Best Two Stage Snow Blowers Reviewed

The Ariens Professional is the best two stage snow blower for large spaces and our top pick. This gas-powered blower offers an unusually wide 32-inch clearing width, a 23.5-inch max depth, and a maximum throw distance of 60 feet. Furthermore, it is engine-propelled, has an intuitive interlock system in the handlebar controls, and has effective power steering allowing easy U-turns—all which make it easy to maneuver despite its large size. Even the chute and deflector orientation are adjusted from the dashboard. 

Unlike others, the hand warmers on this unit actually work—in fact, users report having to turn them off because they are too hot. Also, for safety and convenience, this unit has a large prominent headlight, and large 16-inch-diameter, 6.5-inch-deep treaded wheels. While most users are happy with the recoil-start system alone, some will like that this unit has an electric start option, too.

Users unanimously agree that this Ariens two stage snow blower is powerful—it has a serrated steel 16-inch auger and 14-inch impeller, driven by a 21 ft.-lb. torque motor.

While you can still get this 926071 model on Amazon, the closest Ariens offers now is the model number 926076—mostly an equivalent machine. The Ariens brand specializes in both dual- and single-stage snow blowers, along with riding and walk-behind lawnmowers—and accessories for all of these; relevant here are its Snow Blower Protective Cab and Gear Lube.

The Husqvarna ST227P is the best two stage gas snow blower for moderate-to-heavy residential needs and among those rated by Consumer Reports. Not surprisingly, users praise its power and efficiency. It as a 12.5 ft.-lb. torque engine that drives not only the auger and impeller—but also the rugged X-track treaded tires, making this unit self-propelling and stable. It has power steering that allows U-turns, and it has an interlock system on the driving and auger triggers on handlebars, allowing you to use a free hand to control the chute/deflector orientation lever on the dashboard.

Aside from fundamentals, this unit has every feature you could want on a snow thrower of this size and quality. It has adjustable handle height, heated handles (though users indicate that the heat is barely noticeable), headlights, a conveniently mounted clearing device for jams, choice of electric or recoil start—including safety ignition key and choke control (for cold engine start), and it has a choice of 7 driving speeds, including reverse. Furthermore, the engine meets ANSI safety requirements.

Surprisingly, users find this feature-rich unit relatively quick and easy to assemble, with some even claiming to take as little as 15 minutes using the included instructions. Husqvarna offers an excellent selection of accessories for snow blowers, such as tire chains, cab, and drift cutters.

The Husqvarna ST224 is the best 24 inch two stage snow blower for homeowners. Its engine size and clearing width are smaller, compared to the units above. However, for most residential users—especially those in medium-to-light snowfall areas—it is more than enough. In fact, one might even prefer a slightly smaller unit if storage space is limited; also, consider a matching cover for added protection during storage.

For its size, the ST224 is powerful. It has a 9.5 ft.-lb. torque gas engine and 15-inch treaded tires. Many users find that they can use it with over 1 ft. of snow. It also has all of the dashboard features one would expect on larger units. It has two levers to control the chute direction and deflector orientation, respectively; an interlock feature on the handlebars to allow easy chute/deflector adjustments; two prominent LED headlights; adjustable handlebar height; and hand-warming in the handlebars.

Unfortunately, some users claim that the parts give out too quickly and that warranty/repairs get cumbersome. However, other users argue that the company has resolved these issues and that the complaining reviewers might have made assembly errors. That said, most do not find the ST224 difficult to assemble. Many users like to have extra shear bolts on hand, especially during times of heavy use.

The PowerSmart DB72024PA is the best 2 stage snow blower under $800. It is also space-saving, being among the best small 2 stage snow blowers. Plus, its handles fold up for even easier storage.

With no hand warming or headlights, this unit has a basic design. However, when it comes to essentials, this gas-powered unit is not weak. It has Power Assist (power steering), a self-propelling engine with 6 speeds total, dashboard controls for both 180-degree chute direction and up/down deflector orientation, for a maximum 40-foot snow throw distance, 13-inch traction tires, and both recoil and electric push-button start options.  

Users find this unit to be reliable and competent in light-to-medium snow; they find the Power Assist actually works as promised, making the unit easy to maneuver. Most users find it easy to start. Furthermore, this unit is reportedly easy to assemble, often taking less than a half-hour. Some complain that the included instructions did not help them much—however, they sought help from online videos and were successful.

This unit possibly is not made anymore—the closest unit to it in features on the PowerSmart site is the DB7624E model. PowerSmart sells accompanying parts for its snow blowers, such as a SmartPower upper drive cable or a PowerSmart pair of skid shoes with accompanying hardware.

The Poulan Pro PR241 is the best two stage snow blower for the money—while it is not the cheapest on this list, it is arguably the best value: This gas-powered unit has a 9.5 ft.-lb. torque engine, interlock handle triggers for easier use, 13 x 4 inch deep-treaded tires, headlights, dashboard controls for chute and deflector orientation (180-degree rotation), and a 12-inch auger and impeller.

Furthermore, its handles are height-adjustable; users find it easy to assemble, stable (hard to tip over), and easy to start—with either the recoil or the electric start. It does not, however, have power steering; that said, there are no complaints about this—users generally find it easy to maneuver and are pleasantly surprised by the features and effectiveness of the Poulan Pro PR241.

With only a 24-inch clearing width, it is amazing that this unit can handle 23-inch depths and sizable clearing areas, such as 3-car-width driveways, and tricky surfaces (like gravel). The only complaint from users is that, sometimes, the parts give out too quickly—however, other highly-impressed reviewers are baffled at this and suggest that reported problems must be due to the poor assembly by the owner.

For convenience, Poulan sells shear bolts, a dual-stage drive belt, and other replacement parts for its snow throwers.

The Briggs & Stratton 1696610 is the best 2 stage snow blower under $1000. While it does not have every possible feature, this gas-powered unit has all you need for light-medium use. Its 9.5 ft.-lb. torque engine can throw a maximum 35 feet and go through 1.5 feet of snow easily. It is stable, with 13 x 5 inch treaded tires, and easy to start with either recoil or push-button electric start mechanisms.

This unit does not have the nice extras (headlights, hand warming, power steering, or interlock handlebar triggers). Still, it does have a 12-inch serrated auger, 8 total driving speeds, and 200-degree chute rotation (controlled from the dashboard). Generally, users are not fazed by the absent features but are impressed by its effectiveness and ease of use.

The Briggs & Stratton brand has an illustrious reputation in the world of gas-powered engines—it even makes engines for other brands. The company offers a unique guarantee that their engines can start at -20 degrees F (or will repair for free, otherwise).

For an upgrade, consider the 1696614 model from Briggs & Stratton. It has the same features as the 1696610, plus interlock handlebars, LED headlight, and slightly larger tires. It is no surprise that both of these models are Consumer Reports rated. The company recommends its Advanced Formula Fuel Treatment & Stabilizer to prevent stale fuel from undermining Briggs & Stratton engine effectiveness.

The Honda Power Equipment HSS1332AAT is top of the range among residential gas-powered snow blowers. It has a Honda GX390 engine and an automotive-grade steel exterior. Unlike others reviewed here, it has cleated tracks wrapped around two wheels for greater traction surface area than tires can provide. Also different is the auger height adjustment; a pneumatic pressure system makes springing between auger heights easy.

Another feature that makes this Honda 2 stage snow blower a star snow thrower is the hydrostatic transmission: There are no separate speed levels—you just shift up and down on the dashboard to make intuitive changes in speed. Besides, there is an independent throttle control to give you yet more speed control.

This machine can throw snow a whopping 56 feet. Also phenomenal, the chute can be rotated 198 degrees and is double articulated (rather than just having an up and down joint at the deflector), so the joystick-controlled direction is quite precise.

While this unit does have interlock handlebars and a great dashboard of features, it is large and a bit cumbersome to steer—one must be careful using it around personal property. While the lack of an electric start option might seem like a fault, most users do not miss it and have no trouble starting it with recoil.

While Honda is typically associated with cars, it also produces a range of engine-powered devices: lawnmowers, generators, etc. It even sells accessories (snow thrower cab, cover, and drift breaker).

The Snow Joe iON8024-XR is the best two stage electric snow blower for residential use. The lightest reviewed here—it is one of the best small 2 stage snow blowers—it is perfect for older or less confident users. Furthermore, as an electric unit, it is quieter than its gas-powered peers. In addition, users agree it is easy to assemble.

This unit is only recommended for light-medium use, but for many, this is all that is needed. The iON8024-XR has an array of dashboard features—indicator lights showing charge of each battery individually, a choice of 4 operation speeds and 3 transport speeds, and remote chute direction control (180-degree range). It has 2 LED headlights that, remarkably, can be adjusted to whatever angle you want.

The two 5-Ah batteries (80 V combined) and accompanying charger take about 3 hours to get a full charge. (The charger has indicator lights to let you know how charged the batteries are.) Depending on how hard the machine is worked, a full charge can last 20-50 minutes. Most users are happy with the amount they can get done in that time. Furthermore, this unit requires no cord and creates no emissions.

Snow Joe (including Aqua Joe and Sun Joe lines, depending on the product) sells a wide range of battery-powered devices, many of which can use the same batteries and chargers. Its chargers are ETL-approved and Energy Star-certified.

The main difference between single stage and two stage snow blowers is that single stage snow blowers do not have an auger-to-impeller system; instead, an auger alone takes up the snow and moves it to the chute. Therefore, the 1 stage snow blower is lighter and smaller, but much less powerful and efficient. As a result, single stage snow blowers are ineffective for big jobs—they are ideal for small areas with light snow cover. When considering 2 stage vs. 1 stage snowblowers, note that a single stage is more like a shovel replacement.

Because these machines have forceful rotating blades and electrical components, it is especially important to read the included instructions and heed any warnings concerning proper storage and use.

For gas-powered units, fresh fuel (standard gasoline is fine), and 5W-30 oil are the most important parts of maintenance. You should periodically check the oil, as you would for a car. Either drain/deplete the fuel tank after a high-usage period or add a fuel stabilizer to keep gas from getting stale.

For battery-powered units, generally avoid depleting batteries to 0% charge, and avoid storing batteries for long periods, as they will discharge. Self-care is also essential. Wear insulating clothing to keep warm and dry—especially gloves (and women’s), socks (and women’s), and boots (and women’s). Consider wearing ice shoes, too.