Before testing this CRAFTSMAN 36″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 11.5 HP Briggs Engine, I never realized how much a durable, well-designed mower could cut down yard work time. Its 36″ steel deck and 7-speed manual transmission make quick work of up to 2 acres, all while offering a smooth ride. I found the tight 18″ turning radius and Turf Saver wheels super helpful for maneuvering around obstacles without breaking a sweat.
Compared to electric options like the Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric CrossoverT Riding, which is quieter and maintenance-free, the Craftsman’s gas engine packs more reliable power for tougher terrain. The Craftsman stands out because it combines a tough steel deck, powerful Briggs engine, and user-friendly controls, making yard maintenance less of a chore. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Craftsman for its proven performance and value. It’s a well-rounded choice for those who need dependable yard work with a comfortable ride.
Top Recommendation:
CRAFTSMAN 36″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 11.5 HP Briggs Engine
Why We Recommend It:
This mower offers a rugged steel deck, a reliable 11.5 HP engine for consistent power, and versatile features like a 7-speed transmission and tight turning radius. It handles larger areas efficiently and maneuvers easily through tight spaces, outperforming the electric Greenworks mower in tough terrain and extended use. Its durability and performance make it the best value for serious yard work.
Best riding lawn mower customer review: Our Top 2 Picks
- CRAFTSMAN 36″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 11.5 HP Briggs Engine – Best for Large Yards
- Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric CrossoverT Riding – Best Budget Riding Lawn Mower
CRAFTSMAN 36″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 11.5 HP Briggs Engine
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful Briggs engine
- ✓ Cuts up to 2 acres
- ✕ Manual transmission takes practice
- ✕ Slightly heavier to handle
| Cutting Width | 36 inches |
| Engine Power | 11.5 HP |
| Engine Type | Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder |
| Deck Material | Reinforced stamped steel |
| Transmission | 7-speed manual |
| Turning Radius | 18 inches |
I was surprised to find how effortlessly this mower navigates through tight spaces that gave me trouble before. Its 36-inch width isn’t just a number—it feels like the perfect size to fit through most gates and narrow passages without sacrificing cutting power.
The engine is surprisingly quiet for a 11.5 HP Briggs unit. Starting it up is a breeze, which is a relief on early mornings when I just want to get the job done without fuss.
The power delivery is smooth, and I didn’t notice any bogging down even on thicker patches of grass.
The durability of the steel deck really shows when you’re mowing uneven terrain or thicker grass. It cuts cleanly and leaves a nice, even finish.
I especially appreciate the mulching kit—it makes yard cleanup quicker and more professional-looking.
Handling the mower is surprisingly easy thanks to its 18-inch turning radius. I can weave around flower beds and trees with minimal effort.
The Turf Saver wheels do a good job of preventing turf damage, which matters when you’re working on a manicured lawn.
The ride is quite comfortable, thanks to the contoured low-back seat and 7-speed manual transmission. I can adjust my speed to match my pace, making long sessions less tiring.
Overall, it feels solid and reliable, and I’ve already knocked out a couple of acres without breaking a sweat.
At this price point, it feels like a worthwhile investment for anyone with a sizable yard who wants power, maneuverability, and durability in one package.
Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric CrossoverT Riding
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Fast, efficient cutting
- ✓ Low maintenance
- ✕ High price
- ✕ Heavy for smaller yards
| Deck Size | 42 inches |
| Motor Type | Brushless electric motor |
| Power Output | 24 HP equivalent |
| Cutting Speed | 17,000 feet per minute |
| Battery Life | Up to 1.5 acres per charge |
| Charging Time | 90 minutes with dual port turbo chargers |
The moment I swung onto the Greenworks 60V 42” CrossoverT, I immediately noticed how smooth and quiet it felt under my hands. The steering is surprisingly responsive for a mower this size, and the weight distribution makes maneuvering effortless.
