It might not feel like it in the Northeast, but spring is finally here—and that means it’s almost time for your friendly neighborhood lawn wars to begin again. Of course, if you want to stay competitive, you need a mower that’s up for the challenge. Zero-turn mowers give you cleaner cuts, better control and superior maneuverability. “With independent control of each rear wheel, they can literally pivot in place, which makes it much easier to get around trees, flowerbeds and other obstacles,” says Josh Heston, co-owner of ALC Property Maintenance. Plus, they cut (pun intended) your mowing time considerably, so you can get back to admiring your grass in no time. After consulting experts and performing hands-on testing, I chose the Toro TimeCutter Max as the best zero-turn mower overall because it’s powerful, consistent and comfortable to use. My other recommendations include the Bad Boy Magnum for large yards and the EGO Power+ Z6 for those who prefer a battery-powered machine.
I chose the Toro TimeCutter MAX as the best zero-turn mower overall because it’s powerful, consistent and comfortable.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: Lindsay Boyers for Forbes
Homeowners who want commercial-grade performance without a steep learning curve
Skip if:
You have a small yard with lots of tight spaces
I use the Toro TimeCutter Max at home and love it for several reasons. For starters, it has commercial-grade durability and features, but it’s not too intimidating for most homeowners. This model is also a favorite of Gurkaren Ark, project manager at Ark’s Landscaping, because of its reliability.
It pairs a powerful 23-HP Kawasaki engine with a 50-inch forged steel deck supported by a four-point mounting system. This design keeps the deck more stable and balanced, so it cuts smoothly—even on uneven terrain. One thing that stood out during testing is that it typically gets the job done in one pass, even if it’s been a little too long between mows. This drastically shortened mowing time and elevated the look of the yard.
It’s also comfortable, largely thanks to Toro’s MyRide suspension system. The seat is isolated from the frame, which helps reduce movement and fatigue. I can hardly feel any vibration from the engine, which is great during longer mowing sessions. It also has a high-back, ergonomic seat and wide rear tires that help reduce wear and tear on your body. All in all, it has smooth handling, cuts quickly and reliably and makes the entire process faster and more comfortable. This mower has been nothing but consistent though two (going on three) seasons.
Zero-turn mowers aren’t the best choice for steep hills (consider a regular push mower for that), but they can handle some sloping, especially if you choose one with the right construction. The Cub Cadet Ultima Z2 is a great choice because it has wide rear tires and a low, balanced frame that reduce slipping and deliver solid traction. It can handle slopes up to about 15 degrees, which is better than what you’d get from other entry-level models.
It has some impressive power, too. With a reliable 21.5-HP Kawasaki engine and a smooth dual hydrostatic drive system, you can maintain a steady pace and still get an even cut if your yard isn’t perfectly flat.
Some users report that it can take some time to get used to the controls, and it’s not the most feature-packed mower for the price. But these are minor tradeoffs, especially if you’re prioritizing stability and control on uneven terrain.
If you’re tackling a large yard, the Bad Boy Magnum mower is a great choice. It has a wide 54-inch cutting deck that lets you cover more ground in one pass and can reduce overall mowing time. Beyond size, the 24-HP Kohler engine is powerful enough to handle thick or overgrown grass, and a large 6-gallon fuel tank means you won’t have to stop too often to refuel.
It’s also built tougher than a lot of similarly priced mowers, which is key for intensive use. It has a heavy-duty, all-welded steel frame and reinforced 7-gauge deck that are designed to handle extended use without wearing down. Plus, a dual hydrostatic drive system helps keep it steady while it’s running.
Because this model is designed to cover a lot of ground, it is a fairly big (and heavy) machine, so it’s not easy to store or transport. The ride can also feel a little less comfortable compared to models with more sophisticated suspension systems, but it has an adjustable cushioned seat to help you settle in.
Homeowners who mow regularly and don’t need a heavy-duty option
Skip if:
You have a large property
You tend to go a long time between mows
The John Deere Z315E makes mowing a lot more manageable for those with smaller yards. The 42-inch deck is big enough to cover ground efficiently but the machine is still compact enough to navigate around trees and tight corners without constantly backing up or readjusting.
It’s also one of the easier zero-turn mowers for beginners to get comfortable with. The controls are straightforward and the 20-HP engine has enough power for regular mowing without feeling excessive. That said, it’s not built for heavy-duty use—if you like to stretch time between mows or you’re mowing a larger property, you may need to make an extra pass. But for smaller lawns, it’s a good balance of size, power and ease of use.
You have a large yard that requires extended runtime
The EGO Power+ Z6 is a battery-powered mower that doesn’t require you to trade cutting performance just to go electric. It can hold up to six 56V batteries (it comes with four) that work together to deliver power similar to a 22-HP gas engine. That means it can handle regular mowing just as well as most of the gas options on this list, while running much quieter (and cleaner).
