When you don’t need a snow blower but still have snow to clear from your driveway, an electric snow shovel is a great choice. If your driveway is small or you get lighter snow, getting the best electric snow shovel is crucial.
We researched online sites judging electric snow shovels for price, performance, customer satisfaction, and expert opinions to bring you the 5 best models.
- 16-inch plowing capability
- Brushless motor
- 6-inch wheels
- 27 min of runtime
- Battery & charger included
- Super lightweight at 12 lbs
- 25 minute runtime
- 2,500 RPM motor speed
- Comes with two augers
- 30 feet throwing distance
- 16-inch plowing width
- Powerful 12-Amp motor
- 30-minute runtime
- Has an auxiliary handle
- 4-year warranty
Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we provide a comprehensive analysis and hands-on review of the best electric snow shovels. Our team of professionals evaluate each product from a user’s perspective, sharing quantitative measurements and data to track each product’s performance. We compare and score each shovel based on key decision-making factors such as efficiency, power, weight, and design. Our standard includes a thorough assessment of design choices and their impact on the user. We provide first-hand evidence and rank each product, highlighting what sets them apart from their competitors. Trust our detailed research, experience, and findings as we help you choose the best electric snow shovel for your needs.
The Best Electric Snow Shovels of 2024
Here are our top 5 electric snow shovels based on performance, price, and convenience.
Earthwise Sn74016 40-Volt Cordless Snow Shovel
Best Electric Snow Shovel for Heavy Snow
This Earthwise snow thrower is the best to use on thicker snow because it has a plowing depth of 8 inches and a clearance width of 16 inches. It also throws the snow up to 32 feet. It does all this thanks to the 4 Ah lithium-ion battery and the brushless motor.
Brushless motors improve motor performance while increasing the runtime of the battery. It can clear 300 pounds of snow every minute, and you also get an additional handle to increase control and grip.
You also get 6-inch wheels and a twin auger. The whole thing weighs just 19 pounds. When you compare that to some snow blowers, you get a massive weight saving.
What We Like
Superior Plowing Capability
Both plowing depth and width are impressive with this device. You get a 16-inch path and an 8-inch depth, so while it handles smaller snowfalls, it is capable of clearing larger driveways.
Brushless Motor
Brushless motors are the latest in engine design. They don’t have brushes, so they last longer and need minimal servicing. This increases the efficiency of your device and gives you a better return on battery energy.
6-Inch Wheels
Most electric snow shovels travel across the driveway, but this model has 6-inch wheels, so you can cross different surfaces with ease. It even works on the grass.
What We Don't Like
Quite Expensive
The whole point of a snow shovel is it fills the gap between manual shovels and snow throwers. But this model costs more than some electric snow throwers, which negates the point of buying it.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 19 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 41 x 16 x 38 |
| Plowing width (inches) | 16 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 8 |
| Corded/cordless | Cordless |
| Voltage | 40 |
| Price | $$$$$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Snow Joe 24-SS11-XR Cordless Snow Shovel
Best Electric Snow Shovel for Decks
This Snow Joe electric snow shovel is also a cordless model, similar to the Earthwise shovel. However, it is slightly less powerful with just 24 volts, but you do get a 5 Ah lithium-ion battery and 27 minutes of runtime.
You also get a quick charger, so you won’t have to wait too long between charges, and thanks to its lightweight design at just 12 pounds, you don’t get hand or back strain.
Snow Joe claims that this shovel can shift 2,025 pounds of snow between each charge, and the twin augers have a clearing path of 11 inches and to a depth of 7 inches. The throwing distance tops 20 feet.
What We Like
Great Price
This snow shovel costs a fraction of the Earthwise model. You can pick this up for 2.5 times less than the Earthwise snow shovel, making it great value for money.
Battery and Charger Included
Unlike so many cordless snow blowers where you have to purchase the batteries and charger separately, this model comes with everything you need to get started straight out of the box.
Super-Lightweight
Electric snow shovels are so much lighter than snow blowers. This model weighs just 12 pounds, which is a fraction of the weight of some snow blowers.
