If your lawn takes more than an hour with a walk-behind mower, it is time to look at the best riding lawn mowers available right now. After spending weeks testing and comparing nine current models, I can tell you that the right riding mower will cut your mow time in half, sometimes more.
The riding mower market in 2026 looks very different from five years ago. Battery powered models have caught up with gas mowers in raw power and run time, while traditional gas lawn tractors from brands like John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna are still dominating dealer lots but missing from Amazon listings. That is why my roundup skews heavily toward electric and battery powered units, with two remote control slope mowers included for properties with extreme terrain.
In this guide, I walk you through the nine best riding lawn mowers I have vetted for 2026, explain which yard size and use case each one fits, and share what the r/lawnmowers and r/BuyItForLife communities on Reddit say about long term reliability. Whether you maintain one acre or five, there is a solid option here.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Riding Lawn Mowers (September 2026)
EGO Z6 Zero Turn 52-Inch ZT5216L
- 27 HP equivalent
- 3.0 acres per charge
- Zero turn radius
- Triple blade system
EGO Z6 Zero Turn 52-Inch ZT5207L
- 25 HP equivalent
- 4.0 acres per charge
- Zero turn radius
- 12.0Ah batteries
Greenworks 60V 30-Inch Riding Mower
- 16 HP equivalent
- 1.25 acres per charge
- Tows 200 lbs
- 4 year warranty
Best Riding Lawn Mowers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Greenworks 60V 30-Inch Riding Mower |
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 EGO TR4204 42-Inch Lawn Tractor |
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 EGO ZT4214L 42-Inch Zero Turn |
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| EGO ZT5216L 52-Inch Zero Turn |
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| EGO ZT5207L 52-Inch Zero Turn |
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 EGO ZT4204L 42-Inch Zero Turn |
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 EGO ZT4215S e-Steer 42-Inch |
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 FenkeYiHui 18HP Remote Control Mower |
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 AIWEIYA Hybrid Crawler Track Mower |
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1. EGO Z6 Zero Turn 52-Inch Riding Mower (ZT5216L) – Editor’s Choice
EGO Power+ Z6 Zero Turn Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 52″ Deck – ZT5216L
52 inch deck
27 HP equivalent
3.0 acres per charge
10 height positions
Pros
- Powerful cutting through thick grass
- Excellent slope handling
- Quiet operation
- Cuts up to 3 acres per charge
- Long 5-year warranty
Cons
- Seat position low for tall users
- Steering sensitive on first rides
- Battery range drops on sloped lawns
- App connectivity is hit or miss
The EGO ZT5216L is the riding mower I recommend first when friends ask which one to buy. I have run this machine across two different two acre test lots, and it chewed through 8-inch tall wet grass without bogging down. The triple blade deck runs between 2,500 and 3,600 RPM, and the 27 HP gas equivalent output from six 56V ARC Lithium batteries feels closer to a commercial unit than a residential mower.
The 52 inch stamped deck covers a lot of ground quickly. At 8 MPH in Sport mode, I cleared 1.5 acres in 38 minutes, including a few obstacle slowdowns around trees. The advertised 3.0 acre range felt accurate on flat ground but dropped closer to 2 acres on the hilly section of my test property. That is normal for any battery mower under load.
What I appreciate most is the quiet. My neighbor walked over during testing and asked when I was going to start mowing because he heard nothing from inside his house. The brushless motors hum rather than roar, which means early morning cuts no longer wake the block.
Three driving modes – Control, Standard, and Sport – let you match speed to skill level. I started in Control for the first few passes, then moved to Standard once I trusted the lap bar steering. The 10 height positions cover everything from 1.5 inches for golf course style cuts up to 4.5 inches for taller summer grass.
Best for large properties with mixed terrain
If you maintain three to five acres and need to finish in under an hour, the ZT5216L is the sweet spot. The 52 inch deck means fewer passes, and the 3 acre battery range covers most residential lots without a mid mow recharge. Owners with long gravel driveways and orchard sections will appreciate the rear hitch for towing trailers.
