The 7 Best Zero Turn Mowers

Buyer GuideGarden Tools

This review has been updated 21 times since it was first published in April of 2021. If your lawn is shaped and designed such that you need greater maneuverability than a standard model can provide, try one of these zero-turn mowers. They can change directions on a dime in order to zip around obstacles like trees or plant borders, and come with motors designed for everything from a small garden to a large field. We’ve included a few good enough for commercial use, too.

7. Poulan Pro PPX46Z

The Poulan Pro PPX46Z (appx. $3750) is one of the most affordable models, with a cutting swath wide enough to tackle sprawling yards. It’s 46-inch deck is vented for optimal airflow with a welded-in reinforcement bar to ensure its longevity and durability.

Smooth electric clutch
Can handle tall and wet grass
Belt may be improperly installed

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6. Husqvarna MZ61

The Husqvarna MZ61 (about $4800) has a triple-blade cutting system that doesn’t leave behind any stray blades of grass. Its 61-inch deck and 27-horsepower, V-Twin engine allow operators to blow through the toughest vegetation without slowing down, making it ideal for commercial use.

Armrests are well cushioned
Handles uphill slopes easily
Doesn’t have a washout connection

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5. Troy-Bilt Mustang

The Troy-Bilt Mustang (around $3538) offers a smooth ride, thanks to the dual suspension springs underneath its high-backed seat. Its two-way adjustable lap bars accommodate operators of all sizes, and they will also automatically activate the parking brake when you stand up.

Comfortably angled footrest
Electric deck engagement
Bagger and mulching kit available

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4. Ariens Ikon-X

With a 52-inch deck, the Ariens Ikon-X (around $3099) makes short work of even the largest yards, so it is a smart choice for lawn care companies when time equals money. Its well-padded armrests and seat will keep you comfortable all day long.

Equipped with three blades
13 cutting positions
Five-year deck and frame warranty

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3. Husqvarna Z254

Setting the Husqvarna Z254 (about $2900) apart from the competition is its use of air induction technology to draw air from both the top and bottom of its deck. This action sucks grass upward into the path of the blades, maximizing its cutting efficiency.

Auto-activating parking brake
No-maintenance transmission
Good stability on slopes

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2. Ariens Zoom 34

The Ariens Zoom 34 (around $2799) is ideal for medium-sized lawns. Its 19-horsepower motor is powerful enough to push up moderate inclines and hack through tough vegetation, but not so large as to needlessly waste fuel. It is easy to maneuver around obstacles, too.

Integrated washout port
Seat provides good back support
Cuts in forward and reverse

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1. Swisher ZTR

Thanks to its low center of gravity, reliable hydro-gear transmission, welded steel frame, and rapid response control system, the Swisher ZTR (about $4100) provides great performance and maneuverability across almost any lawn, regardless of its size.

Travels at up to 8 mph
Built-in cupholder
Deck height is easy to adjust