We researched and compared the leading 42 inch zero turn mowers on the market, evaluating manufacturer specifications, published industry standards (ANSI/OPEI B71.1-2017 for safety), and aggregated owner feedback from thousands of reviews. Our goal is to help you find the best 42 inch ZTR mower for your property, whether you need a residential workhorse or a commercial-grade machine. Below are our top picks, each with honest strengths and limitations.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Husqvarna Z242F Top Pick 726cc Kawasaki FR730V, 42 in fabricated deck, 7 mph fwd speed |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
John Deere Z335E Best Value 22 hp V-twin (Briggs & Stratton), 42 in Edge Xtreme deck, 6.5 mph fwd speed |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42 Best for Comfort 22 hp Kohler 7000 series, 42 in fabricated deck, 7 mph fwd speed |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Toro TimeCutter 42 Best for Maneuverability 22 hp Toro V-twin, 42 in stamped deck, 7 mph fwd speed |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Ariens IKON XD 42 Best for Durability 24 hp Kawasaki FR691V, 42 in fabricated deck, 7 mph fwd speed |
8.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Bad Boy ZT Elite 42 Best for Power 23 hp Kawasaki FR691V, 42 in fabricated deck, 8 mph fwd speed |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Gravely ZT XL 42 Best for Commercial Use 24 hp Kawasaki FX730V, 42 in fabricated deck, 8 mph fwd speed |
9.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Husqvarna Z242F: Top Pick
The Husqvarna Z242F is a top-tier residential zero turn mower that punches above its weight. Powered by a 726cc Kawasaki FR730V engine and a 42-inch fabricated deck, it delivers exceptional cutting performance on uneven terrain and thick grass. We researched owner feedback and found that the Z242F consistently earns high marks for cut quality, especially when mulching or bagging. The fabricated deck is built to last, with reinforced spindle housings and a 10-gauge top shell that resists rust and impacts.
However, the Z242F is not without flaws. Some owners report that the deck wash port does not fully clean the underside, requiring manual scraping. Additionally, the mower is heavy (over 600 lbs) and may struggle on very steep slopes. We recommend this mower for homeowners with 1-3 acres of moderately hilly terrain who prioritize cut quality and durability. Skip it if you need a lightweight mower for tight spaces or if your property has slopes exceeding 15 degrees.
- Kawasaki FR730V engine delivers strong torque for thick grass and slopes
- Fabricated 10-gauge steel deck with reinforced spindle housings for long life
- Comfortable high-back seat with armrests and vibration dampening
Pros: Excellent cut quality and bagging performance; Smooth hydrostatic transmission with easy speed control
Cons: Deck wash port is less effective than some competitors
2. John Deere Z335E: Best Value
The John Deere Z335E is a popular entry-level zero turn mower that offers solid performance at a competitive price point. It features a 22 hp V-twin Briggs & Stratton engine and a 42-inch Edge Xtreme fabricated deck, which John Deere claims provides superior cut quality. In our evaluation of owner feedback, many users praised the mower’s ease of use, particularly the intuitive lap bar controls and the hands-free deck lift. The two-year warranty adds added security for budget-conscious buyers.
However, the Z335E has limitations. Some owners report that the engine bogs down in thick, wet grass, and the deck may leave uncut strips if mowing too fast. The build quality is adequate for light residential use but not for heavy-duty or commercial tasks. We recommend this mower for homeowners with flat, well-maintained lawns up to 2 acres. Skip it if you need to tackle overgrown fields or if you prioritize long-term durability over upfront savings.
- Edge Xtreme fabricated deck with deep blades for better airflow and cut
- Hands-free deck lift for easy height adjustment
- Two-year bumper-to-bumper warranty
Pros: Excellent value for the price; Easy to operate with intuitive controls
Cons: Engine may struggle in very tall or wet grass
3. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42: Best for Comfort
The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42 is designed for operator comfort, featuring a high-back suspension seat and cruise control that make long mowing sessions less fatiguing. It is powered by a 22 hp Kohler 7000 series engine and a 42-inch fabricated deck. Based on aggregated owner feedback, the ZT1 delivers a smooth, vibration-free ride and handles well on gentle slopes. The cruise control is a standout feature for large, open lawns.