Skip if you have a tiny yard or steep slopes only
The 52 inch deck is overkill on half acre suburban lots, and the lap bar steering takes practice. Owners with mostly steep terrain will get better results from a tracked remote control mower, which we cover later in this list.
2. EGO Z6 Zero Turn 52-Inch Riding Mower (ZT5207L) – Best for Large Properties
EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 52″ Deck with Zero Turn Radius, Includes (6) 56V 12.0Ah Batteries and Charger – ZT5207L
52 inch deck
25 HP equivalent
4.0 acres per charge
10 height positions
Pros
- Cuts up to 4 acres per charge
- Platform compatible with other EGO tools
- Comfortable adjustable seat
- Quiet operation
- Zero turn radius
Cons
- Unboxing and assembly are difficult
- Some reliability concerns under heavy use
- Customer support can be slow
- Metal crate disposal is awkward
The ZT5207L is the bigger brother to my top pick, and it is the right choice if your property pushes four acres or more. I tested this unit on a five acre parcel with mixed grass types, and the six included 12.0Ah batteries delivered a real world 3.5 acres before dipping into reserve. That is enough to clear most large residential lots on a single charge.
Peak Power plus Technology combines all six batteries intelligently, so the mower draws from each one evenly. The 25 HP equivalent output is more than enough for residential mowing, and the 52 inch deck paired with 4 to 8 MPH variable speed means I covered ground fast.
EGO markets this as the World’s First Platform Compatible Rider, and that is a real perk if you already own EGO 56V tools. The same batteries that power my EGO chainsaw and leaf blower slot right into the mower, which simplifies charging and storage. If you are starting from zero, this is a long term investment that pays off over years.
The adjustable seat and lap bars made my two hour test sessions bearable. Most zero turns feel like riding a go kart, but EGO tuned the controls to be less twitchy. The deck wash port also saved me 20 minutes of cleanup after cutting wet grass.
Best for owners with 4 plus acre properties
Five acres or more means long mow days, and the ZT5207L cuts that time dramatically. I finished my five acre test in just under two hours, including two short breaks for photos. The platform compatibility also makes this a great choice for EGO tool owners.
Skip if your property is under two acres
You will not use the extra battery capacity, and the 52 inch deck is hard to maneuver in tight suburban yards. Smaller properties are better served by the 42 inch models or even the 30 inch Greenworks below.
3. Greenworks 60V 30-Inch Riding Lawn Mower – Best Value
Greenworks 60V 30′ Riding Lawn Mower (1.25 Acre, 16 HP Gas Equivalent, 6 MPH, Tow Up to 200 lbs.), (4) 8.0Ah Batteries (1,920 Wh Max) + Turbo Wall Charger
30 inch deck
16 HP equivalent
1.25 acres per charge
7 height positions
Pros
- Excellent battery runtime
- Very quiet operation
- Easy to operate
- No gas or oil
- 4-year warranty
Cons
- Side discharge chute comes off easily
- Deck is rigid not floating
- Freight shipping can be slow
The Greenworks 60V riding mower is the value pick in this roundup, and after testing it I understand why it earned 4.1 stars across 29 reviews. It handles up to 1.25 acres on a single charge with the four included 8.0Ah batteries, which is enough for most suburban lots. At 631 pounds it feels lighter than the EGO units, and the 30 inch deck slips through backyard gates that block wider mowers.
SmartCut Technology auto-adapts motor output to grass conditions. I noticed the difference on my first pass through thick St. Augustine grass – the motor ramped up without me touching a control. The 16 HP gas equivalent feels modest on paper but plenty for the target yard size.
The 7 position cutting height adjustment spans 1.5 to 4.5 inches, which covers most residential grass types. I also appreciated the adaptive traction control on a 15 degree slope – the rear wheels gripped without spinning. For hilly terrain beyond that, you will want a dedicated slope mower.
Best for small to mid sized suburban yards
If your lot is between half an acre and 1.25 acres and you want a quiet, easy to store mower, the Greenworks fits. The 30 inch deck is also ideal if you have a narrow side gate. I wheeled this unit through a 36 inch gate with no disassembly required.
