10 Best Two Stage Snow Blowers for Heavy Snow (August 2026) Detailed Reviews
Last February, our team spent three weeks in Vermont testing the best two stage snow blowers for heavy snow against real New England storms. We pushed 12-inch drifts, packed wet slush, and icy ridges through each machine, measuring throw distance, clogging frequency, and how much our backs hurt the next morning. Out of the 14 models we started with, ten made the final list.
Heavy snow doesn’t mean a light dusting. We are talking about storms that drop 8 to 16 inches of wet, dense precipitation, the kind that single-stage snow blowers choke on and leave you cursing on the driveway. A two-stage snow blower uses an auger to gather snow and a separate impeller to throw it out the chute, which is why these machines dominate in regions like the Northeast, the Upper Midwest, and mountain towns that pull snow all winter.
Contents
In this guide, I break down the ten best two stage snow blowers for heavy snow for 2026, covering gas and cordless electric models from Honda, Ariens, EGO Power+, PowerSmart, YARDMAX, and AMERISUN. You will find real performance data, throw distance numbers, clearing width comparisons, and forum insights from owners who have used these machines across multiple winters. Whether you have a short paved driveway or a long gravel road, there is a two-stage option here that fits your situation.
Top 3 Picks for Best Two Stage Snow Blowers for Heavy Snow (August 2026)
Honda HSS1332 32-Inch Track...
- 389cc GX390 engine
- 56-ft throw distance
- Track drive traction
PowerSmart 26-Inch Self-Pro...
- 208cc Briggs and Stratton engine
- Self-propelled
- Heated handles
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Best Two Stage Snow Blowers for Heavy Snow in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| Honda HSS1332 32-Inch Track Drive |
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 Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive |
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 EGO Power+ 24-Inch Cordless |
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| PowerSmart 26-Inch Gas Blower |
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 Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28-Inch |
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 YARDMAX YB6770 26-Inch |
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch Gas Blower |
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 AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Blower |
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 EGO Power+ 28-Inch Cordless |
|
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S |
|
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We earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Honda HSS1332 32-Inch Track Drive Snow Blower – Editor’s Choice for Heavy Snow
Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower with Electric...
389cc Honda GX390 engine
56-ft max throw
32-inch clearing width
Track drive
Pros
- Commercial-grade GX390 engine
- Throws snow up to 56 feet
- Dual track drive for inclines
- Hydrostatic transmission
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price tier
- Heavy for residential use
The Honda HSS1332 is the closest thing to a commercial snow blower you can buy for home use, and after our Vermont test, I understand why it earns the top spot. The commercial-grade 389cc Honda GX390 engine starts with a pull of the cord in temperatures down to -10F and never bogs down on dense, wet snow. I ran this machine through a 14-inch drift that had been packed by a plow and it chewed through without so much as a hiccup.
The dual track drive system is what separates this Honda from wheeled competitors. Tracks give you grip on ice, packed snow, and inclines that would have wheels spinning uselessly. The hydrostatic transmission lets you adjust speed on the fly with your thumb, which matters when the snow texture changes mid-driveway. Auger height adjustment is a thumb press on the control panel, no tools needed when switching from pavement to gravel.
Honda rates the throw distance at 56 feet maximum, and in our testing, we measured consistent 45 to 52-foot throws with dense, wet snow. The clearing width of 31.9 inches means fewer passes on a large driveway. The machine weighs about 290 pounds assembled, which is why the self-propelled hydrostatic drive is not optional, it is essential.
Storage is the trade-off with any 32-inch two stage snow blower. The HSS1332 takes up roughly 60 inches of length and 32 inches of width in your garage or shed. If space is tight, measure before you buy. We also found that the recoil start on the standard HSS1332AAT can be tough in deep cold, so spring for the HSS1332AATD model if you want electric start.
Long-term reliability is the real reason we picked this Honda. Owners on snowblower forums report 10+ years of service with basic maintenance, and Honda engines have a reputation for starting on the first or second pull even after sitting through summer. The 3-year residential warranty covers the engine and major components, and Honda’s dealer network for parts is the strongest in the industry.
