Choosing the right riding mower or lawn tractor matters: it determines how fast your job gets done, how comfortable the ride is, and how much long-term maintenance will cost. These recommendations are based on hands-on testing, manufacturer specs, expert reviews, and consumer feedback to help you pick the best machine for your yard and budget.
How we tested and chose
We evaluated candidates using a mix of hands-on testing, specification analysis, and cross-referencing expert and consumer reviews. Key test areas included:
- Cut quality & deck performance: measured across different grass heights and conditions, noting deck width, blade type, and anti-scalp behavior.
- Power & run-time: for gas units we assessed engine displacement and drivability; for electric models we measured battery capacity, estimated acres per charge, and charging convenience.
- Maneuverability & controls: turning radius, steering feel, and ergonomics (seat, controls, cruise, display).
- Build quality & maintenance: frame and deck construction, ease of blade/belt access, serviceability, and warranty terms.
- Value & total cost of ownership: purchase price vs included accessories (batteries, chargers, baggers), likely maintenance costs, and expected longevity.
We also considered real-world usage scenarios (small suburban lawns, acreage, commercial/estate use) and aggregated consumer feedback on reliability and dealer support.
Considerations that influenced rankings
- Deck width and blade configuration — larger decks cut faster but can be harder to maneuver in tight yards.
- Powertrain type (gas vs electric) — electric offers quieter operation and lower maintenance; gas often gives higher peak torque and simpler fueling for remote use.
- Battery capacity and modularity — for electric tractors, included batteries and expandability strongly affect usable cutting area and runtime.
- Feature set vs price — comfort features, digital controls, and included accessories were weighed against cost.
- Intended use — zero-turns for speed/large areas; lawn tractors for moderate acreage and versatility.
Craftsman 42" Rider
A straightforward, budget-friendly gas lawn tractor with a 42" stamped steel deck and reliable Briggs & Stratton power. Good maneuverability and a durable deck make it a solid choice for homeowners who want a dependable workhorse without premium features.
Craftsman 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower — Best Budget Pick
The Craftsman 42" is a no-nonsense, gas-powered riding mower that focuses on value and reliability. Powered by a 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton single-cylinder engine and paired with a rugged 42" stamped-steel deck, it handles routine residential mowing efficiently. The 7-speed transmission and 18" turning radius make it easy to navigate around obstacles, while the contoured seat keeps you reasonably comfortable on longer runs.
Standout features:
- 42" deck suited for yards up to ~2 acres
- Simple, familiar mechanical controls for easy maintenance
- Optional mulching kit for a cleaner finish
Who this is for: homeowners who want a dependable gas tractor at an affordable price and don’t need premium comfort or cutting-edge technology. Trade-offs include more routine engine maintenance and higher noise compared with battery-electric alternatives.
Husqvarna MZ61
A commercial-grade zero-turn mower built around a powerful 24HP Kawasaki V-twin, a 61" fabricated deck, and heavy-duty transmission. Designed for large properties and demanding use where speed and a professional cut are priorities.
Husqvarna MZ61 — Premium Choice
The MZ61 is a heavy-duty, commercial-oriented zero-turn designed for expansive properties and frequent use. The 24 HP Kawasaki V-twin and a 61" three-blade fabricated deck make quick work of high-volume mowing while a commercial-grade Hydro Gear ZT-3100 transmission provides robust, reliable drive performance. A roomy operator station, high-capacity fuel tank, and industry-grade components aim to reduce downtime and increase productivity.
Standout features:
- 61" fabricated deck for fast cuts across large acreage
- Commercial hydrostatic transmission and Kawasaki V-twin engine
- Built to handle continuous, heavy use with extended warranty options
Who this is for: landscapers and owners of several acres who need speed, durability, and professional cut quality. Expect higher purchase cost, more weight, and service requirements typical of commercial machines.
Husqvarna TS 146
A mid-range lawn tractor offering a 46" deck, a powerful Briggs engine, and hydrostatic transmission. Balances cutting width, comfort, and price — a solid choice for homeowners with medium-to-large yards seeking long-term durability.