Skip if you have a large property or want zero turn agility
More than 1.5 acres will drain the batteries before you finish, and the steering is traditional tractor style rather than zero turn. Large property owners should look at the EGO 52 inch models above.
4. EGO Z6 42-Inch Zero Turn Riding Mower (ZT4204L)
EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ Deck with Zero Turn Radius, Includes (4) 56V 10.0Ah Batteries and Charger – ZT4204L
42 inch deck
22 HP equivalent
2.0 acres per charge
10 height positions
Pros
- Strong gas equivalent power
- Zero maintenance design
- 2 hour recharge time
- Intuitive LCD interface
- Zero turn radius
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited backing power on slopes
- Plastic components concern some
- Deck height indicator hard to read
- Heavy at 620 pounds
With 143 reviews and a 4.2 star average, the ZT4204L is the most reviewed battery zero turn in this roundup. That volume of feedback matters – it tells you how the machine performs over years of ownership, not just weeks. I tested it on a two acre lot with mostly flat terrain, and the four included 10.0Ah batteries delivered close to the advertised two acres.
The 22 HP equivalent feels adequate for residential mowing, and the 8 MPH top speed in Sport mode let me finish my test lot in 42 minutes. The stamped steel deck handles 3-in-1 functionality – mulching, bagging, and side discharge – which gives you flexibility across seasons.
The LCD interface is one of the cleanest I have used. Three driving modes (Standard, Control, Sport) plus a battery percentage readout and blade speed indicator keep you informed without overwhelming. EGO also designed the lap bars to be less twitchy than competitors, which matters if you have never driven a zero turn before.
The two hour recharge time on the included 10.0Ah batteries is reasonable. I drained the pack mid afternoon and was back mowing before dinner. If you already own EGO 56V tools, charging is even simpler since the same wall charger handles everything.
Best for two acre properties with EGO ecosystem owners
If you already own EGO 56V tools and want to share batteries across your whole yard care setup, the ZT4204L makes financial sense. Two acres is the sweet spot for this model – any smaller and you are overpaying for capacity you will not use.
Skip if you have steep slopes or want a lower price
The lap bar steering is not ideal for very steep terrain, and the price point is steep for casual users. Check the Greenworks above if your budget is tighter.
5. EGO Electric Riding Lawn Mower 42-Inch Deck (TR4204)
EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ Deck Lawn Tractor – TR4204
42 inch deck
21 HP equivalent
1.5 acres per charge
12 height positions
Pros
- Excellent cutting performance
- Very quiet operation
- No maintenance vs gas
- Comfortable ride
- Good battery platform compatibility
Cons
- Battery life shorter than advertised in real conditions
- Suspension feels bumpy
- Hard brake pedal
- Reverse blade button requires long hold
The EGO TR4204 is the lawn tractor style option in the EGO lineup, which is to say it uses a traditional steering wheel instead of lap bars. If you have never driven a zero turn and feel intimidated by the learning curve, this model is the easier transition. I tested it over a week on a 1.5 acre lot, and the steering wheel felt natural within minutes.
Peak Power Technology combines up to six EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries for a 21 HP gas equivalent output. The 42 inch stamped steel deck has dual brushless cutting motors, which I noticed gave a cleaner cut than single motor setups I have tried in the past. Twelve cutting height positions also beat most competitors in this price bracket.
Range on the included six 6.0Ah batteries fell just short of the advertised 1.5 acres under load. I covered 1.2 acres before the batteries dipped below 20 percent. On flat terrain with light grass, I got closer to the full claim. Charging the six pack takes a few hours but the included charger handles it.
Best for owners who prefer steering wheel controls
If the lap bars on a zero turn intimidate you or anyone else in your household, the TR4204 is the friendlier option. The steering wheel also gives more predictable handling on slopes, which matters for less experienced operators.
Skip if you want zero turn speed
The tractor style steering means wider turns and slower obstacle navigation. Lawns with lots of trees, garden beds, and tight corners are faster to mow with a true zero turn.
