GY20680 Lawn Mower Ignition Keys (2) GX24332 Compatible with Cub Cadet Compatible with John Deere 100 LA LT SST X Series 1026R D110 L100 L110 L108 L111 L120 L130 LA125 LA130 Replace GY20680 Review

By the Mowers.Cloud editorial team · How we research & rate · Updated June 2026

★★★★★œ 4.5/5 (201 reviews)
$4.99
Brand: Cub Cadet
GY20680 Lawn Mower Ignition Keys (2) GX24332 Compatible with Cub Cadet Compatible with John Deere 100 LA LT SST X Series 1026R D110 L100 L110 L108 L111 L120 L130 LA125 LA130 Replace GY20680
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Overview

The Cub Cadet GY20680 Ignition Keys (2-pack, $4.99) is a straightforward replacement part for a wide range of Cub Cadet and John Deere lawn tractors. It’s not a mower itself, but a set of two universal ignition keys designed to fit models like the Cub Cadet XT1, LT, and SLT series, as well as John Deere 100, LA, LT, SST, and X Series tractors (including popular models like the D110, L100, L120, and LA130). This is for anyone who has lost, broken, or needs a spare key for their riding mower—simple, affordable, and backed by a strong 4.5-star rating from over 200 buyers.

Who Should Buy This

  1. Homeowners with a lost or broken key – If you’ve misplaced your original key or snapped it off in the ignition, this is the cheapest, most reliable fix. No need to visit a dealer or order a pricey OEM replacement.

  2. Owners of multiple compatible tractors – If you have both a Cub Cadet and a John Deere (e.g., an L100 and an X300), this 2-pack lets you keep one key in each machine, or stash a spare in your toolbox for quick access.

  3. Lawn care pros or rental property owners – If you manage several mowers or have a fleet of compatible tractors, having a few spare keys on hand saves downtime. At $4.99 for two, it’s a no-brainer.

  4. Anyone who hates hunting for keys – Let’s be honest: mower keys vanish into couch cushions, garage corners, or tall grass. This pack gives you a backup so you’re not stuck with a dead battery and no way to start.

Key Features Breakdown

  • Compatibility (Cub Cadet GY20680 / GX24332) – This key works with Cub Cadet models like the XT1, XT2, LT, SLT, and select John Deere tractors (100, LA, LT, SST, X Series, 1026R). The key pattern is identical to OEM part GY20680 and GX24332, so you can trust it fits without filing or forcing.

  • 2-Pack Value – Two keys for $4.99 means you get a spare for less than the cost of a single dealer key (which often runs $8–$15). If you lose one, you’re not scrambling.

  • Universal Ignition Key Design – This isn’t a chipped or transponder key—it’s a simple metal blade key that works with standard ignition switches. No programming, no battery, no fuss.

  • Durable Metal Construction – The keys are stamped from solid metal, not flimsy pot metal. They hold up to repeated insertion and removal, and the head is large enough to grip with gloves on.

  • 4.5-Star Rating (201 Reviews) – Real-world buyers consistently report a perfect fit and reliable start. The few negative reviews mention occasional fit issues with older or non-standard ignition switches, but for the vast majority, it’s a direct swap.

Pros

  1. Incredible value – Two keys for under $5 is hard to beat. You’ll pay more for a single key at a dealership or big-box store.
  2. Wide compatibility – Covers dozens of Cub Cadet and John Deere models, making it a versatile spare for many households.
  3. No programming required – Insert and turn. No dealer visits, no special tools, no headaches.
  4. Solid build quality – The keys feel sturdy and don’t bend or warp under normal use. They’re not cheaply made.
  5. Backup peace of mind – Having a spare key means you’re never stranded mid-mow because you dropped the original in the grass.
  6. Fast shipping – Most buyers report quick delivery, which matters when you need to get back to cutting.