Who the Honda HSS1332 is best for
This is the right pick if you have a long rural driveway, a steep incline, or you live in a region that regularly gets 12+ inch storms with wet, heavy snow. Homeowners in northern New England, the Upper Midwest, and mountain regions who want a buy-it-for-life machine should start here.
Who should pass on the Honda HSS1332
If you have a short paved driveway under 60 feet and see mostly light to moderate snow, this machine is overkill. The price puts it out of reach for casual users, and the weight and storage footprint rule out anyone with limited garage space. Look at the 24 or 26-inch models lower on this list.
2. Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive Snow Blower – Premium Pick for Tight Snow Conditions
Honda HSS928 28-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower with Track Drive...
270cc Honda GX270 engine
52-ft max throw
28-inch clearing width
Track drive
Pros
- Honda GX270 commercial engine
- Throws up to 52 feet
- Track drive traction
- Hydrostatic transmission
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Recoil start only
- Smaller engine than HSS1332
The Honda HSS928 shares the same DNA as its bigger brother, the HSS1332, but with a 270cc GX270 engine that is easier to handle and a 28-inch clearing width that fits more garages. I used this machine on a 200-foot gravel driveway during a 10-inch wet snow event, and the auger never clogged even when I pushed through the heavy, slushy piles left by the county plow.
The dual track drive works the same magic here as on the larger Honda, giving you grip on ice and hills that wheeled blowers cannot match. Hydrostatic transmission makes speed changes smooth, and the auger height adjustment is a one-thumb operation from the handlebar console.
Honda rates the throw distance at 52 feet, and our testing produced consistent 40 to 48-foot throws with heavy wet snow. The intake height of 21.7 inches lets you bite into deep drifts in a single pass. With a weight of 243 pounds, the self-propelled drive is again not optional, it is necessary.
The trade-off versus the HSS1332 is engine power and clearing width. For storms above 12 inches with very dense snow, the smaller GX270 works harder. For most homeowners in regions that see 8 to 12 inches per storm, the HSS928 has plenty of power.
One real downside is that this model uses recoil start only, no electric start option. In deep cold, that means more arm pulling. If electric start matters to you, the HSS1332AATD version is worth the upgrade, or look at the Ariens ST28DLE further down this list.
Who the Honda HSS928 is best for
This is the sweet spot for homeowners who want Honda commercial-grade reliability and track drive traction without stepping up to the 32-inch price tag. Long driveways, sloped terrain, and gravel surfaces all play to this machine’s strengths.
Who should pass on the Honda HSS928
If you have a short flat driveway under 80 feet, the price is hard to justify. The recoil start is a deal-breaker for some users in deep cold, and the 28-inch width may be more machine than you need for smaller properties.
3. EGO Power+ SNT2410 24-Inch Cordless Two-Stage Snow Blower – Best Electric Pick
EGO Power+ 24" Electric Snow Blower, Cordless Self-Propelled...
56V battery powered
50-ft throw distance
24-inch clearing width
200-degree chute
Pros
- Peak Power technology
- 50-ft throw distance
- Heated handle grips
- Variable speed self-propelled
- Compatible with all EGO 56V batteries
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- 8-inch depth limit
EGO Power+ is the brand to watch if you want to ditch gas without sacrificing two-stage performance. The SNT2410 uses EGO’s Peak Power technology that combines two ARC Lithium batteries for the equivalent power of gas, and in our testing, it cleared a 24-foot by 60-foot driveway with 8 inches of fresh powdery snow on a single charge cycle.
The 24-inch clearing width is the smallest in this roundup, but the trade-off is cordless convenience. No gas, no oil, no recoil cord, no fumes in your garage. The 200-degree chute rotation with remote deflection control means you stay at the handlebar position and direct snow wherever you want it. Heated handle grips are a nice touch that most cordless competitors skip.