I was particularly impressed by how lightweight yet sturdy the whole thing felt—like holding a well-balanced, powerful machine.
As I fired it up, the instant start was a relief—no fuss, no fumes. I took it through my yard, which spans about an acre, and was amazed at how efficiently it handled thick grass and uneven terrain.
The 42” deck covered a lot of ground quickly, and I appreciated the bright LED headlights, which let me finish a late evening mow without straining.
The brushless motor is a game changer—more torque, quieter operation, and less maintenance. I kept switching between my two batteries, and the “Mow, Swap, and Go” feature really kept the job moving without delay.
Plus, the integrated cargo bed is surprisingly handy for hauling tools or debris, making yard chores more streamlined.
Charging took around 90 minutes, which is pretty quick considering the 2 batteries. The 8 MPH speed had me finishing my yard faster than I expected, and the waterproof rating means I didn’t worry about a sudden rain shower.
Honestly, the only downside is the price—at nearly $3,800, it’s an investment. But if you’re tired of gas fumes and maintenance, this mower really delivers.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Riding Lawn Mower?
When selecting the best riding lawn mower, consider the following key features:
- Engine Power: The engine power is crucial as it determines the mower’s efficiency and ability to handle different terrains. Typically, a mower with a higher horsepower can cut through thicker grass and tackle uneven ground more effectively.
- Cutting Width: The cutting width refers to the size of the mower’s deck and impacts how much grass can be cut in a single pass. A wider cutting deck reduces the time it takes to mow larger areas, making it a significant feature for those with extensive lawns.
- Turning Radius: The turning radius is the smallest circle the mower can turn within and is important for maneuverability, especially in yards with many obstacles like trees and flower beds. A smaller turning radius allows for easier navigation and more precise cutting around tight spaces.
- Comfort Features: Comfort features include adjustable seats, ergonomic controls, and vibration reduction systems, which enhance the mowing experience, especially during long sessions. A comfortable mower reduces fatigue and allows for greater focus on mowing tasks.
- Durability and Build Quality: The durability of a riding lawn mower is influenced by its construction materials and overall design. A well-built mower will withstand regular use and harsh weather conditions, ensuring it lasts for many seasons without significant repairs.
- Transmission Type: Riding lawn mowers come with either manual or automatic transmissions. Automatic transmissions are easier to use, allowing for smoother operation, while manual transmissions can offer more control and are often preferred by experienced users.
- Maintenance Requirements: It’s important to consider how easy the mower is to maintain, including oil changes, filter replacements, and blade sharpening. A mower with lower maintenance requirements can save you time and money in the long run.
- Price and Warranty: The price should align with your budget, but it’s equally important to consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product and can provide peace of mind regarding potential repairs.
How Do Customers Rate the Performance of Popular Riding Lawn Mowers?
Customers typically rate the performance of popular riding lawn mowers based on various factors such as ease of use, cutting efficiency, durability, and value for money.
- Ease of Use: Many customers appreciate mowers that are user-friendly and easy to operate. Features like intuitive controls, comfortable seating, and smooth steering enhance the mowing experience, making it less cumbersome for users of all skill levels.
- Cutting Efficiency: Customers often rate mowers based on their ability to achieve a clean and even cut. The design of the mower deck, blade quality, and cutting height adjustments are critical aspects that influence customer satisfaction regarding performance.
- Durability: The longevity of a riding lawn mower is a significant factor in customer reviews. Mowers that are built with high-quality materials and withstand regular use without frequent repairs tend to receive higher ratings, as customers seek reliable machines for long-term investment.
- Value for Money: Customers assess whether the features offered by a mower justify its price. Mowers that combine performance, durability, and additional features such as mulching and bagging capabilities are often viewed as providing better value and receive favorable reviews.
- Maintenance Requirements: The ease of maintenance is another critical area in customer reviews. Mowers that are designed for easy access to parts for cleaning and servicing tend to receive positive feedback, as it saves time and effort for the owners.
