John Deere S100 vs S120: Which Lawn Tractor is Right for You?

The John Deere S100 and S120 are two of the most popular lawn tractors in the market. These two models are designed to provide homeowners with an efficient and reliable way to maintain their lawns. In this article, I will provide an overview of the John Deere S100 and S120 lawn tractors, and compare their performance, features, and technology.

The John Deere S100 and S120 lawn tractors are both designed to provide homeowners with an efficient and reliable way to maintain their lawns. The S100 is equipped with a 17.5 horsepower engine, while the S120 has a more powerful 22 horsepower engine. Both models are designed to provide excellent performance and capabilities, making them ideal for homeowners who want to maintain their lawns with ease.

Overall, the John Deere S100 and S120 lawn tractors are both excellent choices for homeowners who want an efficient and reliable way to maintain their lawns. These models are designed to provide excellent performance, features, and technology, making them ideal for homeowners who want to maintain their lawns with ease. In the following sections, I will provide a more detailed comparison of these two models, and answer some frequently asked questions about them.

Key Takeaways

• The John Deere S100 and S120 are two of the most popular lawn tractors in the market, designed to provide homeowners with an efficient and reliable way to maintain their lawns.
• The S120 has a more powerful engine than the S100, but both models are designed to provide excellent performance and capabilities.
• These models are designed to provide excellent performance, features, and technology, making them ideal for homeowners who want to maintain their lawns with ease.

Overview of John Deere S100 and S120

As a lawn tractor enthusiast, I have had the opportunity to use the John Deere S100 and S120 models. These two models are part of the John Deere 100 series, which is known for its excellent quality and performance. In this section, I will provide an overview of the John Deere S100 and S120, highlighting their design and build quality, as well as their engine specifications.

Design and Build Quality

The John Deere S100 and S120 are well-built lawn tractors designed for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. Both models are built with a welded steel frame that provides excellent strength and durability. The S100 and S120 also feature a 42-inch Edge Mower Deck that provides a smooth and even cut, making it easy to maintain your lawn.

One of the differences between the S100 and S120 is their seat design. The S120 features a more comfortable seat with a high-back design, while the S100 has a standard seat. The S120’s seat is adjustable, making it easy to find a comfortable position while mowing.

Engine Specifications

The John Deere S100 and S120 are equipped with powerful engines that provide excellent performance. The S100 is powered by a 17.5 horsepower engine, while the S120 has a 22 horsepower engine. Both models feature a V-twin engine design, which provides smooth and efficient power delivery.

The S100 and S120 also feature a hydrostatic transmission, which provides smooth and precise control of the lawn tractor’s speed. The S120 has a maximum forward speed of 5.5 mph, while the S100 has a maximum forward speed of 5.5 mph.

In conclusion, the John Deere S100 and S120 are excellent lawn tractors that provide excellent quality and performance. While the S120 has a more powerful engine and a more comfortable seat, the S100 is a great option for homeowners with smaller yards who are looking for a quality lawn tractor.

Performance and Capabilities

When it comes to mowing and cutting efficiency, the John Deere S100 and S120 are both capable machines, but they have some differences that should be considered.

Mowing and Cutting Efficiency

The S100 is equipped with a single-cylinder engine, which consumes less fuel than the S120’s V-twin double-cylinder engine. This means that the S100 requires less frequent fuel refilling, making it a good choice for those who want to save money on fuel. However, the S120’s double-cylinders run smoother and are more efficient for tougher tasks in the yard.

Both the S100 and S120 come with adjustable cutting height ranges from 1.5 to 4 inches, which allows you to customize your mowing experience to your liking. Additionally, both models come with a 42-inch cutting deck, which is perfect for mowing small to medium-sized lawns.

Comfort and Ease of Use

The John Deere S100 and S120 are both designed with comfort and ease of use in mind. Both models come with a comfortable high-back seat, which is adjustable to fit your height. Additionally, the S100 and S120 both feature a hydrostatic transmission, which allows for smooth and easy operation.

The S120 has a higher horsepower than the S100, which means that it has more power to handle tough jobs. The S120 also has a slightly faster maximum speed than the S100, which can be beneficial if you need to get your mowing done quickly.

In terms of fuel economy, the S100 is the more efficient of the two models, thanks to its single-cylinder engine. However, the S120’s V-twin engine is more powerful, which can be beneficial for tougher tasks.

Overall, the John Deere S100 and S120 are both excellent options for those in need of a reliable and efficient lawn mower. When choosing between the two, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences, as both models have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Features and Technology

When it comes to features and technology, the John Deere S100 and S120 have many similarities. Both models come equipped with innovative systems that make mowing easier and more efficient.

Innovative John Deere Systems

One of the most notable systems is the Easy Change 30-second oil change system. This feature allows me to easily change the oil without having to drain it from the bottom of the engine. Instead, I can simply twist off the old oil-filled filter and twist on a new one. This system is not only convenient but also helps to ensure that the engine is always running with clean oil.

Another system that I appreciate is the MowerPlus app. This app allows me to connect my smartphone to the mower and keep track of maintenance schedules, fuel levels, and other important information. It also provides tips and tricks for mowing and helps me to optimize my mowing performance.

