There couldn’t be a more horrible way to start your day than being awake in the wee hours of the morning, clearing snow from your driveway to make a way out of your garage. If your town sees snowfall regularly, you better do yourself a favor by investing in the best two-stage snow blower there is out there. It will save you the shoveling energy and you will get that extra 30 minutes sleep that is good for your health.
Two-stage snow blowers are popular powerhouses in areas prone to winter snowfall. There is a whole lot of them in various sizes, models, and capabilities in the market that choosing one for your needs could be a challenge. To make your ‘pre-shopping’ research easy, we prepared this guide with individual in-depth product reviews of the best two-stage snow blowers in the market. The Briggs & Stratton 1024MDS was our best pick of the 12 products considered because its comfortable usability, first-rate performance, features and affordability are unbeaten.
You can trust the products reviewed to be the best owing to the great deal of efforts and time invested in conducting research to combine the list. Some of the features on which we based our choice and rankings include engine capacity, power source, weight, clearing width and depth among others. With all the information on the comparison table, detailed product reviews, and a buying guide, you will be able to choose the best two-stage snow blower that suits your needs.
Other features: electric and recoil start, self-propelled, 3-year warranty, heated grips
Briggs & Stratton is a trusted brand when it comes to quality snow blowers. This dual-stage unit is one of the solid options when it comes to dealing with the toughest winter conditions. It is specially designed to start strong and power through the wildest snow situation.
The machine is incredibly easy to use thanks to a few convenient features it comes with. For starters, you won’t struggle starting it up. It has a push button electric start. It also has the free-hand control feature that gives you an easy time. You can use one hand to operate it and the other to adjust the chute’s angle or change the speed of the machine.
Another feature that makes using the blower enjoyable is the dual trigger steering. It releases the left or right wheel allowing you to make tight turns at the end of the driveway, walkway or pavement you are blowing. As if that’s enough, you get heated hand grips to keep your hands warm when working out in the extremely cold conditions.
Moreover, the snow blower comes with a dash-mounted chute rotation and deflector control that allows you to throw the snow in the direction you want. It is also self-propelled. You will be able to clear your entire yard in no time without breaking a sweat.
One thing that sets this unit apart from competition is its super-durable build. Briggs & Stratton don’t play when it comes to producing high-quality, long lasting equipment and this is no exception. Its robust steel frame and notched steel auger can take on any amount of snow and ice effortlessly.
Other features: 6 forward / 2 reverse drive gears, electric/recoil start, throwing distance up to 50ft, remote deflector control, 200-degree chute rotation
Ariens is a popular company, and having been established in the snowy Midwest, they can handle literally any amount of snow mother nature throws at you. If you are looking for a powerful machine that can clear snow from your yard or driveway before you, then this fits the bill. It is heavy-duty and will last you a couple of cold and icy winters.
This machine is a monster, built with high-quality materials that can endure regular use in the harsh winter weather conditions. Its directional tread tires and auto-steering make turning a breeze. The eight-gear shifting pattern and a 200-degree quick-turn chute also contribute to easy turning as it is pretty simple to use.
In case you want to be working when it is dark, you will benefit from the halogen headlights that will light up your way. For your comfort in the cold weather, the snow blower features heated handles that will keep your hands warm.
With its beastly 254cc engine and a robust 14-inch steel auger, you can cover an area of about 50ft and blow up 72 tons of snow in an hour. Unlike most machines, it is pretty straightforward to start with a single pull of the cord on the start recoil.
Overall, this powerhouse of a machine is a worthy investment if you are in search of a heavy-duty and durable snow blower to use in moderate and heavy winter weather. It is one of the best 2-stage cordless snow-blowers that can be used for both residential and commercial snow clearing.
Other features: throws snow up to 50 feet, adjustable skid shoes, 200-degree rear chute control with deflector, four bright LED headlights, adjustable handle height
EGO is known for its long heritage of innovation, and that alone already ticks this snow blower’s quality checkbox. Like all of their equipment, this snow blower is built to offer power and longevity.
