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In this article, we compare single-stage, two-stage and three-stage snow blowers. Our top pick for most driveways is the Husqvarna ST124, a 24-inch two-stage gas snow blower; for light snow on paved driveways, a single-stage machine is enough, and three-stage machines only pay off in very deep, heavy snow.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Husqvarna ST124 24" 2-Stage Gas Snow BlowerBest for most driveways
- 212cc engine, 24-inch two-stage
- 21-inch intake, 13-inch snow tires
- 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty
PowerSmart 24" 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower (208cc B&S)Best for cold-morning comfort
- Electric start, Briggs & Stratton engine
- Self-propelled, 13-inch snow tires
- Handle warmer and LED lights
EGO Power+ SNT2400 24" 2-Stage (Tool Only)Best for gas-free two-stage clearing
- 24-inch two-stage, 20-inch intake
- Self-propelled, forward and reverse
- Battery and charger sold separately
The “stage” count tells you how the machine moves snow: how many parts it passes through between the intake and the chute. That decides how deep and heavy the snow can be, how far it is thrown, and whether the machine is safe to use on gravel.
Single-Stage vs Two-Stage Snow Blowers
How they work
A single-stage snow blower has one auger (rubber-edged on most models) that scoops the snow and throws it out of the chute in one motion. A two-stage machine adds a second stage: a steel auger feeds the snow to a fast impeller behind it, which throws it.
Snow depth
Single-stage machines are for light to moderate snow; their intakes run about 10 to 13 inches (the NOVUS 18-inch takes 10.5 inches, the EGO SNT2122 13 inches). Two-stage machines are for deep and heavy snow, with 20- to 21-inch intakes (Husqvarna ST124: 21 inches, EGO SNT2400: 20 inches).
Surfaces
Most single-stage augers touch the ground. That cleans paved surfaces down to the pavement but can throw stones on gravel. A two-stage auger rides on skid shoes above the surface, so it is the usual choice for gravel (see our snow blowers for gravel driveways).
Drive, size and price
Single-stage machines are pulled along by the auger as it touches the ground; most two-stage gas machines are self-propelled, with several speeds and reverse. Single-stage machines are lighter, smaller and cheaper; two-stage machines are heavier and cost more.
Which one?
Choose single-stage for paved driveways and walks with snow up to about 8 inches. Choose two-stage for deeper or wet snow, long or wide driveways, the plow ridge at the end of the driveway, or gravel. Three-stage (below) is only worth it for very deep, heavy snow.
| Single-stage | Two-stage | Three-stage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stages | Auger throws the snow | Auger + impeller | Auger + accelerator + impeller |
| Best for | Light to moderate snow, paved surfaces | Deep, wet snow, long driveways, gravel | Very deep, heavy snow and ice |
| Drive | Auger-assisted push | Self-propelled (most gas models) | Self-propelled |
| On gravel | Usually no (auger touches the ground) | Yes (skid shoes) | Yes (skid shoes) |
2-Stage vs 3-Stage Snow Blowers
A three-stage snow blower is a two-stage machine with one more part. On the Cub Cadet 3X, the line most people mean by “three-stage”, a steel accelerator sits in the center of the auger housing between the augers and the impeller. Cub Cadet says it spins 10 times faster than the augers, so it chops deep, heavy snow and ice and feeds it to the impeller more quickly, and that the 3X clears deep snow up to 50% faster than its own 2X two-stage machines (manufacturer figures).
In everyday use, both types throw snow with an impeller and ride on skid shoes, so both handle gravel and the plow ridge. The difference shows in very deep, wet or icy snow, where the accelerator keeps the intake from clogging and the machine moving. Three-stage machines are also larger, heavier and more expensive. For most homeowners, a good two-stage machine is the better buy; a three-stage machine makes sense if you regularly get heavy lake-effect storms or have a long driveway that the plow buries.
Best Two-Stage Snow Blowers (and a Single-Stage Pick)
1. Husqvarna ST124 24-Inch 212cc 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower
The Husqvarna ST124 is a 24-inch two-stage gas snow blower with a 212cc engine. Its ribbon auger mixes air into the snow so it moves through the machine easily, the 21-inch intake takes deep snow in one pass, and 13-inch snow tires grip on packed and uneven surfaces. The console is molded and the chute is all steel.
Pros
- Two-stage design with a 21-inch intake for deep, heavy snow.
- 13-inch snow tires for grip and control.
- 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty plus a 5-year engine warranty.