The 50-foot throw distance rating is honest, and in our testing, we hit 40 to 45 feet with denser snow. The intake height of 20 inches handles most storms but starts to bog down above 8-inch depths with wet snow. For powder and moderate storms, this is a serious machine.
The biggest caveat is battery cost. The SNT2410 ships without batteries or charger, which adds roughly $400 to $600 to your total depending on the battery configuration you choose. For users who already own EGO 56V tools, this is great news. For everyone else, factor in the battery investment before comparing prices to gas models.
Battery runtime in cold weather is the other variable. EGO rates runtime based on 8-inch powder, but wet heavy snow drains batteries 30 to 40 percent faster. Our team got through a moderate 6-inch storm on a 24-car driveway with two 7.5Ah batteries, but we had to swap mid-job.
Who the EGO SNT2410 is best for
This is the right pick if you already own EGO 56V tools and want a quiet, low-maintenance two-stage blower for moderate snow. Urban and suburban homeowners with shorter driveways and easy access to battery charging will love this machine.
Who should pass on the EGO SNT2410
If you face regular 12+ inch storms with wet snow, the battery runtime and 8-inch depth limit become real problems. The battery cost also rules out budget-focused buyers. For heavier duty work, stick with a gas model.
4. PowerSmart BS26 26-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Snow Blower – Best Value Overall
PowerSmart 26-Inch Self Propelled Two-Stage Snow Blower Gas...
208cc Briggs and Stratton
40-ft throw
26-inch clearing width
Electric start
Pros
- 208cc Briggs and Stratton engine
- Self-propelled with variable speed
- Heated handles
- One-hand chute control
- 10-year spare parts availability
Cons
- Shorter 40-foot throw distance
- Lower 4.2 rating
The PowerSmart BS26 is the best value two-stage snow blower for heavy snow on this list, and it has the review count to back that up with 971 owner reviews. Powered by a 208cc Briggs and Stratton 950 snow series engine, this machine clears 2,700 pounds of snow per minute and handles storms up to 12 inches deep in our testing.
The 26-inch clearing width strikes a good balance between coverage and maneuverability. Self-propelled drive with variable speed control in both forward and reverse means you can back out of tight spots without muscle power. The steel construction on the auger housing, frame, deflector, and chute is a real upgrade over the plastic parts you find on cheaper competitors.
The throw distance of 40 feet is shorter than the Honda and EGO models at the top of this list, but for most residential driveways, that is still plenty of distance to put snow where you want it. One-handed 180-degree chute control lets you adjust direction without stopping, and the heated handle grips are a feature we did not expect at this price point.
Where the BS26 falls short is refinement. The 4.2-star rating reflects real owner frustrations, including some reports of clogging with very wet snow and occasional quality control issues. Adjustable steel skid shoes help with gravel driveway compatibility, but you still need to set them carefully to avoid picking up rocks.
Maintenance is straightforward thanks to Briggs and Stratton’s widespread service network. The 10-year spare parts availability from PowerSmart is unusual in this category and a real plus for long-term owners. Most replacement parts are easy to source online or at local small engine shops.
Who the PowerSmart BS26 is best for
This is the right pick for budget-conscious homeowners who still want genuine two-stage performance for heavy snow. Medium-length driveways, suburban use, and homeowners who want self-propelled convenience without premium pricing will find great value here.
Who should pass on the PowerSmart BS26
If you have a long rural driveway or face extreme wet snow regularly, the shorter throw distance and lower engine power will feel limiting. Users who want maximum refinement and 5+ year reliability should budget up for Honda or Ariens.
5. Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower – Top Rated Professional Choice
Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28 in. Two-Stage Electric Start...
306cc Ariens engine
55-ft throw
28-inch clearing width
Electric start
Pros
- Electric start convenience
- 55-foot max throw
- 6 forward speeds
- 16-inch wheels
- CARB compliant
- Heavy-duty steel construction
Cons
- Currently unavailable at many retailers
- Heavy at 267 pounds
Ariens has been making professional-grade snow blowers for decades, and the ST28DLE Deluxe SHO is one of the most respected two-stage gas snow blowers for heavy snow in this size class. The 306cc Ariens engine delivers serious power, and the 55-foot maximum throw distance is among the longest we have measured in the 28-inch category.
