Best Riding Lawn Mower Deals

I spent 15 years maintaining lawns professionally, and I’ve learned that finding the right riding mower deal can save you hundreds while getting better equipment.

The Craftsman 36-inch riding mower is the best deal for most homeowners because it fits through standard gates, includes a mulching kit, and costs significantly less than larger models.

After analyzing 10 riding mowers across gas and electric categories, I found deals ranging from budget-friendly lawn tractors to premium zero-turn mowers.

This guide covers current pricing, seasonal deal timing, and which models offer the best value for different lawn sizes.

Top 3 Riding Mower Deals This Week

These three riding mowers represent the best values across different categories based on my analysis of current pricing, features, and user reviews.

Riding Mower Comparison Table

This table compares all 10 riding mowers analyzed, covering key specifications to help you find the right model for your lawn size and terrain.

Detailed Riding Mower Reviews

1. Craftsman 36 inch Riding Mower – Best Compact for Tight Spaces

The Craftsman 36-inch riding mower stands out because its compact deck fits through most standard gates, a feature that eliminates the need for a second mower for tight spaces.

Powered by an 11.5 HP Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine, this mower provides reliable starting and consistent power for yards up to 2 acres.

The reinforced stamped steel deck handles rough terrain without denting, while the included mulching kit adds value that competitors typically charge extra for.

I appreciate the 7-speed manual transmission for letting operators match ground speed to grass conditions, though automatic would be nicer.

The 18-inch turning radius provides adequate maneuverability around trees and landscape beds without the complexity of zero-turn steering.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with fenced yards requiring gate passage, properties under 2 acres, and buyers wanting a mulching kit included without extra cost.

Who Should Avoid?

Those with flat open lawns over 2 acres who would benefit from larger cutting decks, or users preferring automatic transmission.

2. Craftsman 42 inch Riding Mower – Best Value Lawn Tractor

The Craftsman 42-inch riding mower delivers more cutting capacity with a 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine that handles thick grass without bogging down.

This model’s 42-inch stamped steel deck reduces mowing time by about 15% compared to the 36-inch version, making it ideal for open areas.

The 7-speed manual transmission provides flexibility for different conditions, allowing slower speeds in thick grass and faster cruising on open stretches.

Weighing 410 pounds, this mower offers better traction on slopes than lighter models while still being manageable for most driveways.

The optional mulching kit lets you finish lawns professionally, though it costs extra compared to the 36-inch model’s included version.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with 1-2 acre lawns who want reliable performance from a trusted brand without paying premium prices.

Who Should Avoid?

Buyers needing automatic transmission or those with many obstacles requiring zero-turn maneuverability.

3. Husqvarna Z246 Zero Turn – Best Mid-Range Zero Turn

The Husqvarna Z246 zero turn mower cuts mowing time significantly with dual hydrostatic transmissions that independently control rear wheels for precise maneuvering.

A 22 HP Briggs and Stratton engine provides ample power for the 46-inch cutting deck, handling tall grass without struggling.

The zero-turn design lets you mow around trees, flower beds, and other obstacles without three-point turns that waste time with lawn tractors.

Hydrostatic transmission means no gear shifting, just push the lap bars forward or pull back to change speed and direction smoothly.

This model represents excellent value in the zero-turn category, offering professional-grade maneuverability at a residential price point.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with lots of obstacles, trees, and flower beds who want to dramatically reduce mowing time.

Who Should Avoid?

Those with steep slopes where zero-turn mowers can be less stable than lawn tractors.

4. Ariens Edge Zero Turn – Premium Kawasaki Power

The Ariens Edge zero turn stands out with its Kawasaki FR651V engine, which professional landscapers prefer for reliability and longevity.

A fabricated 52-inch deck provides superior durability compared to stamped decks, resisting damage from impacts with rocks, roots, and other obstacles.

The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission delivers smooth operation and commercial-grade durability that residential users will appreciate for long-term ownership.

With a 4.6-star rating from verified buyers, this mower earns praise for cutting quality and build quality despite limited review count.

The 2-gallon fuel capacity is smaller than some competitors, but the efficient Kawasaki engine maximizes runtime per tank.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with 2-3 acre lawns who want commercial-grade components and value engine reliability above all else.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers or those with smaller lawns who don’t need the 52-inch cutting capacity.

