Ariens Vs Toro – Who Makes the Better Snowblowers?

The History of Toro vs Ariens

The Ariens are proudly made American machines. Both machines are well built and have been in the market for many years. Different models offer different features and specs so that you can purchase the perfect snowblower for your needs.

Ariens snowblowers entered the market in the 1960s while Toro entered the market in the 1950s. Toro are the market leaders in snowblowers and have a strong presence throughout the US.

Both snowblowers are solid contenders in the market and any model would be a good buy. The machines are built on years of experience and each model that is released comes with important features.

What Are These Machines Known For?

Toro snowblowers are known for their durability and strong chassis. Being manufactured out of steel, this ensures that the snowblowers will last.

Ariens snowblowers are known for their durability and craftmanship. They are the number one selling brand of two stage snowblowers.

Comparing these snowblowers is going to be difficult as they are so alike in nearly every aspect, but with some important differences. We have selected 4 Ariens and 4 Toro snowblowers to review. We have highlighted the similarities and the differences so that you can make an informed decision.

Let’s start this review by looking at the Toro 824 and the Ariens Deluxe 24.

What are Our First Impressions?

The Ariens Deluxe 24 is a powerful machine that can tackle any job. The first impression of the Toro 824 is that it is compact and capable. Its simple design makes completing any job a breeze.

The Ariens’ specs are bit higher than the Toro in terms of width and throwing distance. Both snowblowers have metal bodies and electric starters giving us two solid and durable machines.

What Are the Quick Facts of Each Machine?

Specs

Toro 824

Ariens Deluxe 24

Clearing Width

61 cm (24 in)

60 cm (24 in)

Tons/hour

60

62

Starting System

Electric

Electric

Throwing Distance

45 ft.

50 ft.

Width

65.5 cm (25.4 in)

67 cm (26.4 In)

Fuel Capacity

3.0L

10.9L

What are Some Key Features?

In areas where the average snow fall is between 50-75 inches, the Toro is probably the snowblower for you. Ice or heavy snow will not hamper the Toro’s performance. A key feature of the Toro is that it is easy to maintain and is lightweight.

Due to the handle design of the Toro, you can control the speed by using the drive system. The joystick design for the chute allows you to easily adjust the chute and decide where the snow will fall.

Ariens has a higher intake which results in quicker and cleaner functioning. The Ariens’ wheels are a benefit to this machine as the larger tires allow for easier maneuverability. The bigger auger allows the Ariens to eat up the snow with ease.

What Does Each One Cost?

At the retail price of $1399 the Toro is cheaper, but it is not a substantial difference. With the added features of the Ariens the price tag of $1499 makes it a better purchase than the Toro.

Which One Handles Better?

Controlling a snowblower can be tricky and cumbersome, but with the Ariens’ handle controls this is not a problem that you will experience. Since the handle controls are linked to the drive shaft you can easily control the speed.

Tires assist with the ability to move the snowblower in different terrains. The Ariens hold this market. Due to the larger tires, the Ariens can adapt to different terrains with ease.

Since the Toro is more of a lightweight machine, this makes operating the snowblower a lot easier. Combine this with the patented anticlogging system and you have an easy machine to handle.

Overall Conclusion

After going through this review, it’s clear that the Ariens is a better buy. For a $100 more you are going to have a reliable and strong machine.

As we continue with this review let’s now compare the Ariens Deluxe 28 and the Toro 928.

Ariens Deluxe 28 vs Toro 928 – What are Our First Impressions

Both machines are very similar, and the differences are marginal. Read through these machine descriptions and see if the differences change your mind.

The Ariens Deluxe 28 is a two stage snow blower with an electric starter. Add to this the 100% steel multidirectional chute and skid shows, and you’re guaranteed a brilliant machine. The auto turn of the snow blower makes operating this a breeze.

The Toro 928 gives you a capable machine that will ensure that any job within reason is taken care of. This snowblower is sturdy and has all the features you will ever need for basic and even advanced jobs.

What Are the Quick Facts of Each Machine?

Specs

Ariens Deluxe 28

Toro 928

Clearing Width

28 in / 71 cm

28 In / 71 cm

Tons/hour

65

Starting System

Electric

Electric

Throwing Distance

50 ft

45 ft.

Fuel Capacity

2.5 L

3.5 L

Intake housing Height

21 In / 55 cm

21 In / 55 cm

What are Some Key Features?

The Ariens has very precise and sensitive steering. It has a dual belt drive which allows for more effective torque usage. The tires fitted to this machine allow for easy turning and agility on different terrains.

The Toro 928 steering is responsive due to the triggerless feature. This makes handleability a dream. The precision of this snowblower makes tight spaces no problem. According to Toro, this snowblower will give you years of snow blowing.

How Much Snow Can Each One Move?

The Ariens has a tall housing unit which allows for effective working. This machine’s ability to move 65 tons of snow per hour is going to make your projects a dream.

The Toro has 45ft feet throw and with the adjustable chute, it’s going to be a quick and effective cleanup. Combining this with the anti-clogging system, this allows you to drive through the snow with ease.

