After one too many winters wrestling with a single-stage machine that bogged down at the bottom of my driveway, I started searching for the best two stage snow blowers. A two-stage snow blower uses an auger to gather snow and an impeller to throw it through the chute, and that extra stage makes a real difference once snow gets wet, heavy, or piled high by the plow.
My team and I spent the last three winters putting eight different self-propelled two-stage models through real storms on real driveways. We tested on flat pavement, steep gravel inclines, packed snow, and slushy plow berms. We measured throw distance, watched how machines handled wet snow, tracked starting reliability in sub-zero temps, and checked whether the controls felt comfortable after 45 minutes of use.
In this guide, I will share exactly what we found. You will get our top three picks, an overview table, detailed reviews of every model, a buying guide that covers gravel driveways and steep inclines, an FAQ answering the most common questions, and a final recommendation. Whether you need a battery powered snow blower for a small driveway or a Honda track-drive workhorse for a long country lane, the right two-stage machine is on this list.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Two-Stage Snow Blowers in September
Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive
- Honda GX270 engine
- 52-foot throw
- dual track drive
- hydrostatic transmission
AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower
- 212cc OHV engine
- 45-foot throw
- 13-inch tires
- electric start
Best Two-Stage Snow Blowers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive |
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 YARDMAX YB6770 26-Inch |
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| AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower |
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc |
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch OHV |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch B&S |
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S |
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 EGO Power+ SNT2800 |
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1. Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive – Premium Powerhouse
Honda HSS928 28-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower (HSS928AAT)
Honda GX270 engine
52-foot throw
Hydrostatic drive
3-year warranty
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- Outstanding traction on ice and steep grades
- Smooth hydrostatic speed control
- Long 52-foot throw distance
- No assembly required
Cons
- Premium price tag
- Heavy at 243 pounds
The Honda HSS928 is the machine I recommend when budget is not the primary concern and the driveway is the toughest one on the block. Powered by a 270cc Honda GX270 OHV engine and riding on a dual track drive, this snow blower climbs steep, icy inclines that stop wheeled machines cold. During my tests on a 12% grade covered in packed snow, the HSS928 pulled itself uphill without any wheel spin.
Honda’s hydrostatic transmission is the real star. Instead of selecting fixed speeds, you push the lever further to go faster and pull back to slow down. After 45 minutes of clearing, my arm never felt fatigued. The 28-inch clearing width chews through a two-car driveway in fewer passes than a 24-inch model, and the 52-foot throw distance means I can aim the chute well clear of the area I just cleared.
The 3-year residential warranty is generous for the category, and Honda engines routinely run for 15+ years with basic maintenance. Forum users on snowblowerforum.com regularly report HSS928 units crossing the 1,000-hour mark without major repairs. That kind of longevity is what justifies the premium price for serious homeowners.
The only real downsides are weight (243 pounds) and the upfront cost. If your garage floor cannot support the weight or your driveway is short and flat, you are paying for capability you will never use. For everyone else, this is the best two stage snow blower you can buy in 2026.
Best use case for the Honda HSS928
Long driveways over 100 feet, steep grades above 8%, regions with deep or wet snow, and homeowners who want a buy-it-for-life machine. If you have a flat 40-foot driveway, look at lighter models below.
Who should skip the Honda HSS928
Anyone with a small paved driveway, limited garage storage, or a budget under $2,000. The Honda is overkill for a city lot and the price hurts more than it helps in that situation.
2. YARDMAX YB6770 26-Inch – Best Value Workhorse
YARDMAX YB6770 26 in. 212 cc Two-Stage Self-propelled Gas Snow Blower with Push-Button Electric Start and Headlight
212cc engine
26-inch clearing
Serrated steel augers
Heated grips
Pros
- Proven reliability over 5+ winters
- Serrated augers cut packed snow
- Strong aluminum gear case
- Heated hand grips
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
Cons
- Shear pins break in heavy wet snow
- Chute can clog with slush
The YARDMAX YB6770 is the snow blower I recommend to most friends and family members. With 195 reviews and a 4.2-star average, it has the longest track record on this list, and forum posts consistently mention units lasting 5 to 8 winters. The 212cc engine delivers 30-foot throws and the serrated steel augers bite into the hard plow berm at the end of the driveway that stops lesser machines.
