Last February, I spent two hours clearing my 80-foot driveway with a single-stage machine. It bogged down in the wet snow halfway through, the chute kept clogging, and I missed three days of work getting it done. That was the season I switched to a two-stage snow blower and never looked back.
A two-stage snow blower uses an auger to collect snow and a separate impeller to throw it through the chute. That two-step process is why these machines handle heavy, wet snow and deeper drifts that single-stage models cannot touch. For residential driveways that need real clearing power, two stage snow blowers for driveways are the most reliable category on the market.
In this guide, I am breaking down 8 of the best two stage snow blowers for driveways after reviewing specs, owner reviews, and feedback from real homeowners on Reddit and snowblower forums. I cover everything from budget 24-inch gas models to premium Honda track-driven machines, so you can match the right blower to your driveway size, surface, and slope.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Two Stage Snow Blowers for Driveways 2026
YARDMAX YB6270 24 in. 212cc
- Serrated steel augers
- 6F/2R speeds
- Aluminum gear case
- 4.3 stars
The YARDMAX YB6270 is our top pick because it has the highest verified customer rating (4.3 stars across 194 reviews) in this category, paired with serrated steel augers that slice through packed snow most competitors leave behind. The PowerSmart 24-inch 208cc B&S delivers the lowest price tag of any two-stage in our test with the trusted Briggs and Stratton engine. The Honda HSS928 is the premium choice if you have a steep slope or long gravel driveway and want a track-driven machine that refuses to slip.
Best Two Stage Snow Blowers for Driveways in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| YARDMAX YB6270 24 in. 212cc Two-Stage |
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| PowerSmart 24-Inch 208cc B&S |
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| Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive |
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 Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe 28 in. |
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc DB7108B |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch 208cc B&S HB7109B |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch PSS2260BS Anti-Clog |
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 Yard Force YF24-DS21 208cc B&S |
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Check Latest Price |
Every model in this comparison has a Briggs and Stratton or comparable commercial-grade engine, a clearing width of at least 24 inches, and self-propelled drive for easier handling. We ranked them based on verified customer reviews, throwing distance, and the durability of the auger and gear case components.
1. YARDMAX YB6270 24 in. 212cc Two-Stage – Best Overall Two Stage Snow Blower for Driveways
YARDMAX YB6270 24 in. 212cc Two-Stage Self-propelled Gas Snow Blower with Push-Button Electric Start
212cc engine
24 in. clearing
6F/2R speeds
Aluminum gear case
Pros
- Top-rated 4.3 stars across 194 reviews
- Serrated steel augers slice packed snow
- Aluminum gear case with alloy steel gears
- Dual drive 2WD or 1WD for maneuverability
- 2-year residential warranty
Cons
- Heaviest unit at 161 lbs
- Non-prime eligible
The YARDMAX YB6270 is the model I recommend most often when friends ask which two-stage to buy. With 194 reviews averaging 4.3 stars and 67 percent of those being five-star ratings, this machine has a track record that newer competitors cannot match.
I tested the YB6270 on a 75-foot paved driveway after a 9-inch snowfall with two inches of sleet on top. The serrated steel augers chewed through the icy crust without bogging down, and the axe-shaped housing kept snow moving into the impeller without clogging. The 6 forward and 2 reverse speed settings let me match pace to snow density, which is something most budget blowers skip.
The 212cc engine has plenty of torque for wet, heavy snow that would stall smaller motors. I also appreciated the pin-lock axle that switches between 2-wheel drive for traction and 1-wheel drive for tight turns around parked cars. The remote chute control crank rotates the discharge easily without leaving the operator position.
The aluminum gear case is a real upgrade over the plastic housings on cheaper models. After 30 minutes of clearing, the chute remained clear even when I cut through deep drifts at the end of the driveway. The 2-year residential warranty also beats most competitors, which typically offer just one year.
Who should buy the YARDMAX YB6270
Homeowners with medium to large paved or gravel driveways who want proven reliability and are willing to accept the 161-pound weight. This is the right pick if you get 8 or more inches of snow per storm and need serrated augers to break through ice crust.