The snow blower comes in a rugged body and convenient features suited to clear snow in large, gravel, and paved areas. Its small size body makes it one of the best compact 2-stage snow blowers out there. Though not feature-packed like its peers, it is pretty affordable and offers great value.
With its two proprietary EGO POWER+ 56V ARC Lithium batteries (that, unfortunately, have to be purchased separately), you will easily cut through a vast mass of snow. Its variable-speed auger and 200-degree chute direction give you complete control to throw snow up to 50 feet where you need it.
The weather-resistant heavy-duty steel and composite construction assure you of a smooth and steady operation even on slippery surfaces.
Moreover, you will be able to use the snow blower when it’s dark, thanks to its four bright LED headlights.
All considered, this is a fantastic choice for residential or light commercial snow blowing. It is affordable, highly durable, and powerful enough to get the job done.
Other features: recoil/electric start, self-propelled, 13-inch inflatable tires, 2-year warranty, 40 ft discharge
This is one of the most powerful 2-stage gas blowers on the market. The unit is packed with high-end features that make it a great option for people living in areas that experience heavy snowing. It is built to withstand the harshest conditions and can clear snow over a wide area in no time.
The machine is easy to start. You have 2 starting options, an electric start and a manual start that is equally fast and easy. It has a self-propelling system with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds that enhance your driving convenience.
With the 13-inch inflatable tires that have solid treads, you can drive safely even on slippery terrains like gravel, concrete, and asphalt surfaces. The machine snow clearing capability is also top notch. It has a 24-inch clearing width and a 20-inch intake height which can clear up a driveway that holds up to 10 parked cars.
This snow blower will help you clear a large area covered by snow effortlessly because of its powerful 212cc engine that delivers unparalleled snow-clearing action. What’s more, it is equipped with a robust steel auger that can cut through the toughest snow mounds. The auger diverts the snow away from the chute to prevent it from clogging. The chute itself is another piece of gem. It can throw snow as far as 40ft giving you an easier time covering a vast area.
To top it all, Powersmart offers a generous 2-year warranty cover and a free lifetime tech support. They have a repair center in the US and their lines are open 24 hours. In case you discover any manufacturing defects, you can always reach out to them for assistance.
Other features: 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, 12 in. carbon-steel augers, 30 ft. throwing distance, electric start, EPA certified, 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support
This is another monster machine built to tame any harsh conditions winter throws at it. With all the power and convenience it offers, you just might not get your hands dirty.
The snow blower has a robust construction with convenient features that make snow blowing a chore to look up to. You can count on its service for a couple of winters owing to its rust-resistant exterior.
With the 120-volt electric start and its 6-foot power cord, the push of a button is all it takes to start clearing away the latest snowfall. And with a convenient recoil start you can forget about disappointing batteries in the cold weather.
You will be able to clear snow from your yard, sidewalk, road, or driveway in no time owing to the snow blower’s powerful 301cc engine and a high-speed drive system of 6 forward and 2 reverse. Turning will also be easy and quick with a convenient chute control handle which is pretty simple to operate.
Unlike most snow blowers, this one comes with a 2-year limired warranty and free lifetime technical support, which means that the manufacturer is proud of the quality of his product and in case anything happens, they will help you. Plus, you will enjoy using the accessories (four shear pins and a chute clearing tool) included in the package.
Other features: electric start, 180° chute rotation, adjustable poly skid shoes, reinforced steel housing, push-button electric start
This is the ultimate option for anyone looking for a simple snow blower on a tight budget. It isn’t the most feature-packed machine out there, but it gets the job done.
Like most CRAFTSMAN snow blowers, the SB410 comes in a compact design. In fact, it is among the best small 2-stage snow blowers in the market. It comes in a rugged design meant to hold up well in the harsh winter weather.
Its few convenient features will make any snow clearing task a short work regardless of the area’s size. Its average 208cc engine and mighty steel augers will let you clear snow and ice in the shortest time possible.
What’s more, you will be able to direct the snow wherever you want on account of the snow blower’s controls and console chutes. This happens in the 2-step snow clearing process where the augers crush the snow and ice then propel them back to the impeller, which in turn pushes them out through the chute.
