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Buying guide · 13 min read · Updated 2026-11-06

Best 26 Inch Snow Blowers (2026)

Five 26 inch two-stage gas snow blowers compared on engine size, intake height, drive, auger design and the ownership details that matter in winter.

James MillerBy James MillerLead Machine Editor5 machines comparedSpec-sheet verified
Best 26 Inch Snow Blowers

At a glance

Our top picks

Side by side

Spec comparison

MachineEngineClearing widthDriveIntake height
YARDMAX YB6770 26 in 212cc Two-Stage Snow BlowerBest OverallYARDMAX YB6770 26 in 212cc Two-Stage Snow Blower212cc26 in6 forward, 2 reversen/a
PowerSmart 26 in 252cc Self-Propelled Snow BlowerBest PowerPowerSmart 26 in 252cc Self-Propelled Snow Blower252cc gas26 in6 forward, 2 reverse20 in
PowerSmart 26 in 208cc Briggs and Stratton Snow BlowerBest Briggs EnginePowerSmart 26 in 208cc Briggs and Stratton Snow Blower208cc Briggs and Stratton 950 series26 inVariable speed, forward and reverse20 in
PowerSmart BS26 26 in 208cc Briggs Snow BlowerBest Anti-ClogPowerSmart BS26 26 in 208cc Briggs Snow Blower208cc Briggs and Stratton 4-cycle26 inn/a20 in
AMERISUN 26 in 212cc Self-Propelled Snow BlowerBest ValueAMERISUN 26 in 212cc Self-Propelled Snow Blower212cc 4-cycle OHV26 in6 forward, 2 reverse20 in

A 26 inch two-stage snow blower sits just above the common residential size, trading a bit more width for a bigger machine to store and handle. At this size nearly every model is gas, so the real differences hide in the engine, the drive system and how the auger is built.

This guide explains what the engine rating, intake height and auger shape each do to snow, and which details predict long-term reliability. The quick picks sit above, and the detailed reviews below show which machine suits which driveway.

Before you buy

6 Criteria to Look For Before Buying a 26 Inch Snow Blower

  1. 01

    Engine size and brand

    Displacement sets how much torque the auger gets, and bigger is better in wet, dense snow. A smaller engine in a well-built machine can still beat a larger one in a flimsy one. A common mistake is trusting horsepower numbers that are not rated to a standard. The PowerSmart 252cc has the biggest displacement here, while the Briggs 208cc models trade size for parts support.

  2. 02

    Intake height and width

    A 26 inch width cuts a wide path, but the intake height decides how deep a drift fits. Every machine here shows 20 inches where stated, so real snow depth sets the limit. Tall plow piles at the street often exceed what a 20 inch intake can swallow in one pass, so take them in layers.

  3. 03

    Auger and gear case build

    Serrated augers bite into hard windrows, while smooth augers suit fresh snow. The gear case takes the shock when snow is dense or a shear pin breaks. Aluminum cases with alloy gears last longer than plastic. The YARDMAX documents serrated augers and an aluminum gear case, a rarity at this size.

  4. 04

    Drive system

    Fixed gears give predictable pace, and variable speed gives smoother control. Reverse matters for backing out of dead ends. The YARDMAX, AMERISUN and PowerSmart 252cc list 6 forward and 2 reverse, while the Briggs PowerSmart models use variable speed. Wheel traction depends on tires and, for the YARDMAX, a pin-lock axle.

  5. 05

    Starting and cold-weather comfort

    Electric start helps in deep cold, but the 120 volt type needs an outlet and cord. Recoil backup is a real asset when power fails. Heated grips make a difference after twenty minutes at fifteen degrees. The YARDMAX has both electric and recoil start plus heated grips.

  6. 06

    Warranty and support

    A snow blower must start on the first storm after months of storage. A longer warranty and nearby parts support reduce risk. The PowerSmart BS26 states a two-year warranty and US-based service, while engine brands such as Briggs and Stratton have wide dealer networks.

Detailed reviews

The 5 best 26 inch snow blowers, explained

01
YARDMAX YB6770 26 in 212cc Two-Stage Snow Blower
212cc engine6 forward 2 reverseSerrated augersHeated grips
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Best for: Owners facing hard-packed plow windrows who want serrated augers and a sturdy gear case.

