The Best 28 Inch Two Stage Snow Blower
Snow Removal Wiki researched the top 28 inch two stage snow blowers, comparing power, build, and value. Find our top picks, buying guide, and FAQs to choose the right machine for your driveway.
By Harry
Updated October 3, 2026
When heavy snowfall hits your driveway, a 28 inch two stage snow blower offers the ideal balance of clearing width and maneuverability.
Unlike smaller models, it can handle deep, wet snow without bogging down, making it a popular choice for homeowners with medium to large driveways.
In this guide, we’ve researched and compared the top models on the market to help you find the best 28 inch two stage snow blower for your needs.
For a broader look at the category, see our roundup of the best two stage snow blowers.
Snow Removal Wiki evaluated each machine against consistent criteria, including engine performance, build quality, ease of use, and long-term reliability.
We analyzed specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback to assign each product a SRW Score on a 0 to 10 scale. Below, you’ll find our top picks, followed by a detailed buying guide and answers to common questions.
| Award | Product | SRW Score About SRW ScoreThe SRW Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
Honda HSS928APT 28-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.8/10 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
PowerSmart BS26 26-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.6/10 | Buy |
EGO Power+ SNT2420 24-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.6/10 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28-Inch Two-Stage Snow
|
8.4/10 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Honda HSS1332ATD 32-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.4/10 | Buy |
Ariens Professional 28 420cc Two-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.1/10 | Buy | |
EGO Power+ SNT2800 28-Inch 2-Stage Snow Blower
|
7.8/10 | Buy | |
Massimo 302cc 30-Inch 2-Stage Snow Blower
|
6.7/10 | Buy |
Honda HSS928APT 28-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
Honda's HSS928APT is a premium dual-track snow blower engineered for heavy-duty residential use. Its commercial-grade GX270 engine delivers reliable power for clearing up to 1900 pounds of snow per minute, while the hydrostatic transmission and adjustable auger height give you precise control on varied surfaces. It is best suited for long driveways and uneven terrain, though some users recommend aftermarket skid plates for optimal performance.
Pros
- Commercial-grade GX270 engine for reliable cold-weather starting
- Dual rubber tracks provide excellent traction on ice, slopes, and rough ground
- Hydrostatic transmission allows smooth variable speed without shifting
- Clears up to 1900 pounds per minute with 52-foot throwing distance
- 3-year residential warranty included
Cons
- Skid plates mounted at rear may need aftermarket side skids for uneven surfaces (based on user feedback)
- Recoil pull-start only; no electric start option
- Not available for purchase in California
PowerSmart BS26 26-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
For those facing frequent heavy snowfalls, the PowerSmart BS26 is a self-propelled, two-stage gas snow blower with a 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine. It clears a 26-inch path and throws snow up to 45 feet, while the heated handles and one-handed chute control add comfort and convenience during long clearing sessions.
Pros
- Powerful 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine moves up to 2,700 lbs of snow per minute
- Electric start for quick and easy ignition in cold weather
- Heated handles keep hands warm during operation
- Self-propelled with variable speed control and reverse for easy maneuvering
- All-steel auger and impeller are durable and can throw snow up to 45 feet
Cons
- At 145 pounds, it is heavy and may be difficult to maneuver for some users
- The 20-inch intake height may not handle very deep snowdrifts effectively
- Some users may find the assembly process time-consuming
EGO Power+ SNT2420 24-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
A powerful cordless two-stage snow blower that rivals gas models without the upkeep. Its Peak Power system uses two 56V batteries to handle deep, wet, and packed snow, and the 24-inch clearing width and self-propelled drive make it practical for large driveways. Best for homeowners who want gas-like performance with the convenience of electric power.
Pros
- Delivers gas-like performance without gas engine noise, mess, or maintenance
- 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake height handle deep snow and snowplow piles
- Variable-speed self-propelled controls for easy maneuvering
- 200-degree remote chute joystick for precise snow placement
Cons
- Batteries and charger are not included, adding significant cost
- Heavy at 163 pounds, can be difficult to store or move when not in use
Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28-Inch Two-Stage Snow
With a 28-inch clearing width and a powerful 306cc Ariens AX engine, this two-stage gas snow blower moves up to 72 tons of snow per hour. The 14-inch impeller and 55-foot throwing distance handle heavy, wet snow, while Auto-Turn steering and an LED headlight add convenience. Ideal for homeowners with long driveways or large properties who need reliable, high-capacity snow removal.