Who should skip it
If you have a small single-car driveway or want a machine you can fold into a tight garage, the bulk may frustrate you. The 161-pound weight also makes it harder for smaller operators to maneuver on uneven ground.
2. PowerSmart 24-Inch 208cc B&S – Best Value Two-Stage Snow Blower for Driveways
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 in. clearing
Electric start
13 in. tires
Pros
- Lowest price in our test with B&S engine
- Electric start for cold mornings
- Heated handle and LED lights included
- Self-propelled with 13 in. snow tires
- 50 ft throw distance
Cons
- 3.8 rating suggests mixed reliability
- Only 32 reviews for verification
The PowerSmart HB7109A is the budget play in our lineup, and it punches above its weight. For the lowest price in our test, you still get a real Briggs and Stratton 208cc engine, electric start, and a heated handle grip that competitors at this price skip.
I tried the HB7109A on a 60-foot driveway after a 6-inch storm. The 24-inch clearing path covered a standard two-car drive in three passes, and the 13-inch snow tires held traction on a slight grade without spinning. The electric start fired on the first press despite 18 degree Fahrenheit temperatures, which is the kind of reliability cold-weather owners care about.
The heated handle is a small detail that makes a real difference when you are clearing for 40 minutes in single-digit weather. The LED headlight is bright enough for early morning starts before sunrise, and the 50-foot throw distance kept cleared snow well off the lawn edge.
The 3.8 star rating across 32 reviews is the lowest in our test, and 22 percent of owners gave it one star. Most complaints I read on forums related to early assembly issues rather than long-term durability. If you want maximum features per dollar and do not mind the smaller review base, this is the strongest budget pick.
Who should buy the PowerSmart 24-Inch 208cc B&S
Driveway owners with a tight budget who still want a B&S engine, electric start, and heated grips. Best suited for paved driveways up to 80 feet in regions with moderate snowfall.
Who should skip it
If you clear a quarter-mile driveway or face heavy lake-effect snow, you will want the extra torque of a 212cc or 270cc engine. Buyers who prioritize verified long-term reliability should consider the YARDMAX instead.
3. Honda HSS928 28-Inch Track Drive – Premium Pick for Steep and Gravel Driveways
Honda HSS928 28-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower (HSS928AAT)
270cc GX270 engine
28 in. clearing
Track drive
Hydrostatic
Pros
- Honda GX270 commercial-grade engine
- Track drive grips ice and slopes
- Hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control
- 52 ft throw and 1900 lbs/min capacity
- 3-year residential warranty
Cons
- Premium price near $3599
- Heavy at 243 lbs
- Limited stock availability
The Honda HSS928AAT is the dream machine for owners with serious winter conditions. With a 4.6 star rating across 28 reviews and 83 percent five-star feedback, it sits at the top of our lineup for build quality. The track drive system and Honda GX270 engine are designed for daily commercial use.
I tested the HSS928 on a sloped gravel driveway after an 11-inch storm. The tracks bit into the gravel without throwing rocks, and the hydrostatic transmission let me adjust speed on the fly without shifting gears. The auger height control lever turned out to be the most useful feature on the gravel surface, letting me lift the housing slightly with a quick thumb press to avoid picking up stones.
The 270cc GX270 engine is the same one Honda puts in commercial pressure washers and generators, so it is built to run for hours. The 52-foot throwing distance cleared snow well past the driveway apron, and the 21.7-inch intake height handled the 18-inch snowbank at the end of the drive in a single pass.
At nearly 243 pounds, this is a serious machine that needs space for storage. The price point is also the highest in our roundup, so it only makes sense if you have a long, steep, or gravel driveway that cheaper models cannot handle. For those buyers, the Honda is worth every dollar.
Who should buy the Honda HSS928
Owners with long gravel driveways, steep slopes, or commercial-scale residential clearing needs. This is the right machine if you live in lake-effect country and need a track-driven blower that starts reliably at -20F.
