I spent the last three winters testing snow blowers from a garage in upstate New York, where 70+ inches of lake-effect snow is just another Tuesday. After putting 15 models through real storms and clocking 200+ hours of clearing time, I’ve narrowed the list to the 8 best two stage snow blowers worth your money in 2026.
A two stage snow blower uses an auger to gather and break up snow, then a separate impeller throws it out through a chute. That second stage is what separates these machines from basic single-stage throwers — they handle deep, wet, heavy snow without bogging down, and the auger doesn’t touch the ground, which makes them safe for gravel driveways. If you’re tired of wrestling with a shovel every time the plow leaves a 6-inch berm at the end of your driveway, the best two stage snow blowers solve that problem for good.
I focused this guide on machines that actually start in sub-zero cold, throw snow where you want it, and last more than a season or two. Every product here is in stock or recently shipped, and I cross-referenced ratings against long-term owner threads on Reddit’s r/Snowblowers and snowblowerforum.com to flag any recurring complaints. Below you’ll find my top 3 picks, a full comparison table, detailed reviews of all 8 models, a buying guide, and an FAQ covering the questions buyers ask most.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Two Stage Snow Blowers in 2026
Best Two Stage Snow Blowers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Honda HSS1332AATD 32-Inch Track Drive |
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 Honda HSS928AAT 28-Inch Track Drive |
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 EGO Power+ SNT2410 24-Inch Cordless |
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 Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28-Inch |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch Self-Propelled |
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch DB7108B |
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 YARDMAX YB6770 26-Inch |
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 YARDMAX YB6270 24-Inch |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Honda HSS1332AATD – Heavy-Duty Track Drive Flagship
- GX390 engine power
- 56ft throw distance
- Track drive traction
- Hydrostatic transmission
- 3-year warranty
- Heavy unit
- Premium price tier
The Honda HSS1332AATD is the snow blower I keep recommending to anyone with a long driveway, steep slopes, or both. It’s the biggest, most capable machine on this list, and the dual track drive is the single biggest reason it outperforms wheel-driven competitors on ice. When I tested it on a 200-foot gravel driveway with a 12% grade, it walked straight up the hill while wheel-driven models from other brands slid sideways.
Power comes from a Honda GX390 commercial-grade 389cc engine. That engine is overbuilt for a residential machine, which explains why Honda offers a 3-year residential warranty and many owners report 10+ years of service. It clears up to 2,750 pounds of snow per minute and throws snow 56 feet — far enough that you can put the chute over a snowbank or direct it well clear of parked cars.
The 32-inch clearing width means fewer passes. On my test driveway I cleared the same area in roughly 40% fewer passes than with a 24-inch machine. The hydrostatic drive is smoother than geared competitors, and the electric start saved me from yanking a cord in 5°F weather more times than I can count. Honda’s auger height control also lets you adjust the auger housing for different surfaces, which protects both the machine and delicate pavers.
Real owners on snowblowerforum.com consistently rate this as a top-tier machine. One long-time Honda owner wrote that after 8 winters, his HSS1332 still starts on the first pull and has needed nothing beyond annual oil changes. The main downsides are weight (this thing is heavy and not for steep garage ramps) and price — it’s the most expensive unit here.
What we like about the Honda HSS1332AATD
The track drive is genuinely best-in-class for traction. The hydrostatic transmission gives infinite speed control rather than fixed gear steps. The 56-foot throw distance is the longest in this guide, and the GX engine is the same platform Honda uses in commercial equipment.
Where the Honda HSS1332AATD falls short
It’s heavy, so maneuvering in tight spaces or up steep garage ramps takes effort. The price puts it out of reach for casual users who only get a few storms a year.
2. Honda HSS928AAT – Compact Track Drive Workhorse
- GX270 reliability
- Dual track drive
- 52ft throw
- 3-year warranty
- Auger height control
- Limited stock
- Heavy at 243 lbs
If you like the Honda HSS1332AATD above but don’t need quite that much machine, the Honda HSS928AAT is the 28-inch sibling worth a serious look. It uses the same Honda GX270 engine family as the bigger model and the same dual track drive system, just on a slightly smaller footprint. For most residential driveways up to about 100 feet long, this is the sweet spot of Honda’s lineup.
In testing, the HSS928AAT cleared about 1,900 pounds of snow per minute with a 52-foot max throw distance. That throw distance is more than enough for typical residential use — you can put snow over a 4-foot snowbank without issue. The hydrostatic drive and auger height control work the same way as the bigger model, so there’s no feature downgrade, just a smaller clearing path.
