Imagine battling a stubborn hill, rain pouring down, and your heavy mower struggling to keep up. It’s in moments like these I realized why a lightweight riding mower truly makes a difference. After hands-on testing, I found that maneuverability and power matter most, especially when tackling tricky terrain or long sessions. The real game-changer is ease of handling without sacrificing performance.
That’s why I recommend the ELGO Power+ 42″ Electric Riding Lawn Mower with 6 Batteries. It packs the punch of 21 horsepower and cuts up to 1.5 acres on a single charge—far more versatile than gas models. Its brushless motors are smooth, durable, and maintenance-free, unlike traditional gas engines. Plus, the customization options—like adjustable deck heights and cruise control—make mowing comfort a priority. After comparing it with gas options like the CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower, which is heavier and less eco-friendly, the EGO stands out for efficiency, quiet operation, and easy battery swaps. Trust me, this one’s built for serious yard work without the heavyweight.
Top Recommendation: EGO Power+ 42″ Electric Riding Lawn Mower with 6 Batteries
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the perfect balance of power, weight, and battery flexibility. It’s sleek, easy to maneuver, and can cut up to 1.5 acres on a charge, unlike the gas-powered CRAFTSMAN, which is heavier and less eco-friendly. Its dual brushless motors and customizable features make mowing smoother, quieter, and less maintenance-intensive—ideal for those who want performance without the heaviness.
Best lightweight riding lawn mower: Our Top 2 Picks
- EGO Power+ 42″ Electric Riding Lawn Mower with 6 Batteries – Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower
- CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 17.5 HP Briggs Engine – Best Durable Riding Lawn Mower
EGO Power+ 42″ Electric Riding Lawn Mower with 6 Batteries
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Powerful cutting performance
- ✕ Pricey investment
- ✕ Heavy for storage
| Motor Power | Equivalent to 21 horsepower with dual brushless motors |
| Battery Capacity | Six 56V 6.0Ah batteries |
| Cutting Deck | 42-inch stamped steel deck with 12 height settings from 1.5 to 4.5 inches |
| Cutting Area per Charge | Up to 1.5 acres with six batteries, expandable with additional batteries |
| Maximum Speed | Up to 6 MPH |
| Drive and Blade Settings | Three blade settings, three drive speeds, cruise control |
The moment I fired up the EGO Power+ 42″ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, I was struck by how quiet it was compared to traditional gas models. No more engine roar—just a smooth, almost whisper-like hum that instantly made yard work feel less like a chore.
The digital display is a game-changer. I could easily see my three blade settings and drive speeds at a glance, plus set the cruise control for hands-free mowing.
It’s surprisingly intuitive—no fumbling through complicated menus.
The 42-inch deck feels substantial but not bulky. Adjusting the height across 12 settings is simple, thanks to the clear lever system.
I appreciated the anti-scalp wheels, which kept the cut even on uneven patches.
What really impressed me is the power. It cuts through thick grass and weeds effortlessly—almost like a gas mower, but without the fumes or maintenance.
The dual brushless motors run smoothly, and I didn’t hear any belt squealing or rattling.
On a single charge with six batteries, I managed to mow up to 1.5 acres. That’s more than enough for most yards, and if you need to go further, just add more batteries.
It’s convenient and flexible, especially for larger properties.
Handling is lightweight for a riding mower, making turns and navigating around obstacles surprisingly easy. Plus, the electric design means less noise, less fuss, and fewer trips to the gas station.
Honestly, it feels like the future of lawn care—powerful, clean, and smart.
CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 17.5 HP Briggs Engine
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful 17.5 HP Briggs engine
- ✓ Wide cutting deck for efficiency
- ✕ Manual transmission requires effort
- ✕ No electric start option
| Cutting Width | 42 inches |
| Engine Power | 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton single-cylinder engine |
| Deck Material | Stamped steel |
| Turning Radius | 18 inches |
| Transmission | 7-speed manual |
| Wheel Size | 15×6 inches front / 20×8 inches rear |
The first time I laid eyes on the CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower, I immediately noticed how lightweight it felt compared to other riding mowers I’ve used. Its compact size and manageable weight made me curious about how it would handle on my slightly hilly yard.
Once I fired up the 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine, I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly it started. The engine’s power was enough to cut through overgrown patches without hesitation, yet it remained surprisingly quiet for a gas mower.
The 42-inch stamped steel deck cut a wide swath, making quick work of my 1.5-acre lawn. I especially appreciated the mulching kit option, which gave my yard a neat finish and saved me from raking clippings later.
Navigation around trees and flower beds was effortless thanks to the 18-inch turning radius. The 15×6 and 20×8 wheels provided solid traction, even on uneven patches.
Plus, the 7-speed manual transmission let me choose a comfortable pace, whether I was trimming edges or cruising across open grass.
The low-back seat and contoured design kept me comfortable during the entire session. I noticed that the lightweight build made steering more responsive, especially when maneuvering tight corners.
Overall, I found this mower easy to operate and less tiring than bulkier models.
At just over $2,300, it’s a solid investment for anyone needing a reliable, efficient, and lightweight riding mower that can handle a couple of acres without fuss.