Zero Turn Mower Vs. Riding Lawn Mower | Which Should I Buy

Today we’re diving deep into the differences between zero turn and riding mowers. From performance specifics to ease of use, this video will help you make an informed decision on the best mower type for your yard.

Join us as we demonstrate these mowers in action, discuss their unique features, and provide practical advice to ensure you choose the right mower for your landscaping needs. Whether you’re dealing with large areas, complex landscapes, or simply need a reliable mower, this video has all the information you need.

[00:00] Introduction and Overview
[00:19] Whats faster a Zero Turn Mower or a Riding Mower
[00:59] Zero Turn Mower Overview
[01:40] Lawn Tractor Overview
[02:42] Lawn Mower Maneuverability Test
[03:33] How to Operate a Zero Turn Mower
[05:20] Comfort and User Experience
[06:07] Which Mower Should You Choose?

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[johnhuheey]

They didn't mention the biggest issue between tractor and zero-turn, which is mowing on hillsides or in wet grass. Zero turns are hard to control on any hillside or when grass is wet, the hydrostatic transmissions and the unsteerable front tires on zero turns make it next to impossible to hold the mower on a straight line across a slope, or keep the mower going uphill on a straight line when the grass is wet.

[philbohr]

Huge advantage of tractor over zero-turn is with hills!

[John-yfie]

MY old time Lawn Tractor pulls a John Deere cart loaded with fill dirt, attached my John Deere Aerator and also connect my lawn spreader. Winter I attach my snow blade to clear my long driveway. I replace my bladed twice a year and also perform my regular maintenance the same time. I've had my tractor since 2009 and only had to replace the belts, tires and Carb.

[Double.J]

I know this video was filmed in Florida, but as for us who live in a four seasons state that have to deal with snow, tractor mower would be better because you can put on a front PTO and use a blade or snowblower, and get 4wd or awd as well. Some even have rear steer on fancier tractor mowers.

[Miguel]

I too debated between the two and finally chose the tractor. Speed is not important to me and I really didn’t need the fast turn. I now had the tractor for five years and very happy. Zero turn looks cool though!

[TheNewenglandboys]

I bought the tractor mower and in winter I put a plow and tire chains on it and it’s awesome

[elijahbey]

I had a ZT. They are tricky to steer at first, but once you get the hang of it, it's great. ZTs really shine if you have to mow around a lot of obstacles or landscaping. However, they ride rough. Almost impossible to go full throttle on one if there are a lot of bumps or tree roots in the yard. Whenever I ran over rough ground it really hurt. I now have a x350 tractor. It doesn't matter what I drive over in that thing, for some reason the ride is like floating on air. However, it's a PITA mowing around obstacles and landscaping.

[Lightningn]

I recently bought a zero-turn and I agree there is a learning curve. I love it after getting used to it. Both are great.

[joelaichner]

One lawn mower takes two hands to drive, the one with the steering wheel, free hand, have a Beer

[ArmyOne]

I traded my 2nd ex Wife for a New Zero Turn Mower. Never been Happier.

[missourimule]

Charlie, you do a great job explaining how to drive each type of mower and the benefits and drawbacks of each one. I'm buying a new mower and couldn't decide which type to buy. Your information made my decision easier; I will buy the riding mower, not a zero turn. Thank you!

[davisfarmandorchard]

I went back to the old lawn tractor- traded my z255 for a S240 last year- the S240 (for me) is a more comfortable ride. Plus I really like the Kawasaki engine 💚💛

[davidaaaa]

I have 4 John Deere zero turnmowers. Have had one for 15 years and another for 14 years. They are great. Never have to go to
the shop. The larger ones like 48 inch or larger ride smoother.

[shemphoward]

I inherited my dads old JD lawn tractor about the same time as I bought 2 empty lots next to my house. I thought at first I would want a zero turn...but now, I find mowing with the tractor very relaxing and easy. Having to constantly hold those handles forward for long straight cuts doesn't sound as good to me. I have also just bought up a cart to haul wood and dirt around, and Charlie made my decision on that too.

[CuriousKL]

Here's an issue I encountered. Using a lawn/garden tractor, it allows you to use implements. One in particular would a broadcast spreader. With the tractor, you are able to setup a speed and drop setting to broadcast fertilizer. Cannot accurately do that with a zrt. But, when comparing cutting quality and timed saved, the zrt wins hands down.

[old_school_guy]

I've tried both myself. Had a Husqvarna YTH 2448 for a property I bought. Cut great but had to go somewhat slow. Then got a job where they had me cut the grass. It was a John Deere zero turn, don't remember the model. The difference was night and day on cutting. You could fly on the zero turn and still get a good cut.

[checkyoursix]

I have two GX335's - one with a 54' deck for lawn mowing & moving my utility trailer & sailboat around, and another with a snow thrower & cab for winter duty on our long driveway. My wife has a Cub Cadet ZT1-50 (couldn't find a JD ZT with a Kawasaki engine) and we double-team our three acres.

[mikeske]

I stick with my X590 with the 54" deck and my 2305 with the 62" deck. the X590 is used when the ground has moisture in it and once the ground dries out I break out the big gun 2305 on the yard. 5 sloping acres with few obstructions

[daviddelaet]

I bought a x390 with a 54 in deck almost a month ago. It's a very nice tractor.

[slickdaddy]

I cut 1 1/2 acres. Always had a tractor. The ZT is a game changer for me. I can cut in about half the time. I could never go back. The ZT is better in every way if you have a large property.