Ariens Deluxe vs. Platinum Snowblower | Which is Best?

Ariens is an established heavyweight in the world of snowblowers, and they’ve been producing some of the best on the planet for over 60 years. What began as a small family-run operation producing a single model has blossomed into a massive enterprise with an extensive product line. 

As the company lineup grows, it’s more challenging to decide on the perfect model for you. Today, we’ll help alleviate some of that confusion as we take a deep dive into their two most popular product lines to help you decide between the Ariens Deluxe vs. Platinum Snowblower. 

Which Is Best Ariens Deluxe vs. Platinum

Both the Deluxe and Platinum lines are top-rated and depending on how much snow your area sees each year, you’ll find that one is a better fit for you than the other. 

Ariens Deluxe 28

This machine offers a sizeable 254cc engine that’s able to move up to 65 tons of snow every hour. The serrated steel auger and 3-blade steel impeller make quick work of even the most treacherous snow, and it’s able to throw snow up to 50-feet while providing a 200° chute radius so you can easily direct the snow where you need to. 

There are also many convenient features, such as auto-turn steering, remote control for the deflector, LED headlights, and optional heated handles. No matter the conditions, you’ll be comfortable at the helm of your Deluxe 28. 

This snowblower is best suited for areas with harsh winters that receive around 50-100 inches of snow per year. 

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Ariens Platinum 28

The Ariens Platinum series are among the most powerful machines available, making it ideal for brutal environments. 

The Platinum 28 model is equipped with a monster 369cc engine that delivers an impressive 17 lbs/ft of torque. This beast devours up to 73 tons of snow per hour, and it’s capable of launching snow up to 55 feet from the chute, so you’ll be able to direct cleared snow wherever you need it. 

The RapidTrak system provides unparalleled performance in adverse conditions, and it has three modes to maintain traction over snow and ice to deliver consistent performance The Trak mode provides traction over snow and ice, while the wheel mode provides extra maneuverability on flat ground. The Dig-In mode provides the most traction, essential for getting started after a nasty storm. 

Additional features like heated handles, reflective safety striping, and LED headlights keep you comfortable day or night while you work. 

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Ariens Model Comparison

Let’s take a closer look at how the Ariens Deluxe and Platinum snowblowers stack up against each other. 

Chassis Build Quality

Part of Ariens’ reputation has been built on their quality manufacturing, and the chassis build is evidence of that. Each component is high-gauge steel, and the construction on the different parts is second to none, which is why so many Ariens snowblowers have been running for a decade or more. 

The Ariens Platinum 28 is the ideal choice for places with extreme winters that laugh in the face of smaller snowblowers. If you receive 100 inches or more of snow each season, this is the tool for you. 

Size

Both the Deluxe 28 and Platinum 28 RapidTrak SHO have similar footprints. The Deluxe 28 comes in at 58.6” long by 29.9” wide and 45.3” tall, and the Platinum 28’s dimensions are nearly identical, give or take a fraction of an inch. 

Weight

Both these machines are so easy to maneuver it’s easy to lose sight of how heavy they are. The Deluxe 28 tips the scale at 249.8 pounds, while the Platinum 28, with its more extensive and more powerful engine, weighs in at 283 pounds.

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Are Ariens Reliable Snow Blowers?

Ariens has a well-established reputation for reliability. Here’s what you can expect from an Ariens machine.

Maintenance

Ariens makes it as easy as possible for the user to keep their machine running in top shape when it comes to maintenance. All wear parts are easy to replace, and there’s very little maintenance required on the engine or drivetrain. 

With regular preventative maintenance, you’ll have no trouble keeping your Ariens machine running at top performance.

Warranty 

Ariens offers a reasonably solid warranty on their snowblowers, provided you’re using them to clear your personal property. A 3-year warranty with a 5-year warranty on the gear case is standard with all Ariens snow blowers. 

But, that warranty goes out the window for professionals and property managers. If you’re using the machine commercially, you’ll have a 90-day warranty, with a 1-year warranty on the gear case.

After-Sales Customer Support 

If there’s one area where Ariens falls a bit flat, it’s their after-sales support. While their website provides plenty of helpful info for troubleshooting and maintenance, most of their customer support is outsourced to the dealers. So, the support you’ll receive will be as good as the dealer providing it. 

You can reach out through their website for questions you need answering, but you’ll need to work with the dealer you purchased from for most repair or parts requests. 

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Verdict: Ariens Deluxe vs. Platinum Snowblower

In the case of the Ariens Deluxe vs. Platinum snowblower, both are excellent machines that can make quick work of any snowstorm. Depending on your needs, you’ll find one is a better fit than the other. While the Platinum edition is the superior machine, it will be overkill for most people. 

Best Ariens Snowblower

Ariens Deluxe 28

The Deluxe 28 is one of Ariens’ most popular machines, offering an ideal blend of performance and value. 

Whilst the Platinum 28 RapidTrak SHO is nearly double the price of the Deluxe 28. The price is justified by the raw power and ability of the Platinum edition, but most people will barely be able to scratch the surface of its capabilities. For these reasons, we recommend the Ariens Deluxe 28 snowblower. 

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