When it’s time to pick the perfect zero-turn mower, brands like Ariens and Gravely often come to mind.
This article takes a close look at both, so you can decide which suits you best. We’ll explore their benefits, drawbacks, and differences, helping you make a confident choice.
Whether you’re a homeowner or managing a business, understanding these options will make lawn care a breeze.
Let’s dive in and compare Ariens vs Gravely zero turn mowers to find out which one is your ideal match.
Ariens Zero Turn Mowers Review
Ariens zero-turn mowers have been around since 1933. They’re made by the Ariens Company, a family-owned business.
These mowers let you control where you cut your grass very precisely. The company has been making them for a long time, and they’ve changed them to work well today.
They’re good for homes and businesses that do landscaping. But, they might cost more than some others, and they need some careful looking after because they’re a bit complex.
If you like tradition mixed with new ideas, Ariens mowers could be a great choice for taking care of your lawn.
Advantages of using Ariens zero turn mowers
- Ideal for Residential Use: Ariens zero-turn mowers are perfect for taking care of your home’s lawn. They work well in smaller spaces and tight corners.
- Affordable: These mowers are priced reasonably, making them a good choice if you’re looking for quality without breaking the bank.
- Easy to Drive: Ariens mowers are designed to be simple to operate. You can learn how to drive them without too much trouble.
Disadvantages of using Ariens zero turn mowers
- Not Great for Big Business: These mowers might not work very well for big companies or places that need a lot of mowing.
- Don’t Last Very Long: Some people say these mowers might not stay working for a very long time.
Gravely Zero Turn Mowers Review
Gravely zero-turn mowers have been around for a long time and are known to be reliable helpers for taking care of lawns.
They’re made by the Gravely Company, a company that’s well-known for making outdoor tools.
These mowers are strong and can handle different types of grass and places where the ground is bumpy.
People like them because they’re tough and can do hard work in small yards or big spaces. However, they might cost a bit more than other mowers. And, like cars, they need to be checked and taken care of sometimes.
To sum up, Gravely zero-turn mowers are made by a company that’s been around for a while. They’re strong and can be useful for keeping your lawn nice, although they might need more money and attention.
Advantages of using gravely zero turn mowers
- Comfy Seats: These mowers have comfortable seats, so you can feel cozy while you mow.
- Great for Big Business: Gravely mowers work well for big companies or places that do a lot of mowing.
- Turns Everywhere: They can turn all the way around, which is super helpful when you need to go in tight spaces.
Disadvantages of using gravely zero turn mowers
- Costs More: These mowers might be a bit expensive compared to some others.
- Tough on Slopes: They could be a bit hard to use on hills or slopes.
Ariens Vs Gravely Zero Turn: Head-to-Head Comparison
1. Commercial or Residential Use
For picking between Ariens and Gravely mowers, where you plan to use them makes a big difference.
Ariens mowers work great in smaller areas, like homes and yards. They’re easier on your budget and cozy to ride, perfect for residential use.
On the other hand, Gravely mowers are strong and tough, making them perfect for bigger jobs like business landscaping.
They can handle a lot more and are versatile for various tasks. If you’re a homeowner, Ariens might be your buddy.
But if you’re managing a business or handling a large yard, Gravely’s robustness could be a better choice.
Verdict: Gravely wins for commercial use, while Ariens takes the prize for residential lawns.
2. Engines
Ariens mowers can have different engines, and it’s important to know. The Apex, Zenith, and IKON mowers have engines from a brand called Kawasaki and Kohler engines.
The Edge mowers can have Briggs & Stratton or Kawasaki engines. The Briggs & Stratton engine has 20hp power, while the Kawasaki engines can be from 21.5 to 24hp, depending on the model.
Now, talking about Gravely mowers, they’re quite powerful, especially the commercial mowers.
They also use Kawasaki engines like Ariens, but they make their own engines too. The Gravely Pro-Turn 600 is super strong, with a huge 38.5 horsepower.
So, if you want more power, Gravely’s Pro-Turn 600 is way ahead with its big 38.5hp engine. But for regular mowing, Ariens offers engines that work well too.
Verdict: Gravely emerges as the winner with its more powerful lineup of engines.
Related read: Kohler engine vs Honda engine.
3. Durability
When it comes to lasting power, both Ariens and Gravely are no push mower. Gravely mowers are often recognized for their tough build, designed to withstand rough conditions and heavy use.
This makes them a strong choice for big yards and demanding tasks. Most Ariens mowers also hold up well, though some users say Gravely might have a slight edge in this department.
Both brands want their mowers to stay strong for a long time, which is good news for you.
Verdict: Gravely slightly takes the lead in durability.
4. Cutting Deck Size and Efficiency
In the world of mowers, the size of the cutting deck matters for quick and efficient mowing. Gravely machines tend to have bigger cutting deck widths, usually between 34 and 72 inches.
This is wider compared to their rivals, which helps get more done in less time. These wide decks are often used in business settings where large areas need trimming.
Ariens mowers, on the other hand, are designed with homeowners in mind. They also have large cutting deck diameters that make mowing faster.
