With so many zero-turn mower variations on the market, it’s becoming more difficult to cut through the noise and find the best product to suit your requirements.
Gasoline or battery-powered…, hydrostatic transmission or belt drive…will it cut 2, 3, or 5 acres…I hear you, and I can help you find the answers to your questions. So that you can choose a high-quality dependable machine, that will perform well and be reliable over its lifetime.
So, whether you’re buying a zero-turn mower for the first time or looking for an upgrade…buckle up and start your engines as we unravel the top mowers for medium to large lawns.
Best Zero Turn Mowers
If you’re in a rush and just want the hard facts, here are the best zero-turn mowers for all situations.
Best Under $3000
1. Husqvarna Z254 26HP Kohler 54 inch
A responsive, yet powerful V-Twin 26hp Kohler engine brings excellent value to this easy-to-drive mower. The perfect mower for those looking for a machine that’s forgiving to drive, and kind to your wallet.
Best For 3 Acres
2. Ryobi 48140 Electric 54 inch
There are plenty of mowers capable of churning up 3 acres, but this electric battery-powered mower is a beast that will get you through 3.5 acres on a single charge. Available from Home Depot with 3 years of finance payments. Read the full review…
Best For 5 Acres
3. Toro Titan Commercial 60-Inch Deck
This machine is a beast capable of covering 5 acres or more with ease. The combination of a 60-inch cutting deck and 5.0 gallons of fuel capacity makes it the king of the lawn. Read the full review…
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What Are Zero-Turn Mowers?
A zero-turn mower is a ride-on lawnmower that has the unique ability to turn on a 0-degree radius – so within its own footprint. With this capability, they have become renowned for their unparalleled agility, speed, and control, when compared to push mowers or other riding mowers.
There are a few garden tractors and rear engine mowers that have a zero-turn mowing deck located at their front end. But most conventional zero-turns are four-wheel seated mowers with the cutting desk located towards the front end of the machine.
Being fast and efficient, they’re a great option for use on large domestic properties with a lawned area of anything up to 5 acres. As well as being perfect for maintenance work on large public properties such as football fields, parks, and golf courses.
However, it is worthwhile noting that despite their speed on flat ground, a more most pace is required to achieve a quality cut. Zero-turn mowers can run at around 7-8 mph, but I recommend you work at a speed of around 4-5 mph when cutting to get a clean finish. Save the top speed for times when you raise the cutting deck and ride to a new position to start the next run. In fact, Consumer Reports tested this idea and found the optimum speed for a precision cut is just 3.5mph.
Another consideration is the speed versus stability of these machines. Running at top speed over uneven ground, whilst spinning it like a wooden top is not a great idea. Things can get out of hand quickly, with a small risk of losing control and causing the mower to roll or crash resulting in vehicle damage or risk to life.
It’s important to acknowledge early on that all powered mowers need to be respected, as they are heavy, fast, and need to be driven with a sensible head.
Choosing A Zero Turn Mower For 3 – 5 Acres
There is a large range of options available on the market so things can get complicated, so I will break down the main considerations. Including gasoline versus electric, battery run time to deck types through to comfort and safety, so let us dive into how to choose the product to meet your needs.
Why not check out Best Riding Mower for 2 Acres or perhaps this article on the Zero Turn Mowers for 1-2 Acres?
Gasoline Vs. Electric
The age-old question about power tools always comes down to gas or electricity. If you know anything about gasoline-powered equipment, then you know the most significant perceived benefit is the sheer power they can provide over their electric battery-powered counterparts.
As zero-turn mowers are primarily used for large acre yards or commercial property, typically, gas mowers tend to be the choice of professionals, as it provides a little more power in challenging conditions. Very wet grass, soft ground, or thick dense overgrown lawns.
However, with technology becoming more advanced in recent years, electric-powered equipment can be as powerful as gas, especially for domestic use. Plus, you also get the added benefits of zero carbon emission, and a quieter, cleaner vehicle.
Another advantage is maintenance. Gas engines require regular maintenance of oils, spark plugs, and drive belts amongst other mechanical parts. Overall, electric zero-turn mowers are easier to manage, cleaner, and better for the environment.