The impeller is very efficient and will ensure you experience no clogging, even on heavy and wet snow.
Your comfort was not forgotten during this machine’s construction. Its adjustable loop handles offer superior comfort and a firm grip. However, they are not heated. On the bright side, you get a 2-year warranty.
Although minimalistic, this the CRAFTSMAN SB410 is one of the best 24-inches 2-stage electric start gas snow blower with a pocket-friendly budget.
Other features: recoil and electric start, 6-forward and 2-backward speeds, 13 in. inflatable tires, 180 chute rotation, 40 ft. of throwing distance, start-up to -20 F
If you are looking for a snow blower that works great for the price, your search has come to an end. The PowerSmart snow blower is one of the best 2-stage snow blowers out there. It offers excellent value with so many great features and easy usability.
The gas-powered snow blower is built sturdy enough with a heavy-duty steel frame to handle any tasks in the harsh winter weather. You will experience mighty snow-clearing action with its 208cc engine that will give you about 40ft of throwing distance and a versatile drive system of 6 forward and 2 reverse. The speed variations offer better driving convenience.
The powerful auger system, together with the 180 degrees rotation chute, will not only make your work easier but also assure you of long-term service.
Starting the snow blower will be a breeze with the electric and manual start options, which are all simple to operate.
With the durable inflatable tires, you will comfortably and steadily work on slippery terrain as they offer traction and smoother steering. Furthermore, you can start the snow blower at temperatures as low as -20F.
Being one of the best compact 2-stage snow blowers with so many excellent features, it is totally worth its price.
Other features: electric starter, adjustable handles, heated grips, adjustable skid shoes, LED headlights, remote chute deflector/rotator
This is one of the best snow blowers for medium or heavy snowfalls. If you are the kind of person that puts comfort first when buying stuff, this is your prime pick.
The auger has a robust build that can hold up well to regular use on wet and slushy snow. It features headlights that allow you to work in the dark hours whenever necessary. Discomfort and cold weather, when combined, are a tad unpleasant. With this in mind, the snow blower features adjustable heated handle grips for premium comfort.
You can forget the trouble of dead batteries, common with most snow blowers since cold weather can be tough on batteries. The snow blower’s has an electric starter system that simply requires you to press a button to start the engine once you’re connected to a power outlet.
The Husqvarna snow blower is engineered to endure harsh winters with a durable cast iron gearbox and impeller that will serve you in the long-term. With a motor size so massive (254cc) and a 7-speed drive system, the snow blower will clear snow from lawn or driveway in a split second impulse. Its adjustable skid shoes and ribbon auger also give it the ability to handle a lot of snow (23 inches intake).
With this snow blower, you will experience unbeatable propulsion on hills, slippery surfaces, and deeper snow — no more sliding or slipping. Its powerful and convenient control steering will allow you to operate each wheel individually with high flexibility at 180 degrees turning.
If you are looking for an all-around snow blower that will magically clear snow on your compound, then this is your ultimate choice, plus, you get a 3-year warranty.
It is essential to be equipped with the right information about what makes a great 2-stage snow blower. In this section, you will realize you need to get one ASAP! And what you must consider before settling for it.
A snow blower is a must-have machine for anyone living in areas that experience snowfalls regularly. A 2-stage snow blower, in particular, is equipped with various features that will not only make snow clearing an easy chore but also offer you comfort and save you a lot of time. You can use them to clear snow on sloppy and large areas because their wheel is power-assisted. Other benefits include overcoming any snow clearing challenges because of their powerful performance and feeling great all winter, having a snow-free yard or driveway without straining a muscle.
Choosing a snow blower primarily depends on your personal preferences and needs, as well as other factors like your budget, ground material, snowfall frequency, and property size. There are certain features that a 2-stage snow blower ought to have for you to have a better snow blowing experience for a long time. Here are some of the features any good pick will have:
All 2-stage snow blowers are gas-powered, thus offer high mobility. That is why they are well-suited for clearing snow in large areas.
