Maintaining a large lawn with a traditional gas mower can be time-consuming, noisy, and messy. Many homeowners struggle with fumes, maintenance, and the environmental impact of gas-powered models, leading them to search for a cleaner, more efficient alternative. Electric riding lawn mowers offer a solution, combining the convenience of riding mowers with quiet operation, zero emissions, and lower long-term costs—without sacrificing power or cutting performance.
After analyzing dozens of models, we compared battery runtime, cutting width, horsepower equivalents, and user reviews to identify the best electric riding lawn mowers for different yard sizes and needs. Whether you prioritize extended runtime for large properties, rapid charging for quick turnarounds, or additional features like cargo beds, our data-driven recommendations will help you find the perfect fit. Keep reading to discover which models deliver the best performance, durability, and value.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
|
EGO 42″ Zero Turn Riding Mower
|
56V 10.0Ah 4 42-inch |
|
Best High Performance
|
Greenworks 42″ Zero Turn Mower
|
42” 4 x 8.0Ah 8 mph |
|
Best Value (w/ Tools)
|
Greenworks 80V Zero Turn w/ Combo
|
42″ 4 x 5.0Ah Up to 8 MPH |
|
Best Fast Charging
|
Greenworks 80V Zero Turn Rapid Charge
|
42″ 4 x 5.0Ah 3 x 8A Dual Port |
|
Best Long Runtime
|
Ryobi 38″ 100Ah Electric Rider
|
100 Ah 2.5 hours 2.5 acres |
|
Best Walk Behind Option
|
EGO 21″ Self-Propelled Mower (2-Batt)
|
100 minutes 56V 6.0Ah ARC Lithium 21-inch |
Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower Review
EGO 42″ Zero Turn Riding Mower – Best Overall

The EGO Power+ ZT4204L storms onto the scene as the undisputed champion of electric zero-turn mowers, delivering 22-horsepower equivalent muscle without a single drop of gasoline. This beast transforms weekend lawn care from a noisy, smelly chore into a whisper-quiet precision operation, cutting up to 2 acres on its four 56V 10.0Ah batteries while reaching speeds that’ll make your neighbors’ gas mowers feel prehistoric. The intuitive LCD interface puts you in complete command, offering three distinct driving modes that adapt to your property’s personality—from cautious navigation around delicate flower beds to sport mode that devours open terrain at 8 MPH.
During our extensive testing across varied landscapes, the 42-inch stamped steel deck proved itself a mulching maestro, maintaining consistent blade speed even through thick, overgrown patches that would bog down lesser machines. The 10-position height adjustment (1.5″ to 4.5″) offers surgical precision for achieving that golf-course finish, while the 3-in-1 functionality seamlessly transitions between mulching, bagging, and side discharge without breaking stride. However, ambitious property owners should note that while the 2-hour rapid recharge is impressive, tackling 3+ acres requires additional battery investment that can quickly escalate operational costs.
Compared to the Greenworks 60V CrossoverZ, the EGO ZT4204L offers superior battery capacity and more refined user controls, though it lacks the integrated cargo bed that transforms the Greenworks into a versatile yard workhorse. For homeowners seeking the ultimate balance of power, precision, and user experience in electric zero-turn technology, this mower stands unmatched—delivering gas-like performance with zero emissions and a fraction of the maintenance headaches that plague traditional riding mowers.




- Zero emissions
- 2-hour rapid recharge
- Intuitive LCD controls
- 22 HP equivalent power
- Quiet operation
- No cargo bed
- Extra batteries costly
Greenworks 42″ Zero Turn Mower – Best High Performance

The Greenworks CrossoverZ redefines what high-performance electric mowing looks like, packing a 24-horsepower equivalent punch that leaves gas mowers choking on their own fumes. This speed demon tears through properties at an industry-leading 8 MPH while maintaining laser-precise 17,000 FPM blade speed, ensuring every blade of grass meets the same immaculate fate. The “Mow, Swap, and Go” system eliminates downtime entirely—while two 8.0Ah batteries power through your lawn, the dual-port turbo chargers keep the spares ready for seamless hot-swapping that extends runtime indefinitely.
Our field tests revealed the CrossoverZ’s brushless motor delivers exceptional torque for tackling hills up to 15° without the power fade that plagues lesser electric models. The 42-inch reinforced deck chews through thick Bermuda and stubborn weeds with the relentless consistency of a commercial-grade machine, while the integrated cargo bed transforms post-mow cleanup into a one-machine operation—haul 200 pounds of clippings, mulch, or tools without breaking a sweat. The IPX4 waterproof rating means sudden downpours won’t sideline your weekend plans, though the 90-minute charge time requires more strategic planning than the EGO’s rapid 2-hour turnaround.
Against the EGO ZT4204L, the CrossoverZ trades some battery capacity for versatility and speed, offering the unique cargo functionality that makes it indispensable for property owners who view mowing as just the beginning of their outdoor maintenance routine. For performance purists who demand maximum cutting speed and continuous operation capability, this mower delivers an unbeatable combination of power and practicality that justifies its premium positioning in the electric zero-turn market.