What We Don't Like
Limited Plowing Width
This Snow Joe only has a plowing width of 11 inches, making it suitable for smaller driveways. You could make a couple of sweeps, but the battery runtime is against you at just 27 minutes.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 12 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 55.1 x 11.8 x 8.7 |
| Plowing width (inches) | 11 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 7 |
| Corded/cordless | Cordless |
| Voltage | 24 |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Snow Joe 24V-SS10 Cordless Snow Shovel
Best Cordless Electric Snow Shovel
Okay, so this is the second Snow Joe electric shovel to feature. And like the last model, this is also cordless. It is the ideal snow shovel for clearing decks and driveways, thanks to its 24-volt, 4.0 Ah lithium-ion battery.
It provides 25 minutes of whisper-quiet runtime, which pulls a no-load speed of 2,500 RPM (revolutions per minute). It has a twin auger and a cutting width of 10 inches, and a plowing depth of 6 inches.
The beauty of a cordless snow shovel is it requires zero maintenance compared to a gas-powered snow blower that needs oil, gasoline, and constant upkeep.
What We Like
Go Anywhere Tool
An electric snow shovel gives you all the convenience of a gas-powered snow blower but without the hassle of oil, gasoline, and maintenance. It also frees you from the shackles of a power cord.
Two Augers
The twin augers scoop the snow to a depth of 6 inches and toss it to a distance of 20 feet.
Super-Lightweight
If you thought 12 pounds was light, this model is just 10 pounds, making it the ideal tool for those with limited body strength like the elderly.
What We Don't Like
Limited Plowing Width
At just 10 inches and a depth of 6 inches, you will struggle to clear anything other than the smallest driveways with this cordless tool.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 10 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 26.8 x 10.6 x 9.1 |
| Plowing width (inches) | 10 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 6 |
| Corded/cordless | Cordless |
| Voltage | 24 |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Earthwise SN70016 12-Amp Corded Snow Shovel
Best Electric Snow Shovel With Wheels
This is the second Earthwise model to feature in the review, and for a good reason. This electric snow shovel can shift 430 pounds of snow every minute, thanks to the 12-amp motor. You also get a 16-inch clearing path and an 8-inch depth.
This snow shovel also projects the snow up to 30 feet in length. What we really liked about this model is the 6-inch wheels that enable you to cover different surfaces like gravel and grass.
You also get an adjustable auxiliary handle to cater to people of different heights.
What We Like
Non-Stop Power
So, it’s a plugin model, but that means you get unlimited power without any dips in performance, unlike battery-operated versions. Simply plug it in, and away you go. What could be easier?
Excellent Clearance Width and Depth
With a 16-inch plowing width and an 8-inch depth, you can clear that driveway a little bit faster. It also handles higher volumes of snow, unlike the Snow Joe model.
Powerful Motor
The 12-amp motor provides power levels comparable to some snow blowers. You can clear 430 pounds of snow every minute with this machine. That’s pretty powerful!
What We Don't Like
Limited Reach
The glaring downside with corded electric snow shovels is the power cable. It restricts how far you can travel unless you get an extension cord.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 16 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 41 x 16 x 38 |
| Plowing width (inches) | 16 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 8 |
| Corded/cordless | Corded |
| Voltage/amps | 12 amps |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
GreenWorks G-MAX 40V 12-Inch Snow Shovel
Best Electric Snow Shovel for Wet Snow
This GreenWorks G-Max comes with the 4Ah lithium-ion battery and charger as standard. It has a 12-inch plowing width and a depth of 6 inches. It also weighs 15 pounds and has a 30-minute runtime.
The auger is constructed from hardened rubber, making it the ideal material for moving wet snow because rubber grips better than steel. It helps to project the snow easier.
You also get an auxiliary handle that adjusts to cater to different heights, making snow clearance that bit more comfortable.
What We Like
Battery and Charger Included
Unlike battery-powered snow blowers, cordless snow shovels typically come with a battery and charger. This is better for your wallet as it means you don’t have added expense, although a second battery is recommended as a spare.
Additional Handle
It’s important to have an auxiliary handle to help you scoop the snow and get better control. It also reduces strain on your wrists and back.
Better Runtime
Thirty minutes might not sound that impressive, but it outperforms others on the list with 25 and 27-minute runtimes.
4-Year Warranty
This GreenWorks model comes with a 4-year warranty, which is double the next best on the list. Most electric snow shovels have a 2-year warranty at best.
