When comparing premium residential lawn tractors, two names consistently emerge at the top of the conversation: Husqvarna and John Deere. Both brands have earned reputations for durability, precision, and long-term value. In this detailed comparison between the Husqvarna TS 354XD vs John Deere X350, we examine all the essential aspects that matter to discerning homeowners, including engine performance, cutting capabilities, transmission quality, ride comfort, and overall value. These tractors are not just mowing machines—they’re versatile powerhouses built for serious property maintenance.
Contents
Differences Husqvarna TS 354XD vs John Deere X350
Engine Power and Performance
The Husqvarna TS 354XD is equipped with a Kawasaki FS730V engine, delivering 24 HP from a 726 cc V-Twin commercial-grade unit. This engine is designed to withstand extended use, featuring cast-iron cylinder liners, pressurized lubrication, and dual-stage air filtration. It handles thick grass, hilly terrain, and heavy-duty attachments with ease.
On the other side, the John Deere X350 comes with a Kawasaki FS600V, producing 18.5 HP from a 603 cc V-Twin. While this engine is efficient and reliable for residential mowing tasks, it lacks the raw power and torque of the FS730V in the Husqvarna, particularly noticeable when dealing with taller grass, hauling, or running ground-engaging attachments.
Winner: Husqvarna TS 354XD
With a higher horsepower engine, larger displacement, and commercial-grade components, the TS 354XD delivers more power for demanding yard work.
Cutting Deck Design and Capability
The TS 354XD features a 54-inch ClearCut fabricated deck made from 10-gauge welded steel, engineered for maximum durability and consistent cut quality across uneven terrain. The deck includes anti-scalp wheels and reinforced edges, ensuring reliable performance even in rugged conditions. The broader 54-inch deck is ideal for large properties, reducing mowing time considerably.
In comparison, the X350 offers two deck options: a 42-inch Edge™ deck or a 48-inch Accel Deep™ deck, both made from 12-gauge stamped steel. While John Deere’s stamped decks offer a quality finish and good airflow, they are not as rugged or impact-resistant as fabricated decks. The smaller width also means more passes on the lawn, increasing mowing time for larger properties.
Winner: Husqvarna TS 354XD
The fabricated 54-inch deck on the TS 354XD is wider, stronger, and better suited for tough terrain and high-volume mowing.
Transmission and Traction
The TS 354XD utilizes a commercial-grade Hydro-Gear K66 hydrostatic transmission, offering better torque output, superior hill-climbing ability, and longer service life than the residential-grade K46 found in many standard lawn tractors. This heavy-duty transmission also supports tow-behind accessories and ground-engaging tools like aerators or box scrapers without hesitation.
The John Deere X350 uses a Tuff Torq K46 hydrostatic transmission, suitable for flat to mildly sloped terrain and ideal for mowing applications only. It provides smooth acceleration and is maintenance-free, but it is not built to handle aggressive workloads or extended towing tasks.
Winner: Husqvarna TS 354XD
With a commercial-rated transmission, the TS 354XD is far more capable when towing, hauling, or working on hilly terrain.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Operator comfort is a clear strength of the TS 354XD. It includes a high-back seat with armrests, a rubber-isolated footrest area, and easily accessible controls. The heavy-duty chassis and wider wheelbase improve ride stability, especially when mowing uneven or bumpy ground.
The X350, while still comfortable, ships standard with a medium-back seat, though a high-back version is available as an upgrade. The operator station is well-designed and user-friendly, with smooth steering and a clear control layout. However, its lighter frame transmits more vibration, especially at higher speeds or when towing.
Winner: Husqvarna TS 354XD
The TS 354XD offers a smoother ride, better seating, and more comfort-enhancing features for extended mowing sessions.
Fuel Capacity and Runtime
The Husqvarna TS 354XD includes a 4-gallon fuel tank, offering excellent runtime for large acreages or all-day mowing tasks without frequent stops. Combined with its fuel-efficient Kawasaki engine, it supports high productivity and fewer interruptions.
The John Deere X350, with a 3.3-gallon fuel tank, is slightly more limited in range. While still suitable for most 1–2 acre properties, users with larger lawns may find themselves refueling more often, especially when using the 48-inch deck.
Winner: Husqvarna TS 354XD
The larger tank and more efficient power delivery make the TS 354XD the better choice for extended mowing sessions.
Build Quality and Structural Durability
Husqvarna equips the TS 354XD with a fully welded steel frame, cast iron front axle, and fabricated steel components throughout, prioritizing durability and strength for long-term ownership. The tractor’s 815-pound frame provides weight and traction, essential for ground-engaging work or heavy loads.
The X350, though also constructed with a welded frame and quality parts, is a lighter machine (around 580 lbs). This makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces but reduces its effectiveness in tough traction conditions. The use of stamped steel in its decks and lighter axles makes it less suitable for extreme workloads.
Winner: Husqvarna TS 354XD
The heavier-duty construction, rugged deck, and reinforced frame give the TS 354XD superior durability and long-term reliability.
Cutting Height Range and Precision Control
Both mowers offer cutting height adjustments within practical residential ranges. The TS 354XD has a range of 1.5 to 4 inches, managed via a fender-mounted lever that provides solid feedback and locking positions. The deck lift system is sturdy and easy to operate, even while seated.
The X350 offers a slightly broader range, from 1 to 4 inches, allowing for a lower cut when desired. Height is adjusted with a dial system positioned next to the seat, which is intuitive and offers precision but may not be as durable over long-term use in rugged environments.
Winner: Tie
Both models offer excellent cutting height control, with the X350 offering more precision at lower settings and the TS 354XD offering greater durability in its height control system.
Maneuverability and Turning Radius
Both the TS 354XD and X350 have a 16-inch turning radius, enabling tight cornering and maneuverability around trees, landscaping, and garden beds. The X350’s lighter frame offers a slight advantage in tighter residential spaces and around complex yard layouts.
However, the TS 354XD, despite its heavier build, remains responsive and easy to control thanks to its well-tuned steering system, especially at full speed or under load.
Winner: John Deere X350
For tight residential lawns, the X350’s lighter weight gives it a slight edge in maneuverability.
Quick Rundown Of Husqvarna TS 354XD
Quick Rundown Of John Deere X350
Conclusion
Choose the Husqvarna TS 354XD if you need a powerful, heavy-duty lawn tractor capable of handling large properties, hilly terrain, towing, and ground-engaging attachments. Its 24 HP engine, 54-inch fabricated deck, and commercial transmission make it a serious workhorse built for more than just mowing.
Choose the John Deere X350 if your lawn is relatively flat, under 2 acres, and your focus is on refined residential mowing with agility and ease of use. It offers quiet operation, excellent control, and a lighter footprint that’s perfect for homeowners with landscaped or fenced properties.
Overall Winner: Husqvarna TS 354XD
With its greater power, rugged build, and advanced transmission, the TS 354XD outclasses the X350 in nearly every performance category, making it the ideal choice for users seeking more capability, more durability, and long-term mowing efficiency on demanding terrain.