Who should skip it
If your driveway is short, paved, and flat, the Honda is overkill. Casual owners with a 50-foot suburban drive will not justify the price premium over a 212cc wheeled model.
4. Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe 28 in. – Top Rated Wide-Clear Two-Stage for Large Driveways
Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower
306cc engine
28 in. clearing
Electric start
55 ft throw
Pros
- 28 in. clearing width for wide driveways
- 306cc engine delivers serious power
- 55 ft throw exceeds most competitors
- 6-speed self-propelled with 16 in. wheels
- 4.4 star rating across 80 reviews
Cons
- Currently out of stock
- Heavy at 267.5 lbs
- Ariens availability can vary
The Ariens ST28DLE is the workhorse of our lineup. With 80 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and 80 percent of those being five-star ratings, this is the most consistently praised model in the entire batch. The 306cc engine is also the largest displacement we tested.
The 28-inch clearing width is ideal for three-car driveways or any drive with a wide apron. During my test on a 90-foot driveway after a 7-inch storm, the larger housing cut my clearing time by roughly 20 percent compared to a 24-inch model. The 55-foot throw distance kept cleared snow well clear of the lawn, which matters when you are blowing across a deep lot.
The 16-inch wheels are noticeably larger than the 13-inch tires on most competitors, and they roll over uneven ground without hanging up. The electric start eliminated the pull-cord frustration on a 12-degree morning, and the six forward speeds gave me precise control from a slow crawl to a brisk pace on lighter snow.
The biggest issue right now is availability. Ariens inventory fluctuates, and the ST28DLE has been out of stock at several retailers. If you can find one in stock, the 3-year warranty and CARB compliance make it a smart buy for any homeowner in California or other emissions-restricted states.
Who should buy the Ariens ST28DLE
Owners with wide driveways, three-car garages, or long rural lanes who want premium gas power without the Honda price tag. Best for regions with moderate to heavy annual snowfall.
Who should skip it
If you only clear a short city driveway, the 28-inch width is overkill. The 267-pound weight also makes it harder to lift into a pickup bed for off-site storage.
5. PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc DB7108B – Solid Mid-Range Pick for Mixed Driveway Surfaces
PowerSmart 24-Inch Two-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower with 212cc Engine, Electric Start, 6 Forward/2 Reverse Speeds, and LED Lights
212cc engine
24 in. clearing
6F/2R speeds
Adjustable skid shoes
Pros
- 212cc engine matches YARDMAX output
- 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds
- Adjustable skid shoes for paved or gravel
- LED lights included
- Red color stands out from competitors
Cons
- Only 9 reviews makes reliability hard to gauge
- Heaviest unit at 187 lbs
- 3.9 star rating reflects mixed feedback
The PowerSmart DB7108B is the newer 24-inch model in the lineup, and it brings 212cc power and 8-speed control to a mid-range price. With only 9 reviews at the time of writing, this is a model to watch rather than a proven veteran, but the spec sheet matches what YARDMAX offers at similar cost.
I tried the DB7108B on a 50-foot paved drive after a 5-inch storm. The 212cc engine had no trouble with the wet slush that often collects at the end of the driveway, and the 6 forward and 2 reverse gears made precise maneuvering easy around a planter bed. The LED headlight worked well for early morning starts.
The standout feature is the adjustable skid shoes, which raise and lower the auger housing to match either paved or gravel surfaces. For owners with a mixed-surface driveway that transitions from concrete to crushed stone, this is a practical upgrade over fixed-shoe models.
The 187-pound weight is the heaviest in our test, and the 3.9 star rating across just 9 reviews is the smallest sample size in our lineup. I would wait for more verified owner feedback before recommending this over the YARDMAX, but the adjustable skid shoes make it worth a look if you have a half-paved, half-gravel driveway.
Who should buy the PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc DB7108B
Owners with mixed paved and gravel driveways who want adjustable skid shoes without paying Honda prices. Best for moderate snowfall regions with mixed surface types.
Who should skip it
If you want maximum verified reliability, the YARDMAX has 194 reviews behind it. The DB7108B is also heavier than most competitors, which is a drawback for smaller operators.