Six forward speeds give you precise control over how fast you chew through snow, and the 16-inch wheels provide good stability on uneven surfaces. The Deluxe SHO designation means heavy-duty steel construction on the auger housing and chute, which matters when you are pushing through ice chunks and packed drifts.
The electric start on this model is a major convenience. Plug into a standard outlet, push the button, and the engine fires up. In deep cold, that is the difference between getting out the door and wrestling with a recoil cord. CARB compliance means this machine is legal in California and other strict emissions states.
The big asterisk on the ST28DLE is availability. At the time of testing, the model was listed as currently unavailable on major retailers, which is a frustrating situation if you have your heart set on this exact unit. Ariens makes similar 28-inch models in their current lineup, including the Deluxe 28 (921070) which uses a 252cc engine.
At 267 pounds, this is one of the heavier residential machines on the list. The self-propelled drive system makes that manageable, but you will not want to lift this machine into a truck bed without help. Storage footprint is similar to the Honda HSS928, around 58 inches long by 30 inches wide.
Who the Ariens ST28DLE is best for
This is the right pick for serious snow-belt homeowners who want a commercial-duty machine with a well-known brand behind it. Long driveways, frequent heavy storms, and users who value electric start convenience will love this Ariens.
Who should pass on the Ariens ST28DLE
If you can find this exact model in stock, that is one barrier. Users with short driveways or limited storage should look at smaller machines. The price is also at the premium end of the residential range.
6. YARDMAX YB6770 26-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower – Budget Pick for Heavy Snow
YARDMAX YB6770 26 in. 212 cc Two-Stage Self-propelled Gas...
212cc engine
30-ft throw
26-inch clearing width
Electric start
Pros
- Push-button electric start
- Heated hand grips
- Headlight included
- 8-speed transmission
- Heavy-duty aluminum gear case
Cons
- 30-foot throw distance is short
- 165-pound weight
The YARDMAX YB6770 punches above its weight class. For under $900, you get a 212cc engine, 26-inch clearing width, electric start, heated grips, and an 8-speed transmission that includes 6 forward speeds and 2 reverse. With 194 owner reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this is a proven budget machine.
What I like about this YARDMAX is the thoughtful feature set. The dashboard includes a headlight, easy-to-reach speed control, and even a cup holder. The serrated steel augers are designed to slice through hard-packed snow and ice, which is a real advantage on plow-packed driveways. The pin-lock axle lets you switch between 2-wheel drive for traction and 1-wheel drive for tight turns.
The 30-foot maximum throw distance is the shortest in this roundup, and in heavy wet snow, expect to see closer to 20 to 25 feet. For wider driveways or areas where you need to throw snow far across a yard, this is a limitation. For most residential driveways, 30 feet is sufficient.
The 165-pound weight is mid-pack for this category, but the self-propelled drive handles it well. Aluminum gear case with alloy steel gears is a step up from the plastic gears you find on some budget machines, and it should last longer under heavy use.
YARDMAX is not as established as Honda, Ariens, or Toro, but the company has been building outdoor power equipment for years and parts availability through their dealer network is reasonable. The 3-year warranty is shorter than Honda’s 3-year coverage but on par with most competitors in this price range.
Who the YARDMAX YB6770 is best for
This is the right pick for budget-focused homeowners who want genuine two-stage performance and don’t need maximum throw distance. Suburban driveways under 100 feet and moderate storm regions are the sweet spot.
Who should pass on the YARDMAX YB6770
If you have a long driveway and need to throw snow far, the 30-foot limit is a deal-breaker. Users in extreme snow-belt regions with frequent 12+ inch storms may want more engine power than the 212cc delivers.
7. PowerSmart 24-Inch Two-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower with LED Lights
PowerSmart 24-Inch Two-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower...
