As homeowners, we can all agree that lawns are one of the hardest areas to maintain. Gas mowers are loud, polluting and difficult to start up, but there is a low-maintenance option you should try: electric lawn mowers.
In this post, our team will introduce you to the best electric riding lawn mower in the market to save you from the hassle of gas mowers once and for all.
Reviews of the Best Electric Riding Lawn Mowers
1. Ariens 915223 IKON-X 52" Zero Turn Mower 23hp Kawasaki FR691 Series
Limited storage space is not a problem for this electric riding mower. Designed in a convenient and compact size, users will find this option easier to maintain than most of its competitors.
Despite its petite structure, Ariens 915223 runs with a 23 HP motor. Compared to other brands of electric riding lawn mowers, this zero-turn cutting electric rider machine performs faster with its uninterrupted cutting speed and performance.
Aside from its superior zero-turn maneuverability, users will surely be impressed with its 52-inch cutting width that can clear any hilly and grassy terrain in an instant. There’s also no less in comfort with its adjustable high-backside seat with armrests for an ergonomic ride.
What We Like
- One of the fastest electric riding lawn mower comparable to gas engines
- Has zero-turn maneuverability that leaves no grass uncut
- 23 horsepower motor
- Has fully tubular steel frame rails that support loads of the machine
- Exterior frame that has unprecedented strength and stability
- 4.5-inch deep fabricated blade deck
- Thirteen adjustable blade cutting positions
- Can mow through challenging mowing conditions
- Easy pedal-operated system for blade height selection
- Padded and adjustable high-back seat with armrests
What We Don't Like
- Include components that need constant maintenance
- Need to check with a local dealer for supply
2. Simplicity Broadmoor Lawn Tractor
Among many electric riding lawn mowers, the Simplicity Broadmoor Lawn Tractor is known to have a pro-level construction with Free Floating™ Mower Deck that provides an even scalp-free cut and follows the contours of your lawn.
With 230 CCA battery life capacity, these electric riding lawn mowers can perform in maximum run time even in cold temperatures. It also has full-width rear rollers that give every cut a clean finish[1].
You will experience tried and true strength and dependability with its disc drive transmission and easy to use control panel.
What We Like
- Fully battery-operated front-engine rider
- Easy-to-access control panel
- Three-year battery warranty
- Easy to maintain components
- Pro-level construction with Briggs & Stratton® Intek™ motor
- Runs on impressive 23 power rating
- Includes full-width rear rollers that leaves every cut with a clean finish
- Offers convenient 18-inch turn radius and height-of-cut adjustment
- Performs high-precision cut of 1.5 to 4 inches
- Single charge and suits long haul grass-cutting operations
What We Don't Like
- It can only be operated in broad daylight as it’s not equipped with headlights
- Requires regular components maintenance
- Not a zero-degree turning radius mower
3. Ryobi 38-inch 100 Ah Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Mower RY48111
When selecting the best electric lawn mowers for a wide area, it’s crucial to consider how long the motor can perform.
Ryobi RY48111 is a battery operated lawn mower that has a three-year battery warranty and can smoothly operate up to 2.5 hours of runtime and can reach over 2 acres on a single charge. This low-maintenance electric lawn mower has no spark plug, belts or filters, making it extremely efficient.
Despite being a fully-electric operated mower with zero emissions, it delivers gas-like power using its three high-powered brushless motors. This option also has a quieter grass-cutting operation and easy to use cruise control than a gas engine.
If Ryobi’s reputation appeals to you, you may want to check the RY48130 30 inch model.
What We Like
- Versatile cutting options like side-discharge, mulching, and bagging
- Trouble-free operation with no spark plugs, belts, or filters
- Has built-in hitch attached on the back
- Engine runtime of 2 hours to 2.5 hours and reach over 2 acres with one charge
- Delivers gas-like engine capability
- Zero emissions and three high-power brushless motors
- Has 38-inch cutting deck and 12 different positions manual adjustments
- Cuts approximately 1.5-inch to 4.5-inch in width
- USB phone charging port on its panel
- Battery can charge through a standard 120-volt outlet
- Completely battery operated riding electric lawn mower
- Equipped with LED lights
- Quiet cutting action of only 70 decibels
What We Don't Like
- Needs to be recharged after approximately 2.5 hours runtime
- Shipping delays due to the pandemic
4. Ryobi 38" Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower RY48110
The Ryobi RY48110, equipped with a 38-inch side-discharge 2-blade cutting deck, is one of the heavy-duty options we can recommend if you’ll be mowing an extensive lawn.
