Lawn Mower Buyer’s Guide 2020

About This Lawn Mower Buyer’s Guide

Side Hustle Crunch presents this buyers guide simply as a tool to get you started. This guide walks you through the different styles available. There are many different manufacturers available besides what is listed in this guide. The key components to consider when buying a mower are budget, mower deck size, and reliability.

Budget is important because it determines what you can afford to spend. A push mower may only need a pickup truck, but most of the other mowers list in this guide may need a trailer or box truck.

Mower Deck Size is important because it will determine how fast you can mow a lawn. The larger the mower deck the quicker you can cut the lawn. The faster you can cut a lawn the more lawns you can mow in a day. Remember larger mower decks may not fit through all fence gates. A push mower may still be needed inside of fenced in areas.

Reliability is also important too. The weather can challenging enough to work around, you do not need additional down time due the mower being broke down.

Push Mowers

PowerSmart PS2194CR 21″ 2-in-1 170 cc Gas Push Lawn Mower

About This Item

For the smaller yard, the compact, 170cc push gas-powered Power Smart DB2194CR push lawn mower is easy to operate in tight spaces and features two cutting systems including side discharge option and mulching capability. The deep dome deck design accompanied with the sharp and solid blade makes for better mulching. Easy to operate and weighing just 58 lbs., the mower also features a durable steel deck that cuts a 21 in. swath and adjustable height from 1.18 to 3 in. to meet your varying needs.

  • Powered by 170 cc engine delivering the right amount of power in a compact, lightweight package
  • Easy pull starting
  • 2-in-1 side discharge and mulching capability allows you to spread grass clippings to the side, returning key nutrients to your lawn so your grass can grow healthy and thick
  • 5-position height adjustment allows you to change the cutting height to easily cut grass, weeds and overgrowth, and the 8-inch rear wheels make it easy to push.
  • 21-Inch Steel mowing deck

PowerSmart PS2194PR 21″ 3-in-1 170cc Gas Push Lawn Mower

About This Item

For the smaller yard, the compact, 170cc push gas-powered Power Smart PS2194PR push lawn mower is easy to operate in tight spaces and features three cutting systems including side discharge option and mulching capability plus a collection rear bag. The deep dome deck design accompanied with the sharp and solid blade makes for better mulching. Easy to operate and weighing just 63 lbs., the mower also features a durable steel deck that cuts a 21 in. swath and adjustable height from 1.18 to 3 in. to meet your varying needs.

  • Powered by 170 cc engine delivering the right amount of power in a compact, lightweight package
  • Easy pull starting
  • 3-in-1 bag, side discharge and mulching capability allows you to spread grass clippings to the side, returning key nutrients to your lawn so your grass can grow healthy and thick
  • Large rear mounted 18 Gal. container with easy release
  • 5-position height adjustment allows you to change the cutting height to easily cut grass, weeds and overgrowth, and the 8-inch rear wheels make it easy to push.
  • 21-Inch Steel mowing deck

Walk Behind Mowers

Cub Cadet CC800 (33″) 382cc Electric Start Wide Area Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

About This Item
  • 82cc Cub Cadet® OHV 4-Cycle Engine
  • Overhead valve design (OHV) runs cooler and cleaner
  • Convenient push button electric start with recoil start back-up
  • Auto choke starting system – no priming, no choking
  • Included hour meter with maintenance reminder
  • Cub Cadet Self-Propelled Drive System
  • 4 forward speeds with rear wheel drive plus power reverse
  • Allows you to set your speed based on terrain
  • Blade Brake Clutch
  • Safety feature stops the mower blade, but not the engine
  • Allows you to step away from the mower without having to restart
  • 33-Inch, 3-In-1 Steel Mower Deck W/ Twin Blades
  • Delivers professional-quality cut every time
  • Mulch and side discharge right out of the box (bagger optional)
  • Patented SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system
  • Single Lever Cutting Height Adjustment
  • Raise or lower deck to any of 8 cutting positions with one lever
  • Full Ball Bearing Front/Rear Wheels
  • 8-inch front full swivel caster style wheels improve maneuverability
  • 16-inch pneumatic rear tires make mowing on uneven terrain a breeze

GRAVELY PRO-WALK® GEAR

About This Item

7-Gauge Deck

Tough enough to take on any terrain, this lockable and floating fabricated deck is designed with a 1/4-inch reinforced leaded edge for added durability.

Adjustable Handlebars

These adjustable handlebars provide four height positions to accommodate operators of any size.

Ergonomic Controls

The ergonomic controls position the operator in a neutral position, reducing wrist and arm fatigue.

SPECIFICATIONS

ModelDeck SizeEngine ManufacturerEngine RatingDrive SystemFuel SystemGround SpeedAcres/HRCARB Compliant Model
98815032″Kawasaki® FS481V14.5 HP / 603 CCPeerless®5.8 gal (21.9 L)5.4 / mph (8.6 / km/h)1.7N
98815136″Kawasaki® FS481V14.5 HP / 603 CCPeerless®5.8 gal (21.9 L)5.4 / mph (8.6 / km/h)2N
98815248″Kawasaki® FS481V14.5 HP / 603 CCPeerless®5.8 gal (21.9 L)5.4 / mph (8.6 / km/h)2.6N
Specs

Lawn Tractors

Troy Built Pony 42 in. 439 cc Auto-Choke Engine 7-Speed Manual Drive Gas Riding Lawn Tractor with Mow-in-Reverse

About This Item

Get solid, strong performance and plenty of power for your mowing needs with the Pony 42 riding lawn tractor. Tested for reliable starting in all weather conditions, the Troy-Bilt engine with AutoChoke runs smoothly and efficiently. The 42-in cutting deck delivers a clean, even cut and you can easily adjust the mowing speed with 7-speed Shift-on-the-Go transmission. You’ll find it easier to get on and off with the Step-Thru frame design and automatic headlights provide increased visibility and added safety at any time. Get more versatility with the Pony 42 riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit and tow behind accessories such as aerators, dump carts and sprayers. You can depend on Troy-Bilt lawn tractors to keep yardwork from feeling like a chore.

  • High-performing Troy-Bilt engine is tested to ensure dependable starting in all weather conditions
  • Built In America with U.S and Global Parts since 1937
  • 7-speed transmission has dash panel control that is easy to see and adjust
  • 42-in side-discharge cutting deck delivers a clean, even cut
  • Step-Thru frame design provides easier on and off access by providing more leg room
  • Make yard clean up easier by using a rear bagger to collect grass clippings and leaves for use as compost or bag for disposal (sold separately)
  • Maintain control with easier navigation around landscape borders and obstacles with 18-in turn radius
  • Twin-blade, side discharge deck cuts quickly and cleanly with 5-position deck height adjustment
  • Increased visibility with automatic headlights
  • Rear hitch makes it easy to pull garden carts, sprayers and spreaders (attachments sold separately)
  • Mulch kit (sold separately) helps maintain a healthier lawn
  • 2-year limited warranty
  • Troy-Bilt Pony 42 comes fully crated and requires some assembly upon arrival

Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro 46 in. 22 HP V-Twin Kohler Gas Hydrostatic Front-Engine Lawn Tractor

About This Item

The Cub Cadet XT1 46 in. riding mower features category-leading strength, comfort and versatility. It’s loaded with a 22 HP Kohler V-Twin OHV engine for powerful performance and a hydrostatic transmission drive for smooth and simple operation that eliminates the need for shifting- simply push the pedal and go. The signature cut 46 in. deck and 16 in. turning radius can maneuver around obstacles with ease and the sloped 10 adjustable seat and soft comfort grip steering wheel provides the ultimate in handling and comfort.

  • Optimized steering system for an incredibly responsive handling
  • LED headlights for extended life and enhanced visibility in all-weather conditions
  • 12 easily selectable cutting height positions and a smooth lever engaged PTO provide the perfect cut
  • Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
  • Innovative Cub Cadet open high-back seat that is designed with an oversized base and elevated back support
  • Soft touch, rubberized comfort grip steering wheel provides a solid feel and controlled steering
  • E-coat corrosion defense system resists wear and tear
  • Push button cruise control maintains a desired speed for consistent mowing
  • Features air-cooled design, AVR (automatic voltage regulation), low-oil shutoff, spark arrestor, full power panel, engine shutoff switch and overload protected outlets
  • Quick connect deck wash system provides high pressure water that cleans out grass and debris built up under the deck
  • Optional multi-seasonal attachments provide year-round versatility, including a twin bagger, snow thrower, sun shade/snow cab, snow blade, mulch kit, steel and poly carts and a rear spreader sold separately
  • No hour/3-year limited residential including the power train and 5-year chassis/front axle warranties
  • Cub Cadet LT46 comes fully crated and requires some assembly

Zero Turn Radius

Toro 50 in. 23 HP TimeCutter IronForged Deck Kawasaki V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower

About This Item

You take your yard work seriously, and to get the job done right you need a mower that was born to fight dirty. Engineered from the same DNA as our landscape contractor equipment, the 50 in. TimeCutter gives you the professional performance, exceptional durability and quality feel you’ve been waiting for. This machine is built like a beast, with an IronForged deck that won’t fail, even after years of hard knocks. Most important, our machines are designed to do the work so you’ll have more time than ever to take that fishing trip, tell tall tales around the campfire or just be with the ones you love. You can also enjoy peace of mind knowing Toro stands behind its products with a 3-year, unlimited hours residential warranty. And as a Toro owner, you’ll have access to more than 3,000 servicing dealers across the U.S. and Canada ready to assist you. Count on it.

  • Pro DNA, our commercial mower’s DNA courses through these machine’s veins from front to back, giving you the same technology professionals depend on to do the job right the first time, every time, the result, a beautiful, professional-looking lawn from a mower that’s always ready to work, born and raised in Minnesota, Toro’s innovations have been the heart and soul of America’s mowing technology for more than a century, count on it
  • Built to last, your mower is no small investment and that’s why TimeCutter’s come with a Toro IronForged deck to ensure years of reliability and top performance and we just don’t talk a good game, we back it up with Kevlar belts, a 10-Gauge steel deck shell, a reinforced leading edge across the entire deck and 6 in. spindles, we don’t cut corners when it comes to our mowers
  • More time for you, cut mowing time up to 50% with the zero-turn feature you’ll be amazed how quickly the 50 in. deck works around obstacles, giving you a gorgeous lawn and more time to enjoy it with family and friends
  • Cut with the best, with more than 100-years of Toro innovation at your fingertips, you’ll feel like a pro with commercial-grade features including a single-piece lever to control your cut height and durable deck design
  • Born to perform, the TimeCutter’s design empowers you with features only available to pros until now, you’ll look and feel like a pro with a world-class cut designed to make your neighbors’ jaws drop, count on it
  • We’ve got you covered, Toro stands behind its mowers with a 3-year, unlimited hour residential warranty and as a Toro owner, you’ll have access to more than 3,000 servicing dealers across the U.S. and Canada ready to assist you
  • Pick the right fit for you, ideal for yards with obstacles up to 4 acres
  • Pick your pace, easier to handle than ever thanks to Toro’s Smart Speed technology, which allows you to have total control over your mowing speed, ground speeds range from 7 MPH in mow mode, 5.5 MPH in tow mode and 4 MPH in trim mode
  • More storage space, tired of your stuff jostling around, now there’s a convenient and safe space to store important items like your phone, keys or treasures from the yard
  • Step on up, getting on and off the mower to pick up yard debris and other obstacles is a breeze with a step-through front end, you’ll save time and energy not having to walk around the deck to get on your mower
  • Hassle-free maintenance, spend less time worrying about belt and deck corrosion with a toolless belt cover, simply remove the cover to make cleaning your deck quick and easy
  • Ride in style, ride your Toro in style with a handcrafted high-back seat with arm rests that provides the ultimate in padding and back support
  • Smooth moves, you’ll enjoy smooth steering that’s less jerky than the competition with shock-absorbing dampeners and you’ll glide over the grass with a fully tubular front axle with wide front casters
  • Out of the elements, keep mother nature off your back while you mow with protective tire fenders, unlike the competition, these are standard on all TimeCutters, not only do the fenders shield your engine from tire spray, but also prevent backsplash on you

Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 in. Fabricated Deck 23 HP Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin Gas Engine Zero Turn Mower with Lap Bar Control

About This Item

Introducing the new ULTIMA ZT1 SERIES. Step up to the ultimate all-around mowing experience. The Cub Cadet ULTIMA Series ZT1 50 FAB 50 in. 23 HP Kawasaki FR691V series Twin-cylinder OHV Zero-Turn Riding Mower was built to raise the bar for durability without sacrificing operator comfort. A High-strength continuous, 2 in. x 2 in. tubular steel frame provides Enhanced Strength and Durability. Features include an Automotive-inspired, ergonomic, fully knob adjustable premium 18 in. H-back seat with Durable advanced polymer seat suspension. Adjustable lap bars with Industry-exclusive over molded soft-touch ergonomic hand grips optimized for comfort, with Rubber floor mat and ample leg room. Dual LED headlights you’ll see- Brighter, longer, broader, while working before dawn or after dusk. The 50 in. heavy-duty fabricated deck with reinforced AeroForce cutting system independently tested to deliver the best-in-class cut, with fewer clumps and stragglers, finer clippings and increased evenness of cut. By adding our optimized bagging system, specifically designed to prevent clumping and blockage, you get even more from your mowing experience. The ULTIMA Series ZT1 50 FAB is equipped with an open frame design and hinged/removable floor pan, allowing easy access to the deck and engine for quick and ease of maintenance. Ideal for mowing Slight rolling hills and several obstacles up to 4 acres.

  • Premium 23 HP 726 cc Kawasaki FR691V twin-cylinder OHV engine, commercial-grade power plant that meets your yards toughest demands
  • Dual hydrostatic transmissions dual hydro-gear EZT-2200 dual hydrostatic rear-wheel transmission for quick and effortless 7.5 MPH forward and 3.5 MPH reverse zero-turn controlled ground speeds, that quickly leaves your lawn with a professional-quality finish
  • Tough and tubular frame the high-strength, continuous square 2 in. x 2 in. tubular steel frame with fully e-coat lower frame and triple guard corrosion defense system, a multi-step process electronically applies automotive-grade corrosion resistance with meticulous care to protect against wear and tear
  • Proven to deliver a best-in-class cut a heavy-duty 11-Gauge 50 in. fabricated triple-blade (high lift) deck with reinforced leading edges and an AeroForce cutting system has been independently tested and proven to deliver a best-in-class cut, meaning fewer clumps and stragglers, finer clippings and increased evenness. protected by the Cub Cadet triple guard corrosion defense system with e-coat
  • Dial in your perfect cut with a foot operated deck lift and a dial control knob offering 15 quarter in. deck height adjustments from 1 in. to 4.5 in. leading to a precise and even cut
  • High comfort, high performance an automotive-inspired, ergonomic, fully adjustable premium 18 in. H-back seat and a durable, advanced polymer seat suspension system, adjustable lap bars and industry-exclusive ergonomic hand grips optimized for comfort providing you the confidence to maximize your speed and reduce operator fatigue
  • Turf damage prevention 11 in. x 6 in. to 5 in. smooth tread front wheels pivot 180 without turf damage, 20 in. x 10 in. to 8 in. turf master premium rear tires offer excellent traction, minimize turfing and provide a better ride on uneven ground at higher speeds
  • Ease of maintenance an open frame design and hinged/removable floor pan allow easy access to the deck and engine for quick and simple maintenance
  • Command center conveniently located control panel enhances operator productivity and vibration-dampening soft rubber floor mat provides sure footing, comfort and ample leg room
  • Precision trimming offset front casters align with blade edge for trimming precision while maintaining line-of-sight and stable balance
  • Illuminating dual-LED headlights provide ultimate vision for mowing in low light conditions and tow hitch come standard
  • Mow for an extended period of time: 3.5 Gal. fuel tank capacity to keep you mowing and minimize time loss for refueling needs
  • Electronic fingertip blade engagement PTO allows for smooth operation of the deck
  • 3-way adjustable ergonomic lap bar design with integrated parking brake and mow-in-reverse, provides comfort with a simple operation
  • SmartJet deck wash system provides high pressure water that cleans out grass and debris build-up under the deck
  • Ideal for mowing slight rolling hills and several obstacles up to 4 acres
  • Expand your movers capabilities: full lineup of premium attachments and accessories include baggers, mulch kits, carts and many other attachments (sold separately)
  • Strongest warranty in its class: 3-year/unlimited-hour warranty plus limited lifetime warranty on frame and fabricated deck shell
  • Compatible triple bagger model # 19A70056100 and double bagger model # 19A70055100
  • Comes fully crated and requires some assembly upon arrival

Stand On

Gravely PRO-STANCE

Lawn Mower Buyers Guide
Click Here to Find a Dealer
About This Item

Take on hills with confidence on the redesigned PRO-STANCE®. With redistributed weight and lowered center of gravity, the PRO-STANCE offers versatility with a range of deck sizes. The redesigned PRO-STANCE will ensure you maximize your investment.

Height of Cut System

Less deck-lifting force, a thumb release and vertical pin system add ease to cutting height adjustments.

Adjustable Cruise Bar

Allows the operator to limit and expand the unit’s maximum speed in tight working environments.

Added Efficiency

Reduced complexity gives users the freedom to make critical adjustments in just minutes.

ModelDeck SizeEngine ManufacturerEngine RatingDrive SystemFuel SystemGround SpeedAcres/HRCARB Compliant Model
99414936″Kawasaki® FS600V18.5 HP / 603 CCHydro-Gear® ZT-31006 gal (22.6 L)8 / 3 mph (12.8 / 4.8 km/h)N
99415048″Kawasaki® FX730V23.5 HP / 726 CCHydro-Gear® ZT-34009 gal (33.9 L)9 / 3 mph (14.4 / 4.8 km/h)N
99415152″Kawasaki® FX730V23.5 HP / 726 CCHydro-Gear® ZT-34009 gal (33.9 L)9 / 4 mph (14.4 / 6.4 km/h)N
99415252″Kawasaki® FT730V-EFI26 HP / 726 CCHydro-Gear® ZT-34009 gal (33.9 L)9 / 4 mph (14.4 / 6.4 km/h)N
99415360″Kawasaki® FX730V23.5 HP / 726 CCHydro-Gear® ZT-34009 gal (33.9 L)9 / 4 mph (14.4 / 6.4 km/h)N
99415460″Kawasaki® FT730V-EFI26 HP / 726 CCHydro-Gear® ZT-34009 gal (33.9 L)9 / 4 mph (14.4 / 6.4 km/h)N
99415732″Kawasaki® FS600V18.5 HP / 603 CCHydro-Gear® ZT-31006 gal (22.6 L)8 / 3 mph (12.8 / 4.8 km/h)N
Specs

Toro GrandStand® MULTI FORCE 52″ (132 cm) 26.5 HP 747cc EFI (74529)

About This Item

Now you can be more productive all-season long with the innovative Toro® GrandStand® MULTI FORCE stand-on mower that has the ability to attach a plow, power broom and bagging system. It features a 52″ Turbo Force cutting and 26.5 hp Kohler EFI 747cc engine. It’s designed to give you even more productivity. The smaller footprint takes up less space on the trailer when transporting. Mows 25% faster with speed up to 10 mph, has a 10.5 gallon fuel tank that allows you to go farther and work longer. We’ve eliminated the hydraulic hoses, reduced parts, no routine greasing and simplified the design to save you time. All GrandStand stand-on mowers give you exceptional operator visibility which leads to less property damage and a higher quality of work. Best of all, great traction on slopes and maneuverability.

25% Faster Speeds

The 10 mph transport speed gets you to your next destination 25% faster.*

Better Visibility

Exceptional operator visibility leads to less property damage and higher quality work.

Less Maintenance Needed

The elimination of hydraulic hoses, reduced parts, no routine greasing and simplified design, save you time.

Ultimate Cutting Deck

Our exclusive TURBO FORCE cutting deck is built to withstand the extreme conditions of long, tough days on the job. It features a durable bull-nose bumper, high-strength blades and the industries toughest spindle assemblies.

Traction On Hills

The low center of gravity of stand-on mowers hug hills and slopes. Operators can easily shift their weight as needed to enhance performance.

A Flat Crisp Cut with Precision Blades

(.250) thick precision blades resist flexing to provide a flat, crisp cut. High-strength, heat-treated alloy steel survives impacts and provides resistance to the rapid wear commonly associated with abrasive conditions. Options include Recycler® and Atomic® mulching blades, medium sail Bahai blades, and low sail sand blades.

Smaller Footprint

With the platform folded, the small footprint allows you to transport more products on the trailer.

Easier Maintenance

Access to both sides of the engine, hydros and controls with the easy removal of the fuel tank.

Comfortable Ride

The platform has self-adjusting suspension, a larger open area to move around, and sloped sides for a more secure stance when cutting sloped terrain.

Extra Large Fuel Tank

10.5 gallon fuel tank requires less filling and more time working. Transparent tank make it easy to gauge the fuel level.

Smarter design in a bull-nose bumper.

7-gauge bull-nose bumper not only protects against frontal impacts, but also contains an integral underskirt to minimize blowout of debris and dust. The bottom, leading edge of the deck is raised 1/4″ (6 mm), allowing grass to stand more upright when entering the cutting chamber, ensuring a level cut. Leaf “plowing” during spring and fall clean-up also is significantly reduced.

Patented Adjustable Baffle

Allows operator to achieve maximum cutting performance by fine-tuning deck to conquer changing conditions, unique job sites or different times of the season. In extreme conditions, the baffle can be opened in order to conserve power and achieve faster mowing speeds. In less demanding conditions, the baffle can be closed to yield micro-sized particles and maximize discharge velocity.