Craftsman vs John Deere Riding Mower (Comparison Guide)

Choosing between a Craftsman or John Deere riding mower? This is our take on a Craftsman vs John Deere comparison guide looking at things like performance, ease of use and maintenance. We also consider which is the better option depending on the size of the lawn you plan to take care of.

Lawnmowers are designed to fundamentally perform the same function, yet many different aspects influence how each one is made. So you’re ready to invest in a riding mower but can’t decide between the two industry giants—John Deere or Craftsman.

All you need is a dependable mower that will get the job done without breaking the bank, despite the flashy commercials and all the bells and whistles that entice you.

When it comes down to it, you need to know which brand reigns supreme so you end up with a mower you can depend on for years to come.

Which is Better – Craftsman vs John Deere Riding Mower?

Craftsman

American manufacturer Craftsman has been manufacturing tools and equipment for almost a century. Craftsman, Craftsman Industrial, Craftsman Professional, and Evolv are some of their product lines.

For every lawn size, Craftsman makes a variety of entry-level and mid-range mowers (such as the Craftsman 105 and Craftsman 215). They offer push, self-propelled walk-behind, riding, and zero-turn mowers.

The riding mowers have Briggs and Stratton platinum engines and come in 42-inch variants with 21 horsepower and 52-inch models with 26 horsepower.

This lawn and garden equipment supplier also offers a wide range of replacement components, including wheels, blades, and belts.

• 42-inch Mulching Blades for Craftsman Mowers
• Craftsman Riding Lawn Mowers 15×6.00-6 Front Tires and Wheels Assembly

John Deere

With more than 180 years in the industry, John Deere has focused on providing its clients with quicker and more advantageous solutions. For use in farming or maintaining lawns, the company provides tools and machinery.

Both residential and industrial mowers are produced by them.

Along with the Z200, Z400, and Z600 zero-turn mowers, they also have riding mowers from the 100, X300, X500, and X700 lawn tractor series.

The V-twin engines in the X series can accommodate accessories. Kawasaki and Briggs & Stratton engines power the Z series’ cutting decks, which range in size from 42 to 62 inches. The L, D, and E series are additional

Pros & Cons Comparison Between Craftsman vs John Deer Riding Mowers

John Deere Riding Mowers

Pros:

1. High-performance engines: Known for powerful, commercial-grade engines, ideal for larger yards and rough terrain.
2. Durable cutting decks: Designed to produce an even cut, with tough build quality.
3. Premium features: Offers comfort and convenience, including ergonomic seats, Bluetooth speakers, LED headlights, and touchscreen displays on higher-end models.

Cons:

1. Higher cost: Typically more expensive compared to Craftsman, especially for models with premium features.
2. Heavier models: The weight of John Deere mowers can make them more difficult to maneuver in some cases.
3. Slower speed: Craftsman mowers generally offer faster mowing speeds compared to John Deere models.

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Craftsman Riding Mowers

Pros:

1. Affordable: Generally more budget-friendly, offering great value for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns.
2. Faster speed: Craftsman mowers tend to mow faster, saving time on larger lawns.
3. Variety of models: Offers a wide range of models suitable for different lawn sizes and needs, with Briggs & Stratton engines powering many options.

Cons:

1. More maintenance required: Craftsman mowers may need more frequent maintenance, especially for cutting deck issues.
2. Basic features: Lacks many of the high-end comfort and convenience features that come standard on John Deere models.
3. Less durable cutting deck: The decks may require more upkeep to prevent uneven cutting over time.

Features to Consider When Choosing Between Craftsmen and John Deere

When deciding between a John Deere or Craftsman riding mower, both are reputable companies that produce high-quality mowers. There are a few key features to consider that can help determine which brand is the better choice for you.

1) Engine Power

John Deere is known for high-performance, commercial-grade engines that provide plenty of power to handle larger yards and hills.

Craftsman uses engines from various manufacturers, like Briggs & Stratton, that also perform well for most residential needs. For small to medium yards, either brand should work great.

For larger spaces or rougher terrain, John Deere’s beefier engines may have an advantage.

2) Weight

In comparison to Craftsman, the John Deere riding mower is lighter. Craftsman lawnmowers often have larger engines and decks than John Deere lawnmowers, which adds to their weight. John Deere mowers are lightweight, resulting in simple handling and quick mowing.

