Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO
#4 in Two-stageFull review
For large driveways where storms bring heavy, wet snow, the extra engine and impeller keep it throwing far. It is the pick of the Deluxe range for snowbelt homes.
Russo Power Equipment $1,799$1,799
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO is the better snow blower overall, rated 3.6 to 3.3. The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO leads on value. The Honda HSS928AAWD wins on intake. The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO costs $1,600 less ($1,799 vs $3,399).
Honda HSS928AAWD
#13 in Two-stageFull review
A premium, wide machine for long driveways where smooth controls and Honda reliability justify the price. Value buyers get similar width from Ariens for half as much.
Amazon $3,399$3,399
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO for value ($64.25 per inch of width ($1,799, 28 in) vs $121.39 per inch of width ($3,399, 28 in)).
- Choose the Honda HSS928AAWD for intake (21.7 in intake height vs 21 in intake height).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every two-stage snow blower; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO | Honda HSS928AAWD |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.6/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 36 $64.25 per inch of width ($1,799, 28 in) | 0 $121.39 per inch of width ($3,399, 28 in) |
| Width 20% | 75 28 in clearing width | 75 28 in clearing width |
| Throw 15% | 100 throws snow up to 55 ft | 100 throws snow up to 52 ft |
| Intake 15% | 60 21 in intake height | 74 21.7 in intake height |
| Warranty 20% | 50 3-year warranty | 50 3-year warranty |
Specifications
| Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO | Honda HSS928AAWD | |
|---|---|---|
| Clearing | ||
| Stage | Two-stage | Two-stage |
| Clearing width | 28 in | 28 in |
| Intake height | 21 in | 21.7 in |
| Throw distance | 55 ft | 52 ft |
| Chute control | Crank or lever at the handle | Electric joystick |
| Power | ||
| Power | Gas | Gas |
| Engine or battery | 301 cc (Ariens AX 301cc) | 270 cc (Honda GX270) |
| Electric start | Yes | Yes |
| CARB compliant | - | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Drive | Self-propelled | Self-propelled |
| Heated grips | No | - |
| Headlight | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 246.7 lb | 243 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Released | - | 2017-10 |