How to Pick the Best Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

Assess Your Requirements

Choosing the right zero-turn mower involves tailoring it to your specific circumstances. Begin by evaluating the optimal size that can navigate your space seamlessly and efficiently. Determine how much time it takes to complete your mowing tasks. Notably, zero-turn mowers excel in yards with numerous obstacles due to their impressive zero-degree turning radius. These mowers offer enhanced speed, so it’s crucial to factor in the unique characteristics of your lawn when making your selection.

Durability

Strength and durability are non-negotiable for any zero-turn mower investment. Seek a machine built on a robust frame, housing a potent engine, and boasting resistance against corrosion. Opt for mowers constructed with a continuous square tubular frame for a rugged, long-lasting apparatus.

Zero-Turn Feature Checklist

Once you’ve considered the needs of your yard and decided on the right size mower, there’s a checklist of features that your zero-turn mower should fulfill. Beware of zero-turn mowers that focus on just one feature and look for a machine that can excel across the board. 

Excellent Cut Quality & Performance

At the end of the day, you need a mower that’s going to give you the best cut possible without sacrificing performance. That means finer clippings, fewer clumps and a uniform cut. Not all zero-turn mowers were created equal. Yours should be outfitted with a deck that’s focused on maintaining a quality cut (preferably a cut that has been proven out by a trusted third party) but that’s also easy to adjust from a height standpoint. Superior bagging performance is a major bonus, as it makes short work of fine grass clippings.

Zero-turn mowers generally have a breadth of deck sizes, so you can choose the right size for your lawn. For larger yards with more acreage, a larger deck will reduce the amount of time it takes to mow your lawn. However, for smaller yards, the same deck size isn’t practical and in some cases can be limiting.

Strength

Strength and durability are a must for any zero-turn mower you purchase. You’ll want to look for a machine that’s built on a strong frame, houses a powerful engine and resists corrosion. Mowers that are built on a continuous square tubular frame will make for a strong, durable machine. 

Comfort

A comfortable ride is just as important as quality and speed. Choose a mower outfitted with comfortable features like a high-back adjustable seat so your mower feels like your armchair, ample leg room, ergonomic rubber hand grips for a comfortable grip, and seat isolators for a smoother, quieter ride on any terrain you need to tackle.

Easy Maintenance

Maintenance shouldn’t be a headache when it comes to your zero-turn, and your machine should be as easy as possible to maintain. Mowers with maintenance-free spindles, for instance, mean one less part to worry about, while a hinged floor pan makes for easy deck access.

Easy Maintenance

Maintenance shouldn’t be a headache when it comes to your zero-turn, and your machine should be as easy as possible to maintain. Mowers with maintenance-free spindles, for instance, mean one less part to worry about, while a hinged floor pan makes for easy deck access.

Style

Part of the experience of owning a zero-turn mower is being proud of the machine you’re operating. Take the all-new Ultima Series of zero-turn lawn mowers, for example. These mowers offer an automotive-inspired, compelling design that captures attention and exudes performance.

Cut quality, strength, comfort, maintenance and style are just a few of the many considerations when shopping for a zero-turn. Check out Cub Cadet’s new line of residential zero-turn lawn mowers, the Ultima Series, which pairs strength, comfort and, best-in-class cut* for the ultimate all-around mowing experience