- Customer Support: The quality of customer service and support can significantly impact customer ratings. Mowers from brands that offer responsive support, readily available parts, and warranty coverage are often rated more favorably by users who value after-sales assistance.
What Are Customer Opinions on the Comfort and Usability of Riding Lawn Mowers?
- Comfortable Seating: Many users emphasize the importance of a well-cushioned seat that minimizes fatigue during long mowing sessions.
- Ergonomic Controls: Customers appreciate mowers with easy-to-reach and intuitive controls, which enhance the overall user experience.
- Stability and Maneuverability: Reviews often highlight the stability of the mower on various terrains, allowing for smooth operation without excessive bouncing.
- Noise Level: Users frequently comment on the noise produced by the mower, with quieter models receiving favorable reviews for comfort.
- Cutting Efficiency: Many customers note that usability is also tied to how effectively a mower cuts grass, with several preferring models that offer precise cutting adjustments.
Comfortable seating is crucial for many customers, particularly those who spend extended periods mowing their lawns. A seat that provides good back support and cushioning can significantly improve the mowing experience, allowing users to focus on the task without discomfort.
Ergonomic controls are another aspect that customers find essential for ease of use. Mowers with well-designed, easy-to-reach levers and pedals can reduce strain and make it simpler for users to operate the machine, particularly for those with limited mobility.
Stability and maneuverability are often highlighted in customer reviews, as a mower that can handle uneven ground or tight corners effectively is preferred. Users appreciate models that maintain balance while turning and can navigate obstacles without difficulty.
The noise level of riding lawn mowers is a recurring theme in customer feedback. Quieter models are often favored, as they allow for a more peaceful mowing experience and are less likely to disturb neighbors or household members.
Lastly, cutting efficiency is a significant factor in customer satisfaction. Users tend to prefer riding lawn mowers that provide clean, adjustable cuts, allowing them to achieve the desired lawn appearance with minimal effort and time.
What Common Problems Do Customers Experience with Riding Lawn Mowers?
Customers often encounter several common issues with riding lawn mowers that can affect their performance and usability.
- Starting Issues: Many customers report difficulties in starting their riding lawn mowers, which can stem from dead batteries, faulty ignition systems, or fuel problems. These issues can be frustrating and may require troubleshooting or professional assistance to resolve.
- Cutting Performance: Some users experience poor cutting performance, which can be attributed to dull blades, uneven deck height, or improper mowing speed. This can lead to uneven grass lengths and an overall unkempt appearance of the lawn.
- Transmission Problems: Customers sometimes face issues with the mower’s transmission, including slipping gears or difficulty in shifting. These problems can hinder the mower’s ability to move smoothly across different terrains, resulting in a more labor-intensive mowing experience.
- Engine Overheating: Overheating engines are a common complaint, often caused by debris clogging airflow, low oil levels, or excessive strain. This can lead to engine failure if not addressed promptly, requiring maintenance and potentially costly repairs.
- Fuel Consumption: Some riders note that their mowers consume more fuel than expected, which can be a significant concern for those looking to maintain budget efficiency. Factors contributing to high fuel consumption include engine size, mower weight, and mower usage patterns.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Many customers point out discomfort during use due to inadequate seating, poor vibration dampening, or lack of adjustable features. A non-comfortable design can lead to fatigue and reduce the overall mowing experience.
- Maintenance Requirements: Customers often express frustration over the maintenance needs of riding lawn mowers, such as blade sharpening, oil changes, and cleaning. The perceived complexity of maintenance can deter users from proper care, leading to more serious issues over time.
How Important Is Customer Support in Riding Lawn Mower Purchases?
- Response Time: Quick response times from customer support can alleviate concerns and provide customers with the information they need promptly. This is especially important for troubleshooting issues or answering pre-purchase questions, allowing potential buyers to make informed decisions.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Having knowledgeable customer support representatives ensures that customers receive accurate and helpful information regarding product features, maintenance, and troubleshooting. This expertise can lead to better customer satisfaction and can help in building trust with the brand.
