Owning a riding lawn mower is necessary for many garden owners, as the lawn needs to be mowed at least once a week to keep it well-groomed.
But, how to choose the best riding lawn mower under $1500? There is a wide range of options to choose from, which means picking the right one can be an uphill task.
So check out the following list to find yourself the best riding lawn mower for the money.
*This post may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclaimer for additional details.
Top 5 Best Riding Lawn Mower Under 1500 Dollars
In-depth 5 Top Rated Riding Lawn Mower Under $1500 Reviews
#1. Cud Cadet XT1 – Best Overall
Specs
- HP: 18
- Power source: gas
- Drive type: ride-on, front-mounted engine
- Recommended yard size: 1-acre to 2-acre lawn
- Cut height range: 42’’
- Maximum Forward Speed: 2.5 mph
The Cud Cadet xt1 stands out from others on the market for its strength, comfort, and versatility. It comes with an 18 HP Kohler V-Twin OHV engine to ensure powerful performance, a hydrostatic transmission for smooth operation.
This small-sized lawnmower has a 42’’ deck and 16’’ turning radius, which makes it ideal for mowing slight rolling hills and few obstacles.
Its adjustable seating and easy-to-grip steering also provide cushion and support while operating.
Pros | Cons |
|
|
#2. Troy-Bilt Pony 42X – Best Riding Lawn Mower for Hills
- HP: 24
- Power source: gas
- Drive type: ride-on, front-mounted engine
- Recommended Yard Size: 1-acre to 2-acre lawn
- Cut height range: 42’’
- Maximum Forward Speed: 5.5 mph
- Country of Origin: America
The Troy-Bilt Pony 42’’ comes at an affordable price but offers the power and features you need to maintain one to two acres of lawn.
With a powerful engine of 24 HP and 42’’ deck, this riding mower ensures that you can cut a good amount of grass with every pass. The Pony from Troy-Bilt has an 18-inch turning radius, minimizing re-mowing, while its ability to mow in reverse makes it stand out from other competitors on the market.
This mower’s foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission also means that it has a smooth operator-controlled transition from forward to reverse, so users do not have to clutch and shift between ground speed ranges too often.
Pros | Cons |
|
|
#3. Troy-Bilt 382cc 30-Inch – Best Price
- HP: ~25
- Power source: gas
- Drive type: ride-on, rear engine
- Recommended Yard Size: ¾-acre to 1-acre lawn
- Cut height range: 30’’
- Maximum forward speed: 4.25 mph
- Country of Origin: America
The Troy-Bilt 382cc 30-Inc is another great option. This device is probably one of the best options for entry-level lawn mowers due to its ease of use.
With a six-speed gearbox, it constantly shifts gear to ensure an admirable performance. This Troy-Bilt’s durable 13’’ front and rear wheels turn remarkably strong within an 18-inch radius, making it a great choice for generally flat terrain.
Pros | Cons |
|
|
#4. Troy-Bilt TB42 – Best for Medium Lawns
Specs
- HP: ~28
- Power source: gas
- Drive type: ride-on, front-mounted engine
- Cut Height Range: 42’’
- Maximum Forward Speed: 5.5 mph
- Country of Origin: America
With tons of positive customer feedback, the Troy-Bilt TB42 is worth standing on this list. The 420cc Briggs & Stratton engine provides a max speed of 5.5 mph in both forward and reserve, giving this machine the power to cut hilly lawns with ease.
Getting on and off this riding mower is also easy, as it features a fully-welded step-thru frame. The adjustable seat accommodates users of different heights, while the rubber foot pads reduce vibration, so users can have a more comfortable ride.
With a five-position deck height adjustment, the TB42 meets your various lawn cutting needs. Also, the 18’’ turning radius allows users to cut more in one pass and maneuver easily through trees and other landscaping features.
Pros | Cons |
|
|
#5. Poulan Pro 42-Inch 19 HP
Specs
- HP: 19
- Power source: gas
- Drive type: ride-on, front-mounted engine
- Cut Height Range: 42’’
- Maximum Forward Speed: 5.1 mph
The Poulan Pro PK19H42LT riding mower is a powerful performer as it is equipped with a Briggs & Stratton 19 HP engine and a 42’’ steel cutting deck. Besides, its pedal-operated automatic transmission does not require lawnmowers to stop for speed or direction changing.
Choosing or adjusting your favorite grass height is super easy thanks to a spring-assisted deck lift with six cutting height positions. A 16’’ turning radius gives this mower the maneuverability that you will need to get through shrubs, trees, flower beds, and the likes.
Pros | Cons |
|
|
FAQs about Riding Lawn Mower
1. How long do riding lawn mowers last?
Provided good care and maintenance, a riding lawn mower can last for 10 to 15 years, or even longer. You may anticipate half of that if it is not adequately maintained.
However, there is no established guideline for the number of hours that are sufficient for a riding mower. If they are handled properly and provided with basic care, they can last considerably longer than their shelf life implies.
2. What size yard needs a riding mower?
You should consider a riding mower or even a garden tractor for yards bigger than ¾ acre. Lawnmowers of this size offer great visibility and mobility while maneuvering around flowerbeds, trees, and other landscape elements without any trouble.
3. How much HP do I need in a riding lawn mower?
A riding lawn mower with 11 to 25 HP would suffice for household use – for lawns that are smaller than 3 acres in terms of size.
While a commercial riding mower with 25 to 37 HP would be sufficient for areas that are bigger than 3 acres.
There is a variety of styles for riding lawn mowers, including the most well-known zero-turn mowers, stand-on mowers, and tractors.
4. How do I choose a riding lawn mower?
There are a lot of things to consider when you select a riding lawnmower. For instance, your lawn’s size is an essential factor that you need to think about:
- 3/4 to 1-acre lawn: choose a lawnmower with a cut width of 30 to 42 inches.
- 1 to 2-acre lawn: choose one with a cut width of 42 to 52 inches.
- 2 to 3-acre lawn: choose one that has a 50 to 54-inch cut width.
- 3 to 5-acre lawn: 54 to 62-inch cut-width mowers will be ideal.
- 5-acre or bigger lawn: a riding mower with a cut width of 60 inches or more may be suitable.
Another factor that also needs to be adequately considered is the condition of your landscape.
For rough terrains, a mower with steering wheels can operate more effectively. For lawns with many obstacles, consider a model with the zero-turn radius function (ZTR) or a garden tractor with a hydrostatic/automatic transmission.
My top pick is…
What is the best riding lawn mower under $1500 in my opinion? The Cud Cadet XT1 is obviously the best among the best. Even though it might not come at the best price, it gives good value for money for its outstanding features and performance. If you’re thinking of getting one, grab for it now before it runs out of stock.
More product reviews: