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9 Best Cheap 2-Stage Snow Blowers 2018-2019
Let’s be practical. There are cheap snow blowers and then there is junk. This is a list of the cheapest snow blowers that I can recommend on the market today. These snow blowers are from reliable companies that have real local servicing dealers and parts availability. All will clear your one-two car driveway in areas that average 40-60 inches of snow a year. All of the snow blowers on this list have reliable engines and tires with a good snow tread design. As long as you are in no hurry they will handle 2-10 inches of snow and the occasional 18-20 inch drift well. Yes, most will plug if you try to move wet snow.
Troy-Bilt Storm 2460
If you live in an area that gets heavy-wet snow (for example, Boston or Long Island) these are not the best choice. I suggest a higher HP, higher capacity 24-inch snow blower like the Ariens Deluxe 24.
All of the snow blowers on this list use a solid axle. That means both wheels spin all the time so when you turn the inside wheel keeps spinning. For smaller people or people with bad backs that can make these snow blowers hard to use.
All of these snow blowers now use a 208cc engine and include a 110-volt electric start. That gives you around 6 1/2 HP compared to your old 179cc 5 HP. These snow blowers will all throw snow farther and faster than your old one.
Before I show you the list I have one more very important item to discuss – fuel.
The biggest issue with small gas engines today is they won’t start when you want them to. But the Number One reason they won’t start is bad fuel – not something wrong with the snow blower’s engine. Today’s pump gas starts to go bad after only 30 days of sitting around your garage in an old vented gas can. Here are a few tips to help:
DO NOT fill your new snowblower with the gas you have sitting around in your garage. Pour that old fuel in your vehicle and go buy fresh 87 Octane fuel. Today’s engines are designed to run on E10 or less 87 Octane fuel. Here are three other solutions to help your snow blower start every time.
- Buy a new gas can. The latest gas cans are sealed so the fuel doesn’t go bad as fast. The ones I recommend pour very well. Check them out here: Paul’s Amazon Influencer Page.
- Use a fuel stabilizer. I always put 2 tablespoons per gallon of SeaFoam in my fuel when I go buy it. That way the fuel is always treated and it will last me over a year. before it goes bad. Check it out here: Paul’s Amazon Influencer Page.
- Use TruFuel or similar pure gas. It’s expensive compared to gas but it has a 2-year shelf life. I use it in the snow blowers I test but don’t use very often and they all start on the first pull. Check it out here: Paul’s Amazon Influencer Page.
$699 or less:
Spending about $699 gives you a high arc long chute so the snow blower throws the snow farther and you can place it where you want it. Some of these snow blowers like the Ariens and Toro even have a remote deflector control for even more control of the snow. All of these snow blowers have larger 13-inch tires and have a lot more traction than the $599 snow blowers listed at the end of this article.
Feel free to ask questions in the comments below. Please click on the “Buy Here” link to read more details about the snow blower you are interested in.
1. Troy-Bilt Storm 2460 24 in. 208cc Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower with Airless Tires Model # Storm 2460
This snow blower has a lot to offer for the price and I have a feeling it will quickly become The Home Depot’s best selling snow blower. For my Mid-Western 2 car, 70-foot driveway, brick patio, and turf that I clear for my dogs – it is a perfect size.
There are three unique features of the Troy-Bilt 2460 that allow me to put it as Number One on this list.
- Airless Tires. I’ve been using Troy-Bilt snow blowers with the airless tires for a couple of years now and I really like how much traction they have and how easy the snow blower turns. Even on a solid axle snow blower like this one, they are surprisingly easy to use.
- Poly Skid Shoes. The long poly skids don’t leave brown rust marks on your pavement or patio and they last a long time.
- Now Sold At The Home Depot. I am very excited that Troy-Bilt is now available through the Home Depot. Over the last five years, Home Depot has quietly become the online leader in outdoor power equipment. They are very easy to work with if you have a problem with your snow blower. They will help you set up service if you have the standard factory warranty and if you decide to purchase one of their protection plans – the price is reasonable and will repair your equipment as quickly as possible.
2. Ariens Classic 24 in. 208cc 2-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower Model # 920025
The Ariens Classic gets great reviews for its size and price. The Classic features an all steel remote chute and deflector. In fact, it’s a solid machine with more metal parts than the other snow blowers on this list. Be aware that the Classic has snap-ring pins that hold the wheels on the axle. With one of the pins moved to the freewheel position the snow blower will turn easily – but you lose half your traction. The snow blower comes from the factory with one of the pins in the freewheel position so it’s easy to move around the sales floor. You will want to move the pin to the locked position when you use it the first time
Buy Here: Ariens Classic 24 in. 208cc 2-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower at The Home Depot
3. Craftsman 88173 24″ 208cc Dual-Stage Snowblower Model 88173
The Craftsman 88173 has been around for quite a while now and four years ago I gave it the “Best Value” award. It continues to be a good, basic snow blower at a great price.