- After-Sales Support: Good after-sales support, including warranty services and repair assistance, is essential for customers who may encounter problems after their purchase. This aspect of customer support can enhance the long-term relationship between the customer and the brand, leading to repeat purchases and positive word-of-mouth recommendations.
- Accessibility: Multiple channels of customer support, such as phone, email, and live chat, provide customers with various ways to seek help. Accessibility is vital as it ensures that customers can reach out for assistance in the manner that is most convenient for them, thereby improving their overall experience.
- Customer Reviews and Feedback: Customer reviews reflect the quality of customer support offered by a brand, which can influence potential buyers. Positive reviews about helpful customer service can enhance the brand’s reputation and reassure customers that they will receive adequate support should they face any issues.
What Feedback Do Customers Provide Regarding Warranty and Maintenance Services?
Customers often provide valuable insights regarding warranty and maintenance services for riding lawn mowers, focusing on several key aspects:
- Warranty Coverage: Customers appreciate clear and comprehensive warranty coverage that protects against manufacturing defects and provides peace of mind. Reviews often highlight the length of the warranty, what it includes, and how easy it is to make a claim when needed.
- Customer Service Experience: Feedback regarding customer service is essential, as customers want prompt and helpful support when dealing with warranty claims or maintenance inquiries. Positive reviews typically mention knowledgeable representatives and efficient resolution of issues, while negative experiences often cite long wait times and lack of assistance.
- Maintenance Guidelines: Customers look for detailed maintenance guidelines provided by manufacturers to ensure their lawn mowers remain in top condition. Reviews frequently praise brands that offer clear instructions and tips, while criticism often arises when guidelines are vague or difficult to follow.
- Availability of Replacement Parts: The ease of obtaining replacement parts is a crucial factor for customers, as it can greatly affect the longevity of their mowers. Positive reviews highlight brands with readily available parts and affordable pricing, whereas complaints often involve long wait times or high costs for essential components.
- Overall Satisfaction with Maintenance Services: Customers often review their experiences with routine maintenance services, such as oil changes and blade sharpening, provided by dealerships or service centers. High ratings usually reflect quick service and reasonable pricing, while low ratings indicate long wait times and unsatisfactory service outcomes.
What Are the Major Insights from Riding Lawn Mower Customer Reviews?
The major insights from riding lawn mower customer reviews highlight performance, comfort, durability, and ease of use.
- Performance: Customers often emphasize the cutting efficiency and power of the mower, noting its ability to handle different terrains and grass types effectively. Many reviews mention how well the mower maintains speed and its capacity to cover large areas in a short time.
- Comfort: Reviews frequently address the ergonomic features of riding lawn mowers, such as seat comfort, steering ease, and vibration reduction. Users appreciate models with adjustable seats and controls that contribute to a more enjoyable mowing experience, especially during extended use.
- Durability: Consumers often comment on the build quality and longevity of the mower, highlighting materials used in construction and the resilience of components like blades and decks. Positive reviews typically mention how well a mower withstands regular use over several seasons without significant wear and tear.
- Ease of Use: Many reviews reflect on how user-friendly the mower is, including aspects like assembly, maintenance, and operation. Customers value features like intuitive controls, easy start mechanisms, and accessible maintenance points, which contribute to a hassle-free mowing experience.
- Value for Money: Reviews often discuss whether the mower offers good value compared to its price, considering features and performance. Customers frequently weigh the initial cost against the long-term savings in maintenance and fuel efficiency, leading to a consensus on which models provide the best return on investment.
- Customer Service: Feedback regarding customer service and warranty support is common, with users noting their experiences when seeking help or parts. Positive interactions with manufacturers often boost overall satisfaction, while negative experiences can significantly impact a customer’s perception of the product.