If you’re shopping for the best riding lawn mower in 2026, this guide highlights eight top-rated models for a variety of yard sizes and budgets.
Whether you’re maintaining a half-acre lot or several acres of challenging terrain, we’ll help you compare the features, performance, and value of today’s best riding mowers to find the right fit for your lawn.
Mowing large yards is challenging, especially on hilly terrain, while using a walk-behind mower. We’ll help you choose the best riding mower for your yard size and type, including the features that matter most, and the best prices for each type of lawn tractor.
Considerations Before Buying a Riding Mower:
1) Is Free Delivery Included?
Most shoppers may not realize that ordering online (using any of the links below) and having the riding mower shipped to their doorstep is free.
This includes any purchases from Home Depot and Amazon.
When buying a new riding lawn mower, consider the cost of free delivery against the time, expense, and hassle of renting and returning a trailer, and loading and unloading the mower. To us, there is no comparison.
2) What is the Most Reliable Lawn Mower?
Answer: According to our tests and a recent Consumer Reports article, Cub Cadet and John Deere are considered the most reliable gas-powered riding mowers for homeowners.
John Deere offers a slightly more affordable lineup, backed by an extensive nationwide dealer and service network.
3) How Much Should I Spend on a Riding Lawn Mower?
Answer: You should expect to pay between $2,000 and $2,800 for a top-rated riding mower, such as John Deere, with a 42″ deck (Average size).
That’s quite a Bargain, considering that top-rated robot mowers can cost between $1,500 and $2,500.
4) How Long Should a Riding Mower Last?
Answer: The lifespan of a riding lawn mower is 5-15 years, depending on various factors, such as the Quality of the brand, the size of your yard, the owner’s maintenance schedule, Frequency of Use (the number of mowings per season), Hills, or Smooth terrain, and Weather conditions.
5) What is the Best Brand of Riding Lawn Mower?
Based on national sales, John Deere is the best-selling Gas-Powered Riding Lawn Mower brand, with Cub Cadet and Husqvarna closely on John Deere’s heels.
EGO and Greenworks currently produce the best-rated battery-powered riding lawnmowers on the market.
6) What Size Riding Lawn Mower Should I Buy?
The best-sized riding lawn mower depends on the size of your property. For most homeowners with yards less than 1 acre, we always recommend a minimum-sized 42″ mower deck, as the best value and most practical size riding mower to own.
However, if your yard is between 1 and 2 acres, consider a larger riding mower, such as one with a 46 – to 48-inch cutting width.
Most people with lawns over 2 acres consider the more agile, faster mowing capability of the Zero-Turn Mowers featured here.
Top 8 Riding Lawn Mowers – In 2026
Riding Lawn Tractors aren’t Cheap—they’re a significant investment. We’ve compiled our list of the Best Riding Mowers for the Money so you can decide which one is right for you.
Editor’s Choice: Cub Cadet XT1 – Enduro LT With 46″ Mowing Deck – 23 HP
Why We Like It
Some homeowners find themselves in the “in-between” position of having a lawn that’s too big for a 42-inch Riding mower but not quite big enough for an oversized 60-inch mowing deck.
The Cub Cadet XT1 not only fills the Top-Rated Riding Mower category in our riding mower reviews (and Nationwide), but this Riding Mower with a 46″ Mowing Deck hits the “sweet Spot” for almost any homeowner.
Medium—to large yards (1-2 acres) can be a time-consuming chore with a smaller mowing deck, but with the XT1 and its 46″ Mower Deck, you will be amazed at how much faster you can complete your lawn.
Boasting commercial-grade features, this is no ordinary riding lawn mower. The Cub Cadet XT1 is a Premium Riding Lawn Tractor with Hydrostatic Transmission (Hydraulic fluid vs. mechanical transmission)
It has a large 23 HP—7000 Series Kohler engine, an adjustable 15″ high back seat, LED headlamps, and S-blades designed to provide the best performance and durability for a unique cutting experience.
Cub Cadet knocks it out of the park with this riding mower, and at the time of publishing, it beats John Deere’s 42″ Mower in price.
Cub Cadet is now considered one of the best lawn equipment brands for homeowners’ gas-powered mowers, made in the USA.
Specifications
- 46-inch Stamped Steel Mowing deck
- Triple-Blade – Air Induction Technology built-in
- HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION (Fluid Speed Transmission- No Shifting)
- 23 HP Kohler – 7000 Series – V-Twin, OHC engine
- Change the Reverse to Forward Direction with Foot Controls
- Top Speed 5.5 MPH
- Large Pneumatic Tires
- Cruise Control
- LED Headlights
- Easy Access Fueling – 4 Gallon Gas Tank
- 15″ High Seat Back
- Rear hitch capability
- Deluxe Steering Wheel
- Mows in reverse
- Clear-Cut Steel Cutting Deck
- 3-year warranty
Our Take Away
When reviewing the best lawn mowers, we found the Cub Cadet XT1 – 46″ mower among the best-valued Riding Lawn Mowers on the market.
This 46″ riding mower is equipped with the same features as the 42″ John Deere model, which is priced around $200 more, making the Cub Cadet riding mower an exceptional value.
Cub Cadet – Editor’s Choice Best Riding Lawn Mower
CUB CADET “XT1” – RIDING MOWER
Runner Up – John Deere S120 – 42″ Lawn Tractor
Why We Like It
As you continue, you will note that we’re big fans of this John Deere 42″ Mower. And while the mowing deck is smaller (42″) than our Editor’s Pick from Husqvarna, this smaller deck riding lawn mower from John Deere still wins as our Runner-Up for the best riding mower.
The John Deere 42 riding lawn mower stands out as the best overall riding mower package in its class. It has a V-Twin 22-hp Engine, a Hydrostatic foot-pedal-controlled transmission, a tight 16″ turning radius, an adjustable seat, and anti-scalp wheels.
Specifications
- 42-inch mower deck
- 22-horsepower V-Twin John Deere engine
- 30-second Oil Change System
- White-Glove “Home Delivery” From Home Depot
- Lumbar-supporting seat
- 13 different cutting heights
- 2-Year Warranty
- Easy starting
- Hydrostatic transmission
Our Take Away
Thanks to its power, highly maneuverable 42-inch mowing deck, and range of convenience features, the John Deere S120 42-inch lawnmower is the best choice for lawns of any size, up to 2 acres.
The John Deere is a fantastic choice for a riding mower, especially considering the price, and is particularly suitable if you plan to use it with an optional bagging attachment.
We would be remiss if we didn’t include the John Deere S120 as one of the best-rated riding mowers on the planet. After all, John Deere is the #1 riding mower brand in the country – just as long as you have the budget to buy it :)
If your budget allows, we recommend the Husqvarna 54″ Riding Mower (above) for larger properties and areas with thick grass. Its 12″ wider cutting path is ideal.
John Deere – “Runner-up “- Best Riding Mower
John Deere Mower
Best Value Gas Riding Mower: Craftsman 42″ – 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton
Why We Like It
When you first look at riding mowers for sale, you may be intimidated by the price tags you see. The Craftsman 42″ riding mower is well worth the price if you’re looking for an affordable but dependable riding lawn mower.
With a 42-inch cutting deck and a 17.5 HP engine, the Craftsman Mower provides plenty of power and capability, all at a price that almost any homeowner can reasonably afford.
Specifications
- 42-inch Steel mower deck
- Rated for up to 2 Acres of Lawn
- 7-speed transmission
- Forward and Reverse Mow Options
- 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Engine
- LED Headlights
- 18″ Turning Radius
- 15 x 6 and 20 x 8 Heavy Duty Tires
- Reliable starting
- Anti-scalping tires
- 2-year warranty
Our Take Away
Although it is a better budget option than the Cub Cadet or John Deere riding mowers, the Craftsman model has several advantages.
Notwithstanding its smaller engine size, the Craftsman has plenty of get-up-and-go and will easily handle any residential lawn under 2 acres.
Overall, the Craftsman riding lawn mower is an ideal option for homeowners on a tight budget who still want or need to invest in a riding mower. It’s the best option if you’re looking for a top-rated riding lawn mower for under $2,000.