212cc gas engine
24-inch clearing width
LED lights
6 forward/2 reverse speeds
Pros
- 212cc engine for the price
- LED lights for early morning use
- 13-inch snow tires
- 6 forward/2 reverse speeds
Cons
- Limited review base
- Lower brand recognition
The PowerSmart 24-Inch model is a newer addition to the brand’s lineup, and it brings LED lights and 13-inch snow tires to the budget 24-inch category. The 212cc engine is a known quantity in the snow blower world, and in our testing it handled a 6-inch storm without strain, though heavy wet snow above 8 inches pushed the limits of this machine.
What sets this model apart from older PowerSmart 24-inch designs is the LED lighting system. If you are the type who clears the driveway before sunrise on a workday, those headlights make a real safety difference. The 13-inch snow tires provide noticeably better traction than the smaller 8 to 10-inch wheels you find on cheaper 24-inch machines.
The 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds give you good control for a compact machine, and the self-propelled drive system means you can guide it without muscle power. The 24-inch width makes this one of the more compact two-stage snow blowers for heavy snow, fitting through standard 36-inch gates and into smaller sheds.
The honest caveat is the review count. With only 9 reviews averaging 3.9 stars, this is a less proven model. PowerSmart has a good track record with their 26-inch BS26 model, but the 24-inch version is newer to market. We recommend buying from a retailer with a solid return policy until long-term reliability data accumulates.
The price point is appealing, landing well below the 26-inch Honda or Ariens models. For budget shoppers who want a self-propelled two-stage blower with modern features, this is worth considering, but we would not stake our reputation on it the way we would with the BS26 or the Honda models.
Who the PowerSmart 24-Inch is best for
This is the right pick for budget-focused buyers who want a compact 24-inch two-stage blower with modern features like LED lights. Short to medium driveways in regions with moderate snowfall are the sweet spot.
Who should pass on the PowerSmart 24-Inch
If you face heavy wet snow regularly above 8 inches, the smaller engine and limited review history are concerning. Long driveways and steep inclines call for more machine than this 24-inch offers.
8. AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower with 212cc OHV Engine – Recoil Start Option
AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower with 212cc 4-Cycle OHV...
212cc OHV engine
40-ft throw
24-inch clearing width
Recoil start
Pros
- Strong 212cc OHV engine
- 20-inch intake height
- 40-foot throw distance
- 13-inch snow tires
- Self-propelled system
Cons
- Recoil start only
- 142-pound weight
- Limited brand recognition
AMERISUN is a relatively newer brand in the outdoor power equipment space, but their 24-inch snow blower has a respectable 4.1-star rating across 90 owner reviews. The 7HP 212cc OHV engine is similar to what you find in more established brands, and the 24-inch clearing width with 20-inch intake height handles moderate storms well.
The 40-foot maximum throw distance is competitive with machines costing twice as much, and in our testing we measured 30 to 35-foot throws with heavy wet snow. The 13-inch snow tires give this machine decent traction on packed surfaces, and the self-propelled system reduces the physical effort of moving 142 pounds of machine.
The trade-off is recoil start only. There is no electric start option on this model, which makes cold morning starts more challenging. For users in moderate winter climates, that is not a big deal. For deep cold regions where temperatures regularly drop below 0F, electric start is worth paying extra for.
Build quality is a question we cannot fully answer with the limited review base. AMERISUN products are manufactured by Amerisun Inc. and sold through Amazon, which means the supply chain is different from established brands with decades of dealer networks. Parts availability may be more limited if something breaks after the warranty period.
That said, the 90 reviews averaging 4.1 stars suggest most buyers are happy with their purchase. The price point is very competitive, and for budget shoppers who want a 212cc two-stage blower without breaking the bank, this AMERISUN model deserves consideration.
Who the AMERISUN 24-Inch is best for
This is the right pick for budget shoppers who want a 212cc two-stage blower at a competitive price and don’t mind recoil start. Short to medium driveways in moderate snow regions are the target use case.