Fuel Capacity & Battery Run Time
If you are running over a large expanse of lawn, you really want to minimize your stoppages to refuel or recharge the battery.
Be sure to figure out the average length of time it takes to mow your property or at least the acreage of your lawn before you commit to purchase. This will influence your buying decision on battery size or gas fuel tank and vehicle run-time.
Battery Run Time
When you buy an electric mower, the first thing to look at is battery time. Most run for at least 60 minutes or more depending on how hard you work them. In tough conditions or when overrevved the battery will deplete much faster compared to when driven moderately.
Modern Lithium battery cells are rated in Ah (Amp Hours) to give us an idea of their storage capacity.
Most ride-on electric mowers require between 60-120 Ah, the higher the Ah the longer the battery will power the mower. To help you out I have added the run-time of each mower below to give you a rough idea of how long the battery or fuel tank will last.
Fuel Capacity
The average riding mower holds around two gallons, while some may hold up to three or potentially even four. Perhaps focus more on the run-time or acreage covered per tank, this will make comparisons between different machine sizes and technologies easier.
Looking through the specification of the limited number of electric mowers on the market right now, you can see their limitations in terms of battery run time. The best option I found is the Ryobi 48140 which gives you a battery run time to cut 3.5 acres of lawn.
Whereas most gas mowers will have a deck size of 46″+ will get you 3 acres covered without too much trouble even if it requires refueling. Battery charging takes time or you need to incur significant extra costs to have spare battery cells.
- Electric Battery Powered: Max Run Time 3 Acres
- Gasoline Powered: Max Run Time 5+ Acres
Engine & Power
The engine size (cc) and the horsepower (HP) it produces will indicate the thrust and drive of the motor. If only life were that simple, big heavy machines need more power and torque, so you cannot put total emphasis on these engine metrics and compare products. Lots of different factors affect the overall performance of the mower.
For example, two lawnmowers with 24hp engines will display different performance statistics based on the efficiency of the engineering to translate that power into propulsion.
Maximum Speed
Typically speaking, zero-turn mowers range from 5mph to 8mph but can also reach speeds of up to 10 mph. Keep in mind, though, that the faster these machines move, the less clean their cutting.
However, 10mph is speedy, especially compared to traditional lawn tractors or riding mowers, which top out at around 5 mph.
Cutting Deck
The cutting deck is used to describe the area where the mower cutting blades are housed. Preferably located towards the front of the mower where they offer better reach to cut into and around objects.
Most cutting decks are made of stamped or fabricated steel or aluminum, but some are made of rigid plastic. It is best to opt for metal cutting decks for durability, in case you knock into a bolder, or some other obstacle located around the edge of your lawn.
Stamped Vs. Fabricated Deck
Once you start browsing the different types of zero-turn mowers, you will notice two pieces of terminology thrown around a lot: a stamped deck and a fabricated deck.
A fabricated deck is a term to describe a deck welded together from various pieces of steel. Fabricated decks are typically made from 1/8th inch steel and have a rigid structure making them robust to knocks from stones or objects.
A stamped deck is a deck that consists that is stamped out of a single sheet of steel during the manufacturing process. These tend to be 1/16th sheet steel meaning they are thinner and therefore less robust to knocks. But for domestic use or for use on level ground they are perfect and reduce the overall cost of producing the mower.
Deck Width & Height
Cutting deck size is a major consideration, as it determines how fast you will get through your mowing. The wider your deck, the wider your cutting path, meaning the less time it will take to cut the lawn.
Currently, the standard that most manufacturers advise is that a deck width between 42 and 54 inches will be a good fit if you have a lawn of 2 acres or more.
However, if you have a smaller lawn with a lot of obstacles or tight turns, you may want to purchase a mower with a smaller deck width, or even consider a small ride-on mower.
Cutting decks are adjusted in height usually between 1-6 inches height. This adjustment can be made with a small lever that lifts or lowers the deck to control the cutting length.
