The Difference Between Lawn Tractors and Zero-Turn Mowers

Big yards mean a lot of extra space to relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors. But sometimes it can feel like the more land you have to take care of, the more problems you'll face. Maintaining a big yard can be challenging and mowing can be exhausting, especially if you don’t have the right equipment. Luckily, there are lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers that’ll help you get the job done without any stress.

Before you invest in one of these machines it’s important to take time to assess your needs and choose the best option. At Tatum Motor Company, we are here to make sure you make the right choice so we’ve put together this short guide to help you decide between a lawn tractor or a zero-turn mower. Read on for more information, and when you’re ready to check out the best new and used mowers around, head to one of our showrooms in Anderson, Missouri, or Tontitown, Arkansas.

Lawn Tractors

When it comes to landscape management, a lawn tractor is a real powerhouse designed for heavy-duty use. These highly capable machines are basically riding mowers, which look and operate like larger agricultural tractors. As a result, you’ll have the ease of use that comes with a riding mower along with the durability of a tractor.

These mowers cost less compared to zero-turns and still deliver excellent results. Another advantage is the simple, intuitive design, which makes lawn tractors quite popular among property owners.

Though lawn tractors are easy to use, they aren’t the most agile machines and only reach speeds of around 3-5 mph. So, you’ll find yourself spending more time behind the wheel. The wide turning radius of most models means that some repositioning might be required after each run to line up a straight route back.

Zero-Turn Mowers

The most appealing feature of zero-turn mowers is their amazing ability to execute a turn with an effective radius of zero. This allows you to exactly follow the line you just mowed when you turn back, so you can be sure there are no untrimmed patches of grass left that you need to go over again. The extra power and speed also help you to finish your work faster.

Thanks to their wide cutting decks, zero-turn mowers are effective on different types of terrains. Whether you’re working on a large, level field or an uneven piece of land with many obstacles, you’ll get a clean, professional cut every time. However, they’re not particularly well-suited for mowing grass above six inches and it might require multiple runs or a big riding mower.

Which is Best for You?

If you’ve got taller grass and large stretches of land to mow, you’ll be in good hands with a lawn tractor. If your land has a lot of obstacles or you’re aiming for a precision cut on a smaller section of grass, a zero-turn is the way to go. Another consideration is the price. Zero-turn mowers are more expensive than their lawn tractor counterparts, but they can make your life much easier. Both these styles of riding mowers are worth the investment and will give you optimum results for your landscaping projects. Make sure to evaluate the specifics of your land and consider your mowing style before deciding which machine is perfect for you.

When making a choice between a lawn tractor and a zero-turn mower, the decision comes down to what will be ideal for you and your property. Hopefully, this guide has pointed you in the right direction. If you need more help finding the right equipment for your property, visit Tatum Motor Company at one of our convenient locations in Anderson, Missouri, and Tontitown, Arkansas. We also welcome all those in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Joplin, Missouri.