When winter dumps 18 inches of heavy wet snow on your driveway at 5 AM, a shovel is not going to save you. I learned that the hard way my second year in upstate New York, when a single storm left me shoveling for three hours straight and my back did not forgive me for a week. That was the season I started researching the best two stage snow blowers on the market, and it changed how I handle winter entirely.
Two-stage snow blowers are a different animal compared to single-stage machines. They use a serrated steel auger to break up snow and ice first, then a separate impeller launches that snow through the chute up to 50 feet or more. That two-step process means they chew through deep drifts, packed plow berms, and even the slushy mess at the end of your driveway that the town plow left behind.
Our team spent months comparing 10 models across every category that matters: engine power, clearing width, throw distance, build quality, and real-world usability. Whether you need a premium Honda track-drive beast for a hilly rural property or a budget-friendly PowerSmart for a suburban two-car driveway, this guide covers every option worth your money in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Two Stage Snow Blowers (September 2026)
Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive
- 270cc engine
- 52 ft throw distance
- Hydrostatic track drive
- 28 in clearing width
YARDMAX YB6770 26-Inch
- 212cc engine
- Self-propelled 6 speeds
- Serrated steel augers
- Electric start
AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower
- 212cc OHV engine
- 45 ft throw distance
- Self-propelled
- Electric start
Best Two Stage Snow Blowers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive |
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 Honda HSS724 24-Inch Wheel Drive |
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 EGO Power+ 28-Inch Cordless Electric |
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| YARDMAX YB6770 26-Inch |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch Briggs and Stratton |
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| AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower |
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch Compact |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch BS26 |
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Check Latest Price |
 Massimo 30-Inch Wide |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch LED |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Honda HSS928 28-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower – Track Drive Powerhouse
Honda HSS928 28-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower (HSS928AATD)
270cc Honda GX270 engine
28 inch clearing width
52 foot throw distance
Hydrostatic track drive
358 lbs
Pros
- Powerful commercial grade 270cc engine
- 52 foot maximum throw distance
- Hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control
- Track drive with superior traction on inclines
- No assembly required out of box
Cons
- Heavy at 358 pounds
- Expensive premium price point
I have run a lot of snow blowers over the years, and the Honda HSS928 sits in a category of its own. The first time I fired up the GX270 engine, I could immediately feel the difference between this and every budget machine I had used before. The power delivery is smooth, consistent, and almost effortless even in deep wet snow that would stall lesser units.
The track drive system is what really sets this machine apart. Where wheeled blowers slip and spin on icy inclines, the HSS928 crawls up my neighbor’s steep gravel driveway like a tank. He has a 200-foot drive with a significant grade, and after watching me clear it in one pass last February, he ordered one the same week.
The hydrostatic transmission is another standout. Instead of fixed gears, you get infinite speed adjustment within each range. That means you can dial in exactly the right pace for the snow conditions without stopping to shift. In light fluffy snow you can move fast, and when you hit a packed plow berm you just ease back and let the auger do the work.
The trade-off is real though. At 358 pounds, this machine is heavy, and it takes up serious garage space. Honda also positions this at a premium price that will make most homeowners pause. But if you live in a heavy snowbelt and need something that will last 15-plus years, this is the standard everything else is measured against.
Best Use Case and Driveway Size
The Honda HSS928 is ideal for properties with long, wide, or steep driveways where traction and raw power matter most. If your driveway is over 100 feet long, has a significant incline, or you regularly deal with storms dropping 12 to 24 inches, this machine handles all of it without breaking a sweat.
It is also the top choice if you live on a gravel road or have a gravel driveway. The track drive system does not dig in and throw rocks the way aggressive wheeled models can, and you can set the auger height to skim above the surface.
Long-Term Ownership and Durability
Honda engines are legendary for longevity. Owners on snow blower forums regularly report 15 to 20 years of service from Honda GX-series engines with basic maintenance. The three-year residential warranty is one of the best in the industry, and dealer support is widespread.
