9 Best 42 Inch Zero Turn Mower | Buyer’s Guide 2023

The best zero-turn mower in the market is determined considering its pros and cons. Factors like their capabilities and effectiveness vary from one brand to another and from one model to another. However, the 42 inches zero turn mower is an ideal cutting deck size for most lawns. The benefit of a 42 inch zero turn mower also adds benefits when paired up with various types of performance specifications that are modified to be utilized in any type of lawn.

9 Best 42 Inch Zero Turn Mower

A zero-turn mower is called so because it effectively has a zero turning radius. It rotates like a tank without moving an inch but right from its place. It is a great machine to mow your lawn efficiently. In this article, we have accumulated some of the best 42 inches zero turn mowers, considering their price, advantages, and disadvantages.

Also read: Snapper Zero Turn Reviews | One-Stop Solution? 2022

9 Best 42 Inch Zero Turn Mower | Buyer’s Guide 

Different brands are coming up with different types of products in the market. This is why it is important to exercise your options and consider the best product to offer the best services and user experience. With the help of a few checklists, anyone looking to buy a 42 inch zero turn mower would be able to determine an ideal product following their choice and preferences.

Parameters For Purchasing the Best 42 Inch Zero Turn Mower

With the help of a few checklists, you should be able to make a wise decision while purchasing a 42 inch zero turn mower. These parameters should be kept in mind and ensure that the machine’s specifications offer them what you wish to purchase. Listed below are a few basic parameters for buying a zero-turn mower.

Durability

Quality assurance is significant when purchasing a mower so it would be a worthy investment. The machine should function smoothly even after its warranty period is over.

Engine Design

Just like people consider the type of engine while purchasing a bike, similar is the case while buying a zero-turn mower as well. The engine is the core part of the machine and if the engine is not efficient enough to mow your entire lawn, it would be a useless investment. Depending on your lawn’s size and shape, you need to go for an ideal engine type.

zero turn engine

Easy Adjustable Height

The mower should not just do what it should do but also offer great comfort while riding it. Devices and machines like mowers should include certain features and functions like the adjustable height to be easy for anyone to sit on comfortably. 

9 Best 42 Inch Zero Turn Mower (Handpicked 2022)

Not all people would have the same size or shape of their lawn, and this is why it is significant to choose the best zero-turn mower machine that would perfectly fit in. The product should not just be packed with its great efficiency on the field but they should be able to offer a great user experience like the ease of handling and control, low maintenance, ability to handle different cutting conditions and many more. Keeping these points in mind, we have created a list of the best residential zero-turn mower below.

1. Husqvarna Z242F | Best 42 Inch Zero Turn Mower (Riding)

Husqvarna is a motorcycle manufacturing company that has rolled out its zero turn riding mower packed with powerful and user-friendly products. Highlights of the Husqvarna Z242F are mentioned below:

  • 726cc engine with 21.5 HP
  • Hydrostatic transmission and low-maintenance
  • Anti-slip foot area

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Husqvarna Z242F 42 in. 21.5HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
  • Hydrostatic, no-maintenance transmission is worry free, allowing the mower to take on a variety of cutting conditions
  • A patent-pending park brake system automatically activates or deactivates as the steering levers are moved outward or inward
  • Clippings can be discharged, mulched or bagged (mulching kit and bagger attachment sold separately)

Husqvarna is one of those companies that are best known for manufacturing not just innovative motorcycles but have a strong foothold in developing mowers as well. People who have bought this item were satisfied. According to most of the reviews made on this product, the product has much more to offer other than its powerful performance. Have a look at our Husqvarna Riding Mower report that we did

Major things to look at while buying the Husqvarna Z242F 42 inch zero turn mower are as follows:

  • Its massive 726cc engine is solely responsible for reliable start-ups.
  • With a maximum speed limit of 6.5MPH, the machine is fast enough to do its job on time.
  • Its patent-pending park brake system functions automatically (activates/deactivates) as the steering levers are moved inward/outward.
Husqvarna Z242F 42 in. 21.5HP
  • The deck offers an enhanced experience to the user and thanks to the presence of its super blades, which makes cutting grass best-in-class.

Verdict:

Husqvarna is a reliable company whose mowers are loved by its users. But, some major setbacks may prevent you from considering this machine.

review husqwarna

Even though it is a worthy investment, the price factor may be expensive for some people. Other than this, most people have faced an issue about the product being inefficient on hilly terrains. But, all in all, it is a product that can just do its job perfectly just like you expect it to work.

