Toro has been one of the leading equipment manufacturers in America for over 100 years, and their quality snowblowers have been in production since the early 1950s. Today, Toro presides over an expansive line of equipment and snow tools that can make quick work of anything winter dishes out.
With so many models to choose from, it’s a challenge to narrow the field and find the best snowblower. For that reason, we’re going to take a look at two top-rated models, the Toro 821 vs. 721 snowblowers, to help you choose the ideal machine for your yard.
Which Is Best Toro 821 vs. 721 Snowblower
Toro’s Power Clear line of snowblowers is among the most popular for homeowners looking to triumph over winter storms. Is the 821 or the 721 right for you? Read on to find out.
The 821 is the largest snowblower in the Power Clear series, and its powerful engine and a solid array of features allow you to make quick work of snow and ice.
This model features a large 252cc engine that’s able to clear up to 57 tons of snow per hour and throw it up to 40-feet from where you’re standing. I suspect those snow clearance numbers are a bit on the low side. In practice, the 821 can clear more snow per hour than the 721, yet Toro lists them both as providing 57 tons per hour of snow clearance.
This model features an electronic start that Toro guarantees will start within 1–2 pulls in any conditions. The Power Curve auger system gets you down to the pavement in fewer passes, so you can get the job done and head back inside. When it’s time to store your machine away, the handle assembly and snow chute folds flat, so it stows away in less space.
The 721 model is the slightly smaller brother of the 821, and it provides similar features to help you make quick work of a snowstorm.
The 721 offers a 212cc engine that can clear up to 57 tons of snow per hour with a throwing distance of up to 35 feet. The chute rotates an impressive 210 degrees, so you’ll be able to direct cleared snow precisely where you need it.
Like the 821, the Power Clear 721 starts quickly and runs like a dream so you can take care of business and get back inside. It also folds flat for easy storage.
The 721 is ideally suited for clearing sidewalks and driveways with up to 9” of snow. It’s a touch lighter and easier to maneuver than the 821, making it a wise choice if you need to work in tight areas.
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Toro Model Comparison
Let’s see how these two powerful snowblowers stack up against each other side-by-side.
Toro 821
- Power: Gas
- Engine: 252cc
- Propulsion: Self-propelled
- Gears: N/A
- Clearing Height: 12.5 inches
- Clearing Width: 21 inches
- Throwing Distance: Up to 40 feet
- Snow Clearance: 57 tons/hour
- Tires: 7” Plastic
- Chute Aim: 210°
- Chute Control: Manual
- Headlights: N/A
- Heated Handles: N/A
- Cup Holder: N/A
- Other: Electric start, Power Curve auger system, locking deflector chute, folding frame
Toro 721
- Power: Gas
- Engine: 212 cc
- Propulsion: Self-propelled
- Gears: N/A
- Clearing Height: 12.5 inches
- Clearing Width: 21 inches
- Throwing Distance: Up to 35 feet
- Snow Clearance: 57 tons/hour
- Tires: 7” Plastic
- Chute Aim: 210°
- Chute Control: Manual
- Headlights: N/A
- Heated Handles: N/A
- Cup Holder: N/A
- Other: Electric start, Power Curve auger system, locking deflector chute, folding frame
Chassis Build Quality
Toro has a long-standing reputation for quality manufacturing, which extends to their Power Clear snowblowers. The chassis on these machines are heavy-duty and built to stand up to many seasons of use.
It’s worth noting that while most of the chassis is steel, some components are plastic. They’re built to last, but you’ll only be able to push this machine so far before you risk damaging it. If you sometimes deal with massive storms that drop 18” or more of snow, you’ll end up damaging either of these Power Clear machines.
Size
While the 821 model has a larger and more powerful engine, both models are the same size. These compact machines also fold flat for easy storage. These Power Clear machines measure 42” tall by 21” wide and 48” deep.
Weight
While they’re the same size, the 721 is a bit lighter than the 821 on a count of the smaller engine. The 721 model weighs 82 pounds, while the beefier 821 tips the scales at 91 pounds. Both are exceptionally lightweight as far as snowblowers are concerned.
Are Toro Reliable Snowblowers?
You don’t become a company with a 100+ year history without producing reliable equipment, and that’s true of Toro. Here’s what you can expect from the brand.
Maintenance
Toro snowblowers are reasonably easy to maintain, although even the best snow throwers present challenges that larger two-stage blowers don’t. Accessing internal components can be tricky since you’re working in a confined space.
There’s a slight learning curve involved with maintaining your snowblower. But, they do provide plenty of helpful info and documentation on their website to help you along.
Warranty
Toro offers a solid warranty on their single-stage snowblowers, and it’s in line with the industry standard. Toro offers a 2-year warranty covering both parts and labor for covered repairs or replacement. The warranty shrinks to 45 days if you’re using the snowblower commercially.
After-Sales Customer Support
Like most equipment manufacturers, Toro encourages customers to buy from licensed Toro dealers who can provide all the after-sales service and support you’ll need. Still, you can reach Toro by phone or email if you’d like to speak with customer support directly.
Verdict: Toro 821 vs. 721 Snowblower
When it comes to the Toro 821 vs. 721 snowblowers, both are capable single-stage machines that can easily clean driveways and sidewalks with ease. These machines are tough to beat for smaller areas in suburban and urban environments that receive occasional snow. the few extra dollars.
Best Single-Stage Snowblower
Toro 821 Snowblower
The Power Clear 821 is an ideal snowblower for urban or suburban environments with up to 9” of snow on the ground.
With both machines so close in price, the extra power the Toro 821 provides just gives the 821 the edge.