Maintaining a well-groomed lawn becomes a significant challenge for homeowners with medium to large yards, especially when facing thick grass, obstacles, and hills.
Many homeowners struggle with underpowered engines, poor maneuverability, and inefficient cutting patterns, leading to frustrating mowing sessions and uneven results.
The best 24-inch riding lawn mowers address these common issues by featuring robust 22HP+ engines, durable fabricated decks, and hydrostatic transmissions for consistent performance across varied terrain.
Our top recommendations are based on hands-on testing, owner reviews, and in-depth analysis of cutting efficiency and reliability.
Whether you are tackling slopes or maintaining expansive, flat yards, these expert picks offer long-term durability and peak performance.
1. Husqvarna 24Hp 54″ Riding Mower – Best Overall
This beast of a machine redefines yard domination with power and precision. The 24 HP engine delivers relentless torque, effortlessly powering through thick grass and uneven terrain.
Its 54-inch ClearCut deck ensures wide, clean passes that significantly reduce overall mowing time.
A defining characteristic of this model is the electronic differential lock, a feature rarely seen at this level, which grants exceptional traction on wet soil and challenging slopes.
This mower is designed for those seeking an investment in lawn-perfecting authority. In real-world testing on large, undulating lawns, it shines where cut quality and control are paramount.
The heavy-duty frame and extra-high vinyl seat contribute to superior stability and ride comfort, making extended mowing sessions feel nearly effortless.
This model trades some agility for exceptional durability and straight-line consistency compared to zero-turn models, making it ideal for users with sprawling, mixed-terrain yards who need commercial-level resilience. It offers a better balance of power, control, and turf care.
Key Features
- Engine Power: 24 HP
- Deck Size: 54-inch ClearCut deck
- Transmission Type: Hydrostatic with differential lock
- Frame Material: Heavy-duty alloy steel
Pros
- Electronic differential lock provides excellent traction on slopes/wet soil
- Commercial-grade hydrostatic transmission allows for seamless speed adjustments
- Superior stability and straight-line consistency
Cons
- Not a zero-turn design
- Features a larger turning radius
- Higher weight profile
2. Husqvarna Z254 24HP Zero Turn – Best Zero Turn
If razor-sharp maneuverability and raw mowing velocity are your primary goals, the Husqvarna Z254 is a game-changer for mid-sized estates.
This zero-turn mower is powered by a 24 HP Briggs & Stratton Endurance V-Twin engine, which delivers relentless performance.
Combining the 54-inch stamped deck with a swift 6.5 mph forward speed means you can clear large lots in record time without compromising the quality of the cut.
For homeowners seeking a thrilling upgrade in efficiency, this machine offers responsiveness and high control. The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission enables buttery-smooth steering, allowing users to confidently whip around flower beds and trees.
The generous 3.5-gallon fuel tank supports extended runtimes, easily allowing for the coverage of over 1.5 acres on a single fill.
While it utilizes a stamped deck, which is slightly less aggressive than a fabricated one for heavy mulching, it provides a clean, even discharge in both side-discharge and bagging modes. This model offers better value for performance compared to the Z254F.
Key Features
- Engine: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin (724cc)
- Mower Deck: 54-Inch 3-blade stamped deck
- Transmission: Hydro-Gear EZT
- Speed: 6.5 mph forward
Pros
- High mowing velocity and agility
- Smooth, responsive steering
- Large 3.5-gallon fuel capacity supports extended use
Cons
- Uses a less durable stamped deck
- Experiences less slope stability compared to other models
- May not be ideal for beginners
3. Husqvarna Z254F 24HP Zero Turn – Best High Performance
The Husqvarna Z254F is a high-output mowing powerhouse built specifically for users who require elite performance and solid reliability.
It features the 24 HP FR730 engine, which is a commercial-grade unit prized for its smooth operation, extended lifespan, and reliable cold-weather starting capabilities.
This engine is paired with the 54-inch FAB Deck (fabricated steel cutting system). This fabricated deck handles thick grass, uneven terrain, and mulching with near-commercial tenacity, minimizing clogging and delivering a flawless finish.