Pros
- Wide 28-inch clearing path moves large volumes of snow quickly
- Powerful 306cc engine with 15 lb-ft of torque for tough conditions
- Electric start and Auto-Turn steering improve ease of use
- Cast iron gear case and 3-year residential warranty indicate durability
- LED headlight enhances visibility in low-light conditions
Cons
- Heavy at 267.5 pounds, may be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
- Gas-powered requires fuel and regular maintenance
- Handwarmers are optional, not included as standard
Honda HSS1332ATD 32-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
Built around Honda's commercial-grade GX390 engine, this two-stage snow blower combines a 32-inch clearing width with a dual-track drive system for steady traction on slopes and uneven ground. With a maximum throw distance of 56 feet and a hydrostatic transmission that lets you adjust speed without shifting, it's a heavy-duty choice for homeowners facing deep, icy conditions.
Pros
- Commercial-grade GX390 engine provides reliable power and easy cold-weather starting with DC electric start
- Dual rubber tracks with cleats deliver excellent traction on inclines, ice, and uneven surfaces
- Hydrostatic drive allows forward and reverse speed changes without shifting or affecting auger speed
- Auger height control can be adjusted quickly with a thumb lever for different surface conditions
- 3750 pounds per minute clearing capacity and 56-foot throw distance handle deep snow effectively
Cons
- At 389 cc displacement, this is a heavy, large machine that may be cumbersome for smaller driveways or tight spaces
- Some users report shear pins can break on hidden debris when operating at full throttle despite engine stall protection
Ariens Professional 28 420cc Two-Stage Snow Blower
Built for heavy snow and frequent use, the Ariens Professional 28 delivers reliable performance with a 420cc engine and 28-inch clearing width. Its auto-turn triggerless steering and heated handgrips make operation more comfortable, though some users note it can bog down in deep snow and the chute may freeze. Best for homeowners with moderate to heavy snowfall who value durability and ease of use.
Pros
- Auto-turn triggerless steering simplifies maneuvering
- Heated handgrips keep hands warm in cold weather
- Electric start for quick, easy ignition
- Durable cast iron gear case and Disc-O-Matic drive system
Cons
- 420cc engine feels underpowered and bogs down in deep snow (12+ inches)
- Chute rotation can freeze up due to ice buildup
- Rubber sleeves on auger and drive levers may fall off
EGO Power+ SNT2800 28-Inch 2-Stage Snow Blower
If you want a two-stage electric snow blower that rivals gas, the EGO Power+ SNT2800 delivers up to 60 feet of throw and can handle an 8-inch snowfall across a 32-car driveway. Its self-propelled drive and trigger-controlled steering simplify maneuvering, while heated grips and a joystick chute control add comfort.
Pros
- Clears up to a 32-car driveway with 8 inches of snow on a single charge (with two 12.0Ah batteries)
- Throws snow up to 60 feet with Peak Power technology
- Heated handle grips and 200-degree electronic chute adjustment for all-weather control
- Self-propelled with variable speed forward and reverse and trigger-controlled steering
Cons
- Batteries and charger are sold separately, increasing upfront cost
- Requires two 56V ARC Lithium batteries for full performance (not included)
Massimo 302cc 30-Inch 2-Stage Snow Blower
This Massimo snow blower packs a 302cc engine to clear a 30-inch path with a 20-inch intake height. Its two-stage system throws snow up to 40 feet, and the self-propelled drivetrain offers five forward and two reverse speeds. Electric start and an LED light are included for ease of use.
Pros
- Powerful 302cc engine for heavy snow
- Wide 30-inch clearing path with 20-inch intake height
- Electric start and LED light for convenience
- Self-propelled with five forward and two reverse speeds
- Ships fully assembled
Cons
- Requires a delivery appointment for receipt
- Mixed buyer feedback with an average 3.3-star rating
Best 28 Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Buying Guide
Engine Displacement and Power
The engine is the heart of a two stage snow blower. For a 28 inch clearing width, look for engines in the 250cc to 420cc range. More displacement means greater power to throw snow farther and handle wet, heavy conditions.