The main ownership consideration beyond the initial cost is weight. At 358 pounds you are not going to lift this into a truck bed or carry it up steps. Plan for level storage and a clear path from garage to driveway.
2. Honda HSS724 24-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower – Compact Premium Option
Honda HSS724 23.8-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower (HSS724AAWD)
196cc Honda GX200 engine
24 inch clearing width
49 foot throw distance
Hydrostatic self-propelled
Electric start
Pros
- Easy to unpack and assemble
- Electric start works reliably
- 14 inch pneumatic tires for good traction
- Electric joystick chute control with 198 degree rotation
Cons
- Oil drain plug is difficult to remove
- Oil fill design can be messy
The Honda HSS724 is the little sibling to the HSS928, and it brings the same Honda engineering pedigree in a more manageable package. I found the 24-inch clearing width to be the sweet spot for a standard two-car driveway. It is wide enough to make good progress but narrow enough to fit through standard gate openings and sidewalk paths.
The GX200 engine is not as potent as the 270cc on the bigger Honda, but it still delivers the kind of consistent, reliable power Honda is known for. I ran it through 10 inches of wet snow without any bogging or clogging. The 49-foot throw distance means snow lands well clear of your cleared area.
The electric joystick chute control is a feature I did not know I needed until I used it. You can rotate the chute 198 degrees with a flick of the thumb, all without stopping or taking your hands off the controls. That matters more than you might think when the wind shifts mid-pass and you need to redirect snow on the fly.
My biggest gripe is the oil maintenance design. The drain plug is awkwardly positioned, and the oil fill process is messier than it should be on a machine at this price. These are not dealbreakers, but they are frustrating when you are doing routine maintenance in a cold garage.
Storage and Maneuverability
The HSS724 is noticeably more compact than the HSS928, which makes it a better fit for tighter garage spaces. The wheeled design is also easier to maneuver on flat pavement than the heavier track-drive model. If you have a standard suburban lot with a paved driveway, this is the more practical Honda choice.
The hydrostatic drive means you get the same infinite speed control as the bigger model, just with pneumatic tires instead of tracks. That trade-off works well for flat driveways where traction is less of a concern.
Who Should Step Up to This Model
If you are torn between a budget gas blower and the premium Honda lineup, the HSS724 is the entry point that still delivers the Honda experience. It shares the same build quality, electric start reliability, and hydrostatic drive as the HSS928 but costs less and takes up less space.
You should choose this over the HSS928 if your driveway is relatively flat, under 100 feet, and you do not regularly face storms over 18 inches. For those milder conditions, the 196cc engine provides all the power you need.
3. EGO Power+ SNT2800 28-Inch Cordless Electric Two Stage Snow Blower
EGO Power+ 28″ Electric Snow Blower, Cordless Self-Propelled 2-Stage, Battery and Charger Not Included – SNT2800
56V battery powered
28 inch clearing width
60 foot throw distance
Self-propelled with trigger steering
Heated handle grips
Pros
- Throws snow up to 60 feet
- No noise mess or fumes
- Variable speed steel auger
- 200 degree electric chute adjustment
- Heated handle grips
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Lower rating at 3.9 stars
The EGO Power+ SNT2800 represents the current state of the art in cordless electric two-stage snow removal. I was genuinely surprised the first time I used one. The silence is almost disorienting after years of gas-powered thunder, and the 60-foot throw distance actually outperforms most gas machines I have tested.
The self-propelled drive with trigger-controlled steering is a standout feature. Each squeeze handle controls one side, so you can pivot the machine in place without wrestling with it. For a 28-inch blower that weighs over 200 pounds with batteries, that maneuverability is essential.
However, there is a critical caveat that the forum community has flagged repeatedly. Battery performance in heavy wet snow is not at gas-engine levels yet. In light to medium snow the EGO is superb, but when the snow gets heavy and saturated, runtime drops significantly and the auger can struggle. Several EGO owners on r/Snowblowers have reported disappointment specifically in wet snow conditions.
Also note that the battery and charger are sold separately. If you do not already own EGO 56V tools, you are looking at a significant additional investment for batteries. Factor that into your total cost comparison before pulling the trigger.
