Is Exmark Better Than John Deere?

Choosing the right lawn mower for your needs, whether you're a homeowner with a sprawling yard or a professional landscaper maintaining multiple properties, is a big decision. Two names consistently rise to the top of the conversation: Exmark and John Deere. Both are renowned for their quality, durability, and performance, but deciding which brand reigns supreme often boils down to specific needs and priorities.

This article dives deep into a head-to-head comparison of Exmark and John Deere lawn mowers, dissecting their strengths and weaknesses across various categories to help you make an informed choice. We'll explore everything from build quality and cutting performance to comfort, maintenance, and price, empowering you to confidently select the mower that best suits your unique requirements.

What Makes These Two Brands So Popular?

Exmark and John Deere have earned their reputations for good reason. Both companies have a long history of producing high-quality machines that are built to last. Here's a quick overview of what makes them stand out:

Exmark: Known for its focus on commercial-grade mowers, Exmark emphasizes cutting performance, speed, and durability. They are a favorite among professional landscapers who demand reliable machines that can withstand heavy use. Their innovation in cutting deck technology and overall mower design is highly regarded.
John Deere: A household name synonymous with quality and reliability, John Deere offers a wider range of mowers, catering to both residential and commercial users. They are known for their user-friendly designs, comfortable operation, and extensive dealer network. John Deere's reputation for longevity and resale value is also a significant draw.

Digging into the Details: Exmark vs. John Deere

Let's break down the comparison by examining key areas:

**Build Quality and Durability**

Exmark: Exmark mowers are built with heavy-duty components and robust construction, designed to withstand the rigors of daily commercial use. Their frames are typically thicker steel, and their engines are often commercial-grade, meaning they're designed for extended operation and higher workloads. They often feature reinforced decks and spindles to handle tough conditions.
John Deere: John Deere mowers offer a range of build qualities, depending on the model. While their commercial models rival Exmark in durability, their residential models are generally lighter-duty. However, even their residential models are known for their longevity when properly maintained. John Deere uses high-quality materials and precision engineering, contributing to their reputation for reliability.

**Cutting Performance**

Exmark: Exmark excels in cutting performance, often boasting superior cut quality and speed. Their cutting decks are engineered for optimal airflow and blade speed, resulting in a clean, even cut, even in challenging conditions like thick grass or wet lawns. Exmark also offers a variety of blade options to suit different cutting needs.
John Deere: John Deere mowers provide excellent cutting performance, with a focus on versatility. Their cutting decks are designed to handle a wide range of grass types and conditions. While they may not always match Exmark's top-end performance in demanding situations, they offer consistent and reliable cutting across various applications. John Deere also offers innovative features like mulch control systems, allowing users to easily switch between mulching, bagging, and side discharge.

**Comfort and Ergonomics**

Exmark: While Exmark prioritizes performance, they also pay attention to operator comfort. Their mowers often feature comfortable seats, adjustable controls, and ergonomic designs to reduce fatigue during long hours of operation. However, some users may find that Exmark's focus on performance means sacrificing some comfort features compared to John Deere.
John Deere: John Deere is known for its comfortable and user-friendly mowers. They often feature plush seats, intuitive controls, and smooth operation. John Deere prioritizes operator comfort, making their mowers a pleasure to use for extended periods. They also offer features like adjustable steering columns and suspension systems to further enhance comfort.

**Maintenance and Service**

Exmark: Exmark mowers require regular maintenance to keep them running at peak performance. Their service intervals are typically shorter than John Deere's, reflecting their focus on demanding commercial use. Exmark's parts can be readily available through their dealer network, but some users may find them to be more expensive than John Deere parts.
John Deere: John Deere mowers are known for their ease of maintenance and serviceability. Their service intervals are typically longer, and their parts are readily available through their extensive dealer network. John Deere also offers a wide range of service manuals and online resources to help users perform their own maintenance.

