Ride-on mowers are convenient equipment for maintaining bigger yards. Instead of using a manual or electric mower, a ride-on model lets you sit back comfortably while doing all the hard work. However, it's not the best option for yards smaller than half an acre.
A ride-on mower is an expensive but worthwhile investment. However, you need to consider several things before making a purchase, such as your yard's size, the mower's engine, cutting width and height, transmission and ease of use. You might also need to factor in the mower's fuel type, maintenance and speed.
Our team has examined numerous ride-on mowers available online to help you with your choice. We picked models based on customer reviews and ratings. We also chose units based on key product features for each category.
We picked the AS-Motor AS 940 Sherpa 4WD, which has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on ProductReview.com.au.
This heavy-duty ride-on mower features a cross-blade cutting system, allowing you to cut and shred grass even on difficult terrains. It also shreds and cuts simultaneously for a cleaner look. The machine is also equipped with 22 horsepower and an adjustable seat for both comfort and strength.
The Sherpa 4WD has a V-twin motor and a 15-litre fuel tank, giving you enough power to tackle challenging mowing jobs. There is also a snowplough for winter use and an optional transport trailer for added convenience. It does come with a steep price of $27,000, but it's worth considering if you own a large land that needs constant maintenance.
We recommend the Toro eS3000 as the best cheap option you can buy right now in Australia. Easy to use and pretty affordable, the eS3000 is perfect for smaller lands.
This ride-on mower features a 72V rechargeable battery, offering a convenient way to maintain your land. Apart from being compact, it also offers 20 positions of cutting heights from 2.5cm to 10.5cm. You can also mow in reverse and shift between mulching to side discharge modes.
When it comes to its motor, the eS3000 has a relatively quiet operation. There is also a 30" deck to fit in tight spaces with a nimble 46cm turning circle. Customers said this machine is pretty easy to manoeuvre even on steep slopes. And while it doesn't have the power of higher-end models, it is a solid option if you're on a budget.
For the best rear engine model, we chose the Rover RZT S 46 Zero Turn Mower. This has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on the brand's official website.
With a 46-inch cutting deck and Synchro Steer technology, this mower offers plenty of power to mow bigger lawns. It has precise handling for steep terrain and a dual independent transmission for a 360-degree turning radius. This means that at the end of your pass, you can easily turn around on the spot.
For added convenience, the RZT 46 has an adjustable seat and armrest, a drink holder and easy zero-turn control. It's also specifically designed for steep inclines and offers plenty of power to cut your mowing time. It's backed by the brand's 5-year warranty and the Kohler engine has a 2-year warranty, too.
Masport's 190cc Mini Rider Ride On Mower is our pick for the best ride-on mower under $3000. With a 190cc Pro Electric Start engine and a 6-speed transmission, this unit is more than enough for smaller areas.
It comes with a 24" steel side discharge cutting deck, steel bumper and an 11-litre fuel tank, making it a breeze to cut through stubborn grass in no time. And because it's pretty compact, this Masport ride-on model is easy to store as well
Customers gave positive feedback on this machine's ease of use, compact design and value for money. While it doesn't have the bells and whistles of pricier mowers, it does the job well. It is ideal for maintaining lands up to 2 acres in size. The toolless deck removal and manual deck lift also make it easier to maintain this machine.
We recommend the Cub Cadet CC 30 E Electric Ride-on as the best electric option available online. Featuring a 30" deck with side discharge, this machine is easy to use and has an hour of runtime.
The CC 30 E is powered by a 15000Wh lithium-ion battery, allowing you to charge the machine in any standard outlet. One full charge takes about four hours and gives up to 60 minutes of power—enough to mow smaller areas.
Additionally, this Cub Cadet number has a compact design, which makes navigation extremely easy. There's a tight 16" turning radius that the brand claims can give you almost zero-turn-like manoeuvrability. This means you can easily get around garden beds, trees and bushes.
If you're in the market for a mini ride-on mower, check out the Rover 382 Mini Rider. This is a manual mower that features a 30" cutting deck and a 4.9-litre fuel tank. It is also compact and extremely user-friendly.
With a built-in grass disposal method and a small build, the 382 mini mower is the perfect solution for maintaining smaller lands. The built-in grass disposal method allows you to easily manoeuvre in tighter areas. There is also a comfy seat so you can relax while navigating the machine.
And while this doesn't have the power and fancy features of bigger and pricier mowers, it offers plenty of good features for basic land maintenance. It can effortlessly cut grass and is powered by a 6-speed manual transmission. It's also pretty low maintenance, according to customers.