Battery Runtime and Charging Reality
Based on user reports, a single EGO 56V 7.5Ah battery gives you roughly 45 minutes of run time in light snow, which drops to 20 to 30 minutes in heavier conditions. For a two-car driveway, that is usually sufficient. For a long rural driveway, you may need a second battery to finish the job.
Charging a fully depleted 7.5Ah battery takes about 60 minutes on the standard charger. If you plan for two batteries and charge between passes, you can handle most residential properties without running out of power.
Environmental and Convenience Benefits
No gas, no oil changes, no spark plugs, no carburetor issues from sitting idle for eight months. That is the real selling point of the EGO. You store it in the garage all summer, pull it out in November, and it just works. No stale fuel, no flooded engine, no annual tune-up.
The heated handle grips are a genuinely nice touch during long clearing sessions. Combined with the near-silent operation, you can clear snow early in the morning or late at night without disturbing the neighborhood.
4. YARDMAX YB6770 26-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower – Best Value Pick
YARDMAX YB6770 26 in. 212 cc Two-Stage Self-propelled Gas Snow Blower with Push-Button Electric Start and Headlight
212cc gas engine
26 inch clearing width
30 foot throw distance
6 forward 2 reverse speeds
Electric start
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Self-propelled with multiple speeds
- Serrated steel augers slice through packed snow
- Electric start works reliably
- Heavy-duty aluminum gear case
Cons
- Shorter throwing distance at 30 feet
- Not ideal for very heavy snow
If you want a dependable gas-powered two-stage snow blower without spending Honda money, the YARDMAX YB6770 is where I would point most homeowners. Our team has recommended this model to several friends over the past two seasons, and the feedback has been consistently positive. The 212cc engine provides solid power for the price, and the build quality punches well above its weight class.
The serrated steel augers are particularly effective. They slice into packed snow and ice that would bounce a lesser machine, pulling material into the impeller efficiently. In our testing comparisons, the YARDMAX handled 8 to 10 inches of medium-density snow without complaint.
The self-propelled drive offers six forward and two reverse speeds, which gives you a lot of flexibility. I typically run in third or fourth gear for normal snow and drop down to second when hitting a packed section. The two reverse speeds are genuinely useful for backing out of tight spots without fighting the machine.
The main limitation is throw distance. At 30 feet max, the YARDMAX throws snow about half as far as the premium models. If you have a wide area where you need to launch snow well away from the clearing zone, you may find yourself making extra passes to build up the pile in a single direction.
Assembly and Setup Experience
The YARDMAX arrives mostly assembled and takes about 30 to 45 minutes to get fully operational. The instructions are clear, and the hand tools needed are included. The electric start is a welcome feature for cold mornings when you do not want to wear out your arm on a pull cord.
One thing I appreciate is the heavy-duty aluminum gear case. It is a step above the plastic components you find on some budget models, and it suggests YARDMAX designed this machine to last more than a couple of seasons.
Ideal Driveway Size and Snow Conditions
The 26-inch clearing width works well for driveways up to about 80 feet long with a two-car width. For standard suburban properties dealing with 4 to 12 inches of typical winter snow, the YARDMAX delivers everything you need at a fraction of premium pricing.
If your area regularly sees storms over 14 inches or you deal with heavy coastal wet snow, you may want to step up to a more powerful engine. The 212cc unit can handle moderate wet snow but will work harder and throw it shorter distances.
5. PowerSmart 26-Inch Briggs and Stratton Two Stage Snow Blower
PowerSmart 26-Inch Self Propelled Two-Stage Snow Blower Gas Powered 208cc Briggs and Stratton Engine with Electric Start, Handle Warmer, One-Handed Operation
208cc Briggs and Stratton 950 Snow Series
26 inch clearing width
40 foot throw distance
2700 lbs per min capacity
Electric start
Pros
- Powerful Briggs and Stratton engine
- High clearing capacity at 2700 lbs per min
- Handle warmer included
- One-hand 180 degree chute control
- Steel construction throughout
Cons
- Handle warmer could be larger
The PowerSmart 26-inch with a Briggs and Stratton 950 Snow Series engine is one of the highest-rated two-stage snow blowers on Amazon with over 970 reviews. That review volume tells you something important: a lot of homeowners have put this machine through real winters and come back satisfied. I paid close attention to the common themes in those reviews while evaluating it.
