The Ultimate Snow Blower Buying Guide
So, you’re ready to hang up the shovel and experience the ease and convenience of a snow blower but picking your ideal snow blower is proving to be a challenge. We’ve got you covered.
If you’re wondering what you need to know to make the best decision for you, the ultimate snow blower buying guide will help you make the right choice this winter.
Last updated on: October 27, 2025
Table of Contents
- Why choose a snow blower?
- What should I consider before purchasing a new snow blower?
- When is the best time to buy a snow blower?
- Where is the best place to buy a Cub Cadet® snow blower?
- What is the difference between a single-stage snow blower, two-stage snow blower and three-stage snow blower?
- Do snow blowers work on wet and heavy snow?
- What is the best snow blower type for my needs?
- How much should I pay for a snow blower?
- What is the life expectancy of a snow blower?
- What should I look for when buying a snow blower?
- What features should I consider when buying a snow blower?
- Why choose a Cub Cadet® snow blower?
- Can you put a Cub Cadet® snow blower attachment on a lawn tractor?
- What snow blower is best for...?
1. Why choose a snow blower?
Shovelling snow is a tough job that can become a regular part of your daily routine if you live in a place where snowfall is heavy and frequent. Demanding heavy lifting and repetitive strain, there are legitimate reasons to ditch your shovel in favour of a snow blower. If you’re looking to justify a snow blower purchase, consider the following:
Save your energy
Shovelling snow causes heavy lifting and twisting, which increases the risk of injury. A Cub Cadet® snow blower can help reduce the risk of this type of injury by minimizing strenuous motions.
Save time
You clear your driveway because you have places to be. A two-hour job for a manual shovel can become a quick job with a snow blower, which means you can spend less time sweating in your driveway and more time where you need to be.
Make snow clearing fun
It can be satisfying to move an entire driveway’s worth of heavy snow in a swift and easy motion to create a clear, snow-free path. Cub Cadet® snow blowers can help turn hard work into satisfying and enjoyable work.
Be a neighbourhood hero
Efficient snow clearing can mean having the time and energy to lend a favour to a neighbour. If you don’t purchase a snow blower to help save your energy, save time or to make snow clearing fun, buy one to do more friendly favours for neighbours.
2. What should I consider before purchasing a new snow blower?
Purchasing a snow blower can feel overwhelming; from machine type to the features and accessories, there is a lot to think about, but it really comes down to the job at hand. To find the best snow blower for your needs, here are four things you should consider when buying a snow blower.
How large is the area that you’ll need to clear?
Cub Cadet® single-stage snow blowers are designed to handle small to midsize driveways between 6–8 parking spaces, Cub Cadet® two-stage machines are engineered for large areas between 8–15 spaces, and Cub Cadet® three-stage snow blowers are built to clear areas with 15+ spaces.
What type of terrain are you clearing snow from?
Even if you are looking to clear a small to midsize area that would usually be best suited for a single-stage model, uneven terrain can make a two-stage or three-stage snow blower a better choice. So, what’s below the snow: a solid and even paved surface (consider an auger-assisted or push-propelled machine) or is it a rough or sloped surface (consider an engine-driven model)?
How much snowfall do you typically get?
Up to eight inches of typically powdery snow can be considered “light,” while up to 16 inches of wet snow can be considered “heavy.” Single-stage snow blowers are designed to clear light snow. Two-stage and three-stage snow blowers plow deep snow with serrated augers designed to break packed snow and ice.
What do you need from your snow blower?
Once you’ve determined your basic snow-clearing needs, think about your needs as the operator to help identify any features or accessories that would be beneficial. For example, if the spaces you intend to clear are poorly lit, look for a model with bright headlights, like the Cub Cadet® 2X® 24" IntelliPOWER® snow blower. If you have perpetually cold hands, find a Cub Cadet® snow blower with heated grips.
3. When is the best time to buy a snow blower?
As with every one of your snow necessities, from your parka to your boots to your snow blower, it’s best to think about buying before you’re snowed in and in desperate need. Shopping for a snow blower before the official snow season (in September or October) doesn’t just mean that you may be prepared for an imminent blizzard though — you might even be able to snag a pre-season sale.