Additionally, Ariens mowers are known for their sturdy build. They come with a tubular frame that adds strength and lets them handle bumpy ground.
Verdict: Gravely’s mowers generally have larger cutting decks.
5. Maneuverability and riding comfort
When it’s time to steer your mower around, both Ariens and Gravely offer smooth rides. Their mowers are built to turn sharply, letting you navigate around obstacles with ease.
This is particularly handy in smaller spaces. As for comfort, both brands have your back.
They design their mowers with comfortable seats, so your back and body feel good even during longer mowing sessions. This makes mowing less of a chore and more of a comfortable ride.
Verdict: Both Ariens and Gravely excel in maneuverability, allowing you to navigate tricky spots smoothly.
6. Performance
When it comes to how well these mowers get the job done, both Ariens and Gravely offer solid performance.
Gravely mowers often come with more power, making them great for handling tough grass and larger areas. They can tackle demanding tasks without breaking a sweat.
Ariens mowers also deliver good performance, especially for standard lawn care. They might not have as much power as Gravely in some cases, but they’re reliable for most home needs.
Verdict: Gravely’s extra power gives it an edge in performance for heavy-duty tasks
7. Price
Price plays a big role in your decision, and both Ariens and Gravely have options to fit different wallets. Ariens mowers are often kinder on your budget, which is good news if you’re watching your spending.
They give you good value without draining your wallet, which is great for folks with regular yards. Gravely mowers might be a bit pricier, but they bring the power for tougher jobs.
For instance, an Ariens Apex 48 costs around 5,800 dollars, while a similar Gravely ZTH HD 44 is around 12,500 dollars. This difference reflects the extra muscle Gravely mowers pack.
Verdict: Ariens takes the lead in affordability.
8. Speed
Speed matters when you’re trying to get your mowing done quickly. Ariens and Gravely both offer choices, but there’s a bit of a difference.
Ariens mowers usually go at a top speed of eight miles per hour. This should work well for most needs, from homes to smaller businesses.
Gravely mowers have more options. Some models also move at eight miles an hour, like Ariens, but Gravely’s fastest zero-turn can zoom up to 15mph. That’s super speedy!
However, for most regular mowing, eight miles an hour is already quite fast. The 15mph Gravely might be overkill unless you’re handling really large spaces or heavy-duty commercial work.
Verdict: Ariens and Gravely both offer good speeds.
9. Warranty
Warranty is like a promise from the brand to fix things if they go wrong. Ariens and Gravely both offer warranties, but there are differences.
Ariens zero-turn mowers usually have warranties ranging from 2 to 4 years or 150 to 750 hours of use. That means they’ll help if there’s a problem during that time.
Gravely zero-turn mowers, on average, come with warranties lasting 4 to 5 years and covering 500 to 1500 hours of use. Gravely’s warranty is often longer, which can be helpful.
Verdict: Gravely seems to have a better warranty.
10. Safety
Safety is a big deal when it comes to using these mowers. Both Ariens and Gravely care about keeping you safe.
Ariens mowers usually have safety features like seat sensors that pause the blades if you leave the seat. They also include shields to prevent debris from flying around.
Gravely also focuses on safety, with similar seat sensors and blade pause functions. They might also have additional safety features depending on the model.
Verdict: Both brands prioritize your safety.
11. Maintenance and Upkeep
Taking care of your mower is important to keep it running well. Both Ariens and Gravely know this.
Ariens mowers might need a bit more attention due to their intricate design. Regular check-ups and cleaning are important to keep them in top shape.
Gravely mowers aim to make maintenance simpler. They often have features that make it easier to access important parts for cleaning and upkeep.
Verdict: Gravely gets a slight edge in maintenance ease with their design features.
12. Environmental Impact
Caring for the environment is a growing concern, and both Ariens and Gravely are taking steps to reduce their impact.
Ariens is working on eco-friendly features in their mowers. This could mean engines that produce fewer emissions or designs that use less fuel.
Gravely is also joining the movement with a commitment to a greener future. They might be using materials that are better for the environment or developing mowers that are more efficient.
Verdict: Both brands are making efforts to be eco-friendlier. Ariens is focusing on features, while Gravely is looking ahead to a greener path overall. It’s good to see them caring for the planet.
13. Replacement Parts and Availability
Sometimes, parts of your mower might need replacing, and both Ariens and Gravely have you covered.
Ariens usually offers replacement parts for their mowers, and you can often find them through their authorized dealers.
Gravely also provides replacement parts, and they might have a wider availability due to their strong dealer network.
Verdict: Both brands offer replacement parts.
