Toro Power Max 828 LXE

Reviewers say the Toro Power Max 828 LXE is worth the money if you have a long, wide or hilly driveway and get some heavy snowfall, because it can throw snow as far as 45 feet. That's the main advantage over the cheaper Craftsman 88999 (Discontinued) -- otherwise they have many of the same features: They're both two-stage, self-propelled, gas-powered models with 28-inch clearing paths, six forward and two reverse speeds, a headlight and a two-year warranty. The Craftsman is rated at 9 horsepower, while the Toro is rated at 8 horsepower (and 30 pounds heavier).

ConsumerReports.org has the best coverage of snow blowers, rating 12 including the Toro Power Max 828 LXE. You'll need a subscription to see the ratings chart, though. ConsumerGuide.com's reviews have an inconsistent quality overall -- some indicate hands-on evaluation and some don't, but it says it tested the Toro Power Max 828 LXE. Perhaps because of the expense, we found no user reviews for the Toro Power Max 828 LXE, but owner reviews are generally very good for Toro snow blowers overall.