John Deere S140 vs S240: Know Which One is Right for You

People often ask about the two very popular models in the John Deere 100 and 200 series. That is why I’ll be trying to answer the question, John Deere S140 vs S240, which one is the best?

In terms of looks, fuel gauge looks, cutting technology, and easy maintainability, S240 seems to be the best. But the story doesn’t end there. There are a few segments where S140 is better than the other model.

You have to read till the end without skipping to know more about them. And, it will help you decide without any regret afterward; cause investing $2500 or more is no joke. Let’s get started.

John Deere S140 vs S240: Quick Comparison Table

Before I start explaining the comparison parameters, let’s have a quick look at the table below for a clear overview. 

What’s the Difference Between John Deere S140 and S240 Based on Features?

From the table, you have got an idea about their differences. Now, let me explain what those differential values mean and which one wins over the other.

1. Power

Powerful lawn mowers are needed to cover large or hilly areas. According to the users, getting 20HP or higher is recommended for uneven lawns.

Here, both models from John Deere come with the required power. But S140 is slightly more powerful than S240.

The difference is not that significant to choose one model over the other. So, let’s move on to the next feature.

2. Mower Deck

As both lawnmowers come with the same deck size, I wanted to focus and differentiate on the deck options they used.

S140 offers EDGE and S240 offers Accel Deep technology. Let’s know what those are in a nutshell.

Edge technology from John Deere is like other mowers’ decks with an underside but more.

The benefit of this new and improved design is that you won’t see grass clippings or other clumps of materials.

As a result, you won’t have to spend much time cleaning the deck like the competitor models.

Accel Deep technology on the other hand offers a faster and cleaner cut which is possible due to its flat-top design.

The benefits are that grasses pass easily causing no interference or re-cutting, servicing is easier, and one can add a mulching option.

In the mower deck option, John Deere S240 is the winner.

3. Transaxle Type

I have searched a lot about both transaxle models but found not much information to do a comprehensive comparison between S140 and S240.

From the users’ feedback, all I can tell is that both are good and there is not much difference in their performances.

You can check their specs from this website, or consult with your mechanic to make a better decision.

So, we don’t have a clear winner in this transaxle segment.

4. Rear Tires

Here, S240 has a wider rear tire compared to its counterpart. To know which model is a winner here, you have to know the pros and cons of wide tires.

Wide and narrow tires come with both advantages and disadvantages. They are better for certain applications.

Narrow rear tires are capable of providing more traction on wet surfaces but they carry less weight.

On the other hand, wider tires provide a better grip on dry surfaces but are terrible on wet surfaces.

While thinking about buying a John Deere lawnmower, you have to consider the condition you are going to use them.

Hence, I am not giving a clear decision in this case because of the application-based pros and cons of tire size.

5. Fuel Gauge

S140 has a mechanical gauge whereas S240 comes with an Easy-read on the dash which is electrical.

Now, some argue that electrical gauge is more reliable than mechanical ones. But there are no such matters.

Both work perfectly fine if installed correctly. When it comes to looks, personal preferences dominate other parameters.

Those who like classic looks should go for the S140 because of its mechanical fuel gauge.

And, those who like to keep their gadgets and tools modern with sleek looks should choose S240 for its electrical fuel gauge.

6. Application

Seeing the specs of all models in the John and Deere 100 series, it seems that these lawnmowers are more suitable for trimming smaller yards.  

On the other hand, the 200 series offers almost the same specs and features but is slightly more powerful and advanced.

When it comes to enjoying different add-ons, modern dash, mulching, and better cutting, you can rely on S240 with Accel Deep Deck.

Also, more durable 10-gauge steel deck construction is suitable for longtime heavy-duty tasks.

7. Durability

S series lawn tractors are successors of the E series. And, all models in the S100, as well as the S200 series, are reliable.

I have gone through several forum discussions to see the customer feedback. Considering overall features and specs, both S140 and S240 are durable.

John Deere uses hardy material with a rust-proof coating so that you can use its tractors under any weather condition for years.

8. Engine Reliability

The S100 series models including S140 come with Briggs and Stratton engines. On the other hand, the S200 series has Kawasaki engines.

Comparing the two engine brands, you will see that customers rely more on Kawasaki because of its premium build quality.

However, please don’t think that B&S engines are not good or reliable. I have to keep one ahead of the other as this is a comparison article.

From my research, both models have reliable engine performance but the Kawasaki engine will give you much more fuel efficiency and less trouble in maintenance.

9. After Service and Warranty

So far, I have heard good things about the aftersales service from John Deere. Users are also happy about the part availability of different tractor models.

According to official sources, S140 comes with a 2-year bumper-to-bumper warranty. You can go to this link and register for a warranty.

And, the S240 offers an amazing 3-year warranty plan where it is also possible to apply for an extended warranty benefit.

Which Engines Are Used in John Deere S140 And S240?

S140 has a Briggs & Stratton 44N677 2-cylinder air-cooled vertical-shaft V-Twin Engine. And, S240 comes with a similar type of Kawasaki FS600V engine.

Both are amazing because of their reliable performance for a long time. Yet, I have to keep Kawasaki FS600V head of Briggs & Stratton 44N677.

It is because Kawasaki engines have fewer vibration or cooling issues than Briggs and Stratton.

Some may say that Kawasaki is slightly (~0.5HP) more powerful too.

Indeed, the statement is true but the comparison here shows that John Deere uses a slightly more powerful Briggs & Stratton engine in the S140 lawnmower.

So, I am not going to compare them in terms of engine power.

I like more about the Kawasaki engine more because you won’t have to face carburetor issues in the S240 lawn mower more frequently than the Briggs & Stratton engine.

John Deere S140 or S240: Which One to Choose? (The Verdict)

From the comparison above, you can understand that both S140 and S240 from John Deere don’t have much difference.

The price of the S140 is $400 less than the S240. The more expensive model offers a digital fuel gauge, better cutting technology, and more convenient add-ons.

So, you may think that getting John Deere S240 will be better compared to S140. But don’t rush to that decision too quickly.

I have discussed some matters in the rear tire size comparison part. Read that and decide accordingly.

Using case and traction in a certain situation is more important than simple fuel gauge or cutting tech.

Also, the engine brand can be a deciding factor too. Feature-wise, I like both of them. But the Kawasaki engine makes me recommend JD S240.

Now, it is time for you to decide based on your priorities and job demands.

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