5. Husqvarna Z254 Zero Turn – Large Area Coverage

The Husqvarna Z254 features a massive 54-inch cutting deck that mows wide swaths with each pass, significantly reducing cutting time on large properties.

A 24HP Briggs and Stratton Endurance Series V-Twin engine delivers consistent power through tall, thick grass without bogging down.

The 3.5-gallon fuel capacity provides extended runtime, allowing you to mow up to 3 acres without stopping to refuel.

Ground speed reaches 6.5 mph forward and 3.5 mph in reverse, letting you quickly cover large open areas.

Weighing 628 pounds, this mower provides excellent traction and stability, though the weight makes transport more challenging.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with 2-4 acre properties who want to minimize mowing time with a wide cutting deck and powerful engine.

Who Should Avoid?

Those with smaller lawns under 1 acre or tight spaces where a 54-inch deck cannot maneuver effectively.

6. Greenworks 60V Riding Mower – Best Electric Lawn Tractor

The Greenworks 60V electric riding mower eliminates gas, oil changes, and engine maintenance while delivering power equivalent to a 24 HP gas engine.

Four 8.0Ah batteries provide up to 1.5 acres of runtime, with a clever swap system that lets you use two batteries while the other two charge.

Operating at 90 decibels, this mower is four times quieter than gas models, making it perfect for noise-sensitive neighborhoods.

The brushless motor provides more torque, quieter operation, and longer lifespan compared to brushed electric motors.

Dual port turbo chargers replenish batteries in just 90 minutes, so you can quickly get back to mowing larger properties.

Who Should Buy?

Eco-conscious homeowners with lawns under 1.5 acres who want low maintenance and quiet operation.

Who Should Avoid?

Those with larger properties over 2 acres or users who don’t want to manage battery charging and swapping.

7. Greenworks 60V Electric Zero Turn – Best Electric Zero Turn

The Greenworks electric zero turn mower achieves an industry-leading 8 MPH cutting speed, faster than most gas zero-turn mowers on the market.

Zero-turn steering combines with electric power for instant torque and smooth operation without engine noise or emissions.

The integrated cargo bed hauls up to 200 pounds of mulch, soil, or yard waste, adding versatility that gas mowers lack.

IPX 4 waterproof rating ensures the electrical system withstands rain and wet grass for reliable operation in any weather.

Constant 17,000 feet per minute blade speed delivers cleaner, more even cuts compared to gas mowers with variable blade speed.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners wanting zero-turn maneuverability with electric benefits like quiet operation and minimal maintenance.

Who Should Avoid?

Buyers with budgets under $3,500 or those needing to mow more than 1.5 acres at a time.

8. Husqvarna TS 148X Lawn Tractor – Premium Lawn Tractor

The Husqvarna TS 148X lawn tractor combines a powerful 24 HP Briggs engine with a 48-inch cutting deck for efficient mowing of medium to large properties.

Lawn tractor design provides superior stability on slopes compared to zero-turn mowers, making this a safer choice for hilly terrain.

The contoured seat and ergonomic controls reduce fatigue during extended mowing sessions, a feature owners appreciate after an hour in the seat.

Husqvarna’s reputation for durability means this tractor should provide 10-15 years of reliable service with proper maintenance.

The 48-inch deck strikes an ideal balance for 1-3 acre lawns, offering good coverage without being unwieldy in tight spaces.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with hilly properties who need the stability of a lawn tractor rather than a zero-turn mower.

Who Should Avoid?

Those with flat, open lawns who would benefit more from zero-turn speed and maneuverability.

9. Husqvarna TS354XD – Professional Grade Performance

The Husqvarna TS354XD features an electronic differential lock that provides exceptional traction on wet grass and steep slopes, preventing the wheel slip that plagues other lawn tractors.

A 54-inch ClearCut cutting deck delivers superior cutting quality with multiple positions for optimal performance in various conditions.

The commercial-grade hydrostatic transmission with differential lock ensures smooth operation and excellent traction while minimizing lawn damage.

An extra-high vinyl seat and deluxe steering wheel provide enhanced comfort during long mowing sessions, reducing operator fatigue.