2. Ariens IKON 42 Inch 22HP (Kohler) Zero Turn Mower 915265

Ariens is an American manufacturing company that brought its IKON 42 Inch Zero Turn Mower with unbelievable user experience and brilliance in its efficiency. Owners of this mower were impressed with the features that it offered. The highlights of the Ariens IKON 42 Inch 22HP are as mentioned below:

  •  Brand name: Ariens
  • Item Dimension (LxWxH): 80×62.13×35 inches
  • Weight: 755 pounds
  • Cutting width: 42 inches
  • Operating mode: Automatic

Major things to look at while buying the Ariens IKON 42 inch 22HP Zero Turn Mower 915265 are as follows:

  • The product does what it does best is cuts grass like the best-in-class
  • Rear tires come in 18lb while the front ones are 12lb, which are solely responsible for a comfortable and a decent ride
  • Engine (The Kohler 7000 series) is the best with zero problems
  • Advanced airflow for better and cutting performance

Verdict:

The mower is a powerful machine and has proved to be a worthy machine. However, some people complained about the blades not being sharp enough during the time of purchase from Amazon.com. But, the product leaves a satisfactory result, thus leaving no margin for error.

3. Husqvarna YTH18542 42In 18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Hydrostatic Riding Mower

Another machine that cannot be ignored while discussing ‘the best zero turn mower’ is the Husqvarna YTH18542 42 inch 18.5 HP. The machine comes with lesser horsepower than the model Z242F, which has a horsepower of 21.5. But, this does not mean that this model is less efficient because you may be wrong. Below mentioned are the product highlights.

  • Brand Name: Husqvarna
  • Power Source: Gas Powered
  • Item Dimensions: 70x50x41.4 inches
  • Product weight: 490 pounds
  • Operation mode: Manual

This zero-turn mower may fool you because its lightweight and low HP is a powerful machine with Briggs and Stratton Intek engine. Apart from that, the foot-pedal hydrostatic transmission gives the user an opportunity to change speed and direction while keeping both hands at the steering wheel.

Husqvarna Z242F 42 in. 21.5HP

Major things to look while purchasing the Husqvarna YTH18542 are as follows:

  • Briggs and Stratton Intek engine offers powerful and efficient performance
  • Dual anti-scalp wheels
  • Allows reverse mowing (reverse operating system)
  • Adjustable 13 in. mid-back seat for comfortable operating of the machine

Verdict:

The Husqvarna YTH18542 42in is yet another beast with incredible performance on the field mowing lawns. It is one of those machines that has got almost rated an excellent product than any other zero-turn mowers in the market. Its brilliant specifications can be justified to say that the product is worth investing in.

4. Ego Power+ ZT4204L 42” Z6 Zero Turn Riding Mower With (4) 10AH Batteries & 1600W Charger

One of the dashing-looking machines in the 42 inches zero-turn mowers segment is the ZT4204L model from Ego Power+. As the name of the brand suggests, the machine comes with the incredible power of Lithium batteries which is rechargeable. Its 22HP engine proves to be a beast and can cut up to 2-acres on a single charge. The highlights of the mower are as follows:

  •         Brand name: Ego Power+
  •         Cutting Width: 42 inches
  •         Driving modes: 3
  •         Batteries: 10.0AH Batteries With Fast Charging

EGO Power+ZT4204L 42-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Z6 Zero Turn Riding Mower with (4) 10.0Ah Batteries and Charger Included
  • Peak Power+ Technology combines the power of up to 6 EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries
  • Holds up to 6 batteries for maximum runtime (4 included)
  • Power of gas with 22 HP equivalent engine
  • Cuts up to 2-Acres on a single charge with the included 4 56V 10.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries
  • World’s First Platform Compatible Rider – powered by all EGO 56V Arc LithiumTM batteries

A product that is capable of mowing a 2-acre lawn and is also impressive enough to give its users a worth experience. It might be a bit pricey for some people, but anyone would be willing to invest in it with its impressive performance. Major things to look at while purchasing the Ego Power+ ZT4204L are as follows:

  • The battery comes with 6EGO 56V ARC lithium batteries. Includes 4 10.0Ah Batteries with a fast charger
  • It comes with a 22HP which is powerful enough to cut any grass
  • It Comes in 3 different driving modes (Control, Standard, and Sport)
  • Tool, battery, and charger warranty for 5 years

Verdict:

An eco-friendly product packed with powerful specifications is worth the money, even if it is a bit pricey. The machine is considered World’s First Platform Compatible Rider powered by Lithium batteries.