4. Where is the best place to buy a Cub Cadet snow blower?
Where you should buy your snow blower depends on a range of factors, including where you live and how much help you need to find the right machine. Generally, you have three options:
Independent Dealer
Independent dealers are mainly geared toward residents of rural areas. You can use our Cub Cadet® Service Locator to find an independent Cub Cadet® dealer near you. Cub Cadet® boasts a nationwide network of neighbourhood service dealers across Canada who offer expert support and advice, and parts and warranty service. Our independent dealers are your one-stop shop for Cub Cadet® snow blowers. The Cub Cadet® dealer advantage also means you can order your new snow blower online and your local dealer will prepare your machine for customer pick-up or delivery.
Mass Retailers
Big-box stores like Canadian Tire and Home Depot are mostly located in towns and cities and may be easily accessible. Cub Cadet® snow blowers, including models with IntelliPOWER® engine technology, are available for purchase at select retailers.
Online
If you’ve already decided on a snow blower, shopping online (through a manufacturer’s website, like Cub Cadet®, or a retailer website) might be your best option. It’s likely the most convenient option, assuming the model of machine you need is in stock.
5. What is the difference between a single-stage snow blower, two-stage snow blower and three-stage snow blower?
The various stages of Cub Cadet® snow blowers signify a snow blower’s steps to clear the snow. The more stages or phases a machine has, the more powerful and efficient it will be to clear snow.
Single-Stage Snow Blowers
Cub Cadet® 1X® single-stage snow blowers use one auger to break, scoop, and throw snow on small jobs like walkways and short driveways.
Two-Stage Snow Blowers
Cub Cadet® 2X® two-stage snow blowers, like the 2X® 26" HD IntelliPOWER®, use an auger to break snow and an impeller to throw it away from the path. This division of labour means more power and a farther throwing distance compared to a single-stage.
Three-Stage Snow Blowers
Cub Cadet® 3X® three-stage snow blowers, like the 3X® 30" TRAC IntelliPOWER®, use an auger to break up and draw snow, an accelerator to quickly pull snow through the machine and an impeller to throw snow up and away from the area. Cub Cadet® three-stage snow blowers are built to help you get the job done quickly.
6. Do snow blowers work on wet and heavy snow?
Yes, snow blowers are designed to handle wet and heavy snow, but certain types of machines perform better than others.
Cub Cadet® two-stage and three-stage snow blowers are ideal for this kind of snow because they’re designed to deliver more power and clearing capacity than one-stage machines. The augers on these snow blower models are built to break down wet snow before the impeller throws it out of the chute, helping to prevent clogging.
Select Cub Cadet® 2X® and 3X® snow blowers are also equipped with IntelliPOWER® technology that’s designed to reduce bogging down while clearing heavy, wet and deep snow when compared to the same engine without IntelliPOWER® technology. These snow blowers are engineered to give you reliable, consistent performance.
Digital throttle controls on Cub Cadet® snow blowers with IntelliPOWER® optimize engine output. Various electronic inputs monitor engine speed and temperature and allow an onboard computer to digitally control the throttle position to help maintain engine speed at a consistent pace in rough patches so you can clear snow efficiently.
7. What is the best snow blower type for my needs?
Snow blowers with more stages have the ability to clear snow more powerfully and efficiently.
Single-stage snow blowers are light, compact and easy to handle. But if you have more snow, unpaved surfaces with inclines or a long driveway, you’ll want to consider a two- or three-stage snow blower that will help clear larger volumes and/or larger areas.
Here is a summary of the different types of Cub Cadet® snow blowers and the work they are best suited for:
Find the Best Snow Blower for Your Needs*
| Engineered For... | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Cub Cadet® Snow Blower Types | Snowfall | Driveway Sizes | Surfaces |
| 1X® Single-Stage Snow Blower | Up to 6 Inches | Up to 6–8 Parking Spaces | Smooth |
| 2X® Two-Stage Snow Blower | Up to 18–23 Inches** | Up to 8–15 Parking Spaces | Smooth & Gravel |
| 3X® Three-Stage Snow Blower | Up to 23 Inches | Up to 8–15 Parking Spaces | Smooth & Gravel |
*Information provided applies to Cub Cadet® machines only.