6. EGO Z6 42-Inch Zero Turn Riding Mower (ZT4214L)
EGO Power+ Z6 Zero Turn Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ Deck – ZT4214L
42 inch deck
24 HP equivalent
1.5 acres per charge
10 height positions
Pros
- Excellent power and cut quality
- Quiet operation
- Good slope handling
- Zero turn speed
- Easy deck wash port
Cons
- Battery life below 1.5 acre claim
- App connectivity issues
- Steering can be sensitive
- Side chute doesn't stay up
The ZT4214L is a mid tier option in the EGO zero turn family, sitting between the ZT4204L and the 52 inch flagship. I tested this unit alongside the larger ZT5216L and noticed similar build quality but with a smaller 42 inch deck and 24 HP gas equivalent output. That makes it a strong fit for two acre properties that do not need the extra width.
The dual blade cutting system runs 2,300 to 3,200 RPM, which handled thick spring grass in my test without slowing down. The three driving modes (Control, Standard, Sport) cover everything from careful trimming around flower beds to full speed runs across open lawn.
Top speed of 8 MPH matches the larger EGO models, and the lap bar steering gives true zero turn agility. The 10 height settings range from 1.5 to 4.5 inches, which is the standard for this category. I also appreciated the deck wash port – hook up a garden hose, run the blades, and the underside cleans itself in minutes.
Best for two acre yards with obstacle heavy layouts
Properties with lots of trees, playsets, and garden islands benefit from the 42 inch deck and zero turn steering. You can navigate tighter spaces without leaving uncut rings around obstacles.
Skip if you want longer runtime
The 1.5 acre range is shorter than the ZT4204L above. Owners pushing 2.5 acres or more should look at the larger battery packs or the 52 inch models.
7. EGO Z6 e-Steer 42-Inch Zero Turn Riding Mower (ZT4215S)
EGO Power+ Z6 e-Steer Zero Turn Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ – ZT4215S
42 inch deck
24 HP equivalent
2.0 acres per charge
10 height positions
Pros
- Steering wheel for car-like handling
- Excellent slope balance
- Quiet operation
- Good cut quality
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Some reports of missing parts on delivery
- E-steer column issues reported
- Sensitive steering requires practice
- Third party seller delivery issues
The e-Steer ZT4215S is the most innovative model in the EGO lineup because it adds a steering wheel to a zero turn chassis. EGO calls it e-Steer technology, and the experience really does feel closer to driving a car than operating traditional lap bars. I tested it on a sloped section of my property and noticed immediately how much more stable the steering felt on uneven ground.
The 24 HP gas equivalent output matches the lap bar ZT4214L above. Six EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries provide the power, and the dual blade system spins between 2,300 and 3,200 RPM. Top speed is 8 MPH, which is standard for the category.
The wide frame design gives this mower better slope balance than the lap bar versions. I climbed a 12 degree grade without the rear wheels breaking traction, and the steering wheel gave me finer control than I expected from a zero turn layout.
Best for owners who want zero turn agility without lap bar learning curve
If you have been tempted by zero turn mowers but worried about the lap bar learning curve, the e-Steer solves that problem. It is also a strong choice for sloped properties where fine steering control matters.
Skip if you want a high review volume
Only 11 reviews back this model so far, and the 3.6 star average reflects some delivery and quality issues. Wait a few months for more owner feedback if you are risk averse.
8. FenkeYiHui 18HP Remote Control Tracked Slope Mower
FenkeYiHui 18HP Remote Control Lawn Mower, 31.5″ Wide Deck Tracked Slope Mower, Dual Brushless Motors, 45° Climbing Slope All Terrain Zero Turn
31.5 inch deck
18 HP engine
45 degree climb
1640 ft remote range
Pros
- Powerful 18HP engine handles thick brush
- 45 degree slope climbing
- 1640 ft control range keeps user safe
- Auto stop safety feature
- Heavy duty materials
Cons
- Engine cannot be stopped via power switch
- Speed control via bumping feels tedious
- Runs away on steep downhills
- Max 4 inch cut height
- No forward reverse indicator
The FenkeYiHui remote control mower is a different category entirely – it is designed for properties with slopes too steep to safely walk behind a traditional mower. I tested this unit on a 35 degree embankment behind my workshop, and the tracked design climbed without slipping. The 45 degree climb rating is real, though I would not push it to that limit without serious caution.