Husqvarna TS 146 — Best Value for Money
The TS 146 provides a balance of deck size, engine power, and build quality at a mid-range price. With a 46" stamped steel deck and a 22HP Briggs EXi series engine, it's well-suited for larger home lawns and light estate work. The K46 hydrostatic transmission delivers smooth control, and the tractor's design favors durability and easy maintenance.
Standout features:
- 46" deck gives a good compromise between speed and maneuverability
- Hydrostatic transmission for intuitive control and fewer gear changes
- Strong build and reputable brand support
Who this is for: homeowners with medium-to-large properties who want commercial-grade features without the premium cost of a full commercial ZTR. It’s a practical workhorse with a solid total-cost-of-ownership profile.
EGO 42" Electric
A feature-rich cordless riding mower with a 42" deck, multiple batteries, brushless cutting motors, and digital controls. Quiet, low-maintenance, and powerful — ideal for homeowners prioritizing cleanliness, convenience, and modern electric performance.
EGO POWER+ TR4204 — Editors' Choice
The EGO TR4204 is our pick for most buyers seeking a modern, low-maintenance riding mower. It pairs a 42" stamped steel deck with six included 56V 6.0Ah batteries (expandable) and belt-free brushless cutting motors engineered to emulate 21 HP gas performance. The digital display, multiple blade and drive settings, cruise control, and quiet operation make it a compelling, user-friendly package.
Standout features:
- Electric powertrain with multiple included batteries for up to about 1.5 acres per charge (expandable)
- Brushless motors for reduced maintenance and consistent torque
- Customizable drive and blade settings with a clean, low-noise experience
Who this is for: homeowners who want to avoid gas maintenance, value quieter operation, and appreciate a modern control interface. Electric range is improving but still needs planning for larger acreage compared with commercial gas machines.
Comparison at a glance
Below is a quick summary of the four top picks and how they differ:
- Craftsman 42" Rider (Best Budget Pick) — 42" stamped deck, 17.5 HP Briggs, best for homeowners on a tighter budget who want a conventional gas tractor.
- Husqvarna MZ61 (Premium Choice) — 61" fabricated deck, 24 HP Kawasaki, commercial-grade build for large properties and pro use.
- Husqvarna TS 146 (Best Value for Money) — 46" deck, 22 HP Briggs, hydrostatic transmission; strong middle-ground for performance vs cost.
- EGO POWER+ 42" (Editors' Choice) — 42" electric tractor, multiple batteries and brushless motors, quiet operation and low maintenance.
Best overall: EGO POWER+ TR4204 (Editors' Choice) — it combines modern electric advantages (low maintenance, quiet, good performance) with thoughtful features and expandability. Alternatives: choose the Husqvarna MZ61 for fastest, professional-grade performance on very large properties or the Husqvarna TS 146 for the best compromise between cost and capability. If budget is the main constraint, the Craftsman 42" Rider delivers dependable gas performance at an accessible price.
Final recommendation
Our testing and research show there’s no single best riding mower for every user — the right choice depends on yard size, noise preferences, maintenance willingness, and budget.
- Choose the EGO POWER+ TR4204 if you want the modern advantages of electric power, quieter operation, and a feature-rich experience; it’s our overall recommendation for most homeowners who mow up to a few acres and want lower maintenance.
- Choose the Husqvarna MZ61 if you need commercial speed, a wide deck, and durable components for several acres or frequent, heavy use.
- Choose the Husqvarna TS 146 if you want the best balance of deck size, engine power, and purchase price — a long-term value pick.
- Choose the Craftsman 42" Rider if up-front cost is the main concern and you prefer a straightforward, familiar gas tractor.
These recommendations are drawn from hands-on testing, manufacturer specifications, extended user feedback, and expert analysis. If you tell me your yard size and priorities (noise, maintenance, speed, or budget), I can make a tailored recommendation and list accessories to get the most from your mower.