My goal is not to tell you which snow blower is best. My goal is to tell you which snow blower is best for you!
I had a chance to clear a little snow and make a video using the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO.
Watch the video and then read my conclusions below. Click on the bottom right corner of the video to watch it full screen.
What I like about the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO.
- Handle height: The handle height is a little high for people less than 5″ 7″ but after using it for a while the extra height gives you better leverage to push down and lift the front of the snow blower.
- The 306 cc engine has plenty of power for the size. I don’t know if it is the combination of the SHO impeller and the added cc’s but this snow blower feels like it has a lot more power than the Ariens Deluxe 28 with the 254 cc.
- It likes snow – and throws it very far. Ariens Deluxe/Platinum snow blowers throw well but the SHO models arguably throw farther than just about any other walk-behind snow blower.
- It throws 2-3 inches or 15-20 inches of heavy wet snow well. In fact it really doesn’t matter what the snow is like. It just throws well.
- The Auto-Turn (automatic) steering is very easy to use but it does take you a while to really get used to it. Automatic steering is different from trigger steering. With trigger steering the snow blower goes in a straight line until you pull a trigger under the handle to turn, or you hit something. With Auto-Turn the snow blower goes exactly where you point it. What that means is the Auto-Turn makes the snow blower really easy to turn. You don’t have to remember to pull a trigger to make the turn. But if you are going in a straight line you have to hang onto the handles and drive the snow blower. If you let it go where it wants – it will go where it wants. It’s very similar to using a walk-behind push mower with front caster wheels. That style mower is very easy to trim with but takes a little experience to mow all the way across a lawn in a straight line. I now have about 15 hours experience using the Auto-Turn and I like it a lot.
- The snow blower is a little nose heavy. Snow blowers that are too light in the front tend to ride up in deep snow. The front of this Ariens always stays on the ground. If you are small try one in a store to make sure it’s not too heavy for you.
- If the snow is deep it does not push the snow in front of the machine like the older 2-stages did. If has plenty of capacity to keep the snow flowing through the snow blower.
- The chute rotation control is very simple and robust. It will last as long as the rest of the machine.
- Good traction. Even clearing a snow plow drift on the lawn it had plenty of traction.
- Overall this is a good high-capacity snow blower built to last.
What I don’t like about the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO
- First gear is faster than what I am used to. I will guess that 1st gear is twice as fast as 1st in the Troy-Bilt Vortex I have here to test. If you have a lot of close areas to clear it will take you a while to feel confident using it.
- To rotate the chute you have to reach over the dash and turn the crank. If you are short this may be uncomfortable. The control is very easy to turn though and stays in place.
- I originally thought the handles were too high but after using other brands I realize that the higher handles give you more leverage to push down and turn the snow blower. If you are over 5’7″ or so you will have no problem using this machine.
- If you have a very rough cement driveway with a lot of cracks sticking up or a gravel driveway with large ruts the snow blower may catch on those obstructions and try to turn. You may have to adjust the skid shoes so there is more of a gap under the shear bar than on your old machine. This will leave an additional 1/8 to 1/4 inch of snow on the driveway. If your driveway is brushed or you have an old asphalt drive that needs sealing the automatic steering may also appear erratic. In that case you should install the optional poly skid shoes. Either way, I’ve found that a few hours of experience using the snow blower helps a lot. Clearing turf does not affect the steering.
The Best Feature of the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO?
The Price! This snow blower is one of the best values on the market. For about $1200 you get a heavy-duty, high-capacity snow blower. It doesn’t have premium features or gimicks that will wear out in a few years. No electric chute motors and joysticks to wear out, no heated handgrips. Just a simple, long-lasting, high-capacity snow blower.
How I test these snow blowers:
When it snows I go out and clear my paved driveway, my neighbors gravel driveway, my brick patio and a large spot on the lawn for my dogs. When I get 15-20 inches of snow built up in the back yard I will also go out and compare throwing distance, clearing speed and traction. Each time the snow is different so over the winter I get a chance to try these snow blowers in all types of snow. I look at not only how it clears snow, but how well it cleans the different surfaces, how easy the snow blower is to use and the little idiosyncrasies each snow blower has. My goal is not to find the best snowblower made. Instead my goal is to find the best snow blower for you. I know that each of you has a different budget and certain features are more important to you than someone else.
