If you have ever shoveled snow, you have probably considered buying a snow blower. A suitable snow blower is a wise investment for homeowners who get at least 20 inches of snow annually. However, not all snow blowers are created equal.
The best snow blower for you depends on your climate, your terrain, and the size of the space that needs snow removal. So we researched and found the best snow blowers. In this article, we break down each model, so you can figure out which is right for you.
Our top picks
| Best gas-powered snow blowers |
| Toro SnowMaster 724 QXE |
| Briggs & Stratton 1696715 |
| Toro Power Max HD 1030 OHAE |
| Ariens 921047 |
| Cub Cadet 3X 30 TRAC |
| Best battery-powered snow blowers |
| Ego Power+ SNT2112 |
| Ego Power+ SNT2400 |
| Best corded electric snow blowers |
| Earthwise SN71022 |
| PowerSmart DB5021 |
Top 5 best gas-powered snow blowers – reviews
Toro SnowMaster 724 QXE – Best single-stage
Our top pick for single-stage gas-powered blowers is the Toro SnowMaster 724 QXE. It is a mighty snow-eating machine that can effortlessly clear paths that are 24 inches wide and up to 12 inches deep. For a single-stage model, it works very quickly and has a plowing capacity of 2,500 lb. per minute.
The SnowMaster 724 QXE isn’t just powerful; it is also super simple to use with an effortless electric start and intuitive controls. In addition, Toro’s Quick Stick chute control makes it easy to change the direction of the chute and the deflector.
Additional features:
- Metal reinforced poly skid shoes
- Tall auger housing
- Variable speed
How does it handle? It is self-propelled with automatic steering and Toro’s Personal Pace system. As a result, it matches your walking speed, makes smooth turns, and gives you excellent traction.
Specifications
Clearing width: 24 in.
Clearing depth: 12 in.
Max throw distance: 40 ft.
Engine: 4-cycle, 212 cc
Warranty: 3 years
Weight: 125 lb.
Chute rotation: 210 degrees
Electric start: yes
CARB Compliant: yes
Self-propelled: yes
Pros
✓ Powerful engine
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Easy start
✓ Intuitive controls
✓ Easy to maneuver
✓ Steel auger
✓ Handles wet snow
✓ Far throwing distance
Cons
✗ Expensive
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Briggs & Stratton 1696715 – Single-stage runner up
With the Briggs & Stratton 1696715, you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. Even though it costs over $100 less than the average single-stage gas blower, it is robust, even in extreme cold. Its engine is designed to run smoothly in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.
The 1696715 clears 22-inch paths up to a foot deep, then throws the snow up to 30 feet away. You can easily change its snow-throwing height and distance by squeezing the hand-mounted control. Then, when you finish clearing the snow, this compact machine fits easily in storage.
Additional features:
- Chute mounted rotation handle
- One-piece auger housing
- Oversized controls
How does it handle? Because it is compact, most users find it easy to maneuver, but it is more challenging than self-propelled models.
Specifications
Clearing width: 22 in.
Clearing depth: 12 in.
Max throw distance: 30 ft.
Engine: 4-cycle, 208 cc
Warranty: 3 years
Weight: 93 lb.
Chute rotation: 200 degrees
Electric start: yes
CARB Compliant: yes
Self-propelled: no
Pros
✓ Powerful engine
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Easy start
✓ Great for cold climates
✓ Compact
✓ Affordable
Cons
✗ Not good for heavy snow
✗ Not good for ice
✗ Some users find the assembly directions difficult to follow
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Toro Power Max HD 1030 OHAE – Best two-stage
Our top pick for two-stage gas models is the Toro Power Max HD 1030 OHAE. It efficiently handles large areas (up to 1,500 square feet) and can clear snow off gravel driveways and uneven terrain. In addition, it has a heavy-duty steel auger that quickly clears paths 30 inches wide and up to 21 inches deep.
Additional features:
- Heated handles
- LED headlights
- Anti-clog design
- Easily adjustable chute
- Skid shoes
How does it handle? Most users find it very easy to handle. It is self-propelled with triggerless steering for smooth turns.