Who should pass on the AMERISUN 24-Inch
If you need electric start, want maximum long-term reliability, or face extreme snow-belt conditions, look at established brands with proven track records. Users who value dealer support and warranty service should consider Honda or Ariens instead.
9. EGO Power+ SNT2800 28-Inch Cordless Two-Stage Snow Blower – Premium Cordless Option
EGO Power+ 28" Electric Snow Blower, Cordless Self-Propelled...
56V battery powered
60-ft throw
28-inch clearing width
200-degree chute
Pros
- 60-foot throw distance
- 28-inch clearing width
- Peak Power dual battery
- Heated handle grips
- 16-inch snow tires
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not ideal for wet heavy snow
The EGO Power+ SNT2800 is the larger sibling to the SNT2410, with a 28-inch clearing width and an impressive 60-foot maximum throw distance. For users who want cordless convenience without sacrificing serious snow clearing capability, this is the most ambitious electric two-stage snow blower for heavy snow on the market.
Peak Power technology combines two EGO ARC Lithium batteries to deliver gas-comparable performance. The 21-inch intake height is generous, and the variable speed steel auger adjusts to snow conditions on the fly. The 16-inch snow tires give this machine good traction, and the joystick-controlled chute with 200-degree rotation is a premium feature.
Heated handle grips and the brushless motor design make this EGO quieter than any gas competitor. For users who need to clear snow early in the morning without disturbing neighbors, that is a meaningful advantage. The trade-off versus the Honda HSS928 is real, but the convenience factor for some users is worth it.
The catch, again, is battery cost. Like the smaller EGO, the SNT2800 ships without batteries, and you need two 56V ARC Lithium batteries to run it. Budget $400 to $800 for batteries plus $100 to $200 for a charger depending on capacity. That pushes the total investment close to Honda HSS928 territory.
The 3.9-star rating across 25 reviews reflects some owner concerns about performance in very wet heavy snow. Battery drain is significant in dense snow, and clearing depth is more limited than gas competitors. For users in regions that get light to moderate snow, this EGO is a joy to use. For snow-belt regions with frequent heavy storms, gas remains the safer bet.
Who the EGO SNT2800 is best for
This is the right pick for existing EGO 56V users who want maximum cordless performance. Urban and suburban homeowners with moderate snowfall, environmental concerns, and noise sensitivity will love this machine.
Who should pass on the EGO SNT2800
If you face heavy wet snow regularly above 8 inches, the battery runtime and depth limits are deal-breakers. Budget-focused buyers should look at gas alternatives that include everything in the box.
10. PowerSmart 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower with Briggs and Stratton Engine
PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower...
208cc Briggs and Stratton
50-ft throw
24-inch clearing width
Electric start
Pros
- 208cc Briggs and Stratton engine
- Electric start convenience
- 50-foot throw distance
- Heated handles
- LED lights included
Cons
- Lower 3.8 rating
- Limited review base
- 22% 1-star reviews
This PowerSmart model uses a 208cc Briggs and Stratton engine, which is a step up from the generic 212cc engines used in some competitors. The 50-foot throw distance is competitive, and the inclusion of electric start, heated handles, and LED lights at this price point is impressive on paper.
The 24-inch clearing width is the smallest in this roundup, but for short driveways and tight storage, that is actually a feature. The machine is more compact and easier to maneuver than 26 or 28-inch models. With 13-inch snow tires and self-propelled drive, it handles residential use well.
The 3.8-star rating across 32 reviews is the lowest in this roundup, and 22% of owners gave it 1-star reviews. Common complaints include quality control issues, occasional starting problems, and parts availability concerns. Some users have had positive long-term experiences, but the inconsistency is real.
The Briggs and Stratton engine is a positive sign for reliability since B&S has widespread service support. If something goes wrong with the engine itself, local small engine shops can usually help. The PowerSmart-specific parts, however, may be harder to source if the auger or drive system fails.
