Cub Cadet and Husqvarna are two of the best brands of zero-turn mowers you can buy. Both are top-of-the-line machines with affordable entry-level options.
Both handle hills and uneven terrain like a pro and are ideal for maintaining lawns over half an acre in size. But which one is best for you? Well, that depends on precisely what your needs are.
When it comes down to Cub Cadet vs. Husqvarna, think about your lawn and its needs. Are you an experienced operator or new? Is fuel efficiency important? Is your lawn hilly?
In this article, we’ll look at both brands, compare their features, and the pros and cons of each so you can be confident you’re choosing the best mower for your needs.
Expert Tips: Make sure you choose a mower that’s the right size for your lawn. A mower that’s too big can be hard to handle and damage the grass.
Contents
Engine
Both brands feature powerful motors. Husqvarna goes with a Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin, while Cub Cadet went with the Kohler 5400 Series. The difference? The Kohler uses electronic fuel injection instead of a carburetor, making it more fuel efficient if that’s important to you. With fuel prices today it sure makes a difference to me!
On the other hand, I’ve found that Briggs & Stratton offers a smoother ride. (Check out my article on the Briggs & Stratton engine if you’d like to learn more) Husqvarna also offers features like advanced debris management and full-pressure lubrication. Both engines are robust and have three-gallon tanks, allowing you to mow quite a big area before refueling.
Cutting Size
Size does matter when it comes to mowers. If your yard is over an acre, the Husqvarna’s 48-inch cutting deck is the way to go, while the Cub Cadet’s 42-inch deck would be ideal for a smaller yard.
Both cut very well, but Husqvarna’s 48-inch deck makes the job a little faster.
Safety
Of course, safety should be your top priority regardless of your choice of mower. If you’re a beginner, you may appreciate the Husqvarna’s added safety features:
- A safety switch under the deck can sense your weight and automatically stop the mower if you stand up or fall off.
- When the mower reverses, the cutting blades automatically disengage until the mower moves forward again.
This doesn’t mean the Cub Cadet is unsafe, far from it! It’s just that I would prefer those added features if I were new to using a mower or teaching someone else how to use it.
Ease of Use
I don’t know about you, but I want to be comfortable when I’m out riding a mower! Both brands offer excellent features, such as cruise control and adjustable seats.
Unfortunately, the Cub Cadet doesn’t have armrests, so if that’s important to you, go with the Husqvarna. Neither of them requires gear-shifting, so they’ll both give you an easy ride.
Maneuverability
A mower has to be easy to handle and steer, and the Husqvarna edges ahead here with its Tuff Torq K46 hydrostatic transmission and optimized steering system. Both can handle hilly terrain, but neither mower will do well or be safe to operate if your incline is more than 15 degrees.
The Husqvarna can reach higher speeds (7.4 mph vs. 5.5), but speed isn’t always what you need when you’ve got tough terrain. The Cub Cadet is a lot more responsive and easy to handle.
Fun Fact: The first Cub Cadet went on the market in 1961.
Verdict
When it comes down to Cub Cadet vs. Husqvarna, you can’t go wrong with a mower from either brand, but if safety and comfort are your top priorities, go with Husqvarna.
If you want a mower that’s fuel efficient and easy to handle, go with a Cub Cadet. Personally, I’ve found that the Husqvarna has better cutting performance, but both do a fine job. Both come with solid warrantees and are competitively priced.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How many hours will a Husqvarna zero-turn mower last?
In general, roughly 2000 hours, but that may vary depending on individual usage.
Is Cub Cadet Made in USA?
Yes, they’re manufactured in Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, and Mississippi, and all their parts are too.
Are there any disadvantages to a zero turn lawn mower?
A few. There’s a learning curve, they’re expensive, and they have no brakes. Check out my article on common zero-turn issues for more info!
Conclusion
Husqvarna and Cub Cadet offer some of the best zero-turn mowers in the industry. Their mowers provide reliability, safety, and ease of use. Neither is superior to the other; they are both equals in their class and hard to beat.
I hope this article helped you decide which brand is best for you and your lawn. The more you know, the better you’ll mow!