However, the ZT1 has a notable weakness: the deck spindles are sealed and non-serviceable, meaning they must be replaced if they fail. Some owners also report that the Kohler engine can be finicky to start in cold weather. We recommend this mower for homeowners with 1-3 acres who prioritize comfort and are willing to accept slightly lower durability in the deck assembly. Skip it if you need a mower for rough terrain or if you prefer a more durable spindle design.
- High-back suspension seat with armrests for long mowing sessions
- Cruise control system reduces fatigue on large lawns
- Fabricated deck with stamped spindles for moderate durability
Pros: Very comfortable ride with excellent seat suspension; Smooth and responsive hydrostatic transmission
Cons: Deck spindles are not serviceable and may wear out
4. Toro TimeCutter 42: Best for Maneuverability
The Toro TimeCutter 42 is a nimble zero turn mower that excels in yards with many obstacles, flower beds, and tight corners. Its Smart Speed system allows you to choose between three speed ranges, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces or cover open ground quickly. We researched owner reviews and found that many users appreciate the electric blade clutch and the overall ease of use. The 22 hp Toro V-twin engine provides adequate power for typical residential lawns.
However, the TimeCutter uses a stamped steel deck rather than a fabricated one, which is more prone to rust and damage over time. Some owners also note that the cut quality is not as consistent as on higher-end models, especially in wet grass. We recommend this mower for homeowners with smaller, obstacle-filled lawns (up to 1.5 acres) who value maneuverability over durability. Skip it if you have a large, rough lawn or need a mower for heavy-duty use.
- Smart Speed system adjusts ground speed for different tasks
- Compact footprint with zero-turn radius for tight spaces
- Electric blade clutch for easy blade engagement
Pros: Superb maneuverability around obstacles; Easy to adjust speed with Smart Speed
Cons: Stamped deck is less durable than fabricated decks
5. Ariens IKON XD 42: Best for Durability
The Ariens IKON XD 42 is built for owners who want a mower that will last for years. It features a 24 hp Kawasaki FR691V engine, known for its durability and smooth power delivery, and a 42-inch heavy-duty fabricated deck with serviceable spindles. In our evaluation of industry standards and owner feedback, the IKON XD stands out for its strong construction, including a thick steel frame and high-quality components. The cut quality is excellent, and the mower handles well on uneven terrain.
However, the IKON XD comes at a premium price, and some owners find the controls less ergonomic than those of competitors. The mower is also heavier, which can be a drawback on very soft ground. We recommend this mower for homeowners with 2-4 acres who prioritize long-term reliability and are willing to invest more upfront. Skip it if you are on a tight budget or need a lighter mower for wet conditions.
- Kawasaki FR691V engine with cast iron cylinder liners for longevity
- Heavy-duty fabricated deck with reinforced spindle pockets
- Serviceable spindles with grease fittings
Pros: Exceptional build quality and durability; Strong engine with excellent torque
Cons: Higher price point than comparable models
6. Bad Boy ZT Elite 42: Best for Power
The Bad Boy ZT Elite 42 is a performance-oriented zero turn mower that prioritizes speed and power. With a 23 hp Kawasaki FR691V engine and a top speed of 8 mph, it is one of the fastest 42-inch mowers available. The fabricated deck is built with heavy-gauge steel, and owner feedback indicates that it cuts well even in dense grass. The dual headlights are a nice touch for those who mow in the evening.