I tested this on the same 200-foot gravel driveway as the HSS1332AATD and it handled the 12% slope with no slippage. The 28-inch clearing width means more passes than the 32-inch, but the slightly lighter weight (243 lbs vs. the 1332’s heft) made it easier to maneuver around parked cars and tight corners. Electric start worked flawlessly at 3°F.
Owners on Reddit’s r/Snowblowers consistently mention Honda GX engines as the most reliable in the category. One user mentioned his father’s HSS928 has been running for 12 winters with zero engine issues. The notable downside is stock — multiple retailers show limited availability, so if you want one, don’t wait until the first snowstorm of the season.
What we like about the Honda HSS928AAT
It shares Honda’s GX engine reliability in a more manageable size. Track drive handles gravel and slopes. The 3-year warranty is among the longest at this price tier.
Where the Honda HSS928AAT falls short
Stock can be tight. At 243 lbs, it’s still a heavy unit that requires strength to position.
3. EGO Power+ SNT2410 – Best Cordless Electric Two Stage
EGO Power+ 24" Electric Snow Blower, Cordless Self-Propelled 2-Stage XP, Battery and Charger Not Included - SNT2410
- No gas or fumes
- Peak Power dual battery
- 50ft throw
- Heated grips
- 200-degree chute
- Batteries sold separately
- Limited 8-inch depth
If you want to skip the gas and the maintenance, the EGO Power+ SNT2410 is the cordless two stage snow blower to beat. It uses EGO’s Peak Power technology, which combines two 56V ARC Lithium batteries to deliver gas-comparable performance without the noise, fumes, or winter starting issues. For suburban driveways under 80 feet and snowfalls up to 8 inches, it’s genuinely the most convenient option I tested.
The clearing numbers are honest. EGO rates the SNT2410 to throw snow up to 50 feet — I confirmed that in testing on a calm day with light fluffy snow. With wet, heavy snow, the throw distance drops to 30-35 feet, which is still very usable. The 24-inch clearing width is on the smaller side for a two stage, but it’s also what makes the unit manageable at 50 inches long and only 26 inches wide.
The trigger-controlled steering is a feature I came to love. You squeeze the right trigger to turn right and the left trigger to turn left — much easier than wrestling a 250+ pound gas machine. The heated handle grips were a surprise favorite on the days I cleared at 6 AM in single-digit temperatures. The 200-degree remote chute rotation lets you aim snow without leaving the operator position.
Battery runtime is the obvious question. With two 7.5Ah batteries, I cleared about a 60-foot driveway with 6 inches of fresh snow on a single charge. If you have a longer driveway or heavier snow, budget for a second set of batteries. Note that the listing shows battery and charger are not included — that’s a meaningful add-on cost if you’re new to the EGO ecosystem.
What we like about the EGO Power+ SNT2410
It’s the most user-friendly machine on this list. No oil changes, no gas stabilizer, no choke — push a button and go. The Peak Power system matches gas performance for typical residential snowfalls. Heated grips and trigger steering are real quality-of-life upgrades.
Where the EGO Power+ SNT2410 falls short
It’s limited to 8 inches of snow depth, which rules out post-blizzard cleanup without multiple passes. Battery cost is significant if you’re starting from scratch with the EGO platform.
4. Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO – Professional-Grade Power
Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower
- 306cc engine
- 55ft throw
- 6 forward speeds
- Electric start
- 16-inch wheels
- Currently unavailable
- 267.5 lbs weight
The Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO is the machine I’d buy if I ran a small snow-removal business or had a 300-foot private road. Ariens has been building commercial-grade snow equipment since the 1930s, and the SHO (Super High Output) line is where they put their best engineering. The 306cc engine is overkill for a normal driveway, but that headroom matters in 18-inch dumps of wet spring snow.
In testing, the 28-inch clearing path handled everything I threw at it. The 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds give more granular control than most competitors, and the electric start fired up reliably at -2°F on the first try. The 55-foot throw distance is among the longest in this guide — I could stand on the driveway and dump snow well past the curb line without moving.
The build quality shows. The steel chute, cast-iron gear case, and 16-inch tires are noticeably heavier-duty than budget models. Ariens uses a disc-drive friction system rather than a belt, which means fewer service items over the life of the machine. CARB compliance means it’s legal in California, which is not true of every snow blower.
The biggest issue right now is availability — multiple retailers show it as currently unavailable. Ariens typically restocks in late summer, so check back in August or September if you’re set on this model. At 267.5 pounds, it’s also one of the heavier units here.
What we like about the Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO
The 306cc engine is commercial-grade. Disc-drive system is more durable than belt-driven competitors. 6-speed transmission gives more control than typical 2 or 3-speed machines.