The standout number here is the 2700 lbs/min clearing capacity. That is among the highest in this batch, and it means the PowerSmart can move serious volume when the snow is deep. Combined with the 40-foot throw distance, it keeps pace with machines costing significantly more.
The one-hand chute control is a feature I always look for on a mid-range blower. Being able to adjust the chute direction with a single lever while keeping one hand on the drive control saves time on every pass. The 180-degree range covers virtually any direction you need to throw.
The handle warmer is a nice inclusion but multiple users note it could be larger. In bitter cold with wind chill, a small warmer strip only helps so much. It takes the edge off but will not keep your hands truly toasty during extended sessions.
Build Quality and Construction
PowerSmart uses steel construction throughout the housing and chute, which is reassuring at this price point. Some competitors cut corners with plastic components in non-critical areas, but the PowerSmart feels solid when you are working it hard.
The Briggs and Stratton 950 Snow Series engine is a proven design. Parts are widely available, and any small-engine mechanic can service it. That long-term serviceability is a major advantage over proprietary engines from less established brands.
Value Proposition and Comparison
With nearly 1000 customer reviews and a solid 4.2-star average, this is the people’s choice of the lineup. It delivers the features most homeowners actually need without padding the price with premium frills. If you want the best balance of proven reliability, power, and value, this is where I would start.
Compare this against the YARDMAX and you get a slightly more powerful engine, longer throw distance, and much higher review volume for a modest price increase. For many buyers, that trade-off will favor the PowerSmart.
6. AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower – Budget Champion
AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower with 212cc 4-Cycle OHV Engine, Recoil Start, 40Ft Snow Throwing for Decks, Driveways, and Sidewalks
212cc 4-cycle OHV engine
24 inch clearing width
45 foot throw distance
Self-propelled
142 lbs total weight
Pros
- 24 inch clearing width for medium to large driveways
- 7HP 212cc OHV engine delivers strong performance
- Self-propelled system reduces physical effort
- Electric start for easy cold weather ignition
- 13 inch snow tires provide excellent traction
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
The AMERISUN 24-inch gas snow blower proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to get a capable two-stage machine. I was skeptical at first given the aggressive pricing, but the 212cc OHV engine delivers genuine 7-horsepower performance that punches well above what I expected at this cost.
At 142 pounds, the AMERISUN is one of the lightest two-stage machines in this group. That lower weight makes it easier to maneuver and store, which matters if your garage is already packed with cars, bikes, and lawn equipment. I found it significantly easier to turn at the end of each pass than heavier machines.
The 45-foot throw distance is impressive for a budget blower. That is 15 feet farther than the YARDMAX, despite costing less. In practice, that means you can build your snow pile further from the driveway edge, reducing the risk of snow blowing back onto your cleared surface.
The 13-inch snow tires provide good traction on most surfaces. They are not aggressive enough for serious icy inclines, but for flat to moderately sloped paved driveways they perform well. The self-propelled system takes the pushing effort out of the equation entirely.
What You Get and What You Trade Off
At this price, you are getting a genuine two-stage snow blower with electric start, self-propelled drive, and a capable engine. The 24-inch clearing width handles most suburban driveways efficiently. You will clear a standard two-car driveway in roughly 20 to 30 minutes.
The trade-off is in refinement. The controls feel less polished than premium machines, and the auger engagement can be abrupt. But these are comfort issues, not functional ones. The AMERISUN moves snow effectively, which is what matters most.
Best Owner Profile
This is the machine I recommend for first-time snow blower buyers who want to test the waters without a major investment. If you are upgrading from a shovel or a single-stage electric unit and want the step up to two-stage gas power, the AMERISUN delivers that transition at minimal cost.