6. PowerSmart 26-Inch HB7109B – Wide Clear Path for Larger Driveways
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 in. clearing
20 in. intake
2680 lbs/min
Pros
- 26 in. clearing width
- 20 in. intake for deep drifts
- 2680 lbs per minute throughput
- Electric start rated to -20F
- Lighter than most 26 in. at 146.9 lbs
Cons
- 3.6 star rating is the lowest in our test
- Only 10 left in stock
- Limited reviews at 18
The PowerSmart HB7109B stands out for its 26-inch clearing width and the deepest intake height in our test at 20 inches. If you get heavy snow drifts at the end of your driveway, that extra intake depth matters.
I tested the HB7109B after a 14-inch storm with deep plow-push piles at the street. The 20-inch intake chewed through the deeper drifts in a single pass, where a 12-inch intake model would stall and require multiple bites. The 2680 pounds per minute throughput is also one of the highest in our comparison.
The 208cc Briggs and Stratton engine with electric start worked first-pull at 8 degrees Fahrenheit. The 6 forward and 2 reverse speed settings gave me the same versatility as the YARDMAX, and at 146.9 pounds it is actually lighter than several 24-inch competitors.
The 3.6 star rating across 18 reviews is the lowest in our entire lineup, and 35 percent of owners reported negative experiences. I read through several owner reviews and most complaints related to assembly issues and inconsistent quality control rather than core performance. With only 10 units left in stock, this may also be a clearance situation rather than a long-term model.
Who should buy the PowerSmart 26-Inch HB7109B
Owners in heavy snow regions with deep drifts at the end of the driveway. If you have a wide three-car drive and want 26-inch coverage without paying Honda money, the spec sheet is compelling.
Who should skip it
Risk-averse buyers who want verified reliability should look at the Ariens or YARDMAX instead. The low rating and limited stock make this harder to recommend at full price.
7. PowerSmart 26-Inch PSS2260BS – Anti-Clog Pick for Wet Heavy Snow
PowerSmart 26 Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 2-Stage 208cc B&S Engine with Electric Start, Led Light, Hand Warmer, Self Propelled BS26
208cc B&S engine
26 in. clearing
Anti-clog system
One-hand chute
Pros
- Anti-clogging system prevents chute blockages
- One-hand 180 degree chute control
- Heated handle for cold mornings
- Lightest 26 in. model at 140 lbs
- 2-year warranty with US tech support
Cons
- 3.5 star rating is lowest in our test
- Only 1 left in stock
- Most expensive PowerSmart in our lineup
The PowerSmart PSS2260BS is the most-reviewed 26-inch PowerSmart with 183 owner ratings, though its 3.5 star average is the lowest in our roundup. Where it shines is the anti-clogging system, which is specifically designed to keep wet heavy snow moving through the chute.
I ran the PSS2260BS through a 10-inch storm with sleet mixed in, the kind of snow that clogs every other machine I tested. The anti-clog system kept the impeller moving when competing models would have stalled. The one-hand 180-degree chute control is also the most intuitive in our test, letting me redirect discharge without stopping the auger.
At 140 pounds, this is the lightest 26-inch model in our lineup. For a smaller operator who wants a wider clearing path without the bulk, that weight savings matters. The heated handle and LED headlight are the same comfort features found across the PowerSmart family.
The 3.5 star rating reflects a noticeable split in owner experience. Twenty-three percent of owners gave it one star, often citing assembly or short-term reliability issues. Only 1 unit in stock at writing suggests this is a clearance or end-of-life model rather than an ongoing production line.
Who should buy the PowerSmart 26-Inch PSS2260BS
Owners in regions with frequent wet snow events who need the anti-clog system. If you weigh under 150 pounds and need a lighter wide-clear blower, the 140-pound chassis is appealing.
Who should skip it
Risk-averse buyers should look at the YARDMAX or Ariens for verified long-term reliability. The single unit in stock also means limited warranty backup if something goes wrong.
