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When choosing between a 2-stage and 3-stage snowblower, keep in mind that the main difference is that a 3-stage blower has an accelerator while a 2-stage doesn’t. This accelerator makes a 3-stage snowblower more powerful than a 2-stage, however, it also means it requires regular maintenance.
It’s that time of year again where we’re getting ready to put our snow blowers to work. If you’re in the market for one, I’m sure you’ll be interested in doing some research into the latest snow blowers before purchasing.
I’ve done a little digging into the variants and determined the best between them. Keep reading to find out the difference between 2-stage vs 3-stage snow blowers and why a 2-stage is my first choice.
Contents
- 1 Everything You Need To Know About Two-Stage Snow Blowers
- 1.1 Two-Stage Snow Blower Pros
- 1.2 Two-Stage Snow Blower Cons
- 2 Everything You Need To Know About A Three-Stage Snow Blower
- 2.1 Three-Stage Snow Blower Pros
- 2.2 Three-Stage Snow Blower Cons
- 3 2-Stage Snow Blowers Vs 3-Stage Snow Blowers – Features Face To Face
- 3.1 Power
- 3.2 Speed
- 3.3 Affordability
- 4 Stand-Out Features
- 5 FAQs
- 5.1 Are 3-stage snow blowers worth it?
- 5.2 Is a 3-stage snow blower better than a 2-stage?
- 6 2-Stage Vs 3-Stage Snow Blowers: Which One To Choose?
Everything You Need To Know About Two-Stage Snow Blowers
Snow blowers of this type are pretty much the standard option for all homeowners and are the most common variant. They’re usually among the affordable snow blower options and are known to be quite reliable.
But what is a two-stage machine? The 2-stage part refers to the snow blower’s two stages of snow clearing. First, the snowblower gathers and breaks down the snow with the turning of its corkscrew-like auger. Second, it sends the snow through the impeller for it to be discharged through the chute.
The fine combination of the auger and impeller (not forgetting the powerful engine) removes the snow fast by sucking up snow and ice and then throwing it through the chute.
This type of snow blower is designed to handle snowfall up to 12 inches deep. Most are self-propelled with multiple forward speeds, can be controlled by one hand, and come equipped with cool features, such as hand warmers.
Another awesome feature that the majority of two-stage snow blowers come with nowadays is the ability to rotate the chute without having to stop the machine. This allows for users to have a smooth snow-blowing experience without the fuss of stopping and starting again.
Overall, these snow blowers are convenient to use, easy to maintain and known to last.
If you are looking for a machine that’s easy to operate, this kind of snowblower can be a good solution. If you want to learn more details about this subject, check this post and also this one.
One of the most-loved two-stage snow blowers on the market is the Craftsman 28-inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower with Push-Button Electric Start. This snow blower is lauded for its ease of use and for performing brilliantly on just about any surface.
Check out this YouTube video by Ariens which explains in detail how to go about choosing the best two-stage snow blower for you:
Two-Stage Snow Blower Pros
- Can handle large amounts of snow
- Can use over gravel
- Often self-propelled
- More affordable than a three-stage snow blower
- Easy to maintain
- Often comes with a rotating discharge chute
- Throws wet snow easily
Two-Stage Snow Blower Cons
- Leaves behind a thin layer of snow
- Can be quite heavy
Everything You Need To Know About A Three-Stage Snow Blower
What is a 3-stage snowblower, anyway? Three-stage snow blowers are essentially 2-stage blowers with an added stage, the induction accelerator. The induction accelerator is in charge of breaking down the ice.
This additional third stage allows them to move up to 50 percent faster than a 2-stage, which means they are more efficient and leave very little snow behind. Snow and ice gathered by the augers are churned and reduced to tiny pieces in no time, and they typically have a throwing distance of as far as 50 feet.
Three-stage snow blowers are the most powerful when put up against single-stage snow blowers and their 2-stage contenders and they can move the thickest deep snow with ease, in just a fraction of the time. All of these factors suggest that a three-stage machine is the best companion to have by your side in icy winters.
However, it would be remiss of me to not give you the low down on the maintenance this beast of machinery requires. These snow blowers are complex and when it comes to maintaining them, a “Do Not Try This At Home” warning is in order.
Maintaining three-stage snow blowers is best left to the professionals, and you know what this means – hefty costs! The reason why it’s advised that professionals maintain these snow blowers is because in order to properly maintain it, you need to take apart the machine and care for each part.
Three-stage snow blowers are quite complex and can be challenging to take apart and put back together without experience or a detailed guide. They can also be difficult to store because most of them are designed to be quite tall.
If you’re in need of some help choosing a snow blower, check out my reviews of the best snow blowers!
