If you have a small to medium-sized garden, you can get away with using a self-propelled or push mower. However, larger gardens require more power which cannot be delivered by smaller lawn mowers. A ride on lawn mower is often the best choice.
This is where lawn tractors and ride-on mowers come in handy. There are so many options available on the market, making it difficult to choose the best garden tractor for you.
We have compiled a list of our 7 best ride-on lawn mowers to help you choose what is best for you. Each of these options has been compared on size, power and more.
Our TOP Ride on Mowers and Tractor Picks for Comfortable Mowing
Here is a quick overview of our top 8 picks for the best sit-down lawn mower.
Best Ride on Lawn Mowers for Comfort to Buy in 2023
When it comes to buying a driving lawn mower, it can be difficult to identify the best option from the many available. There are several factors that could make a specific model suitable to you and your needs.
For instance, if you are looking for the best ride on mower for 1.5 acres, you’ll need a machine that’s powerful enough to run through the entire plot before it needs recharging or refilling.
Similarly, for large gardens that require more time, you need to ensure that you are comfortable. So, the additional features that ensure comfort during use will be more important.
Finally, the power source is important. If you have a large garden that takes a long time to mow, then a garden tractor that needs to be recharged every 30 minutes may not be ideal. A petrol or diesel mower could prove to be a better option.
- Oleo-Max OM93/16K Lawn Tractor
- Feider FRE7548V Electric Ride-On Mower
- Stiga Tornado 398M Lawn Tractor
- Yard Force E559 Electric Ride-On Mulching Mower
- Feider FRT-7550M Compact Ride-On Lawn Mower with Manual Drive
- Stiga Gyro 500e Electric Axial Ride-On Mower
- Simplicity Broadmoor SYT410 Garden Tractor
- Racing 6224PR Compact Ride-On Mower
Oleo-Mac OM93/16K Lawn Tractor
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: petrol-powered
- Cutting width: 92cm
- Item weight: 198kg
- Dimensions: 294 x 96 x 114cm
- Special feature: 290l grass collection bag
Grass collection and mulching are no issue for the powerful Oleo-Mac lawn mower. Although this mower doesn’t come with side discharge, the mulch produced by the mower can be collected in the 290l bag and then spread around your garden.
Developed to move up steep slopes while keeping you comfortable, this mower has a smooth transition between speeds. This allows you to keep going without stalling or pausing, making it ideal for steep slopes and moving around obstacles.
The 4-stroke petrol engine helps this mower reach a maximum speed of 8.8km/hr forwards and 3.8km/hr in reverse. This allows the mower to keep going as it encounters obstacles like steep slopes, rough terrain and long grass.
This lawn tractor has been developed with 2 blades on a 92cm cutting deck. Given that this mower has mulching and collection in mind, the blades are meant to cut the grass into small enough pieces to spread around your garden. Each blade can be adjusted to 7 positions, between 25 and 80mm.
For large gardens up to 4000 sqm, this mower is the best option. It is powerful enough to get the job done in less time, with an additional benefit being the warranty. The 3-year warranty gives you peace of mind should you encounter any issues with your mower.
Pros:
- Generous 290L collection bag
- Adjustable blade height with 7 positions
- Highly manoeuvrable
Cons:
- Large and bulky
Feider FRE7548V Electric Ride-On Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: battery-powered
- Cutting width: 76cm
- Item weight: 165kg
- Dimensions: 145 x 107 x 112cm
- Special feature: compact design
If you’re searching for a ride-on mower for rough ground, the Feider FRE7548V is one of the best. Suitable for most terrains with an incline of 15 degrees, its minimal vibration and cruise control allows you to mow your garden in comfort.
This mower has a powerful lithium-ion battery which allows the mower to increase to speeds of 8km/hr forwards and 3.2km/hr in reverse. Additional features include mulching power and side discharge, allowing you to fertilise your garden in an eco-friendly way.
With a compact design, this mower is an ideal option for use in paddocks and we rate is as the best ride-on mower for uneven ground. It’s easily manoeuvrable and efficient, leaving a clean and tidy patch for animals.
Recommended for areas between 3000 and 4000 square metres, this mower works well on plots of land of up to an acre. The quiet operations make this a suitable mower for residential and farming use as it won’t disturb neighbours or animals.
Pros:
- Compact cutting deck
- Quiet operation
- Ideal for large areas
Cons:
- Smaller cutting deck
Stiga Tornado 398M Lawn Tractor
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: petrol-powered
- Cutting width: 98cm
- Item weight: 160kg
- Dimensions: 172.6 x 120 x 110cm
- Special feature: adjustable blade height
If you’re looking for a ride-on mower to mulch grass as you go in comfort, then the Stiga Tornado is a very good choice. This mower has been designed with a side discharge option as well as a mulching function.
Mulching is a natural way to fertilise your garden with little effort. The mulch can be collected and discharged through the side of the mower, spreading the pieces back onto your garden.
