6 Best Inexpensive Riding Lawn Mowers of 2025

This beast of a mower delivers professional-grade cutting power in a residential package, making it a top-tier choice for homeowners with sprawling lawns. The 24HP Briggs & Stratton V-twin engine provides smooth, consistent power delivery, while the 54-inch stamped deck slices through thick grass with surgical precision. Backed by a Hydro-Gear EZT transmission, it offers crisp zero-turn responsiveness, turning tight corners around trees and landscaping like a seasoned pro—perfect for eliminating mowing fatigue on large, complex yards.

In real-world testing, the Z254 shines on acres of uneven or overgrown terrain, maintaining blade speed even under heavy loads thanks to its robust engine and dual-blade setup. With a 6.5 mph forward speed and 3.5-gallon fuel tank, it covers ground rapidly and keeps going—ideal for 1–2 acre properties without constant refueling. The stamped steel deck is lightweight yet durable, though it may struggle slightly in scalping prevention on bumpy ground compared to fabricated decks. Still, its consistent discharge and clean mulching make it a reliable all-rounder across varied grass types.

Compared to the pricier Z254F with the FR730 engine, this model delivers virtually identical performance at a lower entry point, making it a smarter value for power seekers. While the EGO ZT4204L offers quiet electric operation, the Z254 wins on raw runtime and refuel speed, crucial for larger properties. It’s best suited for serious homeowners who demand gas-powered reliability and high-speed mowing, striking a rare balance between commercial capability and residential affordability.

The EGO Power+ ZT4204L redefines electric mowing with gas-equivalent performance wrapped in whisper-quiet, zero-emission efficiency. This cutting-edge zero-turn delivers up to 8 MPH speed and 22 horsepower equivalent, making it one of the most powerful residential electric mowers on the market. With four 56V 10.0Ah batteries included, it tackles up to 2 acres on a single charge, eliminating range anxiety and proving that electric doesn’t mean compromise—especially for eco-conscious users tired of gas fumes and maintenance.

Out on the lawn, the ZT4204L impresses with instant torque and silent acceleration, gliding through tall grass without bogging down. The 42-inch stamped deck offers 10 height adjustments and seamless switching between mulching, bagging, and side discharge, while the LCD interface lets users fine-tune driving modes—Sport for speed, Control for precision. However, mowing beyond 2 acres requires investing in extra batteries, which adds cost. On hilly or dense terrain, performance remains strong, though blade speed can dip slightly under extreme load compared to gas-powered rivals.

Against the Greenworks CrossoverT, the EGO delivers longer runtime and faster recharge, thanks to its two-hour charge time and superior battery efficiency. While the Husqvarna Z254 offers more deck width, the EGO wins for urban and noise-sensitive areas where quiet, clean operation is non-negotiable. Ideal for mid-sized lawns (1–2 acres), it’s the go-to for tech-savvy homeowners who want cutting-edge electric power without sacrificing performance—a bold step toward the future of mowing.

The Husqvarna TS 146 stands out as a true budget champion, offering dependable performance and rugged simplicity for homeowners who want no-nonsense mowing at a competitive price. With a 22HP Briggs EXi engine and 46-inch mower deck, it delivers strong, consistent power across average-sized lawns, while the K46 Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission ensures smooth, reliable speed control without jerking or lag. This workhorse tractor is built for straightforward, efficient cutting—perfect for flat to gently rolling yards where zero-turn agility isn’t a must-have.

In real-world use, the TS 146 handles standard suburban lawns (0.5–1 acre) with ease, though its 5 mph top speed feels modest compared to zero-turn models. The 3-gallon fuel tank provides solid runtime, and the two-blade deck offers decent mulching and side discharge, though bagging performance is average. It lacks the tight maneuverability of zero-turns, making tight backyard turns and obstacle navigation slower, but for open, predictable mowing paths, it’s surprisingly efficient and comfortable.

When stacked against the Z246, the TS 146 trades zero-turn precision for lower cost and simpler mechanics, making it a smarter pick for first-time owners or budget-focused buyers. Compared to premium electric models, it wins on refueling speed and upfront value, though it can’t match their quiet operation. It’s the ideal choice for homeowners prioritizing affordability and reliability over high-speed mowing or advanced features, delivering Husqvarna durability without the premium price tag.

