Gone are the days of loud, fume-spewing gas mowers that require constant maintenance. The electric riding lawn mower has matured into a powerful, zero-emission alternative capable of handling even large properties. With advancements in battery technology, these mowers offer impressive runtime, quiet operation, and instant starts at the push of a button, making lawn care a more peaceful and enjoyable chore.
Whether you have a half-acre or four, there is a model designed for your needs. From nimble zero-turn mowers that navigate tight spaces to robust tractors with wide cutting decks, the options are vast. This roundup cuts through the noise to help you find the perfect electric riding mower to keep your lawn looking pristine without the hassle of gas and oil.
The Best Electric Riding Lawn Mowers for Your Property
- EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ Deck
- Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric CrossoverZ Zero Turn Mower
- Greenworks 80V 42″ Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower with Bonus
- Greenworks 80V 42″ Zero Turn Mower with Rapid Chargers
- Ryobi 38 inches 100 Ah Battery Electric Riding Lawn Mower
- EGO POWER+ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
- EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 52″ Deck
- Greenworks 40V 20″ Brushless Push Mower
- Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-Inch Electric Riding Lawn Tractor
EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ Deck
The EGO Power+ ZT4204L is engineered to rival gas-powered performance without the associated noise and maintenance. It delivers the equivalent of 22 horsepower and can reach speeds up to 8 MPH, providing the power you need for efficient mowing. Its zero-turn radius allows for exceptional maneuverability around trees and garden beds, making it ideal for properties with complex landscapes.
This model is equipped with four 56V 10.0Ah batteries, giving it the capacity to cut up to 2 acres on a single charge. For even larger lawns, the system is expandable; you can add more batteries to extend the runtime. An intuitive LCD interface lets you customize the mowing experience with three distinct driving modes: Standard, Control, and Sport, so you can tailor the operation to your preference.
Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric CrossoverZ Zero Turn Mower
Greenworks introduces a smart mowing solution with its 60V CrossoverZ. This model features a “Mow, Swap, and Go” system that includes four 8.0Ah batteries and two dual-port turbo chargers. This setup allows for continuous mowing, as you can use two batteries while the other two charge, effectively eliminating downtime for properties up to 1.5 acres.
With a 24 HP equivalent brushless motor, this mower provides cleaner, more even cuts compared to many gas models by maintaining a constant 17,000 FPM blade tip speed. The durable 42-inch deck and highly efficient motor work together to deliver more torque, quieter operation, and a longer product life, offering a reliable and powerful cutting performance.
Greenworks 80V 42″ Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower with Bonus
This Greenworks 80V zero-turn mower is a high-performance machine boasting a 32 HP equivalent, making it a strong competitor to traditional gas mowers. The reinforced 12-gauge steel 42-inch deck is built to last and can handle slopes up to 15 degrees, with a cutting height adjustable from 1.5 to 4.5 inches for a customized cut.
Included with the mower are four 5.0Ah batteries and a 600W charger, providing enough power to cut up to 2 acres. The premium cutting system ensures a professional-grade finish by maintaining a constant 17,000 FPM blade tip speed. This package also includes a valuable bonus: a 6-piece power tool combo, adding significant extra value.
Greenworks 80V 42″ Zero Turn Mower with Rapid Chargers
Similar to its sibling model, this Greenworks 80V zero-turn mower delivers the same powerful 32 HP equivalent performance and durable 42-inch steel deck. It is designed for efficiency and speed, capable of mowing up to 8 MPH and managing inclines up to a 15-degree slope for versatile property management.
Where this model stands out is its charging system. It comes with four 5.0Ah batteries and, crucially, three 8A Dual Port Rapid Chargers. This extensive charging setup significantly reduces waiting time, ensuring your mower is ready to go when you are and supporting its ability to cover up to 2 acres on a single charge.
Ryobi 38 inches 100 Ah Battery Electric Riding Lawn Mower
The Ryobi RY48111 takes a unique approach with a single, integrated 100 Ah battery instead of multiple smaller ones. This rear-engine riding mower is powered by three brushless motors, which provide superior power and performance while enhancing energy efficiency for extended use.
This design offers an impressive runtime of up to 2.5 hours or the ability to mow approximately 2.5 acres on a single charge. Its 38-inch cutting deck is well-suited for medium to large lawns, providing a quiet, zero-emission mowing experience that eliminates the need for gas entirely.
EGO POWER+ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
For those who prefer a walk-behind mower but still want premium features, the EGO LM2134SP is an excellent choice. It features the innovative Select Cut multi-blade system, which allows you to choose between using one or two blades for a customized cut, optimizing battery life and mulching performance.
The standout feature is the Touch Drive self-propelled technology, which puts control in the palm of your hand. A simple touch-sensitive interface on the handle allows you to easily adjust your mowing speed. With two included 56V 6.0Ah batteries, this mower offers up to 100 minutes of runtime, making it capable for larger yards where a riding mower isn’t necessary.
EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 52″ Deck
This is the ultimate offering in the EGO lineup, designed for the largest properties. The ZT5207L features a expansive 52-inch cutting deck and utilizes Peak Power Plus Technology, which combines the power of up to six batteries to deliver performance equivalent to a 25 HP gas engine.
With six included 56V 12.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries, this mower has the stamina to cut up to 4 acres on a single charge. This immense power and runtime make it one of the most capable electric riding mowers on the market, perfect for homeowners with extensive lawns who want to transition away from gas without compromising on performance.