YouTube user “bos tony” compares the difference between 2-stage and 3-stage snow blowers in this video:
Three-Stage Snow Blower Pros
- The most powerful type of snowblower
- Clears snow in minimal time
- Can clear snow drifts without slowing down
- Leaves behind a cleaner path than other types of snow blowers
Three-Stage Snow Blower Cons
- Among the most pricey snow blowers
- Usually requires professional maintenance
- Can be difficult to store because most of them have a height of 30 inches and above.
- Heavy
2-Stage Snow Blowers Vs 3-Stage Snow Blowers – Features Face To Face
Power
Both 2-stage and 3-stage snow blowers are powerful and make snow blowing a breeze. However, one definitely stands out. Three-stage snow blowers are incredibly powerful because of their accelerator, which can clear through the thickest layer of snow without needing to slow down.
Winner: Three-stage snow blowers
Speed
Both types of snow blowers undoubtedly work a lot faster than single-stage snow blowers. But when you compare the two, 3-stage blowers definitely take the cake, all thanks to their accelerators, which allow them to move swiftly. I once read a review that said you can get the job done when your favorite TV show is on a commercial break!
Winner: Three-stage snow blowers
Affordability
Affordability is one of the main reasons why two-stage snow blowers are a more popular type compared to three-stage snow blowers. The retail price of three-stage snow blowers isn’t pretty, and when you consider the addition of maintenance costs, you’re going to need quite a bigger budget altogether.
Winner: Two-stage snow blowers
Check out this article for a better idea of how much snow blowers can cost you nowadays.
Stand-Out Features
3-stage snowblowers: Three-stage snow blowers come with accelerators, which make them all the more powerful. If you’re in the market for a snowblower that’s going to clear heavy snow with the smoothest of motion, a snow blower with an accelerator (third stage) is your best bet.
FAQs
Are 3-stage snow blowers worth it?
A 3-Stage snow blower is worth it if you regularly need a snow blower. They don’t come cheap, so they’re only a good idea for you if you’re willing to splurge. They’re heavy-duty and powerful, so they’re great for commercial use.
Is a 3-stage snow blower better than a 2-stage?
A 3-stage snow blower is technically better than a 2-stage. They are more powerful and get the job done quicker. However, they can be more expensive, so if you require a snow blower for residential use, a 2stage might be the better option.
2-Stage Vs 3-Stage Snow Blowers: Which One To Choose?
Both 2-stage and three-stage snow blowers are exceptional pieces of machinery that will definitely make your life a lot easier. They are both powerful and can handle a decent amount of snow including wet snow.
I’d personally opt for a 2-stage snow blower because it has everything I need for residential use. However, it all boils down to which one suits your situation and needs best.
Buy a 2-stage snow blower if:
- You need one for residential use or to cover an small to medium-sized area.
- You’d rather not break the bank.
- You’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-operate tool.
Buy a three-stage snow blower if:
- You’re going to be clearing snow regularly.
- You need a snow blower for commercial use.
- You reside in an area that gets heavy snowfall.
- You have a bigger budget.
I hope you found my mini-review helpful. Let me know if you have any questions or queries in the comments below!
Last update on 2022-08-15 at 13:59 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
FAQs
What is better a 2 stage or 3 stage snowblower? ›
For most homeowners, a good quality 2 Stage snow thrower should be more than adequate for clearing regular snowfall up to 12 inches deep. However, if you experience extensive and regular snowfall over 15-18 inches then a commercial 3 stage snow blower will be worth purchasing.
Do I really need a two-stage snow blower? ›Two-stage snow blowers are great for handling all types of snow on any surface. For example, a two-stage may be an ideal choice for those with gravel driveways, since they don't clean all the way to the ground which helps avoid pieces of gravel getting into your snow blower's auger.
Is 3 stage snow blower a gimmick? ›nope..the 3-stage is a marketing gimmick, nothing more. and they arent really "3-stage" at all.. they are 2-stage, just with a different auger design.. the "second stage", the impeller, is the same as any other snowblower..
What does a 3 stage snow blower do? ›With a patented three-stage system, the 3X clears deep snowfall up to 50% faster than a Cub Cadet® 2X® two-stage snow blower. That means you can easily and quickly remove up to 23 inches of snowfall at a comfortable pace.
What is the best month to buy a snowblower? ›The best time to buy a snowblower is in May or June after the new models are introduced. This way, you can backorder a brand new model at a discount price instead of settling for some leftover that nobody wants.
How much is a decent snow blower? ›At a typical price around $850 to $900, this blower is also a couple hundred dollars less than many comparable competitors. It can toss snow to about 40 feet, and it's the ideal machine for a paved two-car driveway (up to about 80 feet in length) and for snowfalls that are consistently in the range of 6 to 18 inches.