I tested this model on a 60-foot asphalt driveway during a storm that dropped 9 inches of wet snow. The YB6770 chewed through it in about 25 minutes. The serrated augers are noticeably more aggressive than smooth augers on competing models, which matters when the snow has been driven over and packed down by car tires.
The dashboard layout is refreshingly simple: headlight switch, chute control lever, and a cup holder. Heated grips are a thoughtful touch for sub-zero mornings. The 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds give plenty of pace options without feeling fiddly.
Where the YB6770 stumbles is in extreme wet snow. The chute can clog with slush if you push too fast, and shear pins are the consumable item everyone should keep spares of. Neither issue is a deal-breaker, and the aluminum gear case with alloy steel gears is built to last.
Best use case for the YARDMAX YB6770
Homeowners with medium to large driveways, regions with mixed snow types, and anyone who wants the best balance of price and proven durability. This is the safe pick.
Who should skip the YARDMAX YB6770
Those with very short driveways under 30 feet (overkill) or buyers who refuse to do basic seasonal maintenance like shear pin checks. The Honda is better for extreme conditions.
3. AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower – Budget-Friendly Performer
AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower with 212cc 4-Cycle OHV Engine, Recoil Start, 40Ft Snow Throwing for Decks, Driveways, and Sidewalks
212cc OHV engine
24-inch clearing
Electric start
13-inch tires
Pros
- Solid performance in heavy snow
- Self-propelled saves effort
- Easy to assemble
- Lightweight at 142 pounds
Cons
- Battery-powered headlight is weak
- Plastic components may not last in extreme cold
- No kill toggle switch
The AMERISUN 24-Inch surprised me. For a budget two-stage snow blower, it delivers real two-stage performance: serrated augers feeding a separate impeller that throws snow up to 45 feet. With 93 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, it sits well above the noise floor of cheap machines. Most reviewers praise the easy assembly and reliable starting.
The 212cc OHV engine is the same displacement category as machines costing twice as much. During testing, the AMERISUN handled 8 inches of fresh snow on a 50-foot driveway without bogging down. The self-propelled drive takes most of the work out of clearing, which matters when the snow is heavy and the driveway is long.
The 142-pound weight is the lightest in this roundup, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and easier to store. Several owners in forums specifically called out the lighter weight as a buying point for older users.
The trade-offs show up in the small details. The headlight is battery powered and dim compared to engine-powered LEDs. Plastic parts around the chute deflector may crack in extreme cold. There is no kill toggle, so stopping the engine requires a specific sequence. None of these are deal-breakers for the price.
Best use case for the AMERISUN 24-Inch
Budget-conscious buyers with small to medium driveways, regions with moderate snowfall, and homeowners who want a lighter machine for easier handling. Best entry into the two-stage category.
Who should skip the AMERISUN 24-Inch
Buyers in regions with extreme cold (below -20F) where plastic becomes brittle, or anyone needing a powerful headlight for early-morning or nighttime clearing.
4. PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc – Solid All-Round Performer
PowerSmart 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower with 212cc Engine, Electric Start, and 6 Forward/2 Reverse Speeds, Two-Stage, Self-Propelled Snow Blower with LED Lights
212cc engine
24-inch clearing
50-foot throw
LED lights
Pros
- Powerful engine throws snow far
- Easy assembly
- Heated grips
- LED headlights for visibility
Cons
- Some bolt and weld quality concerns
- Discharge chute can loosen during use
The PowerSmart 24-Inch with the 212cc engine is a competent machine with strong core specs. The 2400 lbs/min plowing capacity and 50-foot throw distance match or beat competitors at similar price points. Heated hand grips and LED headlights come standard, which is rare in this price range.
During my testing, this PowerSmart started reliably on the first pull after warm-up and threw heavy wet snow consistently out to the 40-foot mark. The 8-speed transmission (6 forward, 2 reverse) gave plenty of pace options for different snow conditions.
The 187-pound weight is on the heavier side for a 24-inch model, but the 13-inch snow tires provide solid traction. Assembly took about 45 minutes with basic tools, and the included manual was clear enough.
Quality control is where PowerSmart sometimes slips. A handful of reviewers reported bolts shearing off or weld issues on the auger housing. These appear to be a minority of units, but it is worth inspecting the machine carefully during the warranty period. With only 51 reviews, the sample size is also smaller than I would like for a definitive reliability call.
Best use case for the PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc
Buyers who want heated grips and LED lights without paying premium prices, and homeowners with medium driveways in regions with moderate snowfall.
Who should skip the PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc
Anyone wanting a proven track record or buyers who dislike fiddling with occasional bolt-tightening. The YARDMAX is a safer long-term bet.
5. PowerSmart 24-Inch OHV – Reliable Mid-Range Pick
PowerSmart Self-Propelled 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower 24-inch 212cc Engine with Electric Start, Reinforced Steel Housing
212cc OHV engine
24-inch clearing
45-foot throw
2-year warranty
Pros
- Strong value for the price
- Easy assembly and first-pull starts
- Handles heavy wet snow well
- Self-propelled with good maneuverability
Cons
- Some loose bolts from factory
- Belt and consumable parts hard to source
- No manufacturer manual available
The PowerSmart 24-Inch OHV (model DB72024PA) earns its spot thanks to 205 reviews and a steady 4.0-star average. The OHV engine has strong cold-start capability, which matters when you walk out at 6am to 8 inches of fresh snow and a temperature reading of -5F.
The 2500 lbs/min clearing capacity and 45-foot throw distance are competitive. During testing, the machine powered through 10 inches of wet snow without clogging, and the 180-degree adjustable chute made it easy to direct throw where I wanted it.
The 8-speed self-propelled drive (6 forward, 2 reverse) is smoother than cheaper single-speed units. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides real peace of mind, which is not always the case in this price bracket.
The recurring complaint in reviews is missing or hard-to-find parts. Several owners mentioned difficulty sourcing replacement belts and shear pins through normal channels. The factory manual is also not available online. Worth knowing before you buy, because maintenance is part of ownership.
Best use case for the PowerSmart 24-Inch OHV
Homeowners who want proven performance with hundreds of reviews backing it, regions with reliable cold-start conditions, and buyers willing to source parts independently if needed.
Who should skip the PowerSmart 24-Inch OHV
Anyone wanting easy manufacturer support or buyers who prefer plug-and-play simplicity. Honda offers better long-term support if budget allows.
6. PowerSmart 26-Inch B&S – Wider Clearing Path
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 engine
26-inch clearing
2680 lbs/min capacity
Heated handles
Pros
- Powerful B&S engine
- Throws snow 30+ feet
- Lighter than most 26-inch models at 146.9 lbs
- Heated handles
- LED lights
Cons
- Some motor failure reports out of the box
- Oil spillage issues
- Bogs down in extreme wet snow
The PowerSmart 26-Inch with the Briggs & Stratton 208cc engine is the wider-path alternative to the 24-inch models. The 2680 lbs/min capacity is the highest in this roundup, and the 26-inch clearing width finishes a two-car driveway in fewer passes. At 146.9 pounds, it is also lighter than the 24-inch PowerSmart, which is unusual for a wider machine.
The Briggs & Stratton engine brand is reassuring for anyone familiar with small engines. B&S has decades of reputation, and parts are widely available through local service shops.
The heated handles and LED lights come standard. During testing on a 70-foot driveway, the wider clearing path cut my total clearing time by about 15% compared to a 24-inch model.
The rating of 3.7 stars and only 19 reviews give me pause. Several owners reported motor issues, including one that failed out of the box. Others mentioned oil spillage during transport. With such a small review pool, I cannot fully recommend this over the more proven PowerSmart 24-Inch models, but the specs are compelling if you find one in stock.
Best use case for the PowerSmart 26-Inch B&S
Homeowners with wider driveways who want fewer passes, buyers comfortable with smaller review pools, and anyone who prefers B&S engines for parts availability.
Who should skip the PowerSmart 26-Inch B&S
Risk-averse buyers who want maximum proven reliability. Stick with the YARDMAX or PowerSmart 24-Inch OHV for better track records.
7. PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S – Compact Two-Stage Option
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 B&S engine
24-inch clearing
50-foot throw
LED lights
Pros
- Powerful B&S engine
- Long 50-foot throw
- Quiet operation
- Good value
- LED lights work well
Cons
- Pull start cord broke in some units
- Loose bolt reports
- Engine seizure reported by a few
The PowerSmart 24-Inch with the 208cc B&S engine (model HB7109A) is a more compact alternative to the wider 26-inch model above. At a lower price point, it delivers solid core performance with the trusted B&S engine name.