I buy some, borrow some and some of the brands just drop one or two off to test. For example, this year I bought a Husqvarna ST327P and Toro SnowMaster. Troy-Bilt dropped off a Vortex 2490 and a Storm 3090 XP. Ariens loaned me this Deluxe 28 SHO. I’ve been doing this long enough that the manufactures know I’m impartial and dropping one off for review does not influence my opinions of it.
My methods are not “scientific,” meaning I don’t use damp wood chips or horse bedding to consistently test each snow blower. I don’t have a checklist to make sure I look at the same features exactly the same way every time. Because of that my opinions are different from Consumer Reports.
My goal is not to tell you which snow blower is best. My goal is to tell you which snow blower is best for you!
Feel free to ask questions about this snow blower in the comments below.
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Jason
Minnesota, Concrete driveway, 48 feet long and 26 wide. I really like the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO for price and size. Do you think it is a worthy purchase over the Deluxe 28?
Paul
Hi Jason, If you get any drifts and a knee-high snow plow pile at the end of the driveway you will like the extra power and the SHO impeller.
Joseph
Paul, I’m thinking about an Ariens Deluxe 28″ for my 150′ driveway that has a fairly decent slope. Will the Ariens work for me?
Paul
Hi Joeseph, I’ll be glad to answer but would you first please tell me where you live? City, State/Provence is close enough.
Justin
Paul,
Thanks for the time you take for these reviews and the thorough responses which are just a helpful.
I’m 39yo, 6’2″ and in good shape and will be blowing a 300′ dirt drive way with 30’x60′ dirt/gravel parking area at 8,300ft in west Evergreen Colorado. We ave around 90″ of snow but we had several 30-40″ wet heavy dumps this spring. The drive way is mostly straight and flat aside from the portion connecting to the road which has a slight grade.
I’ve nailed it down to either the SHO 28 or the 928 HD or 1028HD. I really like the price of the SHO28 but I would prefer the power steering vs auto turn for the surface and length of the driveway.
Should I rule out the auto-turn or is it something I could get used to?
Paul
Hi Justin, You have answered your question the same way as I would. I like the price of the Ariens but with your long driveway the trigger steering on the 1028 HD is a better choice. You won’t be disappointed over they years by buying the Toro.
I do suggest the 928 for people who’s average snow is closer to 60 inches. You will wish you bought more power when you get the deep snows. Remember with your long driveway, horsepower matters because with the extra power of the 1028 or 1128 you can move snow pretty much as fast as you can walk.
If you convince yourself that you can work with the auto-turn also look at the Ariens 30 SHO. The 420 cc engine on it is pretty much unstoppable.
Justin
Thanks for the response. I’m going with the 1028 or 1128 then.
Is the handle height adjustable on either of these higher-end models (Toro and Ariens)? I’m going to be behind one for a while each session and don’t want to have to bend over to operate it.
Paul
Hi Justin, There is only one snow blower with adjustable height handles. That’s the residential grade Husqvarna series but I’m very confident that you will not have to bend over the Toro’s.. They have large rear wheels and the handle height is taller than any Cub Cadet, Craftsman or Husqvarna. They are about equal to the Ariens.
Justin
Good to know. I think I’ve narrowed it down to the 1028 but what do you think of the Husky ST330P? It seems to check all the right boxes that I’m looking for AND it adds hydro drive, which seems preferable.
I’m getting close so thanks for the help.
Paul
Hi Justin, This one is hard to explain. Yes, the hydro is nice, especially on the ST330T track drive. But the nice hydro does not make up for the engineering that has gone into the Toro. The Toro Power Max® HD 1028 OHXE (38802) is the only snow blower Toro rates for both residential and commercial. It is the snow blower most schools, municipalities and large businesses use as their standard machine. There are fewer than 6 snow blowers made rated as commercial machines and this is one of them.