However, the ZT Elite’s ride quality is compromised by its stiff suspension, and some owners report that the seat could be more comfortable. The mower also lacks some of the convenience features found on competitors, such as cruise control. We recommend this mower for homeowners with large, relatively flat lawns (2-5 acres) who want to minimize mowing time and don’t mind a rougher ride. Skip it if you have a bumpy yard or prioritize operator comfort.
- High-speed ground drive at 8 mph for faster mowing
- Fabricated deck with 7-gauge steel shell and 3-gauge side skirts
- Dual headlights for low-light mowing
Pros: Fast ground speed reduces mowing time; Powerful engine handles thick grass well
Cons: Ride quality can be rough on bumpy terrain
7. Gravely ZT XL 42: Best for Commercial Use
The Gravely ZT XL 42 is a commercial-grade zero turn mower that offers unmatched durability and performance. It is powered by a 24 hp Kawasaki FX730V engine, which is designed for extended life, and features a heavy-duty fabricated deck with reinforced spindles. Based on our research of industry standards and professional landscaper feedback, the ZT XL is built to handle daily use on large properties. The cut quality is exceptional, and the mower offers excellent stability on slopes.
However, the ZT XL comes with a high price tag that may be prohibitive for homeowners. It is also heavier and less maneuverable than some residential models. We recommend this mower for professional landscapers or homeowners with very large properties (5+ acres) who need a machine that can withstand heavy use. Skip it if you have a small to medium lawn or if you are not willing to invest in commercial-grade equipment.
- Commercial-grade Kawasaki FX730V engine with 2000 hour lifespan
- Ultra-heavy-duty fabricated deck with 7-gauge steel and reinforced spindles
- Adjustable seat with suspension and ergonomic controls
Pros: Built to withstand daily commercial use; Superior cut quality and consistency
Cons: Very expensive compared to residential models
Frequently Asked Questions
What size engine is best for a 42 inch ZTR mower?
For a 42 inch deck, engines between 22 and 24 horsepower are typical. A 22 hp engine is sufficient for flat, well-maintained lawns, while 24 hp engines with larger displacement (e.g., Kawasaki FR730V) provide more torque for thick grass and slopes. In our research, Kawasaki and Kohler engines are preferred for reliability, but Briggs & Stratton models offer good value.
How do fabricated decks compare to stamped decks?
Fabricated decks are made from welded steel plates and are generally more durable and resistant to rust and impact than stamped decks, which are pressed from a single sheet of steel. Fabricated decks are standard on higher-end residential and commercial mowers. Stamped decks are lighter and cheaper but may warp or crack over time. For long-term use, we recommend a fabricated deck.
Can a 42 inch ZTR mower handle slopes?
Most 42 inch ZTR mowers can handle gentle slopes up to 15 degrees, but steeper slopes may cause instability or oil starvation. Look for models with a low center of gravity and a high-back seat with suspension for safety. Always check the manufacturer’s slope rating and never mow across steep slopes. For hills over 15 degrees, consider a mower with a rollover protection system (ROPS).
What is the average lifespan of a 42 inch ZTR mower?
With proper maintenance, a residential 42 inch ZTR mower can last 500-1000 hours (roughly 5-10 years for a typical homeowner). Commercial-grade models like the Gravely ZT XL can exceed 2000 hours. Key factors include engine quality, deck construction, and regular service such as oil changes, blade sharpening, and belt replacement.
Do I need a ZTR mower with a bagger attachment?
If you prefer a clean lawn without clippings, a bagger attachment is useful. Many 42 inch ZTR mowers offer optional bagging systems, but they add cost and reduce maneuverability. Mulching kits are a popular alternative that return nutrients to the soil. Based on owner feedback, baggers work best on dry grass and can clog in wet conditions.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the best 42 inch ZTR mowers, our top pick is the Husqvarna Z242F for its exceptional cut quality, durable fabricated deck, and reliable Kawasaki engine. For those seeking commercial-grade durability, the Gravely ZT XL 42 is the runner-up, offering unmatched longevity and performance for large properties or professional use.
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