Specifications
Clearing width: 30 in.
Clearing depth: 21 in.
Max throw distance: 45 ft.
Engine: 4-cycle, 302 cc
Warranty: 3 years
Weight: 125 lb.
Chute rotation: 200 degrees
Electric start: yes
CARB Compliant: yes
Self-propelled: yes
Pros
✓ Powerful engine
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Easy start
✓ Works on gravel
✓ Works on inclines
✓ Handles wet snow
✓ Steel auger
✓ Lightweight
Cons
✗ Expensive
✗ Some users complain that the shear pins break in heavy snow
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Ariens 921047 – Two-stage runner up
Ariens is a family-owned American business who have been manufacturing quality outdoor tools since 1933. The Ariens 921047 is a powerful snow blower that lives up to the Ariens name. Its steel auger quickly clears 30-inch paths with a plowing capacity of over 2,350 lb. per minute.
Additional features:
- LED lights
- Heated handles
- Handlebar chute and speed control
- Six forward speeds
- Two reverse speeds
- Skid shoes
How does it handle? It is self-propelled with power steering and 16-inch tires that provide excellent traction.
Specifications
Clearing width: 20 in.
Clearing depth: 12 in.
Max throw distance: 50 ft.
Engine: 4-cycle, 306 cc
Warranty: 3 years
Weight: 275.6 lb.
Chute rotation: 200 degrees
Electric start: yes
CARB Compliant: yes
Self-propelled: yes
Pros
✓ Powerful engine
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Steel auger
✓ Handles wet snow
✓ Works on gravel
✓ Variable speed
✓ Far throwing distance
Cons
✗ Not good for very deep snow
✗ Heavy
✗ Expensive
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Cub Cadet 3X 30 TRAC – Best three-stage
Our top pick for three-stage snow blowers is the Cub Cadet 3X 30 TRAC. It is a snow-clearing monster that quickly plows through wet snow, ice, and anything else in its path. So if you live in a climate with frequent snowstorms and have an extensive area to clear (1,800+ square feet), this snow blower will save you tons of time and energy.
Not only is it powerful, but it is also durable. The 3X 30 TRAC has a cast aluminum gearbox and heavy-duty steel chute. A five-year warranty backs the gearbox, and the machine comes with a three-year residential warranty.
Additional features:
- Remote crank to rotate the chute
- Heated handles
- Extra bright LED headlights
- Six forward speeds
- Two reverse speeds
- Skid shoes
How does it handle? It is self-propelled with power steering and 15-inch track drive tires. Track drive tires allow you to move smoothly through uneven terrain or gravel.
Specifications
Clearing width: 30 in.
Clearing depth: 18-23 in.
Max throw distance: 40 ft.
Engine: 420 cc
Warranty: 3 years
Weight: 321 lb.
Chute rotation: 200 degrees
Electric start: yes
CARB Compliant: yes
Self-propelled: yes
Pros
✓ Very powerful engine
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Steel auger
✓ Handles wet snow
✓ Works on gravel
✓ Works on sloped terrain
Cons
✗ Expensive
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Top 2 battery-powered snow blowers – reviews
Ego Power+ SNT2112 – Best single-stage
Our top pick for battery-powered single-stage snow blowers is the Ego Power+ SNT2112. It is a keen snow-clearing machine with its 21-inch steel auger that rapidly rotates, clearing up to a foot of ice and snow. With 45 minutes of runtime, it can clear an area of up to 1,500 square feet.
Ego is an industry leader in battery-powered outdoor equipment and is known for cutting-edge technology—the blower’s two ARC Lithium batteries rate No. 1 for power and durability. In fact, ARC lithium batteries get up to 40% more power than batteries on competing platforms.
Additional features:
- Variable speed auger control
- Adjustable handle
- Folds for easy storage
- Bright LED headlights
- Handle mounted chute adjuster
- Push button start
How does it handle? It is a little heavy, but most users find it easy to push. It has a low-vibration design with large tires that glide through uneven terrain.
Specifications
Clearing width: 21 in.
Clearing depth: 12 in.
Max throw distance: 40 ft.