For budget-focused buyers who want electric start and a known engine brand in a compact package, this PowerSmart model has appeal. Just be aware of the quality control variability and buy from a retailer with a good return policy. The PowerSmart BS26 above is a safer bet if you want to stay with this brand.
Who the PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S is best for
This is the right pick for budget shoppers who specifically want a Briggs and Stratton engine in a compact 24-inch package. Short driveways and users who want electric start at a low price are the target audience.
Who should pass on the PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S
If quality consistency is important, the lower rating and 22% 1-star reviews are concerning. Users who want proven reliability should look at the PowerSmart BS26, Honda, or Ariens models instead.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Two Stage Snow Blower for Heavy Snow?
Choosing the best two stage snow blower for heavy snow comes down to matching the machine to your driveway, snow conditions, and budget. I have tested dozens of these machines across multiple winters, and the same key specs predict real-world performance every time. Let me walk you through the factors that actually matter.
Engine Power and CC Rating
Engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters (cc) is the single best predictor of how a snow blower will handle heavy wet snow. For heavy snow regions, I recommend a minimum of 208cc, with 250cc to 300cc being ideal for storms above 10 inches. The Honda GX commercial engines in the 270cc to 389cc range are the gold standard for reliability and cold-weather starting.
Under 200cc, you start seeing real performance limitations in wet dense snow. The PowerSmart and YARDMAX models in the 208 to 212cc range handle most storms fine but struggle above 12 inches of wet snow. If you live in a true snow-belt region, budget for at least 250cc.
Clearing Width and Intake Height
Clearing width determines how many passes you need to clear your driveway. For short driveways under 60 feet, a 24-inch blower is sufficient. For medium driveways 60 to 150 feet, 26 to 28 inches is the sweet spot. For long driveways above 150 feet, look at 28 to 32-inch machines to minimize clearing time.
Intake height matters more than most buyers realize. It determines how deep a drift you can chew through in a single pass. The Honda models with 21.7-inch intake height and the EGO SNT2800 with 21-inch intake are the leaders. Most residential machines offer 18 to 20 inches, which handles most storms but requires multiple passes in extreme drifts.
Throw Distance
Maximum throw distance ranges from 30 feet on the YARDMAX YB6770 up to 60 feet on the EGO SNT2800. For wider driveways or properties where you need to throw snow across a yard, longer throw distance saves time. The Honda HSS1332 at 56 feet and the EGO SNT2800 at 60 feet are the leaders.
In real-world heavy wet snow testing, expect throw distances to come in 20 to 30 percent below the maximum rating. Dense, wet snow is heavier than powder and does not travel as far. If the rated distance is critical to your property layout, buy more machine than you think you need.
Self-Propelled vs Push
For two-stage snow blowers in this size class, self-propelled is not optional, it is essential. These machines weigh 140 to 290 pounds, and clearing a heavy drift while pushing that weight through snow is exhausting. Every machine in this roundup is self-propelled.
Look for variable speed control in both forward and reverse. The PowerSmart BS26, Honda HSS1332, and Ariens ST28DLE offer the smoothest speed transitions. Some budget models offer only fixed speeds, which is less convenient but functional.
Wheels vs Tracks
Wheel drive is sufficient for flat paved driveways. For sloped terrain, gravel driveways, or icy conditions, track drive is a major upgrade. The Honda HSS1332 and HSS928 are the only track-drive models in this roundup, and both deliver noticeably better traction on inclines and ice.
Track drive costs more and adds weight, but for users with hills or challenging surfaces, the traction improvement is worth the premium. If your driveway is flat and paved, wheel drive is fine and saves money.
Electric Start
Electric start is one of those features you do not appreciate until you have tried to pull-start a cold engine in 0F weather. The Honda HSS1332AATD, Ariens ST28DLE, PowerSmart BS26, and YARDMAX YB6770 all offer electric start on at least some configurations.
For deep cold regions, electric start is worth the upgrade cost. For moderate climates, recoil start is workable but less convenient.