Greenworks 40V 20″ Brushless Push Mower
Ideal for smaller lawns or as a supplement to a riding mower for tight spaces, the Greenworks 40V push mower is a compact and efficient tool. It features a durable 20-inch steel deck and a highly efficient brushless motor that provides more torque and a longer lifespan, all while operating at noise levels three times quieter than a gas mower.
Equipped with a 4.0Ah battery, it can cut up to 1/3 of an acre on a single charge, depending on grass conditions. A convenient LED headlight increases visibility, allowing for more flexible mowing schedules during early mornings or late evenings.
Ryobi 80V HP Brushless 42-Inch Electric Riding Lawn Tractor
Ryobi’s 80V HP Brushless Riding Lawn Tractor is designed for those who prefer the traditional style of a lawn tractor over a zero-turn model. It leverages a high-performance 80V battery system and a brushless motor to deliver strong, consistent power for mowing and hauling tasks, all with zero emissions.
With its 42-inch cutting deck, this tractor is well-suited for flat or gently rolling landscapes. It combines the quiet, maintenance-free benefits of electric power with the familiar feel and added utility of a lawn tractor, making it a solid choice for homeowners with larger, open properties.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower
So, you’re thinking about joining the quiet revolution and getting an electric riding lawn mower. I made the switch a few years back, and I will never go back to a gas mower. But with more options hitting the market, it can be tricky to figure out which one is right for your yard. Let me walk you through the main things I considered before buying mine.
First up, think about your property size. This is the biggest factor. If you have a half-acre or less, a smaller model with a 30- to 42-inch deck might be perfect. For properties between one and two acres, you will want to look at mowers with more battery capacity and a wider cutting deck, typically 42 inches and up. Anything larger than that, and you need to seriously consider the battery’s endurance or look at a model that can handle an extra battery pack.
Speaking of power, you will choose between battery-powered and corded electric. I have only ever seen corded push mowers, so for riders, we are talking about batteries. The key specs to check are voltage (like 48V, 82V), amp-hour (Ah) rating, and the estimated runtime. A higher voltage and Ah generally mean more power and longer runtime. The manufacturer’s runtime is a good starting point, but remember, real-world use with hills and thick grass will shorten it. Some models let you add a second battery, which is a fantastic feature for bigger jobs.
Next, consider the mower’s features. Do you want a dedicated lawn tractor or a zero-turn mower? Zero-turn mowers are champions of maneuverability, spinning on a dime around trees and flowerbeds. Lawn tractors are great for general mowing and can often handle attachments like a tow-behind cart. Also, look at the deck material—fabricated steel decks are more durable than stamped ones. A comfortable, adjustable seat and a smooth control system (like a pedal for go/stop and a lever for speed) make a huge difference on longer mowing sessions.
Finally, do not forget about the practical stuff. How does it store? Electric mowers are generally lighter than gas ones, but they still need a dry home. Check the warranty, especially on the battery and the mower’s frame. And think about your local dealer support. Having a place nearby for service or advice can be a lifesaver. Taking a little time to match the mower to your specific needs will ensure you get the perfect partner for your lawn care, making the task of finding the 9 best electric riding lawn mowers to buy now much simpler.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the battery last on an electric riding mower?
This is the question I get asked the most. The answer really depends on the specific model and your yard. On a single charge, most mowers will give you between 45 minutes and 2 hours of runtime. Factors that affect this include the grass height and thickness, the number of hills you have, and even how fast you are mowing. If you have a larger property, I strongly suggest looking for a model that either has a very long stated runtime or, even better, one that can accept a second battery to double your mowing time.
Are electric riding mowers as powerful as gas mowers?
For the vast majority of residential lawns, yes, absolutely. Modern electric mowers have tons of torque, which is what you need for cutting grass and going up slopes. They do not have the same peak horsepower as some big gas engines, but that raw power is often overkill for a typical yard. Where electric mowers really shine is in their instant, consistent power. There is no sputtering or stalling in thick grass; they just power through it smoothly and quietly.
What is the maintenance like compared to a gas mower?
The maintenance is dramatically easier, and this is a huge reason people switch. You can say goodbye to oil changes, spark plug replacements, air filters, and messy gas. Your main tasks are keeping the battery terminals clean, occasionally checking the wiring for damage, and, of course, the standard stuff like sharpening the blade and cleaning the underside of the deck. It is a fraction of the time and cost, which frees up your weekends for more than just mower upkeep.
Can I use an electric riding mower on wet grass?
While the mower itself is designed to handle outdoor conditions, I do not recommend mowing wet grass if you can avoid it. Just like with a gas mower, wet grass clumps together, clogs the deck, and leaves an uneven cut on your lawn. It is also harder on the mower’s motor and battery because of the increased resistance. It is always best to wait for the grass to dry for a cleaner, healthier cut for your lawn and a more efficient session for your machine.
How long do the batteries typically last before needing replacement?
Most manufacturers rate their lithium-ion batteries for a certain number of charge cycles. You can typically expect a battery to last anywhere from 3 to 5 years before you might notice a significant drop in its runtime. How you care for it makes a difference. Storing the mower in a temperature-stable place (like a garage) and not constantly draining the battery to zero will help maximize its lifespan. When it is finally time, replacement batteries are an investment, but you have to weigh that against years of saved money on gas and maintenance.