Battery: 56-volt 5 Ah Li-ion (2)
Runtime: 45 min.
Charge time: 80 min.
Motor: brushless
Warranty: 5 years
Weight: 53 lb.
Chute rotation: 200 degrees
Self-propelled: no
Pros
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Far throwing distance
✓ 5-year warranty
✓ Weather-resistant construction
✓ High-efficiency brushless motor
✓ Steel auger
✓ Clears wet snow
✓ Works on uneven terrain
Cons
✗ Expensive
✗ Heavy
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Ego Power+ SNT2400 – Best two-stage
Our top pick for battery-powered two-stage blowers is the Ego Power+ SNT2400. It is strong enough to compete with gas models but also quiet and eco-friendly. In addition, it has a heavy-duty steel auger that bulldozes through 2,100 pounds of snow per minute and cuts through ice like butter.
Additional features:
- Adjustable height
- Four bright LED headlights
- Adjustable skids shoes
- Remote chute control
- Variable throwing distance
- Self-propelled: forward and reverse
How does it handle? It is self-propelled with multiple forward speeds and a reverse direction.
Specifications
Clearing width: 24 in.
Clearing depth: 18 in.
Max throw distance: 50 ft.
Battery: 56-volt 7.5 Ah Li-ion
Runtime: 60 min.
Motor: brushless
Warranty: 5 years
Weight: 150 lb.
Chute rotation: 200 degrees
Self-propelled: yes
Pros
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Far throwing distance
✓ 5-year warranty
✓ Weather-resistant construction
✓ High-efficiency brushless motor
✓ Steel auger
✓ Clears wet snow
✓ Fancy control dashboard
Cons
✗ Expensive
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Considering a cordless electric snow blower? Take a look at the eight best battery-powered snow blowers.
Top 2 corded electric snow blowers – reviews
Earthwise SN71022 – Best overall
Our top pick for corded electric snow blowers is the Earthwise SN71022. It is an affordable option for homeowners managing snow on small paved surfaces, such as patios and walkways. With a plowing capacity of 800 lb. per minute, it is one of the mightiest corded models.
Additional features:
- LED headlights
- Dual-curved auger blade
- Auxiliary handle
- Push button start
How does it handle? It is lightweight and easy to push with 6-inch rare wheels that effortlessly glide across pavement.
Clearing width: 22 in.
Clearing depth: 12 in.
Max throw distance: 30 ft.
Motor: 14-amp
Warranty: 2 years
Weight: 31 lb.
Chute rotation: 180 degrees
Extension cord: 100 ft.
Plowing capacity: 800 lb. / min
Pros
✓ Fast for a corded model
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Compact
✓ Easy to maneuver
✓ Clears wet snow
Cons
✗ Doesn’t cut ice
✗ Leaves behind a thin layer of snow
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PowerSmart DB5021 – Runner up
The PowerSmart DB5021 is our second favorite corded electric model and the cheapest snow blower on our list. If you have a small paved area to clear, this blower quickly clears up to a foot of snow. It has a plowing capacity of 750 lb. per minute and an extra-long 150-foot extension cord.
Additional features:
- Push button start
- Adjustable discharge chute
- Safety auger control prevents accidental startup
How does it handle? Although it is heavy for a corded model, it is lightweight compared to most cordless blowers. It also has 8-inch snow tires that easily maneuver through the snow.
Clearing width: 21 in.
Clearing depth: 12 in.
Max throw distance: 30 ft.
Motor: 15-amp
Warranty: 2 years
Weight: 49 lb.
Chute rotation: 180 degrees
Extension cord: 150 ft.
Plowing capacity: 750 lb. / min
Pros
✓ Fast for a corded model
✓ High clearing capacity
✓ Affordable
✓ Long extension cord
✓ Easy to assemble
Cons
✗ Heavy for a corded model
✗ Isn’t great for wet snow
✗ Doesn’t cut ice
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Buyer’s guide
When shopping for a snow blower, you want to consider how much snowfall you get and the size of the area that needs clearing. With that in mind, please take a look at the following snow blower characteristics:
- Type
- Power source
- Clearing capacity
- Throwing distance
- Cost
Types of snow blowers
There are three types of residential snow blowers:
- Single-stage models are great for clearing small areas. They are the cheapest but also the least powerful. In one motion, their auger scoops up and throws the snow through the discharge chute. Since they throw snow, they are often called “snow throwers”.