To Locate Service for your Craftsman Mower, consider extended Service contracts, or find “Lawn mower repair near me.” Contact Sears Mower Repair Services Nationwide.
CRAFTSMAN – BEST VALUE 42″ MOWER
CRAFTSMAN
Best Battery Powered: EGO Power+ Electric Riding Mower – TR4204
Why We Like It
The EGO TR4204 Electric Riding Mower stands out for its powerful performance and eco-friendly design. Peak Power™ technology combines the strength of six 56V ARC Lithium™ batteries to deliver up to 21 horsepower, matching gas-powered counterparts without the associated noise or emissions.
Its 42-inch steel deck and dual brushless motors ensure efficient mowing, even on slopes up to 15 degrees.
The mower’s digital LCD offers customizable settings, including three blade speeds, three drive speeds, and cruise control, enhancing the user experience.
Additional features, such as LED headlights, a USB charging port, and Bluetooth connectivity, add to its modern appeal.
Specifications
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Horsepower Equivalent: 21 HP
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Cutting Deck: 42-inch stamped steel
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Cutting Heights: 12 positions (1.5″–4.5″)
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Speed: Up to 6 mph forward, three mph reverse
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Turn Radius: 18 inches
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Battery Runtime: Up to 1.5 acres per charge
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Charging Time: Approximately 3.5 hours with the included 700W charger
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Weight: Approximately 640 lbs
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Warranty: 5-year tool, 3-year battery
Our Takeaway:
The EGO TR4204 is ideal for homeowners with medium to large lawns seeking a quiet, low-maintenance alternative to gas mowers. Its ability to handle slopes up to 15 degrees and mow up to 1.5 acres on a single charge makes it suitable for varied terrains.
While the 18-inch turning radius may pose challenges in tight spaces, the mower’s overall performance and features mitigate this limitation.
Users can expect a comfortable ride with intuitive controls, though there may be a learning curve due to the numerous available settings and options.
Conclusion
The EGO TR4204 Electric Riding Mower offers a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and modern features. Its environmentally friendly design, coupled with robust performance, makes it a worthy investment for those looking to transition from gas-powered mowers.
While it may require a short adjustment period to master its controls, the benefits of reduced maintenance, quieter operation, and customizable settings make it a standout choice in the electric mower market.
EGO: BEST ELECTRIC RIDING MOWER
EGO Battery Powered 42″ Riding Mower
Runner Up: “Battery Powered” Riding Mower: Greenworks – 60V – 42″ Mowing Deck
Why We Like It
It may surprise you that battery technology in outdoor power equipment has advanced to the point that lithium batteries can reliably power a Riding Lawn Mower and mow up to 1.5 acres of Lawn.
Greenworks is one of the top players in the battery-powered riding mower category. This 60-Volt Electric Riding Mower is significantly quieter than Gas-Powered riding mowers and offers minimal performance loss compared to many gas-powered mowers.
The Greenworks Battery Riding Mower comes with (4) 8.0 Ah lithium-ion batteries, which power this incredible riding machine with an equivalent gas engine power of 24 HP.
Not only does this match the power of a gas-powered lawn tractor, but it also offers the low-maintenance convenience of electric power in a category that gasoline engines have traditionally dominated.
Specifications
- 42-inch mowing deck
- Standard Riding Mower Steering Wheel (Not Zero-Turn Lap Bars)
- Power Equivalent to 24 HP Gas-Powered Mower
- (4) 60-Volt – 8.0Ah batteries included
- Two Dual-Port Battery Chargers Included
- Battery Recharge in 90 minutes or less.
- Industry-leading 8 Mph top speed, with variable speed settings
- Mows up to 1.5 acres per charge
- USB Port + Greenworks Smartphone App Diagnostics
- 7-position deck
- Dual Action Blades
- LED Headlights
- 4-year Tool and Battery Warranty
- Bagging kit available (but not included in base price)
Greenworks 60-Volt Riding Mower “Quick Start” Video:
Our Takeaway
With no gasoline, oil changes, belts, spark plugs, air filters, or other maintenance issues, the Greenworks battery riding mower may be the most convenient riding mower built for today’s busy homeowner.
