Switching to a riding mower can be daunting if you are used to walking behind a mower. Plus, riding a mower is a challenging task because of its myriad controls that look confusing. Apart from this, most of them are bigger and more expensive than your walk-behind mowers.
Hence if you’re prepared to get one, there are two top-rated entry-level riding mowers to consider. One comes from the Cub Cadet and the second is from the Craftsman. In this article, we will compare the manufacturer and their models. We will also talk about which model gets the edge. To find out more about Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman, continue reading on.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: 10 Major Differences
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Deck Size Options
If we talk about a model from the cub cadet, it offers different deck sizes, with each of its models varying from 20 inches to 54 inches. On the other hand, Craftsman also gives you different size options ranging from 42 inches to 54 inches tag. With any of these two manufacturers, you will likely find the same deck you need to slice through an acre of turf in as few as 47 passes.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Turning Radius
When you look for a riding mower, you also need to look at the steering system, which must be optimized and responsive. In this area, a cub cadet is more versatile than a craftsman. Cub Cadet has an optimized steering system to give you an overall 16-inch turn radius.
On the other hand, most Craftsmen are likely to have a 6-inch turning radius of best-in-class quality. With Craftsman, blade EZ blade changing is easy. You need to swap out the blades using the magnetic-assisted installation. During the whole process, you don’t even need a tool. Let’s talk about Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman cutting speed.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Cutting Speed
The Cub Cadet model comes with a blazing speed of 5.5 miles per hour when moved forward. In reverse, it can give you an impressive rate of 3.2 miles per hour. Therefore, most of your Cub Cadet models are suitable for mowing even large lawns efficiently and quickly.
Regarding Craftsman, its pro series comes with an Elite class engine and consistent cut technology that can achieve a speed of up to 7.5 miles per hour.
When mowing two-acre land, the craftsman technology, and machine give you a consistently even cut and plenty of power. Besides this, the Craftsman also offers a free speed RPM of 20000, which is excellent for easy grinding and cutting. What about Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman longevity?
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Lifespan
All the riding lawnmowers from Cub Cadet manufacture have great features and durability. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep any Cub Cadet models working for at least 800 to 1000 hours.
If your riding mower was sitting in the garage the whole winter, replace the fuel and check all its components for wear and tear due to aging. Coming to Craftsman lifespan, they offer well-engineered mowers that last a very long time.
Each model and engine type offer different life calculations. Therefore, you should also consider the Craftsman model offerings to learn how long each will last under this brand.
As per reports of Craftsman riding over users, it is typically excellent for 8-10 years. Without proper maintenance, you can expect a Craftsman life expectancy of around 4-5 years.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Battery Longevity
The battery is manufactured by a Cub Cadet and has a shield with three year warranty period. According to most user reports and reviews, Cub Cadet batteries have lasted up to 6 years before needing replacement.
On the other hand, the Craftsman mower battery should last between 3-5 years before needing replacement. Tests have shown that the Craftsman battery wears out quickly if it has corrosion or is poorly maintained.
To achieve a long-lasting battery, you should perform regular maintenance. Keeping your battery quality and efficiency while preventing corrosion with a battery charger during winter is essential.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Power
Gasoline is essential to power rotary walk-behind lawnmowers. However, it should have a powerful horsepower engine for riding mowers. Most Cub Cadet mowers come with a 13- to the 30-horsepower engine.
Therefore, you are not only going to find a small-size mower only, but also one that is bigger and heavier for commercial duty. On the other hand, the Craftsman offers a 724 cc engine with 24 horsepower to mow any large plot area.
If you have been facing trouble cutting through tough, stiff grasses, a Craftsman model with 46 inches, 24 horsepower, and 724 cc engine is the one you need that has all the easy solutions for all the setbacks you’re facing.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Cutting Width
It is essential to correctly measure the flattest and widest part of the blade. To learn the width of your mower blade properly, consider measuring from edge to edge. Different size lawns need extra width of blade mowing. According to the rule of thumb, below is the proper size required for a particular lawn area.
- Get a 28-35 cm cutting width model if you have a smaller lawn.
- With medium long, 35-40 cm cutting blades is perfect.
- In the case of a medium to a large garden, you should look at 40 cm upwards blades with a width of 105 CM for a ride on a mower.
Most of the Cub Cadet model comes with a cutting width of 42 inches and a strong Kohler engine. Some Cub Cadet models also offer a spectacular 50-54 inches cutting width, making the commercial work easier.
Apart from that, you will likely have a beautiful garden when you mow your lawn using one of the Cub Cadet’s riding mowers. It is essential to consider the cutting needed to keep your yard maintenance proper and fresh.
If you like multiple options, then a Craftsman might be more accessible. A Craftsman mower comes with 46-inch cutting width and eight different cutting positions, which gives you apparent versatility and options. If you are looking for a perfect mower for your lawn, this combination is a tricky proposition and has many choices.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Fuel Capacity
On average most mower models come with a fuel tank size of 24 gallons. It entirely depends upon their mower size and how big their engine is. To give you a rough idea, a medium-sized riding mower will only hold fuel up to gallons. The more extensive movers suitable for significant commercial work can hold energy between 3-4 gallons.
Interestingly the Cub Cadet comes with slightly greater fuel capacity than the Craftsman. The Craftsman only has 3 gallons of fuel capacity, whereas the Cub Cadet comes with 3.5 gallons of fuel capacity.