- Two-stage snow blowers are great for medium to large areas and places with deep snow. Using a two-step process, they are more potent than single-stage models. First, the auger scoops up the snow and hands it to an impeller. Second, the impeller blows the snow through the discharge chute.
- Three-stage models are great for large areas and locations with frequent heavy snow. They are the fastest and most powerful but also the most expensive. Although they work similarly to two-stage models, they have an extra auger called the accelerator auger that can get the job done up to 50% quicker.
Power source
Snowblowers can be gas-powered, battery-powered, or corded electric. Most homeowners prefer cordless snow blowers, but corded models are affordable and suffice in small areas with a nearby outlet.
Gas-powered snow blowers
Homeowners with large yards in areas with many inches of snow usually prefer gas-powered snow blowers. Not only are they the quickest to clear large areas, they are also better equipped to handle wet snow. Unfortunately, they are also expensive and bad for the environment.
Typical specs for gas-powered snow blowers
| Clearing width | 18 – 30 in. |
| Clearing depth | 9 – 19 in. |
| Plowing capacity | 1,100 – 2,500 lb. / min. |
| Max throwing distance | 20 – 50 ft. |
| Weight | 90 – 290 lb. |
| Price range | $500 – $2,000 |
Additional considerations
When shopping for gas-powered equipment, consider the following:
- Two-cycle engines run on a mix of oil and gas. They are lower maintenance and more durable than 4-cycle engines but are less fuel efficient, with a lower torque potential.
- Four-cycle engines run more like a car. They are fueled by gas and have a separate system that lubricates the engine with oil. 4-strokes are quieter and release fewer emissions than 2-stroke engines, but they are also high-maintenance and heavy. Large power equipment usually needs a 4-stroke engine.
- CARB Compliant models are a must for California residents.
- Self-propelled snow blowers are much easier to use because gas-powered models tend to be heavy.
- Push-button electric starts are much easier than manually starting a gas engine.
Battery-powered snow blowers
There are many advantages to using an electric snow blower, including:
- Lightweight
- Eco-friendly
- Quiet
- Easy to start
Although gas models tend to be more powerful, the gap narrows when you move into two-stage models. But, unfortunately, so does the cost savings. Two-stage gas snow blowers cost about as much as their battery-powered counterparts.
Typical specs for battery-powered snow blowers
| Clearing width | 18 – 26 in. |
| Clearing depth | 8 – 15 in. |
| Plowing capacity | 400 – 2,400 lb. / min. |
| Max throwing distance | 20 – 55 ft. |
| Weight | 25 – 180 lb. |
| Price range | $300 – $1,800 |
Additional considerations
If you are thinking about purchasing a cordless electric snow blower, please consider the following:
- Battery cost: First, check if it comes with a battery and a charger. Next, compare the prices of batteries and chargers. Remember, eventually, you will have to replace the battery. Most batteries come with a 1 to 3 year warranty.
- Runtime: Most cordless blowers have a runtime of about 45 minutes, but some run for as much as 1.5 hours, while others power off after 15 to 20 minutes.
- Amp-hours (Ah): Batteries with more Ah have a longer runtime.
- Brushless motors: They are high-performance, efficient, and low maintenance.
Corded electric snow blowers
You can save money by purchasing a corded electric model if you live in an area with light snowfall and plan to use it in a small space with a nearby outlet.
Typical specs for corded electric snow blowers
| Clearing width | 15 – 22 in. |
| Clearing depth | 8 – 12 in. |
| Plowing capacity | 450 – 800 lb. / min. |
| Max throwing distance | 20 – 30 ft. |
| Weight | 25 – 32lb. |
| Price range | $150 – $250 |
Additional considerations
Pay attention to the extension cord length. Before shopping, ensure you know the distance from the nearest outlet to the furthest point the blower must reach.
