Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2026

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Riding lawn mowers are an essential tool for anyone with a large lawn or garden. These machines are designed to make mowing faster and easier, with powerful engines and wide cutting decks that can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. Riding mowers come in a variety of models, from basic push mowers to high-end zero-turn models with advanced features like adjustable cutting heights, automatic transmissions, and even GPS navigation. With the right riding mower, maintaining a beautiful lawn can be a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your outdoor space and less time working on it.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

MoJack HDL 500 Hydraulic Lift Jack Cover #TOP 1
MoJack HDL 500 Hydraulic Lift Jack
ftb score rating icon 9.9
MoJack EZ MAX 45001-OP Lawn Mower Lift Cover #TOP 2
MoJack EZ MAX 45001-OP Lawn Mower Lift
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Craftsman 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower Cover #TOP 3
Craftsman 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Riding Lawn Mowers

#TOP 1

MoJack HDL 500 Hydraulic Lift Jack

HDL-500
MoJack HDL 500 Hydraulic Lift Jack Cover
MoJack HDL 500 NO 45501-OP Hydraulic Cylinder Lift Jack for Zero Turn Radius Riding Lawn Mower Maintenance and Repair, 500lb Lifting Capacity with Locking Bar for Added Safety

The MoJack Hydraulic Lift Jack is designed to make lifting your zero turn lawn mower or small equipment easier and safer. It features a strong hydraulic system built from durable steel that can lift up to 500 pounds, so you can confidently work under your mower. The jack uses a hydraulic cylinder to quickly raise and lower your mower, saving you time and effort when cleaning, sharpening, or changing blades. It also includes three safety stops at different heights to keep your mower secure while you work. With adjustable wheel pads and a lift range from 17.5 to 24 inches, this jack offers great flexibility for various maintenance tasks.

What We Like
Easy and safe operation
Heavy-duty construction
Time and back saver
Compact, easy storage
Stable lifting capacity
What We Don't Like
Somewhat heavy
Price is a bit high
#TOP 2

MoJack EZ MAX 45001-OP Lawn Mower Lift

45001
MoJack EZ MAX 45001-OP Lawn Mower Lift Cover
MoJack EZ MAX 45001-OP- Residential Riding Lawn Mower Lift, 450lb Lifting Capacity, Fits Most Residential & ZTR Mowers, Folds Flat for Easy Storage, Use for Mower Maintenance Or Repair

The MoJack EZ MAX Lift offers a simple and safe way to raise your zero turn radius mower or garden tractor, making maintenance much easier. You can lift your mower either by hand or with a power drill, giving you flexibility depending on your preference. When not in use, it folds flat, saving you storage space. Its unique design makes assembly quick and straightforward, and it’s safer than using traditional car ramps. This lift helps you perform tasks like blade changes, sharpening, belt replacement, and cleaning debris efficiently, saving you trips to a dealer and giving you more control over your mower’s upkeep.

What We Like
Sturdy and stable design
Easy assembly and setup
Effortless lifting mechanism
Wide mower compatibility
Compact, foldable storage
What We Don't Like
Price slightly high
Initial assembly time needed
#TOP 3

Craftsman 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower

13AN77XSA93
Craftsman 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower Cover
Craftsman 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 17.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton Single-Cylinder Engine, Gas Lawn Tractor with 7-Speed Transmission, Red/Black

The Craftsman Gas Riding Mower offers a powerful 42-inch cutting deck that helps you maintain up to 2 acres of grass quickly and efficiently, saving you time and effort. Its dependable 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine ensures easy starts and consistent performance, so you can trust it to get the job done right every time. The mower’s rugged design includes a stamped steel deck for durability, and with an optional mulching kit, you can achieve a professional-looking finish. Maneuvering around trees and flower beds is simple thanks to its tight 18-inch turning radius and strong, heavy-duty wheels that provide smooth handling on your lawn.

