In this article, we will compare the 2 Stage vs 3 Stage Snow Blower. Our top pick is the PowerSmart Snow Blower.
Snow blowers are an essential tool for those living in areas with heavy snowfall during the winter months. They make it easier to clear snow from driveways, sidewalks, and other areas, saving time and effort compared to shoveling.
Two-stage and three-stage snow blowers are two popular types of snow blowers that are commonly used.
Two-stage snow blowers are designed to handle moderate to heavy snowfall and are ideal for residential areas. They have two augers that move the snow toward the center of the machine, where a high-speed impeller throws it out of the chute.
Two-stage snow blowers are more powerful than single-stage models and can handle wet, heavy snow more effectively. They are also easier to maneuver than three-stage models and are suitable for use on uneven terrain.
Three-stage snow blowers are designed for heavy-duty use and are ideal for commercial and industrial applications. They have an additional auger that breaks up the snow before it reaches the impeller, allowing the machine to handle larger volumes of snow more efficiently.
Three-stage snow blowers are also more powerful than two-stage models and can handle wet, heavy snow with ease. However, they are larger and heavier, making them more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
When choosing between a two-stage and three-stage snow blower, there are several factors to consider.
The amount of snowfall in your area, the size of the area that needs to be cleared, and the type of terrain are all important considerations. Additionally, the price and maintenance requirements of the snow blower should be taken into account.
In summary, two-stage and three-stage snow blowers are two popular types of snow blowers that are commonly used to clear snow from driveways, sidewalks, and other areas.
Two-stage snow blowers are ideal for residential use, while three-stage snow blowers are better suited for commercial and industrial applications.
When choosing between the two, it is important to consider factors such as the amount of snowfall, the size of the area that needs to be cleared, and the type of terrain.
Best 2 Stage vs 3 Stage Snow Blowers
When it comes to clearing snow from your driveway, a snow blower can be a lifesaver.
However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Two-stage and three-stage snow blowers are two popular choices, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the differences between the two and help you find the best option for your needs. Below is our list of the best 2-stage vs 3-stage snow blowers on the market.
1. PowerSmart Snow Blower
If you’re looking for a snow blower that can handle heavy snow with ease, the PowerSmart PS24 snow blower might be the right choice for you.
Equipped with a 212cc gas engine, this snow blower delivers 2400 lbs/min snow plowing capacity, making it ideal for 1-12 inches of snow.
Pros
- Tackle Heavy Snow: With its LED light, the PowerSmart PS24 snow blower increases your visibility and safety when working in the dark.
- Power Up: The 212cc powerful gas engine easily cuts through tough icy snow, making it quicker to remove snow.
- Quicker Snow Removal: Its snow clearing width of 24 inches and intake height of 20 inches clean up snow with less time.
Cons
- Heavy: The PowerSmart PS24 snow blower weighs 139.7 pounds, making it challenging to move around for some users.
- Maintenance: As with any gas-powered snow blower, maintenance is required to keep it running smoothly.
- Price: It is more expensive than some other snow blowers on the market.
The PowerSmart PS24 snow blower is easy to operate, thanks to its electric start, one-hand 180° chute control, and self-propelled system. It easily cleans up snow of most terrains and larger areas.
The two-stage technology of the all-steel auger easily cuts through tough icy snow, and the impeller blows snow 40ft away.
If you’re looking for a snow blower that can handle heavy snow with ease and you don’t mind the extra weight and maintenance required for a gas-powered snow blower, the PowerSmart PS24 snow blower is a reliable option to consider.
2. Snow Joe Ultra SJ624E Electric Snow Thrower
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient snow blower that doesn’t require any gas, oil, or tune-ups, then the Snow Joe Ultra SJ624E 21-inch 14-amp Electric Snow Thrower is a great option.
Pros
- The deluxe size model is perfect for clearing snow off large driveways and walkways quickly and easily.
- The powerful 14-amp motor can move up to 730 pounds of snow per minute, making it one of the most efficient electric snow throwers on the market.
- With a 180° adjustable chute, you can easily throw snow up to 20 feet away in the direction you want it to go.
Cons
- The Snow Joe Ultra SJ624E is an electric snow blower, which means you’ll need to have access to an outlet and an extension cord to use it.
