Trying to choose between a Toro and Cub Cadet zero turn mower? This guide makes it easy.
I’ve tested both on my own 2+ acre yard—full of slopes, trees, and rough ground. From slipping on hills to flying across flat spots, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t.
In this guide, I’ll break down cutting power, hill control, comfort, and real-world durability. Keep reading to find out which mower fits your yard best.
Table of Contents
Toro Zero Turn Mower Review
If you’ve got a big lawn and your old mower just isn’t cutting it—literally or figuratively—a Toro zero turn might be the fix. I used one on my bumpy, 2.5-acre yard, and wow—it turned mowing from a chore into something fun. It was fast, smooth, and easy to steer. Still, it’s not perfect. Here’s what stood out—and what didn’t.
What I Like
- Fast and Tight Turns: The zero-turn steering is amazing. I zipped around trees and beds with no need to back up or trim later. It saved me lots of time.
- Smooth Ride with MyRIDE® Suspension: This is on the TITAN and Z Master models. It handled bumps and dips without jarring my back. If your yard is rough, you’ll love it.
- Tough, Welded Steel Deck: The thicker steel decks (like the 10-gauge ones) feel solid. They didn’t shake or flex—even in tall or wet grass.
- Kawasaki and Kohler Engines: I tested both. The Kawasaki FR was quiet but strong. The Kohler 7000 handled wet grass with ease and had great pull.
- Easy to Clean and Service: Toro made it simple to get to the belts and drain oil. No tools needed for the deck cover—huge plus for DIY care.
What Could Be Better
- EZT Transmissions on Base Models: The TimeCutter EZT 2200 had trouble on hills. It works on flat land, but don’t count on it for slopes or towing.
- No Headlights on Some Models: The base models don’t have lights. If you mow early or late, you’ll need to add your own or spend more.
- Prices Climb Fast: The TimeCutter is priced well, but the TITAN and Z Master cost a lot more. They’re better—but for bigger budgets.
My Personal Mowing Experience
I first used a Toro TimeCutter on a big rental lot. It was full of bumps and trees. What should’ve taken two hours took under one. At first, the lap bars were tricky. But once I got the hang of it, it felt natural. It even handled soggy patches under trees with no problem. I just wish I’d bought one for myself sooner. It made mowing faster, easier, and a lot more fun.
Performance Overview
| Feature | Rating | Notes |
| Turning Radius | 5/5 | Tight turns with no backing up needed. |
| Engine Performance | 4.5/5 | Both engines ran strong and smooth. |
| Hill Handling (EZT) | 3/5 | Slipped a bit on slopes under heavy load. |
| Deck Durability | 5/5 | Solid and sturdy, even in tough grass. |
| Ride Comfort (MyRIDE) | 5/5 | Glides over bumps with no back pain. |
| Ease of Maintenance | 4.5/5 | Simple design, tool-free belt cover. |
Who Should Buy It?
Best For:
- Homeowners with yards over an acre
- Those with light slopes or bumps
- DIYers who like to maintain their own tools
Not Ideal For:
- Steep slopes (unless you upgrade to pro-grade or try Cub Cadet’s Synchro-Steer®)
Final Thoughts
A Toro zero turn mower is like the SUV of lawn tools—fast, strong, and ready for big jobs. If you want to mow faster and save time, it’s a great choice.
If your lawn is mostly flat, the TimeCutter is a great value. But if comfort and strength are key, the TITAN with MyRIDE is worth the extra cost.
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Cub Cadet Zero Turn Mower Review
If your yard has hills, trees, or tight turns, a Cub Cadet zero turn might be the mower for you. I used the Ultima ZT2 54 on my bumpy 2-acre lawn, and what stood out most was the grip. Thanks to the Synchro-Steer® system, it held firm—even on slopes. That gave me more control, more comfort, and a lot less stress.
What I Like
- Great on Hills with Synchro-Steer®: This steering system changes everything. I mowed across slopes without slipping. Most zero turns spin out. This one stuck.
- Comfy High-Back Seat with Armrests: The seat kept me comfy, even after an hour. It handled bumps well, and the armrests gave extra support.
- Tough, Square Steel Frame: This mower is solid. I hit rough patches, but it didn’t shake or flex. It feels built to last.
- Kawasaki and Kohler Engines: The ZT2 had a Kawasaki FR engine. It powered through thick, wet grass with ease. Kohler options are also known for lasting performance.
- Easy Deck Height Adjustments: Changing cut height was quick. I used one hand to lift the deck—no tools or hassle.
What Could Be Better
- No Rear Hitch on Some Models: I had to add one myself. A basic hitch would be nice on all models.
- No Lights Unless You Upgrade: Only high-end models come with LED headlights. If you mow early or late, plan to install your own.
- A Bit Loud at Full Speed: The engine is strong—but not quiet. You’ll want ear protection, especially for long jobs.
My Personal Mowing Experience
I first tried a Cub Cadet ZT1 on a friend’s sloped yard. It shocked me—held its line and didn’t slide once. That sold me. I got a ZT2 for my place, and once I hit the first hill, I could feel the grip. I relaxed. The passes were clean and even, even on rough ground. Plus, I liked how fast I could clean and check the deck. That saved time for actual mowing.
Performance Overview
| Feature | Rating | Notes |
| Hill Handling | 5/5 | Holds tight on slopes with Synchro-Steer® |
| Engine Power | 4.5/5 | Kawasaki was strong, even in wet patches |
| Deck Durability | 5/5 | Solid and didn’t flex in tall or thick grass |
| Ride Comfort | 4.5/5 | Comfy seat, armrests helped on long cuts |
| Maneuverability | 4.5/5 | Tight turns around trees and beds |
| Maintenance Ease | 4/5 | Easy deck access, but no hitch included |
Who Should Buy It?
