Getting tired of our old NH rolabar hay rake. Not a lot of money but tired of delays with cut grass on the field.
Are the hydraulic rakes worth the money or what do most use now.
We put up about 500 rolls or costal a year.

What tractor are you using?

JD 5200

I have a Vermeer R2800 basket rake for my alfalfa. For the windrow density, a hydraulic rake is almost a necessity. For grass, a rotary rake might be what you want - assuming you are laying the grass down flat and not in a windrow. The advantage of a hydraulic rake for me is time. I think your tractor could run most hydraulic rakes.

For coastal hay and only putting up 500 rolls, just get a dual wheel rake. Works fine with coastal or Kleingrass. If you were trying to flip heavy haygrazer, you might have an argument.

Don't be surprised if you start burning up hydraulic pumps if you try using a hydraulic twin rake with your 5200. The open center hydraulic system is not made to run it.

This I do not know and why I am trying to find what is best for us.

Been running a Vermeer twin take behind our 5220 JD for years. No issues.