Comparison Table: Gravely Vs Ariens Zero Turn
| Aspect | Gravely Zero Turn Mowers | Ariens Zero Turn Mowers | Verdict |
| Commercial or Residential Use | Strong and tough for business | Cozy and affordable for homes | Gravely for commercial use, Ariens for residential lawns |
| Engines | Powerful, including Gravely-made | Reliable, Kawasaki-based | Gravely with more power options |
| Durability | Tough build, withstands rough conditions | Durable, might be slightly less | Gravely slightly takes the lead in durability |
| Cutting Deck Size and Efficiency | Larger decks for business settings | Wider decks and sturdy builds | Gravely for larger decks |
| Maneuverability and Riding Comfort | Sharp turns, comfortable seats | Smooth rides, comfy seats | Tie, both excel in maneuverability and comfort |
| Performance | Powerful for tough tasks | Reliable for standard needs | Gravely for heavy-duty tasks |
| Price | Pricier for robustness | Affordable, value for money | Ariens takes the lead in affordability |
| Speed | Variable speeds, up to 15mph | Up to 8mph | Tie, depends on the task |
| Warranty | Longer coverage, 4-5 years | 2-4 years | Gravely seems to have a better warranty |
| Safety | Focus on safety features | Safety features in place | Tie, both prioritize safety |
| Maintenance and Upkeep | Features for simpler upkeep | Might need more care | Gravely gets a slight edge in maintenance ease |
| Environmental Impact | Commitment to green future | Eco-friendly features | Tie, both brands are eco-conscious |
| Replacement Parts and Availability | Replacement parts, strong dealer network | Replacement parts, availability through dealers | Tie, both offer replacement parts |
What are the Differences Between Gravely Vs Ariens Vs Husqvarna Features?
Gravely, Ariens, and Husqvarna zero-turn mowers have differences in their cutting edge features. Gravely has strong engines for tough jobs, while Ariens is affordable and good for homes.
Husqvarna has smart tech like air induction for better cutting and comfy designs. Ariens has strong frames, Husqvarna cuts well, and Gravely turns well in big spaces.
Gravely’s Pro-Turn 600 is fastest. Husqvarna is easy to fix. Each brand has things they’re really good at, from power to comfy cutting.
Want to learn more about how Gravely compares to different options? Here’s another guide on Gravely vs Hustler comparison to further explore your choices.
Comparing Specific Models
1. Gravely zt hd vs ariens apex- 50 words
The Gravely ZT HD is known for its durability and powerful engine choices. It’s great for bigger yards and even commercial use.
On the other hand, the Ariens Apex is designed with a focus on comfort and ease of use. It’s ideal for homeowners who want a smooth ride and reliable performance.
2. Ariens ikon xd 52 vs gravely ztx 52 – 50 words
The Ariens IKON XD 52 stands out with its wide cutting deck and comfortable seating. It’s a good choice for mowing larger areas quickly.
The Husqvarna Z254 is known for its air induction technology that gives a precise cut. It’s great for those who want a well-groomed lawn.
Best Gravely models
Gravely ZT HD
The Gravely ZT HD is a favorite for its sturdy build and powerful engines. It’s great for both residential and commercial use, offering reliability and performance. With a range of cutting deck sizes, it suits various needs.
Gravely Pro-Turn
The Gravely Pro-Turn series is designed for professional landscapers. With high-speed mowing and strong engines, it’s a top choice for heavy-duty tasks. It’s built to handle long hours of work while delivering exceptional results.
Gravely Compact Pro
The Gravely Compact Pro is compact yet powerful. It’s perfect for maneuvering in tight spaces, making it a great option for landscapers who need precision. Despite its size, it doesn’t compromise on performance and durability.
Best Ariens Model
Ariens IKON
The Ariens IKON is a popular choice for homeowners. With its comfortable seating and reliable cutting performance, it’s great for maintaining residential lawns. It’s designed for ease of use and delivers consistent results.
Ariens Zenith
The Ariens Zenith offers a balance of power and comfort. It’s suitable for larger yards and provides a smooth ride. Its features make it a versatile option for homeowners who want efficient mowing.
Ariens Apex
The Ariens Apex is known for its durability and performance. It’s designed to handle tough tasks while still providing comfort for the operator. It’s a good choice for those who need a reliable mower for both residential and light commercial use.
Ariens Edge
The Ariens Edge is a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. It’s ideal for basic mowing needs and offers simplicity in operation. It’s perfect for homeowners who want a reliable mower without extra frills.
Are there mowers you should steer clear of? Check out our article on the worst zero turn mowers to avoid and identify them.
FAQs
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Conclusion
When considering whether to choose Ariens or Gravely zero-turn mowers, it’s essential to assess your individual requirements and priorities. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
When to Pick Ariens:
- Residential Use: If you have a smaller yard at home, Ariens mowers are a solid choice. Their affordability and ease of use make them great companions for homeowners.
- Maneuverability: Ariens mowers excel in tight spaces and navigating around obstacles, making them perfect for smaller residential lawns.
- Value for Money: If you’re looking for a reliable yet budget-friendly option, Ariens offers a balance between performance and cost.
When to Pick Gravely:
- Commercial and Large Yards: For substantial yards or commercial landscaping, Gravely mowers with their durability and powerful engines are designed to handle demanding tasks.
- Heavy-Duty Work: If your mowing tasks involve tough grass, uneven terrain, or extensive areas, Gravely’s robustness and extra power give them an advantage.
- Speed and Efficiency: Gravely’s ability to cover ground quickly is well-suited for commercial use, allowing you to finish large projects efficiently.
Remember, think about what your yard needs and how much mowing you have. That will help you pick the right mower, whether it’s Ariens or Gravely.