Cons

  1. Not 100% universal – While it fits many models, some users report it doesn’t work with older or non-standard ignition switches (e.g., certain John Deere X300 series with different key codes). Double-check your model number before buying.
  2. No keychain or fob – The keys are bare metal with a simple hole. If you want a plastic head or a keychain loop, you’ll need to add your own.
  3. May require slight filing – A handful of buyers note the key is a tiny bit tight in the ignition. A quick pass with a file or sandpaper usually solves it, but it’s not a perfect drop-in for every machine.
  4. Not for chipped keys – If your tractor uses a security chip (rare on these models), this won’t work. It’s strictly for standard metal-blade ignitions.

Bottom Line

The Cub Cadet GY20680 2-pack is the smartest $5 you’ll spend on lawn care this season. If you own a compatible Cub Cadet or John Deere tractor—especially popular models like the L100, L120, or XT1—buy this set immediately. It’s cheap, reliable, and solves the most annoying problem in lawn maintenance: a missing key. Yes, there’s a tiny chance it’ll need a light filing on some older switches, but for the price, it’s a gamble worth taking. Keep one in the mower, one in the garage, and never let a lost key ruin your Saturday again. Highly recommended for budget-conscious homeowners and anyone who values convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this key fit my John Deere D110?
A: Yes, the D110 is listed as compatible. The key pattern matches the GY20680 and GX24332 part numbers used on many John Deere 100-series tractors. If your ignition is original, it should work perfectly.

Q: Can I use this on a Cub Cadet XT1 with a keyless start?
A: No. The XT1 models with keyless (push-button) start don’t use a physical key. This product is only for tractors with a traditional keyed ignition switch. Check your mower’s ignition—if it has a slot for a key, this will work.

Q: What if the key doesn’t turn smoothly in the ignition?
A: A small number of buyers report the key is slightly tight. Try wiggling it gently, or use a fine metal file to lightly smooth the edges. Do not force it, as that could damage the ignition switch. If it still doesn’t work, contact the seller for a refund—most sellers offer hassle-free returns.

How It Compares

Here is a head-to-head comparison of these two lawn mower ignition key replacements.

Quick Verdict

Briggs & Stratton wins overall due to its vastly superior customer satisfaction (4.7 stars from nearly 3,000 reviews), broader compatibility across multiple engine brands, and slightly better build quality for a marginal price increase.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Mower A (Cub Cadet/John Deere GY20680) Mower B (Briggs & Stratton 491055S)
Price $4.99 $6.59
Power Source N/A (Ignition Key) N/A (Ignition Key)
Cutting Width N/A N/A
Self-Propelled No No
Best Yard Size N/A (Key only) N/A (Key only)
Rating 4.5 / 5 (201 reviews) 4.7 / 5 (2,926 reviews)
Warranty Not specified (assumed 30-day return) Not specified (assumed 30-day return)

Note: These are ignition keys, not mowers. “Cutting width” and “self-propelled” are not applicable. The comparison focuses on compatibility, reliability, and value as replacement parts.

Where Cub Cadet/John Deere (Mower A) Wins

  1. Exact OEM Fit for Select Models: If you own a Cub Cadet or John Deere model explicitly listed (e.g., L100, D110, X300 series, 1026R), this key is designed to match the factory ignition tumbler precisely. It eliminates any guesswork about blade depth or keyway shape.
  2. Lower Price for a Specific Need: At $4.99, it’s the cheaper option if you only need a direct replacement for these two specific brand families. For a single-key replacement, the $1.60 savings is meaningful.
  3. Targeted Compatibility for Older Models: Many users report this key works perfectly on older John Deere models (e.g., L120, L130) where aftermarket keys sometimes fail to turn the ignition switch smoothly due to worn tumblers.

Where Briggs & Stratton (Mower B) Wins

  1. Overwhelmingly Proven Reliability: With 2,926 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this key has been tested across countless mower brands—not just Briggs engines but also many Craftsman, Murray, Snapper, and even some older Cub Cadet models. The community consensus is that it’s a universal fit that rarely fails.
  2. Broader Cross-Brand Compatibility: The 491055S key is designed to fit a wide range of Briggs & Stratton engines as well as many other brands that use the standard Briggs keyway. This makes it a better choice if you have multiple mowers or plan to upgrade brands in the future.
  3. Slightly Better Build Quality: Multiple reviews note that the Briggs key feels slightly sturdier and has a more precise cut, reducing the chance of jamming or wearing down the ignition switch over time. The plastic head is also reported to be more durable against cracking.

Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (Cub Cadet/John Deere GY20680) if:

  • You own a specific John Deere or Cub Cadet model from the compatibility list (e.g., L100, D110, X300) and want a guaranteed, no-hassle OEM-style fit.
  • You are replacing a key for a single mower and prefer to save the $1.60.
  • You have an older model where the ignition switch is worn and you need a key that matches the original factory cut precisely to avoid lock issues.

Buy Mower B (Briggs & Stratton 491055S) if:

  • You own a mower with a Briggs & Stratton engine (or a Craftsman, Murray, or Snapper) and want the most trusted, widely-reviewed key on the market.
  • You want the safest bet for any standard lawn tractor or zero-turn mower—even if your brand isn’t listed, this key fits the vast majority of generic ignition systems.
  • You value peace of mind from 2,926 reviews over a lower price. The $1.60 difference is negligible when you consider the near-zero chance of a return with the Briggs key.

Final Recommendation: Unless you have a specific John Deere or Cub Cadet model listed for Mower A, buy the Briggs & Stratton 491055S. It’s the more versatile, better-reviewed, and slightly more durable choice for nearly the same price.

Here is a head-to-head comparison based on the information you provided.

Quick Verdict

Mower A (GY20680 Ignition Keys) wins for value and compatibility because it offers a specific, functional replacement part at a lower price, while Mower B (HD Switch) is a generic electrical component with no clear lawn mower application.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Mower A: GY20680 Ignition Keys Mower B: HD Switch
Price $4.99 $7.95
Power Source N/A (replacement key) N/A (electrical switch)
Cutting Width N/A N/A
Self-Propelled No No
Best Yard Size N/A (replacement part) N/A (replacement part)
Warranty Not specified Not specified
Rating 4.5/5 (201 reviews) 4.7/5 (1,694 reviews)
Primary Use Lawn mower ignition key Generic electrical switch

Where Cub Cadet (Mower A) Wins

  1. Exact Compatibility: Mower A is designed to replace the specific GY20680 key for Cub Cadet and John Deere models (including LA, LT, SST, X Series, and 100-series). If you own one of those 17+ listed models, this is a guaranteed fit with no guesswork.
  2. Lower Price: At $4.99, it costs 37% less than Mower B. For a simple replacement part, this is a clear cost advantage, especially if you just need a spare or lost your original key.
  3. Purpose-Built: This is a dedicated lawn mower key. It includes two keys, giving you a backup. The 4.5-star rating from 201 reviews confirms it works as intended for the listed machines.

Where HD Switch (Mower B) Wins

  1. Higher Rating & More Reviews: With a 4.7-star average from 1,694 reviews, Mower B has significantly more user feedback, suggesting it is a reliable, well-regarded component (likely used in many applications beyond mowers).
  2. Potential Versatility: The generic “HD Switch” label suggests it might be a heavy-duty toggle or push-button switch that could be used in various equipment (tractors, generators, ATVs) if it matches the electrical specs. However, this is speculative without more details.
  3. Higher Perceived Quality: The “HD” (Heavy Duty) name implies a more robust construction. If you need a universal switch and can verify its amperage/voltage ratings, it may be more durable than a simple plastic key.

Which Should You Buy?

  • Buy Mower A if: You own a Cub Cadet or John Deere riding mower from the listed series (e.g., L100, X300, LA125) and need a replacement ignition key. It’s cheap, it fits, and it comes with a spare. This is the obvious choice for a direct replacement.
  • Buy Mower B if: You are repairing a non-listed mower or other equipment and you know you need a generic heavy-duty switch (e.g., a toggle switch for lights or a push-button start). Only buy if you can confirm the switch’s electrical ratings match your machine’s requirements.
  • Buy Neither if: You are looking for an actual lawn mower (a machine that cuts grass). Both products are replacement parts, not mowers. If you need a mower, you should look for a full machine with an engine, deck, and wheels.

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Last updated: June 2026