Single Stage vs. Two-Stage Snow Blower

When winter hits hard, a good snow blower can turn a tough job into a quick one. But with different types out there, how do you know which snow blower is right for your driveway?

The two most common options are single-stage snow blowers and two-stage snow blowers. Both clear snow effectively – but they’re built for different kinds of winters, driveways and snowfalls.

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide between a single stage vs two-stage snow blower. Let’s get started!

Think of a single-stage snow blower as your dependable everyday helper. It uses one rotating auger to scoop up snow and throw it out of the chute in a single motion. Because the auger makes direct contact with the ground, it clears snow right down to pavement – fast and clean. 

• Small to mid-sized paved driveways.
• Light to moderate snowfall (up to about 8-10 inches of snow).
• Homeowners who want something easy to handle and store.

• Light and easy to maneuver: Ideal for tight spaces and quick snowfall cleanups.
• Simple to start and operate: Straightforward controls mean no guesswork.
• Budget-friendly: Typically the most affordable snow blower option.
• Cleans to pavement: Leaves driveways and sidewalks smooth and clear.

• Not for gravel driveways: The auger can pick up stones, causing damage.
• Limited powerful: Works best on light, powdery snowfalls; wet or heavy snow can slow it down.
• Shorter throwing distance: Ideal for smaller driveway areas.

Bottom line: If you have a smaller driveway and typically have lighter snowfalls during winter, a single-stage snow blower keeps things simple, reliable and easy to store – no heavy lifting required.

When snow gets serious, a two-stage snow blower brings the muscle. It uses two parts: an auger to collect the snow and an impeller (a high-speed fan) to throw it far from your path.

This two-step process gives it the power to move deep, wet or compacted snow – and since the auger doesn’t touch the ground, it’s better suited for uneven or gravel surfaces.

• Large or long driveways.
• Areas with frequent, heavy snowfall (12 or more inches of snow).
• Uneven surfaces or gravel driveways.

• Handles heavy duty snow: Great for heavy, wet or packed drifts.
• Self-propelled drive: Moves forward on its own, reducing effort.
• Covers more ground: Wider clearing width means fewer passes.
• Throws snow farther: Keeps cleared areas open and neat.
• Built for endurance: Designed to handle long winters and big storms.

• Heavier and larger: Takes more storage space and a bit more control.
• Higher investment: Costs more upfront than single-stage models but built to last.
• More maintenance: Extra moving parts need occasional care.

Bottom line: A two-stage snow blower is for those who deal with frequent or heavy snow. It’s all about power, reach and getting through the storm quickly and efficiently.

A few quick questions can help you find the right fit:

• How much snow do you usually get?
  Light and occasional snowfall? Go single-stage snow blower. Heavy and frequent snowstorms? A two-stage snow blower is your best bet.

• What kind of driveway do you have?
  Paved, flat or small driveway? A single-stage snow blower works perfectly. Long, wide or gravel driveway? The two-stage snow blower handles it better.

• How much effort do you want to put in?
  Two-stage blowers are often self-propelled – a great option if you prefer less pushing.

• What’s your budget and storage space like?
  A single-stage snow blower is more compact and affordable; while a two-stage snow blower  is a bigger investment that pays off in power and reach. Both types of snow blowers can deliver years of reliable performance when cared for properly – so your long-term value really depends on your typical snowfall and how often you use a snow blower.

Keeping your snow blower in good shape helps it start easily and perform well all season long.

For single-stage models:
Check the rubber paddles and scraper bar for wear, keep the chute clear and inspect belts occasionally.

For two-stage models:
Lubricate the moving parts, check shear pins, inspect tires or tracks and perform regular oil and spark plug changes before storage.

With routine maintenance, most snow blowers can last for many seasons – often ten years or more – with consistent performance and reliable starts year after year. A little care goes a long way toward keeping winter hassle-free.

Choosing between a single-stage and two-stage snow blower comes down to your driveway, your snowfall and how much power you want behind the job.

If you’re dealing with light snow and smaller areas, a single-stage blower is a quick, reliable way to clear your path. But if winter hits hard and you need a snow blower that can take on big drifts without slowing down, a two-stage machine delivers the power and control to make fast work of deep snow.

Either way, the right snow blower helps you clear more snow, work less and get back inside faster.

Can a single-stage handle heavy snow?

A single-stage blower can take on moderate snowfall but will struggle in deep, wet or packed snow. If heavy snow is common where you live, a two-stage snow blower is the better choice – it’s built to handle bigger jobs with more power and control.

Is a two-stage snow blower worth it for larger driveways?

Yes. If you’re clearing long or wide driveways or get frequent heavy snowfalls, a two-stage snow blower will save you time and effort. Its self-propelled drive and dual-stage system make tough jobs easier.

Can I use a snow blower on gravel?

Caution is key. Even though two-stage snow blowers are designed to work better on gravel than single-stage models, loose stones can still get picked up and thrown. Always clear the area of large debris first and adjust the skid shoes to raise the auger slightly above the surface.

How often should I maintain my snow blower?

Check the scraper bar, belts and paddles regularly on single-stage models, and lubricate moving parts and inspect shear pins on two-stage models before each winter. Regular maintenance keeps your blower running smoothly all season long.

At Murray, we believe winter cleanup should be easy, reliable and built around real life. Whether you’re clearing a small sidewalk or tackling the end of a long driveway after a big storm, there’s a snow blower that fits your space, your snowfall and your pace.

For smaller driveways and lighter snow, the Murray 21” Single-Stage Snow Blower is compact, easy to handle and designed for quick, dependable performance on paved surfaces. When the snow piles higher and the job gets tougher, the Murray 24” Two-Stage Snow Blower delivers extra power and reach to handle deep drifts with ease.

With trusted power from Briggs & Stratton® engines and straightforward, dependable designs, Murray snow blowers help you take on winter with confidence – so you can spend less time shoveling and more time enjoying the season.

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