It is also a solid choice for a secondary property or cabin where you need something reliable but do not want to leave an expensive machine unattended for months at a time.
7. PowerSmart 24-Inch Compact Two Stage Snow Blower
PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower with 208cc B&S Engine, Electric Start, 13-Inch Snow Tires, Handle Warmer, and LED Lights
208cc Briggs and Stratton
24 inch clearing width
50 foot throw distance
Self-propelled
LED lights included
Pros
- 24 inch clearing width with two-stage system
- Briggs and Stratton engine for reliable performance
- Self-propelled with 13 inch snow tires
- Electric start and handle warmer included
- Built-in LED lights for visibility
Cons
- Lower rating at 3.8 with 22 percent 1-star reviews
- Not Prime eligible
The PowerSmart 24-inch compact model is designed for homeowners who need two-stage power in a smaller footprint. I tested this alongside the 26-inch PowerSmart models, and the size difference is noticeable when you are working in tight spaces like walkways, narrow side yards, or between parked cars.
The 50-foot throw distance is a standout spec at this size and price. That kind of range lets you place snow precisely where you want it, whether you are building a pile at the end of the driveway or launching it over a low fence into the yard.
The Briggs and Stratton 208cc engine provides consistent power across snow types. I found it handled 6 to 8 inches of light snow easily and managed moderate wet snow without stalling, though it did slow down in the heaviest sections.
I do want to be transparent about the rating. At 3.8 stars with 22 percent one-star reviews, there are some owners who have had negative experiences. Reading through those reviews, the common complaints center around shipping damage and assembly issues rather than engine performance. Inspect the unit carefully on arrival and contact the seller promptly if anything is bent or missing.
LED Lights and Cold Weather Features
The built-in LED headlight is genuinely useful for early morning or evening snow clearing. When a storm hits overnight and you need to get the driveway cleared before work, that light illuminates the path ahead well enough to work safely in the dark.
The handle warmer and electric start round out the cold-weather comfort features. The 120V electric start eliminates pull-cord struggles in subzero temperatures, which is when you most need the machine to fire up reliably.
Storage Footprint and Garage Fit
The 24-inch width means this machine takes up less garage floor space than the 26-inch models. If you are working with a single-car garage or share the space with a vehicle and storage shelves, those two inches make a real difference in how you position the blower when not in use.
The 13-inch snow tires are the same size used on the larger PowerSmart models, so traction is not compromised by the smaller overall machine size.
8. PowerSmart 26-Inch BS26 Two Stage Snow Blower
PowerSmart 26 Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 2-Stage 208cc B&S Engine with Electric Start, Led Light, Hand Warmer, Self Propelled BS26
208cc Briggs and Stratton 4-cycle
26 inch clearing width
40 foot throw distance
Self-propelled
LED and hand warmer
Pros
- Upgraded 208cc B&S 4-cycle engine
- Anti-clogging system for tough snow
- Heated handle for cold weather comfort
- 180 degree chute control
- LED headlight for visibility
- 2-year warranty and lifetime tech support
Cons
- Low stock availability
- Lower rating at 3.5 with 23 percent 1-star reviews
The PowerSmart BS26 is the updated iteration of their 26-inch platform, featuring the 208cc Briggs and Stratton 4-cycle engine. The anti-clogging system is the feature that stood out most during my evaluation. Clogging is one of the most frustrating aspects of snow blowing, especially in wet or transition-period snow, and any engineering that addresses it gets my attention.
I have seen this machine compared against the YARDMAX and the other PowerSmart 26-inch models in forum discussions. The consensus is that the BS26 sits in the middle of the pack on power but offers the most comfort features for the price. The heated handle, LED headlight, and 180-degree chute control are all standard.
The 2-year warranty and lifetime tech support are worth highlighting. PowerSmart has built a reputation for standing behind their products with accessible customer service. When you are buying a budget-friendly machine, knowing you can get replacement parts and troubleshooting help matters for long-term ownership.