- While the scraper blade at the base of the unit efficiently scrapes the snow clear to the ground without damaging your deck or pavement, it may not be as effective as a gas-powered snow blower in extremely heavy or wet snow.
- The Snow Joe Ultra SJ624E is a little on the heavy side, weighing in at 34.6 pounds, which may make it difficult for some users to maneuver.
Overall, the Snow Joe Ultra SJ624E 21-inch 14-amp Electric Snow Thrower is a great choice for anyone who wants a powerful and efficient snow blower that doesn’t require any gas, oil, or tune-ups (also check out our top pick the best electric snow blower).
With its large size, powerful motor, and adjustable chute, it’s sure to make quick work of even the heaviest snowfalls.
3. Greenworks 40V Cordless Snow Blower
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient snow blower, the Greenworks 40V Cordless Snow Blower is a great option for you (be sure to check out our guide on the best cordless snow blowers).
Pros
- The digital-controlled brushless motor delivers increased torque while maintaining quiet operation.
- The 180-degree rotating chute offers complete control over snow displacement.
- The easy-fold system enables compact storage and hassle-free transportation.
Cons
- The battery life may not last as long as some users would like.
- The throwing distance may not be far enough for some users.
- The wheels may not provide enough traction on slippery surfaces.
This cordless snow blower is a great tool for clearing driveways, sidewalks, and patios swiftly. With a 16″ clearing path, 8″ clearing depth, and 20′ throwing distance, it can handle most snowfalls.
The rear 7″ wheels make it easy to maneuver, and the digital-controlled brushless motor delivers increased torque while maintaining quiet operation.
The 180-degree rotating chute offers complete control over snow displacement, allowing you to easily direct the snow where you want it to go.
The easy-fold system enables compact storage and hassle-free transportation, making it easy to store in your garage or shed when not in use.
Overall, the Greenworks 40V Cordless Snow Blower is a great option for those who want an efficient and powerful snow blower that is easy to use and store.
4. EGO Power+ SNT2405 Self-Propelled Snow Blower
If you’re looking for a powerful, battery-powered snow blower, the EGO Power+ SNT2405 is worth considering.
With its Peak Power technology and two EGO 56V 7.5 Ah ARC Lithium batteries, it can clear an 18-car driveway with 8″ of snow on a single charge and throw snow up to 50 ft.
Pros
- The self-propelled feature makes it easy to maneuver through heavy snow.
- The variable speed auger control allows you to adjust the speed to match the snow conditions.
- The 4 bright LED headlights provide increased visibility for nighttime snow removal.
Cons
- At 210 pounds, it’s heavy and may be difficult to move up and down stairs or over uneven terrain.
- The 24 in. clearing width/20 in. intake height may not be sufficient for very large driveways.
- The price point is higher than some other snow blower options.
The EGO Power+ SNT2405 is easy to set up and use, and it’s much quieter than a gas-powered snow blower. It’s also weather-resistant and built to handle challenging conditions.
However, it’s important to note that the batteries may take some time to recharge, so you’ll need to plan accordingly for longer snow removal sessions.
Overall, the EGO Power+ SNT2405 is a great option for those looking for a powerful, battery-powered snow blower that can handle moderate to heavy snowfall.
However, it may not be the best choice for those with very large driveways or those who need to navigate stairs or uneven terrain.
5. PowerSmart 24-Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered
If you’re looking for a powerful snow blower that can handle tough icy snow, the PowerSmart 24-inch Snow Blower is a great option.
With its 212cc powerful engine, it can deliver 2400 lbs/min snow plowing capacity, making it ideal for 1-12 inches of snow. The snow clearing width of 24 inches and intake height of 20 inches also makes it easy to remove snow in less time.
Pros
- Equipped with electric start for easy start-up
- All-steel auger easily cuts through tough icy snow
- Self-propelled system with 6 forward and 2 reverse speed settings
Cons
- Some customers reported issues with the machine breaking down after a short period of use
- The assembly instructions can be difficult to follow
- The machine is relatively heavy and may be difficult to maneuver for some users
If you’re looking for a snow blower that is easy to start, the PowerSmart 24-inch Snow Blower is a great choice. With its electric start, you can simply connect your outdoor extension cord and push the button to start the machine.