Great For:
- Lawns with slopes or dips
- Anyone mowing more than an acre
- People who want a strong, comfy mower
- Users who care about long-term build quality
Not Ideal For:
- Tight budgets
- Flat, small yards
- People who need a built-in hitch right away
Final Thoughts
The Cub Cadet zero turn shines where many fail—on hills. The Synchro-Steer® keeps you steady. The seat keeps you comfy. And the frame feels built for years of use. If you want power and control in one package, it’s a great buy. Just know you may need to add extras like lights or a hitch.
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Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn: Honest Comparison from My Yard
I’ve used both Toro and Cub Cadet zero turn mowers on my uneven, tree-filled 2+ acre yard. If you’ve ever dealt with hills, wet patches, or sharp corners, you know not all zero turns are equal. In this review, I’ll share how these two brands stack up—feature by feature—so you can pick the right one for your yard.
Cutting Width — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
| Product | Cutting Width | Notes |
| Toro TITAN | 54″ (10-gauge deck) | Great for large, open spaces |
| Cub Cadet ZT2 | 54″ (AeroForce deck) | Smooth cut on hills and dips |
My Take: Both gave a wide, clean cut. Toro covered open areas fast. Cub Cadet did better on slopes and left fewer clumps.
Rating: Toro – 9/10, Cub Cadet – 9.5/10
Cutting Height Adjustment — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
| Product | Height Settings | Notes |
| Toro TITAN | 13 positions | Knob with foot assist |
| Cub Cadet ZT2 | 15 positions | Easy lever, one-hand use |
My Take: Toro’s system felt sturdy. But Cub Cadet’s lever was quicker and easier—especially while sitting.
Rating: Toro – 8.5/10, Cub Cadet – 9/10
Engine Power — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
| Product | Engine | Notes |
| Toro TITAN | Kawasaki FR | Quiet and smooth in wet grass |
| Cub Cadet ZT2 | Kawasaki FR or Kohler | More torque, a bit louder |
My Take: Both engines worked great. Toro was a little quieter. Cub Cadet had more pull on hills.
Rating: Toro – 9/10, Cub Cadet – 9/10
Maneuverability — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
| Product | Steering | Notes |
| Toro TITAN | Dual Hydro Gear ZT | Fast turns, good on flat land |
| Cub Cadet ZT2 | Synchro-Steer® | Full control on hills and slopes |
My Take: Toro turned fast but slipped on slopes. Cub Cadet stayed firm—big win for tricky terrain.
Rating: Toro – 8/10, Cub Cadet – 9.5/10
Ride Comfort — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
| Product | Suspension / Seat | Notes |
| Toro TITAN | MyRIDE® Suspension | Very smooth ride on rough ground |
| Cub Cadet ZT2 | High-back seat + arms | Comfy seat, no full suspension |
My Take: Toro wins here. MyRIDE® feels like floating. Cub Cadet was fine—but bumpier on rough spots.
Rating: Toro – 9.5/10, Cub Cadet – 8.5/10
Ease of Use — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
| Product | Maintenance Access | Notes |
| Toro TITAN | Tool-free belt cover | Easy oil drain and deck cleaning |
| Cub Cadet ZT2 | Open frame design | Simple access, but no rear hitch stock |
My Take: Toro made care simple. Cub Cadet was easy too, but I had to add a hitch—kind of a pain.
Rating: Toro – 9/10, Cub Cadet – 8.5/10
Value for Money — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
| Product | Price Range | Notes |
| Toro TITAN | amazon | Premium features, higher price |
| Cub Cadet ZT2 | amazon | Great build at a fair cost |
My Take: Cub Cadet gives more for less. Toro has extras—but the price jumps fast.
Rating: Toro – 8/10, Cub Cadet – 9/10
Overall Comparison — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
| Product | Overall Score | Summary |
| Toro TITAN | 8.8/10 | Best for comfort and flat lawns |
| Cub Cadet ZT2 | 9.1/10 | Great for slopes and real-world yards |
Read More: Craftsman vs John Deere Riding Mower
Final Thoughts
If your yard is flat and comfort is key, go with the Toro TITAN. Its MyRIDE® suspension is amazing. But if your lawn has slopes or bumps, the Cub Cadet ZT2 is a better all-around mower. It grips well, cuts clean, and saves you money.
Both are solid. But for my yard, with hills and trees, Cub Cadet wins by a hair.
FAQs — Toro vs Cub Cadet Zero Turn
Which mower handles hills better—Toro or Cub Cadet zero turn?
Cub Cadet zero turn mowers with Synchro-Steer® grip better on slopes than Toro. They’re more stable on uneven or hilly yards.
Is Toro or Cub Cadet better for comfort during long mowing sessions?
Toro’s MyRIDE® suspension gives a smoother ride on rough ground. It’s the better pick if comfort is your top concern.
Which zero turn mower is easier to maintain—Toro or Cub Cadet?
Toro zero turn mowers have tool-free access to belts and oil drains. Cub Cadet is also easy, but some models lack built-in hitches.
Does Toro or Cub Cadet offer better value for money?
Cub Cadet offers strong features at a lower price. Toro feels more premium, but it costs more with each upgrade.
What’s the main difference between Toro and Cub Cadet zero turn mowers?
Toro focuses on ride comfort and premium build. Cub Cadet shines on slopes with better hill control and solid performance for less.
