It depends on the kind of snow blower you buy. Single-stage and two-stage blowers can handle up to a foot of snow. Three-stage snow blowers can handle 16 inches. Two- and three-stage snow blowers also remove a wider swath of snow in a pass compared to single-stage snow blowers. If you get frequent, heavy snows, a two- or three-stage snow blower is worth the investment since it will be easier—and less time-consuming—to clear your driveway.