If you would use each machine for an hour – you would buy the Toro because it is so easy to use.
Husqvarna does not make a commercial machine. Toro has 2 and Ariens the rest. Oh, I forgot, Honda has one $7000 snow blower that is rated commercial.
Doc Godshall
Paul,
I’m in the market for a snowblower so I’ve viewed your videos and reviews with great interest. I’m sold on the Ariens but not quite sure about which model. I’m told that if you take care of them, the Ariens last forever. Based on your comments, I definitely want the AutoTurn technology for handling and to get around my cars. I’m leaning towards the Deluxe 28 SHO with the 306cc but was wondering about the 24-in Platinum 24 SHO and the Platinum 30 SHO with the 369. What are differences between the models and, are they worth the price differences? I live in Fredericksburg, Virginia (exactly halfway between Richmond and Washington, D.C.) where we don’t get a lot of snow every year but when we do (like last weekend with Jonas), we tend to get from 12 to 30+ inches. Granted that we only get this kind of snowfall once or twice a season but at 55, that’s enough for me. My driveway is about 100 ft long by 20 ft wide, asphalt. Most of the time the snow is fairly dry and light (even if deep) but sometimes we get a very heavy (wet) snow. Bottom line is that I want something that’ll really last and perform (even if it occasionally sits out a season.) I’m sure you’ve discussed this with others before but your thoughts on the current models would be greatly appreciated.
Regards,
Doc
P.S. – Given the recent snowstorm, you can’t find a snowblower, much less an Ariens, in our County or the neighboring ones. Everyone is sold out and can’t say when they’re getting more in. Can you order direct from Ariens or is somewhere like snowblowersdirect.com about the same?
Paul
Ho Doc, Ariens does not sell online. I don’t have a relationship with SnowBlowersDirect but I talk with them regularly and I they are a good source to buy from. But, Amazon has them in stock as of 8:30 am.
Most of the time I send you through Amazon. You have more control if something is not right, (Amazon will help you) and the three vendors that I use on Amazon all are top-notch and price the equipment fairly. Yes, I make a commission if you buy through Amazon.
I keep a running list of snow blowers sold through Amazon or On Amazon by 3rd parties that I know and trust: Paul Recommended Snow Blowers On Amazon
In other words I trust Amazon and I know the vendors that sell the items I list on my recommended wish list.
Now to answer your question:
The Platinum 24 SHO is like bringing a gun to a knife-fight. It will handle any snow including “Jonas.” It is has the most power-per-inch of any snow blower on the market. The 24 inch and big engine will allow you to basically clear 2-12 inches as fast as you can walk. In fact I would guess that you can clear your 100 ft drive in about the same time as you can with the Deluxe 28 SHO. It is balanced well but still has enough nose weight that it won’t ride up in 16-22 inch snow like some of the other brands want to do. Other that the actual width this snow blower has all the features of the 30 inch including 14 inch impeller, dual belts, simple, rugged transmission, heated hand grips, etc.
The Deluxe 28 SHO is a great snow blower for many of us. It has more power than the Ariens Deluxe 28 and combined with the SHO impeller will throw snow about 10% farther. It doesn’t have the power-per-inch the Platinum series have but is still a very productive snow blower. Caution: This snow blower is very hard to find this late in the season. Ariens sold a ton to people who got last years major storm.
The Ariens Platinum 30 SHO is another over-the-top snow blower but I am not going to recommend it for you. Why? The 24 or 28 inch snow blowers are a good size for your driveway. They will get the job done quickly and are very easy to use. The Auto-turn always works well. In fact they are fun to use.
The Platinum 30 can be more work. For some reason adding the extra nose weight of the 30 inch over the 24 or 28 is just enough that the Auto-Turn can be aggravating to use. I’ve noticed that with the 24 or 28 I can keep the snow blower going in a straight line even trying to clear a sloped ditch or lawn. In fact is easy and comfortable to use. But the 30 inch is just front heavy enough that nice in a while it will pull you in a direction you don’t want to go. I feel very comfortable clearing snow around my cars with a Ariens 24 or 28 but I stay an extra 6 inches away from them when using a 30 inch. It’s not the Auto-Turn, It’s the extra weight on the front of the 30. (The Arien Pro models don’t act up because they are balanced differently)
Lee Hickok
Paul,
I love all of your great reviews!
I live in Baltimore, Maryland and even though we only get a big snowstorm every few years, my work always keeps me out of town until the snowing stops. When I get back our county takes days to get back to plow our lane. I am left with 1500’+ of pavement to clear. My front end loader gets it done but is not the right tool for the job.
I have done a LOT of research and have it down to two popular tracked snow blowers.
Both would probably be excellent machines. I was hoping you could give me a gentle push towards one or the other.
Ariens 921039 Platinum SHO 28″ $2100
Husqvarna ST 330T 30″ $2500
I like the reputation, auto turn (I think) and 2″ larger impeller (14″) of the Ariens.
The Husqvarna has a bigger motor (1.5 ft/lbs more torque), hydrostatic transmission and is 2″ wider.
Thank you for all the work you do.
-Lee
Paul
Hi Lee, Let’s comprimise. The Ariens Platinum 30 SHO ($1949) has the big engine (414cc) and is faster than the Husqvarna track drive. Unless you do a lot of off-road clearing or have a steep hill the Ariens is a better choice.
One thing, With the Ariens you need to walk behind the snow blower and guide it. The autoturn works really well but on long runs like yours it’s a little more work to guide it than a trigger style power steering.
Take a look at the Toro Power Max HD 1028 ($1899). It has the same capacity as the Ariens but goes straight until you pull a trigger to turn. It has the big impeller and big tires like the Ariens. It has a smaller engine but Toro moves snow inside the machine differently so it does not require the big engine to do the work.
Here is an article on the 1028 2015 Toro Power Max HD 1028 OHXE (38802) Review
Joe
Paul.. i live in maryland so we don’t get a ton of snow / often but over then years we got so decent snow fall storms like this past blizzard. i’m on the water so get some pretty impressive snow drifts. I’m done shoveling a 100′ gravel driveway (and path around the house / front yard for the dog). i also plan to help out a few of my elderly neighbors as well. i have a local ariens dealer so unless you recommend otherwise i’m curious what your thoughts are for the deluxe 28 (1,099) vs deluxe 28 SHO ($1,419). Thanks..
Paul
Hi Joe, They are the same machine except the SHO has a high output impeller and larger motor. This weekend you would be happy to have the extra power. All the other years the Deluxe 28 with the 254cc engine is just fine.
Bryan
Hi Paul, love your site. I live in Stafford Va. We usually get the 3-6 in snow fall. 5 years ago we got a big storm as we did this winter, 20+ in..I have a 300foot driveway about two cars wide. I also like to help my neighbors who have same size or bigger driveway on a hill. most of our snow fall is heavy wet with the occasional dry stuff. I need to be able to plow through the end of the driveway pile up from the snow removal guys..I currently have a 24″ MTD 5hp. (at least 10yrs old)It is getting tired and is take a beating from the last two record breaking snow falls 16″ and the most receint 20+ “
Paul
Hi Bryan, Sorry for the delay, It’s been a wonderfully busy week.
A good residential 2-stage 28-30 inch snow blower is a good choice for you. These snow blowers will allow you to get done faster with your normal snows and the ones I suggest will handle the heavier snow.
At Sears.com: Craftsman 30 In 357cc Dual-Stage Snowblower w/ EZ Steer Electric 4-Way Chute Control
At Amazon: Troy-Bilt Storm 2890 277cc Snow Thrower
At Amazon: Troy-Bilt Storm 3090 357cc Snow Thrower
At Home Depot: Toro Snow Removal Power Max HD 928 28 in. Ohxe Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower 38801
Dave LaC
I think my new Ariens Platinum 30 SHO is cursed! So far it scared away every major snow storm to date so I still haven’t had a chance to use it. Winter Storm Jonas is staying south of the Capital Region.