Brands like Honda and Ariens are known for reliable engines. To understand how engine size relates to performance, check our guide on how much snow a snow blower can handle.
Clearing Width and Intake Height
A 28 inch clearing width is a sweet spot for most residential driveways. Intake height typically ranges from 20 to 24 inches; taller intakes allow you to tackle deep drifts without multiple passes. Consider your average snowfall depth when choosing.
If you’re unsure about sizing, our article on how to choose the right snow blower size can provide guidance.
Drive System: Tracks vs. Wheels
Wheeled models are lighter and more maneuverable on pavement, while tracked models provide superior traction on slopes and uneven surfaces. If your driveway has a steep incline, a tracked snow blower might be worth the extra cost.
Learn more in our detailed comparison of snow blower tracks vs wheels.
Electric Start and Heated Handles
Electric start eliminates the hassle of pull cords, especially in freezing temperatures. Heated handles add comfort during long clearing sessions. Many premium models include both. For a list of models with heated grips, see our guide to the best snow blower with heated handles.
Build Quality and Warranty
Look for steel chutes, robust auger housings, and durable tires. A longer warranty (2-5 years) indicates confidence in the product. Proper snow blower maintenance can extend the life of your machine significantly.
Why You Should Trust Us
At Snow Removal Wiki, we are committed to providing independent, research-based reviews. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Each product is scored using our SRW Score system (0 to 10), which weighs performance, reliability, value, and user satisfaction. Our goal is to help you make an informed purchase without bias.
We also participate in affiliate programs, but this does not influence our rankings. For a complete overview of our approach, read our homeowner’s buying guide.
Final Thoughts
After thorough analysis, here are our top recommendations within the 28 inch two stage snow blower category:
- Best Overall: Honda HSS928APT 28-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower, With the highest SRW Score in our lineup, this Honda model combines reliable engine performance, excellent build quality, and user-friendly features. It’s the best 28 inch two stage snow blower for most homeowners.
- Best Value: Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower, Ariens delivers proven durability at a more accessible price point. Its 254cc engine and electric start make it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
- Best for Heavy Duty: Ariens Professional (28″) 420cc Two-Stage Snow Blower, This professional-grade machine boasts a 420cc engine and commercial construction, ideal for large properties and frequent heavy snowfalls.
- Best Electric Option: EGO Power+ 28″ Electric Snow Blower SNT2800, For those seeking a cordless, battery-powered solution, the EGO 28-inch model offers quiet operation and zero emissions, though it requires purchasing batteries separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much snow can a 28 inch two stage snow blower handle?
A well-powered 28 inch two stage snow blower can typically handle up to 16-20 inches of light powder and 10-12 inches of wet snow in a single pass. For deeper drifts, you may need to make multiple passes.
For detailed limits across different models, see our article on understanding snow blower costs.
Is a 28 inch snow blower too big for a standard driveway?
For a two-car driveway (around 500-800 sq ft), a 28 inch model is an excellent fit. It clears a wide path quickly without being overly cumbersome. If your driveway is smaller, consider our guides to the best 24 inch snow blower or best 26 inch snow blower.
Should I choose gas or electric for a 28 inch two stage snow blower?
Gas models offer greater power and runtime, making them suitable for heavy snow and large areas. Electric models (like the EGO 28 inch) are quieter, lighter, and require less maintenance, but battery life can be limiting.
Read our comparison of battery powered snow blowers vs gas for more insight.
How long does a two stage snow blower typically last?
With proper maintenance, a quality two stage snow blower can last 10-15 years or more. Regular oil changes, shear pin replacement, and storage in a dry place are key. Check our snow blower lifespan guide for tips.
Do I need a tracked snow blower for my driveway?
Tracks are beneficial if your driveway has steep slopes, gravel, or uneven terrain. For flat paved driveways, wheels provide sufficient traction and are easier to maneuver. Our track drive snow blower guide can help you decide.
Can I use a 28 inch snow blower on gravel?
Yes, but you must adjust the skid shoes to raise the scraper blade slightly to avoid picking up stones. For more tips, see our article on using a snow blower on gravel.
About the author
Harry writes reviews and buying guides for Snow Removal Wiki.