When it comes to the best option with a catcher, we picked the Rover Lawn King 18/42 Ride-On Lawn Mower. This has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars on GYC.
Featuring an 18HP Kawasaki V-Twin OHV and an electric start, this heavy-duty mower is a great choice for bigger lands and more challenging mowing tasks. It has a 42" pressed steel cutting deck with twin blades and a side discharge for your convenience.
There is also an automatic foot-operated hydrostatic transmission that uses fluid to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. And to make it easier for you to move around, the unit has mowing technology for reverse-mowing actions. Finally, the machine features a high back seat with armrests for your comfort.
We picked the Victa 46" 23HP Zero Turn Petrol Ride On Mower as the best zero-turn option. This unit has a 46" cutting width and a foot-operated deck lift, making it much easier to cut through stubborn grass.
This Victa ride-on mower is powered by a Briggs and Stratton V twin engine with 23 horsepower, giving you plenty of strength to mow and navigate slopes and harder terrains. It also features Hydro-Gear ZT-2200 transmissions for true zero-turn capability.
Suitable for both small and large lawns, this machine is pretty powerful and can handle any terrain. Several reviews said its blades are quite durable, lasting over 100 hours before needing replacements. There were complaints about the belt snapping easily, but this seems to be a minor issue.
For wet grass, we recommend the Razorback All Terrain CMX1402H. With a mechanical drive train at the front, this entry-level machine is suitable for heavy-duty tasks and use on any terrain.
The CMX1402H comes with a handy steering wheel that can be telescoped in or out for ease of use. The steering angle can also be altered for better control. It also features a 3-suspension seat that can be moved forward and back.
For efficiency, this unit has Heartfelt Hirosaki blades bolted to the mower, giving you more cutting power. And with an 11.7HP engine and variable-speed hydrostatic transmission, it can easily cut through wet grass in no time. Finally, the machine has a max speed of 13.7km per hour, making it suitable for small and large areas alike.
The 48V 30" Brushless Ride On Lawn Mower Kit is what we'd recommend as the best Ryobi option. On Bunnings, it has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Powered by four 12V 50Ah batteries, this machine claims to mow lands up to an acre. It also has three brushless motors for unconstrained power as well as a 30" removable steel deck with seven height adjustment positions for ease of use.
And because this is battery-powered, the mower is pretty low maintenance. This means you don't have to worry about belts, pulleys, or an oil change. It also comes with an adjustable seat for enhanced comfort and LED headlights for better visibility. The machine is also easy to navigate in flatter areas but may struggle to go around trees and slopes due to its small tyres.
eBay prices last updated on 25 April, 2024 at 08:14 pm
How did we pick this list?
19 Brands considered
52 Products compared
10 Best products chosen
Why you can trust our picks
For this guide, we evaluated ride-on mowers available from different online retailers. We considered models from the following brands:
AS-Motor
BigDog
Cox
Cub Cadet
Greenfield
Husqvarna
Hustler
John Deere
John Deere
Kubota
Masport
McCulloch
Murray
Razorback
Rover
Ryobi
Stiga
Toro
Victa
We narrowed down our choices based on customer ratings and reviews (as of October 2023). We also considered each model's key product features, such as price, safety features, engine and ease of use. We came up with what we believe are the 10 best ride-on mowers you can buy online.
Why should I consider a ride-on mower?
If the lawn you need to mow is half an acre (2,000m²) or more, a ride-on mower could be a smart purchase for several reasons:
Simple and convenient. Rather than sweating it out with a walk-behind mower, ride-ons offer an easier and gentler way to keep your lawn looking good. All you have to do is fire the mower up and sit back in comfort, steering it around while it does the hard work for you.
Practical. Getting a ride-on mower will help you stay on top of physically demanding lawn maintenance.
Designed for large lawns. Most walk-behind and push mowers have a maximum cutting width of 50cm. Ride-on mowers offer cutting widths ranging from 70cm to more than 135cm, meaning you can cover more territory.
Fun. While the fun factor will hardly be a major consideration for prospective buyers, it's hard to deny that there's a certain level of enjoyment to be found zipping around your yard on a ride-on.
Why shouldn't I consider a ride-on mower?
Not needed for small yards. If you've got a small suburban yard, a ride-on mower is overkill. For anything up to 500m², a walk-behind or push mower will usually be more than adequate, and a ride-on nothing more than an unnecessary expense.
Cost. Ride-on mowers aren't cheap, so if you're going to part with well over $1,000 of your hard-earned cash, you'll want to be certain that it'll be spent on something you need.
What types are available?
