Editors’ Choice #1 in Riding Lawn Mowers

Riding mowers or lawn tractors are best categorized by mower size related to function – the size of the area being mowed. Lighter mowers with less horsepower are generally best suited for mowing two acres or less. Other considerations are the width of the mowing deck, which range from 42” to larger riding mowers with 54” decks. Larger, heavy-duty mowers also are available with a zero-turn option, which speeds up the pace of mowing due to being able to cut tight turns.

Consumers choosing riding mowers might also be interested in the bagging and/or mulching capabilities of the models.

Concentrating on mid-size, lighter-duty riding mowers produced many top-contenders. But an evaluation of review and buying sites like Homedepot.com showed one well-known brand name model was a clear winner. The John Deere LA115 received the highest consumer ratings. The LA115 was praised by editors and consumers for features like excellent handling, bagging and overall reliability.

One negative consumer comment related to the mower’s ride. Although he said it was “a little choppy,” he was able to address that issue by changing the tire air pressure.

Our Sources

ConsumerReports.org A five-star consumer reviewer offered, “The JD LA115 is just a fine piece of machinery. I’ve owned Craftsman, Snapper and Honda. When people say ‘Nothing runs like a Deere,’ believe it! I have tricked mine out somewhat, added fender flares, lumbar seat, etc. Get one and then add the accessories you need. This is absolutely the #1 pick, hands down.” View Source

HomeDepot.com Customer reviews highlighted reliability, smooth ride and easy starting. One five-star reviewer commented, “I bought the LA115 after careful consideration…what a GREAT choice. Immediately started up and ran great. A smooth ride with no jerks. The foot pedal makes for a more comfortable ride, seems like I’m driving a car. I love the fuel-window indicator to let me easily know how much fuel is remaining.” View Source

CompactTractorReview.com One consumer reviewer gave the John Deere LA115 an overall 9 out of 10. “I recently purchased a new LA115 lawn tractor. I find that it mows well, has plenty of power and cuts level with a 48” deck. I have owned several John Deere tractors, having worked for a dealership for 30 years. There is a good dealer organization for sales, parts and service.” View Source

Ranked #2 in Riding Lawn Mowers

Ranked #3 in Riding Lawn Mowers

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Ranked #7 in Riding Lawn Mowers

Editors’ Choice #1 in Electric Push Lawn Mowers

If you’re concerned about the environment – both air and noise pollution — a corded electric lawn mower is the way to go. While somewhat limited by having a cord to consider, these mowers are able to effectively mow lawns under an acre. Other desirable features are an almost instant start and smooth operation.

Many well-known brands, like Black & Decker, Cub Cadet and Craftsman make high-quality electric push corded lawn mowers. But an assessment of several review and buying sites like ConsumerReports.org, showed a run-away winner. The Black & Decker MM875 consistently scored high points from consumers and editors. Desirable features like ease of pushing and steering, quiet motor, good mulching and bagging functions and being environmentally-friendly were most noted.

The Black & Decker MM875 has an adjustable cut-length mechanism that won high marks from consumer reviewers. The only negatives mentioned by both ConsumerReports.org editors and consumers was the lack of convenience and maneuverability that is inherent with a corded device.

Although it only scored 63 out of 100 by ConsumerReports.org, it was “recommended” and overall, this mower stood above the crowd and met buyers’ expectations.

Our Sources

ConsumerReports.org A five-star consumer reviewer shared, “This mower proved just what I needed for my small yard and lack of muscle strength. It is light-weight and easy to handle. The only thing I needed to do was buy a longer, heavier-duty extension cord. The instructions that came with the mower told me what gauge of extension cord to buy.” View Source

Amazon.com One five-star reviewer said, “Over the years, I have had numerous different gas mowers. Pulling 15-20 times to start it gets very tiring and frustrating! I hate having to mess with gas, oil, tune-ups, noise, etc. In my opinion, this mower is comparable to a 6.5 HP gas mower – others may disagree but I will tell you, this thing is POWERFUL.” View Source

Epinions.com A five-star customer reviewer shared, “I’m a new home owner and for the first time had to worry about mowing a lawn. I wanted to purchase a lawn mower that would require minimal maintenance and one that fit my budget. My lawn is less than 1/2 an acre, so cord length is not an issue. Some of the benefits of an electric mower over gas – not having to worry about running out of gas, no draining oil, easier starts, quieter, no pollution and less maintenance.” View Source

Ranked #2 in Electric Push Lawn Mowers

Ranked #3 in Electric Push Lawn Mowers