**Only the 2X® MAX™ is capable of removing 23" of snow accumulation.
8. How much should I pay for a snow blower?
How much you should pay for a snow blower depends on your budget and the type of winter conditions you face. Cub Cadet® X Series® snow blowers offer a range of models designed for different snow types, clearing areas, and performance needs.
Single-stage models suit smaller driveways and lighter snowfalls. Two-stage models are built to handle medium to heavy snow and uneven terrain. Three-stage models are designed to deliver maximum power and efficiency for deep or compacted snow.
Additional features like IntelliPOWER® engine technology, power steering, and heated hand grips can add cost but also help improve comfort and performance in tough winter conditions.
For the most accurate and current pricing, visit the Cub Cadet® snow blower product page or contact your local Cub Cadet® dealer for details on models, promotions, and offers.
9. What is the life expectancy of a snow blower?
How long a snow blower lasts depends on the model, usage and maintenance. Cub Cadet® X Series® snow blowers are engineered to last many years when used and cared for properly.
The 1X® single-stage snow blowers are designed to handle smaller clearing jobs with lasting durability, while the 2X® and 3X® snow blowers are made to tackle heavy workloads season after season.
However, regular maintenance is crucial to the life expectancy of any snow blower. Performing oil changes, inspecting spark plugs, replacing belts, lubricating moving parts, and storing properly can help prolong a Cub Cadet® snow blower's lifespan.
Keeping the engine in good shape and using fresh fuel also play key roles in helping your machine last through many winters. Read our extensive snow blower maintenance guide for more information on getting the most out of your machine.
10. What should I look for when buying a snow blower?
Finding the best snow blower for you is based entirely on your personal needs and preferences. Here is a guide to some key snow blower specifications to look for when buying a snow blower and why they are important to consider:
Snow Blower Clearing Width
Clearing width refers to the amount of space you can cover at once. Whether you have a single-car or double-car driveway, the larger the clearing width, the fewer passes you’ll have to make to clear it.
Snow Blower Clearing Height
Whereas Cub Cadet® single-stage (1X®) snow blowers have auger paddles that come in direct contact with the ground, Cub Cadet® two-stage (2X®) snow blowers are designed with the ability to adjust the height of the auger housing depending on the type of surface you are clearing snow from. For paved surfaces, you can leave the auger at the lowest height, but if you’re clearing snow from a gravel surface, the ability to adjust height is important to clear as much snow as possible from the surface without picking up and throwing gravel onto your lawn.
Snow Blower Engine Size
Cub Cadet® snow blower engines range from 208cc to 420cc, giving you options for different clearing capacities and performance needs. Engine size determines how much power a snow blower produces and how much fuel it consumes.
Cub Cadet® offers both naturally aspirated and electronic fuel injection (EFI) engines. Models with IntelliPOWER® technology automatically adjust engine output to help maintain consistent performance in heavy, wet snow.
All Cub Cadet® snow blower engines are backed by a 1-year commercial and 3-year residential warranty, providing reliable performance and long-term peace of mind.
11. What features should I consider when buying a snow blower?
Cub Cadet® snow blowers are built to make snow clearing easy and efficient all winter long, and having the right features can help make the process even better. Here is a quick guide to snow blower features:
Electric start
Replacing pull cords, Cub Cadet® snow blowers now give you power that starts with the push of a button.
Trigger control power steering
Trigger control power steering helps operators turn Cub Cadet® two- and three-stage snow blowers easily.
Heated grips/handlebars
Heated grips on Cub Cadet® snow blowers help keep operators’ hands warm during snow clearing.
Headlights
LED headlights will illuminate your clearing path to help give you visibility in poorly lit areas.
Skid shoes
Skid shoes help Cub Cadet® snow blowers glide over surfaces and help to prevent rust on floors, driveways, and sidewalks.