What We Like
Easy assembly process
Durable and long-lasting
Excellent cutting performance
Reliable home delivery
Good overall value
What We Don't Like
Minor missing parts on delivery
Warranty parts delay
#TOP 4

MAXXTUFF ROPSRIDER XHD Tractor Basket MTF100

MAXXTUFF
MTF100
Black
MAXXTUFF ROPSRIDER XHD Tractor Basket MTF100 Cover
MAXXTUFF Heavy-Duty ROPSRIDER XHD Tractor Basket, Fits Most Tractor and Zero Turn Mower ROPS Bars, Model MTF100

The MAXXTUFF Tractor Basket offers a flexible fit for most small tractors and zero-turn mowers, as long as the space between your ROPS bars is over 26.5 inches. This means you can easily add it to your equipment without hassle. It helps you stay organized by giving you a central spot to keep all your tools and gear, cutting down on clutter while you work. The basket is large enough to hold plenty of essential items, so you don’t have to make extra trips back and forth. Plus, it comes with hooks on three sides, letting you hang long or short-handled tools for quick access, making your work more efficient.

What We Like
Sturdy and high-quality build
Flexible mounting options
Useful accessories included
Easy to assemble
Great storage capacity
What We Don't Like
Toolbox not waterproof
Instructions could be clearer
#TOP 5

EGO Power+ TR4204 42" Riding Lawn Tractor

TR4204
Green
EGO Power+ TR4204 42" Riding Lawn Tractor Cover
EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42" Deck Cordless Tractor, Includes (6) 56V 6.0Ah Batteries and Charger - TR4204

The EGO Power+ Tractor, equipped with Peak Power technology, harnesses the strength of multiple lithium batteries to match the power of a gas-powered 21-horsepower engine. With six 6.0Ah batteries, it can mow up to 1.5 acres before needing a recharge. The durable 42-inch steel deck offers 12 cutting heights from 1.5 to 4.5 inches, ensuring precision in your lawn maintenance. Charging the batteries is quick, taking only 3.5 hours with the included 700W charger. This riding lawn tractor from EGO Power+ is a reliable and efficient choice for large lawn areas.

What We Like
Powerful cutting performance
Quiet operation
Easy assembly process
User-friendly maintenance
Interchangeable batteries
What We Don't Like
Minor crate disposal hassle
Blade motors may shut off
#TOP 6

Pro-LifT Lawn Mower Lift Jack 350 lbs

PL5350Q
Orange
350 Lbs
Pro-LifT Lawn Mower Lift Jack 350 lbs Cover
Pro-Lift Lawn Mower Lift Jack - 350 Lbs Capacity for Tractors and Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

The Pro-LifT Lawn Mower Lift is designed to make maintaining your riding mower easier and safer. Its solid steel frame gives you a strong and reliable base, so you can trust it to hold your mower securely. The built-in safety lock keeps your mower steady while you work, preventing any accidental tipping. Four sturdy steel wheels make it simple to move the lift around your workspace without hassle. Plus, the rubber-padded platform protects your mower from scratches, keeping it in good condition throughout your repairs or maintenance. These features combine to offer convenience and peace of mind during your lawn care tasks.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Stable and sturdy build
Good lift height
Lightweight and portable
Safety lock feature
What We Don't Like
Small carter pins
Occasional hydraulic fluid leak
#TOP 7

Greenworks 60V Electric Zero Turn Riding Mower

CRZ426
Green and Black
42" ZTR
Greenworks 60V Electric Zero Turn Riding Mower Cover
Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric CrossoverZ Zero Turn Riding Mower, (4) 8.0Ah Batteries and (2) Dual Port Turbo Chargers

The Greenworks Electric Zero Turn Mower lets you cut up to 1.5 acres continuously with its "Mow, Swap, and Go" feature. It offers cleaner, more even cuts with a 24 HP equivalent power. With a 42" deck and a brushless motor, it provides more torque, quiet operation, and longer life. Enjoy the industry's fastest cutting speed of 8 MPH. This mower is 4x quieter than gas mowers, giving you a peaceful mowing experience.

