This riding mower cuts wide swaths, reducing time spent on large lawns. If you’ve got a yard that feels more like a pasture, you know the struggle of pushing a mower for hours. That’s why a 42 inch riding lawn mower is a game-changer—it chews through grass fast without leaving you exausted. You’ll appreciate the extra deck size when you’re trying to beat the sunset.
But not all 42-inch models are created equal. Some have finicky blades or weak engines that bog down in thick grass. I’ve tested a few, and honestly? The differences are huge. You want a machine that starts easy, turns tight around trees, and doesn’t choke on damp clippings. Lets take a close look at what this one offers so you can decide if it’s right for your lawn.
Product Comparison Table: 7 Best 42 Inch Riding Lawn Mower
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ Deck Cordless…
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9.6 |
Read Review |
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EGO POWER+ Z6 Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower, 42″…
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9.3 |
Read Review |
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Husqvarna Z254F 54 in. 23 HP Kawasaki Zero Hydrostatic…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 17.5 HP*…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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Husqvarna TS 146 (46″) 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor 960430346
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Greenworks 80V 42″ Tractor (Gen 2), (4) 5.0Ah Batteries…
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8.3 |
Read Review |
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Ariens Edge LT (42″) 19HP Briggs Zero Turn Lawn…
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8.1 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 7 42 Inch Riding Lawn Mower
EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42" Deck Cordless Tractor, Includes (6) 56V 6.0Ah Batteries and Charger – TR4204
The EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ Deck Cordless Tractor, TR4204 is a serious machine for anyone who wants to handle their lawn without the noise and fuss of gas. This mower delivers the power of gas but runs on electricity. It’s engineered to give you the equivalent of 21 horsepower, and it mows up to 6 MPH. That means it can keep up with a traditional gas tractor on most properties.
You can cut up to 1.5 acres on a single charge.
This is thanks to the six included 56V 6.0Ah batteries. If your property is bigger, you’re not stuck. You can add more batteries to the system to cut 3, 4, 5, or as many acres as you need. It’s a flexible setup that scales with your lawn size.
The mower is built to be comfortable and easy to use. It has a digital display that gives you control over three blade settings, three drive speeds, and cruise control. You can set the speed you want and let the mower do the work.
The 42-inch stamped steel deck is adjustable across 12 settings, from 1.5 inches all the way up to 4.5 inches. This gives you a lot of control over your cut, whether you want a close trim or a taller look. Two anti-scalp wheels are included to protect your lawn on uneven ground.
One of the best things about this mower is the low maintenance. It has dual brushless cutting motors. Because it’s belt-free, you don’t have to worry about replacing belts or dealing with messy oil changes.
EGO POWER+ Z6 Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower, 42" Deck, Includes (6) 56V 6.0Ah Batteries and 880W Charger – ZT4214L
The EGO POWER+ Z6 Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower, 42″ Deck, Includes (6) 56V 6.0Ah Batteries and 880W Charger – ZT4214L is built to handle serious yard work without the gas. This machine is powered by six EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries working together through Peak Power technology.
It delivers the same cutting force as a zero turn mower with a 24-horsepower gas engine, so you won’t miss the fumes or the noise.
You can cut up to 1.5 acres on a single charge with the six included 56V 6.0Ah batteries. That is enough for most suburban lawns. The wide frame design gives you better balance when mowing on slopes, and the deck suspension system keeps the ride quiet and smooth.
The 42-inch, 12-gauge stamped steel deck is tough, and the zero turn radius means you can spin around trees and flower beds with ease.
The new color digital screen lets you customize your mowing experience. You can adjust driving speed, driving mode, blade speed, and cruise control right from the seat. It also shows battery status clearly. The mower is compatible with the EGO Connect app, so you can monitor battery life, charge time, and more from your favorite chair.
Husqvarna Z254F 54 in. 23 HP Kawasaki Zero Hydrostatic Turn Riding Mower
The Husqvarna Z254F 54 in. 23 HP Kawasaki Zero Hydrostatic Turn Riding Mower is built for getting the job done without any fuss. You get a 23 HP Kawasaki engine, which means reliable startups every time you sit down. It pushes you along at a max speed of 6.5 MPH, so you can cover ground quickly. The engine is paired with a hydrostatic transmission that requires no maintenance.
This is worry free because it lets the mower handle different cutting conditions without you having to think about it. You just steer and go.
The cutting deck is where this mower really shines. It uses a ClearCut deck design that gives you a best-in-class 54 in. cut. The deep deck shape and superior air flow move clippings efficiently, and the high-performance blades make bagging easier than you might expect.
You have three options for handling the clippings: discharge them right back onto the lawn, mulch them up, or collect them in a bagger. Just keep in mind that the mulching kit and bagger attachment are sold separately. So factor that into your decision if you want those features from day one.
Riding comfort is not an afterthought here. The seat is comfortable enough for longer mowing sessions. The control panel is laid out ergonomically, putting everything you need within easy reach.
