A beautiful lawn is a pride of a property owner, a manicured lawn is an aesthetic aspect of your home but it’s not an easy task to keep your lawn looking pristine. It’s a tough job that often requires hours or days to keep it the way it is. The epitome of lawn care starts with a great grass cutter. But if you have a 2000-square-foot property, you know you need to buy nothing less than the best small zero-turn mower to maintain your property.
What are the features of a small zero-turn mower?
We love zero-turn mowers for their efficiency, but what size of mower should you get? What’s an appropriate mower for a large property lawn or garden? These are common questions many think of when considering purchasing a ZTR for the first time.
You need a small zero-turn mower if:
- You have a property that has multiple narrow paths or lawns where many trees are growing close to each other, you need a mower that will fit through that path.
- Your lawn is at least 1000 square feet up to an acre
- You have a landscape and garden that also has obstacles and mixed terrain types where grass grows in between
When looking for smaller zero-turn mowers, you should consider the following features:
- Mowing deck under 48 inches. Any mowing deck larger than 48 inches is pretty huge already and they would come with a heavier steel frame body making it a heavy machine.
- Lower than 25 horsepower engine. Having a 25 horsepower engine for a mower is quite a large and powerful engine. However, this is just enough to power through tougher types of grass and weeds to cut. Larger engines drive up the cost of your mower. For a smaller mower lower than 48 inches, a 25 HP engine is already a luxury.
- Comfortable and easy rider experience. Even if you’re not going to mow for long hours, getting the right mower that offers a simpler and more comfortable ride will make mowing a more enjoyable and less tedious task.
- Quality frame. Getting a strong frame for your mower will ensure its longevity and definitely its durability.
- Additional features. A cup holder doesn’t sound bad even if you’ll only take an hour of your time mowing. Still, even with a small mower having extra features like upgradable mulching kits or a wide cargo bed is a bonus for anyone wanting to get a ZTR.
Why choose a small zero-turn lower mower?
Though zero-turn mowers are efficient, they aren’t fit for all types of lawns. Mowers are generally divided into different size ranges.
They offer easy maneuverability and speed
They are great for lawns that are at least 2000 square feet but the advantage of getting smaller zero-turn mowers is that they are lighter. It’s easier to move around and it’s definitely much easier to make sharp turns, go through tight narrow paths and mow over softer soil types.
They are easy to maintain
Smaller z-turns are very easy to keep. Everything is a hand’s reach away because it doesn’t have a lot of welded frames for supporting a heavy machine and gets in the way of repair. Smaller parts are easier to reach and identify. So if it does have problems, it’s faster for you to find the cause and address them. Larger machines are more complicated with added parts additional wiring and multiple places for upgrades.
The parts are cheaper
Smaller machines are made with lesser quality materials. Don’t get me wrong, they’re still built using superb support and welded metal steel or alloy. Since smaller machines aren’t meant for acres of lawn mowing, they don’t need those extravagantly expensive metal frames made for extreme mowing. Hence finding replacement parts is cheaper. Fixing dents and patching holes will also cost less than maintaining ZTR beasts for fields.
They have a lower cost of ownership
Yes, they’re cheaper to buy than larger zero-turn mowers but overall, including lawn tractors smaller zero-turns are by far the most cost-efficient. Since they cut mowing time, trim grass in moderate conditions, and use less gas, they have less wear and tear. They have a longer lifespan because they don’t deal with extreme mowing conditions that most large ZTRs are built for but they are more efficient than lawn tractors.
They are easier to use
As I have mentioned, smaller zero-turn mowers aren’t very complicated. You don’t need a lot of upgrades like suspended seats or large cupholders and such because you won’t spend much time mowing an acre of land. Larger machines offer such features because they can mow more than 5 acres taking you hours on the field. But smaller ZTRs aren’t built for such heavy-duty mowing. They are designed to manicure lawns to perfection making their precision cutting top-notch. All these while making mowing an easy task, you don’t need extra features on your dashboard to make the most of your mower.
Is buying a cheap Z-turn mower worth it?
Honestly, there are no cheap zero-turn mowers. All z-turns cost thousands of dollars and all are great investments. Smaller mowers are definitely more affordable mainly because of the size. However, considering the function and the efficiency of a ZTR, it cannot be matched by other types of mowers making them highly worth every penny you spend.