The more powerful the engine (higher cc), the higher the snow blower’s clearing ability. For convenience, go for snow blowers with a high motor power like the Ariens 926071 Professional reviewed above. It clears snow very fast with a 420cc engine. The average power engines are also okay, especially for people with smaller areas to clear. You don’t have to get a heavy-duty snow blower when you just need to clear snow on your driveway alone.
This also determines how fast the snow blower will clear snow. The more it can take, the better. It is wise to settle for a powerful engine and a great width and depth capacity for reduced snow blowing chore time.
A higher fuel tank capacity will save you time as you won’t have to refill amid snow blowing. The Ariens 926071 Professional has a large fuel tank capacity that can last an entire snow clearing session and even more.
A heavy snow blower would be challenging to maneuver, thus giving you a hard time. It is better to settle for a lightweight machine that you can use and store with much ease like the PowerSmart DB7624E.
Speed Controls: They help you choose the pace with which to move the snow blower forward or reverse. Most machines have the 6 forward 1 reverse speed control.
Large tires: It is better to settle for large tires because they don’t get stuck easily and make steering easier.
Power steering: This gives you easier maneuverability of the snow blower. It saves you energy and time.
Headlights: These will give you visibility if you decide to clear snow after dusk or at dawn.
Heated handles: For maximum comfort when working in the cold outside, it is better to get a snow blower with adjustable heated handles. They will warm you up and make snow blowing a bearable chore for you.
Electric and manual starters: A snow blower that has both an electric and manual starters is a good pick because whenever you are out of power and would like to clear snow from your driveway, you can use the recoil manual starter. Otherwise, an electric starter is the most suitable option because it just involves pushing a button.
A remote chute control: This is also necessary as it allows you to direct the snow where you desire. With it, you can adjust the direction in which the blower can discharge the snow.
You have just got to get the best two-stage snow blower if you live in a snowfall-prone area. Life can never be easier with one. However, there is a seamless array of two-stage snow blowers in the market that making a good pick can be daunting. Well, this guide is an ultimate solution with a comparison table, in-depth product reviews and a buying guide.
From all the two-stage snow blowers we reviewed, we concluded that Briggs & Stratton 1024MDS is the best you can get in the market. It is easy to use, affordable, and well suited for deep snow and the harsh winter weather. The Husqvarna ST227P and The Ariens 921046 Deluxe followed closely with heavy-duty capabilities, convenient features and longevity that are unsurpassed. They all offer great value and are worth investing in.
The information on this list should help you find the best 2-stage snow blower that meets your needs. It will give you the confidence you need to settle for a product that will serve you efficiently in the long term. With all the options available, it’s about time you said goodbye to shoveling your driveway in the wee hours of the morning when you should be getting some beauty sleep.
Can’t decide between an Ariens and a Husqvarna. Both look good for me!
Hello, Lily! Both of these brands are trusted and reputable, their two-stage snow blowers are deservedly rated among the best.
You can read our articles about Ariens and Husqvarna snow blowers, know more about them and then decide which brand you will eventually choose.
My family bought a Husqvarna unit last week. Can’t wait to test it! Any happy owners here? What to expect? 🙂
I like the models you review, but not sure if they’re a little bit too big and powerful for my small yard. Or still, are they better than a single-stage unit?
How much more efficient is a 2 stage furnace?
A two stage system is an effective way to heat your house because it employs two independent processes that are hotter than a conventional furnace.
How can I take care of my snow blower?
A winter season may come and go, but your snow blower will need regular maintenance to ensure that it’s dependable. Visually inspect before using and always replace any defective lightbulbs or windshields as soon as you can.
Keep the engine oil topped up and the air filter clean.
Can I use a snowblower on grass?
Snowblowers are designed specifically to clear snow, so using them on grass will cause great damage to the lawn. The blades will cut through the grass, which doesn’t have any ice in it, leaving behind long gashes that will need attention.
Snowblowers can be used on grass, but for small amounts of snow, a shovel is usually better. If you’re looking to quickly remove large amounts of snow, then there’s no better option than a snowblower.
Should I buy the power steering option?
This question is often asked by car buyers who are buying new cars. It is important to think about why you would need power steering before making the decision to buy it.