What We Like
Quiet operation
Long battery life
Powerful cutting performance
Easy maintenance
Comfortable seating
What We Don't Like
Chute attachment could fit better
Minor assembly inconvenience
#TOP 8

Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Lawn Mower 13AC77XYA93

13AC77XYA93
Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Lawn Mower 13AC77XYA93 Cover
Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 11.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton Single-Cylinder Engine, Gas Lawn Tractor with 7-Speed Transmission, Red/Black (13AC77XYA93)

The Craftsman Gas Riding Mower offers a powerful 11.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine that starts easily and provides reliable performance for your lawn care needs. Its 36-inch steel deck is strong enough to handle up to 2 acres of grass, making yard maintenance quicker and more efficient. The mower is designed to fit through narrow gates and tight spaces, so maneuvering around your yard is hassle-free. Plus, the 18-inch turning radius and durable Turf Saver wheels let you navigate obstacles smoothly, saving you time and effort while keeping your lawn looking great.

What We Like
Fast, reliable delivery
Easy assembly process
Powerful, smooth operation
Good value for price
Well-packaged shipment
What We Don't Like
No grass chute included
Occasional starting issues
#TOP 9

EGO POWER+ Z6 Riding Mower Sun Shade

AMS1000
Black
EGO POWER+ Z6 Riding Mower Sun Shade Cover
EGO POWER+ Z6 Zero Turning Riding Mower Sun Shade - AMS1000

The EGO POWER+ Mower Sun Shade is designed to keep you comfortable by providing protection from the sun while you operate your Z6 Zero Turn Riding Mower. Made from tough, water- and UV-resistant fabric, it shields you from harsh sunlight and sudden rain, ensuring your mowing experience stays pleasant. This shade is easy to install and remove, so you can set it up quickly without hassle. Plus, as a genuine EGO part, it guarantees a perfect fit and reliable performance with your ZT4204L or ZT5207L mower models, giving you peace of mind and convenience.

What We Like
Excellent sun protection
Easy assembly process
Adjustable height levels
Durable construction
Comfort in hot weather
What We Don't Like
Minor noise on bumps
Occasional missing hardware
#TOP 10

Husqvarna Z254F Zero Turn Lawn Mower

Orange
Husqvarna Z254F Zero Turn Lawn Mower Cover
Husqvarna Z254F (54") 24HP 726cc FR730 Engine Zero Turn Mower

The Husqvarna Z254F Zero Turn Lawn Mower is a powerful and durable riding lawn mower with a 24HP Kawasaki engine. The spring-assisted deck lift system and ergonomic control panel make it easy to operate, while the LED headlights provide added visibility during early morning or late evening mowing.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Effortless mowing performance
Safety-focused controls
Quick delivery
What We Don't Like
Minor alignment issue
Registration difficulty
Buying Guide Image

What You Need to Know About Riding Lawn Mowers

If you are one of the people who care not only for decorating the interior of their homes but also concentrate on keeping the green areas around your home beautiful and organized, then you need to get a good riding lawnmower.

These tools are the most suitable to give your garden an image that reflects organization, cleanliness, and harmony with nature. Since they can ride, you would save a lot of time. For this reason, the riding lawnmowers are the great allies of the lovers of the gardening and of which they have an orchard or plot that demands continuous maintenance.

When it comes to maintaining an organized garden without it representing an exhausting task, nothing better than having a riding lawnmower that helps you save time and effort.

For this reason, we have prepared this guide to buy the best riding lawn mower, with the idea of ​​offering you the relevant aspects that you should consider before making your investment and remember that the important thing is not how much it costs, but the advantages and benefits that this user can offer you tool.

Utility

A well-kept garden offers a great attraction and beauty to any property and if it is the case that you have a property that you want to sell or rent, the organized green areas could add more value. For this reason, having a riding lawn mower is an excellent alternative to help you with maintenance work, since a neglected land or garden, with tall grass and dirt, gives the impression of abandonment.

These useful tools not only provide benefits at the domestic level but are also recommended in cases of cleaning large plots. Likewise, the riding lawnmowers are used at a professional level to keep the grass of the parks, the surface of the great golf courses, the soccer fields, and the baseball stadiums.

Finally, wherever there is grass to trim, it is best to choose a riding lawn mower than a traditional one. For all this, they are the ideal tools to keep all green areas clean and aesthetically attractive.

Power

Before betting on a specific model, you must evaluate the area you want to clean, the power of a riding lawn mower you need will depend on it. Therefore, it is convenient that you make your comparison of different riding mowers and consider the different options offered by the current market. Gas riding mowers offer autonomy, versatility, and power, so they are recommended for large gardens, orchards or plots whose dimensions range from approximately 1000 to 2000 m2.

