry about the aesthetics, but HART has designed one of the finest-looking mowers I’ve seen in a long time. And it’s more than just a pretty face, as the 80-volt battery mixed with 10 Ah makes for a powerful combination.

HART also has one of the more generous warranty plans on the market today, with 5 years for both the mower and the battery. If you are worried about not having a safety net for such an expensive investment, the warranty should alleviate your fears.

8. Cub Cadet 56V Ultima Electric Zero Turn Lawn Mower 42”

• Type: Lawn (Zero-Turn)
• Cutting Deck: 42 inches
• Cutting Height: 1 to 4.5 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 56
• Run Time: 90 minutes
• Battery Power: 60 Ah
• Speed: 7 MPH
• Warranty: 3-year unlimited hours

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Pros 

• Long-lasting run time
• Solid speed

Cons

• Too expensive for many

I have always enjoyed using a Cub Cadet mower, and the Ultima is no exception. I can see how you could easily handle two acres of mowing with this product on a single charge, and it has one of the best combinations of voltage and amp hours on the market today. You also have 15 positions to choose from when mowing, giving you plenty of control over the height of the grass after you finish.

I think the biggest drawback of this model is the cost, as it prices it out of being the top zero-turn option. Still, if you trust Cub Cadet and want this model, I would say it is worth the price. 

9. Cub Cadet XT1 LT42E Lawn Tractor

• Type: Lawn
• Cutting Deck: 42 inches
• Cutting Height: 1 to 4 inches
• Deck Type: Stamped
• Power(V): 56 volt
• Run Time: 90 minutes
• Battery Power: 60 Ah
• Speed: 5.5 MPH
• Warranty: 3-year unlimited hours

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Pros

• All-around solid model
• It lasts over an hour on one charge

Cons

• Slow speed
• Less-generous warranty plan

While it may look like a typical gas-powered lawn mower, this model from Cub Cadet gives you all the benefits of an electric mower. A long-lasting battery gives you the ability to mow about two acres in one go. I wish this cutter was a little faster though, as the max speed of 5.5 MPH is not the fastest on the market.

I also yen for a longer warranty, though it is mostly standard for the market. Overall, this is a solid mower, but not my highest recommendation.

Other Feature Considerations

Of course, there are a few more considerations you should keep in mind when purchasing an electric lawn mower.

Comfort and Controls

You will be seated in your mower for long periods throughout the summer. You want to find a mower that is comfortable and has controls that adhere to your preferences.

Transmission Type

You will need to choose between automatic and standard shifting in some mowers. If you do not like shifting, you should opt for an automatic transmission.

Ability to Handle Hilly Terrain

Zero-turn mowers do not handle hills well, and their wide design often puts them at risk of tipping over on steeper hills. If you live on a property with several hills, you should choose a rear engine mower, as they are much safer.

Accessories

Some mowers have built-in accessories like USB charging ports, cup holders, or headlights. If you like to have a drink while you cut the grass, or if you want to charge your phone, see if your desired mower has these features.

Verdict: Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

In my tests, I found the Greenworks 60V CrossoverT the best value for your money if you want a rear engine model. It is powerful without breaking the bank. 

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

Greenworks 60V CrossoverT 42in Riding Mower

A comfortable traditional riding mower with an electric motor, offering the best value for your money. Solid battery life and excellent 60-volt power. 

Check Price

For a zero-turn option, I recommend the EGO POwer+ Z6. It is powerful while being affordable as far as zero-turn models go.

If neither of those fits your preferences, check out some of the others on my list. I’m sure one of them will fit your landscaping needs.

Best Electric Zero-Turn Mower

EGO Power+ Z6 42 in 56V Zero Turn Mower

Outstanding electric zero-turn. While it is more expensive than a riding model, you get a premium 56V mower with 90 minutes of run time.

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FAQ Battery-Powered Riding Lawn Mowers

I will answer a question that many people are asking.