11 Best Garden Tractors of 2023
If you’re in charge of a large property or big project, then you know that the work can be strenuous. Often, this type of job requires a machine that is powerful enough to handle regular duties like cutting grass, removing snow, digging holes, or hauling mulch. Having a dependable workhorse to help get the job done can be very helpful. But what kind of machine should you choose?
A Garden tractor is a great option for most people. They’re compact but still powerful, and they can range in price from affordable to slightly more expensive than their full-size counterparts. But there’s a lot you need to know before choosing the best one for your needs, and this guide will cover all of that information so that you can make an informed decision.
Disclosure: This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.
Our Overall Best Garden Tractor Picks
Toro 60″ TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower
Overview
If you have a lot of land and grass to cut, the Toro TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower is perfect for you. With a 24.5-hp engine and 60-inch deck width, this zero-turn mower can go up to 7 mph – meaning fewer passes over your property for faster lawn care.
Key Features
Bottomline
The Toro doesn’t just boast speed–it also has a handcrafted, suspended seat that reduces vibration and shock, letting users stay comfortable while mowing, pushing snow, or completing other tasks. The TimeCutter’s step-through front end makes getting on and off the mower simple. Furthermore, the TimeCutter series takes advantage of Toro’s IronForged deck system with 10-gauge steel and Kevlar belts for durability. The only downside is its lack of PTO output; however, zero-turn mowers often have this same drawback because of their design.
Cub Cadet Ultima Series ZT1 54
Overview
Although zero-turn mowers are commonly more expensive than average ride-on tractors, the Cub Cadet ZT1 54 provides considerable worth. This zero-turn mower has a 54-inch wide mowing deck and is powered by a 24hp engine, meaning it can quickly cover multiple acres at speeds of up to 7mph.
Key Features
Bottomline
The ZT1 54 is not only powerful but also comes with adjustable lap bars and a fully adjustable seat for utmost comfort. Its full tubular frame allows for easy access to the engine and mechanicals for maintenance while its welded-on hitch provides compatibility with Cub Cadet’s full lineup of accessories compared to most lawn tractors in the market. Though it does not come equipped with fenders, the built-in headlights more than makeup for this inconvenience. It’s one of the best riding lawn mowers in the market to date.
Troy-Bilt Bronco 46K Riding Lawn Mower
Overview
The Troy-Bilt Bronco 46K mower is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to save money without sacrificing too much power or functionality. This riding lawn mower is affordably priced and powerful enough to get the job done, making it a great value for your money.
Key Features
Bottomline
The sizable 46-inch deck is ideal for small to midsize lawns. The convenient built-in hitch system lets you tow items such as aerators, scarifiers, spreaders, and garden carts. Most tasks will be a breeze with the 18hp engine–even hauling dirt or moving snow (provided you use chains and appropriately sized plow).
Bad Boy ZT Elite 60″ Zero-Turn Mower, BZS60KT745
Overview
If you own a particularly large and rugged property with uneven terrain but still want a well-manicured lawn, the Bad Boy ZT Elite mower is an excellent choice. The extra durable 60-inch deck is made from very thick 7-gauge metal with a reinforced ⅜-inch front lip, capable of withstanding even the heaviest use. In addition, the 26 hp engine provides enough power to mow quickly and efficiently at speeds of up to 7 mph.
Key Features
Bottomline
The ZT Elite has many advantageous features, but one that particularly stands out is its independent front suspension. By design, this allows the mower to stay level on rougher terrain for an extended period so you can achieve a more even cut. Additionally, the built-in hitch makes it easy to tow trailers and garden carts. Not to mention, the high-back seat is adjustable to ensure comfort during long cutting sessions. Although it may be pricier than other models, this mower’s effective features make it well worth the investment – especially for those with large yards full of uneven land
Greenworks Pro 60V 42″ Crossover T Riding Lawn Mower
Overview
The Greenworks Pro 60V 42″ Crossover T Riding Lawn Mower is a battery-powered model that will make any garden tractor purist rethink their position. This rear-engine mower features a 42-inch deck and a 60V motor, as well as six 8.0Ah batteries and three chargers. With this combination, it can mow up to 2.5 acres on one charge – all while being much quieter than a traditional gas-powered lawn mower deck (without the emissions).
Key Features
Bottomline
Although this battery-powered garden tractor has other features, here are the most notable ones: an integrated cargo bed that can hold 200 pounds, USB ports, a phone holder, and a cup holder. It also comes with a high-intensity LED headlight, and brushless motor, built-in hitch for towing (recharge time is up to 90 minutes). One downside is the deck size–it’s not suitable for large properties.
Husqvarna 18.5 HP Hydrostatic Riding Mower
Overview
The Husqvarna garden tractor was created for efficient domestic use and builds on the company’s existing lawn management tools.
The mower is designed to be easy to store in tight spaces like a garage, while still delivering powerful cutting performance. The intuitive controls make it simple for any gardener to just get on and go without having to figure out all the bells and whistles first.
Key Features
Bottomline
Husqvarna’s yard tractors offer both premium performance and quality results. Though compact in size, they’re easy to maneuver and store. To make them even easier to operate, these tractors have features like a fender-mounted cutting height adjustment as well as an adjustable seat and ergonomic steering wheel. All Husqvarna tractors come with hydrostatic transmissions for use in all types of terrain.
Toro Titan Max Zero Turn Lawn Mower
Overview
All Titan zero-turn mowers have a few key components in common. The engine is positioned near the center of gravity at one end of the deck, with controls and gauges nearer to the front. A lever allows you to deactivate/reactivate drive gears to turn without backing up or having to maneuver around obstacles.
Key Features
Bottomline
The Titan Max zero turn lawn mower is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a unique and unparalleled mowing experience. These advanced machines offer several advantages over their traditional counterparts, including a 60-inch cutting deck, zero-turn radius, and 30-inch width. This mower will help reduce your workload by saving time and effort to spend more time doing what matters most to you!
Craftsman T225 Tractor Mower
Overview
The Briggs and Stratton 19-HP engine ensures top performance in any modern garden tractor. Additionally, the 46-inch cutting deck is curved to prevent grass buildup inside the mower, ensuring a clean cut every time.
Key Features
Bottomline
The mulching chute is wide enough to remove grasses with ease. To turn on the mower, simply pull the knob. The device is completely under your control; you can attach or put a mulching chute at the rear part according to your preference.
It also has reverse features that will allow you to reach difficult areas by moving the mower back and forth. If that’s not your style, you can use the hydrostatic foot pedal instead which doesn’t require any movement.
Bad Boy MZ Magnum
Overview
The Bad Boy MZ 54 in. Magnum is an enormous zero-turn mower, with a cutting deck width of 54 inches. In other words, it can manage extensive regions without struggle and gets done more rapidly than smaller models.
Its mighty 725cc Kohler engine provides 22 HP, letting you effortlessly cut through lush grasses and weeds.
Key Features
Bottomline
The ergonomic seat is comfortable and can be adjusted to your liking, so you can find the perfect position. There’s also an onboard storage compartment for small items like sunglasses or sunscreen, so you don’t have to carry them around on your person while operating your machine. The only downside is its price; it’s not cheap! But if you want quality, then you have to pay for it. It comes with a 2-year warranty and weighs 665Ib. So even though the cost is high, you get what you pay for: tough parts that will last a long time
John Deere 1023E Sub-Compact Tractor
Overview
If you need a workhorse for large projects or properties, the 1023E from John Deere should be at the top of your list. Even though it’s not considered a full-size tractor, it has plenty of features that are comparable to its bigger counterparts, like hydraulics systems and a built-in PTO. And even though the 21.5-hp engine isn’t overly powerful, the PTO and hydraulics make up for any lack in raw power.
Key Features
Bottomline
The John Deere 1023E is truly versatile, being able to connect with many attachments. Though it’s necessary to keep in mind that this model doesn’t come with any, it can be very easily mowed with the Load-N-Go deck by simply driving over it. In addition, this model can utilize self-leveling loaders, snow-removal implements, and more items.
Cub Cadet Enduro Series XT1 LT50 FAB
Overview
Cub Cadet Garden Tractors have always been reliable, but the new Enduro series has a model for every gardener and garden size. The budget option is perfect for those who want a quality product without spending commercial-level prices.
Key Features
Bottomline
Even the most basic garden mowers are hard to maintain, so the maintenance package that comes with these garden tractors from Tractor supply co is pretty outstanding.
The only thing separating this Cub Cadet model from others in our reviews is size and price. This compact tractor mows quickly and efficiently, making it great for a mid-sized yard with a lot of lawn to cover.
Our Verdict
Garden tractors are a great investment for anyone who wants to make their gardening easier. The best garden tractor for you will depend on your individual needs, but all of the models we’ve reviewed here are excellent choices. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Cub Cadet Enduro Series XT1 LT50 FAB is perfect. It’s powerful and durable, with a 46 in. stamped deck that can handle even the most challenging yards.
If you need something more heavy-duty, the John Deere 1023E Sub-Compact Tractor is an excellent choice. With its hydraulics systems and PTO, it can take on any project you throw at it. So whatever your needs may be, there’s sure to be a garden tractor out there that’s perfect for you!