- Fastest cutting speed
- Cargo bed included
- Hot-swap battery system
- IPX4 waterproof
- 24 HP equivalent
- Shorter battery life
- Louder than EGO
Greenworks 80V Zero Turn w/ Combo – Best Value (w/ Tools)

The Greenworks 80V combo package emerges as the ultimate value proposition in electric riding mowers, delivering 32-horsepower equivalent fury while essentially paying you back with a 6-piece power tool arsenal that transforms this purchase into a complete yard care ecosystem. This beast of burden conquers up to 2 acres on its four 5.0Ah batteries, but the real magic lies in the Cyclone Cut Technology that maintains unwavering 17,000 FPM blade speed even when assaulting hills at a 15° angle. The hydraulic-assist rear dump bed becomes your secret weapon, effortlessly hauling 200 pounds of debris while your neighbors make multiple trips with wheelbarrows.
During our comprehensive testing, the 12-gauge reinforced steel deck proved bulletproof against hidden rocks and roots, while the premium high-back seat with foldable armrests made marathon mowing sessions feel like luxury tractor time. The LED headlights extend your productive hours from dawn to dusk, but the 600W charger feels underpowered when you’re racing against weather—expect longer recharge cycles that might frustrate time-sensitive users. The included drill driver, impact driver, circular saw, flashlight, impact wrench, and tire inflator essentially eliminate the need for separate tool purchases, making this package irresistible for budget-conscious buyers.
Stacked against the standard Greenworks 80V model, this combo delivers identical mowing performance while adding $500+ worth of professional-grade tools for essentially the same investment. For new homeowners or anyone looking to completely electrify their outdoor toolkit, this represents the smartest money spent in the electric riding mower category—delivering commercial-grade performance with a bonus arsenal that keeps paying dividends long after the grass stops growing.




- Includes 6 power tools
- 32 HP equivalent
- Rear dump bed
- Cyclone cut technology
- Reinforced steel deck
- Slower charging
- Heavier with tools
Greenworks 80V Zero Turn Rapid Charge – Best Fast Charging

The Greenworks 80V rapid-charge model positions itself as the efficiency champion of electric zero-turn mowers, wielding 32-horsepower equivalent muscle that makes quick work of properties up to 2 acres. This speed merchant maintains the same relentless 17,000 FPM blade speed as its siblings, but the triple 8A dual-port rapid chargers slash downtime to the absolute minimum—perfect for time-pressed homeowners who can’t afford to wait around for batteries. The Cyclone Cut Technology ensures the blade never flinches, even when you’re attacking 15° slopes at full 8 MPH attack speed.
Our testing revealed the 12-gauge reinforced steel deck handles abuse that would destroy lesser machines, while the hydraulic-assist rear dump bed transforms this mower into a versatile workhorse capable of hauling 200 pounds of landscaping materials. The 1.5″ to 4.5″ cutting range offers surgical precision for achieving that country club aesthetic, though the 5.0Ah battery capacity means you’ll be swapping packs more frequently than the EGO’s beefier 10.0Ah units. The rapid charging system partially compensates for smaller batteries, but aggressive users might still find themselves managing charge cycles during marathon sessions.
When compared to the EGO ZT4204L, this Greenworks offers superior horsepower and faster charging but requires more frequent battery management. For efficiency-focused users who prioritize minimal downtime over maximum runtime, this mower delivers exceptional value—providing commercial-grade performance with a charging infrastructure that keeps you cutting when other electrics are still tethered to wall outlets.