But don’t let its size fool you. This mower can comfortably mow up to 1.5 acres on a single battery charge.
If you want to avoid exhaust fumes or don’t have time for gas-powered maintenance, the highly rated Greenworks 60-Volt battery-powered mower is one of our top choices.
And if that isn’t enough to entice you, the Greenworks Riding Mower is 4X quieter than a Gas Riding Mower.
Additionally, if you own other Greenworks battery-powered lawn tools, any of these eight batteries will be compatible with them.
Greenworks CRT426 – 42″ Battery-Powered Riding Mower
GREENWORKS
Best Husqvarna Riding Mower: T354XD Mower – 24 HP with 54-inch Deck
Why We Like It
Husqvarna is one of the best-known names in the lawn equipment industry. We’ve chosen the gas-powered Husqvarna TS354XD as one of the Best Riding mowers in the 54-inch Deck category and one of the best riding lawn tractors overall.
This Husqvarna Rider offers plenty of power thanks to the exceptional 24-horsepower V-Twin Kawasaki engine.
In addition, this Husqvarna riding mower features a range of conveniences, including an Electric Locking Differential for Superior Traction, Cruise control, a 10-position adjustable seat, and a simple oil change system.
Specs
- 54-inch mower deck
- 24 Horsepower KAWASAKI – V-twin engine
- 5.5 mph Forward and 2.5 mph Reverse speeds.
- Electronic Differential (Increased traction)
- Tuff-Tork – Hydrostatic transmission
- Extra Large – High Back Ergonomic Seat with Armrests
- Welded Steel Deck
- Auto-Lock Rear Differential
- Wash Port Attachment for Mowing Deck
- Fast, easy starting
- 3-year warranty
Our Takeaway
Overall, we love Husqvarna products because they are among the most durable and reliable in lawn equipment. The 42″ TS354XD Riding Lawn Mower is easy to handle, comfortable to drive, well-built, and produces a fantastic cut.
It should be noted, however, that this Husqvarna model includes features that other riding mowers lack, such as an under-deck wash port attachment, an extra-large 10-position seat adjustment, and an electric-lock differential for increased traction.
The electric locking differential provides the best climbing for steep or sloped yards. If you need an excellent mower to mow a 3/4 acre or more considerable lot, this is one of the best-rated 54″ riding lawnmowers.
Runner-up: HUSQVARNA 54″ Riding Lawn Mower
HUSQVARNA TS354XD Riding Mower
Best Value “Cub Cadet 42” Mower: Cub Cadet – XT1 LT42
Why We Like It
Achieving “Best Value” in the top-flight brand “Cub Cadet,” the XT1-LT42 is among the most popular riding mowers each year for homeowners nationwide.
This garden tractor combines the ideal 42″ Mower Deck with a powerful 19-HP Kohler 7000 V-Twin engine, a favored dual Hydrostatic Transmission, and all the bells and whistles most homeowners desire.
While not the cheapest riding mower on our list, the Cub Cadet XT1-42 is the best value. It is also best for maneuverability and use on sloping yards or hills.
Specifications
- 42-inch Twin-Blade mower deck
- Zero-Turn Radius
- Steering Wheel Control
- Kohler 7000 Series 19.5-HP Engine
- IntelliPower throttle adjustment
- Responsive handling
- Heavy-duty steel frame – Lifetime frame warranty
- 3-year warranty on engine and parts
- Hydrostatic transmission
- Adjustable Cutting Heights
- LED Headlights
Our Takeaway
The Cub Cadet XT1-LT42 offers nearly every feature you could wish for in a riding lawn mower and is an incredible value.
In addition, it features a dual hydrostatic transmission, which means the steering wheel turns all four wheels, making it an excellent mower for Hills or Steep terrain.
We were highly impressed with this riding mower and recommend it as one of the top-rated riding lawnmowers for lots under 1 acre.