Users will experience comfortable driving control with its easy to use cruise controls and auto-motive style disc brakes. Ryobi’s long-lasting brushless motors can charge to a standard 120-Volt outlet and last up to 2 hours of runtime covering 2-acre field per charge.
Unlike gas-powered lawn mowers, you can use this riding lawn mower for 2 hours and even in cold temperatures, thanks to its 75 Ah batteries. This option also offers utmost safety with its LED Headlights.
Also, check these products:
What We Like
- Trouble-free maintenance with no belts, spark plugs, or filters
- Pinion steering wheel with USB charging ports
- No need for clutching and shifting between ground speed ranges
- Comfortable mid-back seating suspension and rubber floor mats
- Includes specifications for utmost safety like LED headlights
- Has 16-inch turning radius, 12 Gauge Steel deck material
- Limited warranty of three years
- Equipped with dual high powered brushless engine
- Charges through standard 120-Volt outlet and last up to 2 hours
- Highly-recommended for large residential lawns and fields
What We Don't Like
- Needs to recharge after several hours of operation
- Electrical components need to be checked regularly
5. Husqvarna YTA24V48 24V Fast Continuously Variable Transmission Pedal Tractor Mower, 48"/Twin
When selecting the rider lawn mowers suitable for your lawn, you must always consider the type of grass area you’ll trim. For big gardens that require long hours of operation, you can rely on Husqvarna’s Briggs & Stratton 24 HP motor engine for a smooth performance.
Professional-grade features like a cutting width of 48 inches and four anti-scalp wheels make this electric riding lawn mower unique from its competitors. Not to mention, the Husqvarna YTA24V48 has a 16-inch turning radius as good as a zero-degree turning radius lawn mower available in the market.
Although this option is a gas-powered riding machine unlike others on this list, its self-propelled hydrostatic transmission that allows you to maintain a consistent speed makes it a viable option.
(If you are considering to purchase a zero turn mower, the Husqvarna Z254 we reviewed is a great option)
What We Like
- Maintenance-free operation with its fast hydraulic auto-transmission
- Compact in size and extremely maneuverable
- Electric rider lawn mower for uneven and hilly terrains
- Features easy electric blade engagement with one pull of switch in the control panel
- Adjustable and sliding 15-inch high-back seat and durable steel deck
- Chokeless start, electric clutch, and charge ports
- Has an air induction system that enhances airflow in the cutting deck
- Powder-coated cutting deck that strengthens corrosion resistance
- Three years of limited warranty period
- Compatible with a wide range of towable accessories
- Electric riding lawn mower suitable for any season or climate
- Ergonomic steering wheel angled to driver’s optimal position
What We Don't Like
- Expect shipping delays due to the ongoing pandemic
- Electrical components need maintenance check-ups from time to time
6. Ryobi RY48ZTR100-1A 42 in. 100 Ah Battery Electric Riding Zero Turn Mower and Bagging Kit
This battery operated lawn mower is one easy to use electric riding lawn mower. Built with a 42-inch blade deck and running on 100 Ah batteries, Ryobi RY48ZTR100-1A can provide you with a quiet but powerful cutting performance up to an hour.
Although not as massive as a gas engine, this electric riding lawn mower is quite powerful even when you purchase a used riding mower at $500 below of this model. Thanks to its well-thought bearings and joints designs, users can enjoy a smooth ride throughout the operation.
If you don’t have much space in your garage, we recommend going with an option similar to Ryobi RY48ZTR100-1A lawn mower because of its compact structure.