The all-steel auger also makes it easy to cut through tough icy snow, while the self-propelled system with 6 forward and 2 reverse speed settings allows for easy maneuverability.
However, some customers have reported issues with the machine breaking down after a short period of use. Additionally, the assembly instructions can be difficult to follow, which may be frustrating for some users.
Finally, the machine is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to maneuver for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful snow blower that can handle tough icy snow, the PowerSmart 24-inch Snow Blower is a great option.
However, it may not be the best choice for users who are looking for a lightweight machine or who have difficulty following assembly instructions.
Buying Guide
When choosing between a 2-stage and 3-stage snow blower, there are a few important features to consider. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Snow Depth and Type
The depth and type of snow in your area will play a significant role in determining which type of snow blower is right for you.
If you live in an area that receives heavy, wet snowfall, a 3-stage snow blower may be the better choice, as it is designed to handle this type of snow. However, if you live in an area with lighter, fluffier snow, a 2 stage snow blower may be sufficient.
Clearing Width
The clearing width of a snow blower is another important factor to consider.
If you have a large driveway or walkway, you may want to opt for a wider clearing width to make the job quicker and easier. However, if you have a smaller area to clear, a narrower clearing width may be sufficient.
Engine Power
The engine power of a snow blower will determine how effectively it can handle heavy snowfall. A more powerful engine will be able to handle larger amounts of snow and clear it more quickly. However, a more powerful engine may also be louder and more expensive.
Additional Features
There are a number of additional features to look for when choosing a snow blower, such as an electric start, heated hand grips, and adjustable chute direction.
These features can make the job of clearing snow easier and more comfortable, but they may also add to the cost of the snow blower.
Ultimately, the best snow blower for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By considering factors such as snow depth, clearing width, engine power, and additional features, you can choose a snow blower that will make clearing snow a breeze.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of a 3-stage snow blower over a 2-stage model?
The main advantage of a 3-stage snow blower is its ability to handle heavy snowfalls with ease. The additional impeller in a 3-stage model helps to break up snow and ice more effectively, resulting in faster and more efficient snow removal.
Additionally, 3-stage models often have wider clearing widths and larger engines, making them better suited for larger areas and more demanding snow removal tasks.
How does a 2-stage snow blower perform in comparison to a 3-stage in wet snow conditions?
In wet snow conditions, a 2-stage snow blower may struggle to clear snow effectively due to its design. Wet snow is heavier and denser than dry snow, which can cause clogging and other issues in a 2-stage model.
On the other hand, a 3-stage snow blower is designed to handle wet and heavy snow more effectively, thanks to its additional impeller and other design features.
What are the key differences in specifications between 2-stage and 3-stage snow blowers?
The main differences between 2-stage and 3-stage snow blowers are the number of stages (and therefore, impellers) and the size of the engines. 3-stage models typically have larger engines and wider clearing widths, making them better suited for larger areas and more demanding snow removal tasks.
Additionally, 3-stage models often have more advanced features and technologies, such as heated hand grips and LED headlights.
Can a 2-stage snow blower meet the needs of typical snow removal tasks?
Yes, a 2-stage snow blower can certainly meet the needs of typical snow removal tasks for most homeowners.
However, it may struggle in very heavy or wet snow conditions and may take longer to clear larger areas than a 3-stage model. Additionally, 2-stage models may lack some of the advanced features and technologies found in 3-stage models.
What are the pros and cons of investing in a 3-stage snow blower?
The main pros of investing in a 3-stage snow blower are its ability to handle heavy snowfalls with ease, its wider clearing width, and its larger engine size.
Additionally, 3-stage models often come with more advanced features and technologies, such as heated hand grips and LED headlights. The main cons of investing in a 3-stage snow blower are its higher cost and larger size, which may make it less practical for some homeowners.
Which models are considered the best 3-stage snow blowers currently on the market?
There are several models of 3-stage snow blowers currently on the market that are highly rated by experts and homeowners alike.
Some of the top models include the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO, the Cub Cadet 3X 30″ HD, and the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2690 XP. However, the best model for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget.