Head-to-head · Best Snow Blowers

Toro Power Max 824 Snow Blower vs Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE

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

Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.8 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about users wanting smart controls and smooth operation — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Snow Blowers

Toro Power Max 824 Snow Blower

3.8

$1,299

The Toro Power Max 824 OE 24-inch Snow Blower delivers strong performance for heavy snow removal, according to Top Ten Reviews' testing in Utah's demanding conditions. It features a powerful 252 cc engine, self-propelling mechanism, and intuitive controls. The review noted that while the machine is durable and effective, assembly requires significant time and the joystick chute control needs adjustment period. This snow blower is ideal for users needing reliable performance in substantial snow conditions.

Strengths

— Powerful snow-clearing capability
— 24-inch clearing width
— Self-propelling feature

Watch-outs

— Assembly took about an hour
— Joystick chute control sensitivity took some getting used to

$1,299 · Buy at toro.com Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Snow Blowers

Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE

4.7

$1,199

The Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE delivers strong performance with its 252cc engine and innovative Personal Pace system that matches user walking speed. Reviewers praised its ability to throw snow 45 feet and handle various snow conditions effectively. The Quick Stick chute control was highlighted as particularly user-friendly. However, some users noted the machine's weight can be problematic in deep or hard snow, and it's not designed for turf or gravel surfaces. This snow blower is ideal for homeowners with moderate to heavy snowfall needing efficient clearing without the complexity of traditional two-stage models.

Strengths

— Powerful 252cc OHV 4-cycle engine with electric start throws snow up to 45 feet
— Personal Pace® Self-Propel System matches walking speed for better traction and control
— Quick Stick® chute control allows single-motion direction changes

Watch-outs

— Weight can cause issues in deep or hard snow conditions
— Not recommended for turf or gravel surfaces per manufacturer

$1,199 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Toro Power Max 824 Snow Blower

The Toro Power Max 824 offers a self-propelling feature and electric start, similar to the Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE, but lacks the intuitive Quick Stick chute control and Personal Pace system that make the SnowMaster 824 QXE more user-friendly. It also doesn't match the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO's powerful engine or throwing distance, though it's more straightforward to assemble than the Ariens model.

Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE

The Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE excels with its Personal Pace self-propel system and Quick Stick chute control, features not found in the EGO or Ariens models. While it doesn't match the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO's engine power or throwing distance, it provides better maneuverability and user comfort, especially in moderate snow conditions.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Toro Power Max 824 Snow Blower	Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE
Type	Two-stage	Single stage
Clearing Width	24 inches	24 in
Engine	252 cc	252cc OHV 4-cycle
Drive Type	Self-Propelled	Rear-wheel drive
Chute Control	Quick Stick®	Quick Stick® chute control
Weight	184 lbs	Approximately 200 lbs
Clearing Height	12 inches	—

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