For homeowners seeking professional-level results in their yard, zero-turn mowers offer unmatched speed, maneuverability, and cutting efficiency. Among the most popular models in the residential ZTR category are the Husqvarna Z248F vs Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1. Both mowers cater to mid-sized properties and combine high-performance engines, strong cutting decks, and ergonomic operator features—but they differ significantly in construction, comfort, and overall mowing capability.
In this in-depth comparison between the Husqvarna Z248F vs Cub Cadet ZT1, we evaluate every critical category to determine which zero-turn mower delivers the most value, durability, and cutting precision for your investment.
Contents
Differences Husqvarna Z248F vs Cub Cadet ZT1
Engine Power and Performance
The Husqvarna Z248F is powered by a Kawasaki FR691V engine, a 23 HP, 726 cc V-Twin unit designed for commercial-grade reliability. It features cast-iron cylinder liners, dual-stage air filtration, and pressurized lubrication, ensuring optimal performance over time. The engine runs cooler and quieter than many alternatives, with excellent torque output that maintains blade speed even through thick grass.
The Cub Cadet ZT1, depending on configuration, is available with either the 22 HP Kohler 7000 Series or a 23 HP Kawasaki FR series engine. While both engines are solid choices for residential mowing, the Kohler 7000 is slightly less refined under load and tends to produce more vibration at high RPMs. The Kawasaki option, when available, brings performance closer to the Z248F, though it’s not always standard across ZT1 models.
Winner: Husqvarna Z248F
With a more consistent engine offering and commercial-grade Kawasaki performance, the Z248F edges ahead in power delivery and operational smoothness.
Cutting Deck Size and Material Strength
The Z248F features a 48-inch ClearCut fabricated steel deck built from 10-gauge steel. Fabricated decks are welded from multiple steel pieces, offering superior strength and resistance to flexing compared to stamped decks. This deck is designed to handle rougher mowing conditions, includes anti-scalp wheels, and delivers excellent grass lift and uniform discharge.
The Cub Cadet ZT1 comes with a 50-inch stamped steel deck, crafted from 11-gauge steel. Stamped decks are lighter and often better for airflow, which can improve bagging and fine-cut appearance on flat lawns. However, they are less durable, especially on uneven ground or near hard edges and obstacles. The ZT1’s deck also lacks the reinforcement present in Husqvarna’s fabricated design.
Winner: Husqvarna Z248F
While the ZT1 offers slightly more width, the Z248F’s fabricated construction ensures longer life, superior durability, and better performance in challenging terrain.
Transmission and Drive Quality
The Husqvarna Z248F is equipped with the Hydro-Gear ZT-2200 transmission, a higher-end hydrostatic system in the residential segment. It provides smooth and responsive control, excellent speed modulation, and better long-term durability under repeated use and variable terrain. It also handles light towing tasks with greater reliability.
The Cub Cadet ZT1 uses the Hydro-Gear EZT transmission, a slightly lighter-duty unit. It performs well on flat residential lawns but isn’t designed for slopes, extended sessions, or heavy loads. Under stress or prolonged runtime, EZT systems are more likely to wear out earlier than ZT-2200 units.
Winner: Husqvarna Z248F
With a more robust and serviceable transmission, the Z248F outperforms the ZT1 in traction, durability, and resistance to heat and load degradation.
Speed and Productivity
In terms of speed, the Cub Cadet ZT1 has a slight edge, capable of reaching 7.0 mph, while the Z248F tops out at 6.5 mph. On paper, this makes the ZT1 marginally faster over open terrain, particularly on long straightaways.
However, the Z248F’s better transmission and deck strength allow it to maintain speed and blade consistency across varied conditions, even if its top-end speed is slightly lower.
Winner: Cub Cadet ZT1
If raw top speed is the focus, the ZT1 is marginally faster, making it ideal for flat, obstacle-free yards.
Cutting Height Range and Adjustability
The ZT1 offers a cutting height range from 1″ to 4.5″, adjusted via an easy-to-use foot pedal and knob. This allows for slightly lower minimum cutting heights, which may appeal to users who want manicured finishes or mow regularly at tight trims.