Hydrostatic Transmission
A hydrostatic transmission is pretty much a standard feature nowadays on all modern ride-on mowers.
It uses fluid instead of drive belts to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. As a result, this method delivers a smoother ride, is easier to control, requires less maintenance, and lasts longer.
Zero Turn Mowers 3-5 Acres Reviewed
Okay, so you should now be informed as to what features, benefits, and options are available for gas and electric mower.
I will now run you through my top picks based on performance, comfort, value, and quality of mowing outcome. So, you can now make an informed purchase and be delighted with your new machine.
Each mower was tested on a large playing field, sectioned off into 2-acre plots, and each was cut early morning when the grass was damp. At one end of the field is a large sloped area perfect for testing how these machines worked on an incline.
Husqvarna Z254 26HP Kohler 54″
Best Mower Under $3000
- Cutting Deck: 54 inches
- Deck Type: Fabricated
- Cutting Height: 1” – 4.5”
- Power: Gas 747cc V-Twin Cylinder 26hp
- Speed: 6.5mph
- Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons (3 acres)
- Transmission: Hydrostatic
- Warranty: 3 Years
Pros
- Responsive, powerful, and reliable Kohler 747cc V-Twin engine pushing out 26hp
- Easy to control and a great option for anyone looking for a zero-turn that’s easy to handle
- Great value, making it an excellent choice for domestic use
Cons
- Not the fastest mower on the block, but it trades off speed for useability
The Husqvarna Z254 is the perfect machine for those who just need a cost-effective, easy-to-control mower for residential use. This machine will cut over 3 acres of lawn and make it feel fun.
The 54-inch deck is big enough to swallow a wide path of the lawn but not so big that it becomes a burden to steer around garden obstacles. The Kohler 26hp engine is responsive to and extremely reliable. This is a good quality engine slotted into a rugged steel chassis, offering surprisingly good value for money at around $3,000.
In the field test, I pushed this mower hard and actually gave it a rough time, as I expected to be disappointed, but instead, I was delighted. It was fun to drive, with responsive steering control, and a solid grounded rotation on the turn. The seating position was adjusted to fit my 6′ 3″ frame, and all of the controls were located to hand for quickly raiding the deck as I transition up the slope.
If you’re looking for a mower that is not too daunting to drive and not too cruel to your pocket then the Husqvarna Z254 is an outstanding mower at this price.
Ryobi 48140 Electric Mower 54 inch
Best Mower For 3 Acres
- Cutting Deck: 54 inches
- Deck Type: fabricated steel deck
- Cutting Height: 1” – 4.5”
- Battery: 48 V
- Battery Power: 115Ah
- Run Time: 3.5 acres per charge
- Speed: 7mph
- Warranty: 3 Years
pros
- 54″ cutting deck suitable for 3 acres of lawn
- Best-performing battery-powered zero-turn runs for 3.5 acres on a single charge
- Ultra-quiet brushless motor provides a smooth and comfortable ride
cons
- None other than the obvious limitations of battery life
If comfort and style are your priority, it’s worthwhile to check out the Ryobi 48140. The motor is exceptionally smooth and quiet, and the seat is so comfortable I reckon you could watch all 18 holes of the US Masters from it.
Ryobi goes further with comfort and convenience with its controls, which are well-situated for easy reach during operation. Two compartments are there to hold phones, drinks, and whatever else you need.
Ryobi claims the battery charge has a 3.5-acre run time depending on the height and thickness of the cutting. In my trial, we cut for around 2 acres and were 2/3 way through the charge. So I think in the real-world 3 acres would be maxing out the battery on this electric mower.
Environmentally friendly, quiet, and robust, the Ryobi 48140 is an electric mower in its own class. Check the Ryobi 48140 latest price at Home Depot where you can get 3-year finance options that make going greener much easier.
