After a plow truck rumbles past, the snowbank at the end of your driveway can reach chest height within minutes. A single stage machine will stall, spin its wheels, or simply cave in. That is where a two stage snow blower earns its keep: it chews through frozen chunks and launches snow far onto the lawn.

We built this guide for homeowners who face lake-effect snow, long rural driveways, or frequent plow-created ridges. You will learn what to look for in a two stage snow blower for snowbanks, and our picks span gas and battery options from Ariens, Honda, EGO, PowerSmart, and more. New to the category? Start with our roundup of the best snow blowers to see how different types compare. You can also browse our Snow Blowers category for additional seasonal equipment guides.

Below is the full lineup of two stage snow blowers we evaluated for this guide. Use the comparison table to spot which models fit your clearing area, engine style, and feature preferences.

How to Choose a Two Stage Snow Blower for Snowbanks

Choosing the right snow blower for snowbanks comes down to a few measurable features. We evaluated engine displacement, auger width, chute reach, and drivetrain setup across all 15 models in the comparison. Our goal was simple: find the machines that keep moving when the snow gets deep and heavy. Every model in this guide was rated on clearing speed, drivetrain grip, and how easily it handles a heavy wet snowfall. We also considered how simple it is to start and steer when the temperature drops.

Match Intake Width and Height to Your Snowbank

Snowbanks demand a snow blower with a wide intake and a tall housing. A 24-inch intake is the practical minimum for most driveways, while a 28-inch or wider machine cuts a bigger path through deep drifts. Taller intakes let you attack a plow ridge head-on instead of making three or four passes.

Think about your driveway width and the height of the banks you typically get. If you already fight waist-high snow, step up to a 28-inch model like the Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28 in. Two-Stage. It has the width and auger speed to pull snow through quickly. Steel augers, like the one on the Poulan Pro PR241, help break up the ice that forms at the base of a plow ridge. A serrated edge makes short work of hardpack, so you are not left chipping at the same spot twice.

Prioritize Throwing Distance and Chute Control

A two stage snow blower is only as useful as its reach. For snowbanks, look for a throwing distance of at least 40 feet. That keeps you from re-clearing the same snow or dumping it back onto the driveway.

Remote chute rotation is also essential. Snowbanks force you to change direction constantly, and a 200-degree plus chute lets you aim snow away from doors, cars, and walkways. Models like the Poulan Pro PR241 and the PowerSmart 26-inch offer one-handed chute controls that make this easier. If you deal with heavy lake-effect snowfall, compare more options in our lake-effect snow guide.

Some models pair a 210-degree chute with an adjustable deflector, which is ideal for snowbanks. You can aim the stream low to keep it from drifting back, or high to clear a fence line. The PowerSmart 24-inch models and the Poulan Pro PR241 both offer this type of flexible control.

Engine Power and Starting Convenience

More snow means more strain, so choose an engine that can handle heavy loads. Most residential two stage models run from 208cc to 420cc. If you regularly clear wet, packed snow, err on the side of higher displacement.

Electric start is a near must-have for snowbanks because cold engines are harder to pull. Many gas models, including the Husqvarna ST124 and PowerSmart 24-inch, include electric start and heated grips for comfort. Battery models like the EGO Power+ 24-inch skip gas altogether but need a charged battery pack ready. Want more starting options? See our electric start snow blowers roundup.

Consider buying extra shear pins as well. A two stage snow blower that hits a hidden ice chunk or a rock buried in a snowbank will protect its auger by shearing a pin. Spare pins are cheap, and they save you from a costly repair.

Traction: Tracks vs. Wheels

Snowbanks can leave slick, uneven surfaces behind a plow. Wheeled two stage machines are lighter and easier to pivot, but they can slip on ice or when pushing deep snow. Track drive models, like the Honda track drive unit, grip better and keep moving through slush and hardpack.

If you have a long driveway with any slope, tracks are worth the extra money. On flat, paved driveways, wider wheeled models with aggressive tread, such as the Ariens Professional 28-inch, provide plenty of control. For more advice on large clearing areas, read our long driveway snow blower guide.

Tires also matter in snowbanks. Look for 14-inch or larger tires with deep tread for wheeled models. Wider tires float over snow and give you more bite when turning into a bank.

Final Thoughts

When the snow piles up in banks, your best bet is a two stage machine with enough bite and reach. For a powerful gas option with proven durability, the Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28 in. Two-Stage is hard to beat. If you prefer a quieter, no-tailpipe setup, the EGO Power+ 24″ Electric Snow Blower delivers surprising clearance for a battery model.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size two stage snow blower do I need for snowbanks?

For plow-created snowbanks, choose an intake width of at least 24 inches and a tall intake housing. A 24-inch machine handles most residential driveways, while 28-inch models are better for long or exposed driveways. The taller the intake, the fewer passes you need to knock down a chest-high bank.

Are battery two stage snow blowers strong enough for snowbanks?

Battery two stage models have closed the gap significantly. In 2026, the EGO Power+ 24-inch electric snow blower uses a two stage design that can cut through frozen plow ridges and deliver enough power for a typical storm. Just remember batteries are sold separately, so plan your runtime before the snow starts.

How far should a two stage snow blower throw snow?

For snowbanks, look for a rated throwing distance of 40 feet or more. That gives you room to toss snow over the bank instead of pushing it back into the driveway. Models with remote chute rotation make it easier to keep the discharge pointed where you want it.

Should I get a track or wheel snow blower for deep snow?

Track drive models provide better traction on ice and uneven terrain, which is helpful when pushing into a deep bank. Wheeled models are lighter and easier to maneuver on flat driveways. If your driveway slopes or you regularly clear heavy snow, a track machine is the safer bet. Pair it with a bright headlight for early morning clearing; our LED headlight snow blowers guide can help.