Heavy-duty frame construction and alloy steel components with brush guard-style bumper provide front-end protection for years of reliable service.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with challenging terrain including steep slopes and wet grass who need professional-grade traction and durability.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget buyers or those with simple, flat lawns who don’t need the advanced features and premium build quality.

10. PRORUN 60V Zero Turn – New Electric Contender

The PRORUN 60V zero turn mower delivers up to 2 acres of runtime or 70 minutes of continuous mowing on a single charge, competitive with gas mowers.

Six battery ports accept all PRORUN 60V battery sizes with automatic switchover between batteries for extended runtime without manual intervention.

Four high-efficiency brushless motors maximize performance and lifespan while providing power equivalent to a 20 HP gas engine.

A 42-inch 14-gauge stamped steel twin blade deck with washout port makes cleaning easy after each mowing session.

The 3-year residential warranty (2-year commercial) provides peace of mind for this newer entrant in the electric mower market.

Who Should Buy?

Early adopters wanting extended electric runtime up to 2 acres with a comprehensive warranty backing.

Who Should Avoid?

Conservative buyers who prefer established brands with proven track records and extensive dealer networks.

Understanding Riding Lawn Mower Deals

Riding lawn mower deals fluctuate throughout the year based on seasonal demand, new model releases, and retailer inventory cycles.

Understanding these patterns helps you save $200-$600 on your purchase while getting the right equipment for your property.

The riding mower market includes lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and electric models, each with different pricing structures and deal patterns.

I’ve tracked mower prices for over a decade, and the timing of your purchase matters just as much as the model you choose.

Buying Guide for Riding Lawn Mower Deals

Finding the right riding mower deal means balancing deck size, engine power, terrain type, and your budget.

Deck Size Selection by Lawn Acreage

Lawn Size	Recommended Deck Size	Mowing Time Estimate
0.5-1 acre	36-42 inch	30-45 minutes
1-2 acres	42-46 inch	45-75 minutes
2-3 acres	46-54 inch	60-90 minutes
3+ acres	54+ inch	90+ minutes

Choosing the right deck size prevents overspending while ensuring you can finish mowing in a reasonable amount of time.

Engine Power Considerations

Engine power ranges from 11.5 HP for compact models to 24+ HP for large zero-turn mowers.

• 11.5-17.5 HP: Suitable for flat lawns up to 2 acres with normal grass conditions
• 18-22 HP: Handles 2-3 acre properties with moderate hills and thick grass
• 23-24+ HP: Required for 3+ acre properties, steep slopes, or commercial use

I recommend buying slightly more power than you think you need, especially if your terrain includes hills.

Transmission Types Explained

Hydrostatic transmissions add about $200-400 to the price but significantly improve the mowing experience and reduce operator fatigue.

Seasonal Deal Timing Strategy

1. Winter (December-February): Best time for deep discounts on previous year models, savings of 25-35%
2. Early Spring (February-March): New model releases with 10-15% discounts on remaining inventory
3. Fall (September-November): End-of-season clearance with 20-30% off current models
4. Avoid Late Spring (April-May): Peak demand means highest prices of the year

Lawn Tractor vs Zero Turn Decision

Factor	Lawn Tractor	Zero Turn Mower
Steering	Steering wheel	Dual lap bars
Maneuverability	18 inch turning radius	Zero degree turning radius
Hill Stability	Excellent	Good
Learning Curve	Easy	Moderate
Price Range	$1,000-$2,500	$2,500-$5,000

Choose lawn tractors for hilly terrain and zero-turn mowers for flat properties with many obstacles to navigate around.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After analyzing all 10 riding mowers and tracking deal patterns for over a decade, I recommend the Craftsman 36-inch model for most homeowners due to its gate compatibility, included mulching kit, and competitive pricing.

If you have a larger property over 2 acres, the Husqvarna Z254 offers the 54-inch deck and powerful engine needed to finish the job efficiently.

For eco-conscious buyers, the Greenworks electric models provide excellent performance with minimal maintenance, though they require battery management for larger properties.

Time your purchase for fall or winter to save 20-35%, and always check retailer financing options for expensive models over $2,500.