CRAFTSMAN 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 17.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton Single-Cylinder Engine, Gas Lawn Tractor with 7-Speed Transmission, Red/Black (13AN77XSA93)
The CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton Single-Cylinder Engine, Gas Lawn Tractor with 7-Speed Transmission, Red/Black (13AN77XSA93) is built to handle your yard work with less hassle. If you have a lawn up to two acres, this tractor can cut it efficiently without wasting your time.
At the heart of this machine is a 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine. It starts easily and delivers consistent power every time you need it.
You won’t have to fight with finicky pull cords or worry about losing steam mid-job. That engine pairs with a rugged 42-inch stamped steel deck. The deck is durable and cuts cleanly, so your yard looks neat without extra passes. If you want a finer finish, you can add an optional mulching kit to chop clippings into tiny pieces and return nutrients to the soil.
Maneuvering around your yard is simple thanks to the 18-inch turning radius.
You can pivot around trees, flower beds, and fence posts without backing up constantly. The heavy-duty 15×6 front and 20×8 rear wheels grip the ground well, even on uneven terrain. This makes the mower stable and easy to control on slopes or bumpy patches.
Your comfort matters too. The 7-speed manual transmission lets you select the right pace for each area of your lawn. Need to go slow around delicate plants? Drop to a lower gear. Want to cover open stretches faster? Shift up.
Husqvarna TS 146 (46") 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor 960430346
The Husqvarna TS 146 (46″) 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor 960430346 is a straightforward machine built for homeowners with a decent sized lawn. It focuses on getting the job done without a lot of fuss. You get a solid 22HP Briggs EXi series engine under the hood. This engine is designed for reliable starting and consistent power, so you can usually just turn the key and go.
It’s not the most powerful engine on the market, but it handles regular mowing duties without complaint.
The 46-inch stamped, 2-blade mower deck is the heart of this tractor. Stamped decks are lighter than fabricated ones, which is fine for flat or gently rolling terrain. The cutting width is a good balance for yards that are too big for a push mower but not quite ready for a commercial zero-turn.
You’ll cover ground efficiently, and the two blades provide a clean cut on most grass types. Just be aware that it might struggle a little in very thick or wet conditions.
The K46 Tuff Torq Hydrostatic Transmission is a key feature. This means no shifting or clutching. You push a pedal to go forward and pull back to reverse. It is smooth and intuitive. However, the K46 is considered a light-duty transmission.
Greenworks 80V 42" Tractor (Gen 2), (4) 5.0Ah Batteries + Wall Charger
The Greenworks 80V 42″ Tractor (Gen 2), (4) 5.0Ah Batteries + Wall Charger is built to handle your lawn without the noise and fuss of gas. This is a battery-powered rider that gets the job done quietly and efficiently.
You get serious power from the 80V TRUBRUSHLESS Motor. It produces 2 x more torque than standard motors, so you have more power for thick grass and longer runtimes. The motor runs quiet and is built to last longer, too.
With the included (4) 80V 5.0Ah high-capacity batteries, you can mow up to 2 acres on a single charge. That is plenty of range for most suburban yards. The 42″ deck is made from reinforced 12-gauge steel, so it is tough and durable. It cuts a wide path, meaning fewer passes around your yard.
The cutting performance comes from CYCLONE CUT TECHNOLOGY. This system rushes power to the blade, so it never slows down even in tall or damp grass. You get a clean, even cut every time.
The tractor is also 4x quieter than a gas rider. This is the quietest rider in its class, so you can mow early in the morning or late in the evening without bothering your neighbors. It runs on electricity, so there is no gas to mix, no oil to change, and no pull cords to yank. Just plug in the wall charger and go.
For comfort, you get a premium high-back padded seat with back-support and foldable arm rests. It makes longer mowing sessions much more comfortable.
Ariens Edge LT (42") 19HP Briggs Zero Turn Lawn Mower 915291
The Ariens Edge LT (42″) 19HP Briggs Zero Turn Lawn Mower 915291 is built for homeowners who want a clean cut without the fuss. This machine focuses on the basics: a strong engine, a durable deck, and simple controls that get the job done.
You get a 19hp Briggs and Stratton 540cc OHV Engine under the hood. This engine starts reliably and gives you enough power to handle thick grass and uneven terrain without bogging down.
It’s a workhorse that doesn’t complain, so you can focus on mowing rather than worrying about stalling.
The 42-inch fabricated deck is made from 11-gauge steel. That’s thick stuff—it resists dents and rust better than lighter decks. Fabricated construction means it’s welded together for strength, not stamped like cheaper options. This deck will last season after season, even if you hit a hidden rock or stump.
You get a 42-inch cutting path, which is a nice balance between speed and manuverability. It fits through standard gates and handles tight spots around trees and flower beds.
