There's been a burst of zero-turn riding mower models over the past few years with nearly every major manufacturer of ride-on mowing equipment adding at least a model or two to the mix. Some are near-clones of previous models, but most are relatively unique and range in price from about $2600 to $7200 and more, with cutting swaths from 30 to 50 inches wide, and with features from the basic to the professional level. Your task, should you decide to accept it, is to choose the best zero-turn rider for your needs and budget. We at Consumer Guide can help.

Ariens Zero-Turn Riding Mower Zoom 1840

Maybe you've never heard of Ariens brand. However, they are worth seeking out. The Zoom 1840, for example, is a well-constructed mower with some nice features at a price that isn't that much more than other manufacturers' economy models. With a cut width of 40 inches and a forward speed up to 7 mph, this model is a mover that can quickly turn long grass into a manicured lawn. It's right for relatively flat lawns of up to two acres with numerous obstacles -- or not. The seat with armrests is comfortable and the strong engine make it right for folks who know value. We think it's a Best Buy among lower-priced ZTRs.

Ariens Zero-Turn Riding Mower Zoom 1840
Ariens Zero-Turn Riding Mower Zoom 1840

Cub Cadet Zero-Turn Riding Mower RZT 50

Need to cut more lawn but don't have a big mowing budget? For less than the price of the Ariens (above) you can buy a Cub Cadet RZT 50 that will trim your lawn in 50-inch swaths. It's not quite as fast, but fast enough. The engine is a good selection for this size of mower. Of course, the lower price means fewer features: The construction isn't as solid, it's not as comfortable, and it helps to be clairvoyant to know the fuel tank level. With its minor problems, and at less than three grand for a wide-cut mower for larger lawns, we rate it a Budget Buy.

Dixon Zero-Turn Riding Mower SpeedZTR 30

Don't need to cut 50 inches of lawn at a pass, but still like the fun of a zero-turn rider? Consider the Dixon SpeedZTR 30. It'll take just about an hour of your life to cut up to 1-1/2 acres of relatively flat lawn. It's fast enough, but it only cuts a 30-inch pass through the grass. This is the smallest model in the Dixon line; many of their mowers are made for the pros. So you get a well-built machine in the SpeedZTR 30 at a relatively low price. You're trading width for quality. For medium-size lawns it's a Budget Buy.

Husqvarna Zero-Turn Riding Mowers

We reviewed a couple of nice Husqvarna zero-turn riders, both impressive. The Z4824 is a well-built, powerful ZTR that earns our Best Buy rating for lawns to 2 acres with obstacles. The EZ4217, at nearly five grand, is on the higher end of the price range, but could be a bargain depending on your mowing needs. First, it's powered by a four-stroke Kawasaki engine that, with care, should outlast two engines on cheaper mowers. Second, the hydrostatic transmission is heavier-duty than that on other mowers. The frame is more solid than most others, the seat is comfortable, and there are some other nice touches. The cutting width is 42 inches. If you want a long-term mower, consider investing in the EZ4217. If you want a combination of quality and value, look at our Best-Buy Z4824.

Kubota Zero-Turn Riding Mower ZG20

Okay, this one is on our wish list. But it's $7200! It has most every feature you may want on a zero-turn rider and should last you a couple of decades. Most Kubota tractors are powered by diesel engines; this one is gas. The cut is 48-inches wide -- a 54-inch version is available. It has a PTO shaft rather than belts, a hefty frame with roll-bar, and -- something we found on no other ZTR -- a REAL electric fuel gauge. The seat is very comfortable and the grass-cutting limit per session is probably restricted only by the amount of fuel in the tank. We like this model -- but really can't justify it except to those who can pay for long-term quality.

Lawn-Boy Zero-Turn Riding Mower Z350 HLX

For about half the price of the Kubota you can get a Honda four-stroke engine in the Lawn-Boy Z350 HLX. The 44-inch cut is about right for up to 2 or 2-1/2 acres and the mower should last you a decade or more. Or you can look at the Lawn-Boy Z320 H with a slightly smaller Honda four-stroke, a narrower cut -- 38 inches -- and a few other differences for about 20 percent less money. Both are well built and almost stylish looking. We think the Z350 HLX, the more solid and more expensive of the two, is a Best Buy.

Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Riding Mower RZT 42

The lowest priced zero-turn rider we reviewed also has the fewest features, which is no surprise. The Troy-Bilt RZT 42 -- actually it's "Bilt" by MTD who also makes Cub Cadet and other brands -- is an adequate 42-inch cut mower with a few limitations, including a guess-how-much-fuel tank. However, for less than $2600, or even less on sale, the RZT 42 may be the right one for you.