**Price and Value**

Exmark: Exmark mowers are generally more expensive than John Deere mowers, reflecting their focus on commercial-grade performance and durability. However, many users find that the higher price is justified by Exmark's superior cutting performance and long-term reliability in demanding applications.
John Deere: John Deere offers a wider range of mowers at various price points, catering to both residential and commercial users. Their residential models are generally more affordable than Exmark's, while their commercial models are competitively priced. John Deere's reputation for longevity and resale value also contributes to their overall value proposition.

**Which One is Quieter?**

Exmark: Generally speaking, Exmark mowers, especially their commercial-grade models, tend to be louder due to their powerful engines and high blade speeds. Noise levels can be a consideration for operators working in residential areas or for extended periods.
John Deere: John Deere often engineers their mowers with noise reduction in mind. While commercial models will still produce significant sound, their residential lines often feature quieter engines and mufflers, making them a preferable choice for noise-sensitive environments.

**Warranty Coverage**

Exmark: Exmark typically offers competitive warranty coverage on their mowers, providing protection against defects in materials and workmanship. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary depending on the model and application. Commercial warranties tend to be shorter due to the increased wear and tear of professional use.
John Deere: John Deere is known for its comprehensive warranty coverage, providing peace of mind to customers. Their warranties often extend beyond the industry standard, demonstrating their confidence in the quality and reliability of their mowers. Residential warranties are typically longer than commercial warranties.

**Zero-Turn Maneuverability**

Exmark: Exmark zero-turn mowers are designed for exceptional maneuverability and speed. Their responsive controls and precise handling allow operators to navigate tight spaces and obstacles with ease. Exmark's focus on performance translates to a highly agile and efficient mowing experience.
John Deere: John Deere zero-turn mowers also offer excellent maneuverability, with a focus on user-friendliness and comfort. Their controls are intuitive and easy to learn, making them a great choice for both experienced and novice operators. John Deere's emphasis on comfort ensures a smooth and enjoyable mowing experience, even in challenging conditions.

Making the Right Choice: Who Wins in Each Scenario?

So, which brand is better? The answer, as always, depends on your specific needs:

For the Professional Landscaper: Exmark is generally the better choice. Their mowers are built for demanding commercial use, offering superior cutting performance, speed, and durability. While they may be more expensive upfront, their long-term reliability and efficiency can save you money in the long run.
For the Homeowner with a Large Property: It's a closer call. If you prioritize performance and are willing to pay a premium, Exmark can be a great option. However, John Deere offers a wider range of mowers at various price points, making it easier to find a model that fits your budget and needs. Consider the size of your property, the type of grass you have, and your personal preferences when making your decision.
For the Homeowner with a Smaller Property: John Deere is often the better choice. Their residential mowers are more affordable, easier to use, and more comfortable than Exmark's. They also offer a wider range of features, such as mulch control systems and baggers, that can enhance your mowing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Exmark mowers faster than John Deere mowers? Generally, yes, Exmark mowers are designed for speed and efficiency, often outperforming John Deere in terms of mowing speed, especially in commercial applications.
Are John Deere parts easier to find than Exmark parts? Yes, John Deere has a more extensive dealer network, making parts readily available in most areas.
Which brand has a better resale value? Both brands hold their value well, but John Deere often has a slight edge due to its widespread recognition and reputation for reliability.
Are Exmark mowers more difficult to maintain? Exmark's commercial-grade mowers may require more frequent maintenance intervals due to the demands of heavy use.
Which brand offers more features on their mowers? John Deere often offers a broader range of features and customization options across their model lineup.

The Final Cut

Ultimately, choosing between Exmark and John Deere depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're a professional landscaper who demands the best possible performance and durability, Exmark is likely the better choice. If you're a homeowner looking for a reliable, comfortable, and affordable mower, John Deere offers a wider range of options to suit your needs. Carefully consider your budget, property size, and personal preferences before making your final decision.