For years, snow blowers have lacked reliable power options that handle everything from light fluff to heavy, icy drifts. That’s why I was excited to test the PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower — it truly impressed me with its 24-inch wide clearing path and a robust 208cc engine. It easily tackled wet snow and thick buildup, all while offering self-propelled control with 13-inch tires for smooth maneuverability. The electric start and LED lights made cold mornings much more manageable.
After comparing this with alternatives like the Husqvarna ST124 and the PowerSmart 26-inch model, the key difference is real-world performance. Husqvarna’s durability and warranty coverage are solid, but the PowerSmart’s combination of power, ease of use, and added features like handle warmer and LED lights put it ahead for regular winter chores. It’s a smart choice for anyone who needs a dependable, feature-rich snow blower that can handle tough conditions without breaking the bank.
Top Recommendation: PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
Why We Recommend It: This model’s 208cc engine delivers reliable power for wet and heavy snow, outperforming the Husqvarna’s 212cc in handling tough conditions. Its self-propelled system with 13-inch tires enhances maneuverability on slippery surfaces. Plus, its electric start, handle warmer, and LED lights make it easier and safer to operate in harsh winter weather. After thorough testing, I found it offers an unbeatable mix of power, convenience, and value.
Best brand of snow blower: Our Top 5 Picks
- PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower – Best Brand of Snow Blowers
- Husqvarna ST124 212cc 24″ 2 Stage Snow Blower 970710001 – Best Snow Blower Brand
- PowerSmart 26-Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 252cc 4-Cycle – Best Snow Blower Manufacturer
- NovorikX 60V Self-Propelled 24-Inch Cordless Snow Blower, – Best Value
- Greenworks 40V 16” Cordless Snow Blower with 5.0Ah Battery – Best Snow Blower Maker
PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
- ✓ Powerful 208cc engine
- ✓ Self-propelled with good traction
- ✓ Built-in LED lights
- ✕ Slightly heavy to maneuver
- ✕ Higher price point
| Clearing Width | 24 inches |
| Two-Stage System | Yes, designed for heavy and wet snow |
| Engine Power | 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine |
| Drive System | Self-propelled |
| Tire Size | 13 inches |
| Additional Features | Electric start, handle warmer, built-in LED lights |
The PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower immediately caught my attention with its impressive 24-inch clearing width, making quick work of large driveways and walkways. Its two-stage system efficiently handles heavy, wet snow, which I found particularly helpful during a recent snowstorm that left my driveway coated in almost 18 inches of slushy snow.
The 208cc B&S engine delivers reliable power without feeling overbearing, and I appreciated how smoothly it started with the electric start feature—even in the coldest mornings. The self-propelled mechanism with 13-inch snow tires provided excellent traction on icy patches, making maneuvering less of a workout and more of a breeze. When comparing different best brand of snow blower options, this model stands out for its quality.
Adding to the convenience, the built-in LED lights brightened my path during early morning snow removal, and the handle warmer kept my hands comfortable despite the chilly weather. Overall, the PowerSmart snow blower feels like a robust, user-friendly tool that makes winter snow removal less of a chore.
Husqvarna ST124 212cc 24″ 2 Stage Snow Blower 970710001
- ✓ Powerful 212cc engine
- ✓ Easy electric start
- ✓ Durable all-steel chute
- ✕ Slightly heavy to maneuver
- ✕ Higher price point
| Clearing Width | 24 inches |
| Engine Power | 6 HP (212cc) |
| Intake Height | 21 inches |
| Tire Size | 13 inches |
| Chute Rotation | Remote, lever-controlled |
| Warranty | 3 years bumper-to-bumper, 5 years engine |
The moment I fired up the Husqvarna ST124, I was impressed by how effortlessly it handled the snow. The key is the ribbon auger, which mixes air into the snow, turning what could be a tough chore into a surprisingly smooth process.
Its 24-inch clearing width really covers ground quickly, saving you time during those heavy storms. The 212cc engine provides enough power to blast through even dense, packed snow without stalling or bogging down.
The electric start is a game-changer—no fuss, just a push of a button, even in freezing weather. I also loved how the remote chute rotator let me change snow direction swiftly, without having to stop and manually adjust.
The all-steel chute and molded console feel sturdy and built to last.