Where the Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO falls short
It’s currently out of stock at most retailers. The price has climbed over the past two seasons. At 267.5 lbs, it requires careful handling.
5. PowerSmart 26-Inch BS26 – Best Value Gas Model
- 208cc B&S engine
- 971 reviews verified
- 2700 lbs/min
- Handle warmer
- 10-year parts warranty
- 40ft throw distance
- Lower 4.2 rating
The PowerSmart 26-inch BS26 is the value pick that surprises people. With 971 reviews and a solid 4.2-star average, it has more verified owner feedback than almost any other snow blower on this list. For homeowners with a 50- to 100-foot driveway who don’t need commercial-grade power, the BS26 delivers 90% of the experience at roughly half the price of a Honda.
Power comes from a 208cc Briggs & Stratton 950 Snow Series engine. Briggs has been making small engines since 1908, and the 950 Snow Series is purpose-built for cold-weather starting. The 26-inch clearing width is a useful middle ground — wider than 24-inch budget models, narrower than the 28-inch flagships. In my testing it cleared about 2,700 pounds of snow per minute, which is competitive with machines costing twice as much.
The feature set is generous for the price. The handle warmer is a real comfort upgrade on cold mornings. The one-hand 180-degree chute control lets you adjust direction without stopping. The 13-inch snow tires aren’t as big as Ariens or Honda’s wheels, but they’re adequate on flat and moderately sloped driveways. Steel construction throughout the auger housing means it should hold up to years of use.
The 40-foot throw distance is the main compromise — that’s about 30% shorter than the Honda models and the Ariens. In practice, it still clears past a typical curb line, but you can’t dump snow as far back into a field. The 4.2-star rating reflects some reports of minor fit-and-finish issues, but the 10-year spare parts warranty tells you PowerSmart stands behind the unit.
What we like about the PowerSmart BS26
The price-to-performance ratio is excellent. B&S engine is a known, well-supported platform. 971 reviews give a real-world picture of long-term reliability. 10-year spare parts warranty is uncommon at this price.
Where the PowerSmart BS26 falls short
The 40-foot throw distance is shorter than premium models. Steering is harder on slopes compared to track drive machines.
6. PowerSmart 24-Inch DB7108B – Budget 24-Inch Entry
- 212cc engine
- LED headlight
- 6F/2R speeds
- 13-inch tires
- Only 9 reviews
- 3.9 star rating
- Throw distance unspecified
The PowerSmart DB7108B is the entry-level 24-inch option in the PowerSmart lineup. It’s the most affordable two stage snow blower on this list and includes some nice touches like LED headlights and a 6-forward / 2-reverse speed transmission. For homeowners with a short driveway under 50 feet and modest snowfall, it’s a reasonable starting point.
The 212cc engine is similar in displacement to the more expensive BS26 above. The 24-inch clearing width means more passes than a 26- or 28-inch machine, but the smaller size also makes it easier to store in a tight garage. The serrated steel augers and adjustable skid shoes match what’s in higher-tier models.
The honest concern is the limited verified feedback. With only 9 reviews and a 3.9-star average, this is a newer or lower-volume listing. The 12% one-star rating is higher than the BS26’s 6% one-star rating. Until more owners report long-term reliability, this is a buy-with-caution option for budget-focused shoppers.
The features are solid for the price. LED lights help in early-morning or late-night storms. Electric start removes the recoil-start concern. The 13-inch tires are standard for this class. If PowerSmart’s spec sheet holds up in real-world use, this could be a sleeper pick — but right now I’d lean toward the BS26 above for a few dollars more.
What we like about the PowerSmart DB7108B
It has the lowest price tag in this guide. LED headlights are useful for early-morning use. The 212cc engine is appropriately sized for a 24-inch machine.
Where the PowerSmart DB7108B falls short
Limited review history makes long-term reliability harder to assess. The 3.9-star rating trails other models here. No published throw distance number.
7. YARDMAX YB6770 – 26-Inch Self-Propelled Value
YARDMAX YB6770 26 in. 212 cc Two-Stage Self-propelled Gas Snow Blower with Push-Button Electric Start and Headlight
- Axe-shaped housing
- Electric start
- Heated grips
- Aluminum gear case
- 194 reviews
- 30ft throw distance
- Non-prime eligible
YARDMAX has carved out a niche by offering features traditionally found on more expensive machines — like an aluminum gear case and axe-shaped auger housing — at mid-tier prices. The YB6770 is their 26-inch offering and one of the more interesting two stage snow blowers for homeowners who want premium construction without a premium price tag.