Toro Titan Commercial Mower 60-Inch Deck
Best Mower For 5 Acres
- Cutting Deck: 60 inches
- Deck Type: Fabricated 10 gauge
- Cutting Height: 1.5” – 4.5”
- Engine: 24.5hp V-Twin
- Power: Gas 747cc Twin Cylinder
- Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gallons (5+ Acres)
- Speed: 8.5mp
- Transmission: Hydrostatic
- Warranty: 3 Years
pros
- This beast of a machine will leave you smiling as it rolls out onto the yard
- Huge 60″ fabricated cutting deck
- Capable of mowing up to 7 acres of lawn with its 5-gallon fuel tank
- 3-Year unlimited warranty for residential use
cons
- Top performance comes at a top price
The Toro Titan Commercial Zero Turn Mower is an absolute beast. Swinging a 60″ triple-blade cutting deck and carrying a 5.0-gallon fuel tank, you can easily handle between 5-7 acres with this mower. A monster like this needs a Toro 24.5 hp V-Twin engine capable of driving this unit up to 8.5 mph on flat ground.
For such a big machine I thought the ride was very smooth, thanks to the Toro MyRIDE suspension system which softens out the bumps and allows for more time in the seat when covering larger plots of land. The fabricated cutting deck is built like a battleship with 10 gauge steel and bullnose edges for extra rigidity. The cutting capabilities are good with a precise clean cut and fast blades to prevent clumping.
If you’re looking for the king of the lawns and you need a machine capable of working through 5 acres or more then I think the Toro Titan is a safe bet. Reliable, strong and comfortable…but most importantly it has the fuel tank and 60″ cutting deck to get the job done, fast.
It swallowed up the damp grass in the field test and turned out to be the fastest mower overall, thanks to the huge 60-inch deck. I love this puppy.
The Toro Titan is available from Home Depot and will set you back just over $6,000 but you are getting a beast for your money. There’s a 6-month finance option available so check out the Toro Titan from ACME Tools
EGO+ Z6 4204 Battery Powered Mower 42″
Best Electric Zero Turn Mower
- Cutting Deck: 42 inches
- Battery: 56V
- Run Time: 2-3 Acres
- Speed: 8mph
- Battery Power: 10Ah
- Warranty: 5 Years
pros
- Great to see more electric-powered mowers on the market
- 8 mph top speed
- LCD control interface is very futuristic and neat
cons
- Low capacity 2 acres battery run time
Maybe you’re like me and were skeptical of electric-powered mowers being able to do a better job (or even an equivalent job) to gas-powered machines. If that sounds like you, prepare to look at electric-powered machines in a whole new light with the EGO Z6 4204 zero-turn mower.
This mighty 22 HP motor rivals even the best gas engines as it easily reaches top speeds of 8 MPH and zooms through 2-acre jobs on a single charge.
The EGO Z6 4204 never misses a beat of comfort. Their adjustable hydraulic seat suspension allows you to sit back and relax as you ride and cut. Plus, the EGO Z6 4204 mower has features to make your jobs more fun and less of a drag. They equip these machines with LED lights, a USB charging port, and Bluetooth to make the EGO mowing experience unlike any other.
Another cool feature? Their LCD interface features three driving modes: control, standard, and sport. If that’s not cool enough, each of these features can be accessed with the simple touch of a finger.
All in all, this powerful machine can keep up with any gas zero-turn mower any day of the week. And it has a fun, comfortable driving experience. What can be better than that?
Cub Cadet RZT-SX 42″ EF Mower
- Cutting Deck: 42 inches
- Deck Type: Stamped
- Cutting Height: 1” – 4”
- Engine: 22hp
- Power: Gas 679cc Twin Cylinder
- Fuel Capacity: 2.7 gallons
- Speed: 7mp
- Transmission: Hydrostatic
- Warranty: 3 Years
pros
- 42″ cutting deck suitable for 3 acres of lawn
- Very well built frame and a 13 gauge cutting deck
cons
- Some customer complains about the reliability of tires
The Cub Cadet RZT-SX is another powerful mower that should undoubtedly be on your list of potential purchases. Running on an impressive 22 HP 725cc professional-grade KOHLER 7000 Series V-twin OHV engine, this mower powers through.
Not only is the mower above class, but it also has an open frame design and a removable floor ban.
