Lawn Tractors vs. Zero Turn Mowers
Which is Best for Your Property?
Finding the perfect mower for your property is important but can be difficult. It can be especially difficult if you are unsure of what to look for when purchasing your new mower. Knowing the difference between popular types of mowers, like lawn tractors and zero turn mowers, can help ensure you choose the right equipment for your lawn. Our equipment representatives at M&R are happy to assist you in finding the right mower for your specific lawn care needs.
Key Features and Differences | Lawn Tractors vs. Zero Turn Mowers
Maneuverability
One major difference between lawn tractors and zero turn mowers is their maneuverability. Zero turn mowers can turn 180 degrees, while lawn tractors have a wider turn radius. What this means is that lawn tractors typically will have to drive over already cut grass to fully finish the job while zero turn mowers can keep on mowing without leaving those uncut strips of grass behind. Because of this, zero turn mowers will ultimately save you time in comparison to lawn tractors.
Terrain
Another difference to be aware of is the type of land you will be using your mower on. If your land has a lot of trees and bushes throughout the lawn, then a zero-turn mower would be more efficient in cutting around those features.
Slopes vs. flat is another important thing to take into consideration. Although lawn tractors like a Kubota GR or T series would be your best option for slopes over 10 degrees, we do have zero turn options like the Cub Cadet Z-Force, which offers a wheeled steering option, better for handling down hills or slopes. If your lawn is mostly flat with several obstacles (trees and bushes) to navigate around, a zero-turn mower would be most efficient in getting the job done.
Time
If time is a huge factor for you, then a zero-turn mower may be more of interest to you. Zero turns can go to speeds of 8 mph to 16 mph vs. riding mowers with speeds of 3 mph to 7 mph. The size of your mower deck is important when it comes to time as well. Larger mower decks will cut down mowing time. Zero turn mowers offer deck sizes around 48” to 72”. Riding mowers offer deck sizes ranging from 28” to 54”.
Bigger decks are not always a good fit for every lawn. They may cut down on mowing time, but they can also make it more difficult to cut narrow spaces. Choosing a deck size appropriate to your lawn is important. If your lawn is mostly open, a bigger deck size would fit your lawn perfectly and save you a lot of time. If your lawn has a lot of narrow spaces, a smaller deck is the way to go.
Versatility
Both lawn tractors and zero turn mowers have attachments available to assist with several lawn care needs.
- Zero turn mowers available attachments: baggers, grass catchers, lawn sweepers, mulching blades/kits, haulers, snowplows, snowblowers, and more.
- Riding mower available attachments: mower bags, dump carts, lawn sweepers, snowblowers, snowplows, spreaders, lifts, ramps, sprayers, mulching kits, and more.
If you are planning on doing a lot of gardening, spraying, and seeding, a riding mower may be more efficient for you. A riding mower/tractor offers a little more versatility than zero turn mowers. Ultimately, both mower types can get most of your lawn care needs accomplished with ease.
We offer a large selection of both lawn tractors and zero turn mowers to choose from here at M&R. Our selection includes both new and used mowers with some great end of season zero turn specials happening now! If you are still unsure of which mower may be the best fit for you, our equipment representatives are here to help you find the right equipment for any type of terrain or job.
Zero Turn Mowers on Sale at M&R Power Equipment
Exmark Lazer Z Diesel | Located @ Butler
Emark Lazer Z Diesel 96" | Located @ Hermitage
Ferris IS2100Z | Available @ Butler