In high-demand scenarios, such as humid summer mowing and multi-acre properties, the Z254F excels. The reinforced construction of the FAB Deck resists corrosion and dents. This mower zips forward at 6.5 mph, efficiently covering large areas.
For serious mowers who view lawn care as a craft, this model justifies its higher cost with a superior engine and stouter deck compared to the Briggs-powered Z254.
It is unbeatable for large, demanding properties where engine confidence and longevity are non-negotiable.
Key Features
- Engine: 24HP/726cc FR730 commercial engine
- Deck Size: 54 inch FAB (Fabricated steel) Deck
- Type: Zero Turn Mower
- Speed: Rockets forward at 6.5 mph
Pros
- FR730 commercial-grade engine ensures reliability and long life
- FAB Deck provides high durability and excellent mulching capabilities
- Excels in high-demand and challenging mowing scenarios
Cons
- Comes at a higher cost
- Features a weighty frame
- Vibration can build up during long sessions
4. Husqvarna TS 146 22HP Lawn Tractor – Best Budget Friendly
The Husqvarna TS 146 is a smartly engineered workhorse that provides significant value for small-to-mid-sized lawns. It uses a 22 HP Briggs EXi engine which delivers ample power for standard tasks, easily handling flat to gently rolling terrain without bogging down.
Its 46-inch stamped deck is an ideal size for tighter yards, providing clean, consistent cuts with minimal missed patches.
This model is the perfect choice for homeowners who want Husqvarna reliability without the steep zero-turn price tag.
The TS 146 proves itself as a dependable, no-fuss performer in daily use. The K46 Tuff Torq transmission ensures smooth acceleration and reliable operation.
The 3-gallon fuel tank supports up to an hour of continuous mowing, which is sufficient for 1–1.5 acres. Though it is not built for speed, topping out at 5 mph, and has a wider turning radius, it offers a gentler learning curve and easier maintenance than high-performance zero-turn models.
Key Features
- Engine Power: 22HP Briggs EXi series
- Mower Deck Size: 46-Inch stamped deck
- Transmission Type: K46 Tuff Torq Hydrostatic
- Speed: 5 mph forward
Pros
- Strikes a sweet spot between capability and cost
- Outperforms most entry-level tractors in build quality
- Beginner-friendly and offers simpler maintenance
Cons
- Slower maximum ground speed
- Smaller cutting width compared to 54″ models
- Features a wider turning radius
Detailed Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Riding Lawn Mower
Selecting the best riding lawn mower hinges on understanding your specific yard conditions and needs. Our data-driven analysis underscores the need to prioritize key components like transmission type, deck material, and engine power for optimal performance and longevity.
Engine Power & Type
The engine functions as the heart of your riding mower. For general good performance, look for at least a 22HP engine, but a 24HP engine or higher is ideal if your property is larger, features hilly terrain, or has thick grass.
Engines from Husqvarna and Briggs & Stratton are well-known for reliability. When considering engine type, V-Twin engines (as found in the Husqvarna Z254) generally provide smoother operation, improved cooling, and longer life compared to single-cylinder engines.
Increased power prevents the mower from bogging down, enabling faster mowing and the ability to handle tougher conditions.
Cutting Deck Size & Material
The size of the cutting deck directly affects how quickly you can mow your lawn. While the best models may vary around 46 inches or 54 inches, the deck material is a critical factor.
- Stamped Decks: These are typically more affordable but less durable. They are featured on models like the Husqvarna TS 146.
- Fabricated (FAB) Decks: These decks, like the one on the Husqvarna Z254F, are built to withstand more impact and generally last longer. If your yard has obstacles, a FAB deck is a worthwhile investment.
Also, note the number of blades: a 3-blade deck typically offers a cleaner cut, especially when dealing with thicker grass.
Transmission Type
The transmission is vital because it affects the mower’s ease of use and speed control. Hydrostatic transmissions (featured on the Husqvarna Z254 and TS 146) are highly recommended because they offer smooth, variable speed control, which makes maneuvering easier and allows for adjustment to different terrains. Investing in a hydrostatic transmission is worthwhile, as it provides a more efficient and comfortable mowing experience compared to standard transmissions.
Zero-turn mowers, such as the Z254 and Z254F, feature transmissions that deliver unparalleled maneuverability around obstacles.