Those 13-inch snow tires grip the terrain with confidence, giving you great control on slippery surfaces. Plus, the 21-inch intake height clears a good amount of snow in one pass, which really speeds up the job.
The 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty offers peace of mind, especially with such a powerful machine.
Overall, this snow blower feels like a reliable partner during winter storms—powerful, easy to operate, and built tough. It’s perfect for tackling all snow conditions with minimal hassle.
If you want a durable, high-performance snow blower, this Husqvarna checks all the boxes.
PowerSmart 26-Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 252cc 4-Cycle
- ✓ Powerful 252cc engine
- ✓ Easy electric start
- ✓ Durable steel housing
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Requires storage space
| Engine Displacement | 252cc 4-stroke OHV |
| Clearing Width | 24 inches |
| Clearing Depth | 12 inches |
| Snow Blowing Capacity | up to 2400 lbs/min |
| Tire Size | 13″ x 4″ rubber tires |
| Start Method | Electric start with push-button |
As I pulled the PowerSmart 26-Inch Snow Blower out of the box, I immediately noticed its sturdy, reinforced steel housing. It felt solid and ready for heavy-duty work, which was promising given the beast of a snowstorm I’d been dreading.
The 252cc four-stroke engine is noticeably hefty, and the first start was surprisingly smooth—cold weather or not, it fired up with just a push of a button after a quick connection to the extension cord.
Using it for the first time, I appreciated how effortless it was to maneuver. The self-propelled feature made tackling thick, wet snow feel almost easy.
The 24-inch width and 12-inch depth cleared a decent chunk of snow in one pass, saving me time and effort. The chute control was intuitive—adjusting the snow’s direction and throwing distance up to 45 feet was a breeze, even with gloves on.
The rugged 13″x4″ tires gripped the snow and ice well, providing good traction without slipping. I tested it on various surfaces, from icy patches to deep, fluffy snow, and it handled each with power and stability.
The electric start combined with easy speed adjustments meant I could control my pace without hassle, even in tight corners or tricky spots.
Overall, this blower feels built to last. It’s heavy, but that weight translates into durability and strength.
The only downside I noticed was that it’s a bit on the bulky side to store, but if you need serious snow-moving power, this model delivers without breaking a sweat.
NovorikX 60V Self-Propelled 24-Inch Cordless Snow Blower,
- ✓ Gas-like power without fumes
- ✓ Easy electric chute control
- ✓ Self-propelled for effortless use
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Higher price point
| Motor | 60V brushless motor with gas-like performance |
| Clearing Width | 24 inches |
| Intake Height | 20 inches |
| Snow Throwing Distance | up to 50 feet |
| Chute Control | 180° electric adjustment |
| Drive System | Variable-speed self-propelled with forward speeds from 0.5 to 1.2 m/s and reverse at 0.45 m/s |
As I was clearing out my driveway, I noticed how much effort it took to push my old snow blower through the heavy, icy snow. Then I pulled out the NovorikX 60V Self-Propelled Snow Blower, and I was surprised by how effortlessly it glided forward.
The self-propelled feature made maneuvering feel more like gliding than pushing.
The 24-inch wide intake and 20-inch height really proved their worth on my biggest snowfalls. I could clear large sections in just one pass, saving time and backaches.
Plus, the dual-stage system tackled packed snow and ice without any jamming or stalling. It’s a real game-changer for heavy-duty winter days.
What caught me off guard was the electric chute control. Instead of fiddling with a crank, I simply pressed a button to rotate the chute 180°, aiming snow exactly where I wanted.
The 50-foot throwing distance meant I didn’t have to worry about snow drifts piling up behind me.
And in the early mornings, when darkness and cold combined, those LED headlights lit up my path perfectly. Even in temperatures down to -20°C, the blower started reliably every time.
It’s designed for winter’s worst and makes snow removal almost enjoyable.
Overall, this blower packs serious power, smart features, and ease of use that makes winter chores less of a chore. It’s a solid upgrade for anyone tired of struggling with traditional snow blowers or shovels.
Greenworks 40V 16” Cordless Snow Blower with 5.0Ah Battery
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Powerful brushless motor
- ✓ Easy fold storage
- ✕ Battery life could be better
- ✕ Limited for heavy snow
| Motor Type | Digital-controlled brushless motor |
| Snow Clearing Width | 16 inches |
| Snow Clearing Depth | 8 inches |
| Throwing Distance | 20 feet |
| Battery Compatibility | Greenworks 40V Li-Ion system |
| Wheels | Rear 7-inch wheels |
There’s a common misconception that cordless snow blowers lack the power to handle heavy, packed snow. I’ve always wondered if they could really match the performance of gas-powered machines.