Powered by a Stiga 352cc engine, this tractor mower is a powerful unit that can get the job done efficiently. The petrol tank has a capacity of 6l, so you can get quite a bit of work done before needing to refuel.
The 98cm cutting deck is a brilliant feature as it helps to care for larger areas at once. Designed for a working area of 4500m by 4500m, this lawn mower is ideal for large gardens or gardens that require frequent work.
A good feature of this tractor mower is that the blade height can be adjusted to 7 different positions, ranging from 25mm to 80mm. This allows you more control over the height of the grass in various areas of the garden.
Pros:
- Adjustable blade height
- Mulching capability
- 6 gears available for adjustment
Cons:
- Loud at 86dB(A)
Yard Force E559 Electric Ride-On Mulching Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: battery-powered
- Cutting width: 96cm
- Item weight: 213kg
- Dimensions: 164 x 117 x 104cm
- Special feature: adjustable cutting height
Capable of reaching speeds of 12.9km/h forward and 8km/h while mowing, this E559 electric tractor mower is ideal for large areas and rough terrain. Additionally, a mow-in-reverse function allows you to double back if needed.
For greater control over your garden and how it is tended to, this mower gives you multiple cutting heights. You can adjust the height of the blades to 1 of 12 positions, ranging from a height of 38 to 114mm.
Equipped with an anti-tip frame, this mower is powered by a 56V lithium-ion battery. This allows the mower to operate powerfully and get the job done efficiently without risking your safety or comfort.
Users have found that the greatest benefit of this mower is the silent operation. This gives them more control over when they can use their mower and does not pose as great a threat to their hearing as a petrol mower would.
An excellent benefit to this mower is the 2-year warranty. Should you experience an issue, Yard Force will be able to help you sort out any problems.
Pros:
- Multiple cutting heights
- Quiet for suburban areas
- Powerful and efficient
Cons:
- Large and bulky
Feider FRT-7550M Compact Ride-On Lawn Mower with Manual Drive
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: petrol-powered
- Cutting width: 76cm
- Item weight: 160kg
- Dimensions: 115 x 155 x 85cm
- Special feature: rear-discharge functionality
Designed for comfort and ease of use, the Feider compact mower is among the best options for 1-acre plots of land. With cutting height options ranging from 20 to 90mm, which can be adjusted using an easy lever, this mower is powerful and effective.
The 432cc 4-stroke engine is ideal for larger gardens as it is powerful enough to keep going despite obstacles. With a 4.2l petrol tank, you can get the job done efficiently before needing to refuel, making it ideal for large plots of land.
With manual drive, you can shift this ride-on mower into 5 forward positions and 1 reverse, getting the mower to speeds of 1.5km/hr to 8km/hr when moving forward. This is a benefit if your garden or plot of land has any obstacles such as trees and bushes, or garden features.
Ideal for large gardens up to 5000 by 5000m (more than an acre), this powerful mower gets the job done efficiently. The 4.2l petrol tank ensures that you can power your mower for as long as needed without needing to stop and refuel.
Pros:
- Compact and easy to manoeuvre
- Mulching, collection and rear-discharge functions
- Large collection bag of 170l
Cons:
- Smaller cutting deck at 76cm
Stiga Gyro 500e Electric Axial Ride-On Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: battery-powered
- Cutting width: 98cm
- Item weight: 230kg
- Dimensions: 175 x 119 x 116cm
- Special feature: comfortable high-back seat
For a quiet and powerful ride-on mower, the electric 500e tractor is an excellent option. Part of the Stiga series 5, this mower is designed to be a quieter and more efficient way to care for your garden. Suitable for areas up to 5000 by 5000m, the Gyro is a good option for large plots of land.
Using a side-discharge system, this mower is ideal for those who want to use mulch in their gardens. The blades can be adjusted to one of 8 positions, ranging from a cutting height of 25 to 105mm. This gives you more control over the appearance of your garden and the size of your cuttings.
A lithium-ion battery powers this mower, ensuring you get the job done efficiently and without delay. It takes approximately 2.5 hours to charge the battery, meaning you can charge it overnight before needing to use it again.
A downside of this mower is that it has a maximum slope of 15 degrees, meaning you cannot use it for steep slopes. However, if your garden or plot of land is flat, then this is a good option.
Pros:
- Maximum speed of 11km/hr
- LED headlights for low light
- Joystick driving system
Cons:
- Not suitable for steep slopes
Simplicity Broadmoor SYT410 Garden Tractor
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: petrol-powered
- Cutting width: 122cm
- Item weight: 328kg
- Dimensions: 198 x 150 x 119cm
- Special feature: adjustable cutting height
Made from durable materials, this SYT410 ride-on mower is a good option if you are looking for rear rollers. The full-width rollers help to squash grass, vegetation and topsoil. This creates a stripe effect on the grass, making it the best ride-on mower for stripes on our list.
