High grass mowers vs ride-on mow: what are the differences?

As the name suggests, a high grass mower mainly cuts tall meadows. When does it make sense to purchase one? When is another piece of equipment appropriate? And what is the difference to the ride-on mower?

In meadows, orchards or other areas that are rarely mowed, grass and wild flowers can quickly sprout half a meter or more in height. A classic lawn mower is then no longer sufficient, and powerful lawn tractors sometimes reach their limits. So, what actually is the difference between a ride-on mower and a high grass mower?

Construction of high grass mowers

High grass mowers are also known as meadow mowers, tall grass cutters, all-terrain mowers or brush cutters. Compared to a classic lawn mower, a high grass mower features a more powerful engine and extra-large rear wheels to help move the heavy equipment through rough terrain. Some models have only one front wheel for smooth maneuvering.

Different cutting widths and power classes are available on the market. There are also three different cutting systems with bar mowers, flail mowers and rotary mowers:

  • Bar mowers have a blade system that is free-standing in front of or next to the unit. Two counter-rotating blades cut the grass at a desired height as if like scissors. This helps provide a very clean cut, similar to a rotary mower, which heals well.
  • A flail mower is more suitable for overgrown areas. Small flails whack off brush and branches like a hammer. Usually, the final cut is correspondingly unclean. Alternatively, there are now flail mowers with so-called Y-blades, which finely chop the trimmings and deposit them across the entire cutting width.
  • A rotary mower has several blades that rotate on a horizontal disc. This design is used primarily in gardening and landscaping.

How a ride-on mower works

A classic riding mower is intended for regular lawn cutting. As a generic term, it summarizes all lawn mowers where you sit on the device during operation and do not push it by hand. Thus, in addition to mini riders, lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers are also included in the scope of ride-on mowers as well as ride-on tall grass mowers.

However, when talking about a ride-on mower, one usually assumes a compact mini rider or a versatile lawn tractor. Both are suitable for very clean cut, large lawns depending on the cutting width of several thousand square meters.

However, they can also have problems with the mower deck becoming clogged if the grass is too tall. Smoking belts or bent blades can also result. In other words, the design of the machine sets limits to the height of the lawn or meadow at some point.

Comparing high grass mowers and ride-on mowers

Both high grass mowers and ride-on mowers are equipped with different cutting widths, cutting heights and comfort features. A wide wheelbase can ihelp avoid tipping  on slopes and inclines for both variants, although high grass mowers are particularly designed for tilt resistance and off-road maneuverability. Moreover, the models are available with various comfort features allowing the operator to work several hours.

Although most high grass mowers are hand-operated, there are also models among ride-on mowers that are designed primarily for professional use.

Regarding lawn tractors, the focus is usually on a clean-cut pattern, while high grass mowers are constructed primarily for good off-road mobility, even on steep slopes. Accordingly, the design differs significantly from one another. This leads to a different arrangement of the mower deck, which can clog up more quickly on lawn tractors.

The range of accessories for lawn tractors is significantly larger then high-grass mowers, allowing for the devices to be used for numerous jobs around the house and garden all year round. The field of application for a high grass mower, on the other hand, is limited to cutting meadows. For some ride-on mowers, there are even optional retrofittable high grass cutting decks, which are located on the side of the device to  help avoid clogging.

A mulching kit is rather uncommon on tall grass mowers because the clippings would take too long to decompose due to their mass. For this reason, mulching is not recommended.

Similarities and differences between high grass mowers and ride-on mowers

The highgrass mower:
Ideal for areas that are mowed only 1-2 times a year and where grass can be left on the ground

The ride-on mower:
Ideal for regular mowing and versatile use around the house and garden.

Both have:

  • different cutting widths
  • central height adjustment
  • several forward and reverse gears


The high-grass mower:

  • rotary, bar mower or flail mower
  • partial differential with lock
  • extra large rear wheels
  • partially only one front wheel
  • off-road capability at the forefront
  • inconsistent cutting pattern
  • mostly for pushing (also as ride-on mower)
  • particularly robust mower
  • clippings simply remain lying

The ride-on mower:

  • accurate cutting pattern, especially on models with oscillating mowing deck
  • can be retrofitted with side or rear discharge, mulching kit and grass catcher
  • extensive range of accessories

High grass mowers or ride-on mowers: which device is suitable?

Before purchasing a riding mower or high grass mower, it is advisable to analyze the condition of the meadow or lawn. Some lawn tractors can be equipped with a special mowing deck for tall grass but may also reach their limits with blade lengths of 60-150 cm. Bar mowers are particularly appropriate if the clipping are to be turned into hay, as the stalks retain their full length and are not severely shredded. If you value an accurate cut, regular mowing with a lawn tractor may be a better option than a high grass mower. This can then be used directly for other tasks throughout the year, such as clearing snow or transporting garden material. Furthermore, it makes it easier to collect grass clippings by adding a grass catcher or installing a mulching kit. Both designs have their advantages and disadvantages, so a careful comparison is advisable.