Head-to-head · Best Snow Blowers

Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO vs Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.0 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about users needing traction on slopes and gravel — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Snow Blowers

Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO

4.0

$2,099as of May 27

The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO is praised for its powerful 306 cc engine and exceptional snow throwing capability, particularly with heavy wet snow. Reviewers noted the Auto-Turn steering system as intuitive and easy to use, though it takes some time to adjust to. The snow blower offers good traction and is built to last, making it a solid value at around $1200. However, some users reported issues with initial setup, including insufficient lubrication and misaligned components that required dealer attention. It's recommended for those seeking a high-capacity, durable snow blower rather than users wanting premium features or a less expensive option.

Strengths

— 306 cc engine with plenty of power for the size
— Excellent snow throwing distance and performance with heavy wet snow
— Auto-Turn steering is easy to use and makes turning simple

Watch-outs

— First gear is faster than expected, requiring adjustment time
— Chute rotation control requires reaching over the dash to operate

$2,099 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Snow Blowers

Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower

4.3

$2,239

The Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower features a 272cc IntelliPOWER engine designed for consistent performance in challenging snow conditions. Reviewers noted its track drive system provides reliable traction on slopes and gravel, while the trigger-controlled power steering offers single-hand operation. However, some users have reported issues with shear pins breaking under stress, and comparisons with Toro and Ariens suggest the Cub Cadet's construction feels less refined. This model targets users needing power for large driveways but may not suit those seeking the highest durability.

Strengths

— 272cc 4-cycle OHV IntelliPOWER engine delivers consistent power in heavy, deep, and wet snow conditions
— Track drive designed for traction on slopes, inclines, and gravel driveways
— Trigger-controlled power steering with self-propelled drive for control and single-hand operation

Watch-outs

— Reports of shear pins breaking when hitting obstacles like logs or firewood
— thinner metal construction compared to competitors like Toro and Ariens

$2,239 · Buy at cedarstreetonline.com Full review →

How they stack up

Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO

The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO delivers the most powerful engine in the group with 306 cc, outperforming the Toro Power Max 824 and EGO models. However, it lacks the lightweight, user-friendly features of the Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE and is not as versatile in terms of chute control compared to the Ariens Deluxe 24, which offers better maneuverability.

Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower

The Cub Cadet 2X 26 stands out with its track drive system and trigger-controlled power steering, features not found in the Toro Power Max 824 or Ariens Deluxe 24 models. However, it suffers from reported shear pin failures and thinner construction compared to the more durable Ariens and Toro models, which offer better long-term reliability.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO	Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower
Type	2-stage	Two-Stage
Clearing Width	28 in	26 inches
Engine	306 cc	272cc 4-cycle OHV IntelliPOWER
Drive Type	Disc-O-Matic	Track Drive
Chute Control	In-Dash Remote Chute/Deflector Control	Remote Overhead Crank Chute Rotation; Remote Single-Lever Chute Pitch Control
Weight	267.5 lbs.	—
Clearing Height	21 inches	23 inches

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