Jim
Hi Paul I enjoy reading and watching your reviews. I purchased a new Toro 826 OXE in Nov. and it has patiently sat in my storage building waiting for snow. It looks like a major “storm event” is heading towards central Va. this weekend. I watched your video on the Ariens and noted you cleaning off pavement. My question would be what is your recommendation for the height setting on the skid shoes? I have never used a snow blower and I did set mine to approx. 1/2 inch. since I need to clean some areas in the grass and paved driveway as well.
Paul
Hi Jim, I would start with the thickness of the cardboard box the snow blower came in under the scraper bar. A piece of 1/4 inch plywood is the same thickness. Be sure to put the piece all the way across under the scraper so you get both sides the same.
If you have problems with traction in the grass raise it up another 1/8 inch or so.
Dave Lacomb
I live in Clifton Park, just up the road from Albany, and picked up a new machine after reviewing the site. I’m sure mine is overkill, but I went with the Ariens Platinum SHO 30. My drive is newly paved asphalt roughly 120’x10′. The town plows can easily leave 18″ at the end of the drive so I typically help the elderly neighbors clear it and do around the common mailboxes. My 20 yr old Yardman was OK, but it’s been struggling lately. I went with the Platinum series primarily because of the on dash chute rotation control.
It is going to take some time getting used to for the reverse control of the auger and drive, but I think I’ll be ok with it. On my wish list for the unit would be a larger gas tank. I did notice that it’s first gear is a little fast vs my Yardman, so let’s see what happens. I like the Autoturn in my test runs in the yard. Maybe we’ll get some snow this year so I can give it a workout.
Paul
Hi Dave, Great! You purchased one of the highest capacity snow blower so you are ready for anything that comes your way! The fuel tank should give you about 1 hour run time. With the smaller tank there is a little less chance of the fuel going stale when the machine sits between snow storms. Stop back later and tell us how it does in a good snow.
Dave L.
Ok, it’s now the end of March and time to put the SHO 30 away for the season after about 30 mins of total use this winter. Paul, what’s the best way to deal with the gas tank?. I typically ran the tank dry before storing with my old machine. Ariens recommendation is basically the same, add stabilizer to the tank, run it a couple of minutes and shut off the fuel supply until it stops on its own. What’s your thoughts?
Paul
Hi Dave, I use fuel stabilizer in the fuel, start the engine, then shut off the fuel supply and let it run out of fuel. In 20 years I have never had a snow blower that won’t start next fall.
Sal
Paul:
Thanks for your ongoing comments and reviews. I emailed you a while back about this model and was glad I bought it. Up here in Albany NY there has been no snow to speak of but yesterday we finally got an inch or so, and though I wouldn’t ordinarily get the snowblower out for such a small amount I couldn’t stand it anymore and wanted to give this thing a try!
Wasn’t enough snow to really get a feel for how well it will do but it certainly handled this well. Didn’t have any issues with Auto-Turn. I have a gravel, semi-circular driveway so I’m almost constantly in turning mode and it proved pretty easy at that. Nice not to be constantly dealing with a trigger. My gripes are mostly about the ergonomics. Can’t these manufacturers agree on a modus operandi?! My old MTD had the auger control on the left handle and the drive on the right. The Ariens reverses it. EXTREMELY hard habit to break. And though you can lock the auger one, my hands hurt and were exhausted from the pressure needed to hold down the left drive handle. And yes, it is VERY awkward to reach across with the right hand to the chute control. Would have been very easy if the right hand had the drive control. Have to contend with the cab as well.
So, though it looks like I well benefit from significantly improved performance over my old MTD, it is coming with a bit of a price. Tradeoffs, tradeoffs!
Thanks,
Sal
Paul
Hi Sal, Yes, They have agreed. Everyone does it the same way except MTD. At least MTD gave up putting the clutch and brake pedal above each other on the same side of the lawn tractors 🙂
I hope you get some real snow soon. Once you watch it throw snow you’ll forget all about the changes you had to make.