Buy Here: Craftsman 88173 24″ 208cc Dual-Stage Snowblower Model 88173 at Sears
4. Briggs & Stratton 24 in. Dual-Stage Electric Start Gas Snowthrower Model# 1696610
Like most of the snow blowers on this list, it does not have a headlight. It also does not have an easy to use chute rotation. For example, with the #1 Troy-Bilt above you can move the chute quickly from one side to the other with just 2 1/2 turns of the crank. This snow blower requires many more turns. It is very light compared to the other snow blowers on this list (about 170 lbs) so it will have more traction issues in deeper snow.
Buy Here: Briggs & Stratton 24 in. Dual-Stage Electric Start Gas Snowthrower Model# 1696610 at The Home Depot
It is also available through Amazon Prime for the same price: Briggs & Stratton 24 in. Dual-Stage Electric Start Gas Snowthrower Model# 1696610 at Amazon
5. Poulan Pro PR241 24 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower Model# 961920092
I’m listing this Poulan Pro because many owners like it but I’m not going to recommend it right now. A lot of owners have complained that the plastic dash cracks after a year or so of use. Many also complain that the chute doesn’t stay in position and wanders around while you are blowing snow.
Buy Here: Poulan Pro PR241 24 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower Model# 961920092 at The Home Depot
6. Power Max 724 OE 2-Stage Snow Thrower Model # 37779 at The Home Depot
You can feel confident that every snow blower in the Toro is built well and built to last. The 724 OE is no exception. The Toro Power Max is listed on all the websites right now for $799 but there is a rumor that Toro is dropping the price to $699. Let’s watch and see what happens.
Buy Here: Power Max 724 OE 2-Stage Snow Thrower Model # 37779 at The Home Depot
Buy Here: Power Max 724 OE 2-Stage Snow Thrower Model # 37779 at ACME Tool
$599 or less:
Do you remember that small MTD snow blower you or your neighbor owned 15-20 years ago? It had a 5 hp Tecumseh or Briggs engine? It threw snow – not very far – but it did get that 6-8 inches of snow off your driveway. It handled the snow plow drift at the end of your driveway as long as you got out there early in the morning before it froze into a rock hard wall.
The only disadvantages that these snow blowers have a short chute and hard to use chute rotation. The old style short chute limits as to how far the snow blower throws the snow and since it does not have a remote defector it harder to aim the snow just where you want it. This is especially irritating when the snow is light and fluffy – the snow blows all over and most of it in your face 🙂
If you are interested in either of these snow blowers please click on the “buy here” link to read more on the Sears or Home Depot site.
7. Craftsman 24″ 208cc Dual-Stage Snowblower 88781
Buy Here: Craftsman 24″ 208cc Dual-Stage Snowblower Model # 88781 at Sears
8. Troy-Bilt 24 in. Two-Stage 208cc Electric Start Self Propelled Gas Snow Blower Model # Storm 2410
Buy Here: Troy-Bilt 24 in. Two-Stage 208cc Electric Start Self Propelled Gas Snow Blower at The Home Depot
9. Poulan Pro PR240 24 in. 179cc Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower Model # PR240
Buy Here: Poulan Pro PR240 24 in. 179cc Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower at The Home Depot
Did I miss any other good, cheap snow blower? Please let me know in the comments below.
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Carmello Caputa II
Great information Paul looking for some recommendations to replace my 1991 Sears craftsman 20 inch 4 hp track drive 2 stage snowblower this little machine has been awesome powers right around most of my neighbors 26 and 28 inch 8 hp wheeled units I live in Southeastern Wisconsin Milwaukee area I clear an alleyway 30 x80 also do a front walk 5‘ x 50‘ and I do have to deal with some plowed snow looking to keep it in the 20 to 26 inch auger size but I do want a track drive any suggestions you could offer would be greatly appreciate it thank you
Paul
Hi Carmello, There are very few 20-26 inch racked machines available and only two that I recommend.
1. Ariens Compact 24 Track. Like your Craftsman, the Compact has a solid axle so it has all the traction but can be VERY hard to turn. You are used to that… It has 223 cc engine so it has almost twice the horsepower of your old snow blower. It’s built to last as long as your old Craftsman.