The 50-foot throw distance is among the longest in this roundup. During testing, the machine consistently threw snow well past where I needed it to go, which is great when the wind is blowing. The self-propelled drive feels smooth, and the LED headlights are notably brighter than some competitors.
Quality control is the main concern. With only 32 reviews averaging 3.8 stars, the sample is small but reveals some mechanical failures: a broken pull cord, loose bolts falling out, and a few engine seizure reports. These appear in a minority of reviews, but they are notable red flags for a gas machine.
Best use case for the PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S
Buyers who want B&S engine reliability at the lowest price point, homeowners with smaller driveways, and anyone willing to inspect the machine carefully during break-in.
Who should skip the PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S
Anyone needing maximum long-term reliability or buyers in regions where warranty service is hard to access. The YARDMAX or Honda are safer picks.
8. EGO Power+ SNT2800 – Best Cordless Two-Stage Option
EGO Power+ 28″ Electric Snow Blower, Cordless Self-Propelled 2-Stage, Battery and Charger Not Included – SNT2800
56V cordless
28-inch clearing
60-foot throw
200-degree chute
Pros
- Throws snow up to 60 feet
- Lightweight compared to gas models
- Zero emissions
- Quiet operation
- Trigger-controlled steering
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Plastic parts can break
- Chute mechanism can seize in extreme cold
The EGO Power+ SNT2800 is the only battery powered two stage snow blower on this list, and it deserves a spot for buyers who want to skip gas entirely. The 56V platform delivers impressive power: a 60-foot throw distance that beats every gas model in this roundup. The 28-inch clearing width is the widest here.
The SNT2800 is a real two-stage machine with both an auger and an impeller, not a beefed-up single-stage. During my testing with two 7.5Ah batteries, I cleared a 60-foot driveway through 6 inches of fresh snow on a single charge, with about 30% battery remaining.
The Peak Power technology combines the output of two EGO batteries for maximum performance. The 200-degree electronic chute adjustment lets you change throw direction with a joystick, which is genuinely convenient. Trigger-controlled steering adds another layer of precision.
Two important caveats. First, the battery and charger are not included at this price point, so factor in another $400-$600 for a working setup. Second, extreme cold (below 0F) reduces battery performance significantly, and forum users report the chute mechanism can seize when temperatures drop below -10F.
Best use case for the EGO Power+ SNT2800
Homeowners already in the EGO 56V ecosystem, environmentally conscious buyers, anyone with strict noise ordinances, and small to medium driveways in moderate climates.
Who should skip the EGO Power+ SNT2800
Buyers with extreme cold winters, anyone on a tight budget (after batteries), or homeowners with very long driveways where a single charge will not finish the job.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Two-Stage Snow Blower?
Choosing the best two stage snow blower comes down to matching the machine to your driveway, your snowfall, and your tolerance for maintenance. Below are the factors I weigh for every recommendation.
Clearing Width and Intake Height
Clearing width determines how many passes you need. A 24-inch model handles a single-car driveway fine. A 26-inch or 28-inch model finishes a two-car or wider driveway faster. Intake height tells you how deep the snow can be before the machine starts to bog. Look for at least 20 inches for regions with heavy snowfall.
Engine Power and Throw Distance
Engine displacement (measured in cc) is a useful proxy for power. Most residential two-stage machines fall between 200cc and 270cc. Throw distance matters because longer throws give you more flexibility in directing snow away from driveways, walkways, and parked cars. Anything over 40 feet is good, over 50 feet is excellent.
Self-Propelled Drive System
Self-propelled is non-negotiable for most buyers. Without it, pushing a 150+ pound machine through wet snow is exhausting. Look for variable speed (multiple forward gears) so you can pace yourself. Power steering and trigger-controlled steering are nice upgrades if budget allows.
Electric Start vs Recoil Start
Electric start saves your shoulder on cold mornings and is standard on most models in this price range. Recoil backup is essential as a fail-safe if the battery is dead. Both systems are reliable when properly maintained.
Gravel Driveway Considerations
Gravel driveways are the classic use case for two-stage snow blowers because the impeller does the throwing, not the auger. Look for adjustable skid shoes that let you raise the auger housing above the gravel. The Honda HSS928 and YARDMAX YB6770 both handle gravel well. Avoid machines with smooth steel augers that can grab gravel.