CUB CADET XT1-42″ – Best Value “Cub Cadet” Riding Mower
CUB CADET
Best Value 42″ Gas Riding Mower: Troy Bilt 42 “Pony” Riding Mower – 17 HP
Why We Like It
When you first look at riding mowers for sale, you may be intimidated by the price tags you see. The Troy-Bilt Pony model is well worth the price if you’re looking for a cheap riding lawn mower at the lowest possible price point.
With a 42-inch cutting deck and a 13.5 HP engine, the Pony provides plenty of power and capability, all at a price that almost any homeowner can reasonably afford.
Specifications
- 42-inch mower deck
- 439cc engine (13.5 HP)
- Automatic headlights
- Reliable starting
- Anti-scalping tires
- 7-speed transmission
- Mow-in-reverse optional
- 2-year warranty
Our Take Away
Even though it’s a budget option, this Troy-Bilt riding mower has a lot going for it. Smaller engine size notwithstanding, the Pony has plenty of get-up-and-go – and will easily handle any residential lawn under 2 acres.
Overall, the Troy-Bilt Pony riding lawn mower is a perfect option for homeowners on a tight budget who still want or need to invest in a riding mower. This is it if you’re looking for a top-rated riding lawn mower for under $2,100.
Troy-Bilt “Pony” Best VALUE Mower 42″ Mower Deck
Troy-Bilt
Best Value Riding Mower With “Hydrostatic Drive” – Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP
Why We Like It
The Super Bronco XP from Troy-Bilt is next on our list of best-value riding lawnmowers. This mower offers a much better-than-average OHV Troy-Bilt 16.5 Hp engine with a Hydrostatic transmission drive—a feature not typically found in riding mowers of this price range.
While the Bronco doesn’t include the V-Twin engine, it does offer considerable savings over its big brother, the Mustang Riding Mower (above). Oh, and the Super Bronco XP does have Headlights!
Specifications
- 42-inch Twin-Blade Mower Deck
- Deck port wash included (using a garden hose)
- Mow-In-Reverse option
- 16.5 HP Single-Cylinder engine
- Auto-Choke
- Responsive handling – Standard Steering Wheel
- Great for Hills and Sloping Yards
- 3-year warranty
- Hydrostatic drive transmission
- Variable Cutting Heights
- LED headlights
Our Takeaway
Founded in the United States in 1937, Troy-Bilt has built a solid reputation as a highly respected lawn mower manufacturer.
Please note that the White Glove delivery service is not available for Troy-Bilt mowers. The homeowner will need to assemble them after delivery.
Overall, it is an excellent mower with fantastic features at a great price.
Troy-Bilt – Cheapest 42″ Mower with Hydrostatic Drive
Troy-Bilt
Riding Lawn Mowers for Sale Near Me:
If you’re interested in a riding mower featured in this article, click any of our links. You will be directed to Amazon or Home Depot, where you can review more details about the mower, place an order, and set up free delivery (where available—delivery options may vary by supplier).
Note: Most riding lawnmowers are shipped within 7-10 business days. The exact date will be confirmed at check-out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What Is the Best Cheap Riding Mower?
A: If you’re mainly concerned with price, the Cub Cadet XT1 model is the Best Value 42″ riding lawn mower you can buy. The XT1 offers reliable performance at a great price point, is highly maneuverable, and is perfect for small to mid-sized yards.
The Troy-Bilt Pony is another excellent option if you’re looking to strike a balance between power and size, while also maximizing value.
Q: How Do I know what “Size lawn mower I need”?
While everyone’s circumstances vary, Husqvarna offers a beneficial buyer guide for Lawn Mowers; click the link above to learn more.
Q: What are the Top 5 Best Riding Lawn Mowers?
A: The Top 5 Rated Riding Mowers are from Cub Cadet XT1-LT46, John Deere ST120, Husqvarna Z54, Greenworks 60V (Battery Powered), and the Troy Bilt “Neighborhood.
Q: What Is the Best Riding Lawnmower for 1 Acre or Less?
A: For 1 acre or less, we’d recommend the When considering top-rated riding mowers, we recommend the Cub Cadet XT1 – LT42 with a hydrostatic transmission, strong brand reputation, dependable warranty, excellent construction quality, and a 42″ mowing deck.