Deck and Cutting Options

Both the S100 and S120 offer a variety of deck and cutting options. The cutting height can be adjusted from 1.5 to 4 inches, giving me the flexibility to choose the perfect height for my lawn. Additionally, both models offer bagging and mulching capabilities, allowing me to choose the best option for my grass clippings.

The operator station is designed for comfort and ease of use. The seat is adjustable and provides a smooth ride, even on rough terrain. The fuel gauge is easy to read and helps me to keep track of fuel levels during mowing. The cruise control feature allows me to maintain a consistent speed while mowing, reducing fatigue and ensuring a more even cut.

Finally, the headlights on both models are bright and provide excellent visibility in low light conditions. This is especially important for me, as I sometimes need to mow in the early morning or late evening hours.

Overall, the John Deere S100 and S120 are both excellent choices for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient mower. With their innovative systems and versatile cutting options, they make mowing easier and more enjoyable.

Durability and Maintenance

When it comes to durability and maintenance, both the John Deere S100 and S120 are built to last. The frames of these mowers are made of heavy-duty steel, which ensures that they can withstand the rigors of regular use. Additionally, the engines are designed to be powerful and reliable, so you can count on them to start up every time you need to mow your lawn.

Service Intervals and Owner Support

John Deere offers excellent owner support for both the S100 and S120 models. The company provides a comprehensive warranty for both mowers, which covers any defects in materials or workmanship. This warranty is valid for two years or 120 hours of operation, whichever comes first.

In terms of service intervals, John Deere recommends that owners change the oil and oil filter every 50 hours of operation. This ensures that the engine stays lubricated and runs smoothly. The fuel tank on both models is also large enough to hold plenty of fuel, so you won’t have to stop and refill it as often.

Overall, the John Deere S100 and S120 are both excellent choices for homeowners who want a durable and reliable lawn mower. With regular maintenance and proper care, these mowers will last for many years and provide you with a beautiful lawn.

Comparative Analysis

When comparing the John Deere S100 and S120, it is important to consider their similarities and differences. Both models belong to the 100 Series of John Deere lawn tractors, which are designed for residential use. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

Other Models in the 100 Series

Before diving into the comparison between the S100 and S120, it is worth noting that there are several other models in the 100 Series that are also worth considering. These models include the S110, S130, S140, S160, S170, and S180. Each of these models has its own set of features and capabilities, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Comparison to Higher Series

In addition to the 100 Series, John Deere also offers the 200 Series, X300 Series, X500 Series, and X700 Signature Series. These series are designed for more heavy-duty use and are typically used by commercial landscapers and large property owners. While the 100 Series is suitable for residential use, those with more demanding needs may want to consider one of the higher series.

When comparing the S100 and S120, one of the most notable differences is the engine power. The S100 is equipped with a 17.5 horsepower engine, while the S120 has a 22 horsepower engine. This difference in power can make a significant impact on the tractor’s ability to handle challenging mowing tasks. However, it is important to note that not everyone needs that much power, and the S100 may be more than sufficient for some users.

Another key difference between the S100 and S120 is their weight. The S100 weighs in at 436 pounds, while the S120 weighs 460 pounds. This difference in weight may not be significant for some users, but it is worth considering if you plan to transport the tractor frequently or have limited storage space.

In terms of size, the S100 and S120 are very similar. Both models have a cutting width of 42 inches and a turning radius of 18 inches. They also have the same fuel tank capacity of 2.4 gallons.

Overall, the John Deere S100 and S120 are both excellent options for residential use. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Those who need more power may want to opt for the S120, while those who don’t need as much power may find the S100 to be a better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences in specifications between the S100 and S120 models?

The John Deere S100 and S120 models have several differences in specifications. The S120 has a more powerful engine with 22 horsepower, while the S100 has a 17.5 horsepower engine. The S120 also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 2.4 gallons, compared to the S100’s 1.9 gallons. Additionally, the S120 features a V-twin engine, while the S100 has a single-cylinder engine.

What types of attachments are available for the John Deere S100 and S120?

Both the S100 and S120 models have a range of attachments available, including baggers, carts, and snowblowers. The attachments are designed to be easily installed and removed, making it easy to switch between tasks.

How does the weight of the S100 compare to the S120, and how does it affect performance?

The S120 model is heavier than the S100, weighing in at 490 pounds compared to the S100’s 436 pounds. The additional weight of the S120 can provide better traction and stability, especially on uneven terrain. However, it can also make the S120 more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

What are some common issues reported with the John Deere S120?

Some common issues reported with the John Deere S120 include problems with the engine, such as oil leaks and difficulty starting. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the transmission, such as difficulty shifting gears or the transmission failing altogether.

Can the John Deere S100 accommodate the easy change oil system?

Yes, the John Deere S100 can accommodate the easy change oil system. This system allows for quick and easy oil changes without the need for draining the oil or replacing the filter.

Who manufactures the engine for the John Deere S120 and what are its capabilities?

The engine for the John Deere S120 is manufactured by Briggs & Stratton. It is a V-twin engine with 22 horsepower and a displacement of 724cc. The engine features an overhead valve design, which provides improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.