The YB6770 stands out for its mechanical details. Serrated steel augers cut into hard-packed snow and ice, which matters where a municipal plow leaves a frozen windrow at the end of the driveway. Axe-shaped housing sides help it chop into stubborn piles, and a high-speed impeller with an extended chute is designed to keep discharge tight and reduce blowback.

The heavy-duty aluminum gear case with alloy steel gears and synthetic gear oil is the part that predicts long life, since the drive train takes the abuse when snow is dense. A pin-lock axle gives two-wheel drive for traction or one-wheel drive for turning, a practical feature the PowerSmart models do not list. Compared with the PowerSmart 252cc, it has a smaller engine at 212cc but better-documented construction.

Ownership is straightforward: push-button start with a recoil backup, heated grips and a cup holder dashboard make long sessions comfortable. Stabilize fuel, change oil each season and carry spare shear pins. It suits owners who face packed snow and want durable hardware.

What works

  • Serrated augers cut into hard-packed snow and ice
  • Aluminum gear case with alloy steel gears resists wear
  • Pin-lock axle switches between two-wheel and one-wheel drive
  • Electric start plus recoil backup and heated grips

Watch out for

  • Engine displacement is smaller than the 252cc PowerSmart
  • Heavier and larger to store than 24 inch machines
  • Gas upkeep of fuel, oil and shear pins applies

Spec sheet

Engine
212cc
Clearing width
26 in
Drive
6 forward, 2 reverse
Augers
Serrated steel
Gear case
Aluminum, alloy steel gears
Starting
Push-button electric, recoil backup
02
PowerSmart 26 in 252cc Self-Propelled Snow Blower
252cc engine26 in wide20 in intake2650 lb/min
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Best for: Large driveways with heavy wet snow where extra engine torque keeps the auger turning.

This PowerSmart carries the largest engine in the group at 252cc, with a claimed throughput of 2650 pounds per minute. That extra displacement gives more torque to turn the auger in dense, wet snow without bogging. An all-steel auger and high-speed steel impeller move the snow, with a throw up to 45 feet.

It offers 120 volt electric start, a remote deflector control and a one-hand 180 degree chute, with 13 inch rubber tires and adjustable steel skid shoes. The maker claims it clears a 16-car driveway, a useful scale compared with the 12 parking spaces claimed by the AMERISUN. Against the YARDMAX it has more engine but less documented gear case construction.

The 120 volt start needs an extension cord, so keep one with the machine. Use fresh stabilized fuel, change oil each season and watch the shear pins. It fits big driveways with heavy, wet snow.

What works

  • 252cc engine is the largest here for heavy wet snow
  • Claims 2650 pounds per minute of throughput
  • Remote deflector and one-hand 180 degree chute
  • Adjustable steel skid shoes protect paving

Watch out for

  • Electric start needs an extension cord and outlet
  • Gear case construction is less detailed than the YARDMAX
  • 20 inch intake is not taller than the others

Spec sheet

Engine
252cc gas
Clearing width
26 in
Intake height
20 in
Throughput
2650 lb/min claimed
Drive
6 forward, 2 reverse
Throw distance
Up to 45 ft
03
PowerSmart 26 in 208cc Briggs and Stratton Snow Blower
208cc Briggs2700 lb/minHandle warmerVariable speed
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Best for: Buyers who want a recognized engine brand and smooth variable speed drive.

This version pairs the 26 inch housing with a 208cc Briggs and Stratton 950 series snow engine, a name many owners trust for parts and service availability. The claimed 2700 pounds per minute is higher than the 252cc PowerSmart's 2650 on paper, a reminder that these throughput figures are manufacturer estimates.

It uses a variable speed drive instead of fixed gears, so you can fine tune pace smoothly rather than hunting for a gear. Steel construction covers the housing, frame, deflector and chute, and 13 inch snow tires add traction. A handle warmer keeps hands comfortable in deep cold.

Because the engine is a recognized brand, spare parts such as plugs and filters are easy to source. Run stabilized fuel, change the oil each season and keep spare shear pins. It suits owners who value engine brand over raw displacement.