How much snow can a 2 stage snow blower handle? ›Two-stage snow blowers are mid-range when it comes to their ability to handle large amounts of snow. Two-stage units are equipped to handle over 18 inches of snow, and if it has correctly set up skid shoes, it can be used on most surfaces.
Do snowblowers work in wet snow? ›In wet snow, manufacturers recommend moving your snow blower in increments of one-third to one-half of its width. If you hate going that slow, you can try pausing every five feet and let your machine discharge the accumulated snow. This method will only work if the snow cover isn't too deep.
Why is my snow blower pushing snow? ›The gear box in a two stage snowblower engages the auger belt and powers the auger. If you notice it pushing more snow than throwing, you may have a damaged transmission. Check the oil fill level of the gear box often. Making sure that this is adequately filled with oil will help you determine if there are any leaks.
Is a 3X snowblower better than a 2X? ›3X™ three stage Advantages: Most powerful and efficient of the snow blower options that can help you get the job done 50% faster than the 2X two stage snow blower.
What is a 4 stage snow blower? ›
Four-stroke (four-cycle) engines are newer and have a separate compartment for oil, so you don't have to worry about mixing fuel. These engines are more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, while also giving you more torque when you need it.
How long does a snow blower last? ›Snow blowers should last for several years. Most major brands offer warranties, protecting your machine for anywhere from one to five years (or more).
What does OHV mean on a snowblower? ›Overhead Valve (OHV) Engines
smoother fuel mixture intake, quicker and more complete exhaust.
Two-stage snow blowers have power-assisted wheels which help to maneuver the snow blower and assist the user when clearing snow on slopes and large areas. Two-stage snow blowers come equipped with a variety of features to make removing snow easier, quicker and more comfortable.
How do I know if my snowblower is 2 stage? ›- Front auger scoops up the snow, then a separate fan-type impeller throws snow to the side.
- All-metal auger.
- Auger does not touch ground.
- 24-inch maximum snow depth.
- Paved, gravel, or dirt surfaces.
- Good only for even steep inclines.
Most blowers can only do around 6-9 inches of snow before they become ineffective. There are some stronger commercial ones out there that can do around 12 inches of snow, however, even the best snowblowers aren't effective beyond 16 inches of snow.
What is the difference between one stage and two stage snow blower? ›In single-stage machines, the auger cuts into the snow and blows it through a discharge chute. In two-stage models, one auger sucks up the snow and breaks it down while the other acts as an impeller moving it through the discharge chute. Two-stage gas snow blowers are powerful machines.
What is the easiest snow blower to use? ›Single-stage snow blowers are the lightest and easiest to handle. They're best for clearing mid-size areas with a snowfall of 12 inches or less and can handle both light and wet snow. On a single-stage snow blower, an auger directs the snow through a discharge chute, throwing snow up to 35 feet.
What features to look for in a snow blower? ›- Multiple Speeds. Single-stage snow blowers and some inexpensive two-stage models have only one forward speed. ...
- Single-Handed Operation. ...
- Chute Controls. ...
- Headlight. ...
- Accelerator. ...
- Electric Start. ...
- Easy-Turn Capability. ...
- Heated Handgrips.
Snow blowers are usually fuel-powered.
Single-stage snow throwers are often powered by an extension cord, which limits their use to the length of the cord and requires access to an electrical outlet.
How do I make my snowblower throw snow farther? ›
MAKE YOUR SNOWBLOWER THROW FARTHER AND NEVER ...
Do snowblowers work on ice? ›Three-stage snow blowers collect snow and ice, chop it up and then propel it away. It can chop through thick snow and ice, making it the strongest blower available. This machine is built to power through the thickest snow and ice.
Should I spray Pam on my snowblower? ›A. Yes, it will prevent snow from sticking to the surface.
How do I keep snow from clogging my snowblower? ›How to keep snow from clogging your snowblower - YouTube
Why does my snowblower not throw snow very far? ›A clogged chute won't throw snow very far. If the chute isn't clogged, check the augers and auger drive system. A damaged auger blade can't push snow through the shoot, and broken shear pins keep sections of the auger from spinning.
Can you use WD 40 on a snowblower? ›Big Jobs Call for a Snowblower
Then a snowblower is the way to go. Be sure there is at least 1 ½ inches of snow on the ground. This Old House recommends spraying the exit chute with a silicone (like WD-40® Specialist® Water Resistant Silicone Lubricant) to keep snow from sticking.
Go ahead a place your hand on each auger in turn, they may move slightly, that's normal but should not be free to spin.