5. Ariens IKON XD 42 Inch 18HP (Kawasaki) Zero Turn Mower 915268

You should also look at another model from Ariens: the Ariens IKON XD 42 Inch, 18HP model. The machine comes in automatic operation mode and is one of the best-rated products in the market. The engine included in this machine seems to do a decent job while mowing and offers riders 13 different cutting positions. Mentioned below are the highlights of it.

  • Brand name: Ariens
  • Cutting Width: 42 inches
  • Number of positions: 13
  • Operation mode: Automatic
  • Item weight: 252 pounds

Ariens IKON XD 42 inch 18 HP (Kawasaki) Zero Turn Mower 915268
  • Kawasaki FR600 ​engine
  • 42” cutting width
  • 4” deep fully fabricated with advanced airflow for an exceptional cutting performance.
  • Choose from 13 cutting positions, from 1½” to 4½”, in quarter-inch increments with just the turn of a dial.

This 18HP model comes with pretty basic specifications but with effective performance on the field. The 4-star rated product on Amazon.com could be an ideal machine to mow your 1-acre lawn with ease. Let us look at the specifications and some major features and functions of the product below.

  • Installed with Kawasaki FR600 engine, which is a flawless one
  • 4″ fully fabricated with enhanced airflow for better cutting performance
  • Users can choose from 13 different cutting positions
  • Lightweight and easy to control features  

Verdict:

The machine is a lightweight product and is considered one of the best residential zero turn mower 2021 models. However, considering its price, the machine is a decent product and can easily mow an average-sized lawn.

6. RYOBI RY48ZTR75 42 Inch 75 AH Battery Electric Riding Zero Turn Mower

The battery-powered model from RYOBI is yet another fascinating product that should be considered while shopping for a 42 inch zero turn mower. Mentioned below are the key highlights of the machine.

  • Brand name: RYOBI
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Cutting width: 42 inches
  • Number of positions: 12
  • Operation mode: According to battery capacity

RYOBI RY48ZTR75 42 in. 75 Ah Battery Electric Riding Zero Turn Mower
  • Fully Electric: Requires no spark plugs, belts, filters, oil, or gas
  • A single battery charge delivers up to 2.25 acres of continuous mowing
  • 4 brushless motors produce unrelenting torque for blade cutting and drivetrain systems
  • 75 AH 42" ZERO TURN ELECTRIC RIDING MOWER

RYOBI’s eco-friendly zero-turn mower has been built to create a beautiful lawn and offer a great user experience. Unlike other zero-turn mowers on the market, this is the second machine in the list, a battery-powered machine. RYOBI made sure that the batteries (4.0Ah) are powerful enough to mow at least 2-acre of land, which is a major look at this product.

Major things to look at while purchasing this product are as mentioned below.

  • The machine comes with 4 high powered brushless motors for smooth functioning
  • Can mow a lawn as big as 2.5 acres easily
  • It comes with a 42-inch heavy-duty steel deck
  • Installed with 2 precision-cut steel blades for effective grass cutting
  • The deck comes with 12 different position adjustment features.

Verdict:

RYOBI’s RY48ZTR75 comes with the best specifications available in a surprisingly powerful packed specification. This model from RYOBI can be considered if you are looking for an eco-friendly product in the market. There is no denying the fact that the machine brings great user experience and cutting performance.

7.  Simplicity 2691318 Courier Riding Zero Turn Mower

The Simplicity 2691318 zero turn mower offers great comfort and control for cutting grass and weeds on even and uneven grounds. The presence of a built-in cargo bed with a 50-pound capacity is quite efficient for easy moving garden supplies. Mentioned below are the key highlights of the machine.

  • Brand name: Simplicity
  • Power Source: Gas Powered
  • Product Dimensions(LxWxH): 182.9×139.7×106.7 centimeters
  • Cutting width: 36 inches
  • Number of positions: 12

RYOBI RY48ZTR75 42 in. 75 Ah Battery Electric Riding Zero Turn Mower
  • Fully Electric: Requires no spark plugs, belts, filters, oil, or gas
  • A single battery charge delivers up to 2.25 acres of continuous mowing
  • 4 brushless motors produce unrelenting torque for blade cutting and drivetrain systems
  • 75 AH 42" ZERO TURN ELECTRIC RIDING MOWER

The space of the machine may not be safe for traveling passengers, but it does come with options on its engine horsepower. However, the cutting deck size of the beast and the engine of the zero-turn mower proves to be great while doing their job on the field. The design of machine has been designed in such a way that reduces the bumps and discomfort. The seat of the product is covered with an airy mesh fabric that is responsible for keeping the rider’s back comfortable and relaxed.

The machine’s major advantages are as follows:

  • Trusted, durable, and packed with a powerful engine for a smooth cutting experience
  • Riders can adjust 13 different height-of-cut positions
  • The beautiful deck design provides extreme satisfaction to the rider while riding
  • Suspension of the machine allows the riders to feel 25% less impact while operating

Verdict:

Simplicity is one brand that ensures that users can extract maximum benefit. According to some reviewers, this machine is considered one of the best residential zero turn mower 2022.

8. Troy-Bilt XP Mustang 22-HP V-Twin Dual Hydrostatic 42-inch Zero Turn Lawn Mower

If you work on a residential lawn or are involved in some kind of professional landscaping, then the Troy-Bilt XP Mustang 22-HP is an ideal product for you. The machine has the capability of mowing a large deck and can mow any medium-sized lawn smoothly. The highlights of the product are as mentioned below:

  • Brand name: Troy-Bilt
  • Deck Cutting Width: 42″
  • Engine model: Twin Engine
  • Engine brand: Briggs & Stratton
  • Engine output: 20HP

The machine is not just smooth when it comes to cutting grass activities but also offers 9 adjustable cutting heights with a speed of maximum 7 miles per hour. The engine (679 cc) is powered by a hydrostatic transmission which guarantees durability to its users.

Major things to look at while purchasing this product are as mentioned below:

  • It comes with KOHLER V-Twin engine, which offers durability
  • The electric power take-off system supports speedy and efficient blade engagement
  • Integrated parking brake for quick and effective stopping 

Verdict:

This machine is yet another beast when it comes to mowing in rough terrain, backed by a three-year limited warranty. This machine has been rated excellently by maximum users as they felt that the machine was consistent and brilliantly efficient while cutting grass on rough terrains.

9. Snapper 2691402 360z Mower

The Snapper 2691402 360z mower includes features that are generally available in any other type of commercial mower. This machine has included a few common features such as welded steel frame, welded front axle, durable steel deck, and easy access maintenance points. Mentioned below are the key highlights of the machine.

  • Brand name: Unknown
  • Power source: Gas Powered
  • Item Dimensions: 182.9×139.7×106.7 Centimeters
  • Cutting width: 5 inches

The machine is powered by a Kawasaki engine which provides 18HP thrust to the mower. The machine can be utilized for non-stop mowing during mowing season after season. The presence of the commercial-style foot-operated mower deck lift is able to easily lift and is adjustable.

Major things to look at while buying the Snapper 2691402 are as follows:

  • High-performance engine with powerful cutting technology
  • A reliable performance that guarantees durability year after year
  • An additional integrated cargo bed with a 50 pounds capacity has been added, which can be utilized for carrying extra tools while mowing.

Verdict:

The Snapper 2691402 360z comes in different styles and is one of the best rated zero turn mowing machines in the market. All in all, it is a powerful machine packed with all the advantages that you are looking for in an average zero-turn mower.

Also read: 11 Best Tiller For Small Garden | Buyer’s Guide 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best 42 inch zero turn mower?

The Cub Cadet is the one who makes the best 42 inch zero turn mower. The Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT is one of the company’s best models that can easily tackle tough lawns.

Which zero-turn mower has the best cut quality?

The Cub Cadet’s Ultima Series proved to be the best-in-class cutting performance. Its impressive cut appearance and evenly clipping distribution are the best in the market.

Best 43 Inch Zero Turn Mower: Closure

The best zero turn mower is determined only if they are able to satisfy your needs by doing what it does best. This win-win scenario is possible only if people conduct thorough research on the available products in the market and choose according to the shape, size, and type of lawn they own. 

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