What works

  • Briggs and Stratton snow engine has broad parts support
  • Variable speed drive allows smooth pace adjustment
  • Handle warmer eases long sessions in the cold
  • Steel housing, frame, deflector and chute

Watch out for

  • Smaller 208cc displacement than the 252cc PowerSmart
  • Throughput numbers are manufacturer estimates
  • Lacks the serrated augers of the YARDMAX

Spec sheet

Engine
208cc Briggs and Stratton 950 series
Clearing width
26 in
Intake height
20 in
Throughput
2700 lb/min claimed
Drive
Variable speed, forward and reverse
Handles
Handle warmer
04
PowerSmart BS26 26 in 208cc Briggs Snow Blower
208cc BriggsAnti-clog augerHand warmerLED light
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Best for: Owners who want an anti-clog auger and US repair support on a Briggs engine.

The BS26 uses a 208cc Briggs and Stratton engine with an auger designed to cut through snow and direct it away from the chute, reducing clogs. It includes a heated handle, LED light and one-hand 180 degree chute control, with self-propelled forward and reverse drive.

It is the same size as the other 208cc machine in this guide, with a stated two-year warranty and US-based support. The data does not list speed settings or throughput, so it is harder to compare directly with the AMERISUN's six speeds.

Upkeep is standard small-engine care. Stabilize fuel, change oil each season, check shear pins and keep the chute clear. It is a reasonable choice for buyers who want the anti-clog design and local support.

What works

  • Auger directs snow away from the chute to reduce clogging
  • Briggs and Stratton engine with US service support
  • Heated handle and LED light add winter comfort
  • One-hand 180 degree chute control

Watch out for

  • Speed count and throughput are not stated
  • Warranty is only two years
  • Lacks the serrated augers of the YARDMAX

Spec sheet

Engine
208cc Briggs and Stratton 4-cycle
Clearing width
26 in
Intake height
20 in
Starting
Electric start
Warranty
2 years
Extras
LED light, heated handle
05
AMERISUN 26 in 212cc Self-Propelled Snow Blower
212cc OHV6 forward 2 reverseLED headlight12 parking spaces
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Best for: Suburban owners with ordinary snowfall who want a simple, complete gas machine.

The AMERISUN is a plain, sensible gas machine: a 212cc four-cycle overhead-valve engine, 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, a headlight and push-button electric start. The maker claims it can clear driveways up to 12 parking spaces and up to 12 inches of snow, which frames it as a typical suburban driveway tool.

It shares a 20 inch intake with the PowerSmart models, and its 45 foot throw matches theirs. Adjustable skid shoes protect both paved and gravel driveways, and 13 inch snow tires give traction on slush.

Upkeep is the same as any gas blower: fresh stabilized fuel, an oil change every season and spare shear pins. It is the sensible pick if snow is moderate and you want to keep the spending low.

What works

  • Six forward and two reverse speeds give good control
  • Push-button start with an LED headlight
  • Adjustable skid shoes work on pavement and gravel
  • Claims up to a 12 parking space driveway

Watch out for

  • 212cc engine is smaller than the 252cc PowerSmart
  • No serrated augers for packed windrows
  • Lacks the heated grips of the YARDMAX

Spec sheet

Engine
212cc 4-cycle OHV
Clearing width
26 in
Intake height
20 in
Drive
6 forward, 2 reverse
Throw distance
Up to 45 ft
Capacity claim
Up to 12 in, 12 parking spaces

Spec sheet decoder

What the numbers on the box really mean

The specs manufacturers lead with, translated into what they tell you about real-world performance.

Engine cc

Displacement is the volume the cylinder sweeps. More displacement generally gives more torque at the auger.

Watch forListings range from 208cc to 252cc. Differences are modest, so build quality should decide.

Lbs per minute

A throughput claim estimating how much snow the machine can move in a minute under ideal conditions.

Watch forThe Briggs PowerSmart claims 2700 while the 252cc claims 2650, so the figure is not a ranking.

Intake height

The vertical opening at the front, limiting how deep a drift fits.

Watch forAt 20 inches for most here, it caps how tall a snowbank you can attack at once.

Serrated auger

An auger with toothed edges that bite into compacted snow rather than pushing it.

Watch forOnly the YARDMAX documents this feature among these five.

Electric start voltage

A 120 volt start motor runs from household power through a cord, so no battery is needed.

Watch forWithout an outlet nearby, you rely on the recoil. Check which machines include a backup.

Methodology

How We Evaluated These 26 Inch Snow Blowers

Auger and housing

We compared auger design, housing and gear case details. The YARDMAX's serrated augers and aluminum gear case ranked first.

