Introduction

If you recently just moved to a house with a bigger lawn, it may be time to upgrade from a walk-behind mower to a riding mower. It’s bigger, powerful, and the right tool to have when you have a larger area to cover. It also requires less physical effort since you won’t need to walk behind it as you mow your lawn.

The shift from a walk-behind mower to a small tractor may feel like a huge step. However, it could be a decision that helps to make your work easier and more enjoyable. The best way to approach such a change is to do some research and find out what brands of riding mowers exist.

The two most popular lawn tractor brands today include Cub Cadet and John Deere. They make small lawn tractors that come fitted with powerful engines and enhanced performance. In this post, we’ll take a look at the features that both brands have to offer and the differences between them. This will help you decide which brand is right for you depending on your needs.

Cub Cadet Description

Cub Cadet is a global manufacturer of outdoor power machines and tools. Some of its products include snow blowers, garden and lawn tractors, lithium ion-and gasoline-powered chore and handheld products, as well as utility vehicles. The company is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.

It has a competent and devoted team of engineers who have worked on bringing forth some of the best and most advanced tractor technologies in the last years. Cub Cadet models ae designed to cut really well and gain the upper hand over Joh Deere when it comes to mulching. They turn churned grass into small fragments that fall back to the ground. This is extremely helpful for the soil as it helps to nourish it.

When it comes to comfort, the tractors feature a plush and comfy seat and plenty of controls that are within the operator’s reach. In particular, the seat has a 10-degree incline that makes it easy to work for long hours without tiring.

Modern versions also include an automatic drive system that adjusts the transmission to make sure the tractor is moving at the right speed. There’s also plenty of power for residential use. Cruise control helps to maintain certain rates as you work. Cub Cadet made sure to include a 3-gallon fuel tank that you can refill easily. It is rustproof and ensures the engine continues to run as long as you need it to. You don’t have to worry about running out of juice in the middle of work. And if you do, refilling is easy and convenient.

Cub Cadet mowers also feature a 16-inch turning radius that make them more agile and easy to control in smaller spaces and tight corners. You can choose from 12 different cutting heights depending on what you need. With the mower, you can even work at night. This is thanks to reliable LED headlights.

Strong Sides

1. Comfortable seat
2. Has a cruise control option
3. Hydrostatic transmission removes the need to shift the mower manually
4. Easy to control and steer
5. Costs less

Weak Sides

1. Requires assembly after purchase

John Deere Description

John Deere is a brand of Deere & Company that manufactures construction, forestry, and agricultural machinery. This is except for drive trains and diesel engines found in heavy machinery. The company also produces lawn and garden care equipment.

When it comes to cutting, John Deere mowers do a decent job. While they may not produce fine fragments like those of the Cub Cadet, you won’t be disappointed by their performance. The difference is also almost unnoticeable.

Comfort and handling are a top priority when it comes to the way John Deere builds its mowers. Like Cub Cadet, the brand also equips mowers with a hydrostatic transmission that allows you to focus on mowing and less on shifting gears.

The best models have a 54-inch deck that provides a large cutting area. A 30-second system for oil changes is also available and conveniently fitted under the hood. It makes it easy for you to do simple maintenance tasks on your gasoline-powered mower. Maintenance is essential as it helps to keep it working for a long time with minimal mechanical issues.

John Deere gains an advantage over Cub Cadet when it comes to braking, turning, stability, steering, and offering a better ride quality. In addition, the brand is ranked higher when it comes to reliability. Models cost more, but repair costs remain modest. The average cost of repairing a John Deere tractor averages about $109.

Strong Sides

1. Powerful V-twin engine
2. Hydrostatic transmission
3. Wider cutting path

Weak Sides

1. Small fuel tank
2. Relatively wide turning radius

Overview and Conclusion

Both Cub Cadet and John Deere are great riding mowers. They do not differ much in their performance, build, and ease of use. If you’re looking to upgrade to something that is effective for small to medium-sized lawns, both brands are industry toppers. Their power, efficiency, and performance can easily be compared to mowers that cost upwards of $3,000.

However, if you want something that costs less, mulches slightly better, and keeps the soil nourished, Cub Cadet is your choice. You also get a 3-year warranty to go with the model you pick. On the other hand, John Deere is ideal for those that want a more reliable mower that’s also a bit easier to use.

FAQ

Are Cub Cadet Engines made in China?

The overhead valve (OHV) engines that a major Asian manufacturing company makes power Cub Cadet mowers. Both Cub Cadet and the company collaborate in the design, engineering, and manufacturing expertise to produce highly reliable engines.

What brand engine does John Deere use?

John Deere gets its engines from Yanmar. It then brands them with the John Deere name.

Are John Deere lawn mowers made in the USA?

The 100 and 200 Series lawn tractors made by John Deere are manufactured in Greenville, Tennessee.