What does this mean? Quick, easy access to the deck and engine for easy cleaning and maintenance. If you’ve tinkered around with zero-turn mowers before, you know that sometimes accessing the engine can be more challenging than actually fixing the problem. This mower’s convenience paired with its smooth, quiet, reliable engine is a reason why it makes my list.
That being said, there are some downsides to the Cub Cadet RZT-SX. For example, the most considerable concern with this mower is its tires, which seem to go flat relatively easily and quickly. While it’s easy enough to purchase extra tires, the machine itself is expensive, and having to buy additional tires on top of that is, to put it mildly, a drag.
However, the Cub Cadet RZT-SX is a hearty, powerful machine beyond the issue that some customers have with its tires. You can buy this mower for under $4,000 dollars with 3 years of finance available from the Cud Cadet website
- Cutting Deck: 36/42/52 inches
- Deck Type: 12-Gauge Fabricated
- Cutting Height: 1” – 4.5”
- Engine 25hp Twin Cylinder
- Fuel Capacity: 3.0 gallons
- Transmission: Hydrostatic
- Speed: 6 mph
- Warranty: 3 Years
pros
- 54″ cutting deck suitable for 3 or 5 acres of lawn
- A nice large tank with 3.0 Gallons fuel capacity
- Compact footprint for a large cutting deck so good maneuverability
cons
- I just preferred the Troy-Bilt for overall value for money and comfort
Powered by a robust 25hp Briggs & Stratton engine, the Snapper 36OZ has all of the benefits of a commercial build while still being affordable, so you get the luxuries in your own backyard.
What commercial features? How about a fully welded steel frame, a thick-walled front axle, and straightforward access to maintenance points so that you always get the best cut possible?
Snapper may not be one of the biggest names in the business, but I like this model, it is very well put together has a reliable engine, and has a nice compact footprint which means it’s very good across 3-5 acre lawns with tight spaces and obstacles.
If that’s not enough, you can also choose the deck size. Offered with 36″, 42″, or 52″ deck sizes, you never have to compromise and can always get the most suitable machine for your property.
The Snapper also comes with optional attachments like a twin catcher and a grass mulching kit to make upkeep in your yard easier than ever. Check the Snapper Zero-Turn’s latest price on Amazon.
- Cutting Deck: 52 inches
- Deck Type: Fabricated
- Engine: 23hp
- Fuel Capacity: 2.8 gallons
- Speed: 7mph
- Warranty: 3 Years
pros
- High-quality 11 gauge fabricated 52-inch cutting deck
- Reliable Kawasaki FR V-Twin engine
cons
- 2.8 Gallons fuel capacity is a limitation
The Ariens Ikon X is another powerful mower with industrial, commercial-like power and qualities. This mower features an impressive 23 hp/726 cc Kawasaki FR V-Twin engine to get the job done right.
Plus, its 52″ fabricated deck is sturdy at 4½ inches deep and is crafted from solid 11-gauge steel to handle even the toughest lawns and terrain. On the downside, a limited fuel capacity of 2.8 gallons is on the low side so this machine is best suited for 3-acre lawns.
The Ariens Ikon never compromises – even when it comes to your comfort. Ride in style with high-back padded seats, and sprawl out with supportive armrests.
However, some customers complain that this machine has difficulty driving in straight lines. If that’s a big concern of yours, you may want to try to test out this mower before you purchase it as there have been quite a few complaints about this issue. Check the Ariens Ikon X latest price at Home Depot
- Cutting Deck: 61 inches
- Deck Type: steel gauge
- Engine: 27hp
- Speed: 8.5 mph
- Warranty: 4 Years
pros
- A huge 61-inch fabricated cutting deck
- 8.5 mph top speed is one of the faster riders on the market
cons
- Some customers complaints about the build quality of the accessory parts
A fun, high-powered machine, the Husqvarna MZ61 is a solid machine that can take care of all of your lawn care needs.
What’s so great about it? Maybe the insane 27-hp engine that can move at fast speeds of nearly nine mph. Not only that, but the cutting deck is a whopping 61 inches. Its powerful, reliable engine far outperforms other mowers to deliver a fast, fun mowing ride.
