Seated zero turn vs compact stand-on lawn mowers: which is better for you?

What is a seated zero turn mower?

A zero turn mower is a unique design as it is one of few mowers that can turn on its own axis, meaning you leave nothing behind. It achieves this via the hydraulic wheel drive, speeding up the mowing process via a fast, manoeuvrable and nimble design.

Seated zero turns provide maximum manoeuvrability and superior strength. With a seated zero turn mower, the operator is seated in a position that provides maximum comfort, ergonomics and visual overview. The control panel and steering levers are placed at your fingertips.

Aside from increased speed and power, they are also built to last. From cutting decks with corrosion resistance and reinforced details to heavy-duty frames and chassis, they are designed with the professional in mind.

Some zero turn mowers are capable of cutting up to seven acres an hour, such as the Husqvarna Z572X. The increased productivity output is ideal for the busy garden maintenance and landscaping business.

Key benefits of a zero turn mower?

At first glance, zero turn mowers may all look the same. However, there are differences between them hidden beneath the chassis. External components will also differ from model to model. All Husqvarna ZTR® zero turn mowers feature an engine by the reputable Japanese manufacturer, Kawasaki.

The Z554 has 24.5 horsepower. While the Z560X and Z572X models provide an impressive 31 horsepower.

The cutting width across the range varies from 42 in to 72 inches. Combining increased power with an increased cutting width makes fast work of even the largest lawns.

What are the standout features of seated zero-turn mowers?

Seated zero turn mowers for professional use include ROPS (Roll Over Protection Systems) making them an extremely safe option in almost every type of terrain, particularly when mowing properties with many low hanging trees and branches. The addition of extremely comfortable vinyl suspension seating eliminates harsh vibrations and excessive movement on uneven surfaces. For those who appreciate the seated position, a zero-turn lawn mower will prove to be ideal.

What you’d expect in a reputable zero turn

Product highlight -  Husqvarna Z572X

• Designed with a focus on cut quality, durability and productivity.
• Industrial strength construction created for commercial mowing.
• A premium suspension seat for maximum comfort whatever the situation.
• An automatic parking brake that engages or disengages with the steering levers.
• A fuel capacity of 45L for all-day mowing.
• An LED fuel gauge with warning system when fuel levels run low.

Looking at its productivity, it is able to tackle 28,320 square meters an hour with a forward speed of up to 19.3 kilometers an hour. The cutting width is 72 inches with side discharge, mulch and collect options. The blade is engaged via an electromagnetic clutch, which has a rating of 338.95 Nm.

You will also find six anti-scalp wheels and a foot assisted deck lifting system. The overall dimensions of the Husqvarna Z572X are L 206 cm x H 117 cm (ROPS down) x H 185 cm (ROPS up). The hydrostatic transmission makes use of a fan-cooled pump and has a displacement of 16 cm3.

What is a compact stand-on mower?

A compact stand-on mower offers the same mowing capabilities as a seated zero turn mower. There are, however, some big differences between the two. As with a seated zero turn lawn mower, a compact stand-on mower has been designed to further increase productivity by becoming an extension of the operator’s natural standing body position while featuring the same heavy-duty durability for extended use.

Stand-on zero turn mowers offer the option to ride on the machine or walk behind it, making it versatile and suitable for almost all situations. The compact nature and design makes transportation much easier. They are shorter. The ergonomic layout allows for additional space in the truck or trailer, meaning more tools can be carried for the job. But what other points of difference separate a compact stand-on mower from a zero-turn ride-on mower?

Key benefits of a compact stand-on mower

A compact stand-on mower is designed to improve efficiency, save time and provide outstanding durability and performance across properties where you may need to jump on and off the mower to move objects, or mow up steep banks. They offer huge advantages for professionals maintaining large lawns, parks and green areas. While there is no seat on a compact stand-on mower, comfort is not compromised. Every aspect of comfort has been taken into account, from the ergonomic body cushion to the flip up platform and dampened hydraulic control system.

Some of the key benefits to note include;

• Palm deck release allows the deck to lower automatically.
• Improved efficiency and manoeuvrability with the flip up platform.
• The operator's console places all controls at the fingertips for ease-of-use.
• Improved weight distribution by placing the operator between the axles for increased traction and balance.
• Spring-assisted deck lift for easy lowering and raising throughout the day.
• Maximum comfort while standing with the specially designed operator’s cushion.
• A higher operator positioning provides improved visibility for precise steering.

When considering manoeuvrability and precision, precisely measured distribution of weight improves traction and stability. This makes for safer work when working on inclines and uneven surfaces. The flip-up platform makes mounting and dismounting the mower extremely quick. This further serves to increase output and allows you to use it as a walk-behind on trickier terrains.

The design of the body cushion allows your body weight to be carried by the mower itself. This alleviates stress from the legs and prevents the back from absorbing the vibrations.

What are the standout features of a compact stand-on mower?

The first standout feature to note is an improvement of safety during operation. As you are located to the rear of the lawn mower, being able to dismount quickly during an emergency can reduce the risk of injury. This quick dismount also makes it much easier to clear debris out of the way during operation.

Product highlight - Husqvarna V554

Compact isn't simply a name; it is a standout feature for stand-on mowers, such as the Husqvarna V554 and the V548. To give you an idea of the compact size, the V554 measures in with a base machine length of 145cm and a base machine height of 122cm. While compact, there is definitely no sacrifice with quality and productivity. In fact, these are drastically improved.

The V554 is able to mow 4.1acres/hr. With a forward speed of up to 17.7km/hr and a cutting width of 137cm (54 in.), output is seriously ramped up. The 7 gauge fabricated cutting deck comes with side discharge, mulch and collect options. The blades are engaged via the electromagnetic clutch which has a rating of 271.16Nm. The FX series V-Twin Kawasaki engine is able to hold 26 litres of fuel for uninterrupted work.

The blade height can be set between 1 and 5 inches for a superior finish and the deck lifting system is hand operated. All of these specifically designed features work together to create a compact, comfortable and extremely powerful lawn mower for commercial use.

Which is best for commercial mowing?

When it comes to which lawn mower is best, this all boils down to your personal preferences and the types of properties you mow most. Both types of mowers offer maximum output, superior comfort and absolute durability. There really is no way to separate the two when it comes to performance.

For those who are looking at transporting more than one lawn mower, a compact stand-on mower will prove to be ideal. Not only does it save space, but it also saves time. The ability to be able to quickly switch from standing-on to walking-behind makes it an extremely versatile mower. Precision and ease of manoeuvrability are also features that many professionals appreciate.

A seated zero turn mower is the ideal choice for those only requiring one mower and mow properties with grass under low hanging trees and branches. Safety features, such as roll protection and suspension seating reduces the risks associated with tipping over and excessive vibrations.

Both mowers provide a professional cut and finish while focusing on operator comfort and convenience.