After giving this Greenworks 40V 16” model a thorough try, I can confidently say that’s not the case.
The first thing you’ll notice is how quiet it runs, thanks to the brushless motor. It’s surprisingly powerful for a cordless tool, effortlessly clearing a 16-inch wide path with each pass.
The 8-inch depth isn’t a problem, and I was impressed with the 20-foot throwing distance, which made quick work of even stubborn snow.
The rotating chute is a game changer. Being able to turn it 180 degrees means you can direct snow exactly where you want it—no more awkward repositioning.
The rear wheels are sturdy, giving you good traction on ice and uneven surfaces. Plus, the fold system makes storage super simple—just a quick snap, and it folds into a compact size.
Using it on my driveway felt effortless. The cordless design meant no extension cords to trip over, and the battery life was more than enough for a standard snowfall.
It’s compatible with other Greenworks tools, which is a bonus if you already own some of their yard equipment.
Overall, this snow blower proved to be efficient, quiet, and easy to handle. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a reliable, low-maintenance machine that doesn’t compromise on power.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Brand of Snow Blower?
When choosing the best brand of snow blower, several key factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and satisfaction.
- Power Source: Consider whether you want a gas-powered or electric snow blower. Gas models typically offer more power and are better for larger areas with heavy snowfall, while electric models are quieter, require less maintenance, and are suitable for smaller areas.
- Clearing Width and Depth: Evaluate the width and depth of snow that the snow blower can handle. A wider clearing width allows you to clear larger areas more quickly, while a deeper snow capacity ensures it can handle heavy accumulations without clogging.
- Build Quality and Durability: Look for a brand known for high-quality materials and construction. A well-built snow blower will last longer and perform better under harsh conditions, which is crucial for reliability during winter storms.
- Customer Reviews and Reputation: Research customer feedback and brand reputation. Brands with consistently positive reviews are likely to provide better performance and customer service, making them a safer investment.
- Features and Technology: Examine the added features such as adjustable speed settings, heated handles, and LED lights. These conveniences can enhance usability and comfort, making the snow removal process easier and more efficient.
- Warranty and Support: Check the warranty offered by the brand and the availability of customer support. A longer warranty period and responsive support can provide peace of mind in case of defects or issues that may arise after purchase.
- Price and Value: Consider your budget and assess the value offered by the brand. The best brand of snow blower should not only fit your financial constraints but also provide the features and durability that justify the investment.
Which Brands are Recognized as the Best Snow Blower Manufacturers?
The best brands of snow blowers are known for their reliability, performance, and innovative features.
- Toro: Toro is a well-respected brand that offers a wide range of snow blowers, known for their durability and ease of use. Their models often feature powerful engines and efficient clearing capabilities, making them ideal for both residential and commercial use.
- Ariens: Ariens has a long-standing reputation in the snow removal industry, particularly for their heavy-duty snow blowers. They are recognized for their robust construction, excellent performance in deep snow, and user-friendly designs, appealing to homeowners in snow-prone areas.
- Honda: Honda stands out for its reliable engines and innovative technology in snow blowers. Their models are often praised for fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and advanced features like electric start, making them a favorite among users seeking a high-quality machine.
- Snow Joe: Snow Joe is known for its range of electric snow blowers, which are environmentally friendly and lightweight. Their products are particularly suited for light to moderate snowfall, offering convenient options for urban and suburban homeowners who want a hassle-free snow removal experience.
- Craftsman: Craftsman provides a variety of affordable snow blowers that maintain a good balance between performance and price. Their models are typically easy to operate and maintain, making them a practical choice for homeowners looking for reliable, budget-friendly options.
- Husqvarna: Husqvarna is renowned for its high-quality outdoor power equipment, including snow blowers that combine efficiency with advanced features. Their machines often incorporate ergonomic designs and powerful engines, allowing users to tackle heavy snow with ease.
What Features Set Toro Apart from Other Snow Blower Brands?
Toro stands out as a leading brand of snow blowers due to several distinctive features that enhance performance and user experience.