There are 3 main types of ride-on to choose from, each of which is suited to a specific type of lawn:
Lawn and garden tractors. These mowers use the traditional design most people think of when they picture a ride-on mower. They feature an engine at the front, steering wheel and pedals, and they usually eject grass out the side. They feature large cutting widths and are usually best suited to lawns without too many obstacles. "Garden" tractors are typically bigger than "lawn" varieties and boast more power along with wider cutting decks.
Rear-engine ride-ons. The most basic and usually the cheapest option, rear-engine mowers also feature a steering wheel and are known for having a smaller chassis and cutting width. They can't match the power of other ride-ons, but their size and manoeuvrability make them worth considering for smaller lawns and those with limited storage space. Think of them as the next step up from a self-propelled mower.
Zero-turn mowers. Known for their tight turning circle, these mowers feature a rear engine and are controlled using a pair of levers. While these levers can take a while to get the hang of, the manoeuvrability of zero-turn mowers is a big selling point. They also boast large cutting widths and lightweight frames, allowing you to cover more ground faster.
How to compare ride-on mowers
Before you choose a ride-on mower, take a moment to think about your lawn. How big is it? Is it flat or sloping? Are there obstacles like trees and garden beds you need to mow around? This will help you narrow down your mower choices and decide what features you want in a ride-on.
When comparing ride-on mowers, consider the following:
Engine and power output
Rear-engine mowers tend to be smaller and have less power than their front-engine counterparts. More power means more cutting ability but it also uses more fuel, so compare the power output figures for all models. While 16–20Hp will be sufficient for lawns of up to an acre, larger areas may require more power.
Check the torque figures as well, as more torque means a better cut in tall or thick grass. Finally, don't forget to consider the type of engine. V-twin engines offer more power and less vibration than single-cylinder engines, and the reduced vibration generally means longer engine life and greater comfort.
Safety features
Safety features include a seat safety switch that shuts off the blades when you get off the seat, and automatically shutting off the blades when you select reverse.
Cutting width
The ideal cutting width will depend on the size of the area you have to mow; however, remember that any obstacles and the type of terrain you have to mow could influence the width you choose. As a general guide:
For 1 acre or less, a cutting width of 30–42 inches (approx. 76–107cm) will suffice
For 1–2 acres, 42–50 inches (approx. 107–127cm)
For 2+ acres, look for a cutting width of 50 inches (approx. 127cm) and above
Transmission
Just like cars, ride-on mowers come with a choice of either automatic or manual transmission. While automatic/hydrostatic transmissions are easier to use, manuals are generally cheaper.
Cutting height
Check the maximum and minimum cutting heights of any model you're considering. Find out how many different height settings are available so you can mow your lawn to your precise requirements.
Comfort and ease of use
It's a good idea to actually sit on any model you're thinking of buying to check how comfortable it'll be for long periods of use. Also look to make sure that all the instruments and controls are within easy reach. For example, is the fuel gauge easy to see at all times? How can you adjust the cutting height? What is visibility like around the mower? Is there an hour meter to help you track when engine maintenance is due?
Speed
The top speed isn't the be all and end all. While motoring along quickly is great in open spaces, you may also want something that's easy to control in tight areas.
Some models also offer cruise control if you want to lock in a specific speed.
Fuel tank
Check the fuel capacity to get an idea of how much territory you'll be able to cover before needing to refuel. Unfortunately, fuel economy figures aren't widely available.
Other things to consider
Mulching, catching and accessories. While your mower can just spit out the cut grass if you want, many models offer catchers or an on-board mulcher to provide a neater finish. Some models also come with other towable accessories, such as sweepers to clean up leaves and debris or spreaders to distribute fertiliser.
Safety features. Safety features include a seat safety switch that shuts off the blades when you get off the seat, and automatically shutting off the blades when you select reverse.
Maintenance. What regular maintenance tasks are required and how easy are they to perform? For example, is it easy to access and change the air filter and oil? What about servicing requirements?
Reliability. Read independent user reviews to find out whether ride-on owners have experienced any reliability issues. In situations where they have, were those issues fixed under warranty?
Manoeuvrability. If you've got tight corners or obstacles to navigate, a tight turning circle and easy manoeuvrability are crucial.
Size and weight. The dimensions of a mower will not only affect how easy it is to manoeuvre but also how much storage space it takes up. If you have limited room in your shed, this could influence the model you choose.
Warranty. Check how long the manufacturer's warranty is and exactly what it covers.