Engine capacity and brand

We weighed displacement against brand and parts support. The 252cc PowerSmart led on size and the Briggs 208cc models on service.

Drive and control

We looked at gears, variable speed, reverse and axle design. The YARDMAX pin-lock axle and six-speed drives were rated above simple variable models.

Cold-weather features

We checked starting method, heated grips and lighting. Models with both electric and recoil start gained credit.

Warranty and support

We compared stated warranties and service. The BS26's two years and the engine brand networks were noted.

Decision guide

How to Choose the Right 26 Inch Snow Blowers

By Snow Type

Your snowPickWhy
Hard-packed windrowsYARDMAX YB6770Serrated augers and axe-shaped sides
Heavy wet snowPowerSmart 252ccLargest engine for torque
Mixed ordinary snowAMERISUN 26Six speeds, simple build
Clog-prone slushPowerSmart BS26Anti-clog auger design
Want parts supportPowerSmart 208cc BriggsRecognized engine brand

By Budget

Budget tierPickWhat you get
Least expensiveAMERISUN 26Complete basic machine
Lower middlePowerSmart BS26Briggs engine, heated handle
MiddlePowerSmart 208cc BriggsVariable speed, handle warmer
UpperPowerSmart 252ccBiggest engine here
HighestYARDMAX YB6770Durable gear case, serrated augers

Fixed Gears vs Variable Speed

Fixed gears

Six forward and two reverse speeds give repeatable pace. Includes the YARDMAX, AMERISUN and PowerSmart 252cc.

Variable speed

A smooth lever adjusts pace continuously with no gear hunting. Includes the PowerSmart 208cc Briggs and BS26.

Choose fixed gears for repeatability and variable for fine control on slopes.

Starting and Comfort

PreferencePickWhy
Backup if power failsYARDMAX YB6770Electric plus recoil start
Heated handsPowerSmart 208cc BriggsHandle warmer included
Night clearingAMERISUN 26LED headlight
Cordless feelPowerSmart BS26Electric start and heated handle

For Long Sloped Driveways Specifically

Look for

Traction, a pin-lock or good tires and enough torque to climb with snow loaded in the housing.

In this comparison

The YARDMAX YB6770 with its pin-lock axle and the PowerSmart 252cc with six forward speeds are best suited.

When to Spend More

Spend more if

You face packed snow or steep grades. The YARDMAX YB6770 and PowerSmart 252cc add durability and torque.

Save if

Snow is moderate and the driveway flat. The AMERISUN 26 handles it for less.

Ownership

Maintenance schedule

The upkeep that decides whether this machine lasts two seasons or ten.

TaskIntervalWhy it matters
Replace shear pinsWhen broken, keep sparesThey protect the gearbox from jams. Spares avoid downtime mid-storm.
Change engine oilEach seasonCold starts contaminate oil. Fresh oil protects the engine.
Stabilize fuelEnd of winterEthanol gas degrades in storage. Stabilizer prevents carburetor gum.
Check tire pressureBefore first stormSoft tires lose traction. Correct pressure keeps the drive effective.
Inspect scraper and skid shoesEach seasonWorn shoes expose the housing to pavement. Adjust or replace them for clean scraping.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 26 inches too big for my garage?

It is larger than a 24 inch machine, but most garages fit it. Check the folded height and handle width before buying.

Are the AMERISUN and PowerSmart interchangeable?

They are close in engine class and drive. Differences are in intake documentation, gearing and warranty.

What is the difference between 208cc and 252cc?

The larger engine produces more torque for dense snow. A 208cc engine suits ordinary driveways.

Do I need heated grips?

They are a comfort, not a necessity. In long cold sessions they reduce fatigue noticeably.

Is the PowerSmart 26 inch a Briggs and Stratton?

Some versions are, such as the 208cc models in this guide. Others use a PowerSmart 252cc engine, so check the specific listing.

How do I keep it from clogging?

Clear snow after use, keep the chute clean and avoid very wet snow at high speed. Serrated and anti-clog augers help.

Bottom line

The short version

Browse more 26 inch snow blowerson Amazon →
James Miller, Lead Machine Editor

About the author

James Miller

Lead Machine Editor, MachineFanatic

James Miller leads MachineFanatic's buying guides, turning spec sheets, manuals and owner feedback into clear verdicts on power tools, outdoor power equipment, shop machines and kitchen machines.

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