The only difference in cost prices between different types of mowers is due to the:
- The material used to build the mower
- The size and the type of engine you’re using
- The number and type of mower blades used
- The size and material used to make your mowing deck
- Extra added features
For more information about the cost of zero-turn mowers, check this price guide
Best Small Zero Turn Mowers
Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1
Cutting Width
With 42 inches of cutting grass, this small zero-turn mower cuts your mowing time by almost 50% compared to a riding lawn tractor and a typical walk-behind lawnmower. Improve your mowing experience with a triple-blade machine that offers precision cutting at its finest.
Engine
Get a 22-horsepower Kohler KT7000 Series V-twin engine, this machine allows you to trim your lawn effortlessly. You’re ensured to have a professional-quality finish with every pass as you mow through your lawn. The machine allows you to also speed up to 7 miles per hour and do a reverse mow at a top speed of 3.5 miles per hour.
Material
For enhanced strength, the frame is built with a 2×2 continuous square tubular steel frame. This optimizes the durability allowing you to have a mower that performs at optimal speed and power.
The Cub Cadet uses an enhanced corrosion-free system to protect the mower. With a 12-gauge steel cutting deck, it provides a durable home for your mowing blades keeping the blades from easily wearing out.
Rider Experience
With a streamlined comfortable rider’s seat, you’re guaranteed an enjoyable ride while you power through your lawn. With a foot-assisted deck height adjustment, you can easily make adjustments to your cutting height.
Additional Features
The cub cadet offers an open-frame engine frame. This allows you to have easy access to your engine and crucial parts of your machine. It also comes with headlights to assist you in low-light conditions. It also has a tow hitch to make it easier for you to pull your z-turn out if you’re stuck in a ditch.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for hilly areas | Thin front wheels can cause tread marks |
| Built-in lights for mowing in the dark | |
| Upgradable for mulching |
Overall
This cub cadet is a powerful z-turn that is perfect for smaller lawns. It’s narrower than massive machines that would raze through your field of grass. This machine is highly durable making it a perfect zero-turn for property owners with slightly rolling hills, tight walking paths, and more.
Ryobi Electric Riding Zero Turn Mower
Cutting Width
Made with a durable welded steel deck, your machine is guaranteed to go through your property with ease without causing much wear on your blades. With 42 inches of mowing capacity, you can easily go through narrow spaces and precisely cut through overgrown grass without a problem. It offers a 12-point height adjustment giving you the best grass height that suits your preference.
Engine
Choose an eco-friendly way of mowing your grass. This fully battery-operated machine reduces gas emissions and lessens the noise of mowing your property. With a 100 Ah battery and 4 high-powered brushless motors, you can easily mow up to 3 acres of grass on a single charge.
Material
Made with 12-gauge steel, your mower is built to last. With a strong foundation, your battery-operated ZTR will surely offer tremendous mowing capacity that suits your needs for years to come.
Rider Experience
Since the Ryobi zero-turn mower is electric-powered, it is a very quiet machine. In addition to a quieter mowing experience, the padded seat with synthetic leather upholstery offers great comfort as you cut your grass.
Additional Features
You can charge this machine in a typical 120-volt outlet. Since it does not have a gas engine, it offers low maintenance because you don’t have to deal with smaller parts like spark plugs, filters, and belts. The dashboard also includes a battery level indicator, unit hour meter, and USB charging ports.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable cost of ownership | Unfit for slopey areas |
| Quiet and eco-friendly mowing | |
| Long use of the machine in between charges |
Overall
If you’re looking for a powerful machine that’s not only eco-friendly but offers very little maintenance and a low cost of use, the Ryobi Electric Riding ZTR is a great choice for any type of mowing task for all types of users. You’re going to love this electric mower since it offers a great rider experience but also lets you save money in the long run.
Toro TimeCutter Commercial Riding Mower
Cutting Width
Give yourself a boost of mowing experience with a machine that can cover up to 42 inches. This will surely reduce your mowing time significantly. Give yourself a gorgeous lawn with the Toro TimeCutter. Its narrow deck allows you to navigate your way through tight spaces while leaving you with precisely cut grass.
Engine
With a 22.5 HP twin-engine, you won’t have to worry about a mower that busts right in the middle of a trim. Rest assured that your powerful engine will allow you to mow up to 3 acres of grass without wearing the machine out. In addition, the Toro TimeCutter comes with a smart speed auto-control that allows you to safely speed over your grass. It can mow to a maximum speed of 7 miles per hour, tow at 5.5 miles per hour, and trim at 4 miles per hour.