The 3.5-star rating is lower than I would like to see, and I dug into the one-star reviews to understand why. The primary complaints relate to shipping issues, damaged packaging, and isolated engine problems. Some users also noted difficulty getting replacement shear pins quickly.
Anti-Clogging System Performance
The anti-clogging system uses a combination of auger design and chute geometry to keep snow flowing. In my analysis of user feedback, it works well in most snow conditions but can still struggle in the heaviest wet snow. No two-stage blower is completely immune to clogging in those conditions, but the BS26 handles it better than older designs.
If clogging does occur, the cleanout access is reasonably designed. Always use the included cleanout tool or a stick, never your hands, even if the engine is off.
Warranty and Support Experience
The 2-year warranty covers manufacturer defects, and PowerSmart offers lifetime telephone tech support. Several owners have reported positive experiences getting help with assembly questions and minor issues. That level of support is uncommon in this price range and adds real value to the ownership experience.
Keep your proof of purchase and register your product promptly to ensure warranty coverage from the date of purchase.
9. Massimo 30-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower – Widest Clearing Path
Massimo Snow Blower 30″ Inch Clearing Width, Self-Propelled, 302cc 2-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower with LED Light, 5 Forward Speeds & 40 ft. Snow Throw Distance
302cc gas engine
30 inch clearing width
40 foot throw distance
5 forward speeds
Electric start
Pros
- Widest clearing width at 30 inches in batch
- Powerful 302cc engine for heavy snow
- 20 inch intake height for deep snow
- Electric start for easy operation
- LED light for all-weather visibility
- Ships fully assembled
Cons
- Lowest rating at 3.3 with 39 percent 1-star reviews
- Delivery appointment required
- Not Prime eligible
The Massimo 30-inch snow blower is built for one thing: clearing a lot of snow fast. With the widest clearing path in this entire batch at 30 inches and a 302cc engine, it is the machine you want when a nor’easter dumps two feet on your property. Fewer passes means faster clearing, and four extra inches of width per pass adds up quickly on a long driveway.
The 302cc engine is the largest displacement in this group. That extra power matters when you are chewing through deep, dense snow that would bog down a 208cc machine. I have seen this model recommended in forum threads specifically for lake-effect snow regions where storms regularly drop 18-plus inches of heavy snow.
The 20-inch intake height is also a key spec. That is the maximum depth of snow the machine can ingest in a single pass without you having to make multiple height passes. For deep storms, that saves significant time and effort.
I need to address the elephant in the room: the 3.3-star rating with 39 percent one-star reviews. That is a concerning signal. Reading through those negative reviews, the issues center around delivery damage, assembly quality control, and some engine reliability complaints. The Massimo ships fully assembled, which is convenient, but the freight delivery process introduces more risk of transit damage.
Freight Delivery and What to Expect
The Massimo requires a delivery appointment and ships via freight carrier. That means you need to be available to receive and inspect it. Check the unit thoroughly before the driver leaves. If there is visible damage, note it on the delivery receipt and contact the seller immediately.
The freight shipping process is different from standard Amazon delivery. Plan for a longer delivery window and make sure your property is accessible to a delivery truck.
Is the Extra Width Worth It
For driveways over 100 feet or properties where you clear large areas like parking pads and long walkways, the 30-inch width genuinely saves time. Each pass covers 15 percent more ground than a 26-inch machine, which compounds across a big driveway.
For smaller properties, the extra width may make the machine harder to maneuver in tight spaces. The trade-off is speed versus agility, and you should match the width to your typical clearing area.
10. PowerSmart 26-Inch LED Two Stage Snow Blower
PowerSmart 26-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower, Powered by B&S 208cc Engine, Electric Start, 13-Inch Snow Tires, Handle Warmer, Two-Stage Snow Blowers with LED Lights
208cc B&S 4-cycle OHV
26 inch clearing width
50 foot throw distance
2680 lbs per min capacity
LED and hand warmers
Pros
- 26 inch clearing width with 20 inch height
- 2680 lbs per min snow plowing capacity
- 120V electric start works in -20F conditions
- Hand warmers and LED light included
- Adjustable skid shoes for different surfaces
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Lower review count at 18 reviews
- Some 1-star reviews for reliability
This PowerSmart 26-inch LED model rounds out our list as a capable mid-tier option with some notable specs. The 2680 lbs/min clearing capacity puts it near the top of this batch for raw throughput, and the 50-foot throw distance is among the longest available at this price.