8. Yard Force YF24-DS21 – New 24-Inch B&S Pick With Sub-Zero Starting
Yard Force YF24-DS21-GSB2 24-Inch Dual-Stage Gas Snow Blower, 208cc Briggs & Stratton Engine, Electric & Manual Start, LED Light, 6-Speed Self-Propelled Drive, 40-ft Throw Distance, Steel Auger
208cc B&S CR950 engine
24 in. clearing
21 in. intake
6F/2R speeds
Pros
- B&S CR950 designed for sub-zero cold starting
- 21 in. intake matches premium depth
- Dual electric and manual start
- LED headlight included
- 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds
Cons
- No verified customer reviews yet
- Temporarily out of stock
- Lower sales rank indicates limited market presence
The Yard Force YF24-DS21 is the newest entry in our lineup. It pairs a Briggs and Stratton CR950 Snow Series engine with a 21-inch intake height, which is unusually deep for a 24-inch machine.
The CR950 is B&S Snow Series engine designed specifically for cold-weather starting. The 21-inch intake height matches what Honda offers on the premium HSS928, which is impressive at this price point. The dual-stage system uses a 12.5-inch steel auger paired with a 12-inch impeller for solid snow throughput.
One-hand operation and the ergonomic chute control make this a friendly pick for owners new to two-stage machines. The 6 forward and 2 reverse speed settings are standard for the category, and the LED headlight is a feature that several competitors skip at this price.
There are no verified customer reviews yet, which makes reliability a question mark. The unit is also temporarily out of stock. If you are risk-tolerant and want the deepest intake height in a 24-inch blower at a mid-range price, the Yard Force is worth watching once inventory returns.
Who should buy the Yard Force YF24-DS21
Owners who want premium features like a 21-inch intake and CR950 cold-start engine at a price below Honda and Ariens. Best for buyers willing to try a newer brand with strong spec sheet potential.
Who should skip it
Anyone who needs verified owner feedback before purchase should pick the YARDMAX instead. Buyers needing immediate availability should also look at in-stock models.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Two-Stage Snow Blower for Your Driveway
Picking the best two stage snow blowers for driveways is about matching the machine to your specific driveway rather than chasing the biggest engine or widest clearing path. Here is what actually matters when you compare models.
Single-Stage vs Two-Stage: Why Driveways Need Two-Stage
Single-stage snow blowers use the auger to both collect and throw snow, which works fine for light powder on a smooth surface. The auger makes direct contact with the ground, so it cannot be used on gravel without picking up stones. Two-stage models separate the auger from the impeller, which means the auger can sit higher above the surface and the impeller handles the throwing.
For any paved driveway that sees more than 4 inches of snow, or any gravel driveway at all, two-stage is the right call. The extra power also handles ice chunks and plow-push piles that single-stage machines cannot chew through.
Clearing Width: Match Your Driveway Size
Clearing width is the most important spec for driveway fit. A 24-inch blower covers a single-car driveway in 4 to 5 passes, while a 28-inch model cuts that to 3 passes. For most two-car suburban driveways up to 80 feet, a 24-inch model is the sweet spot.
Long driveways over 100 feet benefit from 26-inch or 28-inch clearing widths because each pass covers more ground. Look at the intake height alongside the width. A 20-inch or 21-inch intake handles plow-push piles that 12-inch intakes stall on.
Gas vs Battery for Driveway Use
Battery-powered two-stage snow blowers are improving, but gas still dominates for serious driveway clearing. Most battery models in the two-stage category run for 30 to 45 minutes per charge, which is fine for short driveways but not enough for a quarter-acre property.
Gas engines deliver consistent power regardless of charge level, handle deep snow without voltage drop, and refill in 90 seconds. For most homeowners clearing more than 50 feet of driveway in heavy snow regions, gas remains the right choice. Battery is worth considering if you have a short driveway, mild winters, and want zero engine maintenance.
Engine Displacement (cc) Explained
Engine displacement in cubic centimeters (cc) is the size of the engine, and bigger numbers mean more torque. For driveways up to 80 feet, 208cc to 212cc engines are plenty. For driveways over 100 feet or in heavy snow regions, 270cc to 306cc engines are worth the upgrade.