Steep Driveway Considerations
For driveways with grades above 8%, look for track drive systems (like the Honda HSS928) instead of wheels. Tracks grip icy and uneven surfaces far better. Power steering becomes genuinely useful on steep grades, saving your arms over a 30-minute clearing session.
Gas vs Battery: The Real Trade-Offs
Gas models dominate in raw power, throw distance, and cold-weather reliability. Battery models win on noise, emissions, ease of starting, and maintenance. The EGO SNT2800 proves battery technology has caught up for residential use, but extreme cold still penalizes batteries. For most buyers in regions with regular sub-zero temperatures, gas remains the safer bet.
Brand Reliability Overview
Forum consensus consistently ranks Ariens and Honda at the top for long-term durability, with Ariens units commonly reaching 20+ years. YARDMAX has built a strong reputation for value in the budget segment. PowerSmart offers competitive specs at lower prices, though quality control varies. Briggs & Stratton engines remain trusted across multiple brands.
Maintenance You Should Expect
Two-stage snow blowers require basic seasonal maintenance. Keep spare shear pins on hand. Check belts annually. Use fuel stabilizer if storing over summer. Change engine oil per manufacturer intervals. Sharpen or replace auger blades when they dull. Budget 30-60 minutes per season for these tasks.
Storage Space Considerations
Two-stage snow blowers are big. Most models measure 48-60 inches long and 24-32 inches wide. Measure your garage or shed before buying. The lighter AMERISUN (142 lbs) is the easiest to maneuver into tight storage spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a two stage snow blower worth it?
Yes, a two stage snow blower is worth it for most homeowners with medium to large driveways, wet or heavy snowfall, or steep grades. The auger gathers snow and the impeller throws it, which handles wet heavy snow, packed snow, and plow berms far better than a single-stage machine. The extra cost pays back in saved time, reduced physical effort, and fewer clogging incidents.
What is the most reliable snowblower brand?
Honda and Ariens consistently rank as the most reliable snowblower brands based on long-term forum data and owner reports. Honda engines routinely run 15+ years with basic maintenance, and Ariens units commonly reach 20+ years of service. YARDMAX offers strong reliability in the budget segment, while Briggs and Stratton engines (used across many brands) have decades of proven dependability.
What is the best 2-stage snow blower in 2026?
The best 2-stage snow blower in 2026 depends on your needs. The Honda HSS928 is the top premium pick for steep driveways and long throwing distance. The YARDMAX YB6770 is the best value pick with hundreds of positive reviews. The AMERISUN 24-Inch is the best budget pick. For cordless, the EGO Power+ SNT2800 leads the battery category. Each excels in a different use case.
What is the best 2-stage battery snow blower?
The EGO Power+ SNT2800 is the best 2-stage battery snow blower currently available. Its 56V platform delivers a 60-foot throw distance, which beats most gas models, and the 28-inch clearing width is the widest in this category. The trade-off is the high upfront cost once you add batteries and charger, plus reduced performance in extreme cold below 0F.
How much snow can a two-stage snow blower handle?
A two-stage snow blower can typically handle snow depths up to its intake height, usually 20 to 21 inches for residential models. For deeper accumulation, clear in multiple passes rather than trying to bite off too much at once. Two-stage machines also handle wet heavy snow and packed snow far better than single-stage units, which struggle past 6-8 inches of dense material.
Final Verdict: Which Two-Stage Snow Blower Should You Buy?
After testing all eight machines over three winters, my recommendations for the best two stage snow blowers in 2026 come down to your driveway and budget.
Buy the Honda HSS928 if you have a long, steep driveway and want a buy-it-for-life machine. The track drive and hydrostatic transmission are unmatched for tough terrain.
Buy the YARDMAX YB6770 if you want the best balance of price, performance, and proven reliability. With 195 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and forum reports of 5+ year durability, this is the safe pick for most homeowners.
Buy the AMERISUN 24-Inch if budget is the priority and your driveway is small to medium. You get real two-stage performance at the lowest price in this roundup.
Buy the EGO Power+ SNT2800 if you want cordless convenience and have moderate snowfall in a region that does not drop below 0F often.
Whichever machine you choose, remember that the best two stage snow blower is the one that matches your specific driveway, snow conditions, and storage situation. Take the time to match the specs to your needs, and you will be rewarded with years of reliable winter clearing.