Head-to-head · Best Snow Blowers

Ariens Deluxe 24-Inch Snow Blower 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.

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The short answer

Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.0 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about users needing traction on slopes and gravel — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #3 in Best Snow Blowers

Ariens Deluxe 24-Inch Snow Blower

4.0

2 sourcesall derived$2,336as of May 28

The Ariens Deluxe 24-inch snow blower puts down considerably more power than older models like the 7524, with an improved drive system and larger wheels that make it easier to maneuver. Users like that it throws snow 40 feet ahead and that handwarmers are included. The interlock mechanism strikes some as awkward, and chute rotation is more limited than on previous models. Reviewers still call it a solid choice for most buyers, with the Platinum model as the upgrade for anyone who wants maximum chute adjustment.

Strengths

— More powerful engine that doesn't bog down with heavy snow
— Better drive system with larger wheels that are easier to pivot and roll
— Handwarmers provide significant comfort improvement

Watch-outs

— Interlock mechanism requires reaching across with right hand to adjust chute
— Limited chute rotation (180 degrees) compared to older models

$2,336 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Snow Blowers

Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower

4.5

3 sourcesall derived$1,449as of Aug 1

The Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower runs a 272cc IntelliPOWER engine built to hold performance in challenging snow conditions. Reviewers noted that the track drive system grips well on slopes and gravel, and that trigger-controlled power steering allows single-hand operation. Some users have reported shear pins breaking under stress, and comparisons with Toro and Ariens leave the Cub Cadet feeling less refined in construction. It targets buyers who need power for large driveways rather than those chasing 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

$1,449 · Buy at cedarstreetonline.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 24-Inch Snow Blower

The Ariens Deluxe 24-inch model offers better maneuverability and handwarmers compared to the larger Ariens 28 SHO, but lacks the powerful engine and throwing distance of its bigger sibling. It also doesn't feature the advanced chute control of the single-stage Toro models, though it provides a more affordable option with solid performance for moderate snowfall.

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 24-Inch Snow Blower	Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower
Type	Two Stage	Two-Stage
Clearing Width	24 inches	26 inches
Engine	252cc	272cc 4-cycle OHV IntelliPOWER
Drive Type	Disc-O-matic	Track Drive
Chute Control	180-degree rotation	Remote Overhead Crank Chute Rotation; Remote Single-Lever Chute Pitch Control
Weight	245.5 lb	—
Clearing Height	21 in	23 inches
Dimensions	35"D x 32"W x 51.5"H	—

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