Zero-Turn Vs. Stand On—How to Choose the Right One for Your Business

As the mowing season winds down and the days grow shorter, now is the perfect time to start planning for next season’s equipment upgrades. Many equipment dealers offer discounts and promotions in the off-season, providing an excellent opportunity to add or upgrade mowers at a lower cost.

But with so many choices on the market, which mower is the right fit for your business? In this guide, we’ll explore two top choices among landscaping and lawn care professionals—zero-turn mowers and stand-on mowers.

We'll delve into their unique advantages and help you make an informed decision on the equipment that best aligns with your business needs and goals.

What Are Zero-Turn and Stand-On Mowers?

Before diving into the benefits of each, it’s important to understand what sets zero-turn and stand-on mowers apart from traditional lawnmowers.

Zero-Turn Mowers

Zero-turn mowers have gained popularity due to their high maneuverability and impressive speed. Known for their ability to make a “zero” degree turn radius, these mowers can spin on a dime, which allows operators to navigate around obstacles with ease. They are typically operated while seated, with controls often consisting of dual levers that provide smooth navigation and fast adjustments.

Stand-On Mowers

Stand-on mowers are smaller, more compact machines that are designed to be operated in a standing position. With a smaller footprint, these mowers offer the same tight turning radius but take up less trailer and storage space. They’re particularly popular among landscapers who need to move quickly and efficiently from one site to another, and they’re valued for their ability to maneuver in tight, challenging spaces.

Now, let’s look at each type’s benefits and potential limitations, so you can decide which option best serves your business.

Zero-Turn Mowers—Pros and Cons

Pros of a Zero-Turn Mower	Cons of a Zero-Turn Mower
Comfort for Long Hours Zero-turn mowers are generally more comfortable for longer jobs because the operator is seated. High-back seats with cushioning and adjustable armrests provide relief during extended periods, helping operators avoid fatigue.	Challenging on Slopes and Wet Terrain While zero-turn mowers are great on flat or mildly sloped terrain, they can struggle on hillsides and wet surfaces, where traction may become an issue. This can lead to sliding, scalping, or even tipping, posing a safety risk.
Greater Speed for Larger Properties Zero-turn mowers are known for their speed, often reaching around 7-10 mph depending on the model. This makes them ideal for larger properties where covering more ground in less time is crucial.	Bulkier Size Zero-turn mowers generally have a larger footprint than stand-on mowers, which may be challenging for landscapers working in tighter residential spaces or for those with limited trailer storage.

Precise Cutting with Minimal Overlap The zero-turn radius ensures minimal overlap with each pass, which improves cutting efficiency and provides a clean, professional look. Landscapers who prioritize a flawless appearance will benefit from this precision.	Higher Cost for Premium Models The added comfort, power, and versatility can come with a higher price tag, especially for commercial-grade zero-turn models. For smaller businesses, this initial investment may require careful budgeting.
Variety of Attachments Many zero-turn mowers come with options for attachments, like baggers, mulching kits, and even light landscaping tools. This versatility adds value by transforming the mower into a multi-use piece of equipment, which can save money on additional tools.
Great for High Productivity For businesses that handle large properties or multiple properties in a day, zero-turn mowers’ combination of speed, comfort, and cutting efficiency can lead to higher productivity.

Stand-On Mowers—Pros and Con

Pros of Stand-On Mowers	Cons of Stand-On Mowers
Compact Design for Tight Spaces Stand-on mowers are much more compact, making them ideal for properties with narrow gates, landscaping obstacles, or tight turns. Their small size also makes storage and transport easier, often allowing for more equipment on a single trailer.	Less Comfortable for Long Jobs Standing for extended periods may lead to fatigue, particularly for operators working on large properties for hours at a time. For smaller properties or short-duration jobs, this isn’t a significant issue, but for larger jobs, it can be taxing.
Quick Start and Stop Functionality Being able to quickly step on and off the mower means operators can stop to pick up debris or navigate obstacles without having to dismount and remount as they would on a seated zero-turn. This adds efficiency, especially in areas with a lot of landscaping details.	Limited Attachments Stand-on mowers typically offer fewer attachment options than zero-turn models, which can limit their versatility. For businesses needing mowers that can serve multiple functions, zero-turns may provide more flexibility.
Better Maneuverability on Slopes Stand-on mowers are more stable on slopes and uneven terrain compared to many zero-turn models. The operator’s body weight serves as a natural counterbalance, which can improve traction and reduce the risk of tipping or sliding on hilly surfaces.	Lower Top Speed Although stand-on mowers are quick and agile, they don’t typically match the top speeds of zero-turn mowers. For businesses focusing on large-scale mowing, this could reduce overall productivity.
Improved Visibility and Control With a stand-on mower, the operator has a higher vantage point and better visibility around the mower. This view can improve navigation around obstacles and provide better control in complex areas, reducing the likelihood of scalping or other cutting errors.
Reduced Operator Fatigue While it may seem counterintuitive, standing during mowing tasks can reduce back strain for some operators, particularly during shorter tasks. Additionally, the ability to shift weight easily allows operators to avoid fatigue that can occur from prolonged sitting.

Choosing the Right Mower Based on Your Business Needs

Property Size and Type

Consider the size and type of properties you handle regularly. If your business specializes in large commercial properties, parks, or fields, a zero-turn mower’s speed and comfort will likely be advantageous. However, if you focus on smaller residential properties or those with numerous obstacles, a stand-on mower might be more practical due to its compactness and superior maneuverability.

Terrain Conditions

If you frequently work on hilly or uneven terrain, a stand-on mower may be the safer, more stable option. Zero-turn mowers, while effective on flat surfaces, can struggle on slopes, especially if the ground is wet or uneven.

Storage and Transportation

For businesses with limited trailer or storage space, the compact design of stand-on mowers can save both room and cost. Their smaller size also allows for easier transport, letting you fit more equipment onto one trailer, which is a big plus if you have multiple mowers or other equipment.

Operator Comfort and Duration of Use

For large properties or long workdays, a seated zero-turn mower may be the best choice to avoid operator fatigue. However, if most of your jobs are shorter or on smaller properties, the stand-on mower’s reduced fatigue and greater agility may be a better fit.

Budget Considerations

While high-end zero-turn mowers may cost more upfront, they can often perform multiple functions and may reduce the need for additional equipment. Stand-on mowers, although generally lower in price, offer fewer attachments. Weigh the initial cost of each option with the long-term return on investment based on your business model and workload.

Zero-Turn vs. Stand-On: Which Will Drive Your Business Forward?

Ultimately, both zero-turn and stand-on mowers have distinct advantages, and the right choice for your business will depend on your specific needs, budget, and business goals. Zero-turn mowers offer speed, comfort, and versatility, making them an ideal choice for large-scale properties and longer-duration jobs. Stand-on mowers provide maneuverability, visibility, and a smaller footprint, making them perfect for tight spaces and properties with challenging terrain.

During this off-season, as you weigh your options, remember to consider not only your current workload but also any future growth plans for your business. A thoughtful investment now can provide both immediate and long-term benefits, helping your business have the most the successful mowing season. Whether you choose a zero-turn, a stand-on, or even a mix of both, the right equipment will ultimately empower your business to deliver top-notch results.