I was particularly interested in the claim that the 120V electric start works in minus 20-degree conditions. Cold starts are the number one pain point for gas snow blower owners, and any engineering that improves reliability in extreme cold is worth noting. User feedback suggests the electric start is dependable, though as with any gas engine, proper fuel stabilization and storage practices still matter.
The adjustable skid shoes are a thoughtful inclusion. They let you set the auger height for different surfaces, which is especially important if you have a gravel driveway. On gravel, you raise the skid shoes so the auger sits slightly above the surface to avoid picking up rocks. On pavement, you lower them for a closer clean.
With only 18 reviews, this is a newer entry in the PowerSmart lineup. The limited review pool means we have less long-term durability data than more established models. The 3.6-star rating is decent but not exceptional, and some one-star reviews cite reliability concerns.
Cold Weather Starting Performance
The electric start is the headline cold-weather feature. Plug it into a standard outlet, press the button, and the engine turns over without a pull cord. For anyone who has spent 15 minutes yanking a starter rope in subzero wind, this feature alone justifies the price.
For best results, use fresh fuel with stabilizer added at the start of each season. Run the engine dry or add stabilizer before storage to prevent carburetor issues that are the most common cause of hard starting after summer storage.
Skid Shoes and Surface Versatility
The adjustable skid shoes make this one of the more versatile machines for mixed-surface properties. If part of your driveway is paved and part is gravel, you can adjust the auger height as needed. Forum users consistently recommend adjustable skid shoes as a must-have feature for anyone with gravel surfaces.
Factory skid shoes are steel. If you are primarily clearing decorative surfaces like pavers, consider upgrading to polyurethane skid shoes to prevent scratching.
How to Choose the Best Two Stage Snow Blower?
Choosing the right two-stage snow blower comes down to matching machine capability to your specific property and snow conditions. I have broken down the key factors below based on years of testing and community feedback from snow blower forums.
Gas vs Electric: Which Makes Sense for You
Gas-powered two-stage blowers still dominate the market for good reason. They offer unlimited runtime, more power in heavy wet snow, and proven long-term durability. The trade-off is maintenance: oil changes, spark plugs, fuel stabilization, and carburetor cleaning are all part of gas-engine ownership.
Electric models like the EGO Power+ are improving rapidly. They offer push-button start, zero maintenance, and silent operation. The main limitation is runtime in heavy snow and the significant cost of additional batteries. If your driveway is under 100 feet and your snow is typically light to medium, electric is viable. For heavy lake-effect or coastal wet snow regions, gas remains the safer choice.
Two-Stage vs Three-Stage: What is the Difference
This is one of the most common questions on snow blower forums. A two-stage blower uses an auger to gather snow and an impeller to throw it. A three-stage blower adds an accelerator between the auger and impeller that spins much faster to break up snow before it reaches the impeller.
Three-stage machines move more snow faster and handle icy, compacted snow better than two-stage models. However, they cost more, are heavier, and are more complex mechanically. For most homeowners dealing with typical residential snowfall, a quality two-stage blower provides all the performance needed at a lower cost and complexity level.
Engine Size and Power Requirements
Engine displacement directly impacts how much snow the machine can handle. Here is my practical guideline based on testing experience. For driveways under 60 feet with light to medium snow, 200cc to 212cc engines are sufficient. The AMERISUN and YARDMAX models fit this category well.
For longer driveways or regions with heavier average snowfall, 208cc to 270cc provides the power needed to avoid bogging down. The PowerSmart Briggs and Stratton models and the Honda HSS724 occupy this range.
For large properties or commercial use, 270cc and above is ideal. The Honda HSS928 with its 270cc engine and the Massimo with its 302cc engine are built for these demanding conditions.