Also, we have riding mower tractors. These machines offer the benefits of gasoline models, with the stipulation that you can comfortably sit and clean areas of up to 6000 m2. They have bigger wheels and an address that allows you to get anywhere and even, some models include lighting to work at night or in low light.

Design and functionality

Mowers – whether traditional or riding – are tools designed to facilitate the task of cutting grass. For this, they are equipped with sharp blades of steel in the form of blades, which rotate quickly to hit and cut the grass. These machines, regardless of the model or type, have a motor that offers high performance and material that can be made of metal or resistant plastic.

Because it is a robust and powerful machine, which performs difficult jobs, you should not neglect the importance of choosing a model that gives you comfort when performing your work. Therefore, look for a riding lawnmower that offers you intuitive operation, ergonomic handling as you can ride it, and an easily manipulated weight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long should you keep a riding lawn mower?

On average, you can expect a riding lawn mower to last anywhere from six to ten years, or even longer with proper care and maintenance. If your mower starts showing signs of decline or if you're considering an upgrade, it may be time to replace it.

2. How big of a yard do I need for a riding mower?

The size of your yard will determine the appropriate riding mower. For a 3/4-acre to 1-acre lawn, a mower with a 30-inch to 42-inch cut width is suitable. If you have a 1-acre to 2-acre lawn, look for a mower with a 42-inch to 52-inch cut width.

3. What is the difference between a riding lawn mower and a riding lawn tractor?

The key difference between a riding lawn mower and a riding lawn tractor is the position of the cutting blades. Riding lawn tractors have blades located at the center of the machine, making them more effective for cutting large areas and maneuvering around wider objects like trees and bushes.

4. Can a lawn mower last 20 years?

While the lifespan of a lawn mower can vary, the hours of use is a more accurate measure. Some people can get as much as 10 to 20 years out of their riding lawn mowers, which typically equates to 500 to 1,000 hours of use.

5. What size mower do I need for 1 acre?

For a medium-sized yard, around 1 to 1.5 acres, a 42-inch mower is a good starting point. Larger mowers may require more time maneuvering into position and around tight corners. If you have a larger area of 1.5 to 3 acres, a mower with a cutting deck between 42 inches to 48 inches is recommended.

Editor's Notes

During our riding lawn mower research, we found 24 riding lawn mower products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 20,673 customer reviews through our big data system to write the riding lawn mowers list. We found that most customers choose riding lawn mowers with an average price of $1,897.21.

The riding lawn mowers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of riding lawn mowers, including MoJack, CRAFTSMAN, MAXXTUFF, EGO Power+, Pro-LifT. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 56 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bryan Hicks Avatar

Bryan Hicks is a professional gardener and a writer who lives in North Texas with his family and his dog. Bryan has spent more than half of his life surrounded by garden products. He has extensive experience in garden makeovers and maintenance and lawn care. His areas of expertise include outdoor decoration, gardening and garden design.

Riding Lawn Mowers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand MoJack MoJack CRAFTSMAN MAXXTUFF EGO Power+ Pro-LifT Greenworks CRAFTSMAN EGO Power+ Husqvarna
Color red - Red Black Green Orange Green and Black Red Black Gray, Orange
Material Alloy Steel - Alloy Steel Durable, powder-coated steel Other Alloy Steel Plastic Alloy Steel, Metal Durable UV and water resistant material Metal
Item Weight 66.9 pounds 64.8 pounds 410 Pounds - 640 Pounds - 476.19 Pounds 350 Pounds 37 Pounds 595 Pounds
Style Hydraulic - Push - 42" Tractor w/(6) 6.0Ah Batteries - Powerful Push Sun Shade automotive
Power Source - - Gas Powered - Battery Powered - dc Gas Powered Battery Powered Gas Powered
Cutting Width - - 42 Inches - 42 Inches - 42 Inches 36 Inches 83.01 Centimeters 54 Inches
Operation Mode - - Automatic - Automatic - Automatic Automatic Manual Automatic
Assembly Required - - - - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy