I’ve researched and tested many models to bring you the top 10 best commercial zero turn mowers. My reviews provide a detailed analysis of the features, pros, and cons. Also, I consider customer feedback to give you a holistic perspective.
Besides, I’ve included a buying guide with the essentials to consider when choosing the best commercial zero-turn mower.
A commercial lawn mower can save time and money if you own a large estate or a gardening business. And this guide will help you find a suitable machine to keep your lawn looking its best. Let’s scroll down right now!
Our Top Picks
Now, come to my list of top picks. I tested many models and picked the 10 top rated commercial zero turn mowers. Let’s see if they meet your needs!
- Best for Overall: Ariens Apex FR730 Twin Riding Mower
- Best for Ease of Use: Ariens IKON Mower
- Best for Comfortable Riding: Husqvarna Z254F Riding Mower
- Best for Performance: Husqvarna Z242F Riding Mower
- Best for Deep Grass: Husqvarna Z254 Kohler Riding Mower
Note that there are no diesel models on this listing. Therefore, you will not find the best diesel zero turn mower in this list.
Top 10 Best Commercial Zero Turn Mowers Reviews
#1. Ariens Apex FR730 Twin Riding Mower – Best for Overall
Ariens Apex FR730 Twin Riding Mower
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Specifications
| Item Weight | 855 Pounds |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Cutting Width | 60 Inches |
| Dimensions | 74.5 x 62.8 x 42 inches |
Reviews from Amazon
“This lawn mower is outstanding! And it can handle even heavy duty! But it’s big. Hence, the carrier had some problems delivering to my address. Yet, the size is just right for my super-large garden. It is the best commercial zero turn mower for 10 acres! So, I will recommend it to my friends!” – Terry Long.
“Wow! It is the best zero turn for hills! It is fast when mowing my large yard! My gardening has been made easier with this machine!” – Tim.
Product Highlights
I can’t believe how great the Ariens Apex FR730 Double Lawn Mower is. I repeatedly cut my and my sister’s 10-acre soil lawn when testing.
Hence, the Ariens Apex FR730 has not once caused me any problems. So, it is the best commercial zero turn mower for 10 acres.
Besides, the Kawasaki engine is strong and never overloaded. Also, the hydraulics are quiet, and I even tried it on high-heat hills.
In addition, the 60-inch deck is easy to lift up and down with my feet. Besides, the anti-slip wheels work very well. Accordingly, the large front and rear wheels make a big difference on rough terrain.
Also, the seats are comfortable, and I love that I can lift the footrest to access the belt pulley system without tools.
Pros
- Reliable Kawasaki engine
- Easy maneuvering, even on hills
- Auto belt tensioner for continuous mowing
- Extra-large front and rear wheels
- Wide 60-inch deck
Cons
- Heavy
#2. Ariens IKON Mower – Best for Ease of Use
Ariens IKON Mower
Buy on Amazon
Specifications
| Item Weight | 864 pounds |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Cutting Width | 4 Inches |
| Dimensions | 80 x 62.1 x 35.3 inches |
Product Highlights
First, I agree with the reviews that it is the best commercial lawn mower at this price point.
This Ariens IKON is the easiest to set up and operate because it has sensitive buttons for easy control and precise cutting. I have knee pain, so this ease of operation has made me no longer worry about my pain.
In terms of performance, the mower is good. And it saved me a lot of time compared to using my old push mower.
Yet, the tire that came with the mower was not good, and I had some trouble using it on uneven terrain. Thus, I plan to upgrade the tires soon.
Pros
- Easy initial setup and operate
- Fast and efficient engine
- Comfortable seat and controls within arm’s reach
- Suitable for people with bad knees
- Good for mowing large areas
Cons
- Factory tires are not suitable for uneven terrain
- Bulky
#3. Husqvarna Z254F Riding Mower – Best for Comfortable Riding
Husqvarna Z254F Riding Mower
Specifications
| Item Weight | 770 pounds |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Cutting Width | 54 Inches |
| Dimensions | 75 x 43.75 x 34.48 inches |
Product Highlights
This lawn mower offers a comfortable seat and easy-to-operate controls. Also, its looks make me believe it will last with my garden for many years.
Besides, I appreciate the 54-inch deck. I could finish my 1.5-acre yard in just over 2 hours. It was the best I could do with my previous lawn mower. On my second use, I finished in just 1.5 hours (the fastest I’ve ever done).
Yet, one problem I noticed is that the exhaust is quite stiff and doesn’t bounce off obstacles. Thus, I had to improvise with a bungee cord to hold it up while navigating tight spaces.
Pros
- Comfortable to ride
- Easy to operate
- Efficient and quick
- Good customer service
Cons
- The discharge chute may be stiff.
#4. Husqvarna MZ61 Riding Mower – Best for Fuel Economy
Husqvarna MZ61 Riding Mower
Specifications
| Item Weight | 770 pounds |
| Operation Mode | Manual |
| Cutting Width | 54 Inches |
| Dimensions | 75.5 x 76 x 42 inches |
Product Highlights
I’m confident I was right to put it on this list of the best commercial zero turn mowers after all my testing. As for what I like best, this lawn mower is fuel efficient and easy to operate. Specifically, its fuel consumption is only 2/3 of the others.
It is similar to the sample above in terms of performance. Specifically, it took me just over an hour to clear my 1.5-acre lawn.
Besides, it cuts smoothly and evenly. I’ve mowed the lawn six times and never had to sharpen my blade.
In short, this mower has exceeded my expectations in every way. I will save a lot on fuel costs with this modern machine!
Pros
- Cuts smoothly and evenly
- Efficient fuel usage
- Easy to drive
- Fast cutting time
- Blades remain sharp after several uses
Cons
- No headlights included
#5. Husqvarna Z242F Riding Mower – Best for Performance
Husqvarna Z242F Riding Mower
Specifications
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Cutting Width | 42 Inches |
| Style | Push |
Product Highlights
Regarding this lawn mower, the deck and blades are enough to use. The way it throws grass is comparable to a commercial lawn mower. So it becomes a choice for anyone who wants to achieve that professional look.
Besides, I’ve noticed that this mower won’t clog or clump, even when mowing wet lawns too high. Also, the Kawasaki engine has all the blades I need to handle extreme conditions easily.
The machine can operate at nearly 11 km/h, and I could cover 1 acre in half an hour. In comparison, it’s even faster than the four above. This benefit is especially great for saving time on the weekend. So, I guarantee it is one of the best commercial zero turn mowers for 10 acres!
Yet, the only negative aspect of the deck is that the exhaust is too large. I don’t think there’s any reason why a 42-inch deck should have a chute over a 48-inch floor. But this is only a minor issue and does not reduce the overall performance of the mower.
Pros
- Provide plenty of torque for cutting tall and wet grass
- Do not clog or throw lumps
- Portable and easy to use
- Easy to clean the underside of the deck
- Durable
Cons
- Exhaust chute wider than needed for deck 42 inches
#6. Ariens APEX 23 HP Mower – Best for Powerful Engine
Ariens APEX 23 HP Mower
Specifications
| Item Weight | 882 pounds |
| Power Source | Automatic |
| Cutting Width | 52 Inches |
| Dimensions | 48 x 48 x 48 inches |
Product Highlights
I have used the Ariens APEX 23 HP Lawn Mower for three summers to mow my Bermuda lawn every five days.
First, I used it to mow the lawn behind my house and the vacant lot next to ours, which I did not clean in a year. The weeds are 2.5 feet tall, but the mower’s performance is impressive.
Also, I put the deck on the highest setting, and it did not bog down. After filling the tank, I lowered the deck 2 inches, and the mower was able to cut at full speed. And as I expected, it cuts well.
The best feature of this lawn mower is the Kawasaki engine, which has never felt weak or prevented the mower from cutting at full speed.
Besides, I find the blade is very easy to sharpen. And after grinding, the cut is clean and precise.