The YARDMAX 212cc and Honda GX270 at 270cc are both commercial-grade engines. Briggs and Stratton 208cc engines are reliable but a tier below the Honda GX series for long-term durability.
Drive Systems: Wheels vs Track
Wheel-drive two-stage blowers use 13-inch or 16-inch tires and roll easily on paved surfaces. They are lighter, cheaper, and easier to maneuver on flat ground. Track-drive models use rubber tracks instead of wheels, which grip better on ice, gravel, and steep slopes.
If your driveway is flat and paved, wheels are the right call. If you have any slope over 5 percent, a gravel surface, or frequent icy conditions, track drive from Honda is worth the premium.
Key Features to Look For
Electric start is the single biggest convenience upgrade. Cold mornings are when pull-start two-stroke frustration peaks, and electric start eliminates that. Heated handles and LED headlights are comfort features that matter on long clears in cold weather.
Power steering (trigger-controlled on premium models) reduces arm fatigue during long clears. Adjustable skid shoes are essential for gravel driveways. Remote chute control lets you redirect discharge without leaving the operator position.
Gravel and Sloped Driveway Considerations
Gravel driveways require two-stage machines because the auger must not contact the ground. Adjustable skid shoes let you raise the housing so the auger clears gravel without scooping stones. Track drive provides the traction needed for slopes.
For gravel driveways, the Honda HSS928 is the gold standard because the auger height control lever allows precise adjustment. The PowerSmart models with adjustable skid shoes are the budget alternative for shorter gravel drives.
Two-Stage Snow Blower FAQ
What is the best two-stage snow blower for a long driveway?
For long driveways over 100 feet, we recommend the Honda HSS928 with its 28-inch clearing width, track drive, and 1900 lbs per minute capacity. The Ariens ST28DLE with its 306cc engine is the strong runner-up for paved long driveways where track drive is less critical.
How do I choose between single-stage and two-stage snow blower?
Choose two-stage if your driveway sees more than 4 inches of snow per storm, has any slope, or has a gravel surface. The two-stage auger sits above the ground so it does not scoop gravel, and the separate impeller throws heavy wet snow without clogging. Single-stage is fine for short paved driveways in light snow regions only.
What size two-stage snow blower do I need for my driveway?
For a single-car or two-car driveway up to 80 feet, a 24-inch model is the sweet spot. For three-car driveways or drives over 100 feet, step up to 26-inch or 28-inch clearing width. Look for an intake height of at least 20 inches if you regularly face deep plow-push piles at the end of your drive.
What features matter most in a two-stage snow blower?
The most important features for driveway use are electric start (saves frustration on cold mornings), self-propelled drive with multiple speeds, at least 50 feet of throwing distance, adjustable skid shoes for gravel surfaces, and a reliable engine brand like Briggs and Stratton or Honda.
How much does a good two-stage snow blower cost?
Quality two-stage snow blowers for driveways range from around $625 for budget 208cc models to $3599 for premium Honda track-driven machines. The sweet spot for most homeowners is between $759 and $1099, where you get proven 212cc engines with electric start and self-propelled drive.
Final Verdict: The Best Two Stage Snow Blowers for Driveways in 2026
After testing and reviewing 8 machines, our top pick for the best two stage snow blowers for driveways remains the YARDMAX YB6270. With 194 verified reviews averaging 4.3 stars, serrated steel augers, and a 2-year warranty, it delivers the most reliable combination of features and durability at a fair price.
The PowerSmart 24-Inch 208cc B&S is our pick if you want maximum value and a real B&S engine for under $700. For owners with steep gravel driveways or commercial-scale clearing needs, the Honda HSS928 is worth the premium, with track drive and a Honda GX270 engine built for daily winter use.
Whatever machine you choose from this list, focus on matching the clearing width and intake height to your actual driveway size and snowfall patterns. The right two stage snow blower will save you hours of shoveling every winter for years to come.