Best Riding Lawn Mowers
Top riding lawn mowers ranked by transparent trust scores.
8 products ranked
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Top Pick
9.4
Excellent
John Deere S120 Lawn Tractor
Ranked #1 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
#1
9.4
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #1 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Trusted John Deere brand and dealer network
- Hydrostatic transmission, no shifting
- 22-HP V-twin engine
Cons
- Higher price than competitors
- Stamped deck less durable than fabricated
Don't buy this if…
- John Deere uses proprietary parts that must be purchased through authorized dealers, which can be more expensive than aftermarket options.
#2
9.2
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #2 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Air induction improves cut quality
- Pedal-operated hydrostatic drive
- Reinforced cutting deck
Cons
- Briggs engine less refined than Kawasaki
- Seat comfort is basic
Don't buy this if…
- The standard seat lacks suspension; upgrade to a high-back seat if you mow for extended periods on uneven terrain.
#3
9.0
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #3 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- SmartJet deck wash system
- Tight 16-inch turning radius
- Hydrostatic transmission
Cons
- Single-cylinder engine vibrates more
- Headlights are dim
Don't buy this if…
- The single-cylinder engine produces more vibration than a V-twin; extended mowing sessions may cause hand and arm fatigue.
#4
8.7
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #4 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Budget-friendly entry price
- Step-through frame for easy mounting
- Reliable Briggs & Stratton engine
Cons
- Manual shift transmission, not hydrostatic
- 15.5 HP struggles with tall thick grass
Don't buy this if…
- The manual transmission requires stopping to shift gears; if you have hills or obstacles requiring frequent speed changes, consider a hydrostatic model.
#5
8.5
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #5 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Zero emissions and very quiet
- No gas, oil, or belt maintenance
- Up to 2.5 hours per charge
Cons
- Heavy due to lead-acid batteries
- Long recharge time of 12+ hours
Don't buy this if…
- The 12-hour recharge means you cannot finish a partial charge and continue the same day; plan to mow in a single session.
#6
8.3
Good
Consensus
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Ranked #6 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Turn Tight technology for maneuverability
- Foot-operated hydrostatic drive
- Craftsman brand availability at Lowe's
Cons
- Single-cylinder engine is louder
- Deck is stamped steel, not fabricated
Don't buy this if…
- Craftsman mowers are now made by MTD under the Stanley Black & Decker umbrella; older Sears-era parts are not compatible.
#7
8.1
Good
Consensus
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Ranked #7 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- True zero-turn pivot capability
- Kawasaki commercial-grade engine
- Fabricated steel deck
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Premium price
Don't buy this if…
- Zero-turn mowers handle differently from lawn tractors; practice on flat ground first, and avoid steep hills where they can slide.
#8
7.9
Good
Consensus
Compare
Ranked #8 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Battery-powered zero-turn performance
- Up to 2 acres per charge
- Batteries swap between EGO tools
Cons
- Very expensive upfront cost
- Battery replacement costs add up
Don't buy this if…
- The six batteries represent over $1,000 in replacement value; factor battery lifespan of 3-5 years into total cost of ownership.
Quick Comparison
How We Rank
Composite trust score from expert reviews, user sentiment, complaint analysis, and value assessment.
Trust Score
Weighted composite of all factor scores
Expert Score
Aggregated expert review ratings
User Sentiment
Community votes and review analysis
Value Score
Price-to-performance ratio
Freshness
Recency of reviews and data
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