Some customers have complained about pieces falling or breaking easily. However, with its 4-year warranty, you should be able to fix that easily enough.
Comfort & Controls
While it may seem silly or frivolous, comfort and controls play a big part in how well you get your job done when riding a zero-turn mower. The last thing you need is a seat that wrecks your back or buttons that are so inaccessible, that you need to stop working to activate the control.
Seat
Even though it seems like a small detail, a comfortable seat could be the difference between a smooth ride on a painful clunky afternoon.
You always want to make sure that you choose a comfortable seat and preferably one with suspension seats. As these mowers move fast, even the most minor bumps can be uncomfortable, predominantly if you are operating the mower for long periods.
All the products on my shortlist are comfortable to drive and sit in for long enough to get the job done.
Steering Controls
You steer and accelerate your mower with two lever handles, often referred to as lap bars. Push them forwards together to drive forwards. Pull them back together to reverse. Push the left level forwards and the right level backward to turn in a clockwise direction, and vice-versa.
As for other controls, each mower will come equipped with an emergency brake, ignition switch, throttle control, blade switch, seat adjustment lever, deck lift pedal, deck release pedal, and ROP bar.
Tires
Smooth treadless tires will let you fly through your yard and take sharp turns. This is due to the low friction between the tire and the grass.
Another good reason for smooth tire longevity. They will simply last longer as there is no grip to wear them down.
However, having said that, sometimes a lack of traction is a bad thing, though, as it could lead to you spinning out. So, if you have many slopes and rugged terrain to get through, you may want to consider tires with traction like Carlisle AT101 tires, or just choose a zero-turn mower for hilly terrain or slopes.
If you live in a region with moderate to high rainfall and have wet ground, then a good tread on your tire is recommended.
Safety Features
While safety features certainly differ between brands more and more models are equipped with safety features such as rollover protection (ROP) and seatbelts as standard. When choosing your mower, make sure you purchase a product with ROP safety features if you have slopes or uneven ground.
Additionally, each mower should come with a safety manual complete with a layout of features. Make sure to always read the safety manual, take their guidance seriously, and never remove any safety features from your mower, such as seatbelts.
Mower Maintenance
Like any machine, you must give a mower enough care and attention to make sure that it keeps running without failure.
Here’s a quick checklist of tasks to keep your equipment in top condition:
- Clean the mower deck after use.
- Store it in a garage or undercover to help with ‘first-time start-ups and reduce the risk of corrosion.
- Annual service of filter, oil change, spark plugs
- Sharpen mower blades every season.
- Check tire pressure to stay fuel-efficient and maintain good control.
- Check headlight bulbs before working in the dark.
Used Zero Turn Mowers for 3 – 5 Acres
Like any second-hand used power tool or machine, used zero-turn mowers need a little bit of extra care and love to make sure that day functions long enough to be a worthwhile investment.
Given that this product is a big-ticket purchase, it’s no surprise that you may wish to shoot for a second-hand used model.
Beware as a shiny mower is not always a well-maintained mower. With second-hand machines, you run the risk of purchasing a mower that can rack up a lot of unexpected costs if they have an engine failure or some other serious mechanical issue. In the long run, I would always opt for a new model with a minimum of 3 years of warranty coverage.
Verdict: Best Zero Turn Mower
With so many options on the market, the best zero-turn mower really boils down to your specific needs, budget, and personal preference.
Best Under $3000
1. Husqvarna Z254 26HP Kohler 54 inch
A responsive, yet powerful V-Twin 26hp Kohler engine brings excellent value to this easy-to-drive mower. The perfect mower for those looking for a machine that’s forgiving to drive, and kind to your wallet.
That being said, the Husqvarna mower is one of the best and most recommended mowers. This is because it offers some great features and has an unparalleled ability to cut lines at high speeds. Since cutting at high speeds is really the point of the zero-turn mower, to begin with, the fact that this mower can get the job done so well and so fast makes it one of the top competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you still have questions? Not to fear! I will answer all of your frequently asked questions below.
