Lawn Tractors vs Zero-Turn Mowers

Both professional landscapers and residential property owners need good lawn mowers to keep grass well-maintained. But if you’re shopping for a new mower, you’ve probably discovered that you’re spoiled for choice, as there are so many different types on the market. So which do you choose? What might work best for your land or for your clients’ properties?

Two of the most common types of mower are lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers. Each one has its benefits and its limitations, so it’s important that you consider both of your options carefully to make the right choice. Magnum Power, located in Lawson, is proud to be your Missouri lawn mower dealer. Check out our comparison between lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers below to help narrow down your choice.

Lawn Tractors

A lawn tractor is a riding mower that’s designed to operate similarly to a typical farm tractor, making it more powerful than other options may be. You get the durability and ruggedness of a tractor combined with the easy handling you’re accustomed to in a standard riding mower. Lawn tractors are affordable, simple and intuitive to use. They are equally suited to private usage or business operations.

However, you will probably spend a longer time mowing with a lawn tractor, since they’re not known for their speed. They aren’t difficult to master, although they are also not extremely agile, meaning that their turning radius is rather wide. This can make it more difficult to keep a straight line going as you mow.

Zero-Turn Mowers

A zero-turn mower is similar to a typical riding mower, except that it has the ability to turn on a dime—the turning radius is designed to be zero, as the name implies, which allows you to accurately follow the line you just mowed back up to where you started. This agility is a boon to anyone who wants to keep a plot of grass well-manicured and even. The wide cutting decks can handle large fields and uneven terrain full of obstacles.

However, a zero-turn mower isn’t as adept at cutting grass that has grown taller than 6” or so. You may end up making multiple passes or having to go back over with a different mower to cut down very tall grass.

And while a zero-turn mower is adept at handling a field, it’s not going to be as efficient, especially if there’s no real need for the lack of turn radius. Zero-turn mowers are more expensive due to their precision cutting, which may also be a drawback for anyone on a tight budget.

Which One Is Right For You?

If you’re faced with very tall grass over large expanses, a lawn tractor will be of more use to you, even if you end up spending a little longer mowing. However, if you frequently navigate a lot of obstacles or want very precise cuts on smaller plots, a zero-turn mower will get the job done well. Figure out what you need based on the grass you cut and what limitations you may have. Both options will be spendy, but it’s worth the money to get a piece of equipment that’s useful and made to last a long time.

We hope this guide has helped you to make your choice! As you can see, both options are great, but one may be more suitable for your needs depending on what parameters you’re facing. Searching for lawn mowers in Clay County, Missouri? Visit our dealership in Lawson today to see our full stock of lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers and other types of mowers for sale. Magnum Power proudly serves the greater Kansas City, Missouri metropolitan region.