What We Like
- Compact in size and takes up less storage space
- Equipped with 42 inch deck and charges through 120-Volt outlet
- Offers a quiet but powerful operation
- Designed with bearings and joints that provides a smooth driving experience
- Operated with a rechargeable battery that can last up to 3 acres per charge
- Has comfortable to use and soft-touch steering controls
- Features 1.5 in. to 4.5 in. adjustable cutting height
- Guaranteed three-year limited and battery warranties
- Includes towing hitch and tow assembly hardware
What We Don't Like
- Needs to be recharged after every operation
- Most suitable for small to medium areas only
7. Swisher ZTR2766BS Response 27 HP 66-Inch B&S ZTR Mower
Coming from a reputable brand with 60 years of industry experience, this zero-degree turning radius riding lawn mower features a top-tier motor and design that any property owner can dream of having.
Users can expect unparalleled performance with its 27 HP Briggs & Stratton electric start engine and 66-Inch three-blade stamped steel cutting deck. This electric lawn mower runs in 8 mph maximum speed and gives you 360 degrees turns.
Designed with durable frames, Swisher ZTR2766BS will surely stand the test of time as this riding mower can last for a very long time.
What We Like
- Extremely maneuverable with zero-turn radius
- Equipped with a powerful 27 HP Briggs & Stratton electric start engine
- Constructed with durable frames
- Has a comfortable and adjustable seat for long haul operations
- Has huge rear wheels for easy maneuverability
What We Don't Like
- Include components that need constant maintenance
- Possible delivery delays
Electric Riding Lawn Mowers Buyer’s Guide
Build and Size
Before you get up and buy any electric riding lawn mowers for your hills, you must consider factors like the build and size. Of course, this will depend on how wide the area you’ll be mowing or if you have enough storage space to maintain this machine.
Lawn mowers equipped with large motors are highly recommended when dealing with tall grasses and expansive areas. On the other hand, smaller ones are lighter and can easily maneuver in small yards with less than 2-acre field.
Type of Riding Mower
There are different types of premium riding lawn mowers available in the market. If we’re talking about its type, there are two popular categories that every lawn owner knows about: gas-powered and electric-powered lawn mowers. These mowers have narrower mowing decks, about 30 inch.
Although traditional gas models are widely-popular, the former have gained positive attention for their environment-friendly functions that offer zero fume emissions, unlike the other option.
Both types offer competitive output, but each of them has different edges. For gas-powered riding mowers, its immense and long-lasting power and speed is definitely a plus. On the other hand, electric mowers have the lightest weight, easier to maneuver, and their cordless feature gives you the freedom to move around.
In terms of build and features, there are three categories to riding mowers. First is the rear-engine rider, one of the most agile electric lawn mowers on the market due to its lightweight and traditional steering system.
Second is the zero-degree turning radius mower. Good example of this kind is Cub Cadet ZTX series. Plenty of top-notch zero turn mowers below 5000 in the market today have control levers for better brake, speed, and direction.
The third and last option is the garden tractor, the most versatile of all, especially if you’re dealing with a wide area. A garden mower can handle highly-seasonal and demanding chores like towing, snow plowing, and tilling. Intended for heavy-duty use, this option is relatively more expensive than the other two. You can check 30 inch Troy Bilt kind of lawn mower.
Considering these types is crucial especially if you intend to continuously and regularly maintain your lawn area. Always remember that these machines will only work to your advantage if you know when and where to properly use them.
Type of Battery
When looking for a new riding mower or purchasing a second-hand riding lawn mower, there are two types of batteries to consider, the Lithium ion battery and Lead acid battery. As their names imply, lithium ion batteries are made with the metal lithium, while lead acid batteries are made with lead.
If you need a material comparable to Lithium Ion battery, that’ll be your mobile phone battery but bigger. A lithium ion battery can last longer and maintain its power throughout the operation. Also, a lithium ion battery is relatively safe to store because this type of battery isn’t sensitive to cold temperatures and does not need to be charged during storage.
Lithium ion batteries feature a battery life that has a remarkably fast charging time. This allows multi-shift crews to use lithium ion battery power for longer periods of time over the course of a day and charge the battery when convenient.
