Most riding lawn mowers come in different designs, sizes, and qualities and they each vary in specifications and functionality. Some of these functions will help you with your lawn needs, so you need the most reliable riding mower, and John Deere 100 series has some of the most reliable ones in the market.
The John Deere S100 and S120 are affordable and reliable riding mowers with some similar features including a 42″ edger mower deck, a two-pedal hydrostatic transmission, and a two-wheel drive. The difference is in their engines with the S100 having a 17.5 HP engine and the S120 has a 22 HP V-Twin engine and they both have different additional features.
Table for the differences between John Deere S100 and S120
| Model | John Deere S100 | John Deere S120 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 17.5 HP engine | 22 HP V-Twin engine |
| Transmission | Hydrostatic | Hydrostatic |
| Deck | 42” edge mower deck | 42” edge mower deck |
| Availability | Check price | Check price |
John Deere S100 vs S120. How do they compare?
Engine
The S100 has a 17.5 HP engine which is a one-cylinder engine with plenty of power to handle mowing, mulching, and bagging. However, the S120 has a 22 HP V-Twin engine with plenty of power and torque, lower vibration, and improved sound quality than the S100.
The S120 has a more powerful and more efficient engine.
Additional features
The S100 has a wide and spacious operator station to increase your comfort when operating the lawn tractor. The comfortable seat helps to cushion you from the vibrations and bumps when mowing and the easy-to-use dashboard displays all the info you need. The S120 has an Easy Change 30-second oil change system that saves you time and you avoid making a mess when changing the oil.
John Deere S100 vs S120. A comparison review
John Deere S100
- Durable Construction: Designed to withstand tough outdoor environments, ensuring reliable performance.
- Enhanced Performance: Delivers high-efficiency filtration, helping your lawnmowers run smoothly.
- Fits Models: JohnDeere 100 Series Tractor - S100 S140 E100 E140 D100 D110 D130 D140 D105 D125 LA145 LA135 X120 X140 X125 X145 X165 X155R X135R X105 X115R X330 X126 X166 X146R X166R 107H 107S 92H Lawn Mower Deck. Z200 & Z300 Series - Z235 Z255 Z335E Z355E Z335M Z345M Z345R Z355R Zero Turn Mower.
The S100 lawn tractor is an affordable 42″ deck model that is comfortable to ride. It features enhanced styling, side-to-side foot pedals, an 11″ adjustable back seat, and adjustable controls. The 42” two-blade edge has a deep deck design and a manual PTO blade engagement for superior performance and even cuts. The cutting height ranges from 1” to 4” in ¼” increments.
Pros
- Smooth operation
- Adjustable controls
- Easy to operate
Cons
- A bit loud when cutting very tall grass
John Deere S120
- PUSH TO CREATE BUBBLES: No batteries needed! Simply push to unleash a stream of bubble - keep the back wheels on the ground for maximum bubble power.
- REV UP THE FUN: Mechanical sounds with every push add excitement and bring pretend play to life.
- LEARN THROUGH PLAY: Encourages kids to walk, push, and use their imaginations while developing coordination and confidence through outdoor play.
A lawn tractor that’s similar to the S100 with many similar features except for the 22 HP V-Twin engine with a cylinder design for lower vibration, greater torque, and better sound quality. The cylinder liners are made with cast iron for longer engine life. It also features a 30-second oil change system that’s quick, easy, and clean, a comfortable large pedal surface, and a deep deck design that lifts grass for a clean, even cut.
Pros
- Comfortable and reliable
- Easy to use
- Quality build
Cons
- The belt might snap off
Verdict. So, which is better?
The S120 is a better lawn tractor because it has a more powerful engine with cast-iron cylinders for longer life.
FAQ
Is the John Deere 100 series any good?
These are very affordable lawn tractors that come in a wide range of deck sizes that can handle mowing different pieces of land.
What brand engine does John Deere use?
They mostly make the engines in these machines but for those that need less horsepower 100hp and below the engines are from Kawasaki, Brigg & Stratton, and Yanmar.