How do you lubricate a snowblower? ›HOW-TO Grease A Snowblower Transmission - YouTube
Can you use a snow blower on gravel driveway? ›Can a snowblower be used on gravel driveways? The short answer to this question is yes; snow blowers can work on gravel driveways. Snowblowers are machines, designed in a way similar to mini-tractors or lawnmowers and can effectively do the heavy lifting, especially when you have a massive snowfall.
Where is Cub Cadet snow blower made? ›Since 1961, Cub Cadet lawn and garden equipment has been proudly Built in America at our world-class manufacturing facilities in Ohio, Mississippi and Tennessee. Cub Cadet's innovative products are designed and engineered in Valley City, Ohio — the headquarters of its global operation.
How do I know if my snowblower is 2 or 4 cycle? ›
The easiest way to tell a 2-cycle engine from a 4-cycle engine is the number of fuel tank and/or oil sump fill ports. A 2-cycle engine has one fill port with a cap that has fuel pump and oil can icon.
Whats the difference in stages of a snow blower? ›The Difference Between 1, 2 and 3 Stage Snow Blowers - YouTube
Is Ariens a good snow blower? ›Our best overall pick is the Ariens Deluxe 28 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower, a powerful and reliable gas-powered snow blower that can tackle almost anything.
Do you need to grease snowblower auger? ›BEFORE YOU GREASE YOUR SNOWBLOWER AUGERS, WATCH ...
How often should you change the gear oil in a snowblower? ›Over time, the heat, dirt and agitated air in your engine's crankcase can make the oil dark and dirty. Older oil loses the ability to coat and protect vital engine parts. That's why Toro recommends changing the engine oil at least once a year, and after the first two hours on new snow blowers.
How often should you change snowblower belts? ›Snowblower belts start to wear out after 5 to 7 years, and should be replaced. You can save money by doing the job yourself.
What is a 4 stage snow blower? ›Four-stroke (four-cycle) engines are newer and have a separate compartment for oil, so you don't have to worry about mixing fuel. These engines are more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, while also giving you more torque when you need it.
What is the difference in snow blower stages? ›In two-stage models, one auger sucks up the snow and breaks it down while the other acts as an impeller moving it through the discharge chute. Two-stage gas snow blowers are powerful machines. If you live in an area with heavy wet snow or have large areas to clear, a two-stage snow blower is ready for the job.
What does a 2 stage snowblower mean? ›Two-stage snow blowers have power-assisted wheels which help to maneuver the snow blower and assist the user when clearing snow on slopes and large areas. Two-stage snow blowers come equipped with a variety of features to make removing snow easier, quicker and more comfortable.
How many inches of snow can a snow blower handle? ›Single-stage snow blowers typically max out at a depth of 6 to 9 inches, and even the strongest machines will struggle when snow is more than 16 inches deep.
What is the easiest snow blower to use? ›
Single-stage snow blowers are the lightest and easiest to handle. They're best for clearing mid-size areas with a snowfall of 12 inches or less and can handle both light and wet snow. On a single-stage snow blower, an auger directs the snow through a discharge chute, throwing snow up to 35 feet.
Why is my snow blower pushing snow? ›The gear box in a two stage snowblower engages the auger belt and powers the auger. If you notice it pushing more snow than throwing, you may have a damaged transmission. Check the oil fill level of the gear box often. Making sure that this is adequately filled with oil will help you determine if there are any leaks.
How do I know if my snowblower is 2 or 4 cycle? ›The easiest way to tell a 2-cycle engine from a 4-cycle engine is the number of fuel tank and/or oil sump fill ports. A 2-cycle engine has one fill port with a cap that has fuel pump and oil can icon.
Do snowblowers work in wet snow? ›In wet snow, manufacturers recommend moving your snow blower in increments of one-third to one-half of its width. If you hate going that slow, you can try pausing every five feet and let your machine discharge the accumulated snow. This method will only work if the snow cover isn't too deep.
What's the difference between a snowblower and a snow thrower? ›Snow blowers are usually fuel-powered.
Single-stage snow throwers are often powered by an extension cord, which limits their use to the length of the cord and requires access to an electrical outlet.
- Front auger scoops up the snow, then a separate fan-type impeller throws snow to the side.
- All-metal auger.
- Auger does not touch ground.
- 24-inch maximum snow depth.
- Paved, gravel, or dirt surfaces.
- Good only for even steep inclines.
MAKE YOUR SNOWBLOWER THROW FARTHER AND NEVER ...
Do snowblowers work on ice? ›Three-stage snow blowers collect snow and ice, chop it up and then propel it away. It can chop through thick snow and ice, making it the strongest blower available. This machine is built to power through the thickest snow and ice.