How to Choose a Lawn Tractor

What is the difference between a lawn tractor and a ride-on mower?

Before you think about how to choose a lawn tractor or ride-on mower, it’s important to understand the difference between the two.

These are the main differences:

• Power
  Lawn tractors usually have larger-displacement engines with greater horsepower and torque compared to a ride-on mower. Lawn tractors can handle tasks such as attachment towing and heavy-load haulage.
• Capabilities and attachments
  A lawn tractor can be used for numerous tasks beyond mowing. They can accommodate a range of attachments, from trailers, front-end loaders and rollers, through to tillers, de-thatchers and spreaders. Some ride-on mower models can accommodate attachments, but they tend to be more basic.
• Size
  Lawn tractors are typically larger and more heavy-duty than regular ride-on mowers. Because of their additional attachments, lawn tractors usually have a wider cutting-deck and a more hefty frame. Ride-on mowers tend to be more compact and easier to manoeuvre around obstacles and landscape features.
• Operation and usage
  Ride-on mowers are designed for primarily for mowing, are easier to operate, and require less complex maintenance.
• Cost
  Ride-on mowers tend to be more budget-friendly – both to buy and to maintain – when compared to lawn tractors.

If you’re considering what’s preferable – ride-on mower or lawn tractor – it’s important to think about your budget, the size of your lawn, and whether you need the versatility of being able to perform additional garden tasks aside from mowing.

What lawn tractor should I buy?

There are no hard-and-fast rules for determining the type of sit-on mower you need – every customer has different requirements. We recommend you assess your garden’s needs, including:

• Lawn size
  The size of your lawn will determine the engine power and cutter-deck width needed for efficient mowing.
• Terrain
  Is your garden smooth and flat, or rough or sloped?
• Garden layout
  Do you have intricate landscaping features and/or restricted access?

It’s also worth thinking about the other features you require, such as cutting-height adjustment range, transmission preference (manual or hydrostatic) and accessories, such as mulching kits, deflectors and collection bags.

If your lawn’s less than half an acre, it may be worth considering a regular walk-behind lawn mower.