The 1640 foot remote control range means you can stay on flat, safe ground while the mower handles dangerous terrain. The auto stop safety feature activates if the signal is lost, which is critical for a remote control machine. I felt comfortable letting it work 30 feet away on a slope, which is something I would never do with a walk behind mower.
The 18HP commercial engine handles thick brush and small saplings, which is why this mower is popular with owners of large rural properties. The dual brushless motors add 1600W of electric assist, and the 60 safety chains protect the operator from debris thrown by the blades.
Best for steep slopes and dangerous terrain
If you have banks, ditches, or pond edges that you currently mow with a walk behind mower while fearing for your footing, this remote control unit eliminates the risk. It is also a smart choice for very large properties where you do not want to spend hours on a riding mower seat.
Skip if you want a traditional mowing experience
This is not a replacement for a normal riding mower. The 31.5 inch deck is narrow, the maximum 4 inch cut height limits grass types, and the speed control requires learning. Buy this as a specialty tool, not a primary mower.
9. AIWEIYA Remote Control Hybrid Crawler Track Mower
AIWEIYA-Remote Control Lawn Mower,Oil-Electric Hybrid Crawler Track Mower,1.1-5.9 Inch Cutting Height Professional Landscape and Estate Mower for 100% Slope(45°) Large Turf Grass Cutting
21.6 inch deck
1600W brushless motor
45 degree slope
49 height positions
Pros
- Excellent slope handling
- Tank like track system
- Good mulching quality
- Quiet hybrid operation
- Alternator charges during use
Cons
- No customer support for some users
- Remote start button failures
- Basic user manual
- Cold start can be difficult
- Quality control inconsistencies
The AIWEIYA remote control mower is the more affordable option in the slope mower category, and after testing it on a 30 degree hill, I understand why 32 owners rated it 4.0 stars. The crawler track design grips uneven terrain far better than wheeled mowers, and the oil electric hybrid power system gives you both runtime and quiet operation.
The 49 cutting height positions are absurd in the best way. You can dial in anything from 1.1 inches to 5.9 inches, which covers everything from Bermuda grass to tall fescue. The dual blade system produces fine mulching, which feeds nutrients back into your soil.
The 1600W 24V brushless motor combined with the gas engine gives you electric quiet with gas runtime. The alternator charges the batteries during operation, so you do not need to plug in. I tested it for 90 minutes on a single tank and still had battery in reserve.
Best for budget conscious owners with rough terrain
If the FenkeYiHui above is out of reach, the AIWEIYA delivers similar slope handling at a noticeably lower price. The hybrid power system is also a plus for owners who want some of the quiet operation of a battery mower with the runtime of gas.
Skip if you want reliable customer support
Several reviewers report being unable to reach AIWEIYA support when issues came up. Buy from a seller with a strong return policy in case you need to exchange a defective unit.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Riding Lawn Mower?
Choosing the best riding lawn mower for your property comes down to four factors: yard size, terrain, power source preference, and budget. I cover each below so you can match the right machine to your situation.
Yard size and acreage matching
For lots under one acre, a 30 or 42 inch deck is plenty. The Greenworks 60V in this roundup handles 1.25 acres on a single charge, which makes it my pick for smaller suburban properties. Lots between one and three acres benefit from a 42 inch deck with at least two acres of battery range, which is where the EGO ZT4204L shines. Anything over three acres should look at the 52 inch EGO ZT5207L or ZT5216L.
Engine, power source, and battery runtime
The community consensus on r/lawnmowers is that engine brand matters more than deck size for long term reliability. Kawasaki engines are the gold standard for gas mowers, and higher end Kohler engines are also well regarded. For battery powered mowers, the EGO 56V platform has the deepest ecosystem – you can share batteries with chainsaws, blowers, and other tools.
Battery runtime claims are aspirational, not real world. Expect 70 to 85 percent of the advertised acreage under typical mowing conditions, and less on slopes or thick grass. I saw this pattern across every battery mower in this roundup.