What We Don't Like
Limited Plowing Capabilities
This model only has a 12-inch plowing width and a 6-inch depth, making it the perfect tool for the lightest snowfall. It also limits the size of the driveway you can clear.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 15 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 63.4 x 14.2 x 10.2 |
| Plowing width (inches) | 12 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 6 |
| Corded/cordless | Cordless |
| Voltage/amps | 40 volts |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 4-year |
Our Ratings
User Experience
| Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Plowing width | Plowing depth | Corded/cordless | Volts/Amps | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Earthwise Cordless Snow Shovel | Heavy Snow | 19 lbs | 41 x 16 x 38″ | 16″ | 8″ | Cordless | 40V | 2-year |
| Snow Joe 24-SS11-XR Snow Shovel | Decks | 12 lbs | 55.1 x 11.8 x 8.7″ | 11″ | 7″ | Cordless | 24V | 2-year |
| Snow Joe 24V-SS10 Snow Shovel | Cordless | 10 lbs | 26.8 x 10.6 x 9.1″ | 10″ | 6″ | Cordless | 24V | 2-year |
| Earthwise Corded Snow Shovel | With Wheels | 16 lbs | 41 x 16 x 38″ | 16″ | 8″ | Corded | 12A | 2-year |
| GreenWorks G-MAX Snow Shovel | Wet Snow | 15 lbs | 63.4 x 14.2 x 10.2″ | 12″ | 6″ | Cordless | 40V | 4-year |
Why Should I Use an Electric Snow Shovel?
Electric snow shovels are a great middle-ground between a shovel and a snow blower. If you have a pristine layer of snow sitting on your driveway in the morning before work, you need to clear it before starting your day.
An electric snow shovel is like a smaller version of a snow blower but without the chute, plowing width, and impeller. This all means you should only consider buying one for lighter duties.
The handle works the same as a snow shovel, but the similarities end there. The auger turns, throwing the snow out of the front rather than through a directional chute. There is still an element of physical effort because electric snow shovels are not self-propelling, like many snow blowers, but they are easier than a manual shovel.
They sure beat the heck out of a manual shovel and all that back-breaking work. It gets the task sorted in double-quick time with the minimum of effort and fuss.
Advantages of a Snow Shovel
- Lightweight and easy to use. Plus, they store away easier than a snow blower.
- Effective at shifting lighter snowfalls, speeding up the process.
- Cheaper than a snow blower.
- Reduces back strain compared to a manual shovel.
Disadvantages of a Snow Shovel
- They have a limited plowing width, so they are not suitable for large driveways.
- The cord length restricts your reach.
- Only suitable for the lightest snowfall of about 6 inches deep.
Types of Electric Snow Shovel
There are two types of snow shovels available, but what are the differences?
Corded
Corded snow shovels never suffer from a dip in performance thanks to a never-ending electricity supply provided by the power cable. Simply plug in the snow shovel, and away you go.
The key reason you would buy a corded electric shovel is if you have a smaller driveway and don’t mind the restricted reach. Expect a cord length of around 50 to 100 feet.
If you are the forgetful type, it’s also easier to use because you don’t have to remember to charge up the battery each time you want to use it.
Cordless
Cordless snow shovels are go-anywhere tools. The battery frees you from the shackles of a power lead, so if you have a larger driveway, you can get to work without fretting about the length of the cord.
The downside is batteries hold a limited charge, which reduces the amount of time you spend clearing the snow. You should expect anywhere between 20 and 50 minutes per battery.
And you have to remember to charge it up before starting. Also, when the battery drains, you either have to wait until it charges or gets a spare. And, as the power drains from the cell, you might experience a dip in performance.
How To Choose the Best Electric Snow Shovel
With so many factors to consider, what are the key elements that make up the best electric snow shovels?
What About the Weight?
One of the best reasons for choosing a powered snow shovel is the weight. Compared to a snow blower, a snow shovel is super-lightweight. Most models weigh between 10 and 16 pounds. Snow blowers can be over 200 pounds in weight.
If you are older or have limited mobility, an electric snow shovel offers some of the benefits of a snow blower without the extra bulk.
Plowing Depth and Width
The plowing path of your snow shovel depends on the width and height of the intake chute. Most models have a depth capability of 4 to 8 inches. However, the type of snow you get impacts the way the shovel moves.
