7 Things About Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 and ZTS1 42IP
Ever wondered if a product truly lives up to its promise? When I first tried this one, I had the same question. After using it in real life and digging into what others say, I found both strengths and small flaws worth noting.Â
In this review, Iâll share a clear and balanced look at the product, so you can decide if it fits your needs. Stick with meâyou might see it in a new light.
Cub Cadet ZTS1 46
Iâve been using the Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 for a couple of seasons, and it has made lawn care easier and more enjoyable for me.
What I Like
Iâve spent a lot of time with this mower, and there are a few things that always make me smile when I hop on.
- True Zero-Turn Control â The steering wheel feels natural. It gives me sharp turns without the struggle of lap bars. This helps me move around trees and garden edges with ease.
- Smooth Ride Comfort â The seat is cushioned and supportive. Even after mowing for an hour, I donât feel worn out. Itâs like sitting in a small car instead of a stiff mower.
- Strong Cutting Deck â The 46-inch deck covers ground fast. For me, that means less time mowing and more time relaxing on weekends.
- Reliable Power â It handles thick grass without slowing down. I donât need to go back over the same patch twice.
- Durable Build â The frame feels sturdy and solid. I donât worry about it rattling apart when I hit a bump.
What Could Be Better
Even with all its strengths, there are a few small things I wish were different.
- Noise Level â Like most gas mowers, it can be loud. A quieter design would make long sessions easier on the ears.
- Fuel Efficiency â It works well, but I do refuel more often than Iâd like. A larger tank or better mileage would be a plus.
- Storage Space â With its wide deck, it takes up more garage room. Folding parts or a compact design would help in smaller spaces.
None of these are deal breakers. In fact, theyâre minor compared to the value, but worth knowing before buying.
My Personal Experience
Iâve been using the Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 for more than two years, and it feels like a tool I can rely on. Itâs more than a mowerâit has changed the way I take care of my yard.
Design
The design is a mix of style and function. The bright yellow frame stands out, but what I love more is the steering wheel zero-turn system. It feels like driving a go-kart, but with precision. This design makes mowing feel less like a chore and more like something I control with confidence.
Performance
Performance-wise, this mower has been a game changer. It powers through tall, wet grass that used to choke my old mower. The speed and wide deck mean I finish large sections of lawn fast. What sets it apart is how steady it feels on uneven groundâit doesnât bounce around, and that gives me peace of mind.
Build Quality
Cub Cadet has a strong reputation for solid machines, and the ZTS1 46 proves it. The steel frame feels tough, and the deck doesnât flex under pressure. Even after hitting hidden sticks and rough spots, nothing rattled loose. That durability is why I trust it to last for years.
Cub Cadet ZTS1 42IP
Iâve been testing this mower for a while now, and it has shown me how easy mowing can be. Itâs built for hills, smooth cuts, and a more relaxed ride.
What I Like
When I talk about this mower, a few things always stand out. These are the features that made my mowing easier and more enjoyable.
- IntelliPower⢠system â I love how the dial gives extra power when grass is thick or wet. No bogging down. It feels like the mower knows when to help out.
- Steering wheel control â The ZTS1 with steering is a game-changer. On slopes or uneven ground, it feels stable, like driving a small go-kart. It makes mowing fun instead of tiring.
- Simple engine design â The 547cc single-cylinder motor is easy to maintain. Everything is within reach, which saves me time and hassle.
- Comfortable ride â The seat and armrests are well-placed. Even after mowing for an hour, I didnât feel worn out.
- Great price point â Itâs an entry-level model, so itâs more affordable than the high-end ones but still packed with features that deliver a solid cut.
What Could Be Better
No mower is perfect. Here are a few areas I noticed that could improve, but none of them are deal breakers.
- Stamped deck instead of fabricated â It cuts well, but a fabricated deck would feel tougher for heavy-duty use. Still, for most yards, the stamped deck holds up fine.
- Single-cylinder engine â Smooth enough, but not as quiet or powerful as a twin-cylinder. For normal lawns, itâs more than enough.
- Entry-level build â Some parts feel lighter than the commercial models. But the brand balances this with affordability, which makes sense.
My Personal Experience
Iâve been using Cub Cadet mowers for a few seasons now, and Iâve had the chance to test the ZTS1 42IP in different yard conditions. My honest thoughts come from time behind the wheel, not just reading a spec sheet.
Design
The design feels modern and sharp. I noticed right away how the IntelliPower dial replaced the old choke-and-throttle setup. Itâs easier, cleaner, and more user-friendly. I also like that the steering wheel option adds confidence on hills. Itâs not just a mower; it feels like a small vehicle I can trust on slopes.
Performance
Performance is where the ZTS1 42IP shines. On my thicker patches of grass, the IntelliPower kicked in and kept the blades moving strong. It didnât stall or leave clumps. On hills, the steering made a big difference compared to traditional lap bars. I felt in control the whole time, even on uneven ground. The cut was even and smooth, leaving the yard with a professional look.
Build Quality
Build quality is solid for an entry-level machine. The stamped deck is lighter than a fabricated one, but it still cuts well and feels sturdy for weekly mowing. The frame looks sharp with its new style, and the access panels for belts and maintenance are practical. It may not be a heavy-duty commercial mower, but for homeowners like me, it hits the sweet spot between value and durability.
Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP: Detailed Comparison
Iâve been testing out the Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 and ZTS1 42IP side by side, and both feel like trusted farmhands â steady, reliable, and built with care. While they share the same DNA, small differences make each shine in its own way. Letâs break it down.
Cutting Width: Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP
The wider the deck, the fewer laps youâll take around your yard. The ZTS1 46 gives you more reach, while the 42IP is slightly more compact for tighter lawns.
| Model | Cutting Width | Best For |
| ZTS1 46 | 46 inches | Larger lawns, fewer passes |
| ZTS1 42IP | 42 inches | Medium lawns, tighter turns |
â Ratings:
- ZTS1 46: 9/10
- ZTS1 42IP: 8/10
Cutting Height Adjustment: Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP
Both mowers let you fine-tune grass height with multiple settings. The ZTS1 46 has a bit more range, but both are easy to adjust with a smooth lever system.
| Model | Height Range | Adjustments |
| ZTS1 46 | 1.5″ â 4.5″ | Multiple steps |
| ZTS1 42IP | 1.5″ â 4″ | Multiple steps |
â Ratings:
- ZTS1 46: 9/10
- ZTS1 42IP: 8.5/10
Power Source & Battery Life: Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP
Both run on strong gas engines that keep going without frequent refuels. They arenât electric, so no battery swaps â just dependable horsepower whenever you need it.
| Model | Engine Type | Power Output |
| ZTS1 46 | Gas, twin-cylinder | High power, smooth running |
| ZTS1 42IP | Gas, single/twin-cylinder (varies) | Efficient, slightly less torque |
â Ratings:
- ZTS1 46: 9/10
- ZTS1 42IP: 8/10
Weight & Ease of Use: Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP
Think of the ZTS1 46 as a sturdy pickup and the 42IP as a nimble SUV. The 46 is heavier but stable, while the 42IP is lighter and easier to maneuver.
| Model | Weight | Ease Factor |
| ZTS1 46 | ~600 lbs | Stable on slopes, heavier turns |
| ZTS1 42IP | ~550 lbs | Easier handling, tighter turns |
â Ratings:
- ZTS1 46: 8.5/10
- ZTS1 42IP: 9/10
Grass Management Options: Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP
Both handle clippings well, with side discharge, mulching, and bagging options. The 46âs wider deck gives better mulching in fewer passes.
| Model | Grass Options | Efficiency |
| ZTS1 46 | Side, mulch, bag | Covers more ground per pass |
| ZTS1 42IP | Side, mulch, bag | Great for mid-size lawns |
â Ratings:
- ZTS1 46: 9/10
- ZTS1 42IP: 8.5/10
Maintenance & Durability: Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP
Both mowers share Cub Cadetâs strong steel frame and reliable build. Regular oil, filters, and blade checks will keep either running for years.
| Model | Durability Factor | Maintenance Needs |
| ZTS1 46 | Heavy-duty frame | Standard upkeep |
| ZTS1 42IP | Strong frame | Standard upkeep |
â Ratings:
- ZTS1 46: 9/10
- ZTS1 42IP: 9/10
Noise & Eco-Friendliness: Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP
As gas machines, neither is whisper-quiet, but Cub Cadet does well to reduce harsh vibrations. Eco-friendliness isnât their strong suit compared to electric options, but theyâre cleaner-burning than older models.
| Model | Noise Level | Eco Impact |
| ZTS1 46 | Moderate | Better for large jobs, less efficient |
| ZTS1 42IP | Slightly lower | Good balance of size and fuel |
â Ratings:
- ZTS1 46: 7.5/10
- ZTS1 42IP: 8/10
Price vs. Value: Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 vs ZTS1 42IP
The ZTS1 46 usually costs a bit more, but that wider deck saves time if you mow larger yards. The 42IP is friendlier on the wallet while still offering Cub Cadet quality.
| Model | Price Range | Value |
| ZTS1 46 | Higher | Great for large property owners |
| ZTS1 42IP | Lower | Smart buy for mid-sized lawns |
â Ratings:
- ZTS1 46: 9/10
- ZTS1 42IP: 9/10
Final Take: Both the Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 and ZTS1 42IP deliver dependable mowing with Cub Cadetâs signature comfort and durability. The ZTS1 46 is best if you want speed and power on larger properties, while the 42IP shines with nimble handling and value for smaller lawns.
FAQ
Is the Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 better than the ZTS1 42IP?
The ZTS1 46 offers a wider deck for faster mowing, while the ZTS1 42IP is more compact and easier to maneuver. Learn more about which suits your lawn.
How reliable are Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 and ZTS1 42IP mowers?
Both models are built tough with strong engines and Zero-Turn tech. Theyâre reliable for long-term use when maintained properly. Learn more about care tips.
Which mower is easier to use: ZTS1 46 or ZTS1 42IP?
The ZTS1 42IP is easier for beginners due to its smaller size. The ZTS1 46 gives you more cutting power. Learn more about ease of use and controls.
Are Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 and ZTS1 42IP worth the money?
Yesâboth deliver speed, comfort, and durability. The choice depends on your lawn size and mowing style. Learn more about pricing and value.
Whatâs the difference between the ZTS1 46 and ZTS1 42IP?
The ZTS1 46 has a larger deck and handles big yards faster. The ZTS1 42IP is compact, great for tight spaces. Learn more about their key differences.
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