As an upgrade and for the best riding mower for extensive lawns between 1 and 2 acres, we highly recommend the Cub Cadet Ultima Enduro—XT1- LT46, which has a 46″ mowing deck.
We also highly recommend researching the Zero-Turn Lawnmower before purchasing a riding mower. While they cost more, they are nimble and faster for completing large lawns.
Q: Where do you get a riding lawn mower serviced?
A: In addition to your local small equipment shops and brands like John Deere, Husqvarna, Toro, and Troy-Bilt, you can easily have your lawnmower serviced at most outdoor power equipment dealers.
Q: Who Makes the Best Riding Mower
A: The Top 5 Riding lawn mower brands for the money are Cub Cadet, John Deere, Husqvarna, Troy-Bilt, and Toro. It’s important to note that the best riding mower for you will depend on your needs, preferences, and budget.
Before selecting the mower that best suits your needs, consider the size and slope of your yard, the price you’re willing to pay, and the level of maintenance you’re prepared to perform.
Riding Lawn Mower Buyers Guide
Grass grows fast, and on a hot day, is there anything worse than spending hours pushing a lawnmower around the yard? Even with a self-propelled mower, it’s a workout.
The solution: Offering much higher speeds and cutting paths than walk-behind mowers, the best riding lawn mowers featured today will make cutting your lawn a quick, efficient—and, dare we say, “fun job.”
Our riding lawn mower buyer’s guide below explains the most important features to consider when buying a riding mower:
Power
One of the most important considerations when selecting a riding mower is the engine’s power output. More power enables a mower to tackle uphill slopes quickly, move faster, and cut through wet or thick grass.
The V-twin type engine typically boasts higher power ratings than single-cylinder engines, so you’ll generally see them included on higher-priced riding mowers.
Transmission
Most riding mowers feature either a manual or a hydrostatic transmission. Hydrostatic transmissions use a fluid system to shift gears seamlessly, whereas manual transmissions require a lever to shift gears.
Manual transmissions are incredibly dependable, but most high-end mowers offer hydrostatic transmissions as a more user-friendly feature.
Deck Size
As you may have noticed, a 42-inch mower deck is standard for most riding lawnmowers on this list. These decks are best suited for yards up to 2 acres.
If you have more than 2 acres to mow, we strongly recommend upgrading to a 48-inch or 54-inch model, such as the John Deere E160, which is listed in our Best Upgrade category.
Cutting Options
Most riding lawnmowers offer three cutting options: side discharge, mulching, and bagging.
Most mowers are equipped for side discharge and mulching, but you must purchase a bagging attachment to collect your grass clippings separately.
The Ryobi 38″ battery-powered riding mowers in our reviews can be purchased with or without the grass bagging attachment.
Wrapping Up
There are some fantastic options if you’re in the market for a great lawn mower.
The Cub Cadet XT1-46 is our top choice for the best riding mower, with the John Deere S120 as a close runner-up.
Finally, the Troy-Bilt Neighborhood was selected as the best value in the standard 42-inch mower deck category, as it is the most affordable riding mower.
Although these riding mowers represent our top three picks in each category, the best lawn tractor for you may be one of the other models on this list.
The best pick for you will depend on your yard size, terrain, and budget, but the ten mowers on this list should give you a great start in your search for a new riding mower.
(Disclosure: Best Home Gear is an authorized Home Depot affiliate and Amazon. No manufacturer sponsors us; we earn a small fee if you buy at Home Depot or Amazon through one of our links.
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Additional Reading & References:
- How to Use a Lawnmower Safely Around Children – Healthychildren.org
- The 10 Best “Backpack” Leaf Blowers You Can Buy – BestHomeGear.com
- Diagnosing TurfGrass Problems – University of California
- The Best Battery-Powered Lawn Equipment “Brands” – BestHomeGear.Com
- The Best Chainsaw For Homeowners – Besthomegear.com
- Can You Cut Wet Grass with an electric mower? – Ehow.com
- The Best Pressure Washers Under $350 – Besthomegear.com