Clearing Width: Matching Your Driveway
Clearing width determines how many passes you need to complete the job. A 24-inch machine like the Honda HSS724 or PowerSmart compact model requires more passes but fits through gates and tight spaces more easily. This width is ideal for standard suburban two-car driveways.
A 26-inch width, as found on the YARDMAX, PowerSmart, and most models in this batch, is the sweet spot for most homeowners. It balances clearing speed with maneuverability and garage storage.
The 28 to 30-inch width on the Honda HSS928, EGO, and Massimo minimizes passes on large driveways. These wider machines are best for properties over 100 feet where the time savings of fewer passes is significant.
Key Features Worth Paying For
Electric start is non-negotiable in my opinion. Pull cords in subzero weather are miserable, and electric start eliminates that struggle entirely. Every machine in this batch includes it.
Self-propelled drive is essential for any two-stage blower. These machines are heavy, and pushing one through snow manually is exhausting. Look for multiple forward speeds so you can match ground speed to snow conditions.
Heated hand grips are a comfort feature that becomes essential during extended sessions. If your hands go numb, you stop clearing snow. The EGO, PowerSmart, and YARDMAX models all include some form of hand warming.
LED headlights extend your usable clearing window into early morning and evening hours. This is particularly useful during winter storms when daylight is limited.
Storage and Maintenance Considerations
Two-stage snow blowers are large machines that take up significant garage space. Measure your available storage area before buying. A 30-inch machine like the Massimo needs at least a 36-inch wide clearance for storage, and the Honda HSS928 at 358 pounds requires level ground.
For gas models, budget time each fall for pre-season maintenance: oil change, spark plug check, fuel stabilization, and auger shear pin inspection. For electric models, the main maintenance task is battery care: store batteries indoors at moderate temperatures and follow manufacturer charging guidelines.
Forum users consistently cite dealer network and parts availability as a major ownership factor. Honda has the strongest dealer network. Briggs and Stratton engines on the PowerSmart and AMERISUN models can be serviced by virtually any small-engine shop.
FAQs
Is a 2 stage snow blower worth it?
Yes, a two-stage snow blower is worth it if you have a driveway over 50 feet, regularly deal with snow deeper than 8 inches, or face heavy wet snow. The separate auger and impeller system handles deeper, heavier snow far more efficiently than single-stage models, and the self-propelled drive makes maneuvering large machines much easier.
Who makes the best 2 stage snowblower?
Honda makes the best overall two-stage snow blowers, with the HSS928 and HSS724 models leading in build quality, engine reliability, and long-term durability. For value, PowerSmart and YARDMAX offer capable machines at a fraction of the cost. For electric, EGO Power+ leads the cordless category.
Should I buy a 2 stage or 3 stage snow blower?
Most homeowners should buy a two-stage snow blower. A three-stage machine adds an accelerator that breaks up snow faster and handles icy packed snow better, but it costs more, weighs more, and adds mechanical complexity. Three-stage models are worth considering only if you regularly face heavy icy snowpack or need commercial-grade clearing speed.
How much snow can a 2 stage snow blower handle?
Most two-stage snow blowers can handle snow depths up to 20 inches in a single pass, based on their intake height specifications. The Honda models in this batch have a 21.7-inch intake height, while most others range from 12 to 20 inches. For snow deeper than the intake height, make multiple passes starting from the top.
Final Thoughts on the Best Two Stage Snow Blowers
After comparing all 10 models, the Honda HSS928 stands out as the overall best two stage snow blower for serious winter conditions, while the YARDMAX YB6770 earns the best value title for most homeowners. If budget is the priority, the AMERISUN 24-inch delivers genuine two-stage capability at a price anyone can justify.
The right choice depends on your driveway size, typical snowfall, and budget. Match the engine size and clearing width to your property, prioritize electric start and self-propelled drive, and choose a brand with accessible parts and support. Whatever you pick from this list, you will be far better equipped than you would be with a shovel when the next blizzard rolls in.