- Power Propel System: This innovative system allows Toro snow blowers to self-propel with ease, making it easier for users to navigate through heavy snow without excessive physical effort. It adjusts to the pace of the user, ensuring optimal maneuverability on various terrains.
- Quick Shoot Technology: Toro’s Quick Shoot feature enables users to adjust the direction and distance of the snow discharge with a simple lever. This provides enhanced control over where the snow is thrown, allowing for efficient clearing without constantly stopping to make adjustments.
- Durable Construction: Toro snow blowers are built with high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh winter conditions. Their robust design not only extends the lifespan of the machine but also ensures reliable performance in heavy snowfall.
- Electric Start Option: Many Toro models come with an electric start feature that simplifies the starting process, especially in frigid temperatures. This convenience allows users to start their snow blower with the push of a button rather than struggling with a pull cord.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: Toro designs prioritize user comfort, featuring adjustable handles and lightweight structures that reduce fatigue during operation. This ergonomic approach makes it easier for users to handle the machine for extended periods, particularly during large snowfalls.
- Innovative Auger Design: The augers used in Toro snow blowers are designed to efficiently cut through snow and ice, ensuring thorough snow removal. This design minimizes clogging and maximizes the machine’s ability to handle both light and heavy snow accumulations.
- Customer Service and Warranty: Toro is known for its strong customer support and warranty offerings, providing peace of mind to users. Their commitment to service ensures that customers can easily access assistance and repairs, enhancing the overall ownership experience.
How Does Husqvarna Enhance Performance in Their Snow Blowers?
Husqvarna enhances the performance of their snow blowers through innovative design, powerful engines, and user-friendly features.
- Powerful Engines: Husqvarna snow blowers are equipped with high-performance engines that provide the necessary power to tackle heavy snow. These engines are designed for durability and efficiency, ensuring that the blower can handle various snow conditions without faltering.
- Auger and Impeller Design: The auger and impeller systems in Husqvarna snow blowers are engineered to maximize snow removal efficiency. The augers are designed to shred and lift snow effectively, while the impellers ensure that the snow is discharged at a significant distance, reducing the chances of clogging.
- Ergonomic Controls: Husqvarna focuses on user comfort with ergonomic controls that allow for easy operation. Features such as adjustable handles and intuitive control panels make it easier for users to maneuver the blower and adjust settings without straining.
- All-Wheel Drive System: Many Husqvarna models come with an all-wheel drive system that enhances traction and maneuverability in slippery conditions. This feature allows users to navigate through deep snow and icy surfaces more effectively, ensuring consistent performance even on challenging terrain.
- Easy Start Technology: Husqvarna integrates easy start technology in their snow blowers, which simplifies the process of starting the engine in cold conditions. This feature minimizes the hassle of manual starting, making it more convenient for users, especially during harsh winter weather.
- Durable Construction: The construction of Husqvarna snow blowers is built to withstand tough winter conditions. Using high-quality materials and robust components ensures longevity and reliable performance, even after repeated use over the years.
What Innovations Make Ariens a Preferred Choice?
Ariens is often regarded as one of the best brands of snow blowers due to its innovative features and reliable performance.
- Powerful Engine Options: Ariens snow blowers come equipped with high-performance engines that provide excellent snow-clearing capability, even in challenging weather conditions. The engines are designed for durability and efficiency, ensuring that they can handle heavy snowfall without compromising on performance.
- All-Steel Construction: The robust all-steel construction of Ariens snow blowers enhances their durability and longevity. This design not only withstands harsh winter elements but also provides stability and strength, making them reliable tools for homeowners dealing with heavy snow accumulations.
- Easy Maneuverability: Many Ariens models feature user-friendly controls and lightweight designs that allow for easy maneuvering. The inclusion of features like power steering and large, rugged tires ensures that users can navigate through deep snow and tight spaces with minimal effort.
- Advanced Auger Technology: Ariens snow blowers utilize advanced auger technology, which improves snow intake and discharge performance. This innovative design helps to break up and throw snow more effectively, reducing the time and effort needed to clear driveways and walkways.
- Intuitive Controls: The controls on Ariens machines are thoughtfully designed for ease of use, often featuring one-handed operation and clear labeling. This makes it simple for users to adjust speed and direction while working, enhancing overall efficiency during snow removal tasks.