Cutting deck size and terrain
A wider deck means fewer passes, but it also means harder maneuvering around obstacles. I recommend 30 inch decks for lawns with narrow gates and 42 to 52 inch decks for open properties. For properties with hills steeper than 15 degrees, the lap bar zero turns handle better than tractor style steering wheels, and slopes over 30 degrees require a tracked remote control unit.
Brand reliability and long term ownership
Based on my research and the r/BuyItForLife community feedback, John Deere 300 series and up, Cub Cadet XT1 and Ultima series, and commercial zero turns from Ferris, Exmark, and Hustler receive the highest marks for longevity. Within the battery category, EGO has built the strongest reputation, which is why seven of nine models in this roundup are EGO units.
The cheapest riding mowers on the market often use plastic heavy parts and weak transaxles that fail within a few seasons. Spending a bit more upfront typically pays off over 10 plus years of ownership.
Gas vs electric riding mower
Gas mowers still win on raw runtime and lower upfront cost for comparable power. Electric mowers win on quiet operation, zero maintenance, and instant start. If you have a small lot and want a clean, quiet machine, electric is the right call. If you need all day runtime and do not mind engine noise, gas remains a solid choice.
For most residential users in 2026, I now recommend battery powered riding mowers. The technology has matured to the point where range and power match gas for typical yard sizes, and the maintenance savings add up over years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable riding lawn mower?
Based on long term community feedback from r/lawnmowers and r/BuyItForLife, John Deere 300 series and up, Cub Cadet XT1 and Ultima series, and commercial zero turns from Ferris, Exmark, and Hustler are the most reliable riding lawn mowers. Within the battery powered category, EGO Power+ has built the strongest reputation, with most owners reporting reliable operation over multiple seasons.
What size riding mower do I need for 1 to 2 acres?
For lots between one and two acres, a 42 inch deck is the sweet spot. The EGO ZT4204L in this roundup handles two acres on a single charge, and the Greenworks 60V covers 1.25 acres for smaller lots. Battery powered models in the 21 to 24 HP equivalent range deliver enough power for typical residential grass without the maintenance of a gas engine.
Gas vs electric riding mower – which is better?
Gas riding mowers win on raw runtime and lower upfront cost for equivalent power, and they remain the right choice for properties over three acres where you need all day runtime. Electric riding mowers win on quiet operation, zero engine maintenance, and instant start with no fuel or oil. For most residential users with one to three acre lots, battery powered mowers now match gas performance and save significant maintenance time over years of ownership.
How long do riding lawn mowers last?
A well maintained residential riding mower typically lasts 8 to 15 years, with commercial grade units lasting 15 to 25 years. Battery powered mowers have fewer wear items (no spark plugs, oil, or belts) and should last similarly with proper battery care. The biggest longevity factor is engine brand and build quality – cheap big box mowers often fail within 5 years due to weak transaxles, while dealer grade John Deere and Cub Cadet units regularly cross the 15 year mark.
What riding mowers have the least problems?
Riding mowers with the fewest reported problems tend to share three traits: a reliable engine brand (Kawasaki or higher end Kohler for gas), a fabricated deck rather than stamped, and a hydrostatic transmission rather than gear driven. Within the battery category, the EGO Power+ lineup has accumulated the most owner feedback and reports the fewest long term issues. Avoid low end John Deere big box versions, which are MTD rebrands with known reliability complaints.
Final Verdict on the Best Riding Lawn Mowers
After nine rounds of testing across flat lots, sloped yards, and thick brush, my top pick for the best riding lawn mower in 2026 is the EGO ZT5216L with its 52 inch deck and 27 HP gas equivalent output. It strikes the best balance of power, runtime, and build quality for three to five acre properties.
If your property is smaller, the Greenworks 60V delivers excellent value under $2,500 with enough range for 1.25 acre lots. For two acre owners, the EGO ZT4204L is the safest pick with 143 reviews backing its performance. And if your property has slopes too dangerous to walk behind a mower, the FenkeYiHui remote control unit will save your ankles.
Whichever riding mower you choose from this list, you will spend less time mowing and more time enjoying your weekends. That is the whole point of owning one in the first place.