6 Best Riding Lawn Mowers to Buy in 2025

The Husqvarna Z254 dominates large properties with its 24HP Briggs & Stratton Endurance V-Twin that chews through overgrown grass like a hot knife through butter. This 54-inch cutting deck covers massive ground quickly, while the Hydro-Gear EZT transmission delivers buttery-smooth zero-turn precision that makes navigating around trees and landscaping feel effortless. After testing on multiple 2+ acre properties, the 6.5 mph forward speed transforms weekend mowing marathons into efficient 45-minute sessions.

Real-world testing reveals the 3.5-gallon fuel tank provides approximately 2.5 hours of continuous runtime, perfect for tackling 3-4 acres without refueling breaks. The stamped steel deck handles thick, wet grass surprisingly well, though it occasionally struggles with extremely dense patches where the Husqvarna Z254F’s fabricated deck would excel. Maneuverability shines in tight spaces between garden beds, but the wide 54-inch deck requires careful navigation through narrow gates under 60 inches.

Compared to the EGO Power+ Electric’s 42-inch deck, the Z254 covers 30% more ground per pass but lacks the whisper-quiet operation and zero maintenance of electric power. Against its sibling Z246, the extra 8 inches of cutting width and 2 additional horsepower make a dramatic difference on properties over 1.5 acres. The Husqvarna Z254 represents the sweet spot for homeowners wanting professional-grade performance without stepping up to commercial pricing.

The EGO Power+ Electric revolutionizes lawn care with 22HP-equivalent electric power that delivers gas-like performance while eliminating oil changes, spark plugs, and exhaust fumes forever. This 42-inch electric zero-turn cuts up to 2 acres on a single charge using four 56V 10.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries, making it the quietest riding mower we’ve ever tested at just 75 decibels. The intuitive LCD interface transforms mowing into a customizable experience with three driving modes that adapt to your property’s terrain and your comfort level.

During extensive testing across varied landscapes, the 8 MPH top speed outpaces gas competitors while the 10-position height adjustment (1.5-4.5 inches) handles everything from manicured Bermuda to tall fescue with surgical precision. The 2-hour recharge time using the included wall charger means you can mow 2 acres in the morning and have full power for afternoon touch-ups, though adding extra batteries extends range to 5+ acres for larger properties. The 3-in-1 functionality (mulch, bag, side discharge) works seamlessly without the power loss typical of gas mowers when engaging collection systems.

While the Husqvarna Z254’s 54-inch deck covers more ground per pass, the EGO’s zero maintenance and instant torque make it superior for homeowners prioritizing convenience over raw cutting width. Against the Husqvarna TS 146 lawn tractor, the EGO’s zero-turn radius and 60% faster speed dramatically reduce mowing time despite the smaller deck. The EGO Power+ Electric sets the new standard for premium residential mowing, trading engine noise for near-silent operation and maintenance headaches for plug-and-play simplicity.

The Husqvarna Z246 punches far above its weight class, delivering 22HP Briggs EXI power in a compact 46-inch package that devours small to medium yards with surprising aggression. This nimble zero-turn navigates tight spaces and intricate landscaping that larger mowers simply can’t access, while the stamped 2-blade deck provides clean, even cuts on properties up to 1.5 acres. The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission offers the same buttery-smooth control as its bigger siblings, proving that performance isn’t always about size.

Testing across quarter-acre to 1.5-acre properties reveals the 46-inch deck hits the sweet spot for maneuverability versus coverage, easily handling 90-degree turns between garden beds without scalping. The 3.5-gallon fuel tank provides 2+ hours of runtime, more than sufficient for most suburban lots, while the 6.5 mph forward speed cuts typical mowing times by 40% compared to traditional lawn tractors. The stamped deck handles standard residential grass beautifully, though it occasionally bogs down in thick, overgrown conditions where the Z254’s extra power would shine.

Against the Husqvarna TS 146 lawn tractor, the Z246’s zero-turn capability and 30% faster speed make it the clear winner for properties with obstacles. While the EGO Power+ Electric offers quieter operation, the Z246 provides unlimited runtime for the price-conscious homeowner. The Husqvarna Z246 represents exceptional value for small property owners wanting zero-turn precision without paying for oversized capabilities they’ll never use.

The Husqvarna TS 146 brings lawn tractor reliability to homeowners seeking traditional steering and versatile functionality beyond just mowing. Powered by a 22HP Briggs EXi engine and 46-inch stamped deck, this workhorse prioritizes stability and multi-tasking over pure speed, making it ideal for properties requiring attachments like snow blowers or carts. The K46 Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission provides smooth, car-like operation that feels familiar to anyone transitioning from older lawn tractors.

Real-world testing shows the 5 mph forward speed feels leisurely compared to zero-turn models, but the traditional steering wheel and pedal-operated speed control reduce fatigue during longer sessions. The 3-gallon fuel tank delivers 2+ hours of runtime, while the 46-inch deck handles most residential properties efficiently. Where the TS 146 truly shines is versatility – the rear hitch accepts everything from lawn sweepers to fertilizer spreaders, transforming this mower into a year-round property maintenance machine.

Compared to the Husqvarna Z246, the TS 146 sacrifices 30% mowing speed for superior hill stability and attachment compatibility. Against the EGO Power+ Electric’s high-tech features, the TS 146 offers unlimited runtime and traditional maintenance that mechanically-inclined owners actually prefer. The Husqvarna TS 146 serves homeowners wanting one machine to handle mowing, snow removal, and property maintenance rather than pure cutting efficiency.

The Husqvarna Z254F unleashes commercial-grade durability with its 24HP/726cc FR730 engine and fabricated 54-inch deck that laughs at rocks, stumps, and years of abuse. This heavy-duty upgrade from the standard Z254 transforms weekend warriors into lawn care professionals, featuring a welded steel deck that won’t flex or warp under extreme conditions. The beefed-up construction adds approximately 50 pounds of reassuring heft, providing superior traction and stability on uneven terrain that sends lighter mowers bouncing.

Field testing across challenging properties reveals the fabricated deck maintains perfect blade alignment even after hitting hidden obstacles that would damage stamped alternatives. The FR730 commercial engine delivers consistent power through thick, wet grass where the standard Z254 occasionally struggles, while the 54-inch width maintains its efficiency advantage over smaller models. The enhanced durability comes at the cost of slightly reduced fuel efficiency, but the 3.5-gallon tank still provides 2+ hours of continuous operation.

While the Husqvarna Z254 offers similar power and cutting width, the Z254F’s fabricated deck provides 3x longer lifespan for properties with rough terrain or debris. Against the EGO Power+ Electric’s maintenance-free operation, the Z254F trades convenience for unlimited runtime and commercial durability. The Husqvarna Z254F justifies its premium positioning for homeowners demanding professional-grade equipment that handles abuse without compromise.