Cost. From around $1,500 for an entry-level garden tractor to more than $5,000 for larger and more advanced models, ride-on mower prices vary substantially. Make sure you understand exactly what you're getting for the price so you know whether a mower offers good value for money.
Which ride-on mower is best for me?
The best ride-on mower for you will depend on your personal circumstances. For example, if you've got roughly a half-acre of grass to mow among obstacles like trees and garden beds, the right model for you will be different to the best choice for someone with a few acres of wide-open grass.
The most important thing you can do is compare the features of ride-on mowers in line with your requirements. To help make this easier, we've compared 5 popular ride-ons in the table below:
The good
The bad
Husqvarna Z246i
Powerful V-twin engine
Easy to start and use
No fuel gauge
Some users have reported reliability issues
Troy-Bilt TB30 R Neighbourhood Rider
Affordable
Compact and easy to use
Small fuel tank
Wide turning circle
Cub Cadet XT1 LT42
More affordable than some other options
Twin-blade cutting deck
Some reliability issues
Design issues with mulching kit
Poulan Pro PPX46Z
V-twin engine
Easy to manoeuvre
Some users have reported reliability issues
Low cutting height
Husqvarna GTH52XLS
Powerful V-twin engine
52-inch cutting width
Pricey
Fuel gauge hard to see
Frequently asked questions
To keep your mower in tip-top shape, clean it after every use. Brush off any debris that's clogging your mower. You should also lubricate its parts occasionally to ensure that they run smoothly while cutting grass. You should also change its air filter and oil at least once per season.
Make sure to consult your manufacturer's manual for specific steps in maintaining your particular ride-on mower.
Rear engine ride-on mowers are easier to manoeuvre, allowing you to navigate around trees and tight spaces. They also have decks that pivot for a smooth cutting action. They are also cheaper. Front engine ride-on mowers are more powerful and have better traction for hauling additional accessories. However, they're more difficult to manoeuvre as they require a wider turning radius due to their size.
In general, you should change the oil of your mower once every 100 hours of run time. However, it is best to consult your manufacturer's manual for a more accurate timeline.
We picked the AS-Motor AS 940 Sherpa 4WD. It is user-friendly, heavy-duty, and can help you maintain large areas with ease.
For the best petrol-powered lawn mower brand, Honda was named the winner at the 2020/2021 Finder Retail Awards.
Ride-on mowers typically cost anywhere from $2,500 to $30,000, depending on engine capability, cutting width, power and other special features.
Here are the steps to get started:
1. Read the user manual before doing anything else. This will give you important information about the machine, such as how to operate it and what safety precautions to take.
2. Check that the area you'll be mowing is clear of obstacles. This will help prevent damage to your mower and injuries to yourself or others.
3. Fill up the gas tank or charge the battery, depending on the type of mower you have.
4. Check the oil level and tire pressure. Again, refer to your user manual for specific instructions.
5. Set the blade height according to the grass length. Shorter grass will require a lower blade setting, while longer grass will need a higher setting.
6. Start the mower and begin mowing! Remember to go over the area slowly at first to get a feel for how the machine handles.
Ride-on mower safety tips
Protect yourself. Wear glasses or safety goggles as well as ear muffs/plugs and closed-toe footwear when mowing.
Check before you mow. Give your ride-on a once-over to ensure that it's safe to use. Check that the fuel filler cap is closed, the spark plug lead is secure and that nothing is clogged with grass clippings.
Clear debris. Before starting your mower up, make sure the lawn is clear of debris like branches, sticks and kids' toys.
Be careful on slopes. Mow up and down on slopes – never across them – to avoid tipping over. Remember, many models weigh in at 150kg or more, and with a person on top, their centre of gravity rises. You may also wish to consider an all-wheel-drive model for extra grip if mowing sloping terrain.
Take care when reversing. Always check behind you to make sure there are no people, animals and objects before reversing.
Take it easy. Drive slowly and use caution when turning to prevent your mower tipping over.
Shut down blades. Make sure the blades are shut down before getting off the mower, even if you're only climbing off briefly to move debris out of the way.
Not for kids. Keep children away from ride-on lawnmowers at all times.
Why you can trust Finder Shopping best guides
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Our editorial team has decades of experience testing and comparing products. We only use experienced journalists with proven track records.
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We assess hundreds of products for each guide to ensure you're getting a full overview of the market. All guides are regularly reviewed and fact-checked.
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Ericka Pingol is a writer for Finder specialising in reviews. She has previously written articles about property investment, finances, and health. She’s a huge fan of Tina Fey, bubble teas and dogs. Ericka has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of the East, Manila and is currently writing her thesis for a Master’s degree in Communication
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