Cons
- A full-size gas machine: heavier and needs more storage space than a single-stage blower.
- Needs fuel, oil changes and end-of-season storage care, like any gas snow blower.
The Amazon listing does not state the start type, drive speeds or throw distance, so check those on the listing before you buy if they matter to you.
2. PowerSmart 24-Inch 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower (208cc B&S, Electric Start)
The PowerSmart 24-inch two-stage snow blower runs on a 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine with electric start. It is self-propelled on 13-inch snow tires, and it has a handle warmer and built-in LED lights for early-morning and late-night clearing.
Pros
- Electric start with a 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine.
- Self-propelled, with 13-inch snow tires for traction.
- Handle warmer and LED lights.
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than single-stage and battery machines.
- Gas engine maintenance (fuel, oil, storage).
3. EGO Power+ SNT2400 24-Inch Self-Propelled 2-Stage Snow Blower (Tool Only)
This listing is the tool only: the battery and charger are sold separately. The EGO Power+ SNT2400 is one of the few battery-powered two-stage snow blowers. It has a variable-speed steel auger, a 24-inch clearing width and a 20-inch intake height, it is self-propelled with forward and reverse on the handle, and EGO says it throws snow up to 50 feet.
Pros
- Two-stage clearing with no fuel, oil or pull cord; push-button start.
- Self-propelled with variable speed, forward and reverse.
- Four LED lights for clearing in the dark.
Cons
- Battery and charger not included; EGO recommends two 7.5Ah batteries, which add a lot to the cost.
- Runtime depends on the batteries: EGO rates it at up to an 18-car driveway with 8 inches of snow on two 7.5Ah batteries.
4. EGO Power+ SNT2122 21-Inch Single-Stage Snow Blower (2 × 4Ah Batteries)
For comparison, here is a single-stage machine. The EGO Power+ SNT2122 is a cordless single-stage snow blower with a 6-inch steel auger, a 21-inch clearing path and a 13-inch clearing height, and it comes with two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger. EGO rates it at up to a 10-car driveway with 8 inches of snow on one charge and a throw of up to 42 feet. Unlike most single-stage machines, it has adjustable skid shoes for gravel and uneven surfaces.
Pros
- Batteries and charger included.
- Steel auger, 180° chute adjustment, LED headlights and a fold-down handle.
- 5-year limited tool warranty and 3-year limited battery warranty.
Cons
- A single-stage machine: for deep, wet or plowed-in snow a two-stage blower does better.
- Runtime depends on the snow; heavy, wet snow drains batteries faster.
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.
Snow Blower Stages: FAQs
What is the difference between a single-stage and a two-stage snow blower?
A single-stage machine uses one auger to pick up and throw the snow; a two-stage machine adds an impeller that throws the snow the auger collects, so it handles deeper, heavier snow and throws it farther. Most single-stage augers touch the ground; two-stage augers ride above it on skid shoes.
What is a 2-stage (dual-stage) snow blower?
A snow blower with two stages: a steel auger that breaks up and gathers the snow, and an impeller behind it that throws it out of the chute.
What is a 3-stage snow blower?
A two-stage machine with an extra accelerator between the auger and the impeller; on the Cub Cadet 3X it spins faster than the augers to feed snow to the impeller more quickly.
What is the difference between a 2-stage and a 3-stage snow blower?
The third stage (the accelerator) moves deep, heavy snow and ice to the impeller faster; Cub Cadet says its 3X clears deep snow up to 50% faster than its 2X two-stage. For most homes, a two-stage machine is enough.
Are 3-stage snow blowers worth it?
Only if you regularly get very deep, wet or icy snow and a heavy plow ridge at the end of a long driveway; otherwise a two-stage machine does the job for less money.
Do I need a two-stage snow blower?
If your snow is often deeper than about 8 inches, wet and heavy, or you have a long or gravel driveway, yes. For light snow on paved surfaces, a single-stage machine is enough.
What is the best two-stage snow blower?
Our top pick is the Husqvarna ST124 24-inch two-stage gas snow blower; for a gas-free option, the EGO Power+ SNT2400 is a self-propelled battery two-stage machine (battery and charger sold separately).
How many stages does my snow blower need for gravel?
Usually at least two: most single-stage augers touch the ground and can throw stones, while two-stage and three-stage augers ride on adjustable skid shoes above the surface. A few single-stage models, such as the EGO SNT2122, also have adjustable skid shoes.