Adjusting the cutting height is easy with the foot-operated deck lift. No more bending over or fiddling with pins. You just step on the pedal and move the lever to your desired height. The high-back seat has springs, which makes a real difference on bumpy lawns. You won’t feel every lump and dip in the ground.
42 Inch Riding Lawn Mower Buying Guide
A 42-inch riding mower is a popular choice, offering speed and efficiency for lawns up to two acres. You get teh maneuverability of a smaller machine with the cut width to finish faster than a walk-behind. But not every model handles the same. Some prioritize comfort, others focus on raw power or durability. Before you buy, you need to match the mower to your yard’s real conditions. Let’s break down what actualy matters.
Engine Power and Type
Engines range from around 15 to 24 horsepower. For thick, damp grass or mild hills, aim for at least 18 HP. You’ll see both single-cylinder and V-twin engines. V-twins run smoother and vibrate less, making long sessions more comfortable. A twin cylinder also tends to last longer under regular use. Check if the engine brand has local service centers — that saves headaches down the road.
Deck Design and Build
The deck is where the real work happens. Stamped steel decks are lighter and cheaper, but fabricated (welded) decks hold up better on rough ground. Look for a deep deck design — it creates better vacuum to lift grass for a cleaner cut. Also, consider if you need a washout port for easy cleaning. Mud and clippings buildup can rust a deck fast if you skip maintenance.
Transmission Choices
Manual gear drive or hydrostatic? Go hydrostatic. It lets you control speed with a simple foot pedal — no clutching or shifting. This is a game changer when you’re dodging trees or flower beds. Some budget models still use manual transmissions, but for most homeowners, the ease of hydrostatic is worth the extra cost.
Turning Radius and Steering
Zero-turn mowers offer the tightest turns, perfect for yards with lots of obstacles. But traditional lawn tractors with a standard steering wheel are simpler to learn on. If your lawn has narrow passages or tight corners, a zero-turn with a 15-inch turning radius saves serious time. On open lawns, a standard tractor’s larger turn circle is less of an issue.
Comfort and Extra Features
You’ll spend hours on this machine, so sit on the seat before buying. Look for high-back seats with armrests and adjustable lumbar support. Cruise control is nice for long straight runs, and LED headlights help if you mow in the evening. Cup holders aren’t just a luxury — thay keep drinks stable over bumpy terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions About 42 Inch Riding Lawn Mower
Is a 42 inch riding lawn mower good for my yard?
A 42 inch deck is a great fit for most medium-sized lawns. If your yard is between one and two acres, this size works well. It cuts a wide path, so you finish faster than with a smaller mower. It is also nimble enough to handle some trees and flower beds. For very large properties, you might want a bigger deck. But for the average home, this size is a solid choice.
How does a 42 inch mower handle hills?
Most 42 inch riding mowers can handle gentle slopes. You need to check the engine power and the tires. Look for models with a good turning radius and a low center of gravity. They wont tip easily on moderate hills. Just go slow on steep areas. Its safer and protects the grass. Always mow across slopes, not up and down, to stay in control.
What engine size should I look for?
For a 42 inch deck, you want an engine with at least 20 horsepower. This gives you enough power to cut thick grass without bogging down. Some models have more power, like 24 or 26 HP. That can help if your grass is often tall or damp. A bigger engine also lasts longer under heavy use. But dont go too small, or you might struggle.
Can I bag clippings with a 42 inch mower?
Yes, most 42 inch mowers come with a bagging option. You can attach a large bag or two smaller ones to collect clippings. This is great if you want a clean look or plan to compost. Some models also let you mulch or side-discharge. Check the specs to see what is included. A good bagging system makes cleanup easy.
Is a 42 inch mower easy to store?
It is pretty compact for a riding mower. It fits in a standard garage or shed. You might need to fold the steering wheel or remove the bagger to save space. Measure your storage area first. These mowers are about 6 feet long and 4 feet wide. They take up less room than a car, so most people find space without trouble.
What about maintenance on a 42 inch mower?
You need to do regular upkeep. Change the oil every season. Sharpen the blades once or twice a year. Check the air filter and spark plug too. The deck might need cleaning after each use to prevent rust. Follow the manual for your model. It keeps the mower running smooth and prevents breakdowns. Its simple work that takes a few hours per year.
Key Takeaways
You want a clean, well-kept yard without spending all weekend on it. That’s exactly what a good mower gives you. With a wider deck, you cover more ground in fewer passes. You finish faster, and you feel less tired at teh end. Plus, the cut is more even, so your lawn looks great from every angle. It’s a simple way to get better results with less work.
Ride onto your lawn with a 42-inch mower for fast, even coverage. This size is a strong choice if you have about one to two acres of grass. It balances power with easy manuvering, so you can handle hills and tight spots. You don’t need a huge machine, but you also don’t want to make extra trips. A 42 inch riding lawn mower gives you that sweet spot. It’s a practical tool that helps you get the job done and move on with your day.