Yet, the air filter is cheap, and I had to upgrade to a filter setup for the engine line to protect it. But overall, I love this mower. It has everything I need to cut for years.
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Good cutting performance
- Easy to use
- Durable construction
Cons
- The air filter is cheap
- Heavy
#7. Husqvarna Z248F Lawn Mower – Best for Tall Grass
Husqvarna Z248F Lawn Mower
Specifications
| Item Weight | 737 pounds |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Cutting Width | 48 Inches |
| Dimensions | 79 x 60 x 34.75 inches |
Product Highlights
I must say that the Husqvarna Z248F Lawn Mower has exceeded my expectations. First of all, this lawn mower makes mowing fun again. It’s like a cutting wind now.
I used to dread mowing the lawn but not anymore. But this lawn mower has made the job much easier and more enjoyable.
To test the machine’s performance, I raised the deck to the highest level, and this lawn mower had no problem mowing the lawn.
The mower never got bogged down, and the drain chute never got clogged. I was amazed at how the mower handled such tall grass.
Besides, I love the intuitive design of the controls. Also, the motor is strong, and the mower seems sturdy. Plus, I appreciate the smoothness of the ride. Hence, I can mow my entire lawn without feeling tired or uncomfortable.
Pros
- Excellent cutting performance
- Easy to use
- Comfortable ride
- Durable
- Have a maintenance-free transmission
Cons
- Bulky
#8. Husqvarna MZ61 24HP Lawn Mower – Best for Safety
Husqvarna MZ61 24HP Lawn Mower
Specifications
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Cutting Width | 61 Inches |
| Dimensions | 76 x 76 x 42 inches |
Product Highlights
The safest machine on this list of the best commercial zero turn mowers is the Husqvarna MZ61 24HP. Specifically, I was impressed with the additional safety features that help prevent accidents when starting the engine.
I always prioritize safety when choosing a lawn mower. So I appreciate that ROPS is available to protect me in the event of an overthrow.
Besides, the large and durable deck is another feature that makes this mower the best zero turn for hills. Thanks to that, it can cut more at once with its powerful 27-horsepower engine. Thus, I can easily handle large areas and do a lot of work in less time with this machine.
Also, I was amazed by the uphill traction and the ability of the mower to work comfortably on uneven terrain without tipping over.
Pros
- Have additional safety features
- Large and durable cutting floor
- Powerful engine with 24 hp
- Good traction uphill and capable of handling uneven terrain
- Easy access to the cutting deck and engine
Cons
- Have no fuel gauge
#9. Husqvarna MZ48 Lawn Mower – Best for Durable Deck
Husqvarna MZ48 Lawn Mower
Specifications
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Cutting Width | 6 Inches |
| Style | Push |
Product Highlights
I love the durability of this mower’s deck. It can handle hard grass and withstands wear and tear. Also, the spindle housings make the deck very sturdy.
Besides, I find it very easy to maintain. That’s because the pan has removable feet that provide quick access to the deck and make it easy to clean.
Also, comfortable steering is a big plus. To test the effectiveness of the design, I drove it for three hours. As a result, I didn’t experience hand fatigue as I often do when trying other models.
Plus, the collection system is also great for keeping the lawn clean. And I could maneuver the best zero turn for hills easily in tight spaces and around obstacles.
Pros
- Easy to adjust the cutting height
- Durable and stable cutting floor
- Easy access to the cutting floor for maintenance
- Comfortable driving system
- Can handle a large number of grass clippings
Cons
- Not be suitable for use on steep or uneven terrain.
#10. Husqvarna Z254 Kohler Riding Mower – Best for Deep Grass
Husqvarna Z254 Kohler Riding Mower
Specifications
| Item Weight | 2 Pounds |
| Power Source | Manual |
| Cutting Width | 54 Inches |
| Dimensions | 72 x 61.49 x 34.48 inches |
Product Highlights
This last model impressed me with its ability to cut deep grass. First, it only took about 20 minutes to assemble. Then I tried it right on my lawn.