The Husqvarna Z246 is a compact powerhouse, packing zero-turn agility and 22HP muscle into a tight-turning frame ideal for smaller lots with tight spaces. Powered by the Briggs EXI engine and paired with a 46-inch stamped deck, it delivers clean, efficient cuts with 6.5 mph forward speed—making it perfect for maneuvering around flower beds, trees, and patios without sacrificing productivity. The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission ensures buttery-smooth control, giving users pinpoint precision in every turn, which is rare at this price point.

On test runs, the Z246 excels in yards under 1 acre with lots of obstacles, where its compact size and zero-turn radius shine. The 3.5-gallon tank supports extended mowing sessions, and the dual-blade deck handles mulching and side discharge with consistency, though bagging isn’t its strongest suit. While it doesn’t match the 54-inch coverage of larger Z-series models, its nimble handling more than compensates for reduced width. It does transmit more vibration than expected, and the seat comfort could be improved for longer sessions.

Compared to the TS 146, the Z246 offers superior maneuverability and speed, justifying its higher cost for users who value time-saving precision. Against the EGO ZT4204L, it wins on refuel speed and simplicity, though it lacks electric convenience. It’s the best pick for homeowners with modest-sized but complex yards who want real zero-turn benefits without overspending—a versatile, agile performer that punches above its class.

The Husqvarna Z254F is engineered for dominance on large properties, where power, deck size, and durability are non-negotiable. At its core is the 24HP FR730 engine—a commercial-grade powerhouse known for longevity and smooth operation, paired with a massive 54-inch FAB deck that cuts wider swaths and reduces mowing time significantly. This isn’t just a mower; it’s a lawn-clearing machine built for 3/4 acre and beyond, where efficiency and reliability matter most.

In real-world performance, the Z254F devours overgrown grass and uneven terrain with unshakable confidence. The FAB (Fabricated) deck is stiffer and more impact-resistant than stamped alternatives, delivering superior cut quality and airflow, especially at high speeds. With a 6.5 mph forward speed and 3.5-gallon tank, it’s built for long mowing marathons with minimal stops. However, its bulk makes storage and tight turns challenging, and the lack of reverse speed specification hints at limited backward maneuverability.

Next to the standard Z254, the Z254F upgrades to a more durable engine and deck construction, making it worth the premium for serious users. Compared to the EGO ZT4204L, it wins on continuous runtime and ruggedness, though it can’t match electric quietness. It’s the ultimate tool for large-yard owners who prioritize speed, cut quality, and long-term durability, offering pro-level performance in a residential frame—a top-tier investment for serious mowing demands.

The Greenworks CrossoverT is a trailblazer in electric mowing, blending rugged utility and eco-conscious design into a feature-packed, maintenance-free package. With 24 HP equivalent power, 8 MPH cutting speed, and a 42-inch brushless motor-driven deck, it delivers consistent, high-torque performance across thick grass—without gas, oil, or emissions. Its “Mow, Swap, and Go” battery system lets you swap depleted 8.0Ah packs on the fly, enabling all-day mowing across 1.5 acres, while 90-minute turbo charging keeps downtime minimal.

In practice, the CrossoverT impresses with near-silent operation (90 dB) and instant start-up, making early morning or late evening mowing a neighbor-friendly experience. The brushless motor runs cooler and lasts longer than brushed alternatives, and the IPX4 waterproof rating ensures reliability in damp or unpredictable weather. The integrated 200-lb cargo bed adds real utility for hauling mulch or tools—something rare in this category. However, the 42-inch deck requires more passes on large lawns, and battery life drops in wet, tall grass, demanding careful planning.

Versus the EGO ZT4204L, the Greenworks offers faster charging and added cargo capacity, though EGO leads in smart controls and cutting precision. Compared to gas mowers like the Husqvarna Z246, it wins on clean operation and quietness, but falls short in instant power delivery under heavy load. It’s the best pick for eco-minded homeowners with mid-sized yards who want a versatile, low-maintenance mower with added utility—a true crossover between mower and yard workhorse.