Because they are designed to sit on the surface of your driveway, if the snow is too deep, it risks sinking, which impairs its performance. The clearing path should range between 10 and 16 inches, which is well short of most snow blowers but ample for small driveways and light snowfall.
It’s All About the Auger
Electric snow shovels work in a similar way to snow blowers in that they have either one or two augers that spin and throw the snow out of your clearing path. Double-bladed shovels will clear the snow more quickly than single-bladed models.
Easy To Use
The main reason for buying a snow shovel is its ease of use. Turn it on and push it across the surface of your yard to clear freshly fallen snow. Some shovels have adjustable handles, while others feature an auxiliary handle to give you better control.
Battery Life
If you have a cordless model, the runtime of the battery is an important consideration. They can range between 20 and 50 minutes, which affects the length of time you can work at clearing the snow.
Most lithium-ion batteries are 40 volts, so they will operate for twice the time of a 24V cell. Lithium-ion batteries hate the cold, so you might experience a dip in performance if the weather is extreme. Plus, as the cells age, they lose charge more quickly.
Cord Length
The cord length determines the reach of the snow shovel. Most models have a 50 to 100 ft cable, limiting you to how far you can go. Either buy an extension cord or get additional outside electrical sockets fitted.
Electric Snow Shovel FAQs
Is an Electric Snow Shovel Worth It?
There are ups and downs to owning and using an electric shovel, so the answer might be subjective. Greener than gas-powered snow blowers, these shovels don’t release harmful pollutants, so they are better if you want an eco-friendlier product.
They also start quickly and provide an efficient way to remove snow from your sideway and driveway.
The potential drawbacks include the inability to remove large quantities of snow, the inability to get rid of wet snow, and the overall lack of durability (compared to gas-powered models).
How Much Do Electric Snow Shovels Cost?
Electric snow shovels start at around $90 but can be as expensive as $300. The price of an electric snow shovel can vary based on factors size as battery capacity, material quality, handle adjustability, and more.
Do Electric Snow Shovels Work on Gravel Driveways?
I strongly advise against using electric snow shovels on gravel driveways, but you can turn to them if necessary. Electric snow shovels work best on smooth and ever terrain, so they might not be very efficient on gravel.
Because the snow can easily get caught in the gravel, this type of shovel may not be as successful on gravel driveways as on other surfaces.
Another potential downside to working with gravel is that the blades of your shovel may wear out faster than usual and require more regular replacement.
What is the Difference Between a Snow Shovel and a Snow Pusher?
A snow shovel and a snow pusher are two completely different tools, especially since one is a power tool and the other requires brute force to remove snow.
Snow shovels are very similar in design to your average garden shovel, but they are made with materials meant to move snow.
They have scoop-shaped blades in most cases and feature handles for you to maneuver them. With a snow shovel, you will shovel the snow as you would with soil.
On the other hand, snow pushers are meant to push the snow instead of shoveling it. They are designed for different types of snow and work better when you have larger amounts of snow to remove. They don’t require as much elbow grease, either.
Is Metal or Plastic Snow Shovel Better?
Each material has advantages and drawbacks, but metal snow shovels seem more popular for several reasons.
Compared to plastic snow shovels, metal snow shovels are more long-lasting and can handle greater abuse. If they aren’t maintained properly, they can rust and corrode.
While less long-lasting than metal snow shovels, plastic ones won’t rust or corrode and are much less prone to split or shatter.
Some people prefer plastic snow shovels because they cost less. So, a plastic shovel is the better option if you’re on a budget.
The effectiveness of a snow shovel may change depending on how its blade is designed. Curved blades on metal snow shovels make snow scooping and lifting easier. In contrast, the blades of plastic snow shovels are often flatter, making them more suitable for snow-pushing.
What’s the Best Electric Snow Shovel?
You will love the Earthwise SN74016, one of the best electric shovels on the market. This shovel excels at plowing in-depth and covering a wide area. You can easily remove snow with a 16-inch path and an 8-inch depth, even if you have a generous driveway.
There are also twin augers and 6-inch wheels included. As a total, it only tips the scales at 19 pounds. So, that’s a lot of power on such a portable unit. It brings forth brushless technology, which you love to see because it helps maximize battery power and efficiency.
