Searching for a new zero-turn mower is exciting. You can power through your lawn care projects with these robust tools, especially if you’re moving up from a traditional lawn mower.
John Deere provides a range of zero-turn mowers, including the Z300, Z500 and Z700 series.
Each series features its own individual models — 18 options in total. With three series and 18 models, you may find the decision complicated.
At RDO Equipment Co., we help customers across the U.S., from California to Montana, find the right zero-turn mower. We understand this is a significant decision, and stand ready to help you make it confidently.
After learning about each series and comparing the models, you can make an informed decision about which John Deere zero turn mower is right for you.
We’ve covered the essentials of zero-turn mowers, provided an overview of the different John Deere models, explained which models suit various users, highlighted price differences, and outlined key factors to consider when choosing your mower.
What Are the Different John Deere Zero-Turn Series?
John Deere designs several series of zero-turn mowers, each with its own size, specifications, capabilities and cost. Most companies choose the Z900 mowers for commercial purposes.
In this comparison, we focus on the other three series that serve a residential audience. These series include the Z300, Z500 and Z700 mowers.
Let's examine each series in detail.
Z300 Series
The Z300 series targets homeowners with smaller properties.
We typically recommend a 300 series mower to people who regularly mow between one quarter and two acres. These mowers offer affordability and efficiency, making them an excellent choice for anyone who wants to finish mowing quickly without overspending.
You can mow at speeds up to 7 miles per hour with a 300-series zero-turn, and enjoy as much as 24 horsepower.
These zero-turn mowers are the smallest in the lineup. As of 2025, you can choose from these eight options in the 300 series:
- Z320R
- Z320M
- Z315E
- Z330R
- Z330M
- Z325E
- Z380R Electric
- Z370R Electric
What Does a Z300 Series Zero-Turn Mower Cost?
The Z300 series typically costs between $3,200 and $4,100. Your final price will depend on the model number (for example, the 315 costs less than the larger 320) and the product tier (E is most economical, M is mid-range, R is premium).
On average, M series machines cost 14 percent more than E series machines, and R series machines cost 21 percent more. To compare the specific differences between these series, use our tractor builder.
The two electric models (Z380R Electric and Z370R Electric) cost more — around $8,500 to $9,000.
Z500 Series
The Z500 series suits homeowners who maintain medium-sized properties. If you have a property between two and five acres, you’ll likely find a Z500 mower matches your needs. In some situations, a 500 series will also handle six-acre properties effectively.
These mowers deliver more horsepower (up to 25 hp) and offer enhanced comfort features compared to the Z300 series, so you can tackle larger lawns and enjoy longer mowing sessions.
You can drive faster with the 500 series, reaching a top mowing speed of nine miles per hour.
Here are the Z500 models you can choose from:
What Does a Z500 Series Zero-Turn Mower Cost?
Like the Z300 series, the Z500 lineup offers a range of prices. If you choose this series, you can expect to pay $5,200 to $7,200, depending on your selected model. The Z515E represents the lowest-priced option, while the Z545R stands at the higher end of the price range.
Over the last five years, customers have purchased slightly more Z500 mowers (with the Z545R as the top choice) than Z300 series mowers.
Within the Z500 series, M series models cost about 10 percent more than E series mowers, and R series models cost about 22 percent more than their E series counterparts.
Z700 Series
The Z700 series targets large properties, typically ranging from 5 to 10 acres. These mowers handle heavy-duty tasks and deliver advanced features that maximize comfort and efficiency.
Within the 700 series, you can operate a mower that moves up to 10 miles per hour and produces up to 27 horsepower. These qualities make them ideal for people who regularly mow more than five acres but don’t need the extra power of commercial-grade 900 series mowers.
In addition to homeowners with extensive mowing requirements, businesses such as park districts, schools and other groundskeeping organizations (cemeteries, HOAs, etc.) often choose the 700 series zero-turn mowers. They may not mow 10 acres every day, but they consistently tackle large areas and rely on efficiency. For these users, the Z700 series proves to be an excellent fit.
John Deere currently offers six models in the Z700 Series:
- Z760R
- Z740R
- Z735M
- Z730M
- Z735E
- Z720E
What Does a Z700 Series Zero-Turn Mower Cost?
The Z700 Series includes two models in each of the E, M, and R tiers. Overall, customers pay between $7,500 and $11,000 for this series. The Z720E starts at the lower end of the price range, while the premium and highly capable Z760R commands the highest price.
Over the last five years, sales data shows that M series mowers cost around 12 percent more than E series machines, and R series machines cost about 39 percent more than E models.
What Should You Consider When Choosing Your Zero Turn Mower?
Making this choice isn’t easy. You want a mower that fits your needs so you won’t have to trade it in or sell it soon after buying.
We strongly recommend chatting with your local RDO representative, but as you search for a zero-turn mower, keep these four key considerations in mind.
Consideration 1) Property Size
Your property size plays a crucial role in choosing the right mower. If you have a smaller property, you can efficiently mow it with a Z300 series. For larger properties, you may want the power and features of the Z500 or Z700 series. To decide, simply ask yourself, “How much do I need to mow, and how quickly do I want to finish?”
For example, you can use a Z300 model to mow a five-acre property, but you won’t finish as quickly as you would with a Z500 or Z700 model. So, start by considering the size of your property, then move on to the next factors.
Consideration 2) Comfort and Features
Think about the comfort and features you want. Once you’ve determined how much you’ll mow and how much you’re willing to spend, focus on the features that matter most to you.
The Z500 and Z700 series provide advanced features and enhanced comfort, perfect for long mowing sessions and large properties. You’ll also see differences in features depending on whether you choose an E, M or R series model.
For instance, the Z530M gives you a 20-inch seat with ComfortGlide suspension, adjustable controls, rubber floor mats, a foot lift and premium control levers.
If you spend about $600 more, you can upgrade to the Z530R, which includes all those features plus LED lights, a rear hitch and a 22.5-inch seat.
Consideration 3) Durability and Warranty
The final consideration is durability. The Z500 series features a heavy-duty, reinforced deck and superior suspension, which the Z300 series lacks. These differences make a Z500 model more durable and, in turn, a better choice if you consistently mow larger areas of land. Using an underpowered machine too often on large properties can create mechanical issues.
Consideration 4) Budget
Each series offers prices that vary based on the product you select. We recommend that you evaluate your property size, consider durability and warranty, and decide on the comfort and features you want before you focus on the price. Once you’ve identified your needs, you can easily find the perfect machine within your budget.
Quick-Glance Comparison Table
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| 42-, 48- or 54-inch mower deck, 18-20 inch seats | 48-, 54- or 60-inch mower deck, 20-22.5-inch seats, tool-free seat slide | 48-, 54- or 60-inch mower deck, 21–24-inch seats, dial cut adjustments |
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| | 4-year/300-hour or 4-year/500-hour | |
Find Your Best-Fit Zero Turn Mower
Choosing the right zero-turn mower transforms the time and effort you spend on lawn care.
If you’re a business, the right purchase lets you accomplish more work much faster than with a traditional riding mower.
John Deere offers a range of zero-turn mowers to meet your needs, whatever they may be.
As you select your mower, consider your property size, the speed at which you want to mow, the level of comfort you require and your budget.