Meanwhile, lead acid battery is the option that cost less. Lead acid batteries, on the other hand, produce a substantial amount of heat when charging. Like lithium-ion batteries, the lifespan of a lead acid battery can be shortened when exposed to extreme temperatures, especially heat. This lead acid battery is a type of battery similar to the ones you use for your car.
Unlike lithium ion battery, the lead acid battery can’t be discharged and needs to be stored in specific temperatures to prevent damage. Lead acid batteries also require a storage area with adequate ventilation so that dangerous gases do not seep into other work areas while they charge and cool down.
But regardless of your choice, you should know the lawn mower battery voltage to choose for better results.
Cutting Deck Size
The size of your mower’s blade is the main factor that affects the speed of your operation, aside from the motor horsepower. It’s crucial to consider the total amount of field you’ll be mowing because this will determine the right size suitable for you. Just like a 30-inch mowing deck provides ample mowing width for a medium-sized yard.
Your storage space is another consideration you should need to remember, especially if you’re buying a riding lawn mower with a large cutting deck adjustment.
Engine Power
Having a large cutting deck does not always mean faster grass-cutting operations. Even smaller electric riding mowers can perform at an adequate speed with a powerful motor integrated into their system.
Your motor’s performance will determine the smoothness of every cut and will enable you to climb hilly terrains without dealing with unexpected breakdowns or sudden jolts. The motor of your choice must be the perfect combination of power, durability, and purpose so that you could confidently tackle the task at hand. Some brands that takes our attention are Cub Cadet CC30E 30 inch and Troy Bilt Pony.
Always remember, the more powerful your motor is, the more capable it’ll be in handling strenuous conditions like damp areas and snowy surfaces. As a bonus, you can choose from the many powerful riding mowers with a snow plow attachment for added versatility.
Speed
As mentioned above, many factors can affect the speed of your mowing operations. Aside from a powerful motor that offers consistent speed, a larger blade and turning radius will always factor in when aiming for the faster cutting action.
But even with these elements present in your purchased lawn mowers, speed should never compromise the quality of your cuts. Our team’s advice is to do this task with the utmost care and concentration to achieve your desired output.
Comfort and Safety
Managing an electric riding lawn mower is not as easy as a walk in the park. Along with its impressive capabilities and helpful features in maintaining your lawn, mowers can also pose dangers if not used properly.
On the bright side, electric lawn mower providers included some features in their products to make your riding and driving experience safe and comfortable. Electric riding lawn mowers already had an edge in safety as they emit no fumes.
For brands like Husqvarna YTA24V48, it has a powder-coated cutting deck that strengthens corrosion resistance. Aside from that, it also has an ergonomic steering wheel angled to the driver’s optimal position for efficient control during operations.
Mowers with headlights are also one of the safety features recommended to improve visibility when working through different weather conditions without any hassle.
Price and Warranty
Electric riding machine companies like Kawasaki and Kohler, offer different types of limited warranties to their customers. The warranty period of the brands listed in this post ranges from one to two years, depending on the defects reported.
And because electric lawn mowers usually operate on batteries, brands have separate terms and periods of warranties for this. It also varies if the mower will be used for residential purposes or commercial job sites.
While you can find riding lawn mowers under $2000, purchasing a riding lawn mower is not a cheap investment to make, which is why this machine is only recommended to use when mowing areas as broad as 1 acre or more. Most of these machines are engineered with high-quality and durable components, which explains their costly price range. With its robust structure, if you have maintained your mower properly, you can even sell your riding lawn mower in the future at a very ideal price.
Some days, your riding mower just stop clicking, worry not! There are ways and solutions to know why your riding lawn mower won’t start and not clicking. Read on next!
Our Top Pick For an Electric Riding Lawn Mower: Ariens 915223
From its 23 HP motor that enables smooth cutting performance up to its ability to mow in different weather conditions, our team hailed Ariens 915223 as our top pick for the best electric riding lawn mower out of the vast and excellent options in this list.
Among the seven lawn mowers, Ariens 915223’s exterior frame that has unprecedented strength and stability impressed our experts for the safety edge it adds to the entire mowing operation.
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