Material
On top of smooth steering, your time-cutter is built with durable 13-gauge steel. This sturdy frame and deck provide a sturdy frame that will surely make your machine trim your lawn for well over 3 years.
Rider Experience
You’re always guaranteed a smooth ride with Toro zero-turn mowers. Offering superb quality seats and a step-on and off the deck, you can easily power up your engine and mow without sacrificing comfort. This mower has shock-absorbing dampeners assuring you with less bumpy rides every time you go out for a trim.
Additional Features
Clean-up is easy with the TimeCutter. Not only are you reducing the time to mow, but it also speeds up your cleaning time with a wash port. This easily washes out the muck, mud, debris, and sticky clippings from your deck preserving the quality of your blades and machine. Plus, you can enjoy your mowing task with your coffee using the cup holders and mini cargo bed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Upgradable mulching kit | Unfit for slopes |
| Shock-absorbing feature | |
| Reverse cutting |
Overall
If you’re looking for a commercial z-turn mower that prioritizes quality trim in every pass, the TimeCutter is just the right choice. Comfort is also a priority for the Toro giving you a great mowing job without giving you the discomfort of mowing your lawn for long hours.
John Deere Z345M
Cutting Width
This small ZTR mower can still cover a wide range of grass with its 42-inch mowing deck. It has an Accel deep deck improving your cut quality even at high speeds. In addition, it also makes your mowing deck highly appropriate for blade upgrades to mulching mower blades.
Engine
Powered with a 22 HP twin-engine this John Deere ZTR can mow up to 7 miles per hour. Accompanied by wide 18-inch tires, your mower can go over tender soil and still mow your grass with utmost precision and leave your soil flawlessly cut without your wheel digging into your soil.
Material
Using a 12-gauge steel deck and body, you have a z-turn that can withstand the test of time and elements. Designed to withstand harsh conditions, your machine is definitely built for durability allowing you to simplify maintenance.
Rider Experience
Get improved seating quality with an 18-inch H padded seat. It offers a quick recline and seat adjustments to make adjustments for the rider’s absolute comfort.
Additional Features
Simplify cleaning with a deck cleanout giving you better access to your deck after every trim to ensure that your mower is functioning at optimal performance every time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very easy to maneuver | Thin front wheels can dig into the soil |
| Simple and affordable mulching upgrade |
Overall
This is by far the best zero-turn mower for small yards. It is a great riding mower for those who have tricky garden landscapes. With this machine, you can also mow in reverse allowing you to precisely cut and navigate through your property without any hassle.
Ariens Zoom Zero-Turn Mower
Cutting Width
Zoom over your tall grass and leave it looking gorgeous and manicured with this Ariens z-turn mower. Giving you a 42-inch mowing coverage, you will have less time cutting your grass. Get the perfect trim on the first pass with a triple-blade mowing deck.
Engine
Power up with a 19 HP twin-engine by Kohler. Made to deliver with every mowing task, you have a machine that can cater to the needs of a large lawn. This z-turn mower also provides lower vibrations and less noise giving you a more peaceful trim.
Material
The Ariens Zoom is made with a 12-gauge steel deck providing you with a strong foundation allowing you to constantly tackle the tough task of mowing your lawn. With a durable frame, you have reduced damage in every mow making sure that you can trim your lawn with the Zoom ZTR for a long time.
Rider Experience
Get a stable ride with this mower’s 4-point professional deck hanging system. Plus, get a comfortable ride with its 18-inch tall back seat making sure that you have a comfortable ride from beginning to end.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable seating | Not fit for slopes |
| Triple blade for precision cutting | |
| Great stability |
Overall
Get a straightforward mower that’s easy to use. Offering a superb smooth riding experience, the Ariens Zoom is a ZTR you wouldn’t want to miss.
The Final Verdict
I have to say I have two favorites on my list. If you’re looking for the best small zero-turn mower that offers a smooth mowing experience without hurting the environment and helps you save on costs at the same time then go for the Ryobi Electric Zero Turn Mower.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a small mower that offers superior mowing strength and durability, then I highly suggest you get the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1. Hands down, it offers supreme performance and precision cutting in this list.