Clearing capacity
The following metrics describe a snow blower’s clearing capacity:
- Clearing width measures how wide a path the snow blower clears in one pass.
- Clearing depth describes how deep the blower goes.
- Plowing capacity estimates how many pounds of snow the blower removes per minute.
Single-stage clearing capacity
Most single-stage machines have a clearing depth of 6 to 12 inches. The table below shows the typical clearing width and plowing capacity of single-stage snow blowers.
| Clearing width | Plowing capacity | |
| Gas-powered | 18 – 24 in. | 1,100 – 2,500 lb. / min. |
| Battery-powered | 18 – 21 in. | 400 – 1,500 lb. / min. |
| Corded electric | 15 – 22 in. | 450 – 800 lb. / min. |
Two-stage clearing capacity
Two-stage snow blowers are better for heavy snowfall. The table below shows the typical clearing capacity for cordless electric and gas-powered two-stage blowers.
| Battery-powered | Gas-powered | |
| Clearing width | 24 in. | 24 – 30 in. |
| Clearing depth | 18 – 20 in. | 12 – 21 in. |
| Plowing capacity | 2,100 – 2,400 lb. / min. | 1,900 – 2,500 lb. / min. |
Throwing distance
A snow blower’s throwing distance tells you how far the blower throws the snow through the discharge chute. Blowers with variable speed augers allow you to adjust the throwing distance, which is helpful when neighbors or gardens are nearby.
Single-stage throwing distance
The table below shows the typical max throwing distance for single-stage snow blowers.
| Typical range | |
| Gas-powered | 20 – 40 ft. |
| Battery-powered | 20 – 40 ft. |
| Corded electric | 20 – 30 ft. |
Two-stage throwing distance
The table below shows the typical max throwing distance for two-stage snow blowers.
| Typical range | |
| Gas-powered | 30 – 50 ft. |
| Battery-powered | 45 – 55 ft. |
Three-stage throwing distance
Please see the typical throwing distance for three-stage machines in the table below.
| Average throwing distance | 35 ft. |
| Typical range | 30 – 40 ft. |
Cost
The average snow blower costs about $950. The most affordable snow blowers are single-stage corded electric models, typically costing $150 – $250. Three-stage snow blowers are the most expensive, with an average price tag of $1,900.
Cost of single-stage snow blowers
The table below shows the cost of single-stage snow blowers by power source.
| Average cost | Typical Price Range | |
| Gas-powered | $725 | $500 – $950 |
| Battery-powered | $550 | $300 – $800 |
| Corded electric | $200 | $150 – $250 |
Single-stage snow blowers can be gas-powered, battery-powered, or corded electric. The most expensive single-stage blowers are gas-powered, and corded electric are the cheapest.
Cost of two-stage snow blowers
The following table shows the cost of two-stage snow blowers by power source.
| Average cost | Typical Price Range | |
| Gas-powered | $1,450 | $750 – $2,150 |
| Battery-powered | $1,380 | $850 – $1,800 |
On average gas-powered two-stage snow blowers cost slightly more than their battery-powered counterparts, but the price difference is insignificant.
Cost of three-stage snow blowers
Residential three-stage snow blowers only come in gas-powered models. Please see the price data in the table below.
| Average cost | $1,900 |
| Typical price range | $1,500 – $2,500 |
FAQ about battery-powered snow blowers
Single-stage snow blowers are the easiest to use because they are lightweight and often lack the bells and whistles found on two and three-stage models.
Professional snow removal typically costs $25 to $65 an hour, and most snow removal jobs total between $50 and $140. Factors that affect the cost of removal include:
● The amount of snowfall
● Method of removal
● Pricing method
● Snow’s location
Snow shovels are best for clearing small amounts of snow, such as snow around a vehicle or in a small garden bed. This is because snow shovels are lighter and easier to maneuver. However, removing snow from larger areas, such as a driveway or deck, is much quicker and easier using a snow blower.
When to call a pro
Before spending hundreds (or thousands) of dollars on a snow blower, consider whether you want to work outside in freezing temperatures. If the answer is no, you should consider hiring a pro. Professionals are fast, effective, and affordable.
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