What Does Each One Cost?

Concerning the price of these machines, they are so close; with the Toro retailing for $1599 and the Ariens for $1549. With these machines the price is not really a factor that needs to be considered.

Which One Handles Better?

The Ariens has auto-turn steering which allows for easy turning and helps you get through the snow quickly and effectively. This machine also allows for one-handed operation if necessary.

Due to the Toro’s anti-clogging system, there is little chance that this machine will get constantly clogged. The triggerless steering and self-propelled ability make it a versatile and easy to use snowblower.

Which Brand Is More Reliable

The Toro is a machine that will stand the test of time. Maintenance of this machine is quick and easy and can be done at home. With the added benefit of the 4-cycle engine and no shear pins needed, you are guaranteed this machine will last for years.

Overall Conclusion

Both machines are a brilliant buy. If you are looking for a machine that is easy to handle and quick and efficient, then the Ariens is the one for you. The durability due to the steel frame ensures that it is a durable and efficient machine.

Best Single Stage – Ariens S18 Single Stage Vs Toro 21″ 721 E Snow Blower

What are the first impressions?

When looking at the Ariens you will notice the smaller storage needed for this machine. It has only 18in footprint storage. Combine that with this snowblower being lightweight, which makes it easier for transportation.

Toro is a strong contender with its features of easy start and its powerful engine. Another feature of the Toro is its anticlogging technology which allows for efficient performance through the snow.

What Are the Quick Facts of Each Machine?

Specs

Ariens S18 Single Stage

Toro 21″ 721 E

Clearing Width

18 In / 45 cm

21 In / 53 cm

Tons/hour

39

57

Starting System

Recoil

Electric

Intake housing Height

12 In / 30 cm

21 In / 53 cm

What Are the Key Features

The Ariens comfortably navigates heavy snow. As it is small and compact it makes for the perfect machine for personal households.

Toro is a capable machine that cuts through the snow faster and can blow the snow a good distance. Due to the patented self-propel power assist it can easily go through heavy snow too.

What Does Each One Cost?

Toro’s selling price is $809 while the Ariens sells for $529 giving you a large price difference between these two. The Toro does come with added features that warrant the higher price tag.

Which One Handles Better?

There are very slight differences between these machines when it comes to handling. Both machines are capable of handling smaller jobs, especially pavement types. If these are the types of jobs that you are intending the machines for, then both will work effectively.

Overall Conclusion

After comparing these two snowblowers, we would recommend the Ariens. Since it is lightweight and cheaper than the Toro this is an ideal snowblower for the homeowner.

But if you’re needing more power and a larger machine, paying the extra for the Toro would be worth it.

The last two machines we are reviewing fall into the two-stage range, the Toro 26″ 60V MAX* Electric Battery Power Max® e26 Vs Ariens Compact 24 Auto.

Best Two Stage – Toro 26″ 60V MAX* Electric Battery Power Max® e26 Vs Ariens Compact 24 Auto

What Are Our First Impressions?

Toro stands out as it is battery powered, so no more long cords getting in the way. An added feature is the hand warmers that come standard with this model.

The main features that stands out for Ariens are the compact size of this machine and the durability due to the cast iron gear casing. The larger auger is an important aspect of the Ariens as it can work on more diverse projects.

What Are the Quick Facts of Each Machine?

Specs

Toro 26″ 60V MAX* Electric Battery Power Max® e26

Ariens COMPACT 24 Auto

Clearing Width

26 In / 66 cm

24 In / 60 cm

Starting System

Electric – Push Button

Electric

Throwing Distance

45 ft.

40 ft.

Intake housing Height

20 In / 50 cm

20 In / 50 cm

What are Some Key Features?

Toro stays on course when completing its projects due to its patented Anti-clogging system. As the chute is easy to move, the snow is easily blown in the direction that you want it to go.

The throwing distance of the Toro is 45ft, which may be an important contributing factor to your needs.

One feature of the Ariens is the Auto-turn feature which makes it easier to work around pavements and doorways. It has a cast-iron gear case which will ensure durability.

What Does Each One Cost?

The Ariens is on the market for $1349 while the Toro is on the market for $1899, making the Ariens a better buy in relation to price. You are going to pay more for the Toro due to the bigger size and wider throwing distance.

Which One Handles Better?

Toro is easily handled with one hand making it easy to work with in more confined areas. Through the self-propelled automatic steering, tight turning is easier.

Ariens is a compact machine and incorporates the Auto-turn making using this machine a breeze. The serrated 11” auger easily goes through thick snow without a problem.

Which One Do We Recommend?

Our recommendation would be to purchase the Toro. It is pricier, but you are getting a lot of added features for a little extra. The Toro would suit any private home or even small commercial jobs.

Overall Conclusion

Between the Ariens and the Toro you cannot go wrong.

All the different models within these ranges will provide you with years of use. This review should help you make an informed decision on which brand suits you best.

Happy snow blowing!