The most noticeable feature is that it is more powerful than the 23HP model above. It can easily cut deep grass, which is a problem with the sample above.
The only thing I wish this mower had was the bagging system. Its collection system doesn’t work well on my lawn. So I had to purchase an additional cover kit.
Pros
- Comfortable seat
- Easy-to-operate controls
- Minimal assembly required
- Work well with deep grass
Cons
- The collection system may not be large enough for those with large lawns.
Buying Guides: How to Choose the Best Commercial Zero Turn Mowers
During my testing, there are five factors that I think you should consider before buying the best commercial zero turn mowers.
Deck Size
In short, deck size refers to the width of the mowing deck and is an essential factor as it determines how much grass the mower can cut in a single run.
Accordingly, a larger deck size will cut more grass in a single run. This feature is critical when working on large properties with open spaces.
Yet, the larger deck size also means the mower will be less maneuverable. Hence, it can be detrimental when maneuvering around obstacles or tight spaces.
The ideal deck size depends on the property size you need to maintain. For smaller properties, deck sizes of 42 to 48 inches should suffice.
Meanwhile, deck sizes from 52 to 60 inches will be more appropriate for larger ones. Thus, it’s important to note that larger deck sizes may need more horsepower to operate efficiently, which can also affect the cost of the best commercial zero turn mowers.
Engine Power
Choose a powerful mower to handle your commercial lawn mowing needs while still saving on fuel. I recommend you choose a lawn mower with enough HP for your needs.
A powerful motor will provide the torque needed to mow thick grass and handle challenging terrain. Thus, it makes the mowing process faster and more efficient.
Yet, it can consume more fuel which increases operating costs. So, strike a balance between power and fuel efficiency.
Besides, consider the motor type when choosing a commercial zero-turn mower. You may prefer the best zero turn for hills with a gasoline engine or electric motor to meet your needs.
Fuel Capacity
You want to ensure your best zero turn for hills can run for a long time without refueling as often. So you must make sure the fuel tank is large enough to support the engine power and deck size.
One way to determine a suitable fuel capacity for your needs is to consider the size of your lawn or commercial property.
Specifically, you will need the best commercial lawn mower with a larger gas tank for larger ones. The goal is that you don’t have to stop and refuel as often.
Also, the engine power and deck size can determine fuel consumption. Mowers with powerful engines and large deck sizes can consume more fuel than smaller machines.
Besides, consider the type of fuel the mower uses (gasoline or diesel). Accordingly, the best diesel zero turn mower can consume less energy than gasoline-powered mowers. But they can also have a higher initial cost.
Comfort
As a user, you will sit on the mower for hours, and a comfortable ride is essential. In short, comfort can come from:
- Seats are well padded
- Adjustable armrest
- Ergonomic controls reduce hand and wrist fatigue
Besides, a comfortable ride is essential when traveling on rough terrain. So some mowers come with a suspension to absorb shocks and vibrations.
Durability
The best commercial zero turn mowers can last longer and perform better than residential circuit breakers. Thus, invest in a durable machine that can handle the rigors of commercial lawn mowing.
To ensure durability, consider the construction of the lawn mower. Specifically, look for materials resistant to rust, corrosion, and other forms of wear and tear.
For example, the deck must have bearing material such as steel or aluminum. Also, the wheels must be durable and withstand the mower’s weight.
Besides, the best commercial lawn mower should be easy to maintain and repair. Therefore, look for mowers with easily accessible service points and replacement parts.
Also, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Accordingly, a good guarantee shows that manufacturers are confident in the durability and quality of their products.
How We Tested?
My testing process for each product is different. I conducted the following five-step test for the best commercial zero turn mowers. The goal is to ensure that I find the best options on the market.
I first researched to identify the top rated commercial zero turn mowers available. Accordingly, I considered factors such as:
- Engine power
- Cutting deck size
- Fuel capacity
- Reliability
- User comfort
Then, I selected the top rated commercial zero turn mowers from our research and narrowed the options to the most promising ones. There were models I have owned and used for a long time among them.
Next, I put each through rigorous testing to gauge its:
- Performance
- Ease of use
- Durability
Specifically, my testing involved mowing grass on many terrains and conditions. The aim was to evaluate the handling and cutting capabilities. Also, I checked the turning radius, speed, and control features.
The fourth step is comparison. At this stage, I compared the overall performance, features, and value of each type of mower.
Additionally, I compared each mower against others in its price range to determine how it outperformed the competition.
Finally, I recommend the best commercial zero turn mowers. And the list you see is the result of my testing.
Why You Should Trust Us
As a team of expert lawn mower assessors, we have many years of combined experience in landscaping. We have reviewed many models across different brands and price ranges during our careers.
We know that choosing the best commercial lawn mower can be a daunting task. Thus, we want to provide our expertise and guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Also, we take our role as reviewers seriously and have spent countless hours researching and testing. The primary goal is to ensure our recommendations are based on objective and thorough assessments.
Besides conducting in-depth research on each model, we also consult with experts in the field. Hence, you can be assured of the actual performance of each mower.
In addition, our team is committed to providing unbiased and honest reviews of each lawn mower we review. Hence, we only recommend products that we think will give you value for money.
We understand that buying the best commercial lawn mower is an investment. So we want to ensure you get the best return on that money.
Thus, you can trust us so you can enjoy a well-maintained lawn worry-free.
Benefits Of A Commercial Lawn Mower
We all know that the best commercial zero turn mowers are designed to handle large lawns, parks, golf courses, and other commercial properties.
So they offer many benefits over their residential counterparts. Hence, they become an ideal choice for professional gardeners and property owners.
One of their main benefits is durability and longevity. Specifically, these machines can withstand heavy use and can last for years.
I love their durability with regular mowing. Also, they have high-quality materials that can handle even the most challenging jobs.
Besides, these machines can cover large areas quickly and efficiently. Hence, they will reduce the time and labor required to maintain a large property.
Also, they provide better cutting accuracy and performance. Specifically, they have advanced features such as:
- Adjustable cutting height
- Ability to create overlays
- High-speed blades
- Wide cutting floor
Ultimately, commercial mowers are designed with user comfort in mind. They often have ergonomic seats, adjustable controls, and vibration-damping systems. So you will feel comfortable in the long run.
FAQs
What Is The Top-Rated Zero-Turn Commercial Mower?
I recommend the Ariens Apex FR730 Twin Riding Mower. It has many pros to help your task be easy such as a strong engine and easy maneuvering.
What Makes A Zero-Turn Mower Commercial?
A zero-turn mower is commercial-grade if it can withstand heavy usage for extended periods. It has:
- A higher horsepower engine
- A larger fuel tank
- A more durable cutting deck
Do Commercial Mowers Cut Better?
Yes, they do. The best commercial zero turn mowers often have higher horsepower engines, larger cutting decks, and better durability than residential mowers. Hence, they can lead to a more efficient and effective cut.
How Long Do Commercial Zero-Turn Mowers Last?
They are generally designed to last for thousands of hours of operation. Yet, the lifespan of the best commercial lawn mower can vary depending on usage and maintenance.
Why Is A Commercial Mower So Expensive?
It is because it is built to withstand heavier usage and has higher-quality materials, engines, and components.
Also, it often comes with features and technologies designed specifically for commercial applications (larger fuel tanks and enhanced cutting systems).
Conclusion
I hope my list of the best commercial zero turn mowers and my buying guide helped you narrow your choices and find the perfect mower for your needs. Remember to consider the factors we mentioned when making your decision.
In this list, the Ariens Apex FR730 Twin Riding Mower is one of the top rated commercial zero turn mowers. This model runs on gasoline, so if you’re looking for the best diesel zero turn mower, it’s not for you.
Now, take your time to research and decide!
I am confident that any mowers on my list will serve you well for many years. Happy mowing!
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