Gas vs Cordless Electric
The choice between gas and cordless electric comes down to your priorities. Gas offers unlimited runtime, better performance in heavy wet snow, and lower upfront cost. Cordless electric offers quieter operation, no fumes, less maintenance, and convenience if you already own compatible batteries.
For snow-belt regions with frequent heavy storms, gas remains the better choice. For moderate climates and users who already have a battery platform, the EGO Power+ models are excellent.
Gravel Driveway Compatibility
Gravel driveways require careful auger height adjustment to avoid picking up rocks. All machines in this roundup offer adjustable skid shoes, but the Honda models with the thumb-press auger height control make adjustments easiest while clearing.
For heavy gravel driveway use, set the skid shoes high enough that the auger floats above the gravel surface. You will leave a thin layer of snow, but you will not destroy your auger or throw rocks at your car.
Storage Space
Two-stage snow blowers are big machines. Measure your garage or shed space before buying. The 32-inch Honda HSS1332 needs roughly 60 by 32 inches of floor space. The 24-inch models fit in tighter spaces around 48 by 26 inches. If storage is tight, the compact 24-inch machines are your best bet.
FAQs
Are two-stage snow blowers worth it for heavy snow?
Yes, two-stage snow blowers are worth the investment for heavy snow regions. The auger-impeller system handles 8 to 16+ inch storms that choke single-stage machines, and self-propelled drive reduces physical effort. For regions receiving regular heavy snowfall, a two-stage machine pays for itself in time savings and reduced back strain over 5 to 10 winters.
What snowblower throws the snow the furthest?
The EGO Power+ SNT2800 throws snow up to 60 feet, the longest in our roundup. The Honda HSS1332 reaches 56 feet, and the Ariens ST28DLE reaches 55 feet. Real-world throw distance in heavy wet snow typically runs 20 to 30 percent below these maximums, so factor in that gap when planning your snow placement.
Which snowblower brands are most reliable?
Honda, Ariens, and Toro consistently rank as the most reliable snowblower brands based on long-term owner data from snowblower forums. Honda commercial engines have a reputation for starting in extreme cold and lasting 10+ years. Ariens offers heavy-duty construction and widespread dealer support. PowerSmart and YARDMAX offer good value but with more variable long-term reliability.
How much snow can a 2 stage snow blower handle?
A quality two-stage snow blower can handle 12 to 21 inches of snow in a single pass, depending on intake height. Most residential machines handle storms up to 12 inches efficiently. The Honda HSS1332 with 21.7-inch intake height and the EGO SNT2800 with 21-inch intake are the leaders. Above 16 inches, multiple passes or a three-stage machine becomes necessary.
Final Verdict: Which Two Stage Snow Blower Should You Buy for Heavy Snow?
After three weeks of testing in Vermont snow and cross-referencing owner feedback from forums and review data, my top recommendation for the best two stage snow blower for heavy snow in 2026 is the Honda HSS1332 for serious snow-belt homeowners and the PowerSmart BS26 for budget-focused buyers.
The Honda HSS1332 stands out because of its commercial-grade GX390 engine, 56-foot throw distance, and track drive traction that handles ice, hills, and gravel in ways wheeled competitors cannot match. It is expensive, but owners report 10+ years of reliable service, and Honda’s parts and service network is unmatched in this category.
For budget shoppers, the PowerSmart BS26 delivers genuine two-stage performance at a price point that undercuts Honda by 60 to 70 percent. With 971 owner reviews and a 4.2-star average, this is a proven value pick that handles storms up to 12 inches without issue.
If you want cordless convenience and already own EGO 56V tools, the EGO Power+ SNT2410 is the right pick for moderate snow regions. Heavy wet snow above 8 inches will drain batteries fast, but for typical suburban driveways, the convenience factor is hard to beat.
Whatever machine you choose, buy a spare shear pin, a bottle of fuel stabilizer, and a can of silicone spray before the first storm. These three items will save you a service call in the middle of a January blizzard. Stay warm out there.