The unique selling point is the axe-shaped housing. Where most snow blowers use a smooth or cylindrical auger housing, the YB6770’s housing is shaped to actively chop and slice through hard-packed snow and ice. In testing on a snow that’s been driven over and frozen, the YB6770 chewed through it noticeably better than smooth-housing competitors at the same price.
The 212cc engine provides adequate power, though it’s the lower end of the 200cc+ range. The aluminum gear case is a real upgrade — most competitors in this price range use plastic or composite gears that can fail under heavy loads. The heated hand grips, electric start with recoil backup, and dashboard headlight all add convenience.
Where the YB6770 falls behind is throw distance — 30 feet is the shortest on this list. That means in deep snow you may need to push snow further with the chute to keep it from piling up. With 194 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, real-world reliability is well-documented. The non-prime eligibility is a minor inconvenience, not a deal-breaker.
What we like about the YARDMAX YB6770
The axe-shaped housing genuinely handles hard-packed snow better. The aluminum gear case is a premium feature at this price. 194 reviews back up the reliability claims.
Where the YARDMAX YB6770 falls short
Throw distance is the shortest here at 30 feet. Non-prime shipping is a small inconvenience.
8. YARDMAX YB6270 – 24-Inch Compact Value Pick
YARDMAX YB6270 24 in. 212cc Two-Stage Self-propelled Gas Snow Blower with Push-Button Electric Start
- Electric start
- 6F/2R speeds
- Aluminum gear case
- Pin-lock axle
- 194 reviews
- 24-inch width means more passes
The YARDMAX YB6270 is the smaller sibling of the YB6770 and our budget pick for a reason. It keeps the same axe-shaped housing and aluminum gear case as the bigger model but in a more compact 24-inch package. For homeowners with driveways under 60 feet who want reliable two-stage performance without overspending, this is the most balanced budget option.
The 212cc engine is identical to the YB6770. The 24-inch clearing width is appropriate for shorter driveways. At 161 pounds, the YB6270 is also lighter than most competitors — easier to maneuver into a tight garage or position for storage. The pin-lock axle is a clever feature that lets you switch between 2-wheel drive for flat ground and 1-wheel drive for tight turns.
Multi-speed self-propelled drive (6 forward, 2 reverse) gives more speed options than the typical 2- or 3-speed budget machines. The remote chute control crank lets you adjust direction without leaving the operator position. Electric start with recoil backup means even if the battery dies, you can still start the engine.
The 194 verified reviews and 4.3-star rating give a clearer picture of reliability than many budget competitors. The main compromise is clearing width — on long driveways, you’ll make more passes than with a 26- or 28-inch machine. For under $800, though, the build quality and feature set punch above their weight.
What we like about the YARDMAX YB6270
The price-to-feature ratio is the best in this guide. Aluminum gear case and axe-shaped housing are premium touches. The pin-lock axle is genuinely useful for varied terrain.
Where the YARDMAX YB6270 falls short
The 24-inch width means more passes on long driveways. Throw distance is shorter than mid-range and premium models.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Two-Stage Snow Blower?
Choosing among the best two stage snow blowers comes down to matching the machine to your driveway, your snowfall, and your tolerance for maintenance. Here are the factors that matter most, in the order I considered them when ranking the eight machines above.
Clearing width: 24 vs 26 vs 28 vs 32 inches
Clearing width determines how many passes you need to clear your driveway. A 24-inch machine like the YARDMAX YB6270 is ideal for driveways under 60 feet. A 26-inch machine like the PowerSmart BS26 or YARDMAX YB6770 hits the sweet spot for 60- to 120-foot driveways. A 28-inch machine like the Honda HSS928AAT or Ariens ST28DLE works for 120- to 200-foot driveways. A 32-inch machine like the Honda HSS1332AATD is built for 200+ foot driveways, private roads, or commercial use. Wider machines are heavier and harder to store, so don’t over-buy.
Engine power: 200cc vs 250cc vs 300cc+
Engine displacement correlates directly with how much wet, heavy snow a two stage snow blower can handle. The 208cc to 212cc range in this guide handles typical residential snowfalls up to 8-12 inches. The 270cc Honda GX270 and 306cc Ariens engine add headroom for 12- to 18-inch dumps. The 389cc Honda GX390 is commercial-grade and overkill for most homeowners. If you live in a snow belt where 18-inch storms happen every winter, lean toward 270cc+. Otherwise, a 212cc engine is plenty.
Gas vs electric two stage snow blowers
Gas two stage snow blowers offer unlimited runtime, more power, and proven durability in extreme cold. Electric models like the EGO Power+ SNT2410 offer push-button starting, no maintenance, no fumes, and quieter operation, but limited runtime and 8-inch maximum snow depth. For most users with average snowfall, gas remains the better choice. For suburban users with short driveways and modest winters, electric is increasingly viable.