- Rapid charging system
- 32 HP equivalent
- Rear dump bed
- Reinforced steel deck
- 8 MPH top speed
- Smaller batteries
- Frequent swapping needed
Ryobi 38″ 100Ah Electric Rider – Best Long Runtime

The Ryobi RY48111 stands as the marathon runner of electric riding mowers, delivering an astonishing 2.5 hours of continuous runtime that chews through 2.5 acres without breaking stride. This tank-like machine employs three brushless motors working in perfect harmony, providing relentless power delivery that makes gas mowers seem like temperamental antiques. The 38-inch cutting deck might seem modest compared to zero-turn behemoths, but the rear-engine design offers superior maneuverability in tight spaces where larger machines simply can’t fit.
During our endurance testing, the 100Ah lead-acid battery proved its staying power, maintaining consistent performance through thick fescue and weed-infested patches that would drain lesser machines. The standard 120V charging means no special electrical requirements—just plug into any household outlet and walk away. However, the fixed cutting height and limited deck size make this more suited for manicured lawns rather than the precision landscaping possible with height-adjustable competitors. The traditional steering wheel feels familiar to gas mower converts, though it lacks the zero-turn agility that makes tight cornering effortless.
Against the EGO ZT4204L’s zero-turn precision, the Ryobi trades maneuverability for unmatched endurance—perfect for large, open properties where runtime trumps agility. For conservative users seeking maximum cutting time with minimal complexity, this mower delivers diesel-like reliability in an electric package that just keeps going long after others have returned to the charger.



- 2.5-hour runtime
- Standard 120V charging
- Three brushless motors
- Rear-engine maneuverability
- Simple operation
- Fixed cutting height
- Non-zero turn
- Smaller deck
EGO 21″ Self-Propelled Mower (2-Batt) – Best Walk Behind Option

The EGO LM2134SP-2 revolutionizes the walk-behind experience, delivering zero-turn precision in a self-propelled package that makes traditional push mowers feel like medieval torture devices. This nimble warrior packs the Select Cut multi-blade system, offering customizable cutting performance that adapts from delicate fescue manicuring to aggressive weed annihilation at the touch of a lever. The Touch Drive technology puts complete speed control literally at your fingertips, allowing 0.9 to 3.1 MPH adjustments without breaking your mowing rhythm.
Our testing revealed the dual 6.0Ah batteries deliver a legitimate 100 minutes of runtime, easily handling quarter-acre properties with power to spare. The 21-inch deck navigates landscaping obstacles with surgical precision, while the 8-position height adjustment (1″ to 4″) offers professional-grade flexibility for achieving that perfect stripe pattern. The LED headlights extend your productive hours from dawn to dusk, though the walk-behind format naturally limits your coverage speed compared to riding alternatives. The 3-in-1 functionality seamlessly transitions between mulching, bagging, and side discharge without tools or frustration.
When positioned against the EGO ZT4204L riding mower, this walk-behind offers superior precision and maneuverability for smaller properties at a fraction of the investment. For urban and suburban homeowners with manicured lawns under half an acre, the LM2134SP-2 delivers riding mower performance in a storage-friendly package that fits through standard gates and takes up minimal garage space.




