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While riding lawn mowers and walk-behind lawn mowers may make up the bulk of grass-cutting machines found in residential yards, stand-on mowers are also an option. This type of mower has a platform positioned between the mower’s two rear wheels where the operator stands. Though these mowers are the most expensive type, which is why they are usually reserved for the commercial market, they do have their appeal for homeowners with large properties.
Stand-on mowers are a great option for those who cannot sit for long periods due to back pain. In addition to having large decks, these mowers can also cut at speeds exceeding 10 miles per hour, making them ideal for trimming large fields that are several acres in size. Learn more about the features these yard machines offer and find out why the models below are some of the best stand-on mowers on the market.
- BEST OVERALL: Cub Cadet Pro X 648 Stand-On Mower
- RUNNER-UP: John Deere QuikTrak Stand-On Mower
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Gravely 36-Inch Pro-Stance Stand-On Mower
- UPGRADE PICK: Husqvarna V548 Stand-On Mower
- ALSO CONSIDER: DeWalt X548 Commercial Stand-On Mower
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Stand-On Mower
Learn how a stand-on mower compares to a sitting mower and find out just how much yard they can handle.
Sitting vs. Standing
Aside from the change in body position, there are a few key differences between standing and sitting mowers. First and foremost is speed. While stand-on and zero-turn sitting mowers may move at similar speeds, the standing position makes it easier to hop on and off the mower to open gates and move obstacles. A stand-on mower also distributes weight better, allowing the rider to maneuver the mower more quickly than a riding model. By standing, the operator has better visibility of the surrounding area as well. The flip-up platform on a standing mower allows the operator to walk behind the mower when navigating tricky terrain. A stand-on mower can also be more comfortable for those who suffer from back pain after sitting for long periods of time.
Yard Size
Stand-on mower deck sizes range from 36 inches to a whopping 60 inches or more. The deck determines how wide a swath of grass the mower can cut in a single pass. Choosing the right one depends on the size of the job. A stand-on mower with a 36- to 42-inch deck is suitable for cutting 1 to 3 acres. Decks of 42 to 54 inches are broad enough to handle 3 to 4 acres, and mowers with a deck of 60 inches are more suitable for 4 acres and beyond. While you may be tempted to purchase the largest deck you can afford, keep in mind that the larger the deck, the harder it is to maneuver the mower around trees and other obstacles.
Maneuverability
While zero-turn riding and stand-on mowers offer very similar cutting speeds and deck sizes, a stand-on mower has better maneuverability around obstacles such as trees and landscaping beds because it’s shorter. The standing position also gives the operator a bird’s-eye view of the terrain, making it easier to navigate around difficult terrain.
Speed Range
Part of what makes a stand-on mower the mower of choice for those who need to cut a lot of acreage is speed. Stand-on mowers can cut at speeds of 10 miles per hour, which is far greater than the max cutting speed of a standard tractor-style riding mower.
Blades
Stand-on mowers vary in the number of blades they use depending on the size of the deck. Smaller 36-inch stand-on mowers may only have two blades, while large 60-inch models can use three or four blades. As with other mower types, stand-on mowers have the ability to side discharge or mulch grass clippings. Some even have compatible bagging kits.
Additional Features
Some stand-on mowers come with features that make them easier and more comfortable to use. Suspension systems help smooth out rough terrain, reducing bumps for the operator. Stand-on mowers also have platforms that the operator can flip up, allowing them to walk behind the mower, which is useful on steeper grades. Some stand-on mowers even feature controls that make it easier to lower or raise the cutting deck.
Our Top Picks
The list below includes some of the top stand-on mowers on the market. These mowers come with large engines and high top cutting speeds. The list includes smaller models for yards up to 3 acres as well as larger stand-on mowers that can handle 4 acres or more.
Best Overall
Cub Cadet Pro X 648 Stand-On Mower
A great design coupled with a powerful engine makes the Cub Cadet one of the top stand-on mowers on the market. It comes equipped with a 48-inch mowing deck, allowing it to make short work of big yards. Large 24-inch tires provide plenty of ground clearance for hopping over curbs or other obstacles while providing traction for steep grades.
The Pro X 648 also comes equipped with an adjustable suspension, which allows the operator to fine-tune the ride based on the type of terrain. The mowing deck is powered by a large 22-horsepower (hp) engine, giving it a high max cutting speed of a whopping 10 miles per hour. A large lever allows for changes to deck height on the fly.
Product Specs
- Engine size: 22 hp
- Deck size: 48 inches
- Top cutting speed: 10 mph
Pros
- Top cutting speed of 10 mph
- Large 22-hp engine
- Adjustable suspension
Cons
- Larger wheels can make it harder to maneuver
Get the Cub Cadet stand-on mower on CubCadet.com.
Runner-Up
John Deere QuikTrak Stand-On Mower
With its compact design, John Deere’s QuikTrak Stand-On Mower is nimble enough to get around yards with trees, beds, and other obstacles. It comes equipped with a 36-inch deck powered by an 18.5-hp engine.
The operator stands on a platform that’s cushioned to absorb shock, making for a smoother and more comfortable ride. Though it may lack the speed of other stand-on mowers, its narrow profile and smaller 18-inch wheels make the John Deere capable of maneuvering through tighter spaces, limiting the need to follow up with a walk-behind mower. The QuikTrak’s small size also means it takes up less room on a trailer.
Product Specs
- Engine size: 18.5 hp
- Deck size: 36 inches
- Top cutting speed: 8.2 mph
Pros
- Maneuvers easily through tight spaces
- Cushioned platform
- Smaller footprint takes up less space on a trailer
Cons
- Narrower cutting deck
- Slower cutting speed
Get the John Deere stand-on mower at John Deere.