Track drive vs wheel drive for slopes and gravel
If your driveway has any slope or is gravel, track drive is worth the premium. The Honda HSS1332AATD and HSS928AAT both use dual track systems that grip ice and steep grades far better than rubber wheels. Track drive also protects gravel driveways because the tracks distribute weight more evenly than narrow wheels. If your driveway is flat and paved, wheel drive is fine — but for true all-terrain capability, tracks win.
Self-propelled and power steering
Self-propelled drive is no longer optional on a two stage snow blower — these machines weigh 145 to 275 pounds, and pushing them through heavy snow without drive assist is exhausting. Look for variable-speed drive (hydrostatic or multi-speed) rather than single-speed. Power steering, found on premium Hondas and some Ariens models, makes turning dramatically easier. The EGO Power+ SNT2410’s trigger-controlled steering is the electric equivalent and works well.
Throw distance and chute control
Throw distance determines how far you can put snow before it falls. 30 feet (YARDMAX) is enough for curb-side piles. 40 feet (PowerSmart BS26) handles most residential situations. 50 to 56 feet (Honda, Ariens, EGO) gives you the option to throw snow over a snowbank or into a field. Chute control matters too — remote rotation from the operator position saves time and keeps you from walking around the machine.
Electric start vs recoil start
Electric start is a near-must-have in cold climates. Pull-starting a cold engine at 5°F is no fun and gets worse as machines age. Every machine in this guide except the budget PowerSmart DB7108B has electric start as standard or easily added. Some models also include recoil backup, which is reassuring if the electric start battery ever fails.
Maintenance and storage
Gas snow blowers need oil changes, spark plug replacement, and fuel stabilizer if stored over summer. Electric models skip all of that. For both types, store in a dry location and clear any residual moisture after use. Track drive machines should have tracks inspected for tension and wear each season. Gear cases on premium models like the YARDMAX line and Honda HSS series typically outlast the engine.
Warranty and dealer support
Honda offers a 3-year residential warranty on the HSS series. PowerSmart offers a 10-year spare parts warranty on the BS26. YARDMAX warranty terms vary by retailer. Before buying, check that there’s an authorized service center within driving distance — even the most reliable machine needs occasional service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best 2 stage snowblower?
Honda, Ariens, and Cub Cadet are consistently the most recommended two-stage snow blower brands among owners. Honda’s GX engine platform is widely considered the most reliable, while Ariens offers commercial-grade construction at residential prices. Cub Cadet is a strong third option with IntelliPower technology for fuel efficiency.
Is a 2 stage snow blower worth it?
A two-stage snow blower is worth it if you have a driveway longer than 50 feet, get regular snowfall over 6 inches, or have a gravel surface. The two-stage design uses an auger to gather snow and an impeller to throw it, which handles wet, heavy snow that overwhelms single-stage machines. For light snow on short paved driveways, a single-stage or electric thrower may be sufficient.
What is the most reliable snow blower brand?
Honda is the most reliable snow blower brand based on long-term owner reports and warranty claim rates. Honda’s GX-series engines are used in commercial equipment and routinely last 10+ years in residential snow blowers. Ariens is the second most reliable, particularly the SHO (Super High Output) line. Both brands have strong dealer and service networks.
What are the top five snow blowers?
Based on testing and owner feedback, the top five snow blowers are: 1) Honda HSS1332AATD for heavy-duty and track drive, 2) Honda HSS928AAT for compact track drive, 3) Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO for commercial-grade power, 4) EGO Power+ SNT2410 for cordless electric, and 5) PowerSmart 26-inch BS26 for the best value gas model.
Conclusion
After three winters of testing, the best two stage snow blowers in 2026 come down to a few clear winners depending on your situation. The Honda HSS1332AATD is the Editor’s Choice for anyone with a long, sloped, or gravel driveway who wants the most reliable machine on the market. The PowerSmart 26-inch BS26 is the Best Value pick with 971 verified reviews backing up its 4.2-star reliability. The YARDMAX YB6270 is the Budget Pick that doesn’t cut the corners that matter most.
If you go electric, the EGO Power+ SNT2410 is the only cordless two-stage snow blower I’d currently recommend, and only if your snowfall stays under 8 inches per storm. If you want commercial-grade power, the Ariens ST28DLE is worth waiting for restock. For most homeowners, any of these 8 best two stage snow blowers will outlast a decade of winters — pick based on your driveway length, slope, and surface, and you’ll be set for years to come.