When it comes to maintaining a mid-sized lawn, a rear engine riding mower offers the perfect balance between power, maneuverability, and price. Two popular options in this category are the Cub Cadet CC30 and the Troy-Bilt TB30R. Both mowers are compact, user-friendly, and engineered for small to medium-sized lawns. But which one should you invest in?
In this detailed comparison, we’ll examine their features, performance, build quality, pros and cons, and give you a complete breakdown to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of Each Mower
🔶 Cub Cadet CC30 H
- Type: Rear-engine riding mower
- Deck Size: 30 inches
- Engine: 382cc Cub Cadet OHV
- Transmission: Hydrostatic
- Drive Type: Rear wheel
- Fuel Capacity: 1.3 gallons
- Cutting Height: 1.5″ to 4″
- Weight: Approx. 340 lbs
- Warranty: 3 years limited
🔴 Troy-Bilt TB30R
- Type: Rear-engine riding mower
- Deck Size: 30 inches
- Engine: 382cc Troy-Bilt OHV
- Transmission: 6-speed manual (Shift-on-the-Go)
- Drive Type: Rear wheel
- Fuel Capacity: 1.3 gallons
- Cutting Height: 1.5″ to 4″
- Weight: Approx. 340 lbs
- Warranty: 2 years limited
1. Engine and Power
Both the Cub Cadet CC30 and Troy-Bilt TB30R feature a 382cc OHV engine, providing comparable performance for residential mowing. However:
- Cub Cadet CC30 uses its proprietary engine with slightly smoother operation and quieter performance.
- Troy-Bilt TB30R’s engine is reliable but tends to be noisier and requires more frequent maintenance checks.
🏆 Winner: Cub Cadet CC30 for smoother and quieter performance.
2. Transmission and Control
One of the biggest differences is in the transmission type:
- Cub Cadet CC30 comes with a hydrostatic transmission, allowing you to control speed easily with a foot pedal — similar to driving a car.
- Troy-Bilt TB30R features a 6-speed manual transmission, requiring the operator to shift gears manually.
This makes the Cub Cadet significantly more beginner-friendly and offers better control around obstacles.
🏆 Winner: Cub Cadet CC30 for superior ease of use.
3. Cutting Deck and Performance
Both mowers come with a 30-inch single-blade deck, which is ideal for lawns under 1 acre. Performance-wise:
- Cub Cadet CC30 has better airflow, improving mulching and bagging capabilities.
- Troy-Bilt TB30R does a decent job but can struggle slightly with thick or damp grass.
The cutting height on both is adjustable from 1.5″ to 4″, making them suitable for different grass types and seasons.
🏆 Winner: Cub Cadet CC30, by a small margin for cleaner cuts.
4. Maneuverability and Size
Since both models are compact and rear-engine, they’re highly maneuverable. Ideal for tight spaces, trees, and flower beds.
- Both have 18-inch turning radii, making them suitable for residential yards.
- Cub Cadet CC30 features a slightly more ergonomic steering wheel and smoother operation.
🏆 Tie, but the CC30 is a bit easier to handle over longer periods due to better steering comfort.
5. Comfort and Build Quality
Comfort plays a big role in mower choice. Here’s how they stack up:
- Cub Cadet CC30 offers a high-back seat, easier foot pedal setup, and a rubber floor mat for less vibration.
- Troy-Bilt TB30R has a mid-back seat and a more traditional riding mower feel but lacks vibration dampening features.
🏆 Winner: Cub Cadet CC30 for ergonomic comfort and a more premium ride feel.
6. Maintenance and Durability
Both machines require regular maintenance, but their designs differ:
- Troy-Bilt TB30R has simpler mechanical parts (manual transmission), making DIY repairs easier.
- Cub Cadet CC30’s hydrostatic system is more advanced but can be costly to repair.
Durability-wise, both brands have strong frames and similar warranty support, but Cub Cadet’s 3-year warranty vs Troy-Bilt’s 2-year is a plus.
🏆 Winner: Troy-Bilt TB30R for simple maintenance; CC30 edges ahead on warranty.
7. Price Comparison
Here’s a rough idea of current pricing:
| Model | Average Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Cub Cadet CC30 | $2,199 – $2,399 |
| Troy-Bilt TB30R | $1,799 – $2,099 |
The Troy-Bilt is more budget-friendly, making it ideal for homeowners looking to save a few hundred dollars while still getting solid performance.
🏆 Winner: Troy-Bilt TB30R for affordability.
8. Ideal Use Cases
- Cub Cadet CC30: Homeowners who want a premium ride with minimal gear shifting, better comfort, and clean-cut performance.
- Troy-Bilt TB30R: Budget-conscious buyers who don’t mind manual shifting and want a reliable, straightforward mower for a small lawn.
Pros and Cons
✅ Cub Cadet CC30
Pros:
- Smooth hydrostatic transmission
- High-back seat and ergonomic design
- Better warranty (3 years)
- Quieter operation
Cons:
- Higher price
- Hydrostatic repair costs can be higher
✅ Troy-Bilt TB30R
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Simple mechanical design
- Trusted brand with solid parts availability
Cons:
- Manual transmission is less user-friendly
- Slightly louder and rougher ride
🚜 Cub Cadet CC30 vs Troy‑Bilt TB30R — Comparison Table
| Feature | Cub Cadet CC30 (Gas or Electric) | Troy‑Bilt TB30R (Gasual Mower) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 344 cc Briggs & Stratton, 10.5 HP; or 56 V electric in CC30 E variant | 420 cc MTD Powermore 1‑cylinder, ~11.5 ft‑lb torque |
| Drive System | Hydrostatic (Hydro‑Gear T2HP), pedal‑control | Manual 6‑speed transmission |
| Cutting Deck | 30″ stamped steel, 5 height positions, mulch kit included | 30″ 14‑gauge stamped, 5 positions; mulch/bag/side discharge |
| Turning Radius | ~18″ | Similar compact design (~18″) |
| Top Speed | ~4 mph forward/reverse | ~4.25 mph |
| Fuel Capacity / Battery | 1.3 gal gas tank (gas) or 1500 Wh Li‑ion (electric) | 1 gal gas tank, 12‑V lead‑acid battery |
| Comfort & Steering | Telescoping steering, high‑back seat, but no suspension; harsh chassis Suave Yards | Mid‑back seat, decent comfort; handling is manual, steering somewhat sluggish |
| Durability & Maintenance | Plastic panels prone to damage; common issues: steering, vibration, starting, underpowered uphill | Reported carburetor faults, oil leaks, transmission quirks; some units called “lemons” |
| User Sentiment | Mixed: easy to use on flat yards; service and parts for electric variant problematic | Many positive owners on level terrain, but wary of mechanical quirks |
| Warranty | 3‑year limited residential (gas) or manufacturer‑specified (electric) | 2‑year limited consumer warranty Power Equipment Direct |
| Price Range | ~$1,400–2,100 (gas); ~$9,000 for electric CC30E | Budget friendly, typically ~$1,200–1,500 |
Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?
If comfort, ease of use, and long-term durability are your priorities — go with the Cub Cadet CC30. Its hydrostatic transmission and better ride quality make mowing feel less like a chore.
If you’re on a budget and comfortable with a manual setup — the Troy-Bilt TB30R is a strong value pick, delivering reliable performance for small lawns without the premium price tag.
I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect equipment for their needs.