The Z248F, on the other hand, provides a 1.5″ to 4″ cutting range. While it doesn’t reach as low or high, the mechanical deck lift system is extremely durable, and height adjustments are reliable and solid-feeling.
Winner: Cub Cadet ZT1
With more range in cutting height, the ZT1 allows for greater flexibility, especially for users who adjust frequently or prefer ultra-low mowing.
Frame Structure and Build Quality
The Husqvarna Z248F is built on a welded tubular steel frame, designed to absorb shocks and reduce vibration transmission to the seat and controls. This heavy-duty frame is paired with reinforced caster mounts and a durable front axle, increasing stability on slopes and bumpy terrain.
The ZT1 features Cub Cadet’s distinctive 2″x2″ square tubular frame, powder-coated for corrosion resistance. It is visually impressive and strong, but some users report slightly more frame flex under heavy operation compared to Husqvarna’s design. The ZT1 is lighter and easier to handle manually, but it doesn’t match the Z248F’s long-term structural integrity.
Winner: Husqvarna Z248F
Thanks to reinforced structural components and a more resilient welded frame, the Z248F delivers better durability under frequent or heavy mowing conditions.
Operator Comfort and Ergonomics
The Z248F comes equipped with a high-back seat with built-in suspension springs, which absorbs impacts and reduces operator fatigue during long sessions. The seating position is upright and supportive, and all controls are within easy reach. The footrest is rubberized, and the vibration is minimized across the platform.
The ZT1 includes a high-back seat with armrests and open-frame cockpit design. While the styling is more modern and arguably more comfortable for shorter sessions, the ZT1 lacks integrated suspension in the seat, which becomes noticeable over time on rough ground.
Winner: Husqvarna Z248F
With a suspension seat and smoother ride mechanics, the Z248F excels in long-term comfort and operator fatigue reduction.
Fuel Capacity and Runtime Efficiency
Both mowers feature a 3.5-gallon fuel tank, which provides enough runtime for most 1 to 3-acre properties. Their engines are fuel-efficient under moderate load, but the Kawasaki FR691V in the Z248F typically runs cooler and more efficiently than the Kohler 7000 in most ZT1 models.
When configured with the Kawasaki engine, the ZT1 matches the Z248F in efficiency, but fuel tank placement and gauge visibility are slightly better in the Husqvarna.
Winner: Husqvarna Z248F
Equal capacity, but more efficient engine management and slightly better ergonomics give the Z248F an edge for fuel-conscious users.
Maneuverability and Handling
The ZT1’s lighter frame gives it a slight edge in tight yard layouts and smaller gates. Its open front end and ergonomic lap bars allow for smooth zero-radius turns, and the 7 mph top speed lets it cover straight distances quickly.
The Z248F, while heavier, feels more planted during operation, with less wobble at high speeds. Its steering is precise and smoother during pivots thanks to better traction and weight distribution.
Winner: Tie
The ZT1 is more agile in tight spaces, but the Z248F offers greater stability and smoother turning under load.
Quick Rundown Of Husqvarna Z248F
Quick Rundown Of Cub Cadet ZT1
Conclusion
Choose the Husqvarna Z248F if you prioritize durability, engine consistency, and long-term performance. It’s the better choice for larger, uneven yards, heavier mowing sessions, or users who value build quality and transmission strength over flashy design and speed. Its fabricated deck, Kawasaki engine, and commercial-grade transmission make it a zero-turn mower that delivers professional results for residential users.
Choose the Cub Cadet ZT1 if you want a stylish, fast, and easy-to-maneuver mower that performs well on flat terrain and in smaller yards. Its lighter frame, adjustable height range, and modern cockpit make it appealing to homeowners looking for agility and aesthetics, though it may lack the ruggedness for more intense use.
Overall Winner: Husqvarna Z248F
With its stronger frame, superior engine consistency, fabricated deck, and tougher transmission, the Z248F proves to be the more durable, high-performance machine for users who expect serious cutting power and long-term reliability from their residential zero-turn mower.