A fabricated steel mower deck means this mower will remain resistant to moisture during use. Similarly, a cast iron front axle means this mower is durable and will last longer than a mower made with cheaper materials.
The height of the blades can be adjusted between 3.2 to 10.2cm, allowing you to alter it depending on the need, such as around pavements or walkways. Smooth acceleration both in reverse and forward pairs well with the tight turning radius. This allows greater control when caring for your lawn.
Finally, a benefit to buying the Simplicity mower is that it comes with a 3-year limited warranty. Should you experience any issues with the mower, the company can help you repair or replace the problem part.
Pros:
- Full-width rear rollers
- Large cutting deck
- Durable materials
Cons:
- Mulch kit not included but optional
Racing 6224PR Compact Ride-On Mower
Key Product Specs and Features
- Power source: petrol-powered
- Cutting width: 61cm
- Item weight: 136kg
- Dimensions: 180 x 72 x 106cm
- Special feature: durable materials
As an efficient and compact tractor mower, the 6224PR is an excellent option. It has 4 forward and 1 reverse option, allowing you to set the speed to match the terrain and need. The speed of the mower can go from 1.5 to 4.6km/h forwards and 2.3km/h in reverse.
If you are looking for the best small ride-on mower, then this Racing mower is a good option. The narrow, 61cm cutting deck means that it may take longer to tackle large areas while giving you the benefit of easier manoeuvrability.
This mower comes with a high-capacity and powerful 4-stroke engine which works with an electric start system. Combined with a narrow body that allows the mower to fit into narrow areas, you can get the job done efficiently regardless of the size of your garden.
Finally, the spacious design of the mower means you can sit comfortably while operating the machinery. It has been designed to last against frequent use, with a durable steel cutting deck. This is a benefit as steel is an anti-corrosive material which will not rust when exposed to water.
Pros:
- Fuel efficient
- Large 150l collection bag
- Compact design
Cons:
- No mulching option
How to Buy the Best Tractor Mower in 2023
Power source
Various factors may influence whether you buy an electric or petrol tractor mower. Electric mowers tend to be quieter due to the smaller engine. However, petrol mowers are more powerful and are better suited for tough terrain and larger gardens.
Maintenance
Ride on mowers require frequent maintenance, making it a good idea to go to a professional. The blades need to be sharpened and cleaned, the belts need to be checked and the oil needs to be changed. It is a lot to take on, but it is a necessity.
Durability
Large gardens will require maintenance more often than smaller gardens. You will therefore need to use your ride-on mower more often, leading to wear and tear. It is important to buy a mower that’s built with durable materials that won’t break with frequent use.
Cutting width
Garden tractors often have a larger cutting deck due to the size of the machine. This makes it easier to tackle larger parts of your garden at a time. An additional feature to look for is adjustable blade heights to add more variety.
Warranty
When buying a machine with many moving parts, a warranty is a must. If you experience any issues with your lawn tractor or with a part, then the company you bought it from will replace or repair the issue for you. This is only possible with a warranty in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are riding lawn mowers worth it?
When it comes to large gardens or plots of land up to 1 acre, riding mowers are well worth it. These mowers have larger cutting decks and are more powerful. This makes it easier to deal with large areas and get the job done efficiently.
How long do tractor mowers last?
When taken care of correctly, many users have found that they can get a good 6 to 10 years out of their mowers. This is only with correct maintenance and when issues are spotted and dealt with swiftly.
How long can you leave petrol in a ride-on mower?
Unfortunately, oil petrol left in a mower can go bad in 2 to 4 weeks. If it is left any longer, it can cause damage to your mower and will be expensive to repair. It is therefore important to ensure you are changing out your oil frequently.
How often do tractor mowers require maintenance?
To get the most out of your ride-on mower, it is important to tune it at least once a year. Although it only takes 30 minutes to do, this is an important step and should not be ignored.
What parts of a ride-on mower need to be maintained?
The outside of your mower needs to be cleaned, after which moving parts need to be lubricated. Next, the air filter needs to be changed and the spark plugs replaced. Finally, change the oil in the mower and check the mower belts.
Conclusion
Now that we have looked at our top picks, you should have a clearer idea of which ride on lawn mower is suitable for your needs. Each of our recommendations could be a good option for you, with the main differences being based on technical aspects.
Each ride-on lawn mower has been evaluated on its power source, the size of the cutting deck and the special features that could benefit you. Depending on the terrain in your garden and your own preferences, these features could make or break an option for you.
If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to reach out.
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Charl is a full-time writer with a range of passions and expertise in lawn mowers and other garden power tools. After many years in the corporate rat race, he decided to follow these passions. When not writing, Charl can be found in his garden, tending to or propagating plants, keeping the lawn near perfect, and enjoying the outdoors with his dogs. He is also fascinated by emerging technology and tries to squeeze in a round of golf as often as possible.
