John Deere’s 100 Series makes up one of our most popular, budget-friendly mower lineups. Here’s the quick rundown: the S100 is the best budget pick at 17.5 HP. The S120 steps up to a 22 HP engine and offers cruise control for operator comfort. The S130 runs the same engine as the S120, but gets a front bumper, full fender flares, and bulkier rear tires for only a small step up in cost.
All three lawn tractors feature a 42-inch deck, hydrostatic transmission, and the same warranty. That means the differences are narrow—read on to learn which mower best suits your needs.
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Comparing the Specs
| Feature | S100 | S120 | S130 |
| Horsepower | 17.5 HP | 22 HP | 22 HP |
| Deck Width | 42″ | 42″ | 42″ |
| Cruise Control | No | Yes | Yes |
| Front Bumper | No | No | Yes |
| Fender Flares | Standard | Standard | Fuller coverage |
| Rear Tires | 20×8-8 | 20×8-8 | 20×10-8 |
| Cutting Height | 1-4″ | 1-4″ | 1-4″ |
What is the Difference Between the S100 and S120?
The engine is the biggest difference. The S100 uses a 500 cc, 17.5 HP engine, while the S120 uses a 724 cc, 22 HP engine. For a small price increase, that engine displacement more than pays for itself.
So what does that power actually buy you? In thick spring grass or on a sizable slope, the S100 bogs down, and you’ll lose ground speed. The S120 will hold deck speed and keep cutting evenly. If your lawn is flat and under half an acre, you might not notice the difference. If you have hills or get behind on maintenance, you’ll notice the difference every week.
The S120 also adds cruise control, a must-have comfort feature for operators planning to mow for multiple hours a week.
What About the S120 and 130?
These two models feature the same engine, deck, and transmission. With the small increase in cost, the S130 offers three bonus features:
- A front bumper
- Fuller fender flares
- Wider rear tires
Wider rear tires are the most noticeable benefit while mowing. More contact area means better traction on damp turf, and less rutting on soft ground. In the Northeast, where the ground doesn’t always cooperate, this bonus is absolutely worth the upgrade.
John Deere 100 Series Acreage Guide
All three mowers run a 42-inch deck, so cutting capacity is identical. The practical limit becomes time and engine load.
| Under half an acre, flat | S100 |
| Up to 1 acre | S120 |
| 1 to 2 acres, or hills and soft ground | S130 |
| Over 2 acres | Size up to a 48″ or 54″ deck |
Over 2 acres, deck width will save you more time than horsepower. The S140 offers a 48” deck on the same 22 HP engine. The S180 jumps up to a 54” deck. Browse the full lawn tractor lineup now.
Which is the Best John Deere Lawn Tractor for the Money?
For most Northeast properties, the S130 offers the best value. You’ll benefit from a more powerful engine, cruise control, better traction, and more for only about $500 more than the S100. If your lawn is smaller and flatter than the average Northeast property, the S120 may be a better fit.
See Them Side By Side
Specs don’t always answer your real questions. Stop by your local United Ag & Turf to compare each model side by side, and hop in the driver’s seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the S130 worth the upgrade over the S120?
If you mow on slopes or soft ground, yes. The wider 20×10-8 rear tires improve traction and reduce rutting. On flat, dry lawn, the S120 is the better value.
Do the S100, S120 and S130 use the same engine?
No. The S100 uses a 500 cc, 17.5 hp engine. The S120 and S130 both use a 724 cc, 22 hp engine.
Which 100 Series lawn tractors have cruise control?
Cruise control is available on the S120 and S130.
Can 100 Series lawn tractors pull a cart or spreader?
Yes. All three have a rear hitch and can handle a lawn cart, spreader, or plug aerator. Match the load to the tractor and keep speeds low on slopes.