3) Cutting Deck

The cutting deck refers to the mower’s blade and the housing that contains it. John Deere decks are built tough and designed to produce an even cut.

Craftsman decks will also get the job done for most homeowners but may require more maintenance to prevent uneven cutting over time.

If you have a lawn with many obstacles to mow around or want the highest quality cut, a John Deere deck is probably your best choice.

4) Comfort and convenience

When it comes to amenities, John Deere mowers aim to please. Many models offer ergonomic seats, cup holders, storage compartments, and tool trays. Higher-end John Deere mowers even have Bluetooth speakers, LED headlights, and touchscreen displays.

Craftsman mowers typically have basic features, lacking some of the comforts and conveniences of John Deere mowers. But they get the job done at an affordable price.

In the end, you need to weigh performance, features, budget, and brand loyalty to choose a riding mower that’s right for you. John Deere or Craftsman, keep your lawn looking pristine all summer long!

5) Speed

The speed of the riding mowers makes a significant distinction between Craftsman and John Deere models. Craftsman mowers move more quickly. In contrast to the John Deere D105, the Craftsman Kohler Powered 54 22HP mows at a pace of 9.6 km/h. You can shave off time by using a faster mower.

Additional Features

Both brands offer riding mowers with useful features like cup holders, storage compartments, built-in chargers, and more. John Deere typically provides more high-end features geared toward productivity and comfort. So if bells and whistles are important, you may prefer what John Deere has to offer.

But for basic needs, Craftsman’s additional features will likely satisfy.

In the end, you can’t go wrong with either iconic brand. But by evaluating factors like engine power, cutting ability, and extra features that matter most to you, choosing between John Deere and Craftsman riding mowers can be made easy.

The brand that will “reign supreme” for you depends on your specific needs and budget.

Lawn Tractor Attachments

• Tractor Tool Box | Trailer Cart Wagon Tool Holder
• Titan Attachments 400 LB (10 Cu. Ft.) Poly Dump Cart
• Agri-Fab Lawn Sweeper 44-Inch

Our Top Picks: Craftsman or a John Deere Riding Mower

When it comes to reliable, efficient riding mowers, Craftsman and John Deere are two of the top brands. Both offer high-quality mowers that will keep your lawn perfectly manicured for years to come.

If you’re looking for the best of the best, here are our recommendations:

Medium lawns (Residential)

For residential use on medium-sized lawns up to 2 acres, the Craftsman T225 19-HP Briggs & Stratton Gold Series 42-Inch Riding Mower is a great choice. It features a powerful 19-hp engine, a 7-speed transmission, and a tight 16-inch turning radius for easy maneuverability.

• CRAFTSMAN T2200K Turn Tight 42-in 20-HP V-Twin Riding Lawn Mower

“I’ve got a Craftsman T225, and let me tell ya, the extra-wide 42-inch mowing deck will cut down on your mowing time.” – Sam, follower of the website

Larger lawns (Private Properties)

For larger properties, the John Deere E150 48-inch, 24 HP V-Twin Lawn Tractor is ideal. Its 24 HP V-twin engine and 48-inch mowing deck will power through overgrown grass and weeds. It also comes with a hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control and tight turns. The high-back seat provides maximum comfort for long mowing sessions.

Hobby Lawn Enthusiasts (Small Option)

If budget is a concern but you still want a reliable rider, the Craftsman T110 17.5 HP Manual Gear 42-Inch Riding Mower is very affordable. It’s equipped with a 17.5-hp Briggs & Stratton engine, a 6-speed manual transmission, and a mid-size 42-inch deck.

While lacking some of the premium features of the other mowers, it will still get the job done for a fraction of the cost.

Final Word – Craftsman vs John Deere

A head-to-head comparison of two of the biggest names in riding lawn mowers At the end of the day, both John Deere and Craftsman machines make quality, durable riding mowers that should last you many seasons of yard work. It comes down to your priorities and needs.

If cutting-edge features, high performance, and premium quality are most important, John Deere is probably your best bet.

But if affordability and value are higher on your list, Craftsmen will do the job and save you some green. Whichever brand you choose, make sure to get out there and enjoy your new lawn mower.

In the end, you can’t go wrong with either Craftsman or John Deere. Compare models based on the size of your lawn, required features, and budget. Rest assured that whichever brand you choose, you’ll be rewarded with a durable, high-performance riding mower that will make mowing your lawn a breeze for years to come.

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