Therefore, a Cub Cadet is a more flexible and comfortable option. Both manufacturers’ mowers can be used for a more extended period if you keep them on proper cleaning and maintenance. Do note that Craftsman users have reported their engine consuming 1 gallon of fuel for one hour.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Safety Switches
We all know how vital a safety switch is for precautions and prevention. In this area, a Cub Cadet thoroughly beat a Craftsman. Almost all Cub Cadet mower models have four safety switches giving you ultimate protection.
As switches are essential to blocking rotatory blades from turning, it is an important and immediate factor to consider when getting a new riding mower. Coming to the Craftsman only offers two safety switches that indicate vulnerability.
A Craftsman model is less efficient in stopping undesired events that might arise while you operate the mower. Because most safety switches represent ultimate protection and shield from danger, the Cub Cadet has an advantage over Craftsmans. This might not be a massive difference in mechanical parts and performance, but it can still put your health and life at risk.
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Cutting Heights
Most Cub Cadet riding mower has a broad cutting range of 1½” to 3½”. I have researched many styles and models of tractors and mowers. After so much experience, I can confidently say there is no standard to find the blade height for each adjustment setting on every Cub Cadet model.
A Craftsman gains a more significant advantage when considering blade height adjustability than Cub Cadet. Most Craftsman mower comes with enhanced alterable cutting heights. Therefore, you will likely find almost all Craftsman models offering as far as 6-7 cutting heights.
Why Choose Craftsman?
There can be many reasons why you should choose a Craftsman mower over other manufacturers’ products. Even though Craftsmans offer many similar features, some are very enhanced.
They provide a range of lawnmowers, outdoor gear, and power tools to ease your gardening and commercial work. Once, Craftsman was a sub-brand of Sears, but now, they are entirely independent while producing some of the best products. They began their journey in 1927 and started out producing mowers in China.
People think Craftsman products are manufactured in the USA, which needs to be validated. Most of the lawnmowers from different manufacturers are produced in China but assembled in the USA. Some key specs and patents make a Craftsman stand out from its competitor. They offer robust, durable, powerful, and reliable riding mowers. Below are a few best Craftsman mowers to choose from.
Best Craftsman Riding Mowers
- Craftsman M250: this model is suitable for small to medium size flat lawns with slight inclines and slopes.
- Craftsman M110: People with more than a quarter (1/4) acres of lawn don’t like emptying their pocket on a lawn mower but need a powerful mower to keep up with the property.
- Craftsman T110: If you have 2 acres of lawn to mow, the craftsman T110 can save you a lot of time.
- Craftsman Z5800: It’s not only for your residential usage but also for businesses. This has a commercial-grade engine.
Why Choose Cub Cadet?
Cub Cadets are better for people with low budgets. They offer a small-size riding mower with several accessory kits to make your yard or lawn mowing experience more enjoyable. They provide excellent quality products at reasonable rates.
Use any Cub Cadet model if you want a durable mower with excellent resale value. Most Cub Cadet models are also suitable for running on rough terrain and withstanding turbulent weather.
Lastly, riding mowers manufactured by the Cub Cadet is more reliable for the first two years. If you encounter any issue, replacement parts can be easily purchased or exist from their online or offline Store. Below are a few best models of Cub Cadets to consider and enjoy your mowing experience.
Best Cub Cadet Riding Mowers
- Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 Zero Turn Mower: This mower is ideal for residential use because of its sizeable 50-inch deck size that covers more ground in less time.
- Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT: Best electric riding mower to handle lawns up to 2 acres.
- Cub Cadet 30 in 56-Volt MAX 30 Ah: This one will only take up a little space in your garage or shed.
Craftsman T210 Vs. Cub Cadet Xt1
Both models are suitable for mowing a lawn of less than 1 acre with a cutting width of up to 42 inches. Both run on the same 18-horsepower gas engine and hydrostatic transmission. The only difference is the engine and the price of both models. However, Cub Cadet Xt1 has been accepted more by people than Craftsman T210.
Craftsman Vs. Cub Cadet Snow Blower
As per suggestion and research, it is better to go for cub cadet blowers. Even though craftsman blowers have similar features, built, and warranty, I need to be more confident about recommending one. The availability and the feature sets vary from model to model. And the cub cadet blower outweighs the Craftsman.
- Also Read:
- Cub Cadet Vs Husqvarna: 7 Major Differences
- John Deere 100 Vs. 200 Series
- 5 Differences Between Ego Vs Greenworks Mower
Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman: Conclusion
Ultimately, both manufacturers are great at manufacturing and assembling terrific riding mowers. Both of them have their top spot in the pack. Do note that most of the models coming from these manufacturers can easily exceed $3000.
If you want a less expensive model, go with the Cub Cadet riding mowers. Other than this, if you’re looking for a model that is easier to steer and more reliable, you can look at Craftsman Pro series models.
Whatever model from Cub Cadet Vs Craftsman you choose, keeping it on proper care is essential. With good care and maintenance, your riding mower will last for a prolonged period. Do check our other articles on mower problems, till then take care and goodbye.
Hi, This is Evan, A Gardener and Writer with Vast Experience in Gardening. I Usually Write practical and valuable guides on various gardening topics. In this Blog, I try to cover many gardening topics, from lawn care to vegetable gardens. This Blog offers practical gardening advice for a variety of plants.