Best Bang For the Buck
Gravely 36-Inch Pro-Stance Stand-On Mower
While all stand-on mowers cost significantly more than pretty much any other type of mower, Gravely offers one of the more affordable models on the market. Despite costing hundreds of dollars less than other similarly sized stand-on mowers, it doesn’t compromise on core features. Its 36-inch deck is powered by an 18.5-hp engine, and it can reach max speeds of 8 miles per hour. A built-in suspension cushions the platform to smooth out rougher terrain.
Notable features include an adjustable wraparound cruiser bar that allows the operator to adjust the speed from either hand and change the deck height quickly. The Pro-Stance is also narrow enough to fit through most fence gates.
Product Specs
- Engine size: 18.5 hp
- Deck size: 36 inches
- Top cutting speed: 8 mph
Pros
- More affordable than other stand-on mowers
- Adjustable cruise bar
- Built-in shock absorption for standing platform
Cons
- Slower top speed than other stand-on mowers
Get the Gravely stand-on mower at Gravely.
Upgrade Pick
Husqvarna V548 Stand-On Mower
A large engine and numerous user-friendly features make the V548 one of the best, along with one of the priciest, stand-on lawn mowers. With its monster 24.5-hp engine, top speed of 11 miles per hour, and a broad 48-inch deck, this mower is capable of cutting up to 4 acres in 1 hour.
Unlike other mowers with a platform positioned behind the rear wheels, Husqvarna has its platform over the rear axle, allowing for better balance and traction. The V548 also comes loaded with features that make it easier to use, including an ergonomic operator’s console and a high-leverage deck lift that makes it easier to raise the deck. There’s also a palm deck release for lowering.
Product Specs
- Engine size: 24.5 hp
- Deck size: 48 inches
- Top cutting speed: 11 mph
Pros
- High top speed
- Broad mowing deck
- Easy-to-operate deck
- Can also function as a walk-behind mower
Cons
- Expensive
Get the Husqvarna stand-on mower at Husqvarna.
Also Consider
DeWalt X548 Commercial Stand-On Mower
While DeWalt might be better known for its extensive line of power tools, the company also produces an excellent stand-on mower. As with its power tools, DeWalt doesn’t skimp on muscle. This stand-on mower boasts a large 26-hp engine to power a 48-inch deck. It can reach a max speed of up to 10 miles per hour, making it suitable for yards greater than 4 acres.
The operator panel makes it easy to control the speed while simultaneously steering the mower, and large rear wheels with heavy treads provide ample clearance for climbing over curbs or mowing over tougher terrain. Other nice features include maintenance access panels that the user can remove without the need for tools and a hip pad that adjusts to suit the operator’s height. There are also optional accessories that operators will appreciate, including mulching and bagging kits.
Product Specs
- Engine size: 26 hp
- Deck size: 48 inches
- Top cutting speed: 10 mph
Pros
- Large 26-hp engine
- Broad 48-inch deck
- Bagging kit and mulch kit available
Cons
- Not an established lawn mower brand
Get the DeWalt stand-on mower at The Home Depot.
Our Verdict
For its large 22-hp motor, adjustable suspension, and 24-inch wheels, the Cub Cadet stand-on mower is one of the top stand-on mowers on the market. Those looking for a more compact stand-on mower will want to consider the John Deere stand-on mower.
How We Chose the Best Stand-On Mowers
We considered several criteria when narrowing the field of stand-on mowers to our list. A good stand-on mower should have ample power to get the job done, so we chose models with at least an 18-hp engine. These mowers should also be comfortable to ride over long periods, so we favored stand-on mowers with suspension systems and cushioned bars. Since stand-on mowers come in a variety of sizes, we included smaller models capable of fitting through narrower gates as well as larger mowers that can handle several acres of land. Wheel size determines how well a mower can handle rougher terrain, so we selected models with larger wheels. Finally, we chose mowers made by manufacturers with a well-established reputation in the lawn mower business or tool industry.
Tips for Using Stand-On Mowers
Although the best stand-on mowers are certainly an investment, they make sense for professionals and some homeowners. The speed and wide cutting decks that stand-on mowers offer make them ideal for those who need to mow several acres of lawn. Since the operator stands on this type of mower, it’s a good choice for those who may suffer from back pain after long periods of sitting. The standing position also puts the operator at a higher vantage point, allowing them to see the surrounding terrain easily. Stand-on mowers are also simpler to maneuver through tight passageways.
Fast cutting speeds
- Good for those who suffer from back problems
- Higher vantage point makes it easier to see terrain
- Easy to maneuver around obstacles
FAQs
Below, learn how to buy a stand-on mower and find out which manufacturers make the top models.
Q. What is the best stand on for getting inside small gates?
The John Deere stand-on mower, with its compact size, is the best stand-on mower option for getting through narrow gates.
Q. Is a stand-on mower good for hills?
A stand-on mower more easily allows the operator to shift their weight to provide counterbalance while on inclines; so yes, a stand-on mower is a good option for mowing hills.
Q. How many hours do stand-on mowers last?
Since most stand-on mowers are used by commercial lawn management companies, most stand-on mowers are built to last. Expect to get 1,500 to 3,000 hours of use before needing any major repairs.
Q. Where can I buy a stand-on mower?
Since the market for stand-on mowers is mainly with professional lawn management companies, you’ll most likely need to purchase a stand-on mower through a local dealer.
Q. Who makes the best stand-on mower?
The Cub Cadet stand-on mower is one of the top models on the market with its wide 48-inch deck, large 22-hp engine, and features that include an adjustable suspension.