Head-to-head · Best Snow Blowers

Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO vs Cub Cadet 2X 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.

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The short answer

Cub Cadet 2X IntelliPower Snow Blower comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.0 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about users needing traction on challenging surfaces like gravel — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Snow Blowers

Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO

4.0

3 sourcesall derived

The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO is a high-capacity, durable walk-behind snow blower with a powerful 306 cc engine that throws snow effectively in various conditions. Its Auto-Turn steering system makes maneuvering easy, though it takes some time to get used to. The machine offers good traction and a robust chute control mechanism. While the first gear is faster than typical models and the chute rotation requires reaching over the dash, the snow blower provides excellent value for its price point. It's best suited for users who need reliable performance in heavy or wet snow conditions.

Strengths

— 306 cc engine provides plenty of power for the size and throws snow very far
— Auto-Turn (automatic) steering is easy to use and makes turning simple
— Good traction on various surfaces including snow plow drifts

Watch-outs

— First gear is faster than most, requiring adjustment period for users
— Chute rotation requires reaching over the dash to turn crank, which may be uncomfortable for shorter users

Buy at ramersmallengine.com Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Snow Blowers

Cub Cadet 2X IntelliPower Snow Blower

4.5

4 sourcesall derived

The Cub Cadet 2X IntelliPower Snow Blower features a 272cc IntelliPOWER engine designed for consistent performance in challenging winter conditions. Reviewers noted its track drive system provides excellent traction on slopes and gravel, while the trigger-controlled power steering and self-propelled drive enable single-hand operation. The heated grips offer improved comfort during cold weather use. However, the unit was out of stock at the time of review, and its 40-foot snow throwing distance may be limited for larger areas.

Strengths

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

Watch-outs

— Out of stock at time of review
— Limited snow throwing distance of 40 ft. with 21 in. intake height

Buy at homedepot.com Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO

The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO delivers a powerful 306 cc engine and excellent snow-throwing distance, outperforming the Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE in throwing capability. However, it's more expensive and less maneuverable than the EGO Power+ models, which offer battery convenience and lighter weight.

Cub Cadet 2X IntelliPower Snow Blower

The Cub Cadet 2X IntelliPower Snow Blower offers track drive for superior traction on gravel and slopes, a feature not found in the Toro models, which are limited to paved surfaces. However, it's less powerful than the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO and has a shorter throwing distance compared to the EGO models.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO	Cub Cadet 2X IntelliPower Snow Blower
Model	921072	31AH5IVTB10
Clearing Width	28 in	26 in
Engine	306 cc	272cc 4-cycle OHV IntelliPOWER
Power Source	Gas	Gas
Type	Two-Stage	Two-Stage
Drive	Disc-O-Matic	Track
Weight	267.5 lbs.	—
Cutting width	—	28 in.
Motor type	—	4 Cycle

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