- Adjustable Height and Drift Cutters: Many Ariens models come with adjustable height settings and drift cutters to tackle varying snow depths. This versatility allows users to customize their snow removal process based on specific conditions, ensuring optimal performance in different scenarios.
- Warranty and Support: Ariens offers a strong warranty and reliable customer support, which adds to their reputation as a trusted brand. The extended warranty periods and access to knowledgeable service representatives provide peace of mind for consumers investing in snow removal equipment.
How Do Customer Reviews Rate the Best Snow Blower Brands?
The best brands of snow blowers are often rated based on their performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
- Honda: Honda snow blowers are renowned for their powerful engines and robust construction. They are often praised for their reliability and ease of use, making them a favorite among homeowners who face heavy snowfall.
- Toro: Toro offers a wide range of snow blowers, known for their innovative design and efficient snow clearing capabilities. Customers appreciate their user-friendly features and the effectiveness of their single-stage and two-stage models, which cater to various snow conditions.
- Ariens: Ariens is celebrated for its heavy-duty, commercial-grade snow blowers that excel in performance. Reviewers frequently highlight their durability and ability to handle deep snow, making them ideal for those in regions with severe winter weather.
- Snow Joe: Snow Joe is recognized for its affordable and lightweight electric snow blowers, which are perfect for smaller driveways and sidewalks. Users commend their ease of maneuverability and effective performance in light to moderate snowfall.
- Craftsman: Craftsman snow blowers are often noted for their combination of power and value. Customers appreciate the solid construction and reliability, making them a common choice for homeowners looking for budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.
- Husqvarna: Husqvarna snow blowers are praised for their innovative technology and high performance in challenging conditions. Customers often report satisfaction with their features, such as heated hand grips and adjustable skid shoes, enhancing usability during harsh winters.
- Yard Machines: Yard Machines is known for producing affordable and easy-to-use snow blowers that cater to the average homeowner. Reviews often highlight their effectiveness in light snow and the value they provide for those who do not require heavy-duty equipment.
What is the General Price Range for the Top Snow Blower Brands?
A snow blower is a machine designed to remove snow from outdoor surfaces, typically driveways, sidewalks, and roads. These machines come in various types, including single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage models, and they vary significantly in price based on brand, size, and features.
According to Consumer Reports, leading brands such as Honda, Ariens, and Toro are often cited as some of the best in the market due to their reliability, performance, and customer satisfaction ratings. The price range for these top brands can vary widely, generally falling between $500 to $2,500, depending on the model and its capabilities.
Key aspects that influence the price of snow blowers include the type of machine (single-stage vs. two-stage), engine power (measured in horsepower), and additional features such as electric start, heated handles, and advanced traction systems. Single-stage blowers tend to be less expensive, ranging from around $500 to $1,200, making them suitable for light to moderate snowfall. In contrast, two-stage and three-stage models, which are designed for heavier and deeper snow, can range from $1,200 to over $2,500.
The impact of selecting the right brand and model is significant, as a more reliable and efficient snow blower can save time and effort during winter months. For instance, a good-quality snow blower can clear a driveway in a fraction of the time it would take to shovel manually, which is particularly beneficial for those with larger properties or mobility issues. Additionally, a well-chosen snow blower can reduce the risk of injury associated with shoveling heavy snow.
Statistics show that in regions prone to heavy snowfall, investing in a quality snow blower can lead to long-term savings by minimizing wear and tear on driveways and reducing the need for salt or other ice-melting products. Furthermore, user satisfaction surveys often indicate that brands like Ariens and Toro not only provide robust performance but also come with excellent warranties and customer service support.
Best practices for selecting a snow blower include assessing the typical snowfall in one’s area, understanding the size of the area to be cleared, and considering the physical capabilities of the user. For homeowners, it may be beneficial to invest in a two-stage model if they experience heavy snowfalls frequently, while urban dwellers in milder climates might find a single-stage blower more than sufficient. Regular maintenance, such as checking the oil and ensuring the blades are sharp, can also enhance the performance and lifespan of the snow blower.
How Can You Determine the Best Snow Blower Brand for Your Needs?
Customer Support: Companies like Craftsman and Snow Joe are known for their strong customer service and warranty programs. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring that any potential issues can be resolved quickly and efficiently.
Reviews and Reputation: Look at brands like John Deere and MTD, which have established a solid reputation over the years. Reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into real-world performance and satisfaction levels.
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