2. Cub Cadet 2X 26″ TRAC. The Cub Cadet is a very easy to use snow blower. It has power steering and three great LED lights. The engine has more than twice the HP of your old Craftsman. You’ll like the easy chute controls and that you can lock the front of the snow blower up for transport.
Karl Milhon
Just looking around here before XMas 2019 and Home Depot has a “Power Care” 24 inch snow blower on sale for 449 with a headlight. I don’t see this brand mentioned anywhere on your site and assume it is one of the Chinesium variety but it is sold at Home Depot and that is a very good price…unless it is worthless. It has a small number of reviews (15) but they are good with the average being over four stars. It has a long chute. That price admittedly a pre-Xmas price (normally 600) is very enticing. .
Paul
Hi Karl, You get what you pay for. If you want a good cheap snowblower I recommend the Troy-Bilt Storm 24 in. 208cc Two-Stage Model# Storm 2460. It works well, will last, and you can get warranty repairs, parts and service easily. That said,
The PowerCare is a snowblower made in China imported by YardMax. YardMax has an office in Libertyville, Il. I suggest calling them 844-YARDMAX (844-927-3629) and asking the following questions.
1. If I have a problem with this snowblower where can I get it serviced?
2. If they say “a local repair shop” ask them for the phone number to the shop near you. Call that shop and ask them if they service and do warranty repairs for a Power Care snowblower. My guess is they’ve never heard of Power Care or even YardMax.
3. If I need shear pins, belts, sparkplugs, and other maintenance items where do I go?
Just so you know, with all of these Chinese snowblowers have an office here in the U.S. and they may be able to get you parts but that does not include engine parts. In this case, the engine is made for them by LCT. You will have to find a repair center that works on LCT engines for that. The snowblower and the engine have separate warranties and in most cases separate repair networks. If you buy a “namebrand” snowblower like the Troy-Bilt above, Cub Cadet, Ariens, Toro, and Husqvarna the engines are serviced and repaired by the same dealer you bought the product from.
Justin
Paul,
I live in Chicago and we get all types of snow. My driveway is 93′ long. The first 50′ is 16′ wide and the last 43′ is 30′ wide. I also have a path between the house and garage that goes to my front steps and gate and also i am responsible for the side walk in front of my house on a busy street that gets covered by snow plows. What snowblower do you suggest for around $1000 or less?
Paul
Hi Justin, You have a decent size area to clear so a 28 inch is a good choice. Since you get snow plow snow on the sidewalk you also want something that won’t clog on heavy/wet snow. You live in Chicago so you don’t need a high horsepower snowblower.
So my choice for you is the Ariens Deluxe 28. You can get it at the Home Depot or your local Ariens Dealer. Here is a link to Home Depot (Ariens Deluxe 28)
Just so you know – a $1000 snowblower is now about $1200. Prices have gone up in the last year.
Justin Afryl
thank you
Brian’s
Paul,
I read all your reviews and wanted to extend my thanks for your frank assessments. Honest and straightforward.
Based on everything you say I am inclined to invest a bit more for a good machine. How do you feel about the Ariens Compact (20″) 223cc Two-Stage Snow Blower? Any thoughts?
Thanks again.
Paul
Hi Brian’s, The Ariens Compact is built well. It’s the smallest 2-stage on the market. It is fairly hard to find because most people opt for the Compact 24 or Ariens Classic 24. But, I don’t know if it’s the right snow blower for you. Where do you live? How big is the area you have to clear?
James Scott Beran
I have an 80 x 8 driveway and only 14 feet between houses so I have to blow and reblow to get the snow to the front yard or back yard. Then the tough part where the snow plow blocks my driveway. I also get drifts at times and need drift cutters. I have no problem with a manual run chute as it is bullet proof. Electric start to me means either battery or plug in. I want plug in. I’m 74 years old. I’m limping through what is left of the winter this year as it is Feb. 9, 2019 with a machine that slips from first to reverse. I fixed that 2 years ago and the problem is back. Sears blower. We might not have another snow. I plan to shop for the snowblower in the summer when the deals might be better. I don’t mind paying for a quality machine. Concrete driveway.
Paul
Hi James, The Ariens Deluxe 24 has the most throw for a 24 inch snow blower. Most of the time it will throw snow 40 feet.
Waseem
Hi Paul,
I might have posted this in a different article by mistake. I live in Chicago and looking to purchase a snowblower. Some of the snowblowers you recommended are unavailable at store now. What are you comments about this Craftman snowblower from Lowes?
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-600-24-in-Two-stage-Gas-Snow-Blower-Self-propelled/1000602823
Would appreciate your advice.
Thanks!
Paul
Hi Waseem, It’s the same snow blower as the Troy-Bilt 24 in. 208 cc at the Home Depot. The only difference is that it has a different service network than what you may be used to.
Here’s what I wrote on my review of Craftsman at Lowes snow blowers.
As you most likely know Stanley, Black & Decker (SBD) purchased the Craftsman name this year – but not the products. What that means for snow blowers is they will be independently developing their own line of Craftsman snow blowers, parts, and repair network.
The model numbers are completely different. You will have to get parts, warranty work, and service through Stanley, Black & Decker. Apparently, Craftsman.com was also sold to SBD and currently states,
(Specifically for Snow Throwers:) WARRANTY SERVICE
With proof of sale, call this number to obtain the warranty coverage stated below: 1-888-331-4569.
The four Craftsman (SBD) models currently for sale at Lowes are made by MTD
Waseem
Thanks for this info!
With Lowes, I am getting a $100 off. In terms of reliability and ease of service, would you still recommend the troy-bilt? and would you say this would be a reliable snowblower that would last 10 years or more?
I am also looking at this toro: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Toro-SnowMaster-724-QXE-24-in-212cc-Single-Stage-Gas-Snow-Blower-36002/206125346
but it is more than i’d like to spend. would appreciate your help on this.
Paul
Hi Waseem, They are the same snow blower – just different names on it.
I have no idea how long it will last for you. I don’t know how much area you have to clear, how much snow you get and how you maintain your equipment. I do know that Troy-Bilt has an extensive nation-wide service and parts network – if you have problems just ask Home Depot where to take it. At this time Craftsman at Lowes has no service network.
Waseem
Thanks Paul! Much appreciated.
tony altomare
HI PAUL I`M UNDECIDED ON WHICH SNOWBLOWER I SHOULD BUY TROY-BILT 24” 2410 208cc OR CRAFTSMAN 24′ 600 208cc I HAVE A TWO CAR DRIVEWAY THANK YOU TONY
Paul
Hi Tony, Physically, the two snow blowers are the same. So, it comes down to where you want to buy them from.
The Craftsman 600 at Lowes is made by MTD for Stanley, Black & Decker. As you know SBD purchased Craftsman this year. They are new to the gas-powered Lawn & Garden area and the last time I looked they don’t have a nationwide parts, warranty and service network set up yet. Right now you have to call an 800 number to obtain parts or service.
The Troy-Bilt 2410 at The Home Depot is by MTD for Troy-Bilt. Troy-Bilt is owned by MTD and has been around for many, many years. They have a complete nationwide parts, warranty and service network. You can also purchase any part for your snow blower online directly from troybilt.com.
chris
Hi Paul, I am so confused. I would like to buy my son a snow blower for xmas. Live in RI he only has a 2 cars side by side drive way and maybe 5 more feet behind cars, with a slight slope. Not sure which would be better the Toro 721 or the Craftsman 24″ 208cc Dual-Stage Snowblower 88781. What would you recommend.
Paul
Hi Chris, Between the two I suggest the Toro over the Craftsman.
Home Depot Link: Toro 721 E
chris
thank you so much! Happy Holidays….
Vik P
How about Sno Tek 24″?
Paul
Hi Vik P, Sorry your comment got caught in the Spam folder – I just found it. Even though Home Depot still has a few for sale the SnoTek has been replaced with the Ariens Classic. Same snow blower, same price, better engine and new orange paint.
Ravi Chadha
One more follow up question Paul….How do you feel about the Troy Bilt 2460 with the airless tires versus the Toro SnowMaster 724 QXE for my wife to use (when I travel)…i.e. the personal pace feature of the QXE vs the pwer drive of the 2460?
Paul
Hi Ravi, The SnowMaster is fast but the Troy-Bilt will handle the snow plow drift at the end of the driveway a lot better. The airless tires are easy enough for her to use on your driveway. You can take her to the store and let her play with it on the concrete. Just remember it will be harder turn in the store than out on the driveway.
Ravi Chadha
Paul, Terrific website and advice! I live Chicago Northshore (halfway to Milwaukee)… Am debating the Troybilt 2460, Craftsman 600 or one fo the PowerSmart models…or even a Craftsman. Your preference? (I read all above)…Also, any thoughts on purchasing a craftsman from Sears themselves? (I am worried about service now that they are going out of business…will Lowes honor the service? Thanks.
Paul
Hi Ravi, At this point in time I suggest the Troy-Bilt 2460 or Troy-Bilt 2665 at the Home Depot (Home Depot Link). Home Depot uses Troy-Bilt’s own nationwide parts/repair/dealer network to get your snow blower repaired locally – if it ever needs it. I like those snow blowers!
Lowes is not responsible for warranty repairs to Craftsman products. Stanley, Black and Decker (SBD) has a phone number you call to get parts and service 888-331-4569. I’m not sure if they have a repair network set up at this time but I expect them to have it up and running early next spring.
I expect Sears Craftsman’s parts (searpartsdirect.com) and sears repair services to continue even if the company goes belly up. These divisions continue to be very profitable and I’m sure someone will buy them up if Sears dies. Sears Craftsman parts numbering system and their warranties are completely separate from SBD and Lowes so I don’t expect any free help from them for your Sears Craftsman. They won’t have a parts cross reference to figure out what part is needed.
PowerSmart. You get what you pay for and in today’s market, you really need to spend $699 or more to get a snow blower that will last. The way I understand it is if you have an issue with PowerSmart products you call or email them. They will send you the part if it’s still under warranty and it’s your responsibility to make the repair.
William Barman
Paul, What do you think of the new Toro Power Smart DB7622 E 22 inch 2 stage snow blower. Home Depot has it listed for less money than the Power Master single stage. Thx. Bill
Paul
Hi William, You get what you pay for. When you buy the cheapest snow blower on the market you may get one year of use – most people get one or two uses (not years) before it breaks.
A reasonable inexpensive 2-stage will cost you around $699.
Karen Arnett
Hi Paul, Costco has what is called a Jonsered 24″ 305cc 2 Stage Snow Thrower M#ST2261E, would that be a good buy? 305cc Briggs Engine, Single Hand Control, Remote Shute Rotation, 23″ intake heights, Electric Start, Manual Steering, adjustable Loop Handle. I live north of Detroit, MI, no lake effect snow, just the normal stuff. Corner lot, and it’s a lot to clear. Thanks for the help.
Paul
Hi Karen, Let me start by putting the price into perspective. For $50 more you can get a name brand snow blower. Your local dealer will give you great parts, repair and service for the list I’ll show you below. These are all Home Depot links.
1. This one has power steering! Cub Cadet 2X 26 in. 243cc 2-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower with Power Steering and Steel Chute
2. Troy-Bilt 26 in. Two-Stage 243cc Electric Start Self Propelled Gas Snow Blower with 1-Hand Operation Model# Storm 2665
3. Toro Power Max 824 OE 24 in. 252cc 2-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower Model# 37798
Here is why I don’t recommend the CostCo snow blower: I don’t write a specific article on the Costco/Sam’s Club “Specials.” But I’ll give you an answer I gave someone else last week.
Jonsered is one of the brand names owned by Husqvarna. The other name they use on inexpensive snow blowers is Poulan Pro. That said,
Every year Costco talks a manufacturer into selling them a snow blower they can sell cheap – yet make tons of money on. It’s usually a brand you recognize but there is always something weird about it. In this case, it’s a standard snowblower – very much like your normal Craftsman or Cub Cadet – with an oversized engine. In addition, it’s an engine brand that the manufacturer normally doesn’t use on snow blowers sold in the U.S. The “real” Jonsered snow blowers all have the good LCT overhead valve snow engine, not a Briggs.
So, if you buy it you will get a snow blower that will blow snow farther than your old machine but it will have no more capacity. You may also have more problems with breaking belts on that machine because the engine has much more power than what the snow blower was designed for. Since you bought it at Costco it will have no support. If it breaks you will have to find a Jonsered snow blower dealer to get parts or have it repaired. Costco may have a great warranty but does that warranty cover gas powered equipment? Will the replace it if it doesn’t start? Will, they repair it or is it farmed out to someplace that will let your snow blower sit out back for 6 months before it gets fixed?
Good Luck with that.
Karl
Paul:
I had a chuckle over this. “Do you remember that small MTD snow blower you or your neighbor owned 15-20 years ago? It had a 5 hp Tecumseh or Briggs engine?” I’m still using one. Tecumseh engine. And it starts with first pull, every time. It breaks my heart, but on the prowl for a new machine for this winter. Thank you for the great, detailed information you post. I’m awaiting reviews on the 18-19 lineups.