Riding Mowers: Do You Want a Lawn Tractor or Zero-Turn Mower?

If you’ve got a lot of lawn to mow and want to get it done more efficiently and comfortably, chances are you’re going to want a riding mower of some kind. But you’ll need to decide between the standard models, also called lawn tractors, and a zero-turn model.

We here at Desert Greens know it can be hard to land on the perfect option, so we’ve put together a brief comparison between the benefits of lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers, below. To learn more, or to see the riding mowers we have for sale, contact our stores in Albuquerque and Belen, New Mexico, today!

Lawn Tractors

There’s a reason these models are sometimes simply called “riding mowers”—they’re the default option, and they’re a good one to consider.

Affordable

Of the two categories, a lawn tractor is more likely to be attainable for anyone on a tight budget. They’re simpler machines and aren’t as complicated to build, which lowers the sticker price a bit. Lawn tractors are also easier to maintain for similar reasons, meaning the savings just keep coming.

Easier to Control

Another very important factor is how easy a lawn tractor is to control. While zero-turn mowers can have complex steering systems, a lawn tractor’s steering method is instantly recognizable as a steering wheel like you’d see in any consumer vehicle. While the acceleration and braking isn’t exactly the same as your car or truck, a recognizable steering system means one less thing for you to learn.

Mowing Hills

While zero-turn mowers are better at many things than lawn tractors, one area they fall short in is driving on or around inclines. If your lawn has slopes or hills, a lawn tractor is a must in order to avoid any complications.

Zero-Turn Mowers

That said, a zero-turn mower has its own advantages that make it worthwhile as an option.

More Powerful

These machines pack more power in just about every way. They can move significantly faster by up to 3 or 4 miles per hour, can cut tougher and taller grasses, and generally have more punch. 

Larger

Zero-turn models also tend to have larger cutting decks, meaning you can cut a wider swathe of the lawn in one pass. Combined with the higher speeds, you’ll get the same amount of work done in a fraction of the time.

More Precise

And of course, the reason for their name: zero-turn mowers can turn on a dime. This is perfect for mowing around obstacles or in complicated patterns. The precision steering and cutting of a zero-turn mower can’t be beat!

Ready to find your perfect match? Contact us at Desert Greens Equipment for more information, or to see the riding mowers we have available. We proudly serve the people of Albuquerque, Belen, Santa Fe, and Rio Ranchero, New Mexico—let us serve you today!