Zero-turn vs. Riding Mower – Pros and Cons

Choosing between a zero turn mower and a lawn tractor comes down to what you mow and how you mow it. This guide compares speed, cut quality, comfort, hills, attachments, and overall cost so you can match the machine to your acreage, terrain, and weekly workload.

Zero-turn vs. Riding Mower

Our mission is to help you select the best equipment for your particular lawn care needs. As we look at ZTR vs. lawn tractor, please contact Bobby Ford Tractor and Equipment today with any inquiries you may have.

What Is a Zero-turn Mower?

So, what does zero-turn mean? As for zero-turn mower vs. tractor, with a ZRT, you have a turning radius of zero (or nearly zero). This is achieved with individual hydraulic control handles for each wheel. Zero-turns are typically faster but costlier than traditional riding mowers.

You probably have several questions. Will this type of mower work for you? What’s so special about a zero-turn mower vs. lawn tractor? How fast does a zero-turn mower go? Is it faster than a riding mower?

Let’s look at two lists that will make things clearer for you. Keep reading for the pros and cons of a zero-turn mower.

Pros & Cons of a Zero-turn Mower

You may be asking a very specific question: do I need a zero-turn mower? The information below should help you as you weigh your options. Let’s start with the pros!

Advantages of Zero-turn Mowers

• Speed: If you have a need for speed, you’re looking in the right direction. The higher-priced ZRTs will move faster than a lawn tractor.
• Precision: Because of the visibility you have in the front of the mower, your lawn care precision will certainly improve.
• Easy and Time-Saving: Who doesn’t love these two aspects? Your ZRT will give you smooth maneuverability, and it will possess a tighter turning radius.
• Zero-turn on Hills: When it comes to zero-turn vs. riding mower on hills, you’ll notice that the steering wheel model ZRTs operate much better on slopes than the lap-bar ZRTs and even some lawn tractors. You might need some special wheels and certainly some excellent steering to conquer steep terrain, however. In this regard, a Kubota riding mower could be better.
• Pro Status: This goes two ways. You’ll look like a boss driving this machine, and you’ll get the professional yard care appeal we know you’re after.

Check out Bobby Ford’s Kubota zero-turn lawn mowers today!

Disadvantages of Zero-turn Mowers

Here’s our cons list. The main idea here is that you must be willing to maintain and learn how to drive a zero-turn lawn mower. You’re making a commitment, but the rewards far outweigh the perspectives we’ll jump into here.

• Price Tag: ZRTs come at a higher price. No doubt about it. But often, you get what you pay for, right?
• Highly Advanced: So, some of you would put this on the pros list. We simply mean to let you know that a ZRT is more complex than a lawn tractor.
• Less Pull: You won’t have the same pulling capabilities with this type. ZRTs boast rather delicate and sophisticated hydrostatic transmissions. Care is required in this regard.
• Smaller Model Hiccups: The front casters of your smaller model ZRT can get stuck in the soil occasionally. Further, when you shift weight to the back of the mower to avoid getting stuck, smaller ZRTs with that weight on the rear wheels can lead you to pop wheelies when going uphill accidentally. (Once again, stay tuned for the traditional riding mower pros.)
• No Rough-cut: You won’t have the rough-cut capabilities with ZRTs, so you’ll have to mow regularly.

Browse a variety of Bobby Ford’s Kubota mowers now!

What Is a Riding Mower?

A traditional riding mower resembles a small tractor when looking at a zero-turn or riding mower. Though some models can be suitable for larger lawns, with this type of mower, you will not have the maneuverability of a zero-turn, which is required for more complex terrain.

Pros & Cons of a Riding Mower

You’ve seen the lists above. If you’re looking at a particularly hilly landscape, a traditional riding mower may be best. But with the proper tires and informed operations and driving a zero-turn mower could just as easily work on sloped areas. A ZRT is usually top-heavy, so tackling wet lawns or fields combined with steep inclines is not always a good idea.

Thinking about a tractor or zero-turn mower? Consider this: if you seek a multifunctional mower, you’ll want to go with a tractor. Zero-turns are designed to fly. They’re sleek and speedy, but you’re not going to be hauling tools and gear with them. You can with a riding mower.

Ready to switch from traditional mowers to a zero-turn? Contact Bobby Ford today to find the right fit for your yard!

Should I Buy a Zero-turn Mower?

So, what’s best? Lawn tractor or zero-turn? Review the material above if you’re still not sure. It all depends on your lawn and the type of care you’d like to accomplish. Choose what’s important to you.

If you frequently work around flat but detailed landscaping, have a need for speed, or desire the best blades and a precise cut, go with the ZRT. If you’re attaching snow plows and hauling work materials on top of mowing (plus, working on steep hills), opt for the riding mower.

Before you go, head over and check out Bobby Ford’s lawn mowers. We think you’ll like what you see! Whether you’re considering Bad Boy vs. Kubota Zero-turn Mowers, we’re certain you’ll find what you need with us.

Check Out the Mower Selection at Bobby Ford Tractor and Equipment

Looking to make mowing easier, faster, and more efficient? At Bobby Ford Tractor and Equipment, we’ve got you covered with a great selection of lawn mowers to match your needs, no matter your lawn size. From tight spaces to wide-open areas or navigating around flower beds, we’re here to help you find the perfect solution.

Not sure if a zero-turn mower or a tractor is the right fit? Don’t worry—we’re happy to walk you through the options so you can choose the one that saves you time and works best for your yard. Browse our site or stop by today to check out what we’ve got in stock. We’re your trusted Texas Kubota Dealer and always ready to answer your questions.

We’re happy to answer your questions here at Bobby Ford Tractor and Equipment. Contact us online, or give us a call at 979-849-5400.

FAQs

Which is faster, a zero turn or a lawn tractor?
A zero turn is usually faster because it turns on the spot and runs higher ground speeds. Expect time savings on open, flat yards with many obstacles.

Are zero turn mowers good on hills?
They handle gentle slopes well with proper tire grip and ballast. For steeper slopes or wet grass, a lawn tractor with a lower center of gravity can feel more stable.

Which gives better cut quality?
Both can cut cleanly when deck height and blades are set correctly. Zero turns often produce sharper stripes on flat lawns, while tractors handle mixed terrain and slower passes well.

When should I choose a lawn tractor instead of a zero turn?
Pick a lawn tractor if you need towable attachments, occasional snow work, or extra stability on uneven ground. Choose a zero turn for speed and tight maneuvering around trees and beds.