- Select cut system
- Touch drive control
- 100-minute runtime
- LED headlights
- Compact storage
- Walk-behind only
- Smaller coverage area
Choosing the Right Electric Riding Lawn Mower
Understanding Key Features
When transitioning to an electric riding lawn mower, several features significantly impact performance and usability. Prioritizing these will ensure you select a model perfectly suited to your needs.
1. Battery Capacity & Runtime: This is arguably the most critical factor. Electric mowers are powered by batteries, and runtime directly correlates to how much lawn you can mow on a single charge. Look for mowers offering multiple battery slots or those with high Amp-hour (Ah) ratings (e.g., 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah, 10.0Ah). Higher Ah equates to longer runtimes. Consider your lawn size – models like the EGO 42″ boast up to 2 acres on a single charge, while others, like the Greenworks 80V options, offer similar capacity with swappable batteries for continuous operation. Runtime directly affects convenience – fewer interruptions for charging mean faster completion of your lawn care.
2. Power & Cutting Performance: Electric motors are measured in Volts (V). Higher voltage, combined with brushless motor technology (found in Greenworks models), translates to power comparable to gas engines. Horsepower equivalents (e.g., 22HP, 32HP) are often advertised, providing a useful benchmark. Blade tip speed (measured in feet per minute – FPM) is also crucial – higher FPM (like the 17,000 FPM found in several Greenworks mowers) means cleaner, more efficient cuts, particularly in thicker grass.
3. Deck Size & Adjustability: A wider deck (typically 42 inches) covers more ground with each pass, reducing mowing time. However, maneuverability can be reduced in tighter spaces. Consider your yard’s layout. Cutting height adjustability is also important, allowing you to tailor the mow to your grass type and preference. Most models offer multiple positions (e.g., 1.5-4.5 inches) and 3-in-1 functionality (mulching, bagging, side discharge) adds versatility.
4. Charging Speed: Recharge time can vary significantly. Some models take hours to fully charge (EGO’s 2-hour recharge is relatively quick), while others, like the Greenworks 80V Rapid Charge, utilize dual-port turbo chargers for a faster turnaround. If minimizing downtime is a priority, prioritize models with faster charging capabilities.
Additional Features to Consider
- Driving Modes: Some mowers (like the EGO 42″) offer different driving modes (Standard, Control, Sport) to adjust speed and responsiveness.
- Specialized Features: Features like integrated cargo beds (Greenworks) or rear dump beds can add convenience for yard cleanup.
- Durability: Look for a sturdy steel deck (12-gauge is a good indicator) and waterproof ratings (IPX4) for long-lasting performance.
- Noise Level: Electric mowers are significantly quieter than gas-powered models (around 90dB for Greenworks), creating a more peaceful mowing experience.
- Included Accessories: Some models, like the Greenworks 80V Combo, bundle additional tools, offering extra value.
Electric Riding Lawn Mower Comparison
Product | Acreage Capacity | Equivalent HP | Cutting Speed (MPH) | Charge Time | Deck Size (in) | Special Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EGO 42″ Zero Turn | Up to 2 | 22 | 8 | 2 hours | 42 | 3 Driving Modes, 10 Cut Heights, 3-in-1 Functionality |
Greenworks 42″ Zero Turn (High Perf.) | Up to 1.5 | 24 | 8 | 90 minutes | 42 | Integrated Cargo Bed (200lbs), Waterproof (IPX4), 4x Quieter |
Greenworks 80V Zero Turn (w/ Tools) | Up to 2 | 32 | 8 | Not Specified | 42 | Rear Dump Bed (200lbs), 6-Piece Tool Combo Included |
Greenworks 80V Zero Turn (Rapid Charge) | Up to 2 | 32 | 8 | Not Specified | 42 | Rear Dump Bed (200lbs), Rapid Charging |
Ryobi 38″ Electric Rider | Up to 2.5 | Not Specified | Not Specified | Standard 120V Outlet | 38 | Long Runtime (2.5 hours), 3 Brushless Motors |
EGO 21″ Self-Propelled | Not Specified | Not Specified | 0.9 – 3.1 | Not Specified | 21 | 3-in-1 Function, Variable Speed Self-Propel, LED Headlights |
Data-Driven Evaluation of Electric Riding Lawn Mowers
Choosing the best electric riding lawn mower requires moving beyond marketing claims and focusing on objective data. Our analysis prioritizes quantifiable metrics and independent testing results. We examined runtime data from sources like Consumer Reports and user reviews across platforms like Amazon and Home Depot to assess real-world performance against manufacturer specifications. A key focus was comparing battery capacity (Ah) and voltage (V) to actual mowing area coverage, factoring in grass thickness and terrain.
Comparative analyses of motor specifications – particularly brushless motor efficiency – were conducted using data sheets and expert reviews. We evaluated the correlation between advertised horsepower equivalents and blade tip speed (FPM) to determine cutting performance. Furthermore, we tracked charging times reported by multiple sources, considering the impact of charger technology (single vs. dual-port) on usability. Examining warranty information and reported repair rates (sourced from online forums and customer feedback) provides insight into long-term reliability of each electric riding lawn mower model. This approach provides a clear, research-backed assessment of which models deliver the most value and performance.
FAQs
What size lawn can an electric riding lawn mower handle?
The acreage capacity of an electric riding lawn mower varies by model. Many can handle up to 2 acres on a single charge, like the EGO 42″ and Greenworks 80V options. However, factors like grass thickness and terrain can impact runtime and coverage.
Are electric riding lawn mowers as powerful as gas mowers?
Modern electric riding lawn mowers, especially those with brushless motors and higher voltage, offer power comparable to many gas-powered mowers. Equivalent horsepower ratings (e.g., 22HP, 32HP) are often advertised, and blade tip speed is a key indicator of cutting performance.
How long does it take to charge an electric riding lawn mower?
Charging times vary. Some models take several hours, while others, like EGO’s 2-hour recharge or Greenworks’ Rapid Charge system, offer significantly faster turnaround times. Faster charging is a key feature for minimizing downtime.
What are the benefits of choosing an electric riding lawn mower?
Electric riding lawn mowers offer several advantages including quieter operation, zero emissions, lower maintenance costs, and ease of use. They are an environmentally friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers and contribute to a more peaceful yard experience.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best electric riding lawn mower depends on your specific needs and property size. Prioritizing battery capacity, power, and features like charging speed will ensure a satisfying mowing experience, and our data-driven comparison provides a solid foundation for informed decision-making.
Investing in an electric model offers a quieter, more eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas mowers without sacrificing performance. By carefully evaluating your lawn’s demands and considering the key features outlined, you can confidently select a mower that delivers years of reliable service.