It has a 42-inch deck and can cover around 1 to 2 acres on a single charge. The ride is smooth, too, thanks to independent motors and three adjustable drive modes. You can also customize speed and performance through the onboard display.
The maintenance, or lack thereof, is what really makes electric mowers stand out. There’s no oil, gas, spark plugs or engine upkeep—just charge the batteries and you’re good to go. Compared to gas mowers, these are easier to start (no choke or pull cord), and they run more quietly during use. Of course, there are trade-offs, too: Runtime is limited by battery capacity and it comes at a higher upfront cost. But if you want something cleaner, quieter and easier to maintain long term, this model is one of the best battery options available.
How We Chose The Best Zero-Turn Mowers
We consulted experts, conducted hands-on testing and performed extensive research to find a trusted list of the best zero-turn mowers.
We researched the most popular and respected brands of zero-turn mowers on the market, making sure to include models that vary in size, price and features for a range of consumers.
We consulted several lawn care experts to determine the most important features to prioritize in zero-turn mowers, including engine power, materials and deck size.
We tested the Toro TimeCutter Max for over two years, taking note of its performance, comfort, design and more. We also spent the summer testing other popular models from well-known brands like Husqvarna and John Deere, comparing their power, build quality and ease of use.
We prioritized models that have earned positive ratings from customers; every mower on this list has earned a 4-star rating or higher.
What To Look For In A Zero-Turn Mower
Before you buy a zero-turn mower, it’s important to understand the features that actually make a difference in performance, like engine power, build quality and deck size.
Engine Power
Engine power (measured in horsepower, or HP) directly affects how well the mower can handle thick grass, hills and large properties. "If your property is large and the grass is quite dense, it is best to opt for a more powerful engine," says Heston. More power also means faster mowing and fewer slowdowns, but it comes with a higher upfront cost.
Small-medium yards: Look for 18 to 24 HP
Large yards/More demanding terrain: Look for 25 to 30 HP
Build Quality
Build quality determines how long your mower will last and how well it holds up to frequent use. Avoid plastic parts and, instead, prioritize fabricated steel decks, heavy-duty frames and reputable engine brands—like Kawasaki (Ark’s favorite) and Kohler. Investing in a sturdier machine upfront will save you money on repairs and replacements over time.
Cutting Deck Size
The deck size controls how much grass you cut in each pass, which directly impacts mowing time. "You want something large enough to make quick work of your property, but you also want to ensure that it will be small enough to fit through gates and around obstacles," says Ark. Choose the largest deck your yard can realistically accommodate without making navigation difficult.
Up to 2 acres: 42- to 54-inch deck size
Over 2 acres: 60-inch deck size or larger
Maneuverability
One of the biggest advantages of zero-turn mowers is their ability to turn in place and move around obstacles. If your yard has trees, landscaping or narrow areas, prioritize models with responsive dual-lever controls and good visibility from the seat. This will reduce missed spots and cut down on trimming time.
Terrain Compatibility
Not all zero-turn mowers handle uneven ground or slopes well, so match the mower to your yard. Most models will work for flat lawns, but for hills or rough terrain, look for larger rear tires, more horsepower and better traction systems. If your yard has steep slopes, you may be better off with a regular push mower instead.
Comfort and Ergonomics
A more comfortable mower reduces fatigue and helps you maintain better control, which can actually improve cut quality over longer sessions. Look for high-back padded seats, armrests, easy-to-reach controls and vibration-reducing features.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted home team regularly evaluates and tests outdoor equipment, and we’ve spent years testing lawn care tools in real-world conditions to assess performance, durability and ease of use.
This story was written by Lindsay Boyers, director of commerce strategy and optimization for Forbes Vetted. She has over a decade of experience covering home products, including outdoor lawn equipment. She consulted with her fiancé, who worked as a golf course assistant superintendent for nearly 1o years and has a certificate in turf science and management from UMASS Amherst (and is very particular about his lawn).
We perform regular updates on all of our content, ensuring all of the information is relevant and up-to-date. This piece was last updated in April 2026.
Lindsay Boyers for Forbes
Our Experts
Josh Heston is the co-owner of ALC Property Maintenance, a company specializing in property maintenance, including landscaping and lawn care.
Gurkaren Ark is a project manager at Ark’s Landscaping, a full-service landscaping company that provides residential and commercial services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Zero-turn mowers aren’t the best choice for yards with steep hills. “The rear-heavy weight distribution and front wheel design do not lend themselves to working on an angle. This can lead to the zero-turn sliding down the hill or tipping over in a worst-case scenario,” says Ark. You can use them on mild to moderate slopes, though.
Yes, Toro zero-turn mowers are reliable, comfortable and precise. They can be more expensive than some other models, but they have a durable construction that’s built to last. Because of this, our top pick is the Toro TimeCutter Max.
