We’ve broken the best single-stage gas snow blowers available today. Our best efforts have been made to take into account performance, durability, and price. We’ve also included a “Budget Pick” for those looking to save money. All recommendations are residential models that are 26-inch width or less. These are the most popular choices and what most homeowners use.
This list is the opinion of one man. You should research other sites like Consumer Reports before making a final decision. This top single-stage snow blower list will be updated regularly to reflect changes made in products.
Ranking Breakdown
Toro SnowMaster 724 QXE
For anything under a foot, this snow blower will handle it with ease. At 24-inches wide, its powered by a 212cc Toro OHV engine. It has a cutting depth of 16 inches and an all-steel auger that spins 10 times faster than your average 2-stage snow blower. This allows for an impressive 30-35 foot throwing distance.
The Personal Pace system works like an automatic transmission to self-propel you at your own speed. This is much easier than having to shift gears, although it can make it more difficult to use on steep inclines. While there is no power steering, Toro has their “automatic steering” which locks the inside wheel making it easier to maneuver. You even get an electric start option and a joystick chute control that can be used with one hand.
Price is where the SnowMaster 724 QXE shines. It has the power and features of a two-stage snow blower but at a single-stage price. Perfect choice for those who receive light to moderate snow in their area.
Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE
This snow blower is nearly identical to the Toro SnowMaster 724 QXE listed above. The only difference is it has a considerably stronger engine. With its 252cc Toro OHV engine, it will power through a few more inches of snow at a time for around $100 more. You’ll also fare better with the heavy piles at the end of the driveway.
The SnowMaster 824 QXE is unique in that it has the strongest single-stage engine on the market. There really aren’t any similar models from competitors. A great choice for those who can’t decide between a single-stage and two-stage snow blower.
Briggs & Stratton 1222EE
Briggs & Stratton gives a nice 250cc engine that generates a lot of power. It’s arguably my favorite single-stage snow blower when it comes to wetter snow and ice. Their metal auger has serrated edges that work well in chewing up anything under 8-10 inches down to the surface. If you’re on the East Coast and don’t have the budget for a two-stage to handle the heavy snow, this is a nice compromise.
Chute controls are motorized which is unique. Works great and you won’t have to stop moving. Although I do wonder how that will hold up over time. The auger-propelled drive system works well. This Briggs & Stratton comes with electric start and 2 big headlights too.
Toro Power Clear 721 E
This budget-friendly option from Toro features the same 212cc OHV 4-cycle engine found in their SnowMaster models. Its a quality Toro engine that will hold up over time. It’s a bit lighter and has a 21 inch clearance width alongside 12.5 inch snow cut depth. Snow will throw around 30 feet in the best conditions.
The lower price means less features. Instead of a true self-propel mechanism, the Power Clear 721 E uses the rotors contact with the ground to push the machine forward. It works well. The chute requires leaning over or walking to the front to change direction. It’s the models biggest flaw. On the other hand, you do get electric start.
The Power Clear 721 E should handle between 8-10 inches. It will struggle with compacted snow at the end of the driveway. With the auger touching the ground, it clears the snow right down to the surface. This is a great lower priced thrower for those who get around 30-40 inches of snow a year.
Briggs & Stratton 1022E – BUDGET CHOICE
This machine is a great value. You get a nice Briggs & Stratton 4-cycle engine that will cut through 10 inches of snow efficiently. Solid throwing distance and its rubber tipped auger clears the surface well. Their unique serrated auger design makes this strong when it comes to ice.
Its auger propelled and comes with an electric start option. The chute rotation works well although can be a bit clunky. This is a great choice for areas with light to moderate snowfall totals and a paved surface.
Also check out our ranking of the best two-stage snow blowers available.