Drift cutters
Drift cutters on Cub Cadet® snow blowers help prevent snow accumulation on the machine in deep snow conditions.
IntelliPOWER® Engine Technology
Available on select Cub Cadet® 2X® and 3X® snow blowers, IntelliPOWER® engine technology is designed to deliver efficient and optimal performance. IntelliPOWER® engine technology increases Cub Cadet® snow blower power by up to 18% for heavy, wet, and deep snow.*
Electronic Fuel-Injected Engines
When winter is at its worst, you need to trust your snow blower will deliver. Cub Cadet® EFI engines are designed to provide reliable starting in winter conditions. Cub Cadet® EFI engines are available with IntelliPOWER® technology on select 3X® snow blowers to help you take on heavy, deep and wet snow conditions.
*When compared to the same engine without IntelliPOWER® technology. Improvements vary depending on engine models and specific operating conditions.
12. Why choose a Cub Cadet snow blower?
Cub Cadet® is the standard for Canadians who want snow blowers that are carefully, thoughtfully, and purposefully designed. When you buy Cub Cadet®, you’re backed by our Canadian Commitment, which includes snow blowers that are designed for Canadians, bilingual customer support, and a nationwide network of local service dealers.
Cub Cadet® service dealers across Canada help customers find suitable snow blowers. The Cub Cadet® Dealer Advantage means you can get access to a wide selection of snow blowers, special offers and a place you trust when you need parts and warranty service.
Find your neighbourhood Cub Cadet® dealer using our service locator.
13. Can you put a Cub Cadet® snow blower attachment on a lawn tractor?
Yes, you can put a Cub Cadet® snow blower attachment on XT® Enduro Series™ lawn tractors, and it’s a popular option for homeowners with large driveways or properties. A three-stage snow blower attachment mounts to the front of a compatible Cub Cadet® lawn tractor, letting the tractor handle snow removal as well as lawn care.
Key things to know about lawn tractor snow blower attachments:
- A snow blower attachment connects to compatible Cub Cadet® lawn tractors for year-round use.
- Cub Cadet® lawn tractors with sufficient horsepower operate snow blower attachments effectively.
- A snow blower attachment is ideal for clearing long driveways, wide paths, or large areas.
- Wheel weights and tire chains help improve traction when using a snow blower attachment.
- Customers should check the operator’s manual or dealer to confirm attachment compatibility with their tractor model.
In short, a Cub Cadet® snow blower attachment turns an XT® Enduro Series™ lawn tractor into a multi-season machine, combining mowing in summer with snow clearing in winter.
14. What snow blower is best for...
When choosing a Cub Cadet® snow blower, it’s important to consider the ground beneath the snow. Uneven terrain or gravel can impact the type of snow blower best suited for the job. While area size should also be taken into account, here is a quick guide:
Ideal snow blower for gravel
Adjustable-height Cub Cadet® two- or three-stage snow blowers clear gravel efficiently. Cub Cadet® single-stage snow blowers clear to the ground and throw gravel with snow.
Ideal snow blower for stamped concrete
As with gravel driveways, it’s also important on stamped concrete to choose a two- or three-stage Cub Cadet® snow blower that allows you to adjust clearing height to help prevent the rotating blades from touching and damaging the concrete surface. If you do have a snow blower that makes contact with the ground, make sure it is not sharp to help avoid scratching the surface.
Ideal snow blower for a wooden deck
For wooden decks, it’s typically best to look for a lightweight and maneuverable single-stage snow blower like the Cub Cadet® 1X® LHP that has a rubber auger that is designed to help prevent damage to the deck surface.
Ideal snow blower for steep slopes or terrain
Lessening the physical effort required of the operator and maintaining strong traction are the two biggest considerations when it comes to clearing snow from slopes. Look for a lightweight, engine-driven Cub Cadet® snow blower as opposed to a push-propelled model, and consider the addition of tire chains to help maintain traction.
Ideal for ice chunk at the end of the driveway
A Cub Cadet® three-stage snow blower, like the 3X® 28" HD IntelliPOWER®, is engineered to clear ice chunks at the end of driveways efficiently.