John Deere offers two reliable machines from the S Series family, the S550 and the S650. This series is perfect for the farmers and landscapers who need the best in performance, productivity, and efficiency on the toughest terrain. Whether it’s urban landscaping or large-scale farm maintenance, these mid-range mowers offer features to accommodate any job.
The S550 is the smaller of the two models, with a 54-inch cutting deck, and is powered by a 35-hp engine. This model is great for hilly or damp terrain and can effectively cut through long grass and heavy undergrowth with ease. With the added hydrostatic transmission and available comfort operator seat, the S550 is perfect for tackling any job.
The S650 is the larger and more powerful model from the S Series family. It is powered by a 45-hp engine and is equipped with a 7-Iron II PRO cutting deck, allowing it to cut through the toughest terrain with ease. The S650 also comes with an adjustable suspension seat and four-wheel drive, making it great for large, demanding jobs.
John Deere S550 Vs S650 Specs
John Deere S550:
• 24.6-horsepower engine
• Standard 4WD
• 103-inch wheelbase
• 48-inch mower deck
• Maximum forward speed of 6.5mph
• Maximum reverse speed of 4mph
John Deere S650:
• 45-horsepower engine
• 4WD or 2WD
• 115-inch wheelbase
• 62-inch mower deck
• Maximum forward speed of 9mph
• Maximum reverse speed of 9mph
Conclusion: The John Deere S550 and S650 feature notable differences in their engine power and mower deck size. The S550 has a 24.6-horsepower engine and a 48-inch mower deck while the S650 is powered by a 45-horsepower engine and comes with a 62-inch mower deck. Additionally, the S650 has a longer wheelbase of 115 inches compared to the 103-inch wheelbase of the S550. Lastly, whereas the S550 has a forward speed of up to 6.5 MPH and a reverse speed of up to 4 MPH, the S650 has faster speeds of up to 9 MPH in both directions.
John Deere S550 Vs S650 Features
John Deere S550:
• 24.5-HP Kawasaki Engine
• 54-inch Accel Deep Deck
• Automatic Controlled Traction™
• 4-wheel steering
• 2.5-bushel Power Flow Blower
• On-board attachment storage area
• 4-year, 300 hour bumper-to-bumper warranty
John Deere S650:
• 24.5-HP Kawasaki Engine
• 60-inch Edge Cut™ Deck
• AutoConnect™ Drive Over Mower Deck
• AutoConnect Drive
• 4WD to improve traction and stability
• 6.5-bushel Power Flow Blower
• On-board attachment storage area
• 4-year, 300 hour bumper-to-bumper warranty
The John Deere S550 and the John Deere S650 both feature a 24.5-HP Kawasaki Engine, on-board attachment storage area and a 4-year, 300 hour bumper-to-bumper warranty. However, the S550 features a 54-inch Accel Deep Deck, Automatic Controlled Traction™ and a 2.5-bushel Power Flow Blower. The S650 features a 60-inch Edge Cut™ Deck, AutoConnect™ Drive Over Mower Deck, AutoConnect Drive, 4WD to improve traction and stability, and a 6.5-bushel Power Flow Blower. Both models have great features, but the S650 has more features that are designed to provide improved mowing performance and stability. Overall, the John Deere S650 has more features than the John Deere S550 and is the best option for improved mowing performance.
John Deere S550 Vs S650 Maintenance
The John Deere S550 and S650 are premium commercial cutters with advanced power, convenience and performance features. Both offer superior reliability and efficiency and each has a low maintenance design that helps reduce the cost of ownership. The S550 features a Constant Velocity (CV) transmission, which reduces operating temperature, increases accuracy and enhances performance, while the S650 features a foot-operated Centerlink design, which eliminates vibration and eliminates the need for manual transmission disengagement. Both models feature a heavy-duty frame and steel components to reduce wear and increase reliability, while a range of wheel options provide greater stability and maneuverability. The S550 requires minimal maintenance and no regular oil changes, but requires clean and lubricated axle seals for proper lubrication and an occasional wheel alignment. The S650 does require regular oil and filter changes, but the use of the foot-operated Centerlink design reduces the need for servicing and repair inside the transmission. Both models feature an improved cooling system with a larger reservoir to reduce temperature and increase performance, as well as air induction ports that allow for easier and more efficient engine cleaning. In summary, both the John Deere S550 and S650 are reliable and efficient commercial cutters that feature low-maintenance designs and superior performance features. The S550 is easy to maintain with no regular oil changes required and features a CV transmission, while the S650 requires more frequent oil and filter changes but features a foot-operated Centerlink design and improved cooling system. Both offer superior reliability and performance, and with the right maintenance and upkeep, they can both provide reliable cutting solutions for years to come.
John Deere S550 Vs S650 Performance
John Deere S550
– 24.2HP Yanmar 3-cylinder diesel engine
– Automatic one-pedal drive system
– Max speed of 10 mph
– Easy hydro-drive transmission
– 4WD for stability
– 4-Wheel Steering
– Easy-Lift™ Loader
– Easy-Kut™ cutting system
John Deere S650
– 24.2HP Yanmar 3-cylinder diesel engine
– Maximum 20 mph Transport Speed
– Automatic one-pedal drive system
– Easy hydro-drive transmission
– 4WD with all-wheel steering
– Easy-Lift™ Loader
– Easy-Kut™ cutting system
– Enhanced Lawn Maintenance System
The John Deere S650 provides an increased top speed of 20 mph, a greater maximum loader lift capacity, and an advanced lawn maintenance system compared to the S550. Overall, the S650 offers a combination of improved performance and enhanced usability compared to the S550, making it a great choice for landscapers and homeowners.
What are They Best For
The John Deere S550 is a mid-sized mower designed for both residential and commercial use, featuring a powerful and fuel efficient 21.5HP engine, large cutting decks, and ergonomic controls. It is great for handling medium-to-large sized lawns and is perfect for most homeowner and commercial applications.
The John Deere S650 is a commercial-grade mower designed for heavier duty work such as commercial properties, golf courses, and parks. It is a much larger mower and comes with a powerful 23HP engine, independent suspension, and steel frame construction that allows for greater durability and enhanced cutting performance. It is ideal for operators who need a heavier-duty machine to tackle larger jobs.
The John Deere S550 and S650 both have a lot to offer. The S550 has a more basic design and is easy to operate, while the S650 is loaded with features and is more powerful. The S550 is best suited for smaller to medium sized yards, while the S650 is best suited for larger properties. The price difference between the two models is significant, and the S650 is likely better suited for those who want to tackle tougher tasks. Ultimately, it comes down to how you plan to use the mower and what your budget is.